ARMY HONORS GEN BANGIT IN A TESTIMONIAL PARADE

FORT BONIFACIO, METRO MANILA - The Philippine Army will render a testimonial review in honor of AFP chief and former Army commanding general General Delfin N Bangit at the Hunters ROTC Guerilla Parade Ground, Headquarters Philippine Army this afternoon.
Officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian employees will pay tribute to an exceptional leader, committed public servant, and a true Filipino soldier as he opted to retire from the military service earlier than his compulsory retirement. Gen Bangit has stated that his decision to retire early is a personal decision made for the good of the Filipino people and the organization that he belongs in.

Gen Bangit served as Army Chief from 01 May 2009 to 10 March 2010. He assumed as the 51st Commanding General with the challenge to sustain the momentum especially in the crucial time of the counter-insurgency campaign. During his time, the Army was seen in a different light as it focused more on performing non-traditional roles which had been effective in promoting peace and development in the country. Gen Bangit was known for conceptualizing the Army’s four ACEs: the Army’s Concern for the Environment, Army’s Concern for Engineering, Army’s Combat Excellence and Advocacy for Credible Elections. He applied these four ACEs in the Army’s fulfillment of its mission and mandate to provide a safe and secure environment for the Filipino people.
Gen Bangit left a mark in the hearts of Army personnel for his commitment to serve, not just the soldiers, but the civilian workforce of the Army as well. He instituted the opening of Army stores in every infantry division and various field units nationwide. Army stores offer the comfort of immediately replacing the uniforms of brave soldiers, especially those who fight in the frontlines. Adding to the long list of the Army’s initiative under his term is the birth of the Philippine Army Shuttle System. The shuttle system is mainly a response to the President’s guidance during the May 1, 2009 turn-over ceremony where she said that all civilian and military personnel, including their dependents, should be assisted financially so that they could cope with the global financial crisis that threatened everyone.

He is well-loved and well-respected by the soldiers because he unhesitatingly gave awards and medals to deserving personnel, on-the-spot promotions, and financial assistance, thereby uplifting the morale and welfare of the troops. In almost 11 months in office, he was able to deliver concrete results and has indeed sustained the gains made by PA units.

As the 40th Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Gen Bangit greatly contributed to one of the significant undertakings the Filipino people and the country faced – the conduct of the first automated elections in the country. With his leadership, the AFP has been instrumental in helping ensure the peaceful and credible conduct of polls.

The Philippine Army manifests, through the Testimonial Review, its respect and admiration for Gen Bangit for his thrusts to professionalize the organization, for continually inspiring the soldiers, and for the reforms that he instituted while serving major and sensitive posts in the AFP. #

Army welcomes Sergeant Major Course students

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Seventy-two Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) from the AFP Sergeant Major Course Class 03-2010, headed by Col Jimmy Maala, Head Academic Center, AFP Command and General Staff College, visited the Philippine Army headquarters this morning to better acquaint themselves with the Army as an organization.

Composed of 37 seniors NCOs from the Philippine Army, 31 from the Philippine Navy, and four from the Philippine Air Force, the visit was aimed at widening the perspective of the students on the organization, mission and thrusts of the Philippine Army.

The group was received by no less than the Army chief, Lt Gen Reynaldo B Mapagu. The students were able to interact with the general officers of the Army, post units sergeant majors and chief clerks. The Army chief also hosted a lunch together with the Army’s senior NCOs.

Under the Philippine Army’s Professional Military Education Advancement Program, personnel are trained prior to the assumption of a position. Since the conception of the Joint Sergeant Major Course, two classes had been completed wherein a total of 72 personnel from the Army were able to attend said course.

Composing more than half of the Philippine Army’s strength, the Non-Commissioned Officers is considered the backbone and the heart of the Philippine Army. Recognizing the significant contribution of the enlisted personnel in the whole Army organization, the command continues to uplift, equip and empower the Non-Commissioned Officer Corps through schoolings and trainings and greater opportunities and responsibilities to develop managerial skills and leadership. #

Agcoili’s lies on child warrior issue, proof of CPP-NPA-NDF deception

The statement of Fidel Agcaoli of the National Democratic Front (NDF) dated May 30, 2010 lambasting the news story that appeared on national broadsheets regarding the abuses of the New People's Army (NPA) against children and denying the UN report that the NPA is among the "top abusers of children in war" is a proof of the deception of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)

The UN press release dated May 21, 2010 issued in connection with the annual report to the Security Council by the Secretary General, categorically stated the NPA as one of the top abusers of children’s rights and Agcaoli is quick to refute the undeniable truth to defend the abuses of the CPP’s instrument of coercion, the NPA, in the face of mounting adverse public reaction against them.

Such denial only cements the reputation of CPP-NPA-NDF as an organization that thrives on lies and its members as masters of deception.

Child combatants surrender

In 2009, a total of 291 NPAs surrendered to the 10th Infantry Division in Southern Mindanao which includes 29 women warriors and 13 CHILD COMBATANTS!

You heard it right, 13 children whom the CPP-NPA-NDF agitated to leave their respective families, recruited and armed against the government, to engage in extortion activities and to kill fellow Filipinos. The children revealed that there are still more minors in the underground movement being employed by NPA terrorists in their war against the state.

The 13 child combatants do not include those who joined the NPA as minors and surrendered at a majority age.

This year, there were 32 NPAs who surrendered in Southern Mindanao as of June and THREE OF THEM WERE MINORS!

The most celebrated case of child warrior in Davao region is that of Zaldy Canete alias Jinggoy who surrendered to government troops after being wounded in a gunbattle.

Jinggoy narrated how he was recruited by the NPA at the age of 13; was already wielding an M16 assault rifle at the age of 16 and figured in many high profile terroristic actions against the people since then. He was involved in many cases of kidnappings, arson, murders and extortions before his surrender after the bloody encounter February of this year. Jinggoy is now 23 years old.

Such ploy in denying the truth of their abuse of children, only works for the international audience who cannot readily verify the truth but even such masterfully conjured lie will not work for people in the local scene where everyone knows exactly what really is happening.

The facts stated only shows that Agcaoili miserably failed in lying and defending their abuses against the children, against the people and against the truth.

Their lies only rubs salt on the psychological wounds and emotional pains which these children suffered on their hands as dictated by the callous minds of their party leaders in violating the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) on the protection of children from physical and mental abuse.

Their complete denial despite overwhelming evidences insults the intelligence of the reading public, the Filipino people and the International Community.
We challenge Fidel Agcaoili and the whole CPP-NPA-NDF to refute the facts presented so that the truth will explode on their faces and cut the patience of the people on their continued lies.

Murder of innocent civilians and children

The CPP-NPA-NDF is not only guilty of abusing minors but is also more culpable in the wanton killings of innocent civilians including children and unarmed government troops thru its death squads.

In 2009 alone, the NPA murdered 83 individuals in Southern Mindanao. Fifty two of those they killed were innocent civilians. Who knows? Some of these murders might have been carried out by the same minors recruited and employed by the NPA in following the dictates of the CPP.

This year, six innocent civilians including 13 year-old girl Memilyn Moreno of Boston town in Davao Oriental Province were killed in their terroristic attacks against communities, infrastructure projects and business establishments. Even election officials were not spared when they ambushed a group of Board of Election Inspectors, poll watchers and soldiers who are proceeding to the Municipal canvassing area in Maragusan town in Compostela Valley Province.

The incident called by people as “Maragusan massacre” took the lives of five individuals, wounded a dozen people and left deep psychological trauma and emotional anguish to 31 others who were subjected to the pain of witnessing the carnage while bullets hissing their heads slaughter the man next to them.

Unite against impunity and lies

The continued impunity and mass murder of human beings in the hands of NPA terrorists in Southern Mindanao cements the national perception on the inhuman and evil character of their murderous organization as it strengthens the worldwide reputation of communists as harbinger of disaster and omen of death.

We are a peace-loving nation known for our rightful virtues, respect to our elders and fear in God. However we look at such disdainful attitude and catastrophic level of motive of the NPA terrorists, we cannot see even a grain of love or a shadow of respect to anyone save for their love of money brought by their massive organized extortion activities which outline their real motive in waging an atrocious war guised in a protracted peoples’ struggle. Their only fear is losing the money they collect from large business establishments, small entrepreneurs and ordinary citizens in the countryside.

We call on our people to shout in unison against abuses which the CPP-NPA-NDF commits against children and against our citizens. Our people must bond against such impunity and orchestrated mass murders against the citizenry so that the united voices of the masses will reverberate in every corner of the region, the country and perhaps the whole world and shake the callous base of the godless CPP-NPA-NDF terrorists and all their front organizations in every sector and levels of the society.

The youth needs more than empty promises of an egalitarian society by those who trample the very foundation of the rights of the children.

Our children must be protected!

Scout Ranger Company activated for Army’s intensified ISO campaign

In an effort to further intensify its Internal Security Operations (ISO) campaign and to enhance the Army’s combat capability, the Philippine Army formally activated the 13th Scout Ranger “Warrior” Company (13th SRC), with no less than the AFP Chief Gen Delfin N Bangit gracing the ceremony, at Camp Luis Biel II, Brgy Tabiawan, Isabela City, Basilan on Tuesday.

Army Chief LtGen Reynaldo B Mapagu led the traditional unfurling of the unit color during the ceremony. As part of the First Scout Ranger Regiment, the 13th SRC shall focus on addressing the remaining threats of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and other terrorists sowing terrorism and chaos in Southern Philippines . Said company had undergone rigorous retraining in Camp Tecson , Bulacan from January 16 to April 15 this year. The newly-activated company is placed under the command of Cpt John Reysanti Aling and under the operational control of the JTF Trillium, WESTMINCOM, AFP.

Just a month after deployment the 13th SRC Company has successfully recorded gainful advances against the members of the Abu Sayyaf Group/ Lawless Misuari Group under Umar Ipong in Brgy Gihong, Sumisip, Basilan. On May 17, 2010, the unit encountered enemy forces that led to the killing of one, capture of 15 others and recovery of 7 high-powered firearms and improvised explosive devices.

During the said ceremony, the CSAFP conferred meritorious promotion to nine enlisted personnel and awarded seven Gold Cross Medals; two Bronze Cross Medals; two Distinguished Navy Cross Medals; and 12 Military Merit Medals to deserving personnel.

Crucial to the campaign against terrorism and insurgency is a skilled, disciplined and better-equipped Army soldier operating as part of a well-trained and well-led fighting unit. The activation of 13th SRC is a push forward of the Philippine Army’s desire to strengthen the ISO campaign and to address the demand for strike forces in the counter-insurgency campaign. Furthermore, it is a realization of the Philippine Army’s vision and goals - to deliver lasting peace and stability in our country. #

Army celebrates 113 years of selfless service

The Philippine Army, in its 113 years of existence, continues to provide a brand of selfless service to the country and the people. Established on strong foundation, the Philippine Army evolved into an Army mainly created for the country’s struggle for independence, to a force engaged in maintaining security – internal and external, to being instruments of peace.

In commemoration of its 113th anniversary, the Philippine Army embarked into a series of events celebrating its milestones and achievements.

With the theme “Philippine Army at Sambayanan: Magkabalikat sa Patuloy na Pagbabago para sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran”, the month-long celebration took off with an ROTC Military Stakes and the Search for Binibining Laang Kawal held simultaneously on March 7. Recognizing the importance of the reserve force, the Philippine Army continues to dedicate interest in the welfare of the Reservists of the Philippine Army, the ROTC in particular.

To showcase the Philippine Army’s capabilities and equipment, the command spearheaded an Army Caravan which started at the SM Mall of Asia on March 12 and 13, to be replicated in Intramuros on March 17, and in Marikina River Banks on March 20 and 21. Through this activity, the Philippine Army was able to reach out to a wide range of audience – the public at large.

Also, in its continuing effort to empower the non-commissioned officers of the Philippine Army, the command conducted the 6th Senior NCO Leaders Symposium on March 10 to 12. The goal of the SNCOLC is to reinforce the leadership roles of the NCO in developing soldiers to become highly committed, competent and responsible soldiers. As the backbone and heart of the Philippine Army, the NCOs play a crucial role in the attainment of the Army’s mission.

Meanwhile, the following activities are set to be carried out in celebration of the Philippine Army’s 113 years: Philippine Army Museum Open House on March 16 to March 22; 7th PA Senior Leaders Conference on March 18 to 20; and the Tejeros Convention and Silent Drill Campus Tour on March 21.

Highlighting the 113th Army day main celebration on March 22 (Monday) is a military parade and awarding ceremony at the HPA Grandstand Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila. Expected to grace the event as Guest of Honor and Speaker is Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Simultaneous with the parade is the relaunching of the Army Literacy Patrol System (ALPS) and a wreath laying ceremony. #

Army Chief envisions an Army Strong in Faith

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Army chief Lt Gen Delfin N Bangit wants a Philippine Army that is not only strong in war fighting but also strong in faith. This, he expressed as he spoke before the participants of the Purpose-Driven Life Seminar during its Closing Ceremony at the Philippine Army headquarters yesterday.

In its effort to inculcate among Army personnel the necessary values and morals, the command continues to support activities focusing on the spiritual life of soldiers and activities which aim to strengthen the soldiers’ faith.

Values formation and the orientation of the individual soldier is a prime concern of the Philippine Army. In this age of technology and innovations, the Philippine Army still recognizes the need to strengthen the soldiers’ moral well-being. With the conduct of Purpose-Driven Life Seminars and other similar undertakings, the Philippine Army continues to impart among its personnel the values and attitude for them to be upright, respectable, and decent, which in turn is necessary for the accomplishment of the Philippine Army mission, because accomplishment in any field also depends on the attitude and values with which the individual act.

“Now that you have discovered how God works in your life, I hope that you would share your faith by being the living examples of God's goodness. In this way, more than being the Philippine Army, you will be God's Army,” Lt Gen Bangit concluded. #

Arrest of 43 thwarts violence in March

The New People’s Army suffered a big blow with the arrest of 43 of its members by the combined elements of the Philippine Army and the PNP in Morong, Rizal last February 6 and thwarted their plans to carry out attacks during the NPA anniversary on March 29. The arrest also prevented the NPA’s attempt to disrupt the on-going election campaign and the coming elections in May.

The operation on February 6 in Morong, Rizal by the Army troops and the police is a product of a thorough and deliberate planning, extensive intelligence work and accurate surveillance. Quoting MGEN Jorge Segovia, 2nd Infantry Division commander, “the detainees belong to a super body of NPA medics and combatants from various provinces.”

Most of the attendees at the meeting in Morong, Rizal are identified NPA members, serving as medical assistants of different guerilla platoons in various NPA provincial committees. Others were members of NPA’s Special Operations Group, which usually carries out liquidation orders of the NPA. They are members of the NPA guerilla units operating in Southern Tagalog, Bicol, Central Luzon and the Visayas. In addition, among those seized from the raid were weapons, ammunition, and explosive devices which would be used by the NPAs to terrorize the citizens of the country. This is a strong indication that the activities of the 43 accused are not limited to health trainings. The presence of weapons and explosive devices, including landmine, readily translates into espousing violence. The evidence of landmine alone is in direct contravention to the UN’s declaration against the use of landmines and the Ottawa Convention of 1997.

The arrest was carried out through a valid arrest warrant. For the judge to issue the same, he has established the existence of probable cause. The search was made in the presence of two barangay councilors and the house care taker. Why question the arrest now? Why come up with concocted allegations against the Army organization? We could only think of one, that the arrest was a big blow to the communist organization as it involves key personalities occupying major positions in the provincial, regional and national organs of the NPA. The arrest is a manifestation that the rebel forces are slowly being contained. Because of this decisive tactical victory, the government forces were able to prevent a possible major attack to be perpetrated by the NPA bandits during its anniversary this March 29.

However, instead of being lauded for a decisive tactical operation against the NPA, the Philippine Army is being criticized and questioned on the legitimacy of the arrest and alleged human rights violations.

The allegation that the detainees were tortured is a pure lie. Even Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Leila de Lima, who personally went to visit the detainees, denied this allegation. The human rights of the detainees were observed. They were given adequate food, water, and cot beds. They were informed of the reason of the arrest, and their right and access to legal counsel and family is respected. There was no truth to the sexual harassment claim either. When asked when she was sexually harassed, Ofelia Beltran-Ballante denied this. The unfounded accusations are mere propaganda to discredit the Philippine Army. Amidst the allegations, the Philippine Army remains undaunted to pursue it’s the charges against the 43 accused.

Safeguarding human rights is always at the core of every military operation. It is deeply entrenched in the institution’s programs, policies, and regulations. It is the very principle that Army soldiers try to live everyday. The Philippine Army respects and upholds human rights. It is the only organization which is most careful in the observance of human rights. An Army soldier cannot be promoted nor go on career advancement course if he has a record on human rights violation. This rule is strictly laid down and enforced.

However, like any individual, respect for human rights shall also apply to soldiers. In many cases, they have been denied of such. They have been subject to various human rights issues, they who have helped restore communities threatened by these bandits who would not hesitate to use arms just to advance the senseless ideologies they espouse. The Philippine Army remains undaunted and is doing its job to protect the welfare of every citizen and this nation. #