Kalinaw News: Army troops rescue ranking NPA couple in Zamboanga del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 7, 2020): Army troops rescue ranking NPA couple in Zamboanga del Norte

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS- A ranking Communist NPA couple, where husband was wounded, were rescued by Army’s 97th Infantry Battalion after an armed clash at So Kasong, Barangay Tinuyop, Leon B Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte Thursday morning, August 6, 2020.

The wounded NPA personalities were identified as alias Peewee, the commander of HQ KALAW and his wife alias Ritchie, who was also the Regional Medical Staff, of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) who were abandoned by there comrades after the 15-minute firefight.

“A concerned civilian reported to our troops that the couple are signifying to voluntarily surrender when they were left behind by their fleeing comrades after the encounter”, Lt. Col. Manaros M Boransing, Commanding Officer, 97th IB said on his statement.

“They were badly wounded during the clash that transpired around 8:00 in the morning. Troops provided them medical first aid and brought them to our camp and eventually transferred them to 1st Infantry Division Station Hospital for further medical attention,” Lt. Col. Boransing added.

It can also be recalled that on Wednesday, alias Jekjek, was also rescued by the 97IB after the clash in Brgy Midatag of same town.
In local dialect, Peewee admitted that they were with alias Jekjek on the Wednesday’s encounter.

“We were disorganized, that is why we left Jekjek behind”, said alias Peewee.

“We were also tired and hungry evading the troops. The successive encounter and my lingering shoulder injury led me to surrender”, added Peewee.

Brigadier General Leonel M. Nicolas, the Commander of the Army’s 102nd Infantry IGSOON Brigade, who has operational jurisdiction of Zamboanga del Norte emphasized that the troops will continue to pursue all Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) operating in the region.

“The NPAs in Zamboanga Peninsula will now have a leadership crisis after this incident and we will pressure and continously encourage them to surrender” Brig. Gen. Nicolas said.

“The 102nd Infantry Brigade together with our partner stakeholders through the Executive Order No 70 or the Local Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict are commited in our efforts to achieve peace in the region,” Brig. Gen. Nicolas added.

Maj. Gen. Gene Ponio, Commander, 1st Infantry Division emphasized that the doors of the government is always open for those who still wish to avail the benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“I urged the remnants of the group, the wounded, the hungry members of the WMRPC to lay down their arms and return to the folds of law,” Maj. Gen. Ponio said.

“We assure you (NPA) that the Tabak troopers abide with the rules of engagement and respect the rights of the adversaries”, added Maj. Gen. Ponio.

The rescued CNTs underwent intensive medical check-up and treatment at Tabak Station Hospital as of this posting.





[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-troops-rescues-ranking-npa-couple-in-zamboanga-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: 26 former NPAs receive gov’t financial aid

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 7, 2020): 26 former NPAs receive gov’t financial aid

Davao de Oro — Twenty-six former members of the communist New People’s Army (NPAs) in this province received immediate financial assistance amounting to PHP 10,000 each from the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro while waiting the other benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

The E-CLIP is one of the programs under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), a body created by President Rodrigo Duterte through Executive Order No. 70.

It aims to ensure sustainable and inclusive peace and put an end to the 50-year armed conflict perpetrated by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).The cash aid handed to the FRs led by Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy represented by Board Member Joseph T. Jauod, and Josephine M. Frasco, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) Department Head at the Capitol Old Session Hall on Tuesday.

Col. Glenn Jun C. Calambuhay, the deputy brigade commander of 1001st Brigade, Philippine Army, advised the FRs to be prudent in spending what they received from the government. “I urged you not to waste cash assistance. Instead, use this money as your capital in starting anew”.

“We in the military are happy to see you in deciding to return to the fold of the law and live a peaceful life in the mainstream society,” Calambuhay added.

A former rebel, who refused to be named for security reasons expressed his gratitude to the government in giving the financial assistance that will help in supporting their families.

“Dako sab akuang pasalamat nga gidawat ko sa gobyerno labina sa financial assistance nga ilahang gihatag isip dako kining tabang sa amua aron magamit namu sa negosyo ug makasugod mi sa among panginabuhian,” former rebel said.

Information gathered from the PSWDO showed that of the 26 FRs awarded, 11 surrendered to the 71st Infantry Battalion (IB), six in 25 IB, three in 60 IB, another three in 101 Military Intelligent Company (MICO), two in Regional Intelligent Unit XI, and one in 66 IB. Some of them are members of Indigenous People (IP).



[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/26-former-npas-receive-govt-financial-aid/

Kalinaw News: Army troopers participated on Agri-Farming Orientation

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 7, 2020): Army troopers participated on Agri-Farming Orientation

MAGPET, COTABATO – Army’s 72 Infantry Battalion participated on the Orientation and Introduction of High Value Vegetables (Brocolli and Cabbage) production to the organized People’s Organization of Brgy Gayola (Gayola mapinanggaon Association) earlier this day, August 5, 2020.

The said barangay was the selected site by the City Agriculturist Office headed by Mrs. Marissa B Aton to become a Demo farm of said vegetables.

The said activity is part of the sustainment program of the Community Support Program of 72IB and also strenghtening the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) in the barangay.

Furthermore, it is also a sustainment efforts of 72IB’s Community Development Teams for the organized People’s Organization to uplift the livelihood of the residents.







[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-troopers-participated-on-agri-farming-orientation/

Kalinaw News: Army in AgNor Assists in Eagles Club’s Community Service for Former Rebels

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 7, 2020): Army in AgNor Assists in Eagles Club’s Community Service for Former Rebels

KICHARAO, Agusan Del Norte- The Former Rebels (FRs)assisted the members of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Cabadbaran City, Eagles Club in the conduct of their Community Service to the Former Rebels (FRs) on August 1, 2020, at headquarters 29IB, Brgy Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

The said organization provided ice cream for everyone and distributed food packs with rice, noodles, and canned goods for each FR’s family.

Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding officer of 29IB expressed his gratitude in his statement, “I am grateful to the Eagles Club Organization for choosing the FRs in the New Hope Village as beneficiaries of their Community Service.

This simple act of kindness and care which you have shown means a lot to them. I hope that your organization will continue to flourish as you continue to be a blessing to others.”

“The Fraternal Order of Eagles is an international non-profit organization that unites fraternally in the spirit of liberty, truth, justice, and equality with a goal to make human life more desirable by lessening its ills, and by promoting peace, prosperity, gladness, and hope.” as stated in their mission statement.





[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-in-agnor-assists-in-eagles-clubs-community-service-for-former-rebels/

Kalinaw News: Matatag Fighters Welcome 36 Newly Assigned Privates

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 7, 2020): Matatag Fighters Welcome 36 Newly Assigned Privates

KICHARAO, Agusan Del Norte- The 29th Infantry “Matatag Fighters” Battalion under the leadership of Lt.Col. Isagani O. Criste welcomed and motivated the 36 newly assigned Privates at Headquarters 29IB, Brgy Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City on August 2, 2020.

Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, expressed his gratitude and expectations in his statement, ”You, young privates are heaven sent because you came at the very moment that the unit needed you the most. I know that you have been assigned here for a good reason. It’s not only to fight the enemy but also to show the true example of service to our fellowmen and our country.”

“The unit expects a lot from you as young warriors. Do what you are trained to do and never forget to uphold in your hearts and minds the standards that define a true Matatag Fighter. Let yourself be known as a fighter who fights the good fight and one who keeps the faith. In all your battles, do not forget to seek God’s help”, Criste emphasized.



[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/matatag-fighters-welcome-36-newly-assigned-privates/

600 individuals flee clash between military, NPA in Bukidnon

From MindaNews (Aug 7, 2020): 600 individuals flee clash between military, NPA in Bukidnon (By H. MARCOS C. MORDENO)

MALAYBALAY CITY (MindaNews / 07 August) – Around 600 individuals fled two sitios bordering Cabanglasan town in Bukidnon and Kapalong town in Davao del Norte after government troops clashed with suspected New People’s Army guerrillas on Friday last week.

Cabanglasan Mayor Renante Inocando, in an interview Friday with dxDB-Malaybalay said some evacuees stayed in Barangay Mandahikan, Cabanglasan and others at the municipal gymnasium.

Municipality of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon. Map courtesy of Google

Inocando, however, said the evacuees had returned to their homes on Monday.

He said one rebel was killed in the encounter with the 88th Infantry Battalion.

He said soldiers carrying the rebel’s body arrived in Cabanglasan three days after the encounter.

He added the fatality was a Lumad from Barangay Cawayan, San Fernando, Bukidnon.

“We no longer had the body embalmed because it was already decomposing. We just injected it with formalin before turning it over to the local government of Cawayan,” Inocando told dxDB.

The mayor said the evacuees expressed fears and anxiety, but he assured the incident was isolated.

Also in an interview with dxDB on Friday, 88IB commander Lt Col Franklin Fabic identified the slain guerrilla as alias Dodong, reportedly a squad leader of the rebel group.

Fabic said his men recovered an M16 rifle, mobile phones, personal belongings and documents at the encounter site.

He said the rebels retreated towards Agusan del Sur. (H. Marcos C. Mordeno/MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/08/600-individuals-flee-clash-between-military-npa-in-bukidnon/

Malaysia again trashes Philippines, Sultanate claims on Sabah

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 7, 2020): Malaysia again trashes Philippines, Sultanate claims on Sabah

MALAYSIA STOOD firm again over its claim on the mineral-rich Sabah or North Borneo, just several hours by boat from the Filipino province of Tawi-Tawi.

The Sultanate of Sulu, founded in 1457, continues to lay claim to Sabah which it obtained from Brunei as a gift for helping put down a rebellion on Borneo Island. The British leased Sabah and transferred control over the territory to Malaysia after the end of World War II.

The Sulu Sultanate said it had merely leased North Borneo in 1878 to the British North Borneo Company for an annual payment of 5,000 Malayan dollars then, which was increased to 5,300 Malayan dollars in 1903.

The Sultanate of Sulu is believed to exist as a sovereign nation for at least 442 years. It stretches from a part of the island of Mindanao in the east, to Sabah, in the west and south, and to Palawan, in the north.

But North Borneo was annexed by Malaysia in 1963 following a referendum organised by the Cobbold Commission in 1962, the people of Sabah voted overwhelmingly to join Malaysia.

Sabah, part of Federation

On Wednesday, Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein again said his country will not recognise any foreign claim for Sabah, adding, it belongs to Malaysia and will always be part of the Federation.

“We will not recognise, what more, meet any foreign claim for Sabah. At the same time, I want to categorically state here that Sabah is, and will always be, part of Malaysia. I also rebuked Philippines Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr and what I said is clear, Malaysia condemns and rejects his Twitter post that claimed Sabah is not part of Malaysia,” Hussein said.

Locsin, in a Twitter post, said: “Sabah is not in Malaysia if you want to have anything to do with the Philippines.”

His tweet was in response to the U.S. Embassy in Manila's tweet on their donation of hygiene kits to the deported Filipinos from Sabah who arrived in Tawi-Tawi province and Zamboanga City recently.

The U.S. Embassy said: “USAID donated 500 hygiene kits to the @dswdserves Region IX for the 395 returning Filipino repatriates from Sabah, Malaysia who arrived in Zamboanga City and Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.”

Locsin said until now the U.S. Embassy has not taken down its tweet. “It started with a US Embassy tweet that hasn't been taken down. When the country united around (Philippine President Ferdinand) Marcos, including his critics, the US discouraged an attempt on our part to concretely assert our claim. The US didn't want us to add to their growing problem in Vietnam. History,” he said, referring to the Philippines’ claim of Sabah.

Marcos said the Philippines “acquired sovereignty and dominion over the territory of Sabah in accordance with a series of events, acts, agreements and transactions, including the Deed of Cession from the Sultan of Sulu of 1962 to the Philippines.”

“I also wish to say that the Philippines will pursue its right to Sabah by peaceful means in accordance with the provisions of its Constitution, our Constitution, which renounces war as an instrument of national policy, and that our country is also committed to the principles of the United Nations binding member states to the pacific settlement of international disputes,” Marcos said in September 22, 1968.

Hussein branded as “irresponsible” Locsin’s statement, saying it could jeopardize bilateral ties between Malaysia and the Philippines.

Sulu Sultans

In Sulu, Paramount Sultan Ibrahim Q. Bahjin-Shakirullah II, said North Borneo is an inextricable part and parcel of the Sultanate of Sulu.

In a statement released August 3 this year, he said the Sultanate of Sulu asserts its position on the following: 1.) The Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo was never lawfully ceded to the Republic of the Philippines, and therefore remains a sovereign and independent state; 2.) The stipulation in the Deed of 1878 that the lessees of North Borneo shall administer the territory for “as long as they choose or desire to use them” places it in the category of a “perpetual lease”, effective for 100 years under international law. The contract of lease has therefore expired and possession over North Borneo should now be exercised by the Sultanate of Sulu, its rightful owner. And 3.) The heirs of Jamalul Kiram II do not have private ownership of Sabah. The territory continues to be owned by the Sultanate of Sulu, and not any private person.

He said in view of the history of the Sultanate and the circumstances surrounding the lease of Sabah, “we desire the recognition of the independent statehood and sovereignty of the Islamic Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo.”

But Sultan Muedzul-Lail Tan Kiram, who claims to be the 35th Sultan of Sulu and North Borneo, said his grandfather, Sultan Mohammad Esmail Enang Kiram, who was recognized by the Philippine government in 1957, “transferred the rights of North Borneo under the government of President Diosdado Macapagal in 1962.”

He said - in a statement released by the Royal House of Sulu on August 4 this year – that his father, Sultan Mohammad Mahakuttah Abdulla Kiram and him being the Crown Prince of Sulu, confirmed the transfer of the rights of North Borneo to the Philippine government and this was made official through Memorandum Order No. 427 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1974.

“We aspire for an amicable solution to the predicament that affects us all in this region,” Kiram said, adding, “The Royal House of Sulu firmly believes that diplomacy will allow us to move forward as governments and other parties involved play a crucial role from alleviating our people from poverty.”

The two are only among the 5 recognized sultans in Sulu. The others are Sultans Mohammad Venizar Julkarnain Jainal Abirin, Muizuddin Jainal Abirin Bahjin and Phugdalun Kiram II with Sulu Governor Dr. Sakur Tan, also called Datu Shabandar, as their Special Envoy. (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/08/malaysia-again-trashes-philippines.html

Caraga RPOC resumes implementation of projects amid pandemic

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 7, 2020): Caraga RPOC resumes implementation of projects amid pandemic (By DILG Caraga)


BUTUAN CITY, August 7 (PIA) -- The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) of Caraga region is set to resume the implementation of its various projects and activities on maintaining and enforcing peace and order in the region amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

During the virtual meeting for the 3rd Quarter of 2020 presided by Surigao del Sur provincial governor and council chairperson Alexander T. Pimentel held on Wednesday, July 29, a forum for an inter-disciplinary dialogue and deliberation of major issues and concerns affecting peace and order and public safety and anti-insurgency strategies was provided for the council’s 37 members.

The meeting yielded the creation of the Special Action Committees (SACs) in order to address and prevent specific incidents affecting the region such as on anti-insurgency and prevention of violent extremism, anti-criminality, public safety, and crisis management.

The council also agreed to converge efforts in the provision of support services to select barangays in line with the implementation of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP).

On the usage of schools as quarantine facilities for COVID-19, it was also discussed during the meeting that local government units (LGUs) may seek for the Department of Education (DepEd) approval to extend the usage of schools as quarantine facilities for COVID-19 cases.

The department has previously issued a directive that LGUs may only use schools for the said purpose until the end of July.

Request for extension shall be sent to the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government (SILG) Eduardo M. Año or Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr, Chief Implementer of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Diseases (IATF-MEID).

The council approved and adopted the Handbook in Handling Conflict-Induced Internal Displacement, which shall provide guidelines in the management of internally-displaced persons in the region.

The meeting also provided the council an opportunity to commend the efforts and achievements of various members to maintain the peace and order in the region.

Among those was the arrest of KAPA Community Ministry International leader/founder Pastor Joel A. Apolinario, his wife, and 23 of his men, which was made successful through the partnership between the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Local government leaders were also praised for accomplishing the establishment Home Defense Villages (HDV) and hallway houses in the various provinces and cities. An HDV had now been established in Sitio Amongon in Barangay Noli in Bayugan City. Meanwhile, the halfway house in Brgy. Bancasi, Butuan City is already at 100 percent. (Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa, DILG Caraga/DMNR/PIACaraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1049707

TESDA to upskill AFP, PNP officers in Iligan City

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 7, 2020): TESDA to upskill AFP, PNP officers in Iligan City (By Apipa P. Bagumbaran)



ILIGAN CITY, Aug. 7 (PIA) - To address the challenge of not having enough trainers to reach far-flung communities, the Technical Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) in Lanao del Norte is set to provide skills training to police and military officers here.

The first batch of participants for the training of trainers coming from the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, 554th Engineer Battalion, Iligan City Police Office (ICPO), and residents of Balay Silangan Reformatory was welcomed in the Regional Training Center (RTC) Iligan by TESDA Mindanao Cluster Head Director Lorenzo Macapili, TESDA Region 10 Director Tarhata Mapandi, TESDA Lanao del Norte Provincial Director Noralaine Rasul, and RTC Iligan OIC Administrator Mario Labisig along with key government officials on Thursday, August 6.

TESDA Mindanao Cluster Head Director Lorenzo Macapili emphasizes that the training of trainers is a strategy to equip members of the PNP and AFP so that they could help TESDA and other national line agencies in the implementation of Executive Order 70 which institutionalizes a ‘whole-of-nation' approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace. (Angelo Dologmandin/PIA ICIC)

Macapili said the training program is in line with the memorandum of agreement (MOA) inked by TESDA with the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Under the MOA, TESDA will provide free skills training, assessment, and issue certifications to qualified DND and PNP personnel who have undergone skills training and Trainers Methodology Course.

The trained personnel, on the other hand, will help TESDA in training and empowering former rebels, Indigenous People (IPs), and other members of remote communities.

Macapili emphasized that the training of trainers is also a strategy to equip members of the PNP and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) so that they could help TESDA and other national line agencies in the implementation of Executive Order 70 which institutionalizes a ‘whole-of-nation' approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace.

Residents of the Balay Silangan who will be taught by TESDA to become trainers. (APB/PIA ICIC)

Meanwhile, Iligan City Administrator Ret. Gen. Leony Roy Ga who represented Mayor Celso Regencia during the ceremonial program expressed gratitude to TESDA for accomodating the residents of Balay Silangan.

"LGU Iligan fully supports and commits to all the programs and endeavors of TESDA and we hope that this will become an opportunity for us to improve our partnership in delivering services to the community particularly the residents of Iligan City," he said.

LtCol. Arniel Catarata, Deputy City Director of ICPO, also thanked the TESDA for extending the training to their men. "They will have upliftment of their skills and surely these skills will be used in doing public service while still in the police duties," he said.

"We would like to thank you for the talent, expertise, and time that you would impart to our troops because these skills will help us. Makakasa po kayo sa unit namin na makakatulong kami sa inyo after nitong mga training," added 1Lt Christian Emmanuel Bullanday of the 554th Engineer Battalion.

The AFP, ICPO and Balay Silangan training participants will undergo training on Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II, Plumbing NC II, Organic Agriculture Production NC II, and Pipefitting NC II. (APB/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1049705

NPA members withdraw during Tinambac encounter with 83rd IB

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 7, 2020): NPA members withdraw during Tinambac encounter with 83rd IB (By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay)

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur, Aug. 7 (PIA) – Elements of 83rd Infantry Battalion (83IB) earned another triumph when members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Tinambac, Camarines Sur withdrew after a 10-minute firefight with the government troopers.

Sightings of CTG’s presence in the area alerted concerned residents of Brgy. San Antonio, said town and reported them to the soldiers who immediately conducted security operations.

True enough, at around 8:30 Wednesday morning, responding elements of the 83rd IB encountered at least 15 Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in the said area.

9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) Spokesperson CPT John Paul Belleza said that firefight lasted for about 10 minutes before the enemies withdrew. No one was harmed on the government's side while it’s still undetermined on the enemies' side.

Photo credit: 83rd IB/ 9ID DPAO 

Found in the encounter site were anti-personnel mine, M2O3 40mm grenade, 200-meter electrical wire, ammunitions, personal belongings and propaganda materials of the CNTs.

JTFB under MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, 9ID Commander, extended his gratitude to the residents for the prompt report.

MGen Robinson attributed this development to the combined extensive military operations, intensified campaigns in encouraging the CTG members to return to the folds of the law and the cooperation of the local populace to the anti-insurgency campaigns of the government.

In the press statement issued by DPAO, they noted the surrender of alias Sandy and Ramir of Bato; alias Cris, Jay-r and Roselyn of Sipocot, all regular members of CTG who voluntarily surrendered to the PNP and the Army just this week.

“Our decisive military operations will not stop until we finally clear all conflict-affected areas from the influence of the CTG. The recent recoveries and scores of the Army and our counterpart from the PNP speak about our persistent thrust to eradicate the lingering presence of communist insurgency in our region,” Robinson added.

The 9ID Commander again call on CTG members to return to the folds of law, embrace peace and be reunited with their families and loved ones. (LSMacatangay, with reports from CJPBelleza, DPAO 9ID-PIAV/Camarines Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1049739

PRLEC CamNorte launches “One Province, One Barangay” in Guisican, Labo

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 7, 2020): PRLEC CamNorte launches “One Province, One Barangay” in Guisican, Labo (By Rosalita B. Manlangit)

DAET, Camarines Norte, Aug. 7 (PIA) – In order to promote and empower priority far flung community residents affected by insurgency, a project dubbed as “One Province, One Barangay” was launched in Brgy. Guisican, Labo recently. It aims to bring the convergence of government resources to the beneficiaries.

This will be through the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster-Provincial Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PRLEC-PTF-ELCAC) led by the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA).

TESDA Regional Director Toni June A. Tamayo said that the project was the brainchild of their Director General, Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña in response to Executive Order 70 or the Whole-of-Nation Approach in eliminating local communists’ armed conflict to attain lasting peace.

Tamayo said that “One province, One Barangay” was also launched in Masbate and will soon start in other provinces.

It aims to attain food security in the countryside. He said that there will be no security if there is no food. He added that in this time of pandemic, backyard gardening helped a lot in rural areas.

He added that the focus of TESDA funds this year is more on agriculture and construction but other skills training will still continue.

"The project will not only focus on planting, but we'll l be giving training on entrepreneurship, establishment of agricultural production site, trading center among others to be provided by the partner agencies , he said.

 

Regional Director Toni June A. Tamayo discusses the different interventions to be given by partner agencies for the "One Province, One Barangay" project, during its launching held July 30. (RBManlangit-PIA5/Camarines Norte) 

The ribbon cutting ceremony marked the beginning of the project implementation not only for Barangay Guisican but also for Brgy. Bayabas, both identified areas that need convergence action as recommended earlier by the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA).

PRLEC member-agencies also affirmed their commitment and signed pledged of support during the launching.

TESDA Acting Provincial Director June B. Oliveros also thanked the provincial government for their continuous support through technical and financial assistance in all undertakings and collaboration efforts.

The activity was also graced by Congressional District I Representative, Congresswoman Josie Baning Tallado, District I Board Members Aida Dasco and Artemio Serdon who also expressed support to TESDA’s project.

It was also attended by local officials and beneficiaries headed by Brgy. Guisican Punong Barangay Danilo E. Bequio and Brgy. Bayabas Punong Barangay Medel G. Labayan who extended their sincerest gratitude in behalf of their people for such great project that would bring livelihood to their community.

One of the beneficiaries, Shirley Villaluz Lara, chieftain of Guisican, thanked the stakeholders for the opportunity of being included in the project.

The said launching will be followed by a series of training in 8 batches within 64 days to be given to the 200 participants including the eight (8) “Manide” or Indigenous Peoples (IPs) from the said two barangays.

The series of training include: production of organic vegetables, organic fertilizer, organic concoction and extract and raise organic ruminants that will lead to Organic Agriculture Production with a National Certificate II (NCII).

PRLEC member agencies and support stakeholders include DA, DAR, DOLE, LBP, DOT, PCA, NIA, DENR, NCIP, DSWD, BFAR, CDA, DILG, AFP-PA, PNP, PIA, OPAPP, NAPC, NICA, NEDA and LGU-Labo. (RBManlangit-PIA5/Camarines Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1049709

N. Samar Army lauds NPA loyal supporter's peace efforts

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7, 2020): N. Samar Army lauds NPA loyal supporter's peace efforts (By Sarwell Meniano)



ABANDONING NPA. A soldier shakes hand with Baby Senobio in San Francisco, Las Navas, Northern Samar in this August 5, 2020 photo shared by the Philippine Army. The military lauded her for abandoning the communist ideology and taking part in peace efforts in their village. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 20th Infantry Battalion)

The Philippine Army lauded a staunch supporter of the New People’s Army for abandoning the communist ideology and taking part in peace efforts in their village in Las Navas, Northern Samar.

In a social media post, the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion (IB) honored on Thursday the humility of Baby Senobio for turning her back on the communists. The military is optimistic that more NPA fighters and their supporters will follow her footsteps.

Senobio, a community official in San Francisco, Las Navas town was a member of the “secret and exposed” left-leaning organizations in Northern Samar. These are Northern Samar Small Farmers Association, Alliance san Parag-uma Anti-hunger san Las Navasnon, and Stand with Samar-Leyte, among others.

“Currently, her view seems to have changed. The former hated soldier is now on her side in promoting the programs he deserves for his countrymen,” said Lt. Col. Juan Gullem, commander of the Army’s 20th IB in a phone interview.

The military started to notice the change in Senobio’s view last month.

Citing accounts of former rebels, Senobio's home served as a temporary shelter for armed rebels sighted in San Francisco village.

She was one of the active personalities in organizing anti-government demonstrations from 2016 to 2019 in her hometown and the Las Navas local government had declared her before as persona non grata.

Senobio’s sister, Maricris Pajanilla, is the medical officer of the NPA sub-regional committee arctic operating in the Pacific towns of Northern Samar based on documents recovered by the military after a clash on April 23, 2020.

“I hope her experience will serve as a light to those who are lost and are taking the dark path. To the other personalities in Las Navas, it's not too late. Like Baby Senobio there is still time to change. We will wait for your return,” Gullem said.

Las Navas, a fourth-class town in Northern Samar with a population of 38,000, has been the center of propaganda by several organizations linked to the CPP-NPA.

For years, left-leaning groups have been accusing government forces of human rights violations, militarization, extra-judicial killings, mass evacuation, among others, according to the Philippine Army.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1111472

53 ex-NPA rebels in Sarangani get aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7, 2020): 53 ex-NPA rebels in Sarangani get aid (By Richelyn Gubalani)



REINTEGRATION AID. Some of the former members of the communist New People’s Army from parts of Sarangani who received financial and livelihood assistance on Friday (Aug. 7, 2020) through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. The recipients were former members of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 71 who have surrendered to the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion since January. (PNA photo by Richelyn Gubalani)

At least 53 former members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) from parts of Sarangani province received livelihood and financial assistance on Friday through the government’s reintegration program.

Lt. Col. Ronaldo Valdez, commanding officer of the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion, said the former guerillas received immediate financial assistance and livelihood grants as set under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

The grants, which are part of the program’s initial assistance package, consist of PHP65,000 for each recipient, with PHP50,000 allotted for the livelihood assistance and PHP15,000 for the initial financial aid.

Valdez said the returnees were mostly former members of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 71 (Tala) -Far South Mindanao Region who have surrendered to troops in the municipalities of Alabel, Malapatan, Malungon, and Glan since January.

“We immediately processed their enrollment into the ECLIP and they eventually qualified for the assistance,” he said during a simple ceremony held at the Pacman beach resort in Barangay Tinoto, Maasim town on Friday morning.

Valdez said the released grants were on top of the incentives the former rebels would receive under the firearms remuneration program.

Sarangani lone district Rep. Ruel Pacquiao, who graced the event, distributed an unspecified amount to each of the returnees as additional assistance, released through the Ronda Probinsya component of the province’s Kalinaw (peace) program.

Pacquiao assured that his office would continue to find ways to assist the needs of the returnees as they return to their communities and lead normal lives.

He said poverty should not be a reason for residents to get lured into joining the NPA and fight the government.

“We need to strive more to improve our lives and the government is always there to help us,” Pacquiao said.

As part of ECLIP’s support packages, the former rebels underwent lectures and orientations from the Department of Agriculture and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) 12 (Soccsksargen).

Valdez added that some of the returnees have undergone various skills training through TESDA and are ready to start their livelihood projects.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1111550

Pompeo, Locsin discuss US policy in SCS, maritime cooperation

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7, 2020): Pompeo, Locsin discuss US policy in SCS, maritime cooperation (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and his American counterpart, Michael Pompeo, discussed on Thursday (August 6) Washington's policy shift in the South China Sea (SCS).

According to a press readout by the State Department, the two top diplomats also talked about America's support to Southeast Asian states in upholding their sovereign rights and interests in the region, including a possible US-Philippine maritime cooperation.

The telephone conversation comes after Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on August 3 revealed that Manila is not joining any naval drills in the South China Sea except within its national waters.

Although Manila is sitting out from the exercises, Locsin underscored that Manila's position remains clear: "What is ours is ours under the Arbitral Award and no one else can tell us different."

"We're sitting out this one, we don't know if there we will (be in) the next one," he said in his tweet.

Vietnam and the Philippines, along with some member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), have been contesting the claims of the South China Sea with China, which asserts a large portion of the waters with its invisible demarcation called the nine-dash line.

As Beijing and ASEAN work to conclude a code of conduct in the region, Chinese Ambassador in Manila Huang Xilian said Washington as an "outsider" should respect the efforts being made to maintain peace in the region.

"When you talk about the US as (an) outsider, we expect outsiders to respect the efforts of the regional countries in maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea," he said in a CNN Philippines interview on Friday.

"It’s a regret that we have seen the US meddling vigorously in the South China Sea issue," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1111531

Russia ready to supply, invest on 'vaccine production' in PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7, 2020): Russia ready to supply, invest on 'vaccine production' in PH (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Moscow is ready to supply Manila and invest in the "local production" of a coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine once mass production in Russia starts.

In a virtual presser on Friday, Russian Ambassador Igor Khovaev said the country has already developed an "effective and safe" vaccine, created by the Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology.

"All necessary bureaucratic procedures in order to get an official administrative approval may be completed mid-August. After that the Russian industrial facilities will be ready to prepare all necessary conditions to launch the production of this Russian vaccine," Khovaev said.

The Philippines, should it agree on a partnership, could opt for a deal on vaccine supply, local production on Philippine soil, and clinical trials if necessary.

"The third most promoted option is local production of vaccine on the Philippine soil. It means that we are ready to combine our efforts (and) that we are ready to make necessary investments together with our Philippine partners and share our technologies," he said.

As of this posting, Khoavev said Russia is still waiting for a response from Manila.

"What we need now is get the official response of our Philippine partners about (their) willingness to cooperate with us in this field. After that we'll be ready to launch a negotiation process and to agree upon relevant details," he said.

Khovaev said the vaccine developer is the same laboratory that created a vaccine against Ebola and the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

Citing Russian scientists, he said the results from clinical trials have been "promising".

"Believe me, we don't like risky undertakings. That's why I'm saying again that the vaccine is effective and safe. It's an absolute necessary precondition, which was articulated by Russian President (Vladimir) Putin. We are responsible people," he said.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs conveyed its appreciation for Russia’s willingness to assist the Philippines, as well as its offer to supply the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine developed by Gamaleya.

The offer has been referred to relevant agencies for proper assessment and evaluation, it said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1111569