PAMANA program gets P1.7B funding for 2020

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): PAMANA program gets P1.7B funding for 2020 (By BONG S. SARMIENTO)

KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews / 18 Feb) – The government has allotted P1.7 billion this year for PAMANA projects designed to foster peace and development in areas wracked by armed conflict, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. confirmed Tuesday.

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. in Sulu. Photo courtesy of OPAPP

PAMANA stands for PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn, a government convergence program that extends development interventions to isolated, hard-to-reach and conflict-affected communities across the country.

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) oversees the implementation of PAMANA in partnership with other government line agencies.

“PAMANA has been delivering not only socio-economic interventions to conflict-affected communities, but also carrying out other peacebuilding initiatives such as social healing and the implementation of conflict-sensitive and peace promoting (CSPP) initiatives in the past nine years,” Galvez said in a statement.

He stressed that PAMANA projects have been designed to stamp out the root causes of the armed conflicts in the different parts of the country.

OPAPP Assistant Secretary Andres Aguinaldo Jr., who handles the National Program Management Office of PAMANA, said at least P1.2 billion worth of funds have been lodged with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation to implement various socio-economic interventions in beneficiary communities.

The rest of the funds amounting to P500 million will be distributed among local government units situated in conflict-affected areas in the country.

PAMANA is a complementary track to the political track of the peace process in the country.

“Our main mission here is to alleviate the lives of the people affected by armed conflict, and ensure that these social interventions are sustainable for the succeeding generations to enjoy and benefit from,” Aguinaldo said.

Galvez said that PAMANA is anchored on the Duterte administration’s Six-Point Peace and Development Agenda, whose vision “is to bring enduring peace and sustainable development across the nation.”

Controversy marred PAMANA in November 2018 after President Rodrigo Duterte fired two senior executives connected to the program allegedly due to corruption.

They were identified as Ronald Flores and Yeshter Donn Baccay, OPAPP undersecretary for support services and PAMANA national program manager and OPAPP assistant secretary for support services and PAMANA concerns, respectively.

The controversy prompted then OPAPP Secretary Jesus Dureza to tender his resignation, which his high-school classmate and friend Duterte accepted.

Galvez, a former Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief, pledged “to bring greater transparency and accountability in the implementation of PAMANA projects.” (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/02/pamana-program-gets-p1-7b-funding-for-2020/

Disintegration of NPA continues in Bukidnon

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Disintegration of NPA continues in Bukidnon (By 88th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

MARAMAG, Bukidnon, Feb. 18 (PIA) -- Another member of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to the troops of 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion in Purok 10, South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon at around 6:00 pm on Saturday, February 15.

The 27-year old combatant known as alias JEFF was identified as a member of Squad 1, Malayag 2, Company Malayag, Sub Regional Committee 2 (SRC2), Northern Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC). He brought with him one M16 rifle and six magazines with 156 ammunition, one AK47 rifle and 5 magazines with 137 ammunitions, one box of medical supplies, and one digital mobile radio.

Alias Jeff also surrenders to the government one M16 rifle and six magazines with 156 ammunition, one AK47 rifle and 5 magazines with 137 ammunitions, one box of medical supplies, and one digital mobile radio.

“Gikapoy nasad ko ug lakaw ug sige ko gapoblema kun mabuhe pako sunod adlaw. Katong nadunggan nako na daghan na nagsurrender, gikuha nako ni na tsansa na magbag-o akong kinabuhi ug mauban ako pamilya (I am already tired and I'm worried if I can still live in the next days. When I heard that many had surrendered, I took the chance to change my life and join my family)," Jeff said.

Meanwhile, Lt.Col Franklin F.Fabic, commanding officer of 88IB, welcomed the latest rebel returning to the mainstream. “We are happy that you have decided to abandon the armed struggle," he said.

Fabic also assured that the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion will be ready to help Jeff who will benefit from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.

"The fall of NPA in our area is nearing. We are hoping to the other members to surrender as many of them have now surrendered and enjoyed their life," he added. (88th IB/PIA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034802

Gov’t welcomes back 25 former rebels in Zambo Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Gov’t welcomes back 25 former rebels in Zambo Norte (By Emmanuel D. Taghoy)

DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, Feb. 18 (PIA) – A round of applause from the community welcomes the 25 former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels after they received cash and other livelihood assistance from the government.

The warm welcome was reciprocated with tears and smiles of relief from the former rebels (FRs) and their family as they shared the hardships they encounter while still being a member of the communist armed group.

Majority of the surrenderees were youths, who served as combatants, recruitment personnel and medical staff.

Their return to the folds of law was announced during the “Bayanihan Outreach Program” held recently for Barangays Tinuyop and Sta. Maria in Leon B. Postigo town, as part of the initiative of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of Zamboanga del Norte.

Ray of Hope

With the intensified campaign of the government to end insurgency in influenced and threatened areas, more NPA rebels are putting down their arms and pledged back their allegiance to the government.

Solidifying their return, they signed commitments of support and relate their harrowing experiences as rebels to raise awareness and give hope to their comrades who are still operating in the mountains.

“Permi ming gutom, walay kaon. Ang among nasinati grabe kapait sa grupong walay tumong kung dili ang paggubot sa mga komunidad ug pakigbisog batok sa gobyerno,” shared Rocky, one of the FRs.

(We were always hungry. What we’ve gone through inside was very difficult. We were fighting a pointless war, causing ruckus in communities and opposing the government.)

Marie, who is also among the returnees, related she was treated well by the military upon her surrender contrary to stories fabricated by the NPA that they will be raped and abused if they turn themselves in to the authorities.

Marie’s mother, who was in tears, embraced her daughter and expressed her gratitude to the government for paving the way and helping her daughter’s return.

Poverty as main culprit

There is truth to the adage “where the roads end, insurgency begins”. Hard to reach communities are often the most vulnerable in the recruitment of communist armed groups.

Poverty causes this vulnerable sector that are mostly indigenous peoples to be exploited and used in machinations perpetrated against the government.

This is where the Executive Order No. 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte comes in, to rally government services in far-flung communities through its flagship advocacy of a “whole of nation” approach.

“This is proof of the government’s effort for inclusive growth. This is proof that the government cares for everyone, even those in hard to reach barangays,” said Leon B. Postigo Mayor Hermogenes Cordova during the Bayanihan Outreach.

Infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges, are now laid down in several priority areas of Zamboanga del Norte province and other parts of Zamboanga Peninsula which are identified with security threats, for smooth and faster delivery of government services.

The Philippine Army reported they are securing about 100 infrastructure projects in critical areas in the different parts of the region and some areas in neighboring provinces worth more than P5 billion that are now ongoing.

Funding proposals are also on the way for various towns in the province such as Sergio Osmeña, Leon B. Postigo, Baliguian, Sirawai, Labason, Sindangan and Siayan.

All out Bayanihan

On full throttle, the Zamboanga del Norte PTF ELCAC spearheaded its first Bayanihan Outreach activity benefitting over 2,000 residents from the barangays of Tinuyop and Sta. Maria in Leon B. Postigo town.

Beneficiaries of all ages lined-up for free medical and dental services, legal assistance, haircut, circumcision (tuli), food packs and seedlings distribution.

Moreover, the Provincial Government provided 7 carabaos and 10 goats to farmer’s association, tools for carpentry were also distributed, including t-shirts and slippers for the young and old.

Children enjoy treats like ice candy and “lugaw” (Arroz Caldo). While the senior citizens were delighted with the free reading glasses. Bundles of “Ukay-ukay” were also shared among the beneficiaries.

In his message, Governor Roberto Uy said “kita kinahanglan magtinabangay, maghinigugmaay. Kabalo ko unsa kalisod inyong kinabuhi diri. Ang atong gobyerno karon lahi na. Tabangan mo kung unsa inyong mga problema. Busa istoryahi mi ninyo.”

(We have to love and care for one another. I know how difficult your lives here. We now have a responsive government, so tell us your concerns so that we can address them.)

Meanwhile, Brigade Commander Col. Leonel Nicholas of the 102nd Brigade expressed his gratitude to the support of the community and the local officials in the municipality and barangays saying “without the community’s unwavering support in the government, this would not be possible. Let us continue to work together. We will not stop until the NPA will cease to exist”

Each of the 21 rebel returnees received P20 thousand cash assistance from the Provincial Government through the Office of Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWDO); while four (4) FRs received P50 thousand as livelihood assistance and P15 thousand as immediate assistance under the Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). (NBE/EDT/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034805

High ranking NPA terrorist arrested

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): High ranking NPA terrorist arrested (By PNP Caraga)

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 18 -- Joint government forces of Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 and Philippine Army arrested a high ranking official of New People’s Army (NPA) who has ten standing warrants of arrest during an enhanced police-military checkpoint operation conducted along the national highway of Sitio Tagmalinao, Brgy. La Purisima, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur on February 15.

Police Brigadier General Joselito T. Esquivel, Jr, Philippine National Police (PNP)-Caraga regional director, identified the suspect as Renan Ayad Cantos, also known as Loki/Ronin/Sanjo, male, 30 years old, and a resident of Purok Pagbahanan 2, Brgy. Poblacion, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur.

Cantos is a former commanding officer of dismantled Guerilla Front 8, dismantled Guerilla Front 14 of the communist terrorist group (CTG) under North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

Cantos was charged with multiple attempted homicide under Criminal Case No. 10091, frustrated murder under Criminal Case No. 10171, multiple attempted murder under Criminal Case No. 9870, multiple attempted murder under Criminal Case No. 4574, murder under Criminal Case No. 4575, kidnapping and serious illegal detention under Criminal Case No. 4611, robbery with violence and intimidation of person under Criminal Case No. 6526, kidnapping and serious illegal detention under Criminal Case No. 6527, kidnapping and serious illegal detention under Criminal Case No. 6525, and arson under Criminal Case No. 3279.

Arrested person was duly informed of his constitutional rights and was brought to Cagwait Municipal Police Station for documentation and proper disposition.

“The operation that led to his arrest is part of our aggressive and more intensified campaign against insurgency and wanted persons. I am encouraging all our brothers and sisters who are deceived by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) – New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists to surrender and return to the folds of the law,” Esquivel said.

Esquivel also reminded all private individual to include politicians and local chief executives on the prohibitions of Republic Act 10168, otherwise known as the “Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 and Section 3 of Executive Order No. 773 series of 2009, directing regional, provincial, municipal peace and order councils to apply moral suasion to and/or recommend sanctions against local chief executives who are giving material and political support to criminals and Communist Terrorist Groups.

These legal provisions are further reinforced by the pronouncement of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte that the local chief executives should not give ‘any aid’ to rebel, terrorist, and criminal groups as it would result to much distress, embarrassment, even losing power over the police.

"The government is offering its support through an Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) which provides several benefits like financial assistance and livelihood program to former rebels and militiamen who surrendered to the government," Esquivel said. (PNP PRO-13/PIA-Caraga)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034832

PNP launches 'first line of defense' of Tarlac industries vs communists

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): PNP launches 'first line of defense' of Tarlac industries vs communists (By Trixie Joy B. Manalili)

TARLAC CITY, Feb. 18 (PIA) -- Police Regional Office 3 (PRO 3) launched Friday the Joint Industrial Peace Concerns Office (JIPCO) that will be the “first line of defense” of industries in Tarlac against infiltration of communist front organizations.

Police Regional Director PBGen. Rhodel Sermonia said JIPCO is a police community relations program intended to promote the morale and welfare of the labor workers and protect the investment of local and foreign businesses from left-leaning groups.

“Industrial peace is a major requisite to attain social economic progress. We are gathered here because we all agreed to protect our investments, our industries, and our economic zones from the consistent threat of those who seek to destroy our economy by way of crippling our industries,” he emphasized.

JIPCO is vital in addressing the complexity of labor unrest insinuated by communist groups.

It seeks to consolidate the strength, resources and capabilities of the government to build a united front that will stand against communist groups. 

Police Regional Director PBGen. Rhodel Sermonia emphasizes the role of Joint Industrial Peace and Concerns Office in consolidating the strength, resources and capabilities of the government to prevent communist front organizations from destroying the industries and labor force in Central Luzon. (Gabriela Liana S. Barela/PIA 3)

“JIPCO will prevent them from gaining a foothold in the industrial zones and will stop them from destroying the industries and labor force in Central Luzon and other regions across the country,” Sermonia furthered.

With this, Sermonia enjoined industry players, locators, investors, security managers and human resource managers, government sectors and local government units in Tarlac to work as one body.

“What we need to establish is the collaborative partnership to protect investment and JIPCO is exactly the primary collaborative partnership platform,” he added.

For his part, Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Tarlac Deputy Zone Administrator Cluster 3 Allan Datahan stated JIPCO is a proactive approach to protect the locators, companies and labor workers in the economic zone.

“With the help of the police (through the) JIPCO, we can maintain the peace and harmonious relationship within the industrial and economic zone,” Datahan stated. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)

Philippine Economic Zone Authority Tarlac Deputy Zone Administrator Cluster 3 Allan Datahan stresses Joint Industrial Peace and Concerns Office as a proactive approach of PEZA and the government in protect the locators, companies and labor workers in the economic zone.(Gabriela Liana S. Barela/PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034855

PRLEC-ELCAC bares livelihood programs for GIDAs brgys in CamNorte

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): PRLEC-ELCAC bares livelihood programs for GIDAs brgys in CamNorte (By Rosalita B. Manlangit)

DAET, Camarines Norte, Feb. 18 (PIA) – The agencies under Poverty Reduction and Livelihood Economic Cluster to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PRLEC-ELCAC) in this province bared programs for 10 Geographical Isolated and Displaced Areas (GIDAs).

GIDAs were barangays were visited during the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) or Barangayan, Serbisyo Caravan. Here, issues and solutions were identified by seeking dialogue with the NGAs led by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

DILG Provincial Director Ray Caceres said that the program is in line with Executive Order 70 or the Whole of Nation Approach where they have already conducted dialogue at 10 GIDAs. Six barangays will follow and will have the same program early this year.

He said that during the dialogue, they identified what programs or projects should be addressed by the barangay, municipality, province or national government agencies (NGAs).

The other problems like water facilities, roads, bridges, housing and land titling among others were turned over to the agencies concerned if it will not be addressed at the local level.

DILG Provincial Director Ray Caceres discusses Executive Order 70 or the Whole of Nation Approach and convergence of programs and services, during “Kapihan sa PIA” of the Philippine Information Agency-Camarines Norte held at Captain’s Sportsbar, Magang, Daet. Feb. 12. (RBManlangit-PIA5/Camarines Norte)
Department of Labor and Employment Provincial Head Jane L. Rolda said as a result of RCSP, a total of P6M was allocated under the 2020 Integrated Livelihood Program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to be released this year for the GIDAs or far-flung barangays.

She said that of the P6M, Barangays Lukbanan and Itok of Capalonga will receive P2M while 500,000 each for Barangay Bulala of Sta. Elena; and Barangays of Bayabas, Submakin, Exciban, Malibago, Guisican, Macogon and Cabatuhan, all of Labo town.

On the other hand the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) which is under the Department of Agriculture (DA) has already distributed livelihood at the town of Labo particularly in Brgy. Cabatuhan with 2,000 coconut seedlings and Brgy. Bayabas with 25 carabao, coffee and cacao seedlings along with decorticated machine last year, according to Agriculturist Henry L. Zaño

PCA also distributed 2,000 coconut seedlings and decorticated machine in Brgy. Guisican, Labo while inter-cropping and livestock distribution was coordinated in Brgy. Macogon.

Meanwhile, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Acting Provincial Director Flora N. Raña said that they also offered programs to GIDAs to be implemented this year particularly beauty trainings and welding in Brgy. Bayabas, Labo; welding and electronics in Brgy. Bulala, Sta. Elena; welding in Brgy. Itok, Capalonga; and welding and automotive in Lukbanan, Capalonga.

She said that aside from these, they have already provided training and tool kits to former rebels at Tulay na Lupa, a program which is also part of EO 70.

Cooperative Development Authority Provincial Chief Erlinda N.Valera said they helped to turn beneficiaries into cooperatives by helping them to be organized and register as coops.

She said that they have already conducted trainings to the Guisican Multi-Purpose Cooperatives in Labo, assisted the registration of the Lukbanan Farmers Agricultural Cooperative in Capalonga and scheduled orientations in Brgy. Cabatuhan and Macugon in Labo.

Provincial Director Cynthia Olaguer of the Department of Trade Industry (DTI) regularly conducts Negosyo Serbisyo sa mga Barangay and is also assisting livelihood assistance to make them sustainable.

She cited that the PRLEC-ELCAC team convened last Feb. 5 to address issues identified, including interventions so that there will be no duplication of services and resources.

Olaguer cited that during the action plan they have identified Brgys. Guisican and Bayabas of Labo, Itok and Lukbanan of Capalonga and Bulala of Sta. Elena.

She said the action plan included the DOLE's participation. DOLE will give the starter kits, TESDA will conduct trainings, LGUs will provide financial assistance while DTI will help market the products.

Olaguer added that this is a convergence of programs and services of the government to the target GIDAs barangays.

These were discussed during the “Kapihan sa PIA” of the Philippine Information Agency-Camarines Norte facilitated by ICM Rose Manlangit and attended by media persons in the province held at Captain’s Sportsbar, Magang, Daet. Feb. 12. (RBManlangit-PIA5/Camarines Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034841

Police nabs former NPA leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Police nabs former NPA leader (By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Feb.18 (PIA) -- Police nabbed this morning a former leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) in an operation in Angeles City.

Rodolfo Salas, also known as Kumander Bilog, was arrested by personnel of the Special Concern Unit of Regional Intelligence Division 3, 301st Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 3 and Angeles City Police Intelligence Branch.

“72-year old Salas has a warrant of arrest for 15 counts of murder. It was issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 32 Presiding Judge Thelma Bunyi-Medina last August 28, 2019,” Police Regional Director PBGen. Rhodel Sermonia said.

The operating team seized one unit Para-Ordnance cal. 45 pistol, 174 pieces of different ammunition and two Cal. 45 magazine assembly. 

Police arrests Rodolfo Salas (left), also known as Kumander Bilog, a former leader of the New People’s Army in an operation in Angeles City. (Police Regional Office 3)

“The successful arrest of Salas is the result of accurate information provided by former members of the NPA who have returned to the folds of the law and availed of the livelihood program and financial assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program,” Sermonia added.

Appropriate charges for violation of Republic Act 10591 is being prepared for filing in court against Salas.

Meanwhile, 14 NPA fighters have submitted themselves to authorities and voluntarily surrendered their firearms consisting of one cal. 45 pistol, two cal.38 revolvers, one cal.22, one improvised shotgun, three rifle grenades and five cal.40mm ammunition.

“Police Regional Office 3 together with all member agencies of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict 3 will continue this whole of sector approach against communist terrorist to achieve peace and national unity,” Sermonia furthered. (CLJD-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034859

Former NPA leader nabbed in Pampanga

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Former NPA leader nabbed in Pampanga (By Marna Dagumboy Del Rosario)



ARRESTED. Brig. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, director of the Police Regional Office-3 (left) and Brig. Gen. Rex dela Rosa, PRO-3 deputy regional director for administration (right), present to the media former NPA leader Rodolfo Canda Salas, also known as “Kumander Bilog" who was arrested in Angeles City, Pampanga on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2020. Salas was arrested on the strength of a warrant of arrest issued by Manila Judge Thelma Bunyi-Medina on Aug. 28, 2018 for 15 counts of murder before the Regional Trial Court of Manila. (Photo by Marna Del Rosario)

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga -- Police arrested on Tuesday a former leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) in a subdivision in Angeles City.

Brig. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, director of the Police Regional Office-3 (PRO-3), said Rodolfo Canda Salas, also known as “Kumander Bilog", 72, was nabbed at his residence on Doña Carmen St., Mountainview, Barangay Balibago at around 5:50 a.m.
Salas was presented to the media in a press conference held here.

“The former chief of the New People’s Army was arrested by joint personnel of the Special Concern Unit-Regional Intelligence Division 3, 301st Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 3 and Angeles City Police Intelligence Branch,” Sermonia told newsmen during the conference.

Citing PRO-3 data, he said Salas was arrested on the strength of a warrant of arrest issued by Judge Thelma Bunyi-Medina on Aug. 28, 2018 for 15 counts of murder before the Regional Trial Court of Manila.

Seized during a search inside Salas' residence were a Para-Ordnance .45-caliber pistol; 174 pieces of assorted ammunition; and two .45-caliber magazine assemblies.

Sermonia also said the former NPA leader was brought to the Regional Intelligence Division-Special Concern Unit (RID-SCU) for further investigation.

Salas was arrested in 1986 and granted amnesty in 1992 by former president Fidel V. Ramos.

“Today, we are showcasing another accomplishment in our efforts to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) in the region,” Sermonia said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094182

Manuel named Army Artillery Regiment acting head

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Manuel named Army Artillery Regiment acting head(By Priam Nepomuceno)



NEW AAR ACTING HEAD. Philippine Army (PA) commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay Jr., (right) turns over the flag of the Army Artillery Regiment (AAR) to its new acting commander, Col. Romulo Manuel Jr., (left) in a change-of-command ceremony in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on Monday (Feb. 17, 2020). Manuel replaced Brig. Gen. Virgilio Bartolome (middle) who bowed out of the service upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56. (Photo courtesy of Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

Col. Romulo Manuel Jr., was appointed as the new acting commander of the Army Artillery Regiment (AAR) based in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

Manuel replaced Brig. Gen. Virgilio Bartolome in a change-of-command ceremony on Monday led by Philippine Army (PA) commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay Jr.

Bartolome left the military after 36 years of service where he has distinguished himself in the areas of artillery, logistics, and administration. In these fields, he held various command and staff positions.

During his stint as commander in AAR, he also prioritized the welfare and morale of troops.

Manuel, prior to the turnover, was the Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs.

He was a graduate of Business Administration and Public Management at Xavier University and Development Academy of the Philippines, respectively.

He completed the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course and was sent to the US Field Artillery School in Fort Sill, Oklahoma to take the Captain’s Career Course. Thereafter, he served as the Department Head of the Field Artillery Department of Combat Arms School, Training and Doctrine Command from 2001 to 2003.

In 2005, he served as Military Liaison Officer and Training Adviser respectively outside the country.

“His extensive training and accomplishments guarantee that he will serve with competence and distinction,” Gapay said in a statement.

The AAR is one of the Army units at the forefront of PA modernization which is a line Land Maneuver Concept to address external, internal, and hybrid threats, said Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.

As it is programmed to receive new equipment, the AAR recently created its additional batteries for its incoming multiple launch rocket systems, land-based missile system, air defense artillery, and field artillery.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094090

Russian envoy visits AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Russian envoy visits AFP chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)



RUSSIAN ENVOY VISITS AFP CHIEF. Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev (left) exchanges pleasantries with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. (right) in an "introductory courtesy call" in Camp Aguinaldo on Monday (Feb. 17, 2020). The Russian Embassy in Manila said Khovaev's visit is part of efforts to intensify cooperation between Russia and the Philippines. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev on Monday met with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., in what was described as "introductory courtesy call".

This took place at AFP General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, AFP public affairs office chief Captain Jonathan Zata said in a statement.

"The meeting was an introductory courtesy call requested by Ambassador Khovaev to General Santos who assumed the position on January 4," he added.

The AFP accorded arrival and departure honors to the Russian envoy which is customary in all diplomatic visits.

Meanwhile, Natalia Linovitskaya, Press Secretary of the Embassy of Russia in the Philippines, said Khovaev's visit is routine and part of efforts to intensify cooperation between the two nations.

"Russia and the Philippines have their own, absolutely independent course in the bilateral cooperation in military and military-technical spheres," she added in a statement.

The current status and prospects of the Russian-Philippines military cooperation were among the issues discussed during the bilateral meeting of President Vladimir Putin and President Rodrigo R. Duterte in October last year.

"Now we are just implementing the agreements reached last year. We are just doing our work on the way to develop bilateral cooperation between our nations, including military cooperation," she added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094092

Tank gunnery simulator to boost efficiency of troops

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Tank gunnery simulator to boost efficiency of troops (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The efficiency of troops tasked to man and operate tanks that will be acquired by the Philippine Army (PA) will be greatly boosted with the arrival of a tank gunnery simulator.

"The simulator (will help) train our troops in operating the tanks’ main gun and its supporting weapon in various scenarios in combat as realistic conditions while in a controlled environment," Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said in a message to the Philippine News Agency late Monday.

He added that a tank gunnery simulator will also enhance the skills of personnel in a cost-effective manner.

"It prepares our troops to be able to proficiently handle the live-fire (scenario) saving not only in costs but soldiers' lives as they prepare to fight and win," Zagala said.

Last December 27, the Department of National Defense (DND) issued the Notice of Award to the Joint Venture of Wolfberry Asia Pte Ltd and PT Indocertes, with business addresses in Singapore and Jakarta, Indonesia.

The project has a contract price of PHP36.1 million.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094093

Gamboa orders another reshuffle of 8 key PNP posts

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Gamboa orders another reshuffle of 8 key PNP posts (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)



PNP chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa. (PNA photo by Lloyd Caliwan)

Eight ranking police officials were included in the latest reshuffle ordered by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa which will take effect on Wednesday.

Gamboa designated Brig. Gen. Flynn Dongbo as the new deputy director of the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) while Col. Benjamin Villasis was named as DIDM acting executive officer.

Also named to new posts were Col. Antonio Yarra, acting deputy regional director for administration of Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-A (Calabarzon); Col. Cesar Pasiwen, PRO 4-A regional chief of Directorial Staff; Col. Nicolas Salvador, deputy district director for operations of the Manila Police District.

Designated to key posts in PRO Caraga were Col. Ritchie Mecardo Posadas, acting deputy regional director for operations and Col. Jimili Macaraeg, acting deputy regional director for administration.

Col. Ceasar Zafiro Tannagan is the new acting chief of staff of the PNP Engineering Service.

Gamboa said the latest round of reorganization manifests the continuing reform in the command structure of the 205,000-strong police force.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094094

Policy team eyed to fast-track Bangsamoro Dev’t Plan

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Policy team eyed to fast-track Bangsamoro Dev’t Plan



BANGSAMORO DEV’T PLAN. National government officials as well as those from Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and Asian Development Bank pose after the ADB-BARMM Roundtable Discussion in Pasig City on Monday (Feb. 17, 2020). A policy team is being eyed to fast-track the implementation of the Bangsamoro Development Plan 2020-2022. (Photo courtesy of OPAPP)

MANILA -- The national government and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), along with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), plan to create a policy team that will look into ways on how to best implement the Bangsamoro Development Plan covering the period 2020-2022.

This suggestion came from ADB Country Director Kelly Bird and BARMM Minister of Public Works Eduard Guerra during an ADB-BARMM Roundtable Discussion held on Monday in Pasig City.

The discussions aimed to provide the national and BARMM governments an opportunity to learn more about ADB’s range of development assistance, as well as explore ways of collaboration in the implementation of the agency’s programs and projects in the Bangsamoro Region.

“We need to move fast. I think we can start the formulation of the team from ADB, the BARMM and the national government. We’ll talk constantly so that we can redefine the low-lying fruits that we can implement as soon as possible, as well as to avoid duplications of projects,” Guerra said. “To be frank with you, we (BARMM) need help because this is quite a transformation on our part from being a revolutionary [group] to [practitioners of] governance.”

Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority Executive Director Mohajirin Ali cited the various challenges confronting the BARMM, which include the following: (1) weak governance; (2) threat to peace, security, public order, and safety; (3) slow and fluctuating economy; (4) high poverty incidence; (5) low performance outcomes on health, education, sanitation, and social welfare; (6) vulnerability to disaster and climate change; (7) insufficient infrastructure facilities; and (8) delayed rehabilitation and reconstruction of Marawi City.

ADB programs in Philippines

To give the national and BARMM governments a better perspective of the ADB’s initiatives in the country, Bird presented two documents which ADB Philippines had produced, namely the Country Partnership Strategy 2018-2023 and Country Operations Business Plan.

He explained that the Country Partnership Strategy outlines the strategic partnership approach adopted by the donor agency in carrying out socioeconomic development initiatives in the country. The document is guided by the Philippines’ AmBisyon 2040 and the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022.

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. attends ADB-BARMM Roundtable Discussion held in Pasig City on Monday (Feb. 17, 2020). (Photo courtesy of OPAPP)

Meanwhile, Bird said the Country Operations Business Plan is a three-year “rolling program” of the organization’s lending operations which include investment loans, programmatic and policy-based loans, results-based loans, technical assistance grants, and knowledge products.

The ADB official also shared that the agency’s efforts are focused on the rehabilitation and construction of roads and bridges in Western Mindanao and the BARMM, as well as the Emergency Assistance for Reconstruction and Recovery Project in Marawi.

The agency, Bird added, is also carrying out other infrastructure-based interventions such as flood control and protection projects, the Mindanao Irrigation Development Project, and the Mindanao Agri-Business Development Project.

Full support to Bangsamoro Region

Various national government line agencies threw their full support behind the said ADB initiatives, citing the mechanisms they have put in place to ensure greater synergy with the Bangsamoro government.

“The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is totally supporting BARMM. We have created an organization -- which was reviewed and approved by the Department of Budget and Management and now at the table of Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea -- wherein we are planning to establish the Regional Project Management Office for Bangsamoro that will serve as a platform for the faster communication and cooperation with our counterparts from the Ministry of Public Works,” said DPWH Undersecretary Emil Sadain.

In the meantime, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Assistant Secretary Mercedita Sombilla reaffirmed the agency’s full support to the BARMM.

“NEDA has been a very good partner of BARMM, in terms of [formulating] the Bangsamoro Development Plan. In fact, we are assisting them on the framework and the development of the plan itself,” Sombilla said. “So, we are very happy that they (BARMM officials) were able to come up with a plan in a very short time.”

Meanwhile, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. underscored the Duterte administration’s vision for the Bangsamoro people, which is to achieve genuine peace and sustainable development in the region.

“The Duterte administration gives primary importance to creating greater synergy among stakeholders. The best example here is the Executive Order No. 79 which created the Inter-Cabinet Cluster Mechanism on Normalization which aims to bring greater convergence in the delivery of different programs and projects for the Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants, their families, and communities,” Galvez said.

“With these in mind, I have no doubt that we can have a fruitful and productive discussion that will enable us achieve our collective goal, and that is to uplift the lives of the Bangsamoro people and create a brighter future for them and the generations to come,” he added.

For his part, BARMM Minister of Interior and Local Government Naguib Sinarimbo reminded the participants to always consider “realities on the ground,” as this mindset will enable them to craft better policies, programs and projects.

“If we ask ourselves what poverty looks like, we have to go down to the barangays -- in the level of villages where you see people not eating three times a day,” Sinarimbo said.

“In our programming, we need to go down the last mile. Look at the barangays, because here, we don’t deal with numbers. We deal with realities. If we reach [those communities], then truly, development will really have benefited the people,” he concluded.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094115

Military coup vs. Duterte ‘a pipe dream’: Palace

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Military coup vs. Duterte ‘a pipe dream’: Palace (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)



PIPE DREAM. President Rodrigo R. Duterte arrives at the Heroes Hall in Malacañan Palace to preside over the Joint Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police Command Conference on Feb. 6, 2020. Malacañang on Tuesday (Feb. 18) downplayed as a ‘pipe dream’ the claim of Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison that some pro-US military officials are planning to unseat Duterte. (Presidential photo by Rey Baniquet)

Malacañang on Tuesday described as a “pipe dream” the claim of communist founder Jose Maria Sison that some Philippine military officials who are pro-Americans are planning to stage a coup d’etat against President Rodrigo Duterte.

Speaking to Palace reporters, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo is confident that soldiers would never overthrow Duterte because they are “100 percent” supportive of their Commander-in-Chief.

“That’s a wishful thinking. It’s a pipe dream. It will never come to fruition. Filipinos – the majority or overwhelming of (them) – they are supportive of the President,” he said.

Duterte’s termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) has “aroused” some pro-United States (US) officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to launch a coup d’etat against him, Sison claimed on Saturday.

In a statement, Sison said coup plotters are “quite a number” of AFP officials who were “assets” of the US Defense Intelligence Agency and Central Intelligence Agency and are “loyal to their pocketbooks rather than to the Filipino people.”

“Just by giving the US a notice of terminating VFA, he has aroused quite a number of pro-US military officers to talk against him and curse him for prejudicing hundreds of projects under the VFA,” Sison claimed.

Panelo merely brushed aside Sison’s claim, saying the abrogation of VFA would not prompt military officials to unseat Duterte.

“Wala ‘yun (That’s not an issue). Military is 100 percent in support of the President. The AFP has already expressed its support to the President,” he said.

Duterte was forced to terminate the 22-year-old VFA after the US had canceled the visa of his ally, former national police chief and now Senator Ronald dela Rosa.

The Philippines on Feb. 11 sent a formal notice to the US, signifying its intent to revoke VFA that apparently gives preferential treatment to US troops who are visiting the Philippines.

Under the VFA, American forces can go to the Philippines without visa and passport and can use their licenses and permits in the host country.

The military pact will be revoked 180 days after the receipt of the formal termination notice.

There was no need for Duterte to meet with high-ranking AFP officials to thwart the supposed coup plot against him, Panelo said.

Last week, AFP chief Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. denied rumors that some military officials had expressed objection to Duterte’s move to scrap the VFA.

Santos said the military supports the President’s latest act because it will survive even without the VFA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094117

Trump VFA reax, positive tone for PH independent foreign policy

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18, 2020): Trump VFA reax, positive tone for PH independent foreign policy (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)



Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez 

President Donald Trump's approving remarks on the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) connotes a positive tone for Manila's pursuit of an independent foreign policy, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez said Tuesday.

Trump previously said he was fine with the Philippines’ decision to rescind the VFA, saying this would save the US “a lot of money.”

“President Trump, being who he is and where he came from the business world, he sees that as something like ‘We would like to see the Philippines be a strong ally’ and as his policies show, that he likes to see other countries to take care of themselves," Romualdez told reporters during a US-Philippines Society event in Makati City

For a country that has longed to be self-reliant, this is a "positive step", he added.

"I think the comment of President Trump is a positive step. If we look at both leaders, they are similar in nature because President Duterte has always believed that it is time for us to have an independent foreign policy: 'We have to be independent, we cannot depend on other nations to always take care of us.'"

He also took note of the assurances made by the US leader, saying "President Trump made it clear that we will help you if we can but if you want to do it on your own, we're also there to help you."

The VFA, established in 1999, provides a framework for defense forces cooperation that allows joint exercises between the Philippines and the US. On February 11, Manila sent the notice of VFA termination to the US embassy in Manila.

Although the embassy described the move as a "serious step with significant implication for the US-Philippines alliance," Romualdez assured the DFA will find ways to maintain the two nations’ vibrant relations.

"The relationship between the US and the Philippines is far more than the VFA and many other things. While it is an important document that covers our relationship with the US on a military-to-military basis, I think moving forward we will try to find ways to continue that relationship. On the diplomatic front, we will continue to engage with many of our friends in Washington DC," he said.

Meanwhile, former US Ambassador to Manila and now president of the US-Philippines Society John Maisto also believes the longstanding connection between Manila and Washington will endure.

"We have a bedrock relationship that is manifested, as we see it in the Philippines, by the acceptance and the welcoming of Filipinos with regard to America and the Americans. The approval levels are very high, they speak for themselves, that talks about people-to-people relations," he said at the same event.

The challenge for the diplomats now is to find ways how to move forward and foster bilateral ties without the VFA, he said.

"The relationship is going to go forward. The bases left in 1991 was replaced by another arrangement," he said.

On the military-to-military aspect, the termination of VFA has created an opportunity for Manila and Washington to "reboot" its relations, said Romualdez.

"We can’t always be asking for help from other countries especially the US. Each country have their own problem to solve and President Duterte has made that very clear: ‘We have our problems here and he has made it very clear from day one when he became the president that he was out to clean up the criminality especially in relations to drugs,'" he added.

The termination of VFA between Manila and Washington came after the latter revoked the US visa of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, the former Philippine National Police chief who implemented the administration's crackdown against illegal drugs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094199