PSA Leyte kicks off National ID Rehistro Bulilit Campaign across 7 municipalities in the province

By PSA-8
January 8, 2025

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) - Leyte Provincial Statistical Office has officially launched the National ID Rehistro Bulilit Campaign in the last quarter of 2024, bringing the National Identification System closer to young Filipinos across seven (7) municipalities in the province. This initiative, aimed at facilitating the enrollment of children aged 1 to 4 years old in the National Identification System, is a key step at enhancing the registration process for young children and forms part of PSA's ongoing efforts to ensure that every Filipino has access to their National ID, further promoting inclusivity and national identity in the digital age.

The campaign has been rolled out in the municipalities of Tunga, Jaro, Burauen, Ormoc City, Isabel, Matag-ob, and Dagami, all of which benefit from the timely and efficient registration process. The initiative focuses on simplifying the registration for children, ensuring that they are included in the national database as part of the country’s efforts to achieve full National ID coverage.

On 28 November 2024, Tunga, Leyte, hosted the inaugural launch of the National ID Rehistro Bulilit Campaign at the municipal gymnasium. This was followed by a series of launches in Jaro, Burauen, Ormoc City, Isabel, Matag-ob, and Dagami on November 30, December 1, December 2, December 5, December 6, and December 7, 2024, respectively. Each event saw a vibrant turnout, with hundreds of children and parents actively participating. Local officials expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the long-term benefits of the National ID system in providing easier access to government services, healthcare, education, and other essential services for Filipino families. The initiative aims to secure identities while ensuring that communities can enjoy more efficient and accessible government services.

PSA Leyte officials emphasized the importance of making the registration process as easy and efficient as possible. The Rehistro Bulilit campaign provides a dedicated, child-friendly process that ensures parents and guardians are well-informed and that children are registered safely and quickly.

The National ID Rehistro Bulilit Campaign will continue through 2025, with PSA Leyte targeting even more municipalities in the coming months. This effort is part of the national government’s goal to create a fully digitized identification system that will enhance public service delivery and promote socio-economic development across the country. With the expansion of the campaign in Leyte, PSA is hopeful that more municipalities will join in the initiative, ensuring that all children are included in the ongoing registration.

The campaign not only aims to register children but also hopes to raise awareness about the importance of the National ID and encourage other communities across the region to take part in the ongoing registration process. It is also part of the broader vision of enhancing the delivery of public services and improving the country's digital infrastructure. This registration campaign is another step toward ensuring that no one is left behind.

Army troops succeed in dismantling 2 NPA platoons under the Sub-Regional Committee SESAME in Eastern Visayas

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
January 5, 2025

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – The 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade under the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division successfully dismantled "Bugsok" and "Apoy" Platoons, the remaining NPA platoon formations under Sub-Regional Committee SESAME of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), performing anti-development and terror operations in the southern half of Samar Island.

On June 1, 2023, the Army's 802nd Brigade relocated its Headquarters to Brgy. Campesao, Borongan City, Eastern Samar to focus on dismantling the remaining platoon formations of SRC SESAME utilizing three (3) battalions, namely: 46th Infantry (Peacemakers) Battalion, 63rd Infantry (Innovator) Battalion, and 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion.

During this period, SRC SESAME still had 67 active NPA fighters, 44 of which were under Apoy Platoon and 23 from Bugsok Platoon. Through synchronized efforts and the right force mix utilizing combat, intelligence, and civil-military operations, 47 active NPA fighters were neutralized, and seized 87 assorted firearms and 54 IHL-banned anti-personnel mines until year-end 2024.

Local peace engagements were also pivotal to the campaign capitalizing on programs such as the FReE Families or "Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families" that actively engaged families and friends of active NPAs, and Project Apoy that utilizes former rebels in helping convince their former comrades to abandon the armed struggle. During this Yuletide 2024, the "Wish Upon a Star" program was launched complementing the ongoing programs taking advantage of the Christmas Season in spreading personalized "panawagan" videos for the surrender of NPA remnants. Of the 47 neutralized NPA personalities of SRC SESAME, 43 surrendered because of these initiatives which were collaborated with stakeholders from the communities and the LGUs.

These former rebels are also being assisted in processing their necessary documents to avail government programs such as the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), Local Social Integration Program (LSIP), Amnesty Program, and livelihood and financial assistance from the LGUs for them to be able to start a new life in the mainstream society.

Apoy and Bugsok Platoons were already declared as dismantled through National Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (NJPSCC) Resolution Number 13 on December 11, 2024. Currently, there are 16 members left, five of whom are more than 60 years old, and have no direction from the communist party as their Secretary already surrendered because of hardships, hunger, and inhospitality of the communities towards the NPA. Because of this, SRC SESAME was already recommended as dismantled by the Joint PRO8-8ID Area Clearing Evaluation Board (ACEB) last December 23, 2024 and now waiting for the resolution from the NJPSCC. The troops and stakeholders in the communities are optimistic in pursuing these 16 remnants for this year's campaign to once and for all achieve the total victory of winning the peace in the southern half of the Samar Island against CPP/NPA/NDF who waged anti-community development actions since 1970's.

Brigadier General Noel A Vestuir commended all troops for their bravery, discipline and sacrifice for the successful dismantling of the 2 remaining platoon formations which plays a significant role in ensuring a peaceful environment and community in Samar and Eastern Samar provinces.

“The successful dismantling of the Bugsok and Apoy Platoons of the SRC SESAME is a testament to our collective resolve, vigilance, and commitment to the welfare of our communities. This significant achievement reflects the effectiveness of our sustained operations and the strong collaboration with local stakeholders in our pursuit of lasting peace and security. Let us continue to be vigilant and steadfast in our mission to protect our communities by never allowing the NPA remnants to once again gain foothold in our cleared areas, and promote peace and development in Eastern Visayas.” BGen Vestuir added.

CARD MRI honors outstanding entrepreneurs at PsMLNI 2024

By EDRIAN BANANIA
January 2, 2025

SAN PABLO CITY – CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institution (CARD MRI) recognized the achievements of outstanding entrepreneurs during the “Pagkilala sa Mga Likha ni Inay Awards 2024” held in San Pablo City, Laguna on December 11, 2024.

CARD MRI Managing Director Mr. Aristeo A. Dequito commended the awardees for embodying the resilience and determination of Filipino entrepreneurs. He also emphasized their role in inspiring CARD MRI to persist in its mission to eradicate poverty.

“All of our awardees have truly showcased their impact as they generate employment opportunities in communities and contribute to the social and economic growth of the country,” Mr. Dequito stated.

The nominees underwent a careful judging process based on predefined criteria. After thorough deliberation, Florabelle F. Dacumos with Construction Supplies Trading from CARD SME Bank Subic Unit, Zambales, emerged as the Gawad Maunlad (SME National Winner), while Emelita W. Nieves with Smoke Fish Processing from CARD Bank Mercedes, Camarines Norte, was awarded the Gawad Maunlad (Micro National Winner).

The Institutional Gawad Maunlad Winners included Ms. Arcey O. Sanchez from CARD SME Bank, Annaliza L. Monil from CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), and Emily D. Balagoza from CARD MRI Rizal Bank. These entrepreneurs were recognized not only for improving their lives but also for boosting their local economies and serving as exemplary community members.

Additional awards were presented to individuals who demonstrated innovation, leadership, and community service. Maricel N. Gonzales, who specializes in homemade candies, won the Gawad Masigasig. Mary Ann M. Mariano received the Gawad Malikhain for her innovation in Household Articles Trading & Curtain Bargain business. Rosanna D. Sinapilo, a food manufacturer and specialty restaurant owner, was honored with the Gawad Community Service for her leadership in community volunteer work. Felicitas D. Baldonado, known for Fruit Wine Manufacturing, was recognized with the Gawad Innovative Family Enterprise for ensuring the continuity of her family business's legacy.

In his congratulatory message, Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, Founder and Chair Emeritus of CARD MRI said to always remember to continue contributing in the fight against poverty and to build a more inclusive society. “It’s through small, everyday acts – offering a helping hand, sharing what we know, and believing in each other’s potential – that we can spark real change. You are the living proof of this mission, and your impact is felt far beyond today.”

The event, held at Maharlika Square, San Pablo City, Laguna, was attended by CARD MRI’s Executive and Management Committee.

As of September 2024, CARD MRI is composed of 29 mutually reinforcing institutions dedicated to poverty eradication through financial, non-financial, and social development initiatives since 1986. With over 3,700 offices, the organization serves more than 9.51 million clients nationwide.

Three anti-personnel mines, firearms seized in Leyte clash during holiday

By DPAO, 8ID PA
January 2, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – Soldiers from the 8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division seized three anti-personnel mines (APMs) and a firearm during security operations against the remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Leyte.

On Monday, Dec. 30, troops from the 93rd Infantry Battalion engaged in a five-minute firefight with suspected communist rebels in the hinterlands of Barangay Canhandugan, Jaro, Leyte.

Seized during the clash were one .45-caliber pistol, three APMs, ammunition, and other war materials. A soldier was wounded during the encounter and was immediately given medical treatment.

The intensified security operations by ground troops effectively prevented the escalation of violence in the area. These operations also strengthened security measures, establishing a broader perimeter to safeguard civilians from potential attacks by communist terrorist groups.

Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, lauded the troops for their swift response to reports from concerned residents.

“The NPA has again failed in their terroristic activities due to the invaluable assistance of the populace, who informed soldiers about the presence of suspicious individuals in their community,” Brig. Gen. Vestuir said.

Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, commended the troops for their successful operation and for fulfilling their duty to protect the people despite the holiday season. He also expressed gratitude to the community for their continued support in achieving lasting peace.

“As long as there is cooperation from the civilian sector, accomplishments like this are possible. Let us work together to put an end to this menace in our community,” Maj. Gen. Orio said.

P130M debts of agrarian beneficiaries in E. Visayas condoned

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
December 22, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – More than three thousand agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) from different towns of Leyte, Southern Leyte and Biliran rejoiced after they were relieved from paying their unpaid land amortizations amounting to P136,764,576, which included interests.

On Wednesday, December 18 this year, Ubaldo Sadiarin Jr., Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Assistant Secretary for Support Services, represented Secretary Conrado Estrella III in handing the 4,492 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROMs) at the Tacloban City Convention Center freeing 3,142 ARBs from financial burden. Sadiarin was assisted by DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director Robert Anthony Yu.

Both officials repeatedly reminded the ARBs not to sell their awarded lands so their children and grandchildren could inherit them.

Seventy years old Alberto Carel from Naval, Biliran, who was among those who received COCROMs during the said occasion, expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinan Marcos Jr. for relieving him from paying his P147,596.51 land amortization at the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), one of the highest unpaid amortizations.

According to Carel, he was not able to start paying his amortization because he always run short of his income until he learned that the President ordered the condonation of the ARBs’ debts.

The President signed the New Agrarian Emancipation Act (Republic Act No. 11953) on July 7 last year, which condoned P57.557-billion of ARBs’ debts.

Aside from the COCROMs, 669 individual electronically generated Certificates of Land ownership Award (e-CLOAs) issued under the Worl Bank-funded Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project were distributed to 502 agrarian reform beneficiaries. The land titles covered an aggregate area of 758 hectares situated in the above-mentioned provinces.

Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez, who at the same time is the chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council, graced the said occasion and disclosed that the President instructed him to make sure that landless farmers receive their CLOA and are properly installed.

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

Meanwhile, as assistance to ARBs in making their awarded land productive, nearly P2-million worth of farm machineries and equipment were turned over on the same occasion to the Barangay Anahawan Farmers Agriculture Cooperative from Bato, Leyte.

8ID sustains gains against Communist Terrorists in Eastern Visayas: Neutralizes key leaders, captures firearms in 2024

By DPAO, 8ID PA
December 21, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine Army achieved significant success in 2024, delivering decisive blows against the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) in Eastern Visayas.

The Division’s operations resulted in the neutralization of high-value individuals and key leaders, the seizure of firearms and other war materiel of the CTGs.

From January to date, 8ID troops engaged in 93 armed encounters across the region. These operations resulted in the neutralization of 41 CTG members, two of which are considered high value individuals and six are key leaders, the recovery of 75 firearms, 48 International Humanitarian Law (IHL)-banned Anti-Personnel Mines (APMs) and the seizure of 143 NPA lairs, additional weapons from arms caches and surrenders.

The high-value individuals were identified as Ariel Baselga alias Ariel/Polly, the Secretary of SRC Emporium who was neutralized on December 2, 2024 in an encounter at Brgy. Paco, Las Navas, Northern Samar; and alias Ruby, Secretary of SRC Sesame who surrendered to 78th Infantry Battalion on November 29, 2024.

Meanwhile, the key leaders who were neutralized were Glen Acebuche alias Baste, Squad Leader of Squad 2, remnants of the dismantled Front Committee 15; alias Ara/Ina/Owena/Ronnie, Squad Leader of Squad 2, Apoy Platoon, SRC Sesame who surrendered on March 29; Genaro Adarayan alias Tibay, Finance, SRC Emporium who died in an encounter at Brgy. Victory, Las Navas on December 4; Monmon Diaz alias Beloy, Vice-Commanding Officer, Sub-Regional Operational Command (SROC), SRC Emporium, who was killed in an encounter at Brgy. Paco, Las Navas on December 2; alias Geo/Omer, Squad Leader of Squad 2, Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit Laysan, SRC Arctic who surrendered to the troops of 20th Infantry Battalion and Joey Locindo alias Towing, Squad Leader of Squad 2, Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit Laysan, SRC Arctic.

Among the significant accomplishments in 2024 is the dismantling of the Apoy and Bugsok Platoon of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Sesame, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).

The said groups perpetrated numerous atrocities in the region, endangering the lives of innocent civilians. Their atrocities include the Libuton Ambush in Borongan City on December 13, 2019 claiming the lives of a policeman, 3 civilians and wounding of 12 other civilians including 3 minors.

The 8ID also deployed 106 Mobile Community Support Sustainment Teams (MCSST) in the community which resulted to the surrender of 85 NPA regulars and their support system.

These accomplishments made a significant blow in the CTG ranks, thereby weakening the group’s capacity to operate in the region.

In a statement, Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8ID and Joint Task Force Storm, commended the troops for their outstanding performance, that has delivered continuous setbacks to the CTG.

“These successful operations highlight our unyielding commitment in preventing CTG atrocities and maintaining peace in the region,” Major General Orio said. “We also recognize the vital cooperation of partner stakeholders and the civilian population in achieving these milestones.”

The 8th Infantry Division continues to encourage remaining CTG members to surrender peacefully, emphasizing dialogue and reconciliation over conflict.

8ID highlights peace and development achievements at RPOC-8 full council meeting

By DPAO, 8ID PA
December 18, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, Philippine Army, highlighted significant progress in reducing the strength and influence of Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs), enhancing regional security, and supporting development initiatives in Eastern Visayas during the 4th Quarter Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) 8 Full Council Meeting on December 19, 2024 at Pacific Point, San Jose, Tacloban City.

Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8ID, along with the Division's Brigade Commanders, attended the meeting.

During the presentation, the 8ID emphasized its successful combat and non-combat operations, which included the neutralization of numerous CPP-NPA terrorists (CNTs), updates on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for former rebels, and the deployment of Mobile Community Support and Sustainment Teams (MCSSTs). These teams assist in delivering basic and social services to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), underscoring the government's whole-of-nation approach to addressing insurgency and fostering peace and development at the grassroots level.

From October 1 to November 20, the 8ID recorded 26 encounters with the CTGs, resulting in the neutralization of its 36 members – 15 killed, three (3) apprehended, and 18 who surrendered.

Major General Orio credited these achievements to the sustained efforts of the Joint Task Force Storm, noting that the success was made possible through strong collaboration among government agencies, stakeholders, and the support of local communities.

“This progress reflects our collective commitment to ending insurgency and achieving long-term peace and development in Eastern Visayas,” Major General Orio said.

P193M worth of infra project eyes to boost socio-economic development in conflict-affected areas in Eastern Samar

By DPAO, 8ID PA
December 18, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The construction of two multi-million worth of infrastructure projects: the P163 million Maslog and Jipapad Road (Phase I), and the P30 million Panic-an Bridge at Maslog in Eastern Samar is set to formally start after the groundbreaking ceremony held on December 16, 2024.

This farm-to-market road was funded under the Fiscal Year 2024 Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Programs which focuses on the transformation of former rebels (FRs), their families, and communities.

The 2.4 kilometers Maslog and Jipapad Road (Phase I) and the 22-meter Panic-an Bridge will connect barangays and municipalities especially in vulnerable areas to foster socio-economic development.

These projects aim to strengthen local agricultural infrastructure that will enhance market accessibility for farmers and promote development, most importantly in conflict-affected areas.

Brigadier General Lenart Lelina, the Brigade Commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade expressed the importance of farm-to-market roads citing the adage, “Insurgency ends where road begins”.

“Construction of roads and bridges especially in Maslog and Jipapad will be vital in our campaign of totally eradicating insurgency problem and give way to a progressive community. These two municipalities were formerly considered hotbeds of the insurgents in the province of Eastern Samar. But now, with these infrastructure projects, economic development will soon start to flourish,” Brig.Gen. Lelina, emphasized.

Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, the Commander of the 8th Infantry Division and the Joint Task Force Storm thanked the government’s continued support in putting initiatives in place that are critical in defeating the Communist Terrorist Group.

“We believe that infrastructure development is one of the keys to end insurgency. Through these projects, the root causes of insurgency will be addressed. The delivery of basic government services and the socio-economic development will improve through this access roads,” Maj.Gen. Orio noted.

Meanwhile, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), emphasized the importance of the project in fostering peace and development in Eastern Samar. He reiterated the government's commitment to funding infrastructure projects that would connect the region, ensuring easier access to essential services and boosting economic activities.

The said groundbreaking was attended by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary, Carlito Galvez; PAMANA Head NPMO, Director J. Anthony Peña; The Commander of the Visayas Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Lieutenant General Fernando Reyeg; House Minority Leader and 4Ps Partylist Representative, Marcelino Libanan; Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone; Maslog Mayor Heraclio Santiago and Vice-Mayor Septemio Santiago.

Condonation of debts, an early Christmas gift for E. Samar agrarian beneficiaries

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
December 17, 2024

BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar – It was still 14 days before Christmas but Pancho Bayben from Maydolong town considered the Certificate of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROM) he received on December 11 this year an early Christmas gift from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

The COCROM relieved Bayben from his remaining P26,495.89 debt with the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) which he incurred from the amortization of the land awarded to him under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

“Nalilipay ako kan (President) Bongbong Marcos nga ginhatag ini nga maaga nga pamasko ha am nga waray na namon babayaran han am nabibilin nga utang ha Land Bank (I am happy for this early Christmas gift (President) Bongbong Marcos had given to us that we are no longer going to pay our remaining debt with the Land Bank.),” exclaimed Bayben at the Provincial Capitol Gym.

On Wednesday, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director, alongside Marian June Libanan Ganzon, who represented Marcelino Libanan, House Minority Leader and 4Ps Partylist Representative, and Alfonso Catorce, Eastern Samar Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) led the distribution of 90 COCROMS to 72 ARBs from this city and from the towns of Can-avid, Dolores, Hernani, Lawaan, Maydolong and Salcedo.

Catorce disclosed that a total of P438,929.26 unpaid debts based on the 90 COCROMS were remitted by virtue of the New Agrarian Emancipation Act (Republic Act No. 11953) which President Marcos signed on July 7 last year.

On the same occasion, 280 individual electronically generated land titles (e-titles), under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project were handed to 203 ARBs. These e-titles covered an aggregate area of 381 hectares of farm lots situated in the towns of Balangiga, Balangkayan, Can-avid, Dolores, Giporlos, Lawaan, Quinapondan, San julian and Taft.

Yu explained that by providing ARBs with individual titles, property right over their awarded lands is strengthened.

He added that providing land to the landless where they can derive livelihood is DAR’s contribution to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), a whole-of-nation approach in addressing insurgency problems in the country.