Army, TESDA aid AgNor villages toward productivity, resiliency

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Army, TESDA aid AgNor villages toward productivity, resiliency (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Oct. 1 -- The 23rd Infantry "Masigasig" Battalion (23rd IB) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in Agusan del Norte(TESDA-ADN) conducted a "Grand Pulong- pulong sa Barangay" in support of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on September 25, 2020 and was joined by residents of Barangays Poblacion and Rojales in Carmen, Agusan del Norte.

The NTF-ELCAC was established through Executive Order No. 70 s. 2018 or the Whole-of-Nation Approach assembling the different national government agencies (NGAs) and the private sector to aid communities that are in need of assistance and social development and to solve the 52-year-old insurgency problem in the country. The PRLEC is one of the 12 clusters of NTF-ELCAC led by TESDA with the task of designing new and different strategies to ensure better services for communities and as part of the state’s efforts to further promote sustainable and inclusive peace.

Director Rey Cueva of TESDA-ADN presented the overview of PRLEC to the 100 members and supporters of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) from Poblacion and Rojales during the activity. He emphasized to the participants the objectives of the creation of PRLEC, to include the development of self- reliant, resilient and sustainable communities through harmonized and culturally responsive development programs. He also stressed that the harmonious implementation of government programs in local communities is a big factor to influence the communities to realize their own capabilities. He further said that the PRLEC must conduct a community needs assessment, not only on the level of skills needs assessment but also on other factors wherein the other government instrumentalities can intervene to gain much bigger and wider impact, output and outcome.

“PRLEC programs are specific and not just a series of activities so that impact will be felt. There are different kinds of poverty - not only food but also basic services from the government like health and sanitation. We should be able to categorize what best suits Livelihood we need, capacitate as many special clients as possible, as part of our mandate as an agency, as well as in support to the national endeavor to promote sustainable and inclusive peace,” Cueva said.

Carmen Municipal Administrator Wilfredo Taglucop, who represented Mayor Jovette C. Calo, expressed gratitude to the PRLEC members for their efforts of bringing the plans and programs of TESDA and other line agencies to the constituents of Carmen.

He said that the LGU of Carmen is always ready to support the PRLEC team to address the root causes of the insurgency in the area.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, Commander of the 23rd IB, urged the people of Barangays Poblacion and Rojales to unite and support the government.

“The peace and development efforts of the government to communities particularly to the identified conflict-affected barangays aim to strengthen the barangay-based institutions and sectoral organizations to engage in participatory issue resolutions and the different peace and order interventions,” Paulo said.

He pointed out that the PRLEC is one of the national government’s mechanisms in implementing the Whole-of-Nation Approach to peacefully end the local communist armed conflict as institutionalized by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte through EO 70.

He added that the PRLEC plays a vital role in the implementation of the programs and services of EO 70 through entrepreneurship and marketing, employment, training, financing, institutional development, and food production to enhance the livelihood and employment of the communities. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054474

Another 3 ex-rebels get DTI livelihood kits

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Another 3 ex-rebels get DTI livelihood kits (By Camille M. Bumatay, CMO 8IB)

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon, Oct. 1 -- Another three former rebels (FRs) who surrendered to the 8th Infantry "Dependable" Battalion (8IB) recently received P8,000 worth of starter kits from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) livelihood and entrepreneurship program dubbed as “Pangkabuhayan sa PagBangon at Ginhawa.”

Led by Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Jose D. Maureal, DTI handed-over the starter kits worth P8,000 to each of the three ex-rebels as working capital in the form of carpentry tools, groceries, and other support services to enable them to start a small ‘Sari-sari’ store and become an entrepreneur.

Alias Rey, one of the recipients, expressed his deep appreciation to the government.

“Nagpasalamat ko ug dako sa lokal nga gobyerno, sa ahensya sa DTI, ug sa mga kasundalohan tungod sa tanang plano nga ilang gihimo para sa amo ug sa programang gipanghatag para sa among mga panginahanglan ug tabang panginabuhian. Kining tanan naghatag kanamo og kadasig para manimuyo sa among bag-ong kinabuhi nga malinawon sa maayo ug insakto nga gobyerno.” (I thanked the local government, DTI, and the soldiers for their plans, programs, and livelihood assistance. All of these motivated us to support the government and live peacefully in the folds of the law),” alias Rey said.

In his message, DTI-STIDS Maureal reminded the starter kit beneficiaries to do well and be successful with whatever help shared to them by the government.

"Atong pasalamatan ang atong gobyerno nga naghatag sa inyong mga panginahanglanon. Sa atong mga former rebels, kini nga programa libre ug para gayod ni sa inyoha. Gamita kini para sa pagsugod og gamay nga panginabuhian para makatabang sa inyong pagpadayon sa pagbag-o sa inyong panimuyo. (Let us give thanks to our government for providing some of your needs. To our former rebels, this starter kits are free and intended just for you. Use this to start a small business that will help you lead a new life),” Maureal said.

Likewise, Lt. Col. Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, commanding officer of 8IB said, “this showed that the government is sincere in helping our former rebels to be reintegrated in the mainstream and be productive citizens of the country.” (CMO, 8IB, 403rd Bde, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054738

Three more NPAs surrender in Bukidnon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Three more NPAs surrender in Bukidnon (By Camille M. Bumatay, CMO, 8IB)

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon, Oct. 1 -- Three Communist New People's Army Terrorists (CNTs) regional unit members surrender to the 8th Infantry "Dependable" Battalion (8IB) on September 15 and 23, 2020.

They were identified as alias Bahoy, Political Guide of Squad 1; alias Neil, Team Leader of Team Baking, Squad 2, both of Platoon 3; and alias Angelo, Company Medic, all under Headquarters Force (HQF) Neo, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

In the custodial debriefing, the three former rebels revealed that they could no longer endure the extreme hunger and their unceasing operations.

“Angelo” grumbled about hunger due to lack of food supply in the mountains.

"Wala’y suplay sa pagkaon ug mas kapoy nga operasyon ang hinungdan nga nagluya ko busa nag-desisyon ko nga mo-surender. (No food supplies, tiresome, and weary combat operations made me sick and pushed me to surrender),” he recounted.

Lieutenant Colonel Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, commanding officer of 8IB, said the present setup of the armed groups showed that they are waning.

“With its regional unit members now gradually surrendering, this is a clear indication that the CNTs are facing serious armed struggle,” LtCol. Talaroc said.

The three surrenderees are now in custody of the 8IB while processing their Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits. (CMO, 8IB, 403rd Bde, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054740

Amazon sisters reunite inside 8IB army camp in Bukidnon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Amazon sisters reunite inside 8IB army camp in Bukidnon (By Camille M. Bumatay, CMO, 8IB)

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon, Oct. 1 -- After two years of being apart, two amazon sisters rejoiced as they reunite inside the camp of 8th Infantry "Dependable" Battalion (8IB) in Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon on Sept. 17, 2020.

They were identified as alias Gaya and alias Peme. ‘Gaya’ was the platoon medic of Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad Peddler, while ‘Peme’ was the platoon medic of Pulang Bagani Yunit of Guerilla Front 89, both under Sub-Regional Command 2, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee of the communist terrorists New People’s Army (NPA).

It can be recalled that ‘Peme’, 28 years old, surrendered to the government with an M16 rifle on Nov. 16, 2018 after having realized the futile struggle with the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs).

Early this week, 25-year old ‘Gaya’ yielded to the government after not being able to cope with hunger and fatigue within the terrorist group.

‘Gaya’ screamed in surprise upon seeing her long lost sister in an undreamed-of reunion facilitated by 8IB personnel at the headquarters. With teary eyes, ‘Gaya’ thanked the Philippine Army for finding her sister while despising the NPA for making their lives miserable.

“Dili nako mapugngan ang akong luha nga nakita ang akong igsoon human sa kadugayon sa panahon. Giguba sa NPA ang among malipayong pamilya. Dili ko gusto nga malayo pa usab sa ila. Mapasalamaton kaayo ko sa among gobyerno sa pagtabang sa ako nga makauban ang akong pamilya pag-usab. (I can't hold back my tears seeing my sister after a long time. The NPA destroyed our once happy family. I don't want to be away from them again. I am grateful to our government for helping me to be reunited with my family again),” she said.

Lieutenant Colonel Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, commanding officer of 8IB, meanwhile, welcomed ‘Gaya’ who turned her back from the CPP-NPA.

"Nakabuhat og husto nga desisyon silang ‘Gaya’ ug ‘Peme’ nga mobiya sa walay pulos nga armadong grupo. Sa nahabilin nga mga NPA, surender na karon aron magkahiusa na kamo sa inyong mga hinigugma ug mamuyo nga malinawon. (@Gaya and @Peme made the right decision to abandon the worthless armed group. To the remaining NPA rebels, I encourage you to surrender now, be reunited with your loved ones, and live peacefully again),” the 8IB commander said.

‘Peme’ received her Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits completely while her younger sister Gaya’s ECLIP entitlement will still be processed. (CMO, 8IB, 403rd Bde, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054741

Air Force TOG-10 supports EO-70 to attain lasting peace

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Air Force TOG-10 supports EO-70 to attain lasting peace (By Vincent Philip S. Bautista)

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Oct. 1 (PIA) -- In consonance with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Executive Order (EO) – 70, which aims to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) in the contry, the Philippine Air Force – Tactical Operations Group (PAF-TOG) – 10 has expressed its commitment to provide pneumatic coordination and air support in Northern Mindanao’s aerial highways to help attain peace in the region and defend the country’s democracy.

Aside from conducting tactical civil-military air operations, the PAF-TOG – 10 offers mobility services to transport other agencies to far-flung areas to deliver their services.

“Naay mga Indigenous People (IP) communities sa far-flung areas ug isolated. Ang program namo sa TOG-10 kay gina-focus namo sa community sa IP. Mao nga nag create mi ug programs, through our engagement sa mga IP leader ug nakita namo nga naay diay silay wish-list nga wala na hatagan ug priority,” SSG Al-Zhale S. Ahmad, non-commissioned officer-in-charge of TOG-10 CMO said.

(There are some Indigenous People (IP) communities that are far flung and isolated. Our program in TOG-10 is focused on IP communities. That’s why we came up with programs through our engagement with IP leaders. And we learned that they had a wish-list that was not given priority.)

He also noted that that with the strong relations with TOG-10, they were able to determine the needs of the community.

Amidst the smog of propaganda being spread by the Communist Terrorist Group-New People’s Army (CTG-NPA) about the administration in the hinterlands, the TOG-10 aimed to counter the lies, engage the IP community in nation building, and act as a conduit to mainstream society.

Through their efforts, they were able to build a 35 x 25 square feet “Tulogan” or Tribal Hall for the Higaonon tribe, an infrastructure deemed essential by the community where the tribesmen conduct meetings, social practices and other rituals.

“Nakita namo ang importansya, mao nga nahimo namo ang tribal hall with the help of the stakeholders, public and private. Ato na ni siya na turned-over last December ni Datu Demetrio Mahusay-Orasan. Siya ang tribal chieftain sa Higaonon tribe diha sa Pigsag-an,” Ahmad disclosed.

(We saw the importance of a tribal hall. With the help of the stakeholders from both public and private groups, we had turned over said project last December to Datu Demetrio Mahusay-Orasan, a Higaonon chieftain.)

The Tribal Hall benefited 600 tribal members, as it serves as the venue when they have activities like gift giving, feeding, and peace/drug symposium dialogues.

TOG-10 also coordinated with the Department of Agriculture (DA) – 10 for the provision of vegetable seeds, tilapia fingerlings for the IP communities.

By empowering isolated communities in the hinterlands, the PAF-TOG-10 hopes to attain pacifistic zephyrs that breeze through peaceful skies free from unjust violence.

“Ang role sa TOG-10, kami ang ga-suporta sa mga mando gikan sa taas ug kauban namo ang 4ID,” Civil-military of Phil Air force – Tactical Operations Group (TOG) 1LT Amos M. Espinosa concluded.

(The role of TOG-10 is to support the orders from higher ups alongside the 4ID.) (VPSBautista/PIA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054732

ASG bandits kill 1 of 5 kidnapped Indonesian fishermen

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): ASG bandits kill 1 of 5 kidnapped Indonesian fishermen (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits have killed one of the five Indonesian fishermen they are holding hostage in Sulu, military officials said Thursday.

Lt. Col. Ruben Guinolbay, commander of the 45th Infantry Battalion, said they have recovered the cadaver of one of the five Indonesian hostages following a clash with ASG bandits on Tuesday afternoon.

“Our troops were in pursuit of the fleeing local terrorist group members (ASG bandits) following an encounter when they recovered the cadaver of the slain kidnap victim,” Guinolbay said in a statement.

He said the troops were scouring the enemy withdrawal route, about 300 meters from the encounter site along Barangay Maligay in Patikul, Sulu, when they recovered the cadaver of the slain hostage.

“Based on facial recognition, our intelligence officer identified the kidnap victim as one of the five Indonesian kidnap victims; however, the name is being withheld for further confirmation,” said Brig. Gen. William Gonzales, Joint Task Force Sulu commander.

Gonzales added that the victim's remains will be transported to Zamboanga City for further confirmation.

Citing reports from the ground, Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said the victim tried to escape during the encounter.

He added that they have yet to "reconfirm" the victim's identity before revealing it.

The five Indonesian hostages were seized by the ASG bandits while they were fishing on January 16 this year, in the waters between Tambisan and Kuala Meruap, Lahad Datu, Sabah, close to the Philippine sea border.

In earlier reports, they were identified as Arsyad Dahlan, 41, the fishing boat skipper; Arizal Kastamiran, 29; La Baa, 32; Riswanto Hayano, 27; and, Edi Lawalopo, 53.

The troops are now tracking down the ASG bandits.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117153

2 BIFF members yield to military in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): 2 BIFF members yield to military in Maguindanao (By Noel Punzalan) 

SURRENDER. Two Bangsamoro Islamic Liberation Front combatants surrender to the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion in Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao on Wednesday (Sept. 30, 2020). Northern Kabuntalan Mayor Ramil Dilangalen (2nd from right) and military officials joined the two BIFF surrenderers. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

Two combatants of the Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) yielded to the military in Maguindanao on Wednesday afternoon.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the 6th Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army, said the surrenderers, whom he did not name for security reasons, belong to the BIFF Karialan faction under Rasul Dubpaleg operating in the marshlands of Northern Kabuntalan town.

The two surrendered to the 34th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Balong, the 6ID official added.

“The duo’s surrender will help entice more BIFF to return to the mainstream society while we continue our operation against the BIFF in the province,” Uy said.

The surrenderers brought with them a .50-caliber Barret sniper rifle, an M1 Garand rifle, and an anti-personnel mine explosive rigged from a 105 Howitzer cannon projectile with a mobile phone as a trigger mechanism.

“We just want to live normal lives as we miss our families very much. We are tired,” one of the surrenderers told reporters.

Uy said the surrenderers would be subjected to debriefing before they would be handed over to their local government unit for assistance and eventual return to their families.

Meanwhile, in Kalamansig town of Sultan Kudarat, a communist New People’s Army (NPA) guerilla also surrendered to the Army’s 37 IB in the area on the same day.

Ka Anong, a member of the Platoon Myphone, NPA Guerilla Front 73-Far Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, brought with him one homemade shotgun during his surrender.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117172

Army hits NPA attempt to raze equipment for farmers’ project

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Army hits NPA attempt to raze equipment for farmers’ project (By Alexander Lopez)

BURNING MATERIALS. Government troops recover a plastic container filled with gasoline and other materials following a brief clash with armed men believed to be communist guerillas Tuesday night (Sept. 29, 2020 in Jabonga town, Agusan del Norte. Army officials denounced the rebels' attempt to destroy the equipment, noting that the construction firm is engaged on an irrigation project that will benefit farmers in the area. (Photo courtesy of 29th IB)

Top officials of the Philippine Army in Caraga Region scored the communist New People’s Army (NPA) for its attempt to burn the equipment of a construction company engaged in an irrigation project for the farmers of Agusan del Norte.

Government forces under the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion foiled Tuesday's attempt of NPA rebels to raze the construction equipment in Barangay Baleguian, Jabonga town, after several residents reported the rebels' presence to authorities, said Lt. Col. Isagani Criste, 29IB commander.

“Our soldiers conducted an intelligence-driven security operation in response to reliable and timely information provided by the local residents in Baleguian,” Criste said in statement Thursday.

Criste said extortion was the main motive of the NPA, adding the five rebels were members of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 16A (SYP 16A) of the Guerrilla Front 16.

Two of the perpetrators were also identified based on the information from the several civilians in the area, Criste said, naming them as Marvin Bugas of Santiago town, Agusan del Norte; and Eliamar Elecito Monter of Jabonga town.

After the three-minute clash, Criste said they recovered a container filled with gasoline a few meters away from the site where workers and equipment of Reyrose Construction are located.

The 29IB said Reyrose Construction is working on an irrigation project that will benefit the members of the Beleguian Farmers and Irrigators Association (BOFIA) in the area.

Criste said BOFIA members were once influenced by the NPA but decided to cut their ties with the rebel movement "and denounced the continuing terroristic activities of the rebels."

“The provision of reliable information manifests the commitment of the farmers in Baleguian and the neighboring barangays to secure the ongoing development project that will help them achieve increase agricultural production and brighter future for their families,” the Army official added.

Col. George Banzon, commander of the Army's 901st Infantry Brigade, underscored the important role of residents in protecting the development programs and projects of the government.

“We will have an effective course of action in preventing this threat group from doing atrocity if the community will cooperate and will not hide information. What transpired in the recent incident is a classic manifestation that we can make difference if we will actively participate in the peace efforts in our respective communities” Banzon said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117169

Army to deploy more medical teams to Bacolod City

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Army to deploy more medical teams to Bacolod City (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

ARMY MEDICAL TEAM. Members of the Armed Forces medical team assigned to the Dr. Pablo O. Torre Memorial Hospital in Bacolod City were given recognition for their service by the hospital management halfway through their tour of duty last month. The team will soon conclude its assignment and will be succeeded by another batch of medical workers from the Philippine Army. (Photo from Dr. Pablo O. Torre Memorial Hospital's Facebook page)

The Philippine Army will deploy three more medical teams here to augment health care workers catering to coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients in various hospitals.

Mayor Evelio Leonardia said Thursday the impending arrival of the additional manpower was confirmed by Lt. Gen. Roberto Ancan, commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Central Command, based in Cebu City.

“The teams will augment our local hospitals' health care manpower complement,” Leonardia added.

Each team will have one doctor, four nurses, and a still-unspecified number of aide personnel.

He said the three teams would replace the two teams deployed to the city in the last week of August once the latter's tour of duty ends.

The initial two teams, with six members each, were assigned to two private hospitals in the city.

Each team was composed of one doctor, two nurses, and three aide men.

One was dispatched to the Dr. Pablo O. Torre Memorial Hospital (Riverside Medical Center) while the other was deployed to the Bacolod Queen of Mercy Hospital.

The deployment of augmentation health care personnel to Bacolod came as part of the response to Leonardia's appeal for assistance from President Rodrigo Duterte in August.

Last month, the Department of Health (DOH) 7 (Central Visayas) deployed 15 nurses to Bacolod through the assistance of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas headed by Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino, which is part of the Cebu team assisting Bacolod in its battle against Covid-19.

Leonardia had also asked the National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 to deploy more nurses to hospitals in Bacolod as the city government continues to strengthen efforts to reduce local cases of Covid-19.

As of Wednesday night, Bacolod has recorded 4,025 confirmed Covid-19 cases, including 1,169 active cases, 2,775 recoveries, and 81 deaths.

The recovered cases comprise 68.94 percent of the total positive cases.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117199

Army lauds surrender of two NPA team leaders in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Army lauds surrender of two NPA team leaders in Agusan Norte (By Alexander Lopez)

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, commander of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion. (PNA file photo by Alexander Lopez)

The Philippine Army has welcomed the surrender of two team leaders of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Agusan del Norte.

1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, civil-military operations officer of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB), said the rebels surrendered at the battalion’s headquarters in Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista on two separate occasions last month.

Maglalang said the surrenderers – "Fredie”, 39, a resident of Carmen, and “Jay-R”, 24, a resident of Buenavista, both in Agusan del Norte – held important roles as team leaders in the Guerrilla Front (GF) 4A of the NPA's North Central Mindanao Committee.

“They all complained of being tired with the movement and both have shown disgust over their leaders whom they accused of disregarding the welfare of their comrades and their families,” he told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Thursday.

Upon his surrender, “Fredie” handed over to the Army one MK-2 fragmentation hand grenade, Maglalang said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, 23IB commander, welcomed the surrender of the two NPA combatants, saying "disillusionment finally broke their loyalty to the movement they thought would bring their families to better lives."

“They were made to believe in lies. Alias Fredie told us that he was recruited because the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) is winning the revolution and that the movement will eventually give better lives to their families. While inside the movement, they themselves found out that the promises made by the leaders were lies,” Paulo said on Thursday.

He said he believes that more NPA members would come down and return to their families "because of the real hardships they now experience with the movement."

Paulo noted that in the 51 years of the NPA revolution, "only their leaders have gained from the hardships and enslavement of their ordinary members, fighters and supporters."

He said the 23IB is helping the surrenderers obtain government benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

“The ECLIP has already changed the lives of former rebels in Agusan del Norte. The renewed lives of our former rebels constantly remind those who are still in the movement to change their minds and go back to the fold of the law. They still have the chance and the government is always open to accept them,” Paulo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117254

Road projects limit NPA movement in Zambo Sur: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Road projects limit NPA movement in Zambo Sur: Army (By Leah Agonoy)

ROAD PROJECT. Col. Emerito Pineda, commander of the Army's 547th Engineer Battalion, discusses the benefits of the road project to the community to former Datu Tutukan barangay chairperson Roque Galcon Jr. (left) and Labangon Barangay chairperson Fermin Anggi (right) in the Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur. Army officials say the construction of more roads in the area would further pressure communist rebels. (PNA photo by Leah D. Agonoy)

The continuous opening and rehabilitation of roads undertaken by Army engineers in remote areas, coupled with military offensives, suppressed the movements of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists in the province.

Col. Emerito Pineda, commander of the Army's 547th Engineer Battalion, underscored Thursday the importance of infrastructure projects in helping eradicate insurgency in far-flung villages by accelerating the delivery of basic services and the government's anti-poverty programs.

Pineda said a battalion from the Army's 55th Engineer Brigade based in Baloi, Lanao del Norte, was sent to reinforce the 547th Engineer Battalion on Wednesday to undertake a road opening and rehabilitation project in barangays Datu Tutukan and Labangon in Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur.

Once completed, he said the project would put more pressure on the NPA rebels in Dumingag, the site of recent clashes between the government troops and the rebels.

“Once development reached their communities, NPA recruitment and support will stop and basic services could reach these isolated communities as they have now their roads,” he said.

Pineda also called on the remaining NPA rebels to surrender, lest they "face the might of the military. They could either get wounded or worse, killed in encounters."

Labangon Barangay chairperson Fermin Anggi said the road project responds to their needs, especially in transporting farm produce to the market.

Anggi said the farmers in the village could hardly support the daily needs of their family since the high cost of transportation in bringing the farm produce to the market eats up almost all their earnings.

“This would also limit the visits of armed groups that in the past would ask for support from the residents. However, in recent months, with the presence of the military, they only pass by our area,” Anggi said.

Labangon is seven kilometers from Barangay Datu Tutukan, the nearest trading center. The farm products are transported via motorcycles, horses, or water buffalo, the village leader said.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, commander of the Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion, said of the 32 original members of the Main Regional Guerrilla Unit (MRGU), only seven remain in hiding in the hinterlands.

Herrera said the rest of the members of the MRGU were either killed or arrested.

“We are still after the seven members of the MRGU operating in parts of Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte. We either talk to their family to convince them to surrender or continue hunting them in the hinterlands,” Herrera said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117200

Westmincom fetes troop for rescue of Fil-Am

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): Westmincom fetes troop for rescue of Fil-Am (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

HONORS BESTOWED. Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief (right), pins the Gold Cross Medal to 1Lt. Jessie Jun Ebalan of the Army's 42nd Infantry Battalion's Bravo Company, for the rescue of Fil-American Rex Triplitt, 64, in Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte, in a ceremony Thursday (October 1, 2020) at the 42nd IB headquarters in Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte. Vinluan also awarded the Military Merit Medal to each of the 11 soldiers under Ebalan for meritorious accomplishment. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom Public Information Office)

The military’s Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) has accorded honors to the troops behind the successful rescue of a Filipino-American taken hostage by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Zamboanga del Norte.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of Westmincom, led the awarding ceremony Thursday at the headquarters of the 42nd Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Doña Cecilia, Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.

Vinluan conferred a Gold Cross Medal to First Lieutenant Jessie Jun Ebalan of the 42IB’s Bravo Company “for his conspicuous courage and gallantry in action as the commanding officer of the operating troops” who rescued Rex Triplitt, 64.

Vinluan also conferred the Military Merit Medal to each of the 11 enlisted personnel under the command of Ebalan.

The troops led by Ebalan rescued Triplitt following a clash around 10:20 a.m. Wednesday in Barangay Pisa Itom, Sirawai, when soldiers chanced upon some five ASG bandits holding Triplitt captive.

On September 16, Triplitt on his motorcycle with his 24-year-old wife, Celsa Maani, were on their way home to Barangay Piacan when he was snatched by the bandits clad in fatigue uniforms.

In the commotion, Triplitt’s wife managed to escape and asked for help from barangay officials while the ASG bandits fled with Triplitt.

Lt. Col. Leon Onggao Jr., 42IB commander, said pursuit operations were immediately launched after Triplitt was seized to prevent the abductors from leaving the Zamboanga Peninsula.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117226

New office to boost PH Navy modernization

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): New office to boost PH Navy modernization (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MODERNIZATION OFFICE. Philippine Navy (PN) chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo (left), and newly appointed PN Modernization Office (PNMO) chief, Capt. Emerson David (right), lead the inauguration of the office at the Navy headquarters in Manila on Wednesday (Sept. 30, 2020). The PNMO is expected to ensure the effective and efficient implementation of programs under the PN Synchronization Matrix. (Photo courtesy of the Naval Public Affairs Office)

The activation of the Philippine Navy Modernization Office (PNMO) will help boost its implementation of plans and programs aimed at fulfilling its mandate to protect the country's maritime borders.

In a statement Thursday, PN public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said the PNMO was inaugurated at the Navy headquarters in Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard in Manila on Wednesday.

Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, was present during the ceremony.

"The activation of this new modernization office was in parallel with the creation of the AFP’s System Engineering Office in the General Headquarters that manages modernization programs at the GHQ level," Roxas said.

Meanwhile, Bacordo said the PNMO is expected to "cater to the self-reliant defense posture of the Navy and ensure the effective and efficient implementation of the PN Synchronization Matrix that covers capability, materiel and technology development, doctrines development, force restructuring and organizational development, human resource development and finally, base support and sustainment development”.

The PNMO's newly designated director, Navy Capt. Emerson David, is a naval aviator and logistician.

Before being designated as PNMO chief, David served as assistant chief of the Unified Command Staff for Logistics of the Western Command.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117193

US military pilots must not use PH aircraft codes: Esperon

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): US military pilots must not use PH aircraft codes: Esperon (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. (File photo)

American military pilots should be cautioned against using hex codes belonging to Philippine aircraft while conducting their surveillance missions, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said Thursday.

Esperon's remarks came following reports that a US surveillance aircraft disguised itself as a Philippine plane using hex codes assigned to the country while flying over the Yellow Sea.

"Wala pa kaming update (We still don't have an update). We have yet to get the reaction of the US Embassy (in Manila) but it is important to ask them and caution them or inform them if they have not known about that there (are US) pilots (who) have been using the codes that belong to Philippine aircraft and Malaysia," he said in a virtual press briefing.

Earlier, US military planes were reported to have disguised themselves as Malaysian aircraft while conducting missions near China.

Esperon noted that these pilots are trying to test China's reaction and that Philippine aircraft are not known to operate that far as “our planes only operate within the country's air domains.”

"The possibilities are they could be trying really the capacity of China to (react). Just imagine, the incident happened in the Yellow Sea, which is between Korea and China. It is an area where we don't usually go," he said.

Esperon also cited the need for their US counterparts to be reminded that such moves could have serious implications on the Philippines.

"It is something that must be discussed. Nonetheless, we hope that this could be settled satisfactorily between the parties," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117222

DOJ eyes completion of Jolo shooting probe in October

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 1, 2020): DOJ eyes completion of Jolo shooting probe in October (By Benjamin Pulta)

State prosecutors on Thursday said they may resolve this month the criminal charges against Jolo police officers involved in the killing of four military intelligence officers last June.

Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Anthony Fadullon told reporters that "barring any extensions and any unforeseen causes for delay", the Department of Justice (DOJ) may resolve the case within the month.

Fadullon said counter-affidavits had been submitted by respondents over a week ago and prosecutors are awaiting the possible filing of a reply and rejoinder.

Last August, the DOJ ordered the policemen implicated in the shooting of four army intelligence officers in Jolo, Sulu to answer the criminal charges filed against them.

Charges of murder and planting of evidence were filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Officer-in-charge Eric Distor for preliminary investigation by prosecutors following the findings of the NBI Western Mindanao Regional Office and Death Investigation Division.

The NBI Western Mindanao Regional Office composite team headed by Yehlen C. Agus also recommended neglect of duty under the doctrine of command responsibility against the Sulu Police Provincial Director, Police Drug Enforcement Unit chief, and the Jolo chief of police.

The four Army intelligence operatives killed in the shooting incident involving nine police officers in Jolo bore gunshot wounds on their backs.
Killed during the incident were Maj. Marvin Indammog, 39; Capt. Irwin Managuelod, 33; Sgt. Jaime Velasco, 38; and Cpl. Abdal Asula, 33. The four were tailing four terrorist suicide bombers when the shooting happened. Asula was buried in Sulu according to Muslim rites.

The nine relieved policemen -- S/Sgt. Almudzrin Hadjaruddin, Pat. Alkajal Mandangan, Pat. Rajiv Putalan, Senior M/Sgt. Abdelzhimar Padjiri, M/Sgt. Hanie U Baddiri, S/Sgt. Iskandar Susulan, S/Sgt. Ernisar Sappal, Cpl. Sulki Andaki, and Pat. Mohammad Nur Pasani -- are currently under restrictive custody at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117225