Army condemns anew NPA recruitment of minors in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 24, 2022): Army condemns anew NPA recruitment of minors in Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

PROTECTING CHILDREN. Soldiers distribute goodies during an outreach activity in a remote village in Las Navas, Northern Samar in this undated photo. The Philippine Army on Thursday (Nov. 24, 2022) renewed its call to the New People’s Army to stop engaging minors in their armed struggle against the government. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Army has renewed its call to the New People’s Army (NPA) to stop engaging minors in their armed struggle against the government.

Maj. Gen. Camilo Ligayo made the appeal on Thursday after a rebel who recently surrendered disclosed there are minor combatants recruited by the communist group.

“Our young people should be in school and protected from all kinds of abuse. Imagine the trauma of a minor engaged in fighting, going hungry for days, lack of sleep and endless hiking for the ideology that has not helped even one NPA to succeed in life for almost 54 years," Ligayo said in a statement.

NPA surrenderer Anthony Encinas, 19, told soldiers he had two colleagues, both 17 years old.

Encinas, who yielded on Nov. 19, was a member of Bugsok Platoon, sub-regional committee Sesame for a year.

“If he was with 17-year-olds, they were probably recruited by a younger person. This is a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law,” Ligayo added.

Rule 136, Protocols I and II of International Humanitarian Law states "children must not be recruited into armed forces or armed groups".

Ligayo also appealed to the public to support and protect the welfare of children and help stop the recruitment of child combatants.

The military has been holding dialogues with parents and village officials living in vulnerable communities to help prevent recruitment activity among minors.

Ligayo said they are trying to identify parents of minors recruited by the NPA and will be tapped to convince their children to surrender.

The local task force to end local communist armed conflict has been meeting with school officials and teachers to protect the youth from the deceptive recruitment and radicalization by the Communist Party of the Philippines -NPA – National Democratic Front and their front organizations.

“While parents are working hard for the good future of their children, these rebels are still rampant in stealing children from parents who I think are now looking for and worried about the condition of their children,” Ligayo added.

The army official’s call is part of the Children's Month celebration this November.

Republic Act 10661 or the National Children’s Month Act commemorates the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child on Nov. 20, 1989.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189355

PH, Indonesia enhance diplomatic relations, boost security ties

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 24, 2022): PH, Indonesia enhance diplomatic relations, boost security ties (By Che Palicte)

STRONGER TIES. Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, the commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command and chairman of the Philippine Border Committee (left) signs the 12 proposed agenda items that were adopted during the 39th Indonesia-Philippines Border Committee Chairmen’s Conference held in Davao City on Wednesday (Nov. 23, 2022). Along with Rear Admiral TNI Dr. TSNB Hutabarat, MMS, the commander of the Indonesian Military Command II, the parties expect the further enhancement of the 1975 Border Patrol and Border Crossing Agreements between the two countries. (PNA photo byRobinson Niñal Jr.)

DAVAO CITY – The Philippines and Indonesia recommended the approval of the 12-point agenda that would enhance diplomatic relations and joint implementation of the 1975 border agreements between the two countries.

The PH-Indonesia BCCC (Border Committee Chairmen's Conference) is an annual activity that seeks to review and strengthen existing measures for the safe passage of respective nationals of both countries, including the protection of fisherfolk and the prevention of terrorists from transiting in the border areas.

In an interview Thursday, Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, the Armed Forces of the Philippines Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) chief, said they are considering the threat posed by transnational terrorists to the Philippines and Indonesia, and decided to look into the enhancement of intelligence cooperation and other security-related matters.

"Our sincerity manifests commitment in the principles of mutual respect, teamwork, and cooperation,” Almerol said.

On Wednesday, Eastmincom officials and several Indonesian counterparts assembled at the SMX Center here for the event held simultaneously via zoom with Indonesian military officials in Manado City, Indonesia.

Almerol, who served as chairperson of the Philippine Border Committee, was joined by Rear Admiral TNI Dr. TSNB Hutabarat, MMS, the commander of the Indonesian Military Command II, during the event.

Both committees deliberated on matters of common concern and interest to both countries.

“This annual event is one of the major occasions to showcase to the rest of the world our almost five decades of peaceful and harmonious co-existence," Almerol said.

The two agreed to implement policies that will standardize the safety and protection of Filipino and Indonesian nationals at the borders and improve consular access for detained Filipinos.

Both parties also pushed for the standardization of implementing the Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) by primarily revising its Standing Operating Procedure.

They also agreed to accelerate the review of the 1975 Border Patrol and Border Crossing Agreements that will seek to recommend amendments to its provisions to attune to the prevailing situation in maritime security and terrorism in both countries.

"We have the same purpose to overcome issues happening and relating to the border between both countries. The results of this Chairmen's Conference are real forms of providing solutions for our future," Hutabarat said.

Hutabarat maintained his high hopes that the result of the meeting will contribute to a stronger, closer and more meaningful partnership between the Philippines and Indonesia.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189344

Scholarship aid factor to sustain insurgency-free status: guv

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 24, 2022): Scholarship aid factor to sustain insurgency-free status: guv (By Che Palicte)

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM. Davao de Oro Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga said Wednesday (Nov. 23, 2022) to sustain the gains of being declared as an insurgency-free province, they must strengthen their program on scholarships to students in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). She said the scholarship program of the province will cater to students in GIDAs and former members of the New People's Army or any of their family members. (PNA photo by Che Palicte)

NABUNTURAN, Davao de Oro – Apart from the regular assistance given to a newly-declared insurgency-free province, Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga emphasized the need for educational scholarships in its geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA) to sustain the peace efforts.

In a press briefing here Wednesday afternoon, Gonzaga said they have revised the scholarship program of the province making sure that slots will be given to students in GIDAs and former rebels (FRs) or their family members.

“For the FRs or we call them ‘friends rescued’, they can avail of the scholarship. It is also made available for their families or relatives,” she said.

Gonzaga added they are also catering to scholars of the various indigenous people’s tribes and children of solo parents.

She assured that their regular assistance in GIDAs would continue to avoid the reentry of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels into their communities.

Gonzaga said they are using the Provincial Peace and Order Council funds to provide the needs of the communities in the province.

“It is much more challenging today because since there is no presence of the NPA, the expectation of the people from the provincial government is high. They are now keen on the benefits of being insurgency-free,” she said.

In June this year, Davao de Oro was declared insurgency-free by the provincial peace and order council after the dismantling of armed rebel units in the province.

From an insurgency hotbed with 12 guerilla units, the military weakened the NPA to just one during the latter half of 2021.

The remaining rebels under the Guerrilla Front 2 which is the oldest NPA unit in Mindanao, eventually left Davao de Oro to free the province from insurgency.

Four months after its declaration, the region was also declared “insurgency-free” following the series of successful peace and order initiatives that dismantled the remnants of the NPA in the area.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189365

Suspected NPA rebels gun down 2 Army intel officers in NegOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 24, 2022): Suspected NPA rebels gun down 2 Army intel officers in NegOcc (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

AMBUSHED. Crime scene investigators of Sipalay City Police Station secure the area where they found the bodies of two soldiers gunned down by suspected New People's Army rebels in Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental on Thursday (Nov. 24, 2022). Killed were intelligence operatives of the Philippine Army’s 47th Infantry Battalion based in Barangay Haba in the neighboring Candoni town. (Photo courtesy of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office)

BACOLOD CITY – Suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels gunned down two intelligence officers of the Philippine Army’s 47th Infantry Battalion (47IB) in Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental before noon on Thursday.

A report from the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) identified the fatalities as Sgt. Regie Glindro and Staff Sgt. Ken Camilan, who were conducting a reconnaissance operation when they were waylaid by the perpetrators along a hilly portion of Sitio Camboguiot.

“A group of armed men with unknown caliber of firearms shot both victims, hitting them on the different parts of body that resulted to their instantaneous death,” it added.

According to the report, Glindro and Camilan were intelligence operatives of the 47IB based in Barangay Haba of the neighboring Candoni town.

Photos released by the NOCPPO showed the victims also sustained wounds aside from those caused by gunshots.

Witnesses said the soldiers were shot by five men, who fled on board two motorcycles, based on another report obtained by the local media.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189410

NPA leader, 5 others killed in clash with Army in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 25, 2022): NPA leader, 5 others killed in clash with Army in Sultan Kudarat (By Edwin Fernandez)

Map of Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – Six communist rebels were killed during clashes with government forces in the hinterlands of Sultan Kudarat province, the Army here said Friday.

Lt. Col. Frederick Chicote, Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion (7IB) commander, said the encounter occurred at 5:30 a.m. Thursday in Sitio Mudti, Barangay Chua, Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat.

Soldiers were patrolling the village when they chanced upon a group of about 10 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

“The skirmishes lasted for about 30 minutes and the rebels fled deep into the forest, leaving their slain comrades,” Chicote said.

Slain were Dennis Dolunan, an NPA executive committee member and deputy secretary of East Daguma Front of Sub-Regional Command (SRC) Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region; his wife Lailyn who served as medic, Sep Kasa, Jerry Kasa alias Kikil; and two other unidentified fighters.

Government forces recovered an AK-47 rifle, three M16 rifles, ammunition, a motorbike, rebels' personal belongings and subversive documents.

“We suffered no casualty,” Chicote said.

Maj. Gen. Roy Galido, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the 7IB troopers for the accomplishment.

He expressed sadness though over the death of NPA combatants who were misguided and duped to join a useless armed struggle.

“As much as possible, we don’t want lives to be wasted, because we don’t want to see families suffering from the loss of their family members and loved ones” Galido, also the commander of Joint Task Force Central, said.

He appealed to all other enemies of the state to avail of the government’s peace offer.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189442

3 ASG members surrender in Tawi-Tawi

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 25, 2022): 3 ASG members surrender in Tawi-Tawi (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ASG SURRENDERERS. Brig. Gen. Romeo Racadio (2nd from right), commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade, receives a Garand rifle from one of the three Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrenderers, at the headquarters of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-1 in Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi on Wednesday (Nov. 23, 2022). Racadio said Friday (Nov. 25, 2022) the three ASG members decided to surrender due to the continued campaign against them in the province of Tawi-Tawi. (Photo courtesy of 2nd Marine Brigade)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Three members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) have surrendered to government authorities amid continued law enforcement operations against them in the province of Tawi-Tawi, a top military official said Friday.

Brig. Gen. Romeo Racadio, 2nd Marine Brigade commander, said the three ASG surrenderers, identified only through their aliases as Mannan, Saddam, and Saldy, surrendered to the troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-1 in Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi on Wednesday.

Racadio said the three ASG members have decided to surrender as their leaders, who are all Sulu-based ASG commanders, have been killed in separate clashes with government forces, aside from the continued law enforcement operations against them.

He said Mannan was a follower of the late ASG sub-leader Said Mohammad alias Amah Maas, while Saddam and Saldy were all followers of ASG sub-leader Majan Sahidjuan, alias Apo Mike.

Mohammad was killed when troops stormed a lair of the ASG in Patikul, Sulu on March 26, 2016, while Sahidjuan was killed in a clash when Marine troops rescued an Indonesian hostage in Kalupag Island, Languan, Tawi-Tawi on March 20, 2021.

The surrender of the three ASG members was witnessed by Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan, Philippine Marine Corps commandant; Panglima Sugala Mayor Nurbert Sahali; and a representative of the Municipal Social Services and Development (MSSD) of Panglima Sugala.

The three ASG surrenderers were turned over to the municipal government of Panglima Sugala and were given food packs and cash as initial assistance, courtesy of the MSSD.

Racadio urged the peace-loving communities to unite and work together to sustain peace and stability, and pave the way for the development of Tawi-Tawi.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189483

39 Basilan-based ex-ASG members get cash, food aid from BARMM

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 25, 2022): 39 Basilan-based ex-ASG members get cash, food aid from BARMM (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

PROJECT TUGON. The Bangsmoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao launches on Wednesday (Nov. 23, 2022) in Basilan province the Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit (TUGON) program, which aims to facilitate the mainstreaming of former Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members. In a statement Friday, the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan said 39 former members benefitted from the TUGON program, the launching of which was held at the headquarters of the 64th Infantry Battalion in Sumisip, Basilan province. (Photo courtesy of JTF-Basilan)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Some 39 former Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members have received cash and food aid as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) launched the Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit (TUGON) program in Basilan province.

In a statement Friday, the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan said that each 39 former ASG members have received PHP5,000 cash aid. They will also receive family food packs for four consecutive months.

Project TUGON, a program under BARMM’s Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG), was launched Wednesday in a simple ceremony at the headquarters of the 64th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip, Basilan.

The program aims to facilitate the mainstreaming of former ASG members as productive citizens of the Bangsamoro community by providing them interventions to have a stable and uplifted status of life.

Project TUGON also provides reformation and reintegration assistance; capacity building and skills development through TESDA; livelihood assistance; entrepreneurial training; and housing provisions.

The JTF-Basilan said the 39 former ASG members have undergone profiling in order to assess the level of their needs and to help them become assets in nation building and advocators of peace and sustainable development in Basilan province.

“They are the living testimonies that going back to the folds of the law will give them freedom to live peacefully and harmoniously with their families,” the JTF-Basilan said.

One of the 39 recipients, Nasir Sabtal, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Bangsamoro government for initiating projects like TUGON, which greatly contributed on their daily needs as they start a new life with their families.

Sabatal said that helping them is a great way in showing how government eagerly wanted them to change their spiritual thinking from a war-stricken mentality to a productive Basileño.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Abel Potutan, JTF-Basilan executive officer, lauded the effort of BARMM-MILG in facilitating the mainstreaming of the former ASG members through the TUGON program. (

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189490

Army facilitates burial of slain rebel leader

The Visayan Daily Star (Nov 24, 2022): Army facilitates burial of slain rebel leader (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

After being abandoned by his comrades at the encounter site, the Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion facilitated the decent burial of the suspected rebel leader who died in an encounter on November 21 in Sitio Banderahan, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

The remains of Victoriano Baldonado, commanding officer of the Section Guerilla Unit of the Central Negros 1, which is under the supervision of the Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor, were turned over to his family on Nov. 22, as facilitated by the Guihulngan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (GCTF-ELCAC), of which the 62IB is a member.

In a statement issued by the 62IB, the family of the slain rebel leader thanked the Guihulngan TF ELCAC for the proper handling of the cadaver of their departed member, which provided the coffin and a sack of rice, through the efforts of the City Social Welfare and Development Office.

The 62IB issued statement said that the cadaver of Baldonado was abandoned by his fleeing comrades, in order to save their own lives.

Army soldiers also recovered an M-16 assault rifle with three magazines and a back pack containing personal belongings at the encounter site.


ADVERTISEMENT


The Philippine Army further said that the communist terrorist group does not value the lives of their comrades.

Only the concerned family and the government took care of his remains until the last moment. This is a lesson that the family should not be sacrificed and neglected for the sake of false ideology, the statement stressed.

https://visayandailystar.com/army-facilitates-burial-of-slain-rebel-leader/

MILF turns over 9 drug suspects to Army in Lanao del Sur

From MindaNews (Nov 18, 2022): MILF turns over 9 drug suspects to Army in Lanao del Sur (By MARIVIC OMANDAM DAVIS)

Lanao del Sur. Map courtesy of Google

ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews / 18 November) — The Moro Islamic Liberation Front on Wednesday turned over nine suspected drug personalities to 103rd Infantry Brigade commander Colonel Billy O. Dela Rosa at the headquarters of Alfa Company of the 5th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Liong, Bayang, Lanao del Sur.

Cosain Amerol a.k.a. Commander Amerol of the MILF made the turnover days after the brigade received complaints that some civilians were being detained by the MILF.

The nine individuals, all residents of Binidayan in Lanao del Sur, underwent a 20-day “rehabilitation” at the MILF camp in Marogong town where they were reoriented on Islamic values and taught the bad effects of illegal drugs.

Dela Rosa thanked Amerol for heeding his request for the safe release of the suspects back to their families and the good intention of the former in rehabilitating them.

The military official advised the suspected users in the presence of their families to desist from using illegal drugs, saying it will destroy not only the good relations within the community but also in the family.

He also asked their families to not hold grudges against the MILF.

The turnover was witnessed by 5IB commander Lt. Col. Czar Victor Villanueva, Mr. Ayob Khan Usman of the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), Mr. MacLary Macadato of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities, and Sultan Hadji Moner, a member of the Local Monitoring Team.

The AHJAG is the cooperative mechanism between the government and the MILF that responds to criminality and terrorism in areas with MILF presence.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/11/milf-turns-over-9-drug-suspects-to-army-in-lanao-del-sur/

BRP Antonio Luna shows high-tech weapons, sensors in DAGIT-PA

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 22, 2022): BRP Antonio Luna shows high-tech weapons, sensors in DAGIT-PA (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Crew members of the Philippine Navy's missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna (Photo courtesy of BRP Antonio Luna Facebook page)

MANILA – BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), the Philippine Navy (PN)'s second guided missile frigate, demonstrated its advanced weapons and sensor capabilities during naval shore bombardment and air defense drills in the just-concluded "DAGIT-PA" exercises.

The BRP Antonio Luna simulated the firing of its Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid Multi-Feeding (SRMF) Gun during a "Naval Surface Fire Support" (NSFS) at Brooke's Point, Palawan last week.

"Prior to this event, a series of lectures and conferences were conducted with the Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT-6) to properly execute this serial," a post on the BRP Antonio Luna's Facebook page said on Tuesday.

NSFS is defined as shore bombardment which aligns with the seizure of the objective by destroying or neutralizing defenses that oppose the landing and troop advancement.

"In advantage, the rapid loading ability of naval guns such as the 76mm SRMF makes it possible to deliver a large volume of fire in a short period of time and their small dispersion and deflections make them effective and valuable for close support fire of troops," it added.

Earlier, BRP Antonio Luna won third place in the NSFS Rodeo competition in this year's Rim of the Pacific exercise besting 14 other vessels from various allied navies.

Aside from the NSFS, BRP Antonio Luna also successfully participated in simulating the detection and engagement of air contacts.

The BRP Antonio Luna and its sister ship, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), are equipped with MBDA Mistral 3 surface-to-air missiles.

" 'DAGIT-PA' exercise thru ADEX (air defense exercise) has provided the ship’s crew a learning experience in the dynamics of air threats and further test their readiness to respond in a real-time scenario," the Facebook post added.

"DAGIT-PA" stands for “Dagat-Langit-Lupa” which focuses on enhancing the readiness of the Philippine Army, PN, and Air Force in joint operations that mirrors a real-world scenario.

This year's "DAGIT-PA" which ran from Nov. 7 to 18 is the sixth iteration of the joint exercise unilaterally conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189118

Japan Air Force to deploy F-15 jets for drills with PAF

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 22, 2022): Japan Air Force to deploy F-15 jets for drills with PAF (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) will be deploying two McDonnell Douglas F-15 "Eagle" jet fighters and 60 personnel for exercises with the Philippine Air Force (PAF) from Nov. 27 to Dec. 11.

The unit-to-unit exercise will be held at Clark Air Base, Pampanga.

"Deployed units from both parties will undergo exchange programs aimed at promoting mutual understanding and defense cooperation and exchanges," the Japanese Embassy in Manila said in a statement Tuesday.

The F-15s are a twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighters designed initially to meet the United States Air Force's requirement for a dedicated air superiority fighter.

It has a maximum speed of Mach 2.5 and a combat range of 1,061 nautical miles and is armed with a 20mm cannon and capable of carrying a variety of air-to-air missiles.

Exchanges will be held mainly at the Clark Air Base, Pampanga and the surrounding airspace.

Previously, the JASDF and PAF also conducted bilateral exercises on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) in July 2021 and June 2022.

These exercises aimed to enhance the JASDF and PAF HADR capabilities, particularly in the delivery of relief goods to affected people in severe emergencies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189177

US to stand with PH on South China Sea issue

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 22, 2022): US to stand with PH on South China Sea issue (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

SPECIAL GUEST. United States Vice President Kamala Harris (3rd from left) gets a briefing on Philippine Coast Guard operations onboard BRP Teresa Magbanua in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on Tuesday (Nov. 22, 2022). Harris praised the Coast Guard for standing up for international rules and upholding norms that are vital to Filipinos. (Courtesy of PTV via PCG)

MANILA – Vice President Kamala Harris, the highest-ranking United States official to visit Palawan, reiterated on Tuesday their commitment to the Philippines as its longstanding ally.

Harris' visit to the island is highly symbolic, given its proximity to the contested Spratly Islands.

In a speech delivered onboard the BRP Teresa Magbanua in Puerto Princesa City, Harris explained that Washington DC, like the broader international community, has a "profound stake" in the future of the region.

"America's prosperity relies on the billions of dollars that flow through these waters every day. And we are proud to work with you in your mission," she said, addressing the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). "As an ally, the United States stands with the Philippines in the face of intimidation and coercion in the South China Sea."

China and other neighboring states lay competing claims over Spratly Islands, which include the Kalayaan Group of Islands.

In a 2016 arbitral ruling, a Hague-based court invalidated China's nine-dash line covering majority of the South China Sea.

Harris repeated that the decision is "legally binding and must be respected."

"We will continue to rally our allies and partners against unlawful and irresponsible behavior. When the international rules-based order is threatened somewhere, it is threatened everywhere," she added.

Chinese Communist Party-affiliated Global Times, meanwhile, accused Harris of "fanning conflicts surrounding the South China Sea."

In a separate statement, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing sees nothing wrong with American interaction with states as long as it is "not damaging to other countries' interests."

On the eve of Harris' Palawan stop, the Western Command accused the Chinese Coast Guard of "forcefully" retrieving a debris fished out by Philippine Navy personnel off Pag-asa Island.

The Chinese belied the accusation, saying the Filipino side returned the object "after friendly consultation".

Synergy

Tokyo, for its part, sees Harris' remarks as a reflection of synergy between Japan, the US and the Philippines.

"US Vice President Kamala Harris' visit to Japan-made BRP Teresa Magbanua stationed in Palawan is a milestone for US-Philippines-Japan cooperation," Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa said in a statement Tuesday. "May we witness more maritime collaborations like this as we navigate for a free and open Indo-Pacific."

In explaining why the vessel was chosen to host part of Harris' visit, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) cited Washington DC's expanded cooperation with the PCG, particularly through capacity-building programs.

"The BRP Teresa Magbanua is one of the two flagship Multi-Role Response Vessels that are part of the PCG's modernization program," the DFA said.

"It stands as a concrete example of the commitment of the previous administration and our Japanese partners to transform the PCG into a capable and reliable service that can enforce all applicable laws within Philippine waters, conduct maritime security operations, safeguard life and property at sea, and protect the maritime environment and resources," it added.

Harris also announced a fresh USD7.5 million funding to boost the capacity of Philippine maritime law enforcement agencies; a new initiative to upgrade PCG's vessel traffic management system; and the Quad's Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness initiative.

Meanwhile, Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. met US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III for the second time at the sidelines of the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat and 9th ADMM-Plus in Cambodia on Tuesday.

In a statement, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said the two top officials reaffirmed the Philippines-US alliance to be on a very strong footing, as manifested in the recent bilateral meeting between Harris and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Manila

“Other discussions during the meeting were the current regional security outlook and bilateral initiatives to deepen further the defense partnership between the Philippines and the US,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189207

Military ICT trends take center stage in Army 'signal exhibit'

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23, 2022): Military ICT trends take center stage in Army 'signal exhibit' (By Priam Nepomuceno)

LATEST TRENDS. Acting Army chief-of-staff and concurrent Army Inspector General Maj. Gen. Jose Eriel Niembra (2nd from left) fits out a helmet-mounted night vision gear during the information and communications technology (ICT) exhibit at the Philippine Army Officers' Clubhouse in Fort Bonifacio Tuesday (Nov. 22, 2022). The exhibit is part of the Philippine Army's two-day Signal Family Conference. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) on Wednesday formally concluded its two-day "Signal Family Conference" with an exhibit showcasing the latest information and communication technology (ICT) trends.

Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement, said the conference which started on Tuesday was held at the Philippine Army Officers' Clubhouse in Fort Bonifacio.

"Acting Army chief-of-staff and concurrent Army Inspector General Maj. Gen. Jose Eriel M. Niembra, together with Army Signal Regiment (ASR) commander Col. Alejandro J. Papa, and PA assistant chief-of-staff for command and control, communications, and cyber systems (G6) Col. Constancio M. Espina II, led the exhibit's ribbon-cutting rites that featured booths from local and foreign partner companies of PA," Trinidad said.

He added the exhibit gave the PA signal and cyber personnel a glimpse of the latest information and communication technologies that have military applications.

The exhibit highlighted the two-day PA Signal Family Conference 2022 which is geared at providing updates on the Army’s command and control communications, and Cyber Systems (C4S) projects and programs that are anchored on the golden triangle of “people, process and technology."

“Military operations that are carried out in the digital sphere have a significant impact on vital infrastructures and services that could severely affect the whole country,” PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. said.

He also said the PA's cybersecurity posture must be strengthened in terms of people, processes, and technology.

"In our current situation where the fight is extended into cyberspace, I cannot further stress the importance of being adept in cyber warfare,” Brawner added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189285

4 dead, 2 hurt in Cotabato City night gun attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 22, 2022): 4 dead, 2 hurt in Cotabato City night gun attacks (By Edwin Fernandez)

DEAD END. Two suspects lay dead following a shootout with Cotabato City police on Sinsuat Avenue on Monday night, Nov. 21, 2002. At least two shooting victims were killed and two others were hurt in a series of gun attacks in the city on the same night. (Photo courtesy of DXMS - Cotabato)

COTABATO CITY – Four persons were killed while two others were hurt in a series of shootings here Monday night, police said.

Lt. Col. Carmelo Mungkas, the city police spokesperson, identified the four slain as Norhamin Usman Guiadel, 23; a certain Rasiden Angas; and the two shooting suspects as Naif Kasim, 22, and Lamudin Mohammad, 26.

Mungkas said Guiadel was shot by two motorcycle riding assailants on Dorotheo Street at 6 p.m.

“Guiadel, a resident of Bulalo, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, died on the spot,” he said in a media interview Tuesday.

At 6:30 p.m., Angas was also shot dead by unidentified gunmen inside a fastfood outlet on Sinsuat Avenue, Barangay Rosary Heights 10.

“His (Angas) lady companion was injured,” he said.

Meanwhile, a 40-year-old staffer of Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), Rahib Payapat of Barangay Bagua 2, was shot by unidentified assailants while driving a government pick-up vehicle on Sinsuat Avenue at 7 p.m.

Upon receiving information on the incidents, Mungkas said police personnel were sent to go after the perpetrators.

“In one instance, police were pursuing two men on a motorbike believed to be behind the shooting at a (food) outlet when the suspects opened fire on responding police officers,” he said.

“After they shot at our law enforcers, police were forced to return fire, killing them in the process,” Mungkas said.

He said Payapat is now undergoing medication.

The woman hurt in the Angas shooting also remained in the hospital.

Mayor Bruce Matabalao condemned the shootings and directed the police to arrest the perpetrators.

He also appealed to the residents “not to put political color in the series of shootings” and help instead the police prevent crimes in whatever way possible.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189134

NPA unit commander killed in Guihulngan encounter: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 22, 2022): NPA unit commander killed in Guihulngan encounter: Army (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

RETRIEVAL. The body of a Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army rebel is recovered in Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental following an early morning encounter with government troops Monday afternoon (Nov. 21, 2022). He was the third rebel to be killed in separate encounters in Guihulngan in recent weeks. (Photo courtesy of the 62IB Philippine Army)

DUMAGUETE CITY – The rebel who was killed in a clash with government troops in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental was a local guerrilla unit commander of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Central Negros, a Philippine Army official said on Tuesday.

“He was the head of a local NPA unit that was responsible for the death of a CAFGU (Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit) armed auxiliary (CAA) and other atrocities in Guihulngan and nearby areas,” Lt. Col. William Pesase, 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) commanding officer, said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.

Victoriano V. Baldonado, alias Rudy, 34, from Sitio Amumuyong in Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, was the commanding officer of Section Guerrilla Unit (SGU), Central Negros Front 1 (CN1), Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor (KR-NCBS).

The group operates in the tri-boundaries of Guihulngan City and Canlaon City in Negros Oriental and Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, the Army official said.

Baldonado was killed during a five-minute encounter between his group of five NPA rebels and 62IB troops in Sitio Banderahan, Barangay Trinidad, early Monday.

Local police, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) personnel, and soldiers recovered the body of Baldonado hours after the clash and brought it to a funeral parlor in the city proper. His family was already informed, the police said.

Pesase said Baldonado and his group were responsible for the killing of CAA Joselito Raboy on Sept. 24 in Barangay Montilla, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, and the harassment of a Philippine National Police detachment in Barangay Trinidad on Sept. 10, 2022, and Nov. 1, 2022.

“Ito pa rin yung armadong grupo sa mga areas na iyan na pag may pinaghihinalaan silang na kahit sa isip-isip lang nila ay supporter daw namin, pinapaalis nila (this is the same armed group in the tri-boundary hinterland areas that drive away residents who they think are supporting government forces),” he said.

“They also harass and threaten former rebels and those who intend to surrender to the government,” he added.

Baldonado is the third NPA member to be killed in separate encounters in Guihulngan City since late October as Army troops continue relentless anti-insurgency operations in Negros Island.

Pesase said the deaths of the three rebels is a “big blow” to the NPA.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, lauded the locals of Guihulngan City for their continued support especially in providing timely information to the troops of 62IB regarding the presence of rebels in their area.

He also expressed his appreciation to the 62IB, saying their dedication to duty exhibited during the encounter is "incomparable".

“Continue to be the best in going after the NPA. I am proud of the efforts and selfless dedication to service that you have rendered. I know that you are always prepared and ready to conduct security operations and employ the legitimate use of force against threat groups that endanger the well-being of the people, especially the Guihulnganons,” he added.

Pasaporte called for unity as he urged the remaining NPA members to surrender and avail of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189136