Lorenzana says no to Sulu-wide martial law

From Rappler (Aug 26, 2020): Lorenzana says no to Sulu-wide martial law (By RAMBO TALABONG)

This spoils the chances of any recommendation for a Sulu-wide martial law to President Rodrigo Duterte as Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana administratively oversees the military

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana does not support the proposed declaration of martial law over Sulu after the Jolo twin bombings that killed 15 and injured at least 75.

In a text message to Rappler on Wednesday, August 26, Lorenzana said there was "no need" for the extreme measure to prevent more acts of terrorism.

"No need. We have the anti-terror law and Proclamation 55 dated 4 September 2016 putting the whole of Mindanao under state of lawlessness. This proclamation has not been lifted yet," Lorenzana said.

Why does this matter?

Lorenzana was reacting to the proposal of both the military and the police to place Sulu under military rule.

With his statement, Lorenzana agreed with the critics of the proposal, like Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Senator Panfilo Lacson, who both said martial law was unnecessary given the recently enacted anti-terror law.

Lorenzana's statement spoils the chances of any recommendation reaching President Rodrigo Duterte as he administratively oversees the military.

What's in place?

The controversial anti-terror law allows for the detention of suspected terrorists for up to 24 days without arrest warrants. That length of detention, state security forces previously argued, would be enough to build a case against suspected terrorists to seal convictions and deter terrorism.

President Duterte's Proclamation No. 55, meanwhile, was issued in September 2016 after the Davao City night market bombing that killed 14 and injured at least 70. It declared a "state of national emergency on account of lawless violence in Mindanao."

The proclamation commands "the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to undertake such measures as may be permitted by the Constitution and existing laws to suppress any and all forms of lawless violence in Mindanao and to prevent such lawless violence from spreading and escalating elsewhere in the Philippines with due regard to the fundamental civil and political rights of our citizens."

https://rappler.com/nation/lorenzana-says-no-sulu-wide-martial-law

Did terrorists influence killing of 4 intel soldiers in Jolo? Hontiveros calls for probe

From Rappler (Aug 26, 2020): Did terrorists influence killing of 4 intel soldiers in Jolo? Hontiveros calls for probe (By JC GOTINGA)

'Deretsahang tanong: Did terrorist elements somehow influence, directly or indirectly, the killing of these soldiers?' asks Senator Risa Hontiveros

Senator Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday, August 26, called for a full investigation of the deadly twin bombings in Jolo, Sulu, earlier this week, and its possible connection to the killing of 4 intelligence soldiers by police in late June.

The opposition senator said a comprehensive probe “with no cover-ups” is necessary to get to “the full truth, no matter how ugly or inconvenient” about what led to the suicide attacks that killed at least 14 people and wounded at least 75 others on Monday, August 24.

She also urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) to relieve the entire police force in Jolo, as reports from the military raise the possibility that cops killed the 4 intelligence soldiers on June 29 to sabotage their mission to capture the two would-be suicide bombers.

“Deretsahang tanong (Direct question): Did terrorist elements somehow influence, directly or indirectly, the killing of these soldiers?” Hontiveros said in a privilege speech before the Senate plenary.

The investigation, the senator said, should answer 3 questions:

What motivated the killing of the soldiers on June 29?
Why was evidence from the crime scene haphazardly handled, and could this have led to military intelligence reaching the enemy?
Should accountability for all these go higher than the Jolo local police?

Targets got away

Earlier on Wednesday, Philippine Army chief Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana said the two female suicide bombers in the Jolo blasts were the surveillance targets of the intelligence mission of Army soldiers Marvin Indammog, Irwin Managuelod, Jaime Velasco, and Abdal Asula – all slain.

Hontiveros said she received information that the 4 soldiers were already “closing in” on both targets during their signals intelligence (SIGINT) operation on June 29, when they were waylaid by 9 policemen and later on shot dead in broad daylight in downtown Jolo.

At the time, the Army said the loss of the soldiers was a setback in counterterrorism in Sulu, and that the women planning a suicide bomb attack got away because of it.

The bombers knew they were being trailed

Hontiveros disputed the PNP’s claim that the cops were after Asula, whom they alleged was involved in illegal drugs. If so, why was there no record of an anti-drug operation in Jolo at the time, and no coordination between the police and the local unit of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency?

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Joint Task Force Sulu had informed the local and provincial police about the 4 soldiers’ counterterrorism operation, and even sought their help in hunting down the targets.

During his confirmation hearing at the Senate on Monday, Sulu task force chief Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr, now military commander in Western Mindanao, said it was possible the cops who killed the soldiers were somehow linked to the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group. Sulu is a small province, and it is common to have terrorists and lawmen belonging to the same clan.

The suicide bombers, alias Nanah and alias Inda Nay, were working for the Abu Sayyaf, which has links to the Islamic State (ISIS) terror network, the military said. Nanah was the widow of Filipino suicide bomber Norman Lasuca, and Inda Nay, the widow of Abu Sayyaf fighter Abu Talha.

“What lends this theory support is information I have received that on June 29, the soldiers found out that the bombers knew that they were being trailed by the AFP,” Hontiveros said.

'Last seen'

Messaging apps on Indammog’s mobile phone registered “last seen” time stamps past the hour when he was killed – leading Hontiveros to ask why the phone was not immediately handed over to the military.

“Kung ang tanong lang pagkatapos ng June 29 ay ‘ano ang tinatago ng kapulisan at bakit parang may cover-up,’ ngayon, pagkatapos ng pagbomba sa Jolo, ang tanong na ay ‘mayroon bang military intelligence na napunta na sa kamay ng kalaban?’” Hontiveros said.

(If the question after June 29 was only, “what are the police hiding and why does there seem to be a cover up,” now, after the bombing of Jolo, the question is “is there military intelligence that has ended up in the hands of the enemy?”)

The senator also questioned the PNP’s refusal to preventively suspend the 9 cops involved in the killing of the soldiers. PNP chief General Archie Gamboa said it is beyond his authority, and a suspension could only be meted out when guilt is proven.

Hontiveros is concerned that the 9 suspects may still have access to police intelligence unless they are suspended. “In light of the statements of Lieutenant General Vinluan, I am deeply concerned over the risks to our national security,” she said.

Seeking “more decisiveness” from the PNP’s leaders, the senator urged them to relieve the entire Jolo police force, in order to “eliminate doubts about terrorist infiltration, reassure Filipinos, and give the investigation a free hand.”

https://rappler.com/nation/hontiveros-calls-probe-terrorists-influence-killing-soldiers

Mundi Sawadjaan behind Jolo twin bombings, military says

From Rappler (Aug 26, 2020): Mundi Sawadjaan behind Jolo twin bombings, military says (By RAMBO TALABONG)



Mundi Sawadjaan is a known unit sub-leader and bombmaker of the Abu Sayyaf Group

Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) unit sub-leader and bombmaker Mudzrimar "Mundi" Sawadjaan is behind the twin suicide bombings in Jolo, Sulu that killed at least 15 and injured at least 75.

"Iyong mastermind same pa rin siya, si Mundi Sawadjaan (The mastermind is the same, it's Mundi Sawadjaan),” AFP Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief Major General Corleto Vinluan Jr said in an interview with DZMM.

He was referring to the March 24 twin blasts and also the January 2019 Jolo Cathedral bombings that killed 20 and injured at least 100.

Who is Mundi?

Mundi Sawadjaan is a known bombmaker of the ASG. He is the nephew of Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, the leader of the ASG faction that associates itself with the Islamic State (ISIS).
After the blasts on Monday, SITE Intelligence, a US-based group that monitors online communications among Muslim militant groups, reported that the IS East Asia province had issued a statement claiming responsibility for the attacks.

The military is still tracking both Mundi and Hatib Hajan in Mindanao.

https://rappler.com/nation/military-report-person-behind-jolo-bombings

CAFGU member killed

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 26, 2020): CAFGU member killed

A member of the Civilian Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) was declared dead on arrival at the Teresita Lopez Jalandoni Provincial Hospital in Silay City, after he was stabbed by his colleague inside their detachment Monday night in Brgy. San Pablo, Manapla, Negros Occidental.

The victim was identified by the Manapla police as CAFGU member Joseph Claro of Hacienda Anicia, Brgy. San Pablo, Manapla.

Manapla police investigation revealed that a heated argument ensued between Claro, 41, and the suspect identified as CAFGU member Noel Garcia, 31, while on duty at the Ining detachment in the barangay.

Garcia, of Hacienda Minoro, Brgy. 14, Victorias City, stabbed Claro in the right side of his abdomen with a bladed weapon and fled immediately.

Claro, who was initially treated for his stab wound at the Dr. Ramon Gustilo Hospital in Manapla, was later transferred to the TLJPH in Silay City, the police said.

Capt. Jaynick Bermudez, Manapla police chief, said yesterday that they arrested Garcia at his residence in Victorias City during their pursuit operation with no resistance on the part of the suspect.

https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/August/26/topstory9.htm

No Muslim extremist threat in Visayas

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 26, 2020): No Muslim extremist threat in Visayas

There is no threat from Muslim extremists monitored in Western and Central Visayas, Army spokesman Maj. Cenon Pancito III said last night.

Pancito, however, said that they are not taking chances as they continuously monitor any threat that may undermine the peace and order situation in the two Visayas regions.

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division has infantry units deployed in Negros, Panay, and Bohol.

The twin blasts in Jolo, Sulu on Monday had killed at least 14 people and wounded 77 others.

Pancito said that they will continue to process any information to be on top of the security situation in the two Visayas regions, as he renewed their call to everyone to report any information that may be of help to law enforcement agencies to promptly address any threat.

The Police Regional Office 6 also issued a statement last night encouraging everyone to be more vigilant.

Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO 6 spokesperson, said that the whole Region is under Terrorism Threat Level 1, which means that they have not monitored threats in the region.

Malong said that the aim of the terrorist group is to sow fear among people by destroying innocent lives and properties and gain attention of the international media.

The more we are afraid, the more they will prevail, she stressed, adding that there is a need for all residents of Western Visayas to unite in preventing terrorist attacks.

Army chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, who is a Negrense, yesterday said he is contemplating to recommend that Sulu be placed under Martial Law following the twin bombings.

Two of the police officers injured in the twin bombings used to be assigned in Western Visayas.

Sobejana clarified that his recommendation for Sulu to be placed under Martial Law still has to pass through the military's chain-of-command and forwarded to President Rodrigo Duterte and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/August/26/topstory8.htm

Alert level 3 for Davao City as culture of security is pushed

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 26, 2020): Alert level 3 for Davao City as culture of security is pushed (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)



MAYOR Sara Duterte has urged Davaoeños to remain vigilant and be an active partner of the city’s culture of security campaign in light of the bombing incident in Jolo, Sulu.

The mayor said that Davao City is no stranger to any acts of terrorism and so people should always play their role outlined in the culture of security program—volunteer, report, remind and participate.

Angel Sumagaysay, the head of the Public Security and Safety Command Center (PSSCC), said Davao City is on alert status level 3, based on the recommendation of the Davao City Anti-Terror Council.

“We have coordinated with the different security clusters to strengthen our security measures,” Sumagaysay said on Monday.

Sumagaysay added that the barangay captains were already instructed to utilize their village security forces and other multipliers to safeguard their areas of responsibility. They were told to immediately report suspicious persons to the Davao City Police Office and Task Force Davao.

The Central 911 Call Center was also instructed to promptly answer any calls that may be vital to local security and relay the information to the city’s security units. Sumagaysay urged the public to cooperate with all checkpoint protocols and to expect stricter checks, which may delay their travels.

No direct threat

Meanwhile, the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) said that there is no intelligence report of any direct threat from fundamentalist groups.

However, Lt. Gen Jose Faustino Jr., EastMinCom chief, still directed all unit commanders to ramp up their security operations to prevent the possible spillover of the incident. The command is also working closely with its adjacent military units and law enforcement agencies, especially with the PNP, to ensure the maximum safety of the public.

“We also urge the public to be vigilant and to immediately report to the authorities any suspicious individuals or activities in their area,” Faustino said. “It is in this moment that all of us need to be security-conscious and that we need to uphold even more our culture of security.”

“Rest assured that the safety of everyone is our primary concern,” he added.To report suspicious persons and activities in their community, Davaoeños can call the Task Force Davao hotline numbers Globe: 0917 131 4333, Smart: 0999 227 1111, and Tel. No: (082) 224 0911.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/08/26/alert-level-3-for-davao-city-as-culture-of-security-is-pushed/

NPA at 16, surrendered at 21

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 26, 2020): NPA at 16, surrendered at 21 (By Michael Uy)



DAVAO DE ORO, Aug. 26 (PIA) - - Ang ako lang pangandoy sa una nga makahuman ko sa akong pag eskwela ug makatarbaho para makatabang sa akong pamilya. Pero wala nako natuman na kay nalinla man ko sa kalihukan. (My dreams then is to finish my schooling, and get a job to help my family. But I did not achieved that because I was deceived by the movement)

His dreams then were simple but all have gone to waste as he was deceived to join the New People’s Army in 2015.

Alias Ading was 16 when he was convinced to participate in the rallies within the region, and eventually, join the communist armed movement. He was in his second year in high school at that time.

“Second year high school ko, naka undang ko tungod kay nalinya man ko nila, nisampa ko sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan,” he said. (Second year in high school was when I stopped (going to school) because I joined them – the revolutionary movement.)

Ading recalled that at a young age, the communist group taught him the doctrines of the movement, including branding President Rodrigo Duterte as a fascist.

He was also trained to go to and survive in a war; then he was assigned for an operation.

“Paghuman sa operasyon mga unom ka bulan, nananghid ko na mouli sa among balay kay motiwas ko og eskwela. Apan dili na daw ko pwede moulli kay tungod patyon daw ko sa mga sundalo,” he said. (After the operation of six months, I asked permission to go home and continue my studies. But I was told that I cannot go home because I will be killed by the military.)

Because of that propaganda, he was forced to continue with the NPA; and in 2018, he was designated as the vice commander of the Guerilla Force 25, North Front.

He stayed for five years in the movement, until he found out that the promises of the NPA to him and his families were not realized.

“Pasaligan ko nila na tabangan akong pamilya na padalhan og kwarta bulan-bulan pero wala nila gituman,” he said. (They promised that they will help my family through sending money to them monthly; but they never fulfilled.)

After grueling years of being with the NPA, Ading decided that he had enough of the lies of the NPA, and wished to live a decent, and peaceful life.

Aside from the unfulfilled promises, Ading emphasized that the reasons he surrendered were “walay tarong nga kaon sa kalihukan ug giminingaw nako sa akong pamilya." (there is no proper eating habits in the movement and I missed my family.)

On August 22, he surrendered to the 25th Infantry Battalion carrying with him an M16 rifle, an M653 rifle, and six magazines with 58 ammunitions.

Lieutenant Colonel Asnawi Muti, battalion commander, warmly welcomed the young vice commander and belied some of the statements of the NPA like torturing or killing their rebel-comrades when they surrender.

Muti, however, slammed the communist movement for brainwashing and recruiting minors to be deployed to war, which he said, is a violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

“They take away these children from their parents to make them revolutionary fighters and build their hatred against the government,” he said.

Ading also revealed that the NPA is in recruiting the youth nowadays because “lagtik pa og hunahuna ug ligon pa ang kalawasan.” (they still have a sharp mind, and a strong body.)

As of now, Ading will be enrolled to the programs under the Oplan Pagbabago Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) including the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). (PIA11, Michael Uy)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051364

TESDA's training of trainers kicks-off

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 26, 2020): TESDA's training of trainers kicks-off (By Christine Lyn G. Viajante)



ILIGAN CITY, Aug. 25 (PIA)--The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) jumpstarts its 'Training of Trainers' program here, Monday, through its Regional Training Center (RTC) to address the need for trainers in far-flung areas in the province of Lanao del Norte and Iligan City.

TESDA aims to provide skills training more conveniently for indigenous people, former rebels, and the less fortunate living in remote areas through the troops from the Philippine Army (PA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

This partnership has been sealed by a memorandum of agreement signed by TESDA Secretary Isidro S. Lapena and the Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana last May 15, 2020.

Mario S. Labisig, officer-in-charge center administrator of TESDA-RTC Iligan, said this is just one of three stages before the police and military troops will be officially deployed as trainers.

"After the completion of their National Certificate II (NCII) training, they will get their Trainer's Methodology Certificate Level 1 (TMC), then the National TVET Trainer's Certificate (NTTC), pwede an agad silang i-tap ng TESDA to become trainers," Labisig elaborated.

Labisig said all the phases of the training can be completed in more or less 70 days. He also called for the core beneficiaries to approach TESDA according to their needs.

"Sana makipag-cooperate sila sa TESDA para mabigyan namin sila ng naaayon na training para sa pangkabuhayan nila, he added. [We hope that they (the beneficiaries) will cooperate with TESDA for us to give the appropriate training that they need for their livelihood.]

Officer-in-charge center administrator of TESDA-RTC Iligan Mario S. Labisi expresses gratitude for the training participants commitment to TESDA's program. (GCR/PIA-ICIC)

The Iligan City Police Office (ICPO) and the 554th Engineer Battalion also take part in the training. Both teams will undergo electrical installation, photovoltaic system installation and plumbing. While women from the 55th Engineer Brigade will be trained in driving.

The 42nd Mechanized Infantry "Dahunog" Company will enhance their skills in organic agriculture production based on the community assessment they conducted weeks before TESDA launched the program.

1Lt Wynchelle Oamil, Dahunog company commander, expressed their willingness to extend their responsibilities in serving the country, especially if it is in a way of alleviating the lives of the people living in the outskirts of the province.

"We are willing to help them to develop and then siyempre, not only for peace but then sabi nga namin, i-aahon din namin sila sa kahirapan sa abot ng makakaya lang din ng tropa namin," Oamil stressed. [We are willing to help them to develop (economically), not only for peace but like what we always say, we will help them in making their lives more comfortable as far as our troops could do.]

She also said this program aims to train more trainers so that more people will also be trained in return.

"Gusto namin matuto ng organic farming, kasi gusto namin i-share sa mga tao dito sa nasasakupan namin. May mga areas kasi dito na malalayo na nagfa-farming din sila, but then hindi pa sapat yung kaalaman nila sa pagsasaka, kaya andito kami," Oamil added.

[We wanted to learn about organic farming and share this knowledge with the people in our area of responsibility. They are also farming, but their knowledge is not substantial enough, that's why we're here.] (CLGV/PIA-ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051312

Former rebels encourage youths not to be victims of false ideology

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 26, 2020): Former rebels encourage youths not to be victims of false ideology (By Myra Cel L. Espinosa)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Aug 26 (PIA) – The 76 Former Rebels (FRs) listed from January to August who surrendered to the government this year are now reunited with their families through the assistance from the different government agencies.

Former rebel leader alyas Peewee, a member for 20 years of the communist rebel group shared the struggles which they experienced including hunger and weariness in the upland. As such, he is discouraging individuals especially the youth in joining the communist groups and not become victims of the false ideology as what they have experienced for so many years.

He also shared that after he surrendered, he personally experienced the services that the government provides to the FRs and to their families. “Makaingon gyud ko na sayop ang gituuhan ug gihuna huna sa mga naa sa bundok na once na naa ka diri pasakitan ka kay ako mismo karon saksi na ko ana na nakita nako karon na wala ko nila unsaa,” he added.

[I can say that the belief of people in the upland are wrong that when you surrender to the government, they will torture you. But I witnessed personally and I experienced that they did not hurt us.]

The government especially the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict continue the program that encourages rebels to come down from the uplands and be one with the government once again. There is a better future waiting for them which the different government agencies prepared in order for them to sustain their livelihood.

Dir. Ariel Perlado, the Regional Director of National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) said that the government will not stop even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, “we want to showcase to the general public and to all the people who joined the communist groups, that this is what the government can offer to them when they surrender,” he said. (RVC/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051298

Sogod upland barangay gets water system during PTF-ELCAC caravans, pulong-pulong sorties

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 26, 2020): Sogod upland barangay gets water system during PTF-ELCAC caravans, pulong-pulong sorties (By Erna S. Gorne)

MAASIN CITY, August 25 (PIA) -- Barangay Milagroso, an upland barangay in Sogod, Southern Leyte will soon have their water system installed as an offshoot of the Lokal Serbisyo Caravan and Grand Pulong-pulong held in Brgy. Milagroso Elementary School on August 12, 2020.

Barangay residents expressed their need for water system to be installed at their highly-elevated area, as observed during the conduct of series of Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) caravans and pulong-pulongs.

The residents did not prefer swine production and hog fattening, among others, due to lack of water supply, it was learned.

With the presence of Sogod Vice Mayor Jose Ramil Golo, who also represented the Sogod MTF-ELCAC team, assured the barangay residents to bring the matter with Mayor Imelda Tan to highly consider the water supply problem in Brgy. Milagroso.

Seeing the need for water system in the implementation of potential livelihood projects in the area, Vice Mayor Golo assured the far-flung barangay residents to respond to their plight together with the municipal council.

Among other government agencies, the Department of Labor and Employment also committed to bring in livelihood projects such as dressmaking for the women’s group while TESDA is set to provide skills trainings as well.

Through the guidance of Lt. Col. Roberto Obaob of the 14IB, 8ID, the PTF-ELCAC members willingly converged in three other hinterland barangays, namely Kauswagan, Benit and Kahupi-an, all of Sogod for the series of caravans and pulong-pulongs held from August 11-13, 2020. (ldl/esg/PIA Southern Leyte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051265

Child warriors, comrades undergo psychosocial rehab

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 26, 2020): Child warriors, comrades undergo psychosocial rehab (By PA 2ID PDAO)

Seven former rebels, including two child warriors who recently surrendered to government forces undergo a two-day Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program facilitated by a social worker from the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 4A held in Rizal Province recently. (Photo: PA 2ID DPAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal, Aug 26 (PIA) – Seven former rebels, including two child warriors that recently surrendered to government forces, successfully completed on Friday the two-day Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program held in Rizal Province.

Lt Col Rimrad Feraer, Commanding Officer of the 80th Infantry Battalion who spearheaded the event, said the former rebels belong to the Dumagat Remontado tribe in the Sierra Madre.

He added the undertaking was “a result of our consultation with the IP tribal leaders who pointed out that most of the Dumagat former rebels are suffering from psychological trauma resulting from being forced, coerced and threatened at gun point by the NPA terrorists to support the underground movement.”

In his report, Lt Col Feraer said the highlight of the program was the psychosocial debriefing facilitated by a qualified and competent social worker from the Department of Social and Welfare Development Region 4A Field Office.

Brigadier General Alex Rillera, Commander of the 202nd Infantry Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over the area, said “the government is aware and sensitive to the fact that beyond the financial grants under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, it is imperative that we extend professional help to our former rebels, particularly the minors, so they may be able to once again lead normal lives.”

According to the military, the endeavour which is in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for a whole of nation approach in solving insurgency, is the first in Southern Tagalog and a product of collaboration and cooperation between the AFP, DILG, DSWD, TESDA and NCIP and support from the private sector particularly from the DV Boer International Farm Inc.

BGen Rillera ended his statement by reaffirming his commitment to his previous proclamation that his “soldiers will do everything within our means to protect our indigenous people’s innocence and peaceful nature from being exploited by the NPA terrorists whose desperation for relevance has turned them into a mere ragtag band of miscreants who have no place in Philippine society.”

Major General Arnulfo Marcelo B Burgos Jr, Commander of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division covering Southern Tagalog, took cognizance of Regional Task Force ELCAC 4A’s innovation and going the extra mile to help the former rebels who decided to turn their backs from armed struggle.

“This significant activity is a manifestation of the Filipino people’s genuine yearning for peace and collective desire to help our fellow men who went astray or fell victim to deception and exploitation of the NPA terrorists”, added Maj Gen Burgos.

He once again condemned “the NPA’s rampant violation of internationally recognised conventions particularly those calling for the respect of the Indigenous People’s rights and those prohibiting the recruitment of minors” describing these as “deplorable acts within the terrorist organization which no word can ever justify."

The military said four out of the seven former rebels have already received Php65,000.00 representing the immediate and livelihood cash assistance under E-CLIP. The enrolment of the three other FRs to the program are currently on process and their benefits are expected to be released anytime next month.

To date, the 2ID has recorded a total of 132 Dumagats who were liberated from the clutches of NPA terrorism since January 2020. (PIA-4A/PA 2ID PDAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051301

Tagalog News: 176 kasundaluhan, kapulisan nagtapos sa Scout Ranger Course

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 26, 2020): Tagalog News: 176 kasundaluhan, kapulisan nagtapos sa Scout Ranger Course (By Shane F. Velasco)

SAN MIGUEL, Bulacan, Agosto 26 (PIA) -- May 176 kasundaluhan at kapulisan ang nagtapos kamakailan sa Scout Ranger Course sa Kampo Tecson.

Bahagi ng Class 210-2019 ang 25 officers at 139 enlisted personnel mula sa Philippine Army, 1 officer at 3 non-commissioned officers mula sa Philippine Navy at 2 commissioned officers at 6 na non-commissioned officers mula sa Philippine National Police.

  

May 176 kasundaluhan at kapulisan ang nagtapos kamakailan sa Scout Ranger Course sa Kampo Tecson. 23 kasundaluhan at kapulisan din ang nagtapos ng Scout Sniper Course Class. (First Scout Ranger Regiment)

Samantala, 23 ang bahagi ng Scout Sniper Course Class 27-2019. Ito ay kinabibilangan ng 4 na officers at 17 non-commissioned officers ng Philippine Army at 2 non-commissioned officers ng Philippine Navy.

Sa kanyang talumpati sa Joint Closing Ceremony ng Scout Ranger Course Class 210-2019 at Scout Sniper Course Class 27-2019 sinabi ni Armed Forces of the Philippines Peace and Development Office Head Brigadier General Francisco Ariel Felicidario III sa mga nagsitapos na tiyakin nilang isabuhay ang naging pagsasanay bilang pinakamagaling na mandirigma at pinakamatatapang na mga sundalo ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas. (CLJD/SFV-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051385

NPA’s remnants in Ilocos urged to surrender for lasting peace

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 26, 2020): NPA’s remnants in Ilocos urged to surrender for lasting peace (By Freddie G. Lazaro)

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Aug. 24 (PIA) - - A high-ranking army official in the Ilocos region urged the surrender of the remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) bandits to the government for the sake of lasting peace.

Brigadier General Audrey L. Pasia, the commander of the army’s 702nd Brigade, called on all the remaining NPAs in the region to give peace a chance and to avoid the loss of more Filipino lives due to the continuing armed conflict.

“We are urging the remnants of the NPA in Ilocos to give peace a chance and for them to live a normal and peaceful life with their beloved families. You are still very young and you should not allow the communist ideology to waste your precious lives,” he said.

After the successful combat operations in Ilocos Sur, Pasia said the group of Ronnie Garvida AKA Nero, and the reported leader of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilya - Southern Ilocos Sur (KLG-SIS) was already reduced to only six members.

Of the six remnants of KLG-SIS, only three are "original" from their group. They are Ronnie Garvida AKA Nero from Dumalneg, Ilocos Norte; Ernesto B Lucaben Jr. AKA Ashley from Sitio Lingawa, Pidpid, Sta Cruz, Ilocos Sur; and a certain AKA Kiko/Lai, the party boyfriend of AKA Maymay who is not an Ilokano.

The three others are recruits and are not Ilokanos, yet sowing terror in Ilocos Sur. These new NPA recruits are identified only as AKA Tom/Dodoy; AKA Solo/Sally; and AKA Dadi/Sapi.

It was reported that AKA Dadi/Sapi was wounded during the encounter in Gregorio del Pilar, Ilocos Sur on August 14, 2020.

“They are running, tired and hungry. We call on them to surrender particularly AKA Dapi/Sapi so that we can bring him to the hospital and have his gunshot wounds treated properly,” said Pasia.

Meanwhile, Pasia said his troops thanked and welcomed with open arms the seven NPA supporters and Milisyang Bayan members, who surrendered to the army’s 81st Infantry Battalion last week with their firearms and Improvised Explosive Device (EID) allegedly issued to them by AKA Guyo, AKA Nero, AKA Junel and AKA Dindo.

“They are the living witnesses of the sincerity, professionalism, discipline, and kindness of our soldiers. They were not harmed contrary to the CTG propaganda that the government forces will kill or harm them once they will surrender, said Pasia.

“We call on the other NPA supporters, MBs and unwilling victims, who are being manipulated to cooperate with the NPAs out of fear, to surrender. It’s now the best time to surrender, turn in your firearms, and avail of the government programs to live peacefully with no more fear and apprehension,” he added.

“Let’s help each other to maintain peace and order in our community,” he said.

Pasia also urged the remaining NPA’s group in Ilocos Sur led by couple Avelino Cruz AKA Junel from Lubong, Sta Lucia, Ilocos Sur and Alpha Sungay AKA Meal from Barangay Duplas, Sudipen, La Union who is currently acting as KLG SIS secretary; and Jerry Loreto AKA Dindo from Sallapadan, Abra.

“We are asking all of you to surrender now before it becomes too late, and too costly for the Filipinos. No one will win in this battle, we will be all losers to the detriment of our beloved country. If you truly love this country, you must surrender now and give peace a chance!” said Pasia. (JCR/FGL, PIA1)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051080

Bomber slain, bombing plot foiled in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 26, 2020): Bomber slain, bombing plot foiled in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)



SLAIN BOMB SUSPECT. Police and military agents look at the body of one of two suspected bombers who was slain during a shootout along the highway in Barangay Pagagawan, Datu Montawal, Maguindanao early Wednesday (Aug. 26, 2020). The slain suspect’s cohort escaped on their motorbike. (Photo courtesy of Brigada News FM Cotabato)

Army operatives neutralized early Wednesday a suspected bomber and deactivated a powerful improvised explosive device (IED) along the national highway in Datu Montawal, Maguindanao.

Elements of the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion (90IB), acting on intelligence information that an IED would be transported from Pikit to Kabacan, both in North Cotabato, set up checkpoints along the road starting at 1 a.m.

In a report to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID), Lt. Col. Michael Maquelan, 90IB commander, said at 3 a.m., two men riding a motorbike were flagged down at an Army checkpoint in Datu Montawal but they ignored law enforcers and sped away.

“The Army chased the two men but they traded shots with our troops,” Lt. Col. Anhouvic Atilano, 6ID spokesperson, said in a radio interview.

One of the two men fell in the exchange of gunfire while his cohort, the one driving the motorbike, escaped under cover of darkness.

The slain man had a bag that contained a powerful improvised bomb. Also recovered from him was a .45-caliber pistol.
Atilano said the slain bomber was later identified only as alias “Abu Master” who belonged to the Bungos faction of the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

He said the suspected bombers might have planned to bring the IED to Kabacan or Kidapawan City and other populated areas in North Cotabato.

The disarmed explosive was made out of a rifle grenade explosive with a blasting mechanism loaded with cut nails and metal sheets that served as shrapnel.

Bomb experts said the IED was to be set off using a mobile phone.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113398

OPAPP, NoCot LGU open water project in conflict-affected village

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 26, 2020): OPAPP, NoCot LGU open water project in conflict-affected village (By John Andrew Tabugoc)



WATER PROJECT. Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (left, with scissor) and Mayor Florenito Gonzaga (right) lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the PHP5-million water system in Barangay Mahongkog, Magpet, North Cotabato, on Tuesday (Aug. 25, 2020). The project is expected to benefit some 1,000 households in Mahongkog and its neighboring villages of Balite and Temporal in the municipality. (Photo courtesy of Magpet LGU)

MAGPET, North Cotabato –The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), in partnership with the local government unit here, inaugurated a PHP5-million water system project on Tuesday in Barangay Mahongkog that would benefit some 1,000 households.

OPAPP Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and Mayor Florenito Gonzaga led the ribbon cutting and ceremonial turnover of the project.

Municipal administrator Jupiter Rubino said the project included the establishment of a water reservoir and pipes from the water source in Sitio Tagaytay of the village.

“The new village water system would be managed by the Magpet Water Works and Services, an LGU-run water utility,” Rubino said.

OPAPP has allotted some PHP3.5 million for the project under Executive Order No. 70 or ”The Whole of Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC)”, while the LGU has appropriated PHP1.5 million as a counterpart.

“The household service pipes of the project have been completed last year, under the Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig para sa Lahat (SALINTUBIG) of the Department of Interior and Local Government,” Rubino said.

He added the water project will also benefit the villages of Balite and Temporan.

In his message, Galvez vowed to fund the concreting of the estimated two-kilometer road connecting Balite and Mahongkog next year.

Meanwhile, Gonzaga hopes the new water system would convince communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels to return to the folds of the law and fully support the government’s efforts to uplift the lives of the people in the countryside.

Barangay Mahongkog has been identified as a flashpoint for NPA activities, where clashes sporadically occurred between government forces and the rebels for the past several years.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113394