Download - Oct - Dec 2012

Our CoverThe Philippine Army has covered a great distance in its

transformation journey in executing the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR), says Dr Jesus P Estanislao, Multi-Sector Advisory Board (MSAB) chairman, in his remarks delivered during the PA ATR Commitment Ceremony held last November 2012. In the cover, Lt Gen Emmanuel T Bautista, Army commanding general, major unit commanders and other Army staff officers raised their right hand in an oath of commitment and affixed their signatures to contribute towards achieving breakthrough results the ATR asks for.

NoteNurturing the Growth of Transformation

Ed

ito

r’s

In Botany, the germination stage of a plant ends when that tiny shoot springs out from the soil. For the one who sow that seed, the sight of that budding life is an exciting moment -- that after pouring out the required conditions such as the right texture of soil, the right amount of water and temperature—efforts have finally bore fruition. But the nurturing doesn’t stop at this stage. On the contrary, it has just getting started so to speak…growth is just underway.

The first two years of the Army Transformation Roadmap since it came to existence, could be likened to the process that the seed has undergone before it brings forth life. The ATR was nurtured by its implementers who took up the cudgel of the transformation process “despite the doubts cast upon it,” as the Army commanding general puts it during his speech addressing the different stakeholders who committed themselves to the aspirations and vision of the ATR. It was their dedication and commitment that pushed for the ATR to take root, as far as the remotest unit deployed across the land is concerned. But of course, any strategy or plan would be futile without the active participation of

organization’s personnel. The ATR’s full and steady growth would be in the hands of every member of the Army as he performs his respective duties and reach the Army’s goals as required in the respective unit’s scorecards. The Army leaders’ governance and the personnel’s focused performance would be the nurturing factors that would ultimately spell for the growth and success of the roadmap towards its desired goals.

Nonetheless, the ATR’s

implementers have continuously

tracked the progress of implementation

to see whether there are gaps to be

filled or slips in case something trailed

off along the way. The Army has fully

grasped the fact that it could not be

on its own, that it needs to make

consultations with other stakeholders

and has so much to learn from them

and from the best practices of other

organizations which trailed similar

roadmaps of transformation.

It seems that with these processes

being given weight and attention, the

Army is right well on track towards the

fulfillment of its immediate and long

term targets.

At this point, we have seen how genuine the Army’s efforts are towards the nurturing of the early stages of its transformation. In a way, it is safe to say that it has nurtured the growth transformation, not losing focus and determination to see it fully grown and bearing fruits.

Thus far, it has almost completed the phases under the Vertical Cascading process in all the units and offices in different parts of the archipelago, paving the way for a more cohesive organization aligned with the goals of the ATR. Recently, army division and unit commanders, members of the Multi-Sector Advisory Board; the Secretary of National Defense and AFP Chief of Staff; officers, men and civilian employees pledged their support to the ATR. In the CGPA’s corner of this issue, the Army commander enumerated the initial gains of transformation.

As 2013 comes, another challenge will be faced as ATR reaches its second base camp of having “a disciplined and motivated Army capable of addressing all internal security threats.”

All these given and more, one can only wish the best for the Army in the coming years ahead./CCP

|1| ARMY TROOPERS NEWSMAGAZINE

The Army Troopers Newsmagazine is the official command publication of the Philippine Army. It is published quarterly by the Philippine Army through the Civil-Military Operations Group, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila 1201. It provides a forum for the open and honest exchange of ideas and concepts concerning the Philippine Army. The articles published in the Army Troopers Newsmagazine do not reflect the official view of the Philippine Army except when specifically stated. Though we do not accept responsibility for the opinions of the authors, we do accept responsibility for giving them the opportunity to be published. This publication is approved for public release. Official distribution is to units and offices of the Philippine Army, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine government. For reproductions or re-publication, authority resides with the author. Requests can be forwarded directly to the author or through the Editor-in-chief who will make the necessary representation. The ATN reserves the right to edit the materials submitted. The Army Troopers Newsmagazine accepts articles written either in English or Filipino. Contributions and requests for information can be addressed to: The Editor-in-chief, Army Troopers Newsmagazine, CMOG, PA, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila 1201.

2| Taking on the Challenges of Transformation to be A Better Army4| Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro10| Framework Agreement Paves the way for a Final, Enduring Peace in Mindanao12| The Bangsamoro Deserves Statistics14| Where Should We Draw the Line in Cyber Security?16| Keeping Track of the Transformation: Updates on the ATR Implementation18| Functional Interdependence : The Iron Law of IPSP “Bayanihan”24| The Bayanihan Experience in Bohol: Winning and Keeping the Peace28| ASCOM: “The Ways Ahead to a Responsive Combat Service Support Operation”30| FCPA TRANSFORMATION ROADMAP: A Journey to a Better, Responsive and Professional Finance Service Provider33| Updates on PA I.D. System34| Father Seeks Justice Over Paquibato Circus Bombing36| Real Warriors also Shed Tears for Fallen Enemies38| CAFGU The Silent and Underrated Heroes42| A Triathlon of the Military Kind: “Chute - Bike - Shoot”43| The SOLDIERS and the PREJUDICES against THEM45| Brief Background on the Moro Struggle47| Administration and Conduct of the Philippine Army ROTC Program and the POTC51| The 52nd Engineers’ Development Efforts in Eastern Mindanao52| Life in Exchange for Development that Future Generations will have Peace56| GenSan applauds 52nd Engineer Brigade57| 52EBde Implements Day Care Projects in Maguindanao58| Mass Grave Discoveries: Unearthing the Abominable Truth behind the Crimes

SGT CESAR CUENCAPFC CESAR P LOPEZ

PFC NOEL M BERNARDINOPFC RAMON M MEGO

Photographers

SGT JUAN P RAYMUNDO PFC MICHELLE L BALOLOY

PFC MARYJANE C TABLIAGOABEGAIL A GARCIA

Layout Artists

Editorial BoardLTGEN EMMANUEL T BAUTISTA AFP

Commanding GeneralMGEN ESSEL C SORIANO AFP

Vice CommanderMGEN MAXIMO G CARO AFP

Chief of StaffCOL GILBERT I GAPAY GSC (CAV) PA

Secretary General StaffCOL LEANDRO A LOYAO III GSC (CAV) PA

AC of S for Personnel, G1COL PAOLO LEO MA G MICIANO GSC (FA) PA

AC of S for Intelligence, G2COL ANGELITO M DE LEON GSC (FA) PA

AC of S for Operations, G3COL ROBERT M AREVALO GSC (QMS) PA

AC of S for Logistics, G4COL RODEL MAURO R ALARCON GSC (INF) PA

AC of S for Plans, G5COL ARNOLD F ANDALES (MNSA) PA

AC of S for CEIS, G6COL FRANCISCO L PABAYO GSC (INF) PAAC of S for Civil-Military Operations, G7COL ARNEL B DELA VEGA GSC (INF) PAAC of S for Education and Training, G8

COL NICOLAS B PASION JR GSC (INF) PAAC of S for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, G9

MAJ HAROLD M CABUNOC (INF) PAArmy Chief, Public Affairs

COL CIRILITO E SOBEJANA INF (GSC) PAGroup Commander, CMOG, PA

Editorial StaffLTC WENEFREDO O ARCEÑO SR GSC (CE) PA

Editor-in-ChiefCPT MARCO ANTONIO A MAGISA (INF) PA

Executive EditorLYDIA V CABAJAR

Editorial ConsultantCPT JULIUS APOLINAR M FERIA (INF) PA

Circulation Manager2LT CLAIRE ANN V DOLINO (INF) PA

Production SupervisorCARINA C PASTRANO

Managing Editor

LT GEN EMMANUEL T BAUTISTA AFPCOL NICOLAS B PASION GSC (INF) PA

LTC FLORENTINO B MENDEZ JR GSC (CE) PALTC LYNDON J SOLLESTA GSC (CE) PA

LTC ROMEO S BRAWNER JR GSC (INF) PALTC ROBERTO I DANCEL FS (GSC) PALTC ROBERTO A REYES GSC (CE) PA

MAJ ROSA MANUEL (FA) PACPT NOEL A MONGAS (INF) PA

1LT ROGER B DURADA (AGS) PAStrategy Management Branch, OG5, PA

OG3, ASCOM PAOffice of the Army Adjutant

Mahar MangahasMilgrine Genio

Mae CatibogHannah Amihasan

Contributors

|2| Army Vision: By 2028, a world-class Army that is a source of national pride

When we began our roadmap of transformation, doubts were cast upon us. But through sheer determination and hard work, we continued our reform initiatives. We focused not just on how to transform the Philippine Army, but why we should.

And over the past two and a half years, that is what we have done.

We took on the challenges of transformation to improve public perception and to meet our people’s expectations. True to our core values, we have raised the levels of discipline and professionalism among our troops. We have forged partnerships with our stakeholders through the PA Multi-Sector Advisory Board. Through these efforts, we have begun to shed our bad image. We have begun to earn our people’s respect.

We took on the challenges of transformation to be a better army. We have gained ground on both of our 2012 quick-win projects, namely the improvement of health service support system for forward units and TRADOC enhancement. These projects are in honor of our soldiers who are risking their lives to defend our nation’s security.

We took on the challenges of transformation because it is essential to the IPSP Bayanihan. With the implementation of the Combat Leadership Enhancement Program, the completion of the Battalion of Excellence Program, and the conduct of stakeholder engagement trainings, the capabilities of our units have been upgraded to pursue the thrusts of the IPSP. These have also helped

the realization of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement and reverse the momentum of other threat groups.

We took on the challenges of transformation for organizational cohesion. The conduct of ATR Cascading Workshops aligned our units to the ATR. Likewise, the Army Governance and Strategy Management Office is now activated to ensure proper implementation of the ATR.

With all of our accomplishments, we are closer to the realization of our 2028 vision. And that is what everyone in this hall should take great pride in.

Very few people can muster up the will to step forward and lead an organization to change. To the people who possess that will, namely the crafters, implementors and advocates

Taking on the Challengesof Transformation to be A Better Army

CGPA’s Corner

• LTGEN EMMANUEL T BAUTISTA AFP

|3|Army Core Purpose: Serving the people, securing the land

of the ATR, the Philippine Army is now reaping the results of your hard work. Congratulations.

To the PA Multi-Sector Advisory Board (MSAB), we are humbled by your confidence in us. I know that this journey has been difficult and sometimes frustrating, but you stood your ground and remained with us on the frontlines of transformation. On behalf of the Philippine Army, my deepest gratitude for your time, wisdom, and support.

To the Officers, Enlisted Personnel, and Civilian Employees of the Philippine Army, we have made progress. It is now our responsibility to build on this progress. We have to act urgently for we are facing a very critical milestone - our 2013 base camp.

The results of the Army Performance Scorecard are satisfactory. But our 2013 base camp will not be attained through merely satisfactory results. We should all work harder at delivering results that exceed expectations. By the next scorecard review, no performance indicator shall fall short of the target and our strategic initiatives should be

reviewed for relevance. Furthermore, all of our units, processes, systems, and individual performances shall be aligned to the ATR. A monitoring mechanism should be developed to track our performance. Let us ensure that by 2013, the Philippine Army is disciplined, motivated, and capable of addressing all internal security threats.

The capabilities of our soldiers are crucial to the attainment of our 2013 base camp. Along with a mission that they can accomplish, we shall give our soldiers the training, the capabilities, and the equipment that will ensure the best chances at victory. Thus, let us now revise the TRADOC curriculum and fast track the upgrade of our training systems and facilities. Remember that world-class training and education are prerequisites to a world-class Philippine Army.

We will also further improve our collaboration with our stakeholders primarily by way of the PA MSAB and the ATR Stakeholders Engagement Program. The PA MSAB projects on resource generation, communication, TRADOC curriculum revision, and scorecard monitoring shall be seen through completion.

Finally, as we are focusing on our tasks for 2013, it is also our responsibility to plan and know the kind of force that we need in the future. Thus, we will begin the groundwork for our 2016 base camp to be a well-equipped army that has established a respectable image in Southeast Asia.

We shall finalize a sound medium-term force structure firmly shaped by our strategy to manage the uncertainties of a dynamic security environment and give us an informed view of the challenges that lie ahead. We will also enhance our capabilities and equipment, institutionalize the PA Strategic Management System, and increase engagements with our international stakeholders.

We have made remarkable progress since the inception of the ATR. But our job is not done until this progress is felt by every soldier down the line and by every citizen of this nation. Let us all be steady and strong in building an army that we can be proud of - a world-class Philippine Army of a world-class Philippine nation.

The government’s Technical Working Group on Normalization with Commanding General of the Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Emmanuel T. Bautista (center), huddles together during a break on the second day of the 34th GPH-MILF Formal Exploratory Talks.


FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON THE BANGSAMORO

In the Name of God, the Beneficent, the Merciful

FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON THE BANGSAMORO

The Philippine Government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) herein referred to as the Parties to this Agreement,

HAVE AGREED AND ACKNOWLEDGED AS FOLLOWS:

I. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE BANGSAMORO

1. The Parties agree that the status quo is unacceptable and that the Bangsamoro shall be established to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The Bangsamoro is the new autonomous political entity (NPE) referred to in the Decision Points of Principles as of April 2012.

2. The government of the Bangsamoro shall have a ministerial form.

The Parties agree to entrench an electoral system suitable to a ministerial form of government. The electoral system shall allow democratic participation, ensure accountability of public officers primarily to their constituents and encourage formation of genuinely principled political parties. The electoral system shall be contained in the Bangsamoro Basic Law to be implemented through legislation enacted by the Bangsamoro Government and correlated with national laws.

3. The provinces, cities, municipalities, barangays and geographic areas within its territory shall be the constituent units of the Bangsamoro.

The authority to regulate on its own responsibility the affairs of the constituent units is guaranteed within the limit of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. The privileges already enjoyed by the local government units under existing laws shall not be diminished unless otherwise altered, modified or reformed

for good governance pursuant to the provisions of the Bangsamoro local government code.

4. The relationship of the Central Government with the Bangsamoro Government shall be asymmetric.

5. The Parties recognize Bangsamoro identity. Those who at the time of conquest and colonization were considered natives or original inhabitants of Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago and its adjacent islands including Palawan, and their descendants whether of mixed or of full blood shall have the right to identify themselves as Bangsamoro by ascription or self-ascription.

Spouses and their descendants are classified as Bangsamoro. The freedom of choice of other Indigenous peoples shall be respected.

II. BASIC LAW

1. The Bangsamoro shall be governed by a Basic Law.


2. The provisions of the Bangsamoro Basic Law shall be consistent with all agreements of the Parties.

3. The Basic Law shall reflect the Bangsamoro system of life and meet internationally accepted standards of governance.

4. It shall be formulated by the Bangsamoro people and ratified by the qualified voters within its territory.

III. POWERS

1. The Central Government will have reserved powers, the Bangsamoro Government shall have its exclusive powers, and there will be concurrent powers shared by the Central Government and the Bangsamoro Government.

The Annex on Power Sharing, which includes the principles on intergovernmental relations, shall form part of this Agreement and guide the drafting of the Basic Law.

2. The Central Government shall have powers on:

a) Defense and external security

b) Foreign policy

c) Common market and global trade, provided that the power to enter into economic agreements already allowed under Republic Act No. 9054, shall be transferred to the Bangsamoro.

d) Coinage and monetary policy

e) Citizenship and naturalization

f) Postal service

This list is without prejudice to additional powers that may be agreed upon by the Parties.

3. The Parties recognize the need to strengthen the Shari’ah courts and to expand their jurisdiction over cases. The Bangsamoro shall have competence over the Shari’ah justice system. The supremacy of Shari’ah and its application shall only be to Muslims.

4. The Bangsamoro Basic Law may provide for the power of the Bangsamoro Government to accredit halal-certifying bodies in the Bangsamoro.

5. The Bangsamoro Basic Law shall provide for justice institutions in the Bangsamoro. This includes:

a) The competence over the Shari’ah justice system, as well as the formal institutionalization and operation of its functions, and the expansion of the jurisdiction of the Shari’ah courts;

b) Measures to improve the workings of local civil courts, when necessary; and,

c) Alternative dispute resolution systems.

6. The customary rights and traditions of indigenous peoples shall be taken into consideration in the formation of the Bangsamoro’s justice system. This may include the recognition of indigenous processes as alternative modes of dispute resolution.

IV. REVENUE GENERATION AND WEALTH SHARING

1. The parties agree that wealth creation (or revenue generation and sourcing) is important for the operation of the Bangsamoro.

2. Consistent with the Bangsamoro Basic Law, the Bangsamoro will have the power to create its own sources of revenues and to levy taxes, fees, and charges, subject to limitations as may be mutually agreed upon by the Parties. This power shall include the power to

determine tax bases and tax rates, guided by the principles of devolution of power, equalization, equity, accountability, administrative simplicity, harmonization, economic efficiency, and fiscal autonomy.

3. The Bangsamoro will have the authority to receive grants and donations from domestic and foreign sources, and block grants and subsidies from the Central Government. Subject to acceptable credit worthiness, it shall also have the authority to contract loans from domestic and foreign lending institutions, except foreign and domestic loans requiring sovereign guaranty, whether explicit or implicit, which would require the approval of the Central Government.

4. The Bangsamoro shall have a just and equitable share in the revenues generated through the exploration, development or utilization of natural resources obtaining in all the areas/territories, land or water, covered by and within the jurisdiction of the Bangsamoro, in accordance with the formula agreed upon by the Parties.

5. The Bangsamoro may create its own auditing body and procedures for

Philippine President Benigno Aquino shakes hands with Murad Ebrahim, chairman of the central committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), before the signing of a peace deal at the presidential palace in Manila.


accountability over revenues and other funds generated within or by the region from external sources. This shall be without prejudice to the power, authority and duty of the national Commission on Audit to examine, audit and settle all accounts pertaining to the revenues and the use of funds and property owned and held in trust by any government instrumentality, including GOCCs.

6. The details of revenue and wealth sharing arrangements between the Central Government and the Bangsamoro Government shall be agreed upon by the Parties. The Annex on Wealth Sharing shall form part of this Agreement.

7. There shall be an intergovernmental fiscal policy board composed of representatives of the Bangsamoro and the Central Government in order to address revenue imbalances and fluctuations in regional financial needs and revenue-raising capacity. The Board

shall meet at least once in six months to determine necessary fiscal policy adjustments, subject to the principles of intergovernmental relations mutually

agreed upon by both Parties. Once full fiscal autonomy has been achieved by the Bangsamoro then it may no longer be necessary to have a representative from the Central Government to sit in the Board. Fiscal autonomy shall mean generation and budgeting of the Bangsamoro’s own sources of revenue, its share of the internal revenue taxes and block grants and subsidies remitted to it by the central government or

any donor.

8. The Parties agree that sustainable development is crucial in protecting and improving the quality of life of the Bangsamoro people. To this end, the Bangsamoro shall develop a comprehensive framework for sustainable development through the proper conservation, utilization and development of natural resources. For efficient coordination and assistance, the Bangsamoro legislative body shall create, by law, an intergovernmental body composed of representatives of the Bangsamoro and the Central Government, which shall ensure the harmonization of environmental and developmental plans, as well as formulate common environmental objectives.

V. TERRITORY

1. The core territory of the Bangsamoro shall be composed of: (a) the present geographical area of the ARMM; (b)

the Municipalities of Baloi, Munai, Nunungan, Pantar, Tagoloan and Tangkal, in the province of Lanao del Norte, and all other barangays in the Municipalities of Kabacan, Carmen, Aleosan, Pigkawayan, Pikit, and Midsayap that voted for inclusion in the ARMM during the 2001 plebiscite; (c) the cities of Cotabato and Isabela; and (d) all other contiguous areas where there is a resolution of the local government unit or a petition of at least ten percent (10%) of the qualified voters in the area asking for their inclusion at least two months prior to the conduct of the ratification of the Bangsamoro Basic Law and the process of delimitation of the Bangsamoro as mentioned in the next paragraph.

2. The Parties shall work together in order to ensure the widest acceptability of the Bangsamoro Basic Law as drafted by the Transitory Commission and the core areas mentioned in the previous paragraph, through a process of popular ratification among all the Bangsamoro within the areas for their adoption. An international third party monitoring team shall be present to ensure that the process is free, fair, credible, legitimate

and in conformity with international standards.

3. Areas which are contiguous and outside the core territory where there are substantial populations of the Bangsamoro may opt anytime to be part of the territory upon petition of at least ten percent (10%) of the residents and approved by a majority of qualified voters in a plebiscite.

4. The disposition of internal and territorial waters shall be referred to in the Annexes on Wealth and Power Sharing.

5. Territory refers to the land mass as well as the maritime, terrestrial, fluvial and alluvial domains, and the aerial domain and the atmospheric space above it. Governance shall be as agreed upon by the parties in this agreement and in the sections on wealth and power sharing.

6. The Bangsamoro Basic Law shall recognize the collective democratic rights of the constituents in the Bangsamoro.

VI. BASIC RIGHTS

1. In addition to basic rights already enjoyed, the following rights of all

A member of the Southern Philippine rebel group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), at Camp Darapanan in the town of Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao province, on Mindanao island in 2009.


citizens residing in the Bangsamoro bind the legislature, executive and judiciary as directly enforceable law and are guaranteed:

a. Right to life and to inviolability of one’s person and dignity;

b. Right to freedom and expression of religion and beliefs;

c. Right to privacy;

d. Right to freedom of speech;

e. Right to express political opinion and pursue democratically political aspiration;

f. Right to seek constitutional change by peaceful and legitimate means;

g. Right of women to meaningful political participation, and protection from all forms of violence;

h. Right to freely choose one’s place of residence and the inviolability of the home;

i. Right to equal o p p o r t u n i t y and non-discrimination in social and e c o n o m i c activity and the

public service, regardless of class, creed, disability, gender and ethnicity;

j. Right to establish cultural and religious associations;

k. Right to freedom from religious, ethnic and sectarian harassment; and

l. Right to redress of grievances and due process of law.

2. Vested property rights shall be recognized and respected. With respect to the legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people arising from any unjust dispossession of their territorial and proprietary rights, customary land tenure or their marginalization shall be acknowledged. Whenever restoration is no longer possible, the Central Government and the Government of the Bangsamoro shall take effective measures for adequate reparation collectively beneficial to the Bangsamoro people in such quality, quantity and status to be determined mutually.

3. Indigenous peoples’ rights shall be respected.

4. The Central Government shall ensure the protection of the rights of the Bangsamoro people residing outside the territory of the

Bangsamoro

and undertake programs for the rehabilitation and development of their communities. The Bangsamoro Government may provide assistance to their communities to enhance their economic, social and cultural development.

VII. TRANSITION AND IMPLEMENTATION

1. The Parties agree to the need for a transition period and the institution of transitional mechanisms.

2. The Parties agree to adopt and incorporate an Annex on Transitional Arrangements and Modalities, which forms a part of this Framework Agreement.

3. There shall be created a Transition Commission through an Executive Order and supported by Congressional Resolutions.

4. The functions of the Transition Commission are as follows:

a. To work on the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law with provisions consistent with all agreements entered and that may be entered into by the Parties;

b. To work on proposals to amend the Philippine Constitution for the purpose of accommodating and entrenching in the constitution the agreements of the Parties whenever necessary without derogating from any prior peace agreements;

Philippine President Benigno Aquino shows a newspaper with a story about the resolution to a decades-long Muslim rebellion in the Philippines, at the Malacanang Palace in Manila. A final resolution to a decades-long Muslim rebellion in the Philippines is a long way off with many tough issues yet to be resolved, experts cautioned a day after a peace roadmap was unveiled.


c. To coordinate whenever necessary development programs in Bangsamoro communities in conjunction with the MILF Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) and other agencies.

5. The Transition Commission shall be composed of fifteen (15) members all of whom are Bangsamoro. Seven members shall be selected by the GPH and eight members, including the Chairman, shall be selected by the MILF.

6. The Transition Commission will be independent from the ARMM and other government agencies. The GPH shall allocate funds and provide other resources for its effective operation. All other agencies of government shall support the Transition Commission in the performance of its tasks and responsibilities until it becomes functus oficio and cease to exist.

7. The draft Bangsamoro Basic Law submitted by the Transition Commission shall be certified as an urgent bill by the President.

8. Upon promulgation and ratification of the Basic Law, which provides for the creation of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), the ARMM is deemed abolished.

9. All devolved authorities shall be vested in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority during the interim period. The ministerial form and Cabinet system of government shall commence once the Bangsamoro Transition Authority is in place. The Bangsamoro Transition Authority may reorganize the bureaucracy into institutions of governance appropriate thereto.

10. The Bangsamoro Transition Authority shall ensure that the continued functioning of government in the area of autonomy is exercised pursuant to its mandate under the Basic Law. The Bangsamoro Transition Authority will be immediately replaced in 2016 upon the election and assumption of the members of the Bangsamoro legislative assembly and the formation of the Bangsamoro government.

11. There will be created a third party monitoring team to be composed of international bodies, as well as domestic groups to monitor the implementation of all agreements.

12. At the end of the transition period, the GPH and MILF Peace Negotiating Panels, together with the Malaysian Facilitator and the Third Party Monitoring Team, shall convene a meeting to review, assess or evaluate the implementation of all agreements and the progress of the transition. An ‘Exit Document’ officially terminating the peace negotiation may be crafted and signed by both Parties if and only when all agreements have been fully implemented.

13. The Negotiating Panel of both Parties shall continue the negotiations until all issues are resolved and all agreements implemented.

VIII. NORMALIZATION

1. The Parties agree that normalization is vital to the peace process. It is through normalization that communities can return to conditions where they can achieve

Muslims react after hearing news reports of a peace deal signing during a vigil near Malacanang Palace.


their desired quality of life, which includes the pursuit of sustainable livelihoods and political participation within a peaceful deliberative society.

2. The aim of normalization is to ensure human security in the Bangsamoro. Normalization helps build a society that is committed to basic human rights, where individuals are free from fear of violence or crime and where long-held traditions and value continue to be honored. Human insecurity embraces a wide range of issues that would include violation of human and civil rights, social and political injustice and impunity.

3. As a matter of principle, it is essential that policing structure and arrangement are such that the police service is professional and free from partisan political control. The police system shall be civilian in character so that it is effective and efficient in law enforcement, fair and impartial as well as accountable under the law for its action, and responsible both to the Central Government and the Bangsamoro Government, and to the communities it serves.

4. An independent commission shall be organized by the Parties to recommend appropriate policing within the area. The commission shall be composed of representatives from the parties and may invite local and international experts on law enforcement to assist the commission in its work.

5. The MILF shall undertake a graduated program for decommissioning of its forces so that they are put beyond use.

6. In a phased and gradual manner, all law enforcement functions shall be transferred from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to the police force for the Bangsamoro.

The Parties agree to continue negotiations on the form, functions and relationship of the police force of the Bangsamoro taking into consideration the results of the independent review process mentioned in paragraph 4.

7. The Joint Coordinating Committees on Cessation of Hostilities (JCCCH) as well

as the Ad hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) with the participation of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) shall continue to monitor the ceasefire agreement until the full decommissioning of the MILF forces. These existing coordinating mechanisms shall be the basis for the creation of a Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) to ensure the coordination between the Government and remaining MILF forces, and through which MILF shall assist in maintaining peace and order in the area of the Bangsamoro until decommissioning shall have been fully completed.

8. Both Parties commit to work in partnership for the reduction and control of firearms in the area and the disbandment of private armies and other armed groups.

9. The details of the normalization process and timetables for decommissioning shall be in an Annex on Normalization and shall form part of this Agreement.

10. The Parties agree to intensify development efforts for rehabilitation, reconstruction and development of the Bangsamoro, and institute programs to address the needs of MILF combatants, internally displaced persons, and poverty-stricken communities.

11. The Parties recognize the need to attract multi-donor country support,

assistance and pledges to the normalization process. For this purpose, a Trust Fund shall be established through which urgent support, recurrent and investment budget cost will be released with efficiency, transparency and accountability. The Parties agree to adopt criteria for eligible financing schemes, such as, priority areas of capacity building, institutional strengthening, impact programs to address imbalances in development and infrastructures, and economic facilitation for return to normal life affecting combatant and non-combatant elements of the MILF, indigenous peoples, women, children, and internally displaced persons.

12. The Parties agree to work out a program for transitional justice to address the legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, correct historical injustices, and address human rights violations.

IX. MISCELLANEOUS

1. This Agreement shall not be implemented unilaterally.

2. The Parties commit to work further on the details of the Framework Agreement in the context of this document and complete a comprehensive agreement by the end of the year.

Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace Panel Chief Mohagher Iqbal (front L) shakes hands with Philippine government chief peace negotiator Marvic Leonen while Malaysian peace facilitator Dato’ Tengku Abdul Ghafar Tengku Mohamed (C) looks on after a sign peace deal was signed at the Malacanang palace in Manila October 15, 2012.


Framework AgreementPaves the Way for a Final,

Enduring Peace in Mindanao

http://www.philippinechronicle.com

We have counted two generations since conflict began in Mindanao, a cycle of violence that has claimed the lives of more than a hundred thousand Filipinos —soldiers, warriors, and innocent civilians who all needlessly shed their blood.

Many solutions have been proposed and tried. We have had peace agreements in the past, but still our hopes for the region remained unfulfilled. Some gained power, but instead of raising the quality of life in the region, this begot a

structure that tightened the shackles of poverty. The command vote phenomenon arose and strengthened a feudal structure; ghost roads, ghost bridges, ghost schools, ghost teachers, ghost students became

prevalent as the powerful few fattened their purses. A culture of

impunity and injustice set in; the people lost their trust in the system, with some attempting to secede.

The ARMM is a failed experiment. Many of the people continue to feel alienated by the system, and those who feel that there is no way out will continue to articulate their grievances through

the barrel of a gun. We cannot change this without structural reform.

This is the context that informed our negotiations throughout the peace process. And now, we have forged an agreement

that seeks to correct

these problems. It defines our parameters and our objectives, while upholding the integrity and sovereignty of our nation.

This agreement creates a new political entity, and it deserves a name that symbolizes and honors the struggles of our forebears in Mindanao, and celebrates the history and character of that part of our nation. That name will be Bangsamoro.

We are doing everything to ensure that other Bangsamoro stakeholders are brought in to this process so that this peace can be claimed and sustained by all. Sovereignty resides in the people, and consistent with the constitution, a basic law will be drafted by a transition commission and will go through the full process of legislation in Congress. My administration has pledged to supporting a law that will truly embody the values and aspirations of the people of Bangsamoro. Any proposed law resulting from this framework will be subject to ratification through a plebiscite. Once approved, there will be elections.

This Framework Agreement paves the way for a final, enduring peace in Mindanao. It brings all former secessionist groups into the fold; no longer does the Moro Islamic Liberation Front aspire for a separate state. This means that hands that once held rifles will be put to use tilling land, selling produce, manning work stations, and opening doorways of opportunity for other citizens.

National government will continue to exercise exclusive powers of defense and security, foreign policy, monetary policy and coinage, citizenship, and naturalization. The Constitution and lawful processes shall govern the transition to the Bangsamoro, and this agreement will ensure that the Philippines remains one nation and one people, with all of our diverse cultures and narratives seeking the common goal. The Filipinos of Bangsamoro, on the other hand, will be assured a fair and equitable share of taxation, revenues, and the fruits

(President Benigno S. Aquino III’s Speech on the Framework Agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Malacañan Palace on 07 October 2012)


of national patrimony. They will enjoy equal protection of laws and access to impartial justice.

We have gotten this far because of the trust extended to us by Al Haj Murad and his Central Committee, and the members of the MILF negotiating panel led by Mohagher Iqbal. They recognized our administration’s sincerity, and our shared principles and aspirations. Together, we traversed the distance between us until we finally met in a handshake and an embrace as fellow citizens of the Philippines.

We would like to thank the government of Malaysia, who stood as facilitators as we realized our aspirations for peace; We thank in particular Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohammad Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak, whose commitment remained firm despite considerable political and personal risk. We would also like to thank the members of the International Contact Group: the governments of the United Kingdom, Japan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, and international NGOs—Conciliation Resources, the Center for Humanitarian Dialogue, the Asia Foundation, and Muhamadiyah. Our people are also grateful for the help of the International Monitoring Team composed of the governments of Malaysia, Brunei, Libya, Norway, Indonesia, the European Union and Japan. The United States, Australia, and the World Bank, among several other countries and institutions, have also provided invaluable support during the course of this process.

None of this would have been possible without the tireless efforts of Secretary Ging Deles, Dean Marvic Leonen, his negotiating panel, and their dedicated staff at the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process. There can be no better example of true peace advocates.

This framework agreement is about rising above our prejudices. It is about casting aside the distrust and myopia that has plagued the efforts of the past; it is about learning hard lessons and building on the gains we have achieved. It is about acknowledging that trust has to be earned– it is about forging a partnership that rests on the bedrock of sincerity, good will, and hard work.

The work does not end here. There are still details that both sides must hammer out. Promises must be kept, institutions must be fixed, and new capacities must be

b u i l t nationally and regionally in order to effectively administer the Bangsamoro. The citizenry, especially the youth, must be empowered so that new leaders may emerge.

In the next few days, the basic principles and outline of the Agreement will be published in various periodicals; the Official Gazette of our government will post the Agreement in full. I urge everyone to participate in free and public discourse before the final signing. Everything will be d isc losed; we have no desire to keep secrets. To the best of our ability, we have examined these agreements; we believe we have reached balance and common ground. As a result, we have rectified the errors of the past, and installed mechanisms to make sure they do not recur.

As we read the Agreement, let us not think in terms of “them” and “us”, but rather as a “we” united under a single flag. The time for misunderstandings has passed, and if we truly care for one another, then it is only a matter of time: a matter of time before we put an end to violence; a matter of time before normalcy is restored to the Filipinos of Bangsamoro.

We have come to where we now stand, because trust has replaced doubt. There are challenges yet to face, and I entreat all Filipinos who thirst for peace with this mission: continue to sow trust, let us widen in and make it more pronounced in the days and weeks to come. Other triumphs will be sure to follow. Onward we will march toward stability; prosperity will illumine our entire country as a result of progress in one region; our dreams will become a reality.

I am not a young man; I think I am only slightly younger than Al Haj Murad. The time will come when we will both have to relinquish our positions. We are united by

hope: hope that we may bequeath to the next generation a better situation in the parts of Mindanao long torn by conflict. This Agreement allows us to dream: The time is near when any foreigner visiting the Philippines will surely have the provinces of Bangsamoro in his itinerary. The time is near when a tourist wanting to go to Pagudpud can opt to go to Sulu. Children going to school whether in Quezon City or Lamitan will have the same quality education; hospitals whether in Pasig or Patikul can offer the same quality health care; businesses will flourish, whether one chooses to invest in Marikina or Marawi.

For so long, it was impossible to even aspire for these things. But we have proven: Nothing is impossible to those who are willing to unite, to work for solutions, and to act towards consensus. Finally, we have achieved peace, a peace that will serve as the foundation of our dreams for Bangsamoro, for Mindanao, and for the entire Filipino nation.

Thank you.

http://ph.news.yahoo.com

Muslim women pray after a nationwide peace caravan from Mindanao to Malacanang to show support for the signing of a framework agreement.


http://opapp.gov.ph/framework-agreement-bangsamoro/news/bangsamoro-deserves-statistics. Posted on Monday, 15 October, 2012 - 17:17

The Framework Agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, declares that a new political entity, the Bangsamoro (always preceded by “the”), shall be established to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Like any major political entity or social group, the Bangsamoro deserves to have its own statistics, to regularly ascertain the conditions of its people, and provide scientific guidance for promoting their development. As of now, there are some statistics about the ARMM or about Muslims in the Philippines, which are not exactly the same as the

Bangsamoro, but are proxies for describing its situation. I will give a few examples here, from SWS materials.

P-Noy is extremely popular among Muslims. How many would guess, for instance, that President Noynoy Aquino’s popularity is even higher among Muslims than among Filipinos in general? The SWS Third Quarter survey for 2012, done last August 24-27, found 89 percent of its Muslim respondents satisfied, and only 6 percent of them dissatisfied, with his performance, giving him a net satisfaction rating of +83, well above the +70 SWS border line for Excellent.

Thus P-Noy’s popularity among Muslims far outstrips the 77 percent

satisfied and 10 percent dissatisfied with him, for a

net +67, among Filipinos nationwide in the Third Quarter, classified as Very Good. I doubt that the new Framework Agreement does any harm to the

President’s standing among Muslims.

Poverty is much more extensive among Muslims. In the SWS survey of August 2012, self-rated poverty

among families with Muslim heads was 61 percent, compared to 47 percent among families in general, nationwide.

As first reported in BusinessWorld on September 24, the national percentage of the self-rated poor fell from 51 in May to 47 in August. For Muslim families in particular, special tabulations show that the percentage of the self-rated poor fell from a massive 78 in May to 61 in August. Thus Muslim families, though poorer, shared in the recent decline in poverty.

Self-rated food-poverty (families rating their food as poor or mahirap) also declined over the last two quarters. For families in general, the decline was from 39 percent in May to 35 percent in August. For Muslim families in particular, tabulations show that the decline was from 76 percent in May to 55 percent in August. Thus Muslim families also shared in the recent decline in food-poverty.

Hunger is also more extensive among Muslims. As first reported last September 28 in BusinessWorld, 21.0 percent of families nationwide experienced involuntary hunger at least once in the past three months, according to the SWS August survey. We know that the hunger is involuntary,

The

Deserves Statistics

http://batangtibak.blogspot.com

• Mangar Mangahas


since the survey question qualifies it as due to not having anything to eat.

This was an increase from the 18.4 percent hunger rate in May. The rise in hunger, despite the fall in poverty, is due to an increase in the proportion hungry among the poor; in short, the poor were fewer, but hungrier, in August compared to May. The SWS surveys being a quarterly series, they reveal the hunger proportion of the poor to be variable, and not constant, in the short-run.

The national hunger rate in August consisted of 18.0 percent in moderate hunger (meaning, experiencing it once or else a few times) and 3.0 percent in severe hunger (meaning,

experiencing it either often or always). Compared to May, moderate hunger had risen from 13.7 percent, but severe hunger had fallen from 4.8 percent.

Among Muslim families in particular, tabulations of the August survey show that those that experienced hunger were 31.6 percent, consisting of 25.3 percent in moderate hunger, and 6.3 percent in severe hunger.

Yet hunger fell among Muslims, between May and August. Tabulations of the May survey show that, among Muslim families, those that experienced hunger were 44.3 percent, consisting of 31.0 percent in moderate hunger, and 13.3 percent in severe hunger.

This means that severe hunger fell among both Muslims and non-Muslims, between May and August. Moderate hunger, on the other hand, fell among Muslims, but rose among non-Muslims. Thus the sum of moderate and severe hunger fell among Muslims. The survey statistics lead us to realize that there are times when community conditions move oppositely from national conditions.

Statistical visibility matters. Groups without data are statistically invisible. Just as there are statistics pertaining specifically to women, so too can there be statistics pertaining specifically to the Bangsamoro. But statistical data do not grow in the wild on trees, awaiting harvest; they need nurturing, in orchards. Statistical agencies, both public and private, must gear up for this challenge. Social Weather Stations will include the Bangsamoro in its survey agenda. The Bangsamoro should have its own independent research institutes.

Statistics is a branch of the sciences, and social survey research is one of its applications. They assist in peaceful advocacy for the wellbeing of a social group, by raising public consciousness about it. They are not branches of public relations or of fiction-writing. The more the practitioners of statistics about the Bangsamoro, the clearer will be the truth about its people.

Most Muslim Filipinos pray for peace and development in their region.

Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels pray as they gather in celebration of a peace deal signing, at Camp Darapanan in Maguindanao province, southern Philippines October 15, 2012. The Philippine government and the country’s largest Muslim rebel group signed a peace deal on Monday that serves as a roadmap to forming a new autonomous region in the south, a step towards ending more than 40 years of conflict. REUTERS/Pat Roque


Many have raised their eyebrows upon the enactment of the Cyber Crime Prevention Law, while others felt vindicated, particularly those who have fallen prey to Internet fraud. Whether or not cyber activities should be regulated, it is important to draw the line between freedom and responsibility in the cyber-world.

Amidst the controversial Internet regulation, let’s hear what the brains behind the invention of the World Wide Web have to say.

British inventor of the World Wide Web, Tim Berners-Lee, expressed his sentiment on the restriction of internet use. During the London launch of the league table, he asserted that government efforts to block the internet shall not be possible due to dispersed internet structure.

According to The Raw Story Report, he said, “The way the Internet is designed is very much as a decentralised system. At the moment, because countries connect to each other in lots of different ways, there is no one off switch, there is no central place where you can turn it off. In order to be able to turn the whole thing off or really block, suppress one particular idea then the countries and governments would have to get together and agree and co-ordinate and turn it from a decentralised system to being a centralised system. And if that does happen it is really important that everybody fights against that sort of direction.”

Fair enough, there’s the clamor that regulating cyber activities would be contradictory to the ultimate ends of Internet use—that is to generate boundless networks of digital information. What’s more interesting is that there shall always be ample of

room for everyone to access and share more multimedia files online.

But such an influx of digital information, more often than not, is unsecured. Fact is, the World Wide Web is oriented toward free and unlimited access to information, hence its vulnerability to abuse. So don’t get surprised by privacy breach encountered by members of the online community from time to time.

Microsoft’s Photosynth, for instance, which has promising value in forensic science, falls short when it comes to security. While law enforcement authorities can use this technology to instantly create a 3D version of the crime scene out of random pictures taken, the investigation might be compromised when an outsider happens to stumble upon the file readily accessible online.

Most, if not all, applications and even websites reveal limitations other than features and functions. Google, as a matter of fact, encourages web administrators to post a disclaimer informing readers of certain risks. End-users, in turn, should take time to look into these limitations to observe necessary caution. This way, they won’t get caught off guard.

There’s no other way to keep governments from centralizing the structure of the cyber world, but to keep the World Wide Web orderly. Most probably the government is only likely to intervene when rights—protected by the State–are violated. That is why

developers and Internet users should share the responsibility to come up with safe cyber activities.

Meanwhile, the World Wide Web Foundation launched the global league table topped by Sweden being hailed as the best country in using Internet technology. United States, United Kingdom, and France came in second, third, and fourteenth respectively. Rankings are based on “economic, political, and social impact of the web, connectivity, and use,” according to Guardian news and Media.

Cyber security in the local setting

Along with the enactment of cybercrime prevention law, comes the alarming issue of lawful tapping of personal conversations.

Where Should We Draw the Line in Cyber Security?

• Milgrine Genio(Reprinted from Security Matters Magazine, 25 September 2012)


Inquirer News quoted the director of the Philippine Computer Society, Al Vitangcol, speaking in the Fernandina Forum in San Juan City, “There’s a complaint against you, and a court warrant was secured. Then NBI [National Bureau of Investigation] and PNP [Philippine National Police] authorities can tap your online access…Your email (exchanges) they can monitor, your conversations…They are allowed to do that (under this law).”

The Philippines might just be following the footsteps of the United States, which came second on the list of the global league table, in legitimizing wire-tapping in and out of the cyber world by virtue of the US Patriot Act. Such law has even authorized warrantless wire-tapping that might leave lawful intrusion of private conversations at the whim of authorities.

Although the Philippine Cybercrime Prevention Law recognizes the wisdom of the courts to decide whether or not authorities should conduct cyber-spying, it does not qualify crimes eligible for online surveillance, unlike in the US where lawful wire-tapping is exclusive for the prevention and management of terrorism-related crimes.

Here’s the catch. Philippine law enforcement agencies might not be able to guarantee 0% percentage of error along the process of detecting the target web account(s). The prestigious US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) even admitted at one point that they have intercepted wrong numbers back in 2005, according to the MSNBC News. Now, can the NBI guarantee low percentage of error, if not 0%?

Good if the NBI encountered potential criminals upon spying on the wrong web account, but trust me they’ll have a hard time prosecuting these people when the admissibility

of evidence becomes questionable. Shall it be admissible under the good faith principle? Evidence gathered by authorities acting in good faith may be admissible regardless of technical defects.

Law enforcement authorities, however, cannot rely on finding “criminals by chance” out of wrongful cyber-spying. Otherwise, the government would seem to pay little r e g a r d to unlawful

b r e a c h of privacy. When that happens, the cyber-world might simply run amok such as the rise of cyber-hacking groups organized to fight against oppressive web controls imposed by the government.

Sooner or later, the Philippines might have its counterpart of the AntiSec, a hacker’s group, which has recently divulged a database of “one million identification numbers for Apple devices” purportedly hacked from an FBI agent’s laptop, although the latter denied such an allegation.

Are you protected from security breach?

As much as the many forms of malware that can hamper cyber

activities, you’ll also find some intrusion security solutions around. Malware, or malicious software, may either interrupt computer operation or gather private information. To block any sort of malware, you better come equipped with tough intrusion security solutions.

According to Sophos, “2012 Buyer’s Guide To Web Protection,” an ideal intrusion security solution should facilitate reduced network complexity less the “backhauling, latency, and a single point failure” wrapped in a cost-saving package made possible by doing away with traditional

web security appliances that are commonly expensive

H e w l e t t - P a c k a r d Business White Paper also pointed out eight attributes

of effective intrusion security solutions:

(1) In-band security that can detect and

stop network attacks;

(2) Maximum network and application availability

support to keep the network up and running;

(3) High-performance and in-depth traffic

inspection without sacrificing speed;

(4) Network core and perimeter protection without rendering the network latent;

(5) Broad and deep security coverage to prevent frequent security breach;

(6) Accurate attack coverage allowing good traffic but restricting bad traffic;

(7) Timely and updated attack protection to keep the computer active and protected at all times; and

(8) Effective security in real-world environment.

But computer owners should not only look for effective intrusion security solutions, but also take into consideration user-friendly and cost-effective ones.


It is in the nature of men to

avoid being measured. It is in fear of being punished or reprimanded that people tend to evade evaluation. Others get caught up carrying out the same mundane tasks every day that they fail to pause, look back and appraise if they’re really contributing to the attainment of their organization’s vision. Further, only few understand that assessment is being done not to penalize those who are performing poorly, but to track progress, identify lapses, and subsequently address gaps. Performance improvement expert, H. James Harrington, had even gone so far as saying that “measurement is the first step that leads to control and eventually to improvement.” Having realized the same thing, the Philippine Army has continuously strived to measure its performance in terms of implementing the Army Transformation Roadmap. Time and again, the Army has paused to adjust its bearings, consult stakeholders, and consider other organizations’ best practices for the effective implementation of its reform agenda.

Measuring and Monitoring Performance

In order to ensure that performance is measured in all levels of the organization, an integral part that the Army focused on is cascading the ATR to the different units and offices in the entire service. Last 12-14 October 2012, the HPA Cascading Team visited the Army Artillery Regiment in Nueva Ecija to finally complete the Scorecard Development Phase of the Vertical Cascading process. Next in line is the third and last phase, which is the validation of subsidiary scorecards. As of this writing,

there are already 24 2nd level scorecards presented to the Conference Group “A” for validation. Below is the list of said units and offices:

With the recent completion of the

Scorecard Development Phase of the Vertical Cascading Project and the ongoing validation of subsidiary scorecards, the Command deemed it fitting for all unit commanders and heads of offices to formally take an oath of commitment to the ATR. On 28 November 2012, most of them gathered at the Ricarte Hall, PA Officers

Clubhouse to formally pledge their support to the ATR. In celebration of the early gains of the said transformation program. Invited guests were Hon. Voltaire T Gazmin, Secretary for National Defense; LtGen Jessie D Dellosa, Chief of Staff, AFP; and members of the PA Multi-Sector Advisory Board, headed by its Chairman, Dr. Jesus P Estanislao.

Also seeking to improve its processes especially in terms of developing subsidiary scorecards, the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans (G5) organized the Operational Dashboard Seminar-Workshop last 23 October 2012 at the Luna Hall, PA Officers Clubhouse. With Mr. Chris Zaens, Executive Director of the Institute for Solidarity in Asia as the lecturer and subject-matter expert, the participating ATR Technical Working Group and Action Officers were taught how to collapse the Army strategic objectives and measures in order to derive operational metrics that show the tactical activities the units have to do effectively and efficiently. Through this, the participants realized the importance of focusing on the widely important goals (WIGs), while still performing the whirlwind or the day job.

The organization also acknowledges that it is essential to consider other strategy management models in order to have a more holistic approach to the ATR. Last 07-08 November 2012, the group of LTC Joel M Paloma, LTC Rommel R Cordova, Maj Benjamin L Leander, Maj Ruel G Rombaoa, Maj Rodil C Curiba and Maj Jeffrey A Villarosa participated in the Strategic Management Seminar-Workshop at the AIM Center, Makati City. Aiming to examine the increasing relevance of strategy

Unit/Office DateOG1, PA 11 June 2012OG2, PA 18 June 2012OG3, PA 25 June 2012OG4, PA 04 July 2012OG6, PA 16 July 2012OG5, PA 23 July 2012OG7, PA 06 Aug 2012OG8, PA 15 Aug 2012OG9, PA 03 Sept 2012ARMO 10 Sept 2012

3ID, 8ID 19 Sept 2012MFO, PA 24 Sept 2012

ARESCOM 28 Sept 201210ID, 2ID 04 Oct 2012

HHSG 08 Oct 2012LAD, OACE 12 Oct 2012

FCPA 15 Oct 20121ID, 4ID 17 Oct 2012

7ID, SOCOM 22 Oct 2012ASCOM 19 Oct 2012

Keeping Track of the Transformation: Updates on the ATR

Implementation• Strategy Management Branch, OG5, PA


execution, performance management and scorecarding, this 2-day activity was in line with the thrust of the PA to build-up its capacity to implement and facilitate the institutionalization of the ATR. Featuring speakers from different sectors, the seminar-workshop further enhanced the knowledge of the abovementioned participants in strategic planning, process management, and use of the Balanced Scorecard Model.

Recognizing that the organization needs an office that is solely intended to manage the ATR, the Army Governance and Strategy Management Office (AGSMO) was recently established. This is to effectively link strategy formulation to execution, and provide facilitative leadership for the entire strategy management process. It shall be responsible for overseeing the execution of cross-functional processes related to governance, strategy development, strategy execution, strategy monitoring and evaluation and strategic communication. Acting as the forerunner in the implementation of the ATR, the AGSMO will manage the following branches: Administrative, Strategy Alignment, Performance Management, Strategy Evaluation and Strategic Communication. The chief of the office shall act as a personal staff and will directly report to the Commanding General, Philippine Army in all matters pertaining to governance

and strategy management, as well as the attainment of the Army vision and objectives as outlined in the strategic plan.

Other Updates

The Army also gives importance to what its stakeholders have to say when it comes to its transformation initiatives. Last 14 September 2012, the fifth regular meeting of the Philippine Army Multi-Sector Advisory Board (PA MSAB) was held at the HPA Conference Room. This was attended by the PA MSAB Chairman, Dr. Jesus P Estanislao and members, Ms. Victoria Garchitorena, Dr. Jennifer Santiago-Oreta, Atty. Alex Lacson, and Ms. Tammy Bejar as representative of Prof. Winnie Monsod. According to the updates given by the Strategic Communications Committee, the productions of the Army videos are well on their way. In fact, the Army-Juana Change Video, showcasing the Army reform initiatives, was previewed last 5 October 2012 at the Commander’s Lounge by Prof. Winnie Monsod, Ms. Mae Paner and her creative team, MGen Maximo G Caro, Chief of Staff, Philippine Army, and members and representatives of the HPA General Staff.

Hoping to learn from the best practices of other organizations undergoing the PGS process and establish connection with other stakeholders, the Army attended the September 2012 Performance Governance

Forum last 26 September 2012, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). Organized by the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA) and the National Competitive Council (NCC), the forum featured speakers like Mr. Guillermo M. Luz, NCC Co-Chair and Hon. Cesar L Villanueva, Chairman of the Governance Commission on GOCCs. The Civil Service Commission, Philippine National Police and the City Government of Balanga shared their PGS experiences in their respective organizations during the roundtable discussions.

With the incessant demands of the day-to-day routines, it is very easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. It is not unlikely that at times, the members of the organization forget about the ultimate vision. The Philippine Army acknowledges the significance of continuously reminding itself that if it will keep doing what it has done previously, then it will fail. Deliberate and focused efforts to change the status quo must be made. The Army Transformation Roadmap presents a huge opportunity to transcend boundaries and the people’s expectations, and there is no more fitting time to take advantage of this chance than now.


Functional Interdependence : The Iron Law of IPSP “Bayanihan”• CPT NOEL A MONGAS (INF) PA

I call for a “recognition of the development dimension of interdependence” among countries rich and poor, along with a concept of “moral security”, this interdependence is the decisions of the government, the relationship of universality, ruled by concern for the “common good of all humanity”, or by concern for the “spiritual and human development of all” instead of by the quest for “individual profit”, “peace” would be possible as the result of a “more perfect justice among people.”

-Pope John Paul II

Executive SummaryThe Armed Forces of the Philippines

Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” 2010 is a broad plan that provides strategic guidance to AFP Units in the execution of their mission and functions in support of the government’s internal peace and

security agenda. The plan is based on national security policies and strategies, the President’s pronouncements, and the policy thrust of the Department of National Defense. The AFP mission in the IPSP is to conduct support operations “to win the peace” in order to help the Filipino nation create an environment conducive for sustainable development and a just and lasting peace. The AFP operations focuses on peoples’ collective desire of security and order by resolving internal armed conflict through the promotion of a condition of social harmony, economic equity, and political justice.

IPSP Bayanihan, foremost and above all, basically links together the popular national and transnational movements for “social development” with a purposeful commitment to stability and “national development”, prompted by a vision of greater “self-reliance” and domestic control of internal threats.

IPSP holds out the promise of a global future that remains “interdependent” but is less tightly linked economically, much less a militarized, and more attuned to the necessary balance of human and natural forces. IPSP believes in the operation of human agency and its commitment to humane change that can be possible only if man is secure in his own space, in his own territory.

The period of “interdependence” and “globalization” is also the period that calls for a greater intra-agency and interagency cooperation where there is an active participation from all other institutions and agencies of the government and between governments and states. That the defense and security transformation shall be focused on building the capacity for cooperation in effectively implementing the security strategic approaches, imperatives and concepts embodied in the security affairs of the state.

IPSP is “state- centered” because there is a “specific territory,” to protect against all enemies, but IPSP is also


“people-centered”, because there are various challenges to human security such as economic competition, the financial crisis, population growth and migration, organized crimes, environmental problems, poverty, equality, etc…And with a humanistic approach in doing things, IPSP is able to focus on “human development” which is also the central goal of all the ideologies and societies of the world, if society is to achieve its main objectives that are more than simply for survival.

IPSP minimizes if not totally eliminates, crimes and internal security concerns in society. It strengthens the dignity of a person and does not support the “building of walls instead of bridges” nor does it allow the “total breakdown of society” without exhausting all possible remedies that can minimize if not totally prevent the total destruction of man and his society.

IntroductionI call for a “recognition of

the development dimension of interdependence” among countries rich and poor, along with a concept of “moral security”, this interdependence is the decisions of the government, the relationship of universality, ruled by concern for the “common good of all humanity”, or by concern for the “spiritual and human development of all” instead of by the quest for “individual profit”, “peace” would be possible as the result of a “more perfect justice among people.”

-Pope John Paul IIIn the context of the Philippine

core security concerns, the growing complexity of the country’s “internal threats” is generally viewed as giving rise to a new period in convergence policies and multi-dimensional relations or interagency processes. This development is characterized by greater attention to “interdependence” and “globalization”, and a stronger emphasis on “interagency/intergovernmental system” in particular and “security affairs of state” in general. This means that in achieving defense and security goals, the country shall focus on building the capacity for

cooperation in effectively implementing the security strategic approaches, imperatives and concepts embodied in it.

A theory marking the transition from traditional domestic relations to international issues is pluralism and interdependence. Although this approach views states as the most important actors in politics, it takes non-state actors (i.e., organizations that are not formally associated with governments) into consideration. Its main concern is with “how human activities are intertwined and interconnected” across national boundaries. It is increasingly clear that new and far-reaching forces of globalization are having such profound effects on the world that how we approach domestic relations must also be significantly transformed by capturing the paradigm of functional interdependence.

The rapid proliferation of states as well as non-state actors, revolutions in technology, social media and communications, the growing sophistication and global views of many ordinary citizens, and the changing nature of conflicts are all contributing to the complex environments in which we live. State failure and the inability of governments to effectively address a wide range of “national issues” reinforce this transformation of robust domestic relations into a more dedicated design that offers cooperative and synchronized efforts to achieve national security goals.

In some instances, self-preservation and threat of violence that accompanied the emergence of modern states led to the pervasive emphasis on military power as the highest priority of states. The fear of losing territory or being eliminated was very real. For example, it was estimated that 95 percent of the state-units in Europe at the beginning of the 16th century had been destroyed or combined to create other countries.The devastating effectiveness of military force and the development of nuclear weapons that threatened the extinction of most of the world made countries, especially the superpowers, extremely reluctant to use military force.

In the country, “Internal threats, peace and order, human security, and territorial sovereignty” are the main concerns of the Philippine government, by the political leadership in particular, by the Filipino people in general, by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), by all the agencies of government and by the non-government agencies as well. ‘Peace and security’ have indeed become very expensive as our authorized agents of peace and security continue to devise ways and means to achieve “real peace and security.” Thus, state leaders everywhere invariably seek to put the best possible face on their own situations.

In contrast, there has been a veritable cornucopia of making peace and building communities in the country to meet the challenges and everybody is connected to each other, but because of the dispersal of authority, resources, expertise and personnel among competing departments and agencies, these could result to disintegration or crossing of boundaries aggravated by who will be in-charge or liable as the case may be. There have been countless issues that departments did not work relatively well in integrating their respective share and contribution to confront the different challenges that destroy the administrative design of the country. How a nation and the government learn from experience and adapt their institutions for the future to have better keys to fully resolve the problem on peace and security will only matter if there will be a strategic reevaluation reform mobilizing the nation, the government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines in winning the peace and emphasizing the importance of culture within the bounds of stability and quality of life of the people.

The Nature of AFP Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan”

The Philippines’ chronic problems are basically from lack of social services and deteriorating peace and order situation resulting from frail socio-economic policies and national security designs for effective government implementations. Thus, the strategic


concern should promote national integration to resolve specifically the country’s internal security issues, focused on human security.

In addressing the country’s internal conflicts among the different threats posed by organized armed groups, insurgents and political-military organizations in the country, the AFP launched its plan called Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” for the period of six years covered under the administrative term of the C o m m a n d e r - i n -Chief. The plan is more on “Winning-the-Peace” instead of simply “Defeating the Enemy”(through a r m e d con f ron ta t i ons ) . For this reason, it must be clear that the AFP as bearer of country’s military power will work with other instruments of national power (diplomatic, political, informational, and economic) to ‘win the peace.’ The approach is the “Whole-of-Nation Approach” that would raise the involvement of government and non-government agencies together with the AFP. Peace and Security are the concerns not only of the AFP but also the concerns of other branches of government and the non-government agencies as well.

Furthermore, the plan has been designed to feature the old Filipino values of organized togetherness, of caring, and sharing under a heroic leadership. ‘Bayanihan’ is a Filipino compounded word that projects a spirit of organized group collectively accepting and helping one another to find their place in the society. Apparently,

serious Filpino sociologists and military think-tanks persist in arguing that humankind will resolve today’s problems just as it resolved yesterday’s in the case of the Philippine social and security concerns, the reason why the plan was named after it.

In the context of ‘Bayanihan spirit’, it pursues the glaring internal security issues of the country which were often dramatized by progressive groups and organizations who assert themselves as the only ones who can determine

the best for the country, the people and the government will bring injustice and poverty that contribute to unconstructive features of government, the people and their implementations are the issues exploited by these progressive groups. Additionally, these groups brought economic stagnation, had stemmed political ambitions, deceptions, misguided social orientations, aggrandized human rights violations perpetrated by security forces in the

country, exaggerated accusations, degenerated justice indoctrinations, sowed fear and coercion to the society and divided its people.

Hence, the plan intends to regain the country’s ‘Bayanihan’ spirit which will overcome immature imperatives of development and hindered capacity of cooperation and nationalistic framed of virtues.

The other nature of the plan introduces a “People-centered or

Human Security Approach” for all the people to realize vis-a-vis soldiers. Moreover, People-centered is a concept of security that deals with the everyday challenges the people face that do not involve “military” issues. In addition, People-centered challenges like economic c o m p e t i t i o n , financial crisis, population growth and migration, organized crime, drug trafficking, e n v i r o n m e n t a l problems, poverty, inequality, pandemic of diseases, piracy, calamities and disasters and ethnic conflicts are among the threats that have something to do with the position of the Philippine

security forces notwithstanding armed components that follow through seriously. With this concern, the Bayanihan spirit would be appropriate to these issues considering its actors in the picture.

Further, security picture of the country also features political issues and activities by states and non-state actors that extend across local boundaries that have implications for most of the regions. But the concept of


People-centered in the AFP perspective adequately portrays how social, economic, cultural, environmental, educational and demographic factors, among others, are creating a “secured society” with “social norms”, which will eventually pronounce the necessity of functional interdependence as a set of basic values that are increasingly necessary to Filipino communities. Apparently, the urgency of developing a “national approach to internal security” to curb the insurgents’ armed struggle, to improve the human environment, to defuse the civil war explosion and to supply the required momentum to development efforts through Bayanihan would be the officially framed mantra.

In its presentations, the IPSP Bayanihan moves towards a “whole-of-nation approach” to understand better the AFP approach to resolve local problems of national security, to improve its relations with the people and society and to help in the national development. The AFP’s constitutional mandate expresses, “the Armed Forces of the Philippines is the protector of the people and the State. Its goal is to secure the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the national territory.”

In its intention to capitalize Bayanihan spirit, the plan also emphasizes that it is ideal that there would be a “meeting of the minds” of men who head the different agencies of the government, including those who head the different non-government organizations if the “whole-of-nation approach” is to succeed. This is the same way that there will be “meeting of the minds” of men in the international organizations so the “global approach to security” will be met by the United Nations and its

specialized agencies. As Martin Luther King Jr said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable net work of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny…. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly.”

In reality, states around the globe are in crisis, “interdependence is in

crisis” because the leaders could not see eye to eye. That every leader has his own way of resolving his country’s problems. The contemporary global crisis holds within many “seeds of danger,” including the undeniable potential for “species destruction.” But from another angle, “every danger can also be an opportunity to transcend and transform the crisis” like the presentations of the Bayanihan that would eventually be desirable to the peace-loving Filipino people.

The Iron Law of AFP IPSP BayanihanOne of the highest priorities of the

country in facing its challenges is the effective interagency and partnership operations based on the principle that the application of non-military, or civilian resources, should be effectively integrated and collaborated with military power.

Currently, it is an “iron law” of IPSP Bayanihan that “no national security or national government agency issue can be resolved by one agency alone.” Consequently, the AFP cannot solve alone the issue on internal security threats without the shared resources and cooperation of other agencies. In this manner, the agencies of the government would be seen as a picture of different people, resources, organizational principles, expertise and approaches in addressing their respective mandates and issues without collaborative implementations.

The country has underrated internal security mechanisms aside from national peace and order laws to converge all agencies of the government towards peace and order, yet if these could be fully equipped and synchronized, they could be the indispensable power of the country. Indeed such great mechanisms will prioritize issues that

will eventually fossilize solution and finally resolve the crisis. Especially, if this mechanism will possess a unified, interlocking set of coordination to all sectors that promotes peace and protection of its people, territory and democracy. The current threat of the country is a multi-dimensional circle that manipulates moral, political, social and economic conditions. If this mechanism becomes pervasive it will calculate its effective implementation to


achieve coherence with varying levels of success through the integration process and what we call ‘functional interdependence’ that will subsequently realize the country’s dream for real stability.

The country’s structural, sociological and cultural impediments such as the problem on peace and security, poverty, education, economic stagnation, political issues and other catastrophic events that trigger the institutional collapse would be balanced by coordination of different state actors to bring the strategic coherence and decisiveness of the AFP to the burgeoning responsibilities of eliminating the threats. Unsatisfactory institutions will eventually reinforce in expanding their responsibilities to their respective target audience thus it is imperative that national security challenges require intelligent integration of resources and unity of efforts.

Our national security concord should be institutionalized through depa r tmen ta l - secu r i t y -m i l i t a r y implementation plan, training, rehearsal, evaluation and review with greater authority and leadership from the President himself. It should be more detailed, flexible and should have dedicated resources and may even adopt conspicuously or grossly unconventional programs.

AFP IPSP will not succeed if other agencies’ conception will still be agreed as to military power versus internal threats without seriously considering the greater role that their departments have to perform. It is also a priority that is shared by distinguished partners on both sides of the aisle.

Functional Interdependence and Its Strategic Imperatives

In the beginning of my discussions, it may be useful to define functional interdependence in the simplest possible terms in the Philippine security context. I am referring to the definition “harmony and share” as practiced by all states (state and non-state actors) towards human development, peace and stability. Further, this

will be carried out by two or more departments or agencies in support of national security goals. Significantly, these departments and agencies include those that are commonly associated with overseas collaboration for national security concerns. In the case of the country’s designs and challenges, simply stated, our current system is hamstrung and fragile thus, there are regulatory, legislative, executive and judiciary impediments to effective interdependence. Thus, problems must be independent of personalities, policies, and particular administration in order to protect the country’s people and interests; it must be crucial and critical to allow better communication and coordination to make our convergence efforts leaner, flatter and more agile. This ability will allow the country to more effectively carry out its internal security interests while reserving the use of lethal military force as a last resort. In fact, leaders and policy-makers need two things: first, an overarching national strategy that frames the intent of all security concerns in the country and second, a national grand design that can resolve the peace and security concern in the country with all its assets and resources as top priority for the resolution of our internal conflicts-- from there development will follow. The functional interdependence would be highlighted in response to the security concerns that would eventually require unlimited coordination of activities between vertically structured military and civilian departments.

Interdependence in a Philippine setting pursues the foregoing effects of national security threat that hampers the socio-economic programs of the country. In that case, it really involves a much wider array of its departmental resources which could sincerely address in a broader set of contributions, highly synchronized and carefully calibrated unity of all sectors of the government, specially on human security and social development. In retrospect, in the 80s, the security environment was earnestly addressed, making it less amenable to management through conventional military force alone. By practice, military

combat operations were susceptible to populated areas, socio-economic views of the populace, sensitivities to human rights violations, political traditions, sensationalized media and coercion by different threats groups, thus AFP forces were prematurely denied of major deployments for national development.

The AFP was weak to interact effectively with institutions at the national level thus objectives were not met. In this sense, how can we prepare dynamic security goals and proposals, where issues from obscurity to strategic significance are highly permeable. Many departments and agencies are not conscious nor prepared to act in their national security roles. Civilian departments and agencies do not believe they have a greater role in the national security concerns and implementations. Likewise, these organizations produce few incentives for staff to participate in national security mission because they believe that they have different and separate mandate from national defense agencies. These agencies often lack expeditionary capability even if they have desire the to help, they may be prevented from doing so by a combination of factors including personnel shortages, training, resources, lack of statutory authorizations, regulatory constraints and policy restrictions. They may also lack the ethos and structure required to sustain an embedded culture that enables continued and adaptive joint operational planning both for short and long term contingency.

As to internal security resolutions, the Act of Congress and its implementations, the culture and practice of various executive departments, the judiciary and its judicial implementations against criminals and terrorists, the present directions and traditions could make or break to solicit accelerated priority contributions from civilian agencies that are often excluded from strategic and operational planning frameworks.

But, the loss of functional interdependence among the security sector and cluster together with other departments hampers its


operationalization. They should view this in serious and permanent undertakings so that peace and security may ring across the land.

ConclusionThe concept of forging a whole-of-

nation approach through IPSP across security and civilian agencies obviously encountered constraint on strategic engagement and intervention. Thus, it becomes fragile problem or a dilemma if others will not conform to the pressing security concerns. In other words, the AFP is forced to take decisive actions before security collapses altogether and the civil situation partially deteriorates thus, the military can leverage both of its capabilities and constructive means to establish a safe and secure environment, promote reconciliation among locals and national adversaries, facilitate the transition of peace and order to legitimate civilian authority. To that end, the whole-of- nation approach institutionalizes the enduring hard-won lessons of our contemporary threats to national security. It recognizes that military force alone can never win the peace. Henceforth, the systemic security condition would engage in an era of persistent conflict that may result to the uncertainty in the future. The distability situation in the country is driven by unprogressive panorama for the next generations of people and leaders.

Coordinating and integrating the various elements of national power through the interagency process remain the essential challenge to the Philippine government. There are a lot of agencies and instrumentalities which have a dramatic view of their respective mandate without crucial collaboration with other agencies, resulting to failures of not achieving the state goal or the government’s ultimate interests. In their respective departments, they are particularly sensitive to matters of institutional culture and to human and institutional proclivities that go into making and implementing decisions in the complexity of the national security system of the Philippine government. The challenge on how to improve the interagency process and the education

of our future leaders regarding this approach remains. In the meantime, the people and society will have to bear with the government until all its agencies and instrumentalities have found the need to continuously improve all efforts for a successful cooperation and collaboration.

We must have a system that assures and regulates the proper planning of interagency frameworks that will produce the departmental implementing guidance through regular scenario simulation that would test the ideas and processes, in order to expose problems and constraints early, so that the desired outcome can be achieved.

We should require institutional developmental program and personnel advancement that are accepted by the standards of its institutions to effectively participate in the national security roles, aside from the expanded ROTC program and the law on Citizen Armed Force and Reserve Force Components to participate in national security system programs and implementations. We should strive to build national norms of conduct from academe to all sectors of the government the information and knowledge that are of national security significance. It should picture the norms from national down to local government units in an interface and making coordination reliable and responsive. The driving force of the AFP to implement in a collaborative environment will form part of the success of other instrument of national power.

We must also understand that there are civilian agencies that have resources required for effective integration with the AFP but there are also departments and agencies that are reluctant to contribute their advance research and technology. While it is not necessary to use major military force, if there are considerations that should be underlined by legislative and executive congruent power, it is then a priority for the AFP to be more responsive on internal security concerns.

Finally, for “functional interdependence” to succeed, it is important, therefore, to evaluate the

leaders’ “values” and the government’s values. Government and the people need each other. Every agency of government needs each other to achieve the mission-vision of the state. It is also important for all agencies of government to realize that without them, no national leadership and government can ever survive the challenges of time. That a national leader can only do so much but government agencies’ values and leadership and the people’s values and leadership will provide the way for the national leader to shine and achieve his goals for the country.

About the Author:

Cpt Noel A Mongas is presently the Assistant Chief, Strategic Policy Research of the Office of Strategic Studies, AFP. Prior to this assignment, he held the position of Chief, Research at CMO School, CMOG and was among the pool of instructors on different CMO subjects.

REFERENCES:

Daddow, Oliver. International Relations Theory. London: Sage Publications, (c) 2009.

Flor, Alexander. Developmental Communications, 2000.

Goodwin, Cliff & Griffith, Daniel B. The Conflict Survival Kit. New Jersey: Pearson Education Inc., (c) 2007.

Hart, Lynhood. Introduction to Sociology, 2008.

Held, David & McGrew, Anthony. The Great Globalization Debate. USA: Polity Press, 2003.

Kegley, Charles W. World Politics; Trend and Transformations.

Mel, Gurtov. Global Politics in the Human Interest. London: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 2007.

Rourke, John T. International Politics. Boston: McGraw Hill, (c) 2004.

Political Geography: An Introduction to Space and Power

Pope John Paul. “The Social Concern of the Church.” Sollicitudo Rei Socialis December 30, 1987 [issued February 19, 1988].

Article II Sec3, 1987 Philippine Constitution

AFP IPSP Bayanihan 2010 Manual

AFP Lesson Learned 2005

USA Military Review 2008


Bohol, known for its wonders like the Chocolate Hills and the home of tarsiers, is a peaceful place. In the past, it has been plagued with conflict as it was also affected by insurgency. But after a decade of initiatives and reforms, Bohol got rid of its insurgency problem and became a model for the government’s internal peace and security efforts. This is the story of how it happened.

Bohol Background

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), have been waging an insurgency aiming to seize control of the current democratic government to replace it with a communist form. The insurgency has persisted for over four decades and has claimed over 25,000 lives. Why has it lasted so long? It was because root causes were left unaddressed. Primarily, it is injustice that fuels the efforts of insurgents. And the most evident form of injustice is poverty.

Bohol is not left untouched by this internal security issue. In 2001, at least 53.6% of families in Bohol were living below the poverty line. Poverty, which is an injustice, serves as the fuel of insurgency. It has been exploited and became the ground for recruitment in the ranks of the rebels. In 2001, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) identified five guerilla fronts operating throughout the province. This accounted for 436 rebels and 298 high-powered firearms. At least 115 out of its 1109 barangays were directly affected by insurgents.

But Bohol successfully addressed the problem of insurgency by addressing its root cause. From a poverty incidence of 53.6% in 2001, the statistics went down to 28.4% in 2010. Tourist arrivals increased from 90,000 in 2001 to more than 500,000 tourists in 2010. Moreover, in terms of economic performance, Bohol rose

from 16th poorest province in the country to become one of the 20 most progressive ones today.

The Transformation

Brigadier General Alan Luga, former 802nd Infantry Brigade commander assigned in Bohol, summarizing how such transformation happened said that, “The success was primarily because of the holistic approach introduced by the provincial government, good governance, and convergence of efforts of all stakeholders.”

The defeat of insurgency in Bohol happened between 2001 and 2010. This was during the incumbency as governor of now Rep. Erico Aumentado. Political will to end insurgency in the province was necessary and it became evident from the provincial level down to the local government units (LGUs) in the municipal and barangay levels.

In close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the

The Bayanihan Experience in Bohol: Winning and Keeping the Peace

• LTC ROMEO S BRAWNER JR INF PA


Philippine National Police (PNP), and LGUs, the provincial government implemented a local version of the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS). ITDS is a system implemented by areas throughout the country to address internal security concerns particularly insurgency. The localized ITDS was called the Bohol Local Integrated Security System or BLISS.

Moreover, the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) made up by military, police, and provincial officials of Bohol played an active role in leading the fight against insurgency. A Local Monitoring Board was created under the PPOC to coordinate and synergize all the efforts of the various agencies in the counter-insurgency campaign of the province. This of course was coupled with relentless combat, intelligence, and civil-military operations by operating troops and policemen from the AFP and PNP.

Together with other stakeholders such as local government agencies, non-government organizations (NGOs) and the private sector, the provincial LGU of Bohol labored to deliver basic services to all sectors of society and all citizens of the province. In order

to address poverty, the Local Chief Executive established several offices namely the Bohol Poverty Reduction

Management Office, the Bohol Tourism Office, and the Bohol Employment and Placement Office.

Security Forces of Bohol

The 802nd Infantry “Peerless” Brigade is based in Carmen, Bohol

and covers the provinces of Leyte, Southern Leyte, Biliran, Bohol, and Cebu.

It is commanded by Col John Bonafos. It controls two Army infantry battalions positioned in Leyte, Biliran, and Cebu and the 2nd Special Forces Battalion in Bohol.

The 2nd Special Forces “Sabertooth” Battalion (Airborne) is based in Bilar, Bohol and covers the whole Province of Bohol as its area of operation. Its mission is to be a combat unit and to handle the training and operations of Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) auxiliary battalions throughout the province. This is to deny insurgents an opportunity to reestablish itself in areas around the province to sustain a physically and psychologically secure environment conducive to sustainable economic development.

From its previous deployments in Visayas and Mindanao, the battalion

underwent a shift from “counter-terrorist to tourist guide” when it was transferred to Bohol in 2008. This meant a change in orientation from a purely combat orientation towards that of a people-focused and tourist-friendly security orientation.

The Bohol Provincial Police Office is located in Camp Dagohoy in Tagbilaran, Bohol. It exercises operational control over all PNP units in the Province of Bohol. The Provincial Director is Police Senior Superintendent Constantino Barot Jr.

The AFP and the PNP units in Bohol have professional and cooperative relationships with each other. Communication lines are open between various units and personnel from both agencies, thereby making coordination smooth and easy. Moreover, both institutions have been active in pursuing the objectives of the Provincial Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (PJPSCC). Joint trainings, exercises, combat and checkpoint operations, and intelligence exchanges have been undertaken.

Some Actual Programs

The concept of working together was implemented in Bohol throughout the period of 2001-2009. The security forces with the provincial and local government units with NGOs and even the citizenry worked in many areas to improve the lives of the people throughout the province.

Signing of the Joint Memorandum of Agreement was inked by Secretary of National Defense Norberto Gonzales and Governor Erico Aumentado at Brgy. Don Remedios, Danao, Bohol on February 11, 2010.

S.U.P.P.O.R.T. H.E.A.T. Bohol

S.U.P.P.O.R.T. H.E.A.T. Bohol is an advocacy program of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion (Airborne) and the

Signing of the Joint Memorandum of Agreement by then Secretary of National Defense Norberto Gonzales and Governor Erico Aumentado at Brgy. Don Remedios, Danao, Bohol on February 11, 2010.

School buildings built by V4TP, soldiers, and residents in Pamilacan, Bohol


802nd Infantry Brigade to support the programs of the Provincial Government of Bohol.

Upon his assumption as Provincial Governor, Hon. Edgardo M. Chatto launched the Bohol development framework with focus on certain areas of concern aptly represented by the acronym H.E.A.T. (H for Health and Sanitation, E for Education and Technology, A for Agriculture and Food Production, and T for Tourism and Livelihood).

Hence, in order to align the activities of the battalion and brigade with the programs of the provincial government, the “S.U.P.P.O.R.T. H.E.A.T. BOHOL” Program was launched. Corny as it may sound, the acronym stands for Soldiers United for Peace, Progress & Other Reforms Through H.E.A.T of Bohol.

This advocacy program is implemented through projects that are within the scope of the mandate of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Construction of a School Building in Pamilacan Island

LGUs partnered with the 532nd Engineer Support Battalion based in Tubigon, Bohol to build a total of 24 school buildings around the province, thus enabling more children to go to school.

In partnership with a US-based NGO called Vaccines for the Philippines (V4TP), the 2nd Special Forces Battalion helped build a two-classroom school building in the Island of Pamilacan in Bohol. With funding coming from V4TP, they worked together with the Special Forces (SF) troopers, CAFGU Active Auxiliaries, and the

local residents to complete the school building.

SPIN Program

For livelihood, the Subcontracting Partners for Innovation or SPIN program was launched and implemented. SPIN is a livelihood program for former rebels, their families, and other members of the community. They are trained to make baskets and other woven products for export. At least 47 livelihood skill trainings on basket weaving were conducted in 130 barangays in 20 municipalities. This has benefited 1,874 people since it was implemented in 2008.

“Prosperity Program”

The Prosperity Program is a concept for the implementation of the Internal

Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan” at the grassroots level. It combines the Purok Power Movement of the province through their Community Organizers for Community Development, and the Peace and Development Team of the AFP. Together, these two components comprise what is called the Prosperity Teams.

A brainchild of Governor Edgar Chatto, Col. John Bonafos, and Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner Jr, the program brings down to the purok level the various programs of the province. Simultaneously, the primary issues that are prevalent in the purok and that are used by the insurgents as propaganda to entice villagers to join or support their cause, are determined so that the necessary government agencies can address these issues.

This concept can further be illustrated in the diagram at next page:

The Prosperity Program

As a result of the initial deployment of the Prosperity Teams, several members of the Bohol White Area Committee have “surrendered” and took their Oath of Allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines.

Bohol as the Model of AFP IPSP Bayanihan

A turnover of internal security operations formalized the declaration that Bohol is insurgency-free in 2010. A Joint Memorandum of Agreement for the Internal Security Operations of Bohol Province and a Joint Resolution declaring Bohol as insurgent-free was signed on February 11, 2010. This in effect handed over the primary responsibility of Internal Security Operations to the PPOC. Thus, the AFP’s lead role in ISO was taken over by the provincial government and the PNP.

Bohol’s insurgency problem was resolved by joint efforts by security forces, government units, and the civilian sector. It was the reduction of

Turnover of the school with V4TP members and Governor Edgar Chatto.

Soldiers building the school in Pamilacan, Bohol.


poverty through the generation of jobs and promotion of tourism that was a deciding factor. Also, the enhancement of the delivery of basic services like education and healthcare to the people and the continuous security operations against rebels by the AFP and PNP proved critical.

Because of such integrated efforts in making Bohol peaceful and prosperous, Bohol, along with Cebu, became the model of the current Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan of the AFP. It was launched at the start of 2011. It aims not to defeat the enemy but to “win the peace”.

IPSP Bayanihan is the current strategy of the AFP in addressing internal peace and security concerns notably insurgency and terrorism. It calls for the working together of not just the security forces but of all government agencies and even citizens themselves.

It is anchored in 2 central concepts:

“Whole-of-Nation Approach” means that all sectors should work together. It acknowledges that insurgency cannot

be solved by military or law e n f o r c e m e n t means only. It requires the efforts from g o v e r n m e n t agencies and units and even the citizenry, by individuals and citizen groups. Peace and security is everyone’s concern and

responsibility. We all have our part in achieving and maintaining it.

“People-Centered Approach” means the security of the people, mainly the civilians, comes first. The objective of security forces is not to destroy or defeat the enemy but to be concerned with the safety and welfare of the people first to address the issue of internal security. A people-centered security puts weight in both the physical and socio-economic well-being of the people. Respect for human rights also is valuable to the success of the IPSP.

On the ground, such concepts are implemented by AFP units all around the country. The practice of cooperation of the security forces, government agencies, and the citizenry in Bohol is being replicated and even enhanced in other areas in the archipelago.

Bohol’s Security Today

The experience of Bayanihan in Bohol is indeed an appropriate model for the implementation of the IPSP Bayanihan, where both “Whole-of-Nation Approach” and “People-Centered Approach” have been

applied. However, while Bohol has been declared as insurgent-free, there have been attempts by the insurgents to recover the province as one of their areas of operation for collecting “revolutionary taxes”.

Aside from the threat posed by the resurgence of insurgents, other lawless groups can affect the peace and security in the province. One such group is the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG). In fact, last January 3, 2011, intelligence reports identified certain elements of the ASG were planning to kidnap foreign tourists in Panglao, Bohol. This information was not taken lightly by the security forces in the province and by the provincial government. Aside from the ASG, other terrorist groups and criminal syndicates also pose a threat to the security of the province because of the influx of both foreign and local tourists.

As long as there is injustice in the form of poverty, insurgency will continue. Poverty will continue to be at the service of the political interest of insurgents. And our nation’s peace and security will be affected and our economic progress will be hampered. But by applying the concept of Bayanihan, which is basically working together, as well as continuing to have genuine concern for the welfare of our countrymen, we will eventually win the peace in the entire nation.

Working together is the key to maintaining peace and security in our communities. It is everyone’s concern and responsibility. We all have our part in creating a peaceful and safe environment conducive to progress and prosperity for each and every one of us.


Barely two years since its conceptualization by Headquarters Philippine Army (HPA), the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) became the guiding light where every major subordinate unit, like ASCOM, anchors its initiatives to ensure that these are aligned with the Headquarters Philippine Army’s mission.

ASCOM is on its way towards a transformation that improve major areas of concern particularly the training, personnel, technology, facilities and internal processes (system). To earnestly respond to this endeavor, ASCOM created a parallel Technical Working Group- Army Transformation Roadmap (TWG-ATR). The TWG is headed by the Chief of Staff with the General Staff and two other key officers. A series of workshops had been provided by the HPA to enlighten TWG members on the essential concepts and knowledge needed in order to formulate a responsive ASCOM scorecard. Relatedly, the Command had conducted workshops/conferences, which were aimed to improve the combat service support operations (CSSO).

The forming of ASCOM scorecard passed through a gradual and meticulous scrutiny by the dynamic leaders of ASCOM and

HPA Logistics. After conducting a chain of presentations and putting together the collaborative efforts of the concerned subordinate units, the ASCOM scorecard was completely crafted. On 24 October 2012, members of HPA ATR-TWG approved and subsequently validated it on 29 October 2012 by the HPA Conference Group Charlie headed by the acting Chief of Staff, PA, Col Paolo Leo Ma G Miciano.

So far, the following are the significant gains of ASCOM broken down to five initiatives according to priority, which set the tempo in the service support administration and operation in support to all Army units:

1. Combat service support operations enhancement program

2. Personnel management program

3. Resource management program

4. Automated inventory management program

5. Logistics security enhancement program

In pursuit towards a responsive ASCOM, the Command takes premium in enhancing its capabilities to be more effective and efficient in service support

operations. Along with this is the dynamic management of equipment and facilities of ASCOM. It will also develop effective CSSO assessment that will involve documentation of best practices as one of its transformation tools. Furthermore, the Command will ensure active engagement, coordination and partnership with key stakeholders to facilitate requirements in support to CSSO.

With the increasing threat posed on logistics, security measures will be established by increasing collaborative intelligence exchange with AFP and PNP intelligence and security units. Likewise, ASCOM will continue to enhance security of warehouses and other facilities through the installation of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) units.

With the many issues affecting the Army, particularly on the management of funds, resource management will be given priority thru the conduct of Annual Management Audit of ASCOM sub-units. Likewise, ASCOM subordinate units will be heavily involved in the preparation of Annual Plans and Budget to ensure that all necessary activities and programs are included to avoid fiscal gaps and accounting inconsistencies. This is to ensure that resources are secured and conscientiously utilized.

ASCOM: “The Ways Ahead to a Responsive Combat Service Support Operation”

• OG3, ASCOM, PA


In coordination with higher headquarters, ASCOM will aggressively endeavor on the automation of inventory system to enhance management of supplies and services.

On personnel, ASCOM has intensified inventory of skills and competence to ensure the placement of the right people oin the right job. On the other hand, the Command maintains a high level of morale of personnel by establishing discipline among its ranks complemented by giving due recognition and awards to deserving personnel who perform well in their assigned task. All of these initiatives aim to promote military professionalism in ASCOM.

At present, the Command has an Operational Readiness Evaluation (OPREAVAL) Rating of R3 based on the 2nd Quarter CY 2012 result. Our target for CY 2013 to CY 2014 is R2 while R1 starting CY 2015.

Indeed as a major unit of the Philippine Army, ASCOM will always stand on its commitment to deliver quality and responsive combat service support to all PA units. The challenges ahead are stiff but with dedicated officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian employees, ASCOM will soon reach and realize the Army vision of becoming “a world-class Army that is a source of national pride by 2028.”


Army Chief Lt Gen Emmanuel T Bautista said, “What the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) wants to achieve in the future is to transform the Philippine Army into a better, more responsive and more professional Army, committed to its mandate.”

The Finance Center Transformation Roadmap (FCTR) seeks to embrace genuine finance service founded on good governance that will infuse to every member of the finance organization. It includes the future and new rules, policies, guidelines, fiscal and financial directives of higher headquarters, New Government Accounting System and Commission on Audit Circulars. It also shows the distinctiveness of finance operations from other branches of service.

The Finance Center core purpose is “serving the Army with honesty and integrity” which provides a sharper edge to our mandated mission as a finance provider which is “to provide financial services and other legal and authorized

claims of military, CAA, and civilian personnel against PA appropriations in support to the administration and operations of the Philippine Army.”

The Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) is a timely and an impeccable move that certainly serves as a ready and useful reference containing pertinent and updated materials for all Fund Accountable Officers of the Philippine Army to have one direction, a standardized implementation and accurate guidelines in resource management. The FCTR emphasizes the peculiar characteristics and a more comprehensive collection of relevant data of financial operations especially in the automation of Pay and Allowances; financial records of military and civilian personnel; guidelines in the designation of FAO; qualifications, requirements for initial designation and re-designation; tenure of designation and other policy guidelines; maximum cash accountability; responsibility and flow of application for designation; guidelines on the granting, utilization of

cash advances; regular cash advance, special cash advance, cash advance of combat expenses; handling, custody and disposition of cashbook or CDR; pay and allowances, regular pay and allowances; collateral entitlements; other fringe benefits; Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE); flow of claims; personal services; and references.

The contents of the FCTR have long been used and had withstood the test of time, yet still evolving and changing. The substance is continuously updated in order to conform with the fast-changing requirements of the finance service, the stakeholders and present information technology to advance our transformation agenda. With the reforms at hand, we will then be able to enhance our human resources by motivating our finance personnel through efficient and effective management and continuously developing the character and the competencies of our disbursing officers and special disbursing officers including our finance sergeants.

FCPA TRANSFORMATION ROADMAP: A Journey to a Better, Responsive and Professional

Finance Service Provider• LTC ROBERT I DANCEL FS (GSC) PA


FCPA is encouraging military and civilian personnel, and all concerned finance personnel to be fully aware and familiar with the policies and guidelines of financial operations embodied in the FCTR.

Reforms have been done, which signal the journey to transform the Finance Center into a “World-Class Finance Center that is a Source of Pride for the Philippine Army.” Since we took our initial steps in the implementation of the FCTR, we have noticed, even our stakeholders in the Army and also our constituents, that they(the reforms) were basically positive - the things that we thought were impossible could be done. As part of the Team Army, FCPA will bring change and steer this unit to

greater heights so military personnel will have greater awareness and appreciation for the Finance Services and to achieve an upgraded status that will definitely be a history for all of us.

I am a firm believer in creating the right attitude of optimism even prior to this ATR strategy and the IPSP Bayanihan concept. That is the reason why, together with the other major subordinate units, we started the advocacy of making our own “Scorecard” following the CGPA’s Guidance.

The Strategic Objectives enumerated in the 1st Semester CY 2012 Scorecard Report, wherein we felt it is only us that can change our

destiny, have emphasized the salient points to be done while we are taking the pathway to success. Despite the spread of optimism and hope that we are doing today, we also have to give credit to the previous commanders who did a fairly good job in the Army. It is virtually impossible for anyone to succeed early on if we lack the necessary capabilities, knowledge and resources. As what we can see in other government agencies, they are having a hard time looking for ways to improve their present system considering the magnitude of work difficulties that must be corrected.

As years went by, the FCPA recognized the need to address these pressing issues through transformation.

On the Finance Center Scorecard, the expected outcome is to have an “efficient and effective financial services,” though we can still do many things as we implement our transformation strategies. These will form part of our mandate. We will always consider the future of our individual soldiers, CAAs, reservists, civilian personnel, suppliers and the PA units as our primary and valuable customers, including the dependents and other legal beneficiaries, the continuous support of Land Bank (Government Servicing Bank/Authorized Government Depository Bank) and Financial Institutions.


We have laid down our major and final output in our transformation roadmap that could possibly help the following objectives: the delivery of comprehensive financial services through the Philippine Army Management of Personnel System (PAMPS); to produce financially educated/trained personnel and units; to deduce a system that will enhance the timely settlement of all financial claims and automation of all financial records and to enhance the Financial Education and Training programs.

The customer value proposition is in accordance with our capabilities which is to have professional and modern Finance Center that is fully supportive by financial institutions and government servicing bank; and the timely and responsive staff financial adviser to Unit Commanders/Chiefs of Offices and to offer ultimate satisfaction to our clienteles.

In our strategic perspective, we have shifted from our old to new agenda and evaluated our internal processes in order to achieve our mandated tasks. The high end of the FCPA ATR’s objective is within the Center’s development assumption for the span of 5-10 years. The FCPA will be a professional and capable unit, an efficient and effective finance provider loved by PA personnel and their

dependents, and fully supported by Financial Institutions/ Government Servicing Banks.

While the development is taking place, the programs will continue to provide financial services convenient to our clients. Continuous upgrading of equipment for timely and paperless processing of vouchers and payrolls is essential; and a machine that can develop an automated and updated recording, collection and payment of claims. Our personnel in the field can now easily access through the internet and update their financial transactions through our latest information technology system in all 15 Finance Service Units (FSUs) installed throughout the archipelago. The Finance Center will continue to develop comprehensive and responsive financial policies and directives to enhance and sustain the competence and integrity of our personnel. We will recruit competent, disciplined, honest finance service-oriented personnel to ensure an effective working force that would build a strong and harmonious partnership with key stakeholders of

Finance.

Some of the highlights include a shortened processing period for all collateral entitlements including Instructor Duty Pay (IDP), Commutation of Unused Leave for Retirees, Reenlistment Clothing Allowance (RCA for Reenlistees and Special Financial Assistance (SFA) for Killed-in-Action (KIA) and Wounded-in-Action (WIA) personnel. The Pay and Allowances including Subsistence Allowances will be given promptly or ahead of time to give opportunity for our soldiers, dependents, CAAs, reservists, to budget/plan in spending their money and remittances to financial institutions.

After all, we all have to be united towards a common vision and not allow this opportunity to pass. There are a lot of opportunities out there with the modernization program as we step up to the next level for the Philippine Army. Soldiers are born to be able to see these opportunities and go after them.


The Philippine Army ID system started its operation on 01 February this year with only one computer and one ID printing machine. Personnel manning the daily operations had limited technical skills considering their ten-day practical training that put setbacks in its operation. At present, the PA ID System is operating efficiently through the continuing efforts of the Army Leadership to improve its services to PA personnel and their dependents.

Long before that the Philippine Army is dependent to a civilian company in processing the identification card of its

military and civilian personnel and dependents. It was only this

year that the Philippine Army produces its own ID. After series of consultations and brainstorming with the experts and concerned

staff offices and units, the Army is now reliant to its

personnel in managing the said system endeavor. Currently, the organic personnel of the Office of the Army Adjutant manage the processing and issuance

of PA military/civilian personnel and dependents ID.

The first five months of its operation was very crucial. Birth pains were noted most especially in the processing of non-appearance application. Before, it takes 2-3 months to complete the process of ID issuance. Meanwhile, the appearance application takes 10-20 minutes.

To address such pressing concern, the Office of the Army Adjutant, requested to OG1, PA for the procurement of additional IT requirements needed for ID processing. The OG1 appreciated the said effort, thus approved and supported the said request. Hence, the enhancement of PA ID system was realized.

With the newly procured IT equipment, the pressing concerns besetting the system operation w e r e a d d r e s s e d . The non- appea rance

application processing duration was already reduced to 2-3 working days while the appearance application only takes 5-10 minutes. All active PA and civilian will have it for free while the dependents will be charged of forty five pesos (Php45) to cover the cost of printing and ID materials.

The Army Signal Regiment (ASR), as the responsible unit in the technical working aspects, has been instrumental in the network connectivity leading to a better performance in the ID operation.

Through the concerted efforts of OG1, Army Signal Regiment and the Office of Army Adjutant, the PA ID system will continuously move forward to be a more reliable and of prompt service to our personnel and dependents.

Finally, we are hoping that before end of this year, another ID System will be established at H3ID to cater military and civilian personnel to include their respective dependents assigned in Visayas area and at H4ID for Mindanao area considering that the budget for

this endeavor has already been approved and released.

Updates on PA i.. d System• Office of the Army Adjutant


FATHER Seeks JUSTICE Over PAQUIBATO Circus BOMBING

It hurts to see others suffer as they cry due to excruciating pain. What more if it is your child as young as two who’s begging for your help to ease her pain, but could express no better than through bawling while you can do nothing to aid her. AJ, the youngest among 48 casualties in the Paquibato Circus bombing incident,. may have been discharged from the hospital after days of stay in Southern Philippines Medical Center, but this does not end her misery. Still, at such an early age, she has to muddle through this terrible experience just like the rest of the other victims. As a father to his suffering child, Jorge can only hug his daughter for comfort and assurance that as long as she is in his embrace, she is secure and safe from any danger. This simple gesture of a father goes a long way in helping his child relieve the pain she is experiencing.

Just like Jorge, the troops of 69th Infantry Battalion, in partnership with the 22 volunteer students and facilitators from the Ateneo de Davao

University’s Center of Psychological Extension and Research and Services (COPERS), also aim to help the victims of this horrifying incident recover and regain normalcy of life.

Eight days after a supposed merry-making at the village gym turned out to be devastating, the volunteers launched a ‘Psycho-Social Processing’ where a series of activities was conducted to assess the adverse effects of the explosion and help survivors find the resolve to cope with its aftermath. COPERS conducted a “Critical Incident Stress Debriefing” and “Trauma Symptoms Assessment” in groups. One-on-one processing was done for individuals that appeared to be more at risk of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

The soldiers were also distributed in each group to assist in the processing and to ensure the smooth flow of activities. Their presence was also significant for the residents to overcome their fear and bring back the

trust to the government troops after some progressive groups maligned their sincerity in bringing the peace.

“Nagpasalamat kaayo mi sa padayon na pagtabang sa mga sundalo diri sa among barangay ilabi na karon. Importante kayo ni ilang gibuhat kauban ang mga taga Ateneo COPERS”, said Mr Rommel Cozo, the Bgy Captain of Fatima.

Dr. Ericson Batican, PhD., clinical psychologist and team leader of the disaster response team sent by COPERS, explained that initial interviews with affected residents, to include minors, allowed the team the best way to inventory the fear-inducing associations that hinder those affected to recover their normal psychological balance. The victims were also taught stress management techniques to control overwhelming panic attacks, should these happen. For young children who still lack the facility to verbally articulate their negative emotions, these fear-inducing

http://thetalithakoumpromise.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/filipino_girl.jpg

• MAJ ROSA MANUEL (FA) PA

Members of Center of Psychological Extension and Research Services, Ateneo de Davao, launched a series of psycho-social processing among victims of Paquibato bombing to assess the adverse effects of the explosion.


associations were surfaced through art sessions ably managed by the mental health practitioners among the volunteers.

Batican said that the outputs of the activity will be among the bases of their evaluation that will help COPERS come up with effective measures to be implemented on their next session to help the victims be fully liberated from the trauma of the terrible incident. The activity was culminated through a Play and Dance Therapy and series of games where student facilitators and soldiers joined and had fun with the children. The lighter mood refocused the children’s attention to the more pleasant stimuli in their community life.

“We assure you that we will continue our peace and development efforts, through the unwavering collaboration of our local government units and stakeholders, to strengthen the peace and security in said area”, Col. Lysander Suerte, Commander of 1003rd Brigade said. He also lauded the volunteer students and staff of COPERS for their commitment and dedication in assisting the unit by helping the victims of the explosion cope and hasten the return of their normal lives. He also said that everyone’s support and sympathy are needed for the resident’s full recovery.

As for the people of Brgy. Fatima, the ruthless grenade throwing in their community, that almost killed some of them, may have already elapsed, but the scar and trauma sown in their hearts and minds will stay for a while. And as for Jorge, the best cure to the wounds of her daughter is the surrender and appropriate punishment to the perpetrators who caused her agony.

“Ako na lang unta ang nasamdan dili akong anak, sakit kayo tan-awon iyang kahimtang,” These were the agonizing words of Mr Jorge Bontoya, the father of AJ (not her real name), one of the victims of the grenade explosion admittedly perpetrated by the New People’s Army in Brgy. Fatima, Paquibato District, Davao City.

http://thetalithakoumpromise.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/filipino_girl.jpg


MULANAY, Quezon–In the bloody battles experienced by Army soldiers all over the archipelago, even warriors have wept a tear for their fallen enemies.

This is what Corporal Rishman Ballasta, 30, e x p e r i e n c e d after a fierce firefight with at

least 15 rebels in Bgy. White Cliff,

San Narciso, Quezon on June 30, 2012.

Ballasta was leading 10 other soldiers in a security

patrol to locate the heavily-armed rebels who allegedly

extorted money from the villagers.

It was around 11:00 a.m. when the soldiers spotted the armed men, resting in a hut.

They were approaching the hut when staccatos of gunfire broke the silence, sending them to drop for cover.

He commanded his soldiers to return fire at the communist rebels who came out one by one with their guns blazing, hitting one of his men.

He directed some of his men to secure the flanks and provide cover as the medics treated the wounded soldier.

Seeing some of the rebels lay lifeless a few meters from his location, he directed his troops to cease firing.

“I asked the remaining rebels to lay down their weapons and raise their hands. They kept on firing at

us, wounding another soldier,” said Ballasta.

“Lumaban tayo mga kasama, kakaunti lang sila at mga bata pa ang mga iyan,” came the orders from the NPA commander.

More shots were fired at the soldiers, bullets plowing the positions of the soldiers, wounding again one of them.

Left with no choice, Ballasta and his men returned fire as they gradually approached the enemy positions.

Sensing that the gun firing from the rebels faded away after almost an hour of intense exchange of gunfire, he commanded the team to clear the encounter site.

By that time, he realized that they killed 11 of the rebels, some of whom were obviously ‘child warriors’ and a female rebel.

Real warriors also cry

While gathering all the dead rebels, tears flowed in the eyes of his soldiers, seeing innocent-looking young boys among the bloody corpses lying on the ground, still carrying their bandoleers and rifles.

Among the dead were identified through their ID cards including a young female combatant, Maricel Benegas, 17, and Benjo Endonilla, 17.

“I thought of the families they have left behind. The parents and siblings of those poor souls who were duped by the communists came to mind ,” Ballasta said, tears welling in his eyes.

He said that he did not really want

Real Warriors alsoShed Tears for Fallen Enemies

• Ms Mae Catibog


to wipe out the whole armed group.

“Amidst the hail of bullets, I negotiated for their surrender. I was frustrated that they responded with flying bullets,” he said.

Ballasta said that shedding tears for the rebels is not a sign of weakness.

“I felt the pain suffered by the grieving relatives for the death of their loved ones as the news about the incident unfold. I also cried in anger because the communists deceived the young boys into believing that the problems in our society can be resolved by perpetrating atrocities against government forces,” he explained.

He said that he is proud even if it would be known to the whole world that the soldiers’ eyes have filled with tears while fighting fellow Filipinos.

“We are not happy shooting our misguided kababayans (countrymen) during clashes. We will always try our best to convince them to peacefully surrender and cooperate with the government in solving our problems,” he concluded.

Deceitful means

While the soldiers arranged the funeral at St. Peter Funeral Homes in San Narciso town, representatives of KARAPATAN-Quezon persuaded the families to let them bring the dead rebels to Manila “so they can be given decent burial and their death be honoured.”

The group explained that dead rebels are ‘innocent civilians’ killed by the soldiers and said HR group will help so that justice must be served.

Lt Melchor Zarandona, 74IB CMO officer, had the chance to talk with the grieving relatives.

“The family members of the lifeless child warriors declined the offer that the dead be honored in Manila. The relatives were frustrated that their children were recruited as NPA rebels and not as ordinary workers according to their (children) claims ,” said Zarandona.

Maria Liza Guevarra, 45, the aunt of one of the slain rebels named Jerome Guevara, 24, could not hide her anger for the death of her nephew.

“I despise the NPA rebels. Why do they have to involve innocent people in whatever ‘cause’ they are fighting for?”

Army Chief lauds hero soldiers

To recognize the laudable accomplishments of the 74th IB led by Lt Col Dennis Perez, Army chief Lt Gen Emmanuel Bautista took time to visit the soldiers in their field headquarters on July 12, 2012.

He lauded the gallantry and compassion that the soldiers have shown during the encounter a n d c o n f e r r e d r e c o g n i t i o n

medals to the brave soldiers.

He took notice of the fact that the 74IB troops also spared the lives of two child- combatants who were captured in an encounter with a small band of rebels in March 2012.

“These men and all others like them are the pride and honor of our country. They shrug-off any danger just to protect the people and keep the peace in the land,” said Bautista.

Bautista has also called on the communist rebels to go back to the fold of the law.

“We must continuously encourage the remaining armed rebels in Quezon to peacefully surrender and cooperate with the government. We can only move forward as a nation if we help each other solve our problems,” he further said.

• Ms Mae Catibog


The Silent and Underrated CAFGU HEROES

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City- In every battle and in every success, there are those whose worth are not acknowledged as that of those on the limelight. These are men behind every military success story and one of these underrated heroes includes the CAFGU.

CAFGU, short for Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit, is an auxiliary force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and is considered as the government’s u l t i m a t e force multiplier in peace and development efforts. As of today, t h e r e a r e

more than 60, 000 CAFGU members actively serving.

This is a group of ordinary citizens who face combat threats just like regular soldiers do but for a meager pay in order to preserve the peace in the commun i t y they call home.

Source: https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTLu-l9slqtVZDTLvGuZm2uezYzO9snwA1RZ4Psa0T6-m1jWJGLhA

CAFGUs’ importance to the community could not be measured.

• Ms Hannah Amihasan


Establishment of the CAFGU Force

It was on July 25 of 1987 when President Corazon C. Aquino signed the Executive Order No. 264 entitled “Providing for the Citizen Armed Force”, that paved way for the formation of the CAFGU. What sealed its establishment at that time was the provision in the 1987 Constitution calling for the formation of a “Citizen Armed Force” (Article 16, Sec. 4), whose members shall undergo military training and serve as may be provided by law.

Article II, of the 1987 Constitution also mandates that: “The prime duty

of the Government is to serve and protect the people. The

Government may call upon the people to defend the State and, in the fulfillment thereof,

all citizens may be required,

under

conditions provided by law, to render personal military or civil service.”

CAFGU units are administered by, and under the operational control of, regular units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Infantry battalions assigned to this function are also referred to as “Cadre Battalions.”

The Basics

There are two classifications of the CAFGU, the CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) and the Special CAFGU Active Auxiliary (SCAA). The major difference between the two is the responsibility each has to fulfill. The CAA assists the AFP in helping maintain local peace and order, meeting local insurgency threat, assisting in rescue and relief operations during disasters and calamities, and health/welfare activities, and participating in local socio-economic development projects, while the SCAA assists the AFP regular force and the local government

authorities in the protection of life and property within the business

establishments’ or LGUs’ territorial jurisdiction.

Just like any other professions, there are also qualifications one must consider to be part of the CAFGU Active Auxiliary

(CAA). One must be a volunteer reservist, a natural-born citizen, not more than 51 years old, a bona fide resident of the community,

physically and mentally fit for combat duty, possesses good moral character, holds no criminal record and is nominated by the Barangay Peace and Order Council and or

Municipal Peace and Order Council through a resolution.

There is no age limit for SCAA applicant as long he is a member of CAFGU Active Auxiliary Company (CAAC) due for deactivation or a CAA who is terminated without cause and is an employee of the private company provided that he is a bona fide resident of the locality.

Interested applicants undergo a rigid screening and selection process conducted by the infantry battalion (CAFGU) who will then recommend to the infantry division Commander the final list of CAA candidates. Once the infantry division commander approves the list of candidates a request from higher headquarters for subsequent release of training support will then be issued.

A Basic Military Training will be held as part of the preparation for the candidates. This training covers the basic individual skills (Intelligence, Operations, CMO, Signal, etc) and unit capabilities (Combat Operations: find, fix, maneuver and destroy). An annual ammunition allocation for the CAAs is also programmed by the Philippine Army.

The recruited CAAs and SCAAs are issued with and are allowed to carry small firearms, typically M-14 or M-16 rifles, and are utilized for the defense of the locality where they are deployed.

The deployment and utilization of the CAAs are responsibilities of the commander of the unified command. Generally, CAAs shall be deployed only within the geographical boundary of respective provinces where they reside even during offensive operations. However, in certain circumstances wherein CAAs are deployed outside the municipality, it only goes on for a maximum of 15 days.

On the part of the SCAAs, there will be a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed between the head of the


Source: www.agrondragaj.com

business company or local government unit and the commander of the unit who shall operationally supervise the SCAAC which covers the limitations of their work assignment, the monthly subsistence allowance, compulsory benefits and entitlements. The SCAAC shall remain under the control and command of the AFP unit designated by the Unified Commander.

The CAAs, however, are considered “part-time soldiers” who shall not receive any pay except subsistence allowance which is about a meager P90.00/day or a total of only P2,700/month. Hence, their deployment and utilization are done in a manner that their normal livelihood activities will not be impaired.

To ensure the welfare of the CAAs, special benefits are given to them including rice subsidy, scholarship for dependents, maintenance of CAFGU bases, PHILHEALTH and insurance benefits.

Heroisms of the CAFGU

Their courage and loyalty have been tested in several occasions when they valiantly fought side by side with regular troops. A number of them have been wounded in action; some have made the supreme sacrifice. Their intense motivation may come from the fact that they are actually protecting their own families, homes, properties and communities aside from the larger stake of national defense.

Two years ago in Davao, a total of P278,000.00 was received by beneficiaries of 21 deceased CAFGU members. The claims in the form of checks amounting to P18,000 each was received by the CAFGUs’ immediate kins as part of the death assistance package from the Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefits and Assistance Incorporated (AFPMBAI).

Out of the 21 deceased CAFGUS, 16 died of natural death while three were murdered by the death squads

of the terror group, New People’s Army (NPA); and the remaining two died due to accident.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Carlos Holganza condoled with the families of the CAFGU as he acknowledged the sacrifice and service of the deceased. “This is only a small amount compared to the service which our CAFGU have rendered for our people, our flag and our country. Their sacrifices will forever be in our minds and we will continue serving our people the best way we can as a tribute and salute to our fallen comrades,” Holganza said.

During the tragic Ondoy devastation in 2009, among those whose heroism had emerged were that of the CAFGU members who have sacrificed their lives to save those of others.

Florencio Dequino lost his life as he struggled through flood waters while bringing stranded people to safety in Laguna. ‘Till this day, his family mourns his death with a sense

CAFGUs could be credited for the prevention of the re-infiltration of insurgents into communities.


“True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.” – Arthur Ashe

Source: http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/s480x480/557063_542641882418535_2081978751_n.jpg

CAFGUs serve as village defenders in far-flung areas against attacks by NPA terrorists. Here they undergo training on disaster response.

of pride. Together with Dequino, other CAFGU team members who have also sacrificed their lives during the Ondoy tragedy were Joel Hernalin, Erineo Olaguer, Pedro Montefalcon, and Artenio Descotido. These are men who chose to do something for the welfare of most and honor their duty serving the country and its people.

Last year in Albay, another member died on duty while securing the peace and the future of his fellowmen. A CAFGU member lost his life and another was wounded while manning their mobile detachment. This CAFGU detachment secures the heavy equipment owned by the Sunwest Corp., a construction firm tasked by the Department of Public Works and Highways to carry out a road opening project there. Members of the NPA attacked during the night and fled only when back-up troops arrived.

These are men who died for a purpose, but there are also those men who died unjustifiably and unfairly under the hands of the rebels. These are men who were unarmed and off-duty CAFGU members who have been targeted by NPA death squads as part of their strategy to discourage the villagers, most especially the indigenous people, into joining the volunteer force.

Recently, Paquito Lacton, a CAFGU

member in Isabela, succumbed to multiple wounds when he was shot by members of the NPA in front of his wife and two children. Lacton and his family were on their way home when they were waylaid by the rebels.

Last month in Negros Occidental, Dandy Quilanan was also fataly shot dead by the same rebel group. Quilanan was just driving a makeshift passenger motorcycle

when he was attacked and shot by the rebels on the chest and head which resulted to his death.

The Importance of the CAFGU

So many have died in the name of serving the people and securing the land. Each of them deserves the recognition for doing something few people would -- to sacrifice one’s very life for the sake of the welfare of the masses.

Time and time again, the CAFGUs have proven their worth. All over the country, they serve as village defenders in far-flung areas against attacks by NPA terrorists. They fight bandits and cattle rustlers. When the local police and military are not on hand, they are there to defend their community from whomever dares perturb their homes and so for that, petty crimes have been lessened.

When disaster arises, they are the men the neighborhood could count on to give a helping hand. They secure the infrastructure projects constructed for the betterment of the community.

The CAFGU should also be credited for the prevention of the re-infiltration of insurgents into communities. Their knowledge of and familiarity with threat personalities, the local terrain and other operational conditions in the area make the CAFGUs very effective in the overall AFP campaign towards peace.

In their own silent way, members of the CAFGU have served as resident heroes, their importance to the community could not be measured but could only be acknowledged as they rightfully deserve.


A Triathlon of the Military Kind: “Chute - Bike - Shoot”

Triathlon has recently gained popular following not just from the traditional athletes but from people of all walks of life, from young to old, from men to women, from fitness-conscious buffs to weekend runners. But did you know that there is another type of triathlon that has been introduced in the military? Enter the Military Triathlon: “Chute-Bike-Shoot”.

Every December, the military free fallers or skydivers of the Philippine Army Parachute Team (PAPT) and other units of the Philippine Army such as the Special Forces Regiment, Scout Ranger Regiment and the Light Reaction Battalion, get together to celebrate the founding anniversary of the PAPT. The highlight of this celebration is the proficiency jump-cum-sports jump that not only ensures the proficiency of the military free fallers but it also puts fun in the job.

As military free fallers, members of this special breed of men have to maintain a high level of proficiency in order to be ready for any mission, anytime, anywhere. In these types

of high precision missions, this unit must be able to infiltrate clandestinely into enemy territory from the air, either through high altitude–low opening (HALO) or high altitude–high opening (HAHO),day or night jumps, then move to their target area, and then execute their mission such as the neutralization or destruction of targets which can be facilities like radar or gun sites, the capture of high value individuals or the rescue of hostages.

Hence, in the military triathlon, the participants have to infiltrate into enemy territory (the drop zone) by doing a military free fall jump (Chute, short for parachute), then move (Bike) to the designated target or engagement area (the firing range), and then finally neutralize (Shoot) the targets (balloons and metal plates).

In the Chute event, jumpers are released by teams according to the platform (aircraft) that is available. From at least 5,000 ft above sea level, the military free fallers maneuver towards the drop zone and try to land on a target. The target is composed of two concentric circles. The inner circle has a radius of three meters

while the outer circle has a radius of six meters. A

hit or landing on the inner circle would

give the jumper 100 pts while

a landing on the outer c i r c l e would give the jumper 50 pts.

No points are given to

landings outside these circles.

Once all the jumpers of a particular team complete their jumps, they get on their bikes and wait for the go signal. The jumpers-turned-bikers are

then released together as a team as they Bike their way to the firing range which is five kilometers away from the drop zone. The time of the last biker of the team to cross the finish line is taken and given corresponding points.

Upon the arrival of all bikers of the team at the firing range, they line up behind an array of different weapons from pistols to rifles. Upon the signal, the bikers-turned-shooters fire at the targets using pistols to Shoot down metal plates and rifles to burst balloons. The time from the start signal to the downing of the last metal plate or the bursting of the last balloon is taken and given corresponding points.

The first Chute-Bike-Shoot Triathlon was held in December of 2007, in celebration of the 28 years of the existence of the PAPT (since 1989). In that triathlon, 21 military free fallers participated, including myself. We were divided into three teams and I was designated as the team leader of Team One. Fortunately,my team won the championship of the first ever and perhaps the only one of its kind in the world, Chute-Bike-Shoot Triathlon.

So don’t you agree with the claim of our soldiers that they too, can have fun while working?

A military free faller/triathlete“chutes” to the drop zone.

About the Author: Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner Jr. is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1989 where he graduated No. 2 and was a Cadet Corps Baron. He has a Master of Science in Information Management degree from the Ateneo de Manila University and a Master of Business Administration degree in Management of Technology from the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand and from the European School of Management in Oxford, United Kingdom. He was Company Commander of the 6th Special Forces Company and Battalion Commander of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion.

• LTC ROMEO S BRAWNER GSC (INF) PA


The soldiers always fervently pray for peace. For the soldiers, of all people, will suffer the deepest wounds of war. An individual soldier is unique. He has a distinct background, his own family and his own set of friends, and his own personal beliefs. The only common and binding resemblance among soldiers is their oath of allegiance to protect the welfare of the country. Despite the differences, soldiers belong to one entity, which means that everyone is affected for the acts of every member of the group. That is why if a soldier makes a blunder, the organization as a whole suffers.

Soldiers are on-call 24 hours a day, to help build a nation in times of peace, to prevent widespread confusion and destruction in times of crises, and to curb violence in times of war. In the battlefield, the soldiers intend to win the battle by surviving the fight. In extreme situations, it is almost a given fact that soldiers cannot prevent themselves from taking lives, in their struggle for survival, so metimes, though unintentional, non-combatants at the time of conflict. Thus the underground movement usually gains the upper hand in the propaganda war.

Since enemy combatants cannot fight fair and square in armed conflict, they tend to resort to different strategies in order to make even through propaganda campaigns to discredit the government, particularly the military. This is their way to somehow level the playing field.

The soldiers of today are doing extra efforts to improve their actions to the highest level especially during engagements. It is believed that legal deterrence is only a temporary solutions to prevent human rights violation is through character building. An example for this is a scene witnessed in

The SOLDIERS and the PREJUDICES against THEM1LT ROGER B DURADA (AGS) PA

5DPAO, 5th Infantry Division


a ranger company, a unit known and respected for its fierce combat prowess. The soldiers joined together in prayer before they jump off for a combat operation that happened in Mindanao sometime in 2003.

The public’s seemingly biased opinion against the military, especially in urban centers where people have little interaction with soldiers has been a positive actor in favor of the enemy forces. The insurgents, through the united front, always have the hand in the facility to magnify atrocities allegedly committed by some soldiers. By doing this, they are emancipated and spared from people’s accusations

for the various crimes they have committed. They are dismissed from cases of cold-blooded killings of unarmed people, and a billion-peso of extortion activities by demanding revolutionary taxes from civilians.

Apparently, the enemy forces are not bent on winning the war squarely in an armed battle. They seem to realize that winning over the military is a hard task. For over 30 years of fighting, the insurgents and their leaders know that the opportunity to take gains and win concessions are only over the negotiating table.

The sad part of the story, some people think that soldiers are machines for war, and instruments of violence.

But on the contrary to the false judgment, the soldiers are dedicated servants to the country, ready to risk their lives, their families and their valuable opportunities just to ensure that the welfare of others will be preserved and protected.

Unknown to many, the soldiers only stay in an area where there is an enemy presence. Otherwise, in the absence of the enemy, they can become freemen as ordinary citizens are. But as long as there are those who threaten the peace and security with violence, there will be soldiers who are ready to serve and die if necessary, so that others may live.

Photo by: Linus Escandor


Brief Background

on the Moro Struggle

The Philippine Government has long sought to find ways and means to address the discontent of the Moros in Mindanao. However, efforts in the past have been criticized as mainly assimilationist, without regard to their special characteristics and desire for their right to self-government.

The Moros claim a distinct history and ways of life from the majority-Filipinos who were incorporated in the Spanish colonial regime. They claim they were annexed to the Philippine territory under the American regime, and later in the independent Philippine

Republic, without their consent. As a result of economic policies, new land laws, and migration programs that began in the 1900s, the Moros have become minorities in their traditional abode. Today, the Muslim-dominated provinces in Mindanao are among the poorest provinces in the country, with per capita incomes and human development indices below the national average. In national politics and society, they feel they are discriminated and marginalized. All these have built-up resentment that was mobilized in the form of armed movements against the Philippine state.

The armed conflict in Muslim Mindanao that began in the late 1960s was in the nature of an independence movement. However, since the Tripoli Agreement of 23 December 1976 signed between the Marcos government and the Nur Misuari-led Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), the terms of negotiations revolved around crafting an autonomous arrangement within the Philippine state as an expression of the Moro people’s right to self-determination.

Although the 1987 Constitution called for the establishment of an autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao, and

Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF)chief Ameril Umbrakato (on ...www.balitapinoy.net


Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) chief Ameril Umbrakato (on...www.balitapinoy.net)

BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters) www.timawa.net

Congress subsequently passed Republic Act 6734 in 1989 and Republic Act 9054 (amending RA 6734) in 2001 as part of the terms of Final Peace Agreement (FPA) signed between the MNLF and the Ramos Administration in 1996, these proved unsatisfactory to both the MNLF and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), a break-away group of Moro leaders led by Salamat Hashim that was formally constituted in 1984.

The MNLF claims that several key provisions in the 1996 FPA remain unimplemented. The MILF, for its part, wants the highest form of autonomy while remaining an integral part of the Philippine territory.

The Philippine Government has pursued peace negotiations with the Moro liberation groups in order to end the armed conflict, address the social, cultural and economic inequities, and arrive at a viable political arrangement that will reconcile the ideals of Moro self-government, good governance, and national sovereignty.

The road to a peacefully negotiated political settlement has not been easy. When hostilities broke out in 2000, government spent P1.337 Billion for combat expenses in four (4) months of fighting. After negotiations broke down in August 2008 with the botched Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD), more than five hundred thousand (500,000) people were displaced as a result of the fighting.

Contact

Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP)6th Floor, Agustin 1 BuildingF. Ortigas Jr. Avenue (formerly Emerald Avenue)Ortigas CenterPasig City 1600Office of the Secretary: + 632 544 4217Trunk line: +632 6360701 to 07Fax No.: +632 638 2216Website: www.opapp.gov.phEmail: [email protected]


Guidelines and procedures in administration and conduct of the Philippine Army Advance ROTC Training Program (PAARTP) and the Probationary Officers Training Course (POTC), as pre-reserve commission in the Philippine Army, to guide all the stakeholders in the Army Reserve Force Development Program on this matter. These apply to all ARESCOM personnel, especially ROTC Commandants, ROTC Cadets, POTC Trainees and other stakeholders on the administration and conduct of the PAARTP and the POTC.

The Philippine Army, through the Assistant Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, G9, to enhance the Reserve Force Development Program and to provide inputs for the enhancement of ARESCOM capability in terms of developing, organizing, training and equipping the reserve force.

The objectives of this are the following:

a. To ensure that only the highly qualified ROTC cadets are admitted to the PAARTP and finally to the POTC thus, resulting to improved qualities of future reserve officers in the Philippine Army.

b. To establish a system on the administration and conduct of the PAARTP and the POTC, and on the processing of commission application papers of graduates thereof.

c. To ensure that ROTC cadets who apply to become PA Advance ROTC Cadets and eventually POTC

Trainees are properly guided and advised on matters pertaining to the two training programs. and

d. To ensure that there is enough pool of reserve officers for the PA Reserve Force which is the base for expansion on the PA Regular Force for war and other national emergencies, and for other forms of utilization; and to fill-up the officer requirements of the PA Regular Force when called for.

The following Qualification and Guidelines:

The PA Advance ROTC Training P r o g r a m (PAARTP)

This program shall only be offered to qualified college students enrolled in any course leading to a baccalaureate degree in g o v e r n m e n t -recognized schools that have ROTC units. Qualified students in schools that do not have ROTC Unit shall be admitted f o r

Advance ROTC Training by any activated or affiliated ROTC Unit of their choice. The PAARTP implements the advance phase of the PA ROTC Training. It is devised to transform and prepare the cadets enrolled therein to eventually become reserve officers of the Philippine Army. Consisting of four (4) Military Sciences (MS) namely: MS 31, 32, 41 and 42, it shall be conducted for qualified graduates of the one (1) year (two academic semesters) Basic ROTC Training. The periods of training

on the MS’s shall be the following:

Administration and Conduct of thePhilippine Army ROTC Program and the POTC

• COL NICOLAS B PASION GSC (INF) PA

The advance phase of PA ROTC training is devised to transform and prepare the cadets to eventually become reserve officers of the Philippine Army.


Military Science PeriodMS 31 1st Semester, Sophomore School YearMS 32 2nd Semester, Sophomore School YearAcademic Phases of MS 31 and 32 Summer following Sophomore School YearMS 41 1st Semester, Junior School YearMS 42 2nd Semester, Junior School YearAcademic Phases of MS 41 and 42 Summer following Junior School Year

Cadets in the Advance ROTC Training shall be those whose intelligence leadership potentials and interest to serve the profession of arms which can be further developed through the POTC before they are eventually commissioned as officers of the PA Reserve Force.

In order to test the level of intelligence of applicants to become Advance ROTC Cadets, the PA Advance ROTC Cadet Qualifying Examination (PAARCQE), that replaced the PA Advance ROTC Entrance Examination (PAAREE), shall be given to them. Only the passers of this examination are admitted to the PAARTP.

The traditional Cadet Officer Qualifying Course (COQC) and the ROTC Summer Camp Training (RSCT) or Military Science 3 (MS3) shall continue to be conducted and be made as pre-qualifying trainings before one is admitted as an Advance ROTC Cadet. COQC precedes RSCT. Failure to pass the COQC shall result to non-admission in the RSCT.

The quota for RSCT, which may also be the quota for COQC, shall be determined by the ROTC Commandants based strictly on their respective requirements in the next school year in reference to the expected ROTC enrollment and organizational structure of their ROTC Cadet Corps. Ten percent (10%) of the actual needs may be added to the quota as supernumeraries to make up for those who will quit or be dismissed from training. In the event that the number

of PAARCQE passers is less that the quota for RSCT per RCDG, those who rank next in the said examination may be admitted to undergo RSCT. However, they shall not be considered for the Advance ROTC Cash Incentive Program under the HPA SOP Nr 03 dated 05 April 2011, the Amended Enhanced PA Advance ROTC Cadets Incentives. Only a maximum of 30% of females will be admitted to undergo the course in order to ensure that the Philippine Army, its reserve force included, is dominantly composed of males.

The PAARTP is given free of charge. Unlike the Basic ROTC Training where cadets enroll with corresponding tuition fee, this training is at no cost to them. In no case that the cadets enrolled therein are asked for any financial contribution for any purpose relative to their training.

For Admission in the COQC:

Applicant must be enrolled in any course leading to a baccalaureate degree with at least 80% of his latest Academic Points Grade Average (LAGPA).

If the enrollee is below 18 years of age, he must present a written consent from his parents;

He must be physically fit as determined by a physician of the school whose services are to be requested by the ROTC Commandant, thru the NSTP Coordinator thereat, to the School President; and

He must have passed the PAARCQE.

For ROTC Summer Camp Training (RSCT):

Applicant must not be less than 18 years old and not more than 26 years old reckoned on the date of opening of the RSCT. If he is below 18 years of age, he must present a written consent from his parents;

Applicant must be physically fit as determined by a physician of the school whose services are to be requested by the ROTC Commandant, thru the NSTP Coordinator thereat, to the School President.

Admission in the PAARTP shall also be open to BS Degree holders provided:

He is a Basic ROTC Training graduate;

He is a PAARCQE passer (this is waived if he is government licensure examination / board passer);

He is a RSCT graduate (COQC requirement is waived);

His Final Academic Point Grade Average (FAPGA) is at least 80%. (This is waived if he is a government licensure examination / board passer); and

He is not more than 29 years old upon enrollment and not more than 30 years old upon completion of the training.


The Probationary Officer Training Course (POTC)

To ensure quality training, the POTC shall be the only pre-reserve commission training of graduates of the PA Advance ROTC Training who, upon their commission, shall be assigned to Ready Reserve Units of the PA Reserve Force, and when qualified, may be called to active duty to fill-up the requirements of the PA Regular Force; Baccalaureate degree holders who have met all other requirements, can be admitted in the Probationary Officer Training Course (POTC) which is the pre-commission

training of line reserve officers in the Philippine Army:

The three-month POTC, cross-trained with 1-month Disaster Emergency Assistance, Rescue and Relief Training (DEARRT), is being conducted at ARESCOM Training Center (ATC) in Camp Riego de Dios, Tanza, Cavite. The Philippine Army has three (3) classes of POTC per year.

Active PA Enlisted Personnel who are interested to undergo the training must be highly recommended by their unit commander who commands not lower than a battalion or equivalent. In line with requirement of the ATR to “recruit and retain the brightest”, unit commanders must ensure that those they recommend for POTC training are intelligent, diligent and have other qualifications to become officers in

the Philippine Army. For honorably discharged PA EP, PMA Cadets and PA OCS Cadets, they must be able to show proof that their discharge from training was really honorable in nature. Unit Commander’s letter of recommendation or proof of honorable discharge shall be placed on top of all the required application documents.

Above individuals may apply for POTC training at the RCDGs or at Headquarters ARESCOM with the following documents, all in original copies, contained and properly tabbed in one morocco A4 folder:

a. Accomplished Application Form for Commission – secured from RCDG or HARESCOM

b. Affidavit of Non-Pending Case (Notarized by a Notary Public)

c. Whole Body Picture (Colored, Post Card Size)

d. Birth Certificate (NSO-issued). If not available, a certification from the Local Civil Registrar and Affidavit of two disinterested persons having knowledge of the place, the date of birth and the parents of the applicant.

e. College Diploma and Transcript of Records

f. PAARTP (MS 31, 32, 41 & 42) Certificate of Graduation and Basic ROTC Training Certificate of Completion or their equivalent in earlier years. (Waived – Left blank)

g. PAARTP (MS 31, 32, 41 & 42) Certificate of Graduation and Basic ROTC Training Grades authenticated by RCDG Commanders. (Waived – Left blank)

Individual Undergone TrainingActive PA Enlisted Personnel with at least 3 years military service after enlistment

PA Candidate Soldier Course

Honorably Separated PA Enlisted Personnel with at least 3 years military service after enlistmentHonorably Discharged PMA Cadets

Completed at least 2 years in PMA

Honorably Discharged PA OCS Cadets

Completed 1 year NSTP training and at least 8 months in OCS

Applicants for Advance ROTC should pass the PA ROTC Cadet Qualifying Examination (PAARCQE) which will gauge their leadership potentials among others.


h. Copy of orders (Special Orders) issued by HPA appointing the applicant as Probationary Second Lieutenant

i. Final Order of Merit in POTC

j. Declaration of Graduates in POTC

k. Physical Examination Report from AFP Hospital

l. PA Aptitude Test Battery (PAATB) Result – (at least 100%)

m. PA Command (G2) Clearance Certificate (Original)

NOTE: Machine copies of said documents are recommended to be kept by the applicants for their personal use in the future.

Partial Background Investigation (PBI) conducted by the RCDG or Infantry Division, in coordination with local intelligence units, may, in lieu of the PA Command (G2) Clearance Certificate that takes a long time to secure, be temporarily used for this requirement for POTC Training. Consolidated copies of these shall be forwarded by HARESCOM to HPA (Attn: OG9) before the start of the POTC for further submission to OG2, PA for issuance of PA Command (G2) Clearance Certificate) which will be used for the POTC graduates application for reserve commission, PA. The following are requirements for PA Command (G2) Clearance Certificate:,

For Civilian Applicants (Ex-PMA/OCS Cadets)

a. Personal History Statement

b. Barangay Clearance

c. Police Clearance

d. Mayor’s Clearance

e. Municipal/Regional Trial Court Clearance or City/Provincial Prosecutor Clearance

f. NBI Clearance

For Active PA Enlisted Personnel


b. DLO Clearance

c. Latest SOI

For Honorably Separated PA Enlisted Personnel


b. Discharged Orders

c. Statement of Service

d. Local Clearance like those of civilian applicant

Initial Clothing and Subsistence Allowance:

Cadets undergoing the RSCT and PAARTP are entitled to receive subsistence allowance good for the number of their training days. As RSCT trainees, they shall be issued 10-line initial clothing items. Another set of BDA will be issued to them when they proceed to take up the PAARTP. POTC Trainees are entitled to receive monthly pay and allowances, the amount of which is similar to what cadets in the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and Officer Candidate School (OCS) are receiving; and are to be issued 19-line ICIE items. A one-time 10-line clothing items shall likewise be issued to reservists and GMAs who are called to Active Duty Training (ADT) for the purpose of assisting in the conduct of the PAARTP. The Philippine Army shall provide health and accident group insurances to the cadet officers during the period of their training starting from COQC to POTC.

Pursuant to Section 42 of Republic Act 7077 (Citizen Armed Force or Reservist Act of 1991), it is the responsibility of the AFP to provide funds for the establishment, maintenance and operation of ROTC

units. The administrative and functional supervision over the PAARTP shall be under the Philippine Army, thru the Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM) by utilizing the subordinate units (RCDGs and CDCs) deployed nationwide; and the Army Reserve Command Training Center for the conduct of the POTC. For this purpose, the Department of Military Science and Tactics (DMST) established in schools with activated ROTC Units (ROTCU), under the control of the Community Defense Centers (CDCs), are herein mandated to recruit, train and administer the Advance ROTC Cadets therein, including those from other schools which have their respective ROTCUs affiliated with them, and prepare them to qualify for the POTC.

RA 9163 (National Service Training Program Law) covers only the Basic ROTC Training, Literacy Training System and Civic Welfare Training System thus, it is very clear that it is not the responsibility of the school of the Advance ROTC Cadets to undertake the administrative supervision of the PAARTP. The ROTC Commandant is responsible as well in ensuring that the PAARTP is implemented to the fullest and that the objectives of the training are attained. The CDC Commander is responsible in providing direction and command and control of the DMSTs of the different schools his unit covers for the implementation of the PAARTP. The RCDG Commander is responsible in providing direction and command and control over his subordinate commanders in ensuring the PAARTP for ROTC cadets in the region he covers is implemented. The ROTC Commandant, CDC Commander and RCDG Commander are also responsible in ensuring that qualified graduates of the PAARTP, especially those who are recipients of the Advance ROTC Cash Incentive from HPA, will undergo the POTC upon their graduation from college.


Camp Col Oscar Natividad, ManoloFortich, Bukidnon.The year 2012 was very remarkable for the 52nd Engineer Brigade, as it implemented projects to contribute to the attainment of peace and development in areas prioritized by the government. Labeled as Development Support Operations (DSO) projects, these are the needed infrastructures to improve the living conditions of the communities, provide venue for the upliftment of their educational standards, hasten the expansion of trade and industry, open tourism potentials and send the government’s message of sincerity in taking care of the welfare of its constituents. Further, as envisioned by COL REYNALDO G MUTIANGPILI, the Commander, these will be our modest contribution to the Army’s support to AFP’s IPSP “Bayanihan” campaign of ‘winning the peace’.Simultaneously, the brigade implemented PA Base Development projects, Engineer Civic Action Program (ENCAP) projects and itsOwn Facilities Development projects.

Among the significant IPSP projectsworth P 123.5M are 140 units of Day Care Centers and 100 units of Modified Core Shelter projects in Maguindanao, ARMM in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development; six (6) units of Prototype Multi-Purpose Centers in the Cala-anan Relocation Site in Cagayan De Oro City in partnership with DSWD and the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation and Development, AECID;

another 10 units Temporary Shelters for Typhoon ‘Sendong’ victims at Xavier Eco-ville, Lumbia, CDO City; 15 units of 30 Classrooms School Buildings in Cagayan De Oro and Misamis Oriental as facilitated by then AFPNDSC and ABS-CBN SagipKapamilya Foundation, and Farm to Market Roads (FMR)in Talakag, Bukidnon and Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.

Its Engineer Civic Action Program (ENCAP) projects include three (3) units of 13 Classrooms School Buildings in Surigao Del Norte as funded by the Silangan Mindanao Mining Company, and numerous provisions of skilled manpower, engineer equipment and technical knowledge addressing various requests from LGU’s and local communities, that when summed up costs P 2.9M.For our PA Base Development projects, includes DTU facilities at the 10th Infantry Division, Mawab, COMVAL; base support facilities for the Army Artillery Regiment in Carmen, North Cotabato; 6DTU facilities in 6th Infantry Division, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao, 10-Door Apartments at 4th Infantry Division, Cagayan De Oro City, various Land Developments and Surveys with a total appropriation of P 54.7M.To improve the services and welfare of its own personnel and dependents, Own Facilities Development projects worth P 2.1M

were also implemented at HQs, 52EBde, Camp Natividad, manoloFortich, Bukidnon.

These projects complement the peace and development efforts of the local government in stabilizing their area, while at the same time exerts social pressure to neutralize the mass support of various threat groups making them abandon their armed struggle. It becomes a confidence-building tool that shows government’s sincerity to domestic and global communities in its efforts to peaceful resolution of the armed conflict.

Finally, the brigade “performance with quality and distinction” in its endeavor put into practice its commitment and full support to the Army’s goal of attaining its objective that byCY2013will become“a disciplined and motivated Army capable of addressing all internal security threats”.

The 52nd Engineers Development Efforts in Eastern Mindanao• LTC LYNDON J SOLLESTA GSC (CE) PA


“I will live and die fulfilled with the thoughts that I have in one way or another helped in the development of my Mangyan Community and assured with the idea that our tribe will be socially relevant in the country’s progress.”-- Ariston Mameng

It was one cool day of January 2011 in the House of Representatives that we came across a letter from the School Head of a Mangyan community of Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro

requesting for a school building that will

cater to at least 370 children. Without any d e s i g n a t e d c o n t a c t

person, we learned of a certain

Ar is ton

Mameng who later on became the coordinator for this purpose, whose contact numbers were hand-written on the lower left margin of said letter. Then

came the succession of exchanges of communication and visitations that first saw the meeting of minds after a months’ time. The bitter sentiments of the Mangyans were so deeply rooted that simply saying them do not really

give any credence to

whatever plans there would be. Considering that the Mangyans request for a school building was first officially made known in 1978 and since then, it just fell on deaf ears. After simply being contented of using classrooms made of bamboo and cogon grass with the bare ground as their floor for more than 33 years, in 2011 their dreams finally saw the light of day.

After the community consultations, everybody just took the “promise” with a grain of salt. It was only after two weeks when the soldier-engineers, with their equipment and construction materials, started pouring in that people were publicly acclaiming heartily with a smile on their faces, an expression of a glimmering hope in their hearts saying that “Lahat pala ng sinabi nila ay totoo” (“Everything

they said is really true”) and that “Lahat ng nasabi ngayon ay mangyayari na” (“Everything said can now be done”). In fact, this added to their enthusiasm, that without any prodding, the Mangyans helped in laying-out the ground works for the school building

and they decided to construct with their bare hands a 1.4

km access

Life in Exchange for Development that Future Generations will have Peace

• COL FEROZALDO PAUL T REGENCIA INF (GSC) PA, MWGI

“I will live and die fulfilled with the thoughts that I have in one way or another helped in the development of my Mangyan Community and assured with the idea that our tribe will be socially relevant in the country’s progress.” -- Ariston Mameng

Ariston Mameng addressing the multi-sectoral partners.


road to make sure that the construction materials can be brought easily to the site. They were all there on hand, shift after shift every day that made the project went on smoothly even though the duration was a little way off from the target dates because of the weather and very difficult terrain.

By standard, a 2-classroom school building can be completed by the soldier-engineers in one month, but this project, because it was very difficult to bring the construction materials into Upper Yunot, Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro, it was started in March and was completed only by July. After four months in the making, a big celebration was done on 19 July 2011 to make the turn-over of the project worth remembering. For the record, it was the infrastructure project that had the most involved stakeholders who contributed so many value added items

that surely helped alleviate the plight of the Mangyan children for a longer period of time. Provided to the school among others included computers, e-media learning modules, television and DVD sets, books and workbooks with bookshelves, desks and chairs, school supplies with bags, umbrellas, electric fans, t-shirts, clothes, and including a 160-day feeding program for the children with a medical mission. Even after the project was done and in the next succeeding days thereafter, needed resources kept pouring in.

After the ceremonies were done on that historic day, the soldier-engineers on cue went down the slopes from the school building under the watchful eyes of those who were present unknowing of what may happen next. As the soldiers formed in line, they looked up and waved to the people goodbye. At an instance without any outside

motivation but a sheer manifestation of childlike appreciation, the childrenrun down the slopes with tears flowing from their eyes, hugged the soldiers so earnestly to express their gratitude for what was given to them. It was a sight worth documenting, but escaped the cameras as everybody was caught unaware and awed by the gesture in sight that left most, if not all, teary eyed. That was one picture perfect moment that can never be published but will remain engraved in the hearts of those who were there to witness that very momentous flash of inspirations.

All these came into being because of the effort of one man who came from a poor family of Sitio Abakahan, Barangay Pamaytayan, Oriental Mindoro. Though these realities did not hinder him to pursue higher education, which was a four (4) – year agriculture course scholarship that

During the launching of the new school building in 2011.

E-media learning as part of value added project.

The old school bldg which doubled up as shelter for the NPA.

People helping with their bare hands to expedite the project’s completion.


included the condition that he has to serve his community after graduation.This all the more encouraged him to equip himself of the knowledge that will support him to be of help to his fellow Mangyans. He did come back immediately after finishing his course and begun his quest for humanitarian endeavors by bringing with him solicited canned goods, clothes and other basic necessities from generous donors. This started his benevolent efforts for his beloved people. He further strived to look for prospects of alleviating their poor living conditions by instituting livelihood projects and the establishment of a cooperative. In his desire to also be able to impart knowledge by other means, he initiated the “Lakbay Aral” for primary students,

together with their parents. This project will expose and orient them regarding city life and its modernism which in a way will give them a broader perception of nurturing and enhancing progress. Notwithstanding the fact that his place is once a hotbed of insurgency, he went around

looking for assistance from NGOs, the government, the politicians and even liaising with the military, making sure that he got the appropriate development that would benefit his people. Ariston Mameng became so influential in getting what he felt were needed in his community, like electricity to the households of Upper Yunot; preserving the culture and indigenous rights of the Mangyans in his barangay, and the construction of a 4-kilometer access road from their secluded village to the main connecting road. Before he was killed, he was undertaking his plans so overwhelming that at the rate he was going the outcome of his efforts would eventually be cascaded to other Mangyan communities throughout Mindoro.

With his tenacity in pushing for more of these developments, endowed with a persistent determination in asking for help, electricity eventually found its way to their once less fortunate “never heard” discarded place. This he reported in his last TV appearance over PTV4, where he also emphatically left his last words of hope for the peace loving Filipinos to hear, “I will work for the betterment of my place and more infrastructure development will be instituted for the future of our children. I will not be taunted with so much overwhelming dangers and seemingly impossible odds but rather is challenged to simply pursue more the realization of my people’s dreams and aspirations.”

All these efforts in a moment without notice was gone to waste by four bullets that pierced the heart of a courageous, hopeful and faithful man whose only fault was wanting to help build a peaceful, happy and comfortable life for his people.

Through his untimely death, hundreds of Mangyans, including

More value added items for everybody not just the children.

New 2-classroom school building.


Mayor Villas and Administrator Edizer Aceron together with the Association of Barangay Captains of Bulalacao, gathered to condemn the brutal killing. Addressing the crowd in the vernacular, Mayor Ernillo Villas said, “Killing innocent people is totally wrong and we cannot tolerate the methods of the NPA. True and positive change must be done through peaceful means and not in this unjustifiable manner.”

“Mameng is a good example of a life filled with pure intent for service. He could have done more for his Mangyan community, yet because of ill- willed, ruthless people who do not want others to progress gave end to Mameng’s service with a gunshot. Pitiful indeed! We now question, “Is it a crime to dream and hope for your fellowmen? Is it a crime that in order to fulfill these dreams you seek help of the government and non-government agencies? And is it a crime to simply talk with the AFP that simply want to help achieve Mameng’s dream?” - Ka Enong

-----------------------“In memory of Mr. Ariston Mameng whose

only dream is to have a better to live in for his Mangyan Tribe, a peaceful and developed future for his beloved and people, whose efforts and opportunities done for Sitio Upper Yunot was abruptly brought to an end when he was abducted in front of his family and killed by the NPAs in the evening of 20 July 2012.”

---------------------REFERENCES:

•Ariston Mameng: A Life Worth Emulating by Luzviminda Eleanor A. Banlaoi on Wednesday, July 24, 2012 at 18:53 http://en-gb.facebook.com/notes/luzviminda-eleanor-a-banlaoi/ariston-mameng-a-life-worth-emulating/482045868474166.

•Rebels kidnap, kill Mangyan tribal leader by Alexis Romero, Home Updated July 23, 2012 04:38 pmhttp://www.philstar.com/breaking-news/2012/07/23/830786/rebels-kidnap-kill-mangyan-tribal-leader

•Mangyans slam tribal leader’s killing, honor him for his development work by: Abigail Kwok, InterAksyon.com July 29, 2012 2:18 pmhttp://www. in te raksyon.com/article/38844/mangyans-

slam-tribal-leaders-killing-honor-him-for-his-development-work

•Improving the Lives of Our Mangyan Brothers Through Partnership:514ECB’s Contribution to IPSP “Bayanihan” by 1LT Fritz T Antiquina (CE) PA, 514ECB, 51EBde August 2012.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:COL Ferozaldo Paul T Regencia INF

(GSC) PA (MWGI) is a member of PMA Class of 1986. Prior to his position as the Deputy Group Commander CMOG, PA, he was the U5 then the U7 of AFP NADESCOM and formerly the Chief, PsyOps Division of OJ7, AFP. He was also assigned at the OASPP of the Department of National Defense handling the External Defense and International Affairs Divisions, and the Environmental Defense Program, a former Commandant of the CMO School Philippine Army, Editor-in-Chief of the Army Journal and The AFP Peace Builder Magazine. He is also a member of the Military Writers Guild, Inc.

The old school building used since 1978.


GenSan applauds 52nd Engineer Brigade

News Around Camps

• LTC ROBERTO A REYES GSC (CE) PA

On October 8, 2012, LTC Roberto A Reyes, commanding officer of 512th Engineer Construction

Battalion (ECB), 52E, PA, attended the flag raising ceremony at City Hall, General Santos City to

receive a Plaque of Recognition from the City of General Santos, awarded by the Honorable Mayor Darlene Magnolia R. Antonino-Custodio. The Brigade, through the 512th ECB, has been appreciated for incessantly taking part in the City’s endeavors since 2011 in a “Bayanihan” fashion dubbed as City Hall sa Barangay (CHB) Program. It was formulated with the ultimate goal of bringing basic services to all the barangays. The city leadership is relentless in partnering with different organizations in both public and private, tapping their resources to reach out to the people.

This Brigade presented itself as one of the active partners of Gensan City in the latter’s efforts towards peace and development. The unit provides security assistance, participates in disaster risk reduction operations, and initiates giving transportation assistance whenever needed. These are all done while simultaneously implementing infrastructure projects, both military and civil works.

At the end of the day, what the Team 52nd Engineers achieved manifests its sincere commitment of service across the area of Eastern Mindanao.

LTC Roberto A Reyes (first from right), Commanding Officer of 512ECB, 52EBde, PA and other recipients, display their awards during CHB Recognition Day at City Hall, General Santos last October 8, 2012.

LTC Roberto A Reyes Commanding Officer 512ECB, 52EBde, PA receives the Plaque of Appreciation from Hon. Darlene Magnolia R. Antonino-Custodio the City Mayor at City Hall, General Santos.


52EBde Implements Day CareProjects in Maguindanao

The 52nd Engineer Brigade, Philippine Army implemented the construction of 140 DSWD Day Care Centers (DCCs) which are spread within Maguindanao Province. The project materialized through the Tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the DND, the then AFPNADESCOM prior its deactivation and DSWD-ARMM. The project aspires to enhance the educational program of the benefited barangays, especially those without a Day Care Center for the preschoolers. This intends to end the use of makeshift classroom and the conduct of classes under the shades of trees. Based on surveys conducted, the recipient barangays are very delighted to finally have their own Day Care Center.

Noteworthy, the projects have attracted benefactors to provide educational materials such as visual aids. Moreover, a sense of ownership and responsibility were developed among the Barangay officials after the proper turnover of completed centers.

As a government medium to provide free education, these centers encouraged hope among the children in conflict-affected areas and confirm the government’s earnest desire for public welfare. The thought that early education is indeed within reach serves as an eye opener that development, and ultimately peace, can be attained.

As of writing, the construction of seven DCCs could not be

started due to the proximity of their location to the known Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter bailiwicks. Needless to say, the Army engineers

continue to perform their task in nation-building in support of the government’s and the AFP’s goal to end internal conflicts through peaceful alternatives.

• LTC FLORENTINO B MENDEZ JR GSC (CE) PA

Hon Datu Ramdatu M Angas , Alhaj Municipal Vice Mayor of Sultan sa Barongis during the groundbreaking ceremony at Brgy Hall, Barurao Sultan sa Barongis Maguindanao last June 18, 2012.

Major Benito D Lopez Jr (CE) PA, Executive Officer, 524ECB, participates in the turnover ceremony of DSWD Day Care Center with Mayor Dilangalen at Brgy Gayonga, Northern Kabuntalan.


FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – A recent mass grave discovery in the province of Quezon, where remains of at least 30 people were found, has no doubt made most people if not everyone’s hair stand on end.

This is not the first time such horrid incident happened. In fact, certain discoveries could be traced as far back as the early 2000’s and since then, the number of cadavers that has been dug up has mounted year after year.

These crimes are believed to have stemmed from the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army massive purging that has started in the mid 80’s when they implemented the “Oplan Missing Link” in Southern Tagalog and the “Kampanyang Ahos” in Mindanao.

The purging which was carried out by the CNN is a result of the “guilty” verdict by the so-called Kangaroo Court. The intent was to eliminate suspected groups or individuals within the rebel group who are allegedly infiltrators or government spies. Abductions and summary executions complete the purging process, after which bodies were then dumped in secret mass graves.

These inhumane acts only add up to the escalating number of atrocities of the rebel groups, who spare no one from their immoral acts and who

know no boundaries when it comes to accomplishing such crimes.

The Recent Mass Grave Discovery

A local farmer in Sitio Irrigation, Pagsangahan, Quezon Province, has unearthed a mass grave believed to have the highest number of skeletons, at least 30 based on the number of skulls.

Last July 21, Rommel Malinao, 47, was plowing his fields for the planting season when he discovered the said mass grave. The local officials of his village were immediately informed about his startling discovery, after which the village chieftain of Pagsangahan then reported the incident to the local police and military authorities.

The local officials, members of the 74th Infantry Battalion, and PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) conducted an investigation and were greeted by the ghastly sight of the victims, some of which, especially the skulls, still bear the marks of torture.

As of this writing, the authorities are under the grim task of determining the identification of the remains.

Colonel Eduardo Ańo, Army’s 201st Infantry Brigade commander operating in Quezon, said that there is a possibility that a pregnant guerrilla and three male teen warriors are

among the victims of this abhorrent act.

“A former rebel disclosed that a pregnant comrade was one of the estimated 50 people, mostly civilians, who were killed during the OPLAN Missing Link,” said Ano.

Another villager also supported the statement of the former rebel saying that there were at least 47 people in their locality who were suspected of joining the NPA and also went missing in the mid-80’s and had not been heard of since.

Currently, the authorities are seeking the help of the residents and other neighboring villages, especially the cooperation of the families of the missing persons for a speedy identification process.

The Series of Purges by the Communist Rebels

After documenting the recovered remains found in Pagsangahan, a decent mass burial will be conducted by the local government.

Since this is not the first time a mass grave has been discovered, a memorial site to honor the victims of the NPA’s purging and summary execution was built inside the police headquarters of the Quezon Provincial Public Safety Company in the town of Candelaria, Quezon. The shrine is called “Bantayog ng mga Biktima

Mass Grave Discoveries: Unearthing the Abominable Truth Behind the Crimes


ng Karahasan ng NPA”. Twenty-five white crosses were thrusted on the shrine to represent the hundreds of victims of the rebel group’s purges including those skeletons found in the mountain village of Piyapi and Mauban, Quezon.

The number of mass graves discovered in Quezon province is not surprising as it was known in the 80’s as the hotbed of communist insurgents in Southern Tagalog.

Back in 2002, skeletons, consisting of five skulls, were dug up in an unmarked shallow grave located in Sitio Bagyuan, Barangay San Miguel, Mauban, Quezon. This was discovered by the 1st Infantry Battalion after a farmer, who claimed that his wife was directed by a “disturbed spirit”, led them to the mass grave.

In August 2006, another mass grave was stumbled upon in Sitio Mount Sapang Dako, Barangay Kaulisihan, Inopacan, Leyte, where former NPA leaders Satur Ocampo and Dario Tomada were charged in court as among those responsible in implementing the purges.

Last May 24, 2007, another purging took place in Sitio Gitna, Brgy. Cagsiay 3, Mauban, Quezon, where a soldier and a rebel returnee were abducted and killed by the communist rebels. The victims were identified as Pfc Ereberto DS. Eclavea and a certain Richard Cortizano alias Troy. Their remains were only discovered almost a year after in another sitio through a rebel surrenderee alias Just, who directed the location of the grave site.

Another former rebel also disclosed that back in 2009, a certain Ka Michael in Brgy Malaya, General

Luna, Quezon, was also a purging victim.

“Ka Michael was in the movement who was captured by the military. But when he was released by the soldiers to live a normal life once again, the rebels accused him of being a military asset, and so when he went home, the rebels killed him at once in front of his mother and siblings,” a former rebel said.

Ana, another rebel returnee also said that the rebels are jealous. She further revealed that once a member sets foot on a military camp, the NPA will always be suspicious of his intentions and would usually end up being liquidated.

Pia, not her real name, whose husband was ordered to execute one of the victims, shared that until this day, she is not in good terms with her husband since she does not approve what he is doing.

“I didn’t want him to turn into a criminal. But he said he has no choice but to oblige as it was a direct order from the leader,” Pia explained.

Another purging victim was Ka Johnny of Sitio Manggahan, Brgy. Pagsanjan, San Francisco, Quezon. He used to support the rebels but when the rebel group noticed that his support has slacken, he was suspected as a deep penetration agent (DPA). One day, his comrades asked him if they could pay him a visit for a short chat, but what really happened was they killed him right there in his own home.

Several mass graves were also discovered by the soldiers of the 9th Infantry Division around the Bicol region from the year 2009 until this year.

Other areas include Gubat town in Sorsogon, Bgy Taplacon in Camalig, Albay and also in Labo, Camarines Norte.

A Plea for an End

Rebel returnees may have left the movement and the atrocities that come along with it, but the complete freedom they’ve longed for is yet to be attained.

Dindo, a rebel returnee, expressed his apprehension and how one could never be completely free.

“I’m afraid that one day my former brothers might do something to us and we may end in one of those mass graves. We always have to constantly watch our backs as rebel returnees are always monitored by rebel intelligence to assure that we do not work against them,” shared Dindo.

The rebel returnees grieve for the former comrades because like anybody they also have families. They wish they can do something about it, but it is how the group works.

“My only wish is that those in the position won’t just jump into conclusions. They can’t just kill people. They don’t have the right. Nobody does,” an emotional Amy said, also a rebel returnee.

This is a manifestation of how the cruelty of the communist group knows no bounds even exercising it on their own members and eliciting fear among those who have left and preventing them from living the life they choose to have.

The Philippine Army strongly condemns these acts of violence and will continue to stand by its pledge of “Serving the people, securing the Land.”


Regular members of the Armed

Forces & Police Savings & Loan

Association, Inc. (AFPSLAI) have

only until December 28, 2012 to join

AFPSLAI’s 40 Cars @ 40 Raffle Promo.

Member-borrowers whose loan

proceeds (Salary, Pension, Emergency,

or Multi-Purpose Loan) will be released

until December 28, 2012 will qualify

for the raffle. The member is entitled

to one (1) free raffle ticket for every

P50,000 net loan proceeds. Deadline

for dropping of raffle tickets is on

January 4, 2013. The final raffle draw

date will be on January 16, 2013. Very

important: The raffle ticket must be in

the name of the member-borrower.

Just like in the three (3) previous

quarter draws, AFPSLAI will again

raffle-off ten (10) Brand New Toyota

Vios, five (5) Honda Motorcycles,

five (5) Samsung 40” LED TV, plus

P1.8 Million in cash prizes to 160

lucky AFPSLAI member-borrowers

nationwide.

Join us in celebrating our 40th

Anniversary! Apply for a loan now

and be one of the lucky winners of

AFPSLAI’s 40 Cars @ 40 Raffle Promo.

For more details, visit the AFPSLAI

website at www.afpslai.com.ph or visit

any AFPSLAI Branch Office.

Last Chance to Join AFPSLAI’s 40 Cars @ 40 Raffle Promo


COMBAT ARMS UNITSUnit Best Brigade/ Best Battalion

2ID, PA 203rd Infantry Brigade1st Infantry Battalion

3ID, PA 303rd Infantry Brigade79th Infantry Battalion

4ID, PA 401st Infantry Brigade30th Infantry Battalion

5ID, PA 503rd Infantry Brigade41st Infantry Battalion

6ID, PA 601st Infantry Brigade41st Infantry Battalion




LAD 4th Light Armor Battalion2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion

SOCOM 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion5th Special Forces BattalionCOMBAT SUPPORT UNITS

Unit Best Battalion/ Equivalent UnitFA Battalion 16th Field Artillery BattalionSignal Battalion 3rd Signal Battalion, ASR, (P), PAEngr Battalion 524th Engr Construction Bn, 52EBde, PACMO Battalion 1st Civil-Military Operations Bn, 1ID, PAMI Battalion 1st Military Intelligence Battalion, 1ID, PA

COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT UNITSUnit Best Unit

FSSU 11th FSSU, 10ID, PAFSU 9th Finance Service Unit, 1ID , PA

Consolidated Results of Performance Evaluationof Field Units for 3rd Qtr, CY 2012


Photo courtesy of Soldier’s Heart

Download - Oct - Dec 2012

Top Related