Chinese vessel shadows two survey ships hired by PH firm

Posted to Panay News (Apr 19, 2022): Chinese vessel shadows two survey ships hired by PH firm

A China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel tailed two ships hired by a Philippine-based firm to do a seismic survey in the West Philippine Sea earlier this month, Vietnamese maritime observer Duan Dang wrote last week in his newsletter South China Sea Brief.

Ship tracking data suggested that CCG vessel 4201 shadowed survey ship Geo Coral and its support vessel Mariska G in northwest Palawan where Service Contract (SC) 75 is located.

SC 75, which covers 6,160 square kilometers in the offshore northwest Palawan Basin, is operated by PXP Energy Corp., formerly Philex Petroleum Corp, which hired the two ships.

A Philippine government official confirmed the SC 75 incident to the Inquirer on the condition of anonymity due to the issue’s sensitivity.

The source said the CCG vessel monitored Geo Coral and Mariska G at SC 75 starting on April 4 but kept its distance and did not interfere with their activities until the ships left for El Nido on April 6. This was after the Department of Energy (DOE) suspended oil exploration activities in the area until the security cluster issues the “necessary clearance to proceed.”

PXP Energy in February announced plans to conduct a 3D seismic survey at SC 75, and to drill two appraisal wells over SC 72 at the resource-rich Recto (Reed) Bank through its subsidiary, Forum Energy Ltd.

SC 72, operated by Forum, spans 8,800 sq km of Recto Bank, located west of Palawan and southwest of the depleting Malampaya gas field. It is the site of the Sampaguita gas field, which is estimated to contain 2.6 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, according to PXP.

Both SC 75 and SC 72 are within the country’s exclusive economic zone, where the Philippines has sovereign or exclusive rights to exploit and explore resources.

https://www.panaynews.net/chinese-vessel-shadows-two-survey-ships-hired-by-ph-firm/

US report on gov't forces’ HR abuses erroneous: RTF6-ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): US report on gov't forces’ HR abuses erroneous: RTF6-ELCAC (By Perla Lena)

INJUSTICE TO GOVERNMENT FORCES. Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC), through its spokesperson Provincial Prosecutor 2 Flosemer Chris Gonzales, said the erroneous report of the United States Department is “a direct assault on the reputation, integrity and honor” of the government’s security forces. In a statement released on Tuesday (April 19, 2022), the task force urged researchers of the United Nations' 2021 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices to go down on the ground to see what the troops are doing. (PNA file photo)

The report of the US State Department on human rights abuses allegedly committed by the country’s government forces is a “direct assault on their reputation, integrity and honor”.

“Let it be known that your report does injustice to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Our heroes deserve respect and not the baseless accusations in your ill-prepared and poorly researched report,” said the statement of the Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC) furnished to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Tuesday.

The RTF6- ELCAC, through its spokesperson Provincial Prosecutor 2 Flosemer Chris Gonzales, expressed its support for the statement of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenza calling out the erroneous report that maligned government troops.

The report, according to Gonzales, was summarized in the very much adulterated, abused, and misused term "human rights abuses".

“These men and women in the armed services put their lives on the line, day in and day out. They spearhead humanitarian and disaster response efforts in times of calamities,” he said.

Gonzales added that the country’s state forces are at the frontline in campaigns to neutralize terrorist groups including the Islamic State (ISIS) extremists, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

The US State Department seemed to be detached from the realities on the ground, he said.

“The one who made the report for you might have stayed in front of the computer screen while writing the erroneous report. Tell your researchers to go down on the ground with our troops so that you will know what we're doing here,” the spokesperson urged.

The 2021 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices released last week claimed that the US received “credible” information on the supposed human rights violations perpetrated by Philippine security forces.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172412

NPA rebel wanted for FEU athlete's slay nabbed in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): NPA rebel wanted for FEU athlete's slay nabbed in Masbate (By Connie Calipay)

A New People's Army (NPA) rebel tagged as one of the suspects in a roadside explosion last year that killed two persons, including a Far Eastern University (FEU) varsity football player, was arrested by police and military operatives in Masbate on Monday.

Maj. Malu Calubaquib, Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) spokesperson, on Tuesday identified the suspect as Rolly Hermina of Masbate City.

She said Hermina is a member of Larangan 1, Komite ng Probinsya 4 under the command of Eddie Rosero alias "Ka Star" operating in the second district of Masbate.

Hermina was nabbed in a manhunt operation on April 18 on the strength of an arrest warrant issued by a regional trial court in Masbate City on Aug. 6, 2021, Calubaquib said.

FEU athlete Keith Absalon, 21, was cycling with a group that included his 40-year-old relative, Nolven, when an anti-personnel mine exploded by the roadside in Masbate City on June 6, 2021.

Meanwhile, Hermina is also wanted for the killing of a certain Samuel Verano, a civilian, in 2019.

"Based on the warrant of arrest issued last August 6, 2020, Hermina was charged with two counts of murder with no bail. Two cases were filed for Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and other crimes against humanity under RA (Republic Act) 9851 with PHP200,000.00 bail; and Attempted Murder with PHP120,000.00 bail," Calubaquib said, referring to the Verano slay case.

Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, PRO-5 director, acknowledged the efforts of the operatives that led to the arrest of the suspect.

“Ang ating mga kapulisan, katuwang ang iba pang ahensya ng gobyerno ay hindi tumitigil upang makamit ang hustisya sa mga biktima. Ito rin ay sa paglalayong iwasan at protektahan ang bawat Bicolano mula sa karahasan at panggigipit na maaaring gawin ng mga rebeldeng grupo (Our police force, in partnership with other government agencies, does not stop efforts to attain justice for the victims. This is also aimed at protecting every Bicolano from the violence and harassment of the rebel groups)," Estomo said in a statement.

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

The National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172410

Troops to build another peace learning center in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): Troops to build another peace learning center in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Talipao town, Sulu.

The Army’s 6th Special Forces Company (6SFC) is building another learning center to strengthen its promotion of peace through education in a remote area of Sulu.

Capt. Ron Villarosa, 6SFC commander, said Tuesday the learning center to be established in Barangay Upper Sinumaan in Talipao town will cater to about 170 learners from the community and will serve as a venue to promote peace.

Barangay Upper Sinumaan is previously influenced by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Villarosa said, adding the area lacks even a primary school.

He said they took control of the area in January this year, although a small part of the village is still frequented by ASG bandits who have relatives in the area.

Villarosa said the learning center will primarily serve "children displaced by conflict. Its purpose is to promote peace through education."

He noted that the young ones are commonly vulnerable to ASG recruitment if not guided by education.

“We could at least provide an interim solution to prevent children from joining the ASG. We can achieve this by engaging them in peaceful activities through the learning center,” he said in an interview.

Once completed, the peace and learning center in Barangay Upper Sinumaan is the second in Talipao town. The first was in Sitio Larang, Barangay Bud Bunga, in the same municipality.

Villarosa said the establishment of peace and learning centers form part of the Mass Base Operations (MBO) and Community Support Program (CSP) initiatives of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion, the mother unit of 6SFC, in partnership with several stakeholders.

The learning centers can be converted into a madrasah (Muslim schools) once the Department of Education opens schools in Barangays Bug Bunga and Upper Sinumaan, the Army official said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172418

Ex-NPA fighter thanks gov’t troops for saving his life

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): Ex-NPA fighter thanks gov’t troops for saving his life (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

NEW LIFE. Former CPP-NPA fighter Robert Carillo Anceno shares how soldiers and policemen saved his life after he was wounded during a clash in Isabela, Negros Occidental on March 9, 2022. As of Tuesday (April 19, 2022) he has fully recovered from his injuries after he was treated in a hospital and received at least four bags of blood from the troops. (Screengrab from 62nd Infantry Battalion video)

A former fighter of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) has thanked the soldiers and policemen who saved his life after he was wounded during a clash in Isabela, Negros Occidental last month.

Robert Carillo Anceno, 23, aka “Kits”, has fully recovered from his injuries after he was treated in a hospital and received at least four bags of blood from the troops.

“After what happened to me, I’m really thankful to the army and the police. Even though I fought them, they still saved my life and helped me seek a new path,” Anceno said in Hiligaynon in a video released by the 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) on Tuesday.

He added that he has realized the government they were fighting against is the one that can help them.

“It was too much suffering. We had to walk at night with nothing in return. They would just tell you it’s normal. We were indoctrinated almost every day to fight the government,” Anceno said.

On March 9, he was among the fighters of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) Platoon Lenovo of the NPA’s Leonardo Panaligan Command, who engaged the soldiers of 62IB.

When he was wounded and left behind by his comrades, he decided to surrender and the troops helped him get treatment for his injuries.

Anceno called on those still with the CPP-NPA to give up and lead a peaceful life as he also asked the civilians to stop supporting the NPA and to watch their children and prevent them from being recruited to join the armed struggle.

“If you’re poor, you will become even poorer because the NPA will still ask a portion of what you earn,” he added.

Anceno was a comrade of Virgilio “Kumander Bedam” Tamban, also 23, commanding officer of SYP Platoon Lenovo, who was killed during the encounter.

Tamban’s group has been identified as responsible for several murder cases in central Negros from February to March this year.

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

The National Democratic Front (NDF) has also been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172454

2 NPA dead in clash, 1 surrenders in Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): 2 NPA dead in clash, 1 surrenders in Caraga (By Nef Luczon)

NEW SURRENDER. Fortunato Undayon, described by the military as a ranking New People's Army leader, surrenders in the Surigao del Sur town of Carmen on Monday (April 18, 2022). He brought two firearms and other unspecified war matériel. (Photo courtesy of 4ID)

Some two combatants of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter in Agusan del Norte, while one surrendered in Surigao del Sur, the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (ID) said Tuesday.

In a statement, 4ID said the April 17 clash between the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion (IB) and about 15 rebels in the Agusan del Norte town of Kitcharao resulted in the deaths of Samuel Batican and a certain "Yawming."

Recovered from the encounter site were an AR15 rifle, an M14 rifle, assorted personal belongings, and food supplies, 4ID said.

Prior to the encounter, the 4ID said the 29IB had received numerous reports from angry residents regarding the presence of the NPA rebels in their area.

Residents claimed the NPA “periodically extorted” from them and demanded all kinds of supplies.

Colonel Jason M. Saldua, 29IB commander, said the tip-off from residents was necessary to expose the NPA's illegal activities in the area.

"In that way, we can immediately respond to the reports of the civilians. Rest assured that as we follow the (Executive Order) EO 70 of the President, we can together end this long terroristic and extortionist activities," Saldua said.

Meanwhile, in the Surigao del Sur town of Carmen, NPA leader Fortunato Suazo Undayon surrendered Monday along with his two firearms and some war matériel.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Wilbur Mamawag, 4ID commander, reiterated his appeal for the remnants of the NPA to abandon the armed struggle.

Mamawag said Undayon's decision to be reunited with his loved ones after four years with the NPA was commendable.

“You cannot win against the mighty government. It’s not yet too late, better lay down your arms and avail yourself of the good socio-economic programs of the government," Mamawag said.

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

The National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172440

NPA rebel killed in clash in southern Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): NPA rebel killed in clash in southern Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

A Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) rebel was killed during an encounter with troops of the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion (15IB) in the hinterlands of Cauayan town in southern Negros Occidental on Tuesday.

Capt. Kim Apitong, public affairs officer-in-charge of the 3rd Infantry Division, said the troops engaged some 10 NPA fighters in Sitio Bajay, Barangay Caliling around 6:20 a.m.

After the encounter, the soldiers found the body of the still-unidentified rebel and recovered a high-powered firearm.

The encounter in Cauayan came after a series of recent clashes in the remote villages of the nearby Himamaylan City, which also resulted in the deaths of several cadres under the NPA’s Central Negros Front 2.

Among the latest casualties were couple Elbert and Jessa Quillano, who died in a clash with soldiers in the Barangay Buenavista last April 1.

Elbert was the leader of Sentro de Grabidad Platoon, and deputy secretary of Central Negros Front 2, while Jessa was the platoon’s medical officer.

In September last year, four NPA rebels from the Southwest Front died while two others were injured following an encounter with troops of the Philippine National Police 6th Special Action Force Battalion in Cauayan’s neighboring Ilog town.

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

The National Democratic Front (NDF) has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172487

Anti-insurgency body PRRD's strongest legacy: DavSur mayor

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): Anti-insurgency body PRRD's strongest legacy: DavSur mayor (By Che Palicte)

INSURGENCY-FREE. Matanao, Davao del Sur Mayor Vincent Fernandez attributes the peace and order of his municipality to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict program of the Duterte Administration. In an interview Tuesday (April 19, 2022), he says the town's 33 barangays are all insurgency-free. (PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)

MATANAO, Davao del Sur – The mayor of this town said the creation of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) would be President Rodrigo Duterte's strongest legacy.

In an interview on Tuesday, Mayor Vincent Fernandez said the program has a huge impact on his municipality in terms of peace and order.

“Since we are promoting this municipality as a tourism destination, peace and order should be a primary concern. Through this program, we are now insurgency-free,” Fernandez said.

NTF-ELCAC, a task force organized by the government to respond to and raise awareness of the communist insurgency in the countryside, was created through Executive Order 70 signed by President Duterte in 2018 institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach to address the local communist armed conflict.

Fernandez said Matanao's 33 barangays are all cleared from the presence of the New People’s Army (NPA), with nine villages having been recipients of the NTF-ELCAC’s Barangay Development Program (BDP).

A hallmark program of the NTF-ELCAC with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities, the BDP forms part of the government’s whole-of-nation approach to fighting the communist insurgency.

This year, the BDP targeted the rehabilitation and development of more than 1,000 Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas formerly established, influenced by the Communist Party of the Philippines–NPA–National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

“I am happy with the efforts of the President. I hope that it will be institutionalized. The BDP projects are very useful to the barangay beneficiaries,” Fernandez said.

He said nine barangay beneficiaries in his town received PHP20 million each for various projects that included water systems, school facilities, health centers, electrification, evacuation centers, and non-infrastructure projects.

Fernandez noted that before NTF-ELCAC programs were adopted in his town, no tourists would come to the municipality to explore their tourist sites because of the presence of the communist rebels.

“Now, the people are not afraid anymore. They are working hand in hand with the military and police,” Fernandez said.

He also pointed out that since the time their barangays were declared insurgency free, they can easily access the communities and deliver the government services straight to them.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172466

Army belittles NPA ability to disrupt May 9 polls

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): Army belittles NPA ability to disrupt May 9 polls (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

CANINE HERO. Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, on Tuesday (April 19, 2022) confers the Military Merit Medal (plain) to Ella, a Belgian Malinois, and the dog's handler, who helped locate the body of a slain NPA following an encounter in Sibulan, Negros Oriental. One officer and nine enlisted personnel of the 11th Infantry Battalion were also given the Military Merit Medals with Bronze Spearhead Device. (Photo by Judy Flores Partlow)

DUMAGUETE CITY – The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) capability in Negros Island has diminished over the years compared to the previous elections, Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, Army commander for Western and Central Visayas, said on Tuesday.

Arevalo, who heads the 3rd Infantry Division based in Panay, said in an interview, that it is “very, very much better compared to the last elections because I was (assigned) here in 2019 and that was also election time”.

“Compared to three years ago, there’s a big improvement already (in our counter-insurgency operations), their (NPA) activities decreased dramatically and I can see that the organization is really weakened,” he said.

However, he emphasized the need for sustained operations against the insurgents to ensure that they can no longer recover the forces that they previously had in the past years.

“Of course, we will still not take chances for as long as there are still a number of them and they still have the propensity to really recover, that is why we are doing our best, not letting our guards down and keeping up with our operations,” he said.

Army officials have previously said they were being vigilant against possible attacks by the NPA during this election season.

The 3ID commander visited the 11th Infantry Battalion at its headquarters in Barangay Salag in Siaton town, about an hour’s drive from this capital, to commend the soldiers and hand over military merit medals in relation to the April 14 encounter with suspected NPA rebels in Barangay Enrique Villanueva in Sibulan, Negros Oriental.

11IB soldiers clashed with 12 suspected remnants of the NPA’s dismantled South East Front and recovered a cache of firearms, ammunition, explosives, personal belongings, and suspected subversive documents.

Arevalo handed out Military Merit Medals with Bronze Spearhead Device to 2nd Lt. Jay-Ar Labasan and nine enlisted personnel who figured in that skirmish.

He also gave a Military Merit Medal to “Ella”, a Belgian Malinois military dog, and his handler, Private First Class Dave Calumbres, for their significant role in the encounter wherein they guided troopers to the body of a slain suspected NPA rebel, later identified as Jonard Salo alias Lino/Rapid/Nikko, Team 2 leader of the SEF remnants.

Arevalo told the troops there is still plenty of work to do as "there is more than we can accomplish in the coming months."

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Roderick Salayo, 11IB commanding officer, thanked his superiors for the recognition given to his soldiers in their relentless fight against the NPA.

“We’re proud and thankful that the sacrifices made by our soldiers were recognized by our chief, Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo and this gives us high morale to continue no matter what with our mission,” Salayo said in mixed English and Filipino.

He also extended his appeal to the insurgents to return to the fold of the law and said whatever issues they have, the government is willing to sit down and talk with them and attend to their needs.

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

The National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172474

AFP steps up ops vs. terror groups as elections approach

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): AFP steps up ops vs. terror groups as elections approach (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PNA photo by Judy Flores-Partlow

The military will further intensify its operations against communists and local terrorist groups to ensure orderly and peaceful polls on May 9.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Gen. Andres Centino said troops deployed nationwide remain vigilant against groups that might threaten the public from casting their votes.

“With the campaign period for both national and local posts in full swing, now more than ever, we in the AFP implore troops deployed all over the country to remain vigilant against entities that may threaten or prevent our citizens from safely exercising their constitutional right to vote the next leaders of our nation, including our local government executives,” Centino said in a statement Monday.

Centino said the AFP, along with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), is "doing its best" to guard the elections so that people can exercise the right to vote for their chosen leaders "without fear and intimidation".

Last April 8, the AFP and the PNP presented security updates during the third Joint Command Conference at the AFP Commissioned Officers Club in Camp Aguinaldo.

During the meeting, security updates and deployment of vote-counting machines, official ballots and other election paraphernalia were discussed.

The directive provides the policies and guidelines of the member agencies, as deputized by the Commission on Elections to conduct peace and security operations.

The PNP will be responsible to take the lead role in law enforcement operations, including investigation and assist the Comelec in the prosecution of election-related cases.

The PCG will take the lead in law enforcement operations in coastal or maritime areas.

The AFP will be at the helm in holding joint operations involving the suppression of insurgency and other serious threats to national security.

Under Comelec Resolutions No. 10755 and No. 10743, the AFP, PNP, and PCG will provide security to polling places, including election materials to be used in the elections.

They will also provide security to Comelec personnel, its deputies and other persons performing election-related functions.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172401

Army reservist-boxer Suarez feted, promoted for WBA win

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): Army reservist-boxer Suarez feted, promoted for WBA win (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (right) and Staff Sergeant Charly Suarez (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army has conferred the Meritorious Achievement Medal to reservist Charly Suarez for winning the World Boxing Association's (WBA) Asia super featherweight title last month.

Suarez, who previously held the rank of sergeant in the Army Reserve, was also promoted one rank higher to staff sergeant.

He is affiliated with the Reserve Command's 1303rd Community Defense Center, National Capital Region Regional Community Defense Group.

“Imbued with outstanding self-discipline, deep sense of responsibility and dedication to duty, Staff Sgt. Suarez demonstrated exemplary commitment to the performance of his duty as a reservist and a professional boxer who not only brought great pride to the Reserve Command, Philippine Army and the Philippine Army but to the Philippines as well,” the citation read.

Suarez, who competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics in Brazil and won gold medals in various boxing categories of the 2009, 2011 and 2019 editions of the Southeast Asian Games, was recognized by WBA Asia as the Boxer of the Month in March 2022.

His coach, Army reservist 1st Lt. Delfin Boholst also graced the awarding ceremony Monday.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172403

Año, Lorenzana slam US human rights abuse report on PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): Año, Lorenzana slam US human rights abuse report on PH (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNA file photo

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año on Tuesday dismissed a report issued by the US State Department that Philippine security forces are involved in human rights violations.

"The DILG denounces the US State Department’s 2021 Country Report on Human Rights Practices released recently on the alleged abuses by security forces in the Philippines as the Report is sweeping, rhetorical, and unfounded," he said.

Año said the US report is only a "mere repetition of unsubstantiated accusations against Philippine security forces that were loosely picked up from the traditional and social media", which depicts a very grim picture of the country’s peace and order situation that is so far removed from the realities on the ground.

"The operations of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) down to the grassroots level have led to dramatic improvement of the general peace and security situation in the country since 2016. Therefore, the report belittles the hard work and sacrifice of the men and women of the PNP and the AFP who have been risking their lives to fulfill their sworn duty to fight criminality and illegal drugs," he noted.

Meanwhile, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, in a separate statement, also questioned the US State Department report.

"We question the (US) State Department’s report of abuses by security forces. But since the State Department seems so sure of its facts, we challenge it to provide us with details so our Commission on Human Rights, a constitutional and independent body, can verify them, and if proven accurate, the perpetrators will be punished," he said.

Without these data, Lorenzana said these accusations are nothing but innuendos and witch hunts.

"At worst, the (US) State Department has become a gullible victim of black propaganda. And if I may add, the AFP was voted as one of the most trusted agencies of the government recently. Surely it did not earn this by abusing, torturing, and killing people," he added.

Meanwhile, PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos echoed Lorenzana's calls and said the US State Department must show evidence to back up its report.

"Those are allegations. What we are telling you is what we have in the PNP. You counter that. It's just a statement. For us, we always look at how we can help develop. If the intention is good, you can present it in such a way that it would be constructive," he added.

The US State Department 2021 Country Report on Human Rights Practices claimed that it received “credible” information on the supposed human rights violations perpetrated by Philippine security forces.

The US State Department reported the alleged “numerous” human rights abuses committed “by and on behalf of the (Philippine) government and non-state actors.”

The alleged “significant” human rights issues in the country include unlawful or arbitrary killings, reports of forced disappearance, torture, harsh and life-threatening prison conditions, and arbitrary detention.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172406

Over 22K shunned rebel life since 2016: Malacañang

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): Over 22K shunned rebel life since 2016: Malacañang (By Azer Parrocha)

Acting presidential spokesperson and Communications Secretary Martin Andanar (File photo)

Getting more communist rebels to surrender is among the greatest legacies under the administration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Malacañang said Tuesday.

In a Palace press briefing, acting presidential spokesperson and Communications Secretary Martin Andanar announced that over 22,000 people linked to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) have surrendered and abandoned the local armed struggle since 2016.

“Kasama sa Duterte legacy ang pagbalik loob ng mahigit 22,000 rebel returnees (Getting 22,000 rebels to return to government fold is among Duterte’s legacies),” he said.

Citing government data, Andanar said about 6,418 former rebels were given financial assistance while 879 former rebels were given housing assistance.

He also said about 24,982 former rebels and dependents have graduated from skills training.

Andanar attributed these achievements to the government’s flagship program for the reintegration of former members of the CPP-NPA-NDF, the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

Under the E-Clip, each qualified rebel who surrendered will receive an immediate financial assistance of PHP15,000, livelihood assistance of PHP50,000, and reintegration assistance of PHP21,000. Firearms remuneration is also given for each surrendered firearm.

“Tunay na mas pinalawak at pinalakas natin ang mga programa para sa rebel returnees (We have certainly expanded and strengthened programs for rebel returnees),” he added.

On April 16, Duterte renewed his call to communist insurgents to surrender and reintegrate into mainstream society, reassuring them that they would get assistance from the government.

“I hope that we would find peace with the communists. Ayokong makipag-away sa inyo (I do not want to fight you),” he said. “You know, you can fight 53 years in the making. You want another 53 years? And you think you can win a barangay (village) or a city? Not in a million years. Mabuti pa bumaba na lang kayo (It’s better for you to just surrender).

He also expressed hope that the next administration would succeed in talking peace with communist rebels who have been fighting with the government for more than five decades.

“Hindi kayo maghinto, mag-away talaga tayo (We will fight each other if you do not stop). But we were friends. We were friends. Were na kasi tapos na (because it’s all in the past). But I hope that whoever comes in next after me, they would try to reconnect and I pray that it (peace talks) would succeed,” he added.

Duterte formally ended formal talks with communist rebels in November 2017 for their supposed insincerity in the negotiations.

The government peace panel coordinating with the NDF was dismantled in March 2019.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the NDF as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172443

PSG protection just for PRRD, family: Andanar

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): PSG protection just for PRRD, family: Andanar (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte with officials and members of the Presidential Security Group (File presidential photo)

The job of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) is to serve President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and the First Family, Malacañang said Tuesday.

“The Presidential Security Group or PSG provides security for the President and the First Family only,” acting presidential spokesperson and Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in an online press conference.

The statement was issued in response to the call of Anakalusugan party-list Rep. Michael Defensor on Malacañang to give presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr. PSG protection.

On Sunday, Defensor urged the Palace to send at least a “small” PSG team to Marcos, noting that the latter is the only “major” presidential candidate with no personal protection from the government.

Defensor said the Philippines should adopt the United States’ election process which gives all presidential and vice-presidential candidates an “automatic” protection against potential harm or attack.

He made the call, as he lamented that unlike Marcos, other major presidential candidates such as Vice President Maria Leonor Robredo, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, and Senators Panfilo “Ping" Lacson and Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao are afforded official protection given their positions in government.

Marcos, who emerged as the most preferred presidential candidate in the pre-election surveys, is not an active politician.

The last time he was in public office was six years ago when he served as senator from 2010 to 2016.

On Sunday, Lacson, in a joint press conference with Domagoso and another presidential aspirant, former National Security adviser Norberto Gonzales, said he had received reports of a supposed plan to sabotage the May 9, 2022 elections.

Andanar guaranteed that the current administration, with the help of the Philippine National Police (PNP), would ensure peaceful and orderly elections.

“Handa po ang ating pamahalaan at ang ating uniformed personnel na panatilihin ang kaayusan ng ating bansa (Our government and uniformed personnel is ready to ensure peace and order in our country),” he said.

Andanar also reiterated that Duterte remains “neutral,” as the Chief Executive opts not to endorse any presidential candidate.

The PNP is now validating the reports about the possible election sabotage.

It is also looking into claims that Robredo allegedly issued a statement on allegedly potential chaos in case she loses the presidential race.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172442

Gov’t turns former MILF, MNLF fighters into peacekeepers

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 19, 2022): Gov’t turns former MILF, MNLF fighters into peacekeepers (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

Orientation and workshop of former Moro combatants applying for the police force (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU

The government will facilitate the entry of around 11,000 former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) combatants into the police force, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) said Tuesday.

The OPAPRU said the former fighters already underwent a two-day orientation workshop that focused on the Philippine National Police (PNP) guidelines for the application process.

They will also have to pass the National Police Commission (Napolcom) Special Qualifying Eligibility Examination on May 29 as stated in the agreement signed on April 7, according to the OPAPRU social media announcement.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) assured that only legitimate former members of the MILF and MNLF will benefit from the special qualifying examination.

The initial 5,060 successful examinees will be granted eligibility for temporary appointment as patrolman/woman of the PNP, according to Napolcom Director for Planning and Research Service, Evangeline Almirante.

Napolcom-BARMM Regional Director Randy Babao said in a statement that the integration of MILF and MNLF members into the PNP will serve as a “big leap” to achieve long-lasting peace in Mindanao.

Following the signing of the agreement with Napolcom, BARMM chief Minister Ahod “Murad” Ebrahim ordered the creation of an ad hoc office that will provide administrative support to the eligible applicants throughout the process.

The agreement was finalized through a provision under the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), which serves as an enabling law of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

The BOL states that that MILF and MNLF members must legally comply with the requirements of the PNP before their admission to the force.

Article 11, Section 2, Paragraph 3 of the BOL likewise states that Napolcom can waive the age, height, and educational attainment requirements of the MILF and MNLF members residing in BARMM provided that it is availed of within a period of five years from the ratification of organic law.

The BOL was ratified by Congress and signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte in July 2018.

The requirement on educational attainment must be complied with within 15 years from entry while ranks and grades shall be subjected to existing laws, rules, and regulations governing the PNP.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172463