2 ASG bandits surrender in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22, 2020): 2 ASG bandits surrender in Basilan (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



SURRENDERED. Two Abu Sayyaf Group bandits identified as Nakib Asmad (2nd from left) and Suwaib Mungkay (2nd from right) surrender in Hadji Mohammad Ajul town, Basilan province on Thursday (Feb. 20, 2020). Mayor Ibrahim Ballajo (left) and Capt. James Dipdip (right), commander of the 19th Special Forces Company of the Army's 4th Special Forces Battalion, facilitated their surrender. (Photo courtesy of the Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office

Two Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits surrendered to government authorities in the province of Basilan, military officials said Saturday.

Brig. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, Joint Task Force Basilan commander, identified the two ASG surrenderers as Suwaib Mungkay, alias Abu Black, and Nakib Asmad, alias Abu Halifa. They surrendered at the municipality of Hadji Mohammad Ajul in Basilan at about 11 a.m. on Thursday.

Reyeg said the troops of the Army’s Special Forces Battalion and Hadji Mohammad Ajul Mayor Ibrahim Ballajo facilitated the surrender of the two, who also turned over two Carbine rifles and one caliber .45 pistol with ammunition.

“Mungkay and Asmad were involved in the Lamitan bombing last July 31, 2018,” he said.

Ten people, including a soldier and five militiamen, were killed while seven others were wounded during the July 2018 powerful bomb explosion at a military detachment in Barangay Magkawit, Lamitan City, Basilan.

Reyeg said the two underwent custodial debriefing, after which they were turned over to the local government of Hadji Mohammad Ajul for their inclusion in the government programs for rebel returnees.

“As I always say, peace is a shared responsibility. I am happy that our partners and stakeholders are always there to support us in our peace campaigns,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command chief. “Through our convergence, we are able to sustain the momentum and attain positive results in our journey towards peace and sustainable development here in the region.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094562

Sulu town execs declare ASG persona non grata

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22, 2020): Sulu town execs declare ASG persona non grata (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



PERSONA NON GRATA. Village officials, religious leaders, and representatives from other sectors join the signing of manifesto during a peace covenant meeting Wednesday (Feb. 19, 2020). The group declared the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) as persona non-grata in the town of Parang, Sulu. (Photo courtesy of Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

The local officials of the town of Parang in the province of Sulu have signed a manifesto declaring the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) as persona non grata in the municipality, the military said on Saturday.

Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the signing of the manifesto was made during a peace covenant meeting Wednesday in the town of Parang.

Vinluan said Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan and Parang Mayor Alkhadar Loong led the covenant meeting, where key officials denounced the ASG and proposed initiatives to strengthen and institutionalize public safety, security, and well-being in the municipality.

The other stakeholders and officials who signed and took part in the commitment are the following: Col. Ignatius Patrimonio, 1102nd Infantry Brigade commander; Col. Taharudin Ampatuan, Patrimonio’s deputy; Lt. Col. Jooney Jay Businos, 2nd Special Forces Battalion commander; Imam Kahal Tiplahan, Muslim religious leader; Lt. Col. Jeff Uy, OIC-Sulu Police Provincial director; Captain Rico Tagure, 4th Special Forces Company commander; Maj. Moh’d Hussin Tapsi, Parang police chief; Councilor Awaljaman Tahil, Parang Liga ng mga Barangay president; and the 24 barangay chairpersons of Parang.

Vinluan said the covenant meeting also empowered the religious sector to promote mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

He said the municipal and military officials have activated the Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC) during the signing of the covenant.

“The activation of the MTF-ELAC substantially proves that the government is serious in accelerating the peace process in Parang, Sulu. It shows that the different sectors are also working together to sustain security and normalcy in the area,” he said.

He said key officials also activated the Municipal Peace Action Operations and Monitoring Center (MPAOMC) and the Islamic Religious Council of Parang to address the socio-cultural, security, and development issues and to sustain and tap the development potentials of the town.

Vinluan said several consultations and discussions were held during the Municipal Peace and Order Council meeting in Parang since February 6.

“Peace calls for commitment, involvement, and integration of efforts. We let synergy work out and bring a breakthrough in our security and development campaign. With our headway, this convergence will continue to substantiate our peace efforts and ameliorate our gains,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief.

“I thank and urge our committed partners who ardently share this common goal towards transformation for peace and progress in Sulu and the entire Mindanao,” Sobejana said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094571

Top NPA member yields to Panay Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22, 2020): Top NPA member yields to Panay Army (By Gail Momblan)



ANOTHER SURRENDERER. Alias "Cardo" (middle) surrenders to the Philippine Army's 61st Infantry Batallion (61IB) on Saturday (Feb. 22, 2020). “Cardo”, 49, of Tubungan town is considered a high ranking member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA). (PNA Photo by Army's 61IB)

A high ranking member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) has surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) on Saturday.

Alias “Cardo”, 49, of Tubungan town yielded to government troops in their headquarters at Camp Monteclaro, Igtuba village, Miagao.

“This surrenderer said he is already tired of being part of the armed struggle,” Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of the 61st IB, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

However, the Army cannot yet divulge the real name and the position of the surrenderer for security reasons.

“He also has to undergo a further interview,” he said.

Batara said the surrender of the rebel member is a loss to the CPP-NPA, specifically to the Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay.

Batara said “Cardo” trusts the government and he is at ease that the government, especially the local government unit, will help him.

“He has doubts at first since he was indoctrinated by his leaders in the movement that once he surrenders, the army will torture him and that his life will be in great danger,” he said.

The surrender of "Cardo" was personally facilitated by Tubungan Mayor Roquito Tacsagon.

Batara said Tacsagon and Tubungan towns have again proven their commitment to the government’s fight against insurgency.

Tubungan town implements a reintegration program to benefit former members of the CPP-NPA.

The program dubbed “Project ROKIT” or Reintegration Oplan Kabalaka for Deserving Individuals in Tubungan provides rebel returnees with livelihood and other reintegration assistance.

Batara said the Army will facilitate the enrolment of “Cardo” in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

Meanwhile, Col. Marion Sison, 301st Brigade commander, said the surrender of “Cardo” proves that the campaign of the government against insurgency is working.

“It is a manifestation that the E.O. (executive order) 70 or the national task force to end the local communist armed conflict is functioning and effective in the area of Panay. For the next few months since the commencement of EO 70, we are expecting more surrenderers as we are aiming for peace and development,” he said in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094579

Bad case of the flu

Bad case of the flu.

Caught nasty flu bug. I am down for the count. Blog will be sporadic for a couple of days until I start feeling better.

Retired Analyst

How the Philippines’ Withdrawal from its Security Pact with the US Could Threaten the Country and Region

From the Small Wars Journal (Feb 20, 2020): How the Philippines’ Withdrawal from its Security Pact with the US Could Threaten the Country and Region (By Cooper Strand)

Introduction

On 11 February 2020, the President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte informed the United States that he intended to end his country’s involvement in the Philippines-United States Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). This pact is a cornerstone of US-Philippine military cooperation, and Duterte’s announcement could signal the beginning of a new era in the relations between the two countries. While the termination of the VFA does not necessarily mean a complete end to cooperation between the Philippines and the United States, it does set a precedent that makes continued cooperation more doubtful. Certainly, the Philippines has the right to self-determination. But withdrawing from the VFA could have overwhelmingly negative consequences for the country itself as it grapples with insurgent forces. Additionally, these repercussions could be felt in the Asia-Pacific region as a whole by emboldening Chinese military activity in the region.

Two Nations Linked by History
In 1998, the United States and the Philippines signed the VFA, a pair of documents which has helped facilitate widespread cooperation between the US and the Philippines. Most significantly, the documents allow for the “entry of American forces […] for joint training with Filipino troops.” 1 Without these documents, hosting bilateral military exercises and sending support to the Philippines could become much more challenging.

The United States and the Philippines have a long, complicated history, colored with both conflict and cooperation. From 1899 to 1902, the two nations fought a war which cost almost 25,000 combat deaths and ended with an American occupation. 2 That occupation was interrupted by World War Two, when Japan invaded the Southeast Asian nation. 3 After costly battles to liberate the Philippines from Japanese occupation, they received full independence in 1946. 2 The Cold War saw a new kind of conflict in the Philippines. In the late 1960s, a number of Communist insurgent groups cropped up in the country, most notably the New Peoples’ Army (NPA), the military wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). Subsequent government conflicts with these groups cost another 40,000 lives. 4 The United States supported the Philippine government by sending military advisors to assist in combatting guerilla forces. Although much lower in intensity, these groups remain active in rural areas of the country to this day.

In addition to its ongoing Communist insurgency, the Philippines has struggled with Islamic extremist groups like Abu Sayyaf and (more recently) ISIS, causing mass unrest on the islands of Mindanao and Basilan. This most recent phase of US-Philippine relations began after the September 11, 2001 attacks, when the United States began its Global War on Terrorism and initiated Operation Enduring Freedom – Philippines (OEF-P). American troops began actively training, supporting, and advising the Filipino military in their campaign against these extremist groups. OEF-P successfully curtailed violence in the Philippines, and by 2015 the operation formally ended. But it wasn’t long before a new wave of the same threat materialized. Abu Sayyaf, emboldened by recent ISIS gains in the Middle East, pledged allegiance to ISIS in 2014. By 2017 it had reinvigorated itself into making substantial gains across Mindanao. 5 This culminated in the 2017 Battle of Marawi City, an intense, 5-month campaign by the Filipino military to crush the ISIS stronghold in that city.

Battle of Marawi. 2017. Photo Courtesy of 21st Century Asian Arms Race.8

The post-apocalyptic images from the battle look like they could have come from Aleppo or Damascus, and the scale of destruction shocked many on the world stage. In response, the United States began new operations in the Philippines under the name ‘Operation Pacific Eagle - Philippines.’ That same year, US special operations were at work in the country once again, contributing to more than 800 ISIS fighters killed in action. 6 It’s important to note that these efforts were made “at the request of the government of the Philippines.” 7

But combat operations aren’t the only interactions that regularly occur between the two countries’ militaries. The United States and the Philippines conduct regular joint training exercises, precisely the ones that stand to be lost if President Duterte follows through with his stated goal of ending the VFA. These annual exercises (most notably Exercises KAMANDANG and Balikitan) involve thousands of participants, large amphibious landings, and live-fire ranges.9 They are intended to strengthen preparedness and increase cooperation between the two forces. In addition to these exercises, the American military has conducted relief operations in response to a number of natural disasters in the Philippines. Most recently, during Operation DAMAYAN, American forces delivered $37 million in aid to the typhoon-ravaged island-nation.10 Finally, one can’t forget the $550 million in military aid that the United States has provided in the last 4 years alone.11 This money is intended to strengthen the capabilities of a country that has been a historic ally in the Asia-Pacific region.

The United States and the Philippines have a long history of close interaction. More specifically, in the decades since the end of World War Two, America has been an important humanitarian and military ally to the Philippines. The US has helped disaggregate and defeat the various insurgent movements threatening the Filipino people. In turn, the Philippines has provided the US with valuable training opportunities for its military forces in the Pacific. Both countries stand to lose an important ally if relations sour.

The Case for the VFA

With this background, we can come to a deeper understanding about the events surrounding Duterte’s announcement that his country will terminate the VFA. Regardless, withdrawing from this deal could have overwhelmingly negative consequences for the Philippines itself, and for the great power conflict that is occurring in the Asia-Pacific region between China and the United States.

To start, we can assume that decreased internal security support could lead to an increase in insurgent activity. This increase in insurgent activity would destabilize the Philippines and bring more violence and human rights abuses to a country that has already suffered through so much of it. The Philippines has already demonstrated that it struggles to end the extremist activity within its borders. This activity is pervasive and has existed in one form or another since the country’s independence. They have a capable military, but have not hesitated to accept or invite outside assistance from the United States. As stated in the previous section, the United States ended its first counterterror mission in the country in 2015, and the immediate result was a resurgence of extremist activity. This resurgence culminated in the Battle of Marawi City, and left more than 1,000 dead over five months of fighting. While ISIS was defeated in Marawi, the group’s presence is far from over. We should not be surprised, therefore, if violence increases in the country as a result of the termination of international military cooperation. The Philippines is one example in a trend occurring across Southeast Asia as Islamic extremist groups rapidly grow in number and membership. In addition to the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore all have growing ISIS-affiliated organizations operating within their borders.13 Reducing American presence in the region could cause a reduction in military readiness in these host nations’ militaries, which could in turn create a gap which extremist organizations could exploit. As Joseph Chinyong Liow stated, the extremist threat facing these southeast Asian countries is not new; many of them have faced extremist groups in one form or another since gaining independence.13 But this only strengthens the argument that these countries require support in fighting such deeply entrenched movements within their borders. Reducing American support in the region, especially in the Philippines, will harm the fight against these movements.

Finally, we should expect to see China emboldened by the termination of the VFA. The Asia-Pacific region is increasingly one of bipolarity. If US influence decreases, Chinese influence should be expected to move in and fill the void. This influence could even be sought by Duterte himself, who has recently shown interest in drawing Chinese financial investment into his country. In 2016 alone, he “secured $24 billion in investment, credit, and loan pledges from” China.14 Through its Belt and Road Initiative, China has made clear its intent to increase its investments around the world in exchange for increased economic, political, and military power.15 In one late-2019 case, China offered up a majority stake in a potential natural gas venture, buying resources and influence from the Philippines.12 Duterte is seeking to fill the American void with Chinese money, and ending the VFA sends a strong signal to China that this rift is real and ready to be exploited. China’s push for increased influence is destabilizing the region. Ending the VFA and paving the way for increased Philippine-Chinese cooperation will exacerbate the ongoing great power competition in the Asia-Pacific region.

As a sovereign nation, the Philippines has every right to determine who it aligns itself with. But every effort must be made to maintain ties between it and the United States. This effort starts with the continuation of the VFA. It’s in the best interest of both nations.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the United States Marine Corps or the United States government.

Bibliography

1. Gomez, Jim. “Philippines notifies US of intent to end major security pact.” Military Times. February 11, 2020. https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2020/02/11/philippines-notifies-us-of-intent-to-end-major-security-pact/

2. “The Philippine-American War, 1899-1902.” Office of the Historian. https://history.state.gov/milestones/1899-1913/war

3. Drogin, Bob. “A forgotten World War II horror in the Philippines is revealed in ‘Rampage.’” LA Times. November 2, 2018. https://www.latimes.com/books/la-ca-jc-book-review-rampage-20181102-story.html

4. Robles, Alan. “Explained: the Philippines’ communist rebellion is Asia’s longest-running insurgency.” South China Morning Post. September 16, 2019. https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3027414/explained-philippines-communist-rebellion-asias-longest-running

5. Ressa, Maria A. “Senior Abu Sayyaf leader swears oath to ISIS.” Rappler. August 4, 2014. http://www.rappler.com/nation/65199-abu-sayyaf-leader-oath-isis

6. South, Todd. “Leading over 800 enemy kills to guiding elite forces: These Marines were honored for combat ops.” Marine Times. May 7, 2018. https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2018/05/07/leading-kills-of-over-800-enemy-fighters-to-guiding-elite-partner-forces-these-marines-were-honored-for-combat-ops/

7. “US Special Forces Helping Philippines Fight Militants in Marawi.” VOA News. June 10, 2017. https://www.voanews.com/east-asia-pacific/us-special-forces-helping-philippines-fight-militants-marawi

8. Reuters. “The Battle of Marawi is Over.” 21st Century Asian Arms Race. October 18, 2017. https://21stcenturyasianarmsrace.com/2017/10/18/the-battle-of-marawi-is-over/

9. The Associated Press. “American troops begin annual military exercise with Philippine, Japan forces.” Marine Times. October 9, 2019. https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2019/10/09/american-troops-begin-annual-military-exercise-with-philippine-japan-forces/

10. Klapper, Bradley. “Official: 5 Americans killed in Philippines typhoon; US ups humanitarian aid to $37 million.” Star Tribune. November 19, 2013. https://archive.is/20131208030323/http://www.startribune.com/politics/national/232508921.html

11. Associated Press. “Philippines notifies U.S. of intent to end major security pact.” NBC News. February 11, 2020. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/philippines-notifies-us-intent-end-major-security-pact-n1134591

12. Petty, Martin. “Philippines’ Duterte says Xi offering gas deal if arbitration case ignored.” Reuters. September 10, 2019. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-philippines-china-southchinasea/philippines-duterte-says-xi-offering-gas-deal-if-arbitration-case-ignored-idUSKCN1VW07O

13. Chinyong, Joseph. “ISIS in the Pacific: Assessing terrorism in Southeast Asia and the threat to the homeland.” Brookings. April 27, 2016. https://www.brookings.edu/testimonies/isis-in-the-pacific-assessing-terrorism-in-southeast-asia-and-the-threat-to-the-homeland/

14. Chandran, Nyshka. “The Philippines’ pivot toward China has yet to pay off, as Manila awaits promised funds.” CNBC. November 23, 2018. https://www.cnbc.com/2018/11/23/chinese-investment-in-the-philippines.html

15. Chatzky, Andrew; James McBride. “China’s Massive Belt and Road Initiative.” Council on Foreign Relations. January 28, 2020. https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/chinas-massive-belt-and-road-initiative
Categories: Philippines - Southeast Asia
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[Cooper Strand is an active duty Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Prior to his military service, he received a B.A. in political science, with minors in Spanish, history, and international studies from Texas Tech University. Cooper is also a volunteer staff member for The Emiliani Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving orphaned and abandoned children in Colombia. He has served in Medellín, Colombia three times.]

https://smallwarsjournal.com/jrnl/art/how-philippines-withdrawal-its-security-pact-us-could-threaten-country-and-region

2 NPA members surrender to lawmen in Region 1

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): 2 NPA members surrender to lawmen in Region 1 (By Freddie G. Lazaro)

SAN FERNANDO CITY, Feb. 19 (PIA) - Two active members of the New People’s Army (NPA) have voluntarily surrendered to the joint elements of the army and the police in Ilocos Sur and La Union after the conduct of series of negotiations by the authorities.

Colonel Audrey L. Pasia, the commander of the army’s 702nd Brigade, confirmed on Wednesday the voluntary surrender of Danilo Boquing, a member of the New People’s Army (NPA) with Aliases as Ka Dandi Boquing, Ka Gardo, Ka Molen and Ka Rannie.

Boquing, a resident of Barangay Baluarte, Salcedo, Ilocos Sur, is a member of the Communist Terrorist Group, Platoon South Ilocos Sur of the NPA and a former secretary of Sangay ng Partido sa Platon Sandino, now known as Kilusang Larangang Guerilya – Southern Ilocos Sur (KLG -SIS). He voluntarily surrendered to Colonel Pasia and Police Colonel Ysmael Yu, the deputy regional director for operations of Region 1 and officer-in-charge of Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office, in Barangay Sulvec, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur on Tuesday evening.

Witnessing the surrender of Boquing were the officials and members of the different local army’s field units and police units based in Ilocos Sur.

After his debriefing in the headquarters of the army’s 702nd Brigade, Boquing will be under the custody of the local police while he will respond to his five standing five (5) warrants of arrest issued by Judge Policarpio M. Martinez of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 71 in Candon City.

Among the charges filed against Boquing in court are the following: arson under Criminal Case Number 2406-C, murder under Criminal Case Number 2407-C & 2408-C with no bail recommended, two attempted murders under Criminal Case Number Number 3495-C and 3496-C) with recommended bail bond of Php 120,000.00, and robbery under Criminal Case Number Number 2405-C with a recommended bail bond of Php 100,000.00.

Pasia said that they are looking at the possible assistance to be given to Boquing through the Enhanced Comprehensive Livelihood Integration Program (ECLIP).

However, the surrenderee is required to answer all the charges filed against him in court.

Meanwhile, one Beverly Launyo, a NPA member with aliases as Ka Daniela, Ka Jovelyn, Ka Bebe, Ka Lyn-Lyn, surrendered voluntarily to police and the army in Camp Diego Silang, Carlatan, City of San Fernando, La Union on February 13, 2020.

Launyo, a resident of Sitio Mata, Barangay Marozo, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, voluntarily surrendered without firearms.

“We are continuously working in partnership with our counterparts through the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Council to strengthen our internal security operations in support to the Executive Order No. 70 or the whole of nation approach to end the local communist armed conflict,” said Pasia. (JCR/FGL/PIA1)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034907

Community engagement, key in fight vs insurgency- CL top cop

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): Community engagement, key in fight vs insurgency- CL top cop (By Trixie Joy B. Manalili)

TARLAC CITY, Feb. 19 (PIA) -- Police Regional Director PBGen. Rhodel Sermonia pitched for intensified community engagement to win the fight against insurgency.

Speaking to Tarlac stakeholders, Sermonia said the Joint Industrial Peace Concerns Office (JIPCO) is one of the several programs being implemented by the police in Central Luzon to deflect efforts of the communist groups in destroying the country.

“JIPCO is the first line of defense and protection of the labor force, manufacturing industries and industrial zones from the on-going massive infiltration and recovery works of the communist groups,” he explained.

Moreover, Police Regional Office 3 created a program for the youth that aims to create awareness and protect them from communism and the ill-effects of drugs.

“The Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo is an anti-radical effort that focuses on insulating the Filipino youth and student sector from drugs and the deceptive ideology and recruitment of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA),” he said.

Another program is the Global Police Community Relations which intends to safeguard the welfare of Filipinos who work abroad and the family they have left behind. 

Police Regional Director PBGen. Rhodel Sermonia (right) with Governor Susan Yap (left) during the launching of the Joint Industrial Peace Concerns Office in Tarlac. (Police Regional Office 3)

In terms of environmental protection, the Kaligkasan program or Kaligtasan and Kalikasan targets to secure the tourism industry players from left-leaning environmentalists that destabilize legitimate industries.

“We have to protect the tourists and our tourism from the CPP-NPA that uses development-related issues, such as the New Clark City, against the government,” he noted.

In addressing the issues and concerns of the urban poor that are usually being used by communist front organizations, Sermonia reinvented the Pulis Natin Caravan to an Expanded Caravan involving the other agencies of the government like the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority as well as the private sector.

“This is meant to make the people feel not only the frontline services of the police but all the services coming from the government,” he stressed.

All of the anti-insurgency efforts of the police are in line with Executive Order No.70 of President Duterte otherwise known as the “whole-of-nation approach” to end local communist armed conflict. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034932

3 NPA, 3 other members saved in AFP–NPA encounter

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): 3 NPA, 3 other members saved in AFP–NPA encounter (By Oliver T. Baccay)

GAMU, Isabela, Feb. 20 (PIA) - - Three members of the New Peoples’ Army (NPA) operating in Northern Isabela died while three others were saved in a bloody encounter with the troops of the 502nd Infantry Brigade (502IB) and the 95th Infantry Battalion (95IB) in the forested zone of Barangay Rang-ayan, Ilagan City, this province.

Soldiers bring down killed NPA members in an encounter in Ilagan City, Isabela. (by 5ID)

Lieutenant Colonel Gladiuz C. Calilan, battalion commander of the 95IB, said the rebels were positively identified by their former comrades, who earlier surrendered, as members of the Central Front and Regional Sentro De-Grabidad of the Komiteng Rehiyong - Cagayan Valley.

He said some community folk revealed to the soldiers during the conduct of Community Support Program (CSP) that there are NPAs who are threatening them and conducting extortion activities.

“We convinced them to surrender but they instead they engaged in a firefight with our troops which resulted to the death of the three of them and the recovery of M16 assault rifle, three caliber 45 and ammonitions,” Calilan said.

Two of the killed NPA members who were identified as “AKA Bobby” and “AKA Princess (male)” were high ranking officials of their group serving as squad leader, team leader and medical officer.

One of the saved NPA member was identified as “AKA Jimboy”, a 16 years old Aeta while the two others were identified as “AKA Leslie” and “AKA Alvin” who were also serving as supply officer and team leader.

“This proves that the communist terrorist groups continue to use child warriors in combat and they don’t respect human rights,” Calilan added.

In an interview with the IP minor, he expressed his gratitude to the soldiers for saving him from the bloody encounter and able to bring him out from the terrorist groups.

3 members of the New Peoples' Army were killed in a bloody encounter with the AFP. (by 5ID)

He also narrated the hardships he experienced with the rebel groups as he was made an errand.

On his part, Brigadier General Laurence E.Mina, commander of the 502 Brigade, vowed to further intensify joint Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police law enforcement and focused military operations to eliminate insurgency in the region.

Meanwhile, Major General Pablo M. Lorenzo, commander of the 5th Infantry Division, with the help of the community, is optimistic that peace and security will be achieved.

“We will not stop running after the rebels. The soldiers will continue to fight against terrorism to achieve lasting peace and development in our communities,” Lorenzo said.

He further urged remaining NPA members to surrender to enjoy and avail of government programs intended for them and live a productive and peaceful lives in the mainstream society. (MDCT/OTB/PIA 2-Cagayan with reports from Maj. Noriel Tayaban)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034960

RTF-ELCAC prepares for Cebu Youth Summit vs NPA recruitment

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): RTF-ELCAC prepares for Cebu Youth Summit vs NPA recruitment (By Patricia Candaza)

Representatives from different agencies talk about the updates and preparations for the upcoming youth summit on March 13, 2020 during their second STRATCOM RTF-ELCAC meeting held at PIA-7 Conference Room, Cebu City. (PIA7)

CEBU CITY, Feb. 17 (PIA) -- The Strategic Communication Cluster (STRATCOM) of the Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Region 7 convened on Monday to discuss the preparations for the upcoming Cebu Youth Summit.

The meeting was led by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Regional Director for Central Visayas Fayette Rinen.

Among the regional agencies present were the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), Philippine National Police Public Relations Office (PNP-PRO), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Agriculture (DAR), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the Task Group for Cebu, Bohol and Siquijor.

Present also were representatives from the Cebu City Public Information Office.

The meeting tackled the updates and preparations for the Cebu Youth Summit Against NPA Recruitment.

This is an event initiated by PIA together with RTF-ELCAC and the Cebu City government.

It aims to combat NPA recruitment in high school and college levels across Central Visayas.

The summit is also geared towards empowering the students and local communities to participate and develop a culture of peace.

A total of 250 students from various schools in Cebu City are expected to attend this summit.

The event will also focus on educating the students on the insurgency situation in Central Visayas and a call to action for the youth to fight insurgency.

This summit is in line with the mandate of PIA as well as RTF-ELCAC to strengthen efforts in information dissemination and battling the communist insurgency problem.

With continued efforts, the regional government hopes to end the local communist armed conflict by 2021. (poc/PIA7)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034877

OPAV sets deadline for ELCAC project proposals for 2021

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): OPAV sets deadline for ELCAC project proposals for 2021 (By Office of the Presidential Adviser to the Visayas)

Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino (center) in a meeting with representatives of the member-agencies under the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) on Feb. 17, 2020. (OPAV photo) 

CEBU CITY, Feb. 20 -- Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino asked all of the 12 clusters of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) to submit all their project proposals for 2021 on Feb. 21, 2020.

This is to plan and prepare the said projects on ELCAC efforts to be submitted to the joint Regional Development Council (RDC)- Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meeting this March.

The said deadline is to comply also with the deadline set by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) in the National Budget Memorandum Circular 133 set on December 2019.

On Feb. 11, 2020, Dino, who is the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development for Security (CORDS) in Central Visayas, called for a meeting with the member-agencies of the RTF-ELCAC.

He asked all members of the 12 different clusters to submit their project proposals based on the issues and concerns raised by the identified conflict-affected and vulnerable barangays.

Currently, there are 16 identified conflict-affected and vulnerable barangays in Region 7 which are all located in Negros Oriental.

During the meeting, the Secretary thanked all agencies that have contributed greatly to the successful implementation of the President’s Executive Order No. 70 in 2019.

He also made special mention to the efforts of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG-7) for completing the series of "Dagyawan sa Barangay: Talakayan at Serbisyo sa Mamamayan" that resulted to the handing over of issues and concerns as well as project proposals that will address the same at the grassroots level.

During the said meeting, Assistant Secretary Anthony Gerard “Jonji” Gonzales was also designated by Dino as the Chairman of the RTF-7 ELCAC technical working group (TWG).

The TWG will ensure that the plans, programs, and projects for the conflict-manageable and development-ready communist terrorist groups-affected areas will be endorsed accordingly for budget allocation and implementation.

They will also conduct site visits of the identified projects as part of the monitoring of the ongoing implementation of ELCAC interventions for 2020.

Included in the list of proposals are the projects that will be launched or inaugurated by March this year.

Dino encouraged all agencies to continue working diligently and with tenacity in fulfilling the President’s thrust towards sustainable peace and development in order to provide happy and comfortable lives for every Filipino. (PR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034984

RCSP starts peace-building efforts

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): RCSP starts peace-building efforts (By Easter Anne Doza)

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Feb. 20 (PIA6) – - Residents, mostly mothers, children and senior citizens of Barangay Montilla in Moises Padilla town availed of the government services and medicines during the Serbisyo Caravan and Medical and Dental Mission held at the covered gym of the barangay as part of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP).

RCSP’s implementation enables the local chief executives to become the champions through programs, projects and activities that are geared towards institutionalizing sustainable peace and development.

Mothers with children and senior citizens avail of the medical, dental and other government services during a Serbisyo Caravan in Barangay Montilla, Moises Padilla town as part of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP). *(EAD-PIA6 photo)

As part of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Whole-of-Nation Approach, RCSP aims to address the identified issues of the community by closing the governance and development gaps, providing the community their needs, and ensuring that development is sustained and peace is promoted.

Moises Padilla town Mayor Ella Celestina Garcia-Yulo during the Serbisyo Caravan enumerated the projects, from the national and provincial governments, that are in the pipeline to bring forth development in the area like the P11-million worth of road concreting from Barangay Guinpana-an to Barangay Montilla as well as the provision of a town doctor through the Doctor to the Barrios program of the Department of Health.

“I do not promise you everything but what I really aspire for is peace, peace as the springboard of progress,” Yulo told the beneficiaries of the Serbisyo Caravan.

Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) LGOO VI South Cluster Head Doctor Maria Nove Abao-Mejica said DILG as a convergence facilitator will go back to Barangay Montilla to conduct a forum to thresh out issues that the community experiences that they want attention so these will be integrated in the Barangay Development Plan.

The local government of Moises Padilla with its various departments, along with other government agencies – DILG, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Commission on Elections, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Agrarian Reform, Bureau of Fire Protectioon, Provincial Health Office, Health Offices of Hinigaran, Himamaylan and La Castellana and Office of the 5th Congressional District, converged to deliver different services like medical consultations, tooth extraction, circumcision, free haircut, free massage, voter’s registration, and give out free medicines, among others.

Yulo added that this is one way of bringing the government services to the people.

“The government is for the people. Our government finds ways to bring all these services here because sometimes out of poverty, you cannot even afford the fare going to the town to avail basic services,” Yulo added. *(LTP/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034969

Samar bishops to lead local peace talks

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): Samar bishops to lead local peace talks (By Ninfa Barcena-Quirante)

BORONGAN CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) – The three bishops of Samar island vowed to lead the peace negotiations with the insurgents in Samar.

During the 43rd Samar Island for Peace and Development (SIPPAD) assembly, Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Agda moved that the three bishops of the dioceses of Borongan, Calbayog and Catarman lead the peace negotiations.

The three bishops, Bishop Isabelo Abarquez of Calbayog, Bishop Crispin Varquez of Borongan and Bishop Emmanuel Trance of Catarman, represented by Rev. Fr. Fred Placa, agreed to the resolution.

"Local peace talk is very effective and applicable," said Bishop Crispin Varquez of Borongan diocese.

In the SIPPAD assembly, the members talked about how poverty and corruption contribute to the discontent of the Samarnons that eventually lead them to join the rebels.

As to connectivity, the presence of roads that can discourage the rebels to stay in Samar, OPAPP Secretary Carlito Galvez said he will ask the departments concerned to push the completion of roads in the three provinces of Samar.

Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone in his welcome message also committed to complement the road projects by allotting P50- M for road openings in distant barangays without access roads.

Representative Maria Fe Abunda also promised that while she is in Congress she will ensure that roads will be built connected and fully funded.

Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) 8 Eduardo del Rosario invited SIPPAD to complete the membership of the Task Force End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF ELCAC).

He also praised the SIPPAD for its help in its convergence effort and for drawing out support from the church and the private sector for peace and development.

Secretary Carlito Galvez of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) also promised to help by seeking other departments to assist help Samar rise from the clutched of poverty and insurgency. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034993

New 58IB commander vows to continue fight vs insurgency

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): New 58IB commander vows to continue fight vs insurgency (By Apipa P. Bagumbaran)

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- Newly-installed commanding officer of the 58th Infantry (Dimalulupig) Battalion, Philippine Army has vowed to continue the towering legacy of his predecessor in winning the peace and sustaining development in Misamis Oriental and Camiguin.

Lt.Col. Ricky L. Canatoy gives assurance that he will give his best effort to improve upon, sustain the effort, and build the gains of my predecessor to further advance the peaceful war. (ZRD/PIA-10)
Lt.Col. Ricky L. Canatoy assured the sustainability of the anti-insurgency programs initiated by Lt.Col. Roy Anthony O. Derilo during the change of command ceremony presided by 4th Infantry Division commander MGen. Franco Nemesio M. Gacal.

"I assure the leadership of the 4th Infantry Division that I will give my best effort to improve upon, sustain the effort, and build the gains of my predecessor to further advance the peaceful war," he said.

Canatoy also told the 58th IB troopers to continue serving the people. "We already made progress in the operationalization of EO 70 and even hailed by national leaders as a model task force on ELCAC. I am confident of your individual and collective capacity to ensure the accomplishment of our mission," he said.

Before submitting his tour of duty report, outgoing commander LtCol. Derilo shared that one of the best practices of the battalion was treating the former rebels well.

"I got the most relevant and rich information these former rebels shared and freely contribute. As a result, we were able to develop a better and intelligent picture of the enemy and the situation," he said.

For his guidance, 4th ID commander MGen. Gacal advised LtCol. Canatoy not to be afraid to try out new concepts, ideas and approaches if he thinks it will help them win. He further told him to be flexible and innovative in terms of tactics, techniques, and procedures.

58th IB outgoing commander Lt.Col. Roy Anthony O. Derilo shares that one of the best practices of the battalion was treating the former rebels well. Through it, they were able to develop a better and intelligent picture of the enemy and the situation. (ZRD/PIA-10)
"We are fighting a thinking adversary. They would not have survived this long if they don't think well. Let us outthink, outplan, and outmaneuver them," he added.

Gacal also reminded LtCol. Canatoy him to be always at the forefront of the battalion's operations whether it is combat or administrative in nature.

The change of command ceremony was attended by some local chief executives, regional heads of national government agencies, civil society group leaders, business sector, Philippine National Police officials and personnel, and other stakeholders. (APB/PIA-10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1035041

4th Division Training School holds assumption of command ceremony

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): 4th Division Training School holds assumption of command ceremony (By Apipa P. Bagumbaran)



MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- Soldiers of the 4th Division Training School (4DTS) welcomed their newly installed Commandant in an assumption of command ceremony, Wednesday, February 19, in Malaybalay City.

During the ceremony, the Acting School Sgt Major Francisco Tadle passed the unit’s colors to Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio M Gacal, AFP, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army as the Presiding General Officer and subsequently handed over to Lt. Col. Ronald M Illana as a symbol of responsibility and authority over 4DTS.

After the ceremonial passing of the unit color, Lt. Col. Illana signed his assumption order and gave his remarks expressing his gratitude for the trust and confidence accorded to him by Maj.Gen. Gacal for his designation as the new Commandant of the 4th Division Training School.

“I recognize the role of 4DTS to train soldiers and I will attempt in my best ability to train well-rounded soldiers that can readily adapt to the Division’s campaign without losing sight of the traditional and basic military skill and discipline of our Filipino Soldiers," he said.

He also urged the cooperation and commitment of his new team. 4DTS, “I am aware of my role to lead and motivate you. Let us give our 101% effort in training our soldiers so that we will have 200% confidence that they will come out alive in combat situations, effective and efficient in non-combat situations” he added.

Meanwhile, MGen.Gacal congratulated the newly installed Commandant of 4DTS, Lt. Col. Illana while expressing gratitude to the former Commandant Lt.Col. Allen Raymund C Tomas, for carrying out significant improvements of 4DTS during his stint in a short period. Lt Col Tomas was earlier reassigned as the Commanding Officer of the Security and Escort Battalion of Headquarters Philippine Army in Ft Bonifacio.

“We welcomed a very able competent Officer, Lt. Col. Illana, who performed well during his stint as the Battalion Commander of 8IB for carrying out his mission to achieve a genuine peace and development in his Area of Operation. His experiences will be useful to steer the will for the 4DTS towards accomplishment of its mission and prosperity towards greater heights,” he said.

He also encourages the new commandant to create some innovations for the good of the unit and continue to implement the Army’s thrust to further enhance the performance of 4DTS. Likewise, he reminded the troops of 4DTS to continue to serve with utmost commitment and dedication to support the new Commandant.

“Let us sustain the culture of excellence that you are well known for by providing the school with the best and the brightest trainors. Let us ensure the availability of all military training equipment, facilities, and resources so that every graduate of the school will be ready and capable to walk a tough road ahead,” he added.

The 4th Division Training School’s mission is to conduct Basic Soldier Skills Training, Specialization Training, In-service Training, and Unit Trainings for the organic personnel of the 4th Infantry Division.

The 4th Division Training School is manned with competent training staff that will continue to be thinking-forward by ensuring the delivery of responsive and right training that will contribute to the accomplishment of the 4th Infantry Division’s mission. (4DTS)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1035044

New quarters for AFP personnel near completion

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2020): New quarters for AFP personnel near completion (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

QUEZON CITY, Feb. 21 (PIA) -- The construction of living quarters for members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is nearing completion, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways-National Capital Region (DPWH-NCR).

The new living quarters for Enlisted Personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which is set to be completed in April 2020. (Photo courtesy of DPWH-NCR)

The two multi-purpose buildings, which will serve as living quarters of the Enlisted Personnel (EP) of the AFP is now being fast-tracked by DPWH-NCR Quezon City Second District Engineering Office.

DPWH-NCR Director Ador G. Canlas said the new living quarters located inside Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City is now 83 percent (83%) complete based on the report of the QC Engineering Office

“This billeting facility aims to uplift troop morale and ensure comfortable and conducive living quarters to the AFP enlisted personnel and their families,” Canlas said.

Canlas said the five-storey buildings will have 44 units each with a floor area of 35 square meters (5 meters x 7 meters) and provision for garage at the ground level.

The Php233-million project is set to be completed in April 2020. (DPWH-NCR/PIA-NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1035049