Monday, March 18, 2024

Northern Negros rebel leader surrenders

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 19, 2024): Northern Negros rebel leader surrenders (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

An alleged leader of the New People’s Army, who participated in the ambush and encounter with policemen in Calatrava, Negros Occidental, gave himself up to the 79th Infantry Battalion, on March 17.

According to a statement issued by the 79th Infantry Battalion, the NPA leader who surrendered, whose identity was withheld for security reasons, served as a vice squad leader and intelligence officer of
Squad 1, Sentro De Grabidad Platoon (SDG) of the dismantled Northern Negros Front.

The 79IB said that the surrendered rebel leader is a close associate of the elusive and most wanted NPA leader Roger Favillar, with aliases of Arnel Tapang, Jhong, Nono and Domeng, whose group was responsible for a series of killings in the hinterlands of Calatrava and Toboso.


A cash bounty of P1 million is being offered by the government for the arrest of Favillar.

The ambush and encounter in Sitio Icogan, Brgy. Minapasuk, Calatrava on August 9 last year, claimed the life of a policeman and injuries of two others.*

https://visayandailystar.com/northern-negros-rebel-leader-surrenders/

EastMinCom neutralizes 74 communist rebels since January 2024

From the Mindanao Times (Mar 18, 2024): EastMinCom neutralizes 74 communist rebels since January 2024 (By RHODA GRACE SARON)



THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) continues to intensify its whole-of-nation approach to finish the dwindling forces of the remaining guerilla fronts leading to the neutralization of 74 rebels in its jurisdiction.

LtGen. Greg T. Almerol, EastMinCom commander, said they want to meet the challenge of AFP Chief of Staff Romeo S. Brawner Jr. to dismantle the NPA in the country as soon as possible.

The command’s no-let-up operations led to a series of encounters against the communist terrorist group (CTG) and the surrender of its members since January 2024.

Based on EastMinCom records, the command neutralized 74 Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA terrorists (CNT), comprising 62 surrenders, four captures, and eight deaths. Soldiers also captured 71 firearms (58 high-powered and 13 low-powered), recovered eight anti-personnel mines, and overran one enemy hideout.

“I commend you all for your steadfast dedication that has played a pivotal role in the Command’s remarkable achievements. With the timeline given to us by the Chief of Staff, I am confident that we can adhere to it and finish the remaining guerrilla fronts in our area of operations. With your commitment and dedication to upholding our mission, we will meet this challenge head-on and emerge victorious in safeguarding our nation’s peace and security,” Almerol said.

Likewise, the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) of Surigao del Norte members approved a joint resolution proclaiming the province “insurgency-free” on March 15.

Almerol also lauded the troops of the 901st Infantry Brigade to dismantle the remaining NPAs in the province.

“Your dedication and bravery have been exemplary, showcasing the true spirit of service. You have overcome challenges with unwavering resolve, securing peace and stability in your area of operation. May this achievement be a testament to your efforts and dedication to finally defeat the CTG forces and create a conflict-resilient Eastern Mindanao,” he said.

Surigao del Norte is the eighth province under the joint operational area of EastMinCom to be declared insurgency-free.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/eastmincom-neutralizes-74-communist-rebels-since-january-2024/

AFP to hunt down Dawlah Islamiyah fighters after bloody ambush; fallen troops identified

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 18, 2024): AFP to hunt down Dawlah Islamiyah fighters after bloody ambush; fallen troops identified (By MARTIN SADONGDONG)


Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief, General Romeo Brawner Jr. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Monday, March 18, that it will run after the members of extremist group Dawlah Islamiyah – Hassan Group (DI-Hassan) who were blamed for an ambush in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur which killed four Philippine Army (PA) personnel.

“The AFP vows to hunt down the perpetrators and neutralize these ruthless killers to finally put a stop to their violent acts that disrupt peace and stability in the region,” AFP Chief, General Romeo Brawner Jr. said.

The military chief condoled with the families and loved ones left behind by the slain soldiers, who were members of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID).

Col. Louie Dema-ala, PA spokesperson, identified the fallen troops as Private Marvin Dumaguing, Private Jessie James Corpuz, Private First Class Carl Araña, and Corporal Creszaldy Espartero.

Dumaguing, Corpuz, and Araña were members of the 40th Infantry Battalion while Espartero belonged to the 3rd Cavalry Armor Division, all under the 601st Infantry Brigade, 6ID.

According to a military report, the troops wearing plain clothes were heading back to their patrol base on board a civilian vehicle after buying supplies for "iftar" when around 10 DI fighters ambushed them near a residential area in Barangay Tuayan 1 around 9:40 a.m. on Sunday, March 17, which is around one to two kilometers away from their base in in Sitio Bagurot, Barangay Mother Tuayan.

Iftar refers to the fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims during Ramadan. The soldiers were supposed to distribute the food supplies to the Muslim civilians that were fasting near their patrol base.

“We assure the Filipinos that your Armed Forces is firm on its resolve to perform our mandate of protecting the people and the state,” Brawner said.

Army chief, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido earlier condemned the attack on the troops which he described as “senseless, treacherous, and heinous.”

“The Army is committed to ensuring that the perpetrators face the full consequences of their actions and that justice will be served for the victims and their families,” Galido said.

The bodies of the four soldiers were brought to the mortuary of 6ID at Camp Siongco in Maguindanao del Norte for the wake.

The DI has been the subject of intense military offensives in the previous months, especially after being implicated in the bombing at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur in December last year. The incident claimed the lives of four people and injured 50 others.

In February, six soldiers and three DI members died in a pursuit operation in Munai, Lanao del Norte against those believed to be responsible in the MSU bombing.

Prior to this, 18 DI fighters had been killed in various encounters with the military since the MSU blast.

Asked if the most recent ambush could be a form of retaliation, Dema-ala responded: "That is one of the considerations that we are looking at."

https://mb.com.ph/2024/3/17/afp-to-hunt-down-dawlah-islamiyah-fighters-after-bloody-ambush-fallen-troops-identified#google_vignette

Dawlah Islamiya counterattack in Maguindanao del Sur kills 4 soldiers

From Rappler (Mar 17, 2024): Dawlah Islamiya counterattack in Maguindanao del Sur kills 4 soldiers (By FERDINANDH CABRERA)



(2nd UPDATE) The troops were attacked after buying food for Iftar, the meal eaten by Muslims to break their fast during Ramadan

MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR, Philippines – Four army personnel from the 40th Infantry Battalion were killed in an ambush launched on Sunday morning, March 17, by members of the Dawlah Islamiyah terror group.

The fatalities are one corporal and three private ranks. Their names have not been disclosed until their families are informed.

Brigadier General Oriel Pangcog, commander of 601st Army Brigade, confirmed four of his men were killed, noting that “they were supposed to go back to their base when ambush was launched.”

The incident, which happened during Ramadan, took place along the national highway of Tuayan 1, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur around 9 in the morning.

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Death toll rises to 20 in Maguindanao del Sur fighting as Dawlah Islamiyah attacks MILF
The Dawlah Islamiyah launches attacks against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, blaming it for the government offensives against its members in Maguindanao del Sur


“The enemies launched also their counterattacks after our successful operations in the past days”, he said.

Major General Alex Rillera, Sixth Infantry Division chief, said the troops were just buying food in preparation for Iftar, the meal eaten by Muslims to break their fast during Ramadan.


Troops have monitored heavily-armed members of the Dawlah Islamiyah gathered in the nearby Datu Saudi Ampatuan town in Maguindanao Del Sur, which led to a ground military offensive against the terror group.

Rappler received intelligence reports on Saturday, March 16, that Dawlah Islamiyah will launch attacks at military detachments.

An hot pursuit operation was conducted by joint government forces on the ground after the ambush.

In a statement, Lieutenant General Roy Galido, Commanding General of the Philippine Army, denounced the “ruthless ambush.”

“We also stand in solidarity with the families of our four fallen heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Appropriate benefits and assistance will be provided to their families to help them during this trying time,” the statement read.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also condemned the “cowardly” counterattack, and promised immediate assistance to the families of the fallen soldiers.

“This despicable act only strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation,” Marcos said on Monday, March 18. – with a report from Dwight de Leon/Rappler.com

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/soldiers-killed-dawlah-islamiya-launches-counterattack-march-17-2024/

4 soldiers killed in Maguindanao del Sur ambush

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 18, 2024): 4 soldiers killed in Maguindanao del Sur ambush (By: Drema Quitayen Bravo)



Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Army chief, and Brig. Gen. Oriel Pangcog, 601st Brigade commander. (Photos from the Facebook accounts of, respectively, the Philippine Army and the 6th Infantry Division)

DATU HOFFER, Maguindanao del Sur, Philippines — Three Army troopers belonging to the 40th Infantry Battalion (IB) and one soldier of the 3rd Cavalry under the 601st Infantry Brigade were killed in an ambush by militants in this town on Sunday morning.

Brig. Gen. Oriel Pangcog, 601st Brigade commander, told the Inquirer that the victims, all enlisted soldiers, had just bought food and office supplies in the town proper at about 9 a.m. when the attack occurred.

They were already on their way back to the 40th IB patrol base in Sitio Bagurot, Barangay Mother Tuayan, when the assailants ambushed them along the road in the village of Tuayan 1, only about 1 or 2 kilometers away.


Pangcog did not reveal the names of the soldiers who died as the military still had yet to inform their families.

The bodies, however, are now at the 6th Infantry Division (ID) headquarters in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte.

“We can’t name them for now because we need to inform their families first,” Pangcog said.

Ambush was retaliatory attack?

He added that the extremist group Daulah Islamiyah could have carried out the ambush in retaliation for the military operation on Dec. 2, 2023, that claimed the lives of 11 of its members.

“We had great accomplishments in December last year when several Daulah Islamiyah members were killed and neutralized; so, it could be that they were behind this ambush,” Pangcog said, referring to the military’s operation in the mountainous part of Mother Tuayan in Datu Hoffer.


In a separate statement, the Philippine Army denounced the “ruthless ambush” carried out by suspected members of the Daulah Islamiyah extremist group.

“This incident only strengthens our resolve to eradicate this terrorist group from our land once and for all,” Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido said, as he condemned the “senseless, treacherous and most heinous acts perpetrated by this terrorist group.”

“We also stand in solidarity with the families of our four fallen heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Appropriate benefits and assistance will be provided to their families to help them during this trying time,” he added.

Galido said the Army was working closely with local authorities and community leaders “to ensure that security measures in the area are sustained.”

“The Army is committed to ensuring that the perpetrators face the full consequences of their actions and that justice will be served for the victims and their families,” he said.
Food for fasting Muslims

The 6th ID also condemned the attack.

Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, said the food bought by the troopers from the public market had been intended for the iftar, or the meal taken by Muslims to break their fast after sunset every day during Ramadan.

READ: 4 Army troopers killed in Maguindanao del Sur ambush

The military has been giving out iftar for free to Muslim civilian communities as part of its regular community service during the fasting month.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1919801/4-soldiers-killed-in-maguindanao-ambush

Opinion: Revisiting US role in Mindanao

Opinion piece posted to Press One (Mar 18, 2024): Revisiting US role in Mindanao (By Manny Mogaato)





Last month, in a deadly clash in Lanao del Norte province, Islamist militants affiliated with the Middle East-based Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) killed six commandos from the Philippine Army’s elite Scout Ranger battalion.

Three local Islamist militants were also killed.

The gunbattle in Munai town was a grim reminder that the remnants of the violent Daulah Islamiyah-Maute group remained a real security threat in the southern Philippines.

From the late 1960s, Muslim separarists belonging to the Moro National Liberation Fromt (MNLF) and the more fundamentalist Moro Liberation Front (MILF) created security problems in Mindanao, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-tawi.

But the government was successful in negotiating peace agreements with these rebel groups.

However, returning mujahideens from the Middle East continued the struggle for self-determination, forming smaller and more violent groups with links to Southeast Asian and Middle East Islamist militants organizations.

By the early 2000s, Mindanao had become a popular destination for many foreign Islamist militants seeking training, exposure and experience in guerrilla warfare.

In 2017, these smaller groups – the Abu Sayyaf from Sulu and Basilan, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Figthets from Maguindanao, and the Maute group from Lanao del Sur — banded together to seize control and occupy Marawi City in Lanao del Sur.

It was unimaginable for rival ethnic Muslim militants to join forces and rally under the Islamic State banner.

It took five months before the military could regain control of the country’s only Islamic City, leaving it in ruins and displacing tens of thousands of residents.

After the Marawi conflict, the military thought it had decimated the Islamist militants after their leaders – Isnilon Hapilon and the Maute brothers, Omar and Abdullah – were killed.

But lesser-known militant leaders soon emerged and continued the struggle to create an independent, separate, and free Islamic state.

The nation was shocked when the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute group detonated last December an improvised explosive device during a Roman Catholic Mass inside a gymnasium at the campus of Mindanao State University in Marawi City, killing four people and wounding 50 others.

It was a wakeup call. Threats from small and violent Islamist militants had not been totally defeated.

The Philippines has to revisit its move to shift to territorial defense from internal security operations as terrorism remains a concern in the south.

Mindanao could still be a sanctuary and training ground for foreign Islamist militants. Dozens of Southeast Asian fighters had returned from Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria to Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Mindanao remains attractive to these returning Islamist militants because of the unstable security situation.

Despite peace agreements with both the MNLF and the MILF, the situation remains shaky as the government struggles to fulfill its financial obligations.

Within the former rebel movement, there has been a constant struggle between the elder leaders who are tired of fighting and the younger, more radical emerging leaders who demand a free and separate Islamic state.

Next year’s elections at the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) could also be problematic if the MILF leadership loses control over the region.

The December attack at MSU could demonstrate a possible surge in Islamist militants’ activity in the south.

There are other factors that may fuel the rise in terrorist attacks in the south – the battle to replace Abu Zacaria as the emir or leader of the Islamic State’s East Asia Wilayah.

Faharudin Hadji Benito Satar or Abu Zacaria was killed in a military raid in June last year in Marawi City.

Some officials, led by Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, have also objected to bringing 50,000 Afghan refugees to the country because they could pose as a security threat.

The Philippines should not dismiss the potential threats from smaller Islamist militants.

The conditions on the ground remained very volatile and it could suddenly flare up with the rising conflicts around the world, like Ukraine and the Gaza Strip.

Mindanao will become an attractive training ground, again, for Islamist militants to be deployed in hotspots around the globe as the Philippines has been paying more attention to the disputed South China Sea, away from internal security threats.

Perhaps, the Philippines could also review the deployment of small US Special Forces contingent in Mindanao.

After the September 11 attacks, the US opened a second front on its global war on terror in the southern Philippines, sending 2,000 soldiers and building coastal radar stations to monitor Islamist militants movements and activities along the borders of Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Lately, Washington has reduced the numbers to 100 to 200 troops as the threats have subsided with the death of Osama bin Laden and the defeat of the Islamic State.

The presence of some local and foreign Islamist militants in Mindanao could be a good cover for the US continued deployment.

However, the Mamasapano incident in 2015, the Marawi conflict in 2017, and the latest bomb attack at MSU put a big question mark on Washington’s role in preventing such events.

The US had some roles in Mamasapano and in Marawi. The Philippines has to review how beneficial the US presence in Mindanao because Washington may have shifted its focus to countering China’s growing influence in the region rather than fighting Islamist militancy.

https://pressone.ph/revisiting-us-role-in-mindanao/

Gov’t amnesty form for ex-rebels accessible online starting this week

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 14, 2024): Gov’t amnesty form for ex-rebels accessible online starting this week (By: John Eric Mendoza)



FILE PHOTO: This undated file photo shows members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in an undisclosed location. On Thursday, March 14, 2024, National Amnesty Commission (NAC) official Jamar Kulayan said former rebels who wish to apply for government amnesty may download the form online beginning this week. Jeoffrey Maitem/Inquirer Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines — Former rebels who wish to apply for government amnesty may download the form online beginning this week, National Amnesty Commission (NAC) official Jamar Kulayan said Thursday.

In a phone interview with INQUIREr.net, the NAC commissioner said they anticipate around 80,000 eligible ex-insurgents to apply for amnesty.

He added that even before the release of the Amnesty Program’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR), former members of the New People’s Army (NPA), Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB), Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) may already avail of the government’s reprieve offer.

Kulayan earlier said that the IRR of Presidential Proclamation No. 404 would be issued before the end of March. Presidential Proclamation No. 404 seeks to grant amnesty for members of the NPA, RPMP-RPA-ABB, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and MNLF. The decree, however, excludes rebels already convicted or charged under Republic Act (RA) No. 9372, or the Human Security Act of 2007; and RA 11479, or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

“Actually, even before [the release of the IRR], they can already apply,” Kulayan said.

“We will be posting in due time, maybe within the day, we will be posting the application form [on] our Facebook page so those applicants can already download it and accomplish the same, and submit them to our local amnesty boards,” he also said.

Pressed further on the actual date NAC plans to publish the amnesty form, the official said: “Within the day (Thursday), or at the latest, maybe tomorrow (Friday).”

READ: Senate adopts reso on amnesty for former CPP-NPA-NDF members

On Wednesday, the Senate adopted the resolution that concurs with Presidential Proclamation No. 404, paving the way for the release of its IRR that would authorize the processing of applications.

Kulayan said around 39,000 to 40,000 former NPA members and most of the 40,000 decommissioned Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants are eligible for amnesty.

More or less 2,000 former MNLF fighters and 1,700 former members of the RPMP-RPA-ABB could likewise avail of the government’s offer, he added.

READ: Galvez says gov’t to finish process of disarming Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters before 2025

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front forged a peace agreement with the Philippine government which resulted in the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARRM).

The decommissioning of former Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters is now ongoing, and the government targets to finish the process before BARRM’s first-ever elections in 2025.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), whose armed wing is the NPA, previously rejected the government’s amnesty offer. However, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines – the CPP’s political arm – and the government also agreed in November 2023 to come up with a framework to restart the peace talks.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1918561/amnesty-form-for-ex-rebels-accessible-online-starting-this-week

14 NPA fighters surrender in Caraga

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 14, 2024): 14 NPA fighters surrender in Caraga (By MIKE CRISMUNDO)

BUTUAN CITY – Fourteen New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have surrendered to the military in the Caraga region.

They surrendered nine high-powered firearms and vowed to support the government’s peace and development program, said 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (PAO) chief Lt. Col. Francisco P. Garello Jr.

Garello said five members of the regional headquarters of the
Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) turned themselves in on March 9. They yielded two M16 Armalite rifles, one AK47 rifle, one grenade launcher, and bullets.

The same day, four communist fighters from the
Weakened Guerilla Front 30 of the NPA surrendered in Carmen, Surigao del Sur and gave up one AK47 rifle and a caliber .45 pistol.


In a statement, 901st Brigade commanding general, Brig. Gen. Arsenio Sadural, said that the continuous surrender of fighters has demonstrated the nearing collapse of the NEMRC.

Its members continue to be in disarray and no sense of direction, suffering from hunger and exhaustion as well as fear of dying during encounter, Sadural said.

“As we push harder with this fight, remaining CTG members here in our AOR do not have other option left but to surrender, and they must accept that violence and terroristic agendas will never thrive and has no place in our peace-loving communities,” the 901st Brigade commander said. “Thus, we continue to accept and remain open to those who desire to live and thread the path of peace."

https://mb.com.ph/2024/3/13/14-npa-fighters-surrender-in-caraga

Army official: NPA weakens in Davao

From the Sun Star-Davao (Mar 14, 2024): Army official: NPA weakens in Davao (By David Ezra M. Francisquete)


SunStar File

THE 10th Infantry Division (10th ID) of the Philippine Army (PA) has confirmed that the New People’s Army (NPA) in their jurisdiction is currently weakened and unable to mark its 55th revolutionary anniversary on March 29.

This affirmation follows the signing of a resolution by the members of the Regional Peace and Order Council-Davao Region (RPOC-Davao), declaring the entire region free from insurgents as of September 19, 2022.

Major Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson for the Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) of the 10th ID, reiterated that despite the continuous efforts to eliminate these communist terrorist groups (CTG), tight security measures are still in place, especially at border points.

"Incapable naman pud sila nga mag-conduct og any atrocities sa atong Davao Region. Pero maskin ingon ana pa man, we do not lower our guards. Wala gyud 'ta nagkumpyansa. Nagpabilin gyud nga taas ang security level sa atong kasundalohan (While they are incapable of conducting any atrocities in our Davao Region, we maintain heightened security measures. We remain vigilant and never complacent),” Tito said in an AFP-PNP Press Corps Southern Mindanao Media Forum, Wednesday morning, March 13.

The latest encounter reported by the unit was the demise of Joedil Cayapos Virtudazo, also known as "Jerby" or "Janjalani," the notorious political leader of the Regional Sentro De Grabidad, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (RSDG, NEMRC), on December 26, 2023.

Virtudazo was killed during an operation conducted by soldiers of the 67th Infantry Battalion (67IB) under the 701st Infantry Brigade at Sitio Paradise, Barangay Santa Juana, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, following the commemoration of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) anniversary.

Currently, the region has not recorded any violent plots or encounters between the government forces and the rebels.


"Since the declaration of Davao Region as insurgency-free, wala na tayong record for skirmishes or any encounter with the enemy (Since the declaration of Davao Region as insurgency-free, we have had no skirmishes or encounters with the enemy)," clarified Major Catherine Dela Rey, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office - Davao Region (PRO-Davao), during the same press forum on March 6.

The 10th ID is gearing up for the Philippine Army’s 137th anniversary celebration on March 22.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/army-official-npa-weakens-in-davao#google_vignette

2 communist rebels surrender in Cordillera

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 16, 2024): 2 communist rebels surrender in Cordillera (By ZALDY COMANDA)

CAMP DANGWA, Benguet – Two New People’s Army rebels surrendered to the police in Mountain Province and Kalinga.

Police Brig. Gen. David Peredo Jr., Police Regional Office-Cordillera chief, said a 35-year-old team leader of
Squad Dos, Unit Malliari of Ka SLY under the Lejo Cawilan Command-Kilusang Larangang Guerilla (KLG), surrendered to the in Kalinga and yielded a caliber .45 pistol with a magazine and five bullets.

On the other hand, a 40-year-old member of the
Militia ng Bayan surrendered In Mountain Province.


Peredo said the two surrenderers expressed support to the unification program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist and Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) under Executive Order No. 70 and the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RLECC), Resolution No. 6, Series of 2021, dubbed "Dumanon Makitungtung" (Come and Talk to Villagers).

He said their decision to surrender underscores the success of the government's intensified reintegration efforts facilitated by the “Task Force Balik-Loob” program and the NTF-ELCAC.

Both individuals are undergoing debriefing and proper disposition.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/3/16/2-communist-rebels-surrender-in-cordillera#google_vignette

High-powered firearm and ammunition seized in Tapaz

From the Daily Guardian (Mar 18, 2024): High-powered firearm and ammunition seized in Tapaz (By Jennifer P. Rendon)



No casualties were reported from either the government forces or the New People’s Army (NPA) in an armed encounter on the morning of March 15 in Tapaz, Capiz.

However, soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 12th Infantry Battalion recovered a high-powered firearm and ammunition.

The 3rd Infantry Division reported that the troops confiscated a 5.56mm M16 assault rifle with a magazine holding ten rounds and some personal belongings following an offensive against suspected NPA insurgents in the hinterland village of San Antonio, Tapaz.

The soldiers engaged with rebels from the
NPA’s Central Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KR-Panay), who are believed to be involved in extortion activities in the area. The clash lasted five minutes before the rebels retreated.

The recovery of the firearm is said to diminish KR-Panay’s ability to threaten the locals and hinder government services and development projects in the region.


Major General Marion Sison of the 3rd ID emphasized the crucial collaboration between military forces and the local community in ending the armed conflict and establishing stable internal peace on Panay Island.

Sison expressed his commitment to the goals of EO 70, issued on December 4, 2018, which aims for a whole-of-nation approach to achieving sustainable peace and ending local communist armed conflict.

He urged the remaining KR-Panay members to surrender peacefully.

“Your supplies, ammunition, weapons, and influence over the people are diminishing. The best solution for you is to surrender now to avoid a bitter and senseless end. Value your life and spend your time, and strength with your family who deserves your care and attention. Come, join us, and together let’s work and enjoy the peaceful and progressing Panay.”

https://dailyguardian.com.ph/high-powered-firearm-and-ammunition-seized-in-tapaz/

Army claims thwarting NPA’s ‘attempt’ to disrupt service caravan

From the Daily Guardian (Mar 18, 2024): Army claims thwarting NPA’s ‘attempt’ to disrupt service caravan (By Glazyl Y. Masculino)

62IB Photo

BACOLOD CITY – The Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) has thwarted an attempt by the New People’s Army (NPA) to disrupt a government services caravan in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, following a confrontation in La Libertad town last Friday.

The 303rd Infantry Brigade (IBde) reported that heightened security measures led to the interception of the rebels, prompting them to redirect their efforts to La Libertad town.

At approximately 9:18 p.m., soldiers engaged with four members of the NPA’s Leonardo Panaligan Command from the regions of Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor (LPC-NPA, KR-NCBS) at the outskirts of Barangays Aya and Talaon in La Libertad town.

The brief encounter, lasting around three minutes, resulted in no casualties among government forces.


The confrontation led to the recovery of a 12-gauge shotgun with operational ammunition, discharged casings from a shotgun and an M16 rifle, documents of subversive nature, and various personal items.

Lieutenant Colonel Evelio Ilanga III, commander of the 62nd IB, called for the rebels to lay down their arms.

“The people will always stand against the rebels and report their locations immediately, no matter where they go,” he declared.

https://dailyguardian.com.ph/army-claims-thwarting-npas-attempt-to-disrupt-service-caravan/#google_vignette

Army, reds clash in Capiz town

From Panay News (Mar 18, 2023): Army, reds clash in Capiz town (By RUBY P. SILUBRICO & MA. THERESA LADIAO)

ILOILO City – High-powered firearms and ammunition were recovered during an encounter between the Philippine Army’s 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB) and the New People’s Army rebels in Barangay San Antonio, Tapaz, Capiz.

According to 12IB commander Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, his men were having an offensive operation at around 11 a.m. on Friday, March 15, when they encountered at least 10 armed men believed to be members of the
Central Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KR-Panay).

After a five-minute exchange of fire, the rebels withdrew and left behind one M16 assault rifle, a long magazine of an M16 assault rifle, 10 rounds of M16 ammunition, and some personal belongings.

“We believe there were wounded on the part of the rebels, kasi may mga dugo sa kanilang escape route. May nag-report kasi sa amin about the presence of armed men in the area,” Garsuta told Panay News.


Garsuta said that more soldiers were sent to the area to run after the rebels.

On the other hand, Major General Marion Sison, commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, lauded his men and the people of Tapaz, Capiz for their responsiveness, vigilance, and cohesive collaborative effort, resulting in another significant accomplishment.

He said it was a big help in establishing stable internal peace and security on Panay Island.

Sison also reiterated his call to the remaining members of KR-Panay to return to the folds of the government peacefully.

“Your supplies, ammunition, weapons, and influence over the people are diminishing. The best solution for you is to surrender now to avoid a bitter and senseless end. Value your life and spend your time and strength with your family, who deserve your care and attention. Come, join us, and together let’s work and enjoy the peaceful and progressing Panay,” Sison said.

https://www.panaynews.net/army-reds-clash-in-capiz-town/

Negros, Capiz encounters yield firearms

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 18, 2024): Negros, Capiz encounters yield firearms (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The focused military operations of the Philippine Army against remnants of the New People’s Army in Negros Oriental and Capiz in Panay, led to more encounters on March 15, resulting in the recovery of firearms and injuries of fleeing rebels.

In a statement, the 303rd Infantry Brigade reported that the 62nd Infantry Battalion successfully thwarted a group of NPA remnants from disrupting the delivery of government services following an encounter at the boundaries of barangays Aya and Talaon in La Libertad, Negros Oriental, on Friday night.

According to Maj. Mervin Rosal, 303rd Infantry Brigade Civil Military Operations officer, the encounter between 62IB soldiers and four remnants of the dismantled Central Negros 1 guerilla front, which lasted about three minutes,
resulted in the recovery of a 12-gauge shotgun with ammunition, empty M16 assault rifle and shotgun shells, subversive documents, and personal belongings of the fleeing rebels.

No 62IB soldiers were injured, while pursuing Army soldiers discovered blood stains along rebels withdrawal route, which indicates that some of them may have been wounded, Rosal said.


Prior to the encounter, he said the rebel remnants were monitored to have been planning to disrupt the ongoing implementation government socio-economic programs in central Negros.

However, their attempt was foiled due to heightened security measures, Rosal said.

The rebels then shifted their focus to La Libertad, where they were promptly intercepted by 62IB forces, he added.

On the same day, another encounter also ensued between 12th Infantry Battalion soldiers and about 10 NPA rebels at Brgy. San Antonio in Tapaz, Capiz.

The encounter, which lasted about five minutes,
resulted in the recovery of an M16 assault rifle with a magazine containing 10 ammunition, and personal belongings which were left behind by the fleeing rebels, a statement from the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division said.


The 3ID supervises nine Army battalions, stationed in Negros, Panay and Bohol.*

https://visayandailystar.com/negros-capiz-encounters-yield-firearms/

4 NPA rebels surrender in Surigao del Sur

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 18, 2024): 4 NPA rebels surrender in Surigao del Sur (By MIKE CRISMUNDO

BUTUAN CITY – Four New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion in Carmen, Surigao del Sur, over the weekend.



FOUR New People’s Army surrendered to the 36th Infantry Battalion in Carmen, Surigao del Sur last weekend. (Photo of via Mike U. Crismundo)

The surrenderers were identified as Commander Depor, squad leader of Squad 3; and Commander Lito, squad leader of Squad 2, both of Platoon 1 of the Weakened Guerilla Front 30 (WGF 30) of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), and their followers Judge and Grey, medical officer of Squad 2.

They surrendered one AK47 rifle and one caliber .45 pistol with magazines and ammunition.


The 36th IB said difficult life in the mountains forced them to surrender.

“The decision to surrender was driven by hardships they faced in the hinterlands in evading our government troops,” said 36th IB commanding officer Lt. Col. Vincent M. Viray.

“With the knowledge that the government forces treat the surrendered NPAs humanely, and at the same time knowing that the government has comprehensive plans for all surrendered brothers and sisters to have a fresh start through the government programs and benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), they chose to surrender,” he added.

Viray said the series of surrenders by communist rebels in Surigao del Sur manifests that the collaborative efforts of various government instrumentalities and the strong support of civil society organizations are effective in resolving the root causes of the insurgency problem.

He lauded the quarter’s decision to the fold of the law.

“They made a wise decision to surrender,” he said. “It prevents the unfortunate and unnecessary loss of lives like what happened to their comrades. This marks another step forward toward lasting peace and stability,” Viray said, adding: “Once again, I encourage the remaining NPA members to follow the decision of the four surrenderers and embrace the path and reconciliation.”

He said the 36th IB remains committed to its effort to foster peace and reconciliation.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/3/17/4-npa-rebels-surrender-in-surigao-del-sur#google_vignette