7 injured as MNLF, ASG bandits clash in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2020): 7 injured as MNLF, ASG bandits clash in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Seven Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members were wounded in a recent clash with the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Sulu, the Joint Task Force Sulu said Monday.

“I appreciate the contributions of the MNLF as one of the peace-inclined groups in our efforts to secure the whole province for the betterment of every Suluanon,” said Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu commander.

Lt. Col. Esnani Mai, military liaison to the MNLF, said the firefight happened around 9 a.m. Friday in Sitio Bunga, Barangay Kagay, Indanan, Sulu.

Mai said that the clash broke out when the MNLF forces headed by Commander Abraham Joel chanced upon a group of 50 ASG bandits while conducting security patrol in response to the reported presence of bandits in an MNLF community in Barangay Kagay.
The wounded MNLF fighters were taken to the Camp General Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu, after the 40-minute firefight.

Col. Ignatius Patrimonio, the Army’s 1102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the MNLF forces clashed with the groups of ASG leaders Taun Annoh and Apoh Mike.

Patrimonio said the groups of Annoh and Mike were involved in the kidnapping of five Indonesian fishermen on the waters of Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia on January 17, this year.

Citing intelligence reports, the Army official said an undetermined number of ASG bandits were injured during the clash.

The MNLF forces are tracking down the fleeing ASG bandits, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101148

Army says pills found in NPA lair prove sexual abuse by rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2020): Army says pills found in NPA lair prove sexual abuse by rebels (By Sarwell Meniano)



PROOF OF SEXUAL ABUSE? Some of the anti-pregnancy pills found by the Philippine Army's 20th Infantry Battalion inside a lair of the New People's Army in Catubig, Northern Samar. The recovery of boxes of anti-pregnancy pills is proof of the communist terrorist group's sexual abuse of its female combatants, the Philippine Army said on Monday (April 27, 2020). (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

The recovery of boxes of anti-pregnancy pills from a lair of the New People’s Army (NPA) overran by the military in Northern Samar is a proof of the communist terrorist group's sexual abuse of its female combatants, the Philippine Army said.

Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso III, commander of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said in a statement on Monday that the recent discovery reveals the suffering of women fighters under the control of the armed rebels.

“The anti-pregnancy pills are proof of the situation of women under the unbearable control of the NPA terrorists. Women fighters could have been compelled to take anti-pregnancy pills and they might have been forced to become sex objects of some NPA leaders,” he said.

He said the abuse of female NPA members is common in areas where they operate. Women have become subject to sexual exploitation by NPA leaders and other members, according to the official.

“Former rebels said that some women end up as party wife of other NPAs while others end up only as sex objects of some leaders or senior members. Most often, pregnant NPAs are being abandoned by their leaders and companions in dire situations,” he added.

Soldiers of the 20th Infantry Battalion found the pills on April 23 inside an NPA lair after a 20-minute gunbattle in the upland village of P. Rebadulla in Catubig, Northern Samar. No one was hurt on the government side while there was an undetermined number of injuries or casualties on the enemy’s side as evidenced by the bloodstains found on their route of withdrawal.

The abandoned NPA lair can accommodate about 40 combatants. It has a multi-purpose hall, 11 bunkers, 19 makeshift tents, a restroom, a kitchen, and three posts.

Government troops also recovered in the area assorted firearms and several magazines, improvised explosive devices, hand grenade, bandoliers, radio, mobile phones, backpacks, medical supplies, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

The military has been patrolling the area after receiving reports from civilians that rebels have been threatening to disrupt infrastructure projects and spoil the distribution of cash assistance for poor families affected by the ongoing health crisis.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101081

Military thwarts NPA’s plan to disrupt aid distribution in Bohol

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): Military thwarts NPA’s plan to disrupt aid distribution in Bohol (By John Rey Saavedra)



BOHOL CLASH. Soldiers from the 47th Infantry Battalion recover food and medical supplies from about 12 members of the New People's Army (NPA) after a 10-minute clash at Purok 7, Barangay Cambigsi, Bilar town in Bohol province on Sunday (April 26, 2020). 1st Lt. Elma Grace Remonde, civil-military operations officer of the 47IB, said the soldiers were conducting security operations to ensure smooth distribution of the Social Amelioration Program cash aid when they engaged the NPA terrorist insurgents in a clash. (Photo courtesy of 47th Infantry Battalion-Civil Military Operations)

Government troops tasked to secure local officials distributing cash assistance to residents on Sunday clashed with members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the municipality of Bilar in Bohol province.

No one was reported killed nor injured on both sides.

In an interview Monday, 1Lt. Elma Grace Remonde, civil-military operations officer of the Army’s 47th Infantry Battalion (47IB), told the Philippine News Agency that the troopers were conducting security operations in the villages near the town proper in preparation for the distribution of the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) assistance scheduled today (Monday).

"There were also reports that terrorist NPAs (would) sabotage the distribution of SAP which prompted 47IB to conduct security operations in order to deny the CTG's (communist terrorist group) evil plan," Remonde said.

She said the firefight erupted at around 12:30 p.m. in Purok 7, Barangay Cambigsi, and lasted for 10 minutes.

“NPA fighters then dispersed towards different directions, leaving their temporary lair with their foodstuffs that are allegedly from the civilians. Ammunition and medical aids were also found in the encounter site,” she said.

Earlier, soldiers from the 47IB based in Tubigon, Bohol received reports from residents about armed men who were allegedly harassing the villagers and forcing them to hand in food amid the crisis brought about by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19), Remonde said.

Mayor Manuel Jayectin of Bilar strongly condemned the NPA's plan to disturb the distribution of cash assistance to the people who are affected by the community quarantine in Bohol due to Covid-19.

"These NPAs have not been of help to the people, much an addition to the problem of the communities in fighting the pandemic crisis,” Jayectin was quoted as saying in a statement

Lt. Col. Allan Tabudlo, commanding officer of 47IB, assured the people in Bohol that the Army is on top of the situation and the presence of the armed insurgents will be dealt with accordingly.

“The CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA once again proved that they are not pro-poor as they always claim but anti-poor and anti-people as they are the cause of the delay in the delivery of government assistance to rightful beneficiaries.”

Tabudlo lamented that despite the health crisis, the rebels continue (with) their antagonism rather than helping the people who are in need. “They are worst than Covid-19,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101065

NPA fighter killed in Northern Samar clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): NPA fighter killed in Northern Samar clash (By Sarwell Meniano)



REBEL KILLED. The map of Catubig, Northern Samar. A fighter of the New People’s Army was killed in a clash between government troops and fleeing armed rebels on the outskirts of Catubig, Northern Samar on Monday afternoon (April 27, 2020). (Google image)

A fighter of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a clash between government troops and fleeing armed rebels on the outskirts of Catubig, Northern Samar on Monday afternoon.

The Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion (IB) reported on Tuesday that soldiers had a brief gun battle with 10 members of the communist terrorist group, the same band of rebels who abandoned their lair in upland P. Rebadulla village in Catubig town that was overrun by the military on April 23.

The NPA fighters abandoned their dead comrade as they fled from pursuing soldiers after the clash at about 12:40 p.m. on Monday.

There was no reported casualty on the side of the government.

Government troops seized a sub-machine gun, a magazine, and four 9-mm. ammunition.

On April 23, soldiers of the 20th IB overran an NPA lair after a 20-minute firefight in the same upland village in Catubig.

No one was hurt on the government’s side while there was an undetermined number of injuries or casualties on the enemy’s side, as evidenced by the bloodstains found along the route of their withdrawal.

The abandoned NPA lair can shelter about 40 combatants. It has a multi-purpose hall, 11 bunkers, 19 makeshift tents, a restroom, a kitchen, and three posts.

Government troops also recovered in the area assorted firearms and several magazines, improvised explosive devices, hand grenade, bandoliers, radio, mobile phones, backpacks, medical supplies, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

The recovery of boxes of anti-pregnancy pills is proof of the communist terrorist group's sexual abuse of its female combatants, the Philippine Army said.

The military has been patrolling the area after receiving reports from civilians that rebels have been threatening to disrupt infrastructure projects and spoil the distribution of cash assistance for poor families affected by the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis.

The Communist Party of the Philippines - NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101210

2 Maguindanao towns declare 2 terror groups ‘persona non grata’

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): 2 Maguindanao towns declare 2 terror groups ‘persona non grata’ (By Edwin Fernandez)



REJECTING EXTREMISM. Mayor Yacob Ampatuan of Rajah Buayan answers questions from local reporters on Monday (April 28, 2020), saying their town simply wants peace and is thus barring terroristic activities. Town officials of Rajah Buayan, together with municipal executives of Sultan sa Barongis, have signed separate resolutions declaring the terror groups of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and Dawlah Islamiya as persona non grata. (Photo courtesy of DXMS – Cotabato)

Officials of the Maguindanao towns of Rajah Buayan and Sultan sa Barongis declared the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the equally extreme Dawlah Islamiya Terror Group (DITG) as “persona non grata” in their respective localities, the military said Tuesday.

The declarations were separately expressed during recent peace and order council meetings conducted by leaders of Rajah Buayan and Sultan sa Barongis.

“The two municipalities openly condemned the atrocities and all forms of criminalities perpetrated by the BIFF and the DITG. The declarations remain in effect,” said Army Col. Joel Q. Mamon, officer-in-charge of the Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade (Bde).

The two municipalities belong to the area of operation of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion IB) under the 601Bde.

Both Mamon and Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, 33IB commander, expressed their support for the initiatives of the local leaders of Raja Buayan and Sultan sa Barongis.

Both military officials also expressed optimism that other towns would follow suit in declaring the terrorist groups as “persona non grata” in their respective municipalities.

Maj. Gen. Diosdado C. Carreon, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander and concurrent head of the Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), also commended officials of Sultan Sa Barongis and Radjah Buayan for their stand against extremism.

“Openly declaring the BIFF and DITG as persona non grata is a robust manifestation that terrorism is unwelcome and unacceptable in communities,” Carreon said.

He added that the declaration would contribute to the peace and security efforts of the JTFC in Central Mindanao.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101207

DND thanks Gatchalian family for med supplies, PPE donation

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2020): DND thanks Gatchalian family for med supplies, PPE donation (By Priam Nepomuceno)



GRATITUDE. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (right) expresses gratitude to Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and his family for donating PPE sets and medical supplies in a turnover ceremony at the Villamor Airbase on Sunday (April 26, 2020). Aside from PPE sets, the Gatchalian family's donation consists of essential medical supplies such as surgical face masks, face shields, goggles, gloves, and KN-95 face masks. (Photo courtesy of DND Public Affairs Service)

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana thanked Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and his family for donating PHP30 million worth of medical supplies and personal protection equipment sets (PPEs) for front-liners working to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

“I would like to thank Senator Win and Congressman Wes Gatchalian, and the whole Gatchalian family for this donation,” he said in a statement sent to reporters late Sunday night.

The Gatchalian family's donation consists of 20,000 PPE sets, 500,000 surgical face masks, 3,000 face shields, 3,000 goggles, 100,000 gloves, and 42,000 KN-95 face masks.

“This is just a small contribution to our front-liners to make them feel na andito tayo para tumulong at hindi natin sila nakakalimutan (that we are here to help and that they are not forgotten),” Gatchalian said.

These items were turned over to Lorenzana, who is also chair of the National Task Force Against Covid-19, during a short ceremony at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City Sunday afternoon.

The medical supplies and PPE sets were picked-up at Fujian, China by an Air Force Lockheed C-130 "Hercules" cargo plane which landed at the military facility at 4 p.m.

Present during the turnover ceremony were Gatchalian, Lorenzana, and Valenzuela 1st District Rep. Wes Gatchalian.

“Napakalaking bagay po nito para sa ating fight against Covid (This donation is a big help in our fight against Covid)," Lorenzana said.

He added that the government is constantly procuring and distributing PPE sets to hospitals and medical institutions in the country.

“We are procuring 1 million PPE, which the Philippine Air Force transports using the C-130 aircraft three times a week,” he said.

Aside from this, Lorenzana said the government is procuring an additional 3 million PPE sets to respond to the needs of the front-liners all over the country. He also noted that the current trend in the new Covid-19 cases shows progress in the country’s efforts to flatten the curve.

As of Sunday, the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the Philippines has reached 7,579 with 862 recoveries and 501deaths.

While the current figures appear to be positive, Lorenzana said that there can still be changes in the trend.

“We are getting there, maganda yung ating lockdown, kaya nga ako ay nananawagan sa ating mga kababayan -- konting sakripisyo na lang po, at magugupo natin itong (Covid-19) (Our lockdown is working, and this is why I am calling to our countrymen to please bear a little longer, just a little more sacrifice and we will beat Covid-19)," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101068

PH Navy, Ateneo distribute food packs to Badjao communities

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2020): PH Navy, Ateneo distribute food packs to Badjao communities (By Priam Nepomuceno)



SNAPPY SALUTE. A teenager gives a salute to a Navy trooper helping in the distribution of food packs to Badjao communities in Dalahican, Cavite City on Monday (April 27, 2020). The food packs, which contain rice, dried fish, canned goods and instant coffee, were donated by the Ateneo De Manila University. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU) partnered to distribute 1,000 food packs to Badjao communities in Barangays 5 and 7, Dalahican, Cavite City Monday afternoon.

These food packs were distributed to assist these less fortunate Badjao families affected by the ongoing enhanced community quarantine in Luzon imposed due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, said PN public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, in a statement.

She added that ADMU, through Rev. Fr. Manoling Francisco SJ, turned over to the PN 1,000 packs of food items donated by the Tanging Yaman Foundation on Monday morning.

Each food pack contains five kilos of rice, half kilo of dried fish, assorted canned goods and instant coffee sachets.

Roxas said Civil-Military Operations Group-PN together with Philippine Marine Corps and Philippine Fleet personnel worked hand-in-hand to assist ADMU in delivering and distributing the relief goods to the communities.

"Together with our ever-dependable stakeholders, these relentless efforts prove the readiness of the PN to help our fellowmen in need in support to the President’s thrust of alleviating the suffering of the Filipinos especially in these times of crisis, so that altogether, we heal as one," she added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101161

Duterte will ’never be ready’ for another round of peace talks

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27, 2020): Duterte will ’never be ready’ for another round of peace talks (By Azer Parrocha)



TALK TO THE NATION. President Rodrigo Duterte updates the nation on the government's efforts in addressing the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on April 27, 2020. In his speech, Duterte said he lost respect for the CPP since members of its armed wing, the NPA, continue to attack government troops amid the unilateral ceasefire brought about by the pandemic. (Karl Norman Alonzo/Presidential photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night said he will never be ready for another round of peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines' (CPP) political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF).

In a televised public address, Duterte said he lost respect for the CPP since members of its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), continue to attack government troops amid the unilateral ceasefire brought about by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in the country.

“There is [sic] no more peace talks to talk about. I am not and I will never be ready for any round of talks. Simply, the NPA, the Communist Party of the Philippines, has no respect either for their spoken words or their deeds of killing soldiers who are on humanitarian missions,” he said.

Duterte said he was “sad” that soldiers were being killed and injured despite their role in helping in the distribution of emergency subsidies to poor families affected by the implementation of an enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

“It is a sad thing to know that yung mga sundalo ko, pinagpapatay (my soldiers are being killed) while even doing the most honorable task of accompanying government workers delivering money and the food,” he said.

'Time of reckoning'

He, however, believed that the NPA atrocities would eventually be punished.

“I am so sad about this development but there will always be a time for reckoning,” he added.

He expressed gratitude to all government troops for their services during the prevailing ECQ.

“I’d like to thank...my gratitude to the uniformed services natin dito (here)--airforce, flying almost with nonstop delivering the medicines and medical kits required and for the army for delivering also in company with the government workers yung mga tulong na pera pati yung mga pagkain (for the monetary and food assistance),” he said.

Earlier, Duterte said he might only be compelled to declare martial rule in the event that lawlessness of the communist guerillas persist.

On Nov. 23, 2017, Duterte signed Proclamation 360 to formally scrap the peace negotiations with the NDF due to the series of attacks launched by communist rebels against the government forces and civilians.

The termination of peace talks was followed by the Dec. 5, 2017 signing of Proclamation 374, branding the CPP-NPA as terror group because of the crimes they allegedly committed "against the Filipino people, against humanity, and the law of the nations."

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

Peace talks between the national government and the NDF have been on and off since 1986.

In January, Duterte said his government is ready for the possible resumption of talks with the communist party.

He said he already formed a new government peace panel that would hold negotiations with NDF consultants for the crafting of a binding peace pact between the two parties.

Duterte, in February, said he remained optimistic that his administration would be able to achieve a lasting peace with the CPP at a “much earlier” time since many members of the NPA are surrendering and seeking reintegration into the society.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101182

CDC, locators donate med supplies, PPE sets to PAF front-liners

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): CDC, locators donate med supplies, PPE sets to PAF front-liners (By Priam Nepomuceno)



DONATION. Officials from the Philippine Air Force receive the first batch of medical supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) sets donated by the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and the Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA) and intended for its medical front-liners on Monday (April 27, 2020). The donation contains safety goggles, medical gloves, isolation face shields, SKN95 particulate respirator, isolation waterproof clothing, shoe cover, and cover-all protective suits. (Photo courtesy of Air Force Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) received the first batch of medical supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) sets donated by the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and the Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA) and intended for its medical front-liners Monday.

The items were handed over to the PAF during short ceremonies attended by CDC board of directors vice chair Benjamin Defensor and Air Force commander, Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes, at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

"The first batch of donated PPE and medical supplies (consists) of safety goggles, medical gloves, isolation face shields, SKN95 particulate respirator, isolation waterproof clothing, shoe cover, and cover-all protective suits," PAF spokesperson Major Aristides Galang said in a statement late Monday.

These medical supplies and PPE sets will be turned over to the Air Force General Hospital in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City and Clark Air Base Hospital in Air Force City, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.

Aside from this, Galang said the CDC, which is an active Air Force reservist unit, is setting up an expanded medical center in the Air Force City at the Clark Freeport Zone to serve active military, police personnel and reservists.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101190

Fire hits Army building in Fort Bonifacio

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): Fire hits Army building in Fort Bonifacio (By Priam Nepomuceno)



FORT BONIFACIO FIRE. Philippine Army troops and firefighters extinguish the fire that razed the Finance Center Philippine Army (FCPA) building in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Monday (April 27, 2020). Initial investigation showed the fire started at the Governance and Strategy Management Office (GSMO) located at FCPA building at around 8:45 p.m. and was declared fire out at 10:03 p.m. (Photo courtesy of Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

A fire gutted the Finance Center Philippine Army (FCPA) building in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Monday night.

In a statement Tuesday, PA spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala said the blaze started around 8:45 p.m., at the Governance and Strategy Management Office (GSMO) located at FCPA building and was declared fire out at 10:03 p.m.

Army troops and other firefighting units contained and extinguished the fire.

“This is an unfortunate event for the Philippine Army. However, we are very thankful that no one got hurt from the incident. We deeply appreciate how other units and cities immediately responded in helping us to stop the fire before it caused further destruction to other Army properties," Zagala said.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated as of this time. Firetrucks from other branches and neighboring cities immediately came to help extinguish the fire.

Zagala said the Philippine Navy, Taguig City, Pasay City, Makati City, Baclaran, and Pateros were among the primary responders which sent out trucks in addition to 15 other firetrucks that helped in putting out the fire.

No casualty was reported and the cost of damage has yet to be determined.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101199

DA, AFP launch livelihood projects in Camp Aguinaldo

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): DA, AFP launch livelihood projects in Camp Aguinaldo (By Priam Nepomuceno)



LIVELIHOOD PROGRAM. Agriculture Secretary William Dar (in blue polo shirt) and AFP Vice Chief-of-Staff, Vice Admiral Gaudencio C. Collado Jr. (2nd from right), lead the launch of livelihood projects for soldiers and their dependents in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday (April 28, 2020). The Urban Agriculture Program, or ALPAS (Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat Kontra sa Covid-19), aims to ensure the availability and sustainability of food and provide an alternative livelihood during the enhanced community quarantine. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday launched four livelihood projects for soldiers and their dependents residing at the AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

In a statement, Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata, military public affairs chief, said these projects aim to ensure the availability and easy accessibility of fresh vegetables, chicken eggs, rabbit meat, and fresh fish inside the AFP headquarters.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar and AFP Vice Chief-of-Staff, Vice Admiral Gaudencio C. Collado Jr., led the ceremony at the Daza Park.

They were joined by AFP Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil-Military Operations, Maj. Gen. Edgardo Y. de Leon, and AFP General Headquarters Service Command head, Brig. Gen. Rodolfo B. Lavadia.

"With aid from the Department of Agriculture, it is a highly opportune time for the initiation of the livelihood projects inside Camp Aguinaldo. These do not only seek to be a temporary point of supply during this time of crisis but also as a sustainable source of essential goods for the residents. Rest assured that the AFP shall maintain these project areas and ensure their sustainability in the coming years,” Collado said.

The partnership between the DA and AFP was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of agreement.

The Urban Agriculture Program, or ALPAS (Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat Kontra sa Covid-19), is set to be replicated in other military camps after its pilot implementation in Camp Aguinaldo.

This seeks to ensure the availability and sustainability of food, and provide an alternative livelihood during the enhanced community quarantine.

During the launch, a ceremonial handover of seeds, seedlings, and garden tools from the DA was held, along with the planting of seedlings at the vegetable garden; feeding of rabbits at the raising area; feeding of pullets at the egg-layers’ area, and tossing of fingerlings at the fishpond.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101200

Groups to rebels: 'Stop attacks, set aside differences'

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): Groups to rebels: 'Stop attacks, set aside differences' (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

Anti-communist groups on Monday called on the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its allies to set aside ideological differences between the government as a "respect" to efforts to halt the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

League of Parents in the Philippines (LPP) chairperson Remy Rosadio said groups including the Liga Independencia Filipinas (LIF), the League of Youth for Peace Advancement (LYPAD), the Coalition for Peace (COPA) and Hands Off Our Children, alongside mothers of students who were reportedly recruited by various militant/terrorist groups, appealed to the communist groups to respect government efforts and activities as the nation grapples with the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Earlier in March, President Rodrigo Duterte has declared a unilateral ceasefire with communist rebels to ensure the effective imposition of the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.

However, several news reports stated that the communist rebels have violated the ceasefire declaration, which Rosadio called as an act of "insincerity on their part amid of wanting to continue the peace talks."

Rosadio said the lawlessness of the communist rebels during the enhanced community quarantine "will not help anyone, especially hampering assistance to those people they claim to fight for."

"In these trying times, people should not admire the attacks of these communists and its allied organizations–despite saying that they're pro-people, pro-marginalized, but they kept on destroying peoples' peace and attacking the government troops," she said.

Crucial point

The health crisis, she said, is a serious matter that the "unity between the government and its people tend to be very crucial at this point."

"You call the government oppressive, what makes you different anyway? Stop injecting malicious meaning to the government works on the Covid-19," Rosadio said, adding that peace talks are not anymore relevant when the communist group continuously violate the ceasefire agreement.

"In these times of health crisis and panic, we look for compassion. Why the NPAs can't give it?" she said.

Rosadio urged the communist groups to let the government provide public health assistance, "instead of putting danger to the lives of the front-liners and the community."

"Stop your propaganda. Stop deceptions. Stop the lies. Stop recruiting minors and help the government instead," Rosadio told the rebels.

Meanwhile, Rosadio expressed the anti-communist groups' support to the national government to stop not only the spread of the Covid-19 but also to address armed conflict in the country.

"We want these atrocities, deceptions, and recruitment of our youths to end. This will only happen if the members of the CPP-NPA-NDF are really serious on their commitment to peace talks," she said.

President Duterte on Monday night said he will never be ready for another round of peace talks with the NDF.

In a televised public address, Duterte said he lost respect for the CPP since members of its armed wing, the NPA, continue to attack government troops amid the unilateral ceasefire brought about by the pandemic.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101032

WPS 'radar gun' incident won’t affect Chinese aid: DND

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): WPS 'radar gun' incident won’t affect Chinese aid: DND (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)

The "radar gun" incident where a Chinese corvette pointed its gun director control at a Filipino naval ship last February 17 will not affect China's donation of medical supplies to the Philippines.

In a Laging Handa briefing aired over state-run PTV-4 Tuesday, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the incident has nothing to do with Beijing's efforts to donate medical supplies to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Lorenzana, however, questioned such move of the Chinese ship.

"It is offensive. Why do they need to aim their target acquisition radars on our airplanes and ships? I told the Navy and the Air Force that for sure, they will not fire missiles at them, but this is just like what they always do whenever our troops traverse the West Philippine Sea within our EEZ [exclusive economic zone]. They are challenging us by saying: 'You are traversing Chinese territory'. But our ships and airplanes say: 'We are travelling within our EEZ or within Philippine territory' so it's only an exchange of messages," he said in Filipino.

While maintaining that the Chinese forces will not fire, Lorenzana hinted the "radar gun" is to test the reaction of Filipino crew members.

Based on reports from Joint Task Force West, the BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) left Puerto Princesa Pier, Palawan on February 15 to do territorial defense operations and sovereignty patrol at the Malampaya Natural Gas to Power Project and at the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea.

While en route to the Rizal Reef Detachment, the ship's crew detected on radar a grey vessel, prompting the Filipino naval craft to issue a radio challenge.

The other ship responded by saying "the Chinese government has (immutable) sovereignty over the South China Sea, its islands and its adjacent waters”.

BRP Conrado Yap again challenged the vessel and then instructed to proceed directly to its next destination to which the Chinese ship repeated its earlier response and maintained its course and speed.

"Significantly, PS-39 was able to identify the said vessel as PLAN Vessel bearing a bow number 514 (corvette). There, PS-39 was able to visually observed that the gun control director, an equipment that gives information in obtaining a fire control solution of said PLAN vessel was directed towards PS-39.This gun control director can be used to designate and track targets and makes all the main guns ready to fire in under a second," Western Command (Wescom) head Vice Admiral Rene Medina earlier said.

While BRP Conrado Yap does not have electronic support measures to confirm that the gun control director was directed at it, Medina said visual identification confirmed this hostile intent of the Chinese vessel.

"This hostile act on the part of (the) Chinese government and encroachment within the Philippines’ EEZ is perceived as a clear violation of international law and Philippine sovereignty," Medina said.

The incident prompted Manila, through the Department of Foreign Affairs to file diplomatic protests against Beijing on April 22.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101235

Navy activates patient care center in Cavite

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28, 2020): Navy activates patient care center in Cavite (By Priam Nepomuceno)



PATIENT CARE CENTER. Navy officials and representatives from San Miguel Corporation inspect the newly-activated emergency quarantine facility (EQF) at Sangley Point, Cavite City on Tuesday (April 28, 2020). The EQF is the second built in a Navy facility following the construction of the first at Bonifacio Naval Station in Taguig City early April. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Tuesday activated an emergency quarantine facility (EQF) at the Naval Base Heracleo Alano in Sangley Point, Cavite City.

The EQF is for the use of the PN coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) front-liners, Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said in a statement.

She added that the EQF is the second built in a Navy facility following the construction of the first at Bonifacio Naval Station in Taguig City early April.

The two EQFs were pledged by the San Miguel Corporation (SMC) through the coordination with the Naval Air Wing and guidance from the leadership of the Philippine Fleet.

Roxas said the ECQs were built in collaboration with the Naval Combat Engineering Brigade.

She added that Philippine Fleet commander, Rear Adm. Loumer Bernabe, received the quarantine facility from SMC representatives led by retired Rear Adm. Aurelio Rabusa Jr., and Maj. Gen. Remigio Valdez.

"Our continued and collaborative efforts will reap success as we face this unseen enemy," Bernabe said.

The operation of the facility will be supervised by the Fleet Medical Group. The EQF features hospital beds, portable toilets, and a sanitation and disinfection area.

"These facilities will further enhance our capability to care for patients and definitely ease the overcrowding of existing healthcare facilities of many hospitals dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic," Roxas said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101250

Reds not honoring word: Palace

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28. 2020): Reds not honoring word: Palace (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Rodrigo Duterte has slammed the doors shut on the possible resumption of peace talks with communist insurgents because they have reneged on their commitment to observe a truce amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Malacañang said on Tuesday.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte was left with no choice but to rule out the peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) following the series of attacks waged by its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), against government troops.

“Ang problema, ang CPP-NPA, nag-deklara ng unilateral ceasefire na hindi nila mismo sinundan. So, ano ang alternatibo ngayon? Wala na tayong ibang alternative kundi itigil na nga po ang ceasefire na iyan (The problem is the CPP-NPA did not honor its declaration of ceasefire. So, what’s our alternative now? We have no other choice but to stop the ceasefire),” Roque said in a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4.

In a televised public address aired Monday night, Duterte said he was no longer keen to hold another series of peace talks with the CPP’s political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF) because NPA rebels have “no respect” for government forces engaged in relief work amid the Covid-19 outbreak.

Roque said CPP founder Jose Maria “Joma” Sison, who is on self-exile in the Netherlands, could not even control the members of the communist movement in the Philippines.

“Kasi wala namang kakayahan na ipatupad ni Joma Sison yung sinasabi niya on the ground. At wala po talagang isang salita itong kalaban nating ito (Joma Sison could not control his men on the ground. Our enemies also do not know how to honor their word),” he said

Duterte on February 6 expressed optimism that his administration would be able to attain lasting peace with the communist group at a “much earlier time.”

In his previous speeches, Duterte also hinted that he might give in to the CPP’s demands in a bid to realize long-lasting peace in the country.

However, the President on Monday night said he would never be ready for another round of peace talks with the communist party.

Duterte’s latest statement came after the recent attacks by NPA insurgents against the military and the police.

During the “Laging Handa” program, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said Duterte had given the CPP many chances for the revival of peace negotiations but the communist group keeps on committing violations.

“Ang nangyayari, tuwing mag-a-attempt na sisimulan ulit, ’pag nagkaroon ng peace talks, nagkakaroon ng ceasefire, nagkakaroon naman ng violations doon sa panig ng CPP-NPA na tinatawag natin ngayon na communist terrorist group (Every time there are attempts to revive the peace talks and a ceasefire is declared, violations are committed by the CPP-NPA, which we now call a communist terror group),” Esperon said. “Kaya hindi mo talaga mapagkatiwalan bigyan ng ceasefire (That’s why you can’t trust them on ceasefires).”

On April 16, the CPP extended its declaration of a nationwide ceasefire until April 30 to prioritize the fight against Covid-19.

Duterte, however, did not reciprocate the extension of the government’s truce, which expired on April 15.

The peace negotiations between the national government and the NDF have been intermittent since 1986.

On Nov. 23, 2017, Duterte inked Proclamation 360, which formally ended the peace talks with the NDF due to the NPA rebels' relentless attacks against government troops and civilians.

The termination of peace negotiations was followed by the Dec. 5, 2017 signing of Proclamation 374, which brands the CPP-NPA as a terror group.

Apart from the Philippines, the CPP-NPA has been listed as a terror organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101259