Military brands NPA attacks on Leyte troops as desperate moves

CAMP DOWNES, ORMOC CITY, December 9 (PIA) – Military branded as desperate moves of lawless elements belonging to the New People’s Army, the attacks on government troops in Albuera and Jaro, Leyte on December 6, 2012 which resulted to the killing of 2 soldiers, and the wounding of 3 other soldiers and a civilian.

“This is another desperate act of the NPA to disrupt our efforts of bringing peace and development that will benefit our less fortunate brothers and sisters in the area,” said Colonel Rafael C. Valencia, the Brigade Commander of 802nd Infantry Brigade based in Camp Downes, Ormoc City.

He stressed however, that the incidents will not stop the government troops from pursuing their mission of winning peace for the people of Leyte.

More or less 10 lawless armed elements harassed the base of Alpha Company of 78^th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Antipolo, Albuera at around 7:50 in the evening of December 6, wounding a certain Edgar Borinaga, a resident of the said barangay.

In a separate incident, some 10 NPAs attacked troops who were providing security to members of a Bayanihan Team of 19^th Infantry Battalion conducting peace and development activities in Barangay Rubas, Jaro at around 8:00 o’clock in the evening resulting the death of two soldiers and wounding of 3 others.

Captain Dranreb Canto, Public Information Officer of the 802^nd Infantry Brigade said that the names of the military casualties are being withheld pending notification of their immediate families.

The wounded civilian in Barangay Antipolo, Albuera town was immediately brought to OSPA Hospital in Ormoc City for immediate medical treatment.

It may be recalled that on November 30, 2012, one soldier was killed and two others were wounded when elements from the 78^th Infantry Battalion were ambushed by more or less 10 NPAs at Sitio Calingatnan, Barangay San Pedro, Albuera, Leyte.

They troops were on their way back to their headquarters from peace and development efforts.

17 Leyte rebel returnees receive livelihood assistance from OPAPP

 

CAMP DOWNES, ORMOC CITY, Leyte, November 19 (PIA) – The Government’s Social Intergration Plarn being implemented by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) continues to attract and help Former Rebels (FRs) to come back into the folds of law by giving livelihood financial assistance.

 

On November 16, 2012, an awarding of livelihood financial assistance to 17 rebel returnees was conducted at Barangay Canhandugan, Jaro, Leyte.

 

The activity which was led by the representatives of OPAPP, was attended by Leyte Governor Mimietta Bagulaya represented by Leyte PSWD Officer Mrs. Clotilde Malatbalat and Colonel Rafael Valencia, the 802^nd Brigade Commander, represented by Colonel Dinoh A. Dolina.

 

In a report from Captain Dranreb Canto, PIO of the 802^nd Brigade of the 8^th Infantry Division, the former rebels received P50,000.00 each to start a livelihood project which shall be monitored regularly by the OPAPP and other concern agencies.

 

Aside from awarding of livelihood financial assistance, the activity also highlighted the distribution of certificates to former rebels who had undergone the Social Preparation Training or Livelihood Training administered by the military through the 19th Infantry Battalion and the Provincial Social Welfare & Development (PSWD) Office of Leyte.

 

OPAPP representative Atty. Maricel Bantilo said that the giving of livelihood assistance to FR’s varies based on the reintegration plan submitted and identified by the them based on their choice, skills and capability to sustain such project. 

 

Colonel Dolina, the Deputy Brigade Commander of 802^nd Brigade based in Camp Downes, Ormoc City, in his speech, called on the community to join hand-in-hand in advocating peace and help encourage armed groups to lay down their arms and go back to the mainstream society.

 

Colonel Dolina also said that as declared and promised by the newly installed Brigade Commander Valencia, the 802^nd Brigade will find ways to grant additional financial assistance to former rebels who will voluntarily surrender with firearms in addition to the assistance they will receive from OPAPP.

 

It may be recalled that on August 23, 2012, the same former rebels received P10,000  each from the Provincial Government of Leyte as Initial Financial Assistance  held at Barangay Roxas, Burauen, Leyte.(PIA)

Bigger bounty awaits active NPA members who surrender with firearms

 

JARO, Leyte---The leadership of the Army’s 19^th Infantry (Commando) Battalion declared that additional Php 32, 000. 00 from the 802^nd Infantry Brigade will be received by every active member of the New Peoples Army who surrenders with firearms.

 

This was emphasized by Lt. Col. Joel Alejandro Nacnac, the commanding officer of 19IB during the awarding of livelihood assistance to seventeen former rebels held at Brgy. Canjandugan, Jaro, Leyte on Friday, Nov. 16, 2012.

 

Instead of setting bounty to hasten the capture of NPA members, 19IB with its Bayanihan Teams now focused on encouraging rebels in Leyte to surrender.

 

“Now is the time for the other active NPA members to lay down their arms and return to the folds of law because the government seeks nothing but to see NPA members rejoining their family and the community,” Lt. Col. Nacnac said.

 

With this campaign, an NPA rebel who surrenders with high powered firearms may receive as much Php 92, 000.00. This amount includes Php 10,000.00 Basic Immediate Assistance (BIA), Php 50, 000.00 livelihood assistance from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process and Php 32, 000.00 to every high powered firearm surrendered

 

As of press time, the military is still negotiating the surrender of some active NPA members in the municipalities of Jaro, Leyte

19IB, DILG conducts leadership seminar to BPDO Officers

 

CARIGARA, Leyte--- In order to revitalize the duties and responsibilities of the Barangay Peace and Development Organization, a leadership seminar for its officers was launched by the Army’s 19^th Infantry (Commando) Battalion and the Department of Interior and Local Government of Carigara, Leyte on Thursday, Nov. 15, 2012.  

 

Lt. Col. Joel Alejandro S. Nacnac, the Commanding Officer of 19^th IB said that a total of 25 BDPO officers from the 11 priority barangays of Carigara, Leyte had attended a one-day seminar which was conducted at Headquarters, Alpha “Assault” Company at Brgy. Tinaguban, Carigara, Leyte.

 

It can be recalled that the Barangay Peace and Development Organization (BPDO) was created during series of Army peace forum and bayanihan activities in the different barangays of Carigara, Leyte.  

 

A Peace Forum is a multi-sectoral initiative to have a whole of society approach in solving conflict issues. It is a conflict resolution activity where people are given the opportunity to discuss and take action on the most important issues affecting peace in their own communities.

 

“With this seminar, I am confident that our BPDO officers will become more responsible in discharging their duties as peace and development watchers in the barangays”, Nacnac said.

 

The Leadership Seminar for BPDO officers includes lectures and workshop by the Mr. Ronald M. Acebedo, the Municipal Local Government Operations Officer of Carigara, Leyte.

 

Meanwhile, military resource speakers also discussed on disaster preparedness and information gathering.

61 potential leaders reared in Tabango, Leyte

TABANGO, Leyte---Some 61 participants of the Youth Leadership Summit held at Tabango, Leyte were cited future leaders by the newly installed commander of Ormoc based 802nd Infantry Brigade during the closing ceremony on Wednesday, October 31, 2012. Col. Rafael C. Valencia who took over command of 802nd Infantry Brigade on Sunday, October 29 was guest of honor and speaker on the fourth Youth Leadership Summit facilitated by the 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion and DepEd Alternative Learning System in the province of Leyte this year.

 Col. Valencia was amazed on how the participants were transformed in just three days of leadership and team building activities.

 In his message, he stressed that peace should be nurtured from the youth being the hope of the nation. He likewise commends the untiring support of the LGU Tabango and the perennial backing of DepEd Alternative Learning System to 19IB.

 The 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion under Lt. Col. Joel Alejandro S. Nacnac had gone through intensive inter-agency coordination prior to the conduct of the Youth Leadership Summit.

 Since he assumed command of 19IB, four Youth Leadership Summits had been conducted in the province of Leyte. “I hope that the participants we have today will see themselves working for peace and development in their communities”, Nacnac deliberately stressed.

Rotary Club backs three-day Youth Leadership Summit in Ormoc

CITY OF ORMOC----A total of 93 juveniles from the villages of Cabintan, Gaas, Liberty and Lake Danao this city has successfully completed the three-day Youth Leadership Summit on Sunday, October 28, 2012. The summit which was held at Eastern Visayas State University was facilitated by 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion and the DepEd Alternative Learning System with the sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Ormoc City. Majority of the participants are out of school youth while others are officials of the Sangguniang Kabataan. In his speech during the opening ceremony on October 26, Lt. Col. Nacnac, commanding officer of 19IB emphasizes the vital role of the youth in the community and as future leaders of the country. “The summit is an ideal training for the youth to discover and enhance within themselves their leadership skills”, Lt. Col. Nacnac said. Series of team building activities and lectures such a drug awareness, insurgency awareness, community policing, health and sanitation were being tackled by resource speakers coming from the city government of Ormoc, PDEA 8, Regional Public Safety Battalion 8 and Gawad Kalinga. Lt. Col. Nacnac likewise expressed his gratitude to the Rotary Club of Ormoc City spearheaded by Mr. Wesley Noel O. Chu, the club president and Mr. Peter Rodriguez, the district governor. On the other hand Col. Emmanuel G. Cacdac, the acting commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade who was guest of honor and speaker during the closing ceremony lauded the effort and sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Ormoc to the joint venture of the 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion and DepEd Alternative Learning System. Lt. Col. Nacnac is looking forward that the YLS proposals submitted by the 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion to the different LGUs in Leyte will be approved within this year.

Three Captured NPAs were accorded human rights midst encounter in Samar

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City – In adherence to Human Rights and International humanitarian Law, the Rule of Law prevailed amidst the fierce encounter between the troops of 87IB and the group of NPA in the vicinity of Brgy Guinbanga, Calbiga, Samar on January 23, 2012 that resulted to the seizure of an NPA Camp and recovery of voluminous subversive documents and equipment including a laptop computer. Three suspected NPAs were also captured when they were left by their withdrawing comrades and their group out manuevered by the gov’t forces. Despite the soldiers desire to revenge the loss of life of their companion who was killed during the encounter their sense of professionalism and respect for HR prevailed. They were treated humanely and were apprised of their constitutional rights.

Gen Chan commended the soldiers of 87IB for their professionalism and observance to HR and rule of law. “This is a good development to our soldiers. The respect of human rights they displayed at the height of the encounter showed their sincere commitment to the rule of law. This is a result of our continuing efforts to educate our soldiers in order to be disciplined and true advocates of human rights”.

The suspects who were identified as Maita Abadidano y Mabini. a.k.a. “Mytha/Jenny”, Jerry Sablan y Macanas a.k.a “Jerry”, and Delmar Dacdac y Llantada a.k.a. “Archie”. They (suspects) were charged by the police authorities for violation of Presidential Decree 1866, as amended by Republic Act 8294 (illegal possession of firearms) and Republic Act 9516 (illegal possession of explosives).

The SOCO Team from Crime Laboratory, Samar Provincial Police Office was also quick to conduct examination at the scene of encounter to ensure the preservation of evidences and truthfulness to the incident. The troops recovered in the possession of the three captured NPAs four (4) M26 fragmentation hand grenades, one (1) M1911 calibre 45 pistol, one (1) calibre 9mm berretta and fifteen (15) rounds of ammunitions.

A separate case will be filed by the Police authorities against the NPA group including the three suspects for the killing of CAA Luis C Gacuma, a member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliary who was killed during the encounter. Additionally, another case will be filed against the suspects as witness identified them as part of the NPA group who attacked the Hinabangan Police Station on September 12, 2011.

The successful encounter sent a strong message to the NPAs that there is no safe haven for them (NPAs) in Samar. There will be no let-up in our peace and development operations and the 8ID soldiers will be more responsible, determined and focused towards the accomplishment of promoting peace, security and development in this part of the country.

Festivities in Lapinig, Northern Samar Disrupted by Lawless Group

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City – The traditional festivity of Santo Nino was disrupted yesterday at about 6pm by a group of about 50 outlaws in the Municipality of Lapinig in Northern Samar. Some concerned residents of the town tried to resist the outlaws that resulted to the death of Mr. Aurelio Julata, a security aide of the Mayor, and injury to a certain Mr. Romeo Senobio Jr. The suspects killed the 50-year old Mr. Julata and robbed him of his issued firearm.

The suspects also barged and looted several residences including the home of Policewoman Rowena Opena of PNP-Lapinig whose service pistol was forcibly taken. The Policewoman was off duty and at home with her family at the time of the attack.

At the time of the incident, the members of PNP-Lapinig put up a fight at their station through the help of local residents. After a few minutes of presence and sensing mounting community resistance from those involved in the fiesta, the suspects fled aboard a hijacked vehicle of Yakal Construction Company under cover of darkness. The PNP-Lapinig is now processing the complaint against the suspects.

An initial report of the incident reached the Headquarters of the 8th Infantry Division at about 8:30pm and a more detailed report with action taken by the 803rd Infantry Brigade (803Bde) a few hours after.

Upon notification of the incident, the 803Bde tasked its units at the vicinity of Lapinig to assess the situation and work with the Local Government Unit of Lapinig and the Police Station. A unit of the 34th Infantry Battalion eventually met with Mayor Menzon and members of the Lapinig Municipal Police Station at about 3:30am the following day to assure the residents of government control.

Lapinig is a quiet town along the Pacific Coast of Northern Samar. A plan is proposed with the Army Engineers to construct and rehabilitate a road through the Municipality towards the neighbour Province of Eastern Samar.

Local Officials Exonerate Soldiers In Northern Samar

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City – Local officials of Barangays San Miguel, Las Navas and Barangay Osang, Catubig both in Northern Samar executed an affidavit exonerating the involvement of soldiers in the death of a certain Jovito Pajanustan, a local resident of Barangay Osang. The document was signed by the local officials led by Barangay Chairmen Apolinario B Libico of San Miguel and Aniano D Rosco of Osang last December 26, 2011 as fact-finding teams visited the site where the dead body was found on November 28. The local officials came up with the declaration to dispel the unjust rumour of involvement spread by some interest groups in every civilian death in the locality.

Initial investigation by the PNP Catubig as contained in the report of Police Inspector Ildefonso V Miranda Jr. on November 29 states that “the victim left his house alone on November 25, 2011 at around 3:00 o’ clock in the afternoon purposely to work at his farm and never returned home until the time that he was found dead buried in a shallow grave in the state of advance decomposition with multiple stabbing and hacking wounds on the different parts of his body by his relative inside the vicinity of his farm at around 2:00 o’ clock in the afternoon of November 28, 2011.” The PNP report also states that the cadaver of the victim was brought by his relative to Catubig District Hospital for Autopsy Examination. The local PNP unit has yet to determine the identity of the suspect and the motive for the crime.

The Municipalities of Catubig and Las Navas have been known for notorious killings. Residents in both municipalities attest to the very extensive control of illegally-armed and politicized groups in the area. The mortal wounds sustained by Mr. Pajanustan are reminiscent of the style of attack by these outlaws on soldiers doing community work in the barangays. Traders and government workers are the usual victims of these threat groups since they intend to keep the local populace isolated from development efforts by agencies of the National Government.

As a responsive partner in addressing the incidence of extra-legal killings in the Island of Samar, the 8th Infantry Division (8ID) of the Philippine Army has scheduled meetings with the Multi-Sectoral Quick Reaction Team (MSQRT) in Northern Samar to tackle the case of Mr. Pajanustan. In the interest of justice and transparency, the 8ID endeavours to partner with other government agencies and the civil society to objectively look into incidents that threaten peace and security

“NPA desperate and having nightmares on their downfall”

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City - The Provincial Government of Leyte together with 8th Infantry Division on December 8, 2011 declared the province of Leyte as a manageable conflict-affected area ready for development, a move being criticized by the New People’s Army in Eastern Visayas. Ka Karlos Manuel, the Spokesperson of the Efren Martirez Command, called Major General as daydreaming for such declaration. “Yes the army is daydreaming. We are dreaming of a long lost peace and prosperity in Leyte.

For almost a decade, the provinces of Leyte and Southern Leyte are starting to feel development and immense economic activities after the CPP-NPA-NDF influence in the area had weakened and its terrorist activities had declined.” This was the answer of the good General when asked to comment on the statement of the EMC spokesperson.

Ka Karlos Manuel even claimed that they, the CPP-NPA-NDF, had gained strength while the LGU of Leyte and 8th ID proclaimed the province as insurgency-free.

Having read this statement, Major General Chan, again, replied with a funny expression. “It seems that Ka Karlos Manuel is the one daydreaming and he is on a nightmare. Maybe, he is not aware of what is really happening on the ground or he just wants to conceal the truth that they don’t have the capability to expand its organization in Leyte and soon they will cease to exist. That is the most proximate to reality. Look, if it is true that they have gained strength in the area, the people of Leyte will be the ones to protest the declaration of Leyte as insurgent-free Island.”

It can be recalled that Southern Leyte was earlier declared as Insurgent-free province on September last year. “Ka Karlos Manuel said that they have structured more mass organizations in peasant, women and youth, then this should have been noticed and felt in the area. But where are these mass organizations? The truth is, the people in Leyte no longer believe nor buy this propaganda. The people of Leyte had been awakened from the false representation and propaganda of the CPP-NPA-NDF. The people of Leyte have learned the real truth. Thus, the communist terrorists are now having difficulties in their recruitment.”

Major General Chan likewise denied the contention of EMC Spokesperson that the 8th ID is using tactics to sway civilians to attend meetings they [8th ID] initiated. He considered it as a very insane and preposterous. He humbly acknowledged that 8th ID has no funds to buy lechon and other similar lavish food preparations just to sway the communities on their favor.

On the contrary, he claimed that our communities joined the meetings with the 8th ID in every barangay because they believed that they [8th ID, Phillipne Army] is the real people whom they can depend on. He raises his head and said, “the army [8th ID] serves and will continue to serve as their protector against the NPAs. Incidentally, soldiers of the 8th ID is not asking food from the communities in remote areas as what the NPAs are doing”.

Manuel was too proud when he boasted that the best sons and daughters are being recruited into the NPA. This did not run off from the attention of Major General Chan. He agreed that there are some recruits that replaced a little fraction of the numbers of their former members who either surrendered or lay low.

However, those new recruits are mostly, if not all, are 15 years old and below which is in fact a blatant disregard and violation of international humanitarian Law that prohibits recruitment of minors as combatants. Again, showing much dismay for a wasted hope, he shook his head and said “they [NPA] are a disgrace to Filipino community. They are not ashamed of corrupting young minds and stealing their bright future.

“Certainly I agree with what Manuel has said, that the presence of the 14IB should be highly noted. The existence of 14IB in the area is to secure the rehabilitation of the Gandara-Matuguinao road project against those local terrorists or the NPAs that are impeding the gateway towards development. The construction of this road project would facilitate the easy transport of agricultural products of farmers coming from the far flung areas and become a new attraction of investors that would open-up employment for the common people of Matuguinao and its adjacent Municipalities.

Now which one is fearful, the presence of soldiers who are securing the opportunity of the populace? Or the NPA’s obstruction of the road project to deny our own people of the development they certainly deserve? What they always wanted is to confine the communities in remoteness and deny them access to information so that the only knowledge that would come in for our people are their own teachings.

A poisonous knowledge that the government is the evil and the source of all difficulties, while their’s, the communism and armed struggle are the solutions”. I beg all of you people of Samar Island. Let us join our hands to make this Gandara-Matuguinao Road realized. The road the NPAs claimed as Road To War. Yes it is! A Road to War Against Poverty and Ignorance.” Chan continued.

On the other hand, the EMC spokesperson also averred that the encounter transpired last Dec. 20 at Las Navas, NSamar by the troops of 34IB against the NPA offensive was entirely “legitimate” since their unilateral ceasefire in response to the Aquino government commences from Dec. 24-26 and Dec. 31 to Jan. 2.

He further states that it was a form of punishment for the government troops which resulted to the death of one (1) soldier and wounding as well, for not keeping their own word on the unilateral ceasefire from Dec. 16 to Jan. 2.

The ambush on the government troops last 20 Dec 2011 by the NPA only highlighted the insincerity of the NPAs to forge peace with the government by taking advantage of the unilateral ceasefire declared by President Aquino during the Yuletide season. Their treachery unmasked their real selves and the real organization they have.

The intent of the unilateral ceasefire was to give respite to the cycles of violence all year yet our soldiers are still duty-bound to secure villages and communities against violence and lawlessness from the NPAs. The soldiers sacrificed precious time that should have been spent with their loved ones so that our people can celebrate and enjoy yuletide season away from harm posted by these bandits [NPAs}.


Moreover, to answer other allegations and propaganda the EMC spokesperson posted, Major General Chan left two challenges to the CPP-NPA-NDF Eastern Visayas. “We challenge the NPA! If they can show any proof that the 8th ID troops committed violation on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law in our area of operations during my time as Division Commander, then we will prosecute those soldiers to the point of putting them in jail and discharging them from the service.

In fact, the NDF-EV has filed several cases earlier than year 2010, but all were dismissed for lack of basis and substantial evidence.

If the NPAs can prove that we are disturbing the tranquility of the civilian populace in any area under my command then we will punish them. If there are any school, health centers, barangay centers and civilian buildings that were used as base camps then we will chastise them together with their commander. It is easy to claim but difficult to prove, especially when somebody’s claim is based on lies and the objective is just to malign the belief of the people.


We challenge the NPA to show proof. Do not keep on claiming or throwing accusations without basis. If you cannot respond to these challenges, then that would be tantamount to a conclusion that your statements are merely propaganda designed to poison the minds of the innocent civilians. Tell the truth. The problem with the NPAs is that they are afraid of the real truth.

The truth is that they are losing popular support. The truth is that they are giving false hopes for our people. The truth is that they are dying breeds, insignificant and plain bandits and outlaws. We pity them; we pity their children and love ones for they cannot taste what a real family is.”

Meanwhile, as Bayanihan continues, the 8ID Chief, Major General Mario Chan assures and believes that the soldiers of 8ID will be more responsible, determined and focused towards the accomplishment of the mandated mission without violation of any law

New ambulance donated to 8th ID

TACLOBAN CITY – A brand new ambulance donated by the Lingap Kawal Foundation through the Office of The Deputy Chief of Staff, of the Armed Forces of the Philippines was turn-over to the 8th Infantry Division, yesterday.

The ambulance, according to Lt. Colonel Niceforo Diaz, is to be used by the Camp Lukban Station Hospital (CLSH) of the 8th ID Headquarters primarily on evacuation of patients.

With the addition of this vehicle, the CLSH now has three ambulances that could further enhance its lift capability for evacuation, and will also be catering to military patients and their dependents.

The ambulance units of the division have figured in the evacuation of civilian victims of accidents or disaster related incidents in the region.

It is also to help in making 8th ID effectively perform its task in accordance with the Internal Peace and Security Plan.

The military hospital of 8th ID normally caters only for military personnel and their dependents but sometimes it also caters to wounded civilians and wounded members of rebel groups that are captured by military forces.

Camp Lukban Station Hospital is a primary hospital with two medical doctors, one veterinarian and six registered nurses as of July 2011.

Early last year, the Department of Health in this region provided financial assistance to said hospital amounting to P4.7 million for the upgrading of its infrastructure and acquiring medical equipment in relation to its upgrading to a Level 2 category hospital.

Gen. Chan hopes Samar provinces will be declared next as insurgency-free province

TACLOBAN CITY — The commanding general of the 8th Infantry Division is hoping that after the recent declaration of Leyte and Southern Leyte provinces as insurgency-free and development-ready areas, the provinces in Samar island would come next to be declared.

Major General Mario Chan, commanding general of the 8th ID, expressed this optimism in the recent Peace and Development Forum held in the town of Matuguinao in Samar province which he spearheaded.

This optimism is in relation to the Oplan Bayanihan program of the government aiming to end insurgency by 2016.

Matuguinao is where the 14th Infantry Infantry Battalion is set to transfer from its present base in San Jorge town.
Samar province remains as one of the stronghold of insurgents in the region, benefiting their operation from the problem of lack of access roads and communication difficulties.

Based on reports of the military, although there were several instances when rebels are seen in some towns of Samar their operation mainly is concentrated in the tri-boundary of the three provinces of Samar, which includes Matuguinao.

The presence of rebel forces in the town of Matuguinao had resulted for the five elementary schools in said town not to hold their classes because teachers have not reported to work for fears of rebels and some local officials in the villages are complaining of the 10% revolutionary tax that are being collected by the rebels.

The Peace and Development Forum was participated in by local government officials headed by Matuginao Mayor Melissa dela Cruz, barangay officials and residents headed by Liga ng mga Barangay president Norberto Diaz, and representatives of the police, religious sector and non-government organizations.

Mayor dela Cruz during the forum appealed to her constituents to be open to her administration by telling them their needs for her to deliver it immediately.

She added rebuilding trust between soldiers and civilians should start now, and complaints of civilian over abusive soldiers are matter of the past but this should still be addressed.

“The interventions from the military and national government should be carried out now, but the implementation of the laws is still a problem due to the presence of insurgents,” Mayor dela Cruz added.

Moreover Chan and the officials of Matuguinao town believed that the insurgency problem will be resolved and peace will be achieved in their town, but it can only be achieved once the government and civilians have concerted efforts.

34IB Joint Coastal Clean-Up and Launching of the National Greening Program

The 34th (Reliable) Infantry Battalion in its new area of responsibility stationed at Barangay Tambangan, Palapag, Northern Samar supports the coastal clean-up and tree planting activities to win the peace in connection with the National Greening Program this morning September 23, 2011.

Said activities were participated by the LGU’s, LGA, PNP, AFP, Sanguniang Kabataan, Religious Sector, Teachers, students and other participating concerned agencies which aims to uplift the morale of the constituents living in the area.

The commanding officer of the 34IB, Lieutenant Colonel WILLIAM P PENAFIEL JR INF (GSC) PA and its men gives out their full support in promoting peace and order by joining hand in hand through Alay Lakad which started 6:30 early in the morning from the Peoples Center to barangay Talolora of Palapag followed by Coastal Clean Up and Tree Planting activities in some coastal barangays like Barangay Cabatuan, Maragano, Nipa, Binay, Mapno, Paysud, Talalora, Monbon and barangay Pangpang all of Palapag, Northern Samar.

Meanwhile in his message, LTC PENAFIEL said “ the Armed Forces of the Philippines does not only limit its services in supporting the Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force but also supports the different tangible programs such as Coastal Clean-Up and Tree-Planting to ensure sustainable development of resources and protection of our environment to promote biodiversity not just for us but for our children’s sake as well. Let us help each other in creating a cleaner, greener and safer future for our children by doing it in our own little ways. Not tomorrow but today, not just today but everyday and not by other people but through ourselves.”

The Army is now running in full steam to establish a lasting peace and order situation in its area of responsibility by giving its full support in order to attain its mandated mission which is to eradicate the insurgency problem especially in Region 8, Penafiel adds.

SOUTHERN LEYTE: INSURGENT-FREE PROVINCE

CAMP JORGE DOWNES, ORMOC CITY, LEYTE. The 802nd Bde, 8ID, PA under the command of Colonel John S Bonafos facilitated the signing of a Joint Declaration by the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army and the Province of Southern Leyte declaring the province of Southern Leyte “INSURGENT-FREE”.

The signing was conducted on 29 September 2011 at Ruperto K Kangleon Function House, Maasin City, the capital of Southern Leyte province which was attended by the members of the Provincial Peace & Order Council headed by Governor Damian Gaviola Mercado and Vice-Governor Miguel C. Maamo II and the Mayors of Southern Leyte; and the members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines headed by Lieutenant General Ralph A Villanueva, Commander of the Central Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Major General Mario F. Chan, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

Since the entry of communist insurgency in Southern Leyte in the early 1970s, insurgency steadily grew until it reached its peak in 2001. Due to the massive Peace and Development operations of the 802nd Infantry Brigade and the very active support of the LGU and other stakeholders of peace in the province of Southern Leyte, the Communist Terrorists (CTs) either surrendered, abandoned the Communist Movement or evacuated the province and moved elsewhere. By yearend 2006, the main bulk of the South Leyte Front, the insurgent’s armed group in the province has been greatly diminished so the NPA leadership declared it dissolved and its remnants scattered to the other NPA Groups in other areas. The succeeding years saw a tranquil and peaceful Southern Leyte, resisting the treachery and resurgence of the communist cause.





“The main factor which led to the declaration of Southern Leyte an insurgent-free province is the determination, commitment and sincerity of the stakeholders specially the local chief executives in solving insurgency problems”, General Villanueva told to the members of the Peace & Order Council and other guests.
“The military alone cannot sustain the clearing of an area without the sincere support of the local government as proven in the 8th Infantry Division’s area of responsibility”, General Chan, added.

The challenge that the Provincial Government of Southern Leyte and 802 Brigade will face is the re-entry or resurgence of the insurgents in the province. But with constant evaluation and strengthening of our established Barangay Intelligence Network and the Integrated Territorial Security System and the commitment of the stakeholders, the insurgents have no place and no business to transact in the province.

Internal Security Operations in the provinces of Biliran, Cebu and Bohol was handed over from the AFP to the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC); Province of Biliran in 2008 and the provinces of Cebu and Bohol in 2010. Thus, 4 of the 5 provinces in the 802nd Brigade area of responsibility were handed over to the respective Peace & Order Councils, the only brigade in the Philippine Army that successfully handed over Internal Peace Operations responsibility to the PPOC of four (4) provinces in a row.

Mushroom spawns in 8ID

Mushroom spawns in 8ID

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar –What could be more fitting to start the week productively than to learn and acquire income-generating skill? Recently, the soldiers of the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division were taught on how to cultivate mushrooms from which they could profit should they venture into this livelihood project. Mr. Ronaldo R Fabella, Technician of the Department of Agriculture Soils Laboratory in Tacloban City facilitated the seminar with the help of Colonel Virgilio M Espineli, the Assistant Division Commander.

According to the research, mushroom culture started in the Philippines in 1930’s and has steadily been gaining popularity nowadays. Mushroom is a fungus of the edible variety and has became in demand and popular because of its nutritional value in terms of protein and medicinal benefits. Furthermore, it’s a profitable entrepreneurial venture that provides additional income and generates employment for the community; and it requires only a small piece of lot and little amount of money as start-up capital.

Now, the soldiers of 8ID are aware that cultivating mushroom can help them earn extra income for their families. Colonel Espineli believes that mushroom culture will help in improving the lives of the people in the region. Samar Island is one of the ideal places where space and materials needed are already available.

As 8ID vigorously pursues its implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan”, your Army Division in Region 8 is more than eager and willing to help the people in the region help themselves to improve their lot by propagating this mushroom culture as a livelihood project

250 successful CAAs now in uniform

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar – This morning, the 52nd Infantry (Eagle) Battalion held Closing Ceremony of Civilian Active Auxiliary Basic Military Training (CAA BMT) Class 04-11 held at Brgy Caticugan, Sta. Rita, Samar. Colonel John S Bonafos, the Commander of 802nd Infantry Brigade was the Guest of Honor and Speaker of this program.

During the ceremony, Lieutenant Colonel Jose H Narciso, Commanding Officer of the 52IB declared the two hundred fifty (250) students as graduates. The CAAs are composed of two (2) females and two hundred forty eight (248) males from the Provinces of Cebu, Leyte and Samar who successfully completed the training.

In his message, Colonel John S Bonafos congratulated the new CAAs who are now members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. They successfully hurdled the training and have become Force Multiplier of the AFP in the area of responsibility of 8ID.

With this new breed of CAAs molded and trained to be strong and determined para-military forces, the 8ID will has additional warm bodies now ready to help Win the Peace in Eastern Visayas, and serve and protect its people.

Civilian’s tip abates NPA extortion activities

Camp Downes, Ormoc City – Some 20 members of terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) operating in the province of Leyte were encountered by the Army’s 78th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Mat-i, Brgy Antipolo of Albuera town around 4:30 p.m. yesterday, March 8 following the tip from the civilian.

Based on the report reaching this headquarters, troops of Second Lieutenant Vinluan were conducting routine security patrol in the area when an undisclosed civilian approached them and reported that some armed men who plans to conduct extortion activities in their barangay were seen in the place quite distant from their location.

The troops then diverted their routes towards the place being guided by the said civilian until encounter transpired. Exchange of fires lasted for about 30 minutes before the terrorist fled bringing along with them their wounded comrades.

One soldier was reported hurt in the side of the government forces while it is still being determined on the enemy side as of press time. Only excessive bloodstains that stained in the area of encounter were left when the troops pursued.

Meanwhile, Colonel John Bonafos, the 802nd Brigade’s commander commended the troops for successfully thwarting the enemy’s extortion to the people.

“Such gallant feat of our troops is a clear manifestation of their dedication to duty in protecting the people against the threat groups that will sow terror to the peace loving Samarenos”.

He said that another NPA plan was thwarted due to the unwavering support of our people. It only proves that insurgency could not be totally expunged by a mere military solution. It needs a thorough collaboration between the civilians and the soldiers.

Colonel Bonafos also condemns in the strongest possible terms the continuous blatant violation of the terrorist NPA on human rights and international humanitarian law in making the people as their “milking cow.”

“The extortion activity was already condemned by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) as extreme violation of people’s rights. This terrorist act is a clear manifestation of ill-respect to the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), a total abuse of our people’s right that is deemed condemnable in the strongest possible terms,” declares Colonel Bonafos.

“We challenge the different human rights advocates who always create noise over the violation of human rights to come out and eventually condemn this undoubtedly human rights violation and stop extorting food supplies and money from the people,” says Colonel Bonafos.

“We would like also to recognize the heroism paid for by our comrade-in-arms who died in the true spirit of peace and democracy. The highest regards of our people and our Armed Forces will be bestowed upon him. Although sad to note, my deepest condolences to the loved ones left by Private Jonie Briones,” vows Colonel Bonafos.

Troops of 802nd Brigade are still in the area to pursue the fleeing terrorist and let them face the consequences of their illegal acts and be charged with the full force of the law.

Enemy cache discover by 14th IB

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – Through intensified implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan’’ by the government troops in the whole area of Eastern Visayas Region, another cache of war materiel from the New People’s Army were discovered by the troops of 14th Infantry Battalion this afternoon 12:15 p.m. March 7.

Reports reaching this headquarters from Liutenent Colonel Hermilo Demafiles, Commanding officer of 14IB disclosed that the troops led by 2nd Lieutenant Cristobal while conducting security operation at Sitio Puroy, Magsaysay, Mc Arthur Eastern Samar, discovered cache of war items through the information voluntered by populace of said barangay.

Said cache contains one (1) galloon ammonium nitrate used in making improvised explosive device (IED) like land - mines, fourteen (14) rounds of M203 ammunitions, one (1) M203 grenade launcher with serial number 130964, two (2) rounds of fifty (50) caliber ammunitions, two hundred nine (209) rounds of M14 ammunitions, one (1) M16 magazines (long), two (2) pieces typewriter, one (1) uninterrupted power supply, nine (9) cassette tapes, two (2) bottles dextrose, one (1) enemy map, one (1) container gasoline, twenty (20) pieces terumo needle, one (1) liter duplicating ink, digital sphygmomanometer for blood pressure, voluminous subversive documents with high intelligence value and some personal belongings.

Again, 8ID Commander Major General Mario F Chan, extended his appreciation to the local folks for the timely information that resulted to the discovery of said cache and applauded his men for a job well done. “I would like to express my sincerest appreciation for the continued support of the people by giving us the information that led to the success of our operation. It only goes to show that the people are already with us in our quest to attain genuine peace in the area,’’ says Chan

8ID supports the international women’s month

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – More than 300 men and women from the Army’s 8th Infantry Division joined the street parade held in Catbalogan City on Friday morning, March 4 in celebration of the 2011 World’s Women’s Month.

Contingents from the PNP, city and provincial government, civil society organizations, academe and NGOs also participated in the worthwhile undertaking dubbed as “Baktas Kita”.

No less than Major General Chan, Commander of the 8ID led his troops to show his full support to the activity that give importance to women especially in recognizing and respecting their rights as human being.

According to Major General Chan, joining the said endeavor is just one of the various activities of his command in line with the programs of the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan”.

“This activity shows the collective and cooperative spirit of all members of the community which is one of the aims of IPSP “Bayanihan” in order to attain its ultimate objective of ‘Winning the Peace,’ says General Chan. “Hence, the 8ID will continue to participate in similar programs in the future,” he adds.####

125 brand new candidate soldiers took oath to serve the country

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar – A total of 125 new Candidate Soldiers of the Philippine Army took their oath of duty and service to the country in a simple ceremony held at the hallowed ground of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division Headquarters in Catbalogan, Samar on Wednesday morning March 2.

The oath taking rite was immediately followed by the opening of the Candidate Soldier Course Class 251-2011 by no less than Major General Mario Chan, Commander of the 8ID in the presence of the candidate soldier’s love ones, and Officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees of the command. The 5-month duration course is expected to transform and mold the new recruits from being “boys” into real ‘men”. After completing and passing the rigid training, they will be then enlisted into the Philippine Army with the rank of Private.

Major General Chan in his remarks assured the candidate soldier’s parents that their sons, after retraining will be competent and disciplined soldiers after completing the training. “’Wag kayong mag alala mga magulang, bawat isa sa kanila ay mabibigyan ng sapat na kaalaman para maging isang tunay at disiplinadong sundalo,” Chan says.

The 125 candidate soldiers, coming from different provinces all over the country have the following education profile; four (4) board passers, 16 college graduates, 26 college level, and 57 high school graduate.####