Serbisyo Caravan reaches distant village in Quinapondan, E. Samar

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 13, 2021): Serbisyo Caravan reaches distant village in Quinapondan, E. Samar (By Ninfa Barcena-Quirante) 

BORONGAN CITY, May 13 (PIA)—Despite the muddy and slippery trail to distant Brgy. San Isidro, Quinapondan town, the Serbisyo Caravan pushed its way to this hinterland village.

The Serbisyo Caravan team starts trekking the muddy and slippery road from Brgy. Anislag to reach Brgy. San Isidro after a four hour trek. This road opening is now being started to make life easier to residents of Brgy. San Isidro and Brgy. Cagdaja. (Photo Pulis E. Samar)

There is no service road to the barangay yet so that the medicines, food, food packs and all treats for distribution were carried on the backpacks of the menfolk. Heavier loads were carried by the ‘kangga’ (carabao-led carriage).

The road turned more sticky and slippery which the Serbisyo Caravan team hurdled, the team now reaches Barangay San Isidro. (Photo Pulis E. Samar)

The NICA representative lectured on the deceptive recruitment by the NPAs and urged them to support the government instead.

PNP Police Director Carlito Abriz said that no matter how far the barangay is, the government tries its best to reach them and offer the different services.

E. Samar Police Provincial Director Carlito Abriz talks to the people of Brgy. San Isidro, Quinapondan E. Samar and urge them to support the government. (Photo Pulis E. Samar)

Deputy Brigade Commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade Lt. Col. Lenart Lelina inspired the audience by announcing that the Office of the Presidential Adviser (OPAPP) has allotted funds for the badly-needed road to the barangay and to extend even more to Brgy. Cagdaja, the last barangay of Quinapondan.

Mayor Rafael Asebias also lit up the eyes of the local residents when he announced that some P30-M fund that came from the Office of the President will finance the road construction from Brgy. Anislag to Brgy. Cagdaja.

“Magsisiguro na kami pananom hin mga duma kun mayda na namon kalsada, makuri it pagkargada hit amon mga duma ngat ha bungto,” (We will be inspired to plant more rootcrops if there will be a road as we can easily transport our products to the poblacion.) said Punong Barangay Igmedio Oliverio.



Another need that Kap. Oliverio yearns is a potable water system.

He said that they can fetch their water in some springs available and he fears that it may not be safe especially for the children.

The DSWD handed 27 families cash assistance of P3,000.00 each. Edison Cinco, the team leader of the young DSWD team said he felt the grateful expression of the rural folks as he handed them their money.

Mayor Rafael Asebias, another guest and Edison Cinco of the DSWD8 distribute the P3,000.00 financial assistance to a local resident of San Isidro, Quinapondan town.

Jeffrey Odevilas nudged this reporter to take a video and his picture if only to tell the world that he is happy with the ‘grasya’ (the P3-K) he received.

He whispered, ”Kikitaon ak ha TV?”

Billy Tohong, the representative of the Office of Sen. Bong Go said that they will distribute rubber shoes for the locals, while his younger members gave out food packs from a famous food chain that children loved. He also gave out toys for the children and some hygiene kits.

Mark Jane Abaya, 4 years old got a pony toy while her brother Mark Jude, 7 years old got a missile robot.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) brought along their two mascots Berong Bumbero and Berang Bumbero to the delight of the children present.

Berong Bumbero and lady love Berang Bumbero form the Bureau of Fire Protection delighted the children of this rural village in Quinapondan town as part of the Serbisyo Caravan on May 12, 2021. (PIA E. Samar)

Representatives of various officials who braved to trek for almost four hours the muddy and slippery trail to San Isidro are from DENR, DSWD, PCSO, OCD, DTI, DA, TESDA, PIA, DILG and DOH with scores of the army and the police. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075082

Barangay Development Program to address insurgency, says Usec Badoy

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 15, 2021): Barangay Development Program to address insurgency, says Usec Badoy (By Ailene N. Diaz) 

CATARMAN, Northern Samar, May 14 (PIA) -- The Barangay Development Program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is a government scheme that will address the insurgency in the six (6) identified barangays of Northern Samar out of the 822 remote barangays all over the country, said Undersecretary Lorraine Marie Badoy of the Presidential Communication Operations Office.

This she shared during an interview by PIA and members of the Capitol Press Corps of Northern Samar on Thursday during her visit to the province.

“People need to understand the Barangay Development Program. It is a good program but is endangered because of some senators who would not want the program to continue. This is a fight against CPP-NPA-NDF and can effectively end the 52 years of insurgency in the country, and end the poverty in the countryside, “ said Usec. Badoy when asked on the purpose of her visit.

“The President himself initiated the program on how to finish the insurgency through good governance and by enhancing government services though the Barangay Development Program, Usec. Badoy further said.

“The poor only have the government, if officials will not serve well, the poor will be helpless and easily be taken advantage of by the lies of the NPA, and that it is never even a lie because the people in the government really do not care at all. If you are an official in the government and you do not serve well, you make the poor vulnerable to the terrorists,” said Badoy.

The Barangay Development Program will really address the insurgency, all identified barangays will get a P20M funds, in answer to the basic needs of the community such as farm-to-market roads, water, electricity, among others.

“But the bigger problem really is poor governance, insurgency is just an off-shoot of the poor governance. Good governance will give you roads, an access to other services, but the reality is, even a simple birth certificate they don’t have, it’s because there’s no road, no access and this closes one to all access in government services,” Usec. Badoy sadly expressed.

Usec. Badoy, on foot, visited the two remote barangays Calatiao of Bobon and san Miguel of Las Navas to engage with the people, listen to their needs and see for herself the real situation.

She also attended the re-organization and planning activity of the Provincial Task Force Northern Samar and had a dialogue with the former rebels before leaving the province. (ldl/ADiaz/PIA-Northern Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075290

Tagalog News: Project SAVE, inilunsad sa San Vicente, Palawan

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): Tagalog News: Project SAVE, inilunsad sa San Vicente, Palawan (By Orlan C. Jabagat) 

Pinangunahan ni Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Director Richard M. Amparo na siya ring Chairman ng PRLE Cluster ng PTF-ELCAC ang paglulunsad ng Project SAVE sa Bgy. Kemdeng, San Vicente, Palawan kahapon. (Larawan ni Orlan C. Jabagat/PIA-Palawan)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan, Mayo 16 (PIA) -- Inilunsad ng Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster ang Sustainable Agriculture for Villa Fria/Kemdeng Enterprise o Project SAVE sa Bgy. Kemdeng, San Vicente, Palawan, kahapon.

Layon nito na mabigyan ng sustainable agriculture ang 25 katutubo ng nasabing barangay na inisyal na benepisyaryo ng nasabing proyekto.

Sa mensahe ni Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Director Richard M. Amparo na siya ring Chairman ng PRLEC ay kanyang inilahad ang tungkulin ng PRLEC sa pagsusulong ng mga programang tutugon sa kahirapan at pangkabuhayang problema sa komunidad.

Aniya, ang pagsasanay sa agrikultura ay isang panimulang hakbang lamang ng PRLEC upang maisakatuparan ang “village enterprise” upang magkakaroon ng tuloy-tuloy na pagkakakitaan at trabaho ang mga benepisyaryo sa Bgy. Kemdeng na isang insurgency-cleared barangay.

“Magsisimula po tayo sa agriculture dahil ang isang objective ng PRLEC ay magkaroon tayo ng food security, bibigyan po natin ng mga libreng patungkol sa agrikultura tulad ng organikong pagsasaka ang mga benepisyaryo” pahayag ni PD Amparo.

“Kapag naging matagumpay na po sila sa kanilang pagtatanim at sorba-sobra na ang kanilang ani ay matutulungan naman po natin sila para sa food processing nito, kaya po masasabi nating sustainable kasi tuloy-tuloy na ang magiging pangkabuhayan nila,” dagdag pa ni PD Amparo.

Ayon naman kay Provincial Agriculturist Romeo Cabungcal, malaki ang maitutulong ng Project SAVE sa food security ng lalawigan. Aniya, malaki ang potensiyal ng Palawan sa lalo pang pagpapaunlad ng industriya ng agrikultura. Ang San Vicente, ayon sa kanya, ay mayroong mahigit sa 4,500 hectares na lupaing ginagamit sa pagsasaka at ito ay patuloy na nadadagdagan.

Lumagda din sa ‘pledge of commitment’ ang mga miyembo ng PTF-ELCAC RLE Cluster na dumalo sa paglulunsad ng Project SAVE at nangako ang mga ito ng paghahatid ng kani-kanilang serbisyo sa Bgy. Kemdeng.

Isa si Maj. Rommel M. Geli ng Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 sa mga lumagdang miyembro ng PTF-ELCAC PRLE Cluster sa pledge of commitment. (Larawan ni Orlan C. Jabagat/PIA-Palawan)

Ilan sa mga naipangako ng PRLE Cluster ay ang pagbibigay ng libreng pagsasanay sa pag-aalaga ng tilapia mula sa Bureau of Agriculture and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), at maging ang semilya nito ay libre ring ibibigay ng nasabing ahensiya.

Ayon naman kay Marian Concepcion ng Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) ay matutulungan nito ang mga benepisyaryo upang ma-irehistro bilang isang kooperatiba.

May inisyal na ring kagamitan na pang-agrikultura ang naibigay ng Provincial Agriculture Office sa pangunguna ni Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Romeo Cabungcal tulad ng sprayer, mga pala, pandilig, punlaan, at iba’t-ibang butong pananim.

Ang mga benepisyaryo ay kinilala sa pamamagitan ng lokal na pamahalaang barangay at National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP).

Malugod namang tinanggap ni Mayor Amy Roa Alvarez ang grupo ng PTF-ELCAC PRLE Cluster. Aniya, ang inisyatibo ng PTF-ELCAC na paglulunsad ng Project SAVE sa kanilang bayan ay kapaki-pakinabang upang mai-angat ang kalidad ng pamumuhay ng kanyang mga kababayan sa komunidad.

Binisita rin ng mga miyembo PTF-ELCAC PRLEC ang lugar kung saan ipatutupad ang programang Project SAVE.

Ang PRLE Cluster ay pinamumunuan ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Ilan pa sa mga miyembro ng PRLEC na dumalo sa paglulunsad sina Maj. Rommel M. Geli ng Marine Battalion Landing Team-3, Rejan Valdez ng Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, PLTCOL June Rian ng Philippine National Police, Emma F. Quillope ng Department of Trade and Industry, mga representante mula sa DPWH-1st DEO, DOST, NCIP, PCA, PIA, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Rustico Dangue at iba pang kinatawan ng lokal at nasyunal na pamahalaan.

Nasa aktibidad rin ang mga miyembro ng Sangguniang Bayan at mga Punong Barangay. (OCJ/PIA-MIMAROPA, Palawan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075292

PTF-ELCAC to harmonize programs, services in MisOcc

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): PTF-ELCAC to harmonize programs, services in MisOcc (By Shaine Mae R. Nagtalon)

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL, May 15 (PIA)--The Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) here conducted a coordination meeting among its members to harmonize its services and programs in Misamis Occidental held at the Provincial Capitol, Function Hall.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Pablio Benitez Jr. said the task force should strengthen ways on the delivery of basic services and social development in conflict affected areas and vulnerable communities, facilitate social inclusivity and ensure participation of all sectors.

“This meeting aims to harmonize our effort after more than a year that we are implementing our activities and programs down to the barangay level,” he said.

Benitez also reiterated the level of understanding of PTF-ELCAC, the functions, and cluster efforts. He stressed that the task force needs to revisit and find out the accomplishments that have been achieved to identify the strategic issues that the PTF-ELCAC needs to address, and come up with a doable solution as road map in the coming months or years.

For his part, Governor Philip Tan shared the initiatives towards the Whole-of-Nation Approach in delivering basic services to the barangays, livelihood, education and others to address local insurgency.

“The province will open many senior high schools to support the students in the province to end the insurgency. We also extend our services to the people in the far flag areas,” the governor said.

As to the activities of the rebel groups in the province, 10th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer LTC Ray Tiongson of the Philippine Army said they are monitoring the groups’ movement, strengthening their information network in the area and planning to organize a wellness program for the youth.

“I hope the different agencies will appreciate the situation so we can see where we can focus our effort in terms of addressing or helping and encourage the remaining NPA to return to the folds of the law,” Tiongson added.

As for the livelihood and skills development, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Director El Cid Castillo said they offer the technology-based community training program in Raise Organic Chicken (Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NC II) and produce organic vegetables (Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NC II) for former rebels, IP Communities and special clients to priority barangays in Misamis Occidental.

To conduct and initiate skills and community-based livelihood programs related to agriculture, construction and food production to the beneficiaries in isolated and disadvantaged areas and special clients, TESDA submitted P2,ooo worth of training proposals under Local Interventions for the Development and Empowerment of Rural in Misamis Occidental (LIDER-MisOcc) where P50,000 per local government unit (LGU) is also allocated for the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).

The agenda of the meeting also includes updates on the FY 2021 Retooled Community Support Program/Support to Barangay Development Plan Projects Implementation in the province of Misamis Occidental.

The members of PTF-ELCAC also presented their accomplishments on the implementation of programs, projects and activities (PPAs), updates on the Provincial Implementation Plan with the corresponding strategic interventions, and updates on the conduct of regular cluster and Inter-cluster meetings and convergences. (SMRN/PIA Misamis Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075344

Alabel pilots food-for-peace

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): Alabel pilots food-for-peace (By Sarangani Provincial Information Office)

ALABEL, Sarangani, May 16– Local farmers from the upland barangays of Alabel have started to sell their farm produce at the food hub launched by the municipal government on May 6 in barangay Alegria.

Every Thursday, the Food Hub Day is held at the Alabel Farmers Scientist Association (AFSA) Bldg., Purok New Bohol in Alegria. (The town of Maitum also runs a “laray” market every Thursday for several years already.)

Farmers from Alegria and the neighboring barangays like Pag-Asa, Datal Anggas, Bagacay, Kawas, Baluntay, and Tokawal were invited by the local government to display and sell their vegetables, fruits, and crops in the food hub at a reasonable price.

According to Giselle Gestupa, End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) focal person of Alabel, the food hub “is an initiative of the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) under the Indigenous Peoples Empowered Agripreneurs towards a Collective End or IPEACE Project of the ELCAC, and supported by the LGU-Alabel.”

Last June 2020, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Isidro Lapeña, together with the Regional Task Force-ELCAC launched the “Project IPEACE” in the four priority barangays in SOCCSKSARGEN, including barangay Alegria.

Project IPEACE “aims to end local insurgencies by increasing agricultural productivity in IP communities and transforming them into integrated food production sites to ensure food security in their areas.”

Gestupa said the food hub initiative targets to “uplift the economic living condition sa atong farmers knowing na magtaas ang ilang income, and then second is mabuild ang relationship sa government ug farmers knowing kabalo na sila asa sila muduol panahon nga naa sila’y harvest), and third is makatabang siya nga ma-attain nato ang food security kay ang farmers nato may confidence ug may reason nga magtanom ug crops nila.”

(The food hub initiative targets to “uplift the economic living condition of the farmers as their income increases, second second is to build the relationship of the government and farmers because they know where to go during their harvest, and third is to help attain food security because our farmers will have the confidence and reason to plant)

Farm products displayed in the food hub include vegetables like ladyfinger (okra), squash (kalabasa), eggplant (talong), Chinese pechay, bitter gourd (ampalaya), string beans (sitaw), and many more.

Also, fruits like watermelon, papaya, avocado, and crops like banana, and sweet potato (kamote) can also be bought in the food hub.

Mayor Vic Paul Salarda encouraged the residents of Alabel, including his employees in the municipal government, to visit and buy farm products directly sold by the farmers in the food hub.

Gestupa noted there are no “middlemen” involved, no commission fees, and no rental fees in the food hub, and the local government even provides P100 fuel subsidy for farmers who deliver their products from their farms in the far-flung areas.

With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Gestupa clarified the minimum health protocols such as wearing of face mask and social distancing are observed in the area.

“At the end of the day, pag may mabilin na produkto, ginapalit sa LGU Alabel so walay produkto dinhi nga iuli sa mga farmers sa ila. Pagpalit sa LGU, ginadispose sa Office of the Municipal Agriculturist, then kung unsa to mabilin ginadala nato sa Busog Lusog Talino (BLT) Kitchen nga naga-prepare ug food sa atong mga Covid-19 isolated individuals,” Gestupa added.

(Any unsold products at the end of the day will be purchased by LGU Alabel to be disposed to consumers by the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist. Any products left will be brought to the Busog Lusog Talino (BLT) Kitchen which prepares the food for individuals under isolation for Covid-19, so no product will be brought back by our farmers)

With the success of the launching of Alegria Food Hub, Gestupa said Mayor Salarda already plans to expand the food hub in other barangays of Alabel as well. (Jori Mae Samillano/SARANGANI PROVINCIAL INFORMATION OFFICE)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075208

More UGMO members in Ilocos Sur town withdraw support to terrorist groups

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): More UGMO members in Ilocos Sur town withdraw support to terrorist groups (By Joyah Mae C. Quimoyog)

STA. CRUZ, Ilocos Sur, May 16 (PIA) - - Another 34 members of Underground Mass Organizations (UGMO) from this municipality withdrew their support to the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs), and pledged their allegiance to the government in a ceremony held on May 14.

Said former UGMO members are from the five barangays of Sta. Cruz, namely: Barangays Caparian, Sevilla, Casilagan, Dili, and Villa Garcia.

In barangay Capariaan, one was a member of the Sangay ng Partido sa Localidad, seven were members of the Pambansang Kilusang Magsasaka (PKM), four were members of Malayang Kilusan ng Makabagong Kababaihan (MAKIBAKA), and 11 were members of Kabataang Makabayan (KM).

In barangay Dili, one was a member of the Barangay Liaison Group (BLG)-PKM and in barangay Casilagan, one is a member of BLG-PKM and another one was a member of BLG-MAKIBAKA, while in barangay Villa Garcia, six were members of the BLG-PKM and in barangay Sevilla, two are members of the BLG-PKM.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo A. Marinas Jr., commanding officer of the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion, Philippine Army, the withdrawal of support of the UGMO members was the result of the joint Community Support Program (CSP) activities of the Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office, in the said barangays.

The ceremony was held at barangay Caparian here where Sta. Cruz Vice Mayor Virgilio J. Valle facilitated the oath of allegiance to the government of the said UGMO members; afterwards, the unveiling of the persona non grata tarpaulin and burning of CTG effigies operating in the province was conducted led by the barangay officials.

As part of the peace efforts of the Sta. Cruz Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC), a dialogue was held with the 34 UGMO members and the local representatives of the Department of Trade and Industry, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and the Department of Labor and Employment as member-agencies of the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) under the Task Force ELCAC.

It can be recalled that 33 UGMO members from Sitio Linggawa in Barangay Pidpid, Sta. Cruz withdrew their support to the CTGs on February 8, 2020.

Moreover, 69 former UGMO members in barangay Paoc Norte, Sta. Lucia also withdrew support to the CTGs on May 3.

Major General Alfredo V. Rosario Jr., Commander of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army, remarked that the series of massive withdrawals of support of UGMO members in Ilocos Sur this year is the result of the joint efforts of the Army and PNP together with all government agencies who are determined to win the peace in the province of Ilocos Sur. (JCR/AMB/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075361

New PMA graduates assure readiness to serve God, country

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): New PMA graduates assure readiness to serve God, country (By Redjie Melvic M. Cawis)

BAGUIO CITY, May 16(PIA) -- The newly commissioned lieutenants and ensigns of the Armed Forces of Philippines assured readiness and dedication “to serve God, the country and the Filipino people” following their graduation from the Philippine Military Academy(PMA) here on May 10, 2021.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana presided the recognition of graduates and distribution of diplomas to the 164-strong cadets of the PMA MASALIGAN Class of 2021 during the graduation rites at the Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City on May 10, 2021. (photos by the AFP)

“Now, we are ready to serve our God, country, and the Filipino people as lieutenants and ensigns. Let us give our best in performing our duties as young officers of our Armed Forces,” PMA MAndirigmang SAmahan na Lakas at SandityIGAN "MASALIGAN" Class 2021 Valedictorian Janrey Artus said in his valedictory address during the blended graduation ceremony at Fort Del Pilar, Baguio

“Let us dedicate ourselves to the service our people deserve. Let us always remember the Baybayin phrase engraved in our class seal: Para sa Diyos. Para sa Bayan,” he enjoined his fellow graduates.

Artus, who will be joining the Philippine Navy, said that their learnings and experiences inside the academy in the past four years have honed them, be ready to serve.

“In our four years of cadetship here in PMA, our class has experienced a lot. Yet, along with these experiences come challenges that tested our limits, discipline, honor, and character as future soldiers and leaders of our Armed Forces. Just a few hours into finishing the race, 164 -strong members of our class are now standing before you, ready to serve our country and our people,” he said.

The 164-strong Class of 2021 is comprised of 138 males and 26 females . 82 will be joining the Army, 46 to the Navy and 36 will be joining the Air Force.

For graduating as Top 1, Artus received the Presidential Saber virtually from President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. He also received the Philippine Navy Saber, the Australian Defence Award, Spanish Armed Forces Award and the Navy Professional Plaque, the General Antonio Luna Award, the Academic Group Award, and the Department of Leadership Plaque during the ceremony.

AFP Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana presided the recognition of graduates and distribution of diplomas. He was assisted by PMA Superintendent LtGen. Ferdinand Cartujano, Assistant Superintendent Capt. Roger Viduya, PMA Commandant of Cadets Col. Julius Tomines and Head of Academic Group Col. Jose Demar Pauly.

Sobejana also facilitated the Oath of Office of the new graduates.

Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana declared the commissionship of graduates while Cavalier Amado Espino Jr., Chairman of the PMA Alumni Association Inc. administered the Oath of PMAAAI Membership virtually.

Other key personalities who attended video teleconferencing include Vice President Maria Leonor Gerona Robredo, Spanish Ambassador of the Philippines Jorge Moragas Sanchez, Association of Generals and Flag Officers Inc. President MGen Alfonso Crucero (Ret), US Army JUSMAG Chief Col. Stephen Ma, Australian Embassy Defense Attaché Col. Paul Barta, Integrated Bar of the Philippines National President Atty. Domingo Egon Cayosa, and General Emilio Aguinaldo Foundation Emilio Suntay III of the General Emilio Aguinaldo Foundation.

Philippine Air Force Commanding General LtGen. Allen Paredes, Philippine Army Chief of Staff MGen. Rowen Tolentino Jr., Philippine Navy Vice Commander LtGen. Jose Faustino, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Erick Kagaoan, AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command and AFP Spokesperson MGen. Edgard Arevalo, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong were also present in the said activity.

This is the second year that the premiere military school closed its doors to the public duringthe graduation ceremony due to restrictions and safety measures against COVID 19. (JDP/RMC-PIA CAR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075211

‘Notorious’ NPA leader in Caraga nabbed in Cebu

From the Philippine News Agency (May 16, 2021): ‘Notorious’ NPA leader in Caraga nabbed in Cebu (By Alexander Lopez)

The Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13) announced the arrest of a ranking New People’s Army (NPA) officer during a manhunt operation in Poblacion 3, Carcar City, Cebu on Friday.

In a statement on Sunday, Brig. Gen. Romeo M. Caramat Jr., PRO-13 director, identified the NPA leader as Deonesio Doloretos Indoyon, also known as Ronie Indoyon.

“Indoyon is the Deputy Secretary of Guerrilla Front Committee (GFC) 14 of the Sub-Regional Committee Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA,” the statement read.

GFC 14 operates in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur.

Several arrest warrants for Indoyon were issued by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 6 in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur for multiple murder and multiple attempted murder; RTC Branch 29 in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur for multiple attempted murder; and RTC Branch 7 in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur for kidnapping and serious illegal detention and destructive arson.

The arrest warrants were issued on January 30, 2020, with no bail bond recommended.

“Indoyon, considered as a notorious NPA leader in the region, is also listed in the First Quarter 2019 PRO-13 Periodic Status Report,” Caramat stated.

Arrested NPA leader Deonesio Doloretos Indoyon (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

The arrested NPA leader was directly involved in the kidnapping and serious illegal detention of government forces of the New Tubigon 8th Special Forces Company Patrol Base in Purok 1, Barangay New Tubigon, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, and in Barangay Kolambugan in the same town on December 19, 2018.

The report also indicated Indoyon and his group carted 16 units of 5.56mm M16 rifles, three units of 7.62mm M14 rifles, two units of 5.56mm R4 rifles, one unit of M203 grenade launcher, a 7.62mm M60 machine gun, and a Harris handheld radio.

The PRO-13 director commended personnel from the Provincial Intelligence Team of Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office, Regional Intelligence Unit of PRO-13, Intelligence Group of the Philippine National Police, 1303rd Regional Mobile Force Battalion of Caraga Region, Carcar City Police Station, and Caraga cops for the successful operation.

The European Union, through Council Decision 2011/70/CFSP dated January 11, 2011, designated the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA as a terrorist organization.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140394

Duterte names Centino new PH Army chief

From the Philippine News Agency (May 16, 2021): Duterte names Centino new PH Army chief (By Azer Parrocha and Priam Nepomuceno)

Maj. Gen. Andres Centino (Photo courtesy of PIA)

President Rodrigo Duterte has named incumbent 4th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Andres Centino as the new head of the Philippine Army (PA).

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed Centino’s appointment in a statement to reporters on Sunday morning.

“The Palace confirms that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed the designation of MGEN Andres C. Centino as Commanding General of the Philippine Army on May 14, 2021,” Roque said.

He wished Centino “all the best” and expressed confidence in his ability to serve as the new Army commander.

“We are confident that MGEN Centino will continue the initiatives to professionalize and modernize the principal branch of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) while building the gains to serve our people and secure our land,” he added.

AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, in a separate statement, welcomed Centino’s appointment.

"The General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines welcomes the designation of Maj. Gen. Andres Centino as Commanding General of the Philippine Army," Arevalo said.

He added that Centino's appointment came at the time when the AFP is vigorously pursuing its initiatives and building on its gains to defeat the Communist Terrorist Group, the Abu Sayyaf Group, and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

"And this is where his attributes are expected to contribute immensely," Arevalo said.

Given Centino's known professionalism, operational experience, and managerial skills gained from various leadership echelons of the AFP, he said the new PA commander will undoubtedly stir the Army to greater heights.

Centino's appointment to the top Army post was confirmed by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana as early as Saturday when asked by reporters if there is a new appointed Army commander.

The 4th Infantry Division is based in Cagayan De Oro.

Centino, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1988, will replace his classmate Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino who was appointed as acting PA chief last February.

Faustino, who still has several months remaining before his mandatory retirement in November this year, will be designated as the Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff on Peace and Development, according to AFP chief Gen. Cirilito Sobejana.

Sobejana said Faustino’s relief was done in accordance with the Republic Act 8186, Section 4 wherein the Commanding General of the Philippine Army should have at least one year remaining in the service on the day of his assumption.

Under RA 8186, officers holding key positions (AFP chief of staff, AFP vice chief of staff, AFP deputy chief of staff, and major service commanders) are limited to a maximum tenure of three years unless relieved by competent authority or compulsorily retired.

Faustino will closely supervise the programs, activities and projects of the AFP Peace and Development Office, especially on matters pertaining to the Normalization Process of the Comprehensive Agreement of the Bangsamoro (CAB), particularly in ensuring that the decommissioning of firearms of the former MILF combatants remains on schedule.

He said Faustino’s proven capacity to lead peace and development programs in communist terrorist group-affected areas will also be instrumental in his new position.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140414

PNP declares ‘enhanced’ offensive vs. BIFF

From the Philippine News Agency (May 16, 2021): PNP declares ‘enhanced’ offensive vs. BIFF (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar on Sunday ordered police units to intensify offensive against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Eleazar made the directive following Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr.’s observation of heightened recruitment activities and increased attacks by the BIFF amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I agree with our Presidential Peace Adviser, Sec. Carlito Galvez, that it is easy now for the BIFF to recruit members because the pandemic has severely affected the livelihood of many people in Mindanao,” Eleazar said in a statement. “Ito ang sinasamantala ng BIFF, ang kagutuman at kawalan ng trabaho ng ilan sa ating mga kababayan (The BIFF is taking advantage of hunger and the lack of job opportunities).”

He said to prevent the BIFF’s recruitment and attacks, the PNP will further enhance its intelligence operations against the group and conduct aggressive police operations.

“Mas paiigtingin pa natin ang presensya ng pulis para hindi na makaporma pa ang grupong ito (We will intensify the police presence as deterrence to what they are planning to do),” he said.

Eleazar, however, said the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) still need the public’s help to successfully stop the BIFF from getting more members.

“This needs a whole-of-nation approach. Aside from the police and military, other government agencies and stakeholders also have roles to play in preventing recruitment by the BIFF,” Eleazar explained.

Meanwhile, Eleazar said there was no failure of intelligence among state security forces as both the military and the police remain vigilant amid the pandemic.

“Kahit naman po may pandemya, nakatutok pa rin ang inyong mga pulis at sundalo sa pagpapanatili ng seguridad sa bawat komunidad, at kasama na dito ‘yung pagmo-monitor natin sa pwersa ng kalaban (Despite the pandemic, your police and the military are focused to maintain security of every community, and that’s includes monitoring the forces of the enemies). We have not and cannot let our guards down against these local terror groups,” Eleazar stressed.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140416

Manhunt on vs. alleged NPA rebels linked to NegOr killings

From the Philippine News Agency (May 16, 2021): Manhunt on vs. alleged NPA rebels linked to NegOr killings (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

A manhunt is underway against suspected members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) who allegedly killed five persons in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said on Sunday.

Eleazar assured the bereaved families of the victims that the PNP will exert all efforts to put the perpetrators behind bars.

“Sa ngayon po ay patuloy ang pagtugis ng mga awtoridad sa mga suspek sa krimen. Ipinapangako ko po sa mga naulila ng mga biktima na bibigyan namin ng hustisya ang kanilang pagkamatay (Right now, authorities are conducting manhunt operations against the suspects of this crime. We promised to the bereaved families of the victims that justice will be served),” Eleazar said in a statement.

He said the entire PNP family is offering condolences to the families of the victims.

“We are getting the statements from the victims’ families and witnesses which will be a big help in identifying the persons behind the killing and solving this case,” he said.

Initial investigation showed that the victims were killed in front of their loved ones inside their respective homes in Barangay Trinidad.

He said the victims were possibly suspected by the NPA as government informants in the clash between the military and the communist terrorists last March 23, in which 10 NPA fighters died.

“Medyo marami, umabot sa 10, ang nalagas sa NPA kaya isa ito sa tinitignan nating anggulo sa pagpatay sa mga biktima. Maaaring sa kanila gumanti itong mga NPA. May impormasyon din tayong natanggap na dating supporters ng NPA ang dalawa sa mga biktima. Titignan natin lahat ng posibleng motibo sa pagpatay sa mga biktima (At least 10 were killed from the NPA side and this is one of the possible motives of the killings. The NPA might have taken revenge. We have information that two of victims were former NPA supporters. We will look into all possible motives),” he said.

Eleazar assured the public that the PNP will always be ready to protect the citizenry, particularly residents of barangays in Guihulngan City, against atrocities by the NPA and other lawless elements.

“Inatasan na natin ang ating lokal na pulisya na makipagtulungan sa mga opisyal ng lokal na pamahalaan para mas higpitan ang seguridad sa barangay at mga karatig-pook nito (We have directed our local police to coordinate with our local government officials to intensify security in barangay and nearby places),” he said.

Eleazar said the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are in control of the situation.

“We are ready to protect the community against atrocities by the NPA and other lawless groups,” said Eleazar.

He said the PNP will respond to the appeal of Mayor Carlo Joan Reyes of Guihulngan City to maintain peace and security of the residents.

“Ngunit tayo ay nakikiusap sa publiko na agad ipagbigay alam sa ating mga awtoridad kung sila ay may mapansin na mga kahina-hinalang indibidwal o insidente para kaagad natin magawan ng nararapat na aksyon (We appeal to the public to immediately inform authorities of any suspicious individual or incident so that we can respond properly),” Eleazar said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140417

Evidence insufficient: Davao del Norte prosecutors’ office throws out raps vs ‘Bakwit 7’

From Politiko (May 14, 2021): Evidence insufficient: Davao del Norte prosecutors’ office throws out raps vs ‘Bakwit 7’

The Davao del Norte Office of the Provincial Prosecutor has dismissed the criminal complaint against seven teachers who were arrested last Feb. 15 at the University of San Carlos Retreat House (USCRH) in Cebu City for allegedly kidnapping 19 Lumad children believed to be trained as fighters for the communist terrorist group.

The Provincial Prosecutor’s Office stated in its resolution dated May 5 that the complaint filed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) was dismissed “for insufficiency of evidence, lack of probable cause, and being outside the territorial jurisdiction of this Office.”

“All told, it appears that there is insufficient evidence to support any of the alleged crimes of Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention, Human Trafficking, and Child Abuse committed by respondents Segundo Lagatos Melong, Benito Dalim Bay-ao, Moddie Langayed Mansimoy-at, Esmelito Paumba Oribawan, Chad Errol Booc, Roshelle Mae C. Porcadilla and Jomar Benag,” it said.

“Even when there are indications of acts committed by said respondents that would fit the elements of the above-mentioned crimes, these acts either happened at Davao City or at Cebu City, outside the territorial jurisdiction of this Office,” it added.

The seven respondents were arrested by the PNP at the USCRH where 19 Lumad children from Talaingod, Davao del Norte.

The parents sought the return of their children last February after learning that they were taken to Cebu City even though the parents agreed to allow their children to transfer to another school in Talaingod after a nearby Salugpungan school closed down.

The PNP conducted the rescue after learning from former Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) member Ariel Tabal Ansan disclosed being a former teacher of the Salugpungan School which he alleged is run by the CPP “as recruitment and indoctrination centers for minors.”

“At USCRH, Ansan again taught minors the ideologies and methodologies of the CPP. Among his co-teachers, he identified respondents Roshell Porcadilla, Segundo Melong, Benito Bay-ao, and Chad Erol Booc who, like him, instigated their students to go against the government in consonance with the teachings of the CPP-NPA. Ansan identified respondents Moddie Mansimoy-at and Jomar Benag as students who had been radicalized and influenced by the CPP-NPA’s doctrines that they were encouraging and recruiting the youith to join the CPP-NPA,” the prosecutor’s office noted.

https://politics.com.ph/evidence-insufficient-davao-del-norte-prosecutors-office-throws-out-raps-vs-bakwit-7/

Army official says 2 remaining NPA fronts in ZamPen dismantled by end-2021

From MindaNews (May 14, 2021): Army official says 2 remaining NPA fronts in ZamPen dismantled by end-2021 (By FRENCIE CARREON)

Only two guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army (NPA) have reportedly remained in the Zamboanga Peninsula, and an Army official in the region said they will be gone by the end of this year.

NPA rebels file photo. (MindaNews)

In a phone interview Thursday, BGen Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade said his unit is now focusing on Front BBC and Front Sendong, both under the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA.

BBC (for Big Beautiful Country) refers to Mt. Malindang, a lush mountain straddling Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental, and where the National Democratic Front-Mindanao held its maiden press conference sometime in 1985.

Front Sendong also covers Zamboanga del Norte.

“The timeline set by the President [to dismantle the two fronts] is before the end of his term. However, we have a self-imposed timeline that we will be able to accomplish this by the end of 2021,” he said.

The brigade claimed to have dismantled five guerrilla fronts, two regional operational command units, and the main regional guerrilla unit, aside from one regional urban committee, all under the WMRPC.

“As of the end of 2020, we were able to clear all Communist Terrorist Group-affected barangays in Zamboanga Sibugay, which is one of the criteria in declaring a province as Insurgency-free,” Nicolas said.

By the end of April 2021, Zamboanga del Sur was also declared insurgency-free.

“What’s left for the Brigade, with the support of the Local Task Force to ELCAC (End Local Communist Armed Conflict) in ZamPen and MisOcc, is addressing these two remaining armed groups of WMRPC,” Nicolas stated.

As of this day, Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental are the two provinces in the Zamboanga Peninsula that still have communist insurgents.

“The chance for the declaration of Zamboanga del Norte as insurgency-free is very high. But we are not relying on chances, we make it is our mission and our objective that through the government’s ‘whole of nation’ approach, we will make not only Zambo Norte but as well as MisOcc, insurgency-free,” Nicolas said.

In an interview last week, Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Wilter Y. Palma said, “We’ve been here for 53 years and it has been long enough. After this point in time what have they (rebels) achieved? Nothing. Just disorder.”

“Many have died, many have been displaced and development cannot be implemented or proceed because there is a problem in peace and order. Now it’s time for us to give peace a chance and development will follow. If there is no peace, development could not happen next,” Palma added. (Frencie L. Carreon/MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/05/army-official-says-2-remaining-npa-fronts-in-zampen-dismantled-by-end-2021/

Bangsamoro officials push back vs alleged failure to normalize Mindanao

From CNN Philippines (May 14, 2021): Bangsamoro officials push back vs alleged failure to normalize Mindanao (By Eimor Santos)

Officials of the Bangsamoro transition government on Friday admitted they have yet to normalize the situation in the conflict-stricken region, but it does not mean they failed — they just need more time.

"The normalization process is not a magic formula," Bangsamoro Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal said during a Senate hearing on proposed amendments to the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

"Certainly, right now we cannot normalize the situation in Mindanao kasi 'yung lahat ng binanggit ko, naumpisahan pero hindi pa lahat substantial ang pag-implement (because not all the things I mentioned have been substantially implemented)," he added.

Iqbal was referring to several components under the BOL, including the decommissioning of members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, abolition of private armed groups, and socio-economic development, which are all seen to bring lasting peace down south.

The landmark legislation created the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, which is now being governed by the MILF-led Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA). It was a result of decades-long negotiations between the government and Moro rebels who fought for self-determination.

Senator Imee Marcos raised criticisms that the BTA is "not held in high regard" for its supposed failure to normalize the situation in Mindanao.

"I do not wish to argue that point. I'm merely stating what has been told to me in the effort to have the elections as quickly as possible and on schedule. The claim is that there are very serious flaws in the Comprehensive Agreement of the Bangsamoro which is the reason for what happened in Datu Paglas," Marcos said.

Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim said there is no failure in the implementation of the peace deal.

"The normalization is not a failure. The problem is really, it is not completed. That is why we are asking the extension in order to complete the transition and the normalization track," Ebrahim said.

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr. said the Duterte administration continues to support the BTA's call for another three-year term, or until 2025, to fulfill its mandate.

Galvez said the BTA has done "a remarkable job" so far, but the current three-year transition period is simply not enough. Restrictions brought by the COVID-19 pandemic have also derailed the timetable, he added.

To extend the BTA's term, Congress needs to pass a measure that would postpone the first regular election in the Bangsamoro, which the BOL set for 2022.

The Commission on Elections is asking Congress to come up with a decision by July so the necessary preparations can be made in case the regional polls would push through. The Senate panel ended its public hearing on Friday to allow the technical working group to convene and draft a committee report that will be discussed in plenary.
The case of Datu Paglas

Senators asked why peace remained elusive in the region, citing the fresh attack by some 20 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters near a public market in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao last week.

The BIFF is a breakaway group of the MILF. Hundreds of BIFF members have expressed willingness to rejoin the MILF and cooperate with the government, Ebrahim said, but standing arrest warrants and other issues have to be resolved first.

Bangsamoro's Minister for the Interior and Local Government Naguib Sinarimbo said the May 8 incident in Datu Paglas should not be used to discredit the improved peace and security situation in the region.

"In 2000, yung kalsada going to Davao and General Santos was held for several days by the MILF. In the case of Datu Paglas, wala hong isang oras wala na hong BIFF doon sa pwesto nila," Sinarimbo said. "Malayong malayo ho."

[Translation: In 2000, the street going to Davao and General Santos was held for several days by the MILF. In the case of Datu Paglas, the BIFF fled in less than an hour.]

He also explained that the BIFF rebels reached Datu Paglas after being forced out of Datu Piang town by MILF forces. The Joint Peace and Security Team, which currently maintains order in the region, is composed of members of the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces, and MILF.

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2021/5/14/bangsamoro-transition-mindanao-congress.html

Islamist militant BIFF's recruitment in Mindanao gains ground amid pandemic: Galvez

From ABS-CBN (May 14, 2021): Islamist militant BIFF's recruitment in Mindanao gains ground amid pandemic: Galvez

Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) spokesperson Abu Misri (4th R) with fellow rebels meet with members of the media for an interview at their hideout in Maguindanao province on January 29, 2014.  Mark Navales, AFP/File

Recruitment of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) has intensified amid the pandemic, Presidential Peace adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr. told Senators Friday, admitting that the government "failed" to foresee radicalization as an impact of the global health crisis.

New military chief eyes 'regulating' social media to combat radicalization

"We failed to consider the impact of the COVID-19. During the COVID-19, marami pong nagsara na mga plantations (many plantations closed down). At the same time, it restricts the people from doing things to take their livelihood," Galvez, a military chief and now Presidential peace adviser, told the Senate's local government panel.

"Because of this situation... many people now, on the verge of hunger, madali po silang ma-recruit (it's easy to recruit them) considering that these are the situations that worsened their livelihood," he said.

The BIFF is a breakaway group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), opposing the latter's decision to pursue peace talks with the government that has led to the creation of the Bangsamoro political entity.

Galvez said the BIFF "exploited" the situation that made poor people more susceptible to recruitment.

"Normally kasama dun ang some of the families ng MILF at also some of the families ng BIFF nawalan po ng trabaho (Normally this includes some families of the MILF and of the BIFF of lost jobs). Because of these hard situations brought about by the COVID-19, it also induces the members of the BIFF to exploit the situation and recruit," Galvez said.

Asked by panel chair Sen. Francis Tolentino if the spike in recruitment was a "failure of intelligence," Galvez said it was not.

"It’s not a failure of intelligence, but basically congruent disabling conditions in the Bangsamoro," Galvez said.

The government is still working on the decommissioning of some 28,000 MILF combatants, which is part of the normalization process that should have been accomplished last year.

Galvez also underscored the need to extend the terms of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region's regional government for another 3 years so they can complete the transition process and avoid potential bloodshed.

3-year extension of Bangsamoro transition necessary, says interior minister
With new Bangsamoro law, MILF opens doors to BIFF members

"Nakita po natin na pagka nagkaroon po ng eleksyon, nagkakaroon po tayo ng malaking dibisyon (we see that whenever we have elections, there's a great division)... The BIFF and the terrorist group might use the elections that creates much division and rido (clan war) in the midst of the Bangsamoro," Galvez said.

About 20 BIFF members over the weekend occupied a market in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao province in the Bangsamoro region, forcing residents to flee. BIFF members shot it out with soldiers, who later drove away the militants.

 
Military declares Maguindanao town clear after clash with Islamist rebels

On Wednesday, the military clashed with fleeing militants anew. Four BIFF members died in the encounter.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday issued a warning to the BIFF to stop its attacks on civilians.

Duterte tells separatist BIFF to stop attacking civilians
Duterte pleads for Bangsamoro gov't help vs BIFF

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/05/14/21/biff-recruitment-pandemic