Kalinaw News: NPA Finance Officer arrested in MisOr

From Kalinaw News (Sep 6, 2020): NPA Finance Officer arrested in MisOr

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental- A finance officer of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) was apprehended by government troops through a joint operation of the AFP and PNP yesterday, September 05, 2020 in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.

The arrested person was identified as Jenalyn Arcillas Ganzan alias Macky, 34 years old and a resident of Zone 4, Poblacion, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. She served as the finance officer of the HQ Nelsay, Sub-Regional Committee 1 (SRC1), Northern Central Mindanao Region Command (NCMRC).
The suspect was arrested through a search and seizure warrant issued by Hon. Judge Fernando R Fudalan, Jr. of Regional Trial Court, Branch 7, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur for the criminal cases of Destructive Arson under CC No. 6624, and Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention under CC No. 6527. No bail bond was recommended by the court for his cases.

The success of said operation is the result of the continuous efforts of the Army’s 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion and 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion, together with the personnel of Provincial Intelligence Unit of Misamis Oriental, 1001st MC, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 and Tagoloan Municipal Police Station in ending local communist armed conflict in the said province.

In his statement, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB said, “The AFP and PNP will continue to jointly operate in pursuing the terrorist group so that we can put an end to the influence of the terrorists in every community. We will remain vigilant against anyone who will try to disrupt the peace and order of the community.”

“This arrest proves that the terrorists cannot run away from the long arm of the government. So, I urge the remaining remnants of the NPA to return to the folds of the law, avail the government program under Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), and live with your families peacefully, “Lt. Col. Canatoy ended.

The arrested person was brought and held at Tagoloan MPS and to be brought to the issuing court of origin for proper disposition.





[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/npa-finance-officer-arrested-in-misor/

Kalinaw News: AFP records 83 total deaths, 505 wounded in Abu Sayyaf bombings since 2009

From Kalinaw News (Sep 6, 2020): AFP records 83 total deaths, 505 wounded in Abu Sayyaf bombings since 2009

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has recorded a total of 83 deaths and 505 wounded as a result of ruthless bombings perpetrated by the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) since 2009 until August 2020.

Military records show that the ASG committed 47 incidents using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) throughout the period mostly in Sulu, Basilan and Zamboanga. These incidents killed 20 and wounded 70 from the AFP while 63 civilians lost their lives and 435 wounded.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines sees a greater urgency to toughen the country’s drive against terrorism due to the rising terror threats by the Abu Sayyaf Group and other local terrorists. Recent acts of violent extremism have already claimed innocent lives of both civilians and military personnel,” AFP Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Gilbert I. Gapay said.

The most recent case was the two deadly explosions that occurred in Brgy. Walled City in Jolo, Sulu on 24 August 2020. This claimed the lives of 15 individuals and resulted to the injury of 74.

In 2019, six incidents occurred in Jolo, Indanan and Patikul towns all in the province of Sulu. These resulted to 31 deaths and 136 injured from both government forces and civilians.

The occurrences were relatively fewer in 2018 with three incidents in Basilan and Sulu that caused both AFP and civilians 10 deaths and 16 wounded. There were also lesser casualties in 2017 after 10 recorded explosions in the same provinces with three killed and seven wounded.

No IED detonation was recorded in 2016 and 2014 but the year 2015 marks the most number of wounded individuals. In that year, four different explosions were perpetrated by the ASG in Zamboanga City and Basilan that took the lives of 8 and injured 106 civilians.

In 2013, three bombing incidents transpired in Sulu and Basilan which resulted to three civilians wounded. In the same provinces in 2012, a total of four incidents occurred which resulted to two civilians killed and 13 injured.

The same provinces were also hit by 10 explosions in 2011 and 2010 which resulted to 9 killed and 84 wounded civilians. In 2009, the ASG conducted six detonations in Cotabato City, Datu Piang in Maguindanao and Jolo, Sulu which resulted to five killed and 65 wounded civilians, and one soldier who was wounded-in-action.

The Daesh-inspired terrorist group currently has 200 regular members with 212 high-powered firearms, and 147 identified supporters. They operate in areas in Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Zamboanga City affecting a total of 121 barangays.

“The AFP will never tolerate any attempt to sow terror and disrupt peace and development in our country. Under the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Law, we will make sure that all efforts and capacities will be utilized to put an end to all terrorists and prevent them from inflicting further harm to the people whom we swore to protect with our lives,” Lt. Gen. Gapay said.

[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/afp-records-83-total-deaths-505-wounded-in-abu-sayyaf-bombings-since-2009/

Kalinaw News: Former member of “Nagsamad” affiliated with ARHAP organization vowed support for E.O. 70

From Kalinaw News (Sep 6, 2020): Former member of “Nagsamad” affiliated with ARHAP organization vowed support for E.O. 70

BALER, Aurora-“Nagkakaisang Maralita ng Dicaloyungan (Nagsamad) officers and members from Baler and Barangay Nonong Sr., San Luis, Aurora vowed their support in the implementation of the Duterte Administration’s “Whole-Of-Nation” Approach under Executive Order No. 70 creating the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC).

The 62 participants to the Nagsamad assembly (an affiliated organization to Justice Peace and Action Group (JPAG) and Advocates of Human Rights in Aurora Province (AHRAP) in Dr. Juan C. Angara Sports Complex commonly known as Baler Sports Complex are committed to help the local and national government in the implementation of the initiative which primarily aims to address the decades-long communist rebellion in the country.
LTC REANDREW P RUBIO INF (GSC), commanding officer of 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion, Philippine Army said that the participants declared their full and unequivocal support to the government’s Whole-Of-Nation Approach and to work hand in hand with the government.

He said that the group believes that the approach is the best solution to the communist insurgency that has ravaged the communities.

“They pledged not to be used and abused by the communist insurgents, and will utilize their voices to speak out and convince members of our communities not to support the organization’s distorted ideology like JPAG, AHRAP among others,” LTC RUBIO said.

Barangay Chairman of Barangay Zabali Reynante B. Mapindan lauded the personnel behind of the said program particularly to the 91st IB, municipal government of Baler, Baler Police Station among others.

He added that the success of the program surely benefits his constituents as they well-informed with the program of the government.

Police Lieutenant Renemar T. Montes, Deputy Chief of Police of Baler Police Station said that the policemen are 100 percent committed to support the implementation E.O. 70 and to intensify their campaign to engage with the civilian populace in partnership with the national government agencies, local government units and various sectors of civil society.

“Kaisa po kami sa programa ng 91st IB na mawakasan ang insurgency dahil nagbibigay ito ng pasakit sa ating lahat. Gusto ng lahat ng mapayapang pamumuhay at lahat po ng yan ay ating pangarap para sa susunod na henerasyon. Panawagan namin na kami ay suportahan para sa ikauunlad ng ating pamayanan. Para mawalan tayo ng problema at mawala ang naghahasik ng lagim sa ating pamayanan,” Montes said.

Antonio Buenaventura (adviser of Nagsamad) said that they withdrew their support from the organizer who motivated them before to have land at Sitio Dicaloyungan, Barangay Zabali, Baler, Aurora.

“They failed, they promised to obtain a Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA). They gave us false hopes saying that we can acquire the land where we put up houses. They said that they will help us,” Buenaventura said.

“Tutulungan daw niya kami. Napag-alaman naming na ginagamit lamang pala kami. Hindi tama ang kanilang pamamalakad. Kami po ay humihiwalay na sa kanila. Yung mga dating nakapwesto sa lupa ay pinalitan na niya. Marami ang naagrabyado sa amin. Kung ano man po ngayon ang maging resulta na naayon sa batas sa Sitio Dicaloyungan ay tinatanggap po naming dahil iyon po ang tama. Marami kaming nabuyo. Bandang huli kami ang agrabyado. Sana matapos na ang problemang ito sa tulong ng gobyerno. Sana po ay matulungan ninyo kami. May butaw pa kami na Php1,000 bawat isa kada meeting. Nagbebenta siya ng lote ng hindi naming alam. Pinaghahanap buhay niya kaming mga tao,” Buenaventura added.

Juliet Capistrano, member of Nagsamad said that the left leaning organizations like JPAG/ARHAP are just using them.

She reminded the public to avoid being fooled by the said organization.

“Umasa kami na matutulungan kami ngunit ginamit lang kami. Mali yung kanilang mga patakaran. Huwag tayong magpalinlang. Lumapit tayo sa gobyerno at hindi sa mga illegal na samahan,” she said.

Melvin Luyong said all of them are victims of lies and deceptions of the organizers.

“Isa po ako sa biktima, dati po akong treasurer ng samahan noon subalit 4 months pa lang nakita ko na ang sungay ng pamunuan. Ako ang kauna-unahang kumontra sa kanila,” Luyong said.

Luyong also revealed that he personally witnessed the series of land selling (squatting syndicate), collecting of money without remittances, someone are physically harmed among others.

“Dahil sa nais naming manatili sa lugar at magkaroon ng bahay at lupa ay nanatili kami. Salamat po sa Bagong pamunuan ng gobyerno na siyang nandito sa atin na nagbigay ng lakas sa amin para itama ang mali sa Dicaloyugan para matapos ang problemang iyan. Dahil kung magpapatuloy tayo marami pa rin ang masasktan,” Luyong said.

Romulo Serrano, one of the residents in Sitio Dicaloyungan lambasted the group of ARHAP who encouraged them to join in the rally in Manila.

While Serrano is in tears in front of the gatherings, he said that the left leaning organization like ARHAP are purely telling lies.

“Kung sino man ang miyembro dito ng JPAG o AHRAP tahasan ko pong sinasabi na napakabulaan niyan. Matagal ng pinaglalaban ang lupang iyan at kung saan saan na po kami nakarating hanggang sa ngayon wala pa ring nangyari sa ipinaglalaban,” Serrano said.

Vincent Paladio who represents Mayor Rhett Ronan Angara said that the government acknowledges the group in supporting the EO70.

He said that the marching order of Mayor Rhett to the task force to end local communist armed conflict is to handle the said organization soundly and safely in accordance with the law.

“Malaking bagay po sa umpisa nating hakbang, ang gobyerno ay tumutulong sa tao at hindi kalaban ninyo. Ang gobyerno ay namamagitan din. Gusto nating mailagay siya sa tamang pamamaraan. Nagpapasalamat p kami at kinikilala ninyo ang ating gobyerno. Ang bilin po ni Mayor na maihandle ng maayos ang grupong ito at mapangalagaan natin sila ng naayon sa batas,” Paladio said.

Back to LTC RUBIO, said that all concerned agencies and their corresponding units at all levels are now in full cooperation to interact, support, provide practical solutions and solve problems and issues on the ground that are being exploited by the front communist terrorists organization in order to stir-up the populace to fight against the government through armed struggle.

He added that EO70 multi-pronged approach addresses the motivation for insurgency and will hopefully put an end to its treacherous life cycle. By doing so, there will be no reason for the Communist Party of the Philippines, its armed wing the New People’s Army, and the National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) to arouse, agitate, organize and mobilize the vulnerable sectors and communities.

“May mga taong nakapaloob sa mga ganyang organisasyon na nakalinya sa CPP-NPA. This fight is not only for the PNP and mili



[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/former-member-of-nagsamad-affiliated-with-arhap-organization-vowed-support-for-e-o-70/

Kalinaw News: Army seizes Firearm after clash with NPA in MisOr+

From Kalinaw News (Sep 6, 2020): Army seizes Firearm after clash with NPA in MisOr

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental- The Philippine Army’s 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion has recovered high powered firearm and a grenade after a clash with members of the New People’s Army (NPA) at the hinterland of So Kibalos, Brgy Quezon Heights, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental last September 01, 2020.

Acting on the report of a concern civilian, the government troops intensified their combat operation and immediately proceeded to the area where members of CTG were sighted. A firefight was then transpired which lasted for ten minutes and the enemy dispersed in different direction towards northeast and south.
While scouring the area, the government troops recovered One (1) hand grenade, One (1) Carbine Rifle with serial number 7490075, one (1) carbine magazine, 40 rounds of carbine ammo, three (3) backpacks and personal belongings. Likewise, the troops also discovered heavy bloodstains near the encounter site. The government troops have launched a pursuit operation to track down the rebels.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB, thanked the villager for the tips given to our troops and for his trust to the government. “This indicates that our people are tired and sick of the NPA’s terrorist acts and they want peace in their communities. It is also an example and a challenge to other communities to contribute to end local communist armed conflict in order to attain inclusive and sustainable peace of our nation,” Lt. Col. Canatoy said.

“While the enemy continues to intensify their terroristic acts, your Army will always be ready to protect the peace-loving people of Misamis Oriental,” he added.

Moreover, Lt. Col. Canatoy commended the troops for another accomplishment and for the successful security operation in the area.

[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-seizes-firearm-after-clash-with-npa-in-misor/

BREAKING: Families of rebels who died in Palawan appeal for waiver of 14-day quarantine

From Palawan News (Sep 6, 2020): BREAKING: Families of rebels who died in Palawan appeal for waiver of 14-day quarantine (By Celeste Anna Formoso)

The families of Andrea “Ka Naya” Rosal, Bonifacio “Salvador Luminoso” Magramo, and Ren or Rona “Ka Amir” Manalo, arrived in Puerto Princesa City on Saturday morning to claim their bodies and give proper burials, Karapatan paralegal Casey Cruz told Palawan News.



Some of the families of the rebels who died during an encounter with government troops in Brooke’s Point town are appealing to local officials in Palawan not to implement on them the 14-day quarantine protocol as they only want to claim the remains and take them home to Manila as soon as possible.

The families of Andrea “Ka Naya” Rosal, Bonifacio “Salvador Luminoso” Magramo, and Ren or Rona “Ka Amir” Manalo, arrived in Puerto Princesa City on Saturday morning to claim their bodies and give proper burials, Karapatan paralegal Casey Cruz told Palawan News.

Cruz said upon their arrival, their group of nine was immediately brought by provincial health personnel to a facility in Barangay Irawan for rapid diagnostic testing (RDT) and to Rocckstar Inn, a lodging place that serves as a quarantine facility of the provincial government.

“For the record, yong situation noong team ngayon, noong Karapatan together with the families, ay mukhang hino-hold kami dito sa facility sa Rocckstar. We were informed na dadalhin kami dito para makapagpahinga mula sa biyahe namin kahapon. Pero as per coordination with the operations command ng city na closely monitoring, ang sinasabi nila ay subject for 14 days quarantine yong team,” she said.

“This is different sa initial commitment kahapon ng nakausap namin na provincial IATF quarantine personnel sa Irawan na si Jimmy Ibas sa airport na kami daw, yong family with two paralegals, ay papayagan na dumiretso na sa Heaven’s Gate,” Cruz said.

Heaven’s Gate Memorial is a funeral services parlor for deceased persons in Pineda Road where they can wait for the remains of Rosal, Magramo, and Manalo.

She said they already felt that they will be held because some individuals, about eight, had been getting all their profiles.

“Wala naman kaming itinatago, we want to cooperate, we want na immediately ma-release na yong mga labi doon sa families. Pero ngayon, since lumabas na sa Emergency Operations Center (EOC) na kami ay for 14-day quarantine, mabigat yon for the team and the families kasi we’re all expecting na makikita na at mabe-verify ng families yong mga labi,” Cruz said.

Cruz said that before they traveled to Puerto Princesa, all nine of them underwent RT-PCR confirmatory tests and all their results were negative.

Their RDT results were also negative and they have their certificates from Irawan.

“Dala namin yong mga result namin. Bukod sa swab test from Manila — kasi yong iba sa amin may swab test na five days before din na negative. Handa kaming makipagtulungan sa kanila, ang gusto lang ng pamilya ay makita ang kanilang labi,” she said.

https://palawan-news.com/breaking-families-of-rebels-who-died-in-palawan-appeal-for-waiver-of-14-day-quarantine/

Relatives of slain rebels, Karapatan appeal for release of bodies

Posted to Palawan News (Sep 6, 2020): Relatives of slain rebels, Karapatan appeal for release of bodies (By Romar Miranda)

In a press statement, Karapatan Southern Tagalog invoked the “International Humanitarian Law and the 1949 Geneva Conventions” to allow them to take home the bodies.



The relatives of the slain New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have arrived in the city and are appealing to local authorities to allow them to retrieve the bodies for transfer to their respective provinces.

In a press statement, Karapatan Southern Tagalog invoked the “International Humanitarian Law and the 1949 Geneva Conventions” to allow them to take home the bodies.

The relatives, accompanied by the Karapatan members and paralegals, have been asked by city health authorities to remain at a hotel in Barangay San Miguel to await a decision on their appeal.

Current city protocols require travelers from Manila to undergo a 14-day quarantine, except for allowed persons travelling with prior coordination with local authorities.

In its statement, Karapatan said they have experienced in previous similar instances local authorities making it difficult for relatives.

“We have been in dire situations while transacting with government forces and it is highly probable with will be in one again,” Karapatan said.

The group claimed that the autopsy of the bodies were done without the consent of the families.

“We call on human rights advocates and concerned citizens to support the bereaved families. They are hoping to retrieve the bodies as soon as possible to allow the families to grieve properly,” said Karapatan spokesperson Kyle Salgado in the statement.

The local government of Puerto Princesa and Palawan, following its strict health protocol for arriving individuals outside of Palawan, subjected the team to COVID-19 rapid test and arranged for the group’s accommodation.

The group continued to await further instructions, expecting “potential delays”, as they were earlier “promised” to gather the remains in Heaven’s Gate Funeral Parlor, after its transport from the southern town Brooke’s Point.

https://palawan-news.com/relatives-of-slain-rebels-karapatan-appeal-for-release-of-bodies/

U.S., Philippines hold workshop to combat illegal fishing

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 6, 2020): U.S., Philippines hold workshop to combat illegal fishing

THE UNITED STATES Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Philippine government held a workshop recently to combat illegal fishing in the country.

'But China aggression continues in West Philippine Sea'

The workshop was supported by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the USAID’s Fish Right program, and experts from the University of the Philippines School of Statistics that facilitated the event.

The online workshop - attended by 135 participants – brought together various sectors to increase understanding on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing at a national level.

“This exercise is a critical first step to understanding the complex global threat that IUU fishing represents to ocean health and maritime security. I commend the Philippine government as it continues to ramp up its efforts against IUU fishing through investment in multi-stakeholder and inter-agency actions,” said U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission, John Law.

IUU fishing is a far-reaching and complex issue that threatens ocean health and maritime security of nations. While it is believed to be widespread in the Philippines, its magnitude, prevalence, and impacts are yet to be accurately quantified.

“As we cope and recover from this (Covid-19) pandemic, we need to ensure our food security, while at the same time consider our natural capital - our fish stocks and their habitats. This is the bluer normal we want to achieve towards the vision of a food secured and resilient Philippines with prosperous farmers and fishers. We cannot afford to lose our fish to IUU fishing,” said Undersecretary for Fisheries and BFAR National Director Eduardo Gongona.

Organizers said quantifying the losses to harmful fishing practices will enable fisheries managers to use the best available data to inform fishery policies. And this will be undertaken through the collaboration of BFAR and USAID in developing an IUU Fishing Index and Threat Assessment Tool that local governments can use to produce a more standard metric of IUU fishing throughout the country.

China Coast Guard

But there was no mention of reports of IUU fishing in areas where Chinese poachers and even China Coast Guard harassed and intimidate Filipino fishermen.

Just weeks ago, CNN Philippines reported that Manila filed a diplomatic protest to Beijing over the China Coast Guard's illegal confiscation of fish aggregation devices of Filipino fishermen in Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in May.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) protested the Chinese actions against the Filipinos. “The Philippines also resolutely objected to China’s continuing illicit issuances of radio challenges Philippine aircraft conducting legitimate regular maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea,” the DFA said.

The DFA did not elaborate the incident involving Filipino fishermen in Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in May this year.

The Bajo de Masinloc has been the center of the maritime dispute since 2012 between the Manila and China when the Philippine Navy apprehended eight mainland Chinese fishing vessels illegally fishing in the country’s territorial waters. Since the incident, the China Coast Guard remained a steady presence in Bajo de Masinloc despite the shoal being located in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

CNN Philippines said the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruled in 2016 in favor of the Philippines, saying there was no legal basis for China to claim historic rights over most of the West Philippine Sea using their “nine-dash line” claim. The ruling covered Bajo de Masinloc as part of the Philippine territorial waters.

China has repeatedly refused to recognize the PCA ruling and continued to reclaim islands in the disputed areas for military and research purposes.

Despite President Rodrigo Duterte’s soft stance on China in the country’s claim in the West Philippine Sea, some incidents occurred in the disputed waters. The most famous of which was when a Chinese boat hit F/B Gem-Ver in Recto Bank in June 2019, forcing the 22 Filipino fishermen to float in the open sea for hours before they were rescued by a Vietnamese vessel.

In March, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. admitted there are more than 130 Chinese fishing vessels lingering around Pag-Asa Island in Palawan.

In the fourth anniversary of the historic PCA ruling last July, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. called on China to adhere to the ruling, saying the arbitration award is “non-negotiable.” (Mindanao Examiner, CNN Philippines)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/09/us-philippines-hold-workshop-to-combat.html

Duterte wants peace in Sulu

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 6, 2020): Duterte wants peace in Sulu

PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE has sought the help of Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan to help him talk peace, but at the same time he said security forces have a mission to crush the insurgents.





Gov. Sakur Tan gestures as he speaks to President Rodrigo Duterte in Jolo town where the Filipino leader offer flowers for those who perished in the twin bombings.

Duterte was referring to the Abu Sayyaf which is being blamed for the recent twin suicide bombings in the capital town of Jolo that killed over a dozen soldiers and civilians, and left scores of innocent people injured.

The President flew to Sulu on August 31 and inspected the site of the attacks and eventually kneeled and kissed the ground as he paid respect to those who perished in the blasts.

President Rodrigo Duterte kisses the ground at the blast site in Jolo town.

“Ikaw ‘yung — I address you because ikaw ‘yung nire-respeto ko. You have a colorful life. Kung sa patay, dapat patay ka na sa dinaanan mo sa buhay, and yet you are still here around. Why don’t you try to help me within the next few months last term just to talk about peace? It need not really be a — an arrangement, just talk about peace,” Duterte told Tan, a well-respected and influential leader in the South.

“Mahirap kasi because ang bomba hindi kasi namimili eh. Iyan ang problema. At kung ang pinatay mo inosente, there will always be a time that you will have to answer for the killing of an innocent human being. Maski anong klaseng relihiyon. Allah says about revenge; Allah says about you know, the giving, the taking of life; and Allah says that there is also a time to answer for all of these things,” he added.

He also appealed to everybody to support the government’s peace efforts, however, Duterte warned that “if we cannot really agree, then we fight and we fight hard hanggang magkaubusan na. Maybe by that time, kung ubos na ang lahat, wala ng giyera. Sa pagka ngayon, hindi ko mapigil ang mga sundalo ko kasi may mission sila and the mission is to crush the insurgents. And the insurgents, ang mission nila is for the greater glory of Allah.”

“So ang hinihingi ko lang sa inyo na even as you fight, think about peace. Because if I will say to you that this is 2020, 2021 aalis na ako. Ang ibig mong sabihin 2023, 2024, 2025, hanggang 2050 ganoon pa rin? Hindi na lang sa relihiyon na ipagpa — magpakamatay ka. It’s about your generation. How about the flowering of the Moro na kagaya ng ibang lugar, Dubai? When will the Moro Filipino ever taste all these luxuries? But only when the leader also, be he a Muslim or a Christian, shall govern according to the will of Allah, of God. Iyan lang,” he said.

In the meantime, Duterte said “we fight and sa pagka-ngayon, sabi ko I cannot offer anything because I have also my mandate. I do not only order, I impose duties na gawin ninyo ito. But if in God’s time, maybe — kailan ‘yon? — we will have a time to talk and to ponder about peace at ‘yung mga anak ninyo. Biruin mo naman palakihin mo, hindi mo nga padapuan ng lamok, but only to die walking there on the streets kasama mo. And you know ‘yung give and take na vengeance, if it is hatred, it cannot be stopped anymore, hardly. So it is [an] impossible dream. It is an unreachable star. But it behooves upon us, tayong mga leader, even to try and even to talk as we wage war.”

“Ako, I do not find anything reprehensible in talking to my enemy across the table and at the same time ordering my soldiers to fight. That’s the only way for us to move forward at this time. But I hope — I hope that Allah will someday give the light to the minds of everybody.”

Tan thanked Duterte for visiting Sulu and condoling with the victims’ families and renewed his strong commitment and assured the President of the Tausug’s “all-out support to peace.”

Gov. Sakur Tan at the blast sites in Jolo town. (Jean Alfad)

A senior provincial official, Jean Alfad, said Tan also inspected the blast sites even before Duterte’s arrival. In her Facebook page, Alfad - referring to Tan - wrote this: “He walked profoundly through the blast site with aching heart. He said “makaulung in tau..." and his next words which I will just keep in my heart and mind, was a heavy sorrow.”

“It may be too much for me to say, I can feel you Boss because you have far greater responsibility to bear and you see the entirety and precise viewpoints of the situation as leader of this province saddled with protracted conflict, but, only a strong leader like you with a sturdy and firm resolve can handle such highly complex issues. May you continue to stand for your people and may your people continue to pray for your safety, divine guidance, courage, conviction and wisdom. Continue to walk with faith, TAWAQQALLAH,” Alfad said and accompanying this was two photos of Tan at the blast sites, still cordoned off from the public. (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/09/duterte-wants-peace-in-sulu.html

AFP beefs up coordination with PNP vs CTG-NPA

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 6, 2020): AFP beefs up coordination with PNP vs CTG-NPA (By Vincent Philip S. Bautista)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) – To prevent future misencounter in the fight against Communist Terrorist Group-New People’s Army (CTG-NPA), 403rd Brigade Commander Col. Ferdinand T. Barandon said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have worked on strengthening their communication and coordination efforts to fight insurgency.

“Ngayon po, meron mga mekanismo na mag close collaboration ang AFP and PNP. Meron tayo’ng tinawag na joint AFP-PNP intelligence community (JAPIC), sa ELCAC meron din para tuloy-tuloy ang pag uusap to share information kung may mga on-going operation para alam din nung AFP or PNP so that misencounter in the future will be prevented,” he disclosed.

(As of now, we have mechanisms for a close collaboration between the AFP and the PNP. We have what we call a joint AFP-PNP intelligence community (JAPIC), in the same line with ELCAC so that our communication is continuous when it comes to sharing information if we have ongoing operations on either side so that misencounter in the future will be prevented).

The brigade commander added that the lack of strong communication between parties may result in another misencounter, a grave factor that has resulted in the loss of lives on both security forces and has become a crucial issue before. Through the JAPIC, the sharing of information between the two parties is streamlined and transparent when it comes to operational intelligence and bureaucracy.

With the strengthened communication and synchronization between the AFP and PNP, both parties strive to protect the lives of the people and provide peace and security in Northern Mindanao through a harmonized approach. (VPSBautista/PIA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052142

JTF NCR assists QC LGU in distribution of financial aid

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 6, 2020): JTF NCR assists QC LGU in distribution of financial aid (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)m

Photo courtesy of JTF NCR

PASIG CITY, Sept. 6 (PIA) -- The Joint Task Force National Capital Region (JTF NCR) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines over the weekend provided assistance to the Quezon City Government during the distribution of financial aid for residents.

According to JTF NCR, volunteer Army Reservists of 1302CDC, NCRCDG led by Colonel Reynaldo Malapad (GSC) PA, Director, OPCON to GTG, JFT NCR provided assistance to the Quezon City local government in the distribution of financial assistance to over 6,000 household beneficiaries from Barangay Nagkaisang Nayon on Sept 4 and 5.

The Quezon City Government continuously provides assistance to individuals from the more vulnerable sectors and those whose livelihood were badly affected by the enforcement of community quarantine measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The cash aid distribution is part of an estimated P1.2 billion financial assistance to benefit a targeted 600,000 vulnerable residents of the city through the “Kalingang QC” program.

The program initially covered drivers of public utility jeeps, tricycles, pedicabs, taxis, Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS), and UV Express, market vendors, laborers, household workers, and other daily wage earners who were earlier affected by the enhanced community quarantine.

The city, however, decided to expand the coverage to include solo parents, lactating mothers, persons with disability (PWDs), senior citizens , scholars and sellers of dry goods and cellular phone accessories. (PIA-NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052351

Monument in honor of fallen soldiers unveiled in Tarlac

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 6, 2020): Monument in honor of fallen soldiers unveiled in Tarlac (By Zorayda Tecson)



MONUMENT. Lt. Gen. Ramiro Manuel Rey, (second from right) commander of Northern Luzon Command, together with Defense Undersecretary Ricardo David Jr. (second from left) led the unveiling of the monument marker of the NOLCOM Heroes Monument at Camp Aquino in Tarlac City on Saturday (Sept. 5, 2020). The monument is in honor of the heroism and sacrifices of the Filipino soldiers who had perished in performing their patriotic duties. (Photo by the Northern Luzon Command)

A monument in recognition of the heroism and sacrifices of the fallen Filipino soldiers was unveiled here Saturday.

Lt. Gen. Ramiro Manuel Rey, commander of Northern Luzon Command, together with Defense Undersecretary Ricardo David Jr., led the unveiling of the monument marker and wreath-laying ceremony of the NOLCOM (Northern Luzon Command) Heroes Monument.

The monument is a joint project of the Northern Luzon Heroes Foundation Inc., Clark Development Corporation (CDC), and other stakeholders.

Rey said the monument was designed to honor the humble gallantry and valor of every soldier who had perished in performing their patriotic duties.

He extended his gratitude to all those who have given their time and effort for the success of the project.

“My heart swells knowing that our brothers and sisters in the private sector relentlessly shower the Armed Forces of the Philippine with support. May we continue to work hand in hand to ensure that the sacrifice of our fallen soldiers will not be put to waste and that lasting peace in our communities is achieved,” he said in a statement.

David, who served as guest of honor and speaker, called on the NOLCOM soldiers and its line units to continue pursuing their mission.

"Together, let us finish the task which our fallen heroes gave their lives for,” he said.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114541

PH warship on way home from Hawaii maritime exercise

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 6, 2020): PH warship on way home from Hawaii maritime exercise (By Priam Nepomuceno)



The Philippines’ first missile-frigate BRP Jose Rizal (File photo)

BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), the Philippine Navy's first missile-frigate, left Joint Base Pearl Harbor on September 4 (Hawaii time) for her voyage home and to rendezvous with ships of the US and Royal Brunei Navy for the conduct of a post-Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2020 group sail and training.

In a statement Saturday night, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, PN public affairs office chief, said BRP Jose Rizal and Naval Task Force 80.5 will meet with US Navy guided-missile destroyer, USS Chung-Hoon (DDG-93), and Royal Brunei Navy offshore-patrol vessel, KDB Darulehsan (OPV-17) off Oahu Island, Hawaii.

She added that while transiting to Guam for refueling and reprovisioning, the three ships will conduct a series of exercises aimed at continuing the quality training and inter-operability achieved during the biennial RIMPAC exercises held on Aug. 17-31.

The post-RIMPAC exercises to be conducted include gunnery, signal-flag hoisting, photo among others.

"The (PN) contingent is expected to arrive in the Philippines on September 21, at Subic Bay, Zambales," Roxas said.

She added the PN participation in the world’s biggest joint and combined naval exercise has advanced its maritime operational capability to multilateral level thereby increasing readiness and interoperability with foreign navies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114526

Another Reds’ setback with death of 3 ranking officers in clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 6, 2020): Another Reds’ setback with death of 3 ranking officers in clash (By Priam Nepomuceno)



3rd Marine Brigade commander, Brig. Gen. Nestor Herico (Contributed photo)

The death of five communist terrorists, including three ranking officials of the organization, in an encounter in Brooke's Point, Palawan on Sept. 3 could further cause the crumbling of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA)'s Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC).

This is now a clear possibility according to 3rd Marine Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Nestor Herico who identified the three fatalities as among the country's most wanted communist terrorists holding key positions in the STRPC which is based in Batangas.

In an interview with “Usapang Pangkapayapaan, Usapang Pangkaunlaran" (UP UP Pilipinas) on Sept. 4, he named the slain ranking insurgents as Bonifacio Magramo, also known as “Salvador Luminoso,” CPP-NPA secretary of the STRPC; Andrea Rosal, alias “Ka Naya,” coordinator of the Palawan provincial party committee and deputy secretary of the STRPC; and Noel Siasico, alias “Ka Celso,” of the NPA’s front operational command.

Meanwhile, the other slain rebels were Ren "RJ" Manalo, alias “Ka Amir", reportedly a Gabriela official in Mindoro.
Killed in the government side during the encounter was Palawan native Marine Staff Sgt. Cesar Barlas.

He confirmed that Rosal was the daughter of the late Gregorio Rosal, alias “Ka Roger," the former spokesman of the STRPC.

Also captured were an AK-47 automatic rifle, two M-16 automatic rifles, an M-14 assault rifle, a Baby Armalite, five laptops, eight smartphones, and 15 analog cell phones.

Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines chief, Major Gen. Ernesto Torres, Jr., who also a guest in the program, lauded the Marine commander for the successful operation and said that this will aid in the further crippling of the NPA movement especially in Palawan.

Another guest of "UP UP Pilipinas", which was hosted by Air Force Col. Gerardo Zamudio, Jr., Eric Almendras of the National Cabinet Team in the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) said the captured materials indicated the NPA group encountered by the 3rd Marine Brigade possessed high-value subversive materials pertaining to the subregional area.

He also raised the possibility that a plenum or joint meeting was held in the area as Rosal was present along with regional committee representatives of the STRPC.
Almendras said Rosal held an important post as coordinator for the provincial party committee of Palawan, which is part of the NPA sub-regional military area and has a connection with the southwestern side of Mindoro, a known area of the NPA.

Zamudio said Rosal was arrested previously in Batangas but was released shortly after the National Democratic Front claimed that she was not a member of the NPA and any other terrorist groups.

Rosal used to be present and active in so-called legal organizations but what people don't know is that these groups had links with the underground movement of the communist terrorist group connected with the armed insurgents, Torres said.

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

Meanwhile, Herico appealed to the remaining rebels to surrender and avail of the various livelihood and poverty reduction programs under Executive Order 70, which was signed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in December 2018, for the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace by institutionalizing the whole-government approach in ending communist armed conflict.

He added that the people of Palawan are very desirous for peace as the province relies on the tourism industry to boost up its economy.

The desire for peace, he said, is why Palawan residents reject overtures of the communist terrorists and report their activities of the NPA to them.

“UP UP Pilipinas”, a public affairs program that serves as the Philippine Air Force’s contribution to the public affairs requirements of NTF ELCAC, is aired during weekdays at 3 p.m. over DWGV AM 792khz- Central Luzon, DWDD 1134 kHz- Manila, and other radio stations throughout the country.

A video recording of the program is uploaded every, day to the social media accounts of NTFELCAC, Presidential Communications Operations Office, "UP UP Pilipinas" and on PAF Virtual TV.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114535

Solon assures sustained funding for AFP modernization

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 6, 2020): Solon assures sustained funding for AFP modernization



BRP Jose Rizal (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program is getting an extra PHP8 billion in 2021 to restore the bulk of the program funds earlier “repurposed” for the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), Deputy Speaker and Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel said on Sunday.

“Considering the foreign threats we are facing in the West Philippine Sea, we are assuring the AFP of sustained funding support for its modernization projects, despite the coronavirus pandemic,” Pimentel said.

In the proposed PHP4.5-trillion national budget for 2021, Pimentel said the AFP modernization program is getting PHP33 billion in fresh funding, or PHP8 billion higher than the usual PHP25-billion annual allocation.

The AFP modernization program was earmarked PHP25 billion this year, but Department of National Defense (DND) earlier returned PHP9.4 billion in “unobligated” program funds to the National Treasury to help the government’s fight against Covid-19.
Unobligated funds are appropriations that remain uncommitted by contract.

Pimentel is a staunch backer of the Visiting Forces Agreement between the Philippines and the United States. The accord is in support of the Mutual Defense Treaty between the two countries.

Pimentel also has bill seeking to reinforce the military by giving the AFP chief of staff a more stable 36-month tour of duty.

The military has acquired multiple new weapons systems and capabilities pursuant to the Revised 15-year AFP Modernization Program established by law in 2013.

The latest acquisitions include two guided-missile warships worth a combined PHP16 billion for the Philippine Navy.

The frigates BRP Jose Rizal and BRP Antonio Luna are capable of launching missiles against hostile surface warships and aircraft as well as torpedoes against underwater targets.

Built by South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd., the BRP Jose Rizal was put into service in July, while the BRP Antonio Luna is due for delivery this month.

The Navy also plans to acquire two heavier warships – missile-armed corvettes – worth a total of PHP30 billion.

Last month, the DND also signed the contract for the Philippine Air Force’s acquisition of a PHP5.5-billion Air Surveillance Radar System from Japan’s Mitsubishi Electric Corp.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114536

Parlade wants explanation why ‘activist’ was in clash with Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 6, 2020): Parlade wants explanation why ‘activist’ was in clash with Reds (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Undated photo of Ren Manalo, known by aliases "RJ," “Ka Amir, ” "Lemon," a Gabriela official in Mindoro and member of activist fisher's group Pamalakaya, was among the five communist terrorists killed during the Sept. 3 encounter with members of the Philippine Marines' Force Reconnaissance Group. (Contributed photo)

Southern Luzon Command (SolCom) chief, Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., Friday sought for an explanation on how a Gabriela member, whom communist terrorists and their allies have defended for allegedly being red-tagged by the government, ended up dead following an encounter with Philippine Marine Corps units in Brooke's Point, Palawan on September 3.

Parlade was referring to Ren Manalo, who is also known by aliases "RJ," “Ka Amir, ” "Lemon," a Gabriela official in Mindoro and member of activist fisher's group Pamalakaya, who was among the five communist terrorists killed during the Thursday encounter with members of the PMC's Force Reconnaissance Group.

"In the encounter at Brooke's Point, Rona Jane "Ren" Manalo, was found dead. Ren Manalo was a member of PAMALAKAYA and infiltrated legal orgs in Mindoro such as SAMAKASAMIN or "Samahan ng mga Kababaihan sa Mindoro" as the Provincial Coordinator; HAGGIBAT and BAYAN Mindoro," he said.

Parlade then requested Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay tp explain why Manalo, an activist, was doing embedded work with known communist terrorists of the NPA’s Bienvinedo Vallever Command in Palawan.

"So, Cristina Palabay, explain why an activist like Ren alias 'Lemon'/'Pandan' was there in a violent incident in Palawan if she is not a terrorist like alias 'Eboy' and the rest of the NPAs killed? You have been complaining of being red-tagged, so aren't you?" he added.

Aside from Manalo, also killed during the September 3 encounter with PMC units were three ranking New People's Army (NPA) leaders identified as Bonifacio “Salvador Luminoso” Magramo, the secretary of the SRMA (Unite) 4E of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC), Andrea “Ka Naya” Rosal, daughter of late NPA spokesperson "Ka Roger" Rosal and deputy secretary of the group, Noel “Ka Celso” Siasico.

Magramo, also known as "Eboy", is from Elvita, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, and while Siasico is known as "Lines" is a resident of Barangay Limlim, Rizal, also in Occidental Mindoro.

"If the STRPC's ROC(Regional Organizing Committee) and MRGU (Main Regional Guerilla Unit) at the island of Mindoro are planning to avoid the heat by escaping to Palawan, there is also no one to receive them with the death of the top leaders of the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines) there. However, there is an option left for Jose Maria Sison's stooges. Give up their armed struggle and join us in pursuing peace, justice, and development in the countryside. Not the other way around, Joma," Parlade said.

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

Aside from the debacle in Brooke's Point, Palawan which was greatly aided by close coordination between local government unit officials and the community, he said CPP-NPA has suffered another serious setback when six regular members of their " PLTN SERNA of KLG MAV, SRMA 4D" and 48 "Milisyang Bayan" (MB)/ "Sangay ng Partido sa Localidad" (SPL) voluntarily surrendered in Occidental Mindoro last week.

"A month ago, 11 Indigenous Peoples NPAs also returned to the folds of law after the killing of Lorrelaine Saligumba alias 'Fara'. Two members of SOG (Special Operations Group) in Mindoro and six MRGU members in Laguna-Quezon also have returned to the folds of the law," he said.

The secretary of SRMA 4C Mario Caraig alias "Jethro" was killed including the platoon leader of MRGU Dioscoro Cello alias "Thermo" and two others.

"Also last year the Secretary of SRMA4A, Ermin Bellen alias 'Pat Romano'/'Malazarte' was killed," he said in recounting CPP-NPA reverses in the field.
With these results, he added, plans of the communist terrorists to reestablish bases in Mindoro have proven a disastrous failure.

"Their plan to complement the Regional ROC and their MRGU in Mindoro to regain and re-establish base there has failed again with the killing of personalities and leaders of Sub-Region Military Area 4E," Parlade said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114558