AFP realignment in Mindanao: Eastmincom to focus on NPA

From Malaya (Apr 2): AFP realignment in Mindanao: Eastmincom to focus on NPA

THE Armed Forces has re-aligned its forces in Mindanao, transferring the operational control of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division to the AFP Western Mindanao Command from the Eastern Mindanao Command.

The move will allow the Davao City-based Eastmincom to concentrate on the fight against the communist New People’s Army, said Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, AFP deputy chief of staff for operations.

The move will also leave the Zamboanga City-based Wesmincom addressing all issues that are related to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, said Baladad.

“This is in support to the peace process with the MILF,” he said.

The area of operation of the 6th ID is Central Mindanao, bailiwick area of the MILF which is negotiating a peace agreement with government. The 6th ID is under Brig. Gen. Romeo Gapuz.

The development leaves Eastmincom with two divisions under it – the 4th ID and 10th ID. Eastmincom is currently commanded by Maj. Gen. Jorge Segovia.

Wesmincom will now have two Army divisions under its control, namely the 6th ID and the 1st Infantry Division. Wesmincom is under the command of Lt. Gen. Rey Ardo, a former 6th ID commander.

Baladad said Eastmincom will now “concentrate on the fight against the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA” and Wesmincom will focus on the “implementation of the peace process.”
“There will be no confusion (in addressing concerns),” he added.

Capt. Severino Vicente David, Eastmincom spokesman, said NPA-infested portions of North Cotabato, which used to be an area of 6th ID, will remain under the Eastmincom.
“What are left to us are NPA areas,” said David.

The area of operations of Eastmincom includes Compostela Valley, a known NPA stronghold.
A military official familiar with the realignment of forces said two Army battalions, earlier attached to the 6th, have been left to man North Cotabato. He said the two battalions are now attached to the 10th ID.

“This is a good move actually because Wesmincom will concentrate on MILF activities. On the other hand, Eastmincom will focus on counter-insurgency,” the source said.

http://malaya.com.ph/index.php/news/nation/27783-afp-realignment-in-mindanao-eastmincom-to-focus-on-npa