2 NPA guerillas killed in Cagayan identified

By Freddie Lazaro

CAMP MELCHOR F. DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela – The two New People’s Army rebels killed in an encounter with soldiers in Barangay San Carlos, Gattaran, Cagayan on December 23 have been identified.
    Major Rigor Pamittan, spokesperson of the 5th Infantry Division, said on Wednesday the fatalities were identified through members of their unit who surrendered.
    Pamittan identified the fatalities as Maria Valencia, an amazon from Tatalon, Quezon City, and “Ka Jero” of General Santos City.
    “The real name of Ka Jero is subject for verification and validation,” Pamittan said.
    Their bodies are under custody of Gattaran police while the military is coordinating with families of the two slain communist rebels.
    Major Gen. Audrey L. Pasia, commander of the 5th ID, urged NPA guerillas in Cagayan to surrender.
    Pamittan said they were pursuing NPA remnants in Region 2 or Cagayan Valley.
    On Christmas Day, the 95th Infantry Battalion and 52nd Division Reconnaissance Company seized an R4 rifle, one M-16 rifle, bandoliers, medical paraphernalia, subversive documents, and personal belongings owned by the NPA in Barangay T. Elizaga, Gattaran.

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No blanket amnesty for rebels – Galvez

By Franco Jose C. Baroña

THE amnesty proclamations issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. do not give "blanket" amnesty to former rebels and do not remove the grantee's civil liability for injuries or damages caused to private persons, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said.
    He clarified that being a member of a rebel group such as the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) is not enough to qualify for amnesty.
Galvez said an applicant for amnesty must "show remorse and admit to the crimes that they have committed, and in doing so, show that they have completely turned away from a life of violence and armed struggle."
    He added that amnesty is to "extinguish any criminal liability for the acts subject of the amnesty grant, as well as restore all civil and political rights suspended or lost by a criminal conviction."
    The "delicate balancing act" of ensuring the state's obligation to protect and promote human rights on one hand, and its commitment to peace, reconciliation and unity on the other falls on the shoulders of the National Amnesty Commission (NAC), he said.
    "The NAC shall ensure the expeditious but cautious processing of amnesty applications of these former rebels," Galvez said.
    He hailed the recent approval of four concurrent resolutions in the House of Representatives that grant amnesty to former rebels.
    Resolutions 19, 20, 21 and 22 cover members of the CPP-NPA-NDF, the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
    Galvez said the resolutions, which concur with Proclamations 403, 404, 405 and 406 issued by President Marcos last November 24, will enable the government to "push forward, build on, and sustain the gains of peace throughout our nation."
    The adoption of the concurrent resolutions comes on the heels of the joint communiqué signed by the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF in Oslo, Norway, signaling the start of fresh peace talks between the two parties.
    Through the communiqué, the government and the communist group expressed their intention "to end the decades-long armed conflict, armed struggle, and transform the members of the CPP-NPA-NDF."
    "The granting of amnesty is an integral part of the comprehensive peace process. It is a path towards normalization that would allow these 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.

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NPA member surrenders; explosives cache found

PUDTOL, Apayao – A New People’s Army guerilla voluntarily surrendered while an explosive cache belonging to the NPA was discovered here at Sitio Agura, Barangay Malibang Dec. 13, the regional police information office said.
    Reports submitted to Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. David K. Peredo Jr said the 57-year-old NPA surrenderee was from Purok 4, Malibang here and member of the West Front Committee, KOMPROB Cagayan, KR-CV.
    After a series of negotiations, the former surrendered to the 1st Apayao Provincial Mobile Force Company, Provincial Intelligence Unit-Apayao Provincial Police Office, Regional Intelligence Division Cordillera, Regional Mobile Force Battalion15, Regional Intelligence Unit 14, Pudtol Municipal Police Station and Provincial EOD and Canine Unit Apayao.
    During interrogation the surrenderee disclosed location of explosives cache.
    Acting the said information, elements of Apayao PPO, RID-PRO Cordillera, RMFB15, RIU-14, and PECU-Apayao proceeded to the place and found fuse time commercial-226 ft; two grenade rifle, M76 high explosive; grenade rifle, M76, HE without pin; 60mm cartridge, HE; three handheld radio and two radio chargers.

    The surrenderee now under custody of the 1st Apayao PMFC for debriefing.
    The explosive materials are now under the custody of Apayao PECU while handheld radios and chargers are now under custody of the 1st Apayao PMFC for disposition.
 

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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.
 

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Cops discover Abra NPA camp; seize war materials

TUBO, Abra -- An abandoned camp of the New People’s Army was discovered by Abra cops where several war materials were found here in Barangay Kili on Nov. 27, the regional police information office said.
    A report submitted to regional police director Brig. Gen. David K. Peredo Jr. said elements of 143rd Special Action Company, 14th Special Action Battalion,  Abra Police Provincial Office, Mountain Province PPO and Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15, were conducting operations at said barangay when they discovered the encampment along with one anti-personnel mine  (PVC type), two dynamite, four pieces of detonating cord, ICOM handheld radio, two ICOM battery chargers, assorted wiring, one solar panel, Motorola and Nokia chargers, two Dynamo and a grease gun.
    Other subversive documents, several communication devices, tools, medicine kits, and personal belongings were taken  by police from the camp.
    Items are now in the custody of Tubo MPS and EOD Abra while police area searching adjacent areas of the CTG encampment NPA guerillas.
 

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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

 

 

 

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Five NPA guerillas nabbed in Cagayan

_{By Jun Elias}

_{STO. NINO, Cagayan — Five New People’s Army rebels were arrested following an encounter with policemen in Barangay Niug Norte here last week.}

    Lt. Col. Virgilio Abellera Jr., Regional Mobile Force Battalion-Cagayan Valley commander, identified those arrested as Edwin Callaueng, Aiza Antonio, Ramil Andam, Alvin Andam and Jayson Melad.

    In a radio interview, Abellera said Callaueng was wounded in the 10-minute firefight.

    It was learned that Callaueng has pending arrest warrants for attempted murder, violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act as well as     illegal possession, manufacture and acquisition of firearms, ammunition and explosives.

    Abellera said the clash occurred when personnel of the 202nd Maneuver Company responded to reports from residents on    presence of armed men in the area.

    There was no reported casualty on the side of the government.

 

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NPA guerilla yields in Abra

MANABO, Abra -- Another New People’s Army guerilla voluntarily surrendered here to provincial authorities on Wednesday August 23, the regional police information office said.
    Reports submitted to Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. David. K. Peredo Jr. said the rebel returnee surrendered after series of negotiations conducted by elements of the 2nd Abra Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) led by Lt. Col. Dickson K. Banes, commander of 2nd Abra PMFC; the 1st Abra PMFC, Provincial Intelligence Unit of Abra, Manabo Municipal Police Station, Regional Intelligence Division, Regional Intelligence Unit 14, 1504th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15 and 24th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
    The former rebel, who was not named, surrendered without a firearm and expressed support to government peace efforts to end conflict with the communist movement.
    The rebel returnee is now under custody of the 2nd Abra PMFC for custodial debriefing.

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NPA arms cache found in Ifugao after ex-rebel’s tip

ASIPULO, Ifugao -- An arms cache of the communist New People’s Army was discovered by police here at Sitio Maloy, Cawayan afternoon of August 16, the regional police office said.
    Reports submitted to Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. David K. Peredo said Asipulo town police found war materiel following tip from a former rebel.
    Acting on the said information, joint personnel of Ifugao Provincial Police Office under Col. Davy Vicente Limmong, Ifugao Provincial EOD and Canine Unit, Ifugao Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 1501st Mobile Company, Regional Intelligence Unit 14, 145th Special Action Company of  14th Special Action Battalion from the PNP Special Action Force and 54th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army went to the site.
    The arms cache contained two grenade rifles, a CTG 60mm HE, three CTG 40mm HE, one improvised mine, stranded wire, cell phone switch, Cal. 45 pistol without magazine and ammunition, magazine for M14 rifle and long and short magazines for M16 rifle.
    The items were brought to Asipulo municipal police station then later to PECU Ifugao for disposition.

 

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2 NPA guerillas yield in Apayao, Ifugao

CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet -Two Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army guerillas voluntarily surrendered to authorities in the provinces of Apayao and Ifugao on August 16.
    Reports submitted to Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. David K. Peredo Jr. said both surrenderees were former members of Militia ng Bayan.
    In Apayao, the rebel returnee surrendered after series of negotiations conducted by Pudtol town police, 1st Apayao Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), 1505th Maneuver Company of Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15 (RMFB15) and the Philippine Army’s 17th Infantry Brigade (17IB).
    The rebel returnee handed over a homemade pistol with five bullets for Cal. 5.56 to authorities.
    In Ifugao, the other rebel returnee surrendered to elements of Alfonso Lista town police,  2nd Ifugao PMFC, Regional Intelligence Unit 14 (RIU-14), the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) of Ifugao Provincial Police Office, Regional Intelligence Division and 1501st Mobile Company of RMFB15 after  series of negotiations.
    He also handed over his Cal. 45, magazine, and five bullets.
     The rebel returnees are now under the custody of respective police units for custodial debriefing and proper disposition.

 

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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. 

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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.

 

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Nolcom neutralizes six NPAs, seize 42 firearms

By Liezle Basa Inigo

CAMP Aquino, Tarlac City – The Armed Forces-Northern Luzon Command reported on Monday, May 22, that six New People’s Army rebels were neutralized in their area of jurisdiction from Jan. 1 to present.
    Nolcom chief Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca said four NPAs were apprehended, two surrendered, and two others were identified as lie-low members.
    Buca said 158 mass base supporters have withdrawn their support to the communist movement.
    Nolcom recovered 21 high-powered firearms, 21 low-powered firearms, and 38 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from the NPA.
    Buca thanked the bravery and commitment of troops involved in operations against the NPA, the success of these, he said, is a testament to the Nolcom’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the people in the region.
    Nolcom covers the Ilocos region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon, including the Scarborough Shoal and the Benham Rise. 
    It is responsible for the defense of these areas against external aggression, as well as combating terrorism and insurgency.
 

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Five NPA guerillas surrender in Ilocos

By Freddie Lazaro

CAMP FLORENDO, La Union – Five former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered in Ilocos Sur and Pangasinan on Monday, May 15.
    Police identified one of them as “Ka Randy,” a former member of the Militia ng Bayan (MB) under the Sigmaru Unit Command of Komiteng Larangang Guerilya (KLG)-Caraballo and a farmer residing in San Nicolas, Pangasinan.
    Ka Randy underwent debriefing and has signed a pledge of alliance to the Philippine government. He has received two sacks of rice, groceries, P2,000 cash gift, and was turned over to the local government unit (LGU) of San Nicolas, Pangasinan.
    Another was “Ka Alis,” an unemployed resident of Barangay Tangaoan, Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur and formerly affiliated with the Alex Boncayao Brigade of the NPA.
    She has signed an oath of allegiance signifying iher withdrawal of support to the communist movement.
“Ka Juan,” a  laborer residing in Barangay Angkeling, Santa Lucia, Ilocos Sur, also surrendered and turned over a caliber .45 homemade pistol entrusted to him by the NPA in 2016.
    The other surrenderers were “Ka Edmund” and “Ka Me-an,” residents of Barangay Cadacad, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur and former members of the Special Yunit Partisano of the NPA operating in Ilocos Sur.
    They withdrew support to the NPA in 1994 and 1995 but they were not properly documented.
    Police and the military facilitated the surrender of the five former NPA rebels.

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Groups hit 'mutiliation' of NPA rev in Kalinga clash

Karapatan condemned growing cases of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law (IHL) in the country saying civilians were increasingly being victimized in government’s “brutal counter-insurgency war.”
    Karapatan said the Cordillera Human Rights Alliance received reports of  “gruesome mutilation of the body of an alleged NPA member reportedly killed in a firefight with the military in Balbalan, Kalinga on May 3, 2023.
    “The victim's head and limbs were missing and only the torso has been recovered. International humanitarian law strictly prohibits the mutilation and the desecration of the remains of combatants and even the killing or harming of hors de combat (a combatant who is no longer capable of fighting because he has surrendered, been captured, wounded, unconscious or ill),” Karapatan said in a press statement.
    “Mutilation is a grievous violation of IHL whether the victim was decapitated and his limbs hacked off before or after he was killed.
    “We denounce these war crimes and all other violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. We likewise call on the Commission on Human Rights to conduct through investigations into these and other reported violations.

Karapatan said latest case that came to their attention was the killing of two civilians in Barangay Sangay, Palapag, Northern Samar,” “According to reports reaching Karapatan, Joel Recare and Oscar Alastoy were in the area to work as chainsaw helpers. But the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force reported that they were slain in an alleged encounter on May 5, 2023 in Sitio Ibaliw, Barangay Capacujan of the said town. The village chief of Barangay Capacujan has vouched for the victims, saying they are not armed rebels and were not on any watchlist. The victims' families likewise complained that the PNP-SAF took more than 24 hours to deliver the decomposing bodies to the Regional Health Unit.”

In Negros, a civilian named Crispin Tingal Jr. was reportedly gunned down by elements of the 94th IB in Sitio Ulo-Tuburan, Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City on May 3.

According to witnesses, a rain-soaked Tingal had just arrived home with his wife from a local government-sponsored seminar at the Himamaylan City when he was shot by the soldiers, who later claimed that he was a New People’s Army casualty in an alleged 20-minute gunbattle. The incident was witnessed by the victim's family members as well as several students who had been stranded at a nearby house because of floods caused by the strong rains.

 

 

 

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Cordillera rights group to gov’t: Surface ‘NPA leader’

By Sherwin De Vera

BAGUIO CITY — Cordillera rights group called for the surfacing of two individuals whom they believe are under the custody of law enforcement after they went missing on April 28.
    “We express deep concern for the safety and well-being of Dexter Capuyan and Gene Roz Jamil De Jesus,” said Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA) in a May 3 urgent alert.
    CHRA said the last reported contact from their peers was last Friday, April 28, somewhere in Taytay, Rizal around 9 p.m.
    Capuyan is an Igorot from La Trinidad, Benguet. Meanwhile, De Jesus, a resident of Bulacan, last communicated at 7:36 p.m., according to his mother’s social media post.
    “Napakahirap para sa aming pamilya ang bagay na ito. Ilang araw nang dala-dala namin ang matinding pag-aalala. Pinipilit na maging normal ang pagharap sa lahat ngunit sa likod ay puno ng paghihinagpis. Sana ay magkaroon na ng linaw ang paghahanap,” De Jesus’ mother, Ditz said in the post.
    (This is very hard for our family. We have been deeply worried for several days now. We try our best to face all these despite our pain. We hope we can see the light in our search.)

    CHRA also appealed for public support to locate them and ascertain their situation.

    “We believe that state security units have them in custody and fear for their safety and well-being. We urge whoever holds them to surface them immediately, respect their rights and treat them humanely,” the group said.

    Capuyan is among individuals named in the list of alleged leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army released by the Dept. of National Defense and Department of the Interior and Local Government. Authorities are offering P1.85 million bounty for his arrest.

    He is 56 years old and allegedly a ranking officer of the Chadli Molintas Command NPA Ilocos Cordillera.

    He was among more than 600 individuals named in the Dept. of Justice petition to proscribe the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization.

    His name was removed when state prosecutors trimmed the number of respondents to eight.

    The court junked the petition in September last year.

    His name was also implicated in the February 2015 NPA ambush against a military and police convoy in Quirino, Ilocos Sur, resulting in five soldiers’ killed and wounding of six others.

    The two were former University of the Philippines Baguio students.

    Capuyan was a BA Social Sciences student.

    He served as editor-in-chief of the student publication, Outcrop and the League of Filipino Students chairperson in the early 1980s.

    Meanwhile, De Jesus, a BA Communication Major in Journalism cum laude, was chairperson of the Alliance of Concerned Students and the UP Baguio Council of Leaders before graduating in 2016.

    He also served as the Cordillera regional coordinator of the National Union of Students of the Philippines.

    According to his family’s post, he is currently the information and networking officer of the Philippine Task Force for Indigenous Peoples.

    Leia Castro-Margate, a former instructor of De Jesus in UP Baguio, described him as a “good writer.”

    “He was the kind of student you would be proud of as a teacher, didn’t neglect his studies while still serving the people outside school work. He is not just as activist for show but someone who walks the talk,” she said in an online interview.

    “He was very humble and down to earth,” Castro-Margate added. – Rappler.com

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NolCom brings bodies of slain NPAs to families

TABUK CITY, Kalinga -- Troops under the Northern Luzon Command transported bodies of New People’s Army guerillas to their respective families following series of armed encounters on May 3 in North Luzon, a press statement from Maj. Al Anthony B. Pueblas, NolCom public information office chief bared.
    According to the military, they verified identity of cadavers with help of their families and former comrades in arms from the communist movement.
    They were identified as Baliwag Boccol alias 'Ka Bombo’, 67, member of Squad Uno of Komiteng Larangang Gerilya Baggas, Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee from Nambucayan, Tabuk City, Kalinga; “Morga” from Manila, student from the University of the Philippines (UP) who was recruited into the armed movement and a certain Aldy of Isabela.
    Elements of the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division, Philippine National Police and Provincial Task Force ELCAC retrieved, identified and sent the cadavers to their respective families and local governments.
     Aldy was given a proper burial with the help of the local government of Buguey, Cagayan on May 8 at Centro West Public Cemetery in Buguey, Cagayan; Morga was cremated upon the decision of his father while Boccol was brought to TAMPCO Funeral Homes, Dagupan, Tabuk City, Kalinga on May 4.
    Lt. Gen. Fernyl G. Buca, NolCom commander conveyed his sympathies to the families of the bereaved, he said: “We recognize that no amount of words can ease the pain of losing a loved one that is why I echo my call to the remaining communist members to surrender while they still have a chance to start a peaceful life.”
    “Despite the tension and hostility that often characterize such situations, our soldiers remained professional and respectful, even to their enemy who wish to cause harm to them and the communities which is a clear manifestation of our strict adherence to International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights as well as the recognition of the need to treat everyone with dignity, regardless of their beliefs or affiliations,” the NolCom commander added.
 

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OPAPRU: CPP-NPA-NDF welcome in local peace gabs

By Stephanie Florida

Presidential Peace adviser Isidro Purisima said high-ranking leaders of the Communist Party of The Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP/NPA/NDF) are welcome to join local peace dialogues, as he urged them to support the Marcos Administration’s peace agenda.
    “They can join us in the local peace dialogues, kaya nga hinikayat natin ‘yung mga leaders ng CPP/NPA/NDF that sana magbago na ‘yung direksyon nila. Na sana ma-prevent na natin ‘yung violence sa ating communities,” Purisima said.
    Purisima made the statement during a special press conference organized by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) entitled, “TAGGED Reloaded: Debunking Lies By Telling The Truth.”
    The press briefing was done right after the first executive committee meeting of the NTF-ELCAC in Malacañang on Wednesday, May 10.
    Purisima said the shift from national peace talks to localized peace engagement was meant to engage not just the rebels, but also communities and families affected by the armed conflict through community consultations and bringing essential government services to these areas.
    The Philippine government, then under the leadership of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, officially terminated its peace talks in 2017 with the CPP-NPA-NDF due to what Malacanang said was insincerity and lack of commitment on the part of the rebel group.

    “The national government never abandoned the peace process nor the framework of peace. The way forward for the peace process is LPE, which is nationally-directed and centrally- supervised but locally-implemented,” Purisima said.

    The LPE is one of the 12 lines of effort under the NTF-ELCAC which was created through Executive Order No. 70 signed by President Duterte’s in 2018. EO 70 mandates a whole-of-nation, whole-of-society approach in addressing the root causes of the communist insurgency.

    “That's why we're inviting them to join us in the localized peace engagement dito sa ating bansa kasi nakikita natin na kailangan, it should be community-driven, kasama ‘yung mga tao  para sa ganun ay ‘yung mga interventions natin it should be community driven. [Ito} ‘yung objective natin dito sa tinatawag natin na localized peace engagement,” he added.

    According to Purisima, LPE is anchored on community-driven consultations because by engaging members of the community, the peacebuilding process becomes inclusive, participatory and more importantly, sustainable.  

    “The peace process is not only about peace talks. It also involves other components like peacekeeping - making sure that the people and communities are safe and secured, peace-making - the transformation of the different combatants, their families and communities, and peacebuilding that includes the socio-economic dimension and development in the different areas,” Purisima added.

    At the same press conference, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año announced the designation of Vice President Sara Duterte as NTF-ELCAC co-vice chairperson.

    “The NTF-ELCAC executive committee has approved the designation of Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte as co-vice chairperson of the Task Force. Her unstinting commitment to the cause of NTF-ELCAC will undoubtedly be very valuable to the Task Force and we thank her for accepting the challenge,” Año said.

    In a statement, Duterte expressed her commitment and support, as she takes on her role as Vice-Chairperson of the Task Force.

    “We have already learned that our battle against the CTG takes more than military prowess for us to come out victorious. The whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach proved to be truly effective in this battle against the despicable ways of the CPP-NPA-NDF,” she said.

    As education secretary, Duterte said she had seen “how deeply ingrained the problem of insurgency in our country is.”

    “They have infiltrated our institutions and sectors and remained a serious threat to the well-being of the Filipino People, particularly our youth. Education, therefore, is one of the greatest weapons we can use in suppressing the lies and deceptions of these terrorists and their allied organizations,” Duterte said.

    “We shall take advantage of strength derived from unity and good governance, as we promote sustainable peace and development for every Filipino to enjoy,” she added.

    At the same presscon, NTF-ELCAC executive director Ernesto Torres Jr. said that the task force is on the “road to victory” as the Task Force intensified its peacekeeping efforts which resulted in the dismantling of 75% of all CPP-NPA guerilla fronts.

    “We are now on the road to final victory and with the commitment that were expressed by the member-agencies in this afternoon's meeting. Masasabi ko na abot-kamay na natin ang ating tagumpay,” he said.

    The National Security Agency also vowed to deliver on its commitment to help push forward unity, peace and development across the country, with their interventions anchored on the principles of good and inclusive governance.

    “The President’s marching orders to the NTF ELCAC is clear: Sustain the whole-of-nation approach to peace and development to prevent Communist terrorists, their front organizations, and other lawless elements from recruiting, regrouping, and regaining power. He also directed the Task Force and the Local Government Units to continue working together to seize the gains in the regions and ensure that we carry this momentum towards total victory over Communist terrorism under his administration,” National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said.

 

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CPP-NPA member arrested for slay

By Leander C. Domingo

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela -- A warrant of arrest was served against a member of the New People's Army (NPA) at the 5th Infantry Division (5ID) Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz Station Hospital here.
    According to Capt. Rigor Pamittan, 5ID Public Affairs Office chief, Yusida Orion alias Brown was charged with three counts of attempted murder based on the warrant of arrest issued by Judge Isaac de Alban of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 16, in Ilagan City. Pamittan said Orion is allowed to post bail amounting to P120,000 for each of the criminal cases.
    It was the San Mariano town police who served the warrant to Orion on February 15. According to police, Orion was also a member of the Kabataan Makabayan, tagged by authorities as an underground youth organization, while studying at the De La Salle University. He became a regular armed member of the NPA-Benito Tesorio Command in 2015 in Isabela. In 2018, he was then assigned as squad leader of Komiteng Larangan Guerilla Quirino-Nueva Vizcaya and became the secretary of the Regional Sentro de Gravidad, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley until it was dismantled in 2022. Pamittan said Orion was abandoned by his comrades after a firefight in Baggao town in Cagayan province which led to his surrender to the military. He said further investigation into Orion's person revealed that he has a standing warrant of arrest issued on June 5, 2022. Pamittan said Orion is still confined at the Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz Station Hospital for medical treatment

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Filipino-Japanese NPA reb captured in Cagayan

By Liezle Basa Inigo

BAGGAO, Cagayan – Police and Army forces captured a wounded Filipino-Japanese New People’s Army rebel here following an encounter here on Monday, Feb. 13.
    He was identified as Orion Yoshida, alias “Brown,” who was a student in prominent university on Taft Ave. in Manila.
    Yoshida was a member of the Isabela Provincial Committee under “Commander Rannie.”
    He was found alone during a clearing operation in Sitio Nangbaggayan, Barangay Santa Margarita.
    Government troops engaged communist guerillas in an encounter in the area in which two rebels were killed and war material and subversive documents were recovered.
    Police Regional Office 2 director Brig. Gen. Percival Rumbaoa urged remaining members of the NPA to return to the fold of the law.
    In the ensuing pursuit operation, the troops belonging to the 17th Infantry Battalion were able to track down the rebels. For the second time, a clash lasting for about 15 minutes erupted.

Another member of the communist group was killed and a Bushmaster rifle with a magazine was recovered.

Meanwhile, authorities encouraged remaining members of the communist group to return to the government.

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