Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 18): CONSULTATION DIALOGUE | 33IB talks with residents of Brgy Langgapanan, Sultan Sa Barongis, Maguindanao (Video)

BRGY LANGGAPANAN, Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao (DWDD)

Lt Col Harold M Cabunoc, the Battalion Commander of the 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion listens to the sentiments of the residents of Barangay Langgapanan, Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao during his visit at their community.
The people asked for the Army’s intervention in the ongoing clan war between rival MILF commanders of the 106th Base Command.

Lt Col Cabunoc has raised the issue to the Joint Ceasefire Committee to remove the armed MILF fighters from the community. He also stressed that the Philippine Army will not hesitate to use force against anyone who insists in perpetrating violence against hapless, peace-loving civilians.

The 33rd Infantry Battalion involves the people in resolving community issues that fuel armed conflicts.

Makabayan Warriors led by Lt Col Harold M Cabunoc visited Lasangan village in General Salipada K Pendatun, Maguindanao to collaborate with the local officials and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in addressing the security threats brought about by the presence of BIFF terrorists in the village.

The Makabayan Battalion uses the Joint Ceasefire Committee peace mechanisms in the conduct of its operations against peace spoilers who mingle with relatives in MILF communities around the AO.

Makabayan Warriors of Bravo Company led by Sgt Nadzmar D Yahcob, the Platoon Sergeant, visited Brgy Langgapanan to secure the evacuees who are returning to their homes.

The villagers were affected by the armed violence between MILF commanders who both wanted to control the extortion activities in the area.

The Makabayan Battalion supports the civil government in keeping the peace in former armed conflict areas.

The unit also facilitates the functioning of local government institutions to enable them build resilient communities. Photo by Pfc Jurry M Donasco / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/18/consultation-dialogue-33ib-talks-with-residents-of-brgy-langgapanan-sultan-sa-barongis-maguindanao-video/

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 18): MARITIME EXERCISE | PH Navy sets sail for the first-ever ASEAN-China Maritime Exercise 2018

CAPTAIN SALVO PIER, Sangley Point, Cavite (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN) held a send-off ceremony earlier today at Captain Salvo Pier, Naval Base Cavite, Sangley Point, Cavite City for its Landing Ship, BRP Dagupan City (LS551) for the conduct of ASEAN-China Maritime Exercise (ACMEX) 2018 from October 21 to 28 2018 at Zhanjiang, China.

Giving of the medallion to the Commander, Philippine Fleet, Rear Admiral Danilo Rodelas, the Presiding Officer for the Send-Off ceremony of the PN contingent for ACMEX 2018 at Naval Base Cavite, Cavite City

Sideboys Honors given to the Presiding Officer for the Send-Off Ceremony of PN contingent for ACMEX 2018

The PN contingent led by CMDR SHERWIN RESPETO PN(GSC), the Commander, Naval Task Group 88 who will participate for the ASEAN-China Maritime Exercise 2018 at Zhanjiang, China

Commander, Fleet Marine Ready Force, COMMO TORIBIO ADACI JR AFP welcomed the participants and audience during the Send-Ceremony last 17 Oct 2018

Commander, Philippine Fleet wishes fair winds, clear skies and following seas to the PN contingent who will sail to Zhanjiang, China for days to participate in the ACMEX 2018

REAR ADMIRAL DANILO RODELAS AFP, the Philippine Fleet Commander and at the same time Presiding Officer during the Send-off Ceremony of PN contingent to participate in the ASEAN-China Maritime Exercise (ACMEX) 2018

Ceremonial Handshake, a form of saying “GOOD LUCK” to all the PN contingent who will sail to China for the naval exercise

Cast off of the last line with CPF, CFMRF and CSAF as BRP DAGUPAN CITY departed at Capt Salvo Pier

VIDEO

NPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/18/maritime-exercise-ph-navy-sets-sail-for-the-first-ever-asean-china-maritime-exercise-2018/

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 18): COMMUNITYY DEVELOPMENT | DSWD partners with 52nd ECB to construct Lumad schools in Davao del Norte town

TALAINGOD, Davao Del Norte (DWDD) – The Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) of the Philippine Army, through the 52nd Engineering Brigade, has entered into an agreement with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of the Municipality of Talaingod, Davao Del Norte for the construction of classrooms intended for the children of the Indigenous People (IP) group Lumad in the town.

The project is under the DSWD Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), one of the government’s poverty-alleviation programs implemented by the Department which uses the community-driven development (CDD) approach to empower communities in targeted poor and disaster-affected municipalities.

The project will initially be implemented in seven sites in Barangay Sto. Niño, Talaingod, which is considered a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA).

Under the agreement signed by the parties, the implementation of the project shall adopt a convergence strategy and will use a “whole of nation approach,” wherein communities involved shall participate and the programs of different agencies involved will be integrated.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Eastern Mindanao Command represented by Brigadier General Dionisio Baudin, Commander of the 52nd Engineering Brigade, committed to providing security, technical assistance, limited labor, and supervision until the completion of the project.

In his message during the event, BGen. Baudin emphasized the sincerity of the military to carry out the project.

“The real job is after the signing of this agreement. We assure everyone that we are sincere and will carry out the task of building these classrooms for our IP children and youth,” he said.

Meanwhile, the DSWD, together with the Municipal Tribal Council, the local government of Talaingod, and the concerned barangay will be in charge of procuring materials and in monitoring of cultural sensitivity and the participation of the community and tribal beneficiaries in the overall implementation of the project.

Also present during the agreement signing were DSWD Region XI Assistant Regional Director for Administration Rebecca A. Santamaria, Talaingod Mayor Basilio Libayao, BGen. Antonio Rosario who represented EASTMINCOM Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, and other officials from the LGU and the military.

“We thank our army engineers for helping us provide our Lumad children in remote communities with access to basic social services,” Asst. Dir. Santamaria said.

“We at DSWD know that the IP sector is one of the most marginalized and disadvantaged in our society. This is why we do our best to reach out and extend basic social services to different IP groups through the implementation of our programs and services. We also continue to work together with our partners from the government to carry out initiatives that would improve the quality of life of our IP-kababayans while still preserving their culture,” Asst Dir. Santamaria ended. DSWD SMS / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/18/communityy-development-dswd-partners-with-52nd-ecb-to-construct-lumad-schools-in-davao-del-norte-town/

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 18): ASSISTANCE | Another Set of Surrenderees receives E-Clip benefits from the Government

KIANGAN, Ifugao (DWDD) – Another Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) member with thirteen (13) Militia ng Bayan (MB) members from Mt Province, Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya surfaced, surrendered and presented themselves to the Secretary of the National Defense Hon Delfin ALorenzanaduring the Former Rebels Peace Summit at Headquarters Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM), Camp Servillano Aquino, Tarlac City on the 16^th Day of October 2018.

The voluntary appearance and surrender of the active NPA and MB members was a result of the thorough arbitration of the troops of 54^th Infantry “Magilas” Battalion from Mountain Province,Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya. The former rebels were inspired by the stories of the previous surrenderees with the warm accommodation and treatment of the military personnel and the benefits they received from E-CLIPduring the visit of PRRD in Camp Melchor F Dela Cruz, Upi, Gamu, Isabela.

According to one surrenderee, the CNTsthreatened us that we will be treated inhumane if we will surrender to the government which is contradictory to our experience when we were with our Philippine Army facilitators in NOLCOM. We were treated like their own comrades, no gaps between facilitators and us returnees. We were considered part of their family that made us comfortable at all times. Before returning to our homes we had a bunch of gifts coming from the government; grocery items, cash gifts and certificate of house entitlement from the National Housing Authority. All these were given to us freely by the government through the E-CLIP program in return to our sincere and voluntary surrender to the folds of the law, the MB further stated.

LTC NARCISO B NABULNEG JR, Commanding Officer of 54IB stated, It’s heartwarming to know that the MagilasTroopers are doing their job passionately and with dedication that resulted to the voluntary surrender of the CNTs. To the brave ones, you did the right decision in returning to the folds of the law and embrace peace in the mainstream society, LTC NABULNEG added. To the CNTs remnants in Cordillera and Nueva Vizcaya, don’t be deceived by the CNT self is hideology that brought you in the dark path, the government widely open its doors for your return through the E-CLIP program. It’s not yet too late to embrace and be part of the long and lasting peace that we are all dreaming of, don’t waste your time hiding in the mountains but rather spend your time wisely with your family,after all, nothing is more important than to be with your loved ones and enjoy a peaceful and productive life,he further stated. 54IBCMO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/18/assistance-another-set-of-surrenderees-receives-e-clip-benefits-from-the-government/

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 18): WEAKENING | Two DawlahIslamiya/Maute Members; Surrenders in Lanao del Sur

CAMP MAJOR CESAR SANG-AN, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur (DWDD) – Two Dawlah Islamiya / Maute members surrendered to Joint Task Force Ranao in Lumbaca-Unayan, Lanao del Sur last Tuesday, October 16, 2018.

The two surenderees are: Mr. Mubarak Dimasangkay Bassit and Mr. Alinok Muntik.

They yielded to Lt. Col. Ian Noel Ignes, the Commanding Officer of 55th Infantry Battalion, under the Joint Task Force Ranao.

Accordingly, September last year, they’ve harassed BrgyPantar detachment in Lumbatan during Marawi siege as diversionary tactics while the Maute terrorist groups were fighting in Main Battle Area.

The surrenderees brought along one caliber 50 and one Garand rifle .

Custodial debriefing of the two is still on-going as of this posting.

“The continuous surrender of Mautes entails weakening of their organizational leadership and capabilities, and we encourage others to lay down their arms and live peacefully,” Maj.Gen. Murillo said.

This month alone, a total of ten Maute members surrendered to JTF Ranao. JTF RANAO / MCAG

On October 9, seven surrendered to the battalion and on the following day, a Maute sniper surrendered to 49th Infantry Battalion. JTF Ranao / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/18/weakening-two-dawlahislamiyamaute-members-surrenders-in-lanao-del-sur/

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 18): CLOSING CEREMONY | Electrical Installation and Maintenance (NC II) for former rebels, mass base supporters and their dependents

“Malasakit at Pagbabago, TESDA susi sa kinabukasan.”
The 10th Infantry “Steady…On” Battalion under LTC SEVERO, CO 10IB, TESDA Misamis Occidental headed by Provincial Miraluna Baje-Lopez, TESDA Provincial Training Center-Plaridel under Engr Noel Econ, conducted the closing ceremony of the Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II for fifty (50) Former Rebels, mass bases supporters and their dependents.

10IB / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/18/closing-ceremony-electrical-installation-and-maintenance-nc-ii-for-former-rebels-mass-base-supporters-and-their-dependents/

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 19): PH-Aussie navies conclude maritime training vs. terrorism threats

5TH PN-RAN MARITIME TRAINING ACTIVITY: Naval Forces West (NFW) deputy commander for fleet operations Capt. Carlos Sabarre sits on the head table during one of the combined maritime exercise's sessions held at Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon in Barangay San Miguel, Puerto Princesa City. (Photo courtesy of Public Affairs Office, Naval Forces West)

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan -- The Philippine and Australian navies recently concluded in Palawan their joint 5th Maritime Training Activity (MTA) to enhance interoperability against threats in the southern border.

The ceremony for the closing of the combined maritime training was held at the Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon in Barangay San Miguel, Puerto Princesa City, last Oct. 15, said Naval Forces West (NFW) deputy commander for fleet operations, Capt. Carlos Sabarre.

Sabarre said Friday that the Philippine Navy (PN) is grateful for the opportunity to conduct the joint maritime exercise with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

“We see them (RAN) as professional sailors who embody bravery, discipline, and professionalism worthy of emulation due to the fact that they belong to one of the largest and most sophisticated naval forces in the Pacific region,” he said.

Sabarre noted the conduct of bilateral patrols in southern Palawan did not only enhance the two navies’ interoperability, but also ensures they are ready to address terrorist activities and kidnap-for-ransom (KFR) groups threatening the southern borders.

In partnership with other regional navies, he said the PN will always remain vigilant and committed to protecting the peace and security of the nation’s maritime domain.

The activity also proves that the NFW does not work alone in protecting and maintaining the peace and stability in this part of the region, he added.

The combined PN-RAN MTA officially started on Sept. 24.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1051557

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 19): BIFF man killed in clash with MILF in Maguindanao

A member of the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was killed following an encounter with elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Thursday.

Major Arvin John Encinas, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) spokesperson, said MILF members and BIFF gunmen men traded bullets and mortar fires from 5 a.m. until 11 a.m. in Sitio Makalag, Barangay Pimbalakan in Mamasapano. The BIFF faction was under Zaunudin Kiaro.

As government forces moved in to support the MILF, the BIFF fled toward the marshy section of the adjacent village of Inidalan in Shariff Saydona town, also in Maguindanao, using motorized bancas.

Encinas said Army troopers, together with their MILF counterparts, later recovered the body of the slain BIFF member, identified as Saudi Sabang.

Under the existing government ceasefire agreement with the MILF, soldiers and MILF forces would coordinate to neutralize lawless elements in MILF-identified areas.

The military has acknowledged several MILF villages in Mamasapano, including a big MILF encampment in Barangay Tukanalipao, where government programs are being implemented in the area.

Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Army’s 6th ID and head of Joint Task Force Central, lauded the MILF for its "commitment to the ceasefire agreement, and for helping the military prevent radical and extremist groups from infiltrating Moro communities to promote violent extremism."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1051543

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 19): MILF bares ‘10 priorities’ in transitioning to BARMM

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) bared its ten priorities in its transition from rebellion to governance, and the transition of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

In a conversation with development partners from international communities held at Davao City on Oct. 11, MILF Chairman Alhaj Murad Ebrahim unveiled the priorities that they will undertake, as follows:

1. Enact priority measures mandated by the Bangsamoro law such as Electoral Code, Civil Service Code, Administrative Code and other legislations that need to be enacted during the BTA (Bangsamoro Transition Authority);

2. Review and integrate the Bangsamoro Development Plan, the Regional Development Plan of ARMM, the Camp Transformation Plan and other Bangsamoro plans to make them responsive to the current needs;

3. Study and design the appropriate bureaucracy for the Bangsamoro Government to ensure the right balance between the size of the bureaucracy and the services that need to delivered as well as the appropriate skills required of people in the bureaucracy;

4. Set up programs that will respond to the pressing social and economic challenges in the Bangsamoro such as poverty, education, health, access to clean water and electricity, job opportunity, agricultural productivity, and access to capital market. “These must be complemented with responsive strategic infrastructure in the region such as ports, road network, flood control, and logistics and communication facilities;”

5. Special programs for transitioning combatants and their families apart from regular programs of the government like 4Ps, Philhealth, among others “to ensure that these programs are tailored fit to their needs so that they will become productive members of the society;”

6. Rehabilitation and reconstruction of Marawi. “Marawi must be quickly rehabilitated and reconstructed as every delay is an opportunity for violent extremism to use it for propaganda and recruitment. Besides, immediate rehabilitation of Marawi is both the right and just thing to do,”.

7. Develop policy environment on transparency, accountability, and prudent fiscal policy as well as improvement on revenue generation;

8. Energy development and power generation improvement to support the development of industries that will generate jobs and other opportunities;

9. Enhance security by “maximizing the utilization of available legitimate forces on the ground and leveraging on the network of the MILF in the Bangsamoro communities by deploying such joint forces such as the JPSTs (Joint Peace and Security Teams); and

10. Ensure a productive partnership between the Bangsamoro Government and Development partners as well as the national government to ensure complementation of programs to maximize results.

The event was attended by representatives of the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), World Bank, embassies of Australia, Brunei, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom and Spain.

The MILF engaged in peace talks with the Philippine government in 1997 in quest for a lasting solution to the protracted conflict in Southern Philippines.

In 2014, the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) was signed by the two parties which provides the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), a legislation that seeks for the establishment of the Bangsamoro autonomous government.

During the term of former President Benigno Aquino III, the 16th Philippine Congress failed to pass the BBL.

When President Rodrigo Duterte assumed the presidency, he reconstituted the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), the body tasked to draft the Bangsamoro law.

From 15, he expanded the membership of BTC to 21 that included representatives from the Moro National Liberation Front, Indigenous Peoples and Christian Settlers.

On July 23 and 24, the Senate and House of Representatives passed Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law on the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao which is also known as BOL or Bangsamoro Organic Law. It was signed into law by President Duterte on July 26, 2018.

The measure also provides that the government will have to hold plebiscite 150 days after its signing into law.

Registered voters of the current ARMM, cities of Isabela and Cotabato, six municipalities of Lanao del Norte and 39 Barangays of North Cotabato will vote in the plebiscite that is set on January 21, 2019.

Article XVI of the BOL states that the law shall be deemed ratified when approved by a majority of the votes cast in a plebiscite as proclaimed by the Commission on Elections or its duly authorized officers.

The ratification of BOL will commence the transition period for the establishment of the Bangsamoro autonomous region to be facilitated by the MILF-led BTA.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1051600

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 19): PH marks 74th anniversary of the historic Leyte landing

The country will celebrate on Saturday the 74th anniversary of the historic Leyte landing by Gen. Douglas MacArthur Oct. 20, 1944 that liberated the Philippines from Japanese occupation in World War II.

Defense Undersecretary Ernesto G. Carolina, administrator of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), will be the guest of honor and speaker during the ceremony in Palo Beach, Leyte, the exact location where allied forces led by Gen. MacArthur landed.

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Y. Kim is expected to attend the annual ceremony.

The landing was preceded three days earlier by the greatest naval battle in history at Leyte Gulf that involved a total of 348 warships, 216 of which were U.S. vessels, two Australians, and 64 Japanese, according to retired Brig. Gen. Restituto Aguilar, chief of PVAO historical division.

During the naval battle, the Japanese lost four aircraft carriers, three battleships, 10 cruisers, and 11 destroyers, while the Americans lost one light carrier, two escort carriers, and three destroyers.

The once mighty Japanese Navy was destroyed during the sea battle on Oct. 17, 1944 that paved the way for allied forces, led by MacArthur, to beach land on Palo Beach three days later that liberated the Philippines from the clutches of Japanese invaders that occupied the Philippines following the fall of Bataan on April 9, 1942.

Then President Sergio Osmeña, Sr. and Brig. Gen. Carlos Romulo, a ranking Filipino officer, accompanied MacArthur during the Leyte Landing.

MacArthur’s forces knifed into Leyte then continued to push to other provinces in the Visayas, Luzon and Mindanao crushing all Japanese resistance.

The Leyte landing was a well-planned strategy to isolate Japan’s strategic position in China and other areas in the Pacific Ocean during the war.

It may be recalled that then US President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered MacArthur to flee from the Philippines to Australia shortly before the fall of Bataan to organize a force that would launch a counter attack later.

However, before leaving, Gen. MacArthur promised the Filipinos with the now famous words “I shall return”.

He fulfilled his promise on Oct. 20, 1944, returning to the Philippines triumphantly.

War records disclosed that in July 1944, Roosevelt met with MacArthur and Admiral Chester Nimitz in Hawaii, where the decision was made to liberate the Philippines in a massive simultaneous air, sea and land attacks.

The fierce naval battle commenced at dawn of Oct. 17, 1944 that surprised the Japanese.

After the victorious landing, Gen. MacArthur announced to the people by saying: "People of the Philippines, I have returned! By the grace of Almighty God, our forces stand again on Philippine soil."

The successful Leyte landing was the beginning of the Japanese defeat in the Philippines.

The fighting moved to other parts of the country, including Manila where the Japanese forces suffered a crushing defeat.

Gen. Tomuyuki Yamashita, commander of Japanese forces in the Philippines, fled to Kiangan, Ifugao to await Japanese reinforcement that never came.

Yamashita was forced to surrender to Filipino guerrillas in Mt. Napulawan, Kiangan, Ifugao on Sept. 2, 1945.

The rest is history.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1051550

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 20): BRP Tarlac to arrive home Monday

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday will welcome home the strategic sealift vessel BRP Tarlac (LD-601) and her 300-man contingent following the historic visit to Vladivostok, Russia and Jeju Island, South Korea early this month.

The arrival ceremony will take place at Pier 15, South Harbor, Manila at about 1 p.m., Commander Jonathan Zata, Navy spokesperson, said in a message Friday.

BRP Tarlac left Manila on Sept. 21 for Vladivostok for her first-ever visit to Russia on October 1-6. She arrived in Jeju on Oct. 12 and left the island’s Cruise Pier on Oct. 16 for her voyage home.

The 300-man naval contingent on BRP Tarlac is composed of members of the Naval Special Operations Group, the Philippine Marine Corps, the Technical and Administrative Services, the Naval Reserve Command, and a Helicopter Detachment Afloat from the Naval Air Group.

These port visits show the PN's commitment in promoting multilateral cooperation aside from maintaining and strengthening Navy-to-Navy relations to validate friendship and cooperative engagement with its counterparts in other countries, the PN said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1051633

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 18): AFP chief leads observance of Code of Ethics Day

AFP Chief of Staff General Carlito Galvez Jr. leads the renewal of oath of AFP Code of Ethics (Photo courtesy of PAO, AFP)
General Carlito Galvez Jr., chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines led the observance of the Code of Ethics

During the event, Galvez led the renewal of oath to the AFP Code of Ethics during the flag raising ceremony on Monday, October 15 at the Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

The Code of Ethics reminds soldiers to obey the Chain of Command and follow the core values and traditions of valor, duty, honor, solidarity, and loyalty to the Constitution.

“Today, as we render honors to the flag, we also join the rest of the nation in observing the Code of Ethics day,” Galvez said.

Military officers and enlisted personnel from the different branches of service in the General Headquarters raised their right hand as they renewed their pledge to the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Military Personnel in the AFP.

Later in his speech, Galvez urged AFP personnel not to seek personal interests but instead focus on the betterment of the organization as they fulfil their mandate in serving the state.

“The Code of Ethics veers us away from temptation by leading us to an honorable path of service. It sets the ethical standards for us officers and enlisted personnel and civilian employees to do our job,” Galvez said.

The Chief of Staff emphasized that there is no place for corruption in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“Corruption is one of the major menaces in our society, it undermines good governance, extorts decent service, and corrodes the core of the organization,” Galvez said

“These corrupt, irresponsible, and incompetent people certainly have no place in the Armed Forces, and we will make sure that they will pay for what they have done in our organization. We do not tolerate misconduct,” Galvez said.

Galvez also ensured the people that the culprits behind the V. Luna issue will face the consequences of their actions.

“In all other cases, we assure that all erring personnel will be thoroughly investigated and be subjected to the AFP Court Martial. We will do this to preserve the integrity of our service,” Galvez said

“On our end, each of us should do our parts in the best way that we can. No task is ever small if we can find the fulfillment in our actions. That at the end of the day, we know in ourselves that we have done something good and accomplished something helpful to the organization.” Galvez added.

He added that as AFP continues its service, military officers should always be guided not only by the code of ethics but also the morals and the inner conscience of doing what is good and what is right.

At the end of his remarks, the AFP Chief reiterated his reminder that the Armed Forces should not be disturbed by the political noise, and that the organization remains solid and undivided.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1013973

From the often pro-Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) online publication the Davao Today (Oct 17): White December: Is AFP becoming a fiction writer? Gabriela wants to know

Gabriela Women’s Partylist Representatives hit out the Armed Forces of the Philippines for disclosing yet another ouster plot against President Rodrigo Duterte whom the AFP now called as “White December.”

“After the so-called “Red October” hysteria didn’t fly, the AFP is now desperately repackaging their baseless storyline as “White Christmas.” Since when did the military become fiction writers?,” Gabriela Representatives Arlene Brosas and Emmi de Jesus said in a statement.

The AFP said the Left’s Red October plot has fizzled out after it was made known to the public. But the AFP insisted that such ouster plot was a “rolling plan” that would culminate come December in time for the Communist Party of the Philippines’ 50th anniversary.

Reacting to AFP’s claim, Gabriela said the AFP’s “White December” was the government’s diversionary tactic from the real issues of inflation, and skyrocketing prices of commodities.

“Moving a fictional Red October plot to December after it has been bared to be a work of feeble minds is a desperate move to divert people’s attention from the Duterte government’s ineptitude in controlling inflation and prices of basic commodities and the plummeting value of the peso,” the militant solons added.

The militant lawmakers said Duterte and his economic advisers were so “stubborn in deflecting blame on the TRAIN Law for the nonstop price hikes yet they can’t solve it, they would rather blame this to fictional ouster movement.”

“Conveniently, the AFP continues this ouster-plot concoction to set the stage for a deluge of worse human rights violations against legal mass organizations and personalities. Attacks against progressives and dissenters are now trivialized and shrugged off as part of the campaign against said ouster plot. It is also being used as black propaganda against progressives this coming 2019 elections,” it said.

According to Gabriela, the AFP’s “White December is nothing but another failed attempt of the administration and the AFP to a book store’s best seller section. This is nothing but a waste of billion peso worth of intelligence funds that could have been use to efforts to ease impact of runaway inflation.”

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/white-december-is-afp-becoming-a-fiction-writer-gabriela-wants-to-know/

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 18): Police: MNLF official now detained in Lapu-Lapu City

Police arrested an official of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Lapu Lapu City, Cebu on Wednesday afternoon (October 17).

Chief Supt. Debold Sinas, director of Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7), said that the suspect had a pending case in Ormoc City, Leyte.

Sinas also said that the suspect is now detained in Lapu-Lapu City.

Meanwhile, police are now on alert following the arrival of 72 delegates from different southeast Asian countries for the 10th Information Ministerial Meeting on Science and Technology scheduled from October 17 to 19.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/199523/police-mnlf-official-now-detained-in-lapu-lapu-city

From the Cebu Daily News (Oct 18): Moro leader wanted for arson collared in Lapu

A man who is said to be a ranking official of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) was arrested in Lapu-Lapu for a crime which he committed while he was still in Ormoc City, Leyte province.

Rajah Ahmad Tano, who has a pending case for arson in his hometown, has been hiding with relatives in Barangay Basak since September, said Supt. Mark Gifter Sucalit, head of the City Intelligence Branch (CIB) of the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office.

Sucalit said that the Police Regional Office in Region 8 (PRO-8) sought the help of the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7) in locating Tano’s whereabouts in Cebu.

A joint team consisting of personnel from the Central Visayas Regional Intelligence Division (RID-7), Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG -7), Regional Force Mobile Company (RFMC), Lapu-Lapu City Intelligence Branch and Ormoc City police served the warrant of arrest on Tano at around 7 p.m. on Wednesday.

Judge Marcelino Malate of Municipal Trial Circuit Court (MTCC) of 8th Judicial Region in Ormoc City issued the warrant for Tano’s arrest for violation of Section 29 of Presidential Decree 705 or the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines. Sucalit said that Tanoc, 46, is now detained in Lapu-Lapu City while Ormoc police prepare to transport him back home.

Following Tano’s arrest, Chief Supt. Debold Sinas, PRO-7 director, said he does not discount the possibility of having other MNLF members who are now hiding in Central Visayas.

But Sinas gave the assurance that the region remains safe for its local and visitors alike.
https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/199543/morro-leader-wanted-for-arson-collared-in-lapu

From PTV News (Oct 19): Review of martial law extension in Mindanao still on: AFP

Troops in the field are still gathering data to determine whether martial law in Mindanao would again be extended, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato, said Thursday.

Detoyato said the review on the possible extension of martial law in the region had been ongoing since it was first implemented.

“Since Day One, kasi (because) we always assess the security on a daily basis,” he said in a message to reporters.

Detoyato added that they have yet to give President Rodrigo Duterte a recommendation on the matter as there is no timeline.

“We cannot give a categorical statement because there is no need for it (statement) right now,” he said.

Earlier, Malacañang said it would depend on the recommendation of the AFP on whether martial law would be re-extended after the end of the year.

Martial law in Mindanao was declared on May 23, 2017 following attacks launched by the Maute Group in Marawi City.

The House of Representatives, in a special joint session in July last year, granted the extension of martial law until Dec. 31, 2017 at the President’s request.

The Senate and House of Representatives, convening in a joint session early December, granted the Chief Executive’s request for the extension of martial law and the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus for a period of one year from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2018.

https://www.ptvnews.ph/review-of-martial-law-extension-in-mindanao-still-on-afp/

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 19): Suspected NPA rebels torch road equipment in Negros Oriental
Around 40 suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) torched two heavy equipment units in Barangay Bolisong in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental on Thursday night.

The armed men set on fire a bulldozer and a backhoe owned by PhilSouth Construction, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said in a report on Friday.

Passengers of a bus who witnessed the incident told investigators that the men shouted “Mabuhay ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan (Long live, New People’s Army)” as the flames engulfed the equipment.

No casualty was reported in the incident, the PNP said.

Police officers in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are still in hot pursuit of the perpetrators.

Investigators are looking at extortion as possible motive for the incident.

Officials of the Negros Oriental condemned the attack of the Communist Party of the Philippines – NPA (CPP-NPA), as it hampered the ongoing roadwork projects of a vital farm-to-market road in the province.

“Those behind this crime are resisting entry of development in the countryside that would have ushered government presence and availability of goods and services that will benefit people in the barrios,” PNP Chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said.

‘Koda Supermarket’

Meanwhile, Police Director Mao Aplasca, PNP Director for Operations, has also alerted all police units to conduct operations to counter the offensive activities of the CPP-NPA dubbed as “Koda Supermarket.”

This tactic aims to collect firearms and equipment from the police and the military by conducting raids and ambush, the PNP said.

Aplasca said that the recent ambuscades staged by the NPA in Lupi, Camarines Sur on Thursday, October 18, and in Aurora province on Tuesday, October 16, were part of this strategy.

Four police officers were killed in the two separate ambush incidents.

“We condemn these latest acts of lawless terror by the local communist movement against symbols of government authority. We mourn their loss, but assure the ends of justice will be served,” Albayalde said.

Albayalde noted that the recent attacks of the CPP-NPA could be meant to project them a strong image to highlight their 50th-founding anniversary on December 26.

He said the communists could also be aiming at boosting extortion activities as the election season heats up.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1044884/suspected-npa-rebels-torch-road-equipment-in-negros-oriental

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 19): PNP bares new CPP-NPA tactical offensive: Koda Supermarket

After the stalled “Red October” destabilization plot against the government comes “Koda Supermarket.”

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday bared an alleged new tactical offensive being carried out by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) which has been directly linked to two ambushcades this week.

Philippine National Police Chief Director Oscar Albayalde
(Kevin Tristan Espiritu / MANILA BULLETIN)
PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde issued an order to Police Director Mao Aplasca, PNP director for operations, to conduct counter-actions against stepped-up tactical offensive activities of the CPP-NPA dubbed as Koda Supermarket.

According to Albayalde, the Koda Supermarket is aimed at “collecting more firearms and equipment from police and military targets through raids and ambuscades on soft targets and other targets of opportunity.”

“The increased activity by the CPP-NPA could also be part of its ‘saber-rattling’ tactics to project an image of strength to highlight the forthcoming CPP anniversary [on] December 26, and to bolster its extortion activities in the forthcoming election season next year,” Albayalde said in a statement.

The NPA has long been known for “collecting” firearms and equipment of parties or individuals they victimize.

In the previous months, the military and police bared that the CPP-NPA crafted Red October ouster plot against President Duterte but it has since been “dissolved” when the authorities uncovered it.

‘Koda Supermarket’

As for the new CPP-NPA tactic, the PNP said the latest activity tied to Koda Supermarket was the reported burning activity of several heavy equipment in Negros Oriental on Thursday night allegedly perpetrated by communist rebels.

A report reaching PNP National Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City said at least 40 armed men set on fire a bulldozer and a back hoe owned by PhilSouth Construction in Barangay Bolisong, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental.

Luckily, no one was reported hurt in the incident.

Albayalde said passengers of a commercial bus who witnessed the incident heard the suspects shouting “Mabuhay ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan!” while torching the heavy equipment.

The PNP said police maneuver forces in Negros Island in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines were already in hot pursuit against the suspects behind the burning incident.

Albayalde said investigators were looking into possible extortion attempt as the motive for the arson.

Meanwhile, local officials of Negros Oriental denounced the latest atrocity suspectedly committed by the CPP-NPA and called it as an “obstacle to development” since it stalled the ongoing roadworks project of a farm-to-market road in the province.

Aside from that, the PNP also associated the Koda Supermarket to two ambuscades in Camarines Sur on Thursday and in Aurora province on Tuesday. Four police officers were killed in the said ambuscades.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/10/19/pnp-bares-new-cpp-npa-tactical-offensive-koda-supermarket/

From the Daily Guardian (Oct 20): Suspected NPA killed in clash with troopers

AYUNGON, Negros Oriental – A suspected member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) was killed in an encounter with members of the Army’s 62nd Infantry (Unifier) Battalion at Sitio Nabali-an, Barangay Carol-an, Ayungon Negros Oriental, morning of October 18, 2018.

The alleged rebel was identified as alias “Dagul” based on a report from the 303rd Brigade of the Philippine Army said.

His body has been turned over to the Ayungon Municipal Police Station.

The encounter also resulted in the recovery of two backpacks, two hand-held radios with charger, two magazines of AK-47 rifle with live ammunitions, two rifle grenades, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Egberto O Dacoscos, 62IB Commanding Officer, they received and acted upon a report from a concerned citizen about the presence of more or less 15 armed persons in the areas.

They were met with gunfire as they approached the area, prompting the soldiers to retaliate.

The firefight lasted for about 40 minutes, which resulted in the death of the Dagul and wounded two 62IB soldiers.

https://thedailyguardian.net/negros/suspected-npa-killed-in-clash-with-troopers/

From GMA News (Oct 20): Military claims 3 Maute-ISIS remnants surrender in Lanao Sur

CAMP SANG-AN, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur –A military commander in Lanao del Sur of Saturday said three remnants of the ISIS influenced Maute members surrendered last Thursday, a year after Marawi City was declared liberated from the 5-month siege by the terrorist group.

Lieutenant Colonel Edgar Villanueva, 49th Infantry Battalion Commander, told reporters that the three, whom he did not identify, surrendered to his command through efforts of some local officials.

The three, he said, also yielded one RPG, one caliber .45 handgun, magazines, and ammunition.

According to Villanueva, “the three were recruited during the Marawi Siege, however they were not able to insert in the main battle area due to the relentless security efforts and checkpoints around Lanao Lake.

“One of them was involved in Pagayawan clash last June 2018,” he added.

Major General Roseller Murillo, Joint Task Force Zampelan Commander, commended the troops, local officials and other concerned groups for facilitating the surrender of the Maute remnants.

“We will continuously collaborate with different stakeholders and concerned citizens to encourage other Maute-ISIS remnants to surrender and go back to mainstream society,” Murillo added.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/671866/military-claims-3-maute-isis-remnants-surrender-in-lanao-sur/story/

DWDD: CONSULTATION DIALOGUE | 33IB talks with residents of Brgy Langgapanan, Sultan Sa Barongis, Maguindanao (Video)

DWDD: MARITIME EXERCISE | PH Navy sets sail for the first-ever ASEAN-China Maritime Exercise 2018

DWDD: COMMUNITYY DEVELOPMENT | DSWD partners with 52nd ECB to construct Lumad schools in Davao del Norte town

DWDD: ASSISTANCE | Another Set of Surrenderees receives E-Clip benefits from the Government

DWDD: WEAKENING | Two DawlahIslamiya/Maute Members; Surrenders in Lanao del Sur

DWDD: CLOSING CEREMONY | Electrical Installation and Maintenance (NC II) for former rebels, mass base supporters and their dependents

PH-Aussie navies conclude maritime training vs. terrorism threats

BIFF man killed in clash with MILF in Maguindanao

MILF bares ‘10 priorities’ in transitioning to BARMM

PH marks 74th anniversary of the historic Leyte landing

BRP Tarlac to arrive home Monday

AFP chief leads observance of Code of Ethics Day

White December: Is AFP becoming a fiction writer? Gabriela wants to know

Police: MNLF official now detained in Lapu-Lapu City

Moro leader wanted for arson collared in Lapu

Review of martial law extension in Mindanao still on: AFP

Suspected NPA rebels torch road equipment in Negros Oriental

PNP bares new CPP-NPA tactical offensive: Koda Supermarket

Suspected NPA killed in clash with troopers

Military claims 3 Maute-ISIS remnants surrender in Lanao Sur