Military airstrikes cause class suspensions in parts of Quezon

From GMA News Online (Mar 6, 2024): Military airstrikes cause class suspensions in parts of Quezon


Quezon province map

Classes in some schools in mountain areas of Tagkawayan, Quezon were suspended on Tuesday amid the ongoing firefight between state forces and rebels.

“For security purposes, there is a necessity to declare that classes in the mountain zone areas and others affected be suspended until the fighting has ended and with the green light confirmation of the Military and PNP,” said Tagkawayan Mayor Luis Oscar Eleazar

“All students are suggested to stay indoors to mi\nimize the aggravation and to prevent more compromises to peace and security,” he added.

Among the affected schools were Mapulot, Maguibay, Tunton, and Munting Parang.

The military is conducting operations against supposed New People’s Army (NPA) members who are allegedly planning an attack ahead of it anniversary.

“Nagsagawa po tayo ng combat operation (We are conducting a combat operation),” Major Frank Roldan, the 9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief, told Super Radyo dzBB in an interview on Wednesday.

“Kasama naman po yun sa capability ng ating nga kasundaluhan, yung tinatawag nating close air support sa tuwing engkwentro,” he added. (Close air support is included in the capability of our army in every encounter.)

So far, Roldan said there have been no reported casualties yet as the military operation is still ongoing. —Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News

https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/national/military-airstrikes-cause-class-suspensions-in-parts-of-quezon/ar-BB1jpbCM

3ID: Visayas nears 'total victory' vs communist insurgency

From Sun Star-Iloilo (Mar 7, 2024): 3ID: Visayas nears 'total victory' vs communist insurgency (By Leo Solinap)

Contributed photo

GOVERNMENT forces in the Visayas region are nearing "total victory" against the communist New People's Army (NPA), paving the way for potential declarations of "stable internal peace and security" (Sips) in Negros and Panay Islands.

The 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division has conducted operations against the NPA, leading to 20 encounters initiated by the government.

They have engaged in two major and decisive battles, resulting in the neutralization of 16 NPA members, surrender of nine NPA members, capture of one NPA member, and seizure of 47 firearms.

The last guerilla front in Negros has been dismantled, leading to a recommendation for the province to be declared a Sips zone.

The Negros Occidental Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Committee has signed a resolution in support of this declaration.

On the other hand, a key leader of the NPA group in Bohol and his associates were neutralized, which led to a weakening of the group's influence in the province

Panay Island's Central and Southern Panay Fronts have experienced setbacks, leading to the possibility of the Sips project being implemented, which could benefit the island's residents.

"We will not be swayed by their fabricated stories. Instead, we will relentlessly pursue our shared goal of establishing Stable Internal Peace and Security for all Visayans. We anticipate achieving this target sooner than expected, given the support and trust the people have placed in the security forces. This is evident in the influx of quality and reliable information received, leading to encounters with significant results favorable to us," 3ID Commander Major General Marion Sison said.

Sison criticized the NPA in the Visayas and its affiliated organizations for creating false stories to discredit the security forces and regain public support.

"This black propaganda, however, is nothing new. This is done on purpose to keep alive the dying spirit of the remaining members of the communist terrorist group (CTG) in order to prevent them from abandoning their futile and senseless revolutionary cause," Sison said.

He said this tactic of spreading misinformation is a common strategy used by the NPA to maintain the morale of its members and prevent them from giving up on their cause.

“This accusation and allegation of violations of Human Rights and disproportionate use of military power are mere desperate propaganda and disinformation campaign thrown at us by the remnants of CTG," Sison said.

He said the NPA and its allies use deceptive propaganda to distort the public's view of military and police operations, aiming to undermine the credibility of security forces. This tactic is a known strategy employed by the NPA when they are facing defeat or are in a difficult situation.

"As protectors of peace and the communities, our government forces maintain a high level of professionalism and consistently observe, uphold and protect human rights, the International Humanitarian and the Rule of Law in all of our endeavors and operations, at all times," Sison added.

The commander said the whole-of-nation approach, localized peace engagements, and support to barangay development programs have been instrumental in improving peace and security and liberating communities from the NPA's influence.

“We are winning, and we are committed to sustaining our gains at all costs. With the people on our side, we will undoubtedly achieve "Total Victory" against the CTG. And all together, we will reap the rewarding benefits of a region with a Stable Internal Peace and Security,” Sison said.

General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), visited the Visayas Command and the 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade. He directed the commanders to end the threat of insurgency during his visit.

"We are very hopeful and optimistic that by the end of the year 2024, we can really achieve "Total Victory" and we can defeat the communists,” Brawner said. (SunStar Philippines)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/iloilo/3id-visayas-nears-total-victory-vs-communist-insurgency?utm_source=website&utm_medium=related-stories

No recorded encounters since Davao declared insurgency-free

From the Sun Star-Davao (Mar 7, 2024): No recorded encounters since Davao declared insurgency-free (By David Ezra M. Francisquete)

AP Photo/File

THE Police Regional Office-Davao Region (PRO-Davao) has reiterated that they have not recorded any violent plots and encounters between the government and the Communist Terrorists Groups (CTGs) since the region was declared insurgency-free.

This means that the entire region has sustained its peace and stability following the implementation of strict security measures at every border.

“Since the declaration of Davao Region as insurgency-free, wala na tayong record for skirmishes or any encounter with the enemy” (Since the declaration of Davao Region as insurgency-free, we have no record for skirmishes or any encounter with the enemy) Dela Rey said in an AFP-PNP Press Corps Southern Mindanao Media Forum on Wednesday morning, March 6, 2024.

Dela Rey added that the police office and the Philippine Army (PA) have been continuously conducting grassroots and community-level activities regarding insurgency awareness and government efforts symposia for the youths.

“Ang pledge sa Police Regional Office 11 is dili i-pull out ang revitalized place sa barangay diha sa mga areas nga na reclaim na nato from the enemy. Maintain gihapon ang ilahang activities. Naga-tudlo pud sila sa kabatan-onan nga naa didto. Gina-enhance pud nato, gina-intensify nato ang activities anang mga lugara, para makita nila nga naay gobyerno nga motabang sa ilaha,” the police spokesperson said.

(The pledge of the Police Regional Office 11 is not to pull out the revitalized [Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay] placed in the barangay in the areas that we have reclaimed from the enemy. [It is] to maintain their activities. They also teach the youth in the communities. We are also enhancing the activities in those areas so that they will be enlightened that there is a government that will help them).

One of the latest encounters being reported was the death of the notorious political leader of the Regional Sentro De Grabidad, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (RSDG, NEMRC), Joedil Cayapos Virtudazo known as “Jerby” or “Janjalani” last December 26, 2023.

However, the brief encounter was operated by soldiers of the 67th Infantry Batallion (67IB) operating under the 701st Infantry Brigade and not the police.

It can be recalled that 10th Infantry (Agila) Division (10th ID), Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) spokesperson Major Mark Anthony Tito divulged that Virtudazo along with his comrades were killed while slowly moving to the Southern Mindanao area of responsibility (AOR).

The Regional Peace and Order Council Davao Region (RPOC Davao) officially declared Davao Region as insurgency-free on October 12, 2022.

After years of fighting 15 Guerilla Fronts (GFs) and six Pulang Bagani Command/Company (PBCs) that affected 190 barangays in the region, RPOC signed a statement declaring the Davao Region as insurgency-free. DEF

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/no-recorded-encounters-since-davao-declared-insurgency-free

Army’s 3rd ID predicts ‘total victory’ against insurgency

From the Daily Guardian (Mar 8, 2024): Army’s 3rd ID predicts ‘total victory’ against insurgency (By Jennifer P. Rendon)

Brigadier General Marion Sison

The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3rd ID) has expressed confidence in achieving “total victory” in the ongoing fight against the New People’s Army (NPA) insurgency.

This “optimism” is buoyed by the recent strategic advancements of government forces, particularly the disbandment of the remaining guerilla front in Negros Island.

According to Major General Marion Sison, commander of the 3rd ID, this significant progress has poised Negros Island to be designated as a zone of “Stable Internal Peace and Security” (SIPS), a status that signifies a considerable reduction in local terrorist threats.

The Negros Occidental Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Committee (JPSCC) has approved and signed a resolution recommending the declaration of SIPS status for the province as of March 1, 2024.

The JPSCC is composed of the 302ND and 303RD Infantry Brigades, Negros Occidental PNP, and the Philippine Coast Guard.

Moreover, Sison reported that attempts by the NPA to regain a foothold in the province of Bohol have been thwarted.

This was exemplified by the neutralization of a key group led by a certain Domingo Compoc, alias Silong, on February 23, 2024.

Panay Island has also seen a weakening of NPA fronts, evidenced by successive losses and setbacks which indicate a shift towards stable internal peace for the region.

The 3rd ID, through coordinated operations of its three Infantry Brigades—the 301st, 302nd, and 303rd—has been instrumental in confronting the NPA in the Visayas.

The engagements have resulted in the demise of 16 NPA members, with nine surrendering and one being captured, along with the confiscation of a substantial cache of firearms.

“These series of accomplishments have been an unassailable proof of the success not only of the government forces but also of the people in the Visayas in the fight against insurgency,” Major General Sison stated.

He emphasized that their success is more than just rhetoric but is substantiated by “facts and figures.”

The 3rd ID commander said they would not be stayed by their fabricated stories.

“Instead, we will relentlessly pursue our shared goal of establishing Stable Internal Peace and Security for all Visayans,” he said.

Sison said they anticipate achieving this target sooner than expected, given the support and trust the people have placed in the security forces.

The influx of information reaching the soldiers is evident that the government has the upper hand in the fight against local terrorism.

Further, he also attributed the improving peace and security landscape and success of the government’s campaign against terrorism in the Visayas Region to EO 70 or the Whole-of-Nation Approach in Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict and the continued implementation of Localized Peace Engagements (LPEs) and Support to Barangay Development Programs (SBDPs).

This mechanism is implemented in full force and has proven effective in liberating conflict-ridden areas from the shackles of insurgency and converting them into more conflict-resilient communities.

“We are winning, and we are committed to sustaining our gains at all costs. With the people on our side, we will undoubtedly achieve total victory against the local terrorist group,” Sison said.

General Romeo Brawner Jr., AFP Chief of Staff, echoed this sentiment during his visit to Visayas Command and the 301st Infantry Brigade.

Brawner has instructed commanders to persist in their efforts, with the aim of decisively defeating the communists by the end of 2024.

“We are very hopeful and optimistic that by the end of the year 2024, we can really achieve total victory and we can defeat the communists,” he said.

Amid these successes, Sison criticized the NPA for their attempts to undermine the legitimacy of the military and police actions through the spread of false accusations.

He assured that the security forces adhere to the highest standards of professionalism, human rights, and international law.

https://dailyguardian.com.ph/armys-3rd-id-predicts-total-victory-against-insurgency/#google_vignette

Military aids wounded NPA amazon in Iloilo

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 8, 2024): Military aids wounded NPA amazon in Iloilo (By TARA YAP)

ILOILO CITY – The Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division (ID), through the 301st Infantry Brigade (IB), provided medical and financial assistance to a lady New People’s Army (NPA) rebel wounded in an encounter with government forces in Iloilo recently.

THE family of wounded New People’s Army (NPA) rebel Rocel Nabua Esmediana reunites with her in a hospital in Iloilo. (Army 3ID)

The Army facilitated the transfer of Rocel Nabua Esmediana, alias Ka Michelle, to a hospital in Iloilo City for further treatment as she sustained injuries that caused deformity and hematoma in her right face.

Esmediana surrendered to authorities after she was wounded in an encounter between the 61st Infantry Battalion and the NPA Southern Front Committee in San Joaquin town, Iloilo province last February 28.

Under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Michael Samson, 301st IB has also facilitated assistance from partner government agencies and local government units to help pay for Esmediana’s medical treatment.

Lt. Luisita Clavecillas II, commander of the 3rd CMO Battalion under the 301st IB, was able to facilitate a reunion between Esmediana and her family.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/3/8/military-aids-wounded-npa-amazon-in-iloilo#google_vignette

2 alleged rebels in Caraga bare funds from construction firms

From GMA News Online (Mar 8, 2024): 2 alleged rebels in Caraga bare funds from construction firms (By GMA Integrated News)

Two alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to the police in the Caraga region, and divulged that some of their funds came from two construction companies.

The two rebels were among the 13 who yielded to authorities and turned over high-caliber firearms as they bid their life in the jungles farewell, according to a "24 Oras" report by John Consulta.

In an affidavit "Ka Ann" said she had been collecting 'revolutionary taxes' from several businesses as the finance officer.

From 2016 to 2018, she said the two construction firms were able to give at least P3 million every year to their group.

“Bilang isang finance officer, ako ang nakikipagusap sa mga kumpanya na totoong sumusuporta sa kilusan...salapi na pambili ng armas,” she said.

(As a finance officer, I am the one talking to the companies that support the movement. ...money to buy weapons.)

Although it is not clear whether they provided the funds voluntarily or under compulsion, the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) previously issued a warning against giving any financial and material support to the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People's Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP), which are considered terrorist groups by the Anti-Terrorism Council.

“Meron tayong mga ebidensya ng bank transaction at bank transfer na nakita po ng ating Anti-Money Laundering Council. Bukod pa rito ang salaysay ng mga nagsisukong rebelde kung saan isinasalaysay nila kung paano itong mga construction companies na ito ay nagbibigay ng pera sa kanila,” said Police Regional Director (PRO 13), Brigadier General Kirby John Kraft.

(We have evidence of bank transactions and bank transfers that our Anti-Money Laundering Council has seen. In addition, the surrendered rebels' narrative tells how these construction companies give them money.)

Along with the Department of Justice and AMLC, the PNP Caraga filed a complaint against two construction companies in Surigao, which did not respond to any calls and texts from the media.

"This is in violation of Republic Act 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012," Kraft added.

According to PNP-PRO 13, this is the first time such a case has been filed against a private company. —Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/899957/2-alleged-rebels-in-caraga-bare-funds-from-construction-firms/story/

Moro Islamic Liberation Front lauds Senate for adopting House rebel amnesty resolutions

From MindaNews (Mar 7, 2024): Moro Islamic Liberation Front lauds Senate for adopting House rebel amnesty resolutions (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters raise their firearms in jubilation in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat town in Maguindanao province as soon as their leaders signed the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro in Malacanang on Oct. 15, 2012. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front  lauded the Senate for adopting three resolutions of the House of Representatives that concur with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s grant of amnesty to former rebels. MindaNews file photo by BONG SARMIENTO

COTABATO CITY (MindaNews / 7 March) – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front lauded the Senate for adopting three resolutions of the House of Representatives that concur with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s grant of amnesty to former rebels.

Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim, also the Moro Islamic Liberation Front chair, said the granting of amnesty for Moro Islamic Liberation Front members is contained in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), which the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front signed in March 2014 after 17 years of peace negotiations.

“We are thankful and happy. Hopefully they could soon establish an office that will start the amnesty process,” Ebrahim said.

Pending the start of the formal amnesty process, he suggested the issuance of a certification for those covered by the amnesty for them to avoid getting arrested.

Murad stressed the Senate’s move is a big relief for Moro Islamic Liberation Front members facing charges in pursuit of their political beliefs who wanted to participate in the first Bangsamoro parliamentary election, which will be held simultaneously with the midterm national and local elections in May 2025.

Last February 17, the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s political party, held its first general assembly in Cotabato, with Ebrahim then saying the event “signals the start of their preparation for the party to win parliamentary seats in next year’s regional election.”

He said the grant of amnesty would ease their worries of getting arrested.

Many of the leaders and members of  Moro Islamic Liberation Front have pending cases related to their political beliefs. Those given safe conduct passes, however, freely roam the country without the threats of an arrest.

Last Monday, the Senate adopted three concurrent resolutions favoring Marcos’ grant of amnesty to various insurgent groups in the country, three months after Presidential Proclamations (PP) 403, 405 and 406 were issued last November.

With 19 in favor, no abstention and zero no vote, the Upper House adopted House Concurrent Resolutions (HCR) No. 19, 21, and 22, which concur with PP 403, 405, and 406 respectively.

HCR 19 grants amnesty to former members of the Rebolusyong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolution Proletarian Army/ Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB), HCR 21 to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and HCR 22 to the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Uniity, noted that despite “the strong desire of members of these revolutionary groups to be productive citizens in their communities, the looming threat of legal repercussions limits them to do so.”

“They are torn between their desire to turn a new leaf on one hand, and be held accountable for their political mistakes on the other,” he said.

In a statement, Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. said: “We are fully behind the government’s concerted efforts to advance the reconciliation and healing from the armed conflicts that have divided our nation for far too long.”

National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año said the amnesty proclamations are a “strong indication of the solidarity of the current administration in pursuit for lasting peace and national security.”

The amnesty is granted to former rebels who have committed crimes in pursuit of their political beliefs including but not limited to rebellion or insurrection, sedition, illegal assembly, direct and indirect assault, resistance and disobedience to a person in authority, and illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, or explosives.

However, there are exceptions.

The amnesty shall not cover kidnap for ransom, massacre, rape, terrorism, crimes committed against chastity as defined in the Revised Penal Code, violation of RA No. 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, grave violations of the Geneva Convention of 1949, and genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, enforced disappearances, and other gross violations of human rights, the Presidential Communications Office said. (Ferdinandh Cabrera / MindaNews)

https://mindanews.com/top-stories/2024/03/moroislamicliberationfront-lauds-senate-for-adopting-house-rebel-amnesty-resolutions/#gsc.tab=0

DSWD DROMIC Report #3 on the Armed Conflict in Iloilo as of 06 March 2024, 6AM

Posted to the Relief Web (Mar 6, 2024): DSWD DROMIC Report #3 on the Armed Conflict in Iloilo as of 06 March 2024, 6AM

Format:  Situation Report 

Source: Govt. Philippines 

 Posted: 6 Mar 2024 

 Originally published: 6 Mar 2024 

 Origin: View original

Download Report(PDF | 281.04 KB)

I. Situation Overview

On 28 February 2024 at around 3AM, an armed conflict transpired between the troops of the 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion and Communist NPA Terrorists (CNT) of Southern Panay Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay in the Municipality of San Joaquin,
Iloilo which resulted in the displacement of affected families / individuals and several reported casualties.

On March 04, 2024 at around 4:40 PM, series of encounter occurred in Brgy. Igsolique, Miagao, Iloilo and Brgy. Igcabito-on during the follow-up operations conducted by the Government troops.

Relative to the incident, the DSWD through its Field Office in Region VI, provided relief assistance to support the immediate needs of the affected families and individuals.

Source: DSWD Field Office (FO) VI

II. Status of Affected Areas and Population

A total of 2,762 families or 11,267 persons were affected in 31 barangays in Iloilo (see Annex A).

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-report-3-armed-conflict-iloilo-06-march-2024-6am

DSWD DROMIC Report #7 on the Armed Conflict in Lanao del Norte as of 06 March 2024, 6AM

Posted to the Relief Web (Mar 6, 2024): DSWD DROMIC Report #7 on the Armed Conflict in Lanao del Norte as of 06 March 2024, 6AM

Format: Situation Report 

 Source: Govt. Philippines 

 Posted: 6 Mar 2024 

Originally published: 6 Mar 2024 

 Origin: View original

Download Report(PDF | 319.7 KB)

I. Situation Overview

On 16 February 2024, an armed conflict transpired in Brgy. Pantao, Munai, Lanao del Norte between Dawlah Islamiyah – Maute Group (DI-MG) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), resulting in injuries. Two days later, on the 18th of February, another clash occurred in Brgy. Lindongan, Munai, with nine (9) reported dead and seven (7) injured. Following this, on the 21st of February, a military operation targeted the suspected hideout in Brgy. Matampay, Munai, causing casualties among civilians and the terrorist group.

This incident transpired on the border of LGU Tangcal and Munai, prompting affected families to evacuate to nearby municipalities—specifically Tangcal, Bacolod, Kolambugan, and Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte.

In response, the DSWD through its Field Office in Region X, in coordination with the concerned Local Government Unit (LGU), promptly provided relief augmentation to support the immediate needs of the affected families and individuals.

Source: DSWD Field Office (FO) X

II. Status of Affected Areas and Population

A total of 770 families or 3,641 persons are affected in eight (8) barangays in Lanao del Norte (see Annex A).

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-report-7-armed-conflict-lanao-del-norte-06-march-2024-6am

DSWD DROMIC Report #4 on the Armed Conflict in Iloilo as of 08 March 2024, 6AM

Posted to the Relief Web (Mar 8, 2024): DSWD DROMIC Report #4 on the Armed Conflict in Iloilo as of 08 March 2024, 6AM

Format Situation: Report 

 Source: Govt. Philippines 

 Posted: 8 Mar 2024 

 Originally published: 8 Mar 2024 

 Origin: View original

Download Report(PDF | 177.45 KB)

I. Situation Overview

On 28 February 2024 at around 3AM, an armed conflict transpired between the troops of the 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion and Communist NPA Terrorists (CNT) of Southern Panay Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay in the Municipality of San Joaquin, Iloilo which resulted in the displacement of affected families / individuals and several reported casualties.

On March 04, 2024 at around 4:40 PM, series of encounter occurred in Brgy. Igsolique, Miagao, Iloilo and Brgy. Igcabito-on during the follow-up operations conducted by the Government troops.

Source: DSWD Field Office (FO) VI

II. Status of Affected Areas and Population

A total of 2,772 families or 11,322 persons are affected in 33 barangays in Iloilo (see Annex A).

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-report-4-armed-conflict-iloilo-08-march-2024-6am

DSWD DROMIC Report #8 on the Armed Conflict in Lanao del Norte as of 08 March 2024, 6AM

Posted to the Relief Web (Mar 8, 2024): DSWD DROMIC Report #8 on the Armed Conflict in Lanao del Norte as of 08 March 2024, 6AM

Format: Situation Report 

Source: Govt. Philippines 

 Posted: 8 Mar 2024 

 Originally published: 8 Mar 2024 

 Origin: View original

Download Report(PDF | 346.97 KB)

I. Situation Overview

On 16 February 2024, an armed conflict transpired in Brgy. Pantao, Munai, Lanao del Norte between Dawlah Islamiyah – Maute Group (DI-MG) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) which resulted in the displacement of families and individuals in the area and the nearby Municipality of Tangcal, Lanao del Norte.

Another armed encounter occurred between the two (2) groups in Brgy. Lindongan and Brgy. Matampay in the Municipality of Munai, Lanao del Norte on 18 February 2024 and 21 February 2024, respectively.

Source: DSWD Field Office (FO) X

II. Status of Affected Areas and Population

A total of 770 families or 3,641 persons are affected in eight (8) barangays in Lanao del Norte (see Annex A).

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-report-8-armed-conflict-lanao-del-norte-08-march-2024-6am

PBBM sees ‘many benefits’ in conducting war games with Australia

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 7, 2024): PBBM sees ‘many benefits’ in conducting war games with Australia (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Filipino and Australian military troops (Photo courtesy of 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Philippines should continue conducting joint military drills with Australia because such exercises have “many benefits,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Wednesday.

In a recorded interview while in Melbourne, Australia, Marcos said the war games between the Philippines and Australia would help improve Manila’s defense and security capabilities, as well as disaster preparedness.

“This will benefit the Philippines because we are conducting these exercises so that we are able to work together with our foreign partners. And when I say work together, it is not only for defense and security, it is also for disaster preparedness, disaster assistance that they might bring should there be a disaster,” Marcos said, noting that the Philippines is being pummeled yearly by powerful typhoons that increase in intensity in recent years.

“So, there are many benefits for us and I think that it is something that we should continue and should encourage,” he added.

Marcos, however, said the conduct of joint military exercises with Australia would depend on the situation on the ground and on mutual agreement between parties.

He said the scheduling is really a risk and would be based on “whether or not the threat levels and the tension levels are increasing or decreasing” in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

“And as to having yearly exercises, well, that’s probably something that we can discuss. But again, we will have to assess the situation at the time and if we need to continue these exercises, then I think we will be able to agree on that,” Marcos said.

READ: PBBM, Australian PM to discuss continuation of military drills

Marcos said he and Australian leaders also discussed the possibility of amending the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and Australia.

He said both countries have expressed openness to amend or upgrade the agreement depending on the need.

Last year, the Philippines and Australia conducted Exercise Alon and the Maritime Cooperative Activity.

Australia has made a commitment to conduct joint military exercises with the Philippines at least once every two years.

Australia is the Philippines’ second largest partner in defense and security and one of only two bilateral partners with a status of VFA, aside from the United States.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220253

PH ops in WPS to continue – Wescom chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 7, 2024): PH ops in WPS to continue – Wescom chief (By Priam Nepomuceno and Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

COLLISION. Two Philippine Coast Guard personnel scramble to place a fender to lessen the impact of collision before BRP Sindangan (MRRV-4407) and the bigger Chinese Coast Guard vessel 21555 collide on Tuesday (March 5, 2024). The BRP Sindangan suffered minor damage, according to the PCG. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – Operations in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) will continue despite increasing harassment from Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels and their maritime militia.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command (Wescom) chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos said they are "undeterred" and "will not yield".

"Tuloy-tuloy lang po ang ating operasyon sa WPS, tuloy tuloy po ang ating pag-papatrolya at ang ating pag-exercise po ng ating sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction (Our operations in the WPS will continue, along with our patrols and along with the exercise of our sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction)," Carlos said in a radio interview over DZBB on Thursday.

The BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57), which is watching over Ayungin Shoal, will remain where it is, he said.

"Gagawin po namin ang lahat upang manatili ang BRP Sierra Madre sa Ayungin Shoal na symbol ng ating sovereign, ng ating, sa soberenya dun sa lugar na 'yun at para makapag-comply po kami sa utos ng Pangulo ay kailangan po namin ang tuloy-tuloy na (rotation and resupply) sa BRP Sierra Madre (We will do everything we can to ensure that BRP Sierra Madre, which is the symbol of our sovereignty, stays there, and to comply with the President's order, we will ensure that the (rotation and resupply) for the BRP Sierra Madre is continuous)," he said.

The statement followed the March 5 incident off Ayungin Shoal where a series of dangerous maneuvers and the use of water cannon of the Chinese Coast Guard led to a minor collision and injuries among the resupply team, including Carlos himself who sustained cuts when the glass windows of Unaiza May 4 were shattered.

Legitimate concern

Meanwhile, the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) praised the Philippines for having “consistently complied” with the Arbitral Award on the South China Sea.

“The arbitral award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and Japan strongly hopes that the parties’ compliance with the award will lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea,” it said in a statement dated March 6.

Japan, it said, has consistently advocated upholding the rule of law at sea, and would continue to cooperate with the international community such as ASEAN Member States and the United States to protect the free and open international order in the region.

The Japanese MOFA reiterated that the issue concerning the South China Sea is “directly related to the peace and stability of the region” and is a legitimate concern of the international community.

In a separate statement, the embassies of Korea, France and Canada also conveyed their concern over the March 5 Ayungin incident and called for peaceful resolution of disputes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220270

86% of Filipinos satisfied with AFP's performance – OCTA

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 7, 2024): 86% of Filipinos satisfied with AFP's performance – OCTA (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)

TOP PERFORMERS. Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. with Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and other guests lead the unveiling of the "Symbol of Peace" at the headquarters of 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao del Norte on Sept. 21, 2023. A recent OCTA Research survey showed that most Filipinos are satisfied with the performance of the AFP. (Photo courtesy of the AFP)

MANILA – Most Filipinos are satisfied with the performance of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), results of an OCTA Research survey showed.

According to the results of the Dec. 10-14, 2023 survey released on Thursday, about 86 percent of adult Filipinos are satisfied with the AFP and its overall accomplishments.

Among those who were satisfied, 23 percent said they were "very satisfied" and 63 percent were "somewhat satisfied" with AFP's performance.

Only 2 percent expressed dissatisfaction with the country's military, while the remaining 11 percent said they could not say if they were satisfied or not.

OCTA noted that the AFP's net satisfaction rating is at least +85 across major areas except for Metro Manila with a rating of +73.

Among socio-economic classes, the AFP's net satisfaction rating was highest among adult Filipinos belonging to Class ABC and E at +87 and lowest among those in Class D at +83.

As for the trust score, about 87 percent of the respondents trust the AFP, while only 2 percent distrust it, resulting in a net trust rating of +85.

Across different major areas, the AFP's net trust rating ranges from +77 to +89 with the highest in Mindanao, while its lowest is in Metro Manila.

Regarding socioeconomic classes, the AFP’s net trust rating is highest in Class ABC at +87, which is closely followed by those in Class D and E, at +84 and +85, respectively.

The survey had 1,200 respondents and a margin of error of ±3 percent.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220299

Health station, classroom built in ex-NPA-infested village in N. Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 7, 2024): Health station, classroom built in ex-NPA-infested village in N. Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

COMPLETED. The classroom and the health station turned over to local officials of Magsaysay village in Las Navas, Northern Samar. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Northern Samar provincial office and the municipal task force to end local communist armed conflict led the turnover of a health station and a classroom in the village costing PHP4 million. (Photo courtesy of DILG Northern Samar)

TACLOBAN CITY – At least two government projects have been completed in Magsaysay village, a remote community in Las Navas, Northern Samar, previously infested by the New People’s Army, the Philippine Army reported on Thursday.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Northern Samar provincial office and the municipal task force to end local communist armed conflict led the turnover of a health station and a classroom in the village, with a project cost of PHP4 million.

These projects under the Support to the Barangay Development Project (SBDP) have been identified by residents during the retooled community support program, a convergence mechanism for local governments in the village to identify issues and needed government interventions, according to Lt. Col. Richard Villaflor, acting commander of the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion.

The projects were funded under the 2021 appropriations.

“This is a result of the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in fostering inclusive progress in Las Navas. These projects are significant in shaping the community's future,” Villaflor said.

Magsaysay village is known for violence perpetrated by the armed rebels.

The last was on June 23, 2023, when two road workers were killed when rebels detonated an anti-personnel mine.

Las Navas is one of the recipients of SBDP, with seven completed projects under the 2022 funding in five villages and a total grant of PHP24 million.

These projects align with the government's whole-of-nation approach seek to foster collaboration among diverse sectors to address insurgency challenges and foster sustainable peace and development.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220289