Commie captured in Zambo ahead of ceasefire

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 19, 2020): Commie captured in Zambo ahead of ceasefire

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Police captured a communist rebel in the southern Philippine prot city of Zamboanga a day before the government’s unilateral ceasefire with the New People’s Army begins.

A police photo released to The Zamboanga Post newspaper shows  captured communist rebel Camilo Bucoy.

Police said Camilo Bucoy, who is facing charges of frustrated murder, was tracked down in his hideout in the village of Curuan after escaping military operations in Zamboanga Sibugay province.

The 57-year old communist is a member of the New People’s Army’s Militia ng Bayan and operated in Zamboanga Peninsula, according to Major Helen Galvez, a regional police spokeswoman.

Galvez described the police operation that resulted in Bucoy’s capture as “intelligence-driven” mounted by members of the Titay Municipal Police Station, Regional Intelligence Unit 9 and Zamboanga City Police Station 2.

“Camilo Bucoy is a member of Militia ng Bayan under Kumander Garry Pagente of Front Committee 13, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee operating in the municipalities of Titay and R.T. Lim in Zamboanga Sibugay and municipalities of Gutalac, Labason, Kalawit and Baliguian, all in Zamboanga del Norte,” she said.

Regional police chief Brigadier General Froilan Quidilla praised the operation and lauded the units involved in the capture of Bucoy. He also urged communist rebels to surrender peacefully and take advantage of the government’s peace offer.

“There is no other way to peace, not through violence; and our government is determined to achieve peace so I urged rebels to yield peacefully and take advantage of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP,” he said.

E-CLIP is a peace-building and social protection program that provides interventions to former rebels in becoming productive citizens of society. Under the E-CLIP, former rebels or their qualified beneficiaries are entitled to benefits ranging from guaranteed safety and security; monetary and livelihood assistance, among others.

President Rodrigo Duterte declared a unilateral ceasefire with the communist rebel group and the Communist Party of the Philippines and its political wing, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines from March 19 to April 15.

He ordered the police and military not to launch offensives against the rebel group, blamed for the spate of attacks on civilian and government targets across the country. (Zamboanga Post)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/03/commie-captured-in-zambo-ahead-of.html

Abra IPMRs stand against CTGs

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 19, 2020): Abra IPMRs stand against CTGs (By Christian Allister G. Tubadeza)

BANGUED, Abra, Mar. 18(PIA) -- Elders and the municipal Indigenous People’s Mandatory representatives (IPMRs) in the province have voiced out their stand against the communist-terrorist groups during a provincial campaign to end local communist armed conflicts (ELCAC).

During a recent dialogue with National Security Council Deputy Director General Vicente M. Agdamag and the Abra Provincial Task Force (PTF)-ELCAC led by Gov. Maria Jocelyn Bernos, the IMPRs affirmed that their ancestral domains are zones of peace, hence their communities do not want to be disturbed and trampled by armed conflicts. IPMRs of the three conflict-affected municipalities and BUDABOSA area (Bucloc, Daguioman, Boliney and Sallapadan) even individually expressed their position against the CTGs.



They also signed a pledge of commitment firmly supporting President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 or the whole of nation approach to end insurgency in the country towards the attainment of sustainable and inclusive peace.

The IPs were also oriented about E.0. 70, the stages of recruitment by the CTGs and their exploitations of the IP communities and the role of IPs in the combat against insurgency.

One of the main issues raised by the elders is the apparent focus of government to CTG influenced and threatened barangays. How about incentives also for barangays which are not threatened or influenced by the CTGs.

Bernos clarified that allowing insurgency in their areas must not be their reason just to acquire project and funds.

“Just because the government grants more priority projects and funds for the affected barangays, this should not be your reason not to continue fighting insurgency anymore,” she stressed.

She enjoined their sincerity and commitment to participate the battle against insurgency by protecting their lands and ancestral domains against the CTGs.

Agdamag assured the IPs that their concerns will be reported to the President for immediate action planning. He shared that the President last January approved the package of P34 billion for the 842 affected barangays including all the listed barangays of the province of Abra. (JDP/CAGT-PIA CAR, Abra)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036614

Reintegration program for former rebels launched in MisOcc

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 19, 2020): Reintegration program for former rebels launched in MisOcc (By Shaine Mae R. Nagtalon)



The Enhanced Comprehensive Integration Program (ECLIP) Committee of Misamis Occidental opens the 20-day Rapid Reintegration Program for the fourth batch of 13 former rebels at 10th IB Headquarters, Camp Burgos, Oroquieta City. (SMRN/ PIA MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL)

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, March 12 (PIA)— The Enhanced Comprehensive Integration Program (ECLIP) Committee of Misamis Occidental has launched a reintegration program for the former rebels at the Headquarters of the 10th Infantry Battalion, Burgos, Oroquieta City to enqble them to lead a normal life.

ECLIP is a multi-dimensional intervention that covers spiritual enrichment, family therapy, psychiatric and psychological services, livelihood planning, and skills development and among others through a convergence of various national and local government agencies.

The 20-day Rapid Reintegration Program was initiated to further prepare the FRs as active partners in nation-building.

10th IB Commanding Officer, LTC Ray Tiongson said the E-CLIP is the program of President Rodrigo Duterte as effective means of achieving the government peace and development agenda.(SMRN/ PIA MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL) 

In his welcome message, 10th IB Commanding Officer, LTC Ray Tiongson is very happy that 13 former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Battalion (IB).

“We believe in the kindness of their hearts before they were radicalized by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) through the New People's Army. Their innocence was abused. They were made to believe that bearing arms and waging war against the government is the way to achieve their means,” Tiongson shared.

“Ngayon nandito na kayo, titiyakin namin ang inyong seguridad hanggang sa inyong pagbabalik sa ating shudad." - Now, that you are here we will make sure that you are secure until such time that you will be able to go back to the community, Tiangson added.

Tiangson emphasized, “Malaya na kayo sa sibilisasyon ng Kumunistang Groupo- New People’s Army at magkakaroon ng bagong pag-asa.” - You are now liberated from the bondage of the rebel group the New People’s Army therefore you have the choice to live a new life.)

For his part, DILG MisOcc, Provincial Director, Pablio Benitez Jr said the initiatives and fulfillment of this government program is one of the important projects that help not only the former rebels who are returning to the folds of the society but also to their families and communities they came from. Benitez also assured the ex-rebels of the government's support and the immediate release of their benefits.

10th IB Commanding Officer, LTC Ray Tiongson said the E-CLIP is the program of President Rodrigo Duterte as effective means of achieving the government peace and development agenda.(SMRN/ PIA MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL) 

Benitez explained that under the ECLIP each former rebel receives P15,000 immediate cash assistance and P50,000 livelihood assistance as well as remuneration for every firearm they will bring along during their surrender.

“The ECLIP committee is sincere in improving the lives of the former rebels by giving them financial assistance and sustainable source of livelihood for them to support their families. With this program, we are hoping that more rebels will return to the fold of law and seek a peaceful and productive life,” Benitez said

Representing Governor Philip Tan, Provincial Administrator Edimar Alota assures former rebels that the government of Misamis Occidental supports this reintegration program.

On behalf of fellow FRs, John Cualopez expressed gratitude to the government for the renewed hope and for giving them another chance to catch up and recover from lost times and opportunities. The program from the government will surely help them start anew, he said.

Stakeholders and Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) committee headed by Provincial Governor Philip Tan continue to work for the effective and efficient implementation of the program in Misamis Occidental. (Shaine Mae R. Nagtalon/PIA Misamis Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036430

1 NPA killed, soldier wounded in Bukidnon encounters

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 19, 2020): 1 NPA killed, soldier wounded in Bukidnon encounters (By Camille M. Bumatay, CMO Officer, 8IB)


BUKIDNON, Mar. 18 (PIA)--A Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) was killed while a soldier was wounded in a series of encounters, March 17 at an isolated area in Sitio Bendum, Barangay Busdi, Malaybalay City, here.

In response to reports from Sitio Bendum residents on the CNTs presence in the area, the Dependable Troopers promptly conducted a combat operation to prevent CNTs from executing any terroristic activities.

During the operation, the troops encountered around 15 rebels under Sentro De Grabidad (SDG) Dario of Guerilla Front (GF) 89, SRC2, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC). A fierce gunfight ensued killing one New People’s Army (NPA) rebel combatant. The troopers also seized an M16 rifle.

While conducting pursuit operations, the troopers again encountered groups of NPA. A firefight once again followed wounding a soldier who was rushed to the hospital.

Lt. Col. Edgardo Talaroc Jr, commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion said, “Mapasalamaton ako sa komunidad nga nagsumbong sa presensya sa maong teroristang NPA nga nagresulta sa dali nga pagresponde sa atong kasundalohan (I am thankful to the community who reported the presence of the NPA that led to the quick response of your Philippine Army).”

The rebels were said to be extorting residents in the area, prompting civilians to seek military assistance.

Soldiers are now pursuing other rebels who fled after the encounter.

“Ako manawagan pa ug utro sa mga teroristang grupo sa pagnaog ug pagsurrender sa inyong armas. Kami andam mutabang nga mabalik kamo sa inyong mga pamilya. Ang atong gobyerno aduna'y Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) aron mahimong mas luwas kamo ug mamaayo ang inyong kinabuhi," Talaroc said.

(I once again call on the CPP-NPA terrorists to come down and lay down your arms, we will assist you to return to your families and to the mainstream society. The government has Enhanced Comprehensive Livelihood Integration Program ( E-CLIP) to make your life better and safe). (8IB/PIA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036664

NPA continues extortion in Bukidnon amid COVID-19 threat

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 19, 2020): NPA continues extortion in Bukidnon amid COVID-19 threat (By Rene Belmonte Jr, CMO 403rd Bde)

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, Mar. 18 (PIA)--In the midst of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID)-19 threat, the New People’s Army keeps on carrying out their extortion activities to pursue their treacherous mission of deceiving people.

Government soldiers encountered anew members of New People's Army (NPA), March 17 at two separate locations in Bukidnon as locals reported the terrorists’ extortion operation.

The encounters involved 1st Special Forces Battalion (1SFB) where the gunbattle occurred at the foot of Mt. Kitanglad, while the other was with 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) at the foot of Pantaron Mountain Range.

"NPA's 51st Anniversary is coming, the reason why they rushed their extortion efforts as this is also the period when Communist NPA cadres fetch their student recruits from schools and from nearby communities and take these recruits up to their hideouts. They needed money to show young activists that masses support their cause, but the fact is they forced and threaten residents to give," said Colonel Ferdinand Barandon, 403rd Brigade Commander.

This is when locals turn to us for help and protection. Some of them even demanded “lechon” to celebrate their bloody anniversary every 29th of March, Barandon added.

The New People's Army was established on March 29, 1969 in Central Luzon to impose the will of the Communist Party of the Philippines headed by Jose Maria Sison.

"The worst is while we are facing the threat of pandemic COVID-19, they are taking advantage of the situation to threaten locals. What they didn't know is we have reserve forces to respond and defend communities," Barandon explained.

He said the rebels are desperate because civilians are now cooperating with the Philippine Army by reporting the NPA’s presence in the communities and seeking military assistance.

"Why can't they just lay down their arms be with their families, stop their extortion and trafficking of students? And we will have a stronger country that will face this pandemic," Barandon appealed.

To date, units from 403rd Brigade man their respective posts to assist in Community Quarantine.

Meanwhile, the 65IB focus is west Misamis Oriental and northwest Bukidnon; the 58IB on East MisOr, Task Force Oro in Cagayan de Oro City; 1SFB in northeast Bukidnon; 8IB in central Bukidnon; and 88IB in southern Bukidnon. (403rd Bde/PIA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036666

Gov't forces nab suspected NPA leader in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): Gov't forces nab suspected NPA leader in Sultan Kudarat (By Edwin Fernandez)



ALLEGED REBEL LEADER. A police officer reads the 'Miranda doctrine' to Leon Tabafa Tacdoro, an alleged ranking official of the communist New People’s Army, who was arrested during a law enforcement operation in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat on Wednesday (March 18, 2020). The suspect is facing criminal charges ranging from kidnapping and murder, among others. (Photo courtesy of Lebak MPS)

A suspected ranking official of the communist New Peoples’ Army (NPA) was arrested by joint police and military personnel in Barangay Keytodac, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Lino Capellan, speaking for police in Region 12, identified the suspected NPA leader as Leon Tabafa Tacdoro, who has standing warrants for kidnapping and serious illegal detention, robbery with violence against or intimidation of persons, murder, and nine counts of frustrated murder.

Tacdoro, 62, is the alleged leader of the NPA Regional Peasant Bureau, Far South Mindanao Regional Command. He is a resident of Tulunan, North Cotabato.

Police and members of the Army’s 6th Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Clairmont Pinpin, served the warrants against Tacdoro at 5 a.m. in his home in Barangay Keytodac, Lebak.

“He did not resist arrest, Capellan said, adding Tacdoro yielded a .45-caliber pistol, a homemade shotgun, two fragmentation grenades, and other pieces of evidence.

NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is listed as a terrorist organization by the governments of the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097104

Tribal leaders dare solon to help build IP schools

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): Tribal leaders dare solon to help build IP schools (By Alexander Lopez)



A CALL FOR SUPPORT. Photo shows Hawudon Jumar Bucales, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative to the municipal council of Lianga, Surigao del Sur. Bucales and other Manobo leaders in the town have called on Bayan Muna Party-list Rep. Eufemia Campos Cullamat to provide funds for the construction of government-run tribal schools and the establishment of farm-to-market roads in Manobo communities. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)

Tribal leaders in the Surigao del Sur town of Lianga challenged on Thursday Bayan Muna Party-list Rep. Eufemia Cullamat to help build schools for the indigenous peoples’ (IP) communities.

“This is our challenge to Congresswoman Cullamat as a member of the House Representatives,” Hawudon Jumar Bucales, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Lianga, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a phone interview.

Bucales issued the call on Cullamat amid the effort of the government to start the construction of government-run IP schools in the area.

In a separate statement released early this week, Datu Constancio Duhac, the Manobo tribal chieftain of Lianga, pointed out that Cullamat, also of the Manobo tribe, continues to oppose the establishment of government-run IP schools in their villages.

Duhac said he is perplexed that Cullamat "favors the continuing operations" of the controversial schools with alleged links to the communist New People's Army (NPA), referring to the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural Development (ALCADEV) and the Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS).

The military has long suspected both schools as part of a network run by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the NPA.

“Congresswoman Cullamat has not yet sponsored project for the Manobo tribe in Lianga, not even a school or farm-market road that will connect Manobo communities in Andap Valley to the market centers in the province of Surigao del Sur,” Bucales said.

The IP leaders in the area are urging Cullamat to engage with the legitimate tribal organization in Lianga, and not with the leaders of the leftist IP group Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod MAPASU, whose members are known to have direct links with the CPP-NPA.

They also pointed out that most of the members of the MAPASU council are either siblings or relatives of the lawmaker.

“You must listen to us and adhere to our legitimate IP leadership and should not be biased,” Bucales said.

The two tribal leaders also called on Cullamat to support the government's "whole-of-nation" approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

“Join the government in delivering the basic and social services to the conflict-affected communities and file a House resolution to condemn the CPP-NPA for the recent attack they made on civilians in Diatagon,” Bucales said.

Bucales, however, said they are disappointed with Cullamat, alleging that the lawmaker has been lambasting the military and even joined other left-leaning groups to call for a military pullout in IP communities.

“The military protects the tribe from the infiltration of the CPP-NPA, especially the far-flung sitios of Andap Valley in Surigao del Sur,” the tribal leader said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097151

'NPA leader' nabbed in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): 'NPA leader' nabbed in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



BUSTED. Joint forces of the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police nab Gloria Campos Tomalon, an alleged officer of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in an operation conducted on Thursday (March 19, 2020) in Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. Authorities say Tumalon is wanted by the law for various crimes. (Photo courtesy 3SFBN)

An alleged leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) was arrested on Thursday (March 19) by a joint team of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Army in Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

Authorities identified the suspect as Gloria Campos Tomalon alias "Bae Glo," whom authorities said has links with the leftist Indigenous People's group Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumosunod (MAPASU).

MAPASU was tagged by the military and the police as being influenced and having links with the communist rebels in Barangay Diatagon--a flashpoint for NPA activities.

In a statement on Thursday, 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn) of the Army, said Campos was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest under criminal case no. 6527 for kidnapping and serious illegal detention.

Punsalan said Tomalon is the sister of Pablito Sinzo Campos, the NPA leader arrested last 2018 in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, and Emelda Campos Belandres, another NPA leader who is wanted for various crimes.

Tomalon was allegedly linked to the NPA attack last month in Sitio Emerald, Barangay Diatagon that wounded three civilians, and the failed ambush against government troopers on February 19.

Col. Allan Hambala, commander of the Army's 401st Infantry Brigade, commended the Army and PNP personnel involved in the operation and the arrest of Tomalon.

Hambala also cited the help of the residents in the area, particularly the indigenous peoples (IPs) that led to the arrest of the suspect.

In the same statement, Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga) director, Brig. Gen. Joselito Esquivel, underscored the support of the residents in the area in "suppressing the threats posed by terrorism in our region".

“With the arrest of the high-ranking CNT members and the surrender of thousands of former rebels, way to go we will achieve lasting peace and prosperity in the Caraga Region," Esquivel said.

Meanwhile, Punsalan bared the presence of NPA personalities taking refuge in Sitio Han-ayan (Kilometer 16) in Diatagon who are allegedly using civilians as a shield to evade government forces.

Punsalan said that with Tumalon's arrest, they are bracing for possible criticisms relating to human rights violations from the siblings and relatives of Tumalon, including Bayan Muna Rep. Eufemia Campos Cullamat and some leaders of MAPASU.

“Expect that they will also condemn what we have done, by accusing us of attacking the IPs. But all these are among the old playbooks and strategies they play to cover up their members. The arrest was conducted on a legal and constitutional basis,” Punsalan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097174

Civilian lives 'in peril' as NPA plants IEDs in Agusan Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): Civilian lives 'in peril' as NPA plants IEDs in Agusan Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



IN HARM’S WAY. A member of the explosive ordinance disposal team from the Army's 3rd Special Forces Battalion retrieves two pieces of 12-kilogram pressurized type of improvised anti-personnel mine on Thursday (March 19). The IEDs were placed by the New People’s Army (NPA) less than 10 meters away from a residential area in Barangay New Salem, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. (Photo courtesy of 3SFBn)

The Philippine Army blasted the communist New People’s Army (NPA) for putting in danger the lives of villagers in Agusan del Sur by planting two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) near their community.

In a statement on Thursday, the Army's 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn) said the IEDs were retrieved after civilians in Barangay New Salem, Bayugan City, reported the presence of the bombs to a military detachment in the area.

“Our explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) team was immediately dispatched in the area and recovered two pieces of 12-kilogram grapeshot pressurized type of improvised anti-personnel mine,” said 1st Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan, 3SFBn civil-military operations officer.

Punsalan said residents confirmed that the IEDs were intentionally placed by NPA rebels.

“The IEDs were mounted beside the barangay road less than 10 meters away from the houses in Purok 4,” the Army official said.

An Army EOD expert, who was part of the retrieving team, said the “pressurized type of IEDs is extremely dangerous than command-detonated IEDs. A gentle contact by the victim to the IEDs will immediately cause its explosion because these are pressurized.”

The EOD personnel added that the pressurized types of IEDs can inflict fatal damage to victims within the 10-meter to 15-meter radius.

In the same statement, the military scored the NPA for “continuously doing terroristic acts despite the fear the people face in the midst of Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic and the recent declaration of a unilateral ceasefire by the government.”

It also quoted a farmer in the area decrying the "complete disregard" of the NPA to the safety and welfare of the people in the village.

“I passed by this road early morning to check my farm. I was not aware that IEDs were planted by the NPA. It was only late when I was informed that the Army already recovered the IEDs. I’m afraid. What if it exploded when I passed by? I would be dead by now,” the resident said.

Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, 3SFBn commander, said the retrieval of the IEDs showed that the "Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) violated and dishonored the provisions of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) by using banned anti-personnel mines that cause severe or long term damage to the environment," including "injury or unnecessary suffering to potential victims."

“We are battling the Covid-19 but the fact is, real virus stronger than the Coronavirus are these CNTs who corrupt the nation and take advantage of the Coronavirus crisis and situation because it is a potential scenario for them to stage a violent revolution,” Baybayan said.

Meanwhile, Col. Allan Hambala, commander of the Army's 401st Infantry Brigade, called on the public to be vigilant, saying the communist NPA rebels "are known violators of ceasefire agreements."

“They are terrorists and know no laws and agreements. The Covid-19 crisis, if not managed properly would be advantageous for them. We need the help and vigilance of everyone to cooperate with the procedures, checkpoints to stop the spread of the virus," Hambala said.

"In the same manner, we appeal to the public to report immediately the terroristic activities and the terrorists’ presence so we can act accordingly based on our constitutional mandate,” he added.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097154

AFP supports Covid-19 truce, remains wary of Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): AFP supports Covid-19 truce, remains wary of Reds (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it will not be deterred by attacks of the communist rebels even if it supports President Rodrigo Duterte's decision to declare a unilateral truce with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in wake of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) crisis.

"The AFP fully supports the President and C-in-C’s (Commander-in-Chief) declaration of government’s own ceasefire to take effect zero hundred hours of 19 March 2020 to last until 23:59 of 15 April 2020," said AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., in a statement sent to reporters late Wednesday.

Santos said Duterte's declaration of a unilateral ceasefire shows the President is willing to go beyond the usual means to ensure that troops helping in efforts to halt the spread of Covid-19 will not be attacked and that provisions of the needs of the Filipino public will not be impeded.

"By this declaration, the C-in-C shows clearly that he is willing to go beyond the usual means—including that of making a temporary halt to hostilities with an arch-enemy of the state. We have been through ceasefire declarations in the past when the NPA disregarded the government’s good faith. While I direct the troops to observe guarded optimism, your AFP will not be deterred by similar treacherous attacks by Communist Terrorist Group," he added.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

"By the President’s action, the message is clear: the safety, health, and well-being of our countrymen in the face of Covid-19 pandemic is primordial," Santos said.

He also called on every soldier, airmen, sailors, marines, and reservists to continue their keen focus on their mission to protect the people from and assist medical health practitioners in the fight against Covid-19.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097090

Army chief reminds troops of vital role in containing Covid-19

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): Army chief reminds troops of vital role in containing Covid-19 (By Priam Nepomuceno)



CALL OF DUTY Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay (right) visits troops deployed in checkpoints located at MacArthur Highway, Valenzuela City and portions of North Luzon Expressway on Wednesday (March 18, 2020). He also reminded troops to keep their body, mind, and soul in top shape in order to protect the people from the threat of Covid-19 for the duration of the enhanced community quarantine. (Photo courtesy of Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay on Wednesday reminded troops manning various checkpoints in Metro Manila under the enhanced community quarantine of their valuable role in helping the government in containing the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

He made this announcement while visiting PA personnel deployed in the checkpoints located at MacArthur Highway, Valenzuela City and portions of North Luzon Expressway in Bocaue, Bulacan and Mindanao Avenue, Quezon City.

“As we continue doing our best to ward of an unseen enemy, we will not forget to support those who protect us from the front-lines. We are grateful for your service, and you have our prayers and support as we undergo the enhanced community quarantine,” Gapay said.

He also reminded troops to keep their body, mind, and soul in top shape in order to protect the people from the threat of Covid-19 for the duration of the enhanced community quarantine.

Gapay also distributed personal protective equipment to boost their efforts in inspecting the people passing through the checkpoints.

Since the implementation of the community quarantine in Luzon, the Army has distributed food packs to the health workers from the hospitals in Metro Manila and front-line troops in partnership with Landers.

Troops were also deployed to man the checkpoint in the borders of Metro Manila.

Due to the mass transport ban in line with the measure, the PA has also provided free rides for health professionals, food industry personnel, and workers from the basic services.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097091

PAF airlifts Covid-19 lab specimens, protective gears

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): PAF airlifts Covid-19 lab specimens, protective gears (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AIRLIFTING LAB SPECIMENS, PPEs. Air Force personnel unload sealed laboratory specimens for coronavirus testing and personal protective equipment from an NC-212i transport aircraft at the Villamor Air Base on Wednesday (March 18, 2020). The aircraft also transported 11 boxes of personal protection equipment to the Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro City which will be brought to the Department of Health-Lanao. (Photo courtesy of Air Force Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Wednesday has airlifted sealed laboratory specimens for coronavirus (Covid-19) testing and boxes of personal protective equipment (PPEs) in support of ongoing efforts to contain the spread of the disease.

Maj. Aristides Galang, the PAF spokesperson, said an NC-212i transport aircraft flew to Tacloban, Cagayan De Oro, Mactan and Iloilo to pick 78 sealed laboratory specimens which will be brought to a testing center in Manila for initial diagnostic testing for Covid-19.

Meanwhile, 11 boxes of PPEs for the Department of Health (DOH)-Lanao were also transported from Villamor Air Base, Pasay City to Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro City.

Galang said these initiatives are part of the efforts of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases and Joint Task Force-National Capital Region, and in coordination with the DOH.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097095

DND to comply with ceasefire with Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): DND to comply with ceasefire with Reds (By Priam Nepomuceno)



CHECKPOINT. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (in black jacket) visits one of the checkpoints at the border of Metro Manila and Cavite on Wednesday (March 18, 2020). Lorenzana ordered troops to comply with President Rodrigo Duterte's unilateral ceasefire. (Photo courtesy of DND Public Affairs Office)

The Department of National Defense (DND) said on Thursday it will implement the unilateral ceasefire declared by President Rodrigo Duterte as the government exerts efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

This is despite the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army’s (CPP-NPA) record of using ceasefires to attack government and civilian targets, DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a media statement.

"The DND will strictly implement the President’s declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the Communist Terrorist Group, effective 00:00H of March 19, 2020 to 24:00H of April 15, 2020," he said.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

"The enemy, however, has a bloody track record of using the government’s declarations of a ceasefire to launch offensives, ambuscades, destruction of government and private property, extortion activities as well as to recover their dwindling numbers and create a false perception that they still have influence and relevance," Lorenzana said.

He added these attacks demonstrate the CPP-NPA's blatant disregard for the plight of their fellow Filipinos, especially in this time of public health crisis.

"I direct the AFP to temporarily suspend all offensive combat operations against the CTG (Communist Terrorist Group) but to continue normal law enforcement operations in coordination with the PNP (Philippine National Police) in order to maintain peace and order, and sustain activities in connection with the NTF-ELCAC (National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict) programs involving former rebels' rehabilitation," Lorenzana said.

He also reminded all security forces to be vigilant and defend themselves and the communities in their respective areas against those who will take advantage of the nationwide state of calamity.

On Wednesday, Lorenzana visited police and soldiers manning one of the checkpoints at the border of Metro Manila and Cavite. The checkpoints were put up in line with the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine to contain the spread of Covid-19.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097117

Army gets 15K face masks from Indian defense firm

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): Army gets 15K face masks from Indian defense firm (By Priam Nepomuceno)



FACE MASKS FOR TROOPS. Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC) Undersecretary Dave Almarinez (left) turns over boxes containing 15,000 face masks to PA assistant chief-of-staff for civil-military operations, Col. Patricio Ruben Amata (right), in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Wednesday (March 18, 2020). The face masks were donated by Indian defense company MKU Limited. (Photo courtesy of Army Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Army (PA) on Wednesday received 15,000 face masks from the Indian defense company, MKU Limited, through the Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC).

The items were turned over by PITC Undersecretary Dave Almarinez to PA assistant chief-of-staff for civil-military operations, Col. Patricio Ruben Amata, during short ceremonies in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

These face masks will be distributed to the uniformed personnel deployed to the checkpoints and to the medical staff of the Army General Hospital.

“We are grateful for your generosity to our front-liners,” Amata said.

He said the aid will greatly help the PA in its ongoing efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in the country.

"Your support will come a long way in our pursuit to combat the threats of Covid-19 against our people,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097092

Ex-violent extremists now covered by E-CLIP

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19, 2020): Ex-violent extremists now covered by E-CLIP (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)



E-CLIP BENEFICIARIES. Brig. Gen. Roberto Capulong (right), the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade commander, welcomes one of the former combatants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters back to the mainstream society after he and 21 others have completed the initial phase of the reintegration program inside Camp Lucero, the brigade's headquarters in Carmen, North Cotabato on Feb. 26, 2020. President Rodrigo Duterte has expanded the coverage of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) by including former violent extremists as its new beneficiaries. (Photo courtesy of 602nd IBde)

President Rodrigo Duterte has expanded the coverage of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) to include former violent extremists as its beneficiaries.
Duterte on March 18 signed Administrative Order (AO) 25, which amends AO (10) he signed on April 3, 2018, that only entitles former communist rebels to benefits provided under the program.

“There is a need to expand the coverage of the E-CLIP to facilitate the reintegration to civilian life of other rebels who have similarly chosen to lay down their arms and become productive and law-abiding members of society,” he said in AO 25.

AO 25 mandates the national government to pursue “genuine” reintegration of former rebels and former violent extremists by providing a complete package of assistance specifically tailored to their needs and those of their respective communities.

The package of assistance applies to former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines, its armed wing New People's Army, and its political wing National Democratic Front.

Former members of the Abu Sayaff Group, Maute Group, and other violent extremist groups that will be identified as qualified beneficiaries can also avail of the government’s assistance.

Under the E-CLIP grant, qualified beneficiaries are entitled to guaranteed safety and security; cash assistance like PHP50,000 livelihood assistance, PHP21,000 for meals costs, and PHP15,000 for mobilization expenses; and firearms remuneration amounting to the value of turned-in firearms.

AO 25 also directs the national government to centralize all government efforts to reintegrate former communist rebels and former violent extremists by intensifying the convergence of various government programs such as E-CLIP and PAMANA program, with due regard to the individual needs of their families and the community.

PAMANA (PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn) is a national government convergence program that provides development assistance like infrastructure projects and livelihood packages to remote, conflict-affected communities across the country.

Duterte’s new AO also adds the Department of Social Welfare of Development and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Local Extremist Groups Concerns as new members of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the reintegration of former rebels and violent extremists.

Existing members of the Task Force Balik Loob (TFBL), chaired by the Department of National Defense, include the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Office of the President (OP), National Housing Authority, and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process.

The AO allows the TFBL to invite other representatives of government agencies who have a rank not lower than an Assistant Secretary.

“The Task Force shall organize and designate the heads of two clusters that shall focus on (former rebels) and (former violent extremists), respectively,” it said.

The task force is mandated to design and implement a holistic assistance package or intervention programs; review and update the Strategic Communication Plan; and monitor, evaluate, and address implementation issues of the reintegration efforts at the national and local levels.

It is also directed to coordinate and call upon the assistance and cooperation of all concerned government agencies or instrumentalities, local government units (LGUs), and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, as well as private or non-government entities, organizations, and groups.

The AO also tasks the TFBL to prepare a bi-annual report that should be submitted to OP, through the Office of the Executive Secretary, on the implementation of the reintegration efforts.

The funding requirement necessary for the implementation of AO 25 will be charged against the existing appropriations for the E-CLIP under the General Appropriations Act, as well as the respective budgets of the concerned agencies, and other sources that may be identified by the Budget department.

“Failure to comply with this Order shall result in the filing of appropriate administrative cases pursuant to the Civil Service Commission Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service, the Local Government Code, as amended, and other relevant laws, rules, and regulations,” the order read.

AO 25 also directs the DILG to take appropriate action against local chief executives of erring LGUs identified by the TFBL.

It also orders the DOJ to investigate and prosecute public officials and employees involved in any irregularity and corruption in implementing the reintegration efforts.

The TFBL is mandated to issue the revised implementing rules and regulations of AO 10 within 30 days from the effectivity of AO 25.

“Except as expressly modified by this Order, all other provisions of AO No. 10 shall remain in full force and effect,” the new order read. “All orders, rules and regulations, issuances, or any part thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Order, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.”

AO 25, which was released by the Palace, takes effect immediately.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097198