Kalinaw News: 𝗔rmas at bala ng mga rebelde, narekober ng militar sa lalawigan ng 𝗔payao

From Kalinaw News (Dec 9, 2022): 𝗔rmas at bala ng mga rebelde, narekober ng militar sa lalawigan ng 𝗔payao (Arms and ammunition of the rebels, recovered by the military in the province of Apayao (By Jonathan Blanco)

SANTIAGO CITY- Narekober ng mga kasundaluhan ang ilang gamit pandigma na pagmamay-ari ng mga kasapi ng Komiteng Larangang Guerilla North Abra matapos ang engkwentro sa bayan ng Kabugao, Apayao nitong ika-anim ng Disyembre taong kasalukuyan.

Nasamsam ng tropa ng 102nd Infantry Battalion partikular sa barangay Maragat ang isang M16 rifle, sampung pirasong 5.56 mm na bala, short magazine, poncho at mga subersibong dokumento.

Kaugnay nito, patuloy pa rin ang hot pursuit operations ng militar sa mga tumakas na nakalabang rebelde at ng mahikayat rin ang mga ito na magbalik-loob sa gobyerno.

Samantala, naglabas na ng kautusan si Apayao Governor Elias Bulut na bibigyan ng reward ang sinumang makakahuli o makakapatay sa miyembro o lider ng teroristang grupo.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/%f0%9d%97%94rmas-at-bala-ng-mga-rebelde-narekober-ng-militar-sa-lalawigan-ng-%f0%9d%97%94payao/

Kalinaw News: 30 Youth Leaders Join in Leadership Executive Course in Zamboanga City

From Kalinaw News (Dec 8, 2022): 30 Youth Leaders Join in Leadership Executive Course in Zamboanga City (By Jonathan Blanco)

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – December 8, 2022

Thirty young leaders from conflict-affected areas in western and central Mindanao participated in the first-ever three-day leadership executive course, which was organized by the Western Mindanao Command’s Office of the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Civil-Military Operations and the 4th Civil Relations Group. Personnel from the Joint Task Forces ZamPeLan, Central, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, and Zamboanga screened the selected participants. From December 1 to 3, 2022, five young leaders were assigned to represent each joint task force at the WMC Grandstand Basement, Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city.

“This course will cultivate the participants’ potentials as they work their way to becoming leaders and active supporters of peace and development in Mindanao,” said Lt. Col. Abdurasad Sirajan, Acting Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Civil-Military Operations, during the activity’s opening program.

The Leadership Executive Course, with the theme “Breeding Good Leaders, Shielding the Youth Against Violent Extremism,” aimed to empower youth as advocates of peace and development and discourage them from participating in any terrorist acts, prevent them from ideological or physical infiltration of terrorist groups, and sustain the large network of youth leaders that has been generated over the years.

According to Col. Elmer Suderio, WestMinCom’s Chief of Unified Command Staff and the Keynote Speaker during the opening ceremony, the command is blessed to be able to execute programs that guide and develop skills, as well as recognize the critical role of youth in nation-building.

Competent subject matter experts such as Mr. Raymond Domingo of the National Youth Commission IX, Commissioner Nasserudin Dunding of the Bangsamoro Youth Commission, BARMM, Dr. Rufina Cruz of Peace Advocate Zamboanga, Zamboanga City Councilor Cary Jhon Pioc, Major Andrew Linao of the 4th Civil Relations Group, PNP-RACU9 and OU2-WMC personnel, and Ka PR, a former member of CPP-NP Aside from the knowledge gained, participants were given the opportunity to explore the Navy warship Patrol Craft 390. They also participated in a variety of recreational activities. They then displayed their God-given talents at the three-day event’s closing program.

JTF Zamboanga Commander, Col. Randolph Rojas, said in his closing message, where he was invited as the guest of honor and speaker, “It gives me pride to stand before a crowd of young people who try to make a difference in their lives by taking responsibility for an enormous role in our current drive against terrorism here in Mindanao.” You meet at a similar ground, perhaps a common goal and struggle to bring stability and free your land from strife, coming from varied cultures, religions, and tribes, born and reared in battle-torn territories. This empathy awakens your leadership potential.

For his part, Marine Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, Acting Commander of Western Mindanao Command, congratulated the facilitators on a job well done. “We feel that we must empower young and assist them in staying away from drugs and violent extremism since they are the most vulnerable segment of society. We will continue to invest in our most valuable assets, our hope for a better and more peaceful future, our next generation of leaders and experts.”

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/30-youth-leaders-join-in-leadership-executive-course-in-zamboanga-city/

Kalinaw News: Walang humpay na operasyon ng militar nagresulta sa pagsuko ng 4 na BIFF

From Kalinaw News (Dec 8, 2022): Walang humpay na operasyon ng militar nagresulta sa pagsuko ng 4 na BIFF (Relentless military operations resulted in the surrender of 4 BIFFs) (By Jonathan Blanco)

CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte – Dahil sa pinaigting na focused military operations ng ating mga kasundaluhan, napagdesisyunan ng apat na Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) na iwanan na ang armadong pakikibaka at magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan.

Ang apat na mga dating BIFF combatants – Karialan Faction ay iprenisinta kay AGILA HAVEN Focal Person Roger Dionesio; Hon. Ferdinand Agduma, Mayor ng Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat at Brigadier General Pedro Balisi, Commander ng 1st Mechanized Brigade sa Headquarters ng 1Mechanized Brigade, Camp Leono, Brgy. Kalandagan, Tacurong City nitong ika-6 ng Disyembre, 2022.

Ayon kay Brigadier General Pedro Balisi Jr, ang Commander ng 1st Mechanized Brigade na ang sobrang pagod, gutom at walang patunguhang ipinaglalaban ang dahilan ng kanilang pagtalikod sa ekstremistang pangkat. “Isa pa dito, ang walang humpay na focused military operations ng ating mga kasundaluhan kaya wala na silang mapuntahan dahil walang humpay ang ating pagtugis sa kanila”, giit pa ni BGen. Balisi.

Isinuko din nila ang kanilang mga bitbit na armas na kinabibilangan ng isang US 1911 60mm Mortar; isang Colt M16 Rifle; isang 9mm Tongram; isang Cal .50 Barrett at dalawang mga magazines.

Nabatid na ang apat ay sumuko nitong ika-2 ng Disyembre, 2022 sa pamunuan ng 1st Mechanized Battalion sa ilalim ng nasasakupan ng 1st Mechanized Infantry (Maaasahan) Brigade na nakabase sa Brgy Kalandagan sa nasabing lungsod.

Ikinagalak naman ni Major General Roy Galido, Commander ng 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division at Joint Task Force Central ang magandang hakbang ng apat na mga dating combatants at mababawasan ang karahasan dahil sa pagsuko ng instruments of violence. “Alam kong biktima lamang kayo ng deception at misinformation, kaya ang inyong pagbabalik-loob sa ating pamahalaan ay isang magandang oportunidad na mabibigyan natin ng puwang ang kapayapaan sa land of the Promise, ang Midnanao”, pahayag ni Maj. Gen. Galido.

Sa ngayon, nasa 201 na mga BIFF na ang sumuko sa Joint Task Force Central mula buwan ng Enero hanggang sa kasalukuyan habang 239 na iba’t-ibang uri ng armas, kasama na ang pampasabog ang nakuha at nakumpiska sa pagsuko at mga operasyon ng militar laban sa pangkat ng BIFF.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/walang-humpay-na-operasyon-ng-militar-nagresulta-sa-pagsuko-ng-4-na-biff/

Kalinaw News: 500 ka tao tumanggap ng maagang Pamasko mula sa Task Force ELCAC sa Surigao del Sur

From Kalinaw News (Dec 8, 2022): 500 ka tao tumanggap ng maagang Pamasko mula sa Task Force ELCAC sa Surigao del Sur (500 people received early Christmas from Task Force ELCAC in Surigao del Sur) (By Jonathan Blanco)

CARMEN, Surigao del Sur- 500 katao pinagkaisa sa kapayapaan at nabigyan ng maagang regalo sa Peace Building Information Drive (Pamaskong Handog 2022) ng Task Force-ELCAC sa Covered Court, Brgy Hinapoyan, Carmen, Surigao del Sur sa ika-6 ng Disyembre 2022.

Matatandaan na mula sa naturang barangay sa Sitio Gacub ang limang hinukay na pinaslang ng Terroristang Grupong CPP-NPA (CTG) noong ika-30 ng Oktubre ngayong taon. Naglaan ang Lokal na Gobyerno ng Carmen, SDS, 901st Infantry “Fight Em’” Brigade, 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion, Provincial Police Office SDS, Philippine Red Cross SDS Chapter, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Carrac-an Eagles Club, at IPMR Carmen na ibahagi ang Dokumentaryo ng iDocu Team ni John Paul Seniel na may pamagat na “Hinagpis ng 5 Byuda sa Hinapoyan” sa mamayanan ng barangay kasama ang 3 sityo ng Gacub, Tabinas, at Bayabas, Carmen.

Sa naturang dokumentaryo nilahad ang mga pangyayari sa mga pinatay na maglalapnisan at hinilom ang mga panawagan ng mga naiwang kapamilya sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay ng maagang pamasko sa mga Taga-Carmen. Hinimok ni Carmen Mayor Jane V. Plaza sa naturang aktibidad na mamulat ang lahat sa totoong gawain at pakay ng makakaliwang grupo sa mga Carmenanon at ipinahayag ang pakikiisa sa kapayapaan at siguridad ng Indigenous Peoples Community. Sa pakikiisa ng mga IPMR at Tribal Chieftain ng Hinapoyan ay winaksi nila ang CPP-NPA-NDF sa kanilang tribu at kinondena ang mga abuso, pagpatay, at pangrrecruit ng mga terrorista sa kanilang komunidad.

Nilayon ng Peace Building Information Drive ang pagkakaayos, pagunlad, at panibagong pag-asa sa mga taga-Hinapoyan upang hindi na maulit ang trahedya na nangyari sa naturang bayan mula sa karahasan at kalupitan ng komunistang grupo.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/500-ka-tao-tumanggap-ng-maagang-pamasko-mula-sa-task-force-elcac-sa-surigao-del-sur/

Kalinaw News: 2 biktima ng ‘panlilinlang’ ng komunistang terorista, nagbalik-loob sa Sarangani Province

From Kalinaw News (Dec 7, 2022): 2 biktima ng ‘panlilinlang’ ng komunistang terorista, nagbalik-loob sa Sarangani Province (2 victims of the communist terrorist's 'trick', converted in Sarangani Province)

CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte – Nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan ang dalawang mga dating combatants ng communist terrorist group, kabilang na ang isang menor de edad sa bayan ng Maitum, Sarangani Province.

Si alyas Mark na edad 20-anyos ay miyembro ng Squad Segunda ng guerilla front Musa sa ilalim ng Far South Mindanao Region Command kasama din nitong sumuko si alyas Bunso na edad 17-anyos at kasapi ng Platoon Dabu- Dabu, West daguma front, South Regional Command sa ilalim ng humihina at papawasak na FSMRC.

Sumuko ang mga ito sa pamunuan ng 34th Infantry (Reliable) Battalion sa pamumuno ni Lt. Col. Rey Rico at 38th Infantry (We Clear) Battalion na pinamumunuan ni Lt. Col. Michael Angelo Candole, hapon nitong ika-5 ng Disyembre, 2022.

Bitbit din nila sa kanilang pagsuko ang dalawang mga matataas na uri ng baril na kinabibilangan ng isang M16 A1 Rifle at isang Cal.30 Garand Rifle kasama na ang mga magasin at mga bala.

Ayon kay 1st Mechanized Infantry (Maaasahan) Brigade, Commander, Brigadier General Pedro Balisi Jr., na ang pagbabalik-loob ng dalawa ay indikasyon lamang na unti-unting nananaig ang kapayapaan sa bahaging ito ng Mindanao. “The security landscape in the area is changing and we are able to sustain the momentum”, wika pa ni BGen. Balisi Jr.

Ang dalawang mga dating combatants ay iprenisinta sa Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) sa bayan ng Maitum sa pangunguna ni Hon. Alexander Bryan Reganit, ang alkalde ng munisipyo ng Maitum.

Kaugnay nito, tiniyak naman ni Major General Roy Galido, ang Commander ng Joint Task Force Central at 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division ang seguridad ng mga sumukong rebelde. “Our troops from the Joint Task Force Central continue to bolster our civil-military cooperation efforts with partner stakeholders to put an end to terrorism in Central and South-Central Mindanao and to convince the remaining terrorists to end their armed struggle and return to the mainstream society. Alam kung biktima lamang sila ng misinformation at deception”, pahayag pa ni Maj. Gen. Galido.

Tinataya sa 122 na ang mga sumukong communist terrorist group mula buwan ng Enero hanggang sa kasalukuyan. Abot naman sa 135 na iba’t-ibang uri ng baril at mga pampasabog ang nasabat buhat sa iba’t-ibang mga operating units ng Joint Task Force Central mula sa mga rebeldeng komunista.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/2-biktima-ng-panlilinlang-ng-komunistang-terorista-nagbalik-loob-sa-sarangani-province/

Kalinaw News: 4 NPA members Yield in AgNor on the Peak of Christmas

From Kalinaw News (Dec 7, 2022): 4 NPA members Yield in AgNor on the Peak of Christmas (By 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division)

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte- Four members of the communist terrorist group (CTG) who desired to return to the fold of the law voluntarily laid down their arms and came to 29th Infantry Battalion at Headquarters 29IB, Purok 4, Brgy Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, and Agusan del Norte on December 1, 2022.

The four CTG personalities were identified as Margie Mayag Danapa alias Yani, 24 years old and a member of Sentro De Grabidad, Guerilla Front 16, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, Virgie Iligan Pinao alias Rubi, 36 years old, a member of Regional Sentro de Grabedad, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, Jhunday Dayong Flordeliza alias Wegols of Regional Sentro de Grabedad, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee and Jerome Sandag Maca alias Ryan,27 years old, member of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 21C, Guerilla Front 21, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People’s Army.

According to the surrenders, they wanted to go home to their families because they have been missing them so much especially alias Rubi and alias Wegols who are married and have children whom they haven’t seen in a while. They also decided to lay their arms since they realized that the promised support for their families had ceased without their knowledge.

According to alias Virgie “lahi ra gyud ang pagtagad sa gobyerno kay ang pagtagad sa NPA bangis. Karon nga nanaog nami wala man mi kasinati nga kulatahon, wala sad mi gipatay. Lahi kaayo ang doktrina nga gitudlo sa amoa.” (“The treatment of the government is really different unlike to the treatment of the CTG, it’s brutal. Now that we have sided with the government, we didn’t experience being beaten, we are not even killed. The doctrine that they have told us is very different.”)

LtCol Cresencio C Gargar, Acting Commanding Officer of the 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion said that “To the remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Groups, our government is in full support and is hand in hand in helping you to have a peaceful and meaningful life together with your love ones. Now that it is Christmas time, it is a perfect time to surrender and reunite with your family. The gate of our camp is wide open in accepting those who want to surrender. I will be happy to meet you and I am looking forward to helping you reunite with your family.”

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/4-npa-members-yield-in-agnor-on-the-peak-of-christmas/

Kalinaw News: Firearm, ammos recover after firefight in Apayao

From Kalinaw News (Dec 7, 2022): Firearm, ammos recover after firefight in Apayao (By Jonathan Blanco)

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- High-powered firearm owned by the members of Komiteng Larangan Guerilla North Abra were recovered after an armed encounter on December 06, 2022, in Barangay Maragat, Kabugao, Apayao.

Along with the high-powered firearm, ammunitions and subversive documents were also retrieved by the troops of the 102nd Infantry Battalion after scouring the encounter site.

Prior, troops of the 102nd Infantry Battalion conducted combat operations when the locals tipped off the presence of the terrorist group.

With the support of the locals, the troops will hunt down the fleeing communist terrorist as well as pursue them to return to the pillars of the government. Note that, Governor Elias Bulut released an Executive Order giving financial rewards to those who can arrest and/or kill a leader/member of a terrorist group.

Further, the support of the whole Apayao contributed to the campaign of the government to end local communist armed conflict wherein the army troops will relentlessly chase the insurgents to achieve peace and progress in the province.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/firearm-ammos-recover-after-firefight-in-apayao/

Kalinaw News: CTG’s Young Combatants Yield to Government Forces in Sarangani

From Kalinaw News (Dec 7, 2022): CTG’s Young Combatants Yield to Government Forces in Sarangani (By Jonathan Blanco)

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – December 6, 2022

Tired of hiding, two communist terrorist group members laid down their arms and returned to the folds of the law. They handed over their firearms to Lt. Col. Rey Rico, Commanding Officer of the 34th Infantry Battalion, Lt. Col. Michael Angelo Candole, Commanding Officer of the 38th Infantry Battalion, and the municipal police at the municipal hall of Maitum town, Sarangani Province on Monday afternoon, December 5.

Maj. Gen. Roy Galido, the Commander of Joint Task Force Central, identified the surrendered personalities as alias Mark, 20 years of age and a member of Squad Segunda of Guerrilla Front Musa and alias Bunso, a minor (17 years old) and a member of Platoon Dabu-Dabu, West Daguma Front, Sub-Regional Committee Daguma, both of the Far South Mindanao Regional Committee. Their surrendered firearms include one M16 A1 rifle with two magazines and 35 rounds of ammunition and one cal. 30 Garand rifle with one clip and four ammunition.

The former rebels were subsequently presented to the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) led by Maitum Mayor Alexander Bryan Reganit on the same day.

Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, Acting Commander of Western Mindanao Command, said the armed forces anticipate a surge in the number of CTG remnants who will surrender in the coming days as the peace efforts are intensified. “Those who remain in hiding must know that “Reintegration Packages” await them. The package includes livelihood and capacity development training and financial assistance, all aimed at providing former rebels and their families social equity and a fair chance to be productive citizens of their respective community.”

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/ctgs-young-combatants-yield-to-government-forces-in-sarangani/

164 Reds surrender in Mimaropa since January

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3, 2022): 164 Reds surrender in Mimaropa since January (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

MANILA – A total of 164 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) have surrendered to different police units in Mimaropa from January to December 1 this year, the regional police said Friday.

“We are committed to sustaining the success of this campaign towards a communist terrorist group-free Mimaropa,” Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-B (Mimaropa) chief, Brig. Gen. Sidney Hernia, said in a statement.

The latest to surrender were two members of the NPA in Oriental Mindoro on Thursday.

“Ka Gringo”, 27, and “Ka Jimbo,” 33, both members of Platoon SERNA of Kilusang Larangang Gerilya - Mark Anthony Velasco under the Lucio de Guzman Command of the Sub-Regional Military Area 4D, Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee, voluntarily surrendered after a series of dialogues with the 403rd B Maneuver Company (MC), Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 4-B, led by Lt. Sherwin Ramirez, in Barangay Cabalwa, in the town of Mansalay.

The successful surrender of the former rebels was made possible with the assistance of the Bulalacao municipal police, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, and Provincial Intelligence Unit, all under the Oriental Mindoro provincial police; Regional Intelligence Division; 10th Special Action Battalion, Philippine National Police (PNP) Special Action Force; 4th Infantry Battalion and 23rd Military Intelligence Company, 203rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army; and Regional Intelligence Unit Mimaropa, PNP Intelligence Group.

Hernia said the surrenderers are now under the custody of the 403rd B MC for debriefing, and assistance for their enrollment in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“All those who surrendered can avail of the E-CLIP for their reintegration to the community and will be receiving livelihood program and cash aid from the government,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190005

PH Army commits to develop ground units to address all threats

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3, 2022): PH Army commits to develop ground units to address all threats (By Priam Nepomuceno)

2022 OPERATIONS FAMILY CONFERENCE. Col. Alvin Luzon, Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, Philippine Army, highlights the Army's annual accomplishments in support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) mission during the Year-end 2022 Operations Family Conference held at SOTO Grande Hotel in Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City on Dec. 2, 2022. (Photo from PA)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) is committed to developing its ground forces to address all types of security threats.

This was stressed by PA assistant chief-of-staff for operations, Col. Alvin V. Luzon, during the just-concluded Year-end 2022 Operations Family Conference held Friday at the SOTO Grande Hotel along Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City.

During the briefing, the Army official presented a rundown of PA accomplishments based on its mandate to develop, organize, train, equip, support, and sustain ground forces for the execution of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) mission.

"Col. Luzon highlighted PA’s thrust to develop the capability of ground forces to address all types of threats and raise the current operational tempo of ground units," said Army spokesperson, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement forwarded to reporters Saturday night.

Likewise, Luzon also gave an update on measures undertaken by the PA leadership to provide ground units with mission-essential equipment and programs being implemented to bolster its operational tempo in executing the AFP's campaign.

”On the whole, the PA as a force provider will continue to effectively perform its core functions to capacitate the PA forces to support the successful execution of the AFP line of efforts and operations," Luzon said.

He added the PA will pursue its charted course towards capability and organizational development and be postured to remain responsive to meet the challenges brought about by the continuously evolving security environment.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190029

AFP holds nationwide ROTC summit

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4, 2022): AFP holds nationwide ROTC summit (By Priam Nepomuceno)

ROTC SUMMIT. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro speaks before the participants of the 2022 ROTC summit at Tejeros Hall, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Dec. 3, 2022. This year's theme is "ROTC Cadets of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow". (Contributed photo)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday conducted a nationwide face-to-face and online summit for officers and cadets of the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program.

The event was held at Tejeros Hall at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City with AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro as guest of honor and speaker.

"As the CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff, AFP), I wholeheartedly give my unwavering support to the President's endeavor of pursuing mandatory military training programs," he added.

This year's theme is "ROTC Cadets of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow" and aims to advocate the promotion of the ROTC and highlight the enhancement of the reserve force of the AFP.

"This program is not merely for the marches and the physical challenge, but more so it encourages coming forward as youth leaders who are contributors to our envisioned best for our country," Bacarro said.

On Nov. 26, as part of the first phase of the summit, a historical tour and town hall was held at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani in San Juan, Cainta, Rizal aimed at educating participants on the history of the ROTC and the contribution of ROTC cadets during World War II.

It also helped inculcate the importance of history, rekindle patriotism and nationalism and instill love of country to the participants. The participants were also given updates on the Revised IRR to Republic Act 9163 or the National Service Training Program Act of 2001, ROTC policies and the National Citizens Service Training Bill.

They also witnessed the launch of "Oplan Rehistro" a program that seeks to account for ROTC graduates in the country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190032

Normalization schemes to make PH peace process 'world model'

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5, 2022): Normalization schemes to make PH peace process 'world model' (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of OPAPRU

MANILA – Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) chief, said the various normalization mechanisms of the Bangsamoro peace process will make the Philippines a model for other countries to follow.

“We (Philippines) will become the model of the world in terms of our peace process,” Galvez said in his message during the Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) meeting and assessment workshop held on Dec. 2 and was posted on the OPAPRU Facebook page on Sunday.

He said these mechanisms are helping the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in fulfilling commitments made by the national government under all signed Bangsamoro peace agreements.

Galvez also said the successful implementation of these normalization mechanisms allowed the President to make the Bangsamoro peace process as the "centerpiece" of his administration’s bid to become a member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) by 2027.

Galvez noted that these mechanisms, which are under the oversight of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace Implementing Panels, "aim to transform former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants and their families into peaceful and productive individuals, and their areas into progressive and resilient communities.

These peace mechanisms, which were created under the normalization track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), include the JNC, Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC), Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB), Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), Adhoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Families (TFDCC), and Joint Task Force on Camps Transformation (JTFCT).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190067

NTF-ELCAC hails health experts for aid to ex-rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5, 2022): NTF-ELCAC hails health experts for aid to ex-rebels (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Monday thanked health experts who willingly offered their services and expertise to help "friends rescued", or those previously identified as "former rebels" (FR), get over their mental health issues.

"On behalf of NTF-ELCAC, let me extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Moibe Olitres for catering to the needs of our 'friends rescued'. Dahil sa kanya at sa ating health experts na taos-pusong tumutulong, nabigyang pansin ang pangangailangan ng ating mga FRs, particularly na nga itong mental health (Due to her help and other health experts who have whole-heartedly gave their assistance, the needs of our FRs, especially those concerning mental health, are provided for)," said NTF-ELCAC Secretariat Executive Director Emmanuel Salamat in a statement.

Salamat said the help of Olitress and other health experts made them realize how indispensable the active participation and solidarity of medical practitioners from both the private and government sector.

"This is the essence of a whole-of-nation approach in addressing the communist armed conflict.”

One of the highlights of the upcoming NTF-ELCAC's fourth anniversary celebration on Dec. 9, is the launching of the book, "Beyond the Surface: Story of Resilience and Redemption,” authored by Olitres.

In her book, Olitres delved deep into the psychology of those who took an active part in the armed rebellion, in order to provide readers with a profound understanding of the FRs and those who are still under the influence of the communist terrorist group.

Salamat is also grateful to Olitres for mainstreaming the mental health issues of those who were deceived to bear arms against the government.

"It is very important to discuss these issues with experts on the field so that everyone will have a better grasp of what is really going on. This is how we realize one of the President's agenda - the protection of (the) cognitive domain. This is how we discern truth from lies," the NTF-ELCAC official said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190069

AFP reaffirms commitment to protect, promote human rights

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): AFP reaffirms commitment to protect, promote human rights (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of AFP

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterated its commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights as it joined the observance of the National Human Rights Consciousness Week.

AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor, in a statement Tuesday, said this pledge was renewed during Monday's flag-raising ceremonies at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

"The Vice Chief-of-Staff, AFP Maj. Gen. Arthur Cordura who represented the AFP chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro, presided over the ceremony, which was attended by officers, enlisted personnel and civilian human resources of the AFP," he added.

In his message, the AFP chief called on all military personnel to continue with their commitment to protect and promote the human rights of Filipino citizens.

"As soldiers in the noble profession of arms, part of our pledge in defending the lives and freedom of the Filipino people and our beloved nation is to strengthen our steadfast commitment to respecting and promoting the rights of our fellow citizens," he added.

Meanwhile, AFP Center for Law of Armed Conflict (AFPCLOAC) director Brig. Gen. Joel Alejandro Nacnac led the attendees in reciting the pledge of commitment, which reminds the AFP members of their essential role in safeguarding the rights of the people whom they swore to protect.

The AFPCLOAC will also facilitate various activities to educate further and raise the awareness of military personnel about human rights.

This year's observance, which runs from Dec. 4 to 10, carries the theme "Pagtaguyod at Pagsulong ng mga Karapatang Pantao tungo sa Matatag na Pundasyon ng Kapayapaan, Katarungan, Kalikasan, Kaunlaran, at Bayanihan."

The celebration of the National Human Rights Consciousness Week is pursuant to Republic Act 9201 signed into law by former President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo in April 2003.

Public and private institutions are urged to participate by propagating a culture of respect for human rights to help in peacebuilding and national unity.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190153

PH, Japan Air Force troops begin unit-to-unit activities

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): PH, Japan Air Force troops begin unit-to-unit activities (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BOOSTING EXCHANGES. Officials of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) pay a courtesy call on commanders of major Philippine Air Force units at the Clark Air Base in Mabalacat City, Pampanga on Monday (Dec. 5, 2022). The JASDF officials along with their PAF counterparts visited the unit-to-unit exchange activities that are currently ongoing. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Air Force)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is now conducting unit-to-unit activities with Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) in Clark Air Base, Pampanga which aims to enhance the bilateral ties between the two services.

Air Force spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo, in a statement Tuesday, said this interaction with the JASDF is part of their so-called "Fighters' Goodwill Visit to the Philippines” which took place on Monday.

"Maj. Gen. Matsuzaki Yuki, Commander of Southwestern Air Control and Warning Wing, JASDF, and Maj. Gen. Takahashi Hideo, Vice Commander of Western Air Defense Force, JASDF rendered a joint courtesy call on the commanders of major units based in Clark Air Base namely : Brig. Gen. Teofilo R. Bailon Jr. PAF, Commander, Air Logistics Command; Maj. Gen. Ramon Guiang PAF, Commander, Air Force Reserve Command; and Brig. Gen. Rocky J. Binag, PAF, Wing Commander, Tactical Operations Wing Northern Luzon. This happened at Clark Air Base, Mabalacat City, Pampanga," she added.

After their visit, Castillo said the two JASDF officials along with their PAF counterparts visited the unit-to-unit exchange activities that are currently ongoing.

"This includes subject matter exchange exercises on the following: aircraft maintenance, medical affairs, base defense (security), and field meteorology. They also visited the PAF’s welfare facilities," she said.

She added the one-week exchange program is a capacity-building activity that aims to strengthen the PAF's bilateral ties with JASDF by further exploring mutually beneficial areas of cooperation.

"It will serve as an avenue for fruitful engagements between our Air Forces which include high-level meetings and subject matter experts exchanges on best practices and tactics, techniques and practices related to various fields such as but not limited to fighter operations and aircraft maintenance," Castillo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190155