Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 26, 2021): 140 Households in Licab Benefit from Relief Operations

Nueva Ecija – The Local Government of Licab and 84th Infantry (Victorious) Battalion joined hands in the conduct of relief operations for the residents of Sitio Carriedo, Brgy Sta Maria, Licab, Nueva Ecija who were directly affected by the Severe Tropical Storm “MARING” on October 12.

The affected residents received a five kilos of rice, six canned goods, four noodles and six sachets of Coffee each house hold.

According to Hon Eufemia D Domingo, Municipal Mayor of Licab, “Ang pagtugon sa emergency na ito ay madalian upang hindi makaranas ng gutom ang mga naapektuhang pamilya”. She added that, “Dapat maipamahagi ang mga tulong na pagkain ng walang pagliban”.

The residents are all safe and thankful for the initiatives of LGU Licab and Army by acting immediately in extending assistance for the affected constituents.

“Ang inyong kasundaluhan ay palaging nakahandang tumulong at maglingkod para sa ating mga kababayan katuwang ang mga lokal na pamahalaan lalo na sa mga panahong may krisis dulot ng masamang panahong nararanasan”. According to First Lieutenant Ralph Andy Ranario, Company Commander of Alpha Company, 84IB.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Enrico Gil C Ileto, Commanding Officer of 84th Infantry (Victorious) Battalion lauded the troops in teaming up with the LGU in acting immediately by extending support to the affected residents. He also ensured the continued collaboration and partnership of the 84IB and LGUs in delivering basic services to the Novo Ecijanos.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/140-households-in-licab-benefit-from-relief-operations-2/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 26, 2021): Persistent AFP and PNP Ops Led to Another Successful Seizure of CTG Anti-Tank, Anti-Personnel Mines and Several Bomb Accessories in Sorsogon

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-Government troops forayed upon a bomb-making site of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Barangay Dolos, Bulan, Sorsogon at around 5 o’clock in the morning, Tuesday, October 26.

Elements of 31st Infantry Battalion (31IB) received a report from the residents about the location of a bomb-making area to which the troops, together with the personnel from 22nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) and 903rd Infantry Brigade and Sorsogon Police Provincial Office, immediately verified.

Two anti-personnel mines, anti-tank mine, binocular, 53 casings of molotov bombs, 13 casings of anti-personnel mines, 2kg of bolts and nuts and 66-meter electrical wire for IED were seized from the area.

With this, Lt. Col. Marlon Mojica, Battalion Commander of 31IB, underscored that possible atrocities the CTG planned to hurl were preempted and extended his gratitude to the local populace for the timely information.

He added that the said war materiel are meant to hurt, kill, and intimidate people, especially now that there is a forthcoming election.

Col. Aldwine Almase, Brigade Commander of 903rd Brigade, on the other hand, lambasted the CTG for continuously manufacturing explosives adding that these are another concrete evidence of their violation of domestic laws, the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as well as the human rights.

“Hindi nila kayang makipaglaban sa pwersa ng gobyerno sa patas na paraan kaya patuloy silang gumagawa at gumagamit ng mga ipinagbabawal na pampasabog na maaaring magdala ng peligro hindi lamang sa ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan kundi maging sa buhay ng mga inosenteng sibilyan. Malaki ang aming pasasalamat sa pagmamalasakit at suporta ng ating lokal na pamayanan daan upang mapigilan ang karahasan ng mga komunistang terorista at pagkakaligtas ng maraming buhay mula sa mga bombang gawa ng CTG,” Col. Almase said.

Meanwhile, Police Regional Office-5 (PRO-5) under PBGEN JONNEL C ESTOMO warned the CTG of the PNP and Army’s non-stop joint operations against them.

“Baka akala ng mga komunistang teroristang ito, nananakot lang tayo. We walk the talk that is why we have been sustaining the momentum in this fight,” PBGen. Estomo added.

The Joint Task Force (JTF) Bicolandia under MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA stressed that with the presence of security forces coupled with the vigilance of the Bicolanos, the CTG can no longer evade the authorities or even hide their war materiel.

“Having lost their mass bases, the support of the communities and more than a thousand of their comrades who already returned to the folds of the law, the CTG can no longer regain their influence. Kaya kompyansa tayong tuluyan nang mabubura ang insurhensya sa Bicol dahil ang patuloy na pagkakaisa ng pwersa ng pamahalaan, mga ahensya ng gobyerno, mga lokal na pamahalaan at ng mga mamamayan ang lalong nagpapahina sa teroristang grupong ito. Umasa po kayong hindi namin papayagang muling makapaghasik ng karahasan ang CTG dito sa Bicol,” MGen. Robinson added.

He also added that violence and terrorism has no place in the Filipino’s culture of peace and respect for human lives.

It can be recalled that just last Sunday, October 24, five CTG personalities were killed in Mandaon, Masbate after retaliating from PNP personnel who were supposed to serve arrest warrants. Several high-powered firearms and explosives were also seized.

The relentless joint operations of the Army, PNP, and other uniformed services has caused the continuing decline of CTG members and their capabilities in Sorsogon, Masbate, and the rest of Bicol Region.

JTF Bicolandia reiterated that the intensified and persistent operations of Army and PNP in Bicol continue to bring the terrorist group nearer and nearer to its narural death.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/30-former-rebels-receive-additional-ayuda-from-governor-zubiri/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 26, 2021): 89IB Facilitated Medical Evacuation and Treatment of Two (2) Wounded Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) Members

SANTO TOMAS, DAVAO DEL NORTE – Two (2) wounded CTG members from SRGU, SRC5, SMRC under Lutenant APOGA @MACKY who were left behind by their comrades during an encounter were immediately evacuated by the government troops after a clash between the CTGs and one (1) Squad operating troops of Charlie Company, 89IB under 1LT MICHAEL ASUNCION (INF) PA at Brgy Sto Domingo, San Fernando, Bukidnon on October 24, 2021@ 10:00 in the evening.

Accordingly, said CTG members were tasked to pick up their supplies at Brgy Sto Domingo, San Fernando, Bukidnon but were detected due to information coming from the populace which resulted to an encounter and capture of wounded CTG regulars namely: Edol SENINGKI
@SANDER – Platoon CO, Basil Platoon, SRGU, SRC5, SMRC and
Mubo MANSUMUY-AT
@RAM- Platoon VCO, Andoy Platoon, SRGU, SRC5, SMRC

@SANDER sustained gunshot wounds in his head and thigh while @RAM is in his thigh and stomach. Both were immediately treated and given first aid by the troops of Charlie Company, 89IB prior evacuation at 10ID Station Hospital for appropriate medical attention.

Ironic to the deceitful doctrine of the CTGs on camaraderie and sacrifice, they had left their wounded members struggling to survive. Such actions only showed their deception and exploitation of their own armed group whom they only utilize as puppets on their unpopular revolution. Fortunately, both wounded CTG members are now recuperating and in stable condition with the help and assistance of our troops.

LTC DONALD P GAFFUD INF (GSC) PA, Battalion Commander, 89IB thanked the populace for their support in giving information which resulted to the encounter. He is likewise appealing to the remaining CTGs to surrender and return to the folds of the law and avail of the different programs and benefits that the government is offering in order to live a peaceful and productive life.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/89ib-facilitated-medical-evacuation-and-treatment-of-two-2-wounded-communist-terrorist-group-ctg-members/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 26, 2021): CGPA leads demilitarization of captured firearms in 6ID

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Andres Centino led yesterday, October 26, 2021, the ceremonial demilitarization of captured, confiscated, surrendered, and recovered firearms at the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) headquarters in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

The ceremony is part of the highlights of the celebration of 6ID’s 34th founding anniversary, the Philippine Army’s primary infantry division in Central Mindanao.

The CGPA commended 6ID troopers led by Maj. Gen. JuvyMax Uy for the surrender of 86 high-powered and 94 low-powered loose firearms and the seizure of 779 assorted firearms, 291 anti-personnel mines, and explosives from state enemies.

“These achievements greatly impact the enemy’s capability to generate resources, thus significantly reducing their ability to commit atrocities,” Lt. Gen. Centino said.

“Your invaluable contributions bring us closer to our collective goal of attaining just and lasting peace and enduring security that will pave the way for sustainable development,” he concluded.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/cgpa-leads-demilitarization-of-captured-firearms-in-6id/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 26, 2021): Office of the Army Chief Quartermaster has a new Chief

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – A new Chief of the Office of the Army Chief Quartermaster (OAQM) assumed post here today, October 27, 2021.

Army Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Roberto Capulong presided over the leadership change from the outgoing Chief Quartermaster Col. Edmundo Suficiencia to the incoming Chief Quartermaster Col. Dexter Macasaet.

Col. Macasaet is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Marilag” Class of 1995 and was the Director of Special Service Center, Installation Management Command (Provisional) [IMCOM(P)] before his post. He also served as the Commanding Officer of the 6th Field Service Support Unit, Army Support Command, and the Commandant of Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion, IMCOM (P).

He also studied the Combined Logistics Officer Advance Course in the United States Army Logistics Management College, Foreign Purchaser Course in the Defense Institute of Security Assistance, and Defense Research Management Simulation Course in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Master’s Degree in Public Management Major in Development and Security in Development Academy of the Philippines, and Master’s Degree in National Security and Administration in National Defense College of the Philippines.

On the other hand, Col. Suficiencia, a graduate of the Officer Preparatory Course in 1991, has been serving in the Philippine Army for more than 30 years. As the Chief Quartermaster for more than three years, he completed 76 procurement projects; developed Technical Specifications and Test Parameters of 28 Initial Clothing and Individual Equipment; and amendment of three Technical Specifications for its procurement. He also supervised the implementation of the policies and procedures related to the management of the most critical supplies of the Army.

“I ask for the continuous optimism of the whole OACQM family. Work with Col. Macasaet as one team and sustain the issuance of quality Quartermaster items to our troops on the ground. With your new chief and the strong foundation built by his predecessors, your office will surely reach more milestones,” addressed Maj. Gen. Capulong.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/office-of-the-army-chief-quartermaster-has-a-new-chief/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 26, 2021): CSAFP spearheads demilitarization of 316 CCSR Firearms in 4ID

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP), General Jose C Faustino Jr, spearheaded today’s ceremonial demilitarization of 316 firearms that were captured, confiscated, surrendered and recovered (CCSR) by the troops of 4ID held at the Alcoseba Hall of the Headquarters of the 4ID in Camp Evangelista, Brgy Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.

The CSAFP is on his farewell visit at the Headquarters of the 4ID/Joint Task Force Diamond (JTFD). He was warmly welcomed with Full Military Honors by the Officers and Enlisted Personnel of JTFD led by Major General Romeo S Brawner Jr, 4ID Commander.

As one of the highlights, Gen Faustino Jr and MGen Brawner Jr led the ceremonial demilitarization of 316 assorted CCSR firearms of the organic and operationally controlled units of the 4ID deployed in the different areas in Caraga and Northern Mindanao regions for the period February to December 2020.

The CCSR firearms were recommended by 4ID for demilitarization and was approved by the Commanding General, Philippine Army. 88 were standard firearms which were beyond economical repair and 228 were non-standard firearms. Non-standard firearms refers to firearms that are not in the AFP’s inventory.

In his statement, Gen Faustino Jr said that the demilitarization of CCSR firearms is conducted as part of a procedure that will ensure that these firearms will not be used anymore for other purposes. He said, “The demilitarization of firearms is a demonstration of the government’s commitment to end the local communist armed conflict by destroying the very instruments used to propagate terrorism against our people.”

He also emphasized that the effort to entice CTG members to surrender is continually undertaken as the AFP is collaborating with other government agencies in advancing the E-CLIP.

“Bukas ang ating AFP, everyone can interview the former rebels on how they were treated and how they are living normal lives right now. We are still offering the hand of peace to the members and leaders of the CTG. The government has the programs and instrumentalities to accept those who decide to surrender”, Gen Faustino Jr added.

Meanwhile, MGen Brawner Jr said that, since January 2021, the 4ID was able to capture 151 high powered and low powered firearms during armed encounters, seize 77 high powered and low powered firearms from apprehended personalities and from arms caches, and further gained 170 high powered and low powered firearms from surrenderers.

“We will recommend the recent CCSR firearms for demilitarization in order to show to the general public that we will not allow the CTG to advocate violence, and intimidate and threaten innocent civilians with the said firearms”, MGen Brawner Jr added.

Demilitarization is the destruction of firearms by “cutting” its parts using a circular saw, whereby all firearm parts shall be rendered ineffective for use as a component or a complete firearm. Subsequently, the metal parts and scraps of demilitarized CCSR firearms must be finally disposed thru burning.

After the ceremonial demilitarization of the CCSR firearms, MGen Brawner Jr, in a Command Briefing, presented to the CSAFP the JTFD’s significant accomplishments followed by the awarding by the CSAFP of the Battle Streamers to the 402nd Infantry Brigade, 403rd Infantry Brigade, 26th Infantry Battalion and 1st Special Forces Battalion for major accomplishments

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/csafp-spearheads-demilitarization-of-316-ccsr-firearms-in-4id/

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 26, 2021): Fight the rapacity of giant monopoly capitalist oil companies

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

October 27, 2021

The nonstop sharp increases in the prices of diesel, gasoline and other petroleum products over the past two months are manifestations of the rapacity of the giant monopoly capitalist oil companies. These companies and their foreign monopoly capitalist partners are raking in billions and billions of pesos in superprofits at the expense of the Filipino people.

In the first half of the year, the biggest giant oil companies made gargantuan profits. Petron Corporation, owned by big bourgeois comprador Ramon Ang, recorded a net income of ₱3.87 billion. It resumed its refining operations in Bataan last July, making them the sole refiner of crude oil in the country. Likewise, Shell Pilipinas, a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell, posted a ₱2.2 billion net income for the first half of the year.

The net income of Phoenix Company, owned by Duterte crony Dennis Uy, increased from ₱121 million in the first quarter of the year, to ₱132 million in the second quarter. The company recently acquired the Malampaya gas operations buying off the shares of Shell and Chevron for ₱1,025 billion. Caltex Philippines, a local subsidiary of Chevron Company, continued to expand its operations opening 14 new gasoline stations since the start of 2021.

The wealth being accumulated by these oil companies serve to feed the conspicuous consumption and lavish lifestyle of their elite executives. They pocket superprofits without breaking a sweat, merely watching the money trickle in from the comfort of their airconditioned board rooms. They enjoy high living while the broad masses of the Filipino people suffer from low wages, joblessness and loss of income. While the oil elite swim in luxury, workers, peasants and the toiling people wallow in poverty and hunger and suffer the oppressive burden of skyrocketing prices of fuel, food and other basic commodities.

The giant oil companies are favored by the Philippine reactionary government. Their right to unmitigated accumulation of profit is institutionalized by the oil deregulation law which allows them to increase prices without state oversight or control. Through excessive tax impositions on oil prices, Duterte is equally responsible for the burden of high costs of fuel. These taxes feed large-scale corruption of the bureaucrat capitalists and cronies of the Duterte regime.

Various proposals for subsidizing oil prices will only shift and spread the burden of oppressive prices from the immediate consumers of petroleum products to the tax-payers in general. In essence, these are state subsidies to ensure the superprofits of oil companies.

The only acceptable and immediate solution to the problem of high prices of diesel, gasoline and other fuel products is for the oil companies to rollback their prices. A reduction in oil prices, even a substantial rollback, will not kill these oil companies. However, this is something that they will not do voluntarily as they are driven by no other motive but accumulating more and more profits. Despite exercising tyrannical powers against the people, Duterte will neither use his powers to compel his compadre Ramon Ang and his ilk to mitigate their greed.

Only the Filipino people possess the power to compel the oil companies to roll back their prices. They must muster their collective strength and manifest their outrage against the oil profiteers who make wealth at their expense and against the bureaucrat capitalists who line up their pockets with taxes paid for every liter of fuel bought.

The people must direct their protests to expose, denounce and fight the greed of these oil companies and bureaucrat capitalists, and demand a rollback in oil prices and removal of excessive taxes.

https://cpp.ph/statements/fight-the-rapacity-of-giant-monopoly-capitalist-oil-companies/

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 27, 2021): Plantasyon ng kawayan, malaking negosyo sa tabing ng reporestasyon

Balita noong Lunes ang paghingi ni Sec. Roy Cimatu ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources ng suporta sa United Nations Development Programme para sa planong pagtatayo ng mga plantasyon ng kawayan sa lahat ng lunsod at bayan sa buong bansa. Ito ay kasunod ng paglalabas ng kagawaran sa Administrative Order 2021-26 (DAO 2021-26) noong Agosto na naglatag ng mga patakaran at regulasyon sa pagtatanim, pag-ani at transportasyon ng mga kawayan sa bansa.

Pinalalabas ni Cimatu na layuning “tugunan” ng proyekto ang climate change dahil sa mataas na kapasidad ng kawayan sa pagsipsip ng karbon mula sa hangin at pagpigil sa pagguho ng lupa. Gayunpaman, huwad ang pagdadahilang ito dahil inamin din mismo niya na ang programa ay nakatuon sa pag-aani at pag-eeksport ng kawayan. Pinapaboran ng DENR ang pagtatanim ng kawayan dahil relatibong mas mabilis itong tumubo at maani (5-7 taon) kumpara sa iba pang mga puno.

Ayon sa mga upisyal sa ekonomya ni Duterte, target ng rehimen na maglatag ng 23,671 ektarya ng mga plantasyon ng kawayan sa buong bansa ngayong taon, at 40,000 ektarya sa 2022. Tumataginting na P22 bilyon ang inilaan ng rehimen ngayong taon para isakatuparan ang programang ito. Noong 2020, una nang tinukoy ng DENR ang Western Visayas bilang sentro ng produksyon ng kawayan sa bansa kung saan tinarget nitong maglatag ng 13,500 ektarya ng mga plantasyon ng kawayan.

Bahagi ang programang ito ng Enhanced National Greening Program (E-NGP) ng DENR na matagal nang nalantad bilang iskema para sa malawakang pang-aagaw ng lupa para sa contract-growing ng mga komersyal na kahoy at pananim na nakatuon sa eksport. Isa ang kawayan bilang isa sa mga pangunahing pananim sa mga erya ng E-NGP. Apat na species ng kawayan ang itinatanim sa mga plantasyon ng E-NGP: kawayan tinik, giant buho, bayog at bolo.

Ginagamit ng estado ang E-NGP para palayasin ang mga magsasaka at katutubo sa mga kinaklasipika nitong mga watershed area at kagubatan, at para kamkamin ang kanilang mga sakahan at lupaing ninuno sa ngalan ng reporestasyon. Gaya ng kalakhan ng mga kontrata sa ilalim ng E-NGP, tiyak na igagawad ang malalaking kontrata para sa pagpoprodyus ng kawayan sa mga lokal na pulitiko at kanilang mga kasosyong negosyante sa agroforestry.

Sa Mindanao, kung saan planong gamitin ang malalawak na mga watershed area para sa kawayan, ang programa ay pinangangasiwaan ng Mindanao Development Authority na pinamumunuan ngayon ng alipures ni Duterte na si Emmanuel Piñol na nasangkot sa iba’t ibang mga anomalya nang siya’y magsilbi bilang kalihim ng Department of Agriculture. Si Piñol ay tumatakbong senador sa ilalim ng Nationalist People’s Coalition. Pangungunahan ng multinasyunal na kumpanyang Nestlé ang pagtatanim ng 2.5 milyong kawayan sa Mindanao. Notoryus ang kumpanya sa pagkontrol sa libu-libong ektarya ng mga taniman ng kape sa isla sa pamamagitan ng iskemang contract growing, at pambabarat sa mga magsasaka.

Noon lamang Mayo, pinangunahan ng malalaking negosyanteng nagpoprodyus ng kawayan sa Mindanao at ni Piñol ang pagkuha ng “international commodity certification” (sertipiko para ituring na “pandaigdigang kalakal”) para bigyang-daan ang malakihang pag-eeksport ng kawayan sa US para magsilbi sa industriya ng kontruksyon nito. Halos lahat ng mga mwebles na gawa sa kawayan na ineeksport ng Pilipinas ay napupunta sa US. Sa 990 metriko toneladang (MT) mwebles na gawa sa kawayan na ineksport ng bansa noong nakaraang taon, 96% (954 MT) ang napunta sa US. Mas mataas ang bolyum na ito nang higit dalawang beses kumpara sa ineksport ng bansa (398 MT) sa US noong 2019.

Noong Hunyo 2020, naglabas ng kautusan ang DENR na nag-oobliga sa lahat ng mga kumpanya sa pagmimina na magtayo ng mga plantasyon ng kawayan na katumbas ng 10% ng erya ng kanilang konsesyon sa pagmimina. Sasaklawin ng mga plantasyong ito ang mga pribadong lupain sa tabi ng mga minahan sa pamamagitan ng iskemang contract growing.

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/plantasyon-ng-kawayan-malaking-negosyo-sa-tabing-ng-reporestasyon/

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27, 2021): Napolcom nod on mass promotion to boost cops' morale: PNP (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

File photo

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday welcomed the National Police Commission’s (Napolcom) approval of the promotion of some 27,000 police officers to the rank of Police Corporal up to Police Lieutenant Colonel under the organization’s promotion program.

“The PNP is truly grateful to the Napolcom for its approval of the promotion of some 27,000 of our police personnel, who I am sure are elated by this opportunity and prospect for career advancement. This will serve as an inspiration for our police personnel to perform at their best,” said PNP chief, Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, in a statement.

Eleazar said he has already tasked different PNP offices to start the process with the observance of the appropriate guidelines on promotion.

“As chief of the police force, I guarantee that the PNP Promotion Board, together with the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Records Management and other concerned units, will ensure transparency and fairness and will strictly observe the guidelines in the promotion process. This promotion is very important for the career development of every police officer in the organization. This will also develop the efficiency of the entire team PNP in performing its mandate and not just in their individual capacity as PNP personnel,” he said.

On Tuesday, the Napolcom announced that its en banc approved Resolution No. 2021-1218, which grants the PNP chief the authority to fill up a total of 27,460 promotional vacancies in the second level ranks to facilitate the ascending career movement of police personnel.

The move also aims to prevent further congestion in the patrolman and patrolwoman ranks.

The Napolcom has allowed the PNP to fill 1,000 promotional slots for Police Lieutenant Colonel (PLTCOL); 720 for Police Major (PMAJ); 980 for Police Captain (PCPT); 320 for Police Lieutenant (PLT); 2,780 for Police Executive Master Sergeant (PEMS); 4,140 for Police Chief Master Sergeant (PCMS); 5,980 for Police Senior Master Sergeant (PSMS); 5,570 for Police Master Sergeant (PMSg); 2,640 for Police Staff Sergeant (PSSg); and 3,330 for Police Corporal (PCpl).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1157893

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27, 2021): Australia equipment donation to boost AFP drive vs. extremism (By Priam Nepomuceno)

ANTI-EXTREMISM EQUIPMENT. AFP chief, Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. (center); CRSAFP commander, Maj. Gen. Manuel Sequitin (right), and Australian Assistant Defense Attache, Lt. Col. Timothy John Lopsik check out the equipment donated by the Australian government, in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday (Oct. 26, 2021). The equipment, which was turned over to the Civil Relations Service AFP, include high-tech computers, tablets, storage devices, smart TVs, cameras, and audio recording components which will be used in the AFP's anti-violent extremism campaign. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday turned over to its Civil Relations Service essential electronic equipment earlier donated by Australia, which will be used in efforts to counter violent extremism.

“The electronic equipment and gadgets, previously housed at the AFP Education, Training, and Doctrine Command (AFPETDCOM), will enhance the capability of the CRSAFP (Civil Relations Service AFP) in their function of documenting and encoding diverse and vast information on personalities and events relative to violent extremism and terrorism,” AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., said in a statement.

Faustino, together with CRSAFP commander, Maj. Gen. Manuel Sequitin, led the turnover of the equipment in a ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Representing the Australian government were Lt. Col. Timothy John Lopsik, assistant defense attache, and Sara Fouchy, defense intelligence liaison officer and second secretary of the Australian Embassy.

The AFPETDCOM, led by Maj. Gen. Francisco Ariel Felicidario III received the donation of modern information technology and multimedia equipment by Canberra on June 23.

“The AFP is fortunate to have been afforded essential electronic equipment by one of its staunch allies in combatting terrorism – the Australian government through its embassy here in the Philippines,” Faustino said.

Among the new equipment were high-tech computers, tablets, storage devices, smart TVs, cameras, and audio recording components.

Sequitin said the data collected and processed through the equipment are crucial in the AFP’s efforts to develop proactive measures in preventing and countering violent extremism.

“We at the CRS are given a unique task. We are unlike any other soldiers because we are not armed with long rifles and heavy equipment. Instead, on our hands are cameras ready to capture reality, loudspeakers for speaking the truth, and our hearts always ready to extend a helping hand,” he said.

The equipment will also boost the CRSAFP’s current capability to provide commanders and troops more valuable materials and timely information to effectively carry out counter violent extremism efforts.

Faustino also assured that the AFP could address some of the root causes of terrorism and violent extremism, however complex and multifaceted they may be.

“As espoused by the United Nations, violent extremism may be prevented through inclusive development, tolerance and respect for diversity – measures that the AFP has successfully championed over the years as we shifted towards convergence of efforts in order to achieve lasting peace and sustainable development in the countryside,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1157887

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27, 2021): AFP elated over top rank in approval, trust survey (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MOST TRUSTED. The AFP ranks first in the Institution Approval Scorecard of the 3rd quarter “Pahayag” survey of independent pollster PUBLiCUS Asia, Inc. conducted from October 11 to 18, with a rating of 66.73 percent. The military also topped the Institution Trust Scorecard with a rating of 49.06 percent. (Screenshot from PUBLiCUS Asia Inc. website)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) welcomed the latest results of a non-commissioned survey where it garnered the highest approval and trust ratings among government agencies.

"In its 3rd Quarter Survey involving 1,500 respondents, the AFP maintained its 67 percent total approval rating and 49 percent high trust rating," AFP spokesperson, Army Col. Ramon Zagala, said in a statement Tuesday night, referring to the results of the survey, conducted by independent pollster PUBLiCUS Asia, Inc.

The survey, conducted from October 11 to 18, showed that the AFP topped the Institution Approval Scorecard with 66.73 percent, followed by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) with 62.73 percent; Philippine Air Force (PAF), 58.2 percent; Department of Science and Technology, 58 percent; and Department of Social Welfare and Development, 57.46 percent.

The AFP also topped the Institution Trust Scorecard with 49.06 percent, followed by TESDA with 42.73 percent; PAF, 41 percent; Commission on Higher Education, 39 percent, and the Department of Education, 36.53 percent.

Zagala noted that the AFP considers the survey's result as a manifestation of the people’s positive perception of the accomplishment of its mission.

"We pledge our sustained performance with emphasis on our core values of honor, service, and patriotism to ensure the accomplishment of our mandate to protect the people and the state," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1157886

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27, 2021): NPA landmine blast meant to prevent dev’t in Iloilo villages (By Perla Lena) October 27, 2021, 5:54 pm

DETONATED. The area where the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) detonated two-directional type anti-personnel mine (APM) in Barangay Jolason, Tubungan in Iloilo on Oct. 24. In an interview on Wednesday (Oct. 27, 2021), Col. Gilbert Gorero, director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), said the rebel group would like to get rid of the presence of the Philippine National Police in the area so they can harass and get the support of the community. (Photo courtesy of Tubungan Municipal Police Station)

A recent anti-personnel mine (APM) explsion planted by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in the municipality of Tubungan, Iloilo on Oct. 24 was a tactic to prevent development in the area.

This, according to Col. Gilbert Gorero, director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), in an interview Wednesday, following an APM near the patrol base of the 1st Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Command (IPMFC) morning of Oct. 24 in Barangay Mayang, Tubungan.

A pursuit operation led to an encounter with members of the CPP-NPA Southern Front Committee, Komiteng Rehiyon Panay past 2 p.m. on the same day.

Some personnel of the mobile force, Cpl. Genel S. Simpas and Pat. Jessie L. Castamado, were wounded after the rebels detonated two-directional type APM that were hanging on a tree while their team was scouring the area in Barangay Jolason, around 1.2 kilometers away from Barangay Mayang.

The two wounded personnel are already in stable condition. Simpas underwent surgery after his face was hit by shrapnel while Castamado was subjected to psychological debriefing.

“They would like to get rid of the PNP (Philippine National Police) so they could do what they want like harassing the residents so it would be easier for them to get their support and prevent the development from coming into the area,” he said in dialect.

“IPPO condemns the act of terrorism. It is a blatant violation of humanitarian law and this is not allowed by law,” he said.

No civilian was hurt since when the policemen retaliated during the seven-minute firefight, they took into consideration innocent civilians who might be harmed since there are houses in the area, Gorero added.

The PNP, particularly IPPO, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other uniformed personnel are serious in implementing Executive Order 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to achieve the development being aspired by the community, he said.

He emphasized that cooperation from the community, which means their readiness to withdraw their support to the CPP-NPA, is also important should they want to see development.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1157958

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27, 2021): Maguindanao village councilman, companion slain in ambush (By Edwin Fernandez)

AMBUSHED. A Maguindanao village councilman gets killed along with his companion at the section of the national highway in Barangay Makir, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on Tuesday afternoon (Oct. 26, 2021). Authorities are still conducting follow-up operations to determine the motive of the attack. (Photo courtesy of DXMS Radyo Bida)

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao – A police manhunt is underway against two “persons of interest” who allegedly shot dead a village councilman and his companion here on Tuesday afternoon.

Lt. Fayeed Cana, spokesperson of the Maguindanao police provincial office, on Wednesday identified the victims as Mansor Andil, 34 village councilor of Barangay Pandag, and Aliakbar Abdulatip, 37, both of Pandag town in Maguindanao.

The victims were on board a motorbike when gunmen on a separate motorbike were seen by several villagers tailing them along the national highway in Barangay Makir at past 4 p.m.

The villagers heard a succession of gunfire and later found two men lying dead beside the highway.

Cana said the two assailants were earlier captured by security cameras suspiciously loitering near the municipal town hall before the shooting.

Lt. Col. Rommel Dela Vega, Datu Odin Sinsuat town police chief, said the victims died on the spot from multiple gunshot wounds.

Police found seven empty shells for a .45-caliber pistol at the scene.

“The motive of the attack is yet to be determined,” Dela Vega said.

“It was an ambush, two men down,” said Aliakbar Alim Sanilan, a resident of the village who lives near the crime scene.

Police follow-up operations are ongoing.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1157912

From MindaNews (Oct 27, 2021): MILF women brigade cry for gender equality in post-conflict Mindanao – study (By BONG S. SARMIENTO)

KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews / 27 October) – The women support brigade of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are not being treated equally unlike their male cohorts in terms of the ability to earn a living to help in the economic empowerment of their families or communities in post-conflict Mindanao, the British global charity organization Oxfam said.

Women in the MILF. MindaNews file photo by BOBBY TIMONERA

The Bangsamoro Islamic Women Auxiliary Brigade (BIWAB), an all-female unit, provides support to the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), the armed wing of the MILF that is now undergoing a decommissioning process. The women were not allowed in the firing line but were considered the reserve force during the decades-long conflict between the government and the MILF.

The plight of the BIWAB members and the Bangsamoro women were contained in a report released Wednesday entitled “Women Journeying Towards Peace: Ensuring Meaningful Participation and Economic Empowerment of the Bangsamoro Islamic Women Auxiliary Brigade (BIWAB) and Bangsamoro Women.”

The report showed that traditional gender expectations still prevail in the region, resulting for example in women bearing the brunt of care work responsibilities at home on top of earning a living and serving as BIWAB members, Oxfam Philippines said in a statement.

Commenting on the report, which was supported by the Australian government, Noraida Abo, executive director of the United Youth of the Philippines-Women (UnYPhil-Women), said the narratives of BIWAB members and civilian Bangsamoro women point to glaring realities in post-conflict Mindanao.

“They shine the light on the intricate links between the capacity of women to participate in economic activities and their ability to contribute meaningfully to rebuilding a war-torn community. Their stories tell us there is much left to be done if peace and development are to truly benefit Bangsamoro women,” she said.

The qualitative study, which involved focus group discussions with 58 Bangsamoro women, mostly BIWAB members, aims to draw insights from their experiences as part of the normalization process in BARMM.

It was jointly conducted by Oxfam Pilipinas, Al-Mujadilah Women’s Association, Inc. (AMWA), Tarbilang Foundation, Inc., UnYPhil-Women, Women Engaged in Action on UNSCR 1325 (WE Act 1325), and Community Organizers Multiversity (COM).

According to the research, many of the respondents who earn from farming also face the compounding effects of climate change and conflict, which force them to abandon their farms or businesses.

Abo also pointed out that the support provided for decommissioned combatants and civilians in the region do not distinguish between the needs of women and men.

“Women have distinct needs, especially since they play multiple roles at home and in their community. Many lack time to undergo trainings or pursue work and some do not even have control over their income because of their responsibility to their family,” Abo said.

Some participants in the study noted that aside from skills training, there are no other opportunities specifically made available for BIWAB members.

“Ever since, BIAF and BIWAB have been working together already. But with BARMM, we feel like we are being left behind in terms of opportunities,” one respondent said. She was referring to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, which was established in 2019 in line with the provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the final peace deal between the government and the MILF signed in 2014 after 17 years of negotiations.

Many of the study participants said they lacked access to capital and resources such as equipment. A respondent said that while they were trained to do agri-farming, not all of the graduates had access to equipment and tools to actually pursue farming. In one instance, the participants were taught how to make bread and pastries and were given electric ovens. However, many of them lived in areas without electricity.

Some complained about corruption in the barangay or municipality level while others lamented the slow and tedious process of accessing support from national agencies.

“The sense of mistrust towards the government is more evident among BIWAB officers and can hinder them from engaging with the State for possible economic development and women’s empowerment programs,” said Oxfam Pilipinas Gender Justice Advisor Jeanette Dulawan.

Dulawan said that the way forward now is for BARMM policy makers to reaffirm the importance of women leaders and their equal participation in the peace process, including humanitarian response and post-conflict reconstruction. She pointed out that there should be more dialogue between program planners and Bangsamoro women to ensure that their specific and practical needs are met. “Such consultations will help identify skills they want to improve on rather than providing skills training that are irrelevant or that perpetuate gender stereotypes,” she added.

Oxfam Pilipinas and partner organizations also recommend a more in-depth study on motivations, diverse backgrounds, contexts and intersecting needs of Bangsamoro women. Further studies may help better address causes of inequality and strengthen women’s influence and leadership as part of long-term and sustainable peace efforts.

“The Bangsamoro women are effective agents for change so they really should be encouraged to have active involvement and leadership in their communities,” Dulawan said.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/10/milf-women-brigade-cry-for-gender-equality-in-post-conflict-mindanao-study/

From MindaNews (Oct 27, 2021): AFP will remain neutral in 2022 elections – Faustino (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 27 Oct) – Outgoing Chief of Staff Jose Faustino Jr. assured the country on Wednesday that the 220,000-strong Armed Forces of the Philippines will remain neutral in the coming 2022 elections and would not follow orders from politicians.

AFP Chief of Staff Jose Faustino Jr. leads the decommissioning of 208 firearms captured from the New People’s Army in Northern Mindanao. Faustino used a metallic saw to cut the firearms at the 4th Infantry Division headquarters in Cagayan de Oro City Wednesday afternoon (27 October 2021). MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

The general said the AFP, which also has 360,000 reserve personnel, has become a professional military organization after it was dragged into past adventurism during the late ’80s.

“Makaasa kayo that the AFP will remain apolitical. We have learned the lessons from our past,” Faustino said.

He said the AFP will follow its political mandate of staying apolitical in the coming 2022 elections.

“Our mandate is to remain neutral in the coming elections. That we can assure the public,” Faustino said.

Faustino, who is known for his Davao ties, is the 11th AFP Chief of Staff appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte in six years.

He is set to retire next month. It is not known yet who will replace him.

Faustino said he had already issued a directive reminding soldiers to remain apolitical in the coming elections.

The order to stay neutral has already been relayed by the Army commanders of the 901st and 401st Infantry Brigades, who share a common responsibility to ensure a peaceful and normal elections in the province of Surigao del Sur.

Brig. Gen. George Banzon, commander of the 901IB, said they are concerned with the intense political rivalries between Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander Pimentel and Rep. Prospero “Butch” Pichay of the first district and his wife Carla.

“Both camps are locked up in a tug-of-war in getting support from local mayors and barangay executives,” Banzon said.

Brig. Gen. Allan Hambala, of the 401IB, said he has already directed his soldiers not to be “friendly” with both the Pimentel and Pichay camps.

“I told them we stay neutral,” he said.

Faustino arrived in Camp Evangelista here for his farewell visit to the 4th Infantry Division before he retires next month.

He led the decommissioning of 208 firearms that included 35 AK-47 rifles, 66 caliber .45 pistols, 9 M-14 rifles and 17 Garand rifles.

The firearms were seized by the military from the communist rebels during operations in the past year.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/10/afp-will-remain-neutral-in-2022-elections-faustino/

From the Mindanao Times (Oct 27, 2021): Army accepting applicants to fill quota for 1,059 officers (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

Photo credit: Philippine Army

THE PHILIPPINE Army has started the recruitment of 1,050 new officers for its 2nd Cycle Officer Recruitment last Oct. 20.

Army spokesman Col. Xerxes Trinidad, said the 1,050 quota is part of the 2,109 total quotas for the Army officer recruitment this year.

The Army has allocated 400 quotas for Officer Candidate Course (OCC); 400 for Officer Preparatory Course (OPC) Class 73 and 74; 100 for OCC-Reserve Officer Training (OCC-ROTC); 100 for Call to Active-Duty Tour for Training (CADTT); and 50 for Direct Commission.

According to Trinidad, the recruitment aims to continuously build up a force to advance the organization’s operational gains and finally end the insurgency in the country.

“This is a great opportunity for everyone especially the youth who wants to serve their fellow Filipinos and our beloved country,” said Lt. Gen. Andres Centino, commanding general, Philippine Army.

“The Philippine Army thoroughly selects the best and the brightest who will be the future military leaders of the organization carrying out the noble duty of protecting the peace and stability of the nation,” he added.

To view the detailed qualifications and requirements, please visit the link below:

https://bit.ly/3E6AOiO

Or visit the Philippine Army Website here:

https://www.army.mil.ph/home/index.php/join-the-army

Philippine Army Recruitment Contact Details:

ARMY RECRUITMENT OFFICE – LUZON

Fort Andres Bonifacio, Taguig City

Landline: (02) 845-9555 local 6843

Cell phone: 0945-704-2390

Facebook: Army Recruitment Office – Luzon

ARMY RECRUITMENT OFFICE – VISAYAS

Camp Lapu-Lapu, Lahug, Cebu City

Landline: (032) 231-5157

Cell phone: 0916-640-5919

Facebook: Army Recruitment Office – Visayas

ARMY RECRUITMENT OFFICE – MINDANAO

Camp Evangelista, Cagayan de Oro City

Landline: (088) 850-5279

Cell phone: 0939-954-7673 / 0927-332-1077 / 0926-467-4644 / 0917-712-1222

Facebook: Army Recruitment Office – Mindanao
https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/10/27/army-accepting-applicants-to-fill-quota-for-1059-officers/

From the Mindanao Times (Oct 27, 2021): 2 communist fighters captured in Bukidnon (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

TWO HIGH-RANKING officials of the New People’s Army (NPA) were captured by the soldiers of the 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB) in San Fernando Bukidnon on Monday, Oct. 25.

Lt. Col. Christian Vingno, commanding officer of 88IB, identified them as Ramil Banawan, 35, secretary of Guerilla Front (GF) Malayag, and Marcelito Bandingan, 18, team leader of Squad Uno, Platoon Uno, both from Guerilla Front (GF) Malayag, Sub-Regional Command 2 (SRC2) of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

According to Vingno, the troops seized one AR-15 rifle with two magazines and one Glock 17 pistol with one magazine from the suspects.

He added the two have standing warrants of arrest for committing multiple criminal acts such as destructive arson, murder, frustrated murder, attempted multiple murder, and violation of the Anti-Terror Law of 2020.

Lt. Gen. Andres C. Centino, the commanding general of the Philippine Army, lauded the operational success of 88IB. “I commend the troops of 88th Infantry Battalion for their decisive action in capturing the leadership of GF Malayag that would lead to its eventual dismantling,” Centino said.

“Continue to do your job well to ensure that peace and security thrive in your area of operation,” he further said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/10/27/2-communist-fighters-captured-in-bukidnon/

From Palawan News (Oct 27, 2021): NPA sympathizers, members surrender to gov’t troops in Roxas (By Aira Genesa Magdayao)

Roxas mayor Dennis Sabando (1st from right) stands as witness to the surrenderees' pledge to restore loyalty to the government with Cpt. Dennis Sadlay (3rd from right) of MBLT-3 and P/Maj. Carlito Valdez (2nd from right), acting chief of police of the Roxas MPS. (Photo courtesy of MBLT-3)

Some 15 individuals believed to be sympathizers and members of the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), willingly surrendered earlier this week to government troops in Roxas municipality.

Col. Jimmy Larida, commander of the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBde), claimed they were among roughly 30 NPA trainees seen in the hinterlands of Sitio Karatong, Barangay Tinitian in Roxas town on October 13, when three were captured, including a pregnant 14-year-old.

“Sila na yon. Actually, 30 nga sila na nagtra-training. Yong sa ibang huts, nakatakbo na bago pa dumating yong ibang tropa. Mabuti at nag-surrender na sila — yon naman ang gusto namin na mangyari, mag-surrender sila peacefully kasi tutulungan naman sila,” Larida told Palawan News in a phone call Wednesday.

The surrenderees, mostly minors, hold up their pledge of allegiance documents in Barangay Tinitian on October 25 following their voluntary surrender to the MBLT-3. (Photo courtesy of MBLT-3)

“Yong 15 na yon ay galing sa revelation ng dalawang menor de edad na nahuli na nakasama nila sa training,” he added.

He said the event marks another success in the government’s “Whole-of-Nation” approach to end the local communist armed conflict in the province.

A statement released Wednesday by the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 (MBLT-) under the command of Maj. Ryan Lacuesta claimed their voluntary surrender on October 25 was facilitated by their unit under Joint Task Force-North (JTF-North) and Joint Intelligence Task Unit-North (JITU-N) of the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBde) and the Western Command (WESCOM) in cooperation with the barangay officials of Tinitian, Roxas municipal police force, and the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF ELCAC)

The MBLT-3 said their surrender was an offshoot of the “strong teamwork” among military and police units, MTF ELCAC, and the local communities. It also occurred less than a week after two surrendered on October 22, 2021, in Brgy Jolo, also in the town of Roxas.

It claimed they were recruited to the NPA on August 17 and September 4, 2021, but surrendered freely after learning they had been deceived by the communist organization.

“Tumigil na sa pamumundok ang mga grupo at bumaba na sila, makiisa at makipagtulungan sa pamahalaan. Dapat bumaba na sila para matahimik na ang buhay nila. Sana maisipan nila na lahat bumaba para walang nadadamay na mga inosenteng tao sa mga karahasan at panlilinlang na ginagawa nila,” said a certain Jojo, who was a “kandidatong kasapi” (KK) or candidate member of the NPA.

Another surrenderee, Linlin, who is a minor, claimed that living in the mountains is tough and that the wisest choice for the remaining members to do is surrender and return to the folds of the law.

The two and 13 other surrenderees swore an oath to restore allegiance to the government at Tinitian’s barangay hall also on October 25.

“Ang masasabi ko ay talagang malulungkot at magsisisi ka kapag nandoon ang mga anak mo sa bundok kasama ng komunistang NPA kasi kapag namatay ang mga anak mo ay hindi mo na makikita kung saan nila ibaon ang bangkay nito,” Linlin said.

Meanwhile, Roxas mayor Dennis Sabado said the municipal government is committed to accepting the former rebels and provide them the support they need while their return to their communities is being processed.

“Tiniyak naman ng pamunuan ng Roxas MTF ELCAC sa pangunguna ni Mayor Dennis M. Sabando, katuwang ang Palawan PTF ELCAC, ang bukas-palad na pagtanggap at pag-suporta sa mga dating na-recruit at nalinlang ng CTGs sa kanilang pagbabalik-loob sa pamahalan,” the MBLT-3 statement said.

https://palawan-news.com/npa-sympathizers-members-surrender-to-govt-troops-in-roxas/

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 28, 2021): US military, PCG conclude tactical combat casualty care training (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

CASUALTY CARE TRAINING. Members of the US Civilian Military Support Element-Philippines work with personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard during a Tactical Combat Casualty Care Training on Oct. 21-24, 2021. The training was designed to mirror real-world medical situations likely to be encountered by the crew of the BRP Gabriela Silang. (Photo courtesy of US Embassy in Manila)

The United States' Civilian Military Support Element-Philippines (CMSE-PHL) has concluded its tactical combat casualty care training with officers and crew of the Philippine Coast Guard, the US Embassy in Manila said Thursday.

The training, held from October 21 to 24, was designed to mirror real-world medical situations likely to be encountered by the crew of the BRP Gabriela Silang and culminated with an exercise designed to replicate a real maritime law enforcement boarding operation.

Maritime law enforcement boarding operations are commonly executed by the PCG as part of their maritime security duties. Students in the scenario boarded a suspected vessel, received a simulated casualty during their search, and conducted treatment and medical evacuation to the BRP Gabriela Silang.

“Whether it’s helping the people of Palawan with Covid-19 relief or medical training that will help us save lives, our significant and enduring partnership with the CMSE Philippines has been one of our most valued connections,” said Commander Rolando Lorenzana, commanding officer of the BRP Gabriela Silang.

The training strengthened the medical capabilities of the BRP Gabriela Silang crew while working in a wide range of environments during maritime operations.

The embassy said it was designed to enhance the ability of the PCG to respond during both maritime security operations and search and rescue operations.

“Every opportunity that we are afforded to train with the Philippine Coast Guard becomes a learning experience for our whole team,” said Staff Sgt. Brandon Gonzalez, CMSE-PHL medical sergeant.

“The level of professionalism and dedication to their unique skillsets is something that we have continuously witnessed, making us eager to engage further and expand on our combined capabilities together.”

For the embassy, this training partnership exemplifies the close relationship between the US and the Philippines in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region by strengthening maritime law enforcement and maritime search and rescue capabilities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158075

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 28, 2021): Off-base housing eyed to address squatting in AFP properties (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP Real Estate Office (REO) chief, Brig. Gen. Augusto Gaite (AFP photo)

The Armed of the Philippines (AFP) is looking to provide off-base housing to 20 percent of its personnel by next year as a solution to the problem of informal settlers in military properties across the country.

Brig. Gen. Augusto Gaite , AFP Real Estate Office (REO) chief, revealed this plan during the three-day Real Estate Management and Administration workshop in Camp Aguinaldo which started on Wednesday.

The activity aims to review and validate the existing policy regarding informal settlers in military-owned properties.

“Hopefully after this workshop we'll be able to have that end-state of a policy wherein we have to implement. It's not about planning also, it's all about doing. The AFPR G 499-012 was published on 06 May 2010, to address the informal occupation of civilian and military personnel within military grounds. More than a decade has passed, it is time to review and validate the responsiveness of this policy to today's challenges as we gear up towards the modernization of today's armed forces and its future thrust to be world-class,” Gaite said in a statement on Thursday.

Around 40 participants from the morale and welfare, logistics, real estate, and legal offices of the AFP joined the workshop.

They will work together to evaluate and improve the AFP Regulation G 499-012 titled “Treatment of Squatters in AFP Military Reservations and Other AFP-owned Real Estate Properties.”

Experts from other government agencies such as the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Office of the Ombudsman, and the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) were invited on the first day of the workshop to provide basic knowledge in land management.

Major issues and concerns about actual experiences and problems encountered by administrators will be addressed in a focused group discussion on Thursday.

The third and last day of the activity on Friday is allotted for the presentation to the plenary relative to the respective group findings and recommendations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158031

Kalinaw News: 140 Households in Licab Benefit from Relief Operations

Kalinaw News: Persistent AFP and PNP Ops Led to Another Successful Seizure of CTG Anti-Tank, Anti-Personnel Mines and Several Bomb Accessories in Sorsogon

Kalinaw News: 89IB Facilitated Medical Evacuation and Treatment of Two (2) Wounded Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) Members

Kalinaw News: CGPA leads demilitarization of captured firearms in 6ID

Kalinaw News: Office of the Army Chief Quartermaster has a new Chief

Kalinaw News: CSAFP spearheads demilitarization of 316 CCSR Firearms in 4ID

CPP/CIO: Fight the rapacity of giant monopoly capitalist oil companies

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Plantasyon ng kawayan, malaking negosyo sa tabing ng reporestasyon

Napolcom nod on mass promotion to boost cops' morale: PNP

Australia equipment donation to boost AFP drive vs. extremism

AFP elated over top rank in approval, trust survey

NPA landmine blast meant to prevent dev’t in Iloilo villages

Maguindanao village councilman, companion slain in ambush

MILF women brigade cry for gender equality in post-conflict Mindanao – study

AFP will remain neutral in 2022 elections – Faustino

Army accepting applicants to fill quota for 1,059 officers

2 communist fighters captured in Bukidnon

NPA sympathizers, members surrender to gov’t troops in Roxas

US military, PCG conclude tactical combat casualty care training

Off-base housing eyed to address squatting in AFP properties