AFP-CRS: Top CPP-NPA leader neutralized in Butuan City

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Feb 6, 2020): Top CPP-NPA leader neutralized in Butuan City

Bancasi, Butuan City – A Joint Law Enforcement Operation conducted by the Philippine Army together with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) 13, and Philippine National Police Regional Office 13 resulted to the killing of a top CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) leader around 11 o’clock in the morning, February 5, 2020 at Rosales St., Brgy 15, San Ignacio, Butuan City.

READ MORE:https://www.kalinawnews.com/notorious-top-npa-leader-killed-in-joint-law-enforcement-operation-in-butuan-city/

#AFPyoucanTRUST l www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/3032796823405688/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Community information helps eliminate CPP-NPA presence

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Feb 6, 2020): Community information helps eliminate CPP-NPA presence

Three CPP-NPA members were neutralized while firearms and various equipment were also recovered in an encounter at Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat.

The encounter was a result of information and continuous help provided by the locals which manifest that the CPP-NPA terrorists are slowly losing their gains in the community.

The locals, together with the LGUs, are joining hand in hand to eliminate the terrorist NPA problem in the area.

#AFPyoucanTRUST l www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/3032793293406041/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

MILF-CC: BARMM Chief Minister Ebrahim hopes reforming the Bangsamoro education to ensure high quality education

Posted to the Committee on Information, Moro Islamic Liberation Front Central Committee MILF-CC Website (Feb 8, 2020): BARMM Chief Minister Ebrahim hopes reforming the Bangsamoro education to ensure high quality education (By Muhammad Musa)

COTABATO CITY – Ahod ‘Al Haj Murad’ Ebrahim, BARMM Chief Minister on his message delivered by his Executive Staff during the 1st Bangsamoro mass signing and oath taking ceremony of the newly appointed teachers for Maguindanao 1 and 2 Schools Division on February 6-7 held at SKCC, Cotabato City, said that reforming the MBHTE was one of their immediate actions to ensure the region has “credible teachers on the ground to provide a high quality of education to our students.”

ICM said, the licensed teachers were given the chance to reshape the region and re-engineering the educational system of the Bangsamoro.

“More than the opportunity to work, our dear teachers, you are now given the chance to reshape the region and we believe it is true all of you that we can truly instill real change for the region not because of political propaganda but because of decency of your profession,” Ebrahim said in his message.

Ebrahim is hoping that beyond the basic ABCs of teaching, teachers embed the importance of moral values in their classes.

“We hope to raise a Bangsamoro that is not just intellectually apt, but morally guided, especially with our shared values as a people,” he said,

“You have the rare opportunity of shaping an entire generation who will eventually succeed in the direction of the Bangsamoro,” Ebrahim stressed.

To attain the reform in the Bangsamoro government, and elevate the quality of the educational system in the Bangsamoro region, the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) hired a total of 1, 156 licensed teachers for the two districts of Maguindanao province.

The 569 newly-hired elementary and secondary teachers for Maguindanao 1 and 586 newly hired teachers for Maguindanao 2 Schools Division are expected to deliver quality of teaching in their respective schools.

For his part MBHTE Minister Mohagher M. Iqbal said “our goal is to have a balanced, inclusive, relevant, and quality Bangsamoro Educational System for our children. The vision is possible if we have quality teachers.”

“Teachers are perhaps the most influential role models for young people,” Iqbal noted, reminding the teachers to uphold the regional government’s advocacy of moral governance.

This month, the MBHTE-BARMM is slated to conduct a selection and screening process for aspiring teaching applicants in the divisions of Basilan and Tawi-Tawi, while the selection process schedule for the divisions of Sulu, and Lanao del Sur is yet to be announced by the ministry.

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1995/barmm-chief-minister-ebrahim-hopes-reforming-the-bangsamoro-education-to-ensure-high-quality-education-

CPP/NDF-Negros: NDF Negros joins condemnation of Leyte 5 arrest

NDF-Negros propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2020): NDF Negros joins condemnation of Leyte 5 arrest

BAYANI OBRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-NEGROS

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

FEBRUARY 08, 2020

National Democratic Front (NDF)-Negros in a statement expressed unity with the country’s outrage over the arrest of five activists in Tacloban City early today, February 7.

At around 2:00 in the morning, five activists, along with a one year old baby, awoke to simultaneous police raids of offices of progressive groups and were arrested based on trumped-up charges and planted evidences.

Arrested were Mira Legion of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan-EV), Marissa Cabaljao of People’s Surge with her one year old child, Alexander Abinguna of Katungod EV, Marielle Domequil of Rural Missionaries of the Philippines-EV and Frenchiemae Cumpio of Eastern Vista.

“This sounds eerily familiar to Negrosanons as this AFP/PNP modus operandi was first implemented here in Bacolod City and Escalante City last October 31, 2019 victimizing 57 innocent civilians,” said Ka Bayani Obrero, spokesperson of NDF Negros.

According to Obrero, this worsens the human rights situation in the country with the PNP manipulating the legality of planted evidences and trumped-up charges.

“While everyday news is swamped with narratives of the Duterte regime’s inutile response to the novel coronavirus, state agents are treacherously attacking activists, blatantly displaying Duterte’s fascist decrees as implemented through Memorandum Order 32 and Executive Order 70,” he added.

Leyte’s neighbour province, Samar, is one of the provinces under Memorandum Order 32 along with Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental and Bicol region wherein the AFP was ordered to send more troops on the basis of lawless violence.

“The NDF Negros calls on all Negrosanons to stand as one with the people of Eastern Visayas in denouncing the increasing human rights violations and fight the climate of terror caused by state-sponsored attacks,”

“The struggle against Duterte’s fascism and tyranny must be intensified with the perpetrators made to answer for crimes committed against the Filipino people,” he ended.###

#FreeLeyte5
#FightTyranny
#ResistFascism
#MaghimakasIndiMahadlok

https://cpp.ph/statement/ndf-negros-joins-condemnation-of-leyte5-arrest/

Kalinaw News: CTG high ranking officers, arrested in Getafe

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 8, 2020): CTG high ranking officers, arrested in Getafe (By 47th Infantry Battalion)



CARMEN, Bohol – Executive Order 70’s Joint AFP-PNP law enforcement operations led to the arrest of Rey Camacho @JEBOY/TEDDY/CHAD/VAL, 51 years old, National Finance Commission Staff and his wife Carmelita Camacho @ MAUREEN/INDAY, 48 years old, Head of the National Commission Special Operations Group (SOG) today, February 8, in Brgy. Tulang, Getafe, Bohol.

The Joint Forces reported that at 5:30 am of February 8, a search warrant was executed in the house of two (2) identified Communist Terrorist Group at Tulang, Getafe by the Joint Force AFP-PNP. The warrant of arrest for Murder with Case Number 20652 issued by Regional Trial Court of Bohol, 7th Judicial Region Branch 47, Tagbilaran City Bohol was served as well at the time of the incident.

Incidental to the lawful search and the arrest of the CTG personalities, it was confirmed that alias Jeboy, from being the Secretary of KR-CENVIS RCOM; CENVIS ROC Commander; KR-NCBS Regional Finance Tax Implementing Group; Staff of the NOC, became a National Finance Commission Staff. His wife “Maureen” was found out to be a KR-CENVIS Regional Finance Staff before becoming the Head of the National Commission Special Operations Group (SOG) for the Visayas.

The simultaneous execution of the warrants steered the recovery of two (2) laptop computers, three (3) pistols and ammo (2 cal38 & 1 cal45), two (2) hand grenades, one (1) hard case of various explosives, detonating cords and blasting caps, fifteen (15) cellular phones, several Flash Drives, subversive propaganda documents, sacks of butane and other camping paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, in one of the interviews, Jeboy admitted to being a part of the CTG core group involved in the negotiation and in facilitating the procurement and distribution of the over 1, 000 AK47. While the two are under the custody of the PNP and the headquarters is still waiting for further reports.

Meanwhile, LTC ALLAN J TABUDLO, 47IB Battalion Commander in his message said that the arrest of Camacho and his wife was a result of the merging efforts of the security forces and the locals who reported the latter’s whereabouts.

” We are materializing the mandate of this whole of the nation approach to erradicate these insurgents and likewise, we are urging the public to continue your support in sustaining peace and order in the province. Together, we will accomplish our mission in ending this local communist armed conflict in Bohol.” -Tabudlo

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/ctg-high-ranking-officers-arrested-in-getafe/

No mercy for NPA rebels engaged in atrocities: Army

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 8, 2020): No mercy for NPA rebels engaged in atrocities: Army (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

There will be no mercy for members of the New People’s Army who continue their armed revolution and criminal activities.

The statement was made by Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, during his recent visit to the headquarters of the 79th Infantry Battalion in Sagay City, Negros Occidental.

In a statement issued by the 303rd IB Civil Military Operations, Pasaporte told the 79th IB troopers that they should let the communities feel that the Armed Forces of the Philippines and local government units are one and united in the implementation of EO 70, that aims to end the local communist armed conflict in Negros Occidental.

“With the Whole of Nation Approach, we must work hand-in-hand with the LGUs, especially in assisting their Retooled Community Support Programs (RCSP) that will be activated and immersed in their respective areas, in facilitating the delivery of basic services in their communities,” he added.

Pasaporte, who also recently visited the 94IB headquarters in La Libertad, Negros Oriental, and the 62IB in Isabela, Negros Occidental, said his recent visits to the infantry units supervised by 303IB, are aimed at ensuring that their efforts are aligned with the mission of the Brigade to prevent extortion and other terroristic activities of the NPA who continuously sow fear in communities.

In his recent dialog with 62IB troopers, he also encouraged them to keep up the good work, and continue their high standard of professionalism in performing their duties.

"Let us sustain the gains we had in our area of operations. We will continue our efforts and use all our might to hunt down the CPP/NPA/NDF, the foremost criminal syndicate here in Negros,” Pasaporte added, as he vowed to unmask the fake revolutionaries who continue to deceive the people of Negros.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/February/08/topstory6.htm

‘Rebel couple’ nabbed in NegOr

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 8, 2020): ‘Rebel couple’ nabbed in NegOr (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

A couple alleged to be members of the New People’s Army, and are facing rebellion charges, were arrested yesterday by police and Army soldiers in Sitio Guitalaokan, Brgy. Talalak, Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental.

Nabbed by virtue of an arrest warrant issued by Judge Marie Rose Inocando-Paras were Luis Ragay, 53, and his wife, Lenie, 49, both residents of Sitio Kakha, Brgy. Talalak, Santa Catalina.

Paras has recommended P200,000 bail for the couple, now facing rebellion charges, Capt. Cenon Pancito, 3rd Infantry Division spokesman, said yesterday.

The arrest of the couple was a joint effort of the Regional Mobile Force Battallion 7, 11th Infantry Battalion, 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, Santa Catalina and Bayawan City police stations.

The arrested suspects are now detained at the Santa Catalina Police Station.

Lt. Col. Ramir Redosando,11IB commander, reported that the son of the rebel couple was dismissed from the military service as a member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit in 2008, on suspicions of being a spy of the NPA.*

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/February/08/topstory5.htm

Army to extend aid to victims of truck accident

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 7, 2020): Army to extend aid to victims of truck accident (By Rey Anthony H. Chiu)



TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Jan. 31 (PIA) -- The Philippine Army assured that they would take all necessary actions to prevent the occurrence of similar incidents and extend assistance to the victims of the wayward military transport that plowed into a busy roadside diner (carinderia) at Katipunan Carmen at about noontime of Jan. 29, 2020.

According to a spot report issued by the Carmen Police Station through Police Major Jodel Torregosa, initial investigation show that a drab green KIA truck troop carrier registered to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and is based at the 47 Infantry Batallion in Carmen, driven by Private Jay dela Torre, lost its brakes while approaching a bend and smashed into a roadside restaurant.

The wayward truck rammed into a group of students having lunch and at least one died in the incident.

Carmen police identified the fatality as Roda Mae Niera, 18, a resident of Buenavista Carmen and Grade 12 student of Katipunan National High School (KNHS).

Also severely injured were Nelson Doroy, 18, resident of Montesuerte Carmen and Grade 12 student of the KNHS; Ria Mae Garcia, 18, resident of Pilar Bohol and Grade 11 student of KNHS; and Jomel Sarmiento, 18, resident of Montesunting and Grade 11 student of KNHS who sustained serious physical injuries and had to be rushed to Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital in Tagbilaran for proper medical care.

Also sustaining minor injuries and were brought to Congressman Simeon Toribio Memorial Hospital were Mary Grace Buñao, 18, resident of Poblacion Norte Carmen and Grade 12 student of KNHS; Laiza Jamil, 18, resident of Nuevafuerza Carmen and Grade 12 student of KNHS; Jessa Baluca, 18, resident of Lapaz Carmen and Grade 12 student of KNHS; as well as Sgt. Roniere Parpan, 33, and a resident of Surigao del Norte.

Over this, 47IB Batallion Commander Lt. Col. Allan Tabudlo, in a statement, said, “We would like to express our sincerest condolences to the family of the student who died because of what happened earlier.”

“Aside from her, unintentional harm has been brought to five other students. We are aware that our apologies would never suffice to console the grieving hearts of the families. Justifying the accident would only add insult to the injury. Nonetheless, we from the 47IB, would like to say we are very sorry for the unfortunate circumstances the accident caused," the commanding officer added.

Carmen Police Station has filed charges against the truck driver for reckless imprudence resulting to homicide, multiple serious physical injuries, and damage to property.

Not shrugging off from the responsibility, the army commander said, “In this dire moment, we are taking necessary actions and taking all the responsibilities. We are doing our best to extend assistance and support to those victims especially the expenses."

"Rest assured that we will do our best to prevent this incident in the future," he added. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034028

TFBM continues to pour livelihood assistance to IDPs

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 7, 2020): TFBM continues to pour livelihood assistance to IDPs (By Lou Ellen L. Antonio)

Some of the products of Kawiyagan beneficiaries.

MARAWI CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA ICCC) -- The Subcommittee on the Business and Livelihood of Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) here together with partner organizations continues to pour livelihood opportunities to the internally displaced persons (IDPs) of Marawi through the 16th Kawiyagan (livelihood).

TFBM Field Office Manager Assistant Secretary Felix Castro Jr. shared that Kawiyagan showcases the convergence of the different government agencies and private organizations to aid the IDPs to recover through livelihood assistance.

“Ipinapakita ng Kawiyagan na ang gobyerno at partner agencies ay nagkakaisa na matulungan ang mga IDPs Marawi City,” said Castro. (This showcases that the government and partner agencies are united in helping the IDPs of Marawi City.)

 

Mohammad Birua a recipient of carpentry toolkit from the Department of Trade Industry expresses his gratitude that he can finally continue his job before the siege happened. (Photo by Gian Raman/ PIA ICCC)

Speaking on behalf of Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr, Deputy Presidential Peace Adviser Isidro Purisima emphasized that the government will continue to support the affected communities.

“Ang gobyerno ay mananatili sa inyong likuran at aaalayan kayo sa inyong pagbangon. Naway mas pagbutihin ninyo ang inyong gawain, upang makamit ang inyong pangarap na mapayapa at maunlad na Marawi,” said Purisima. (The government continues to support and guide you in your recovery. We hope that you better your work so that you will achieve your dreams of a peaceful and progressive Marawi.)

Meanwhile, Mohammad Birua a recipient of carpentry toolkit from the Department of Trade Industry (DTI) is thankful that he can finally continue his job before the siege happened.

“Nagpapasalamat po kami sa kanila dahil hindi kami iniwanan,” said Birua. (We thank them for not leaving us.)

Below is the distribution list of the agencies for the 16th Kawiyagan.



Launched on August 24, 2018, the Kawiyagan is a monthly distribution of livelihood assistance spearheaded by TFBM for the IDPs of Marawi. (LEA | PIA ICCC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034219

Cases filed vs high-ranking CTG official, 4 others in Tacloban City

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 8, 2020): Cases filed vs high-ranking CTG official, 4 others in Tacloban City (By PIA8/RTF-ELCAC8 Stratcom)



TACLOBAN CITY, Feb 8 (PIA) -- The five CTGs who were arrested in two separate raids early morning of February 7 in Tacloban City, were formally charged before the City Prosecutors Office through inquest proceedings late afternoon of February 7.

Two cases were filed against them, violation of R.A. 10591, an Act providing for Comprehensive law on firearms and ammunition, and violation of R.A.9516 for the recovery of explosives.

The Joint CIDG RFU8, PNP PRO8 and AFP operatives served the search warrant issued on Feb. 3, 2020 by the Executive Judge Eligio Petilla of the RTC Branch 44 of the Hall of Justice in Tacloban City.

The respondents, who are now detained at the Palo BJMP for security reasons, include:

1. Frenchie Mae Castro Cumpio @PEN, 20 years old, secretary, Regional White Area Committee - Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (RWAC-EVRPC);

2. Marielle Alvez Domequil @Maye, 22 years old, a member of RWAC-EVRPC and Finance Officer of Rural Missionaries of the Philippines-Eastern Visayas (RMP-EV);

3. Alexander Philip Dizon Abinguna @Chakoy, 24 years old, a member of RWAC-EVRPC and Secretary General of Alyansa han Pagpanalipud han Tawhanon nga Katungod-Sinirangan Bisayas (KATUNGOD-SB);

4. Marissa Abayare Cabaljao @Harupay, 33 years old, a member of RWAC-EVRPC and Secretary General of People Surge Alliance-Eastern Visayas (PSA-EV); and

5. Mira Dalla Destura Legion @Lira, 21 years old, an EXECOM Member of KAGUMA-EV and Chairperson, Anak Bayan – Eastern Visayas.

Seized items during the search and seizure operation conducted in the safe house at Calanipawan Street, Brgy. 96, Calanipawan, Tacloban City, where Cumpio and Domiquil were arrested, were: one (1) unit cal 45 pistol, Taurus with Serial Number 125373; one (1) unit cal 45 pistol, Colt with Serial Number 825631; two (2) magazine assembly for cal 45; fourteen (14) live ammo for cal 45; two (2) fragmentation hand grenades; oe (1) pc colored red flag with CPP-NPA symbol; and cash amounting to Php557,360 for safekeeping as witnessed by barangay officials.

On the other hand, seized items during the search and seizure operations conducted in the safe house at Gumamela St., Bañezville II, Fatima Village, Brgy. 77, Tacloban City, Leyte yielded two (2) Cal 45 pistols; one (1) KG9 rifle; one (1) improvised claymore mine; two (2) mag assay for cal 45; one (1) mag assay for kg9; fifteen (15) rounds live ammos for cal 45; and 17 round live ammos for 9mm. (PIA8/RTF-ELCAC8 Stratcom)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034255

Facility to support E0 70 launched in Agusan Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8, 2020): Facility to support E0 70 launched in Agusan Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



NEW FACILITY. Assistant Secretary Alexander Macario of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (2nd from left) and Bayugan City Mayor Kirk Asis (2nd from right) grace the opening of the Kalinaw Building at the Headquarters of the Army's 3rd Special Forces Battalion in Barangay Noli, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. The facility primarily aims to provide support to the initiatives of the "whole-of-nation" approach to ending local communist armed conflict in the Caraga region. (Photo courtesy of 3SFBn)

A facility that will provide support to the continuing implementation of Executive Order (EO) 70, which seeks to institute a "whole-of-nation" approach in addressing communist insurgency, has been formally opened in Agusan del Sur.

In a statement on Saturday, 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan, civil-military operations officer of the Army’s 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn), said Thursday's launch of the Kalinaw Building was led by Assistant Secretary Alexander L. Macario of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The Kalinaw Building is located inside the 3SFBn headquarters in Barangay Noli, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur.

“The Kalinaw Building is the first inter-agency facility that will provide support to the initiatives of the whole-of-nation approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) in Caraga region,” Punsalan said.

The three-story building will serve as the venue of different activities designed to help former members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) renew their lives in preparation for their reintegration to their families and communities, he said.

The facility will also host future collaborations among government agencies to plan out developmental programs that will contribute to the implementation of EO 70 in the area.

“This will also be an instrument of good governance as this will house the conduct of various stakeholders’ capability and capacity
building through training and education, such as the Retooled Community Support Program orientation to further implement EO 70 in the city,” Punsalan added.

Macario was joined by Bayugan City Mayor Kirk Asis; Brig. Gen. Lincoln Francisco Tagle of the Special Forces Regiment; Brig. Gen. Maurito Licudine, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade; Col. Allan Hambala, commander of 401st Infantry Brigade Commander; and Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, commander of 3SFBn during the activity.

In his message, Macario pledged to share the concept of the Kalinaw Building to the National Task Force ELCAC to challenge other local government units (LGUs) in the country to replicate it in their areas.

“The LGUs, through their political will and commitment, can put an end to the insurgency problems in their areas,” he added.
Macario also commended the Bayugan City LGU for the support provided for the completion of the Kalinaw Building.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093330

Female ROTC cadet gets scholarship from AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8, 2020): Female ROTC cadet gets scholarship from AFP chief (By Christine Cudis)



SCHOLAR. After qualifying for the Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP) scholarship, Cadet 2nd Class Kricia Bico (right) receives a PHP50,000 financial aid from Region 6 (Western Visayas) Community Development Council Commander Col. Reyes Alcon Magdamit. Aside from scholarship grants, ROTC cadet officers are also provided with a PHP2,500 subsistence allowance of 15 days per semester. (Contributed photo)

With her good performance in academics and the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), Cadet 2nd Class Kricia Bico’s efforts paid off when she received financial aid worth PHP50,000 from the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP).

Bico, a student of St. Anthony’s College in San Jose, Antique, applied for the grant when her Community Development Council (CDC) director learned that her general average for the semester was 94 percent. They recommended that she try as they observed that she managed her time to study even with the reservist training on the side.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Friday, Bico bared that she keeps her grades higher than 88 percent so she could maintain the academic scholarship offered in her school.

She added that joining the ROTC did not come off as a distraction, but it inspired her to be goal-oriented and persevering.

“Both of my parents do not have stable jobs, so I give my best. I manage my time attentively. I always bear in mind that I should excel in school through any possible ways,” Bico said.

Last January 11, Region 6 (Western Visayas) CDC Commander Col. Reyes Alcon Magdamit turned over the cash grant to Bico for the school year 2019-2020.

Along with Cadet Bico, 13 others were accepted for the grant -- Cadet Maj. John Baliaran of the University of the East; Cadet 2Lt. Arnel Ancheta of Isabela State University; Ara Jane Morta of Bicol State University; Cadet 2Lt. Jessa Bansuelos of Pagadian Capitol College; and Christine Albore of the University of Mindanao from the Army.

The Air Force, on the other hand, named Cadet. Lt. Col. Alvin Collarin of Cronasia Foundation College, Inc.; Cadet Col. Angela Decale of Western Mindanao State University; Cadet Maj. Ella Geanga of South East Asian Institute of Technology; and Loui Umpad of the Philippine State of College of Aeronautics.

Meanwhile, the Navy offered Cadet Commander Joshua Mellarpis of John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University; Cadet Commander Beatrix Castillote of the Iloilo State College of Fisheries; Cadet Lt. Junior Grade Eljane Ponce of Iligan Capitol College; and Cadet Midshipwoman Jessica Telan of the University of Makati.

ROTC cadet officers are eligible for scholarship grants if their grades average 88 percent or higher. Those with an average of 94 percent or higher are awarded the CSAFP Scholarship.

Aside from scholarship grants, ROTC cadet officers are also provided with a PHP2,500 subsistence allowance of 15 days per semester.
Bico encouraged the incoming college freshmen to choose ROTC so they can avail of these benefits and to develop their potentials as dynamic leaders.

“This will serve as a stepping stone so that I can reach my goals in life. I'm hoping that one day, I will be a successful officer or military. If it is my destiny, I will accept it wholeheartedly,” she said.

ROTC is a way of life, Bico said.

“It is not just about marching and drills. We have to prove that ROTC officers are academically competitive, that we can be the best of what we can be. I have proven that. You can, too", she added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093285

DND gets biohazard suit donation

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8, 2020): DND gets biohazard suit donation (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BIOHAZARD SUIT DONATION. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (4th from right) and AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. (3rd from right), receive the biohazard suit donation from a representative of the LT Group and PMFTC in a ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Friday (Feb. 7, 2020). The donation contains 200 pieces of biohazard suits, boots, and goggles. (Photo courtesy of DND Public Affairs Service)

The Department of National Defense (DND) formally received an initial donation of biohazard protection equipment from business tycoon Lucio Tan's LT Group and its affiliate, tobacco firm PMFTC, on Friday.

In a statement released on Saturday, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said the items, such as EN14126:2003+AC:2004 certified biohazard suits, EN ISO 20344:2011 certified footwear, and goggles, were turned over to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for the use of its emergency responders and medical teams who will be tasked to handle hazardous and contaminated materials.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana received the donation on behalf of the agency.

The donation came as the government gears up its efforts to contain and prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in the country.

"The donation will enhance the department's efforts to continuously strengthen the readiness of the AFP as first responders during disasters and crisis situation(s)," he added.

The DND, as part of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council with Lorenzana as chair, provides first responders and logistical support to the government's disaster and emergency response operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093309

Andanar expects effective program implementation vs. insurgency

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8, 2020): Andanar expects effective program implementation vs. insurgency (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)



ANTI-INSURGENCY INITIATIVES. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, during the launch of the City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Cagayan de Oro City on Friday (Feb. 7, 2020), says he remains optimistic that the government can deliver its promise to bring peace and development to the country through its anti-insurgency programs. He expressed confidence that local government units’ participation would help the national government boost its fight against insurgency. (Photo courtesy of PCOO)
MANILA -- Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Friday expressed confidence that the government would be able to effectively implement policies and programs that aim to put an end to insurgency in the country.

During the launch of the City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (CTF-ELCAC) in Cagayan de Oro City, Andanar was elated that local government offices in Northern Mindanao are ready to participate in the national government’s integrated approach to addressing insurgency in the region.

He said the Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDev), the enabling program to operationalize Executive Order (EO) 70, would help deliver the government’s promise to attain “inclusive and sustainable” peace in the country.

“It is my hope that we can effectively roll out and implement CAPDev in all the region’s focus areas, continue to work together for our expected results, and fulfill our shared agenda of inclusive and sustainable peace and development in Northern Mindanao,” said Andanar, who also leads the National Task Force (NTF) ELCAC’s communications team.

Signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018, EO 70 creates the NTF-ELCAC and orders local peace bodies to hold negotiations with communist insurgents in their respective localities.

The CAPDev, on the other hand, is a program that seeks to address the root causes of insurgencies, internal disturbances and tensions, and other armed conflicts and threats.

The CAPDev program also promotes the establishment of durable peace and development and empowers communities in priority areas through peace-building and reconciliation, good governance and institution building, and socio-economic transformation.

Andanar, who is also designated as Region 10 (Northern Mindanao) Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security, likewise lauded Cagayan de Oro City’s local government offices for its “whole-of-nation” approach to insurgency problems.

He noted that participants have a stake in building “peaceful and resilient” communities.

“Hence, I am congratulating the city government of Cagayan de Oro, led by Mayor Oca Moreno, and Barangay Tignapoloan, Barangay Mambu-aya, and Barangay Tuburan, for working together to make sustainable peace possible,” Andanar said.

During the event, about 32 adult learners who have recently completed the Department of Education’s 800-hour literacy program for former communist rebels and their families were also recognized.

The local government department’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) also highlighted the distribution of checks to former rebels for firearms remuneration.

Benefits under the E-CLIP include cash assistance, education, livelihood training, housing, and employment assistance, as well as loan processing for business capital.

Andanar said the government is on the right track for peace and development in the country.

“I am grateful (for) the valuable support of our national government agencies, the security sector, the private sector, and other peace and development partners. Such unity of purpose gives us a sense of hope that we can finally do things right,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093315

PRRD order for VFA termination not fake news: Panelo

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8, 2020): PRRD order for VFA termination not fake news: Panelo (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Malacañang on Saturday maintained that there is an official order from President Rodrigo R. Duterte to send a formal notice to the United States (US) about the Philippines’ termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo issued the latest statement after Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana branded as “fake news” the President’s fresh directive.

Duterte has instructed Executive Secretary (ES) Salvador Medialdea to inform Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. of his latest order to notify the US about the revocation of the 22-year-old VFA, Panelo announced on Friday night.

In a text message on Saturday, Panelo said the Chief Executive personally told him about his latest decision.

“I was quoting PRRD (President Rodrigo R. Duterte) of what he told me,” he said.

Panelo also said there was “no inconsistency” in the President’s stance on the VFA.

He explained that Lorenzana only meant that Medialdea has yet to formally receive the Chief Executive’s instruction.

“What (Lorenzana) meant is ES has yet to receive the instruction. That is what ES also told me last night — that he has not received the instruction yet from PRRD. There is no inconsistency,” Panelo said. “If he (Duterte) has not given the instruction yet to ES, it does not mean the (information) I shared with media is untrue. It only means ES has not yet gotten the directive from PRRD.”

In a separate text message, Medialdea said he has yet to receive any instruction from Duterte to relay any message to Locsin.

The VFA, signed between Manila and Washington DC in February 1998, governs rules on the conduct of visit of US forces to the Philippines.

The agreement exempts American troops from visa regulations and authorizes them to use their permits and licenses in the Philippines.

Duterte was prompted to scrap the VFA after the US canceled the visa of his ally, Senator Ronald dela Rosa.

The deal will be deemed terminated 180 days after the Philippines issues formal notice to the US.

On Thursday, Locsin warned that the Philippines may suffer due to the termination of the VFA.

Saying that the President’s decision is “studied”, Panelo earlier bared that the Philippine government had already started the process of terminating the agreement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093329