From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 12, 2020): Scrapping VFA may affect half of 318 military activities–AFP chief (By Maila Ager)
Almost half of the 318 military activities will be affected if the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the United States is terminated.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. said this during his confirmation hearing at the Commission on Appointments’ committee on national defense on Wednesday.
For 2020, Santos said a total of 318 VFA-related activities are scheduled to be held in the country and 10 of which are major exercises.
But since the Philippines already sent a notice of termination to the US on Tuesday, some of these activities will not be implemented anymore when the abrogation takes effect after 180 days, the AFP chief said.
“Those [activities that are already] ongoing will push through unless the other side canceled it,” Santos told the committee.
But he pointed out that the Philippines is not the only one benefiting from the military exercises.
“It’s also the US soldiers who are gaining skills from us considering that we are one of the most experienced foot soldiers with our experience in Marawi, in counter insurgency and other internal problems,” Santos added.
Senator Joel Villanueva pursued the issue and asked how many of these scheduled activities in the country this year would be affected.
Responding to Villanueva’s query, the AFP chief said: “Almost half of the activities.”
President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the termination of the VFA after the US canceled the visa of his former top cop and now Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa.
Thursday, February 13, 2020
Army, religious group forge partnership to help end Communist insurgency
From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 12, 2020): Army, religious group forge partnership to help end Communist insurgency (By Mike Crismundo)
BUTUAN CITY – The Philippine Army and religious sector should continue and strengthen its unified partnership in putting an end to the decades-old Communist insurgency, and help in the implementation of the government’s “Whole of Nation Approach” to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).
Brigadier General Lincoln Francisco T. Tagle, commanding general of the AFPs Special Forces Regiment, made this statement during a courtesy call with the Diocese of Butuan Most Rev. Cosme Damian R. Almedilla, D.D. at the Bishops Palace here recently.
He said there was a need to have a continuing partnership with the religious sector to achieve peace and development.
“We really need to have a unified and continuing partnership with the religious sector because they are the subject matter experts in promoting reconciliation which can help induce more peaceful surrenders (CPP-NPA) in the future,” said the Special Forces Regiment commander.
Tagle was accompanied by the command group of the Army’s Third Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion (3rd SFBn) in the courtesy call to Almedilla.
The Army commanders in the area have been alarmed through the revelations of former rebels that some religious groups in Lianga town, Surigao del Sur were the ones backing Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs)-affiliated militant and anti-government groups.
The (Army commanders told Almedilla during their courtesy call that some of these militant groups were trying to stop the Community Support Program (CSP) teams of the government security forces and the implementation of ELCAC in the area.
The AFP Special Forces Regiment commander also said the church should be protected from the Communist movement.
“The Church and other religious groups should also be protected from the deceptive tactics of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) who are taking undue advantage on the kind-heartedness of our religious leaders,” stressed Tagle.
Meanwhile, Almedilla reminded the diocesan and missionary religious groups on the teachings of the Lord on reconciliation to attain genuine peace and encouraged them to focus on ministering faith and not an ideology.
“We need a new expression of solidarity and this should not be related to the communist ideology, “the prelate stressed.
Sectoral Unification Cluster is one of features of the Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict that promotes a strong multi-sectoral cooperation to address and eliminate the infiltration strategies of communist groups that corrupt the purity of various sectors such as the Indigenous Peoples, religious, youth, academic sectors and the like.
BUTUAN CITY – The Philippine Army and religious sector should continue and strengthen its unified partnership in putting an end to the decades-old Communist insurgency, and help in the implementation of the government’s “Whole of Nation Approach” to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).
Brigadier General Lincoln Francisco T. Tagle, commanding general of the AFPs Special Forces Regiment, made this statement during a courtesy call with the Diocese of Butuan Most Rev. Cosme Damian R. Almedilla, D.D. at the Bishops Palace here recently.
He said there was a need to have a continuing partnership with the religious sector to achieve peace and development.
“We really need to have a unified and continuing partnership with the religious sector because they are the subject matter experts in promoting reconciliation which can help induce more peaceful surrenders (CPP-NPA) in the future,” said the Special Forces Regiment commander.
Tagle was accompanied by the command group of the Army’s Third Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion (3rd SFBn) in the courtesy call to Almedilla.
The Army commanders in the area have been alarmed through the revelations of former rebels that some religious groups in Lianga town, Surigao del Sur were the ones backing Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs)-affiliated militant and anti-government groups.
The (Army commanders told Almedilla during their courtesy call that some of these militant groups were trying to stop the Community Support Program (CSP) teams of the government security forces and the implementation of ELCAC in the area.
The AFP Special Forces Regiment commander also said the church should be protected from the Communist movement.
“The Church and other religious groups should also be protected from the deceptive tactics of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) who are taking undue advantage on the kind-heartedness of our religious leaders,” stressed Tagle.
Meanwhile, Almedilla reminded the diocesan and missionary religious groups on the teachings of the Lord on reconciliation to attain genuine peace and encouraged them to focus on ministering faith and not an ideology.
“We need a new expression of solidarity and this should not be related to the communist ideology, “the prelate stressed.
Sectoral Unification Cluster is one of features of the Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict that promotes a strong multi-sectoral cooperation to address and eliminate the infiltration strategies of communist groups that corrupt the purity of various sectors such as the Indigenous Peoples, religious, youth, academic sectors and the like.
Ranking communist leader in Davao yields to military
From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 11, 2020): Ranking communist leader in Davao yields to military (By Martin Sadongdong)
A high-ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) has surrendered to authorities in Davao de Oro because of the communist group’s “dwindling” strength and influence in the province, the military revealed on Tuesday.
The rebel-returnee, identified only as alias “Bart,” vice commander of the NPA in the northern boundary of Davao de Oro and Davao Oriental, yielded to the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) at Barangay Cabinuangan in New Bataan town on Monday.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) spokesperson, said Bart was forced to leave the group following the surrender of his 25 fellow communist rebels since 2019.
“[He] decided to leave the group because almost all of their members have surrendered or went into hiding because of hardship and [being] always on the run,” Balagtey said.
The predicament of Bart’s group resulted in the loss of their mass bases and contacts, making their operations and daily lives even more difficult.
According to Balagtey, Bart also told the military the NPA’s current plans to remedy the weakening strength of its commands.
“The NPA formations are forced to merge because of the cascade of surrenderers,” Balagtey said.
The last straw that broke the camel’s back for Bart was when his own wife, alias Joy, deputy commander of NPA’s Pulang Bagani Command in the same province, also surrendered to the local government unit of Davao de Oro on Jan. 20.
Balagtey hopes that the surrender of the husband and wife rebels will inspire others to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law.
The military spokesperson added that the two were undergoing custodial and stress debriefing prior to their enrollment in the government’s E-CLIP or Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program where they will receive financial and livelihood aid to start a new life.
A high-ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) has surrendered to authorities in Davao de Oro because of the communist group’s “dwindling” strength and influence in the province, the military revealed on Tuesday.
The rebel-returnee, identified only as alias “Bart,” vice commander of the NPA in the northern boundary of Davao de Oro and Davao Oriental, yielded to the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) at Barangay Cabinuangan in New Bataan town on Monday.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) spokesperson, said Bart was forced to leave the group following the surrender of his 25 fellow communist rebels since 2019.
“[He] decided to leave the group because almost all of their members have surrendered or went into hiding because of hardship and [being] always on the run,” Balagtey said.
The predicament of Bart’s group resulted in the loss of their mass bases and contacts, making their operations and daily lives even more difficult.
According to Balagtey, Bart also told the military the NPA’s current plans to remedy the weakening strength of its commands.
“The NPA formations are forced to merge because of the cascade of surrenderers,” Balagtey said.
The last straw that broke the camel’s back for Bart was when his own wife, alias Joy, deputy commander of NPA’s Pulang Bagani Command in the same province, also surrendered to the local government unit of Davao de Oro on Jan. 20.
Balagtey hopes that the surrender of the husband and wife rebels will inspire others to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law.
The military spokesperson added that the two were undergoing custodial and stress debriefing prior to their enrollment in the government’s E-CLIP or Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program where they will receive financial and livelihood aid to start a new life.
Alleged NPA rebel nabbed in Quezon
Posted to the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 13, 2010): Alleged NPA rebel nabbed in Quezon
(By Delfin T. Mallari Jr.)
(By Delfin T. Mallari Jr.)
LUCENA CITY –– A wanted criminal and alleged New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was arrested by combined Army soldiers and policemen in General Luna town in Quezon province Wednesday.
Colonel Audie Madrideo, Quezon police chief, said the government forces, armed with a search warrant, collared Hilario de Roxas, 56, in Barangay Sumilang around 10 a.m.
Police tagged De Roxas as number one in the list of wanted criminals in General Luna. He is facing double murder and multiple attempted murder charges.
A report claimed that De Roxas, a resident of Catanauan, Quezon, was also a member of the communist NPA using the alias “Ka Mando” in the rebel movement.
The suspect was detained at the local police jail.
Colonel Audie Madrideo, Quezon police chief, said the government forces, armed with a search warrant, collared Hilario de Roxas, 56, in Barangay Sumilang around 10 a.m.
Police tagged De Roxas as number one in the list of wanted criminals in General Luna. He is facing double murder and multiple attempted murder charges.
A report claimed that De Roxas, a resident of Catanauan, Quezon, was also a member of the communist NPA using the alias “Ka Mando” in the rebel movement.
The suspect was detained at the local police jail.
PH Navy ships Davao Del Sur, Alcaraz arrive in Oman for OFW repats
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 13, 2010): PH Navy ships Davao Del Sur, Alcaraz arrive in Oman for OFW repats (By PN)
MUSCAT, Oman, Feb. 13 -- Philippine Navy (PN) ships BRP Davao Del Sur (LD602) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16) carrying the Naval Task Force (NTF) 82 contingent, arrived here at Sultan Qaboos Port late afternoon of February 05, Wednesday to help in the repatriation of OFWs affected by the tensions in the Middle East.
Head of mission Marine Col. Noel Beleran, along with LD602 and PS16 commanding officers paid courtesy call to the Philippine envoy to Oman, Ambassador Narciso Castañeda.
The two navy vessels will serve as a sea-based platform for the government to process and facilitate the repatriation of displaced OFWs. Specifics and other details about the repatriation are expected to be finalized after the scheduled joint AFP-PNP command conference to be presided by the Commander-In-Chief, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in Malacañang on which NTF 82 will take part via video teleconferencing together with Amb. Castañeda.
In his statement, Col. Beleran avered that the navy contingent are "all safe and sound" upon arriving in Oman. "The troops are very happy and in high spirits since this event serves as another milestone for our Navy that we can already transcend across the deep waters of Indian ocean or the Arabian Sea," he said.
He assured that the embarked sailors and marines are ready to assist and support the government's effort in repatriating our unsung heroes, the OFWs in this Middle East conflict.
The arrival of the PN contingent in Oman signified the tangible means of the government's effort to ensure that our kababayan will be send back safe to the Philippines. It further showcased the preparedness of the navy ships that are now capable to perform overseas deployment. (PN)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034536
MUSCAT, Oman, Feb. 13 -- Philippine Navy (PN) ships BRP Davao Del Sur (LD602) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16) carrying the Naval Task Force (NTF) 82 contingent, arrived here at Sultan Qaboos Port late afternoon of February 05, Wednesday to help in the repatriation of OFWs affected by the tensions in the Middle East.
Head of mission Marine Col. Noel Beleran, along with LD602 and PS16 commanding officers paid courtesy call to the Philippine envoy to Oman, Ambassador Narciso Castañeda.
The two navy vessels will serve as a sea-based platform for the government to process and facilitate the repatriation of displaced OFWs. Specifics and other details about the repatriation are expected to be finalized after the scheduled joint AFP-PNP command conference to be presided by the Commander-In-Chief, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in Malacañang on which NTF 82 will take part via video teleconferencing together with Amb. Castañeda.
In his statement, Col. Beleran avered that the navy contingent are "all safe and sound" upon arriving in Oman. "The troops are very happy and in high spirits since this event serves as another milestone for our Navy that we can already transcend across the deep waters of Indian ocean or the Arabian Sea," he said.
He assured that the embarked sailors and marines are ready to assist and support the government's effort in repatriating our unsung heroes, the OFWs in this Middle East conflict.
The arrival of the PN contingent in Oman signified the tangible means of the government's effort to ensure that our kababayan will be send back safe to the Philippines. It further showcased the preparedness of the navy ships that are now capable to perform overseas deployment. (PN)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034536
Localized peace talks will help uplift lives of CPP-NPA members – OPPAP
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 13, 2010): Localized peace talks will help uplift lives of CPP-NPA members – OPPAP (By OPPAP)
Assistant Secretary Wilben M. Mayor, chief of staff and spokesperson of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP)
QUEZON CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA)--The conduct of localized peace engagements (LPEs) across the country aims to put an end to the decades-long communist insurgency in the country by directly addressing the needs of the rebels themselves.
Assistant Secretary Wilben M. Mayor, chief of staff and spokesperson of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said, there is a growing disconnect between the leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP) and their people in the frontlines who are actually suffering the most from the armed conflict.
“Hindi tugma yung buhay nung mga nasa taas at sa baba. ‘Yung mga nasa baba nararanasan nila yung hirap, samantalang ‘yung mga nasa taas, alam naman nating nasa ibang bansa sila, nabubuhay sila ng marangya,” Mayor said during an interview over the radio Wednesday (Feb. 12) morning.
(There is a disconnect between those in the CPP leadership and those on the ground. The ones on the ground face hardship, while the people up the ladder, they are abroad, and they live comfortably.)
Mayor stressed that in case the peace talks between the Philippine government and the CPP-NPA-NDFP resumes, the Red should not impose preconditions which go against the Constitution.
“Localized peace engagements prove that peaceful dialogue and consultation with the rebel group can be conducted without violating the Constitution,” he said.
LPE means convergence
Localized peace engagements is one of the 12 clusters of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the multi-agency body created by virtue of Executive Order No. 70 or the “Whole-of-Nation Approach.”
Since its implementation in 2019, LPEs have made a significant impact on the peace and security situation of communities in Central Luzon, Davao and Zamboanga Peninsula regions where hundreds of CPP-NPA members have returned to the folds of the law.
OPAPP, which is the co-lead agency along with the Department of Interior and Local Government for the LPE cluster, is carrying out various interventions across the country, with the help of partner agencies and organizations, in order to better respond to issues and concerns affecting residents in conflict-ridden communities.
These include the conduct of forums involving the youth, labor and Indiegenous Peoples (IPs) sectors, provision of immediate cash assistance and livelihood interventions to former rebels, continuous consultations with families of combatants, and the protection of industries from CPP-NPA infiltration.
Peace through dialogue
Mayor said the conduct of LPEs aims to empower local government units, as it brings the government closer to the people through the more timely and efficient delivery of much-needed services.
“Ang mga local officials talaga ang frontline natin dito, ang mga governors, mayors, at actually marami na tayong mga local officials na active dito, lalong lalo na sa Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, at iba pang mga bahagi [ng bansa],” Mayor said.
(Our local officials are on the frontline here, the governors, mayors and other officials, especially in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, as well as in other places.)
By responding to the needs of the rebels and their families, he pointed out that LPEs promote good governance and more importantly, allow people to be part of the peacebuilding process.
“Mostly talaga ang focus natin ay yung mga tao dun sa komunidad, dahil ang nakikita natin, karamihan, ang nagiging cause nga nito ay yung mga issue ng pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan,” Mayor said.
(Our focus mostly are the people in the communities, because we see that their issues and concerns are born out of their most basic needs.)
Mayor assured rebels who wish to surrender and avail of the government’s livelihood programs that they are welcome to do so and have no reason to be afraid.
“Kung sino ‘yung willing at voluntary naman na makikipag-usap sa atin, ayun ang ating ineentertain, ina-accommodate kung anong pangangailangan (We accomodate the needs of whoever comes to us willingly and voluntarily.),” Mayor said.
No need for armed violence
As the government agency tasked to implement a comprehensive peace process across the country, OPAPP continues to strengthen its efforts in finding a long-lasting solution to the armed rebellion, Mayor said.
He said that the agency is offering its hand of peace to the rebels, but they must also show reciprocity on their part and stop carrying out acts of violence against the people.
“We recall the incidents of armed violence of the NPA last December, despite the agreed ceasefire. We refer to the continued recruitment of our youth in schools through the CPP-NPA-NDFP’s legal front organizations. If they want peace, let us talk peace, but stop the violence,” Mayor said.
“Wala naman po sigurong isang mamamayan na ayaw ng kapayapaan,” (There probably is no person who does not seek peace), he added. (OPAPP)
QUEZON CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA)--The conduct of localized peace engagements (LPEs) across the country aims to put an end to the decades-long communist insurgency in the country by directly addressing the needs of the rebels themselves.
Assistant Secretary Wilben M. Mayor, chief of staff and spokesperson of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said, there is a growing disconnect between the leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP) and their people in the frontlines who are actually suffering the most from the armed conflict.
“Hindi tugma yung buhay nung mga nasa taas at sa baba. ‘Yung mga nasa baba nararanasan nila yung hirap, samantalang ‘yung mga nasa taas, alam naman nating nasa ibang bansa sila, nabubuhay sila ng marangya,” Mayor said during an interview over the radio Wednesday (Feb. 12) morning.
(There is a disconnect between those in the CPP leadership and those on the ground. The ones on the ground face hardship, while the people up the ladder, they are abroad, and they live comfortably.)
Mayor stressed that in case the peace talks between the Philippine government and the CPP-NPA-NDFP resumes, the Red should not impose preconditions which go against the Constitution.
“Localized peace engagements prove that peaceful dialogue and consultation with the rebel group can be conducted without violating the Constitution,” he said.
LPE means convergence
Localized peace engagements is one of the 12 clusters of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the multi-agency body created by virtue of Executive Order No. 70 or the “Whole-of-Nation Approach.”
Since its implementation in 2019, LPEs have made a significant impact on the peace and security situation of communities in Central Luzon, Davao and Zamboanga Peninsula regions where hundreds of CPP-NPA members have returned to the folds of the law.
OPAPP, which is the co-lead agency along with the Department of Interior and Local Government for the LPE cluster, is carrying out various interventions across the country, with the help of partner agencies and organizations, in order to better respond to issues and concerns affecting residents in conflict-ridden communities.
These include the conduct of forums involving the youth, labor and Indiegenous Peoples (IPs) sectors, provision of immediate cash assistance and livelihood interventions to former rebels, continuous consultations with families of combatants, and the protection of industries from CPP-NPA infiltration.
Peace through dialogue
Mayor said the conduct of LPEs aims to empower local government units, as it brings the government closer to the people through the more timely and efficient delivery of much-needed services.
“Ang mga local officials talaga ang frontline natin dito, ang mga governors, mayors, at actually marami na tayong mga local officials na active dito, lalong lalo na sa Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, at iba pang mga bahagi [ng bansa],” Mayor said.
(Our local officials are on the frontline here, the governors, mayors and other officials, especially in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, as well as in other places.)
By responding to the needs of the rebels and their families, he pointed out that LPEs promote good governance and more importantly, allow people to be part of the peacebuilding process.
“Mostly talaga ang focus natin ay yung mga tao dun sa komunidad, dahil ang nakikita natin, karamihan, ang nagiging cause nga nito ay yung mga issue ng pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan,” Mayor said.
(Our focus mostly are the people in the communities, because we see that their issues and concerns are born out of their most basic needs.)
Mayor assured rebels who wish to surrender and avail of the government’s livelihood programs that they are welcome to do so and have no reason to be afraid.
“Kung sino ‘yung willing at voluntary naman na makikipag-usap sa atin, ayun ang ating ineentertain, ina-accommodate kung anong pangangailangan (We accomodate the needs of whoever comes to us willingly and voluntarily.),” Mayor said.
No need for armed violence
As the government agency tasked to implement a comprehensive peace process across the country, OPAPP continues to strengthen its efforts in finding a long-lasting solution to the armed rebellion, Mayor said.
He said that the agency is offering its hand of peace to the rebels, but they must also show reciprocity on their part and stop carrying out acts of violence against the people.
“We recall the incidents of armed violence of the NPA last December, despite the agreed ceasefire. We refer to the continued recruitment of our youth in schools through the CPP-NPA-NDFP’s legal front organizations. If they want peace, let us talk peace, but stop the violence,” Mayor said.
“Wala naman po sigurong isang mamamayan na ayaw ng kapayapaan,” (There probably is no person who does not seek peace), he added. (OPAPP)
Stop deceiving our children, mothers of NPA recruits cry
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 13, 2010): Stop deceiving our children, mothers of NPA recruits cry (By PIA 8)
TACLOBAN CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) – Three mothers of NPA recruits demanded to the NPAs, "stop deceiving our children."
Their call came after the arrest of the so called Tacloban 5 - the five young NPA recruits arrested in Tacloban for illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
In a press conference at the PIA Regional Office 8, three mothers with their kids in varying degrees of involvement in the armed struggle turned emotional as they denounced the NPAs deceptive recruitment.
Annabelle Sabado
Annabelle Sabado, a single mom to Christian aka Chan-chan recalled how happy they were when her son passed the exams at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).
Little did she know that Chan-chan was getting active in the leftist organization.
The mother noticed a change of behavior in her son.
There was a time when Chan-chan merely addressed her as Annabelle, adding "pare-pareho na tayo."
She added that her son lost love and respect for her mom. She alleged that her son has become disobedient.
MOTHERS ALL. Annabelle Sabado, mother of student activist-turned NPA cries as she relates how her son Chan-chan was recruited by a student organization and how she almost lost him. (Photo by Raul Tiozon)
"Sa samahan nila, inaalis ang pamilya, inaalis ang Diyos sa puso't isipan nila." (In their org, they seem to cut-off their families, God, in their hearts and mind.)
"Hindi na sila nag-aaral, gusto nalang nilang lumaban." (They do not want to go to school, they just want to fight.)
Chan-chan went up the mountains.
The mother almost gave up on him, but one day, he came home, they talked where he learned that her son wanted to leave the org for good. But soon after, her comrades caught up with him again and prevailed.
In October 2019, security officials arrested her son and the same authorities informed her of her son's situation.
She flew to Las Navas, Northern Samar to reconcile with her son.
Presently, she said she came to Tacloban for the arraignment of her son and chanced upon the issues of Tacloban 5.
Gemma Labsan
Gemma’s only daughter was a senior high at UP Diliman, like Chan-chan she was unwittingly hooked up with the protest rallies of her youth organization.
TACLOBAN CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) – Three mothers of NPA recruits demanded to the NPAs, "stop deceiving our children."
Their call came after the arrest of the so called Tacloban 5 - the five young NPA recruits arrested in Tacloban for illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
In a press conference at the PIA Regional Office 8, three mothers with their kids in varying degrees of involvement in the armed struggle turned emotional as they denounced the NPAs deceptive recruitment.
Annabelle Sabado
Annabelle Sabado, a single mom to Christian aka Chan-chan recalled how happy they were when her son passed the exams at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).
Little did she know that Chan-chan was getting active in the leftist organization.
The mother noticed a change of behavior in her son.
There was a time when Chan-chan merely addressed her as Annabelle, adding "pare-pareho na tayo."
She added that her son lost love and respect for her mom. She alleged that her son has become disobedient.
MOTHERS ALL. Annabelle Sabado, mother of student activist-turned NPA cries as she relates how her son Chan-chan was recruited by a student organization and how she almost lost him. (Photo by Raul Tiozon)"Sa samahan nila, inaalis ang pamilya, inaalis ang Diyos sa puso't isipan nila." (In their org, they seem to cut-off their families, God, in their hearts and mind.)
"Hindi na sila nag-aaral, gusto nalang nilang lumaban." (They do not want to go to school, they just want to fight.)
Chan-chan went up the mountains.
The mother almost gave up on him, but one day, he came home, they talked where he learned that her son wanted to leave the org for good. But soon after, her comrades caught up with him again and prevailed.
In October 2019, security officials arrested her son and the same authorities informed her of her son's situation.
She flew to Las Navas, Northern Samar to reconcile with her son.
Presently, she said she came to Tacloban for the arraignment of her son and chanced upon the issues of Tacloban 5.
Gemma Labsan
Gemma’s only daughter was a senior high at UP Diliman, like Chan-chan she was unwittingly hooked up with the protest rallies of her youth organization.
Gemma Labsan heart is breaking with losing her only child to the movement. As a teacher she tells parents to make sure that their children join the proper organization that will encourage them to get an education and love their families. (Photo Raul Tiozon)
"Ipaglalaban ko siya dahil binuhos ko ang pagmamahal sa kanya, dahil nag-iisang anak ko siya." (I have loved her so much, she is my only child, I will fight for her.)
Visibly holding back her tears, she recalled too how her child, got mad with her close guarding.
Her child, she said was always in a bad mood, throwing tantrums, when not allowed to join government protests.
In July, last year, during the SONA, somehow, the girl managed to escape and joined her comrades in the rally.
It was there when she said, "nabawi ko ang aking anak."
Despite that her daughter is with her, she remains almost a stranger, ignoring her, a far-cry from being her loving daughter before.
But Gemma said she is not giving up on her, that is why she wants to reach to every parent who may have the same experience.
"Kahit na isinumpa ako, pipigilan ko sya dahil kaisa-isang anak ko siya." (Even if she hates me, I will still love her.)
To the legal front of the NPAs, she begged them to stop deceiving children to join their ranks.
To the parents, "Ginagawa na guerilya ang mga anak natin, ayaw naming maranasan ninyo ang sakit ng mga nangyari sa amin." (They are turning our children into warriors, we do not want you to suffer our pains.)
"Ang pagiging aktibista ay hindi masama ngunit huwag sana nilang pahawakin ng baril at gawing terorista ang mga bata." (Being an activist is not at all bad, but please do not arm them, do not turn them into terrorists.)
Elvie Caalaman
Elvie’s daughter is the Ate of her three younger siblings.
Elvie said that her daughter Lory has been recruited by the Kabataan partylist.
Like Gemma, Elvie also looked for her daughter at the rally during the SONA in 2019, but she said radicalization may have deeply seeped in her daughter that she left home for good.
To this day, she is still looking and longing for her daughter to come home.
Three Mothers and Hands Off Our Children
The three mothers who are all officers of the "Hands Off Our Children Movement" have bonded with the parents of other children who have also been recruited. They all defy and condemn what they brand as 'deceptive recruitment.'
At the highly populated Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) in Tacloban City, the three mothers appeared and talked to more than 500 students and renewed their appeal of not falling prey to the deceptive leftist recruitment.
Gemma said that their battlecry will continue to reach more areas in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
"Please do not touch our children, set them free, allow them to finish their education and live normal lives, hands-off our children!" (nbq/PIA-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034553
Visibly holding back her tears, she recalled too how her child, got mad with her close guarding.
Her child, she said was always in a bad mood, throwing tantrums, when not allowed to join government protests.
In July, last year, during the SONA, somehow, the girl managed to escape and joined her comrades in the rally.
It was there when she said, "nabawi ko ang aking anak."
Despite that her daughter is with her, she remains almost a stranger, ignoring her, a far-cry from being her loving daughter before.
But Gemma said she is not giving up on her, that is why she wants to reach to every parent who may have the same experience.
"Kahit na isinumpa ako, pipigilan ko sya dahil kaisa-isang anak ko siya." (Even if she hates me, I will still love her.)
To the legal front of the NPAs, she begged them to stop deceiving children to join their ranks.
To the parents, "Ginagawa na guerilya ang mga anak natin, ayaw naming maranasan ninyo ang sakit ng mga nangyari sa amin." (They are turning our children into warriors, we do not want you to suffer our pains.)
"Ang pagiging aktibista ay hindi masama ngunit huwag sana nilang pahawakin ng baril at gawing terorista ang mga bata." (Being an activist is not at all bad, but please do not arm them, do not turn them into terrorists.)
Elvie Caalaman
Elvie’s daughter is the Ate of her three younger siblings.
Elvie said that her daughter Lory has been recruited by the Kabataan partylist.
Like Gemma, Elvie also looked for her daughter at the rally during the SONA in 2019, but she said radicalization may have deeply seeped in her daughter that she left home for good.
To this day, she is still looking and longing for her daughter to come home.
Three Mothers and Hands Off Our Children
The three mothers who are all officers of the "Hands Off Our Children Movement" have bonded with the parents of other children who have also been recruited. They all defy and condemn what they brand as 'deceptive recruitment.'
At the highly populated Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) in Tacloban City, the three mothers appeared and talked to more than 500 students and renewed their appeal of not falling prey to the deceptive leftist recruitment.
Gemma said that their battlecry will continue to reach more areas in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
"Please do not touch our children, set them free, allow them to finish their education and live normal lives, hands-off our children!" (nbq/PIA-8)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034553
Abra ELCAC firms up plans for conflict-affected town
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 13, 2010): Abra ELCAC firms up plans for conflict-affected town (By Christian Allister G. Tubadeza)
LACUB, Abra, Feb. 13(PIA) --Government programs and plans for the five conflict-affected barangays of the municipality were presented in a recent dialogue here.
The cluster-representatives of the Abra Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Arm Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) and members of the Municipal Task Force (MTF)-ELCAC tackled how they will bring these programs and services to the areas.
The Provincial Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) represented by Freddie Baroña of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority -Abra presented their training programs which former rebels from the municipalities of Malibcong and Tubo have availed.
He asked the MTF to identify first all the applicable training programs in the identified barangays so that the PRLEC will prepare for the training schedules.
Other PRLEC members present were the Department of Trade and Industry, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
The Peace, Law, Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) cluster led by the 24th Infantry Wildcat Battalion, Philippine Army with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples urged the municipal task force to finalize their designation of focal persons who will be in charge of communicating with the PLEDS Cluster.
The Strategic Communication (Stratcom) Cluster led by the Philippine Information Agency-Abra outlined the importance of open communication in order to provide a day to day update from the municipality of Lacub.
Vice-Mayor Estelita Bersamina named a designated information officer who will be responsible of connecting to the agencies under the Strat Comm.
Bersamina thanked all government agencies present during the consultation. She urged for their active support and cooperation to all their programs and activities to successfully combat communist-terrorist groups in the municipality.
As explained by 24thIB Executive Officer Maj. Pedro Dacanay, Executive Order No. 70 of President Rodrigo institutionalizes the Whole of Nation approach for the attainment of sustainable peace. It prioritizes and harmonizes the delivery of basic services in conflict affected areas and vulnerable communities. (JDP/CAGT-PIA CAR, Abra)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034569
LACUB, Abra, Feb. 13(PIA) --Government programs and plans for the five conflict-affected barangays of the municipality were presented in a recent dialogue here.
The cluster-representatives of the Abra Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Arm Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) and members of the Municipal Task Force (MTF)-ELCAC tackled how they will bring these programs and services to the areas.
The Provincial Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) represented by Freddie Baroña of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority -Abra presented their training programs which former rebels from the municipalities of Malibcong and Tubo have availed.
He asked the MTF to identify first all the applicable training programs in the identified barangays so that the PRLEC will prepare for the training schedules.
Other PRLEC members present were the Department of Trade and Industry, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
The Peace, Law, Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) cluster led by the 24th Infantry Wildcat Battalion, Philippine Army with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples urged the municipal task force to finalize their designation of focal persons who will be in charge of communicating with the PLEDS Cluster.
The Strategic Communication (Stratcom) Cluster led by the Philippine Information Agency-Abra outlined the importance of open communication in order to provide a day to day update from the municipality of Lacub.
Vice-Mayor Estelita Bersamina named a designated information officer who will be responsible of connecting to the agencies under the Strat Comm.
Bersamina thanked all government agencies present during the consultation. She urged for their active support and cooperation to all their programs and activities to successfully combat communist-terrorist groups in the municipality.
As explained by 24thIB Executive Officer Maj. Pedro Dacanay, Executive Order No. 70 of President Rodrigo institutionalizes the Whole of Nation approach for the attainment of sustainable peace. It prioritizes and harmonizes the delivery of basic services in conflict affected areas and vulnerable communities. (JDP/CAGT-PIA CAR, Abra)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034569
No halt of 2020 military exercises with US for now: DND
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2010): No halt of 2020 military exercises with US for now: DND (By Priam Nepomuceno)
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)
Military exercises with American forces scheduled for this year will continue despite the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Thursday.
"With the formal serving of the notice of termination of the VFA, this year’s planned military exercises with the Americans shall proceed as scheduled within the 180 days that the VFA remains in force," Lorenzana said in a statement sent to reporters.
However, Lorenzana said the United States always has the option to cancel military drills planned for 2020 before the lapse of the 180-day period.
"Once the termination is final, we will cease to have exercises with them," he added.
Earlier, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. to send a formal notification to Washington DC regarding Manila's decision to revoke the VFA, which was signed in February 1998.
On Tuesday, Locsin announced that the formal termination notice has already been received by the US government.
The VFA's effectivity will end 180 days from the day the US formally received the formal notice from the Philippines.
The agreement exempts American forces from passport and visa regulations and allows them to use their permits and licenses in the Philippines.
It also gives the US jurisdiction over its troops who committed unlawful acts in the Philippines, unless these crimes can be punished in the host country.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093708
"With the formal serving of the notice of termination of the VFA, this year’s planned military exercises with the Americans shall proceed as scheduled within the 180 days that the VFA remains in force," Lorenzana said in a statement sent to reporters.
However, Lorenzana said the United States always has the option to cancel military drills planned for 2020 before the lapse of the 180-day period.
"Once the termination is final, we will cease to have exercises with them," he added.
Earlier, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. to send a formal notification to Washington DC regarding Manila's decision to revoke the VFA, which was signed in February 1998.
On Tuesday, Locsin announced that the formal termination notice has already been received by the US government.
The VFA's effectivity will end 180 days from the day the US formally received the formal notice from the Philippines.
The agreement exempts American forces from passport and visa regulations and allows them to use their permits and licenses in the Philippines.
It also gives the US jurisdiction over its troops who committed unlawful acts in the Philippines, unless these crimes can be punished in the host country.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093708
Localized peace talks will help uplift lives of CPP-NPA members
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2010): Localized peace talks will help uplift lives of CPP-NPA members
The conduct of localized peace engagements (LPEs) across the country aims to put an end to the decades-long communist insurgency in the country by directly addressing the needs of the rebels themselves, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said on Thursday.
Assistant Secretary Wilben M. Mayor, OPAPP chief of staff and spokesperson, said there is a growing disconnect between the leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP) and their people in the frontlines who are actually suffering the most from the armed conflict.
“Hindi tugma yung buhay nung mga nasa taas at sa baba. ‘Yung mga nasa baba nararanasan nila yung hirap, samantalang ‘yung mga nasa taas, alam naman nating nasa ibang bansa sila, nabubuhay sila ng marangya. (There is a disparity between those in the CPP leadership and those on the ground. The ones on the ground face hardship, while the people up the ladder, they are abroad and living comfortably),” Mayor said.
Mayor stressed that in case the peace talks between the Philippine government and the CPP-NPA-NDFP resumes, the Reds should not impose preconditions that go against the Constitution.
“Localized peace engagements prove that peaceful dialogue and consultation with the rebel group can be conducted without violating the Constitution,” he said.
LPE means convergence
LPE is one of the 12 clusters of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the multi-agency body created by virtue of Executive Order 70 or the “Whole-of-Nation Approach.”
Since its implementation in 2019, LPEs have made a significant impact on the peace and security situation of communities in Central Luzon, Davao, and the Zamboanga Peninsula regions where hundreds of CPP-NPA members have returned to the folds of the law.
OPAPP, which is the co-lead agency along with the Department of the Interior and Local Government for the LPE cluster, is carrying out various interventions across the country, with the help of partner agencies and organizations, in order to better respond to issues and concerns affecting residents in conflict-ridden communities.
These include the conduct of forums involving the youth, labor, and Indigenous Peoples (IPs) sectors, provision of immediate cash assistance and livelihood interventions to former rebels, continuous consultations with families of combatants, and the protection of industries from CPP-NPA infiltration.
Peace through dialogue
Mayor said the conduct of LPEs aims to empower local government units, as it brings the government closer to the people through the more timely and efficient delivery of much-needed services.
“Ang mga local officials talaga ang frontline natin dito, ang mga governors, mayors, at actually marami na tayong mga local officials na active dito, lalung-lalo na sa Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, at iba pang mga bahagi [ng bansa] (Our local officials are on the frontline here, the governors, mayors, and other officials, especially in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, as well as in other places),” Mayor said.
By responding to the needs of the rebels and their families, he pointed out that LPEs promote good governance and more importantly, allow people to be part of the peacebuilding process.
“Mostly talaga ang focus natin ay yung mga tao dun sa komunidad, dahil ang nakikita natin, karamihan, ang nagiging cause nga nito ay yung mga issue ng pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan(Our focus mostly are the people in the communities, because we see that their issues and concerns are born out of their most basic needs),” Mayor said.
Mayor assured rebels who wish to surrender and avail of the government’s livelihood programs that they are welcome to do so and have no reason to be afraid.
“Kung sino ‘yung willing at voluntary naman na makikipag-usap sa atin, ayun ang ating ine-entertain, ina-accommodate kung anong pangangailangan (We accommodate the needs of whoever comes to us willingly and voluntarily),” Mayor said.
No need for armed violence
As the government agency tasked to implement a comprehensive peace process across the country, OPAPP continues to strengthen its efforts in finding a long-lasting solution to the armed rebellion, Mayor said.
He said the agency is offering its hand of peace to the rebels, but they must also show reciprocity on their part and stop carrying out acts of violence against the people.
“We recall the incidents of armed violence of the NPA last December, despite the agreed ceasefire. We refer to the continued recruitment of our youth in schools through the CPP-NPA-NDFP’s legal front organizations. If they want peace, let us talk peace, but stop the violence,” Mayor said.
“Wala naman po sigurong isang mamamayan na ayaw ng kapayapaan,” (There probably is no person who does not seek peace), he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093724
Assistant Secretary Wilben M. Mayor, OPAPP chief of staff and spokesperson, said there is a growing disconnect between the leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP) and their people in the frontlines who are actually suffering the most from the armed conflict.
“Hindi tugma yung buhay nung mga nasa taas at sa baba. ‘Yung mga nasa baba nararanasan nila yung hirap, samantalang ‘yung mga nasa taas, alam naman nating nasa ibang bansa sila, nabubuhay sila ng marangya. (There is a disparity between those in the CPP leadership and those on the ground. The ones on the ground face hardship, while the people up the ladder, they are abroad and living comfortably),” Mayor said.
Mayor stressed that in case the peace talks between the Philippine government and the CPP-NPA-NDFP resumes, the Reds should not impose preconditions that go against the Constitution.
“Localized peace engagements prove that peaceful dialogue and consultation with the rebel group can be conducted without violating the Constitution,” he said.
LPE means convergence
LPE is one of the 12 clusters of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the multi-agency body created by virtue of Executive Order 70 or the “Whole-of-Nation Approach.”
Since its implementation in 2019, LPEs have made a significant impact on the peace and security situation of communities in Central Luzon, Davao, and the Zamboanga Peninsula regions where hundreds of CPP-NPA members have returned to the folds of the law.
OPAPP, which is the co-lead agency along with the Department of the Interior and Local Government for the LPE cluster, is carrying out various interventions across the country, with the help of partner agencies and organizations, in order to better respond to issues and concerns affecting residents in conflict-ridden communities.
These include the conduct of forums involving the youth, labor, and Indigenous Peoples (IPs) sectors, provision of immediate cash assistance and livelihood interventions to former rebels, continuous consultations with families of combatants, and the protection of industries from CPP-NPA infiltration.
Peace through dialogue
Mayor said the conduct of LPEs aims to empower local government units, as it brings the government closer to the people through the more timely and efficient delivery of much-needed services.
“Ang mga local officials talaga ang frontline natin dito, ang mga governors, mayors, at actually marami na tayong mga local officials na active dito, lalung-lalo na sa Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, at iba pang mga bahagi [ng bansa] (Our local officials are on the frontline here, the governors, mayors, and other officials, especially in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, as well as in other places),” Mayor said.
By responding to the needs of the rebels and their families, he pointed out that LPEs promote good governance and more importantly, allow people to be part of the peacebuilding process.
“Mostly talaga ang focus natin ay yung mga tao dun sa komunidad, dahil ang nakikita natin, karamihan, ang nagiging cause nga nito ay yung mga issue ng pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan(Our focus mostly are the people in the communities, because we see that their issues and concerns are born out of their most basic needs),” Mayor said.
Mayor assured rebels who wish to surrender and avail of the government’s livelihood programs that they are welcome to do so and have no reason to be afraid.
“Kung sino ‘yung willing at voluntary naman na makikipag-usap sa atin, ayun ang ating ine-entertain, ina-accommodate kung anong pangangailangan (We accommodate the needs of whoever comes to us willingly and voluntarily),” Mayor said.
No need for armed violence
As the government agency tasked to implement a comprehensive peace process across the country, OPAPP continues to strengthen its efforts in finding a long-lasting solution to the armed rebellion, Mayor said.
He said the agency is offering its hand of peace to the rebels, but they must also show reciprocity on their part and stop carrying out acts of violence against the people.
“We recall the incidents of armed violence of the NPA last December, despite the agreed ceasefire. We refer to the continued recruitment of our youth in schools through the CPP-NPA-NDFP’s legal front organizations. If they want peace, let us talk peace, but stop the violence,” Mayor said.
“Wala naman po sigurong isang mamamayan na ayaw ng kapayapaan,” (There probably is no person who does not seek peace), he added.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093724
Parlade: Nothing malicious in exposing communist-front groups
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2010): Parlade: Nothing malicious in exposing communist-front groups (By Priam Nepomuceno}
Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) chief, Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr. (PNA File photo)
Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) chief, Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr. (PNA File photo)
Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) chief, Major General Antonio Parlade, Jr., on Thursday said he finds nothing malicious in the government doing everything in its authority to expose Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) front organizations that are busy agitating children and minors with the help of propaganda manuals crafted by IBON Foundation.
Parlade was reacting to IBON Foundation's claims that he and two other ranking government officials maliciously abused their authority and are negligent in their duties by allegedly red-tagging the research group.
"Did IBON say that we 'maliciously abused our authority and we are negligent in the performance of our duties?'," said Parlade, who is also a member of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, said in a statement forwarded to the Philippine News Agency.
"No, you should be glad that finally, the government is doing its job of exposing these CPP front organizations who have been agitating our children with IBON manuals full of propaganda against every sitting government since Marcos," he added.
He also disputed the group's claims that they are nationalistic and promoting patriotism on the grounds that they are allegedly promoting Italian priest Father Fausto Tentorio alias "Father Pops" as a national hero and responsible for converting more than 700 indigenous people’s children in Cotabato into the ranks of the New People's Army (NPA).
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
"If the government was negligent before, now it’s not. In Butuan City, 31 children involved in armed conflict (CIAC), aged 12 and above have been victimized by the CPP, through its front organizations like IBON. According to captured documents from Vicente Ladlad, a CPP Central Committee member, there are 8,635 more child recruits in Anakbayan who have been radicalized through Ibon’s teachings. Then you accuse us of being 'unprofessional, unjust and insincere, politically biased'?" he asked.
IBON Foundation filed charges on Feb. 10 against Parlade, Presidential Communications Operations Office Undersecretary Lorraine Marie T. Badoy and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon for alleged red-tagging.
In its complaint filed before the Ombudsman, the group also sought that the three be punished for conduct grossly disregardful of the public interest, unprofessional, unjust and insincere, politically biased, unresponsive to the public, distorting nationalism and patriotism, and undemocratic.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093758
Parlade was reacting to IBON Foundation's claims that he and two other ranking government officials maliciously abused their authority and are negligent in their duties by allegedly red-tagging the research group.
"Did IBON say that we 'maliciously abused our authority and we are negligent in the performance of our duties?'," said Parlade, who is also a member of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, said in a statement forwarded to the Philippine News Agency.
"No, you should be glad that finally, the government is doing its job of exposing these CPP front organizations who have been agitating our children with IBON manuals full of propaganda against every sitting government since Marcos," he added.
He also disputed the group's claims that they are nationalistic and promoting patriotism on the grounds that they are allegedly promoting Italian priest Father Fausto Tentorio alias "Father Pops" as a national hero and responsible for converting more than 700 indigenous people’s children in Cotabato into the ranks of the New People's Army (NPA).
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
"If the government was negligent before, now it’s not. In Butuan City, 31 children involved in armed conflict (CIAC), aged 12 and above have been victimized by the CPP, through its front organizations like IBON. According to captured documents from Vicente Ladlad, a CPP Central Committee member, there are 8,635 more child recruits in Anakbayan who have been radicalized through Ibon’s teachings. Then you accuse us of being 'unprofessional, unjust and insincere, politically biased'?" he asked.
IBON Foundation filed charges on Feb. 10 against Parlade, Presidential Communications Operations Office Undersecretary Lorraine Marie T. Badoy and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon for alleged red-tagging.
In its complaint filed before the Ombudsman, the group also sought that the three be punished for conduct grossly disregardful of the public interest, unprofessional, unjust and insincere, politically biased, unresponsive to the public, distorting nationalism and patriotism, and undemocratic.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093758
PH gains US’s respect on VFA termination
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2010): PH gains US’s respect on VFA termination (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
Photo shows a landing exercise of amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs) during the 'Balikatan' exercises between Filipino and American troops in 2015. (File photo)
Photo shows a landing exercise of amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs) during the 'Balikatan' exercises between Filipino and American troops in 2015. (File photo)
The Philippines has gained respect from the United States (US) following the termination of the Visiting of Forces Agreement (VFA) between the two countries, Malacañang said on Thursday.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo issued the statement a day after US President Donald Trump said it was fine with him that President Rodrigo Duterte ended the Philippines’ 22-year-old military agreement with the US.
“Yes, of course,” Panelo said in a Palace press briefing when asked if Manila gains Washington’s respect after VFA’s revocation. “How? By terminating it, we show them that we do not need them.”
The termination of VFA, which was signed in February 1998, will take effect 180 days following the receipt of formal notice sent by the Philippines to the US on Tuesday.
According to the transcript of his remarks uploaded on the official website of the White House, Trump viewed Duterte’s latest action as a welcome development since the US will “save a lot of money.”
“I really don’t mind. If they would like to do that, that’s fine. We’ll save a lot of money,” Trump said.
Trump, nevertheless, said he has a “very good” relationship with Duterte, and stressed that he is still unsure of what will happen next.
“We’ll see what happens. They’ll have to tell me that,” he said.
Panelo said the Palace respects Trump’s response to Duterte’s abrogation of Manila’s VFA with Washington.
He, however, expressed doubts over the seriousness of Trump’s remarks.
“The statements of Mr. Trump, we do not know exactly whether he was very serious (about) that. You must remember that the VFA and other treaties are there precisely because of the global, strategic, defensive positioning of the United States,” Panelo said.
Panelo said Trump seemed to have agreed with Duterte that it is about time for the Philippines to boost its defense capabilities sans the help of other countries like its long-time ally, the US.
“Maybe he (Trump) agrees with the position of the President that it is time that we stand on our own resources and defend our country from enemies of the state by ourselves and not rely on the help of other countries. We weaken ourselves if we keep on being (a) parasite to any of the countries,” he said.
Disadvantageous to PH
US Defense chief Mark Esper considered the Philippines’ move as an “unfortunate,” but Panelo viewed it as a “move in the right direction” that should have been done a “long time ago.”
Panelo said Duterte’s stance to rescind VFA “remains unchanged.”
He insisted that VFA is disadvantageous to Filipino troops since it only favors American forces who are visiting the Philippines.
“But on the part of the President, this is the time to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement to stress the point that one, it is not advantageous to us. Because the more we rely on them, the more our position weakens and stagnate our defenses,” Panelo said.
Visiting US military personnel can use their permits and licenses in the Philippines, according to VFA. They can also fly to the host country without passport and visa restrictions.
Possible EDCA, MDT abrogation
Panelo also floated the possibility that Duterte might also revoke the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between Manila and Washington.
MDT aims to boost the defense and security cooperation between the two countries’ troops, while EDCA intends to boost military ties in maritime security and domain.
Panelo based his remarks on Duterte’s “body language” and pronouncement of strengthening the Philippines’ defense capabilities.
“Well, to be consistent with his stand, then all treaties must go, by the tone of his body language. Kasi ‘pag sinabi mong (Because if you said) we have to stand on our own, not rely on, ibig sabihin, hindi natin kailangan (meaning, we don’t need them). We’ll have to strengthen our own resources,” he said, referring to MDT and EDCA.
Apart from MDT and EDCA, the Philippines’s existing military pact with the US includes the 1947 Military Assistance Agreement, which seeks to give advice and training to the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the joint US Military Assistance Group.
No VFAs with other states
Following VFA’s termination, Panelo said Duterte is not bent on entering into another VFA with other countries.
His statement came after Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. said the military will be pushing for military cooperation arrangements with other nations, including China, to fill the possible security gaps with the revocation of VFA with the US.
Panelo said the AFP should defer to the President’s pronouncement that the Philippines will stand on its own and avoid relying on other countries.
“Sabi niya (Duterte said), ‘It’s about time we stand on our own,’” he said. “The moment he makes the position, then the AFP will have to follow.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093767
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo issued the statement a day after US President Donald Trump said it was fine with him that President Rodrigo Duterte ended the Philippines’ 22-year-old military agreement with the US.
“Yes, of course,” Panelo said in a Palace press briefing when asked if Manila gains Washington’s respect after VFA’s revocation. “How? By terminating it, we show them that we do not need them.”
The termination of VFA, which was signed in February 1998, will take effect 180 days following the receipt of formal notice sent by the Philippines to the US on Tuesday.
According to the transcript of his remarks uploaded on the official website of the White House, Trump viewed Duterte’s latest action as a welcome development since the US will “save a lot of money.”
“I really don’t mind. If they would like to do that, that’s fine. We’ll save a lot of money,” Trump said.
Trump, nevertheless, said he has a “very good” relationship with Duterte, and stressed that he is still unsure of what will happen next.
“We’ll see what happens. They’ll have to tell me that,” he said.
Panelo said the Palace respects Trump’s response to Duterte’s abrogation of Manila’s VFA with Washington.
He, however, expressed doubts over the seriousness of Trump’s remarks.
“The statements of Mr. Trump, we do not know exactly whether he was very serious (about) that. You must remember that the VFA and other treaties are there precisely because of the global, strategic, defensive positioning of the United States,” Panelo said.
Panelo said Trump seemed to have agreed with Duterte that it is about time for the Philippines to boost its defense capabilities sans the help of other countries like its long-time ally, the US.
“Maybe he (Trump) agrees with the position of the President that it is time that we stand on our own resources and defend our country from enemies of the state by ourselves and not rely on the help of other countries. We weaken ourselves if we keep on being (a) parasite to any of the countries,” he said.
Disadvantageous to PH
US Defense chief Mark Esper considered the Philippines’ move as an “unfortunate,” but Panelo viewed it as a “move in the right direction” that should have been done a “long time ago.”
Panelo said Duterte’s stance to rescind VFA “remains unchanged.”
He insisted that VFA is disadvantageous to Filipino troops since it only favors American forces who are visiting the Philippines.
“But on the part of the President, this is the time to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement to stress the point that one, it is not advantageous to us. Because the more we rely on them, the more our position weakens and stagnate our defenses,” Panelo said.
Visiting US military personnel can use their permits and licenses in the Philippines, according to VFA. They can also fly to the host country without passport and visa restrictions.
Possible EDCA, MDT abrogation
Panelo also floated the possibility that Duterte might also revoke the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between Manila and Washington.
MDT aims to boost the defense and security cooperation between the two countries’ troops, while EDCA intends to boost military ties in maritime security and domain.
Panelo based his remarks on Duterte’s “body language” and pronouncement of strengthening the Philippines’ defense capabilities.
“Well, to be consistent with his stand, then all treaties must go, by the tone of his body language. Kasi ‘pag sinabi mong (Because if you said) we have to stand on our own, not rely on, ibig sabihin, hindi natin kailangan (meaning, we don’t need them). We’ll have to strengthen our own resources,” he said, referring to MDT and EDCA.
Apart from MDT and EDCA, the Philippines’s existing military pact with the US includes the 1947 Military Assistance Agreement, which seeks to give advice and training to the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the joint US Military Assistance Group.
No VFAs with other states
Following VFA’s termination, Panelo said Duterte is not bent on entering into another VFA with other countries.
His statement came after Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. said the military will be pushing for military cooperation arrangements with other nations, including China, to fill the possible security gaps with the revocation of VFA with the US.
Panelo said the AFP should defer to the President’s pronouncement that the Philippines will stand on its own and avoid relying on other countries.
“Sabi niya (Duterte said), ‘It’s about time we stand on our own,’” he said. “The moment he makes the position, then the AFP will have to follow.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093767
Police captain killed in encounter with NPA rebels in Iloilo
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2010): Police captain killed in encounter with NPA rebels in Iloilo (By Gail Momblan)
LONE CASUALTY. Capt. Efren Espanto (left), 29, team leader of Western Visayas' Regional Mobile Force Reconnaissance Company died in an encounter with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) on Wednesday in Janiuay town, Iloilo. Espanto sustained a gunshot wound on his right eye following a 15- to 30-minute firefight with the still unidentified number of rebels. (PNA photo courtesy of Marjorie Hervo)
ILOILO CITY -- A team leader of Western Visayas Regional Mobile Force Reconnaissance Company was killed following an encounter with suspected members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) on Wednesday night in Janiuay town.
Capt. Efren Espanto, 29, of La Carlota City, Negros Occidental died due to a gunshot wound on his right eye, Capt. Dadje Delima, chief of Janiuay Municipal Police Station confirmed in a phone interview on Thursday.
"Our mobile force was on a combat operation when they engaged with these communist terrorists. The operation was led by our casualty, Capt. Efren Espanto," he said.
Espanto was the lone casualty recorded by the police during the encounter.
Delima said the police are yet to confirm if the rebels might have Espanto as their sole target during the 15- to 30-minute firefight.
The body of Espanto will be subjected to autopsy. "The result (of the autopsy) will determine the firearm used by the rebels. We are yet to identify the bullet," the police chief said.
The still unidentified number of rebels fled after the gunfight.
Delima said the CPP-NPA might also have sustained injuries.
He noted there had been frequent sightings of CPP-NPA at Aglobong village as it is geographically near Atimonan village, an identified NPA-influenced area.
Atimonan is identified by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as one of the priority areas to end local communist armed conflict.
"There are frequent rebel sightings, movement, and recruitment there," Delima said.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
The Janiuay municipal police are currently preparing the documents to be presented to the police regional office to determine the next steps to take.
Espanto is a member of the Philippine National Police Academy class 2015.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093734
LONE CASUALTY. Capt. Efren Espanto (left), 29, team leader of Western Visayas' Regional Mobile Force Reconnaissance Company died in an encounter with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) on Wednesday in Janiuay town, Iloilo. Espanto sustained a gunshot wound on his right eye following a 15- to 30-minute firefight with the still unidentified number of rebels. (PNA photo courtesy of Marjorie Hervo)
ILOILO CITY -- A team leader of Western Visayas Regional Mobile Force Reconnaissance Company was killed following an encounter with suspected members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) on Wednesday night in Janiuay town.
Capt. Efren Espanto, 29, of La Carlota City, Negros Occidental died due to a gunshot wound on his right eye, Capt. Dadje Delima, chief of Janiuay Municipal Police Station confirmed in a phone interview on Thursday.
"Our mobile force was on a combat operation when they engaged with these communist terrorists. The operation was led by our casualty, Capt. Efren Espanto," he said.
Espanto was the lone casualty recorded by the police during the encounter.
Delima said the police are yet to confirm if the rebels might have Espanto as their sole target during the 15- to 30-minute firefight.
The body of Espanto will be subjected to autopsy. "The result (of the autopsy) will determine the firearm used by the rebels. We are yet to identify the bullet," the police chief said.
The still unidentified number of rebels fled after the gunfight.
Delima said the CPP-NPA might also have sustained injuries.
He noted there had been frequent sightings of CPP-NPA at Aglobong village as it is geographically near Atimonan village, an identified NPA-influenced area.
Atimonan is identified by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as one of the priority areas to end local communist armed conflict.
"There are frequent rebel sightings, movement, and recruitment there," Delima said.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
The Janiuay municipal police are currently preparing the documents to be presented to the police regional office to determine the next steps to take.
Espanto is a member of the Philippine National Police Academy class 2015.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093734
Suspected NPA fighter killed in CDO encounter
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2010): Suspected NPA fighter killed in CDO encounter (By Richel Umel)
RECOVERED FIREARMS. Troops belonging to the Army's 65th Infantry Battalion recover several firearms following a 15-minute firefight with communist guerillas in the hinterland village of Besigan, Cagayan de Oro City on Wednesday (Feb. 12, 2020). A rebel died during the encounter, the military says. (Photo courtesy of 65IB)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- A suspected member of the New People's Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with the Army's 65th Infantry Battalion (65IB) on Wednesday, February 12.
The incident occurred at around at 3:20 p.m. in the hinterland barangay of Barangay Besigan, said Capt. Rene Belmonte, civil-military operations officer of the Army's 403rd Infantry Brigade.
Belmonte said the NPA fighter was "left behind" by his comrades following the 15-minute firefight.
"The troops also seized three high-powered firearms and several ammunitions at an uninhabited area of Kilometer-17, Barangay Besigan," he said.
He said the encounter ensued when a platoon of soldiers chanced upon some 10 armed men believed to be communist guerillas under the NPA's Sub-Regional Committee-5, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.
"According to the locals, the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA terrorists came down from the mountains asking for food supplies from the residents," he said.
Belmonte said the cadaver was brought to 65IB headquarters for proper turn-over to the police authorities.
Lt. Colonel Benjamin Pajarito, 65IB commanding officer, expressed his gratitude to the locals who reportedly provided the information about the presence of the NPA fighters in the area.
“The success of our operation was due to the cooperation of everyone in the community who are fed-up on the deceptive tactics of these terrorists threatening the peace and security, and the unwavering efforts of our troops in securing the communities in our Area of Operations," Pajarito said.
Pajarito said they "are saddened with the death of a CPP-NPA terrorist during this encounter, who could have availed of the governments' Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program if the latter decided to surrender."
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093765
RECOVERED FIREARMS. Troops belonging to the Army's 65th Infantry Battalion recover several firearms following a 15-minute firefight with communist guerillas in the hinterland village of Besigan, Cagayan de Oro City on Wednesday (Feb. 12, 2020). A rebel died during the encounter, the military says. (Photo courtesy of 65IB)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- A suspected member of the New People's Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with the Army's 65th Infantry Battalion (65IB) on Wednesday, February 12.
The incident occurred at around at 3:20 p.m. in the hinterland barangay of Barangay Besigan, said Capt. Rene Belmonte, civil-military operations officer of the Army's 403rd Infantry Brigade.
Belmonte said the NPA fighter was "left behind" by his comrades following the 15-minute firefight.
"The troops also seized three high-powered firearms and several ammunitions at an uninhabited area of Kilometer-17, Barangay Besigan," he said.
He said the encounter ensued when a platoon of soldiers chanced upon some 10 armed men believed to be communist guerillas under the NPA's Sub-Regional Committee-5, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.
"According to the locals, the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA terrorists came down from the mountains asking for food supplies from the residents," he said.
Belmonte said the cadaver was brought to 65IB headquarters for proper turn-over to the police authorities.
Lt. Colonel Benjamin Pajarito, 65IB commanding officer, expressed his gratitude to the locals who reportedly provided the information about the presence of the NPA fighters in the area.
“The success of our operation was due to the cooperation of everyone in the community who are fed-up on the deceptive tactics of these terrorists threatening the peace and security, and the unwavering efforts of our troops in securing the communities in our Area of Operations," Pajarito said.
Pajarito said they "are saddened with the death of a CPP-NPA terrorist during this encounter, who could have availed of the governments' Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program if the latter decided to surrender."
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093765
17 NPA rebels surrender in Aurora since January
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2010): 17 NPA rebels surrender in Aurora since January (By Jason De Asis)
SURRENDERED REBELS. Seventeen members of the New People's Army (NPA) who have surrendered to the police and military troops in Aurora province, are presented to acting Governor Christian Noveras on Thursday (Feb. 13, 2020). Fifteen of them voluntarily surrendered to the Aurora Police Provincial Office while two gave themselves up to the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion of the Philippine Army. (Photo courtesy of the 91st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)
BALER, Aurora -- Three members of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to police and military troops in this province on Thursday, bringing the total number of rebels who returned to the fold of the law this year to 17.
The surrenderers were presented to acting Governor Christian Noveras at the governor’s office here.
Fifteen of the 17 NPA members voluntarily surrendered to the Aurora Police Provincial Office (APPO) while two yielded to the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, Philippine Army.
Aurora police provincial director, Col. Raul Siriban, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA), said the rebels surrendered in batches starting last January, citing hardships in the mountains.
“The rebel returnees said they left the underground movement due to misunderstanding with their leaders, hardships and unfulfilled promises,” he said.
Siriban said the three newly surrendered rebels are now undergoing custodial debriefings.
He said he talked with the former insurgents one at a time and found out that some of them came from Mindanao as reinforcement of the NPA's Komiteng Larangang Guerilla (KLG) Sierra Madre.
“Some of them arrived before Christmas to reinforce the decreasing number of CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA in Aurora,” Siriban said.
He also said acting Governor Noveras is very thankful for the mass surrender of the rebels and welcomed them with a promise to provide them proper assistance from the provincial government.
Siriban added that the surrendered rebels will be enrolled in the comprehensive local integration program of the government.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093791
SURRENDERED REBELS. Seventeen members of the New People's Army (NPA) who have surrendered to the police and military troops in Aurora province, are presented to acting Governor Christian Noveras on Thursday (Feb. 13, 2020). Fifteen of them voluntarily surrendered to the Aurora Police Provincial Office while two gave themselves up to the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion of the Philippine Army. (Photo courtesy of the 91st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)
BALER, Aurora -- Three members of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to police and military troops in this province on Thursday, bringing the total number of rebels who returned to the fold of the law this year to 17.
The surrenderers were presented to acting Governor Christian Noveras at the governor’s office here.
Fifteen of the 17 NPA members voluntarily surrendered to the Aurora Police Provincial Office (APPO) while two yielded to the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, Philippine Army.
Aurora police provincial director, Col. Raul Siriban, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA), said the rebels surrendered in batches starting last January, citing hardships in the mountains.
“The rebel returnees said they left the underground movement due to misunderstanding with their leaders, hardships and unfulfilled promises,” he said.
Siriban said the three newly surrendered rebels are now undergoing custodial debriefings.
He said he talked with the former insurgents one at a time and found out that some of them came from Mindanao as reinforcement of the NPA's Komiteng Larangang Guerilla (KLG) Sierra Madre.
“Some of them arrived before Christmas to reinforce the decreasing number of CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA in Aurora,” Siriban said.
He also said acting Governor Noveras is very thankful for the mass surrender of the rebels and welcomed them with a promise to provide them proper assistance from the provincial government.
Siriban added that the surrendered rebels will be enrolled in the comprehensive local integration program of the government.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1093791
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