Wounded man ferried by ICRC ambulance an NPA commander

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 2, 2020): Police: Wounded man ferried by ICRC ambulance an NPA commander (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

One of the two wounded combatants transported by Red Cross ambulances was a commander of the New People’s Army operating in Caraga, the police said.

Maj. Eudisan Gultiano, Police Regional Office XI spokesperson, said that Noel Dadang a resident of Barangay Unaban, Tago, Surigao del Sur was Joel Montero dela Hilba alias Kid, a top leader of the NPA in Region XIII.

The other wounded was identified as Jea Angeles Perez, a resident of Carmen, Surigao del Sur.

Alias Kid has a standing warrant of arrest for frustrated murder (Criminal Case 19 3583) issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 28 in Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

Initial investigation disclosed that the two were fetched by the Red Cross team in Barangay Janipaan, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur to transport them to the hospital to treat their wounds. They were flagged by the Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office personnel at the quarantine checkpoint in Barangay Payasan, Lianga, Surigao del Sur at 10:55 a.m. on May 29.

They are now confined at the Davao Regional Medical Center and being watched by personnel of Tagum City Police Station.

Meanwhile, the International Committee of the Red Cross insisted that using its ambulances to transport two alleged communist rebels in Surigao del Sur was strictly humanitarian in nature and was coordinated with the authorities.

In a statement, Boris Michel, head of the ICRC delegation in the Philippines, said the medical transport was humanitarian in nature, “to bring them to a health facility that can provide the appropriate medical care for their situation.”

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/06/02/police-wounded-man-ferried-by-icrc-ambulance-an-npa-commander/

Armed conflict displaces 900 Lumad families in South Upi, Maguindanao

From MindaNews (Jun 3, 2020): Armed conflict displaces 900 Lumad families in South Upi, Maguindanao (By CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS)

DAVAO CITY (Mindanews /02 June) – Hundreds of Lumads (Indigenous Peoples) displaced by an armed conflict and presently taking shelter in evacuation sites in South Upi, Maguindanao are in urgent need of food, water, face masks and other basic needs.

Froilyn Mendoza, Executive Director of the Teduray-Lambangian Women’s Organisation (TLWOI) on Sunday called on government and humanitarian agencies for food and non-food assistance as well as face mask, water stations and disinfectants as physical distancing is a challenge in evacuation sites especially in the time of COVID-19.

Residents of 13 sitios in Barangay Kuya, South Upi, Maguindanao, seek shelter in a covered court to avoid getting caught in a crossfire between warring forces. Photo courtesy of FROILYN MENDOZA

Mendoza told MindaNews Monday evening that a total of 647 households from 13 sitios in Barangay Kuya evacuated.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao-Rapid Emergency and Disaster Response (BARMM-READi) delivered relief assistance in South Upi on Monday. It listed a total of 898 displaced families – 598 families or 2,990 individuals in eight evacuation sites in Barangay Kuya and 300 families in Barangays Pilar and Pandan.

Mendoza said that from 598 , the number of families reached 647 by Monday evening.

The Protection Cluster Philippines on Sunday reported that an armed encounter between government forces and non-state actors in Barangay Kuya on May 29 triggered the mass evacuation. It also noted that “unresolved and continuing tensions over land continue to affect residents.”

The BARMM-READi delivered relief goods to the evacuees in South Upi, Maguindanao on Monday, 01 June 2020. Photo courtesy of BARMM-READi

Mendoza told MindaNews that this is not the first time the residents fled their villages because of conflict over land. In the past two years, residents have repeatedly evacuated.

She explained that the issue involves landgrabbing, harassment of IP farmers such as being fired at or pointed a gun to.

“Ang medyo malaki ay yung May 29 ng 8 am ng magkasagupa ang AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) at etong mga MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) then yung 1 p.m. malalakas na putokan na ang narinig at naglikas nga yung 13 sitios affected, nasa covered court ngayon ng Barangay Kuya” (The big one was on May 29 at around 8 a.m. when the AFP and MILF clashed and at around 1 p.m. the gunfire was intense that’s why residents in the 13 sitios evacuated to the covered court in Barangay Kuya).

Lt. Col. Edgardo Vilchez, commander of the Joint Task Force Central and spokesperson of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division told MindaNews on Tuesday that “the clash is between feuding families – MILF-affiliated groups and Betita Clan.”

“As of yesterday (Monday), we were validating this mass evacuation report because they are also fighting back having their own private armed groups,” Vilchez said.

Hot meals for the evacuees of South Upi, Maguindanao on 02 June 2020 from the Teduray-Lambangian Women’s Organziaiton, Inc. Photo by FROILYN MENDOZA

Mendoza said armed men affiliated with the MILF claimed the area is theirs
“but this is a traditional area of the IP and is part of our ancestral domain claim.”

She said the reports describe them as armed group but “they are MILF.”

MindaNews asked Timuay Melanio Ulama, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on the issue but he has yet to respond. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/06/armed-conflict-displaces-900-lumad-families-in-south-upi-maguindanao/

Fighting forces 900 IP families to flee Maguindanao upland town

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): Fighting forces 900 IP families to flee Maguindanao upland town (By Edwin Fernandez)



ON SAFER GROUND. Some of the 900 Teduray families from the villages of Kuya, Pilar, and Pandan in South Upi town, Maguindanao, are now staying at eight temporary shelters in the vicinity of Barangay Kuya. The evacuees received assistance from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao government on June 1, 2020. (Photo courtesy of READI-BARMM)

Some 900 families of indigenous peoples (IPs) in the upland town of South Upi, Maguindanao have been displaced by hostilities involving gunmen fighting for control over vast tracts of lands.

Involved in the conflict were members of at least three Teduray factions whose armed members are reportedly trying to defend their ancestral domain against a group of gunmen trying to claim ownership of the land.

Intermittent firefights since last week forced civilians to flee to safer grounds in Barangay Kuya afraid they might be caught in between warring groups.

The clashes were monitored in the peripheries of Barangays Kuya, Pandan, and Pilar, according to local authorities.

Alvin Minted, a Teduray leader, said the gunmen allegedly belong to Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) who have been firing their guns toward civilian communities to force them to relocate.

“The gunmen are using the conflict to establish a claim over the vast tracts of arable lands, we can no longer return because they are there, heavily armed and have set up encampments and detachments,” Minted said in the vernacular.

Major Gen. Diosdado Carreon, commander of the military’s 6th Infantry Division, said he has directed military commanders in the area to help the local government settle the issue peacefully.

Minted also urged the regional Bangsamoro government to look into the issue affecting IPs in their ancestral domain and prevent the killing of civilians who belong to IP communities.

Personnel from the Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao were sent to the upland community to attend to the immediate needs of the displaced families while its leaders are trying to contain the sporadic armed engagements.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104672

Police probes attack that injured 2 Bukidnon cops

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): Police probes attack that injured 2 Bukidnon cops (By Jigger Jerusalem)



Google map of Cabanglasan town. Bukidnon province.

Authorities said Tuesday they are investigating two suspects in the attack on a police checkpoint that wounded two officers in Barangay Cabuluhan, Cabanglasan town, Bukidnon province.

Maj. Eddie Boy Manalo, chief of the Cabanglasan town police, said the motorcycle-riding perpetrators drove by the checkpoint Monday evening and threw an explosive at Staff Sergeant Junmark Suico and Patrolman Alvin Claunan.
“Both Suico and Claunan are doing fine. Their injuries are not that severe,” Manalo said in a telephone interview.

Suico and Claunan were resting in a waiting shed near the checkpoint when the incident happened around 7:30 in the evening, Manalo said.

Other police officers manning the checkpoint managed to fire back at the attackers, who sped off towards Barangay Mandaing in Cabanglasan, he said.

Manalo said the attackers could have been communist New People’s Army (NPA) fighters whose movement has been drastically curtailed following the intensified military and law enforcement operations in Bukidnon.

Manalo said the Philippine National Police’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal is still investigating if the bomb thrown at the police officers was a grenade or some other incendiary device.

The police, he added, are assisting the Philippine Army in the conduct of its anti-insurgency operation in the province.

Meanwhile, the NPA denied that it was responsible for the burning of a chapel and four houses in Barangay Limonda, Opol town, Misamis Oriental on May 28.

In a statement posted on the Communist Party of the Philippines (www.cpp.ph) website on May 31, the NPA in Misamis Oriental said it was “not responsible for the reported torching” contrary to report in local newspapers and online news sites.

In a previous interview, Maj. Evary Bacunawa, Opol municipal police chief, said they received information that the burning was carried out by members of an NPA unit led by a certain “Decoy”.

Lt. Theofratus Pia, Misamis Oriental provincial police spokesperson, said in a separate interview that prior to the torching of the structures, government troops and NPA fighters figured in an encounter in Barangay Mainit, Iligan City.

Pia said it was probable that the retreating NPA, after clashing with state forces, burned down the church and houses as a distraction so they cannot be followed by government forces.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104679

Army launches 'revitalized' YouTube channel

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): Army launches 'revitalized' YouTube channel (By Priam Nepomuceno)



ARMY'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL. Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay leads the launching of the PA's revitalized YouTube channel in Fort Bonifacio on Monday (June 1, 2020). The Youtube channel named “Your Philippine Army” will feature stories and experiences of the soldiers, produce informative content and intensify the Army's information dissemination operations. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

Philippine Army (PA) commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, led Monday's launching of the PA's revitalized YouTube channel through a live broadcast at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

“Despite a new normal, the Army continues its sworn duty of serving the people, securing the land, and responding to communities’ call for assistance. Aside from these, it is also our goal to inform, educate, and disseminate information - to share the Army’s story,” Gapay said.

Col. Ramon Zagala, PA spokesperson, said the Youtube channel named “Your Philippine Army” will feature the stories and experiences of the soldiers especially in the midst of the pandemic in the country, produce meaningful and informative content, and intends to intensify its information operations through the implementation of the Strategic Communication Program.

Along with the channel's re-launch, the Army also released a documentary on their coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) operations, which was created by the award-winning director Enzo Williams.

“As we continue sustaining the momentum incapacitating the Army towards greater mission effectiveness, we are also doing our part in achieving operational and organizational excellence, pursuing the modernization program, closely working with our partners and stakeholders, and uplifting the well-being of our personnel. Our YouTube channel will clearly tell these, and much more,” Gapay said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104624

CHR condemns alleged NPA attacks in MisOr amid health crisis

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): CHR condemns alleged NPA attacks in MisOr amid health crisis (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday strongly condemned the recent attacks allegedly perpetrated by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Misamis Oriental.

"As if the threat of the coronavirus is not worrisome enough, these acts of terrorism were meant to instill fear, anger, and hatred in the hearts and minds of the people, particularly among our tribal communities in rural areas," CHR spokesperson Jacqueline Ann De Guia said in a statement.

NPA members reportedly burned down an evangelical church and several houses in a mountainous village in Opol town, Misamis Oriental on May 28.

De Guia noted that the attack was committed while the country was in the middle of a health crisis.

The CHR, she said, does not support communist rebels and the armed struggle "but commits solidarity with oppressed communities through non-violent means."

"By and large, these attacks run counter to the cessation of hostilities declared between the Reds and government during the start of the pandemic," she said.

Earlier, the government and the NPA have agreed to a ceasefire in light of the coronavirus health crisis, however, the ceasefire accord had lapsed and the acts of violence reportedly persisted.

"It is deplorable that the communist groups decided to end the ceasefire in May and continues to endanger innocent civilians while they carry out acts of lawlessness such as destruction of public and private properties," de Guia said.

The CHR has appealed to both the government and insurgent groups to finally put an end to the long-standing armed conflict in the country and agree on a peace negotiation that is acceptable to both parties.

"We need to fully realize peace negotiations where both parties will have confidence that each one will keep their word of maintaining peace," she said, noting that the CHR does not discount that the conflicts are deeply rooted in historical injustices that have endured several decades of oppression.

Meanwhile, de Guia said the country and people should have to focus on pandemic issues.

"But now more than ever, we need to band together as a nation and concentrate our efforts in overcoming a global health crisis that crosscuts all sectors of our society and jeopardizes the lives of every Filipino especially the most vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalized," she said.

"Instead of violence, we underscore the importance of peacebuilding and emphasizes the need for engaging and collaborating with local communities in nurturing sustainable and lasting peace," she added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104650

AFP lauds PRRD for certifying anti-terror bill as urgent

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): AFP lauds PRRD for certifying anti-terror bill as urgent (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for certifying as urgent the bill that will give more teeth to the country's anti-terrorism law.

"We are grateful to the President and Commander-in-Chief of all Armed Forces for his certification as 'urgent' of the Anti-Terrorism Bill," AFP spokesperson Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a press statement Tuesday.

Duterte, in a letter to House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano Monday, certified House Bill 6875 as urgent to expedite the legislative process.

"The passage of the proposed legislation into law would be of immense contribution to the success of the AFP’s counter-terrorism campaigns as it amends or introduces new provisions to the Human Security Act," Arevalo added.

While the proposed law, if passed, will not immediately wipe away the terrorist menace. He said it would make big strides toward winning the war against it starting from the definition of who terrorists are to penalizing other act or acts that are contributory or leading to the eventual commission of a felony.

"The new proposed legislation gives more teeth to the existing law and eliminates some provisions that tend to curtail rather than aid security forces to defeat terrorism. Chief of which is the imposition of a PHP500,000 fine each day that a suspect is detained but later exonerated from the charges of terrorism," Arevalo said.

He added that AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Filemon Santos Jr. "assuages" the fear of law-abiding public towards the possible passage of the proposed Anti-Terrorism Law of 2020 which had passed through intense deliberations to ensure that it will not trample upon people’s rights.

"But rather, (the bill will) defend their rights to life, liberty, and property as well as the freedom from fear which the military seeks to uphold," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104668

Lacson, Sotto tell critics to read Anti-Terrorism bill

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): Lacson, Sotto tell critics to read Anti-Terrorism bill (By Jose Cielito Reganit)



Senator Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday said critics of Senate Bill No. 1083, or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2019, has only to read the proposed measure first to realize that all issues against perceived abuses that may be committed during its implementation have already been properly addressed by the Senate.

“The concerns being raised by the progressive and leftist groups as well as human rights advocates have been adequately addressed during the Committee on National Defense and Security public hearings, as well as the debates and interpellations in plenary,” he said in a statement.

“Enough safeguards are in place. The critics - some of whom had been extended the opportunity to help craft the bill - should read first the bill itself to see for themselves what I am saying,” Lacson said.

Lacson said the Philippines, as a responsible member of the community of nations, is “duty-bound” to improve laws towards ensuring that it is able to implement United Nations Security Council Resolutions, meet international standards, and fulfill state obligations with the UN - while putting in place safeguards against possible abuse.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III echoed Lacson’s sentiments.

“I suggest they read the bill first before reacting. Terrorists or their supporters are the only ones who will be afraid of the bill,” Sotto said in a separate statement.

Critics of the Anti-Terrorism bill have renewed their call for the scrapping of the measure after President Rodrigo Duterte certified the measure as urgent.

Some have taken to social media to express their disagreement over the swift passage of the measure amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

SB 1083 was approved by the Senate on final reading last February 19 with 19 affirmative votes, two negative votes, and zero abstention.

Senators Francis Pangilinan and Risa Hontiveros have opposed its passage due to some provisions that they feel may impinge on rights and liberty, including those that touch on electronic surveillance, an extended period of detention without a judicial warrant, and the removal of compensation for persons wrongfully detained among others.

The minority senators Tuesday said public concerns over SB 1083 are valid, and that government should focus instead on programs for public safety and economic recovery amid the pandemic.

Anti-terror bill good as passed

Despite the criticisms, Lacson and Sotto said that the Anti-Terrorism Bill is “as good as passed” because of President Duterte’s certification.

Lacson noted that since it is a certified urgent measure, the three-day rule restriction as required under the Constitution is lifted.

“That gives the bill a chance to be enacted into law within 30 days unless vetoed by the President, which is very unlikely considering the certification that he issued,” he said.

“Once the House of Representatives approves the adopted Senate version of the Anti-Terror bill on third and final reading, they will then transmit it to us for enrollment and subsequent submission to the President,” Lacson said.

“Yes, it’s as good as passed. It will just need my signature if it comes back to us after ratification then I will transmit to the President,” Sotto said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104706

‘No draconian provisions’ in anti-terrorism bill: Palace

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): ‘No draconian provisions’ in anti-terrorism bill: Palace (By Azer Parrocha)



NO DRACONIAN PROVISIONS. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque answers questions on anti-terrorism bill during a virtual presser in Malacañang on Tuesday (June 2, 2020). Roque said the proposed bill has ‘no draconian provisions’. (Screenshot)

Malacañang assured that there are no “draconian provisions” in the bill which is meant to beef up the country’s law against terrorism.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this statement after President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday certified the measure as urgent.

“Wala naman pong draconian na provision diyan. Lahat po ng provision diyan ay ibinase rin natin sa mga batas na mga iba’t ibang bansa na mas epektibo po ang kanilang pagtrato dito sa mga terorista (There is no draconian provision there. All of those provisions are based on laws of other countries that are effective in fighting terrorists),” he said in a virtual presser on Tuesday.

Compared to anti-terrorism laws in other countries, Roque said the country’s Human Security Act of 2007, also known as Republic Act (R.A) 9372, is the most tame.

“Mayroon po tayong three volume books na pinablish ng Cambridge na kinukumpara ang mga anti-terrorism law sa buong mundo at isa po talaga sa pinakamaluwag na batas ang batas natin dito sa Pilipinas iyong Human Security Act (We have three volume books published by Cambridge comparing the anti-terrorism laws of countries around the world and one of the most lenient laws is the Philippines’ Human Security Act),” he said.

Roque said the anti-terrorism bill, which repeals the Human Security Act, is based on laws in countries such as in the US, Europe, and Australia.

He also pointed out that the Philippines is no stranger to terrorism, citing the 2017 Marawi City siege and the Abu Sayyaf’s attacks in Sulu.

Meanwhile, Roque recognized questions raised on the timing of the decision of President Rodrigo Duterte to certify the legislation as urgent, but noted that anti-terrorism bills were “not passed into law” during the previous Congress.

“Alam ko po panahon ng Covid, pero itong mga bills naman pong ito ay naisampa na noong 17th Congress pa, hindi lang naisa-batas noong 17th Congress (I know it is the time of Covid-19 but these bills were filed during the 17th Congress but weren’t passed into law at the time),” he said.

Opposition senators and some sectors have raised concern over the possible abuses by law enforcement authorities once the anti-terrorism bill is approved.

However, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana dismissed these criticisms as “baseless” since human rights are ensured under the measure’s provisions.

Lorenzana also scored communist rebels and their allies for painting a negative impression on the anti-terrorism bill, noting that the measure has “safeguards of civil liberties and sanctions to law enforcement agencies.”

He also assured that the measure will not be used against the political opposition and progressive groups.

In February, the Senate passed Senate Bill 1038 or proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 on third and final reading. Two committees at the House of Representatives approved their version of the measure, which is similar to the Senate version on Friday (May 29).

Under the bill, persons who shall threaten to commit terrorism and those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.

Suspected persons can be detained for 14 days without a warrant of arrest with an allowable 10-day extension.

A 60-day surveillance on suspected terrorists can also be conducted by the police or the military, with an allowable 30-day extension.

Videoconferencing for the accused and witnesses will also be allowed under the measure.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104695

Palace says peace talks with Reds still possible

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): Palace says peace talks with Reds still possible (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)



Malacañang on Tuesday raised the possibility that President Rodrigo Duterte might once again open the door to another resumption of peace dialogue with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in the future.

This, even after Duterte rejected last month the idea of a possible revival of peace negotiations with the communist movement’s political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF).

In a virtual presser held at Palace’s press briefing room, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that for now, the government is still not bent on reviving the talks with NDF leaders.

“Wala po muna sabi ni Presidente sa ngayon. Pero baka naman pwedeng magbago pa rin iyan (The President said there will be no peace talks for now. But he might change his mind),” Roque said.

Roque also made the remarks a day after Duterte certified as urgent a bill that gives the government’s anti-terrorism policies more teeth to “adequately and effectively contain the menace of terrorist acts for the preservation of national security and the promotion of general welfare.”

The Senate in February passed on third and final reading Senate Bill 1038 or the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. The House of Representatives’ two committees approved their version of the measure, which is akin to Senate version, on May 29.

Under the bill, persons who voluntarily and knowingly join any terrorist organization shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.

The CPP and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), have been branded as a terror organization by the Philippines, the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

In February this year, Duterte was still hopeful that his administration would be able to achieve lasting peace with the communist insurgents at a “much earlier” time.

However, communist rebels’ ceaseless attacks against government troops prompted Duterte to say on April 27 that he would never be ready for another round of peace negotiations with NDF because the NPA shows “no respect” for his administration and men in uniform.

On May 4, Duterte also said there is “no longer hope for further talks” with the CPP led by Jose Maria Sison who has been on self-exile in the Netherlands since 1987.

Duterte on May 11 also offered PHP2 million each to anyone who can either capture or kill the top commanders of the NPA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104688

PH Navy ships with 30 Pinoy tourists, workers to arrive June 16

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): PH Navy ships with 30 Pinoy tourists, workers to arrive June 16 (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BRP Ramon Alcaraz and BRP Davao Del Sur. (File photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

The Naval Task Force (NTF) 82, which consists of landing dock BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) and offshore patrol vessel BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), is expected to arrive in the Philippines by June 16.

"NTF-82 left Port of Colombo en route to Manila around midnight of 31 May. They are expected to arrive here on 16 June," said Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, in a message to the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday.

Roxas added that the port where the two ships will be docking will be announced later.

She said the entire contingent of NTF 82, along with the repatriated 30 Filipino tourists and workers in India and Sri Lanka, will be made to undergo a 14-day quarantine in line with the government's coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) containment efforts.

"They still need to undergo the 14-day mandatory quarantine as required by the government," Roxas said.

NTF 82 arrived at the Port of Colombo in Sri Lanka on May 29 to pick up 12 more Filipino tourists and overseas workers stranded by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Roxas earlier said all of these 12 repatriates tested negative for the disease and will join the 18 other Filipino tourists and workers picked up in India aboard the BRP Davao Del Sur.

She added the voyage from Cochin, India to Sri Lanka was also a validation for newly-repaired BRP Ramon Alcaraz whose engine room caught fire shortly after leaving the Indian port on May 7.

Repairs on the ship were completed on May 27.

After this, BRP Ramon Alcaraz and the Davao Del Sur, who initially proceeded alone on May 9, was forced to seek shelter anew in Cochin due to heavy weather caused by Cyclone Amphan that battered eastern India and Bangladesh.

The two ships were deployed to Oman last February as a contingency measure should a large number of overseas Filipino workers needs to be evacuated following tensions between the United States and Iran.

They sailed from Sultan Qaboos, Oman last April 21 and arrived in India on April 29 to fetch a donation of 200,000 pieces of face mask from a Filipino businessman based in the country, as well as Filipino tourists who were stranded due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104651

House passes anti-terrorism bill on 2nd reading

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): House passes anti-terrorism bill on 2nd reading (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)

The House of Representatives on Tuesday night approved on second reading a measure providing more teeth to the law against terrorism and effectively repealing the Human Security Act of 2007.

The lower chamber passed via voice vote House Bill 6875, or the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, which seeks to prevent, prohibit, and penalize terrorism.

President Rodrigo Duterte has certified the bill as urgent, saying its immediate passage would “address the urgent need to strengthen the law on anti-terrorism in order to adequately and effectively contain the menace of terrorist acts for the preservation of national security and the promotion of general welfare”.

The House bill is similar to the Senate version that was approved in February to fast-track its approval and avoid convening a bicameral conference.

The bill introduced provisions imposing life imprisonment without parole on those who will participate in the planning, training, preparation, and facilitation of a terrorist act; possess objects connected with the preparation for the commission of terrorism; or collect or make documents connected with the preparation of terrorism.

Under the proposed measure, any person who shall threaten to commit terrorism shall suffer the penalty of 12 years. The same jail term will be meted against those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism.

Any person who shall voluntarily and knowingly join any organization, association, or group of persons knowing that such is a terrorist organization, shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.

Meanwhile, those who shall recruit another to join, commit, or support any terrorist organization shall be punished with a penalty of life imprisonment without the benefit of parole.

The measure not only establishes Philippine jurisdiction over Filipinos who may join and fight with terrorist organizations outside the Philippines but also ensures that foreign terrorists do not use the country as a transit point, a safe haven to plan and train new recruits for terrorist attacks in other countries.

The bill also removed the provision on payment of PHP500,000 damages per day of detention of any person acquitted of terrorism charges. But the number of days a suspected person can be detained without a warrant of arrest is 14 calendar days, extendible by 10 days.

A new provision, designating certain Regional Trial Courts (RTCs) as Anti-Terror Courts, was also introduced to ensure the speedy disposition of cases.

The use of videoconferencing for the accused and witnesses to remotely appear and testify will also be allowed under the measure.

The amendments also provide for the police or the military to conduct 60-day surveillance on suspected terrorists, which may be lengthened to another non-extendable period of 30 days, provided that they secure a judicial authorization from the Court of Appeals (CA).

To allay concerns of possible excesses by the authorities, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) shall be notified in case of detention of a suspected terrorist.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104729

Abrogation of VFA suspended: Locsin

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): Abrogation of VFA suspended: Locsin (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

The abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States has been suspended upon President Rodrigo Duterte's instruction, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said Tuesday night.

Locsin posted on Twitter a diplomatic note dated June 1 to the US Embassy in Manila and said Washington has received it "well at that."

"The suspension shall start on even date and shall continue for six months, which period is extendible by the Philippines for six months, after which the tolling of the initial period in Note Verbale No. 20-0463 dated 11 February shall resume," the latest diplomatic note read.



The Department of Foreign Affairs suspended the termination "in light of political and other developments in the region."

"The Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Embassy of the United States of America the assurances of its highest consideration," it further read.

The suspension comes as the world battles the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic for months.

In a separate statement, the US Embassy in Manila welcomed the government's decision, citing the partnership between the US and the Philippines.

"Our long-standing alliance has benefited both countries, and we look forward to continued close security and defense cooperation with the Philippines," it read.

The VFA, established in 1999, provides a framework for defense forces cooperation that allows joint exercises between the Philippines and the US.

Duterte initially threatened to terminate the accord after Washington revoked the US visa of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, the former Philippine National Police chief who implemented the administration's crackdown against illegal drugs.

The campaign against illegal narcotics had been criticized by the US, with some American lawmakers introducing a Senate resolution castigating the Duterte administration for the deaths related to the program.

On February 11, Manila officially sent the notice of VFA termination to the US embassy in Manila.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104738

Army chief lauds 2nd Infantry Division for gains vs. Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): Army chief lauds 2nd Infantry Division for gains vs. Reds (By Priam Nepomuceno)\



VISIT TO 2ND INFANTRY DIVISION. Philippine Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay (left), does an elbow bump with a troop during his visit to the 2nd Infantry Division in Tanay, Rizal on Tuesday (June 2, 2020). Gapay lauded the officers and enlisted personnel of the 2nd Infantry Division for their significant gains against the New People's Army (NPA) terrorists. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

Philippine Army (PA) commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, lauded the officers and enlisted personnel of the 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) for their significant gains against the New People's Army (NPA) terrorists.

“I am happy that 2ID is (attuned) with the challenge. But we should not be contented despite the many successes. Let us level up to accomplish more to finish the insurgency. I ask everyone to remain dedicated, committed, and passionate in the service as it is the mark of an Army trooper,” Gapay said during his visit to the 2ID headquarters in Camp Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal on Tuesday.

He also urged the infantry division to sustain its "mission effectiveness" despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak.

Leadership, teamwork, and commitment are key to achieving peace and development in the division's area of responsibility, Gapay said, noting the need to intensify training and strengthen unit capabilities.

The 2ID is tasked to perform internal security operations in the Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon (Calabarzon) region and the provinces of Marinduque, Romblon, Occidental Mindoro, and Oriental Mindoro.

In 2019, it neutralized 398 communist terrorists, seized 157 firearms, and cleared 15 barangays of NPA influence.

This year, the 2ID has so far neutralized 75 communist rebels, seized 23 weapons and cleared six barangays.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104737

DND backs suspension of VFA abrogation

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 2, 2020): DND backs suspension of VFA abrogation (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)

The Department of National Defense (DND) has expressed support for the government's decision to suspend the abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which was officially communicated by the Department of Foreign Affairs to the United States Embassy in Manila on June 1.

"The Philippine defense establishment is ready to continue working closely with our US counterparts to find solutions to common concerns, such as the ongoing pandemic that has greatly affected both our countries," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement sent to reporters Wednesday.

Lorenzana said the DND and the Armed Forces of the Philippines would consult with the Office of the Presidential Commission on Visiting Forces on issues that need to be addressed.

"In times of crises and global uncertainty, it is our belief that nations are only made stronger if we work together and focus our efforts on tackling the various challenges that confront us all," he added.

The termination of the VFA with the US was suspended upon President Rodrigo Duterte's instruction, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said Tuesday night.

Locsin posted on Twitter a diplomatic note dated June 1 to the US Embassy in Manila and said Washington has received it "well at that."

The VFA, established in 1999, provides a framework for a defense forces cooperation that allows joint exercises between the Philippines and the US.

Duterte initially threatened to terminate the accord after Washington revoked the US visa of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, the former Philippine National Police chief who implemented the administration's crackdown on illegal drugs.

The campaign against illegal narcotics had been criticized by the US, with some American lawmakers introducing a Senate resolution castigating the Duterte administration for the deaths related to the measure.

On February 11, the Philippine government officially sent the notice of VFA termination to the US Embassy in Manila.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104741