CPP/NDFP: On the ongoing talks

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Sep 4, 2024): On the ongoing talks

 


Julie de Lima

Chairperson

Negotiating Panel

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

September 04, 2024

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Peace Negotiating Panel firmly reiterates its commitment to the resumption of peace negotiations with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP). Our dedication to achieving a just and lasting peace remains steadfast, as we believe the negotiations present an effective means to address the underlying causes of the civil war.

The ongoing talks between the two delegations are meant to come up with an agreed framework for the negotiations towards forging an agreement that will address the root causes of the armed conflict.

In the past few months, we have observed with concern the mixed and contradictory signals emanating from the GRP. On the one hand, General Eduardo Año stated that peace talks are unlikely to proceed. On the other hand, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said they are optimistic that the talks would resume. We hope that the GRP can resolve these contradictory views.

The NDFP Peace Negotiating Panel remains open and ready to engage in meaningful discussions that can lead to comprehensive solutions benefitting the Filipino people including addressing key issues of agrarian reform and national industrialization among other substantive socio-economic concerns.

The path to peace is indeed long and arduous, but it is a path that we must tread with unwavering determination, mutual respect and a genuine commitment from both parties if it is to succeed. We look forward to continuing exploratory talks with the GRP and hopeful to resume formal negotiations to achieve just and lasting peace in the Philippines.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/on-the-ongoing-talks/

21 Moro Islamic Liberation Front top commanders apply for amnesty

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 9, 2024): 21 Moro Islamic Liberation Front top commanders apply for amnesty (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) on Monday said 21 ranking Moro Islamic Liberation Front commanders have filed their applications through the Local Amnesty Board in Cotabato City.

In a statement, the NAC said among those who filed for amnesty on Aug. 30 were top ground commanders of the group who are now Members of Parliament (MP) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The ceremonial submission was witnessed by the chairpersons of the Government of the Philippines-Moro Islamic Liberation Front Peace Implementing Panel, retired Gen. Cesar Yano and Minister Mohagher Iqbal.

Also in attendance were BARMM Senior Minister and Moro Islamic Liberation Front Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) spokesperson Abunawas “Von Alhaq” Maslamama and MP Maryann Arnado.

The grant of amnesty to Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels is part of their agreement with the government under the Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

The NAC said this is a sign of the growing momentum toward peace, noting that Moro Islamic Liberation Front members applying for amnesty have reached 77 since it began accepting applications.

As of Sept. 4, the NAC has received 909 amnesty applications.

These applications include a significant number of former rebels of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front and their front organizations, as well as rebels from the Moro National Liberation Front and the Rebolusyonaryong Partidong Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade, signaling a notable shift towards unity and reconciliation.

The NAC continues to strengthen its information and education campaign, highlighting the benefits of amnesty in the government’s pursuit of peace and national reconciliation, as well as the amnesty application process.

The deadline for the submission of applications is set for March 2026.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1232926

US Marine Corps vows to boost AFP's protection of maritime borders

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 10, 2024): US Marine Corps vows to boost AFP's protection of maritime borders (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PARTNERS. AFP vice chief of staff Lt .Gen. Arthur Cordura (right) speaks with USMC commandant Gen. Eric Smith during the latter's courtesy call at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday (Sept. 9, 2024). The USMC chief has committed to helping the AFP in developing its maritime domain awareness. (Photo courtesy of the AFP)

MANILA – The commandant of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) has committed to helping the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in developing its maritime domain awareness (MDA) so it can be more interoperable with its American counterparts.

MDA refers to the capabilities of a country to protect and detect intrusions within its territorial waters.

USMC head Gen. Eric M. Smith made this assurance during his courtesy call with AFP vice chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday.

"The two leaders also discussed the upcoming Maritime Training Security (MTA) 'Sama-Sama' underscoring a shared commitment to advancing maritime domain awareness and interoperability," the AFP said in a statement late Monday.

The MTA "Sama-Sama" is a multilateral naval exercise between the Philippines and the US first held in October 2022.

In the meeting, Cordura expressed his appreciation of Smith's visit and highlighted the importance of continued partnership between the AFP and the USMC.

Smith's visit reflects the AFP’s initiative to explore avenues for future cooperation anchored in the rules-based international order and a shared vision for a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific Region.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1232988

NSC: Chinese ships swarming WPS rise to 207: PH Navy

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 10, 2024): NSC: Chinese ships swarming WPS rise to 207: PH Navy (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Facade of the Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila (PNA file photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The number of Chinese ships spotted in features in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) continues to rise, the Philippine Navy (PN) said Tuesday.

The PN's latest monitoring report showed 207 Chinese vessels were spotted in these areas from Sept. 3 to 9, a slight increase from 203 recorded from Aug. 27 to Sept. 2.

Out of this number, 182 are Chinese maritime militia vessels (CMMVs), marking a sharp rise from 165 during the Aug. 27 to Sept. 2 monitoring period.

Also spotted during the Sept. 3-9 period were 18 China Coast Guard Vessels (CCGVs), six People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) warships, and one Chinese Research and Survey Vessel (CRSV).

The bulk of Chinese ships in the WPS are in the vicinity of the Sabina Shoal, where the Philippine Coast Guard's BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) stands watch.

A total of 68 Chinese vessels were seen in this area – 55 CMMVs, eight CCGVs, and five PLAN warships.

This was followed by the Iroquois Reef with 59 Chinese vessels – 58 CMMVs and one PLAN ship.

Another 50 Chinese vessels were seen in Pag-asa Islands – 49 CMMVs and one CCGV – while 13 ships were seen in Bajo de Masinloc – 12 CMMVs and one CCGV.

Meanwhile, 10 vessels were spotted in the Ayungin Shoal – eight CCGVs and two CMMVs – followed by Lawak Island with four CMMVs, Likas Island with one CMMV, Panata Island with one CMMV, and Rizal Reef with one CRSV.

Highest so far

PN spokesperson for the WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said this number of Chinese vessel sightings is the highest so far for this year.

"A lot of the (Chinese) maritime militia are focused on Escoda or Sabina Shoal. Sabina and Escoda have been under our attention for the past good number of months because of the reported increase of crushed corals and we have to determine if this is man-made or by force of nature. Hence, the extra patrols given by the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), the Navy, the Coast Guard, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources," Trinidad said.

Also, Trinidad said that the number of Chinese ships deployed so far in the WPS is within the "force projection capability of South Sea Fleet, the CCG, and the maritime militia."

"Open sources will tell us that the South Sea Fleet is composed of roughly 80 to 90 ships and submarines. The (China) Coast Guard from 25 to 35, for the maritime militia, we have monitored in the past numbers as high as 250 to 300. These are stationed in their bases, Johnson, Subi, and or Mischief. But what they bring into our exclusive economic zone (EEZ) limits is what we monitor and report," he added.

Trinidad said what can be considered abnormal for China is if it decides to bring in units from other theaters of the PLA.

"So long as these are the forces within theater and they don't bring in other forces from the East Sea Fleet or the North Sea Fleet, then this is still within the normal range of their capability," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1232992

Fate of exploratory peace talks depends on Reds' sincerity

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 10, 2024): NSC: Fate of exploratory peace talks depends on Reds' sincerity (By Priam Nepomuceno)

NSC spokesperson Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya (Screengrab from PTV)

MANILA – The National Security Council (NSC) on Tuesday said it is fully supportive of the ongoing exploratory peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

NSC Assistant Director General and spokesperson Jonathan Malaya, however, said the communist movement and its allies must prove their sincerity in completely abandoning the armed struggle against the government.

The NSC issued this comment after NDF negotiating panel chairperson Julieta de Lima-Sison claimed that the government is making contradictory signals on the issue.

"Ms. Julieta de Lima-Sison of the National Democratic Front is mistaken. The government is not making 'contradictory signals' about this issue. We support the exploratory peace talks provided that the CPP-NPA-NDF does not impose their usual preconditions and come to the table with sincerity and a genuine desire to end the more than 50-year-old Communist insurgency that has brought so much pain and suffering to the Filipino people," Malaya said.

He said it is the CPP-NPA-NDF that has made "contradictory statements" about ending the armed struggle.

This was after the CPP-NPA launched its 3rd Rectification Movement last December, aimed at advancing its revolutionary armed struggle, despite signing the Oslo Joint Communiqué in November of last year.

Under the Oslo Joint Communiqué, the Philippine government and the NDF agreed to a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict which would pave the way for the transformation of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

"Instead of preparing for the NPA's transformation provided in the Oslo Joint Communiqué, the CPP instead called for a rectification movement doubling down on its commitment to carry forward the armed struggle, which it euphemistically calls the 'national democratic revolution' towards 'complete victory'," Malaya said.

While the NSC is hopeful and optimistic of the exploratory talks, Malaya said the government cannot just turn a blind eye to the CPP's renewed call for armed struggle.

"They should settle this issue among themselves once and for all. While we support the exploratory talks, its success will entirely depend on the sincerity, truthfulness, and commitment of the CPP-NPA-NDF towards achieving a peace settlement and ending armed hostilities as soon as possible," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1233021

PBBM names retired police general new BCDA chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11, 2024): PBBM names retired police general new BCDA chief (By Darryl John Esguerra)

NEW BCDA CHIEF. Thompson Lantion (center) takes his oath as the new chair of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on Monday (Sept. 09, 2024) before Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin. Lantion, a former police general, will replace Delfin Lorenzana as BCDA chief following the latter’s decision to "go to private life." (Photo courtesy of the Office of the Executive Secretary)

MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) Secretary-General Thompson Lantion as the new chairman of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).

Communications Secretary Cesar Chavez confirmed Lantion’s appointment to Palace reporters on Tuesday.

A retired police general, Lantion will replace Delfin Lorenzana as BCDA chief following the latter’s decision to "go to private life."

In a statement, Lorenzana congratulated Lantion, his fellow cavalier of the Philippine Military Academy Class '69, for his appointment.

“With decades of government experience and tested leadership, I am confident that Chairman Lantion will be able to sustain - if not surpass - the progress that we have made in BCDA,” Lorenzana said.

He also thanked Marcos for the opportunity to lead BCDA for last three years.

“Let me also thank BCDA’s key stakeholders from the private sector who have partnered with us in spurring national development,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1233092

Found arms caches in Leyte, Samar sign of weakened NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 9, 2024): Found arms caches in Leyte, Samar sign of weakened NPA (By Sarwell Meniano)

FOUND. Some of the firearms and ammunition discovered in Sogod, Southern Leyte on Sept. 2, 2024. The recent discoveries of arms caches in Leyte and Samar provinces signal the victory of the government’s fight to end insurgency in the region, an official of the Philippine Army said on Monday (Sept. 9). (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – The recent discoveries of arms caches in Leyte and Samar provinces signal the victory of the government’s fight to end insurgency in the region, an official of the Philippine Army said on Monday.

Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, said the participation of villagers and former rebels in peace initiatives largely contributed to the unearthing of firearms and an explosive buried by the New People’s Army (NPA).

"The involvement of former rebels has significantly weakened the NPA's capabilities in Samar and Leyte. We expect more discoveries in the coming days as the people and former NPA members are fully cooperating with our peace efforts," Vestuir said in a phone interview.

The Army’s 78th Infantry Battalion (IB) discovered the arms storage belonging to the NPA in Barangay Osmeña, General MacArthur, Eastern Samar on Sept. 7.

The discovery included two M16 rifles with magazines, 175 rounds of ammunition, a bandoleer, a flash drive, subversive documents, and four anti-personnel mine blasting caps which are banned under international humanitarian law.

Arms caches were likewise found on Sept. 2 in Barangay Kahupian, Sogod, Southern Leyte, and in Abuyog, Leyte; and in upland Canca-iyas village in Basey, Samar on Sept. 5.

The Philippine Army is likewise counting on the participation of former rebels for the surrender of the remaining 26 active NPA members hiding in the mountains of Leyte and Southern Leyte provinces.

He urged the remaining NPA members to lay down their arms, assuring them that their families and communities are ready to welcome them back.

"The government is sincere in helping you choose the path of peace," Vestuir said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1232910

NPA team leader, medic yield to Army in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 10, 2024): NPA team leader, medic yield to Army in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)

BACK TO MAINSTREAM. Jeno Maca Montenegro (left), the team leader of the dismantled New People's Army Guerrilla Front-30 Sub-Regional Committee Westland, and Jenalyn Medrano Montenegro (right), the group's medic, surrendered to military forces in Carmen, Surigao del Sur, on Monday (Sept. 9, 2024). They also turned over four high-powered firearms and ammunition. (Photo courtesy of 36IB)

BUTUAN CITY – Two members of the New People's Army (NPA), including a team leader, surrendered to military forces in Carmen, Surigao del Sur, a military official said Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Vincent Viray, commander of the Philippine Army's 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB), identified the surrenderers as Jeno Maca Montenegro, the team leader of the dismantled NPA Guerrilla Front-30 (GF-30) Sub-Regional Committee Westland, and Jenalyn Medrano Montenegro, the unit's medic.

"They spoke of the hardships they faced while evading our pursuing forces. Their desire to reunite with their family, which they had left for years, prompted their surrender," Viray said in a statement regarding the duo’s surrender on Monday.

The pair turned over four high-powered firearms and ammunition to military personnel at the 36IB headquarters in Barangay Puyat, Carmen town.

Viray said the 36IB is coordinating with the local government and concerned agencies to process support for the surrenderers under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

"We urge the remaining members of the dismantled GF-30 to surrender and take advantage of the government's offer under ECLIP. The 36IB will continue its operations to rid Surigao del Sur of insurgency and promote peace and development," Viray added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1232994

BARMM solon calls for calm after SC ruling on Sulu separation

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 10, 2024): BARMM solon calls for calm after SC ruling on Sulu separation (By Edwin Fernandez)

BARMM Member of Parliament Laisa Alamia. (Photo from Alamia’s Facebook)

COTABATO CITY – A lawmaker in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) urged political leaders and peace advocates to stay calm and open-minded following the Supreme Court (SC) ruling that severs Sulu from the autonomous region.

“As we move forward, it is essential that all stakeholders remain committed to the peace process. The true measure of success lies not in legal victories or political power but in the lasting peace, prosperity, and dignity of the Bangsamoro people,” BARMM Parliament member Laisa Alamia said in a statement Tuesday.

Alamia emphasized the need for dialogue and inclusivity, noting that the ruling highlighted the importance of strategic thinking in addressing the complex issues ahead.

“There are many complicated questions that require equally complicated answers as we wait for the actual decision of the SC to be published,” Alamia, who is also a lawyer, added.

The Court decision made public Monday declared unconstitutional the interpretation of the provision in the law directing the provinces and cities of ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) to vote as one geographical unit as including provinces that did not vote to be included.

"This violates Article X, Section 18 of the Constitution, which states that only provinces, cities, and geographic areas voting favorably in the plebiscite shall be included in the autonomous region," the Court explained.

The ruling stemmed from a petition filed by Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan in 2018, asking the SC to declare the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) or Republic Act 11054 as unconstitutional.

Tan argued that BOL violates Section 18 and 19 of Article 10 of the 1987 Constitution, which authorized the enactment of only one Organic Act to establish the ARMM.

“Only through an amendment of the Constitution may ARMM be abolished,” the petition stated.

Alamia called for a thorough review of the administrative implications, particularly in relation to existing BARMM agencies, programs, and legislation such as the Bangsamoro Administrative Code and Civil Service Code.

Concerns on regional unity

Naguib Sinarimbo, former BARMM interior minister and a lawyer, expressed concern about the broader impact of the decision.

He warned that it introduces an "opt-out" provision that was not explicitly provided for in the BOL but is now implied by the SC ruling.

“As a result, other provinces and cities may now entertain and pursue the idea of opting out from the autonomous region. This threatens the death of the Bangsamoro idea -- a concept uniting the 13 ethnolinguistic groups of Muslims who have resisted all forms of colonialism over the centuries,” Sinarimbo said in a separate statement.

Disappointment

Meanwhile, Basilan Representative Mujiv Hataman expressed mixed feelings about the ruling.

He welcomed the SC’s affirmation of the BOL but lamented Sulu’s exclusion from BARMM.

“The Bangsamoro will not be complete without Sulu. This is a significant blow to our efforts to promote unity and inclusivity across the provinces of the region,” Hataman said in a statement.

The SC’s decision is expected to have far-reaching effects, not only for the administrative structure of BARMM, but also for the region's long-standing efforts to maintain unity and stability as it navigates the challenges of self-governance and self-determination.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1233016

Full integration of 7,000 ex-MNLF men pursued

 From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 3, 2024): Full integration of 7,000 ex-MNLF men pursued (By: Edwin O. Fernandez, Melvin Gascon, Ryan D. Rosauro)

Gov’t seeks out former rebels for transition to civilian life just as Marcos vows to honor all peace accords with different groups



GESTURE OF GRATITUDE Bangsamoro Parliament Deputy Speaker Abdulkarim Tan Misuari (right) hands a souvenir to President Marcos on Monday during a ceremony marking the 28th anniversary of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement forged between the government and MNLF. Partly hidden is Bangsamoro Labor Minister Muslimin Sema. —Presidential Communications Office photo

MANILA, Philippines — Almost three decades after the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) dropped their guns and rejoined mainstream society, some 7,000 of its former combatants have yet to be fully transformed as peaceful and productive citizens.

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said they are now locating these former combatants so they can be covered by the MNLF Transformation Program (MTP).
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The move came just as President Marcos vowed on Monday to carry out all signed peace agreements between the government and different revolutionary groups, while pursuing negotiations with the country’s remaining insurgents.

READ: Gov’t, MNLF push for ‘transformation’ of ex-rebels, war-torn villages

“Rest assured that you can depend on this administration to implement all signed peace agreements for the security, inclusive progress and stability not only in Mindanao but throughout [our] country,” said Marcos during the opening of the National Peace Consciousness Month in Malacañang.Article continues after this advertisement

The event also marked the 28th anniversary of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) between the Philippine government and MNLF.Article continues after this advertisement

Marcos, in his speech, noted that the peace processes with former revolutionary organizations such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Cordillera Bodong Administration-Cordillera People’s Liberation Army, and Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade-Tabara Paduano Group, now known as Kapatiran, “are now in the advanced stages of implementation.”

The President credited the efforts of the MNLF and Bangsamoro government, the latter now led by former rebels, in helping solve the armed conflict in Mindanao.

“We would not have progressed this far without your help, [without your] guidance,” said the President.
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He said the peace efforts in Mindanao have resulted in increased investments, generated more employment and helped lower poverty incidence in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Transforming lives

Galvez recalled being reminded by former Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, a former soldier who once served as peace negotiator for the government, that at the time when the FPA with the MNLF was forged, the erstwhile separatist group had 14,000 combatants.

Of them, only 7,000 qualified to be integrated into the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police.

So far, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity has documented close to 2,000 former combatants mostly in Lanao del Sur and Basilan.

Galvez said they projected to have some 3,000 for Sulu and 2,000 for Maguindanao, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Lanao del Sur who will enlist in the MTP, noting that the FPA had provided for a socioeconomic package for those who will not qualify for integration into the country’s security forces.

Those who will enlist will have their firearms stenciled and recorded.

“We are doing this in line with the President’s instruction that no one should be left behind,” said Galvez.

The MTP will hopefully have at least P500 million in funding for next year, he added.

Defining chapter

Last year, the MTP had P294.2 million to support community assessment, socioeconomic profiling of combatants and the implementation of 79 projects for 25 priority communities of the MNLF.

“We appreciate the vow of the President to completely implement all signed agreements. We joined the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro on this promise. I think our people will see this as a debt of gratitudei to the President,” said Bangsamoro Labor Minister Muslimin Sema, who heads a major MNLF faction, referring to the peace pact inked in 2014 by the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

The President described the FPA as “a defining chapter in our history.”

“From the forging of the 1976 Tripoli Agreement under my father’s administration, to the signing of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement, we have demonstrated mutual respect and strong collaboration and a burning desire for peace,” he said.

As Marcos lauded the MNLF for helping the government curtail terrorism in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, Galvez noted how the MNLF leaders interceded so that members of the Abu Sayyaf turned their backs on banditry and terrorism.

The President also called on the MNLF and other groups in BARMM to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the first regional parliamentary elections in 2025.

“This landmark, the election of the members of parliament that will occur next year, is as important a landmark as the signing of all of the peace agreements,” he pointed out.
Exploratory talks

With the various peace-building efforts now under way and bearing fruits, Marcos said it was time to “focus on the transformation of our country toward a more inclusive, peaceful and progressive society.”

Galvez said he was confident they would be able to firm up a peace deal with communist rebels “even before the President’s term ends.”

He said “exploratory talks are ongoing” with representatives of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front even as the government works on “constituency building.”

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1979293/full-integration-of-7000-ex-mnlf-men-pursued

CTG member dead, 2 high-powered firearms seized in Caraga clash

From the Sun Star-Philippines (Sep 2, 2024): CTG member dead, 2 high-powered firearms seized in Caraga clash (Jo Ann Sablad)

A MEMBER of the communist New People's Army (NPA) or the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) was killed in a firefight with the Philippine Army's 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) in Barangay De Oro, Butuan City in Agusan del Norte on August 26, 2024.

According to the military report, the combined troops of 29IB and the Special Recon Unit encountered around five members of Platoon 1 of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) Westland of Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) past midnight on August 26.

The authorities identified the dead rebel as Aldo Gano, alias Tulong, a resident of Sto. Niño in Bayugan City.

Seized during the encounter were one AK47 rifle with magazine, ammunition and a backpack.

Meanwhile, on the same day, the 65th Infantry Battalion (65IB) clashed against members of Platoon 3 of the same CTG unit around 6:55 a.m. at Purok 4, Barangay Villangit in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. Recovered from the encounter were one M653 rifle with a magazine and other personal belongings of the rebels.

Brigadier General Arsenio Sadural, the commander of the 901st Brigade, said the SRSDG Westland is one of the units they believe is securing the top CTG leader Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya, and her group.

"The endline of MM (Maria Malaya), the wife of the late George Madlos, is near. It would be best for her to choose to surrender or suffer the consequence for her responsibility for numerous crimes against the people of the region. Our forces, with the aid of civilian informants, are hot on track against the group. It’s not too late for Sularte to yield and avail the government’s offer of amnesty," Sadural said.

Major General Jose Maria Cuerpo II, the commander of the 4th Infantry Division, on the other hand, said that he directed all units under the Joint Task Force Diamond in Caraga to sustain the offensives and aggressively pursue the CTG remnants.

"The military offensives will continue with no let-up. We will never allow them breathing space. With the ongoing cooperation and support of other stakeholders, we are committed and will use all available forces and resources in hunting and defeating the CTG," Cuerpo said. (SunStar Philippines)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/ctg-member-dead-2-high-powered-firearms-seized-in-caraga-clash

CTG supporter in Panay convicted of financing terrorism

From the Sun Star-Philippines (Sep 3, 2024): CTG supporter in Panay convicted of financing terrorism (By Leo Solinap)

THE court found Brince Gegodas, who was tagged a supporter of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) or the communist New People's Army (NPA), guilty of financing terrorism and sentenced him to prison.

Major General Marion R. Sison, commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division of the Philippine Army, commended the government forces and the Joint Focused Legal Action Team (JFLAT) for their successful operation.

"Gegodas' conviction represents a significant breakthrough in the government's efforts to combat terrorism financing and bring an end to the decades-long threat posed by the CTG in Panay Island. It sends a strong message to any individual or group that aids, supports, or finances the terrorist activities of the CTG: they cannot escape the long arm of the law, and the justice system will not tolerate any form of this criminal act,” Sison said.

On September 2, 2024, the Regional Trial Court, Sixth Judicial Region, Branch in Kalibo, Aklan, found Gegodas, also known by his aliases Ian Arevalo, Prince Egodas, Mak-Mak, or JP, guilty of violating Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10168, the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.

Section 6 states, “Any person who, not being a principal under Article 17 of the Revised Penal Code or a conspirator as defined in Section 5 hereof, cooperates in the execution of either the crime of financing terrorism or conspiracy to commit the crime of financing terrorism by previous or simultaneous acts shall suffer the penalty one degree lower than that prescribed for the conspirator.”

Gegodas received a sentence ranging from a minimum of 12 years to a maximum of 14 years, 4 months, and 1 day.

After his arrest during an entrapment operation, legal efforts revealed evidence of Gegodas' financial contributions to the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay. The recovered evidence included demand money, a bundle of coupon bands, a fragmentation grenade, cellphones, a wallet with P7,360 in cash, a SIM card, and a receipt from a remittance firm.

The accused member of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay "taxation unit" was arrested in Makato, Aklan.

The court found Gegodas guilty of providing financial support to the CTG, which directly contributed to their terrorist activities. He received a sentence of 12 to 14 years and four months in prison as an accomplice.

The Police Regional Office (PRO) Western Visayas praised the Special Task Group on Countering Communist Terrorist Group - Resource Generation for this landmark accomplishment, marking the first conviction in a terrorism financing case in the region.

PRO-Western Visayas also acknowledged the efforts of the JFLAT and the National Prosecution Service in conducting the law enforcement operations and prosecuting the case. (SunStar Philippines)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/iloilo/ctg-supporter-in-panay-convicted-of-financing-terrorism

2 NPA rebels, another wanted person arrested in Sibugay

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Sep 4, 2024): 2 NPA rebels, another wanted person arrested in Sibugay

Zamboanga Sibugay map. Image from Google Maps

AUTHORITIES have arrested three most wanted persons, including two New People's Army (NPA) rebels, in separate intelligence-driven law enforcement operations in Zamboanga Sibugay, the police said Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

The Police Regional Office (PRO)-Zamboanga Peninsula identified the two arrested NPA rebels as Jemwel Timaloy, and Rubelyn Selim. The other arrested suspect is Artemio Calunod.

The PRO-Zamboanga Peninsula said Timaloy was nabbed in a law enforcement operation through the service of an arrest warrant around 7:15 a.m. Tuesday, September 3, in Lower Baluran village, Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Timaloy has a pending warrant of arrest for multiple attempted murder with P120,000 recommended bail issued on October 11, 2021 by a court in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte. He is the sixth most wanted person in the province.

Selim was arrested around 4:15 p.m. Tuesday, September 3, in Barangay Lower Baluran, Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Selim has a pending warrant of arrest for attempted murder issued by a court in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte. He has been listed as the eighth most wanted person in the province.

Calunod was arrested around 4:15 p.m. Tuesday, September 3, in Purok Corazon, Ipil Heights village, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay. He has a standing warrant of arrest for rape with no recommended bail issued a court in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, on August 29, 2024.

Calunod has been listed as the fifth most wanted person in Zamboanga Peninsula.

"PRO-Zamboanga Peninsula commends the Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Police Office, Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit-9, and the Regional Intelligence Unit-9 for the successful separate law enforcement operations in Zamboanga Sibugay province which led to the arrest of three most wanted persons. These arrests highlight the ongoing commitment of law PRO-Zamboanga Peninsula to enhance public safety and uphold the rule of law," said Police Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding, PRO-Zamboanga Peninsula director. (SunStar Zamboanga)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/2-npa-rebels-another-wanted-person-arrested-in-sibugay#google_vignette

NTF-ELCAC extols insurgent’s conviction

 From the Manila Standard (Sep 4, 2024): NTF-ELCAC extols insurgent’s conviction (By Rex Espiritu)



THE National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Wednesday hailed as a “significant legal victory” the conviction of a communist rebel leader for terrorism financing.

The NTF-ELCAC said the court ruling marked the first conviction in Western Visayas and a major step in the government’s campaign against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

NTF-ELCAC executive director Ernesto Torres Jr. viewed the court sentence on Ian Arevalo as a “strong message against terrorism and a testament to the justice system’s effectiveness.”

“This landmark conviction sends a clear and powerful message—terrorism and its financing have no place in our society. It reflects the collective resolve of the Filipino people to reject those who seek to disrupt our peace and security,” Torres said.

The Regional Trial Court in Kalibo, Aklan, convicted Arevalo after he pleaded guilty to being an accomplice in terrorism financing.

https://manilastandard.net/news/314493155/ntf-elcac-extols-insurgents-conviction.html

Army neutralizes 19 rebels, seizes 30 guns in one month

From the Daily Guardian (Sep 5, 202): Army neutralizes 19 rebels, seizes 30 guns in one month (By By Jennifer P. Rendon)

In just one month, the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3rd ID) neutralized 19 local rebels and recovered 30 firearms during a series of combat operations in Western Visayas.

Sixteen of the 19 neutralized New People’s Army (NPA) members were killed in encounters, while three others were either arrested or surrendered.

The operations began on July 29, with the first encounter taking place in Barangay Basak, Cauayan, Negros Occidental. The 3rd ID initiated a total of 14 engagements, including four major encounters, from that date until August 31.

Among the 19 neutralized rebels were top NPA leaders, including Maria Concepcion Araneta Bocala, alias Concha, the 1st Deputy Secretary of Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KR-P); Vivian Torato Teodosio, alias Minerva, Secretary of the weakened Central Front, KR-P; and Vicente Hinojales, alias Arjie, Hadjie, Mandie, and LJ, the Regional Secretary of KR-P.

Araneta-Bocala and Teodosio were killed in an August 15 encounter with the 82nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Cabatangan, Lambunao, Iloilo. Hinojales’ body was also discovered in the same area.

Other neutralized NPA key figures included Aurelio Bosque, alias Burnok, former spokesperson of Bayan-Panay; Armando Sabares, alias Kamlon, Regional Ordnance Officer; and Romulo Gangoso, alias Reagan, former Commanding Officer of the dismantled Eastern Front. They were killed on August 8 during a series of encounters in Barangay Aglonok, Calinog, Iloilo, involving the 12th and 82nd Infantry Battalions.

The 3rd ID leadership said these combat accomplishments bolster their efforts toward declaring a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) in Western Visayas.

The 3rd ID’s commander, Major General Marion Sison, commended the division’s personnel for their dedication.

“These milestones are hallmarks of their exceptional skills and determination to establish an SIPS zone in Western Visayas,” Sison said.

“When the loudest clarion call sounds, we rise above any situation and deliver the best results, no matter the circumstances. Our quality of work remains consistent and unprecedented, leading to victories one after another,” he added.

Sison expressed optimism that these accomplishments will be a stepping stone to even greater success in the coming months as they aim to meet their campaign targets.

https://dailyguardian.com.ph/army-neutralizes-19-rebels-seizes-30-guns-in-one-month2/#google_vignette