From GMA News (Jun 19): Court dismisses case vs. NDFP consultant
A Quezon City court has dismissed illegal possession of firearms and explosives charges against a National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) peace consultant and five others.
According to Ruben Saluta's counsel at the Public Interest Law Center (PILC), the decision dated June 5 by the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City Branch 100 granted the demurrer to evidence filed by Saluta, his wife Presentacion Saluta, and four other individuals.
The court has found "serious doubt in the prosecution evidence and in their chain of custody," adding that there were "discrepancies in the testimony of the seizing officer and the receipt of the property seized with the pieces of evidence actually presented in court."
In a statement, PILC managing counsel Rachel Pastores said that the decision validates their position that "these are trumped-up cases based on planted evidence."
Saluta was nabbed in Caloocan City in 2015 and charged with violating Republic Act No. 6968 or the Anti-Rebellion Act of the Philippines for his role in the New People's Army.
He was released from Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City in August 2016.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/657304/court-dismisses-case-vs-ndfp-consultant/story/
Tuesday, June 19, 2018
Negros Reds belittle Army deployment
From Panay News (Jun 20): Negros Reds belittle Army deployment
The Leonardo Panaligan Command of the New People’s Army (NPA) belittled the additional deployment of forces to the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division based in Negros Island.
NPA spokesman Ka JB Regalado said they have launched six tactical offensives to welcome the additional forces on June 12 – the Philippine Independence Day.
He added that their forces “successfully” rendered a punitive action against Mike “Dongkoy” Jakosalem, a village official in Barangay Humayhumay, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.
The NPA accused Jakosalem of being a drug lord and leading a crime syndicate in Negros Island and Cebu province.
Regalado said the rebels injured Jakosalem and killed his bodyguard on June 13.
On the same day, the NPA forces also attacked two Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit detachments in Guihulngan City and Trinidad town in Negros Oriental.
The remaining three tactical offensives were launched in Moises Padilla and La Castellana in Negros Occidental and another area in Guihulngan City on June 14, said Regalado, but did not further elaborate what these offensives were.
The NPA said in the first five months of the year, it already launched 28 tactical operations that resulted to the confiscation of 34 firearms, nine handheld radios, six cellphones, and various ammunition.
The Leonardo Panaligan Command of the New People’s Army (NPA) belittled the additional deployment of forces to the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division based in Negros Island.
NPA spokesman Ka JB Regalado said they have launched six tactical offensives to welcome the additional forces on June 12 – the Philippine Independence Day.
He added that their forces “successfully” rendered a punitive action against Mike “Dongkoy” Jakosalem, a village official in Barangay Humayhumay, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.
The NPA accused Jakosalem of being a drug lord and leading a crime syndicate in Negros Island and Cebu province.
Regalado said the rebels injured Jakosalem and killed his bodyguard on June 13.
On the same day, the NPA forces also attacked two Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit detachments in Guihulngan City and Trinidad town in Negros Oriental.
The remaining three tactical offensives were launched in Moises Padilla and La Castellana in Negros Occidental and another area in Guihulngan City on June 14, said Regalado, but did not further elaborate what these offensives were.
The NPA said in the first five months of the year, it already launched 28 tactical operations that resulted to the confiscation of 34 firearms, nine handheld radios, six cellphones, and various ammunition.
Army overruns NPA camp in Apayao; 9 fall
From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 19): Army overruns NPA camp in Apayao; 9 fall
CAMP AQUINO, Tarlac City — Army soldiers overran an encampment of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Kabugao, Apayao, following two encounters with about 15 armed guerrillas last Monday.
(MANILA BULLETIN)
Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) spokesman, said that the NPA encampment was discovered by troopers from the army’s 50th Infantry Battalion (50IB) late in the afternoon in Sitio Sibayan, Barangay Paco Valley in Kabugao.
Nato said the camp could accommodate up to 40 guerrillas.
It was discovered by the troopers under Joint Task Force (JTF) Tala who were pursuing the 15 NPA rebels that engaged them earlier in the day.
The first encounter lasted about 30 minutes while the second exchange of gunfire between the rebels and pursuing army soldiers happened near the vicinity and lasted about 20 minutes.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/06/19/army-overruns-npa-camp-in-apayao-9-fall/
CAMP AQUINO, Tarlac City — Army soldiers overran an encampment of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Kabugao, Apayao, following two encounters with about 15 armed guerrillas last Monday.
(MANILA BULLETIN)Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) spokesman, said that the NPA encampment was discovered by troopers from the army’s 50th Infantry Battalion (50IB) late in the afternoon in Sitio Sibayan, Barangay Paco Valley in Kabugao.
Nato said the camp could accommodate up to 40 guerrillas.
It was discovered by the troopers under Joint Task Force (JTF) Tala who were pursuing the 15 NPA rebels that engaged them earlier in the day.
The first encounter lasted about 30 minutes while the second exchange of gunfire between the rebels and pursuing army soldiers happened near the vicinity and lasted about 20 minutes.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/06/19/army-overruns-npa-camp-in-apayao-9-fall/
Alleged ranking CPP-NPA exec captured in Bohol
From GMA News (Jun 19): Alleged ranking CPP-NPA exec captured in Bohol
Government security forces have captured a suspected ranking official of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army in Bohol.
In a statement, the Philippine Army's 47th Infantry Battalion identified the suspect as Pedro Lumantas, also known as Dadoy, Andoy, and Didoy, the alleged Deputy Secretary of the Bohol Party Committee, the Komiteng Rehiyon Southern Bohol.
Lumantas was captured by combined military and police operatives by virtue of arrest warrant for multiple murder charges while he was getting medical treatment for a gunshot wound at Ramiro Hospital in Tagbiliran City last June 16.
Lumantas has since been turned over to the police for proper disposition.
Authorities said Lumantas was allegedly involved in "a series of atrocities" in Cebu and Bohol, including the recent merciless killings of two members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) last April and May.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/657439/alleged-ranking-cpp-npa-exec-captured-in-bohol/story/
Government security forces have captured a suspected ranking official of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army in Bohol.
In a statement, the Philippine Army's 47th Infantry Battalion identified the suspect as Pedro Lumantas, also known as Dadoy, Andoy, and Didoy, the alleged Deputy Secretary of the Bohol Party Committee, the Komiteng Rehiyon Southern Bohol.
Lumantas was captured by combined military and police operatives by virtue of arrest warrant for multiple murder charges while he was getting medical treatment for a gunshot wound at Ramiro Hospital in Tagbiliran City last June 16.
Lumantas has since been turned over to the police for proper disposition.
Authorities said Lumantas was allegedly involved in "a series of atrocities" in Cebu and Bohol, including the recent merciless killings of two members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) last April and May.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/657439/alleged-ranking-cpp-npa-exec-captured-in-bohol/story/
Reds using lull to recruit, regroup—AFP
From the Manila Standard (Jun 20): Reds using lull to recruit, regroup—AFP
Communist rebels, who believe holding the peace talks in the Philippines, is a “recipe for destruction,” are using the lull in the negotiations to regroup, recruit new members and acquire new weapons for their offensive against the government, the military said.
Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo said the information was culled from documents recovered captured during past encounters with the New People’s Army.
“Based on records we seized from the CPP-NPA Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army, these documents indicate they are taking advantage of the peace negotiations to recruit new members, to regroup and to refurbish themselves,” he added.
Arevalo stressed these findings only confirmed what the CPP-NPAs’ true motive in demanding for peace negotiations was.
“And I quote, they resort to peace negotiations as another form of legal struggle, which is possible to be used to advance their revolutionary mass movement,” he added.
Elsewhere, Rey Casambre, identified as a consultant for the negotiating panel of the rebels, referred to what he called potential harm on fellow consultants and members of the National Democratic Front such as arrests and military surveillance.
He said holding the peace negotiations in the Philippines would be a “recipe for destruction.”
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque, meanwhile, said Norway could still have a role in the peace talks, but stressed third parties need not be abroad to facilitate the talks.
Arevalo said, in short, while the rebels were negotiating for peace they were using this as an opportunity to strengthen their combat forces, the AFP spokesperson said.
Arevalo said the strong desire of the CPP-NPA to talk peace could be the offshoot of the mass surrenders of their guerrilla fighters and supporters, along with their weapons and equipment, in the past months.
Meanwhile, the public deserves to know various provisions contained in any peace agreement done with the rebels.
This is the reason why the AFP supports the decision of President Rodrigo Duterte to postpone the resumption of the peace talks with the CPP which was scheduled for June 28.
Arevalo said this move was in line with efforts to provide the public more opportunities to engage in the peace process.
“Let us remember that any peace agreement that government enters into especially with group like the CPP-NPA [Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army] that continues to sow chaos in the countryside needs to be acceptable to the people, peace is a public concern, the public deserves to know what are the provisions or the matters contained in every agreement, because this group, the CPP-NPA burns farm implement, they continue to extort huge amounts of money from businesses and they harassed the communities,”Arevalo noted.
He added the President’s move would give more time for the consultation of the public on the items arrived at by the parties during the back-channel talks.
“[With this], we ensure that the substance of the talks has the support of the people. And we are not only one, we are not alone in supporting that decision of the President, even Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the Secretary of the Department of National Defense, even the Presidential Adviser (for the Peace Process) Secretary Jesus Dureza, they all support this decision of the President. Even Senate minority floor leader Sen. Franklin Drilon supported the President and even went on by saying that it is high time that the peace talks be held in our soil, because (it would establish that) the CPP-NPA (is dealing with) the Government of the Philippines,” Arevalo said.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/top-stories/268512/reds-using-lull-to-recruit-regroup-afp.html
Communist rebels, who believe holding the peace talks in the Philippines, is a “recipe for destruction,” are using the lull in the negotiations to regroup, recruit new members and acquire new weapons for their offensive against the government, the military said.
Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo said the information was culled from documents recovered captured during past encounters with the New People’s Army.
“Based on records we seized from the CPP-NPA Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army, these documents indicate they are taking advantage of the peace negotiations to recruit new members, to regroup and to refurbish themselves,” he added.
Arevalo stressed these findings only confirmed what the CPP-NPAs’ true motive in demanding for peace negotiations was.
“And I quote, they resort to peace negotiations as another form of legal struggle, which is possible to be used to advance their revolutionary mass movement,” he added.
Elsewhere, Rey Casambre, identified as a consultant for the negotiating panel of the rebels, referred to what he called potential harm on fellow consultants and members of the National Democratic Front such as arrests and military surveillance.
He said holding the peace negotiations in the Philippines would be a “recipe for destruction.”
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque, meanwhile, said Norway could still have a role in the peace talks, but stressed third parties need not be abroad to facilitate the talks.
Arevalo said, in short, while the rebels were negotiating for peace they were using this as an opportunity to strengthen their combat forces, the AFP spokesperson said.
Arevalo said the strong desire of the CPP-NPA to talk peace could be the offshoot of the mass surrenders of their guerrilla fighters and supporters, along with their weapons and equipment, in the past months.
Meanwhile, the public deserves to know various provisions contained in any peace agreement done with the rebels.
This is the reason why the AFP supports the decision of President Rodrigo Duterte to postpone the resumption of the peace talks with the CPP which was scheduled for June 28.
Arevalo said this move was in line with efforts to provide the public more opportunities to engage in the peace process.
“Let us remember that any peace agreement that government enters into especially with group like the CPP-NPA [Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army] that continues to sow chaos in the countryside needs to be acceptable to the people, peace is a public concern, the public deserves to know what are the provisions or the matters contained in every agreement, because this group, the CPP-NPA burns farm implement, they continue to extort huge amounts of money from businesses and they harassed the communities,”Arevalo noted.
He added the President’s move would give more time for the consultation of the public on the items arrived at by the parties during the back-channel talks.
“[With this], we ensure that the substance of the talks has the support of the people. And we are not only one, we are not alone in supporting that decision of the President, even Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the Secretary of the Department of National Defense, even the Presidential Adviser (for the Peace Process) Secretary Jesus Dureza, they all support this decision of the President. Even Senate minority floor leader Sen. Franklin Drilon supported the President and even went on by saying that it is high time that the peace talks be held in our soil, because (it would establish that) the CPP-NPA (is dealing with) the Government of the Philippines,” Arevalo said.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/top-stories/268512/reds-using-lull-to-recruit-regroup-afp.html
Soldiers overruns NPA camp
From Tempo (Jun 20): Soldiers overruns NPA camp
CAMP AQUINO, Tarlac City – Army soldiers overran an encampment of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Kabugao, Apayao, following two encounters with about 15 armed guerrillas last Monday.
Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) spokesman, said that the NPA encampment was discovered by troopers from the army’s 50th Infantry Battalion (50IB) late in the afternoon in Sitio Sibayan, Barangay Paco Valley in Kabugao.
Nato said the camp could accommodate up to 40 guerrillas. It was discovered by the troopers under Joint Task Force (JTF) Tala who were pursuing the 15 NPA rebels that engaged them earlier in the day.
The first encounter lasted about 30 minutes while the second exchange of gunfire between the rebels and pursuing army soldiers happened near the vicinity and lasted about 20 minutes.
Meantime, the deputy commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Joint Task Force Ranao (AFP-JTF Ranao) assured Tuesday that no civilians will be caught in a crossfire because of the aerial bombings conducted by the military who are after the remnants of the Maute-ISIS group in Lanao del Sur.
Col. Romeo Brawner said the recent aerial bombings launched by the military have been concentrated in the mountainous parts of Lanao del Sur where the terrorists are hiding and there are no residents there.
http://tempo.com.ph/2018/06/20/soldiers-overruns-npa-camp/
CAMP AQUINO, Tarlac City – Army soldiers overran an encampment of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Kabugao, Apayao, following two encounters with about 15 armed guerrillas last Monday.
Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) spokesman, said that the NPA encampment was discovered by troopers from the army’s 50th Infantry Battalion (50IB) late in the afternoon in Sitio Sibayan, Barangay Paco Valley in Kabugao.
Nato said the camp could accommodate up to 40 guerrillas. It was discovered by the troopers under Joint Task Force (JTF) Tala who were pursuing the 15 NPA rebels that engaged them earlier in the day.
The first encounter lasted about 30 minutes while the second exchange of gunfire between the rebels and pursuing army soldiers happened near the vicinity and lasted about 20 minutes.
Meantime, the deputy commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Joint Task Force Ranao (AFP-JTF Ranao) assured Tuesday that no civilians will be caught in a crossfire because of the aerial bombings conducted by the military who are after the remnants of the Maute-ISIS group in Lanao del Sur.
Col. Romeo Brawner said the recent aerial bombings launched by the military have been concentrated in the mountainous parts of Lanao del Sur where the terrorists are hiding and there are no residents there.
http://tempo.com.ph/2018/06/20/soldiers-overruns-npa-camp/
Duterte hopes to ‘strike peace’ with enemies of state
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): Duterte hopes to ‘strike peace’ with enemies of state
President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Tuesday expressed hope to "strike peace" with enemies of the state as promised during the election campaign two years ago.
“We have to strike peace. There is no other way to do it. I cannot fight for Muslims. I cannot fight for Christians,” Duterte said in his speech during the 81st anniversary of the Government Insurance Service System (GSIS) in Pasay City.
Duterte said he believes the Filipino nation can finally see “the light at the end of the tunnel” if the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will be enacted into law.
“I’m talking to the MI (Moro Islamic Liberation Front). The BBL is there. I’m just keeping my fingers crossed but hopefully if it will be passed, we can see the light at the end of tunnel,” Duterte said.
The President said even Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari agreed to talk peace and end decades of conflict in Mindanao.
“Then, I’m talking to NM (Nur Misuari). Misuari said ‘Okay Rod’. We’re both from Mindanao. We share the same roof. Why do have to kill each other?,” said Duterte, who country’s first Mindanaoan president..
Meanwhile, Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the leaderships of the Senate and the House of Representatives promised that the bicameral conference committee will come out with final version of the BBL to be signed by Duterte before his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) next month.
“Well, the leadership of both the Senate and Congress promised that they would really have a final version that will be finalized by the bicameral conference committee,” Roque said in a press conference in Cotabato City on Tuesday.
Duterte said he is also talking with Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chairman Jose Maria Sison.
He reiterated his promise to guarantee Sison’s safety and security as the President insisted that peace talks between the Philippine government and the CPP’s National Democratic Front should be held in the country.
“Why should I talk outside? We are talking about our country, my country, their country and they want to take over, overthrow government. Why should I go to other place? Let’s talk here,” Duterte said.
Duterte gave Sison a 60-day "small window" to talk peace in the Philippines.
“Let’s talk for 60 days and during the period you come home, I will pay for your expenses and then if after two months period, nothing will happened, I will see to it that you go out of the Philippines safely,” Duterte said.
The President, however, told the communist leader not to come back to the country “ever again”.
“I was chosen by the people with a task to find peace in my country. I will exactly do that,” he said.
Roque clarified that Norway can still be third party facilitator even if the peace talks between the Philippine government and the CPP-NDF will be held in the country.
“I just want to emphasize the desire of the President to hold the peace talks in the Philippines but the third party facilitator does not have to be abroad to facilitate the peace talks,” Roque added.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza earlier said Norway will remain as a facilitator of the peace talks.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1038789
President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Tuesday expressed hope to "strike peace" with enemies of the state as promised during the election campaign two years ago.
“We have to strike peace. There is no other way to do it. I cannot fight for Muslims. I cannot fight for Christians,” Duterte said in his speech during the 81st anniversary of the Government Insurance Service System (GSIS) in Pasay City.
Duterte said he believes the Filipino nation can finally see “the light at the end of the tunnel” if the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will be enacted into law.
“I’m talking to the MI (Moro Islamic Liberation Front). The BBL is there. I’m just keeping my fingers crossed but hopefully if it will be passed, we can see the light at the end of tunnel,” Duterte said.
The President said even Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari agreed to talk peace and end decades of conflict in Mindanao.
“Then, I’m talking to NM (Nur Misuari). Misuari said ‘Okay Rod’. We’re both from Mindanao. We share the same roof. Why do have to kill each other?,” said Duterte, who country’s first Mindanaoan president..
Meanwhile, Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the leaderships of the Senate and the House of Representatives promised that the bicameral conference committee will come out with final version of the BBL to be signed by Duterte before his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) next month.
“Well, the leadership of both the Senate and Congress promised that they would really have a final version that will be finalized by the bicameral conference committee,” Roque said in a press conference in Cotabato City on Tuesday.
Duterte said he is also talking with Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chairman Jose Maria Sison.
He reiterated his promise to guarantee Sison’s safety and security as the President insisted that peace talks between the Philippine government and the CPP’s National Democratic Front should be held in the country.
“Why should I talk outside? We are talking about our country, my country, their country and they want to take over, overthrow government. Why should I go to other place? Let’s talk here,” Duterte said.
Duterte gave Sison a 60-day "small window" to talk peace in the Philippines.
“Let’s talk for 60 days and during the period you come home, I will pay for your expenses and then if after two months period, nothing will happened, I will see to it that you go out of the Philippines safely,” Duterte said.
The President, however, told the communist leader not to come back to the country “ever again”.
“I was chosen by the people with a task to find peace in my country. I will exactly do that,” he said.
Roque clarified that Norway can still be third party facilitator even if the peace talks between the Philippine government and the CPP-NDF will be held in the country.
“I just want to emphasize the desire of the President to hold the peace talks in the Philippines but the third party facilitator does not have to be abroad to facilitate the peace talks,” Roque added.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza earlier said Norway will remain as a facilitator of the peace talks.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1038789
Army acquiring P2.6-B worth of ammos
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): Army acquiring P2.6-B worth of ammos
The Philippine Army (PA) is acquiring PHP2.6 billion of ammunition of various types to replenish those utilized in the five-month battle to retake Marawi City from the clutches of the Maute-ISIS terrorists last year.
This was bared by PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva in an interview Tuesday.
To be acquired are 60mm and 81mm mortar munitions, 40mm rocket-propelled grenades and various types of small arms ammunition.
He added that these acquisitions are part of the PA's ongoing efforts to replenish the stocks it had used during last year's conflict in Marawi City.
The five-month battle started in May 23, 2017 and was only declared over after military units succeeded in killing Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS Emir in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon in mid-October.
Villanueva, however, clarified that this does not mean that their ground units have run out of bullets and other munition.
"Hindi naman. Hindi naman mangyayari yun kasi sa ating sistema, sinisigurado natin lagi na meron tayong (Not really. We do not run out of bullets and munition because in our system, we ensure that we always have) strategic reserve," the PA spokesperson said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1038806
The Philippine Army (PA) is acquiring PHP2.6 billion of ammunition of various types to replenish those utilized in the five-month battle to retake Marawi City from the clutches of the Maute-ISIS terrorists last year.
This was bared by PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva in an interview Tuesday.
To be acquired are 60mm and 81mm mortar munitions, 40mm rocket-propelled grenades and various types of small arms ammunition.
He added that these acquisitions are part of the PA's ongoing efforts to replenish the stocks it had used during last year's conflict in Marawi City.
The five-month battle started in May 23, 2017 and was only declared over after military units succeeded in killing Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS Emir in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon in mid-October.
Villanueva, however, clarified that this does not mean that their ground units have run out of bullets and other munition.
"Hindi naman. Hindi naman mangyayari yun kasi sa ating sistema, sinisigurado natin lagi na meron tayong (Not really. We do not run out of bullets and munition because in our system, we ensure that we always have) strategic reserve," the PA spokesperson said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1038806
4 more NPA rebels yield in Sarangani
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): 4 more NPA rebels yield in Sarangani
Four more New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered along with their firearms on Monday to government troops in Sarangani Province, a military official said.
Lt. Col Marion Angcao, commanding officer of the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion (IB), said Tuesday the rebels voluntarily yielded in Barangay Kinam, Malapatan town following negotiations with their troops.
Angcao identified the returnees as Dante Lumayas, alias “Pantat,” 24; Dang Lumayas, 45; Degoh Lumayas alias “Bayabas,” 30; and Malkuni Lumayas alias “Lawin,” 30, all residents of Sitio Akfutan in Barangay Kinam.
The four were reportedly assigned with the NPA’s Front 71, which operates in parts of Sarangani and Davao Occidental provinces.
Angcao said they surrendered two M16 Armalite rifles, a Garand rifle, an improvised explosive device and two Versa handheld radios.
He said the rebels decided to return to the fold of the law because of their difficult situation in the mountains, as well as for fear of being killed in any encounter with government troops.
“This is also the result of our continuing intensified operations against their unit,” Angcao said in a statement.
Troops from the 73IB clashed with the NPA unit on June 8 in Barangay Culaman, Jose Abad Santos town in Davao Occidental, resulting to the death of a rebel and the recovery of an M653 rifle.
On Sunday, the troops launched another operation in Sitio Kalgang, Barangay Kinam following reports on the presence of NPA rebels.
Angcao said no encounter had occurred but troops recovered two M16 rifles from the fleeing rebels.
He said they are set to present the returnees to the provincial government of Sarangani for the provision of initial assistance and facilitate their enrolment into the Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
Through the program, he said the former rebels will receive livelihood assistance and incentives for the surrendered firearms.
“They will be provided with various support services that will help them start new and peaceful lives with their families,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1038674
Four more New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered along with their firearms on Monday to government troops in Sarangani Province, a military official said.
Lt. Col Marion Angcao, commanding officer of the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion (IB), said Tuesday the rebels voluntarily yielded in Barangay Kinam, Malapatan town following negotiations with their troops.
Angcao identified the returnees as Dante Lumayas, alias “Pantat,” 24; Dang Lumayas, 45; Degoh Lumayas alias “Bayabas,” 30; and Malkuni Lumayas alias “Lawin,” 30, all residents of Sitio Akfutan in Barangay Kinam.
The four were reportedly assigned with the NPA’s Front 71, which operates in parts of Sarangani and Davao Occidental provinces.
Angcao said they surrendered two M16 Armalite rifles, a Garand rifle, an improvised explosive device and two Versa handheld radios.
He said the rebels decided to return to the fold of the law because of their difficult situation in the mountains, as well as for fear of being killed in any encounter with government troops.
“This is also the result of our continuing intensified operations against their unit,” Angcao said in a statement.
Troops from the 73IB clashed with the NPA unit on June 8 in Barangay Culaman, Jose Abad Santos town in Davao Occidental, resulting to the death of a rebel and the recovery of an M653 rifle.
On Sunday, the troops launched another operation in Sitio Kalgang, Barangay Kinam following reports on the presence of NPA rebels.
Angcao said no encounter had occurred but troops recovered two M16 rifles from the fleeing rebels.
He said they are set to present the returnees to the provincial government of Sarangani for the provision of initial assistance and facilitate their enrolment into the Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
Through the program, he said the former rebels will receive livelihood assistance and incentives for the surrendered firearms.
“They will be provided with various support services that will help them start new and peaceful lives with their families,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1038674
Alleged NPA leader nabbed in Sarangani
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): Alleged NPA leader nabbed in Sarangani
GENERAL SANTOS CITY--Police arrested in Alabel town, Sarangani Province over the weekend an alleged leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) who was tagged in the abduction of two Army troopers in Sultan Kudarat last year.
Senior Insp. Benjie Ancheta, Alabel police chief, said Tuesday they arrested Gideon Colano alias “Kumander Rebo,” 43, in an operation late Sunday evening in Sitio Nop of Barangay Spring.
Ancheta said the suspect was reportedly a leader of the NPA’s Front 72 that operates in the Sultan Kudarat town of Columbio town and neighboring areas.
Ancheta said Colano was arrested based on a warrant for kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by Tacurong City Regional Trial Court Judge Melanio Guerrero.
The case stemmed from the abduction of Sgt. Solaiman Calocop and Private First Class Samuel Garay of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Telafas, Columbio town in Sultan Kudarat on Feb. 2, 2017.
Calocop and Garay were released two months later by the NPA’s Mt. Alip Command in Davao del Sur province.
Ancheta said they earlier received a tip from an informant about the presence of Colano in Sitio Nop.
“He was in the area because his parents and some relatives residing there,” he said in a radio interview.
In March, an alleged NPA leader voluntarily surrendered to personnel from the Alabel municipal police station following a negotiation.
Returnee Johnny Magdasal Blase alias Janjan, a resident of Barangay Domolok, was reportedly a vice team leader of Platoon 2 of the NPA’s Front 75.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1038649
GENERAL SANTOS CITY--Police arrested in Alabel town, Sarangani Province over the weekend an alleged leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) who was tagged in the abduction of two Army troopers in Sultan Kudarat last year.
Senior Insp. Benjie Ancheta, Alabel police chief, said Tuesday they arrested Gideon Colano alias “Kumander Rebo,” 43, in an operation late Sunday evening in Sitio Nop of Barangay Spring.
Ancheta said the suspect was reportedly a leader of the NPA’s Front 72 that operates in the Sultan Kudarat town of Columbio town and neighboring areas.
Ancheta said Colano was arrested based on a warrant for kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by Tacurong City Regional Trial Court Judge Melanio Guerrero.
The case stemmed from the abduction of Sgt. Solaiman Calocop and Private First Class Samuel Garay of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Telafas, Columbio town in Sultan Kudarat on Feb. 2, 2017.
Calocop and Garay were released two months later by the NPA’s Mt. Alip Command in Davao del Sur province.
Ancheta said they earlier received a tip from an informant about the presence of Colano in Sitio Nop.
“He was in the area because his parents and some relatives residing there,” he said in a radio interview.
In March, an alleged NPA leader voluntarily surrendered to personnel from the Alabel municipal police station following a negotiation.
Returnee Johnny Magdasal Blase alias Janjan, a resident of Barangay Domolok, was reportedly a vice team leader of Platoon 2 of the NPA’s Front 75.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1038649
NPA justifies killing, injuring brgy captain
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 18): NPA justifies killing, injuring brgy captain
The Leonardo Panaligan Command of the New People’s Army issued a statement justifying the raid at the house of newly-elected barangay chairman Mike Jakosalem in Brgy. Humay-Humay, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental that caused his injuries, and resulted in the death of a civilian.
Ka JB Regalado, spokesperson of the Leonardo Panaligan Command, however, denied that they strafed the house of Jakosalem, claiming that a firefight ensued only after a member of the group of the barangay chairman fought back.
The nephew of Jakosalem, identified as Lenmar Cabasag died, while the barangay chairman, who sustained a gunshot wound in the head, survived. He is now recuperating in a hospital in Bacolod City.
Supt. Mario Baquiran, Guihulngan City police-officer-in charge, debunked NPA claims that Jakosalem engaged in illegal drug activities, saying that their validation showed he was not in the list of drug personalities.
Regalado also alleged that Jakosalem is an “agent” of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, that he also linked to the killings of drug surrenderers, and allegedly maintaining armed goons, among other accusations.
Baquiran said those allegations were hurled against Jakosalem by the NPA, upon withdrawing from the crime scene.
The NPA also claimed that they were able to seize four .45 caliber pistols, a browning shotgun, eight handsets and three cellular phones during the raid at the house of Jakosalem.
Baquiran said they will look into claims of rebels that they seized firearms from the victims, stressing that they have not been informed of this by the family of Jakosalem.
Regalado challenged other members of the group of Jakosalem to face their respective cases before the revolutionary court.
The newly-arrived 94th Infantry Battalion has been deployed by the 3rd Infantry Division in the hinterlands of Guihulngan City, to address atrocities committed by the CPP-NPA.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/June/18/topstory6.htm
The Leonardo Panaligan Command of the New People’s Army issued a statement justifying the raid at the house of newly-elected barangay chairman Mike Jakosalem in Brgy. Humay-Humay, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental that caused his injuries, and resulted in the death of a civilian.
Ka JB Regalado, spokesperson of the Leonardo Panaligan Command, however, denied that they strafed the house of Jakosalem, claiming that a firefight ensued only after a member of the group of the barangay chairman fought back.
The nephew of Jakosalem, identified as Lenmar Cabasag died, while the barangay chairman, who sustained a gunshot wound in the head, survived. He is now recuperating in a hospital in Bacolod City.
Supt. Mario Baquiran, Guihulngan City police-officer-in charge, debunked NPA claims that Jakosalem engaged in illegal drug activities, saying that their validation showed he was not in the list of drug personalities.
Regalado also alleged that Jakosalem is an “agent” of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, that he also linked to the killings of drug surrenderers, and allegedly maintaining armed goons, among other accusations.
Baquiran said those allegations were hurled against Jakosalem by the NPA, upon withdrawing from the crime scene.
The NPA also claimed that they were able to seize four .45 caliber pistols, a browning shotgun, eight handsets and three cellular phones during the raid at the house of Jakosalem.
Baquiran said they will look into claims of rebels that they seized firearms from the victims, stressing that they have not been informed of this by the family of Jakosalem.
Regalado challenged other members of the group of Jakosalem to face their respective cases before the revolutionary court.
The newly-arrived 94th Infantry Battalion has been deployed by the 3rd Infantry Division in the hinterlands of Guihulngan City, to address atrocities committed by the CPP-NPA.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/June/18/topstory6.htm
Military checking reports 5 terrorists killed in Lanao del Sur fresh fight – official
From Politiko-Mindanao (Jun 18): Military checking reports 5 terrorists killed in Lanao del Sur fresh fight – official
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is verifying reports that five members of the Maute-ISIS have been killed in a fresh fighting in Lanao del Sur.
Col. Romeo Brawner Jr., the spokesman of the Joint Task Force Ranao, said firefight broke out in Tuburan Sunday, June 17, as part of the fulfillment of the promise of the AFP to go after the remnants of the Maute-ISIS group.
“As of now, there are reports indicating that 5 members of the Maute-ISIS group led by Owayda Benito Marohombsar alias Abu Dar, have been killed. The military is still verifying these reports,” he said.
Brawner said the encounter was the result of months-long intelligence operations as well as the cooperation of the local government and the citizens.
He also said the military is now securing and assisting the internally displaced persons at the evacuation centers.
“We are asking the public to stay calm,” he said.
The official assured that the 103rd Infantry Brigade is making sure that the hostilities will not extend beyond the mountanous areas of Tubaran and Pagayawan of Lanao del Sur.
http://mindanao.politics.com.ph/military-checking-reports-5-terrorists-killed-in-lanao-del-sur-fresh-fight-official/
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is verifying reports that five members of the Maute-ISIS have been killed in a fresh fighting in Lanao del Sur.
Col. Romeo Brawner Jr., the spokesman of the Joint Task Force Ranao, said firefight broke out in Tuburan Sunday, June 17, as part of the fulfillment of the promise of the AFP to go after the remnants of the Maute-ISIS group.
“As of now, there are reports indicating that 5 members of the Maute-ISIS group led by Owayda Benito Marohombsar alias Abu Dar, have been killed. The military is still verifying these reports,” he said.
Brawner said the encounter was the result of months-long intelligence operations as well as the cooperation of the local government and the citizens.
He also said the military is now securing and assisting the internally displaced persons at the evacuation centers.
“We are asking the public to stay calm,” he said.
The official assured that the 103rd Infantry Brigade is making sure that the hostilities will not extend beyond the mountanous areas of Tubaran and Pagayawan of Lanao del Sur.
http://mindanao.politics.com.ph/military-checking-reports-5-terrorists-killed-in-lanao-del-sur-fresh-fight-official/
Grenade explodes, IED found in North Cotabato
From MindaNews (Jun 18): Grenade explodes, IED found in North Cotabato
A grenade exploded in Aleosan town while another one was recovered in Arakan, both in North Cotabato, over the weekend, authorities said.
In Aleosan, the grenade exploded near an Army detachment past 7 pm on Saturday, according to the Cotabato Police Provincial Office.
None of the soldiers and militiamen deployed at the detachment of the 44th North Cotabato Civilian Active Auxiliary company of the 38th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Poypoyon, Barangay Dualig was hurt, police said.
Investigators recovered fragments of a grenade at the explosion site.
They said the incident could be the handiwork of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters which is the target of an ongoing military operation in Aleosan and nearby areas.
No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion.
In Arakan, police recovered a roadside bomb planted near the boundary of Barangays Santo Niño and Tumanding.
Senior Inspector Jun Jinete Napat, officer-in-charge of Arakan police, said the improvised explosive device weighed about 15 kilos, had an unattached battery but had no switch box.
Senior Supt Maximo Layugan, provincial police director deployed an explosive ordnance disposal team to retrieve the bomb.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/06/grenade-explodes-ied-found-in-north-cotabato/
A grenade exploded in Aleosan town while another one was recovered in Arakan, both in North Cotabato, over the weekend, authorities said.
In Aleosan, the grenade exploded near an Army detachment past 7 pm on Saturday, according to the Cotabato Police Provincial Office.
None of the soldiers and militiamen deployed at the detachment of the 44th North Cotabato Civilian Active Auxiliary company of the 38th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Poypoyon, Barangay Dualig was hurt, police said.
Investigators recovered fragments of a grenade at the explosion site.
They said the incident could be the handiwork of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters which is the target of an ongoing military operation in Aleosan and nearby areas.
No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion.
In Arakan, police recovered a roadside bomb planted near the boundary of Barangays Santo Niño and Tumanding.
Senior Inspector Jun Jinete Napat, officer-in-charge of Arakan police, said the improvised explosive device weighed about 15 kilos, had an unattached battery but had no switch box.
Senior Supt Maximo Layugan, provincial police director deployed an explosive ordnance disposal team to retrieve the bomb.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/06/grenade-explodes-ied-found-in-north-cotabato/
Military drive vs NPA behind cancellation of talks – CPP
From MindaNews (Jun 18): Military drive vs NPA behind cancellation of talks – CPP
President Duterte cancelled the scheduled resumption of peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines to allow the military to continue with its all-out offensive against the New People’s Army until the end of 2018, the Communist Party of the Philippines said on Sunday.
A soldier relaxes after a long firefight against NPA rebels in Makilala, North Cotabato from midnight until dawn Monday (22 January 2018). Three NPAs and a CAFGU member died in the clash. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH CABRERA
“By calling off the scheduled peace negotiations with the NDFP, Duterte aims to give the AFP more time to complete its military campaign plan for 2018 of mounting bigger offensives under Oplan Kapayapaan in the hope of crippling the NPA and inducing the NDFP to negotiate a surrender,” said the CPP.
On Thursday last week, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza announced Duterte cancelled the talks scheduled on June 28-30 with the NDFP in Oslo, Norway because government wanted to hold consultations with stakeholders before forging agreements with the revolutionary group.
Dureza said getting the inputs of stakeholders will ensure that the agreements would have the people’s support.
But the CPP called Duterte’s reason for cancelling the talks “a thin veil that fails to conceal his real aims.”
NDF chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison. Photo courtesy of NDF International Information Office
It claimed that the president’s decision came “after being briefed on the status of Oplan Kapayapaan in a meeting with the top brass of the AFP and defense officials. Defense Sec.”
“Delfin Lorenzana has publicly announced that the military wants 3-6 more months before Duterte resumes talks with the NDFP,” it said.
“Clearly, Duterte does not want the AFP’s military campaign plan disrupted by the peace talks,” it added.
The NDFP has been negotiating with successive administrations since 1986 for a political settlement of the rural-based, Maoist-oriented armed struggle being waged by the NPA, armed wing of the CPP.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/06/military-drive-vs-npa-behind-cancellation-of-talks-cpp/
President Duterte cancelled the scheduled resumption of peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines to allow the military to continue with its all-out offensive against the New People’s Army until the end of 2018, the Communist Party of the Philippines said on Sunday.
A soldier relaxes after a long firefight against NPA rebels in Makilala, North Cotabato from midnight until dawn Monday (22 January 2018). Three NPAs and a CAFGU member died in the clash. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH CABRERA
“By calling off the scheduled peace negotiations with the NDFP, Duterte aims to give the AFP more time to complete its military campaign plan for 2018 of mounting bigger offensives under Oplan Kapayapaan in the hope of crippling the NPA and inducing the NDFP to negotiate a surrender,” said the CPP.
On Thursday last week, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza announced Duterte cancelled the talks scheduled on June 28-30 with the NDFP in Oslo, Norway because government wanted to hold consultations with stakeholders before forging agreements with the revolutionary group.
Dureza said getting the inputs of stakeholders will ensure that the agreements would have the people’s support.
But the CPP called Duterte’s reason for cancelling the talks “a thin veil that fails to conceal his real aims.”
NDF chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison. Photo courtesy of NDF International Information Office
It claimed that the president’s decision came “after being briefed on the status of Oplan Kapayapaan in a meeting with the top brass of the AFP and defense officials. Defense Sec.”
“Delfin Lorenzana has publicly announced that the military wants 3-6 more months before Duterte resumes talks with the NDFP,” it said.
“Clearly, Duterte does not want the AFP’s military campaign plan disrupted by the peace talks,” it added.
The NDFP has been negotiating with successive administrations since 1986 for a political settlement of the rural-based, Maoist-oriented armed struggle being waged by the NPA, armed wing of the CPP.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/06/military-drive-vs-npa-behind-cancellation-of-talks-cpp/