7 Iloilo former rebels get gov’t assistance

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14, 2020): 7 Iloilo former rebels get gov’t assistance (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, Oct. 14 (PIA) -- Seven former rebels (FRs) in Iloilo received firearms remuneration, immediate cash and livelihood assistance through the Enhanced–Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E–CLIP).

The turn-over of assistance, held on October 12, 2020 at Governors Hall, Provincial Capitol, Iloilo City, was led by Iloilo governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., said 61st Infantry Battalion Civil Military Operations (CMO) Officer 2Lt. Sarah Mae Cerna.

The Governor was assisted by Department of the Interior and Local Government- Iloilo provincial director Teodora Sumagaysay, 61IB Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, Iloilo Police Provincial Director Colonel Gilbert Gorero, and Civil Society Organization Representative Rev. Reynaldo Romero.

The beneficiaries received a total of P589,000 E-CLIP assistance.

According to the former rebels (FRs), the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) promised to support and provide them the financial needs of their family if they join in the organization, but in reality this are just false promises.

They decided to abandon the armed movement after realizing that they are fighting for a senseless struggle, they said.

Meanwhile, Batara said this peace advocacy program shows that the government is serious in giving the former rebels a chance to start a new and peaceful life.

He also assured that the Philippine Army will always support the former rebels not only through empowerment but by giving them security assistance as they return to the mainstream society.

"As we turn their dreams for a peaceful life into reality through E-CLIP, we are looking forward to more number of rebels not only in Iloilo but in whole Panay laying down their firearms to embrace peace and development,” Batara said. (PIA6/2Lt.SMCerna/CMO-61IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056020

Army deploys community support teams in San Luis, Aurora

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14, 2020): Army deploys community support teams in San Luis, Aurora (By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu)

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija, Oct.14 (PIA) -- Army 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) deployed five Community Support Program (CSP) teams in different barangays in San Luis, Aurora.

Specifically, there were assigned in Diteki, El Pimentel, Ditumabo, Dikapinisan and Dimanayat.

“The deployment of CSP teams will basically contribute to peace and development efforts in those areas,” 91IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Reandrew Rubio said.

They will also act as bridge between the government and the community in identifying different issues and facilitate the resolution of the same in partnership with local government units and national government agencies.

“The deployment of CSP teams will somehow affect the recovery and logistical works of the New People’s Army in those areas,” Rubio furthered.

This is in line with the Development Support and Security Plan “Kapayapaan” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines which seeks to conduct development support operations, sustain peace efforts, ensure security and help maintain public order to foster the foundation for economic and human development.

For his part, 703rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier General Andrew Costelo expressed appreciation to the municipal government of San Luis for their strong support to the Army.

“We are not only here to help the local government in addressing the peace and security concerns of the communities but also to help deliver basic government services,” Costelo emphasized. (CLJD-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056038

Ifugao reorganizes Provincial Task Force-ELCAC

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14, 2020): Ifugao reorganizes Provincial Task Force-ELCAC (By Marcelo B. Lihgawon)

LAGAWE, Ifugao, Oct. 14 (PIA) - - The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and Provincial Development Council (PDC) passed Joint Resolution No. 2020-01 reorganizing the membership of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC).

It was raised that some of the agencies or organizations who have related programs and services are not officially included in the task force.

The PTF-ELCAC provides an efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of the Whole-of-Nation approach, which is localized to “Whole-of-Community” approach to aid in the realization of the collective aspirations of the people of Ifugao to attain inclusive and sustainable peace.

The PTF-ELCAC is chaired by the Governor and the commanding officer of the 54th Infantry Battalion as the vice chairperson with the Vice Governor as co-vice chairperson. Members are the provincial directors/heads of the 24 government offices and two non-government organizations in the province and a representative of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

The PTF Secretariat shall be led by the PPOC Secretariat Head duly assisted by personnel from the member-agencies of the Task Force under secondment, detail, or other appropriate arrangement.

The PTF-ELCAC will take the lead in localization of the 12 clusters/lines of effort and the implantation of provincial plans in coordination with the relevant national government agencies, local government units, civil society and other stakeholders guided by the whole-of-nation approach driven National Peace Framework.

It will ensure compliance to the monitoring and evaluation system provided by the Regional TF and implement the same at the municipal level to help track performance and analyze results for continuity or improvement; provide technical assistance to MTF-ELCAC as needed and to perform other functions.

Meanwhile, the 12 clusters/lines of effort shall be incorporated in the planning and harmonization of policies, programs, projects, services, and activities in conflict affected areas and vulnerable communities of national government agencies, local government units, and all stakeholders. (JDP/MBL- PIA CAR, Ifugao)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056007

Army Multi-Sector Advisory Board holds town hall discussion on Anti-Terrorism Act

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14, 2020): Army Multi-Sector Advisory Board holds town hall discussion on Anti-Terrorism Act (By Nonette N. Castillo)

 

 Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana (FILE PHOTO)

CALOOCAN CITY, Oct. 14 (PIA) --The Philippine Army (PA) on Monday (October 13) convened the PA Multi-Sector Advisory Board (PA MSAB) Online Summit 2020 to shed light in the armed forces’ roles and answer criticisms on the Anti-Terrorism Act.

In a Town Hall Discussion, Sen. Panfilo Lacson clarified the issues and concerns regarding the validity and constitutionality of the said Act; providing Regional MSAB Chairpersons, National MSAB Members, PA Major Unit Commanders, Army Senior Leaders and Philippine National Police representatives an opportunity to review and discuss the critical issues during the open forum.

According to the Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana, the Philippine Army continues to hold its operational imperatives in respect for human rights, abidance by the rule of law, and adherence to international humanitarian law. “These imperatives shall be carried on in enforcing counterterrorism campaign in accord with enabling legislation,” he said.

Under Section 25 of the said Act, the Anti-Terrorism Council, pursuant to the obligations under the United Nations Security Council Resolution No. 1373, “shall automatically adopt the United Nations Security Council Consolidated List of designated individuals, group of persons, organizations, or associations designated and/or identified as a terrorist, one who finances terrorism, or a terrorist organization group.”

Additionally, the ATC under its legal affairs program states that it “shall ensure respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law as the fundamental bases of the fight against terrorism.”

“This is a goal that we all along pursue. In the exercise of authority, we will be guided by its safeguards. We shall foremost emplace the fundamental rights of people above all things, uphold the rule of law, and support legislative intents that rally national development,” added Lt. Gen. Sobejana. (PA/PIA-NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055998

MILF member slain, 4 others hurt in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): MILF member slain, 4 others hurt in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

Google map of Mamasapano, Maguindanao

One person was killed while four others were hurt when members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) engaged in a firefight due to a family feud in Maguindanao on Tuesday, officials said.

Esmael Hashim, the chairperson of Barangay Tukanalipao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao, said the sporadic clashes erupted at about 11 a.m. between the group of Salik Kiko, a delisted member of the MILF’s 118th base command, and Ben Tikaw of the MILF’s 105th base command.

“They were locked in a rido (family feud) due to (a) land dispute,” Hashim told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a phone interview on Wednesday.

A certain Alimudin, a member of the Salik Kiko group, was killed and three of his companions were hurt. On the side of Ben Tikaw, a subordinate was also hurt.

Hashim said the skirmishes lasted for about six hours.

“No civilians were hurt. Some have fled but have returned home,” he said.

Government forces, both the police and the military, have put up checkpoints along the major roads to prevent a spillover of the conflict.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division and head of the Joint Task Force Central, has directed the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion and 1st Mechanized Brigade to help local officials and the MILF leadership in peacefully resolving the conflict.

Barangay Tukanalipao is the site of the bloody Jan. 25, 2015 clash between the police’s elite Special Action Force and Moro rebels that left 44 police officers and 17 radicals dead.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118448

2 killed in Basilan jailbreak

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): 2 killed in Basilan jailbreak (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)  

Two people were killed while an escapee was recaptured during a pursuit operation after eight inmates bolted from the provincial jail of Basilan, officials said Wednesday.

Three of the subjects of the pursuit operation are alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) involved in the July 31, 2018 bombing of a militia detachment in Lamitan City, Basilan province, said Lt. Col. Homer Dumalag, Isabela City police chief.

Dumalag identified the fatalities as Jail Officer 3 (JO3) Asbi Salih and Torotoy Abbas, an inmate and alleged member of the ASG facing charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention.

Recaptured around 9:30 a.m. Wednesday in Purok 5, Barangay Calvario, Isabela City, was Mahad Hassan, of Sumisip town who is charged with murder.

Nul Asmawil, provincial jail warden, disclosed that the jailbreak took place when Salih entered in one of the detention cells around 5 p.m. Tuesday. The provincial jail is located in Barangay Sumagdang, Isabela City.

Asmawil said the inmates grabbed the firearms of Salih as they ganged up and killed the jail guard.

Dumalag said the inmates, armed with a caliber .45 pistol and M4 rifle taken from Salih, fled toward Salain Drive, Barangay Sumagdang where they seized two motorcycles and a tricycle and sped to Barangay Kumalarang, Isabela City.

Dumalag said Abbas was killed as pursuing policemen caught him in Purok Gumamela, Barangay Sumagdang, several minutes after the jailbreak.

Still at large and subjects of manhunt operation are the following and their corresponding cases: Battuh Kusain, multiple murder, and multiple frustrated murder; Gappal Saripada, multiple murder, and frustrated murder; Hernie Asao, illegal possession of explosives and firearms; Nurhasan Lahaman, two counts murder; Albaser Ahmad, murder and frustrated murder; and Kaliji Hajirul, murder.

Authorities said Kusain, Saripada, and Ahmad are involved in the July 31, 2018 bombing of the Magkawit militia detachment at the borders of barangays Bulanting, Colonia, and Maganda, Lamitan City.

Ten people, five of them were militiamen, died from the explosion. Four victims, all relatives of the militiamen, and a soldier were also among the dead. Three goats grazing nearby were also killed.

Two militiamen and five Army Scout Rangers were wounded during the incident.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118490

P2.4-M financial aid released to ex-rebels in Davao de Oro

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): P2.4-M financial aid released to ex-rebels in Davao de Oro (By Che Palicte)

FINANCIAL AID. A former member of the New People's Army (left) receives financial assistance from the officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Davao de Oro provincial government, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development on Tuesday (Oct. 13, 2020) in Nabunturan town. Each rebel returnee received PHP20,000 and an additional PHP4,000 as food assistance. (Photo courtesy of 1001IB)

At least 100 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who surrendered to the government received over PHP2.4-million financial aid from the Department of Social and Welfare Development in Davao Region (DSWD-11), the Davao de Oro provincial government said in a statement on Wednesday.

Each rebel returnee received PHP20,000 under DSWD's Sustainable Livelihood Program’s-Livelihood Settlement Grant (SLP-LSG), including an additional PHP4,000 for food and assistance as part of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Programs (ECLIP), during Tuesday's distribution activity.

Kerwin Gabasa, DSWD-11 focal person, said the assistance is intended for conflict-affected and vulnerable areas, including former rebels.

“This assistance would help them start their livelihood as they start their new life with their families,” Gabasa said.

Davao de Oro Gov. Jayvee Tyron Uy hopes the financial assistance would give former rebels "peace of mind as they intend to live a normal life in the mainstream society".

Tatay Boby, one of the former rebels who received the aid, expressed gratitude to the government for the financial assistance, even as he urged his fellow returnees to be prudent in spending the money they received from the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118561

3D modeling for Del Pilar vessels upgrades now completed: Navy

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): 3D modeling for Del Pilar vessels upgrades now completed: Navy (By Priam Nepomuceno)  

Philippine Navy chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo. (File photo)

The 3D modeling for the cabling system of the ongoing electronic upgrades of the three Gregorio Del Pilar offshore patrol vessels in the Philippine Navy (PN) service has been completed.

"The project is currently undergoing contract implementation. The 3D modeling for the cabling system was successfully rendered just recently. The upgrade of the three ships is expected to be completed by November 2023," Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Tuesday night.

3D modeling refers to the process of developing a mathematical representation of any surface of an object in three dimensions through specialized software.

"The completion of the project will not only enhance the performance of the ship but will also elevate the operating systems at par with modern ships," Bacordo added.

The PN, through the Department of National Defense (DND), has awarded the contract seeking to beef up the electronics capabilities of the three Del Pilar-class offshore vessels in service to Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd. in August 2019.

The project aims to beef up the ships' electronic capabilities and make them more capable of patrolling and conducting inter-agency operations in the country's territorial waters.

Specifically, the upgrade seeks to enhance the ships' combat management systems, electronic support, and sonar capability.

It has a contract of PHP1.54 billion, which will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Modernization Trust Fund.

Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd. won the contract with its bid of PHP1,304,200,000.

The Del Pilar-class ships were three former US Coast Guard Hamilton-class cutters that were converted into frigates and offshore patrol vessels.

These are the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS-15), BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), and BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17).

Each ship has a gross tonnage of 3,250 tons, a length of 378 feet, a beam of 43 feet, and a draft of 15 feet. Its propulsion systems consist of two diesel engines and two gas turbine engines, giving it a top speed of 29 knots.

It has a cruising range of 14,000 miles and a loiter time of 45 days and is armed with a 76mm Oto Melara automatic cannon, 25mm and 20mm light cannons, and .50 caliber machine guns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118449

Lorenzana eyes acquisition of 6 more attack planes

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): Lorenzana eyes acquisition of 6 more attack planes (By Priam Nepomuceno)  October 14, 2020, 11:17 am

'SUPER TUCANO' ATTACK PLANES. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Philippine Air Force (PAF) commander Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes lead the blessing and turnover ceremony for the A-29B Super Tucano close air support aircraft from Brazil in Clark Air Base, Angeles City Pampanga on Tuesday (Oct. 13, 2020). The Super Tucano aircraft, which will be part of the PAF's 15th Strike Wing, will beef up the remaining SF-260 and OV-10 attack aircraft used by the Air Force in strike missions. (Photo courtesy of PAF)

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is open to acquiring six more Embraer Defense and Security A-29B "Super Tucano" close-air support aircraft to boost the six that are now in the Philippine Air Force's (PAF) inventory.

"I was discussing with the Commanding General (PAF chief Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes) a while ago (that) having six Super Tucano is good but another six more would be better," Lorenzana said in his speech during the turnover and blessing ceremony of the six aircraft at Clark Air Base, Angeles City, Pampanga on Tuesday.

Other attendees to the event were Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay and Brazilian Ambassador to Manila Rodrigo do Amaral Souza.

Lorenzana also thanked representatives of Brazilian defense manufacturer Embraer Defense and Security for their support in delivering the aircraft and expressed hope that the country will have more business with the company in the future.

Four of the Super Tucano close-support attack aircraft arrived last Sept. 19 while the remaining two arrived on Oct. 1.

"The challenge now upon the PAF to effectively utilize, maintain and maximize the utilization," Lorenzana said.

He said the arrival of the Super Tucano is a reminder of the "indispensability of airpower" in national defense and security.

Embraer company pilots flew the aircraft from the company airfield in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and made fueling stops in the Canary Islands, Portugal, Malta, Egypt, Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates, India, Thailand, and Vietnam before landing in the Philippines.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday, PAF spokesperson Lt. Col. Aristides Galang said the pilot pool for the A-29B aircraft will come from Air Force pilots qualified in the operations of the SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 and North American Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco" attack aircraft.

DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong earlier said Embraer pilots will train PAF pilots selected to fly the Super Tucano for two months as part of the agreement under the Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee.

The A-29B aircraft were earlier scheduled to be delivered by the end of July but the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic and subsequent travel bans have skewed the delivery timetables.

The aircraft, which will be part of the PAF's 15th Strike Wing, will beef up the remaining SF-260 and OV-10 attack aircraft used by the Air Force in strike missions.

"They are a welcome and much-needed replacement for the PAF's aged, close air support aircraft, and their mission versatility and capability to carry a variety of ordnance will be very useful in the field," Andolong said.

The Super Tucano is a turboprop aircraft designed for light attack, counter-insurgency, close air support, aerial reconnaissance missions in low threat environments, as well as providing pilot training. The contract for the six aircraft is worth PHP4.97 billion and was issued in late 2017.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118467

DOJ completes IRR of anti-terror law

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): DOJ completes IRR of anti-terror law (By Benjamin Pulta)

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (ATA) has been approved on schedule by the Anti Terrorism Council (ATC).

"The ATC has approved today (Wednesday) the IRR of the ATL crafted by the technical working group led by the DOJ. We will disseminate copies to the congress and law enforcement agencies as required under the law and will publish the IRR online and in a newspaper of general circulation in the next few days," Guevarra said.

The DOJ last August started drafting the IRR of the law signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on July 3.

The new law repeals Republic Act 9372 or the Human Security Act of 2007. It seeks the detention of suspected terrorists for up to 24 days with no warrant of arrest.

It also allows the police or the military to conduct a 60-day surveillance with an allowable 30-day extension on suspected terrorists.

The law also imposes a 12-year jail term on a person who voluntarily or knowingly joins a terrorist organization.

In July 2018, a Moroccan terrorist detonated his explosives inside his white van vehicle at a checkpoint in Basilan, killing 10 people. The culprit was identified as Abu Kathir Al-Maghribi, who was allegedly working with foreign terrorists in plotting the attack.

In January 2019, an Indonesian couple, 35-year-old Rullie Rian Zeke and his 32-year-old wife, Ulfah Handayani Saleh, alleged members of the Indonesian ISIS-linked terrorist group, Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), blew themselves up at the Jolo Cathedral in the middle of a Mass, which left at least 23 dead.

In June of the same year, two suicide bombers blew up explosives outside an army camp in Sulu, killing five people, including themselves.

Solicitor General Jose Calida earlier said RA 11479 is already in effect even if the government has yet to craft its IRR.

Calida, citing precedent cases previously decided on by the Supreme Court, said laws are not contingent on the implementing rules.

More than 30 petitions have been filed before the SC by opposition groups and individuals questioning the validity of the law.

The high court has yet to set to a schedule for the conduct of oral argument on the petitions challenging the law's validity.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118515

CA okays appointments of 30 senior AFP officials

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): CA okays appointments of 30 senior AFP officials (By Priam Nepomuceno) 

CONFIRMED. Thirty senior officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines take their oath during the confirmation hearing for their ad interim appointments at the Senate in Pasay City on Wednesday (Oct. 14, 2020). The Commission on Appointments (CA), chaired by Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III, found the AFP officers all qualified for the ranks given to them, upon the recommendation of CA national defense committee chair, Rep. Luis A. Ferrer IV. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Commission on Appointments (CA) approved on Wednesday the ad interim appointments and nominations of 30 senior generals, flag-officers, and senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

This took place at the Senate compound in Pasay City, said AFP public affairs office chief, Navy Captain Jonathan Zata, in a press statement.

Brig. Gen. William N. Gonzales, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu and 11th Infantry Division, got the CA nod for his nomination to Major General.

The CA’s Committee on National Defense also deliberated on and recommended for the approval of the ad interim appointments of Major Gen. Fernyl G. Buca, Commodore Roy Vincent T. Trinidad, Commodore Alfonso F. Torres Jr., Brig. Gen. Leonel M. Nicolas, and Brig. Gen. Zosimo A. Oliveros.

Also confirmed were the promotions of Philippine Army Colonels Darius M. Resuello, Edgar G. Mangabay, Cesar J. Conte Jr., Virgilio C. Hamos Jr., Darwin F. Hernandez, Rhenante M. Salvador, Edwin M. Paredes, Christopher M. Diaz, Palmer M. Parungao, Emerito D. Pineda, Arnel B. Cabugon, Sofronio G. Abadier Jr., Marieto R. Pizana, and Eugenio E. Garcia.

Meanwhile, Philippine Air Force Colonel Arthur B. Balunes; Navy Captains Ferdinand P. Gloria and Federico M. Alcantara; and Marine Colonels Ramil B. Densing and Jessie Jovette B. Cerbo likewise secured the CA approval.

Also confirmed were Colonels Nelson V. Posadas, Judith T. Espejo, and Reynaldo V. Capuz from the Medical Corps; Colonel Ashraf A. Chio from the Medical and Administrative Corps; and Colonel Vener C. Malabanan III from the Judge Advocate General Service.

The CA, chaired by Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III, found the AFP officers all qualified for the ranks given to them, upon the recommendation of Rep. Luis A. Ferrer IV, Chairman of the CA National Defense Committee.

It previously confirmed the ad interim appointments and promotions of 30 AFP senior officers on October 7.

This included the nomination of Major Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr., Commander of Northern Luzon Command to the rank of lieutenant general.

“Promotions in the AFP signify its longstanding commitment towards fortifying professionalism which contributes to the effective and efficient performance of its mandate. The AFP is grateful for the trust and support of the Commission on Appointments to our members who took on higher responsibilities in serving our country as they rise through the military ranks,” AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118511

DOJ backs Lacson's remarks on Indon bomber as test case for ATA

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): DOJ backs Lacson's remarks on Indon bomber as test case for ATA (By Benjamin Pulta)

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra (left) and Senator Panfilo Lacson (right). (File photo)

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday concurred with a lawmaker's observation that the suspected Indonesian suicide bomber who was recently arrested in Sulu may be a "potential test case" for the newly signed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

“I agree (with Senator Panfilo Lacson)," Guevarra said in a message to reporters, referring to Lacson's remarks that bombs and other items seized from Nana Isirani a.k.a. Rezky Fantasya Rullie or "Cici" indicated that she was preparing to take part in a terrorist attack.

On Tuesday, Lacson said the act of the Indonesian suspect is a clear example of an "inchoate offense" which is punishable under the law.

"By including inchoate offenses as punishable acts under the new measure, we are criminalizing the foregoing acts of the arrested suspects which include planning, preparation, and facilitation of terrorism and possession of objects with knowledge or intent that these are to be used in the preparation for the commission of terrorism," Lacson, who sponsored the anti-terrorism measure in the Senate, said in his speech before the Philippine Army Multi-Sector Advisory Board Summit.

He pointed out one of the new features in the Anti-Terrorism Law (Republic Act 11479) is the penalizing of inchoate offenses or preparatory acts that are deemed criminal even without the actual harm being done, provided that the attempt to harm is one that the law is trying to prevent, such as terrorism.

This new feature aims to prevent terrorism even before the actual commission of the violent terrorist act by making planning, preparing, and facilitating acts of terrorism as independent criminal acts already punishable by reclusion perpetua (up to 40 years imprisonment) without the benefit of parole.

Penalizing inchoate offenses is made pursuant to the mandate under United Nations Security Council Resolution No. 1373, which states that planning and preparation, among others, are established as serious criminal offenses in domestic laws and that the punishment should duly reflect the seriousness of such terrorist acts.

Isirani was arrested along with two other women believed to be wives of Abu Sayyaf members in Jolo, Sulu on Oct. 10. They yielded an improvised explosive device disguised as a vest, container pipes, and a nine-volt battery.

She is reportedly the eldest daughter of the Indonesian couple Rullie Rian Zeke and his wife Ulfah Handayani who were behind the Jolo Cathedral bomb attack in January 2019 which claimed 23 lives. Her husband Andi Baso aka "Zikri" is said to be behind similar attacks on churches in other countries.

Guevarra, meanwhile, said he does not expect new or supplemental petitions to be filed questioning the law's implementing rules and regulations (IRR) and clarified the rules do not amend or expand the law itself in any way.

“If the law falls (in the petitions before the Supreme Court), the IRR automatically falls (as there will be) no leg to stand on,” Guevarra said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118552

Envoy Khovaev helped 'redefine' PH-Russia ties: OP

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2020): Envoy Khovaev helped 'redefine' PH-Russia ties: OP (By Azer Parrocha)

Outgoing Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev (File photo)

MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday hailed outgoing Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev on his successful tour of duty, saying the Philippines and Russia were able to “redefine” their relations in line with the administration’s independent foreign policy during his stint.

In a statement from the Office of the President, Duterte said bilateral engagement has “broadened” and “deepened” during Khovaev’s tenure and since he visited Russia for the first time in May 2017.

“Key agreements were signed and consultative mechanisms established, particularly in the areas of defense and security, trade and economic cooperation, science and technology, and health,” the OP said.

Duterte particularly cited Khovaev’s role in facilitating confidence-building activities between Philippine and Russian defense establishments through exchange of goodwill naval visits and training of Philippine law enforcement personnel, among other joint activities.

He identified promising areas of growth, including in trade and investment, defense and security and public health, particularly in the common fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Duterte also conferred on Khovaev the Order of Sikatuna, with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Gold Distinction.

Khovaev, meanwhile, reiterated Russia’s commitment to build an enduring partnership with the Philippines over the long term.

He welcomed the upward trajectory of Philippines-Russia cooperation under Duterte’s independent foreign policy.

Khovaev also thanked the President for the positive momentum of Philippines-Russia relations capped by unprecedented multiple meetings between Duterte and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Russia is one of the countries that offered to supply the Philippines with coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines and possibly manufacture vaccines in the country.

Developed by the Moscow-based Gamaleya Institute, the Russian vaccine is named Sputnik-V, a reference to the surprise 1957 launch of the world's first satellite by the Soviet Union.

The Philippines will begin Phase 3 of the Russia-funded clinical trials of the Sputnik-V vaccine from October 2020 to March 2021.

Phase 3 of clinical trials will be done in the Philippines simultaneously with Russia after a vaccine expert panel review on the results of clinical trials for Phase 1 and Phase 2 is conducted in September.

Registration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can take place in April 2021.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118576

NPA officer killed, Army soldier wounded in series of encounters in Bukidnon

 From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 14, 2020): NPA officer killed, Army soldier wounded in series of encounters in Bukidnon (By Mike Crismundo)

CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed, while a government trooper was wounded, in a series of armed skirmishes between soldiers of the 88th Infantry (Maringal) Battalion (88th IB) and insurgents in Barangay Nakabuklad in San Fernando town, and Barangay Minungan in Quezon town, both in Bukidnon province.

In a statement sent to The Manila Bulletin on Wednesday, 88th IB Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer Capt. Norven Jay Garcia said the Communist rebels were members of the Guerilla Front Malayag of Sub-Regional Committee 2 of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA North Ventral Mindanao Regional Committee.

Garcia also said there were an undetermined number of NPAs who were wounded in the encounters.

The first encounter started at 1 p.m., Tuesday, October 6, that lasted for about 10 minutes in Mt. Miyangki, Sitio Supon, Barangay Nagkabuklad, San Fernando.

“The terrorist group that was encountered by the government forces was composed of 20 members under the leadership of an alias Ka Migs”, the 88th IB CMO officer said.

The terrorists scampered to different directions after the firefight.

“Bloodstains indicating an undetermined number of casualties were discovered by government troops while scouring the abandoned terrorist temporary hideout,” Garcia said.

The fatality was later identified as a certain Ka Ladong, who also had the aliases Kalipay and Bahubali, vice commanding officer of Platoon 1, GF Malayag. The body was later turned over to the local government unit (LGU )of San Fernando for proper disposition, the 88th IB CMO officer said.

Meanwhile, the same unit also encountered some 30 heavily armed CNTs at around 8:55a.m. on Friday, October 9, in the hinterland area of Barangay Minungan, Quezon town of that same province.

The firefight lasted for about 15 minutes.

While the government troops were scouring the encounter site, another gun battle transpired at around 12:33 in the afternoon on that same day.

The exchange of gunfire lasted for another 20 minutes, and resulted in the wounding of a government soldier due to a landmine explosion.

The wounded soldier was immediately picked-up by a gunship helicopter of the Philippine Air Force strike wing of Tactical Operations Group, and evacuated to Camp Evangelista Station Hospital in Cagayan de Oro for medical attention. He is currently in stable status, Garcia said.

The government troops seized an anti-personnel landmine, ammunitions, detonating wires, assorted medicine and personal belongings of the Communist terrorists after the encounter.

“It is sad that another Filipino who was deceived by misleading ideals of the communist terrorist died in one of the encounters,” said Lt. Col. Franklin F. Fabic, commanding officer of the 88th IB.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved family. I encourage the remaining NPA members to surrender now, and be with your families while you still have the chance,” he added.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/14/npa-officer-killed-army-soldier-wounded-in-series-of-encounters-in-bukidnon/

89 families flee village amid Army-NPA clashes in Bukidnon town

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 14, 2020): 89 families flee village amid Army-NPA clashes in Bukidnon town (By: Jigger J. Jerusalem)

HELPING HAND. Soldiers and local government workers hand out food and non-food items to persons displaced by the fighting between government forces and communist rebels in Quezon town of Bukidnon. Photo courtesy of Quezon Municipal Information Office

Eighty-nine farming families comprising 363 individuals fled their neighborhood in a hinterland village of Quezon town in Bukidnon province after government troops clashed with New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas during the weekend.

Quezon municipal information officer Lyle Justin Egay said the evacuees come from Mahayag village and are temporarily seeking shelter in Minongan village.

Thirty-five families are sheltered at the Minongan Elementary School, while the rest stay at the house of their relatives.

Egay said the municipal government provided the evacuees with food packs and bedding kits, and even helped transport those who have no means of transportation to Minongan.

Lt. Col. Frank Fabic, commanding officer of the Army’s 88th Infantry Battalion, said the clashes with NPA rebels occurred on three occasions last October 9 and 10 in a sub-village of Mahayag.

At one time, the rebels blasted an improvised bomb, slightly injuring a soldier who is now recovering in a hospital.

Fabic said the rebels wanted to retake the village after they were driven out by government forces. Mahayag, he added, serves as a gateway to other villages of Quezon and nearby towns.

Citing information shared by villagers, Fabic said four guerrillas were killed and several others wounded in the armed encounters. They were loaded onto horses.

Fabric said they continued the pursuit operation to further put pressure on the rebels.

He added that the rebel forces, numbering about 50, split into two groups as they fled the village.

Col. Roel Lami-ing, Bukidnon police director, raised their alert status in Quezon town as well as intensified “blocking operation” to intercept wounded NPA rebels seeking medical attention.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1347633/89-families-flee-village-amid-army-npa-clashes-in-bukidnon-town