From the Mindanao Times (Mar 21, 2019): SOS Network claim of murder by Cafgu member false: Army
The military belied the claim of the Save Our School (SOS) network that a 15-year-old Lumad student in Talaingod was shot by a member of a Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) in Sitio Milyong, Barangay Sto. Niño, Talaingod, Davao del Norte.
Col. Ezra Balagtey, the spokesperson of Eastern Mindanao Command, said a member of the government militia did not shoot the Lumad student.
Instead, it was Jimbo Valintin, who accidentally hit the victim when he fired his shotgun at Andomy Umasay, who was with the CAA Eroy Valintin at that time.
He said the incident happened on Jan. 7, 2019, contrary to the claim of Save Our Schools Network (SOS) that the incident happened on Mar. 15, 2019.
“The case was settled through the tribal justice system which is allowed by IPRA,” he said.
In their Facebook page, the SOS Network said the victim, Jerome Pangadas, was a grade six student of Salugpongan Ta ‘Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Center and a resident of Sitio Kamingawan, Barangay Palma Gil, Talaingod.
The group claimed that at around 6 p.m. of March 15, a Cafgu member opened fire at a certain ‘Andomeng’ and ‘Umow’, residents of Sitio Milyon. One of them only sustained wounds while Jerome was hit on the head killing him on the spot. He was then watching TV at Andomeng’s house when the incident happened.
Balagtey said the offending party offered a horse and was accepted by the offended party – a tribal gesture of amicably settling a dispute.
In fact, he said the troops mediated and helped out in caring for those who were harmed and killed during the unfortunate incident.
“The situation in the community has been normal and peaceful since the settlement was reached,” he added.
In his statement, Lt. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., the EastMinCom chief, advised netizens to “beware of fake news or propaganda being sent to you or posted in social media.”
“Any concern or issue regarding our unit or subordinate units can be raised or clarified with our Public Information Office,” Santos said.
http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/03/21/sos-network-claim-of-murder-by-cafgu-member-false-army/
Thursday, March 21, 2019
Soldiers rescue wounded NPA rebel after clash in ComVal
From MindaNews (Mar 21, 2019): Soldiers rescue wounded NPA rebel after clash in ComVal
Soldiers belonging to the Philippine Army’s 28th Infantry Battalion (28IB) rescued on Monday a wounded communist rebel, the Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) reported on Thursday.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) spokesperson, identified the member of the New People’s Army as “Randy” (real name withheld), who was rescued last March 18 somewhere in the boundary of Lupon and Brgy. Las Arenas in Pantukan, Compostela Valley.
The 28-year-old rebel was wounded when government troops engaged in brief firefight with NPA rebels last March 17. Randy was rescued by soldiers when his companion left him behind after they were subdued by government troops.
Balagtey also cautioned the public of what he described as a “propaganda” peddled by Save Our Schools Network (SOS) who reported earlier this week that a militiaman had slain a Lumad teen in the hinterlands of Talaingod, Davao del Norte.
On Tuesday, SOS spokesperson Rius Valles said that Jerome Pangadas, a resident of Sitio Kamingawan, Brgy. Palma Gil, Talaingod, Davao del Norte and a Grade 6 pupil of Salugpongan Ta ‘Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Center, was killed by a member of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) last March 15.
Pangadas was killed after a bullet hit his head.
But Balagtey belied Valles’s claim and tagged the SOS report as “distorted.”
“The CAA [Civilian Active Auxiliary, the CAFGU member] did not shoot the Lumad student. It was his brother Jimbo Valintin who accidentally did it when he fired his improvised shotgun targeting a certain Andomy Umasay who was with the CAA at that time,” Balagtey said in a statement sent to reporters Tuesday.
The military official said that the incident transpired last January 7, contrary to SOS’s claim that the incident happened on March 15, noting the case was settled through the tribal justice system which is allowed in the Indigenous People’s Rights Act (IPRA).
“In fact, the troops mediated and helped out in caring for those who were harmed and killed during the unfortunate incident. The situation in the community has been normal and peaceful since the settlement was reached,” he said.
Balagtey warned the media and netizens “to beware of fake news or propaganda being sent to you or posted in social media.”
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/03/soldiers-rescue-wounded-npa-rebel-after-brief-clash-in-comval/
Soldiers belonging to the Philippine Army’s 28th Infantry Battalion (28IB) rescued on Monday a wounded communist rebel, the Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) reported on Thursday.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) spokesperson, identified the member of the New People’s Army as “Randy” (real name withheld), who was rescued last March 18 somewhere in the boundary of Lupon and Brgy. Las Arenas in Pantukan, Compostela Valley.
The 28-year-old rebel was wounded when government troops engaged in brief firefight with NPA rebels last March 17. Randy was rescued by soldiers when his companion left him behind after they were subdued by government troops.
Balagtey also cautioned the public of what he described as a “propaganda” peddled by Save Our Schools Network (SOS) who reported earlier this week that a militiaman had slain a Lumad teen in the hinterlands of Talaingod, Davao del Norte.
On Tuesday, SOS spokesperson Rius Valles said that Jerome Pangadas, a resident of Sitio Kamingawan, Brgy. Palma Gil, Talaingod, Davao del Norte and a Grade 6 pupil of Salugpongan Ta ‘Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Center, was killed by a member of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) last March 15.
Pangadas was killed after a bullet hit his head.
But Balagtey belied Valles’s claim and tagged the SOS report as “distorted.”
“The CAA [Civilian Active Auxiliary, the CAFGU member] did not shoot the Lumad student. It was his brother Jimbo Valintin who accidentally did it when he fired his improvised shotgun targeting a certain Andomy Umasay who was with the CAA at that time,” Balagtey said in a statement sent to reporters Tuesday.
The military official said that the incident transpired last January 7, contrary to SOS’s claim that the incident happened on March 15, noting the case was settled through the tribal justice system which is allowed in the Indigenous People’s Rights Act (IPRA).
“In fact, the troops mediated and helped out in caring for those who were harmed and killed during the unfortunate incident. The situation in the community has been normal and peaceful since the settlement was reached,” he said.
Balagtey warned the media and netizens “to beware of fake news or propaganda being sent to you or posted in social media.”
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/03/soldiers-rescue-wounded-npa-rebel-after-brief-clash-in-comval/
9th ID salutes brave soldiers – fallen but not defeated
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 21, 2019): 9th ID salutes brave soldiers – fallen but not defeated
PILI, Camarines Sur – It was in 2016 when Cpl Jojo V. Lim, Cpl Mark Joy C. Belano, Cpl Rocky C. Sasutona and Pvt. Christopher Baylon momentarily left their families to serve and help Marawi City redeem its lost peace and end the 5-month long crisis caused by ISIL fighters.
The province lost Belano, who is from Pili, Lim from Balatan and Sasutona from Ocampo. Baylon is a native of Labo, Camarines Norte. All four are from Bicol and were former members of the 49th Infantry Battalion before they were sent off in a mission to help fight terrorism in Mindanao.
After three years, they returned at the same airport, aboard the Philippine Air Force’s C291 plane, cold and lifeless.
Fallen, yes -- but not defeated.
Maj. Gen. Fernando T Trinidad, Commander of 9th Infantry (Spear) Division and JTF Bicolandia who extended his utmost respect and condolences to the bereaved families of the fallen soldiers, said that their sacrifices bespeak of the “soldier’s commitment to country and the people.”
“As we gaze at the national flag that flies at half-mast anew, rest assured that the heroism and sacrifices of our soldiers will not be in vain. We will continue to pursue peace in our country" he added.
Trinidad vowed that the fallen soldiers will be given an appropriate burial honors befitting for heroes.
The four soldiers died during a clash with the Daesh-inspired terrorist group led by Owayda Benito Marohombsar alyas “Abu Dar” in Sitio Tagum, Barangay Dinaigan, Tubaran, Lanao del Sur on March 15.
After receiving the soldiers at the Pili Airport, their remains were brought at the St. Martin of Tours Chapel at Camp Elias Angeles for a necrological service. Tears and silent weeping filled the room but the sense of pride and respect for their heroism were also felt flooding the area.
After the necro rites, the soldiers’ coffins were sent back to their respective families for some privacy.
Col. Ferozaldo Paul T. Regencia, Assistant Division Commander for Reserve Force Development was also present during the ceremony.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1020055
PILI, Camarines Sur – It was in 2016 when Cpl Jojo V. Lim, Cpl Mark Joy C. Belano, Cpl Rocky C. Sasutona and Pvt. Christopher Baylon momentarily left their families to serve and help Marawi City redeem its lost peace and end the 5-month long crisis caused by ISIL fighters.
The province lost Belano, who is from Pili, Lim from Balatan and Sasutona from Ocampo. Baylon is a native of Labo, Camarines Norte. All four are from Bicol and were former members of the 49th Infantry Battalion before they were sent off in a mission to help fight terrorism in Mindanao.
After three years, they returned at the same airport, aboard the Philippine Air Force’s C291 plane, cold and lifeless.
Fallen, yes -- but not defeated.
Maj. Gen. Fernando T Trinidad, Commander of 9th Infantry (Spear) Division and JTF Bicolandia who extended his utmost respect and condolences to the bereaved families of the fallen soldiers, said that their sacrifices bespeak of the “soldier’s commitment to country and the people.”
“As we gaze at the national flag that flies at half-mast anew, rest assured that the heroism and sacrifices of our soldiers will not be in vain. We will continue to pursue peace in our country" he added.
Trinidad vowed that the fallen soldiers will be given an appropriate burial honors befitting for heroes.
The four soldiers died during a clash with the Daesh-inspired terrorist group led by Owayda Benito Marohombsar alyas “Abu Dar” in Sitio Tagum, Barangay Dinaigan, Tubaran, Lanao del Sur on March 15.
After receiving the soldiers at the Pili Airport, their remains were brought at the St. Martin of Tours Chapel at Camp Elias Angeles for a necrological service. Tears and silent weeping filled the room but the sense of pride and respect for their heroism were also felt flooding the area.
After the necro rites, the soldiers’ coffins were sent back to their respective families for some privacy.
Col. Ferozaldo Paul T. Regencia, Assistant Division Commander for Reserve Force Development was also present during the ceremony.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1020055
Tagalog News: Mga sundalong nasawi sa Mindanao, naiuwi na sa Camarines Sur
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Tagalog News: Mga sundalong nasawi sa Mindanao, naiuwi na sa Camarines Sur
LUNGSOD NG NAGA – Sakay ng C291 na eroplano ng Philippine Air Force ang mga labi nina Corporal Jojo V. Lim, Corporal Mark Joy C. Belano, Corporal Rocky C. Sasutona at Private Christopher Baylon noong Marso 20 ng umaga sa Pili Aiport dito sa lalawigan ng Camarines Sur.
Ang 4 na Bicolanong sundalo ay nasawi dahil sa pakikipaglaban sa bahagi ng Mindanao noong nakaraang Byernes, Marso 15 sa mga teroristang grupo mula sa Tubaran, Lanao Del Sur.
Sinalubong ang mga labi ng magigiting na sundalo ng mga opisyal at enlisted personnel ng 9th Infantry Division ng Philippine Army sa Bicol pati na rin ng mga pamilya ng mga nasawi. Binigyan ng full military honors ang mga namatay na sundalo sa naturang paliparan.
Ayon kay 9th ID, Division of Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief Capt. Joash Pramis, s mga miyembro ng 49th infantry Battalion ng 9th ID ang mga nasawing sundalo. Si Cpl. Lim ay mula sa bayan ng Balatan, Camarines Sur; Cpl. Belano ay mula sa bayan ng Pili; Cpl. Sasatuna ng bayan ng Ocampo at si Pvt. Baylon naman ay mula sa Labo, Camarines Norte.
Batay sa pamunuan ng 9th ID, sa kasalukuyan ay hindi pa malinaw ang detalye ng pagkamatay ng nasabing mga kawal ng gobyerno, maituturing itong bayani dahil sa pagbubuwis ng kanilang buhay upang mapanatili ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao.
Tiniyak din ng 9ID ang tulong ng gobyerno para sa mga naulilang pamilya ng mga nasawing sundalo.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1020069
LUNGSOD NG NAGA – Sakay ng C291 na eroplano ng Philippine Air Force ang mga labi nina Corporal Jojo V. Lim, Corporal Mark Joy C. Belano, Corporal Rocky C. Sasutona at Private Christopher Baylon noong Marso 20 ng umaga sa Pili Aiport dito sa lalawigan ng Camarines Sur.
Ang 4 na Bicolanong sundalo ay nasawi dahil sa pakikipaglaban sa bahagi ng Mindanao noong nakaraang Byernes, Marso 15 sa mga teroristang grupo mula sa Tubaran, Lanao Del Sur.
Sinalubong ang mga labi ng magigiting na sundalo ng mga opisyal at enlisted personnel ng 9th Infantry Division ng Philippine Army sa Bicol pati na rin ng mga pamilya ng mga nasawi. Binigyan ng full military honors ang mga namatay na sundalo sa naturang paliparan.
Ayon kay 9th ID, Division of Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief Capt. Joash Pramis, s mga miyembro ng 49th infantry Battalion ng 9th ID ang mga nasawing sundalo. Si Cpl. Lim ay mula sa bayan ng Balatan, Camarines Sur; Cpl. Belano ay mula sa bayan ng Pili; Cpl. Sasatuna ng bayan ng Ocampo at si Pvt. Baylon naman ay mula sa Labo, Camarines Norte.
Batay sa pamunuan ng 9th ID, sa kasalukuyan ay hindi pa malinaw ang detalye ng pagkamatay ng nasabing mga kawal ng gobyerno, maituturing itong bayani dahil sa pagbubuwis ng kanilang buhay upang mapanatili ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao.
Tiniyak din ng 9ID ang tulong ng gobyerno para sa mga naulilang pamilya ng mga nasawing sundalo.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1020069
Army seizes BIFF lair in Maguindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Army seizes BIFF lair in Maguindanao
FOXHOLE. The abandoned underground lair of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters found by government troopers in Barangay Magaslong, Datu Piang, Maguindanao on Tuesday (March 19). The terror group's hiding place also contained war materials (inset), including components for anti-personnel mines. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)
DATU PIANG, Maguindanao -- Government forces pursuing Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao have seized an abandoned lair of the terror group in Barangay Magaslong here.
In a statement released Wednesday, Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, the commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the hideout was discovered on Tuesday by elements of the Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion and 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion.
“The abandoned lair has running trenches, foxholes and sniper bunkers that can accommodate about 20 persons,” Sobejana said.
Government troopers also recovered one rifle telescope, one antenna, assorted empty shells, wires and nails, one solar panel with battery, one passport, medical supplies, anti-personnel mines components, cellphone, identification cards and assorted documents at the BIFF hideout.
“This is not a victory announcement, but a significant progress in the fight against the BIFF and the Daesh-inspired group,” Sobejana said.
“We do not want to give them the opportunity to gather and create fear in the community, but instead we will sustain our focused military operation to end this amok in the society,” he added.
Since March 11, more than 20 BIFF members had been reported killed during the focused military operations that involved the military’s air and ground assets in Maguindanao’s second district.
The operation also forced some 30,000 individuals from seven affected towns in Maguindanao to seek refuge in nearby safer grounds. The affected towns include Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Piang, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, and Shariff Aguak.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065178
FOXHOLE. The abandoned underground lair of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters found by government troopers in Barangay Magaslong, Datu Piang, Maguindanao on Tuesday (March 19). The terror group's hiding place also contained war materials (inset), including components for anti-personnel mines. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)
DATU PIANG, Maguindanao -- Government forces pursuing Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao have seized an abandoned lair of the terror group in Barangay Magaslong here.
In a statement released Wednesday, Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, the commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the hideout was discovered on Tuesday by elements of the Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion and 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion.
“The abandoned lair has running trenches, foxholes and sniper bunkers that can accommodate about 20 persons,” Sobejana said.
Government troopers also recovered one rifle telescope, one antenna, assorted empty shells, wires and nails, one solar panel with battery, one passport, medical supplies, anti-personnel mines components, cellphone, identification cards and assorted documents at the BIFF hideout.
“This is not a victory announcement, but a significant progress in the fight against the BIFF and the Daesh-inspired group,” Sobejana said.
“We do not want to give them the opportunity to gather and create fear in the community, but instead we will sustain our focused military operation to end this amok in the society,” he added.
Since March 11, more than 20 BIFF members had been reported killed during the focused military operations that involved the military’s air and ground assets in Maguindanao’s second district.
The operation also forced some 30,000 individuals from seven affected towns in Maguindanao to seek refuge in nearby safer grounds. The affected towns include Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Piang, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, and Shariff Aguak.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065178
BARMM inauguration reset to March 29
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): BARMM inauguration reset to March 29
The inauguration of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) with President Rodrigo Duterte as the special guest of honor has been reset anew to March 29.
“That is the latest advisory we received from Malacañang,” Abdullah Cusain, BARMM deputy executive secretary, said over a local radio station here Thursday.
Cusain said the event’s schedule has so far been moved four times to accommodate the President who has expressed his desire to attend the occasion personally.
Only recently, the BARMM leadership has announced that the event would take place on March 25 from the tentative schedules of March 11 and March 21.
However, Cusain noted that the latest information they have received is that the schedule has been changed to March 29.
“We will just follow what has been given us,” he said.
The forthcoming BARMM inauguration will also mark the inaugural session of the 80-member Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) for the newly-established region.
The BTA, comprising 41 Moro Islamic Liberation Front nominees and 39 government representatives, is tasked with governing the BARMM from 2019 up to the assumption of new regional officials elected during the 2022 polls.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065247
The inauguration of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) with President Rodrigo Duterte as the special guest of honor has been reset anew to March 29.
“That is the latest advisory we received from Malacañang,” Abdullah Cusain, BARMM deputy executive secretary, said over a local radio station here Thursday.
Cusain said the event’s schedule has so far been moved four times to accommodate the President who has expressed his desire to attend the occasion personally.
Only recently, the BARMM leadership has announced that the event would take place on March 25 from the tentative schedules of March 11 and March 21.
However, Cusain noted that the latest information they have received is that the schedule has been changed to March 29.
“We will just follow what has been given us,” he said.
The forthcoming BARMM inauguration will also mark the inaugural session of the 80-member Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) for the newly-established region.
The BTA, comprising 41 Moro Islamic Liberation Front nominees and 39 government representatives, is tasked with governing the BARMM from 2019 up to the assumption of new regional officials elected during the 2022 polls.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065247
Military not engaged in partisan political activities
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Military not engaged in partisan political activities
Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office chief Col. Noel Detoyato (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
The Makabayan bloc’s allegations that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), along with other government agencies, is engaged in partisan political activities are "meant to tarnish the image" of the military, an official said Thursday.
AFP Public Affairs Office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato, denied the allegations of the left-leaning group that the AFP, the Philippine National Police and the Department of the Interior and Local Government are into partisan political activities, system vilification, and red-tagging of organizations.
"The AFP will never engage in partisan politics. The sweeping statement of this group is meant to tarnish the image of the AFP, which is at the forefront of ensuring the security and safeguarding the rights of the voters so that they can freely go out and vote this coming mid-term elections," Detoyato said.
Detoyato said the Makabayan bloc should instead convince voters and the public that their group is not part of any violent efforts to topple the government.
"Why don't they just concentrate on convincing the voters that they are not part of the group that wants to bring down the government through violent means instead of concentrating on destroying the image of the Armed Forces of the Philippines," Detoyato said.
"The only time the voters will believe them that they are not part of the group that is conspiring to violently bring down the government and change our way of life is when they publicly denounce the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) and its fronts," he said.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065183
Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office chief Col. Noel Detoyato (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
The Makabayan bloc’s allegations that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), along with other government agencies, is engaged in partisan political activities are "meant to tarnish the image" of the military, an official said Thursday.
AFP Public Affairs Office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato, denied the allegations of the left-leaning group that the AFP, the Philippine National Police and the Department of the Interior and Local Government are into partisan political activities, system vilification, and red-tagging of organizations.
"The AFP will never engage in partisan politics. The sweeping statement of this group is meant to tarnish the image of the AFP, which is at the forefront of ensuring the security and safeguarding the rights of the voters so that they can freely go out and vote this coming mid-term elections," Detoyato said.
Detoyato said the Makabayan bloc should instead convince voters and the public that their group is not part of any violent efforts to topple the government.
"Why don't they just concentrate on convincing the voters that they are not part of the group that wants to bring down the government through violent means instead of concentrating on destroying the image of the Armed Forces of the Philippines," Detoyato said.
"The only time the voters will believe them that they are not part of the group that is conspiring to violently bring down the government and change our way of life is when they publicly denounce the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) and its fronts," he said.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065183
Duterte asks Misuari to form negotiating panel
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Duterte asks Misuari to form negotiating panel
President Rodrigo R. Duterte has asked Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari to form a negotiating panel to address his group's concerns.
Duterte made this response to Misuari when they met in Malacañang on Tuesday and the MNLF leader told the President that he will go to war if the proposed shift to a federal system will not materialize.
“Sabi ni Misuari kagabi (Misuari said last night), ‘If you do not give it to me, let me be very honest: I will go to war.’ Sabi ko (I replied), I understand that Nur. So ganito na lang gawin natin (So here's what we will do). Let’s form a panel because we have to inform the people. We cannot negotiate secretly here," Duterte said in his speech during the campaign rally of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) in Marikina City on Wednesday night.
“Sabi ko para (I said, so that) day to day they will be briefed kung ano outcome, how gusto mo ma-apply yung federal system sa gusto mo, gaya ba ng BOL o different type. (What the outcome, how you want to apply the federal system the way you want. Would it be like the Bangsamoro Organic Law or a different type),” he added.
The President said Misuari expressed his desire for federalism which was promised to his group since the administration of former President Corazon Aquino.
"Iyan ang inaasahan ng mga Moro para magkaroon naman sila, magkaroon, mabawi nila ‘yung mga lupa na inagaw ng mga pari, mga Español pati Amerikano (That is what Moros expect for them to regain the lands grabbed by the priests, Spaniards, Americans)," he said.
Duterte met with Misuari after the MILF leader returned from an overseas trip.
“Misuari kagabi galing siya abroad, (Misuari returned from abroad last night) I allowed him to go out kasi may kaso siya. Sabi ko (because he is facing charges. I told him) when you come back come here, we’ll talk,” Duterte said.
The President said National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. and Palace Spokesman Salvador Panelo were present when he met with Misuari.
Duterte earlier said he “admired” Misuari's patience in peace negotiations.
Meanwhile, Panelo said Misuari "was very happy" with the President's response to form a negotiating panel.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065207
President Rodrigo R. Duterte has asked Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari to form a negotiating panel to address his group's concerns.
Duterte made this response to Misuari when they met in Malacañang on Tuesday and the MNLF leader told the President that he will go to war if the proposed shift to a federal system will not materialize.
“Sabi ni Misuari kagabi (Misuari said last night), ‘If you do not give it to me, let me be very honest: I will go to war.’ Sabi ko (I replied), I understand that Nur. So ganito na lang gawin natin (So here's what we will do). Let’s form a panel because we have to inform the people. We cannot negotiate secretly here," Duterte said in his speech during the campaign rally of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) in Marikina City on Wednesday night.
“Sabi ko para (I said, so that) day to day they will be briefed kung ano outcome, how gusto mo ma-apply yung federal system sa gusto mo, gaya ba ng BOL o different type. (What the outcome, how you want to apply the federal system the way you want. Would it be like the Bangsamoro Organic Law or a different type),” he added.
The President said Misuari expressed his desire for federalism which was promised to his group since the administration of former President Corazon Aquino.
"Iyan ang inaasahan ng mga Moro para magkaroon naman sila, magkaroon, mabawi nila ‘yung mga lupa na inagaw ng mga pari, mga Español pati Amerikano (That is what Moros expect for them to regain the lands grabbed by the priests, Spaniards, Americans)," he said.
Duterte met with Misuari after the MILF leader returned from an overseas trip.
“Misuari kagabi galing siya abroad, (Misuari returned from abroad last night) I allowed him to go out kasi may kaso siya. Sabi ko (because he is facing charges. I told him) when you come back come here, we’ll talk,” Duterte said.
The President said National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. and Palace Spokesman Salvador Panelo were present when he met with Misuari.
Duterte earlier said he “admired” Misuari's patience in peace negotiations.
Meanwhile, Panelo said Misuari "was very happy" with the President's response to form a negotiating panel.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065207
Anti-communist group calls on voters to reject Makabayan bloc
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Anti-communist group calls on voters to reject Makabayan bloc
Members of an anti-communist group on Thursday staged a rally at the House of Representatives in Quezon City to denounce members of the Makabayan bloc in Congress for allegedly being a legal front of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).
The Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIP) members also called on the electorate not to vote for their reelection during the May 13 mid-term polls.
In an interview, Ka Dario Bolivar, LIP's spokesperson, claimed that party-list groups Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, Gabriela, Act Teachers and Kabataan are also legal fronts of the CPP-NPA.
The LIP's aim is to expose and prevent them from returning to Congress in the next elections, Bolivar said.
“We are campaigning against terrorist groups in the hope that in this coming election, their legal fronts would not be returned in Congress, these partylist groups that they are using to promote the interest of leftist or communist groups in the country,” Bolivar told the Philippine News Agency in Filipino.
The Cordillera native pointed out that the Makabayan bloc seems only bent in opposing the government, no matter who is in the Palace.
“If we look at it, no matter who is sitting in Malacañang, they have no programs supporting the incumbent. They oppose whatever administration is in power,” Bolivar said.
He said that these organizations even opposed foreign powers coming in aid of the Philippines, including the United States and even China.
“Where do they really stand? That’s why they really look like terrorist groups,” he said.
Bolivar said during the time of former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the release of the groups' respective priority development assistance funds (PDAF) were suspended over claims that the funds were being funneled to the NPA.
“Their PDAF were removed because they are channeling it to the mountains in the guise of livelihood programs. They are giving it to their NPA allies in the countryside,” he said.
He said it was a good thing that President Rodrigo Duterte declared the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group.
The President proclaimed the CPP-NPA as a terror group in Dec. 5, 2017 following continued attacks against state forces, despite the government’s efforts to reach out to communist rebels for peace talks.
The US and EU have also tagged the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization.
Bolivar, a former member of the communist movement, said in the 50 years of CPP-NPA’s existence, the rebel movement had only brought misery in their sphere of influence.
He said their revolutionary tactics have been scaring investors and businessmen in the countryside, leading to an exodus of Filipinos to work abroad.
“As Filipinos, we should be working together to advance the development of our country, so that our economy will grow and there will be jobs and livelihood,” he said.
“So now, before the elections on May 13, every Filipino should bear in mind not to return the representatives of their party-list groups like Gabriela, Act Teachers, Anakpawis, Kabataan and Bayan Muna, or the Makabayan bloc, that is their legal front in the House and the Senate,” Bolivar added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065223
Members of an anti-communist group on Thursday staged a rally at the House of Representatives in Quezon City to denounce members of the Makabayan bloc in Congress for allegedly being a legal front of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).
The Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIP) members also called on the electorate not to vote for their reelection during the May 13 mid-term polls.
In an interview, Ka Dario Bolivar, LIP's spokesperson, claimed that party-list groups Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, Gabriela, Act Teachers and Kabataan are also legal fronts of the CPP-NPA.
The LIP's aim is to expose and prevent them from returning to Congress in the next elections, Bolivar said.
“We are campaigning against terrorist groups in the hope that in this coming election, their legal fronts would not be returned in Congress, these partylist groups that they are using to promote the interest of leftist or communist groups in the country,” Bolivar told the Philippine News Agency in Filipino.
The Cordillera native pointed out that the Makabayan bloc seems only bent in opposing the government, no matter who is in the Palace.
“If we look at it, no matter who is sitting in Malacañang, they have no programs supporting the incumbent. They oppose whatever administration is in power,” Bolivar said.
He said that these organizations even opposed foreign powers coming in aid of the Philippines, including the United States and even China.
“Where do they really stand? That’s why they really look like terrorist groups,” he said.
Bolivar said during the time of former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the release of the groups' respective priority development assistance funds (PDAF) were suspended over claims that the funds were being funneled to the NPA.
“Their PDAF were removed because they are channeling it to the mountains in the guise of livelihood programs. They are giving it to their NPA allies in the countryside,” he said.
He said it was a good thing that President Rodrigo Duterte declared the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group.
The President proclaimed the CPP-NPA as a terror group in Dec. 5, 2017 following continued attacks against state forces, despite the government’s efforts to reach out to communist rebels for peace talks.
The US and EU have also tagged the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization.
Bolivar, a former member of the communist movement, said in the 50 years of CPP-NPA’s existence, the rebel movement had only brought misery in their sphere of influence.
He said their revolutionary tactics have been scaring investors and businessmen in the countryside, leading to an exodus of Filipinos to work abroad.
“As Filipinos, we should be working together to advance the development of our country, so that our economy will grow and there will be jobs and livelihood,” he said.
“So now, before the elections on May 13, every Filipino should bear in mind not to return the representatives of their party-list groups like Gabriela, Act Teachers, Anakpawis, Kabataan and Bayan Muna, or the Makabayan bloc, that is their legal front in the House and the Senate,” Bolivar added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065223
AFP supports localized peace talks
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): AFP supports localized peace talks
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is always supportive of localized peace talks in addressing local root causes of insurgency, an official said on Thursday.
"The AFP fully supports the efforts of localized peace talks. It is ongoing and it was never suspended and it is gaining headway. Local peace initiatives address the local (security) problems and local root cause of insurgency," public affairs office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato Detoyato said in text message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Earlier, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said the termination of appointments of members of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) negotiating panel will pave the way for the creation of an inclusive group that will supervise localized peace engagements.
He said the composition of the new panel will be based on the Colombian model which includes representatives from different sectoral groups, local government units, and the military whose presence is essential to the peace negotiations.
Detoyato earlier said the government is now ensuring the successful integration of surrendered New People's Army (NPA) communist rebels into mainstream society.
"They are given trainings at TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority), psycho-social debriefing, housing where appropriate and needed, renumeration of surrendered firearms," he added.
Aside from this, these surrendered NPAs also have the option to join militia and regular military units aside from availing of scholarships to further educate themselves, Detoyato added.
"And they have the option to join the CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit), or the regular army force. In some instances, they apply for scholarships to continue their formal education. Others requests for relocation or return to their places of origin," the AFP official added.
In the first two months of 2019, a total of 608 NPA members and supporters surrendered to government troops. This can be broken down into 107 regular armed rebels, with 137 as "Milisya ng Bayan" and 364 mass supporters.
“We hope to receive more rebels who want to return to the folds of the law rather than the casualties we record daily in the bloody battlefield,” Detoyato said.
The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065203
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is always supportive of localized peace talks in addressing local root causes of insurgency, an official said on Thursday.
"The AFP fully supports the efforts of localized peace talks. It is ongoing and it was never suspended and it is gaining headway. Local peace initiatives address the local (security) problems and local root cause of insurgency," public affairs office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato Detoyato said in text message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Earlier, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said the termination of appointments of members of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) negotiating panel will pave the way for the creation of an inclusive group that will supervise localized peace engagements.
He said the composition of the new panel will be based on the Colombian model which includes representatives from different sectoral groups, local government units, and the military whose presence is essential to the peace negotiations.
Detoyato earlier said the government is now ensuring the successful integration of surrendered New People's Army (NPA) communist rebels into mainstream society.
"They are given trainings at TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority), psycho-social debriefing, housing where appropriate and needed, renumeration of surrendered firearms," he added.
Aside from this, these surrendered NPAs also have the option to join militia and regular military units aside from availing of scholarships to further educate themselves, Detoyato added.
"And they have the option to join the CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit), or the regular army force. In some instances, they apply for scholarships to continue their formal education. Others requests for relocation or return to their places of origin," the AFP official added.
In the first two months of 2019, a total of 608 NPA members and supporters surrendered to government troops. This can be broken down into 107 regular armed rebels, with 137 as "Milisya ng Bayan" and 364 mass supporters.
“We hope to receive more rebels who want to return to the folds of the law rather than the casualties we record daily in the bloody battlefield,” Detoyato said.
The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065203
PH, Russian navies to sign cooperation deal in July
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): PH, Russian navies to sign cooperation deal in July
Russian and Filipino naval cooperation is expected to get a much-needed boost as both nations are set to sign a naval cooperation agreement in July.
This was bared by Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-commander Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad in an interview with reporters Thursday.
He said the initial agreement is already finalized and that they will forward it to the Department of National Defense (DND) for approval.
Once the DND gives its approval, Empedrad said they will go to Russia to sign the agreement, which is expected to strengthen the relationship of the two countries.
Last Wednesday, Russian Navy Commander-in-Chief, Admiral Vladimir I. Korolyov, was accorded arrival honors during his visit to the PN headquarters at the Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila.
He was then conferred the Honorary Flag Rank Command Badge and Plaque at the Hall of Flags followed by the PN organizational briefing.
Korolyov and members of his staff arrived in the country last March 18 as official guests of the PN.
His visit officially started with a wreath-laying at the Rizal Monument in Luneta, cultural tour in Intramuros, Manila and a visit to the PN vessel BRP Tarlac (LD-601).
Korolyov is scheduled to pay a courtesy call on AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, and tour Corregidor Island during his four-day visit.
Empedrad said Korolyov's visit is the reciprocation of his visit to Russia last year.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065240
Russian and Filipino naval cooperation is expected to get a much-needed boost as both nations are set to sign a naval cooperation agreement in July.
This was bared by Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-commander Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad in an interview with reporters Thursday.
He said the initial agreement is already finalized and that they will forward it to the Department of National Defense (DND) for approval.
Once the DND gives its approval, Empedrad said they will go to Russia to sign the agreement, which is expected to strengthen the relationship of the two countries.
Last Wednesday, Russian Navy Commander-in-Chief, Admiral Vladimir I. Korolyov, was accorded arrival honors during his visit to the PN headquarters at the Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila.
He was then conferred the Honorary Flag Rank Command Badge and Plaque at the Hall of Flags followed by the PN organizational briefing.
Korolyov and members of his staff arrived in the country last March 18 as official guests of the PN.
His visit officially started with a wreath-laying at the Rizal Monument in Luneta, cultural tour in Intramuros, Manila and a visit to the PN vessel BRP Tarlac (LD-601).
Korolyov is scheduled to pay a courtesy call on AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, and tour Corregidor Island during his four-day visit.
Empedrad said Korolyov's visit is the reciprocation of his visit to Russia last year.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065240
Sayyaf in Sulu standoff undergoes inquest
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Sayyaf in Sulu standoff undergoes inquest
A self-confessed member of the renegade Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) who was among those who fought off the military during government operations to rescue Malaysian hostages last March 15 underwent inquest proceedings Thursday at the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Karah Musa Salapuddin a.k.a. Cesar, 49, of Tungkil, Jolo, Sulu, was presented by law enforcement officials led by Sgt. Roliver Pascua of Intelligence Service Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) before Assistant State Prosecutor Ethel Rea G. Suril at the DOJ.
Charges of frustrated multiple murder and illegal possession were filed against Salapuddin for his alleged involvement in the incident in Banguingui, Sulu.
A preliminary investigation was ordered on the case by the prosecutor on March 28.
Two members of the Philippine Marines were wounded and about 500 residents were forced to flee during operations on the island in Banguingui, Sulu where the ASG, led by sub leader Salip Mura, reportedly held two Malaysian nationals in captivity.
The encounter resulted in the wounding of Marine soldiers Corporal Syruss Valenzuela and Private Jude Louiss B Nabalan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065280
A self-confessed member of the renegade Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) who was among those who fought off the military during government operations to rescue Malaysian hostages last March 15 underwent inquest proceedings Thursday at the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Karah Musa Salapuddin a.k.a. Cesar, 49, of Tungkil, Jolo, Sulu, was presented by law enforcement officials led by Sgt. Roliver Pascua of Intelligence Service Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) before Assistant State Prosecutor Ethel Rea G. Suril at the DOJ.
Charges of frustrated multiple murder and illegal possession were filed against Salapuddin for his alleged involvement in the incident in Banguingui, Sulu.
A preliminary investigation was ordered on the case by the prosecutor on March 28.
Two members of the Philippine Marines were wounded and about 500 residents were forced to flee during operations on the island in Banguingui, Sulu where the ASG, led by sub leader Salip Mura, reportedly held two Malaysian nationals in captivity.
The encounter resulted in the wounding of Marine soldiers Corporal Syruss Valenzuela and Private Jude Louiss B Nabalan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065280
Local peace engagements more productive: Galvez
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Local peace engagements more productive: Galvez
Local peace engagements are more productive mechanisms to attain peace and address communist insurgency in the country, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Thursday.
"Mas magiging creative and more productive yung localized peace engagements kasi yung mismong NPA at saka yung mismong mga members ng mga party makakausap natin (Localized peace engagements are more creative and more productive because we can talk directly with New People’s Army (NPA) and members of the party,” Galvez said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.
Galvez said the government seems having a hard time to deal with the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) at the national level due to many demands the communists have been asking from government.
"For almost 32 years that we are doing this (national peace talks), parang ‘di tayo nagsisimula eh (it seems so hard to get started)," Galvez said.
He believed that socio-economic packages and transitional justice will serve as confidence-building measures to address the root causes of the insurgency and will convince NPA rebels to return to the fold of government.
"We will change their mindset from being a revolutionary to become normal people who want justice and peace also to become productive. We will transform their collective desire to have a very productive life in the future," he said.
Galvez said the local government units and stakeholders involved in the handling of problems at the ground level will be consulted and included in the negotiations.
He said the Executive Order 70 issued by President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018 to institutionalize a whole-of-nation approach in attaining peace, will be beneficial in local peace engagements.
"Ang kagandahan nito (The good thing about this) is during the negotiation kasama lahat yung (all) Cabinet members (are part of it)," he said.
Galvez, meanwhile, clarified that the peace talks are not terminated, saying members of the government negotiating panel will be reconstituted after the Joint National Peace and Order Council agreed to pursue localized peace engagements instead.
On Wednesday, Malacañang confirmed the termination of the appointments of government peace negotiators with communist rebels "in view of the termination of the peace negotiations" with the CPP-NPA-NDF.
Galvez said Duterte intends to honor previous agreements entered int by the government.
"The President really wanted to honor yung (the) previous commitments natin sa kanila (of the government with rebels). Lagi niyang sinasabi sa amin sa (He always tells us in the) Cabinet meeting that he is honor-bound to uphold what are the agreements that have been settled and signed by the government," he said.
He mentioned the rejectionist faction of the CPP-NPA in the early 2000s as one of the early examples of local peace engagements.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) earlier said they are always supportive of localized peace talks in addressing the local root causes of insurgency.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065269
Local peace engagements are more productive mechanisms to attain peace and address communist insurgency in the country, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Thursday.
"Mas magiging creative and more productive yung localized peace engagements kasi yung mismong NPA at saka yung mismong mga members ng mga party makakausap natin (Localized peace engagements are more creative and more productive because we can talk directly with New People’s Army (NPA) and members of the party,” Galvez said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.
Galvez said the government seems having a hard time to deal with the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) at the national level due to many demands the communists have been asking from government.
"For almost 32 years that we are doing this (national peace talks), parang ‘di tayo nagsisimula eh (it seems so hard to get started)," Galvez said.
He believed that socio-economic packages and transitional justice will serve as confidence-building measures to address the root causes of the insurgency and will convince NPA rebels to return to the fold of government.
"We will change their mindset from being a revolutionary to become normal people who want justice and peace also to become productive. We will transform their collective desire to have a very productive life in the future," he said.
Galvez said the local government units and stakeholders involved in the handling of problems at the ground level will be consulted and included in the negotiations.
He said the Executive Order 70 issued by President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018 to institutionalize a whole-of-nation approach in attaining peace, will be beneficial in local peace engagements.
"Ang kagandahan nito (The good thing about this) is during the negotiation kasama lahat yung (all) Cabinet members (are part of it)," he said.
Galvez, meanwhile, clarified that the peace talks are not terminated, saying members of the government negotiating panel will be reconstituted after the Joint National Peace and Order Council agreed to pursue localized peace engagements instead.
On Wednesday, Malacañang confirmed the termination of the appointments of government peace negotiators with communist rebels "in view of the termination of the peace negotiations" with the CPP-NPA-NDF.
Galvez said Duterte intends to honor previous agreements entered int by the government.
"The President really wanted to honor yung (the) previous commitments natin sa kanila (of the government with rebels). Lagi niyang sinasabi sa amin sa (He always tells us in the) Cabinet meeting that he is honor-bound to uphold what are the agreements that have been settled and signed by the government," he said.
He mentioned the rejectionist faction of the CPP-NPA in the early 2000s as one of the early examples of local peace engagements.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) earlier said they are always supportive of localized peace talks in addressing the local root causes of insurgency.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065269
Another NDF consultant, companion nabbed in Cavite raid
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Another NDF consultant, companion nabbed in Cavite raid
Police and military operatives on Wednesday night arrested another National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) peace consultant and his companion during a raid in Imus, Cavite.
In a press briefing on Thursday at the Southern Police District in Taguig City, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) head, Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said Renante Gamara, NDFP peace consultant for the National Capital Region and retired priest Arturo Joseph Balagat were arrested in Gen. Bautista St., Poblacion II-A in Imus, Cavite.
Armed with a search warrant, the Regional Special Operations Unit of the NCRPO, Philippine Army and intelligence agents nabbed and brought the two men to Camp General Pantaleon Garcia in Imus, Cavite.
Gamara is a member of the central committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-New People’s Army (NPA), authorities said.
Recovered during the raid were a cal. 9mm pistol with magazine, two hand grenades, several electronic devices and gadgets containing subversive information, several subversive documents and cash amounting to PHP90,000.
In 2012, Gamara was apprehended in Las Piñas City by virtue of two warrants of arrest -- one for kidnapping with murder of a soldier in Quezon and the other for frustrated murder.
He was among the 21 NDF consultants who were temporarily released to take part in the peace talks between the government and communist leaders in Oslo, Norway in 2016.
Eleazar said Gamara went into hiding after President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the peace talks on Nov. 23, 2017 and subsequently ordered that they be rearrested.
Gamara will be facing charges for violation of Republic Act 10915 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulations Act of 2013 and RA 9516 or illegal possession of explosives and violation of the Omnibus Election Code which will be filed before the Department of Justice.
Balagat, on the other hand, will remain under custody of NCRPO for further investigation.
Gamara’s arrest brings to four the number of NDFP peace consultants behind bars.
Adelberto Silva, Vicente Ladlad, and Rey Claro Casambre were arrested in succession late last year after repeated attempts to revive the stalled peace talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the NDFP failed.
Rafael Baylosis was first arrested in January 2019 but was eventually released last January 18 after the Quezon City Regional Trial Court threw out the charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives earlier filed against him.
Twelve days later, NDFP peace consultant Randy Felix Malayao was killed inside a bus in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya last January 30.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065258
Police and military operatives on Wednesday night arrested another National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) peace consultant and his companion during a raid in Imus, Cavite.
In a press briefing on Thursday at the Southern Police District in Taguig City, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) head, Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said Renante Gamara, NDFP peace consultant for the National Capital Region and retired priest Arturo Joseph Balagat were arrested in Gen. Bautista St., Poblacion II-A in Imus, Cavite.
Armed with a search warrant, the Regional Special Operations Unit of the NCRPO, Philippine Army and intelligence agents nabbed and brought the two men to Camp General Pantaleon Garcia in Imus, Cavite.
Gamara is a member of the central committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-New People’s Army (NPA), authorities said.
Recovered during the raid were a cal. 9mm pistol with magazine, two hand grenades, several electronic devices and gadgets containing subversive information, several subversive documents and cash amounting to PHP90,000.
In 2012, Gamara was apprehended in Las Piñas City by virtue of two warrants of arrest -- one for kidnapping with murder of a soldier in Quezon and the other for frustrated murder.
He was among the 21 NDF consultants who were temporarily released to take part in the peace talks between the government and communist leaders in Oslo, Norway in 2016.
Eleazar said Gamara went into hiding after President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the peace talks on Nov. 23, 2017 and subsequently ordered that they be rearrested.
Gamara will be facing charges for violation of Republic Act 10915 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulations Act of 2013 and RA 9516 or illegal possession of explosives and violation of the Omnibus Election Code which will be filed before the Department of Justice.
Balagat, on the other hand, will remain under custody of NCRPO for further investigation.
Gamara’s arrest brings to four the number of NDFP peace consultants behind bars.
Adelberto Silva, Vicente Ladlad, and Rey Claro Casambre were arrested in succession late last year after repeated attempts to revive the stalled peace talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the NDFP failed.
Rafael Baylosis was first arrested in January 2019 but was eventually released last January 18 after the Quezon City Regional Trial Court threw out the charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives earlier filed against him.
Twelve days later, NDFP peace consultant Randy Felix Malayao was killed inside a bus in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya last January 30.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065258
Duterte permanently ends peace talks with Reds
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Duterte permanently ends peace talks with Reds
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday officially announced the permanent termination of the peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
Duterte made the announcement that drew applause while delivering his speech during the 122nd Philippine Army (PA) founding anniversary in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
“I am officially announcing the permanent termination of our talks between the Government Panel and the Communist Party of the Philippines,” he said.
Duterte said he will no longer entertain “any interventions or maybe persuasions in this democratic state of the Republic of the Philippines”.
“My sense is that you can maybe talk to the next president of this Republic one day,” said Duterte, whose term will end in 2022.
The President mentioned the government's preference for localized peace engagements.
"It is, indeed, very important to engage stakeholders and communities in combatting insurgency and preventing the spread of extremist ideologies, and I believe that empowering Indigenous Peoples and others in this regard is the key to this fight," he said.
Duterte said the communist rebels' call for land reform is already being done under his administration.
Land reform
“You know I have, to date, distributed something like --- 60,000 hectares to land beneficiaries. I mean the only way to make the issue of communism and you know of commonality of things is that you make them irrelevant,” Duterte said.
“And sinasabi ko naman sa komunista hindi naman kayo ang marunong mag-distribute ng lupa (I tell communists that they do not know how to distribute land). I have been at it actually ever since I became President," he added.
The President said the CPP-NPA, which was declared by the US and European Union as terrorist organization, are also land grabbers.
"It’s not only other people are land grabbers. Communists are. So ‘yung mga asosasyon nila (their associations) amongst the inner group, iyong mga manggagawa na walang ginagawa (those workers doing nothing). Then they try to fish out the lands that they would give to the people. Iyong nangyari doon (What happened there) was they were depriving the original tenants there because they wanted the association to control the distribution," he said.
Army’s gains
Meanwhile, Duterte congratulated the “brave men and women in uniform” for their significant accomplishments in both internal and civil-military operations in many parts of the country.
He described the Army’s accomplishments for the last 122 years as testament of their “unwavering commitment to defend our institutions and our democratic way of life”.
Duterte said through unrelenting efforts of the Filipino soldiers, they have successfully conducted over 550,000 operations resulting in the recovery of almost 6,000 firearms, neutralization of more than 600 families of the enemies, the surrender, and capture and apprehension of over 1,700 lawless elements.
“May these gains inspire you, our valiant soldiers, to never waver in your commitment to perform your duties. Intensify our focused military operations against communist terrorist groups so that, alongside our [civil-military] operations, we may persuade more of their members to surrender and return to the folds of the law,” Duterte said.
His administration, he said, will continue to promote the welfare of the soldiers and their families through decent housing programs.
“We target to complete by June another five condominium buildings for the senior army officers and their families,” Duterte said.
“I assure you that we will continue to pursue these programs as an expression of the Filipino people’s appreciation for all that you have done for our country. Indeed, we are all truly indebted to you for risking life and limb for love of country,” he added.
On Wednesday, Malacañang announced the termination of the appointments of government peace negotiators with communist rebels.
Among those whose appointment papers were terminated include that of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Silvestre Bello III as chief government negotiator, and government peace panel members Antonio Arellano, Hernani Braganza, Angela Librado-Trinidad and Rene Sarmiento.
On November 23, 2017, Duterte signed Proclamation 360 declaring the termination of peace negotiations with the communists, citing the CPP-NPA-NDF’s supposed failure to show sincerity to the peace process.
In December 2018, Duterte issued EO 70 which institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach in attaining peace and created a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065301
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday officially announced the permanent termination of the peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
Duterte made the announcement that drew applause while delivering his speech during the 122nd Philippine Army (PA) founding anniversary in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
“I am officially announcing the permanent termination of our talks between the Government Panel and the Communist Party of the Philippines,” he said.
Duterte said he will no longer entertain “any interventions or maybe persuasions in this democratic state of the Republic of the Philippines”.
“My sense is that you can maybe talk to the next president of this Republic one day,” said Duterte, whose term will end in 2022.
The President mentioned the government's preference for localized peace engagements.
"It is, indeed, very important to engage stakeholders and communities in combatting insurgency and preventing the spread of extremist ideologies, and I believe that empowering Indigenous Peoples and others in this regard is the key to this fight," he said.
Duterte said the communist rebels' call for land reform is already being done under his administration.
Land reform
“You know I have, to date, distributed something like --- 60,000 hectares to land beneficiaries. I mean the only way to make the issue of communism and you know of commonality of things is that you make them irrelevant,” Duterte said.
“And sinasabi ko naman sa komunista hindi naman kayo ang marunong mag-distribute ng lupa (I tell communists that they do not know how to distribute land). I have been at it actually ever since I became President," he added.
The President said the CPP-NPA, which was declared by the US and European Union as terrorist organization, are also land grabbers.
"It’s not only other people are land grabbers. Communists are. So ‘yung mga asosasyon nila (their associations) amongst the inner group, iyong mga manggagawa na walang ginagawa (those workers doing nothing). Then they try to fish out the lands that they would give to the people. Iyong nangyari doon (What happened there) was they were depriving the original tenants there because they wanted the association to control the distribution," he said.
Army’s gains
Meanwhile, Duterte congratulated the “brave men and women in uniform” for their significant accomplishments in both internal and civil-military operations in many parts of the country.
He described the Army’s accomplishments for the last 122 years as testament of their “unwavering commitment to defend our institutions and our democratic way of life”.
Duterte said through unrelenting efforts of the Filipino soldiers, they have successfully conducted over 550,000 operations resulting in the recovery of almost 6,000 firearms, neutralization of more than 600 families of the enemies, the surrender, and capture and apprehension of over 1,700 lawless elements.
“May these gains inspire you, our valiant soldiers, to never waver in your commitment to perform your duties. Intensify our focused military operations against communist terrorist groups so that, alongside our [civil-military] operations, we may persuade more of their members to surrender and return to the folds of the law,” Duterte said.
His administration, he said, will continue to promote the welfare of the soldiers and their families through decent housing programs.
“We target to complete by June another five condominium buildings for the senior army officers and their families,” Duterte said.
“I assure you that we will continue to pursue these programs as an expression of the Filipino people’s appreciation for all that you have done for our country. Indeed, we are all truly indebted to you for risking life and limb for love of country,” he added.
On Wednesday, Malacañang announced the termination of the appointments of government peace negotiators with communist rebels.
Among those whose appointment papers were terminated include that of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Silvestre Bello III as chief government negotiator, and government peace panel members Antonio Arellano, Hernani Braganza, Angela Librado-Trinidad and Rene Sarmiento.
On November 23, 2017, Duterte signed Proclamation 360 declaring the termination of peace negotiations with the communists, citing the CPP-NPA-NDF’s supposed failure to show sincerity to the peace process.
In December 2018, Duterte issued EO 70 which institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach in attaining peace and created a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065301
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