VADM Empedrad presides Change of Command, lauds NFNL Commanders

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 4, 2019): VADM Empedrad presides Change of Command, lauds NFNL Commanders

SAN FERNANDO CITY -- In the Change of Command of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL) based in the Province of La Union, Vice Admiral (VADM) Robert Empedrad, AFP presided the ceremonies and lauded both Commanders, here.

In his message, VADM Empedrad said, “I am honored to preside in this change of command ceremony involving two of our highly regarded and respected flag officers of the Philippine Navy and Armed Forces of the Philippines.”

“I have witnessed how these two commodores diligently served with honor and excellence our maritime nation and the Filipino people since their junior age,” he said.

CHANGE OF COMMAND CEREMONY - Naval Forces of Northern Luzon (NFNL) outgoing commander Commo Nichols Driz, AFP (L), VADM Robert Empedrad, AFP (C) and incoming commander Comm Caesar Bernard Valencia, AFP (R) stand snappy during the Change of Command Ceremony held at the Gymnasium of the Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar at Poro village in San Fernando City, La Union on August 9, 2019. (RAV/PIA1)

He mentioned the common attitude of the two leaders, outgoing commander Commodore Nichols Driz, AFP and incoming commodore Caesar Bernard Valencia, AFP are their expertise in the field of intelligence as they both led the naval intelligence and security force.

Further, VADM Empedrad said, “It was in their leadership that they have arrested several high value targets and was consistently adjudged as the country’s Navy Sport of the Year during their stints.”

He also added that as surface officers, they commanded various commissioned vessels that earned them their most elusive Commandant Sea Badges.

Moreover, he also mentioned that both commanders were also conferred with their Senior Commandant Sea Badge for successfully commanding their people on various missions assigned to them.

“What I admire mostly of them are their work ethics, values and attitude towards their naval service as they are both hardworking and dependable, and does what is required of them with excellent result,” he said.

Commodore Driz handled the NFNL for one year and four months and has earned his second star to handle higher responsibilities.

He was also bestowed with several awards such as Outstanding Commander, Civilian Award from the Association of Regional Executives of Region 1 (AREX-1) and Military Award and Command Plaque.

In VADM Empedrad’s closing statement, he advised incoming Commodore Valencia to surpass whatever challenge he would be facing as the new commander and also encouraged the men and women of the NFNL to support their new superior.

The transfer of authority ceremony was attended by the families and friends of both commanders, and NFNL personnel including guests and visitors from the various regional line agencies and local government units in La Union.

The activity was held on August 9 at the Gymnasium of the Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar at Poro village in San Fernando City. (AMB/AHF/PIA 1)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026815

Army's 302nd IB welcomes new commander

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Army's 302nd IB welcomes new commander



NEGROS ORIENTAL -- The Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade has officially installed Col. Noel Baluyan as the new brigade commander.

Col. Baluyan replaces Brigadier General Ignacio Madriaga, after a change of command ceremony Tuesday held at the Headquarters of 302nd Brigade, Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City.

Turnover of command at the 302nd Infantry Brigade, Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City. (PA/PIA Negros Oriental)

The turnover ceremony was presided by Major General Dinoh Dolina, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army, based in Jamindan, Capiz.

Madriaga, who led the 302nd IB for one year and seven months, will be assigned at the General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

According to Capt. Khadaffy Tawantawan, civil military officer of the Infantry Brigade, Baluyan was then the deputy commander of the Achiever Brigade and concurrently the commander of Task Group-CBS covering the provinces of Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor (CBS).

In his assumption speech, Baluyan said: “As I take the helm of the 302nd IB, I am fully aware of the herculean tasks placed upon my shoulders."

He urged the soldiers to join forces with him in achieving their vision and mission.

“Given the complexity of the security environment in our area of responsibility, we must not lose sight of the fact that the military solution is not enough to solve this multi-faceted insurgency problem," he said.

For his part, Dolina commended Madriaga for some of his achievements in the brigade as well as in the province and challenged Baluyan to continue and maintain the operational measures and to strive more to bring peace and development in the area. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026591

Army, ex-NPA commander warn students vs. NPA recruitment in schools

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Army, ex-NPA commander warn students vs. NPA recruitment in schools



IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon —  Former NPA commander Agnes Reano, together with the 8th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, in a forum, urged parents and students to be cautious with the reported recruitment of the New People’s Army on campuses.

Speaking in an ‘Anti-insurgency Symposium’ with more than 400 students and teachers in Apo Macote High School at Barangay Apo Macote, Malaybalay City, Reano revealed the dark side of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorists as she shared her experiences when she was the rebel commander in Bicol Region then.

Reano, who is now working with the government, said students are the main target in NPA recruitment because of their young age and that they can endure days of a gunfight, they can run, and escape when engaged with the government forces.

“To the students, focus on your studies and help your family. Don’t believe in the lies of the NPA recruiters because they have no capability to destroy our government,” she said.

The youths are a brave, curious, and adventurous bunch. So the communists take advantage of these qualities along with their vulnerabilities to deception, manipulation, and threats, she added.

The 8IB, likewise, urged the parents to actively monitor their children’s behavior, their whereabouts, their activities, and the organizations they are taking part in.

The military made the call amid reports that minors were among those killed in recent clashes between soldiers and the NPA rebels.

The faculty of Apo Macote High School lauded the bravery of Reano and the self-sacrificing task of the Philippine Army in the quest to spare young people from CPP-NPA’s lies and deceptions.

“Now we know the true side of those NPA recruiters. We express our gratitude to the 8th IB army and Ms. Reano for their time and for nodding through our request to talk to our students. This dialogue is urgent considering that we are far from the city and hard to reach. May the issues and concerns discussed be internalized by all of us to avoid deceptions,” the school official said.

The symposium ended with an open forum, accommodating queries from teachers and students, and the giving of contact details of the security forces in the area. (Kenneth T. Cabbigat, CMO Officer 8IB, 4ID PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026810

PTF-ELCAC launches 1st Regl Convergence for Sustainable Peace in CamNorte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 4, 2019): PTF-ELCAC launches 1st Regl Convergence for Sustainable Peace in CamNorte



DAET, Camarines Norte – The 1st Regional Convergence for Sustainable Peace 2019 was launched in this province with the goal of solving the insurgency problem and connect civilians to the government. It was held Aug. 29 at the Sports Complex of Labo town, here.

Governor Edgardo Tallado, chairperson of the PTF-ELCAC thanked various stakeholders for their support to the activity during the “Convergence for Sustainable Peace 2019” held at the Sports
Complex of Labo town, Aug. 29. (RBManlangit-PIA5 Camarines Norte)

The activity was spearheaded by the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of Camarines Norte with support from its regional counterpart.

Various national government agencies and provincial government programs and services were given to the participants, particularly to those who came from Geographically Isolated and Dis-advantaged Areas (GIDAs) of Labo, Sta. Elena and Capalonga.

The programs and services which include scholarships, jobs fair, technologies, free medical and dental, haircut, distribution of seedlings, information on government programs and projects, among others were enjoyed by the participants during the convergence with the theme “Salita at Gawa para sa Masa”.

National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Regional Director Elaine Banaynal cited that the PTF-ELCAC of Camarines Norte was the first task force created under the RTF-ELCAC.

“The task force is the pioneering organization in the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 in the provincial level, which we hope would serve as a model to be replicated in the municipal and barangay levels,” she said.

Banaynal added that EO 70 adopts the whole-of-nation approach which is the framework in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace and provides direction for the various stakeholders. It also synchronizes the delivery of basic service in conflict-affected and vulnerable areas.

 

Participants from the Geographically Isolated and Dis-advantaged Areas (GIDAs), barangay officials and residence of Labo, Sta. Elena and residents during the “Convergence for Sustainable Peace 2019” held at the Sports Complex of Labo town, Aug. 29. (RBManlangit-PIA5 Camarines Norte)

On the other hand, Lt. Gen. Gilbert I. Gapay, Commander of the Southern Luzon Command, Philippine Army assured their full support in attaining peace and development in the province.

PTF-ELCAC Chairperson Camarines Norte Governor Edgardo A. Tallado said that this is another milestone that the province once again piloted. He also thanked various stakeholders for their support.

Armando Pañol aka Ka Ding who is a former rebel urged participants who have relatives in the New People’s Army to convince them to surrender as the government will have programs for them to start their normal lives.

Among other activities during the convergence were the executive meeting of the task forces of ELCAC with local chief executives and punong barangays, presentation of accomplishments of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for rebel returnees; provincial youth leaders and barangays to Stand for Peace recognitions; and signing of manifesto of commitment of various stakeholders.

It was supported by Labo Mayor Joseph Ascutia, directors and chief of national government agencies from the regional and provincial agencies who are members of the said task force. (RBManlangit-PIA5 Camarines Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026864

Army, PEACE 911 gather IPS in Davao Region

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 5, 2019): Army, PEACE 911 gather IPS in Davao Region (By 16th Infantry Battalion)



PANABO CITY, Davao del Norte – The 16th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division, Philippine Army in collaboration with the PEACE 911, a localized peace and development initiative program of the Davao City Government, hosted the meeting of the Indigenous Political Structures (IPS), participated by the Tribal Leaders and Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Paquibato District, Davao City.

The meeting was held at the headquarters of the 16th IB in Brgy Dalisay, Panabo City, Davao del Norte on August 31 (Friday).

The IPS refers to organizational and cultural leadership systems, institutions, relationship, patterns and processes for decision-making and participation, identified and accepted by the Indigenous Cultural Communities. It shall be recognized as the highest governing body with the Indigenous Peoples Organizations (IPO) as its technical arm.

The meeting focused on strengthening the IPS and Indigenous Peoples (IPs) rights on ancestral domain and livelihood opportunities for IP community in Paquibato District, Davao City.

Another significant issues raised during the meeting are the implementations of IPS inherent functions, responsibilities and policies pertaining to Certificate of Actual Land Occupancy for migration and Certificate of Ancestral Domain Land Allocations; Review of functions and responsibility of "Bahani" or the peace-keeping force of the Tribe that defend and protect lives, properties and territories.

The PEACE 911 encouraged each members of IPS to realize its individual functions embodied in the IPS to attain lasting peace and for the betterment of IP community in Paquibato District, Davao City. Irene Santiago, PEACE adviser to Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, affirmed the support of the Local Government Unit of Davao City for the success of IPS.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Army urged the stakeholders to sustain the peace and development in the hinterland district.

"I urged the Tribal Leaders and IPMRs to be more innovative and consistent in crafting the guidelines and policies for the benefit of IP communities, the unit and the Local Government of Davao City thru PEACE 911 will always support the implementations of various programs and projects of the government that will contribute in the sustainment of peace and development in Paquibato District Davao City," Lt. Col. Rey Pasco, commander of the 16th Infantry Battalion said in his message. (PR-16th IB PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026880

Guns found in abandoned NoCot house

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Guns found in abandoned NoCot house



SEIZED FIREARMS. The four guns found by raiding Army and police forces (inset) in Barangay Kayaga, Kabacan, North Cotabato on Tuesday (Sept. 3, 2019). (Photos courtesy of North Cotabato PPO)

Joint police and military operatives on Tuesday seized four high-powered guns in Kabacan, North Cotabato.

Col. Maximo Layugan, North Cotabato police provincial director, quoting a report from Kabacan municipal police office, said the operation was launched by the Kabacan police and the Philippine Army’s Charlie Company of the 7th Infantry Battalion after a volley of gunfire was heard in Sitio Lumayong, Barangay Kayaga in Kabacan.

The recovered firearms include one M-16 rifle, one M14 rifle, one M1 Garand rifle, and one Carbine rifle.

Layugan said the troops were conducting foot patrol when they heard an exchange of gunfire involving gunmen in the village at about 7 a.m.

When the police and military arrived in the village, the residents hid in their homes, forcing the authorities to conduct a zoning operation.

“The guns have no legal papers and are considered loose firearms,” Layugan said of the guns found inside an abandoned house.

The villagers were silent as to who owned the guns. Police invited some of the residents for questioning regarding the matter.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079486

PVAO to correct erroneous Yamashita 'surrender' story

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): PVAO to correct erroneous Yamashita 'surrender' story



WAR VET. Veteran Albert M. Bugtong, 92, of Mankayan, Benguet attends the Victory Day celebration at Kiangan, Ifugao on September 2, 2019 where he shared stories of their movements as guerilla soldiers during World War 2. He said their group was part of the Battle of Bessang Pass in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur, during World War II. (Photo courtesy of Jamie Joie Malingan/PIA-CAR)

The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) wants erroneous entries on the supposed "surrender" of Japanese General Tomoyuki Yamashita corrected using an original document from soldiers on the battlefield during World War II.

“[General Tomoyuki] Yamashita did not surrender, he was captured by the operatives from the USAFIP-NL (United States Armed Forces in the Philippines-Northern Luzon),” retired Maj. Gen. Restituto Aguilar, chief of the Veterans Memorial and Historical Division of the PVAO, said in an interview.

He said the PVAO is now in possession of copies of the original document from the United States National Archives and Records Administration in Virginia.

A PVAO team obtained the copies of the document submitted by the veterans to the Americans, for their recognition, Aguilar said.

“The forces of Yamashita were really cornered. He has to live in order to… magiging slaughter kasi if he will not come out, kung hindi siya lalabas kasi talagang most of the Japanese were already sick and hungry, so kung papasukin talaga ng guerillas, talagang maraming mamamatay sa kanila (it will be a slaughter if he will not come out and will make the guerillas attack. Many of them, who are already sick and hungry will die),” Aguilar said.

He said out of the 80,000 Japanese troops who retreated to northern Luzon, about 50,000 were killed mostly by Filipino guerillas.

“Mga 30,000 na lang ang nag-surrender (there were only about 30,000 who surrendered). This is a fact that was never written really by our historians,” Aguilar said but noted that it was part of the document obtained from the US library.

Aguilar said right after the war, the documents of the guerillas were taken by the Americans for purposes of their recognition.

“Sinurrender lahat ng Filipino guerillas all over the country 'yung kanilang document (the Filipino guerillas in the country surrendered all their documents) to prove their services during the war -- forms, roster of troops, after battle reports, everything including diaries. If there are photographs, they surrendered everything,” Aguilar said.

After the war, Aguilar said it was the Americans writing the history and selecting information which they wanted from the document.

On the other hand, the Filipinos only have stories from memory to tell but have no reference until more than 70 years after, he said.

“Fortunately, after 70 years, PVAO sent a team to the US national archives and records administration in Virginia and we were able to scan the original document and it is already available in the internet, in our server for the reference of any Filipino who wants to write the history based on facts,” Aguilar said.

“The rectification of erroneous entries in our history can be done by ordinary Filipinos now that the document is already available to any writer who would interpret for us the events that were documented during the war by the guerillas,” he added.

Quoting from the story published by the Philippine Information Agency Cordillera published in September 2018, “Pedro Indunan who was then part of the Land Communications Company detail said ‘It was Company A of the 11th Infantry attached to 121 who surrounded Yamashita in a hill in Mt. Napulawan which locals call Nabigihan Hill.”

This is a place in Hungduan, Ifugao which stories say was the exact place where Filipino guerillas captured Yamashita. He was then turned over to the Americans on the way to Kiangan, Ifugao, where the Yamashita surrender shrine stands at present.

On September 2, 1945, the World War II ended as Yamashita was captured and then ferried to Bagabag airport in Nueva Vizcaya, about one hour and 30 minutes away by vehicle from the shrine. From there, he was flown to Baguio for the September 3 signing of the “Instrument of Surrender”.

Ifugao province had been celebrating Victory Day for several years to remember the gallantry of the Filipino veterans who fought for the country’s liberation from the Japanese.

First official victory day

By virtue of Republic Act 11120 that took effect on October 30, 2018, Ifugao province was officially on a special non-working holiday every September 2 in commemoration of the surrender of Yamashita. This is the first time Ifugao is celebrating Victory Day based on the law.

On September 3, the whole nation, by virtue of RA 11216 that took effect on February 2019 declares the date as a special working public holiday throughout the country in commemoration of the surrender of Yamashita.

“We are laying the foundation for the Victory week. This is our stepping stone that will lead us to the national commemoration,” Aguilar said.

He said they are looking for a legislator who would sponsor their draft bill making September 2 and 3 a special or a regular holiday to remind Filipinos of the events that happened in Ifugao and Baguio, which ended World War II.

After 74 years following the end of the World War II, there is now only less than living 4,000 war veterans, who might still see the real story printed in history books.

The youngest surviving World War II veteran is now 92 years old.

The PVAO officers in the city said there are now only 22 surviving veterans in Baguio and Benguet and an estimated 30 in the Cordillera Administrative Region.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079506

50 ex-RPA-ABB rebels in NegOr complete TESDA skills training

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): 50 ex-RPA-ABB rebels in NegOr complete TESDA skills training



NEW LIFE. Former RPA-ABB rebels in Negros Oriental on Friday (Aug. 30, 2019) pose for a photo opportunity with Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo after completing TESDA skills training. Degamo said their names are now in the Capitol's database of skilled workers. (PNA photo by Juancho Gallarde)

Fifty former members of the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) in Negros Oriental have completed a skills training program offered by the government’s Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The RPA-ABB is a breakaway group of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army.

The skills training is part of a peace agreement with the government to provide former rebels with the opportunity to return to mainstream society, land a job, and live decent lives, Governor Roel Degamo said on Tuesday.

Degamo stressed the province needs employment and not war, referring to government efforts to win the peace by crushing the insurgency problem.

The 50 former RPA-ABB rebels, who now call themselves as “Kapatiran” (brethren), have completed 33 days of masonry (national certificate II or NC II) and 21 days of carpentry (NC II) recently.

This means they can now be employed abroad, according to TESDA provincial officer Dina Esmas.

She said the trainings were conducted on-site in Barangay San Miguel, Tanjay City in Negros Oriental, where the Kapatiran is based.

The graduation ceremony was graced by representatives from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.

Aside from the skills training, infrastructure projects are being implemented or have been completed in conflict areas in the province since last year amounting to some PHP250 million.

Degamo said that “when one is killed, somebody is hurt, and when one is hurt, hatred is created and vengeance will follow. Thus, the cycle continues.”

This, the governor believes, was what happened in the past recent weeks in the province, where more than 20 people were killed, including four police intelligence officers, last July.

After the skills training, the governor directed the Provincial Employment Service Office (PESO) headed by Jimmy Deposoy to help find the former rebels employment here or abroad.

While waiting for calls from the PESO for possible employers, their names are now part of the database of skilled workers in the province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079500

Sulu school gets solar panel, learning kits

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Sulu school gets solar panel, learning kits

SOLAR-POWERED SCHOOL. Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, leads the turnover Sunday (August 31) of a solar power project to Kagay Elementary School in Talipao, Sulu. The project is jointly implemented by the University of the Philippines' Upsilon Sigma Phi, Department of Energy and Philippine National Oil Company-Renewalbes Corporation. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom Public Information Office)

The University of the Philippines’ (UP) Upsilon Sigma Phi fraternity, in partnership with a government agency, private firm, and the military, has provided a conducive learning facility for the students of a school in a remote area in Sulu.
The beneficiary of the project is the Kagay Elementary School in Talipao, Sulu, described by military officials as “under constant threat of terrorism.”

Inaugurated on August 31, the project includes the installation of a rooftop solar photovoltaic panel sufficient enough to provide power to the Multi-Media Learning Center (MMLC) given to the school.

Secretary Alfonso Cusi of the Department of Energy (DOE) approved the implementation of the solar power project when it was presented to him by DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella, a member of the Upsilon Sigma Phi Batch 1993.

The DOE said it hopes the solar power project would be “the first of many that will be replicated in the war-torn areas of the country.”

The DOE and Upsilon’s Batch ’93 tapped the Philippine National Oil Company-Renewables Corporation (PNOC-RC) to design and install the 2.28 kWp solar with 189.6Vdc and 9.02A battery system, which can provide power to the basic necessities of the MMLC for the school children.

The MMLC should be able to power an 80-watt computer, 300-watt projector, 200-watt sound system, printer, two 40-watt electric fans, four 5-watt lighting facilities. It includes a secured battery storage area for the safety requirements of the system.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), led the turnover of the solar rooftop, and was assisted by Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu commander, and Brig. Gen. Peter Suchianco, Judge Advocate General Reserve.

“A soldier must have the mind of a warrior and the heart of a peacekeeper. Our coming here has nothing to do with our military operations, but we are here for our peace and development campaign,” Sobejana said.

The military also turned over to the students two electric fans, two projectors, a laptop, and 345 bags of school supplies.

“We are here not only to help but also to inspire you (Kagay students). We hope to come back with our projects that will benefit more students in Sulu,” Suchianco said during the inauguration of the project.

“We will do it together with the AFP and other universities in Manila,” Suchianco added.

Talipao Mayor Nivocadnezar Tulawi said the turnover of a solar rooftop “is a big relief to our constituents” since they felt they were not abandoned by the government.

Reckman Abtong, Kagay Elementary School head, said they are "empowered by your donation. I hope you will continue to partner with us in promoting quality education.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079516

Army vows to wipe out NPA fighters in Leyte by 2020

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Army vows to wipe out NPA fighters in Leyte by 2020



NPA-FREE. Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy, commander of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade based in Ormoc City, Leyte vows to neutralize the remaining 15 armed fighters of the New People’s Army by next year. The remaining fighters have been hiding in the upland areas of the 5th district of Leyte, Dagoy said on Wednesday (Sept. 4, 2019). (PNA file photo)

The Philippine Army has vowed to work double-time to neutralize the remaining 15 armed fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) still running and hiding in the mountains of Leyte Island.

Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy, commander of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade said on Wednesday their goal is to completely wipe out insurgency in Leyte before he retires in March next year.

“There are only 15 of them and it is more challenging to chase them. Now that I am in charge of two battalions, they have nowhere to go in Leyte Island,” Dagoy, a former commander of the Presidential Security Group, told reporters in an interview.

The remaining fighters have been hiding in the upland areas of the 5th district of Leyte following intensified combat operations in central Leyte and northwestern side of the island, the Army general said.

Leaders of the terrorist communist group abandoned their lairs in the third congressional district of Leyte after 1,200 of their members and mass supporters surrendered to the military April this year.

“These active 15 fighters are mostly leaders since they don’t have recruits. Communities and local governments in Leyte have been rejecting them. In fact, all mayors in Leyte, Biliran, and Southern Leyte province have expressed support to our anti-insurgency drive,” Dagoy said.

Inopacan, Leyte Mayor Azucena Mirambel, in a press conference on Monday, said they have been stepping up the implementation of livelihood programs and delivery of basic services to far-flung communities to reduce their vulnerability to NPA recruitment.

“The practical way to fight rebellion is to provide the basic needs of people, build roads, and schools,” the neophyte mayor said.

Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos Cari, the former 5th district representative, in the same press conference, said he has been strongly lobbying for the construction of a new road connecting the remote communities of Mahaplag, Inopacan, Hindang, and Hilongos towns since these areas have been considered as vulnerable to insurgency.

“The project has already started. We need to build roads for easier delivery of services. We have to conduct regular consultations with people in the community to address their concerns,” Cari said.

It was in San Antonio village in Hilongos town where a village chief was brutally killed by NPA members two weeks ago. Building a road network in the area will drive away the remaining rebels, according to the military.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079514

Free Wi-Fi proposed for conflict areas in NegOr

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Free Wi-Fi proposed for conflict areas in NegOr



Edward Du, Central Visayas regional governor of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and former president of the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry. (Photo by Judaline F. Partlow)

The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (NOCCI) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) are proposing the establishment of free Wi-Fi connection in barangays affected by the communist insurgency problem in the province.

Dumaguete-based businessman Edward Du, currently the Central Visayas regional governor of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and former NOCCI president made the proposal during the meeting of the Negros Oriental Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NOTF-ELCAC) held here on Tuesday afternoon.

Du told NOTF-ELCAC chair Gov. Roel Degamo that their contribution to the government’s efforts to end the insurgency in the province would be to provide better communication access in remote villages that the military has classified as insurgency-affected or conflict areas.

Increasing communication accessibility would mean corresponding development in these areas because even the country’s two leading private telecommunications companies are not willing to risk their businesses due to the high-security threat in these villages, he pointed out.

He said that the NOCCI-DICT partnership has already been proven successful, having established free Wi-Fi zones in at least 36 public schools across the province.

The proposed project would mean that Capitol, or the NOTF-ELCAC, would shell out the fund for the acquisition of the necessary equipment, while DICT will provide the bandwidth, and NOCCI will offer its technology for free, Du explained.

Engr. Aurelio Tinapay of the provincial DICT also told the governor that they have 34 towers in Negros Oriental that the agency is offering as counterpart and for free use to the provincial government to set up their wireless radios to connect the bandwidth to the different municipal halls.

The role of the provincial government is to fund the wireless middle-mile infrastructure while the local government unit will spend for the last mile infrastructure to deliver the bandwidth to the barangay halls.

Du said that since the NOTF-ELCAC is visiting Guihulngan City next week, they are hoping that an announcement would be made to pilot the project in Barangay Trinidad there.

Degamo, in an interview after the meeting, said he is open to the proposal although funds have to be secured for this, considering there are 16 barangays and seven towns and cities in Negros Oriental that were initially identified as priority areas for the NOTF-ELCAC. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079535

Female NPA rebel quits communist movement

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Female NPA rebel quits communist movement

SABLAYAN, Occidental Mindoro -- An active female fighter of the New People’s Army (NPA) Platoon Glenn Marie Tamboong (GMT) surrendered her M16 rifle on Monday to the Army's 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division in Barangay Batongbuhay in this town.

Lt. Col. Mario Lito Retirva, Commanding Officer of the 2ID’s 76 Infantry Battalion (76IB), said on Wednesday “the female fighter, who is known as alias “Laura” in the underground movement, operates in the northern areas of Mindoro Island as a "lead extortionist.”

Retirva said Laura revealed to authorities that “the NPAs are making false promises to cover up the rampant corruption within the organization" which is among the major reasons why she quit the futile armed struggle.

He also said Laura told them that the NPAs are actively recruiting and encouraging the youth to abandon their studies and their families and join the rebel group’s armed movement against the government.

“The statement of alias Laura supported the security sector’s claims during the recent series of public hearings at the Senate,” Retirva said.

With the new development, Col. Antonio R. Lastimado, Commander of the 203rd Infantry Brigade, which has operational jurisdiction over Mindoro, encouraged the few remaining NPA rebels in Mimaropa Region (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) to surrender.

"Lay down your arms, return to mainstream society and enjoy the benefits and grants provided under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program," Lastimado urged the NPA terrorist rebels.

"This (Laura’s) surrender is a clear indicator that the NPA terrorists’ senseless armed struggle is close to its end as shown by the influx of surrenders across the different provinces in the country,” he added.

He disclosed that in Oriental and Occidental Mindoro provinces, a total of 196 former rebels have already surrendered to the government forces since January this year.

In a statement from the 2ID Army’s Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal, Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr., Commander of the 2ID, lauded the troops and noted their commitment to their sworn duty.

“The soldiers’ relentless pursuit for peace, progress, and prosperity in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) and Mimaropa to end the communists’ acts of terror shall never waver while our flag is flying proud and high over Philippine territory,” Burgos said.

“Today, more than ever, we are in a position to end the local communist armed conflict. We are confident that through President Duterte’s Executive Order Number 70, we will be able to create a better future for the next generations of Filipinos," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079582

Ex-rebels, soldiers undergo livelihood training in Zambo City

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Female NPA rebel quits communist movement

SABLAYAN, Occidental Mindoro -- An active female fighter of the New People’s Army (NPA) Platoon Glenn Marie Tamboong (GMT) surrendered her M16 rifle on Monday to the Army's 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division in Barangay Batongbuhay in this town.

Lt. Col. Mario Lito Retirva, Commanding Officer of the 2ID’s 76 Infantry Battalion (76IB), said on Wednesday “the female fighter, who is known as alias “Laura” in the underground movement, operates in the northern areas of Mindoro Island as a "lead extortionist.”

Retirva said Laura revealed to authorities that “the NPAs are making false promises to cover up the rampant corruption within the organization" which is among the major reasons why she quit the futile armed struggle.

He also said Laura told them that the NPAs are actively recruiting and encouraging the youth to abandon their studies and their families and join the rebel group’s armed movement against the government.

“The statement of alias Laura supported the security sector’s claims during the recent series of public hearings at the Senate,” Retirva said.

With the new development, Col. Antonio R. Lastimado, Commander of the 203rd Infantry Brigade, which has operational jurisdiction over Mindoro, encouraged the few remaining NPA rebels in Mimaropa Region (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) to surrender.

"Lay down your arms, return to mainstream society and enjoy the benefits and grants provided under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program," Lastimado urged the NPA terrorist rebels.

"This (Laura’s) surrender is a clear indicator that the NPA terrorists’ senseless armed struggle is close to its end as shown by the influx of surrenders across the different provinces in the country,” he added.

He disclosed that in Oriental and Occidental Mindoro provinces, a total of 196 former rebels have already surrendered to the government forces since January this year.

In a statement from the 2ID Army’s Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal, Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr., Commander of the 2ID, lauded the troops and noted their commitment to their sworn duty.

“The soldiers’ relentless pursuit for peace, progress, and prosperity in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) and Mimaropa to end the communists’ acts of terror shall never waver while our flag is flying proud and high over Philippine territory,” Burgos said.

“Today, more than ever, we are in a position to end the local communist armed conflict. We are confident that through President Duterte’s Executive Order Number 70, we will be able to create a better future for the next generations of Filipinos," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079582

BARMM negotiating with 2 BIFF factions for possible surrender

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): BARMM negotiating with 2 BIFF factions for possible surrender



KAPIHAN SA BANGSAMORO. Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Interior and Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo speaks during the “Kapihan sa Bangsamoro” here Tuesday (Sept. 3, 2019) where he bared the creation of a special committee to convince the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters to return to the fold of the law. (PNA photo by Noel Punzalan)

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has formed a special committee to talk to two of three factions of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) to yield to government and return to the mainstream society.

This was bared by BARMM’s Ministry of the Interior and Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo during the “Kapihan sa Bangsamoro” here Tuesday.

“Only two of three BIFF factions because one of the factions have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terror organization,” Sinarimbo said.

He further clarified that the BARMM is talking with the BIFF factions of Bongos and Karialan that are both operating in the province of Maguindanao.

“These are our former brothers in the Bangsamoro armed struggle before and we are urging them to give the new BARMM a chance,” Sinarimbo said.

He maintained, however, that the BARMM has kept its distance from the BIFF faction of Abu Toraife that has linked itself with the ISIS.

“Government military forces are currently keeping a close watch on the Toraife faction as it continues to sow terror in remote communities of Maguindanao and neighboring North Cotabato province,” he said.

The BIFF is a small breakaway faction of the MILF that remains active in Maguindanao and other parts of Central Mindanao.

In 2008, then MILF commander Ameril Umbra Kato broke off with the MILF hierarchy to carry on with the fight for self-determination after the MILF pursued its comprehensive peace overture with the government and now running the affairs of BARMM.

In 2010, Kato formed the BIFF with an estimated 300 fighters to continue resisting the presence of military forces in Maguindanao and the rest of Central Mindanao.

When Kato died due to a lingering illness in 2015, the BIFF has split into three factions.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079565

Russia installs first defense envoy in Manila

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2019): Russia installs first defense envoy in Manila



NEW DEFENSE ENVOY. (Third from the left) Russian Defense Attaché to the Philippines Col. Dmitry Nikitin, Philippine Defense Undersecretary Raymundo DV Elefante, and Russian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Igor Khovaev pose for posterity during the opening of the Russian Embassy’s Military Attaché Office in Makati City Tuesday (Sept. 3, 2019). Nikitin is the first Defense Attaché of Russia to the Philippines. (Contributed photo)

Russia has introduced its first Defense Attaché to the Philippines in over 40 years on Tuesday (Sept. 3), signaling the continued commitment to attaining peace and stability in Asia through enhanced military cooperation with the Philippines.

Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev introduced Defense Attaché, Col. Dmitry Nikitin to Philippine military officials and the media, saying the event was “quite symbolic and very meaningful.”

Philippine Defense Undersecretary Raymundo DV Elefante welcomed the development, saying that he is optimistic about stronger military ties between the Philippines and Russia.

“It will be a very long journey but I think with this relationship and cooperation, I think we will go to have a very good opportunity in terms of cooperation and friendship,” he said during the reception of the opening of the Russian Military Attaché Office.

Khovaev, meanwhile, highlighted that Russian-Philippines defense cooperation will serve the interest of peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.

“Because for the first time, the Philippines and Russia decided to open a new channel of communication between our nations. This decision is in full compliance with the strategic interests of not only the Philippines and Russia but of all regional countries,” he said in a speech.

“Because this decision was taken in order to provide, to contribute to strengthening peace and stability in the region,” he added.

While Nikitin did not deliver a message, Khovaev said enhanced defense ties are more relevant as terrorism remains a common threat faced by both Russia and the Philippines.

“Simply because it's time for all of us, especially now in the period of increasing global disturbances, to put aside secondary contradictions and differences, and to focus on common struggle against evils and in order to face common challenges of threat. And I strongly believe that the opening of the national defense attaché in Manila will greatly contribute to these joint struggles,” Khovaev said.

In May last year, Col. Dennis Pastor was assigned as the Philippines’ first Defense Attaché in Moscow.

Earlier reports mentioned that last May 2018, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed an order to send his country’s first designated defense attaché to the Philippines, as the 40-year bilateral relations of the two countries have improved since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office in 2016.

Khovaev said earlier the two countries concluded more documents on bilateral cooperation in different fields than the previous 40 years.

Meanwhile, defense cooperation between Moscow and Manila developed further after the signing of the Agreement on Defense Cooperation and the Agreement on Military-Technical Cooperation in 2017. (PR)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079581