Retards in the Government 393

It's your weekly compendium of foolishness and corruption in the Philippine government.

 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1238503

A police officer with the rank of brigadier general is facing dismissal from the service for command responsibility over the alleged unlawful arrest, arbitrary detention, and robbery of four Chinese nationals in a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) establishment in Parañaque City in September last year.

Inspector Gen. Brigido Dulay, Philippine National Police - Internal Affairs Service (PNP-IAS) chief, said Friday he has submitted to the office of PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil the recommendation to dismiss the official, whose name was withheld, after he was found guilty under the principle of command responsibility and gross neglect of duty.

“The decision underscores the PNP's unwavering commitment to accountability and integrity within its ranks,” Dulay said in a news release.

The administrative case stemmed from a controversial raid on a condominium in Parañaque City by the Southern Police District - District Special Operations Unit (SPD-DSOU) on Sept. 16, 2023.

The SPD, then headed by Brig. Gen. Roderick Mariano, reported that 10 Chinese and a Filipino were arrested, leading to the rescue of several Chinese nationals and the confiscation of PHP4.6 million in cash.

However, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) pointed out alleged irregularities in the service of the search warrant after the arrested Chinese nationals complained about being arbitrarily detained and claimed that personal belongings not included in the warrant were illegally seized by the police.

Subsequent investigations showed that the involved officers confiscated PHP27 million in cash not subject to the search warrant, and deliberately excluded the sizable amount of cash and other personal items from the official inventory of recovered evidence.

Additionally, the officers were found to have planted firearms at the scene, attempted to destroy closed-circuit television (CCTV) recordings, and deactivated their body-worn cameras during the operation.

Ten police personnel involved in the incident were dismissed from the service after being found guilty of grave misconduct, grave irregularity in the performance of duty, grave neglect of duty, conduct unbecoming of a police officer, less grave misconduct, and less grave neglect of duty.

Seven other cops were demoted while 17 more were suspended.

The lAS said it found that the police general neglected his duty to ensure that operations were conducted based on established protocols and ethical standards, leading to serious breaches of conduct by subordinate officers.

As the commanding officer, the police general also failed to exercise effective oversight and control over the personnel involved in the operation by failing to take prompt and concrete actions against his subordinates for significant procedural violations and gross misconduct under his command, it said.

Dulay emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability within the ranks of the PNP.

"Command responsibility is not just a principle; it is a cornerstone of ethical law enforcement. Leaders must ensure that their teams operate within the bounds of the law. When they fail, they will be held accountable," he added.

A police officer with the rank of brigadier general is facing dismissal from the service for command responsibility over the alleged unlawful arrest, arbitrary detention, and robbery of four Chinese nationals in a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator establishment in Parañaque City in September last year.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2008545/raps-filed-vs-ilonggo-party-list-solon-over-a-barangay-captains-death

A lawmaker is facing charges in connection with the killing of a former barangay captain in Tigbauan town, Iloilo.

Major Rolando Araño, spokesperson of the Iloilo Provincial Police Office, said the Tigbauan Municipal Police Station filed charges against Rep. Lex Anthony “Cris” Colada for allegedly being an accessory to a murder.

The charge was filed at the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office on Nov. 14.

Colada represents the party-list Ang Asosasyon Sang Mangunguma Nga Bisaya-Owa Mangunguma Inc. (AAMBIS-OWA).

Aside from this case, Colada is also accused of violating Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act linked to the October 24 murder of Jovanni Triste, a former village chief of San Rafael in Tigbauan town.

The Inquirer tried to get Colada’s side through his party-list’s Facebook account and his office in Congress but was told by his staff member that they would respond to the issue through their office in Iloilo. 

As of afternoon of Nov. 19, Colada and his staff members have yet to get back to the Inquirer. 

Colada is the husband of Mayor Jennifer Garin Colada of Guimbal, Iloilo.

He succeeded his sister-in-law, now Energy Undersecretary Sharon Garin, as the party-list’s representative in the 2022 elections.

Colada owned the gun used in the killing of Triste, the police said.

His ownership was confirmed by the Philippine National Police Regional Civil Security Unit.

Araño, however, cannot not confirm how Colada’s .45 caliber gun was used by John Castro Jr. in killing Triste.

The police official, however, said the proceedings will allow the congressman to properly answer the charges against him.

The alleged assailant Castro is a former member of the Iloilo City government’s Task Force Anti-Squatting and Illegal Structures.

He surrendered to the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) on Oct. 28 after a case of murder was filed against him on the same day.

The police subsequently filed charges of accessory to a murder against Colada after investigation showed that he owned the gun.

“The purpose as to why we filed this case is (for Colada) to explain why his (fire)arm was able to reach up to this crime,” Araño said in a phone interview on Monday, Nov. 18.

Rep. Lex Anthony “Cris” Colada is facing charges in connection with the killing of a former barangay captain in Tigbauan town, Iloilo.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2024/11/25/2402733/poll-officer-killed-sultan-kudarat-attack

An election officer was killed in an attack by unidentified assailants in President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat on Saturday afternoon.

John Nico Allan Pandoy, assistant election officer of Isulan town, died at the scene of the incident that occurred in Barangay Poblacion, according to Maj. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, acting chief of the Western Mindanao Command.

The local office of the Commission on Elections condemned the incident and urged police to identify and arrest the killers.

An election officer was killed in an attack by unidentified assailants in President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat on Saturday afternoon.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/11/24/gubernatorial-bet-in-sarangani-shot

A gubernatorial candidate in Sarangani in next year’s elections was shot and wounded here on Saturday, Nov. 23. 

Police Col. Nicomedes Olaivar, city police director, identified the victim as lawyer-businessman Gladden Lim, 48.

Olaivar said the victim was shot by a motorcycle-riding gunman as he was coming out of his car at the compound of a church on Dacera Ave., Barangay City Heights at 6 p.m. 

The victim sustained two bullet wounds in the stomach from a .45 caliber pistol.

He was taken to a nearby hospital.

A gubernatorial candidate in Sarangani has been assassinated. 

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/7-cops-in-davao-involve-in-drug-related-activities

THE Police Regional Office-Davao Region (PRO-Davao) revealed that at least seven police officers of the region were involved in the illegal use of drugs and other drug-related activities.

During the flag-raising ceremony on Monday, November 25, 2024, Police Brigadier General Leon Victor Rosete, PRO-Davao director, announced that seven of its personnel have been engaging in illegal activities based on their latest internal cleaning program mandated by the Philippine National Police (PNP) central headquarters.

Of the number, Rosete disclosed that six of them tested positive for illegal drugs while the other official was found to have been involved in drug trafficking.

Rosete added that they have been continuously conducting a cleansing campaign against unlawful activities to keep the police office’s good reputation and strengthen the image of the Davao police not just in the region but also the whole country. He then encouraged the police personnel to follow the rules and ethics of the PNP.

“Our service will put into waste. Regrets are always at the end. So stop now and let's start a new one for your family and for the betterment of our community,” the regional police chief said.

According to PNP, the program is a set of policies and programs designed to enhance the security personnel’s reputation, discipline, and integrity. Its goal is to eradicate misconduct, criminal activity, and corruption from the police force. The program's mission is also to encourage police officers to act ethically, transparently, and responsibly.

Depending on the seriousness of the conduct, officers who are found to have engaged in unlawful or unethical activity face internal investigations and appropriate disciplinary actions, which may include reassignment or termination.

The Police Regional Office-Davao Region revealed that at least seven police officers of the region were involved in the illegal use of drugs and other drug-related activities.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/11/26/comelec-officer-shot-dead-in-lanao-del-norte

The Commission on Elections officer in Nunungan town in Lanao del Norte province was shot dead in Purok 1, Barangay Curva, Miagao, Lanao del Norte, on Monday, Nov. 25. 

Police identified the victim as Markus Orlando Vallecer of Cagayan de Oro City.

Vallecer was on his way home when he was shot by an unidentified gunman.

He was taken by the police to a hospital where he was declared dead from multiple bullet wounds in the head.

Recovered from the crime scene were five fired .45 caliber cartridge cases and one fired slug.

Police said motive of the killing is election-related.

A follow-up investigation and pursuit operation against the gunman is underway.

A COMELEC office has been assassinated. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2009334/leyte-village-councilor-survives-gun-attack

A village councilor of Barangay Cagnocot, Villaba town, Leyte survived a gun attack by two unidentified assailants on Monday afternoon.

Junnymel Delos Santos suffered a gunshot wound on his left upper cheek and was immediately rushed to the Villaba Community Hospital by the local rescue team for treatment.

He was later transferred to the Ormoc Doctors Hospital in Ormoc City and is currently in stable condition.

Delos Santos was on board his motorcycle with his wife when two men on another motorcycle opened fire at them at around 4:30 p.m.

The attack caused Delos Santos to lose control of his motorcycle, crashing into a coconut tree.

His wife was unharmed.

The suspects immediately fled towards Barangay Cagnocot proper.

The Villaba Municipal Police Station immediately responded to the incident to arrest the perpetrators.

Former Leyte congressman Vicente Veloso condemned the attack on Delos Santos whom he identified as one of his political supporters.

“I strongly condemn this attack against an elected village leader. We call on our police authorities to ensure that justice is served by arresting those responsible for this incident,” Veloso said in a statement on social media.

The third district of Leyte is considered to be a potential area of concern in next year’s midterm elections due to the series of shooting incidents, with some of the victims identified to be supporters of local politicians.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the suspects or the incident to come forward and help in the investigation.

A village councilor has survived an assassination attempt. 

https://mb.com.ph/2024/11/26/soldier-shot-dead-by-colleague-in-sipalay-city-detachment

A 36-year-old corporal from Iloilo City  was allegedly shot dead by a colleague inside an Army detachment in Sitio Barasbarasan, Barangay Manlucahoc, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental on Monday night, Nov. 25.

Police said the victim and the 43-year-old suspect from Lanao del Norte with the rank of staff sergeant were having a drinking session to celebrate the birth anniversary of a colleague when they figured in an altercation.

The suspect drew a short firearm and shot the victim in the left arm and chest. The victim was taken to a hospital where he was declared dead.

The suspect was arrested by the police and disarmed.

Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade (IBde), said he is awaiting the report of the 15th Infantry Batallion on the incident.

Apart from the criminal liability of the suspect, Escanillas said that he will also facing an administrative sanction that may lead to his discharge from the service.

He said this is an isolated incident and stressed that they do not tolerate such action among their personnel.

Escanillas said that drinking of liquor inside any detachment is prohibited and warned those involved that they will be dealt with accordingly.

A solider has shot and killed another solider during an illegal drinking session inside an Army detachment.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/11/27/qcpd-file-raps-vs-vp-sara-duterte-security-official-2-others

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) has filed complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte, her security head Col. Raymund Dante Lachica, and two others at the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office on Wednesday, Nov. 27. 

QCPD Director Col. Melencio Buslig, together with Philippine National Police (PNP) Medical and Dental Chief Lt. Col. Van Jason Villamor, led the filing of charges against Duterte and her team. 

The complaint accuses them of direct assault, disobedience to authority, and grave coercion. 

The alleged incident occurred at the House of Representatives Detention Center and Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) during the detention of Duterte’s Chief of Staff, Attorney Zuleika Lopez. 

Further details about the alleged actions leading to the filing of the complaint have not been disclosed. 

Both the QCPD and the Office of the Vice President (OVP) have yet to issue their statements. 

Charges of of direct assault, disobedience to authority, and grave coercion have been field against Vice President Duterte, her security head, and two others.  

https://mb.com.ph/2024/11/27/barangay-health-worker-4-others-nabbed-for-shabu-in-pasay

Five drug suspects, including a barangay health worker, were arrested in a buy-bust operation by the Pasay City Police Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) on Tuesday, Nov. 26.

Pasay City Police chief Col. Samuel Pabonita identified the suspects as “Tita,” 56 years old, barangay health worker; “Roy,” 22; “Hapon,” 26; “Aba,” 28; and “Bongzki,” 34.

The suspects were arrested at around 1:40 p.m. in Barangay 30, Zone 5.

Police recovered 9.9 grams of shabu amounting to P67,320 from the suspects.

They are currently detained at the SDEU custodial facility and were charged for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. 

A barnagay health worker has been busted for drugs. 

Coronavirus Lockdown:Jo Koy to Produce Documentary, BIMP-EAGA Games, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government.

New data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development shows a rising trend of Filipinos seeking better opportunities abroad. 

https://philstar.com/headlines/2024/11/21/2401899/filipinos-prowl-permanent-migrants-post-pandemic

A Philippine Airlines flight queue of 30 wheelchairs paraded a new face of the Filipino overseas exodus.

That’s a lot of wheelchairs, according to migration researcher Dr. Jocelyn Celero — with her eyes popping at that unusual sight in Terminal 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport last March. “In that [Los Angeles-bound] flight with them, embarkation took two hours.”

Those mostly elderly-aged vacationing Filipino migrants were permanent settlers in the United States, and were then vacationing in the country to annually confirm their profiles with the Philippine Social Security System (SSS). Some of these vacationing Filipinos (balikbayan, as called in Filipino) even monitored their real properties here.

“That will be the trend,” Celero added, not referring to more wheelchaired passengers but to rising immigration to countries with favorable settlement and naturalization opportunities.

The United States is among those countries with enticing permanent migration opportunities that prevailed whether prior to, during, or after the COVID-19 pandemic. The US is a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) bloc of countries which received six million new permanent migration flows in 2021 and 2022.

Within those first two years of the pandemic, the estimated six million new permanent migration flows include over 140,000 Filipinos.

Data from OECD's 2024 International Migration Outlook report showed that over six million new permanent migrants entered the OECD countries as per these countries’ 2022 immigration data.

The over 140,600 Filipinos who entered these countries were among the leading nationalities in 12 of the 37 OECD countries. Leading the pack are the Filipinos who entered the US (36,300 in 2022), Japan (34,400), Canada (22,100), Korea (13,600) and Australia (13,400).

Citing 2021-2022 data, the Philippines ranked 14th among origin countries in terms of "new immigrants to the OECD". India, China and the Russian Federation lead this group of countries. 

The rising numbers that cited up to 2022 data came as the Philippines experienced declines in the deployment of migrant workers, and in the exit of registered Filipino emigrants, in 2020 given the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2020 exodus of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) or temporary migrant workers (549,841), of registered Filipino emigrants (15,703), and of Filipino spouses of foreign nationals (4,964) reflected 73-to-75 percent drops from 2019 figures, data from DMW and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) show.

But come 2021 and 2022, these three types of overseas Filipinos went up when the borders of host countries re-opened. The deployed OFWs reached 742,796 in 2021, 1,205,668 in 2022, and a historic high of 2,330,720 last year, DMW data showed

CFO’s data on permanent residents saw a slight 5.11 increase in 2021 (16,505) and a 147.1 percent uptick in 2022 (40,784). The number of Filipino spouses of foreign nationals even deceased in 2022 (4,891) but went up in 2023 (6,854), CFO data also show.

While Celero saw “the longest line of wheelchairs ever” in any international flight she took, she didn’t want to rain on these compatriots’ parades as permanent settlers and naturalized citizens--and the many more Filipinos following suit. 

Of course there are better opportunities abroad. And don't forget the DFA says the OFW program is the country's soft power, a way to influence host nations in the Philippines favour. 

I previously highlighted the upcoming documentary Nurse Unseen about Pinoy nurses during the pandemic in the USA. Now Fil-Am comedian Jo Koy has jumped aboard as producer. 

https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/showbiz/celebrities/2024/11/21/jo-koy-to-produce-documentary-about-pinoy-nurses-bravery-during-pandemic-2222

Filipino-American comedian Jo Koy will be an executive producer for the upcoming documentary Nurse Unseen.

Deadline reported that the documentary delves into the untold stories and resilience of Filipino nurses who risked their lives on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, all while confronting a surge in anti-Asian hate.

Nurse Unseen also sheds light on the colonial history between the Philippines and the United States, which has positioned Filipino nurses as the unrecognized foundation of the U.S. and global healthcare systems.

"There is a reason why I talk about Filipino nurses in my stand-up as I have so many family members in the healthcare system. They are some of the hardest working people and have filled the gaps in medical facilities that are frequently understaffed and under-resourced. I’m proud to help shine a light on their heroism," Jo Koy remarked.

The comedian also took to social media to express his excitement about the project.

"Nursing is a big part of my Filipino community. So happy to be a part of this project," Jo Koy posted on his Instagram page.

Fans online were also quick to express their excitement about the project.

"Incredible and as the son of a nurse and a fan I can’t wait to watch!" one fan commented.

"This is so meaningful for our community," another fan said.

Back in 2022, Jo Koy also headlined Easter Sunday, a Hollywood film that puts the spotlight of Filipinos and Filipino-American culture.

In a past interview with Inquirer, Jo Koy explained why he considers representing Filipinos in mainstream Hollywood an important feat. 

"For the most part, you don’t really get offers for these roles—they simply don’t exist. So, all you can do is pitch your stories and hope to God somebody would be willing to help you realize your pitch, especially when you’re not the majority color," he explained.

Jo Koy added: "If you’re Filipino, you won’t get any offers, so you’ve got to create your own idea and figure out a story that they’d be willing to support. That’s why I also want to have my hands behind the camera, to help open doors for others."

I thought this movie was already made and screening but apparently it still needs an executive producer. 

The government is being urged to expand its biggest scholarship program in order to ease crowded public schools. 

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2024/11/24/2402559/government-urged-expand-coverage-biggest-scholarship-program/amp/

The government needs to expand the coverage of its biggest scholarship program to help thin out overcrowded public schools, a group of Christian denomination-run private schools said over the weekend.

The Association of Christian Schools, Colleges and Universities (ACSCU) said the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) needs to cover more underprivileged students, which could encourage more parents to move their children from public to private schools.

“We are partners in progress. With its critical role in sustaining private Christian education in the Philippines, the GASTPE aligns with our mission to serve with compassion and integrity,” ACSCU president Betty Cernol-McCann said.

The GASTPE program currently covers junior high school and senior high school. It was intended to provide financial assistance to students and teachers, improve access to quality education and decongest public schools.

“In the last school year, member schools collectively served over 3,600 beneficiaries under the GASTPE program,” Cernol-McCann said.

“This level of support is a testament not only to the program’s reach, but also its impact. Many of our graduates, who were once GASTPE beneficiaries, have gone on to become leaders in their communities and industries. Their successes speak to the quality of education they received, and the opportunities made possible by GASTPE,” she added.

GASTPE initiatives include Education Service Contracting (ESC), Teachers’ Salary Subsidy, Senior High School Voucher Program and In-Service Training.

The ESC is deemed a cost-effective alternative to public school expansion, where decongestion is achieved through service contracts with private schools for the latter to accommodate the overflow of students from public schools and from communities with no public schools.

“The (GASTPE) program has also provided significant support to our teachers and educational staff. Financial resources have facilitated training and development programs, ensuring that our educators can continually adapt to evolving educational needs,” Cernol-McCann said.

This assistance was most pronounced during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the GASTPE funding helped schools transition to blended and distance learning models.

The ACSCU has 118 member-schools across the country, which have served 12.45 million student-grantees since 1989.

More assistance was given during the pandemic but now that's over the program has trailed off. 

The Philippines' largest delegation to the World Travel Market since the pandemic has netted P436 million in sales lead. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1238635

The Philippines generated over PHP436 million in sales lead at the 2024 World Travel Market (WTM) held in London, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Monday.

The Philippine delegation secured a total of 466 sales leads and 41 onsite bookings during the Nov. 5 to 7 event, the DOT said.

The sales lead marked an increase of over PHP178 million from last year’s participation.

The delegation, led by the DOT and the Tourism Promotions Board, was the country’s largest since the pandemic, composed of 22 private sector exhibitors, including tour operators, destination management companies and hotels and resorts.

They were joined by representatives from the Aklan Provincial Government, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority and the Philippine Retirement Authority.

The Philippine Pavilion attracted attention from major media outlets and key tourism stakeholders.

On top of the usual sun and beach destination, the Philippines also showcased its unique experiential travel offering through packages focused on cultural immersions, festivals, the creative arts, health and wellness, gastronomy and other offerings.

“Today's travelers seek immersive experiences, evolving from years like seeing to a quest for authentic experiences, and this is precisely what we are able to offer in the Philippines,” DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said in a statement.

Maybe this will help the Philippines tourism sector fully recover. 

Two more events are back since the end of the pandemic. First is Honda's Riders' Convention. 

https://www.manilatimes.net/2024/11/26/fast-times/honda-ph-hosts-riders-convention-after-pandemic-break/2010380

HONDA Philippines Inc. recently brought together thousands of passionate Honda riders across Luzon for the 4th Honda Riders' Convention, marking an exciting return post-pandemic. The convention celebrated Honda's legacy and strong connection with its loyal community, highlighting why Honda remains the top motorcycle brand in the Philippines.

The event was packed with activities, including a motor show showcasing accessorized Honda bikes, an off-road adventure, and a visit to Honda's technology center, where attendees explored innovations like the e-clutch system and Road Sync features. Riders had a chance to test Honda's full lineup, including commuter bikes, big bikes, the electric EM1 e:, and off-road models. 

In addition to rides, visitors enjoyed discounts on gear and accessories, fun booth games, and free massages. Honda also honored its club leaders for promoting road safety, with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority awarding Honda a citation for the efforts. Honda Philippines President Sayaka Arai even joined an off-road test ride alongside legendary rider Jovie Saulog and up-and-coming motocross rider Sharlet Gallarde. 

The program featured stage games, a segment with PVL star Michelle Gumabao, and exciting raffles, with a Honda CB500F Big Bike as the grand prize. The band Orange & Lemons capped off the event with a lively performance.

"This event showcases Honda's commitment to excellence and joy for our community," said Arai. Featuring Honda's newest models, including the Click160 and the electric EM1 e:, the convention was more than just a gathering. It reinforced Honda's connection with its riders and their shared passion for the brand, ensuring Honda's place in their hearts for years to come.

The second event is the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area) Friendship Games.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1238688

Five contingents will banner the Philippines’ fourth hosting of the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area) Friendship Games in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on Dec. 1 to 5.

The Philippine teams are Mindanao A, Mindanao B, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Puerto Princesa City and Palawan.

The 11^th edition of the BIMP-EAGA Games was canceled when the Covid-19 pandemic struck in 2020.

The Philippines’ previous hostings were the inaugural edition in General Santos City in 1996, Puerto Princesa in 2003 and General Santos City anew in 2012.

How many more events are still waiting to return since the pandemic ended?

Isla Puting Bato Fire Survivors Are VERY Resilient

It's time for another tale of "Filipino Resilience." This episode of "Filipino Resilience" is brought to you by neighborly kindness and good governance. A massive fire in Tondo destroyed 1,000 houses leaving 5,000 individuals and 2,000 families suddenly homeless. Here is a picture of the destruction.

In the Western World if your house burns down you find a temporary place to stay while you sort out the insurance and what not. That's not what these 5,000 people will be doing. Instead, just a month before Christmas, they are suddenly homeless and destitute. Thousands have been crammed into emergency evacuation centers as they contemplate their futures.

But don't feel bad for these people. They are resilient. Let's take a look at how resilient they are. 

https://mb.com.ph/2024/11/25/from-rubble-to-resilience-isla-puting-bato-fire-victims-fight-to-rebuild-their-lives

Despite losing everything in a massive fire that tore through Isla Puting Bato, the survivors remain determined to rise from the ashes and rebuild their homes and hope.

Isla Puting Bato is crowded community in Tondo, Manila, where houses were constructed from light, highly flammable materials, which allowed the flames to spread rapidly, triggering the highest fire alert level. 

Firefighters battled the blaze for six hours, leaving 1,000 houses in ashes and over 5,000 residents, or approximately 2,000 families, homeless. 

The blaze reached Task Force Charlie and by the time it was contained, much of the community had been reduced to ash.

In the aftermath of the disaster, survivors have been left to cope with the physical and emotional toll of the fire.

Many have lost everything—homes, personal belongings, and the means to rebuild their lives. 

The fire victims have been temporarily evacuated to the Delpan Sports Complex, where they are being housed in cramped conditions, without adequate privacy or basic resources.

For many, the simplest tasks—bathing, dressing, eating—have become overwhelming challenges in the face of scarce resources and limited facilities at the evacuation center.

The residents of Isla Puting Bato, who once lived in close-knit, informal communities, have now found themselves in a temporary shelter with little more than the clothes on their backs. Families have been forced to adapt to a new way of life—one of uncertainty and hardship. 

Collectively these 5,000 people are now struggling to complete the simplest of tasks such as bathing and eating because of the scarce resources and limited facilities at the evacuation center. Needless to say with 5,000 people social services are pressed to the breaking point. 

However, as the article says, "the survivors remain determined to rise from the ashes and rebuild their homes and hope." These people have also lost all material possessions including "the means to rebuild their lives" but what does that matter when you have hope?

As long as they have hope the dream to rebuild houses which are "constructed from light, highly flammable materials, which allowed the flames to spread rapidly, triggering the highest fire alert level" remains alive. 

Being resilient does not mean you are alone. Thankfully this is a tight-knit community who looks out for each other.  

Nida, 38, single mother of two, said she left her children inside their house when she went to a nearby market to buy food. 

She said she was not able to return to her house because the fire department did not allow her.

Just when she thought her children were trapped inside their burning house, she found them with her neighbors.

She said she was not able to save anything except the clothes they were wearing at the time.

With no homes to return to, many are reliant on donations from local charities, government agencies, and generous citizens to meet their basic needs.

Thank goodness a neighbor noticed Nida's two young children were home alone and saved them from the conflagration. 

Along with neighborly kindness comes the paternal hand of the government. 

With no homes to return to, many are reliant on donations from local charities, government agencies, and generous citizens to meet their basic needs.

In the wake of the tragedy, the local government has pledged to assist the displaced families of Isla Puting Bato with both immediate relief and long-term recovery plans. 

According to local officials, hot meals are being regularly provided to the affected families, while efforts are underway to provide clothes and financial assistance.

The government has announced plans to build more sustainable housing for the victims, with priority given to those who lost their homes in the fire. 

More discussions are being held with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to facilitate the rebuilding of homes, as well as the provision of health services, livelihood programs, and psychosocial support for those affected.

As the survivors of Isla Puting Bato begin the slow process of rebuilding their lives, the question remains: How do people who have so little, recover from losing everything? 

Despite repeated fire over the years, the community's resilience will undoubtedly play a key role in their recovery, but the support of the government, as well as ongoing aid from local citizens and organizations, will be crucial in helping these families regain a sense of stability and hope. 

This Christmas, despite everything they lost, the residents of Isla Puting Bato stand united in their unwavering determination to move forward, no matter the odds.

The government says they will help these people rebuild "more sustainable housing" "with priority given to those who lost their homes in the fire." I am sure that means 5,000 people will be given priority. 

There have been repeated fires over the years no doubt due to all the house being "constructed from light, highly flammable materials." In 2012 the government forbade residents from rebuilding. 

A scuffle broke out on Thursday on Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila, between the victims of Friday’s fire and teams from the Philippine Ports Authority after the latter barred the residents from rebuilding their homes on government-owned property.

The May 11 fire displaced more than 5,000 people at the slum community, which falls under PPA’s jurisdiction. They were briefly given shelter at the Del Pan sports complex and were told by City Hall about a relocation site awaiting them in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.

But some residents left the gym on Thursday and started bringing construction materials to Isla Puting Bato to rebuild their homes—only to see the barriers put up by the PPA to keep them out of the site.

About 50 people breached the fences Thursday. Some were pushed back by PPA security guards but others got through and went on to salvage anything useful from the ruins.

In an interview, Ricardo de Guzman, chief of staff of Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, said the PPA had sought City Hall’s help in preventing the residents from returning to the site, citing “safety issues.”

The agency was concerned that PPA facilities “not designed for residential uses” might end up being occupied, De Guzman said.

The PPA also noted that, lacking a sewerage system, the informal settlers also “significantly contribute to the pollution in Manila Bay.”

De Guzman said the decision to keep the fire victims out was PPA’s call. “We can only appeal to the National Housing Authority for immediate relocation of the victims,” he said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/195339/victims-of-tondo-fire-barred-from-rebuilding

But it appears this time the government will assist these people in rebuilding their homes on government property with no sewage systems so they can continue to pollute Manila Bay.

Perhaps others will be relocated. This also happened after the 2012 fire. 

https://www.rappler.com/video/documentaries/16036-danger-zone/

“We had no choice,” said Evelyn Dagotgot, one of the survivors of a fire in Isla Puting Bato that dislocated 5,000 Tondo residents last May.

Evelyn’s destroyed home in Manila was on the breakwater in a “danger zone,” and her family was prohibited from returning to rebuild. Against their better judgment, they accepted the National Housing Authority’s (NHA) relocation offer. They were even shown the home beforehand. 

“The site they showed us was not the actual site where we were relocated,” said Evelyn in Filipino. Instead, they ended up in faraway  Barangay San Jose, Rodriguez (formerly Montalban), Rizal.

“We wondered why it was next to a river,” said Evelyn.

Several months later, Evelyn was awoken by her neighbor pounding on her door. Unknown to Evelyn, the Wawa dam had overflowed from the Habagat rains.

“There was no no advance warning, not even by megaphone. If our neighbor had not woken us up, we would have had no idea what was going on.” said Evelyn.

“My husband would have no family to return to if we were swept away by the flood,” said Evelyn. “That’s how sad it could have been.”

Rodriguez lies in a geo-hazard zone. If a 7-9-magnitude earthquake hits, all buildings in the vicinity are expected to collapse. When asked why the NHA selected the site to resettle informal settlers, a staff member of the  Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office noted that the last geo-hazard study was conducted in 2002.

It is not entirely clear who is to blame for selecting a geo-hazard zone as the destination for up to 70,000 resettled informal settlers.

Rodriguez municipal administrator Pascual de Guzman described the role that the municipality plays in the relocation process. “The local government has nothing to do with the choice of relocatees, or with the choice of the developer, the choice of site, it is all the national government.”

Whether these resilient Filipinos are relocated to a dangerous flood zone or a geo-hazard zone or rebuild their homes in a breakwater danger zone with the help of the government one thing is certain. They have hope and the "unwavering determination to move forward, no matter the odds."

Insurgency: Ex-Child Warrior Surrenders

The AFP has said the NPA is leaderless yet more NPA leaders continue to surrender. Three top leaders recently surrendered in Mindanao.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/top-npa-leaders-in-southeastern-mindanao-arrested-in-cotabato-city/

THREE HIGH-RANKING leaders of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) of the New People’s Army were apprehended at Mabini Street, Bagua 3, Cotabato City on Nov. 16.

The 10th Infantry Division report identified them as Ruel Villanueva Cabales, SMRC secretary; Catherine Apares Guinoo, alias Dewen, SMRC executive committee deputy secretary; and Alma Mae Masalon, alias Memie, an SMRC member.

The suspects reportedly had warrants for illegal possession of firearms and explosives, destructive arson, violation against or intimidation of persons, attempted murder, and crimes against international humanitarian law.

Major General Allan Hambala, commander of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, commended the joint efforts of the military and the police involved in the operation. He emphasized that the arrest of these key NPA leaders is a significant blow to the remaining SMRC forces in Region XI.

“This achievement highlights the dedication and synergy of our military and law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and security. The arrest of these individuals significantly contributes to the total defeat of the SMRC and a safer Southeastern Mindanao,” Hambala said.

It's not clear if their warrants will prevent them from being able to avail of E-CLIP benefits. 

In Northern Samar an NPA leader was arrested by the AFP.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2007242/suspected-npa-leader-nabbed-in-northern-samar

An alleged leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) was arrested in an operation Monday by government troops in Barangay Malidong, Gamay town, Northern Samar.

The suspect, identified as “Ahon,” allegedly served as the vice squad leader of the Regional Guerrilla Unit (RGU) under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).

Members of the 52nd Infantry Battalion (IB) conducted the operation after reports from a concerned citizen regarding sightings of rebels, allegedly engaging in extortion activities in the area.

Authorities seized a firearm in his possession during the operation.

 No word on his charges or if he will be able to avail of E-CLIP benefits.

Meanwhile in Panay Island a top leader and the wife of a former NPA leader surrendered to the AFP.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/iloilo/ex-child-warrior-wife-of-panay-npa-leader-surrender

A FORMER child warrior and a key figure of the dismantled Central Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay of the Communist New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to government forces, leaving behind decades of armed struggle in Panay, on November 19, 2024.

Alias Todyo, 35, former team leader of the NPA or Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), surrendered to the Philippine Army's 12th Infantry (Lick 'Em) Battalion (12IB).

He said he joined the group at age 17 but left after experiencing unfulfilled promises and severe hardships.

Presented to Aklan Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores and Libacao Mayor Charito Navarosa, Todyo is now under the custody of the 12IB and will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip). 

Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, commanding officer of the 12IB, said that Todyo will receive livelihood opportunities, skills training, and psychosocial support through E-Clip.

“We urge the remaining NPAs to take a cue from Todyo, return to the fold of the law, and start a new life with their families,” Garsuta said. “He was a victim of the CTG's deceitful recruitment tactics and endured immense hardship. As a victim, he deserves to heal and rebuild his life with the support of his family, community, and government.”

Meanwhile, Helen "Nesta" Balois, wife of NPA’s notorious extortionist Francisco “Tonying” Balois, surrendered to Tapaz Mayor Roberto Palomar on November 20, 2024.

Nesta admitted that the arrest of her husband in June 2024 and his humane treatment by authorities led her to abandon the armed struggle after 46 years.

Despite facing criminal charges of murder and rebellion, she hopes to reintegrate into society.

Garsuta praised the woman's surrender as a sign of the realization that the armed struggle may not have been worth the sacrifices.

Nesta expressed hope that as she returns to the law, she will find comfort in reunited with her family.

“Her surrender is a testament to the realization that the decades-long armed struggle, and the sacrifices it demanded, may not have been worth the cost. The time she lost with her children is irreplaceable. Now, as she returns to the fold of the law, we hope she finds comfort in reuniting with her family and rebuilding her life,” Garsuta said.

Both surrenders highlighted a growing trend of NPA members seeking reintegration.

It is not clear if Todyo returned to the NPA after he left at the age of 17 or if he was hiding out and only now decided to surrender. Interesting that Helen "Nesta" Balois did not surrender along with her husband. It appears that despite being a "notorious extortionist" her husband was not arrested and was able to avail of E-CLIP benefits. Why else would she talk of reuniting with her family?

The AFP continues to clash with NPA remnants. 

https://mb.com.ph/2024/11/21/6-npa-rebels-killed-in-negros-occidental-clash-1

Six New People’s Army rebels were killed in an encounter with the military before dawn on Thursday, Nov. 21, in Barangay Gatuslao, Candoni, Negros Occidental.  

Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas, 302nd Infantry Brigade chief, said the gun battle erupted when troops of the 47th Infantry Battalion and the 15th IB responded to a report on the presence of armed men in the area at 3:40 a.m. 

Escanillas said the casualties have yet to be identified as police are conducting an investigation of the encounter. 

He said that soldiers encountered at least 10 members of the Southwest Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KR-NCBS). 

Recovered in the encounter site were eight high-powered firearms – five M16 rifles, two AK-47 rifles, and one M653 rifle. 

The clash lasted for about 45 minutes and there were no casualties on the government side. 

The campaign against communist rebels in Negros Island continues without letup. 

“Our fight against the remnants of the NPA in Negros is an ongoing effort,” said Major Gen. Marion Sison, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division. 

He warned remaining communist guerrillas that their continued path of violence will only lead to a tragic end. 

"We will not tire of urging you to abandon this path of armed struggle. There is still time to choose a peaceful way where you can have a fresh start,” Sison said.

The death toll was later raised to eight. Eight firearms were recovered after this clash. 

It is usual that after fighting the AFP recovers weapons. In Northern Samar a rifle and grenade launcher were found. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1238189

The Philippine Army recovered on Tuesday firearms after a clash with remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Catubig, Northern Samar.

Found are one M16 rifle with an attached M203 grenade launcher, an M653 baby Armalite, and personal belongings abandoned by members of the NPA sub-regional guerrilla unit, sub-regional committee arctic.

Acting on tips from villagers, troops from the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion chased a group of armed rebels in C.M. Recto village in Catubig town.

After a brief armed encounter, the rebels retreated and left some of their firearms.

“The encounter highlights the military’s unwavering commitment to protecting our people. Our troops acted swiftly, forcing the communist terrorist group to retreat and abandon their intent to disrupt peace and security,” said Lt. Col. Richard Villaflor, commander of the 20th Infantry Battalion, in a statement.

Villaflor urged the remaining NPA members to surrender and embrace the government's reintegration programs.

In Capiz a single M-16 rifle was recovered after a clash with rebel remnants. 

https://mb.com.ph/2024/11/20/army-seizes-npa-firearm-in-capiz-clash

The 12th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army seized a firearm from the New People’s Army in a clash in Capiz province this week.

Lt. Col. Vicel Jan Garsuta, 12th IB commander, said an M-16 rifle was recovered in Barangay Batobato, Tapaz town.

The 12th IB troops were conducting foot patrol on Monday, Nov. 18, when they engaged rebels from the NPA Regional Sentro de Grabidad (RSDG) and the dismantled NPA Panay Central Front Committee.

A firefight ensued until the  NPA rebels withdrew.

Garsuta said there were no wounded government troops but they there may be on the side of the NPA rebels as bloodstains were found in the area.

The hierarchy of the 3rd ID lauded the efforts of the 12th IB against the communist rebels.

“Our troops are persistently pursuing remnants of the NPA to prevent the group from resurging,” said Major Gen. Marion Sison, 3rd ID commander.

“With the unwavering support of the people of Panay, we will not allow this terrorist group to gain any ground or rise up again. We will ensure their complete defeat,” added Sison.

And what are the source of the weapons? We will probably never know. 

On the Islamic insurgency front 2 members of the extremist Dawlah Islamiya group were arrested this week.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1238324

Two alleged members of the extremist Dawlah Islamiya group, implicated in the ambush of military forces in Lanao del Norte province last year, were arrested Tuesday and are now facing murder charges.

Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao Director, Brig. Gen. Jaysen de Guzman, said Wednesday that the suspects were involved in the January 2023 attack on Army troops from the 52nd Infantry Battalion in Munai town, Lanao del Norte.

The operation, conducted by multiple police units, led to the capture of alias “Ali,” 21, the region's second most wanted suspect; and his 17-year-old companion, both residents of Lanao del Norte.

“This achievement underscores our dedication to ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” De Guzman said.

The suspects are set to face trial for charges of murder and attempted murder related to the ambush.

And to think they could have availed of E-CLIP benefits if they had only surrendered.