31 Manobos flee Haran, are back home

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2019): 31 Manobos flee Haran, are back home

KAPALONG, Davao del Norte (PIA) -- Thirty-one members of the Ata-Manobo tribe who reportedly ran away from the Haran compound in Davao City last Saturday (May 18) have returned home, arriving on Tuesday (May 21) afternoon.

Taking almost a three-hour trip on a dump-truck of the local government of Kapalong, and riding through winding roads with concreted and rough portions, the 31 reached their homeland at Sitio Tiabong in Barangay Gupitan, an upland village in Kapalong.

They were accompanied by Kapalong Indigenous People’s Mandatory Representative Datu Arturo Dabao, representatives from the Municipal Information Office of Kapalong and from the Municipal Social Welfare Development Office, the Department of Education Kapalong District, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Davao del Norte Information Center, and the 60th Infantry Battalion.

The homecoming of the 31, who comprised six families with 21 children and 10 adults, ignited cheers from their fellow tribesmen as they passed through Sitio Lunoluno whose residents had been informed of the return of their neighbors.

A screen grab from PIA-XI video report shows Ata-Manobo evacuees who reportedly escaped from the Haran compound arriving in their community in Kapalong.

Datu Dabao revealed that a ritual was held earlier on the same day of the homecoming, at Sitio Lunoluno to appease the spirit of a tribal chieftain who was allegedly killed by members of the New People’s Army due to his refusal to go with the “bakwits” of the nearby sitio.

“Sila man gud tong nahimong hinungdan nganong gipatay tong datu. (They were the reason why that datu was killed),” Datu Dabao told PIA while on the way to Sitio Tiabong.

“Aron makalabang sila sa dapit, kinahanglan naay ritwal nga pagahimoon agig pakig-uli. (So they could pass through the place, a ritual needed to be performed for reconciliation),” he added identifying the datu as Datu Binandao Maugan.

Upon reaching Sitio Tiabong, the 31 were greeted by fellow villagers led by Datu Lambid Tiklunay who thanked Kapalong Mayor Ma. Theresa Timbol for facilitating the safe return of his tribe folk.

Tribal elders and other community leaders then banded together along the road where the 31 disembarked from the dump-truck, and they grouped around the visitors.

Datu Dabao relayed Timbol’s jubilation for the homecoming of the tribe members from Haran in Davao City, and asked community leaders to accommodate those who were returning home.

DepEd Kapalong District representative, Leigh Jay Cubar, brought them the news that DepEd will be setting up two makeshift school buildings for kinder pupils, and for Grade I to Grade IV students.

“Naa nay klase dinhi karong June 3. (Classes will start here on June 3), ” he said.

Datu Tiklunay assured the visitors accompanying his tribe members that the leaders and elders will make sure that community members won’t fall prey again as "bakwit" recruits.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022427

Martial law instills order in Mindanao

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2019): Martial law instills order in Mindanao



A Simba Armored Personnel Carrier along Davao City's Claveria Street. The AFP says martial law has helped ensure the safety of cities and communities.

DAVAO CITY (PIA) - Martial law in Mindanao has boosted the implementation of peace and security measures to ensure the safety of communities, military and police officials say.

The martial law, now on its second year of implementation, was declared on May 21, 2017, shortly after the Islamic State-inspired terrorists laid siege to Marawi City.

Speaking at the AFP-PNP Press Corps briefing, Captain Jerry Lamosao, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said martial law has helped in ensuring the safety and security of communities and has corrected the impression that it will make the military more abusive of its authority.

With martial law in place, the communities are more emboldened to report the presence of armed men in their neighborhood while more rebels return to the folds of the law, he added.

Lamosao said no complaints of abuse have been ventilated to the military leadership and even to Malacanang with regards to its implementation.

He said that the military has engaged more stakeholders in its peace and order programs to quash the insurgency.

The 10th ID spokesperson said delivery of services to the communities is also more profound through the construction of more farm-to-market roads, and other infrastructure projects.

“The implementation of martial law is more of a bane to armed groups based on the Marawi experience and the presence of the communist rebels in our area,” Lamosao said.

Police Major Jason Baria, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office XI, maintained that no human rights violation has been reported to have been committed by authorities in Mindanao.

“Surely, the martial law is purely a peace and order measure,” he said.

Baria said the people can reach the authorities through the 888 hotline, but no abuse has been recorded two years since its implementation in Mindanao.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022378

Island teachers want to return to mainland Zambo City

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2019): Island teachers want to return to mainland Zambo City

ZAMBOANGA CITY --As classes are to start on June 3, the Department of Education (DepEd) here has received numerous requests from island-barangay teachers to be transferred back to the mainland.

DepEd Zamboanga City Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Oliver Talaoc reported their office has received such requests for re-assignments from teachers, particularly in the island barangays of Tigtabon, Sacol Island, Manalipa, Landang Gua and others.

“They do not want to be assigned in the islands, they are afraid,” Talaoc said as he confirmed that security concerns make up the most of the teachers’ apprehensions. “They are afraid that they might be kidnapped.”

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) pump boats have been ferrying the teachers from the mainland to the islands, but the boats have a strict schedule. Talaoc said there are instances when teachers are not able to catch the boat on time, and they have to wait for hours for the boat’s return. Otherwise, they have the option to flag boats-for-hire, but they are apprehensive to do this for security reasons.

“The teachers want to be reassigned in the city, but the problem is they do not have replacements yet,” Talaoc explained. They will have to stay until such time when newly-hired teachers would have been assigned to take their posts.

More than 10 years ago in January 2009, three newly-assigned school teachers were abducted in the waters of Sacol Island. There have been other similar abductions of school teachers here in the past.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1022432

Army battalions join 'Brigada Eskwela' in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Army battalions join 'Brigada Eskwela' in Maguindanao



BRIGADA ESKWELA LINK. Soldiers from the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion provide free haircut to pupils during the Brigada Eskwela activity on Thursday (May 23) in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao ahead of the class opening on June 3. (Photo courtesy of 33rd IB)

Soldiers from two Army battalions took time out on Thursday to participate in “Brigada Eskwela” initiatives in public schools in Maguindanao as part of their social responsibility, officials said. 

Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB), said soldiers of the Bravo Company joined parents and teachers in preparing the Datu Paglas Central School in Poblacion, Datu Paglas, Maguindanao by providing manpower assistance and free haircut, especially to incoming students.

Boongaling said the annual Brigada Eskwela was spearheaded by Bouden Tudon, head teacher of Datu Paglas Central School, with the parents, teachers, and alumni who cleaned, cut grasses, and repair classrooms.

In nearby President Quirino Central School in Barangay Poblacion, Pres. Quirino, Sultan Kudarat, the soldiers joined the annual Brigada Eskwela efforts.

“The soldiers’ participation in the Brigada Eskwela highlight the spirit of volunteerism and unity,” he said in a statement.

Elements of the 57th IB joined the same activity in public schools in the towns of Datu Hoffer, Datu Unsay, and Shariff Aguak, all in Maguindanao, on Thursday.

The soldiers helped prepare the school facilities and its environment to become safe and conducive for learning when pupils return to school on June 3.

Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, has ordered all Army battalions in the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, and parts of North Cotabato and Lanao del Sur to participate in Brigada Eskwela activities.

Brigada Eskwela, or the National Schools Maintenance Week, is a nationwide initiative by the Department of Education (DepEd) that aims to mobilize the parents, alumni, teachers, civic groups, and students, among others, to volunteer their time and repair skills in preparing school facilities for school opening in June.

This year’s theme is "Matatag na Bayan Para sa Matatag na Paaralan."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070602

1 hurt as NoCot town clan war erupts anew

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): 1 hurt as NoCot town clan war erupts anew



A clan member was wounded as a longtime feud between two warring families broke out anew in Midsayap, North Cotabato on Thursday afternoon, a military official here said.

Maj. Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) spokesperson, said the clans involved in the conflict belong to Mama Makalimbol, an alleged leader of a local private armed group, and Datu Duluan, a Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) area commander.

Encinas said the two families traded shots around 4 p.m. in remote Barangay Tumbras, resulting to the wounding of a certain Akmad Baraguir who belongs to the Makalimbol group.

“The wounded Baraguir was immediately brought to a local infirmary for treatment,” he told the Philippine News Agency in a phone interview Friday.

He said troopers from the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion responded to the scene, firing three 81 mm mortar projectiles to pacify and separate the quarreling families.

"Officials from the Midsayap town government and local elders are currently talking with the two sides to sort out their differences that have spanned over the last decade,” Encinas said.

He added that the 6ID has also referred the matter to the joint government-MILF coordinating peace panels to talk things over with Duluan.

Some 200 villagers who evacuated at the height of the conflict have started returning home on Friday morning, Encinas said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070606

Prelate to NPAs: Spare billion-peso road project from attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Prelate to NPAs: Spare billion-peso road project from attacks



CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. The ongoing contruction of Simora Bridge that links Laoang town center to the mainland is one of the projects monitored by the church-led Samar Island Partnership for Peace and Development. Catholic Bishop Crispin Varquez of the Diocese of Borongan said the Eastern Samar development projects monitoring team will closely check on the civil works despite security threats. (Photo from FB page of Borongan Diocesan Social Action Center)

TACLOBAN CITY -- The church-led Samar Island Partnership for Peace and Development (SIPPAD) on Thursday appealed to the New People’s Army (NPA) to spare the billion-peso Samar Pacific Coastal Road Project amid security issues.

Catholic Bishop Crispin Varquez of the Diocese of Borongan said the Eastern Samar development projects monitoring team will closely check on the civil works despite security threats.

Varquez led the team in the inspection of Simora Bridge construction in Northern Samar, a major component of the coastal road project that will connect the island town of Laoang to the mainland in Palapag town.

The Catholic bishop also toured the towns of Laoang and Palapag to check the status of the ongoing road project that links the four Pacific coastal towns of Northern Samar to Laoang.

“The road network and bridges are important infrastructures to aid the development of these towns. Its absence may result in peace and order and economic setbacks,” Varquez said in a phone interview after the first field monitoring activity.

The monitoring was almost postponed due to the recent clash between government troops and rebels, where a soldier of the 63rd Infantry Battalion and two communist rebels died.

The soldiers were deployed in the area to secure the infrastructure project when a group of communist terrorists attacked them early morning on May 21.

“It is sad to hear that there are people who sacrificed their lives in the implementation of a project designed to bring development and progress,” Varquez said.

“I am appealing to the people that if you can talk with our rebel brothers, tell them to stop and spare this project in their attacks because this will not only benefit a few sectors but our entire province,” he said.

The church official, who heads SIPPAD, said that solving the peace and order concerns is not only the job of the military but the community as well. “We need to work hand-in-hand to solve our security problem and to maintain peace and order.”

SIPPAD is a partnership of the church, academe, civil society, media, and youth sectors in Northern, Eastern, and Samar provinces. The organization is headed by the three bishops in the Diocese of Borongan, Calbayog, and Catarman, who oversee the church in Samar Island provinces.

The partnership has identified the PHP997.50-million road project as a priority for monitoring since it is crucial in solving decades-long poverty and insurgency.

The project, funded through a loan from the South Korean government, will open an 11.6-km. two-lane road and build three bridges. The Korean contractor aims to complete the project by March 2020.

To reach the capital town of Catarman, residents of Palapag and three other Pacific towns -- Mapanas, Gamay, and Lapinig -- need to cross the river twice through a pump boat ride.

From the port in Pangpang village in Palapag, travelers need to cross the river to Calomotan village of Laoang, then take a boat ride to the port in the town center and ride another pump boat to cross the river going to Rawis village.

The road project will also help promote the tourism potentials of the four Pacific coastal towns blessed with beaches, rock formations, waterfalls, and caves, he said.

Through this road network, Eastern Samar will be directly connected to Northern Samar without passing through the cities of Catbalogan and Calbayog in Samar province, cutting travel time by six hours via Arteche-Palapag Road bordering the eastern and northern side of the province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070603

Army hits NPA recruitment of minors in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Army hits NPA recruitment of minors in Surigao Sur



The Army's 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) said it has validated yet again the continued recruitment of minors by communist rebels, in violation of Philippine laws.

In a statement released Thursday, 36IB said it managed to confirm the recruitment of a minor following an encounter in Carmen, Surigao del Sur, on May 19 that killed four New People's Army (NPA) combatants.

Of the casualties, the 36IB said, was 18-year old Dylan Ghem Padilla Jimenez, whose mother told military authorities that her son fled their home in Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, after he was recruited by the rebels when he was 17.

1Lt. Jonald Romorosa, 36IB civil-military operations officer, said the troops found Jimenez wounded and rushed him to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

By recruiting Jimenez when was still a minor, the 36IB said the NPA was liable for violating Republic Act 9851, or "an act defining and penalizing crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity, organizing jurisdiction, designating special courts, and for related purposes..."

The law, the Army said, "prohibits the recruitment and participation of children in arm conflict. In which the state values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights, including the rights of indigenous cultural communities and other vulnerable groups, such as women and children."

Further, the 36IB said the NPA's "recruitment of minors is a violation of the “Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act" or Republic Act 11188."

"Under the law, children are declared as ‘Zones of Peace’ which must extend beyond territorial or geographical boundaries. The law recognized that children are entitle to dignity and respect as human beings in need of protection from degradation and to prevent the recruitment, re-recruitment, use, displacement of, or grave child rights violations against children involved in armed conflict," it added.

Lt. Col. Xerxes Trinidad, 36IB commander, said the recruitment of Jimenez was proof of the rebels' continuing use of child soldiers "to participate in an armed conflict in pursuit of their disillusioned cause."

"The CNTs (Communist Party of the Philippines –New People’s Army terrorists) leadership must be held accountable and liable for this act of crimes against minors. We will facilitate the filing of appropriate charges to this action of the CNTs,” Trinidad said.

Trinidad added: “We call on the peace-loving people of Surigao del Sur to condemn this act of crimes of the CNTs. Let us protect our children at all cost. To the remaining CNT, stop recruiting and exploiting minor. Surrender now and return to the fold of the law and avail the government’s Enhance and Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)."

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070659

Duterte appoints replacement for late BTA member

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Duterte appoints replacement for late BTA member

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Mudjib Compania Abu as member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), replacing the late Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) vice chair Ghazali Jaafar, Malacañang said on Thursday.

Jaafar, who also served as chairperson of the MILF Peace Negotiating Panel from 1996 to 1997, died in a hospital in Davao City on March 13.

Duterte appointed him as chairperson of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission in January 2017 and as member of the BTA, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in February 2019.

Aside from Compania, Duterte also appointed pastor Grepor Belgica as the new presidential adviser for religious affairs.

Beglica will have a one-peso compensation every year.

He appointed Jose Sylton Solidum as assistant Cabinet secretary under the Office of the Cabinet Secretariat, Office of the President.

The President also appointed former special envoy to China Fernando Borja as his new special envoy to Japan for business and investment promotion for a term of six months.

He renewed the appointment of Almarim Tillah as special envoy of the President to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation from Jan. 1, 2019 to Dec. 31, 2019.

Duterte also appointed Teresita Mata-Maranon as member of the Board of Directors, Coconut Industry Investment Fund (CIIF) Oil Mill, Inc.; Leonor Cabral-Lim as member, representing the academe/research at the Philippine Council for Mental Health, Department of Health (DOH); Celerino Umandap as member, representing the overseas Filipino workers land-based sector of the Board of Trustees, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Department of Labor and Employment; Datu Mama Salazar Sinsuat Jr. as Director IV of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos; Ronlyn Quillope Zambales as Director IV of the Department of Interior and Local Government; and Judith Pagsanjan as Director II of the Department of Transportation among others.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070596

Frigates purchase aimed at ensuring PH territorial integrity

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Frigates purchase aimed at ensuring PH territorial integrity

Photo courtesy: Hyundai Heavy Industries

ULSAN, South Korea -- The acquisition of modern naval platforms, such as the missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), and its sister ship, BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) ongoing efforts to ensure the country's territorial integrity.

This was stressed by AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., when asked by reporters whether the acquisition of these frigates mean that the country is engaging in an arms race in the wake of the ongoing tensions at the West Philippine Sea.

"No, the objective of our ongoing modernization program is to come up with a very credible and world-class AFP that the Filipino people will be proud of. Those (tensions) are just incidental but our overall intention, of course, is to ensure we maintain our territorial integrity and that we are able to represent an armed forces that can be at par with other Armed Forces in other countries," he said in a mixture of Filipino and English during the briefing for the launch of the BRP Jose Rizal.

Madrigal said these ships will be able to support Filipino fishermen engaged in their lawful occupation in the country's territorial waters.

The AFP chief's views were echoed by Philippine Navy flag officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad, who noted the urgent need for the PN to upgrade its new assets due to the country's vast territorial waters.

"There is a saying that if you want to achieve peace, you prepare for war. I attended the International Maritime Security Conference last week in Singapore and we observed that a lot of Navies are modernizing their capabilities," Empedrad said.

He cited as an example the case of Australia, China, and Malaysia who are currently ramping up their naval forces.

"I think there is a need to beef up the PN because we have vast maritime (territories that these countries) and we need to protect it," Empedrad said.

The BRP Jose Rizal was formally launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea Thursday morning.

The ship, which is expected to be delivered to the Philippines by HHI in September 2020, will be armed with an Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid main gun, an Aselsan SMASH 30mm remote-controlled secondary cannon, anti-submarine torpedoes, and anti-air and ship missiles.

It is also equipped with Hanwha Systems' Naval Shield combat management system (CMS), which integrates all shipboard sensors and weapons and decides which is ideal to deal with any incoming threat.

This system can also detect and track about 4,000 targets and is used in various configurations by the Republic of Korea Navy, Royal Malaysian Navy and the Indonesian Navy.

The Philippines and HHI signed a PHP16-billion contract for two missile-armed frigates, with another PHP2 billion set aside for its weapon systems and munition in October 2016.

PN spokesperson, Capt. Jonathan Zata, said these frigates will help secure the country's maritime chokepoints or primary sea routes used for trade, logistics, and naval operations for all forms of threats.

The steel-cutting for BRP Jose Rizal took place on April 1, 2018 while the same ceremony for BRP Antonio Luna transpired in November that year.

This event officially signified the start of the actual construction of the frigates.

Meanwhile, the keel-laying ceremony for BRP Jose Rizal took place last October as the formal recognition of the start of the ship’s construction.

Keel-laying refers to the official start of the construction of any ship and is considered among the four highlights of any surface vessel with the other three being steel-cutting, commissioning, and decommissioning.

"These frigates are built based on the Incheon/FFX-I/HDF-3000-type multi-purpose frigate of the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN), which offers increased operational performance and enhanced survivability," Zata said.

These are also fully-equipped with surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles, torpedoes, launchers and weapon systems for four-dimensional warfare.

The ship measures 351 feet long and 46 feet wide and has a maximum speed of 25 knots and can travel up to 4,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots. It can sustain operational presence for 30 days and is capable of withstanding rough sea conditions up to Sea State 7, which means waves of up to six meters to nine meters high.

"Each frigate has a complement of more than 100 officers and crew. It has a flight deck located at the stern with the ability to handle one maritime helicopter weighing up to 12 tons. Two rigid-hulled inflatable boats will be carried to conduct military and emergency operations at sea," Zata added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070600

PH Navy to get 3 more multi-purpose attack craft this year

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): PH Navy to get 3 more multi-purpose attack craft this year

Photo courtesy: Hyundai Heavy Industries

ULSAN, South Korea -- The Philippine Navy (PN) is expected to acquire another three multi-purpose attack craft (MPAC) armed with the Rafael Advanced Defense Ltd. Spike-ER (extended range) surface-to-surface missile system this year. 

"We have another three (in the process of) building, and they are expected to be delivered this year. They will also be armed with the Spike-ER missiles," PN flag officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) shortly after the launch of the missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), at the Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard here Thursday.

These MPACs will be called the Mark IV and have started construction in November last year.

Empedrad said the builders of the MPACs are the same as that of the previous Mark II and III.

The PN's three Mark III MPACs were constructed by the Subic-based Propmech Corp. and activated on May 22, 2017.

These boats can cruise up to 45 knots and are armed with remotely-controlled .50-caliber machine guns aside from the Spike-ER missiles.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070601

Marawi on road to recovery through healing, reconciliation

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): Marawi on road to recovery through healing, reconciliation



MARAWI CITY -- “We are on our way to being well. We are finally learning what peace is all about,” Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra declared as residents here on Thursday commemorated the siege that occurred two years ago.

Although, the full extent of the rehabilitation process has yet to be completed, Gandamra urged the people in Marawi to put more emphasis on social healing.

“Peace starts with us. Peace must be realized,” he said as the city celebrates the culmination of the Week of Peace festival.

The festival was held right on the grounds of the City Hall, where two years ago, the Mayor and several of his security men stood firm for days preventing the Maute group from burning the City Hall.

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr., who was then the chief of Western Mindanao Command, shared that just like their mayor who fought against the ISIS-linked group tooth and nail, the people of Marawi have shown their best by being resilient right at the height of the conflict.

“I was tasked to deliver an inspirational message today as we culminate the Marawi Week of Peace. But the reality is, it is you, the people of Marawi, who have inspired and strengthen my resolve to work for genuine and enduring peace,” he said.

“Truly, I am very inspired to know that as we observe the Holy Month of Ramadan, you are using the occasion as an opportunity to reflect on the lessons of the Marawi experience and apply them to your daily lives,” Galvez said, adding that “This is where the healing process can truly begin.”

Galvez emphasized that Marawi stand to benefit from the establishment of the Bangsamoro region.

“The opportunity for us to heal, rebuild, and recover is within reach. With the establishment of the Bangsamoro government, the fate of this beautiful city now rests not only in the hands of the new leadership but also in your hands,” he said.

“You now have the opportunity to play a key role in charting the course of Marawi's future,” Galvez pointed out.

Evacuees go back

According to Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, chair of the Task Force Bangon Marawi, only a few families affected by the conflict are still staying in evacuation camps.

“At the initial aftermath of the siege, there were about 57 evacuation centers with almost 6,000 families within and outside of Marawi. Now we have only two evacuation centers in Marawi with only about 312 families,” he said.

“And by July, all of these families will be accommodated in the temporary shelters. So nobody will be staying in evacuation centers,” he said.

Families that applied for building and reconstruction permits from the city government of Marawi will be allowed to go back in the most affected area, he said.

Del Rosario said Marawi is gradually bouncing back.

“We are mandated to ensure that Marawi will rise as a prosperous city again,” he said.

Transitional justice program

To achieve a holistic approach for the healing process, the Armed Forces of the Philippines is partnering with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) to help rehabilitate former members of the Maute group.

Col. Romeo Brawner, the commander of Task Force Ranao, said it is also important to intervene in the deradicalization of these individuals who were duped to join the Maute group.

“We are looking at the Basilan model, wherein members of the Abu Sayyaf, who have surrendered, where given proper interventions,” he said.

Galvez said his office will be helping the military in Lanao areas to bring down the level of animosity between the victims of the conflict and surrendered perpetrators.

“What we are looking at is the implementation of transitional justice and reconciliation here,” he said.

Part of the activities is to meet with the members of the Maute group who have surrendered and their families for an Iftar.

Brawner said they will tap these former and reformed combatants to prevent others from being radicalized.

Galvez also went to the Sarimanok Evacuation Center together with OPAPP personnel to hand over goods in solidarity with the internally displaced persons.

The visit is part of the yearly Duyog Ramadan that OPAPP is implementing during the month-long observance.

Meanwhile, Galvez, Del Rosario, Gandamra, and Brawner held a solemn wreath laying to commemorate the soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice to liberate Marawi. The ceremony was held inside the 103rd Infantry Brigade headquarters.

“The gallantry of the 168 soldier who lost their lives will forever be etched in our hearts,” Galvez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070597

BRP Conrado Yap to arrive in PH in July

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2019): BRP Conrado Yap to arrive in PH in July

The BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39), formerly the South Korean "Pohang" class corvette Chungju, will sail home to the Philippines in July and is set to boost the Navy's anti-submarine and anti-surface capabilities.

This was disclosed by Philippine Navy flag officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad in an interview shortly after the launch of the country's first missile frigate, the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) at the Hyundai Heavy Industries' shipyard in South Korea's southeastern city of Ulsan Thursday.

"The ship will be delivered to the Philippines by July (after refurbishment works in June)," he added.

The BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) is the former Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) "Pohang"-class corvette Chungju (PCC-762) that was commissioned with the ROKN in 1987 and served until 2016.

"The ship will sail and arrive in the country in July 2019," PN spokesperson, Capt. Jonathan Zata, said.

The ship was named Conrado Yap to uphold the legacy of a gallant Filipino military leader who served in the Korean War as part of the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea.

Yap was a Philippine Army captain and is considered as the most decorated Filipino soldier during the Korean War.

He posthumously received a Philippine Medal of Valor, the country's highest military honor, as well as a US Distinguished Service Cross, for gallantry in action as part of the Tank Company, 10th Battalion Combat Team (10th BCT), Philippine Army.

"Its sailing crew departed last April 2019 and (is) now undergoing necessary operational and warfare trainings for 13 weeks being facilitated by the Reserve Ship Maintenance Squadron (RSMS) in Jinhae, Gyeongsang-namdo, South Korea. The ship’s crew (members were) divided into five groups based on skills and specialization," Zata added.

The ship measures 88.3 meters long, with a beam of 10 meters and draft of 2.9 meters while its displacement is at 1,216 tons full load.

The ship is rated for a crew of 118 personnel and can sustain operational presence for 20 days.

The vessel's Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion configuration of Motor Transport Unit (MTU) diesel engines and LM2500 gas turbine with controllable pitch propellers (CPP) enable the ship to move to a maximum speed of 25 knots to a distance of 4,000 nautical miles.

"This ship will greatly enhance our fleet’s Anti-Air Warfare (AAW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capabilities," Zata added.

The ship is armed with two 76mm Oto Melara main guns, a 30mm automatic cannons, anti-submarine torpedoes, and a variety of sensors, including sonars, and radars.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070610

Reds kill Agusan Norte deputy cop chief

From the Philippine Star (May 24, 2019): Reds kill Agusan Norte deputy cop chief

The deputy police chief of Carmen town in Agusan del Norte was shot dead by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Wednesday. 

M/Sgt. Jimmer Omisol had just alighted from his car in Barangay Tagcaton when the rebels tried to kidnap him, Brig. Gen. Gilbert Cruz, Caraga police director, citing initial investigation, said.

”He was able to shoot and hit his assailants... The hero cop fought until his last breath,” Cruz said.

Eleven bullet shells for a caliber .45 pistol were recovered at the scene, which is near a police and military detachment.

Omar Ibarra of the NPA’s Northwestern Mindanao Command claimed responsibility for the killing, saying Omisol planted shabu and firearms seized from arrested NPA sympathizers and civilians.

Cruz condemned the killing even as he denied the allegations against Omisol. 

 
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/05/24/1920335/reds-kill-agusan-norte-deputy-cop-chief

Army’s 11th IB to return to Negros after 2 years

From Politiko-Visayas (May 24, 2019): Army’s 11th IB to return to Negros after 2 years

After spending two years in Mindanao, the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion is soon to return to Negros Island in the Visayas to fight the New People’s Army.

Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, commander of the AFP Central Command in the Visayas, said the 11IB should help fight the communist insurgency problem in the island.

Clement said the 11IB, which is presently based in Zamboanga City, is due to return to Negros Oriental end of May or early June 2019.

He said he is proposing to return the 11IB to its previous headquarters in Guihulngan City, in coordination with the concerned local government unit.

Recent attacks by the NPA had been in the areas of Guihulngan City and its neighboring areas, including Moises Padilla and Isabela towns in Negros Occidental.

The unit was transferred to Mindanao two years ago. Its return will bolster the four Army battalions now in Negros Island, including the 94th Infantry Battalion in Negros Oriental and the 15th, 62nd and 79th IBs in Negros Occidental.

Brig. Gen. Ignacio Madriaga, 302nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the return of 11IB to Negros Oriental is a welcome development.

“It will help fast track our objectives of clearing Negros Oriental of armed insurgents sooner than anticipated and desire to make the whole Region 7 insurgency-free,” he said.

https://visayas.politics.com.ph/armys-11th-ib-to-return-to-negros-after-2-years/

NPA terrorists recruiting child warriors – Army

From the Manila Bulletin (May 24, 2019): NPA terrorists recruiting child warriors – Army

TAGO, Surigao del Sur – The Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36th IB) on Thursday said Communist Party of the Philippines –New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorists (CNTs) are recruiting minors as fighters following a recent clash at Barangay Cancavan, Carmen, Surigao del Sur.



New People’s Army (MANILA BULLETIN)

Four CPP-NPAs were killed during the encounter. One of them was identified as Dylan Ghem P. Jimenez alias “Gareb”, 18, a resident of Barangay Adlay, Carrascal town, Surigao del Sur province who was wounded and rushed by government troops to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

According to the mother of Dylan, her son left home when he was 17 years old and was recruited by the NPA as a regular fighter, 1st Lt. Jopnald D. Romorosa, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the 36th IB said.

The communist terrorist are held liable for violation of RA No. 9851, an act defining and penalizing crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity, organizing jurisdiction, designating special courts, and for related purposes, it prohibits the recruitment and participation of children in arm conflict. In which the state values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights, including the rights of indigenous cultural communities and other vulnerable groups, such as women and children, it said.

The recruitment of minors are in violation of the “Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act” or Republic Act. No.11188. Under the law, children are declared as “Zones of Peace” which must extend beyond territorial or geographical boundaries. The law recognized that children are entitled to dignity and respect as human beings in need of protection from degradation and to prevent the recruitment, re-recruitment, use, displacement of, or grave child rights violations against children involved in armed conflict.

Lt. Col. Xerxes A. Trinidad, commanding officer of the 36th IB, PA stated that “it is a clear manifestation that the CNTs are recruiting minors to participate in an armed conflict in pursuit of their disillusioned cause. Evidently, the CNTs violated the rights of children to live peacefully and should not be allowed to take part in the hostilities. The CNTs leadership must be held accountable and liable for this act of crimes against minors. We will facilitate the filing of appropriate charges to this action of the CNTs.”

“We call on the peace loving people of Surigao del Sur to condemn this. Let us protect our children at all cost. To the remaining CNT, stop recruiting and exploiting minor. Surrender now and return to the fold of the law and avail of the government’s Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), LTC Trinidad added.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/05/24/npa-terrorists-recruiting-child-warriors-army/