DPWH Samar 2nd DEO: Sparks Samar multi-purpose training center in Brgy. Payao

By MARK ERROLD G. PABUA
September 26, 2024

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office is pleased to announce the near-completion of the Sparks Samar Multi-purpose Training Center in Brgy. Payao. The project has achieved an impressive 95.04% completion rate, demonstrating steady progress towards its completion.

The construction, with a contract cost of P24,304,086.97, is being implemented by BCG Design & Construction. Despite the scale of the project, it remains on track without any cost revisions or significant delays, showcasing effective project management and execution.

Once completed, this multi-purpose facility will become a cornerstone for training and community development activities, benefiting the people of Catbalogan City and surrounding communities.

As work progresses, the people of Catbalogan City and the surrounding areas eagerly anticipate the completion of this vital infrastructure.

Samar 2nd DE Gulmatico meets local government officials to address road right-of-way (RROW) issues

By MA. NINFA C. ODEVILAS
September 18, 2024

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar – An emergency meeting was convened at the DPWH Conference Room, led by District Engineer (DE) Herminio V. Gulmatico, together with Local Government Unit (LGU) officials. The urgent gathering focused on Road Right-Of-Way (RROW) obstructions and a recent incident along the Catbalogan Diversion Road in Barangay Maulong, which caused significant damage to both parked and passing vehicles.

The incident, which occurred on September 10, 2024, involved a self-loading truck that lost its brakes while descending the diversion road, resulting in a collision with multiple parked and passing vehicles. Although warning signs had already been installed along the road, many truck drivers disregarded them. There is also a possibility that the drivers involved in the accident were unfamiliar with the road.

DE Gulmatico and the officials acknowledged that, aside from RROW issues, there is an urgent need to enhance road safety on the Catbalogan Diversion Road. Immediate actions were agreed upon, including reinforcing existing warning signs and establishing a monitoring tent staffed by the Catbalogan Law Enforcement Auxiliary Unit (CLEAU), the Highway Patrol Group (HPG), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

This collaborative effort will focus on disseminating vital information to truck drivers, particularly those operating heavily loaded trucks. Drivers will be instructed to shift to low gear before descending, make a full stop to allow brakes to cool down, and prevent overheating of the brake system’s rubber cups, which is a common cause of brake failure on downhill roads.

“We recognize the severity of the recent accident, and we are fully committed to ensuring the safety of all road users by enforcing stricter preventive measures,” said DE Gulmatico.

In addition to safety concerns, the meeting also addressed RROW encroachments in Barangay Socorro, where residents have not complied with orders to vacate portions of the National Road. The diversion road was cited as an example of the challenges the DPWH is facing. DE Gulmatico reaffirmed the importance of following Department Order No. 73, Series of 2014 “Prohibited Uses within the RROW”, which prohibits any obstruction within the RROW. He assured that the District Office is dedicated to resolving these issues entirely.

The issue concerning Antiao Creek was also raised, with heavy trucks being prohibited from crossing the Antiao Bridge due to concerns about the stability of its superstructure. Consequently, these trucks will be rerouted to the diversion road, further emphasizing the need for clear regulations and enhanced safety protocols on that route.

To address both the RROW and safety concerns, the officials agreed to implement an information drive over the next three months. A checkpoint will be established to log all trucks passing through the diversion road, ensuring compliance with safety measures. Public awareness will also be increased to prevent further incidents and ensure smooth road operations.

DE Gulmatico closed the meeting by stating: “Through these actions, the Samar 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO) aims to prove its dedication to the safety and welfare of the people of Catbalogan City. We are taking decisive steps to address the issues at hand and ensure the safety of all road users.”

This joint initiative between the DPWH, local officials, and law enforcement marks a significant step forward in improving road safety and resolving RROW issues for the benefit of the people of Catbalogan City.

CARD MRI holds Media Lakbay Aral in Tuguegarao City

By JOSEPHINE RAMOS
September 18, 2024

SAN PABLO CITY – CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI) held another Panaghiusa: CARD MRI Exposure Tour Program for Media in Tuguegarao City on August 18-20, 2024.

Organized by CARD MRI Publishing House, the three-day event aimed to deepen media practitioners’ understanding of the wide range of services CARD MRI provides, including financial services, insurance, health programs, and more.

“Telling the success stories of CARD MRI clients is one way we inspire the public to strive for betterment. This is why we collaborate with media practitioners nationwide to disseminate these stories and reach a wider audience,” said Marilyn Manila, President of CARD MRI Publishing House.

The event was attended by nine media practitioners: Madeliene Marasigan, Publisher at Rapids Journal; Romulo Madrigal, Publisher at Balitang Pinoy; Emil Jun Delos Santos, Senior Anchor at DZJV Calamba; Via Hannah Visaya, Writer and Researcher at Luzonwide News; Vill Gideon Visaya, Correspondent at Balitang Hilaga; Irene Gonzales, Correspondent Reporter at Pilipino Mirror; Eduardo Quintos, News Director at NBS DWDY; April Jane Racho, Program Producer at DWPE; and Michelle Bañaga, Reporter at NBS DWDY.

During the tour, participants visited CARD MRI offices in Tuguegarao City, including CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) Regional Office, CARD MRI Rizal Bank Inc. (CARD RBI) Tuguegarao Branch, CARD Mutual Benefit Association (CARD MBA) Provincial Office, and CARD Pioneer Microinsurance Inc. (CPMI).

The media practitioners also had the opportunity to meet and interview CARD, Inc. clients like Chita Tamayao, a market vendor, and Catherine Alejo Llones, a pastillas maker. Additionally, they visited Maria Luyun, a client from CARD RBI who runs a Miki noodle factory.

They also observed activities at the SK Soldiers Center and Adduru Center of CARD, Inc. on how CARD MRI delivers its products and services.

To appreciate the local culture and history, the participants visited the Cagayan Museum and Historical Research Center in Tuguegarao City and explored the Callao Cave in Peñablanca.

To wrap up the event, a media briefing was held, attended by various CARD MRI officers, including CARD, Inc. Regional Director Emmanuel Angeles; CARD RBI Regional Director Robert Urgino; CARD, Inc. Regional Accountant Mary Joy Calimag; CARD, Inc. Area Manager Michelle Labsang; CARD RBI Area Manager Raymund Apostol; CARD MBA Provincial Manager Marijane Ampoon; CPMI PRO Mark Molina; CARD MBA Claims Processor Ladychar Dumlao; CPMI CPRO Sheryl Gumabay; and CPMI Microinsurance Supervisor Annilou Adduru.

This year, the CARD MRI Publishing House held four Media Lakbay Aral events in Masbate City, Butuan City, Tacloban City, and Tuguegarao City.

Wounded NPA member rescued, yields firearm during military clash in Northern Samar

By DPAO, 8ID PA
September 18, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry Division (8ID) Philippine Army demonstrated its commitment to humanitarian principles by rescuing and providing vital aid to a wounded Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) after an encounter in Brgy. Mabini, Las Navas, Northern Samar, on September 12, 2024.

A CNT with the alias "Bentoy" was among the 14 individuals engaged by the 19th Infantry Battalion during an operation in Barangay Mabini, Las Navas, Northern Samar. The operation also resulted in the recovery of various CNT items and personal belongings.

Although Bentoy initially escaped capture, he was later found in Brgy. Lakandula, Las Navas, Northern Samar, after a tip-off from concerned citizens. Troops, in coordination with the Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (BTF-ELCAC) administered first aid for a gunshot wound to his right leg before transporting him to Catubig District Hospital for further medical treatment.

The Commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, Brig. Gen. Efren Morados, stated that after receiving medical assistance, Bentoy voluntarily surrendered to government forces, contributing to ongoing peace and stability efforts in the region.

"Our soldiers exemplify the Philippine Army's commitment to ethical conduct and respect for human life, countering CPP-NPA propaganda that falsely claims anyone who surrenders to the government will be tortured or killed. Treating captured individuals with dignity builds trust within local communities and fosters cooperation with government forces," said Brig. Gen. Morados.

MajGen. Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander of the 8ID, reaffirmed the Army's dedication to upholding humanitarian principles.

“The 8ID is committed to adhering to the Geneva Convention of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), which mandates the humane treatment of all individuals and guarantees the right to proper medical care for wounded and sick civilians,” said MajGen. Ligayo.

“I hope that the surrender of alias Bentoy will encourage other NPA members to lay down their arms and surrender to the government. We are here to help you start a new life,” he added.

In recent operations, the 8ID has reported significant progress, including the surrender of high-ranking CNT officials and the discovery of their hideouts and arms caches across Eastern Visayas.

Notable recent surrenders include alias Dungas, the former squad leader and vice platoon leader of Yakal Platoon, SRC browser of the EVRPC along with his wife, alias Julita, also a former CNT. Both voluntarily surrendered to the 87IB in Brgy Canvais, Motiong, Samar.

On September 3, 2024, troops from the 14IB facilitated the surrender of Joey Calinawan, a full-time NPA member, which led to the discovery of an arms cache containing firearms and other personal belongings in Brgy. Tinocolan and Brgy. Old Taligue in Abuyog, Leyte. Additionally, on September 4, 2024, the troops also discovered another CNT arms cache believed to be owned by members of Squad 3, Yakal Platoon, SRC browser of the EVRPC, in Brgy Pandol, Can-avid, Eastern Samar.

In another operation in Brgy Osmeña, General MacArthur, Eastern Samar, on September 7, 2024, Friends Rescued (FR) provided information that led to the seizure of firearms used by the Apoy Platoon, SRC, Sesame, EVRPC.

MajGen. Ligayo emphasized that these achievements reflect the diminishing strength of the NPA and the effective execution of the Army’s mission. He renewed his appeal for remaining NPA rebels to surrender, assuring them of support for their reintegration into society.

Army installs new Inspector General

By OACPA
September 17, 2024

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army welcomed its new Inspector General in a Change of Office and Retirement Ceremony presided over by Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido at Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on September 16, 2024.

Brig. Gen. Ferdinand B. Napuli took the helm as the Army Inspector General from Maj. Gen. Rommel K. Tello. Before his designation, Brig. Gen. Napuli served as the Special Forces Regiment Commander. He also held several key positions, including Deputy Group Commander of the Philippine Security Group (PSG), Task Force Commander of TF COVID-19 PSG, and Group Inspector General of PSG, Malacañan. Brig. Gen. Napuli is a member of the Philippine Military Academy "Tanglaw Diwa" Class of 1992.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Tello, who served as the Army Inspector General since February 2023, will retire after 34 years. He held various positions such as Assistant Division Commander of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID), Chief of Staff of the Intelligence Service, Armed Forces of the Philippines; commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade of the 9th Infantry Division; and commander of the AFP Joint Task Group Taal.

Lt. Gen. Galido expressed his gratitude to Maj. Gen. Tello for his dedication to the military service and congratulated Brig. Gen. Napuli, on his new appointment, entrusts him with the important role of upholding the Army's integrity and readiness towards the shift to territorial defense as its Inspector General.

DAR honors top partner institutions

By KARL JONES O. NIEGO
September 13, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recognized key government institutions in Eastern Visayas for their outstanding contributions to the Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (PAHP) project through the procurement of agricultural products from agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) in 2023.

Rowena Niña Taduran, DAR Undersecretary for Support Services, said during the “PAHP Kumustahan Session” on September 3 this year held at Hotel Alejandro, “You had greatly contributed in every milestone of the project as this ensures a sustained and increased gains for our ARBs (agrarian reform beneficiaries).”

Taduran, assisted by Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director, handed plaques of recognition to these institutional buyers as a gesture of gratitude during the said occasion.

Regional Director Grace Subong received the award for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) which registered with the highest purchases reaching P4.7 million for their supplementary feeding program.

Dr. Catalino Dotollo Jr. accepted the award for the National Nutrition Council (NNC) which ranked second with purchases reaching P2.7 million for the food requirements of their “Tutuk Kainan Dietary Supplementation Program.”

For the Department of Health (DOH), which ranked third with purchases reaching P2.4 million for the food requirements of patients of their attached medical centers, the award was received by Dr. Noel Arteche.

Other notable recipients include the Eastern Visayas Medical Center and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology who also purchase from the ARBOs for the daily food requirements of patients and persons deprived of liberty, respectively.

Meanwhile, ARBOs who generated the highest sales through the PAHP project last year were likewise recognized. The top three ARBOs were the MAALSADA-FISCO from Alangalang, Leyte; the Almeria Seafarers Multi-Purpose Cooperative of Almeria, Biliran; and the FEA-ARCO in Salcedo, Eastern Samar.

NACC clarifies adoption process in response to "Lolo and the Kid" movie

Press Release
September 11, 2024

QUEZON CITY – The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) applauds the release of the film Lolo and the Kid, which has resonated with audiences for its touching portrayal of love and care within families.

The movie, starring award-winning actor Joel Torre and child actor Euwenn Mikael, tells the story of a grandfather who opens his heart to an abandoned child, highlighting the importance of compassion and providing a home to those in need.

However, the NACC wishes to clarify that certain aspects of the adoption process depicted in the film are not aligned with the legal procedures mandated by Republic Act 11642, also known as the “Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act of 2022.”

While the themes of love, family, and belonging are powerfully represented, Lolo and the Kid inadvertently presents an incorrect adoption process.

The NACC believes it is essential for the public to be fully informed of the proper steps to legally and ethically adopt a child, in accordance with RA 11642.

RA 11642 outlines the proper adoption process, which includes the declaration of a child legally available for adoption, a thorough assessment of prospective adoptive parents, a home study report, child matching, and post-adoption monitoring. These steps are crucial in ensuring that every child is placed in a loving and secure home while the adoptive family is adequately supported throughout the journey.

NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, in response to the film, emphasized the importance of following the proper legal processes.

"We recognize the noble message of the movie Lolo and the Kid in promoting the importance of giving children a home filled with love. However, we must emphasize that adoption is a delicate legal process that put into paramount consideration the best interest of the child," she said.

"The NACC is committed to providing the necessary guidance and assistance to families so that the journey to adoption is legal, ethical, and beneficial to all parties involved," she added.

Undersecretary Estrada further stressed the need for public awareness: "It is crucial for the public to be aware of the legal frameworks in place to protect children. Adoption, when done properly, safeguards the child’s right to a loving family while also ensuring that prospective parents are fully prepared for the responsibilities of parenthood. Misinformation about adoption can lead to unintended consequences, which we hope to avoid through continued education and public engagement."

The NACC remains committed to working with local government units (LGUs), child-caring agencies, and other stakeholders to enhance the delivery of adoption and alternative child care services.

801st Brigade spearheads national amnesty program forum and consultation in Samar

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
September 6, 2024

CAMP DAZA, Hinabangan, Samar – The 801st Brigade of the Philippine Army, led by Brigadier General Lenart R. Lelina PA has once again demonstrated its commitment to peacebuilding and reconciliation. On September 5, 2024, the brigade successfully organized a Forum and Consultation on the National Amnesty Program for Former Rebels in the Multi-purpose Hall of Brgy Fatima, Hinabangan, Samar. The event was spearheaded by the National Amnesty Commission, led by Atty. Ma. Victoria V. Cardona.

The forum aimed to provide clarity and guidance on the amnesty application process outlined in President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s Proclamation No. 44 of November 2023. This proclamation grants amnesty to former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) who committed crimes under the Revised Penal Code and special laws in pursuit of their political beliefs.

The successful conduct of this forum is a testament to the 801st Brigade's unwavering commitment to support the national government's peace initiatives. The event was attended by various stakeholders, including former rebels, families of active members of NPA, and representatives from civil society organizations. The open dialogue provided a platform for participants to air their concerns and seek clarification on the amnesty program.

We understand that the journey toward reintegration can be challenging, but the support from our institutions, including the National Amnesty Commission and various government agencies, is here to guide and assist you. Seize this opportunity to turn a new page, to be a beacon of hope and positive change in your communities.” BGEN Lelina added.

The 801st Brigade's efforts to facilitate this forum highlight its dedication to fostering a culture of peace and reconciliation in the Samar Island. The brigade's leadership, under BGEN Lelina, continues to lead by example in promoting unity and understanding among all stakeholders, paving the way for a peaceful and prosperous future for the people of Samar.

PA, Indonesian Army wrap up TA PHILINDO-STRIKE IV-2024

By OACPA
September 5, 2024

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army, through the 6th Infantry Division, and the Tentara Nasional Indonesia, Angkatan Darat (TNI-AD) wrapped up Training Activity (TA) PHILINDO-STRIKE IV-2024 in a closing ceremony at Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte on September 2, 2024.

TA PHILINDO STRIKEIV-2024 – an agreed-to-activity during the 29th Indonesia-Philippines Army Working Group Meeting – bolstered cooperation and enhanced both armies’ capabilities for territorial defense operations through brigade-level mission planning in the context of implementing counter-terrorism measures and preventing cross-border terrorism.

A total of 19 Philippine Army personnel and 15 Indonesian Army personnel focused on battlespace management, employment of owned assets and other capabilities; and interoperability and synchronization of assets during the six-day training activity.

PA and TNI-AD training participants, during an open forum prior to the closing ceremony, emphasized the importance of enhancing the warfighting skills and capabilities on combined operations through brigade-level mission planning and table-top exercise and strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two armies.

Another NPA arms cache discovered in Eastern Samar

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
September 4, 2024

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – An arms cache belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) was unearthed by government forces in the hinterlands of Barangay Laurel, General MacArthur, Eastern Samar, on the morning of September 4, 2024.

The successful recovery of the war materiel by the Army's 78th Infantry Battalion (78IB) is part of the intensified operations against the dwindling NPA forces in the region.

The cache contained one M16 rifle with its magazine and one AK-47 rifle. This discovery is the latest in a series of successful operations led by the 78IB, which operates under the 802nd Infantry Brigade (802IBde) of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

Lieutenant Colonel Joseph D. Bugaoan, Commander of the 78IB, credited the former members of the NPA's Apoy Platoon for revealing the location of the hidden firearms. The Apoy Platoon has been significantly weakened due to the loss of key personnel and the surrender of 34 former members. The platoon now consists of only 11 fighters scattered in the remote areas of Eastern Samar.

Bugaoan explained that the arms were left unused due to the platoon's inability to recruit new members and the death of two high-ranking cadres during recent encounters with the army. He also highlighted the success of the 802IBde’s "Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families" (FReE Families) program, which played a crucial role in encouraging the surrender of the 34 former NPA members.

“These successes are a result of our ongoing engagement with local communities, former rebels, and the families and relatives of the remaining active NPAs of the Apoy Platoon,” Bugaoan said. “Our massive information awareness campaigns, along with the security facilitation of government flagship projects and social development services, have greatly contributed to our efforts.”

Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir, 802IBde Commander, praised the troops for earning the trust and confidence of former NPA members, local government units, and communities, turning them into vital partners in the pursuit of lasting peace in Eastern Samar.

"I urge the remaining NPA members in Samar and Leyte to lay down your arms and abandon the futile struggle. The ideology of the Communist Terrorist Groups has only brought misery to you and your families," Vestuir said.

"Listen to your families, and your former comrades who have surrendered and now enjoy peaceful and prosperous lives with their loved ones. The government is sincere in its efforts to help you choose the path of peace," Vestuir added.

The discovery of the arms cache and the continued success of peace initiatives underscore the weakening influence of the NPA in Eastern Samar, as the government intensifies its efforts to bring stability and development to the region.

DAR intensifies validation of ARBs in Hilongos town

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
September 4, 2024

HILONGOS, Leyte – A farmer and former rebel, Armando (not his real name), expressed joy and gratitude that the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), through its Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project, saved them from paying exorbitant fees for the conduct of subdivision survey and applying for an individual land title.

Armando, 59, married, was among those awarded in the year 2000 with a collective Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA), after he and other comrades surrendered to authorities in 1994.

On Wednesday last week, August 28, Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO) Ruben Rebato along with his field validation team (FVT), braved the very steep, narrow and rugged trail as they hiked for about an hour back to the mountainous Barangay San Antonio, this town’s remotest village situated on top of a mountain, to continue the validation of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in the 23 more landholdings covered by collective CLOAs.

Rebato disclosed that they validated 75 ARBs listed in the 23 collective CLOAs covering an aggregate area of 180.8720 hectares of farmlands. He explained that this is just the initial stage. After this, a survey team will conduct the subdivision survey to locate the exact area of the beneficiaries before the individual land titles could be issued.

Under the World Bank-funded SPLIT project, landholdings covered by collective CLOAs will be subdivided based on the exact area awarded to each ARBs and replace it with individual electronically generated land title. This is to improve land tenure security and strengthen property rights of the ARBs.

Armando said to the DAR personnel, “Salamat, nakalibre mi sa gasto sa pagpatitulo.”

He narrated that in 1984, their village was invaded by the new people’s army (NPA). Many of them were forced to join, he reminisced. But in 1994, with the presence of soldiers in their village, they decided to surrender and were identified by DAR personnel to be potential beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program’s (CARP’s) land distribution, Antonio added.

Land distribution is DAR’s contribution to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), a whole-of-nation approach in addressing insurgency problem in the country.

NPA yield to Army troops in S. Leyte, reveals arms cache

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
September 3, 2024

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – In a significant development in the ongoing efforts to secure peace in Southern Leyte, another New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to government forces in Barangay Kahupian, Sogod, Southern Leyte on September 2, 2024.

Joey Calinawan, known by his aliases Reden/Gerald, a full-time member of Squad 1, Platoon 1, Island Committee-LEVOX (IC-LEVOX), under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), turned himself in to the 14th Infantry Battalion (14IB), which operates under the 802nd Infantry Brigade (802IBde), Philippine Army.

Upon surrendering, Calinawan provided critical information regarding the NPA's activities, including the location of two former hideouts and an arms cache. Among the recovered items were a Colt Elisco 5.56 M16 rifle, a 9mm pistol, several magazines, ammunition, and subversive materials, including books and a Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) flag.

Lieutenant Colonel Edgar A. Gabia, Commander of the 14IB, shed light on the dynamics within the NPA ranks, particularly focusing on the family ties of active and former NPA members. He mentioned that Omar Pagalan Correa, alias Dos, who was previously disarmed by the group due to suspicions of defection, is the son of Rocelo Pagalan Correa, alias Rod, a long-standing member of Platoon 1. Omar's family has deep roots in the NPA, with several members either still active or having surrendered in recent years.

Gabia attributed the success of this surrender to the intensified military operations, alongside ongoing efforts to engage with the families and relatives of active NPA members. The cooperation of local government units and the community played a crucial role, as did the involvement of former NPA members who have since turned their backs on the armed struggle.

A recently launched initiative, Project LEVOX, which stands for "Living a life that Embraces peace and development through Values and reconciliation that will Overcome fear and hatred and Xpand the culture of peace to each one of us," was also instrumental in Calinawan's decision to surrender. This project, comprising former NPA members from IC-LEVOX, is designed to promote peace and reconciliation, and has been a key factor in persuading other NPA members to lay down their arms.

Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir, Commander of the 802IBde, emphasized the shifting tide against the NPA, noting that the group's members are increasingly isolated and suffering from the physical and emotional toll of their continued struggle.

"The NPA leadership cannot accept the reality that their members are exhausted, hungry, and separated from their families. They are no longer welcome in the communities, as the issues they exploited have been addressed by local government and community efforts," Vestuir said.

Vestuir praised the efforts of the troops in connecting with the families of remaining NPA members through initiatives like "Friends Rescued Engagement through the Families in Leyte" or "FReE Families Leyte." He expressed gratitude to those families and former NPA comrades who have united to support the government’s peace initiatives and called on other NPA members to follow suit and reunite with their families to live peacefully in their communities.

In a direct appeal to the remaining members of IC-LEVOX, Vestuir urged them to embrace peace before it is too late. "You have suffered too much under the deceptions of the Communist Terrorist Group. Your families and the future of your children are at stake. The government offers programs like the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, the Local Social Integration Program, and the newly proclaimed amnesty program to help you transition to a peaceful life. Our efforts will continue until every last one of you has chosen peace," Vestuir concluded.

Inopacan declares insurgency-free on 18th Anniversary of mass grave discovery

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
August 30, 2024

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – Another town in the province of Leyte has declared insurgency-free during the commemoration of the 18th Anniversary on the discovery of the Inopacan Massacre on August 28, 2024, in Inopacan, Leyte.

Sapang Bato, a mountain village in Inopacan was said to be the killing field of summary executions and the burial ground for the gruesome deaths of at least 67 members of the New People's Army (NPA) that their own comrades killed. Their skeletal remains were unearthed in the said town on August 28, 2006. It is estimated by former rebels and the relatives of the victims that the mass purging in the 1980s, which the NPA called "Oplan Venereal Disease," killed some 300 people in the province of Leyte alone.

During the commemoration of the 18th year since the exhumation, the family members of the victims manifested their sorrow and despair for what their family had gone through. They strongly condemned the NPA who caused nothing but misery and regret in the life of their father, mother, brother, sister and others who just wanted justice and fairness.

In a testimony by one of the relatives, Alma (not her true name), she was then in Grade 2, when armed men forcibly abducted her father in their family home in 1985. She tearfully recalled that she had never seen her father again after the abduction. Her mother and she, being the eldest, went from relative to relative to make ends meet. She is now in her 50s and justice has yet to be given to them.

After the successive declaration in the neighboring towns, the local government of Inopacan headed by its Mayor Honorable Rogelio D Pua Jr was finally able to declare Stable Internal Peace and Security Conditions (SIPSC) in their beloved town together with the strong resolve of the people to cast out all who will disturb the peace in their homeland.

The ceremony was supported and attended by stakeholders and partner agencies in promoting sustainable peace and development. Present were Honorable Rogelio Pua, Jr, the Mayor of Inopacan together with the Sangguniang Bayan members, and Baybay City mayor, Honorable Jose Carlos Cari, also with his Sangguniang Bayan members. Also in attendance were representatives from the municipality of Mahaplag. It can be recalled that the massacre victims came from these three localities.

Other personalities who personally led the commemoration and the formal signing of the declaration of the Municipality of Inopacan as in the state of SIPSC were Miss Roma Demeterio, the Cluster Head of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Leyte and the Deputy Provincial Director of the Philippine National Police Provincial Headquarters led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Ricky Reli.

In his speech, Lieutenant Colonel Rosalejos congratulated all Inopacnons for their collective effort in attaining this significant milestone in their municipality. Rosalejos further stated that the declaration is seen as a gateway to a brighter future, encouraging tourism and investment while ensuring that the past's horrors are never repeated.

“We are moving from this dark chapter of our history, advancing toward a brighter and lasting peace, while carrying with us the lessons that will ensure the NPA never again sows terror among us,” Rosalejos said in the vernacular.

The SIPSC declaration was made official by a covenant through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Pledges of Commitment and was ended by the release of white doves to symbolize peace and new beginnings.

Meanwhile, 802nd Brigade Commander Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir commended all stakeholders in the municipality of Inopacan for their commitment to upholding a safe environment.