700 IPs receive P950-T livelihood assistance

From the Mindanao Daily News (Oct 21, 2019): 700 IPs receive P950-T livelihood assistance









MAMPAYAG, Manolo Fortich – Seven hundred IPs benefited the livelihood assistance of nine hundred and fifty thousand pesos (Php 950,000.00) during awarding of Livelihood Grants from Rotary Club of Makati at Alomah’s Place, Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on October 16, 2019.

1st Special Forces Battalion helped met the ends between concerns and solutions of the people’s organization and the national government and non-government agencies brought by Community Support Program on Conflict-Affected Areas and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantage Areas.

Beneficiaries include people’s organizations and former rebels that are vulnerable to CPP-NPA Terrorists.

With the implementation of EO 70 as an institutionalized whole-of-nation approach in ending local communist armed conflict, the regional banner dubbed as Convergence Areas of Peace and Development launched programs and projects epochal to the community.

The 3K (Kaon, Kalipay, Kalinaw) Program of 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade, Special Forces Combined Actions of Re-engineered Efforts and Services (SF CARES) has been the units counterpart to the community development program.

As facets of the core group to sustain the project, Marcos Arbole, Vice President of Rotary Club of Northern Mindanao and Crispulo G. Vidad Jr., Past Assistant Governor of Rotary Club of Northern Mindanao District 3870 of Rotary International pledged to monitor the progress of the three livelihood projects; beads making, textile making, and organic vegetable farming.

Keen with generosity, Rotary Club of Makati President, Vicente T. Mills Jr. set into words his plans for sustainment, “We know that the key problem here is production. The first step to help you is the small effort in passing this pilot program. The second step is refining this program and making it productive and effective in the next cycle. 

We are making efforts to gather resources to do this again but without you here on the ground, who will tell us the better way on how to refine it and more effective, we cannot do the phase 2 next year.”

Gratified by the spirit of generosity, the unit’s commanding officer, Lt. Colonel Sergio P. Macarandan Jr, bowed his beret to the people behind the Rotary Peace Project,

“My applause to the generosity of Rotary Club of Makati. The launching of this phase has created a great impact on the welfare and progress of these IPs. You have provided them avenue to generate income and taught them to value the skills they have acquired to support the financial needs of their family. Furthermore, the sustainment of this project lies not only to the people a-top of the flow chart but also to the people on the ground – the real maneuvers of the cycle. Sustainment comes from your efforts to hold it away from the cliff. Make it work and strive for sustainability.”

http://mindanaodailynews.com/news/the-region/caraga-region/700-ips-receive-p950-t-livelihood-assistance

Parliament member pushes programs for betterment of MILF ‘mujahideen’

From Politiko Mindanao (Oct 20, 2019): Parliament member pushes programs for betterment of MILF ‘mujahideen’



A member of the Bangsamoro Parliament has urged the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to pursue programs and policies to improve the plight of the “mujahideen.”

Faiz Alauddin, Parliament member, in a privilege speech Thursday, October 17, underscored the role played by the mujahideen when the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) was still fighting for the right to self-determination of the Bangsamoro.

He joined the Bangsamoro armed struggle in 1974 and is now the provincial chair of the MILF in Basilan.

He said the Bangsamoro government must not overlook the economic situation of the mujahideen, and must consider them in coming up with development programs and projects “especially those geared towards the promotion of employment and livelihood.”

“Let us enable our mujahideen to reap the benefit of the peace agreement and assist them in every means possible so they may cherish civilian lives,” Alauddin said.

He said he hopes “we will not fail the mujahideen in the trust that they have placed in us as their leaders and as leaders of the Bangsamoro.”

https://mindanao.politics.com.ph/parliament-member-pushes-programs-for-betterment-of-milf-mujahideen/

Mass surrender of mass supporters

From the Mindanao Times (Oct 21, 2019): Mass surrender of mass supporters

Thirty-three mass supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the 71st Infantry Battalion at its headquarters in Mawab, Compostela Valley on Friday.

2Lt. Kim Carlos, the newly designated Civil-Military Operations (CMO) officer of 71st IB, said the surrenderers were members of the communal farming that the NPA, led by Kumander Roy (Renante Mantos), organized in Barangay Libudon, Mabini, Compostela Valley.

Carlos said the farmers felt exploited because the NPAs required them to participate in other activities that no longer concern them. Hence, they decided to seek help from the military.

Rimboy, 35, said the NPA promised them to have an improved farming system. But it was just a lie, he said.

He said no new farming system was introduced but instead, they were obliged to join mass rallies.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/10/21/mass-surrender-of-mass-supporters/

MILF mourns Pimentel’s death; CPP describes him as “patriot”

From MindaNews (Oct 21, 2019): MILF mourns Pimentel’s death; CPP describes him as “patriot”

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 20 October) — The Bangsamoro people are one with the nation in mourning the death of former Senate President Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. on Sunday, Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and interim Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) said.

Pimentel, who was among the courageous Mindanawon leaders who fought the Marcos dictatorship, contributed a lot in finding solution to the Mindanao conflict, Ebrahim stressed, as he expressed the group’s sympathies to his family.

“Senator Nene will forever be remembered by the Bangsamoro people for his very significant contribution to the efforts in finding genuine solution to the Bangsamoro problem,” Ebrahim said in a text message.

Former Senate President Aquilino Pimentel Jr., MindaNews filie photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

He added that since the administration of former President Corazon Aquino (1986 to 1992), Pimentel was among those “who worked very hard to attain peace in Mindanao until the recent conclusion of the peace process.”

He was the Cory Aquino’s chief negotiator in the peace talks with the MILF in 1987. No peace agreement was signed under the Cory Aquino administration but a peace agreement was finally signed on March 27, 2014 under the administration of Cory’s son, Benigno Aquino III: the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro which paved the way for the establishment of the BARMM.

The BARMM replaced the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao early this year, with Ebrahim appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as the new region’s interim Chief Minister.

Ebrahim also expressed the sympathies of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to the family of Pimentel, founder of the Partiod ng Demokratikong Pilipino and “Father of the Local Government Code.”

The BTA which Ebrahim heads is the body tasked to govern the BARMM until its regular officials are elected in 2022.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) described Pimentel as “a patriot, a democrat and friend of the Philippine revolution.”

“He locked arms with the Filipino people in their fight against the US-Marcos dictatorship. He was detained several times and accused of helping the underground movement,” the statement read.

It also noted that in Pimentel was among 12 senators who voted on September 16, 1991 against a proposed treaty that would have extended the stay of American forces in Clark Air Base and Subic Naval Base.

“He has steadfastly opposed efforts to distort Philippine history and depict Marcos as a hero. The Filipino people and youth thank him for keeping alive memories of past struggles. His lifestory inspires the people in their present resistance to tyranny,” the CPP said.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/10/milf-mourns-pimentels-death-cpp-describes-him-as-patriot/

Heroism of World War II veterans honored during 75th Leyte Gulf Landings

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Heroism of World War II veterans honored during 75th Leyte Gulf Landings

CANDAHUG, Palo, Leyte -- The heroism and sacrifices of the World War II veterans were reminisced on Sunday, October 20 at the MacArthur Shrine and Memorial National Park as the Filipino people particularly the Leyteños commemorate the 75th Leyte Gulf Landings Anniversary.

National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr., who represented President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, delivers a message during the 75th Leyte Gulf Landings Commemoration held at theMacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Palo, Leyte, Oct. 20, 2019. (Photo by Raul Tiozon Jr./PIA-8)

National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr., the event guest of honor representing President Rodrigo Duterte said that the commemoration is indeed an occasion to be truly sentimental as we remembered the landings of General Douglas MacArthur.

“Let us therefore take this occasion to be grateful for the gallantry of the hundreds of thousands of troops who took part in the historic battle of Leyte Gulf,” Esperon said.

As he read President Duterte’s message, he expressed hope that the sacrifices of the veterans inspire the Filipino people and the future generations to become decisive in confronting the challenges that we now face as a nation.

The challenges referred to are the war not against the imperial forces of the past but against the menace of criminality, illegal drugs, corruption, poverty, terrorism and extensive environmental degradation that hinders the development of the nation and deprived the younger generations of their dreams.

Meanwhile, members of the diplomatic corps and the representatives from various countries such as the United States of America, Australia, Japan and the Philippines who played a significant role during World War II shared their views and reminisced the past as they honored the uncommon valor of the World War II veterans and their descendants.

In his solidarity message, US Embassy Chargé d'Affaires John C. Law expressed his admiration and appreciation of the invaluable assistance of the Filipino allies that led to the restoration of freedom in the Philippines 75 years ago.

“We can scarcely fathom the enormity of their valor and their sacrifice. We can, but only poorly express the profondere of our admiration and appreciation. Every generation since then owes them, owes you, an immense debt, and it’s a debt that we can only repay by remembering as we do today,” he said.

Law said the world has changed because since that time, former foes are now steadfast friends. Philippines and Southeast Asia, ravaged by that war, have not only recovered but have become the world’s most dynamic region with growing prosperity.

“Challenges remain, of course, there are threats to peace, there are threats to freedom but I believe we can and we will face those challenges and prevail,” he said.

For his part, Ambassador Steven J. Robinson of the Embassy of Australia to the Philippines thanked the veterans with utmost sincerity for the sacrifices they have made as he especially mentioned veterans of the Leyte campaign who were present during the commemoration.

“On behalf of all who now enjoy the peace you helped to win. I thank you with utmost sincerity for your sacrifice. The great battle in the Pacific serves as a timeless reminder that the success of military coalition operation ultimately rests on shared values. It also reminds us that we must always ready to work or fight together whenever and wherever duty calls,” he added.

He likewise expressed his gratitude to the offices of the Veterans Affairs, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the local government of Leyte for ensuring Australia’s part in the allied victory is continuously acknowledged.

Among the liberation forces who fought were 4,000 Australian personnel, some of whom died during the liberation campaign.

Meanwhile, Japanese Minister Yasushi Yamamoto, deputy chief of Mission, Embassy of Japan to the Philippines, expressed his sympathy to all descendants of the veterans who perished during the war.

He urged everyone not to forget that the peace and prosperity we enjoy today was built upon the precious sacrifices of souls.

Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla honors the heroism of the World War II veterans, gives emphasis on his commemorative message the importance to teling the stories of men and women and the country's allies who fought for peace and freedom during the 75th Leyte Gulf Landings Commemoration held at the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Palo, Leyte, Oct. 20, 2019. (Photo by Raul Tiozon Jr./PIA-8)

The official is confident that the event will bring great opportunities and full cooperation with one another since all countries represented share and cherish fundamental values such as freedom, democracy and the rule of law.

For his part, Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla emphasized the importance of yearly commemoration of this significant and historic event.

Petilla said, “We have the duty to keep alive the valor of our WWII heroes. Alive in our collective memory because our veterans both living and fallen deserve to be recognized for their heroism in times of war so that we may all live. We have to do our best to uphold in our own lives the values that they have, were prepared to die for. We have to honor those who carry forward that legacy, recognizing that people cannot live in freedom unless free people are prepared to die for it.”

Meanwhile, Palo Mayor Frances Ann Petilla shared her thoughts of the veterans who, according to her, if not for their courage and bravery, we will not be having a peaceful life today.

To date, there are 105 living World War II veterans in the region and the oldest of them is 104 years old. (LDL/CBA/PIA-8)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028993

Government agencies eye development of Brgy. Basak, Magpet

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Government agencies eye development of Brgy. Basak, Magpet

MAGPET, North Cotabato – “I am totally grateful having finally received the land title that I have waited for so long,” said Noli Tiad in the vernacular as he took hold of his Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) from the Department of Agrarian Reform officials.

“This is a proof that the government is looking for ways to help farmers. I would like to extend my gratitude to all, from President Duterte down to the local government officials, for fulfilling your promise that we will get our own land titles” he said.

Nilo Tiad receives his Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) from the Department of Agrarian Reform during the Serbisyo Caravan in Barangay Basak, Magpet, North Cotabato on October 17. 

Tiad was one of the 35 farmers who received their CLOAs from the Department of Agrarian Reform during the “Serbisyo Caravan” in Basak, Magpet on Thursday, October 17. His farm is a 2.5 hectare-lot, inherited from his late father Antonio, the original farm tenant. The land titling process started in early 1990s, he said.

Hundreds more also enjoyed basic services from different government agencies and departments of the provincial government that converged in Barangay Basak for the Serbisyo Caravan.

Josephine Leysa, regional director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) XII, earlier explained that the Sebisyo Caravan in identified barangays of North Cotabato jump starts the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP).

RCSP, she elaborated, is a collaboration of all government agencies with the provincial, municipal and barangay local government units to bring comprehensive government services to villages in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 (Institutionalizing Whole-of-Nation Approach in Attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Creating the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict).

During the Serbisyo Caravan, participating government agencies and local government offices offered medical check up, tooth extraction, immunization, feeding, seedling and planting materials, animal vaccination, beauty care training, livelihood and skills training orientation, scholarships, and many others.



National government agencies that joined the event included the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Land Transportation Office, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Health, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines and many others.

Leysa further explained that after the Serbisyo Caravan, local government units and national government agencies will carry out projects intended to alleviate the conditions of the target barangays of the RCSP.

Among the projects being considered for implementation in Barangay Basak include farm-to-market roads that will connect remote subvillages to Basak and access roads from Basak to other barangays, barangay health center, postharvest facilities, covered court, livestock dispersal, livelihood training and assistance, water system, irrigation system, and others.

Basak is one of the eight barangays in North Cotabato considered for the Retooled Community Support Program.

Other barangays for RCSP piloting starting this year are Balite and Don Panaca in Magpet, Kabalantian and Datu Ladayon in Arakan, Malabuan and Luayon in Makilala, and Batang in Tulunan. (DED/PIA 12)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029009

Benguet ROTC students attend peace dev't forum

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Benguet ROTC students attend peace dev't forum

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- More than 600 Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) students from the Benguet State University and King's College of the Philippines (KCP) here attended the Campus Peace Development Forum which aims to arm the students with the right knowledge as they participate in national conversation on the prospects of peace and development in the country.

"Lola", a former rebel and member of the League of Filipino Students (LFS) and National President of People's Advocacy for Collaboration and Empowerment (PeACE) talked on how the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) recruit students in the different schools.



The targets of infiltration by the CTGs are the students councils, student publication, academic clubs and varsities, other organizations duly accredited by the school. She advised the students from joining organizations that are against the government.

“Your parents send you to school to study and learn, so that you will have bright future and landing on a job or career, it is your responsibility in return to do what is expected of you and not joining organizations that aim to overthrow the government,” Lola emphasized.

“I am telling you now the sad and painful experience I have been going against the government. I was mislead and deceived but I realized the wrongdoings I have done, and now I am standing right here in front of you and telling you- Never, never join a group under the CTGs,” Lola said.

LtCol. Alan Macatingrao, Group Commander, Tactical Operations, Northern Luzon and organizer of the event, is happy of the turnout of the event and that the ROTC students learned to serve and love our country, and be patriotic.LtCol. Alan Macatingrao, organizer of the the peace forum for ROTC students

President Duterte issued in December last year Executive Order 70 establishing a Whole-of-Nation approach in defeating the local communist terrorist groups. The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) was created to synchronize the utilization of the government's instrumentalities of power with the capabilities of private sector stakeholders to finally end the 50-year long deceit, lies and atrocities committed by the communist terrorists against the people.

The whole-of-nation approach gives importance to inclusive and sustainable framework towards attaining peace. (JDP/JBZ- PIA CAR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028770

Another AgNor town declares NPA persona non-grata

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Another AgNor town declares NPA persona non-grata (By 29IB Philippine Army)

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte -- The municipality of Kitcharao in the province of Agusan del Norte heeded President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s call to obtain a lasting peace by recently signing a resolution declaring Communist New Peoples Army Terrorists (CNTs) as persona non-grata (PNG) and created a task force that would End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) held at the municipal hall, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte.

The said municipality is one of the Conflict-Affected Areas (ConAAs) in the whole area of operation of the 29th Infantry “Matatag” Battalion.

The said event was graced by Municipal Mayor Aristotle E. Montante together with Vice Mayor Leo D. Galua and attended by other Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members and Barangay Captains of the said municipality. The highlight of the event was the reading and signing of the Joint Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) and Municipal Development Council (MDC) Resolution No.1 for the creation of Municipal Task Force (MTF)-ELCAC and Resolution MG-036 Series of 2019 for the declaration of persona non-grata as duly adopted and attested by the whole members of the board of SB in the said municipality.

According to Vice Mayor Galua, the creation of the task force that would end local armed conflict and the declaration of PNG was anchored on the Executive Order (EO) 70 mandated by no less than President Duterte, an order which must be obeyed. "Just as a soldier who is obliged to follow orders without questions and hesitation, so we must do the same,” he said.

Mayor Aristotle E. Montante thanked his constituents for their support and courage, which they have shown during the recent declaration.

“Dako kaayo akong pasalamat sa gipakita nga suporta sa tanang katawhan nga nagmaisugon sa ilang pagdeklara ug Persona non-Grata ug pagporma niining Task Force- ELCAC. Maninguha kita nga mawala na kining mga kagubot dire sa atong lungsod para atong makab-ot ang kahusay ug kalinaw kay kung walay kalinaw, walay puy kalambuan (I am deeply grateful for the support and courage which you all have shown in declaring (the CNTs) Persona Non-Grata as well as the creation of this Task Force- ELCAC. Let us, therefore, do all we can to end this conflict in our area so that, we can attain peace and development. For assuredly, there will be no development if there will be no peace)," he said. (1Lt Nonette B. Banggad, CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028683

Ifugao forms prov'l task force to end communist armed conflict

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Ifugao forms prov'l task force to end communist armed conflict

LAGAWE, Ifugao - - The collective aspirations of the people in the province to attain inclusive and sustainable peace will hopefully be realized with the creation of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC)

The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and Provincial Development Council (PDC) recently passed Joint Resolution No. 2019-01 forming the PTF-ELCAC that will provide an efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of Executive Order No.70 or the administration’s whole-of-nation approach to end the long running local armed conflict in the country.

“Whole of the National approach addresses the root causes of insurgencies, internal disturbances and tensions, and other armed conflicts and threats by prioritizing and harmonizing the delivery of basic services and social development packages by the government,” the resolution stated.

The PTF-ELCAC is chaired by the Governor and the commanding officer of the 54th Infantry Battalion as the vice chairperson. Members are the provincial directors/heads of 19 government offices and two non-government organizations in the province.

The task force will take the lead in localization of the 12 clusters/lines of effort and the implantation of provincial plans in coordination with the relevant national government agencies, local government units, civil society and other stakeholders guided by the whole-of-nation approach driven National Peace Framework.

It will ensure compliance to the monitoring and evaluation system provided by the Regional TF and implement the same at the municipal level to help track performance and analyze results for continuity or improvement; provide technical assistance to MTF-ELCAC as needed and to perform other functions.

It is tasked to ensure the creation of Municipal Task Force which will complement E.O No. 70 and organize ad hoc inter-agency and multi-sectoral clusters, councils, committees and groups at the provincial level mirroring the 12 clusters/lines of effort. (JDP/MBL- PIA CAR, Ifugao)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028903

Youth rally vs insurgency in support to EO 70

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Youth rally vs insurgency in support to EO 70

SINDANGAN, Zamboanga del Norte – “Education, not revolution!”

This is the clamor of the youth here during a peace rally held in the province of Zamboanga del Norte that the Kabataang Subanen Western Mindanao spearheaded in support to the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte that aims to end local communist armed conflict in the country.



About 500 Sangguniang Kabataan youth coming from the different barangays in town have participated in the event to show their support to the IP youth organization.

Messages written in placards and streamers show the young people calling out to the CPP-NPA group to stop exploiting the youth and spreading lies and false ideologies against the government especially in far-flung communities that are vulnerable to such acts.

The local government of Sindangan have expressed its support to the initiative, quoting Dr. Jose Rizal's famous line the “youth is hope of the nation”.

Sindangan Mayor Rosendo Labadlabad underscored that education is the key for the youth to achieve their dreams and better future.

“The government will not give you fish, but will teach you how to caught one,” an analogy Labadlabad shared on how the government is addressing issues and concerns to sustain peace and development.

He also pointed out that insurgency is an obstacle that hinders development and progress in the community and one of the major culprits of poverty.

Barangays Titik and Tinaplan in Sindangan town are among the 49 areas identified by the security sector as influenced and threatened by the communist armed group. (RVC/EDT/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1029045

Gov’t implements projects in Kalinga NPA-influenced barangays

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Gov’t implements projects in Kalinga NPA-influenced barangays

PINUKPUK, Kalinga -- Government agencies and local government units through the “Pumiyaan” anti-poverty convergence project continue to pour-in projects and deliver services to the four municipalities infiltrated by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the province.

Improvement of the Catabbogan-Wagod road and the completion of the Wagod vehicular bridge paved way for the introduction of more economic activities for the populace particularly this municipality where five of its barangays are NPA- influenced.

These infrastructure projects also directly benefit the municipality of Balbalan where six of its barangays are NPA-affected, as the road traverses that direction forming a circumferential road to connect Balbalan and Pinukpuk with Apayao via Conner, Cagayan via Tuao, Abra and the rest of Kalinga.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) earmarked P50 million for the continuation of the concreting of said road by Lower Kalinga District Engineering Office and another P50M also for the same purpose in the Upper Kalinga District Engineering Office side.

The road link is also proposed by Congressman Allen Jesse Mangaoang in Congress as a national highway to be named the Abra-Kalinga-Apayao road to ensure its completion, regular funding and maintenance.

DPWH also implemented two flood control projects in Ammacian, another two are on-going in Wagod while one was completed in Apatan, all in Pinukpuk.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) trained members of the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina members in Ba-ay, Pinukpuk on coffee and cacao processing in partnership with the local government unit.

DOST also provided Starbooks to the Balbalan Agricultural and Industrial School (BAIS) and Balbalan Central School where many of the students come from the NPA-affected barangays. A 4-weeks review on science scholarship examination was also conducted at BAIS.

Another kiosk or e-library was also established in Guina-ang, an affected barangay in Pasil. DOST also distributed 120 packs of complementary food to Maling.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources distgributed tilapia fingerlings to 28 indviduals in 7 of the 16 NPA affected barangays in Kalinga. (Photo: BFAR)

The municipalities of Balbalan and Pasil were also awarded each P2.6M under the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Hanapbuhay Para sa Ating Disadvantaged program where residents are employed for 10 days with P320 wage per day.

On the part of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Provincial Fisheries Office, 28 individual small fishpond owners in 7 of the 16 affected barangays were given tilapia fingerlings.

Early next year, TESDA will conduct training on coffee processing, packaging and labeling including provision of equipment. Coffee production is a major livelihood of the people in those insurgency-affected villages.

A training on masonry will also be conducted at Poblacion with some participants coming from those influenced barangays. Coordination is on-going with other barangays to plan out the conduct of some more trainings on other technical-vocational courses.

The municipalities of Balbalan and Pasil were also awarded each P2.6M under the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Hanapbuhay Para sa Ating Disadvantaged program where residents are employed for 10 days with P320 wage per day.

On the part of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Provincial Fisheries Office, 28 individual small fishpond owners in 7 of the 16 affected barangays were given tilapia fingerlings.

To deter NPAs from infiltrating other communities, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) conducted training on manicure, pedicure and basic hair cutting to female members and organic mushroom production to male members of the Ballayangon Farmers Association. Ballayangon is a land-locked barangays in Pinukpuk surrounded by NPA-influenced neighbors.

Early next year, TESDA will conduct training on coffee processing, packaging and labeling including provision of equipment. Coffee production is a major livelihood of the people in those insurgency-affected villages.

TESDA will also conduct training on masonry at Poblacion with some participants coming from those influenced barangays. Coordination is on-going with other barangays to plan out the conduct of some more trainings on other technical-vocational courses.

Plastic crates and net materials will also be given to the Balbalan Orange Growers. Balbalan is famous for its sweet native “gayunan”.

There are 16 NPA-influence/less influence barangays according to the AFP. In Balbalan are Mabaca, Poswoy, Balantoy (Sitio Ligayan), Gawaan, and Ababa-an; Pinukpuk are Ba-ay, Apatan, Ammacian (Bonnong), Wagod (Bonnong), and Limos; Lubuagan are Western Uma, Upper Uma, Lower Uma and Tanglag; in Pasil is Guina-ang; and Tabuk City is Dupag. Influenced are Mabaca, Poswoy and Tanglag. The rest are less influenced. (JDP/PAB-PIA CAR, Kalinga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028904

Former adversaries unite, work together for peace in BARMM

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Former adversaries unite, work together for peace in BARMM



UNITY TRAINING. Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPST) members arrive in Parang Maguindanao to attend the internal retooling program which kicked off on Monday (Oct. 21, 2019). The JPST training will be attended by 77 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, 96 personnel from the Philippine National Police, and 152 members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces. (Photo courtesy of OPAPP)

PARANG, MAGUINDANAO -- What seemed unimaginable years ago is now a reality as former foes are now working side by side to bring peace to communities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Seventy-seven members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and 96 personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP) arrived here to participate in the internal retooling of Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPST).

They will be joined by 152 of their Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF) counterparts during the JPST training of the second batch of JPST members, which started on Monday (October 21).

Partners in peace

Speaking at the opening of the retooling session, training director P/Lt. Col. Arnold Razote stressed the uniqueness of the JPST training wherein former adversaries on the battlefield will now work together to help maintain the peace and order in the Bangsamoro.

"The JPST training is a unique community policing training where contingents from the AFP, PNP, and MILF-BIAF shall undergo a one-month training program to enable them to acquire knowledge, skills and attitudes to make them a capable and dependable force to protect the gains of the peace process,” Razote said.

Wesmincom deputy commander for administration and chair of GPH-CCCH Brig. Gen. Francisco Ariel Felicidario III talks to JPST members. (Photo courtesy of OPAPP)

The internal retooling will prepare the AFP and PNP members for the JPST training, which will be conducted at Camp General Salipada K. Pendatun, PRO BARMM in Parang, Maguindanao.

Two hundred nineteen MILF-BIAF members completed their basic military training on August 27, 2019, which was held at the AFP’s Camp Lucero in Carmen, Cotabato Province.

Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Director Wendell Orbeso, who heads the secretariat of the Joint Normalization Committee, emphasized the crucial role of JPST in ensuring the safety and security in their communities.

“The establishment and deployment of the JPST are very important in the maintenance of peace and order in the areas where the decommissioning processes and other normalization activities are happening,” Orbeso said.

The 6,000-strong JPSTs will be tasked to support the maintenance of peace and order and stability in areas mutually identified by the GPH and MILF, as the MILF combatants and their camps transition into peaceful and productive civilians and communities

The establishment of JPSTs is part of the Annex on Normalization under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed between the government and MILF in 2014.

Preserving gains of peace

Brig. Gen. Cesar De Mesa, chief of the AFP Peace and Development Office, stressed that government forces and the MILF-BIAF are now peace partners who are bound by the common goal of pushing forward the Bangsamoro peace process

“Ang prosesong pangkapayapaan ang magiging solusyon sa paghinto sa matagal na nating pakikipaglaban sa kapawa natin Pilipino. Ang mga BIAF ay dating nasa kabilang panig pero tapos na ang panahon na ‘yun. Kasama na natin sila ngayon sa pagsulong ng kapayapaan (The peace process would be the solution to stop fighting among Filipinos. The BIAF used to be at the other side but now they are among us pushing for peace),” de Mesa said.

According to Brig. Gen. Francisco Arial Felicidario III, chair of the GPH Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and Western Mindanao Command deputy commander for administration, the various ceasefire mechanisms have been instrumental in preventing armed confrontations in the area.

Felicidario noted that since the signing of the ceasefire agreement between the government of the Philippines (GPH) and MILF in 1997, there was a significant decline in skirmishes between the two parties which resulted in a more peaceful and stable region.

“Ang laki na ng difference mula nung napirmahan ang ceasefire agreement between Government and MILF noong 1997 hanggang ngayon. Ngayon, malaya na tayong nakakalakad. Isa lang ang ibig sabihin noon, na ang peace process ay nag-work (A big difference has been noted since ceasefire agreement between the government and MILF was signed in 1997. Now, we are free to roam around. It means, peace process works),” he said.

Also present at the internal retooling training were Lt. Col. Merill Sumalinog from the AFP Peace and Development Office who explained the JPST’s functions and structure; OPAPP’s Carl Jerick Sol who facilitated the internal retooling of the JPST members; Ryan Dave Jungco, chief operations officer of the GPH-CCCH, who presented an overview on the activities of the body; Reshiel Sombrio of the GPH Ad Hoc Joint Action Group, who explained the functions and activities of AHJAG; and OPAPP’s Mark Sherwin Bayanito, who gave an overview of the political track of the CAB.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083736

P5.4-M marijuana uprooted along SoCot, SK, DavSur boundary

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 21, 2019): P5.4-M marijuana uprooted along SoCot, SK, DavSur boundary



MARIJUANA HAUL. Joint elements from the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office, the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Region 12 burn some of the marijuana plants uprooted on Saturday (Oct. 19, 2019) in an upland plantation along the borders of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Davao del Sur. The team found around 27,000 hills of marijuana at the site worth an estimated P5.4 million. (Photo courtesy of the Tampakan municipal police station)

Government forces uprooted over the weekend around 27,000 fully grown marijuana plants worth around PHP5.4 million located in an upland area along the borders of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Davao del Sur provinces.

A report from the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office (SCPPO) said the marijuana plantation was discovered around 11 a.m. Saturday in the area covering portions of Sitio Alyong, Barangay Danlag in Tampakan, South Cotabato; Sitio Lamalis, Barangay Datalblao in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat; and, Sitio Lapla, Barangay Kimlawis in Kiblawan, Davao del Sur.

Capt. Joseph Villanueva, acting chief of the Tampakan municipal police station, said Monday they earlier received reports from concerned residents about the presence of a marijuana plantation in the area.

Villanueva said they immediately coordinated with the SCPPO, Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Region 12.

A composite team from the three units left the town center of Tampakan around 9 p.m. for a joint law enforcement operation in the identified sites, he said.

Villanueva said they arrived at the site around 11 a.m. Saturday and found a vast marijuana plantation, adding they immediately uprooted and burned the plants with assistance from local leaders.

The operatives set aside at least 50 hills as evidence for the filing of charges against its cultivator.

“It was abandoned and the cultivators were no longer in the area at that time but local leaders were able to identify them,” he said.

Blaan tribal chieftain Dot Capion identified the owner of the said marijuana plantation as a certain Gugwelin Macondon, a resident of the area.

The suspect will be charged with violation of Section 16 (cultivation of plants classified as dangerous drugs) under Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083759

Manhunt on vs. 3 more suspects in teacher’s kidnapping

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 21, 2019): Manhunt on vs. 3 more suspects in teacher’s kidnapping

FREED. Zamboangueña teacher, Rosina Singua, 58 (left), drinks coffee at a military camp after she was rescued from kidnappers on October 16 from a hotel in downtown Jolo, Sulu. (Photo courtesy: Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

A manhunt has been launched to arrest three more people behind the kidnapping of a Zamboangueña teacher, who left this city supposedly to attend a wedding ceremony on September 27 but ended up being abducted.

The teacher, Rosina Singua, 58, was rescued on October 16 from a hotel room in Barangay Walled City, Jolo, Sulu, minutes after her daughter, Soraya Bantongan, handed over some PHP283,000 ransom to a young lady at the port of Jolo.

Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said Monday that the targets of the manhunt are two women and a man, who were among the five people involved in the kidnapping of Singua.

The two other suspects--all ransom claimants--were separately arrested after the rescue of Singua on October 16.

Col. Pablo Labra, Sulu police director, earlier disclosed that one of the two, Nurina Jura, 22, was arrested before she could board a passenger jeep to the town of Indanan coming from Jolo municipality.

It was Jura who received the ransom money from Bantongan at the port of Jolo.

Labra said that the other one, Nurjia Asakil, was arrested in a follow-up operation.

Asakil was the one who claimed the initial ransom payment, the amount of which was undisclosed, wired on October 13 through telegraphic transfer in one of the money courier services, the police official said.

The kidnappers had reportedly demanded PHP10 million ransom in exchange for the freedom of Singua. The ransom was further lowered to PHP200,000 after the initial payment was made by the victim’s family, police said.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said the troops, in coordination with the police, are tracking the whereabouts of the remaining suspects.

“We will not stop until we are able to get them,” Sobejana said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083762

‘Sagay 9’ remembered with mass, outreach for victims’ kin

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 21, 2019): ‘Sagay 9’ remembered with mass, outreach for victims’ kin



DIALOGUE. Maj. Antonio Benitez Jr. (standing), chief of Sagay City Police Station, along with officers of the Philippine Army’s 79IB, meets with the families of the “Sagay 9” victims in the northern Negros City on Sunday (Oct. 20, 2019). The dialogue was part of the activities that commemorated the first anniversary of the massacre that took place on Oct. 20, 2018. (Photo courtesy of 79IB, Philippine Army)

A mass and an outreach were held on Sunday to mark the first anniversary of the killing of nine farmers in Sagay City, Negros Occidental on Oct. 20 last year.

The commemoration activities were initiated by the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB), Sagay City Police Station, City of Sagay, and the Barangay Council of Bulanon.

“We initiated this as we would like to our extend sympathies to the families of the victims. Their innocence should be given justice. They were only promised by insurgents to join their unlawful activities,” Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, commander of 79IB, said in a statement on Monday.

He added that government institutions commemorated the event to “give value to the innocent lives deceived by the left-leaning parties and militant groups.”

Aside from the mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Erwin Magnanao, other activities included a fun run from Crossing Bulanon going to City Proper joined by some 100 participants, tree-planting at Saint Joseph Parish Church, and a dialogue with the families of the victims.

Maj. Antonio Benitez Jr., chief of Sagay City Police Station, gave an update on the case during the meeting with the victims’ kin, who also received rice and cash assistance from the police.

The nine fatalities -- Eglicerio Villegas, Angelife Arsenal, Rene Laurencio Sr., Paterno Baron, Morena Mendoza, Marcelina Dumaguit, Rannel Bantigue, and minors Marchtel Sumikad and Joemarie Ogahayon -- were killed on the night of Oct. 20 at Hacienda Nene, Purok Firetree in Barangay Bulanon of the northern Negros city after their group occupied the sugarcane field earlier that day to demand for their piece of land in the property.

The victims were also identified as members of the National Federation of Sugar Workers (NFSW).

The police had filed murder complaints against those allegedly involved in the massacre, including Rene Manlangit and Rogelio Arquillo, who were identified as NFSW recruiters.

The victims were allegedly enticed to join the NFSW and were manipulated by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Assistant State Prosecutor Ferdinand Fernandez is handling the case, which is pending before the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Manila.

The case was assigned to Fernandez after the Sagay City Prosecutor's Office and the Western Visayas Regional Prosecutor’s Office recused themselves from handling the preliminary investigation.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083764