Biga, Basao tribes push ‘singlit’ to settle dispute; ease war fears

 Amid fake news

By Jesse Maguiya 

 

TABUK CITY, Kalinga -- Mayor Darwin Estrañero convened another meeting on Monday with officers and members of the Matagoan Bodong Consultative Council (MBCC), Bodong holders of the Kalinga sub-tribe Biga, and several Bodong holders from different tribes.

The discussion focused on fake news claiming the Biga sub-tribe intended to return the sipat given to them by the Basao sub-tribe.

In most kalinga tribes, the return of the “sipat” could mean renewed hostilities like a “tribal war” wherein lives could be lost.  

During the meeting, Bodong holders and elders from the Biga sub-tribe assured Mayor Estrañero and engineer Andres Ngao-I of the MBCC they had taken swift action upon learning of the misinformation.

They immediately convened their own meeting and unanimously decided that Ignacio Baglinit would serve as their primary representative.

Having accepted this responsibility, he will now hold the sipat and serve as the Bodong holder for the Biga sub-tribe.

In his message, Ignacio Baglinit, the Bodong holder of Biga, confirmed that they had already agreed to pursue a singlit with the Basao sub-tribe. (Singlit refers to a formal grievance or complaint raised by one tribe or party against another within the framework of the bodong (peace pact) system.

It is a means of addressing concerns or perceived violations of the peace pact, such as an offense, wrongdoing, or breach of agreement.) He informed the mayor that they are fully prepared to face the Bodong holders and elders of the Basao sub-tribe through singlit. 

“Kayat mi koma nga ipanawagan iti kakailyan nga awan kina-agpaysu na dayta fake news a mapan mi isubli wenu ibabawi didiay sipat mi kadagiti kailyan a taga Basao ta dayta a banag ket saan a basta-basta karkaru ta uray dakami ket kayat min a malpas koma iti kasapaan a panawen daytoy problema ta awan met nasayaat nga ipaay na iti ili tayu a Tabuk City ken intiro a Probinsya ti Kalinga,” Baglinit said.

Ngao-I, speaking on behalf of the Matagoan Bodong Consultative Council, said they also received the misinformation and immediately called the attention of both tribes to prevent unnecessary actions that could escalate tensions.

He told Bodong holders from the Biga tribe not to spread unverified information.

Estrañero supported this, emphasizing the importance of caution, especially when dealing with sensitive matters.

He warned that relaying information inaccurately often leads to distortions and misunderstandings. “Masapul koma ag-verify tayu a nasayaat nu ada mangngeg tayu nga istorya tapnu maliklikan ti makunkuna a dagdag-bawas kasi kangrunaan a mapaspasamak ket manayun wenu makurangan ti maipasa nga impormasyon,” the mayor said.

With this development, the mayor expressed his satisfaction, informing the Biga elders and pangats that their confirmation to proceed with singlit was the only remaining step.

The Basao tribe had already expressed their willingness to engage in singlit earlier, and this confirmation now paves the way for the resolution process.

As follow-up, Ngao-I, chairman of MBCC, held a separate meeting Tuesday, Feb. 11, with several Bodong holders and elders from the Basao sub-tribe.

He informed them about what transpired during Monday’s meeting with the Biga Bodong holders.

In response, the Basao elders stated that they would immediately schedule a tribe-wide meeting to discuss date for the singlit.

Read more...

Time to rethink New Year’s resolutions

 BEHIND THE SCENES

Alfred P. Dizon

Here’s some pieces of advice about New Year’s resolutions. But how much of it actually works? Is it even a good idea to set resolutions at the beginning of the year?
    In an article, three Ascend editors, Kelsey Alpaio, Christine Liu, and Elainy Mata, break down five tactics — backed by research — for making New Year’s resolutions work for you: Do resolutions right. Create “fresh starts.” Reframe to make it fun. Break goals into micro habits. Evaluate your resolutions. Consider the negative risks.
Tip 1: Create “fresh starts”
ALPAIO: This is actually something I tried in both 2019 and 2020. These are the journals I used to keep track of it, actual journals that I used to do this with. So instead of setting a goal for the whole year, I set monthly resolutions for myself. Here’s why this works. When we typically set resolutions at the beginning of the year, there’s really no end in sight.
    When you set monthly goals instead, you’re creating these sort of fresh start moments for yourself at the beginning of every month, instead of just the beginning of the year. And that keeps you motivated for a longer period of time.
Tip 2: Reframe to make it fun!
LIU: If you just want to, like, adopt better habits or make a change, whatever, there’s one thing that you can do to substantially increase the chance of it sticking. You actually want to have fun. So that means you actually enjoy the thing in the moment, not just waiting for that magical day months later that you’re going to be like, oh yeah, I feel better about myself.
    Let’s say I want to resolve to eat more vegetables. The worst thing I could do is be like, “I’m going to eat more vegetables because of health benefits.” Because, you know, that’s pretty boring, and I’m not going to, like, choke down this salad just because I know it’s good for me. I mean, most salads out there are boring.
    Instead of boring salads, I’ll be like, oh, I really love the act of researching what ingredients are in season. Even if something is important or meaningful, I want this goal to be fun.
Tip 3: Break goals into micro habits
ALPAIO: As somebody who’s set some pretty lofty goals for themselves over the years, I absolutely love this tip. Basically, it’s all about taking those big, intimidating, lofty goals and slashing them into micro habits.
    When a resolution is too big or too vague, it makes it easier for you to make up excuses why you’re not going to do it. For example, say your resolution is to read more. That’s a very scary, intimidating, and vague goal. To break it down into a micro habit, maybe you would say, OK, I’ll read for 45 minutes a day. That’s still too big. All right, I’ll read a chapter every night. That’s still too big.
Your goal should be something like, I’m going to read a paragraph before bed every single night. Now, that is a micro habit. I know that sounds really small, but it’s called a micro habit for a reason. It’s supposed to be something that’s so small that it almost feels ridiculous to do. But that’s the point. It’s supposed to feel achievable. It’s supposed to feel like something that you aren’t intimidated to do on a daily basis.
Tip 4: Evaluate your resolutions
MATA: I actually don’t like New Year’s resolutions because I feel like they add more pressure to my already pressure-filled life. But I thought about it, and I realized that the reason why I don’t like New Year’s resolutions is because I do too many of them at the same time.
    Evaluate your goal list. Ask yourself a few questions. Does this goal align with my values? Should I put this goal off for another time, or should I just get rid of it all together? If you’re in your office or a group of friends and you’re hearing all of them talk about their New Year’s resolutions, don’t panic. You don’t have to have a New Year’s resolution. It’s actually OK.
Tip 5: Consider the negative risks
LIU: No one really talks about maybe the risks or the side effects of having goals. Harvard Business School published this research paper that has the title — I’m dying here — it’s called “Goals Gone Wild.” What’s really interesting here is that setting goals, especially around work, can wreak havoc if not applied appropriately. So unreasonable goals, or ones that are too narrow or too ambitious can cause damage. There are psychological costs. You get into tunnel vision. And in the effort to hit those “capital G” goals, a lot of things may cost you in the long run.
    ALPAIO: These are the tactics that we found useful. We hope that you found them useful, as well. Let us know how you feel about New Year’s resolutions, how you feel about this advice, and any resolutions that you have in the works. Happy new year!

 
BEHIND THE SCENES

Alfred Dizon 

OPAPRU: 2023 peace process with armed groups ‘fulfilling’

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. described 2023, a “banner year for comprehensive Philippine process,” amid the         Marcos administration’s commitment to realizing its peace agenda for the nation.
    In a statement e-mailed to the Northern Philippine Times, Galvez said a “significant peace milestone” was achieved by the Philippine government and Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP).
    He said the series of back-channeling and exploratory talks between the government and the NDFP resulted in the signing of the Oslo Joint Communique last Nov. 23 in Oslo, Norway.
    “The intention of the parties is very clear. This is to end the armed conflict, to end armed struggle, and transformation of the CPP-NPA-NDFP,” Galvez said, who announced the peace breakthrough in Malacañang on Nov. 28.
    “We want to resolve all the socioeconomic drivers of conflict, and at the same time, end armed struggle through peaceful resolution of conflict. We’ve been divided as a people by this conflict for more than 50 years,” he added.
    Galvez said the government is making headway with the Localized Peace Engagement (LPE) initiative. The LPE cluster of the National Task Force to Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), which is co-chaired by OPAPRU and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, continues to roll out the Transformation Program for former rebels, their families and communities.
    “We have been conducting Transformation Program workshops together with provincial local government units and partner agencies nationwide to help former rebels fully reintegrate into mainstream society and rebuild their lives,” Galvez said.
    Meanwhile, Galvez said the government’s peace processes with the Cordillera Bodong Administration-Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CBA-CPLA) and Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB), now called KAPATIRAN, are moving forward as well.
    “The government continues to implement a Normalization Program for both groups that enable its members and their families to improve their socioeconomic well-being,” he said, adding he “is confident they will serve as examples for others to give up armed struggle and embrace a peaceful and productive life.”
    “Once people start enjoying the dividends of peace and their lives start to improve, there is no longer reason for them to engage in armed struggle. They themselves will volunteer to become instruments of peace and development as what our CBA-CPLA and KAPATIRAN have shown," he noted.
    He cited "major milestones" in the government's peace efforts with various groups, including the Bangsamoro, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro National Liberation Front, National Democratic Front, and those in the Cordilleras.
    “Major milestones have been achieved in the comprehensive Philippine peace process under the Marcos administration’s Five-Point Peace, Reconciliation and Unity agenda,” Galvez said in a statement Thursday.
    “We would like to assure you that the Marcos administration is determined to push forward, build upon and sustain the gains of the comprehensive peace process,” he added.
    Galvez said amid two major wars in different parts of the world, the Philippines is looked upon by the international community as a beacon of hope and inspiration for its successful peacebuilding efforts. “Our country has shown that good things come to those who choose and walk the path of peace. Let us continue doing so and become a beacon of hope, mutual understanding and solidarity.”
    Galvez cited significant progress under the Bangsamoro peace process, as the Bangsamoro Parliament has passed five of its seven priority codes, which aims to improve the socioeconomic conditions of its people and boost the region’s economy. These codes include the Administrative Code, Civil Service Code, Electoral Code, Local Government Code, and Education Code.
    “The crafting of these codes is an indication that the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) has really gotten stronger, especially in terms of passing key legislation that will unlock the full economic potential of the region and bring economic progress to the people,” Galvez said.
    All seven mechanisms of the National Government – Bangsamoro Government Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) have been established and are now functioning, he added.
    These IGRB mechanisms include the Philippine Congress-Bangsamoro Parliament Forum (PCBPF); Intergovernmental Fiscal Policy Board (IFPB); Joint Body for the Zones of Joint Cooperation (JBZJC); Intergovernmental Infrastructure Development Board (IFPB); Intergovernmental Energy Board (IEB); and Bangsamoro Sustainable Development Board (BSDB); and the Council of Leaders.
    “With the accomplishments of the IGRB this year, we have no doubt that the body will be able to sustain its momentum in 2024, as it effectively addresses pressing issues brought to its attention, and help uplift the lives of the Bangsamoro people,” he said.
    “The BARMM is a very good example that once you create a peaceful and secure environment for the people, economic development will follow as trading, investments, and tourism will thrive,” he said.
    In 2023, Galvez said 26,145 former MILF combatants have also been decommissioned and “are now living as peaceful and productive civilians in their communities.”
    A key component of the Normalization Program under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), decommissioning is the process wherein the former combatants lay down their arms and return to mainstream society.
    “These former MILF combatants are now fighting a different battle and that is, a battle to improve their socioeconomic well-being and create a better future for themselves and their families,” Galvez said.
    He added that the Transformation Program for MNLF combatants, which was launched in October this year, is expected to uplift the lives of the group’s members and empower them as agents of peace and development.
    “Our MNLF brothers and sisters are demonstrating their determination to help move forward the national government’s peace agenda and walk the path of peace,” Galvez said.
    “More importantly, the national government is showing the MNLF that it is focused, more than ever, to fulfill all the commitments it had made under the 1996 Final Peace Agreement,” he added.
    The OPAPRU's Social Healing and Peacebuilding Program (SHAPE) is also helping to mend the torn social fabric of society caused by armed conflict through peace conversations and other peacebuilding initiatives.
    “We are committed to conduct trauma healing sessions for the victims especially in light of the recent bomb attack in Marawi City. Through this intervention, we hope to help the victims recover emotionally from the harrowing incident and move forward,” Galvez said.
    He said they continue to work closely with international and local partners, to directly address the roots of violence that is used by terrorists and extremists to bring in recruits into their fold.
    “We believe that the best way to effectively and permanently address the threat of violent extremism is to involve everyone in the healing and peacebuilding process, especially the most vulnerable sectors of society,” Galvez said.
    The OPAPRU together with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), as well as civil society organizations and the international development community, launched the fourth generation of the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security (NAPWPS) 2023-2033 in early December.
    The NAPWPS is the Philippine government’s commitment to the United Nations Security Country Resolution (UNSCR) No. 1325, which calls for women’s participation in conflict prevention and resolution, peace negotiations, peacebuilding, peacekeeping, humanitarian response, and post-conflict reconstruction.
    Meanwhile, the OPAPRU's Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or PAMANA Program is also building much-needed infrastructure projects that are helping to bring social cohesion and create more livelihood opportunities for residents in focus areas nationwide.
    “The bulk of OPAPRU’s nearly P7 billion budget for 2024 will be used to fund the PAMANA Program, which seeks to bring essential government services closer to the people, especially in remote, undeveloped communities in focus areas,” Galvez said.
    He said he is optimistic that with the upcoming roll-out of the national government’s amnesty program for former rebels, “more will be encouraged to turn away from armed struggle, lay down their arms, and return to the fold of the law.”
    He said the granting of amnesty is an integral part of the comprehensive peace process that will foster genuine healing, reconciliation and deepen the trust and confidence in the government which is needed for the economy to grow while building on the gains of peace.
    “It is a path towards normalization that would allow former rebels not only to fully reintegrate themselves into mainstream society as peaceful, productive and law-abiding citizens, but more importantly, enable them to rebuild their lives and ensure a better future for themselves and their families,” Galvez said. 
 

Read more...

Baguio Council pushes alternative dispute resolution

BAGUIO CITY – Local officials recently authorized the city mayor to enter into a memorandum of agreement with the Chief Justice Manuel V. Moran Community Legal Assistance Office to implement  alternative dispute resolution in the city.
    Under resolution 746, series of 2023, the City Council stated its committee on laws, human rights and justice, in  2nd indorsement dated Nov. 29, 2023, recommended  grant of the authority that will allow local government to refer willing clients or parties to avail of mediation or conciliation services of the CJMMCLAO as an alternative means of dispute resolution.

    However, the council stipulated that whatever agreement that is concurred between the concerned parties shall be submitted to the local legislative body for confirmation.
    Earlier, the city mayor requested the local legislative body for an authority to enter into an agreement with the CJMMCLAO for the promotion of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in the city.
    CJMMCLAO aims to strengthen its advocacy of protecting rights and inspiring lives and to provide law students practitioners with a program that may deepen their sense of consciousness and awareness of the legal problems and needs of the community and be advocates of ADR.
    Further, this is an office operating under the supervision of the Saint Louis University–School of Law and currently has a program of advocating ADR as a means of resolving conflicts in the community and in effect finding an avenue to amicably settle disputes and avoid costly litigation before the courts.
    The ADR program utilizes law student practitioners guided under Rule 138-A, known as the Law Student Practice Rule and as revised by AM No. 19-03-24-SC, to strengthen their understanding of the myriad of legal concerns that are encountered by citizens.
    CJMMCLAO proposed an agreement where the city government may refer cases to their program for conciliation or mediation and that the said arrangement will certainly aid the local government given that some departments regularly encounter conflicting claims between clients involving personal concerns such as property disputes, and right-of-way, among others.
    Moreover, the arrangement will entail no cost to the local government, however, it may have to provide a venue for the mediation or conciliation hearings when the parties or CJMMCLAO request.
 
 

Read more...

On VP Duterte’s statements on the GRP-NDFP peace talks

BEHIND THE SCENES

Alfred P. Dizon

The resumption of peace talks between the National Democratic Front of the Philippines and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines is now putting the President Bongbong Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte on collision course after the latter branded said talks “an agreement with the devil.”   
    This has elicited a lot of comments on media and online platforms.
    Here is a statement from the militant groups KARAPATAN:
    “Vice President Sara Duterte’s comments against the resumption of peace talks between the NDFP and the GRP are no surprise. 
    Since the onset of her term, and even during the campaign period, she has rejected and repudiated peace talks between the two parties as a way of addressing the roots of armed conflict and prefers to utilize to the hilt the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), of which she is vice chair, to further orchestrate militarist campaigns in their bid to crush the armed resistance. 
    Perhaps the peace the Vice President aspires for is the peace of the graveyard — an end to dissent, to vigorous democratic discourse and debate and the quest for better alternatives for our people. Her contempt for the GRP-NDFP peace talks and rabid espousal of the NTF-ELCAC is anathema to the people’s quest for peace and justice. 
    KARAPATAN believes that the NTF-ELCAC, in its five years of existence, and its whole of nation approach have not addressed the root causes of the armed conflict in the country. Rather, counterinsurgency schemes with militarist approaches have only resulted in grave human and people’s rights violations as well as violations of International Humanitarian Law. 
    The GRP-NDFP peace talks is an opportunity to tackle these root causes, including issues on land monopoly, low wages, high prices of goods and services, the regressive tax system, pro-monopoly capitalist investment regulations, unfair trade, and onerous debt.
    The peace talks have also delved in the development of multiple sectors of the economy in agriculture, industry, and services. Policies concerning basic rights to health, education, water, electricity, transportation, communication and culture, among others, are subjects of discussion in the draft of the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms. 
    This peace process has birthed the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, which outlines individual and collective freedoms and human rights in the political, social, economic and cultural spheres and the principles of IHL in the domestic context.     The Joint Monitoring Committee to monitor the implementation of the CARHRIHL remains a viable option for redress for victims of human rights violations, their families and communities. 
    At the time the peace talks were scuttled in 2017, the draft CASER was close to being completed and approved by both parties and the reciprocal working groups on the Comprehensive Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reforms were gearing to meet. There were prospects for social justice and lasting peace.
    KARAPATAN is one with the overwhelming majority of peace and human rights advocates, and people’s organizations of peasants, workers, indigenous peoples, women, and youth in calling for the resumption of the peace talks and the quest for just and lasting peace. We will not relent, even in the face of attempts by peace spoilers to deprive our people of this opportunity.
    ***
Vice President Duterte released a statement earlier saying the “Marcos administration’s agreement with communist rebels to resume peace negotiations to end the decades-old communist armed conflict is an agreement with the devil,” urging President Marcos to reconsider his decision.
    Speaker Martin Romualdez, on the other hand, categorically threw his full support behind his cousin’s move to reopen peace talks with the communist rebels, which were suspended in 2019 during the incumbency of the Vice President’s father.
    In her message on the fifth anniversary of the National Task Force to End Local
 Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) – an agency created by her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, in 2018 after his relations with communists soured – the Vice President said reconsidering the resumption of peace talks would “honor the memory of those who died in the senseless and bloody attacks” of communist rebels.
    “I support the steps to establish peace in our country because the fight against terrorists is deeply personal to me, as it is deeply personal to the families of countless Filipinos whose lives were forever upended because of the madness of terrorists,” the younger Duterte said in the recorded message.    
    “But giving out amnesty cannot lead the way to peace. What we need to do is continue what the NTF-ELCAC started and make these stronger. We’ve already won as communities continue to fight,” she added.
    Last week, the Marcos administration and the NDF, the political wing of the CPP, agreed to a “principled and peaceful resolution” to the longest insurgency in Asia in a joint statement dated Nov. 23 and signed in Oslo, Norway.
    The move was touted as a linchpin that could finally settle the conflict within the term of Marcos, whose father’s dictatorship launched the decades-old battle between state forces and communist rebels.
While the public might welcome the move, the former president’s supporters might see it as an undoing of sorts of the previous administration’s scorched-earth policy against the communist movement.
    The Vice President called the amnesty and resumption of peace talks a deal “with the devil” and a sign of letting the “enemies” win.
    “Mr. President, the government’s statement with the NDF in Oslo was an agreement with the devil. History has proven how unserious and insincere they are in peace talks. They will use the peace negotiations to betray the government and deceive the public. We appeal to your power to review these proclamations and agreements,” the younger Duterte said.
    “Let us honor the memory of those who died in the senseless and bloody attacks of the NPA-CPP-NDF. Mr. President, we can negotiate for peace and reconciliation and pursue meaningful development efforts in the Philippines without capitulating to the enemies,” she added.
    For Romualdez it is worth giving peace a chance without resorting to war.
    “Enough of the war. Our citizens are tired of conflicts. Let’s give peace a chance,” he said.
    “This negotiation is more than just a political maneuver; it is a moral imperative, a chance to mend the fissures that have long divided our nation. We are not just negotiating terms; we are weaving the fabric of a peaceful future for every Filipino,” he added.
    The Speaker enjoined the public to “embrace this opportunity with open hearts and minds, fostering an environment where peace can flourish.”
    “Together, under President Marcos’ leadership, we shall strive toward a Philippines that is not only prosperous, but also harmonious and united in its diversity,” he declared.
    “Let tonight’s ceremony stand as a symbol of our continuing commitment. That we, at the House as a nation-loving institution, will not waver, that we will remain steadfast in our solemn duty to be shining lights for peace, comfort, security, understanding and unity for our country. Let this be our gift for our countrymen this Christmas,” he added.
 

Read more...

No preconditions for peace talks with CPP-NPA-NDFP pushed ‘in spirit of goodwill’

 Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., in the spirit of goodwill, urged supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army and National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP) not to set any preconditions that will derail the upcoming peace discussions between the national government and the communist group. 
    Galvez’ call came in the heels of the Joint Statement signed by both parties wherein they expressed their clear intention to end the decades-long armed conflict, armed struggle, and transform the members of the CPP-NPA-NDFP.
    "There should be no preconditions whatsoever, as these can derail future discussions.  As we have learned from our past experiences, making such pre-conditions even before the start of the discussions puts a huge burden on both sides when there is still a need to agree on the parameters and framework of the talks," he said.
    "Our future discussions should be rules-based, consultative, inclusive, and most importantly, all issues from both sides should be formally put on the table and not through other unofficial platforms," Galvez added.
    The peace adviser was responding to recent statements coming from different groups, which were citing supposed pre-conditions to the talks.
    Galvez stressed that coming up with such demands when both sides are still in the exploratory phase is unnecessary and counterproductive to the peace process.
    "I would like to urge other parties to respect the Joint Statement and Oslo Joint Communique and not make preconditions or release propaganda that will water down the peacebuilding efforts of the previous and current administrations, ” he said. 
    “We respect and appreciate your suggestions. But now is not the time to issue such premature and provocative statements that will compromise the initial 'goodwill' that has been painstakingly built in Oslo," Galvez emphasized.
    The Peace Adviser explained that the latest peace engagement with the CPP-NPA-NDFP is not a resumption or a re-start of the previous talks but is a “new beginning, a new chapter” in the peace process.
    Galvez said that the forthcoming dialogue will give the parties greater flexibility to engage in meaningful, honest discussions, and by doing so, allow the peace process to move forward at a more definite and faster pace.
    "Since the beginning of his administration, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., has been consistent in calling for national reconciliation and unity. The President has been open to implementing solutions that will bring a resolution to internal strife and put an end to local armed conflict throughout the country," he said.
    According to Galvez, the Marcos Administration is utilizing all avenues that will enable it to achieve peace, national reconciliation, and unity. 
    "We need to unite as a country to resolve the major challenges that we are facing. To achieve this, we shall rally behind the President’s vision to bring a principled and peaceful resolution to the armed conflict, and put an end to the armed struggle," he added.
    On Nov. 23, both parties signed a Joint Statement in Oslo, Norway, agreeing to a principled and peaceful resolution to the armed conflict and end to the armed struggle, recognizing the need for the nation to unite in the face of serious socioeconomic, environmental, and foreign security issues.
    “The parties agree to a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict. Resolving the roots of the armed conflict and ending the armed struggle shall pave the way for the transformation of the CPP-NPA-NDFP," the Statement read. 
    This latest development in the peace process between the government and CPP-NPA-NDFP has been welcomed by government agencies, as it is seen to finally put an end to the decades-old armed conflict.
    "Kapag itong usaping ito ay magbunga ng isang kasunduan, mawawala ang final ostensible political basis na mag-wage ang grupo na nage-espouse ng CPP-NPA-NDF line for any armed struggle. That will be erased, the political basis for it. So it is important," Defense Sec. Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. said
    "Napakatindi ng epekto nito sa local government units. Because this is already [in the] grassroots. Ramdam ng local government units, especially those affected by insurgency. What is important would be this transition period na kung saan, according to our President, a whole-of-government approach. Peace and order is always a key ingredient in every economic development. So diyan na papasok lahat at magtutulungan lahat ng ahensya towards this goal," Interior and Local Government Sec. Benjamin Abalos, Jr. said.
    "Sa amin sa DSWD, ang lente na tinitignan namin ay kahirapan at kagutuman. So kami, ang primary goal namin ay maiahon ang bawat Pilipino mula sa kahirapan at sa kagutuman. ‘Yun ang aming mandato for every single Filipino," Social Welfare Sec. Rex Gatchalian said.
    "Political instability is very costly to the economy. And so efforts to achieve peace, particularly in the countryside, are surely inclusive and growth-inducing. So napaka-importante sa atin ang peace efforts na ganito," National Economic and Development Authority Sec. Arsenio Balisacan said.
    "For more than five decades, nandyan ang CPP-NPA-NDF, and I think it’s about time to have closure. Closure that is acceptable to everybody, to the Filipino people, particularly ending the armed struggle. With this, I think this is a very good opportunity. Amnesty is actually in tandem with this agreement. Lahat naman ng conflict ay natapos sa settlement. Look at the history of the world, halos lahat ng giyera natapos sa negotiational settlement, and maybe this is the final agreement that we can come into at matapos na rin ang armed struggle," National Security Adviser Sec. Eduardo M. Año said.
    "For the Armed Forces of the Philippines, this is very good news for us. Because it is the soldier, more than anybody else who wants lasting peace... Aside from that, if this conflict will finally end your Armed Forces of the Philippines we'll be able to shift our focus to external or territorial defense. Yung aming resources, efforts, will be poured into defending our territory," AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner said.
    "This is a welcome development and I hope this will lead really to long and lasting peace. And I look at it as a way of adding more food to the table sa mga Pilipino and instead of spending more money sa mga ammunitions and other armaments, madadagdagan po ang ating makinarya at imprastraktura that will help us attain maximum development," PNP Chief PGen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said.
    Galvez said the new peace track with the CPP-NPA-NDF builds on the gains of the whole-of-nation and whole-of-government approach that has been effectively implemented over the past years and whose dividends are now being reaped.
"This is a result of our collective effort to end the internal armed conflict of the country. I call on every Filipino to fully support the peace process because this will bring long-lasting peace and sustainable development to our nation," he said.
 

Read more...

PH gov’t, NDF agree to principled, peaceful armed conflict resolution

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos

The Philippine government and the Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF), have agreed to a “principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict.”
    This developed after the Philippine government and the NDF signed a joint statement in Oslo, Norway on Nov. 23, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said in a press briefing at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday.
    “Cognizant of the serious socioeconomic and environmental issues, and the foreign security threats facing the country, the parties recognize the need to unite as a nation in order to urgently address these challenges and resolve the reasons for the armed conflict,” Galvez said, reading the joint communique.
    “The parties agree to a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict. Resolving the roots of the armed conflict and ending the armed struggle shall pave the way for the transformation of the CPP-NPA (New People’s Army)-NDFP,” he added.
    Acknowledging the “deep-rooted” socio-economic and political grievances, both parties agreed to come up with a framework that sets the priorities for the peace negotiation, Galvez said.
    Galvez said the move aims to attain “relevant socioeconomic and political reforms towards a just and lasting peace.”
    “Such framework, that will set the parameters for the final peace agreement, shall be agreed upon by both parties.     Consequently, we envision and look forward to a country where a united people can live in peace and prosperity,” he said.
    “This Joint Communique highlights a significant milestone in the quest of the Filipino people to achieve peace, reconciliation, and unity,” he added.
    The Joint Statement is a product of a series of informal discussions held in the Netherlands and Norway starting in 2022 between the emissaries of the Philippine government and NDF, with the facilitation of the Royal Norwegian Government.
    It was signed by Galvez, Special Assistant to the President Secretary Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr., retired Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, and NDF national executive council member Luis Jalandoni, negotiating panel interim chairperson Julieta de Lima, and panel member Coni Ledesma.
    Galvez clarified that there will be no resumption of talks, saying “we will start anew.”
    He said the Philippine government and the NDF will likely meet by the first quarter of 2024.
Galvez said the signing of the joint communique will have “no immediate effect” either on the continuing operations of the government against armed groups.
    “Sa ngayon po, ang ano po natin is, kung ano po ang ginagawa ng gobyerno, patuloy po iyong atin pong programa (Right now, what the government is currently doing will continue. Our programs will continue). So, it is agreed upon that there is no immediate effect,” he said.
    AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who was also present during the press conference, said about 20 weakened guerilla fronts in the country are expected to be “finally dissolved” by the end of the year.
    Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the security and law enforcement programs of the government should continue, considering that the latest developments are “preliminary exploratory talks.”
Teodoro said the formal transition in pursuing peace with the CPP-NPA-NDF needs to be legislated.
    “Our legislators will have to participate in the process. And I think, during our last Senate budget hearing, they are going to study it already and we will work together with them to have an orderly and sustainable transition,” Teodoro said.
    “We cannot set a timeline for that. It is very dangerous to set a timeline because [the transition has to be] sustainable,” he added.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said efforts to achieve peace is “surely inclusive and growth-inducing,” while Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said maintaining peace and order is “always a key in every economic development.”

Brawner said the AFP would shift its focus on external or territorial defense, if the conflict ends.

Galvez expressed optimism that the exploratory talks would lead to the issuance of a final peace accord with the NDF.

“I can see that there is a positive outlook na (that) it will end with the final peace agreement. Because our talks in Oslo was founded on good faith and also on goodwill and also in sincerity. When the party said that if we will maintain that goodwill, I think we can finally end up with the final peace agreement,” he said. – PNA

 

 

 

Read more...

SONA 2023: Amnesty for former rebels

 PEACE INITIATIVES

Stephanie M. Florida

To ensure the holistic transformation of former combatants, the President emphasized the need of granting amnesty during his State of the Nation (SONA) address.
     "For almost half a century, some of our fellow Filipinos have taken to arms to make their views known and felt. We are now at a point in our history when their armed struggle has evolved. We have now progressed together towards peace and development," he said.
     "We have incorporated capacity-building and social protection into our reintegration programs to guarantee full decommissioning of former combatants. Through community development and livelihood programs, the Barangay Development and Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Programs have been effective in addressing the root cause of conflict in the countryside," he said
     "To complete this reintegration process, I will issue a Proclamation granting amnesty to rebel returnees, and I ask Congress to support me in this endeavor," the President vowed.
     A new proclamation is needed to extend the application process of the Amnesty program, which lapsed in January this year. The previous proclamations were issued during the time of Former President Rodrigo R. Duterte.
    President Marcos is determined to continue the amnesty process. He earlier appointed the commissioners of the National Amnesty Commission (NAC), namely: Chairperson Atty. Leah Tanodra-Armamento, Comm. Atty. Jamar Kulayan, and Comm. Nasser Marahomsalic.
     Presidential Peace Adviser Galvez thanked the President for his unwavering support to the Bangsamoro and for helping former rebels in their transformation process.
     "What we have witnessed in today's SONA is President Marcos' genuine sincerity in implementing all the signed peace agreements, and his commitment to bring sustainable peace throughout the country. This is true to his mantra of unity towards national healing and reconciliation," he said.
     The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity is carrying out the Marcos administration's Five-Point Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Agenda. These are:
     The 5-Point Peace, Reconciliation and Peace Agenda includes the following: Completion of peace agreements with the MILF and MNLF towards healing and reconciliation in the Bangsamoro;
    *Ending of local communist armed conflict by expanding the transformation programs for local conflict peace process;
    *Completion and sustainment of the gains of the signed peace agreements with the Rebolusyonaryong Partido Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade-Tabara Paduano Group (RPM-P/RPA/ABB-TPG), and Cordillera Bodong Administration–Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CBA-CPLA); 
    *Enhancement of the resilience for peace of communities and vulnerable groups through social healing and peacebuilding approaches in support of the peace processes; and
    *Enhancement of the delivery of Conflict-Sensitive and Peace Promoting-compliant socioeconomic interventons in addressing the key drivers of conflict through convergence and complementation in support of the peace processes..
     President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., has vowed to continue to support the progress of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and to help former rebels to regain their legal rights through an amnesty program as part of the administration's effort to push forward the country's comprehensive peace process during the President's second State of the Nation Address on Monday."We are proud of the progress that the BARMM has taken. It will be self-governing, it will be progressive, and it will be effective," the President said."But this was only made possible because of the cooperation of all key groups. We talked to the local governments, the royal families, the MNLF (Moro National Liberation Fron)t and the MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) were all consulted and represented in this transition phase. The international community has also supported us in this smooth transition. Former adversaries are now partners in peace. Its functions have been defined, and its basic laws are now being written," he said.                                                                                                                To recall, less than two months into his administration, President Marcos administered the oath of office to 80 newly and re-appointed members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) last August 12, 2022. This is the first time that the composition of the BTA includes members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), particularly from the group of its founding Chairman Nur Misuari.       President Marcos emphasized the great potential of the BARMM, saying that "through the BARMM, we have strengthened the nation’s prospects for finally achieving sustainable progress anchored on a true and lasting peace in Southern Philippines. We will continue to support the progress of the BARMM, apace with our singular vision for all Filipinos."                                 

      He said the national government is expanding its energy resources to include the BARMM.   

      "The national government has also partnered with the BARMM in regard to energy exploration and development, and also its utilization within its territorial jurisdiction. We, therefore, expect to see renewed investor interest in its promising sites," he said.                                                    

      On July 6, the President witnessed the signing of the Intergovernmental Energy Board Circular (EIB) on the Joint Award of Petroleum Service Contracts and Coal Operating Contracts in the BARMM, which marks another major milestone in the Bangsamoro peace process.            

      The IEB Circular operationalizes the provision in Section 10, Article XIII of Republic Act No. 11054 or the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, to jointly grant rights, privileges, and concessions for the exploration, development, and utilization of uranium and fossil fuels such as petroleum, natural gas, and coal within the territorial jurisdiction of the Bangsamoro.

    The Circular aims to boost economic development and draw foreign capital into the region.
    The President also highlighted the government's effort in the rehabilitation of Marawi City.  
    Last week, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Ernesto F. Lagdameo, Presidential Peace Adviser Sec. Carlito G. Galvez Jr, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who co-sponsored the Republic Act 11696 or the Marawi Siege Compensations Act of 2022, and other officials witnessed firsthand the applications for compensation claims filed with the Marawi Compensation Board. 

Read more...

Marcos admin’s peace initiatives with rebels

Peace Initiatives

Stephanie M. Florida

PASIG CITY – The Marcos Administration is determined to continue building on the gains of the comprehensive Philippine peace process, sustaining its momentum, and pushing forward the implementation of all signed peace agreements. 
     This, according to the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Sec. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., as the national government gears up for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 24. 
    “With only a year after he assumed the highest post in the land, President Marcos has demonstrated his steadfast commitment to the country’s comprehensive peace process, as reflected in the major milestones achieved under his administration,” Galvez said. 
    The government’s Five-Point Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Agenda, he said, is anchored on a whole-of-nation, whole-of-society approach wherein all sectors of society have a vital role to play in the peacebuilding and development process.
     “As evidenced by the President’s banner of unity, he has emphasized, time and again, that no one will be left behind. Each and every Filipino can help push forward and benefit from the successful implementation of the nation’s peace process,” Galvez said. 
     Under the Bangsamoro peace process, he noted that the government has helped reunite two of the country’s major Moro fronts – the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) after years of separation. 
     Through the Normalization Program under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), he said the national government shall fast track the transformation of MILF combatants, their families and communities through the decommissioning process. 
    “To date, a total of 24,844 MILF combatants have successfully undergone the process of decommissioning (phases 1 to 3), which is a vital component of the peace agreement,” Galvez said. 
     To aid these decommissioned combatants in their transition, he said the government is also providing them with socioeconomic assistance packages, as six of their camps are being transformed into zones of peace and development. 
    As of 2023, Php 2.484 billion worth of transitional cash assistance were provided to decommissioned combatants apart from in-kind packages such as civil registration, livelihood packages, skills training, employment support programs, and community infrastructure.
    Another major development under the Bangsamoro peace process, Galvez said, is the first meeting held between the Government of the Philippine and MILF Peace Implementing Panels under the Marcos administration.
     “During the meeting held last July 1, the GPH and MILF panels reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), which was contained in a joint statement issued by both parties,” he said. 
Under the peace process with the MNLF, Galvez said the government is focused on fulfilling the remaining commitments made under the 1996 Final Peace Agreement it signed with the Moro group. 
     “Through the Peace Coordinating Committees we have jointly set up with MNLF leaders, we will ensure that our MNLF brothers and sisters shall be able to partake of the dividends of peace and development,” Galvez said. 
    To realize these aspirations, the OPAPRU recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Mindanao State University (MSU) System to roll out the initial interventions for the combatants and their communities under the MNLF Transformation Program.  
    As a testament to his full support to the BARMM’s development, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. witnessed  on July 6, the signing of the Intergovernmental Energy Board (IEB) Circular on the Joint Award of Petroleum Service Contracts (PSCs) and Coal Operating Contracts (COCs) in the BARMM, which marks another major milestone in the Bangsamoro peace process.

To finally put an end to the decades-long communist insurgency in the country, the peace adviser said the government is implementing a revitalized Local Peace Engagement (LPE) initiative, as well as a Transformation Program for former rebels (FRs), their families and communities. 

The LPE is among the 12 lines of effort of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), which aims to address the roots of the armed rebellion that has claimed countless lives and destroyed once thriving communities.

Galvez said the Marcos administration is also committed to implementing a high-impact, cross-cutting Transformation Program that is now benefiting members of other revolutionary organizations who have given up armed struggle and embraced a peaceful life.  

These groups, he said, include the Cordillera Bodong Administration–Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CBA-CPLA) and the Rebolusyonaryong Partido Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade-Tabara Paduano Group (RPM-P/RPA/ABB-TPG), now known as the KAPATIRAN.

 “Through the Transformation Program we are carrying out for members of the CBA-CPLA and KAPATIRAN, the government is demonstrating its sincerity to aid these ex-fighters in improving their lives and helping them earn sustainable incomes,” Galvez said. 

Under the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity’s (OPAPRU) Social Healing and Peacebuilding Program, he said the government is helping individuals, families, and communities overcome trauma caused by armed conflict and build their resilience. 

 “The SHAPE Program is focused on implementing interventions such as peace forums, interfaith dialogues, and trauma healing sessions in order to address the root causes of violence and conflict in communities,” Galvez said. 

To ensure that genuine peace and sustainable development go hand in hand, he said the Marcos administration continues to implement the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn or PAMANA Program parallel to the rigorous initiatives of the Agency. 

From 2011 to 2022, PAMANA has implemented projects worth Php 55.2 billion that have benefitted residents in 16 regions, 50 provinces and over 500 municipalities and cities in seven geographical zones nationwide.

 

Read more...

8 wanted persons held; No crime in 54 Cordi towns

 8 Cordillera PNP officers awarded

CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet – Eight Cordillera police officers were awarded medals here July 17 at police regional headquarters for notable deeds.
    Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. David K. Peredo and lawyer Julius D. Torres, regional director of Commission on Elections awarded Medalya ng Kasanayan (PNP Efficiency Medal)  to Lt. Col. Vivian Paclibon, acting chief of Regional Information and Communication Technology Management Division, patrolmen Tommy Nixon Facsay and Roger Kitongan III including Lt. Cartner Rhyse Kelly of Regional Information and Technolgy Office for successful conduct of computer hardware maintenance and troubleshooting course on April 11–18 here. The same award was presented to Lt. Col. Berniel Gotoman of Regional Communications and Electronics Unit and CMS. Jamson Marzan for successful conduct of basic radio and telephone operations, procedures, and preventive seminar here June 1 and 20.
    Meanwhile, Medalya ng Kagalingan (PNP medals of merit) were awarded to CMS Tirso Botiwtiw and Cpl. Jemuel Madino of Benguet Police Provincial Office for arresting the no. 9 most wanted person in Benguet.
    Certificate of recognition was presented to Regional Personnel and Records Management Division by Col. Arnold Razote, chief RPRMD, for being adjudged the cleanest office from July 10–14, 2023.
 

8 wanted persons held; No crime in 54 Cordi towns

CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet -- Thirty-eight wanted persons were arrested while 54 Cordillera towns recorded zero crime from July 9–15.
    Based on the records from the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division, Kalinga Police Provincial Office recorded highest number of arrests with 18 followed by Baguio City Police Office with 11, Benguet PPO with six and Apayao, Ifugao and Mountain Province PPOs with one arrest each.
    Meanwhile, as a result of the intensified police presence, 54 Cordillera municipalities and three police stations in Baguio City recorded zero crime incidents during the same week.
    Zero crime was recorded in 24 municipalities in Abra, five in Apayao, three in Benguet; four in Kalinga; eight, Ifugao and 10 municipalities in Mountain Province.
    In Baguio City, police stations of Aurora Hill, Irisan and Marcos Highway also recorded zero crime incidents out of 10 police stations in the city.

 
2 die during monsoon Pangasinan onslaught

By Hilda Austria 

MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – Two persons died in separate incidents in Pangasinan July 16 amid the enhanced southwest monsoon or habagat and enhanced by Tropical Depression Dodong.
    In a statement on Monday, Pangasinan Police Provincial Office information officer Capt. Renan dela Cruz identified the casualties as 23-year-old Aloyssius Kevin Masa Chavez, a resident of Sta. Rosa, Laguna, who drowned in Bolinao town, and 62-year-old Ariel Dacera Canaria, a resident of Bani town, who crashed his motorcycle into an electric post that fell in the middle of the road.
    Chavez was kayaking with his friend at a beach resort when the water current brought them to a deeper portion of the sea and smashed with huge waves.
    His friend survived while Chavez was later recovered and brought to the nearest hospital although he was already dead, Dela Cruz said.
    Canaria was driving his motorcycle that hit an electric post in Barangay Calabeng resulting in serious injury on his head and different parts of his body.
    He was brought to Bolinao Community Hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead on arrival by the attending physician.
    In a separate interview, Pangasinan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) operations and training head Vincent Chu said they are still verifying if the incidents will be classified as typhoon-related.
    Meanwhile, Chu said the province remains under blue alert status, which means that equipment and personnel of PDRRMO are still on standby to assist local government units needing assistance.
    “The 103 families who evacuated have already returned to their homes except for the two families in Bani town and there are no longer flooded areas and the river systems are at normal levels,” he said.
    He added that most of the evacuees were from the western portion of Pangasinan.
    They received relief goods from their respective local government and provincial government of Pangasinan.
    The local government of Manaoag suspended classes on Monday due to unpredictable weather conditions. -- PNA
 

NPA leader with P100K reward nabbed for slays

By Vince Jacob Visaya

CAMP MELCHOR DE LA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela -- A 66-year-old suspected New People's Army rebel leader with a P100,000 reward for his head was arrested for multiple murder in Villa Pascua village in Diffun, Quirino on July 15, the military said.
    Ramon Luis, known in the rebel movement as Romeo Cudal alias Mon of Baracaoit, Gattaran, Cagayan and former agrarian revolution officer of the New People's Army-Komiteng Probinsya Isabela, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley, was arrested by Diffun Police and 86th Infantry Battalion Army soldiers, according to Capt. Rigor Pamittan, 5th Infantry Division spokesman.
    The warrant of arrest was issued for criminal case 24-8071 against Luis and other unidentified colleagues by the Regional Trial Court Branch 24 in Echague, Isabela.
 

Abra rebs at low point; folks want peace: Army

By Liza Agoot 

BANGUED, Abra – The Philippine Army in Abra said the New People's Army (NPA) in the province is now at its ‘lowest point’ as locals now want peace and development versus giving support to the terrorist organization.  
    Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Melchor dela Cruz, commander of the Army's 501st Infantry Brigade (501st IBde), said in an interview on Tuesday that “nali-limit na lang sila sa areas na master nila. Meron pa silang kaunting mga supporters kaya lang iyong mga dati nilang supporters na din ang nag drive-out sa kanila (their area is just now limited to terrains that they are familiar with. They still have a few supporters but those who drove them out of the community are also their previous supporters) who opt to have peace and development in their places." 
    The 501st IBde covers the whole of Abra and four towns of Mountain Province aside from Region 1.

Dela Cruz cited the tri-boundaries of Abra, Mountain Province and Ilocos where the former supporters were the ones who declared the rebels as "unwanted" in their communities and urged them to surrender and lay down their arms. 
    He advised the public to stop supporting the remaining NPA insurgents, encourage them to surrender and support the peace efforts of the government.  
    “When they are weak, they cannot terrorize, they cannot sow terror and they cannot make the people afraid of them. Let us take advantage of this situation when the NPAs are so weak. Let us continue to support the call for their surrender,” the Army officer said.  
    Dela Cruz also cited the gains of the whole-of-nation approach to ending the insurgency, where various government agencies put their resources together to bring development in far-flung areas targeted by the NPAs.  
    He said the people feel the government’s presence and support its development efforts, including the construction of roads, provision of livelihood, electrification and education for the youth.  -- PNA
 

4 arrested for P386-K shabu marijuana

CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet – Four “drug personalities” were arrested for illegal drugs worth P385,956 July 9 to 15.
    The police Regional Operations Division bared this saying the suspects were caught in possession of a total of 3.0 grams of marijuana and 56.70 grams of shabu worth P385,956.
    The same report disclosed that two arrests were made by the anti-illegal drugs operatives of the Baguio City Police Office who identified the suspects as Jomarck Galano, 21 and Jonada Disoma, 19.
    Meanwhile, drug suspects Rasmia Ebra, 29 and Adonis Abad, 35 were arrested by operatives from the Regional Drug Enforcement Unit.
    All arrested suspects and confiscated items were brought to respective arresting units.
Charges for violating the Republic Act 9165 known as Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 were filed against them.
 
 
 

Read more...