Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (May 6, 2019): Sayyaf killed, soldier wounded in Sulu clash
An Abu Sayyaf militant was reported killed and an army soldier wounded in a firefight in the town of Patikul in Sulu province in southern Philippines, the military said Monday.
The Western Mindanao Command said the weekend clash broke out in the village of Kan Ague between the pro-ISIS group and members of the 32ndInfantry Battalion.
The fighting lasted 20 minutes with the military alleging that a militant was slain and that an army man had been injured. “A firefight ensued which lasted for 20 minutes after which enemy withdrew towards southeast direction. This resulted to the death of one ASG member and the slightly wounding of one soldier,” the military said.
It did not say whether troops recovered the slain militant or if the casualty report was based on intelligence report as it usually quote in many armed clashes in Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi, all in the Muslim autonomous region.
The military said Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, has ordered an intensified campaign against the Abu Sayyaf to ensure peaceful elections next Monday.
“The Western Mindanao Command continuously conducts intensified military operations to deter the different threat groups from creating havoc. We are also intensifying our security preparations for the 2019 midterm elections next Monday,” Dela Vega said.
The Abu Sayyaf is still holding several Filipino and foreign hostages in the troubled region. (The Zamboanga Post)
Monday, May 6, 2019
Security forces intercept trucks full of gunmen in Pagadian City
From the Mindanao Examiner (May 6, 2019): Security forces intercept trucks full of gunmen in Pagadian City
PAGADIAN CITY – Security forces on Monday afternoon intercepted two trucks full of gunmen in Pagadian City in the southern Philippine province of Zamboanga del Sur.
Soldiers and policemen seized assorted automatic weapons, mostly rifles, from the passengers after stopping the vehicles in the village of Danlugan.
Both vehicles had no license plates and many of those intercepted were using bonnets, according to a man who witnessed when security forces stopped the trucks and interrogated the drivers.
“These people were all using bonnets. Their vehicles have no plate numbers and its conduction stickers were covered by a tape,” said the witness, who took video from his cell phone and uploaded it on Facebook page BM Marlyn Revelo.
At least 15 people were ordered out of the vehicles as soldiers searched the trucks for weapons. The arrest of the men coincided with the election gun ban and heightened security in the country as Filipinos go to polls on May 13 to vote for new set of national and local government officials.
An unidentified army commander ordered passengers – in front of village officials, journalists and policemen, including an official from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) – to disembark one by one from the trucks as he warned them of severe consequences if they resist violently or try to fight off security forces.
“We are searching your vehicle in front of the Barangay Captain, the COMELEC…isa-isa lang tayo bababa at kung gagawa kayo ng karahasan alam na po ninyo kung ano ang mangyayari sa inyo,” the commander said as soldiers surrounded the trucks.
The passengers, their hands raised in the air as a gesture of peaceful surrender, disembarked one by one as civilians watching not far away, cheered and clapped the soldiers who were leading the unidentified men in front of a makeshift table on the middle of the road. An army truck and several military vehicles were also spotted nearby.
The men were later frisked and searched by soldiers for any weapons and some of them yielded guns. Others carried what looked like talisman. The army official also called a police officer to read the (Miranda Warning) rights of those arrested.
Both the spokespersons of the 1st Infantry Division Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson and Major Helen Galvez, of the regional police, said they were still waiting for the official report.
The identities of the arrested gunmen were not immediately available.
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/security-forces-intercept-trucks-full-of-gunmen-in-pagadian-city/
Soldiers and policemen seized assorted automatic weapons, mostly rifles, from the passengers after stopping the vehicles in the village of Danlugan.
Both vehicles had no license plates and many of those intercepted were using bonnets, according to a man who witnessed when security forces stopped the trucks and interrogated the drivers.
“These people were all using bonnets. Their vehicles have no plate numbers and its conduction stickers were covered by a tape,” said the witness, who took video from his cell phone and uploaded it on Facebook page BM Marlyn Revelo.
An unidentified army commander ordered passengers – in front of village officials, journalists and policemen, including an official from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) – to disembark one by one from the trucks as he warned them of severe consequences if they resist violently or try to fight off security forces.
“We are searching your vehicle in front of the Barangay Captain, the COMELEC…isa-isa lang tayo bababa at kung gagawa kayo ng karahasan alam na po ninyo kung ano ang mangyayari sa inyo,” the commander said as soldiers surrounded the trucks.
The passengers, their hands raised in the air as a gesture of peaceful surrender, disembarked one by one as civilians watching not far away, cheered and clapped the soldiers who were leading the unidentified men in front of a makeshift table on the middle of the road. An army truck and several military vehicles were also spotted nearby.
The men were later frisked and searched by soldiers for any weapons and some of them yielded guns. Others carried what looked like talisman. The army official also called a police officer to read the (Miranda Warning) rights of those arrested.
Both the spokespersons of the 1st Infantry Division Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson and Major Helen Galvez, of the regional police, said they were still waiting for the official report.
The identities of the arrested gunmen were not immediately available.
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/security-forces-intercept-trucks-full-of-gunmen-in-pagadian-city/
Tagalog News: Ex-NPAs, hinimok ang mga aktibong rebelde na sumuko na
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 6, 2019): Tagalog News: Ex-NPAs, hinimok ang mga aktibong rebelde na sumuko na
Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur o TRIFPSS na eskwelahan sa Km. 9, Brgy. Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur na hindi akreditado sa Department of Education. (PIA-Caraga)
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN -- Hinikayat ngayon ng mga dating miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo na New People’s Army o NPA na magbalik-loob na ang ilan pang nagpaiwang aktibo sa pagpapalaganap ng maling idelohiya laban sa pamahalaan.
Pinatunayan ni Edward Gultia, labinsiyam na taon na nagsilbi dati bilang guro sa institusyong TRIFPSS o Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur, na ang nasabing paaralan ay pinamumunuan umano ng NPA at hindi akreditado ng Department of Education o DepEd.
“Ang itinuturong iligal doon sa kabundukan ay siya ring itinuturo namin sa TRIFPSS, kung saan ang mga mag-aaral ay tinututuruang mamulat na may galit sa gobyerno,” sabi ni Gultia.
Ibinahagi naman ni Sonny Boy Acebedo, dating estudyante ng TRIFPSS na bini-brain wash sila ng NPA sa pamamagitan ng pagtuturo sa kanila ng maling impormasyon tungkol sa gobyerno, at sa murang edad ay tinuturuan na umano sila sa paghawak at pagkamit ng baril upang labanan ang gobyerno.
“Noong Grade three pa lang ako pagpasok ko sa TRIFPSS nagtaka ako bakit iba ang itinuturo nila. Tinuturuan nila kami na magalit sa gobyerno. Kapag wala naman kaming pasok tinuturuan kami ng mga NPA kung paano humawak ng baril,” sabi ni Acebedo.
Ayon naman kay Datu Jomar “Nahikyad” Bocales, municipal tribal chieftain ng Lianga, Surigao del Sur, ang mga doctrinang itinuturo ng TRIFPSS at ALCADEV o Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development ay taliwas sa gawain ng demokrasyang pamahalaan kung saan ang mga mag-aaral ay hinihimok umano na sumali sa teroristang grupo ng npa. Ito’y kinumpirma rin umano ng kanyang kontak sa loob ng kilusang NPA.
Sinabi naman ni Datu Rico Maca, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative o IPMR ng munisipyo ng San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, na pinipigilan umano ng mga NPA na namumuno ng TRIFPSS at ALCADEV na maimplementa sa kanilang lugar ang Indigenous Peoples Education o IPED curriculum framework ng DepEd.
“Nakita natin ang koneksyon ng NPA at TRIFPSS. Kaya pinapatay nila ang mga datu na sumuporta sa IPED,” sabi ni Maca.
Umaasa ang mga former rebel na gawin din ng mga aktibong NPA na itama ang rebolusyunaryong pakikibaka nang sa ganun ay magkaroon ng pagkakataong mamuhay ng normal at maayos sa kani-kanilang komunidad.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1021643
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN -- Hinikayat ngayon ng mga dating miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo na New People’s Army o NPA na magbalik-loob na ang ilan pang nagpaiwang aktibo sa pagpapalaganap ng maling idelohiya laban sa pamahalaan.
Pinatunayan ni Edward Gultia, labinsiyam na taon na nagsilbi dati bilang guro sa institusyong TRIFPSS o Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur, na ang nasabing paaralan ay pinamumunuan umano ng NPA at hindi akreditado ng Department of Education o DepEd.
“Ang itinuturong iligal doon sa kabundukan ay siya ring itinuturo namin sa TRIFPSS, kung saan ang mga mag-aaral ay tinututuruang mamulat na may galit sa gobyerno,” sabi ni Gultia.
Ibinahagi naman ni Sonny Boy Acebedo, dating estudyante ng TRIFPSS na bini-brain wash sila ng NPA sa pamamagitan ng pagtuturo sa kanila ng maling impormasyon tungkol sa gobyerno, at sa murang edad ay tinuturuan na umano sila sa paghawak at pagkamit ng baril upang labanan ang gobyerno.
“Noong Grade three pa lang ako pagpasok ko sa TRIFPSS nagtaka ako bakit iba ang itinuturo nila. Tinuturuan nila kami na magalit sa gobyerno. Kapag wala naman kaming pasok tinuturuan kami ng mga NPA kung paano humawak ng baril,” sabi ni Acebedo.
Ayon naman kay Datu Jomar “Nahikyad” Bocales, municipal tribal chieftain ng Lianga, Surigao del Sur, ang mga doctrinang itinuturo ng TRIFPSS at ALCADEV o Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development ay taliwas sa gawain ng demokrasyang pamahalaan kung saan ang mga mag-aaral ay hinihimok umano na sumali sa teroristang grupo ng npa. Ito’y kinumpirma rin umano ng kanyang kontak sa loob ng kilusang NPA.
Sinabi naman ni Datu Rico Maca, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative o IPMR ng munisipyo ng San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, na pinipigilan umano ng mga NPA na namumuno ng TRIFPSS at ALCADEV na maimplementa sa kanilang lugar ang Indigenous Peoples Education o IPED curriculum framework ng DepEd.
“Nakita natin ang koneksyon ng NPA at TRIFPSS. Kaya pinapatay nila ang mga datu na sumuporta sa IPED,” sabi ni Maca.
Umaasa ang mga former rebel na gawin din ng mga aktibong NPA na itama ang rebolusyunaryong pakikibaka nang sa ganun ay magkaroon ng pagkakataong mamuhay ng normal at maayos sa kani-kanilang komunidad.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1021643
NPA rebel killed in Northern Samar clash
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): NPA rebel killed in Northern Samar clash
A week earlier, a 10-year-old boy was killed when communist rebels detonated a landmine in an attempt to attack soldiers.
On April 16, two soldiers were killed by rebels while inspecting an ongoing road project in San Antonio and Catotogan villages, also in Las Navas.
The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is considered as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068964
SLAIN REBEL. Soldiers carry the body of a New People's Army (NPA) member killed in a clash in Las Navas, Northern Samar Sunday night (May 6, 2019). Government troops have stepped up their patrol operation against rebels as the NPA has been reportedly attempting to collect permit to campaign fees from some politicians. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army's 20th Infantry Batallion)
A member of the New People’s Army was killed while an undetermined number of other rebels were wounded in a clash between government troops and the terrorist group Sunday night in Las Navas, Northern Samar.
The encounter occurred 9 p.m. in Tagan-ayan village as soldiers acted on a report of concerned citizens on the presence of five armed rebels in their area, the Philippine Army reported on Monday.
A member of the New People’s Army was killed while an undetermined number of other rebels were wounded in a clash between government troops and the terrorist group Sunday night in Las Navas, Northern Samar.
The encounter occurred 9 p.m. in Tagan-ayan village as soldiers acted on a report of concerned citizens on the presence of five armed rebels in their area, the Philippine Army reported on Monday.
No casualty was reported on the government side composed of troops from the 20th Infantry Battalion (IB) of the Philippine Army based in the said town.
Soldiers recovered a submachine gun with one magazine and nine rounds of 9mm "ball ammunition" from the clash site.
The military brought the body of the slain rebel to the local police by airlifting it from the upland village through a helicopter.
“There are reports that wounded rebels were sighted at the rural health unit and Catubig Hospital seeking for medical attention. Coordination is now made with our police counterparts to track down the location of reported wounded NPAs for the filing of an appropriate criminal case,” the 20th IB said in a statement.
Government troops have stepped up patrol operations against rebels as they have been reportedly attempting to collect permit to campaign fees from some politicians.
The 4th class town of Las Navas has been known as the site of recent atrocities committed by NPAs.
Soldiers recovered a submachine gun with one magazine and nine rounds of 9mm "ball ammunition" from the clash site.
The military brought the body of the slain rebel to the local police by airlifting it from the upland village through a helicopter.
“There are reports that wounded rebels were sighted at the rural health unit and Catubig Hospital seeking for medical attention. Coordination is now made with our police counterparts to track down the location of reported wounded NPAs for the filing of an appropriate criminal case,” the 20th IB said in a statement.
Government troops have stepped up patrol operations against rebels as they have been reportedly attempting to collect permit to campaign fees from some politicians.
The 4th class town of Las Navas has been known as the site of recent atrocities committed by NPAs.
On April 25, the village chief of San Miguel was gunned down by rebels while on board a motorcycle. The village official was a known supporter of the military.
A week earlier, a 10-year-old boy was killed when communist rebels detonated a landmine in an attempt to attack soldiers.
On April 16, two soldiers were killed by rebels while inspecting an ongoing road project in San Antonio and Catotogan villages, also in Las Navas.
The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is considered as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068964
Soldiers, cops discover marijuana plantation in Maguindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): Soldiers, cops discover marijuana plantation in Maguindanao
BUSTED. An Army trooper from the 33rd Infantry Battalion checks on marijuana plants they discovered while chasing gunmen in Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao, Saturday. (Photo by 33rd IB)
BUSTED. An Army trooper from the 33rd Infantry Battalion checks on marijuana plants they discovered while chasing gunmen in Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao, Saturday. (Photo by 33rd IB)
Military personnel hunting drug syndicate members stumbled on a marijuana plantation, a drug den, and factory for improvised bombs in Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao, on Saturday.
Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (33IB) commander, said members of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and his men were serving search warrants against Teddy Biang for criminal charges when they discovered the plantation.
Biang, his two siblings, and another suspect were arrested. Authorities seized cash amounting to more than PHP380,000, high-powered firearms, illegal drugs, and communication sets.
Boongaling told the Philippine News Agency that 33IB troopers were running after scampering cohorts of Biang when they discovered a one-hectare marijuana plantation, a drug den and house with bomb-making equipment in Barangay Bulod at past 9 a.m.
“The marijuana plants were uprooted and torched in the area while others were brought to local police as evidence,” Boongaling said.
Citing a military informant, Boongaling said the seized rifles and pistols, including homemade bombs, are going to be used to disrupt the conduct of elections in Sultan sa Barongis.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068951
Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (33IB) commander, said members of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and his men were serving search warrants against Teddy Biang for criminal charges when they discovered the plantation.
Biang, his two siblings, and another suspect were arrested. Authorities seized cash amounting to more than PHP380,000, high-powered firearms, illegal drugs, and communication sets.
Boongaling told the Philippine News Agency that 33IB troopers were running after scampering cohorts of Biang when they discovered a one-hectare marijuana plantation, a drug den and house with bomb-making equipment in Barangay Bulod at past 9 a.m.
“The marijuana plants were uprooted and torched in the area while others were brought to local police as evidence,” Boongaling said.
Citing a military informant, Boongaling said the seized rifles and pistols, including homemade bombs, are going to be used to disrupt the conduct of elections in Sultan sa Barongis.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068951
Abu Sayyaf man dies, soldier hurt in Sulu clash
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): Abu Sayyaf man dies, soldier hurt in Sulu clash
A follower of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) was killed while a soldier was wounded in a clash as focused military operations continue against the ASG in the province of Sulu, an official said Monday.
Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said the encounter occurred around 9:55 a.m. Sunday in Sitio Kan Udang, Barangay Kan ague, Patikul, Sulu.
Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said the encounter occurred around 9:55 a.m. Sunday in Sitio Kan Udang, Barangay Kan ague, Patikul, Sulu.
Dela Vega said the troops from the Army’s 32nd Infantry Battalion were conducting focused military operations when they chanced upon a group of 10 ASG bandits that triggered a 20-minute firefight.
Dela Vega said the firefight resulted in the death of an ASG bandit and the wounding of a soldier, adding the ASG bandits fled towards the southeast direction of the clash site.
“The Western Mindanao Command continuously conduct intensified military operations to deter the different threat groups from creating havoc,” he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068981
Dela Vega said the firefight resulted in the death of an ASG bandit and the wounding of a soldier, adding the ASG bandits fled towards the southeast direction of the clash site.
“The Western Mindanao Command continuously conduct intensified military operations to deter the different threat groups from creating havoc,” he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068981
HNP-HTL alliance bets warned vs. paying NPA campaign permit
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): HNP-HTL alliance bets warned vs. paying NPA campaign permit
The Hugpong ng Pagbabago-Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod alliance said it will junk its own local candidates if they bow to the New People’s Army (NPA) by paying the so-called “permit-to-campaign” extortion scheme.
HNP is a regional party founded by Mayor Sara Duterte while the HTL is a local party formed by then-mayor and now President Rodrigo Duterte in the 1990s.
Majority of the candidates for the city council are members of the HTL, which formed an alliance with HNP last year.
HNP is a regional party founded by Mayor Sara Duterte while the HTL is a local party formed by then-mayor and now President Rodrigo Duterte in the 1990s.
Majority of the candidates for the city council are members of the HTL, which formed an alliance with HNP last year.
“The alliance will outright junk candidates who will be giving in to the demands of the NPA, a terrorist organization behind countless of horrendous crimes against the people,” said an HNP-HTL statement released to the media Monday.
HNP-HTL said that paying to the NPA makes candidates "terrorists themselves."
NPA's "permit-to-campaign" extortion has been practiced during elections by some candidates in order to gain access to far-flung areas where rebels have a known presence.
HNP-HTL said that paying to the NPA makes candidates "terrorists themselves."
NPA's "permit-to-campaign" extortion has been practiced during elections by some candidates in order to gain access to far-flung areas where rebels have a known presence.
“The election ensures that people freely exercise their right to choose their leaders -- and the NPA extortion scheme is an absolute travesty of the essence of the election,” HNP-HTL said.
“Paying the NPA is tantamount to bowing down to them and subscribing to their destructive ideology. It is also as good as playing blind to the crimes they committed in the past and supporting the crimes and more acts of terrorism they will commit in the future,” it added.
In February, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año had called on the public not to vote for candidates who support or who have links with communist rebels.
Based on the consolidated figures gathered by intelligence groups, Año said a total of PHP195.5-million was accumulated by the NPA from its various extortion activities nationwide during the 2016 and 2018 elections.
He said that PHP300,000-PHP650,000 were collected by the communist rebels from governors and vice governors; PHP200,000-PHP500,000 from mayors; and PHP50,000-PHP100,000 from barangay officials.
“Paying the NPA is tantamount to bowing down to them and subscribing to their destructive ideology. It is also as good as playing blind to the crimes they committed in the past and supporting the crimes and more acts of terrorism they will commit in the future,” it added.
In February, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año had called on the public not to vote for candidates who support or who have links with communist rebels.
Based on the consolidated figures gathered by intelligence groups, Año said a total of PHP195.5-million was accumulated by the NPA from its various extortion activities nationwide during the 2016 and 2018 elections.
He said that PHP300,000-PHP650,000 were collected by the communist rebels from governors and vice governors; PHP200,000-PHP500,000 from mayors; and PHP50,000-PHP100,000 from barangay officials.
DILG has earlier released a memorandum reminding all local chief executives and LGU officials that giving any form of support to communist rebels is punishable by law.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069003
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069003
Troops deployed for election duty in Zambo, Lanao, MisOcc
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): Troops deployed for election duty in Zambo, Lanao, MisOcc
SEND-OFF. Brig. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the Army's 1st Infantry Division commander (right), wishes for the success of the mission as he leads on Monday the deployment of the 1st Division Provinsional Battalion to render election security duty. (Photo by Leah D. Agonoy)
LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur -- The Army’s 1st Infantry Division has deployed a battalion of troops to render election duties within its area of jurisdiction.
The 1st Division Provisional Battalion, composed of 355 soldiers and policemen, was organized to render security duty to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the May 13 mid-term polls.
Brig. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, led the battalion’s send-off ceremony in Camp Cesar Sang-an in Barangay Pulacan, this town, on Monday.
Ancan, who is also the Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao provinces) commander, said the troops were deployed in the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Misamis Occidental.
SEND-OFF. Brig. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the Army's 1st Infantry Division commander (right), wishes for the success of the mission as he leads on Monday the deployment of the 1st Division Provinsional Battalion to render election security duty. (Photo by Leah D. Agonoy)
LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur -- The Army’s 1st Infantry Division has deployed a battalion of troops to render election duties within its area of jurisdiction.
The 1st Division Provisional Battalion, composed of 355 soldiers and policemen, was organized to render security duty to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the May 13 mid-term polls.
Brig. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, led the battalion’s send-off ceremony in Camp Cesar Sang-an in Barangay Pulacan, this town, on Monday.
Ancan, who is also the Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao provinces) commander, said the troops were deployed in the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Misamis Occidental.
Ancan ordered the troops to be culturally-sensitive and respectful, as well as cautious in their actions “so that we may continue to sustain the progress that we have achieved in the pursuit of our mission”.
“Do your job in securing the different precincts and the cultural community while they address to the threat groups and completely support the campaign for peaceful and free elections,” he said.
He also reminded the troops to "prove their flexibility to adopt to the operational environment, commitment to duty and professionalism in selflessly serving the people and protecting the country wherever the call of duty brings them".
Lawyer Jossil Macute, provincial election supervisor, said there is an “intense political rivalry and has reported sightings of the communist groups in the hinterlands while private armed groups wearing bonnets were also reported in his office harassing (people) in the barangays.”
Given the current situation, Macute said they intensified peace-keeping operations with joint checkpoints of the police and military.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069006
“Do your job in securing the different precincts and the cultural community while they address to the threat groups and completely support the campaign for peaceful and free elections,” he said.
He also reminded the troops to "prove their flexibility to adopt to the operational environment, commitment to duty and professionalism in selflessly serving the people and protecting the country wherever the call of duty brings them".
Lawyer Jossil Macute, provincial election supervisor, said there is an “intense political rivalry and has reported sightings of the communist groups in the hinterlands while private armed groups wearing bonnets were also reported in his office harassing (people) in the barangays.”
Given the current situation, Macute said they intensified peace-keeping operations with joint checkpoints of the police and military.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069006
Task Force sends more troops to Iligan, Lanao Norte
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): Task Force sends more troops to Iligan, Lanao Norte
FOR PEACEFUL, ORDERLY ELECTIONS. Troops from the Army's 2nd Mechanize Infantry Brigade based in Iligan City during the send off ceremony Monday morning (May 6). (Photo by Divina M. Suson)
ILIGAN CITY--The Task Force Piniliay (election) sent off on Monday morning troops from the Army's 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade for deployment to the different areas in Lanao del Norte and Iligan City to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.
Col. Alex Aduca, deputy brigade commander and the chief of Task Force Piniliay, said the troops are composed of three battalions and three companies.
During the send-off ceremony held inside the brigade's camp here, Aduca reminded the troops of three things: "Remain non-partisan and apolitical, ensure the security of all constituents, and ensure your personal safety.
"Hindi tayo pumapanig kanino mang kandidato, panatilihin nating magiging neutral tayo para hindi tayo malagay sa alanganin (We don't side with any candidate, we will maintain our neutrality so that we won't be put into trouble)," Aduca said.
The troops were also reminded to ensure the security not only of the voters and the candidates but also of those who are serving the elections such as the board of election tellers, and volunteers who will assist the board of canvassers.
The 2nd Mechanized Brigade covers Iligan City, which has 44 barangays and 184,058 registered voters, and Lanao del Norte province which has 506 barangays and 504,069 registered voters.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069041
ILIGAN CITY--The Task Force Piniliay (election) sent off on Monday morning troops from the Army's 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade for deployment to the different areas in Lanao del Norte and Iligan City to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.
Col. Alex Aduca, deputy brigade commander and the chief of Task Force Piniliay, said the troops are composed of three battalions and three companies.
During the send-off ceremony held inside the brigade's camp here, Aduca reminded the troops of three things: "Remain non-partisan and apolitical, ensure the security of all constituents, and ensure your personal safety.
"Hindi tayo pumapanig kanino mang kandidato, panatilihin nating magiging neutral tayo para hindi tayo malagay sa alanganin (We don't side with any candidate, we will maintain our neutrality so that we won't be put into trouble)," Aduca said.
The troops were also reminded to ensure the security not only of the voters and the candidates but also of those who are serving the elections such as the board of election tellers, and volunteers who will assist the board of canvassers.
The 2nd Mechanized Brigade covers Iligan City, which has 44 barangays and 184,058 registered voters, and Lanao del Norte province which has 506 barangays and 504,069 registered voters.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069041
Army conducts medical mission in Lanao Norte MILF community
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): Army conducts medical mission in Lanao Norte MILF community
MEDICAL, DENTAL MISSION. Residents of Sitio Kura-kura, Barangay Tamparan, Munai, Lanao del Norte, get medical services during a mission conducted by a civic group, medical volunteers and the military, on Saturday. Barangay Tamparan is host of Camp Bilal, the main camp of Moro Islamic Liberation Front - Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF) Northwestern Mindanao Front. (Photo by 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)
Army personnel and medical volunteers reached Saturday (May 4) one of the farthest areas in Lanao del Norte to bring the medical services for residents.
More than a hundred of residents in Sitio Kura-kura, Barangay Tampara in Munai town received medical services and free medicines during the medical and dental mission led by the Maria Cristina Eagles Club, the Army's 12th Civil-Military Operations, and the Army's 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion.
Barangay Tamparan is the host of Camp Bilal, the main camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front - Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF) Northwestern Mindanao Front, led by Abdullah Macapaar, also known as Commander Bravo.
Macapaar, now a commissioner of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) of the newly-created Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) under the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), graced the event and even addressed the residents.
MEDICAL, DENTAL MISSION. Residents of Sitio Kura-kura, Barangay Tamparan, Munai, Lanao del Norte, get medical services during a mission conducted by a civic group, medical volunteers and the military, on Saturday. Barangay Tamparan is host of Camp Bilal, the main camp of Moro Islamic Liberation Front - Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF) Northwestern Mindanao Front. (Photo by 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)
Army personnel and medical volunteers reached Saturday (May 4) one of the farthest areas in Lanao del Norte to bring the medical services for residents.
More than a hundred of residents in Sitio Kura-kura, Barangay Tampara in Munai town received medical services and free medicines during the medical and dental mission led by the Maria Cristina Eagles Club, the Army's 12th Civil-Military Operations, and the Army's 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion.
Barangay Tamparan is the host of Camp Bilal, the main camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front - Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF) Northwestern Mindanao Front, led by Abdullah Macapaar, also known as Commander Bravo.
Macapaar, now a commissioner of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) of the newly-created Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) under the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), graced the event and even addressed the residents.
Lt. Col. Bernardo Taqueban, commander of the 4th Mechanized Battalion, said the mission brought in volunteer doctors to help and converge stakeholders to bring basic services and development in far-flung communities.
"Commissioner Macapaar was happy to see his neighborhood, especially the children as beneficiaries of the medical mission. He was asking that more similar activities be done in the area," Taqueban said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069044
"Commissioner Macapaar was happy to see his neighborhood, especially the children as beneficiaries of the medical mission. He was asking that more similar activities be done in the area," Taqueban said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069044
MYDev: Helping Mindanao youth realize their potential
From the Philippine News Agency (May 5, 2019): MYDev: Helping Mindanao youth realize their potential
Living in the strife-torn Indanan, Sulu without educational plans to back up her future, 20-year-old Marshaida Hamid, at one point, almost lost hope she would be able to lift her family from poverty.
At an early age of 12, Marshaida had to stop schooling and give way to her two younger siblings.
"Because of financial problems, I had to stop back then. Naging hopeless ako na baka hindi ko na matupad 'yong dream ko kasi nga huminto na ako. Ang ginagawa ko noon nasa bahay lang, tumutulong sa magulang. (I’m getting hopeless that I would be able to achieve my dream because I already stopped from my studies. Back then, I’m just helping my parents with chores)," she told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.
"Every day, I see my parents struggle, whether it's heavy rain or under the scorching sun, they work vigorously in the farm. It's difficult that I have to see them struggle," she narrated.
Came the United States-funded Mindanao Youth Development (MYDev) program, Marshaida's life took a better turn.
"I learned some basic life skills that I'm able to use in putting up my own business. After that, I was able to get a scholarship and finish my Bachelor of Science in Fisheries major in Food Processing degree last month. Now, I'm returning the favor, I'm now mentoring other youth. Back then I don't have the confidence, I'm scared to even hold a microphone and speak in front of the crowd. But after the program, nawala 'yong doubt ko sa sarili ko mismo (I now have the confidence)," she said.
Marshaida considered MYDev program a “big opportunity” that came into her life.
"Back then, I'm an out-of-school-youth. Now, I'm an outstanding youth," she said.
During the MYDev completion ceremony in Makati on Friday, dozens of beneficiaries from Mindanao, including Marshaida, extended their gratitude to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the funding agency for the PHP832-million project.
The six-year MYDev program entered its last leg this 2019.
As of April 15, at least 25,719 youth benefited from the program, 22,163 of whom have completed life skills training and technical-vocational skills training.
Living in the strife-torn Indanan, Sulu without educational plans to back up her future, 20-year-old Marshaida Hamid, at one point, almost lost hope she would be able to lift her family from poverty.
At an early age of 12, Marshaida had to stop schooling and give way to her two younger siblings.
"Because of financial problems, I had to stop back then. Naging hopeless ako na baka hindi ko na matupad 'yong dream ko kasi nga huminto na ako. Ang ginagawa ko noon nasa bahay lang, tumutulong sa magulang. (I’m getting hopeless that I would be able to achieve my dream because I already stopped from my studies. Back then, I’m just helping my parents with chores)," she told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.
"Every day, I see my parents struggle, whether it's heavy rain or under the scorching sun, they work vigorously in the farm. It's difficult that I have to see them struggle," she narrated.
Came the United States-funded Mindanao Youth Development (MYDev) program, Marshaida's life took a better turn.
"I learned some basic life skills that I'm able to use in putting up my own business. After that, I was able to get a scholarship and finish my Bachelor of Science in Fisheries major in Food Processing degree last month. Now, I'm returning the favor, I'm now mentoring other youth. Back then I don't have the confidence, I'm scared to even hold a microphone and speak in front of the crowd. But after the program, nawala 'yong doubt ko sa sarili ko mismo (I now have the confidence)," she said.
Marshaida considered MYDev program a “big opportunity” that came into her life.
"Back then, I'm an out-of-school-youth. Now, I'm an outstanding youth," she said.
During the MYDev completion ceremony in Makati on Friday, dozens of beneficiaries from Mindanao, including Marshaida, extended their gratitude to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the funding agency for the PHP832-million project.
The six-year MYDev program entered its last leg this 2019.
As of April 15, at least 25,719 youth benefited from the program, 22,163 of whom have completed life skills training and technical-vocational skills training.
Lawrence Hardy II, USAID mission director in the Philippines, said there are around 3 million children and youth who are either out-of-school, or out-of-work in Mindanao.
"Supporting these young people in realizing their potential will pay dividends for years to come as they will become leaders who shape the country’s future," he said.
While the MYDev project is coming to an end, Hardy vowed that US would continue its support to the youth in the region.
The program, which begun in 2013, was implemented in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
During the completion ceremony, the US government turned over life skills modules developed by Boston-based Education Development Center to strengthen work readiness skills, leadership ability, and resilience of youth to the two agencies.
The DepEd and TESDA are expected to incorporate these modules into ALS and technical-vocational training this school year and implement the training nationwide.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068864
"Supporting these young people in realizing their potential will pay dividends for years to come as they will become leaders who shape the country’s future," he said.
While the MYDev project is coming to an end, Hardy vowed that US would continue its support to the youth in the region.
The program, which begun in 2013, was implemented in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
During the completion ceremony, the US government turned over life skills modules developed by Boston-based Education Development Center to strengthen work readiness skills, leadership ability, and resilience of youth to the two agencies.
The DepEd and TESDA are expected to incorporate these modules into ALS and technical-vocational training this school year and implement the training nationwide.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068864
AFP says safeguards in place to ensure peaceful polls
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): AFP says safeguards in place to ensure peaceful polls
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have issued sufficient safeguards to ensure that the coming May 13 elections will be peaceful and orderly.
This was the reply given by Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP public affairs office chief, on Monday when asked if they have detected any security threats with one week left before the elections and whether sufficient security measures are in place to deter any untoward incidents.
"There are enough safeguards issued by Comelec, and specific instructions issued by the service commanders and the CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff, AFP) Gen. Benjamin Madrigal," he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.
Detoyato also said Unified Command heads are all implementing Comelec and AFP-issued guidelines to ensure peaceful elections.
"(With) the AFP and PNP (Philippine National Police's) full support to Comelec, we are confident that we are more than prepared for the conduct of the mid-term elections. While these preparations are being undertaken, our primary task of counter-insurgency operations is also ongoing," he said.
Earlier, the AFP public affairs office chief said the military will be deploying at least 40,000 personnel to augment the PNP force in securing this year’s national and local elections.
"We will be supporting the PNP and the Comelec in this mid-term elections and around 30,000 to 40,000 of our troops will be directly committed but it will also depend on the situation on the ground,” Detoyato said.
“It will be decided upon by the Unified (Command) commanders but our counter-insurgency operations, all other security operations will not be stopped, there will be ongoing operations even if there is an ongoing election," he added.
The AFP official said military troops will be deployed in precincts identified as needing extra security.
“Deployment duties will be decided by the Comelec,” Detoyato emphasized.
Aside from securing the elections, the AFP will also help in the transport of poll materials where there are no contractors, he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068961
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have issued sufficient safeguards to ensure that the coming May 13 elections will be peaceful and orderly.
This was the reply given by Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP public affairs office chief, on Monday when asked if they have detected any security threats with one week left before the elections and whether sufficient security measures are in place to deter any untoward incidents.
"There are enough safeguards issued by Comelec, and specific instructions issued by the service commanders and the CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff, AFP) Gen. Benjamin Madrigal," he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.
Detoyato also said Unified Command heads are all implementing Comelec and AFP-issued guidelines to ensure peaceful elections.
"(With) the AFP and PNP (Philippine National Police's) full support to Comelec, we are confident that we are more than prepared for the conduct of the mid-term elections. While these preparations are being undertaken, our primary task of counter-insurgency operations is also ongoing," he said.
Earlier, the AFP public affairs office chief said the military will be deploying at least 40,000 personnel to augment the PNP force in securing this year’s national and local elections.
"We will be supporting the PNP and the Comelec in this mid-term elections and around 30,000 to 40,000 of our troops will be directly committed but it will also depend on the situation on the ground,” Detoyato said.
“It will be decided upon by the Unified (Command) commanders but our counter-insurgency operations, all other security operations will not be stopped, there will be ongoing operations even if there is an ongoing election," he added.
The AFP official said military troops will be deployed in precincts identified as needing extra security.
“Deployment duties will be decided by the Comelec,” Detoyato emphasized.
Aside from securing the elections, the AFP will also help in the transport of poll materials where there are no contractors, he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068961
PNP gets P1.8-B equipment
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): PNP gets P1.8-B equipment
NEW POLICE EQUIPMENT. The Philippine National Police (PNP) beefs up its capability with newly-acquired equipment worth PHP1.8 billion. Photo shows the new helicopters, patrol jeeps, and motorcyles at the PNP Headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City on Monday (May 6, 2019). (PNA photo by Lloyd Caliwan)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has acquired PHP1.8 billion worth of equipment which includes helicopters, motorcycles, pistols, and bomb-sniffing dogs.
Among the new equipment are two single-engine helicopters, 107 units of patrol jeep, 349 motorcycles, thousands of pistols and machine guns, combat helmets, and radio. The PNP also acquired 48 trained dogs that could detect explosives.
NEW POLICE EQUIPMENT. The Philippine National Police (PNP) beefs up its capability with newly-acquired equipment worth PHP1.8 billion. Photo shows the new helicopters, patrol jeeps, and motorcyles at the PNP Headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City on Monday (May 6, 2019). (PNA photo by Lloyd Caliwan)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has acquired PHP1.8 billion worth of equipment which includes helicopters, motorcycles, pistols, and bomb-sniffing dogs.
Among the new equipment are two single-engine helicopters, 107 units of patrol jeep, 349 motorcycles, thousands of pistols and machine guns, combat helmets, and radio. The PNP also acquired 48 trained dogs that could detect explosives.
PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde witnessed the blessing of the equipment in a turn-over ceremony at the National Capital Regional Police Office headquarters at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City on Monday.
“The PNP Capability Enhancement Program aims to provide for and enhance the basic operational requirements of every PNP unit especially the municipal and city police stations, regional public safety battalions, provincial public safety companies and national support units,” he told reporters.
He said the helicopters would go to the PNP Special Action Force to support internal security, law enforcement and public safety operations in the Visayas and Mindanao.
He said they are expecting the arrival of four more newly-procured helicopters in June and October while another three will be delivered next year.
“The PNP Capability Enhancement Program aims to provide for and enhance the basic operational requirements of every PNP unit especially the municipal and city police stations, regional public safety battalions, provincial public safety companies and national support units,” he told reporters.
He said the helicopters would go to the PNP Special Action Force to support internal security, law enforcement and public safety operations in the Visayas and Mindanao.
He said they are expecting the arrival of four more newly-procured helicopters in June and October while another three will be delivered next year.
He said they are aiming to provide a helicopter in each police regional office, which is also the “wish” of President Rodrigo R. Duterte.
Albayalde said the combat helmets, tactical radios, body armor, side arms, motorcycles and patrol vehicles would fill-up existing shortages among the line units.
The light machine guns would be given to the Maritime Group to arm its newly-acquired fleet of high-speed tactical watercraft for police maritime patrol operations in the coastal areas.
Albayalde said the combat helmets, tactical radios, body armor, side arms, motorcycles and patrol vehicles would fill-up existing shortages among the line units.
The light machine guns would be given to the Maritime Group to arm its newly-acquired fleet of high-speed tactical watercraft for police maritime patrol operations in the coastal areas.
Albayalde said by the end of 2019, all PNP personnel would have their own issued short firearms.
The equipment would be sent to police offices within the week to be used during the mid-term polls on Monday, May 13.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068968
The equipment would be sent to police offices within the week to be used during the mid-term polls on Monday, May 13.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1068968
Comelec urged to probe recovery of militant pamphlets in NPA lair
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): Comelec urged to probe recovery of militant pamphlets in NPA lair
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to look into the incident where military personnel recovered supposed election materials of Bayan Muna and Kabataan party-lists, following intelligence operations at a suspected rebel hideout in Barangay Culasian, Rizal, Palawan last May 3.
"The AFP is again calling the attention of the Comelec to look into these campaign materials which were captured during a joint intelligence operation," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Edgard Arevalo, said in Filipino in a briefing on Monday.
Both partly-list groups were linked by the military as legal fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA), which is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
Arevalo said the recovery of these election paraphernalia is a possible indication that these party-list groups are being aided by the communist rebels.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to look into the incident where military personnel recovered supposed election materials of Bayan Muna and Kabataan party-lists, following intelligence operations at a suspected rebel hideout in Barangay Culasian, Rizal, Palawan last May 3.
"The AFP is again calling the attention of the Comelec to look into these campaign materials which were captured during a joint intelligence operation," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Edgard Arevalo, said in Filipino in a briefing on Monday.
Both partly-list groups were linked by the military as legal fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA), which is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
Arevalo said the recovery of these election paraphernalia is a possible indication that these party-list groups are being aided by the communist rebels.
"This could prove or this could show us that they are being helped (by the rebels). If they don't go there, and yet their campaign materials are recovered in the NPA camp, it is an indication that they communicate or have a link," he added in Filipino.
Arevalo's views were shared by Western Command head, Vice Admiral Rene V. Medina in an earlier statement.
“We are calling the attention of the COMELEC to look into this matter, with the recovery of campaign posters of the Bayan Muna and Kabataan party-list group. Likewise, we continuously urge our local stakeholders for peace to sustain the cooperation that has been established through information sharing,” he added.
Also recovered during the military operation in Palawan were a .50 caliber "Barrett" type sniper rifle, 16 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition, a suppressor for M-14 assault rifle and various communist ideological books, and dental paraphernalia.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069007
Arevalo's views were shared by Western Command head, Vice Admiral Rene V. Medina in an earlier statement.
“We are calling the attention of the COMELEC to look into this matter, with the recovery of campaign posters of the Bayan Muna and Kabataan party-list group. Likewise, we continuously urge our local stakeholders for peace to sustain the cooperation that has been established through information sharing,” he added.
Also recovered during the military operation in Palawan were a .50 caliber "Barrett" type sniper rifle, 16 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition, a suppressor for M-14 assault rifle and various communist ideological books, and dental paraphernalia.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069007
AFP to deploy 35K troops to augment poll security
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6, 2019): AFP to deploy 35K troops to augment poll security
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be deploying around 35,000 troops to support the Philippine National Police (PNP) in ensuring that the coming May 13 mid-term elections are peaceful and orderly.
This, according to AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, in a media briefing Monday.
He said the military will be supporting the PNP which is estimated to be deploying around 143,000 police personnel tasked to secure the coming polls.
"Your AFP will be on a support role with more than 35,000 members. Other deployment beyond this number will be determined by the situation on the ground base on the recommendations of the area commanders of the AFP, regional directors of the PNP, and of course, the Comelec," Arevalo said.
The military will also play the lead security role in areas known to be with heavy communist rebel presence, he added.
He expressed confidence that the coming elections will be peaceful attributed to the intensive preparations by the military, police and the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
"Apart from some isolated incidents, generally, the AFP can say that the situation on the ground and peaceful and quiet," he added.
Arevalo is also confident that this situation will continue until the May 13 polls have been successfully concluded.
"Given the arrangements, given the planning and the execution of the plans that we have long crafted together with the PNP and the Comelec, we are going to have a peaceful orderly and credible elections (this coming) May 13," he added.
Asked whether the military will be declaring a “red" alert status for the coming polls, Arevalo said the AFP will announce the necessary alert footing within the coming days.
"We are going to declare the necessary alert status as we come closer to election day or on the election day (itself)," said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069009
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be deploying around 35,000 troops to support the Philippine National Police (PNP) in ensuring that the coming May 13 mid-term elections are peaceful and orderly.
This, according to AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, in a media briefing Monday.
He said the military will be supporting the PNP which is estimated to be deploying around 143,000 police personnel tasked to secure the coming polls.
"Your AFP will be on a support role with more than 35,000 members. Other deployment beyond this number will be determined by the situation on the ground base on the recommendations of the area commanders of the AFP, regional directors of the PNP, and of course, the Comelec," Arevalo said.
The military will also play the lead security role in areas known to be with heavy communist rebel presence, he added.
He expressed confidence that the coming elections will be peaceful attributed to the intensive preparations by the military, police and the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
"Apart from some isolated incidents, generally, the AFP can say that the situation on the ground and peaceful and quiet," he added.
Arevalo is also confident that this situation will continue until the May 13 polls have been successfully concluded.
"Given the arrangements, given the planning and the execution of the plans that we have long crafted together with the PNP and the Comelec, we are going to have a peaceful orderly and credible elections (this coming) May 13," he added.
Asked whether the military will be declaring a “red" alert status for the coming polls, Arevalo said the AFP will announce the necessary alert footing within the coming days.
"We are going to declare the necessary alert status as we come closer to election day or on the election day (itself)," said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1069009
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