Troops repulse NPAs in various attacks in Mindanao

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 4, 2019): Troops repulse NPAs in various attacks in Mindanao

Troops from various units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Eastern Mindanao Command (AFP-EastMinCom) foiled the attacks of the New People’s Army (NPA) in separate areas in Mindanao over the weekend.



Armed Forces of the Philippines-Eastern Mindanao Command (AFP-EastMinCom) Commander Lt. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr.
(AFP-EastMinCom / MANILA BULLETIN)

The attacks were made after the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) leader Jose Maria Sison directed the NPA to conduct atrocities across the country, the military said.

Troops from by the 1003rd Infantry Brigade were responding to reports about an arms cache in So Sil-angon, Barangay Cawayan, San Fernando, Bukidnon, when suspected NPAs engaged them in a firefight at about 10:30 a.m. on March 2, 2019.

The brief skirmish led to the death an NPA rebel and the seizure of three shotguns.

Earlier at about 9:30 of same day, a team from 3rd Special Forces Battalion was conducting security operations when it encountered and clashed with undetermined numbers of NPAs in Barangay Mabuhay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. The brief encounter resulted in the killing of Cpl. Ambert C Maramag.

At about 9:20 a.m. on March 2, 2019, troops from the 30th Infantry Battalion were responding to a reported presence of NPAs in Sitio Katikoyan, Barangay Camam-onan, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte, when they were fired upon by the rebels.

After a 20-minute firefight, the NPAs scampered to different directions, leaving behind a bandolier with AK47 ammunition, one anti-personnel mine, one hundred meters of detonation cord, wire; Motorola hand-held radio, and other belongings.

Earlier in the afternoon of March 1, 2019, troops from the 4th Scout Ranger Battalion were validating the reported presence of NPAs in Barangay San Roque, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur when they encountered undetermined number of NPAs. The firefight lasted for about 15 minutes with no casualty reported on both sides.

Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., EastMinCom commander, attributed the foiling of the attacks with the cooperation of the communities.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/04/troops-repulse-npas-in-various-attacks-in-mindanao/

More NPAs surrender in 2019 due to starvation and fear — AFP

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 5, 2019): More NPAs surrender in 2019 due to starvation and fear — AFP

The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Tuesday said that in the first two months of 2019, there were already a total of 608 Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) members and supporters who have surrendered to government troops.

Col. Noel Detoyato, the Chief of the Public Affairs Office, said of the 608 CPP-NPA members that have surrendered, 107 of them were regular armed members, 137 are Milisyang Bayan, and 364 are mass supporters.



Col. Noel Detoyato (REUTERS / MANILA BULLETIN)

Just last Sunday, March 3, 2019, a certain Jobert Buenaflor alias Toto voluntarily surrendered to the troops of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion, in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat. He also revealed an arms cache located in Tulunan, Cotabato where the 39th IB troops recovered an M60 machine gun; a Garand rifle; an M16 rifle; and four barrels of M14 rifles.

Alias Toto said in the initial interview facilitated by the 39th IB that he surrendered due to starvation and fear of the intensified operations done by the military.
Moreover, a total of 25 NPA members who used to operate in Negros Occidental surrendered to the 23rd Infantry Battalion on Saturday, March 2, 2019. The surrenderees turned over three M16 rifles; an M14 rifle; four Garand rifles; 12 Cal .45 pistols; a Cal .22 with scope; four 12 gauge shotguns; and two 9mm Uzis.

Detoyato also attributed the surrender to the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government which is still in full swing to ensure that former members of the CPP-NPA will have a holistic package of benefits that they can avail of such as, but not limited to, livelihood assistance, medical assistance, education, housing, and legal assistance.

“We hope that more members of this group realize that they are fighting for a lost cause, and we call on those remaining members to avail of the E-CLIP and come back to their families to live a free and peaceful life away from violence,” Detoyato said.

Detoyato said the reintegration assistance is in support of the receiving unit to which the rebels surrendered. These units spend money for the former rebels’ daily meals, mobility, identification cards, papers, and other basic expenses.

The AFP, he said, also helps provide protection to hundreds of E-CLIP beneficiaries from their former cadres who might hurt them and deprive them of this opportunity to be with the mainstream society again.

“These actions manifest the sincerity and the desire of the government to eradicate communist terrorism through peaceful means,” Detoyato said.

“We hope to receive more rebels who want to return to the folds of the law rather than the casualties we record daily in the bloody battlefield,” he added.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/05/more-npas-surrender-in-2019-due-to-starvation-and-fear-afp/

NPA ranks dwindling, says Army

From the Manila Standard (Mar 6, 2019): NPA ranks dwindling, says Army

The military on Tuesday said the rank and file of the New People’s Army continued to dwindle following the surrender of 25 cadres in Capiz province last week, bringing to 608 the number of its members and followers that have yielded to the government during the first two months this year.

Capt. Eduardo Precioso Jr., Public Affairs chief of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, said the 25 NPA members operating in Negros Occidental surrendered last Thursday, bringing their assorted firearms to the 79th Infantry Battalion in Sagay City.

It was a a big blow to the underground Communist Party of the Philippines organization, Precioso said.

“The surrender of 25 communist terrorists will surely weaken the strength and armed capability of the CPP-NPA-Terrorist [CNT] in Negros Island,” said Major Gen. Dinoh Dolina, commander of the 3rd ID.

“It is also a strong indication of continued downfall of the communist terrorist group. And we are expecting the demise of the group very soon,” Dolina added.

The NPA surrenderers turned over three M16 rifles; one M14 rifle; four Garand rifles; 12 caliber .45 pistols, one caliber .22 rifle with scope, four gauge shotguns, and two 9mm Uzis.

Prior to the surrender of the cadres, an NPA member, Jobert Beunaflor alias “Toto” who yielded to the military, led soldiers in uncovering a cache of firearms at a supposed hideout in Tulunan, Cotabato. It yielded one M60 machine gun; one Garand rifle; an M16 rifle; and four barrels of M14 rifles.

With the surrender of the communists, Dolina is also expecting snowball of surrenderers in Western Visayas.

 

“It will create drastic demoralization among the remaining members of the communist terrorist group that will certainly encourage them to surrender,” he said. Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office head Col. Noel Detoyato said the surrender of the 25 NPA fighters brought the 2019 total to 608 communist members and supporters—107 regular armed members, 137 Milisyang Bayan, and 364 mass supporters.

Detoyato said these former CNTs will have a holistic package of benefits that include livelihood assistance, medical assistance, education, housing, and legal assistance.

“We hope that more members of this group realize that they are fighting for a lost cause, and we call on those remaining members to avail of the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program [E-CLIP] and come back to their families to live a free and peaceful life away from violence,” he said.

“These actions manifest the sincerity and the desire of the government to eradicate communist terrorism through peaceful means,” Detoyato added.

The AFP hopes to receive more rebels who want to return to the fold of the law “rather than the casualties we record daily in the bloody battlefield,” he said.

http://manilastandard.net/news/top-stories/289348/npa-ranks-dwindling-says-army.html

CPP/NDF-EV: NDF-EV welcomes conviction of Cong. Milagrosa Tan, calls graft case as mere “tip of the iceberg” of Tan dynasty’s corruption in Samar

NDF-Eastern Visayas propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Mar 4, 2019): NDF-EV welcomes conviction of Cong. Milagrosa Tan, calls graft case as mere “tip of the iceberg” of Tan dynasty’s corruption in Samar

Fr. Santiago “Ka Sanny” Salas
Spokesperson
NDF-EV

March 04, 2019

The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas welcomes today the sentencing of Samar second district representative Milagrosa Tan to up to 115 years in prison for the P16.1 million graft case over the anomalous procurement of emergency supplies without public bidding during her term as governor in 2001. It was further revealed that the rice, medical supplies and other emergency supplies intended for victims of Typhoon Kidang were procured two months before the calamity, and the rice supply was procured from a small trader hence making the delivery in just one go improbable. The Sandiganbayan has further disqualified Cong. Tan from holding public office, along with her convicted co-accused Rolando Montejo and trader-contractor Reynaldo Yabut.

But NDF-EV spokesperson Fr. Santiago “Ka Sanny” Salas downplayed the graft case as “mere tip of the iceberg” of the Tan dynasty’s corruption in one of the poorest provinces in the country, and called the sentence as long overdue and nominal. “The Tan dynasty through its matriarch Cong. Milagrosa Tan has been milking the province dry which further worsened the plight of Samarnons. The dynasty’s tight rein on Samar has plagued the province long enough that their corruption extends from the province up to the barangay councils in a vicious cycle. To maintain the symbiosis of bureaucrat capitalism, Cong. Tan offers to invest millions per mayoral post in elections, and in exchange her winning bet pledges not only his allegiance to the dynasty, but the entire internal revenue allotment of the municipal government. To ensure promptness, Cong. Tan would often dispatch her own trusted aid to act as administrative officers rendering the mayor inutile. In fact, a few mayors have already expressed dismay that they are acting as local executives in name only.

“It is also an open secret in Samar that majority of infrastructure projects in the province are controlled by Cong. Tan through dummies, taking hold of licenses by paying a token royalty to those they are able to coerce, thus earning hundreds of billions in a single term alone. A few close political associates of Cong. Tan also benefit from this set-up, by being the subcontractors of subcontractors, a wholesale-retail method of corruption that drains public funds. For private contractors, Tan demands a 30 to 40% cut on all infrastructure projects paid upfront. Hence the plethora of unfinished roads and other infrastructure projects in Samar, often joked by contractors as 50-50 road projects since only half are implemented while the unfinished half await the next elections for possible funding. And it is too easy for the Tans to blame these unfinished projects on the revolutionary movement once corruption is exposed. Furthermore, their new flagship program SPARK Samar which focuses on the plunder and exploitation of Samar is sure to serve as a sustainable milk cow now that the dynasty has expanded from infrastructure to eco-tourism.

Fr. Salas also noted that this decades-long culture of corruption and impunity of the dynasty in Samar is enjoyed 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army whom the Tans coddle. “Some generals and high-ranking officials in the 8th ID are beneficiaries of these sweetheart deals by acting as contractors and subcontractors of these projects through the OPAPP and PAMANA.”

Fr. Salas added that the people of Samar have a long standing demand for Cong. Tan to issue a public apology for being a passive governor during Palparan’s reign of terror in Samar. “While some elected public officials acted as staunch defenders of human rights for their constituents, the then governor acted silent through and through despite the mounting cases of human rights violations commited by the 8th ID PA. The dynasty also coddles and finances a number of private armed groups such as the one in Matuguinao and the Montealto armed goons, victimizing not only their political opponents but also peasants and suspected supporters of the revolutionary movement.”

Fr. Salas also said that with the timing of the conviction just months ahead of the elections, the people of Samar are in doubt that the wheels of the reactionary justice system with roll against the dynasty. “The conviction is one thing, the certainty of justice being served is another. The people of Samar have to remain vigilant and demand an end to corrupt and reactionary politicians, not just Cong. Milagrosa Tan, who act as overlords at the expense of the people.”#
—-
NDF-EV Media Office
Email: ndfevis@gmail.com
Blog: http://evsirang.blogspot.com
Connect also to NDF-EV through Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ndf.easternvisayas

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/ndf-ev-welcomes-conviction-of-cong-milagrosa-tan-calls-graft-case-as-mere-tip-of-the-iceberg-of-tan-dynastys-corruption-in-samar/

CPP/NPA-Camarines Norte: Hinggil sa Engkwentro sa Tuaca, Basud Camarines Norte

NPA-Camarines Norte propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Mar 5, 2019): Hinggil sa Engkwentro sa Tuaca, Basud Camarines Norte

Carlito Cada
NPA-Camarines Norte (Armando Catapia Command)

March 05, 2019

Mariing pinabubulaanan ng Armando Catapia Command-NPA Camarines Norte na may naganap na engkwentro sa pagitan ng kanilang yunit at pwersa ng PNP bandang alas-6 ng umaga noong Marso 3, 2019 sa Purok 1, Tuaca Basud Camarines Norte na ikinasawi di-umano ng isang myembro ng NPA. Ang totoo WALANG yunit ng NPA ang nakasagupa ng pwersa PNP sa lugar, taliwas sa pahayag ng pamunuan ng PNP Camarines Norte.

Ang naganap na engkwentro ay sa pagitan ng pwersa PNP at ng armadong grupong sindikato na hawak mismo ng militar. Ang nasabing grupo ay tinawag ang sarili na “Hukbong Itim” na nagsasagawa ng ekstorsyon sa mga Bayan ng MercedesSan Vicente-San Lorenzo- Daet at Basud na malapit mismo sa mga kampo ng AFP/CAFGU. Ang napatay na si Jonathan Brondia ay myembro ng sindikato. Si Brondia ay labas-masok sa kampo ng 22 nd CAFGU Detachment sa Guinatungan San Lorenzo, Camarines Norte. Patunay ito na konektado ang grupo sa militar. Sadyang pinatay si Brondia para pagtakpan ang koneksyon nito sa militar. Matagal nang inirereklamo ng masa ang presensya ng sindikatong ito na ginagamit ang pangalan ng NPA sa kanilang mga kriminal at anti-sosyal na aktibidad.

Ang mga pekeng engkwentro sa pagitan ng PNP/AFP at NPA ay karaniwan ng ipinalalabas ng military at pulis para pagtakpan ang kanilang mga kaso ng pagpatay tulad ng pekeng engkwentro sa Sitio Malapat, Ba’ay, Camarines Norte noong Disyembre 29, 2018. May mga mga kaso rin ng salvaging o extra-judicial killings tulad ng pagpatay kay Lope Elnar ng Batobalani , Paracale at Ernesto Natada ng Silang 1 Labo Camarines Norte nitong Enero. Dagdag pa, sa mga lugar kung saan may PDT ang AFP ay nagaganap ang panghaharas ng militar sa mga residente ng baryo tulad ng pagkakatok sa bahay sa hating-gabi o alanganing oras at pinapapunta sa kanilang pinagkakampuhan para imbestigahan kaugnay sa NPA. Pagsampa sa mga sibilyan ng mga gawa-gawang kaso matapos ang taktikal na opensiba ng NPA. Dapat malalim na imbestigahan ng pamunuan ng PNP at AFP , at mismo ng nasa hanay ng midya ang nasabing insidente para mapalitaw ang katotohanan at mailantad ang kainutilan ng AFP sa pagbubuo ng mga sindikatong kriminal na nagpapanggap na NPA para siraan ang kilusan. Nanawagan ang ACC sa mamamayan ng Camarines Norte na maging mapanuri at mapagmatyag upang hindi mabiktima ng mga impostor at mga sindikatong kriminal na ginagamit ng militar na dagdag na nagpapahirap sa mamamayan.

Dapat patuloy na ilantad at labanan ang mga pang-aabuso ng AFP at PNP . Asahan na mas lulubha ang mga paglabag sa mga karapatang pantao sa ilalim ng diktador at tiranyang Rehimeng US-Duterte sa pagpapatupad ng EO 70 at Memorandum 32 kung saan umiiral ang de facto Martial law sa Kabikulan, sa pamamagitan ng pagtatambak ng mas marami pwersa ng pulis at militar sa Probinsya layuning kontra-insurhensya.

Sa ganitong kalagayan walang ibang maaasahan ang mamamayan kundi ang kanilang pagkakaisa para sa militanteng paglaban at pagsulong ng armadong pakikibaka para ipagtanggol ang kanilang buhay at karapatan. Rehimeng US-Duterte , Ibagsak!

Sagot sa kahirapan, digmang bayan!
Mabuhay ang sambayanang lumalaban!

Carlito Cada
Tagapagsalita

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/hinggil-sa-engkwentro-sa-tuaca-basud-camarines-norte/

MILF: IMT 13 Bids Goodbye (Exit call) in Sarangani

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Mar 4, 2019): IMT 13 Bids Goodbye (Exit call) in Sarangani



The International Monitoring Tea (IMT) Mindanao Mission 13, led by Malaysian Dato Haji Mohd Bin Haji Mami, made their exit call in Barangay Daliao, Maasim, Saranggani Province for the Southern Mindanao Front on March 02, 2019.

He congratulated the Bangsamoro people and the Bangsamoro Government for passing the Bangsamoro Organic Law with an overwhelming result.

He extended his felicitations to Southern Mindanao Front Commander H. Abdulazis M. Esmael, also known as Commander Jordan, for being appointed as one of the members of the first Bangsamoro Parliament.

"Please remember that success cannot be done overnight, it takes time", the Malaysian peace monitoring contingent said. He asked the people to give the Bangsamoro leaders time citing, “because they are not politicians and that they are revolutionaries and don't have experiences in governance.”

"The enemy will not come from the outside, it will come from the inside", Haji Mami added, and cited that those are the people who made petition against the RA 11054 and the ones who have been complaining.



"The BOL needs full support from the people. Unite and focus. Give full support to the BOL and your leaders", he appealed and stressed that the "Failure of the Bangsamoro Government is failure of all, not a failure of the MILF."

The IMT Mission 13 is scheduled to depart on March 14, the same day where the new IMT mission group will arrive.

He said, "It is easier to say welcome than to say goodbye. Some of our actions may have hurt some of you in the process, and on behalf of our team, we ask for forgiveness.

“In shaa Allaah, when we come back here, the Bangsamoro is already progressive", Haji Mohd Bin Haji Mami said as he ended his speech.

Commander Jordan, also extended his congratulations and gratitude to the IMT Mindanao Mission 13 , especially to HOM Dato Haji Mohd Bin Haji Mami, for fulfilling their duties and for helping the Bangsamoro people all throughout the peace process.

"It was not your duty to settle rido in the areas, but you did it for the sake of the Bangsamoro and we thank you for that", Al Haj Jordan said.

"We are appealing to everybody to help us in shaping the Bangsamoro Government because this is still our obligation, this is still part of our Jihad,” Commander Jordan said.

The BTA cannot do it alone. We need you even if you are not included in the BARMM territory because we are all Bangsamoro" the Southern Mindanao Front Commander added.

"We were chosen by our leaders to be a part of the BTA. It was not really our choice, but we are thankful for the chance given to serve you, not only in the revolutionary struggle, but also in this level of struggle through halal governance," he said.

Commander Jordan said that he can write recommendations for employment for aspirants based on merit and qualifications stated in the RA 11054 and the Civil Service Commission.

"But I cannot guarantee it because it will go through screening to make sure that only those qualified will be hired kasi tayo rin ang masisira", Commander Jordan added.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1752/imt_13_bids_goodbye__exit_call__in_sarangani_

SOUTHCOM: NPA killed in encounter

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Website (Mar 3): NPA killed in encounter

Hinihikayat ng SOLCOM ang lahat ng myembro ng NPA na magbalik-loob na sa gobyerno habang hindi pa huli ang lahat. Hindi matutugunan ng armadong pakikibaka ang inyong mga problema, bagkus kayo'y dumadagdag pa sa kanser ng lipunan.

#NoToCPPNPA



https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2138625702893895&set=pcb.2138628279560304&type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2138625696227229&set=pcb.2138628279560304&type=3&theater

#Team9ID

LOOK: One unidentified member of CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNT) was killed in an encounter transpired at the vicinity of Purok 1, Barangay Tuaca, Basud, Cam...arines Norte, Sunday morning, March 3.

Based from the report, operating troops of 1st Cam. Norte Provincial Mobile Forces Company were conducting security operation in the said area when they encountered 15 armed CNTs believed to be members of KSPN 1, Larangan 2, Komiteng Probinsya 1 of Bicol Regional Party Committee.

The said firefight lasted for almost five minutes and the terrorists immediately fled towards different directions living their dead comrade behind. Recovered from the encounter site are the following: one cal. 45 pistol, one cal .30 carbine, and one hand grenade in the encounter site.

There was no reported casualty on the government side while follow up operation was immediate conducted.

 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/

WESCOM: Vice Admiral Medina Takes Helm of Western Command

From the Western Command (WESCOM) Website (Mar 2): Vice Admiral Medina Takes Helm of Western Command
Camp General Artemio Ricarte, Puerto Princesa City ̶ VICE ADMIRAL RENE V MEDINA AFP assumes today, 02 March 2019, as the 32nd Commander of Western Command in a traditional Change of Command Ceremony presided by the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, GEN BENJAMIN R MADRIGAL JR AFP at the Lawak Gymnasium, Camp General Artemio Ricarte, Puerto Princesa City.

GEN MADRIGAL JR gave recognition to COMMODORE DORVIN JOSE L LEGASPI AFP who served as the Acting Commander of WESCOM for almost three months of securing and sustaining peace in the province and in the West Philippine Sea. He also expressed his confidence in the commitment, passion and dedication of the new Commander VADM MEDINA to bring the Command to new pinnacles of excellence.

COMMO LEGASPI in his speech said, "We were deeply challenged with an array of difficulties. But Team WESCOM, together with the provincial government of Palawan and other stakeholders from the security forces, the youth, the academe, and other sectors, has remained as a reliable force in good and bad times. We have achieved our objectives and we succeeded in all our mission areas. In all these, Team WESCOM has proven that unity, jointness, commitment and spirit of sacrifice if combined with faith in God and devotion to duty, can achieve objectives and accomplish given tasks and mission."

VADM MEDINA is a member of Philippine Military Academy “Sinagtala” Class of 1986. As a military officer, he has a strong sense of duty and purpose. He possesses a diverse and comprehensive background of experience and training. He also received numerous awards that bespeaks of the noble and versatile naval officer that he is.

Before taking his post in WESCOM, he is also serving as the Commander of Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) which he will turn over to his successor. NFWM is the largest naval operating force of the Philippine Navy and the recipient of the prestigious award as Naval Operating Forces of the Year 2018 while VADM MEDINA is Commander. A man blessed with wisdom and intelligence, VADM MEDINA held senior positions in Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) for a year. He has also commanded the Sealift Amphibious Force (SAF) of the Philippine Fleet.

In his almost 33 years in service, he is honored to join the great lineage of WESCOM Commanders who defeated threats, set as an example to uniformed men and women of Team WESCOM, and secured the province to peaceful and progressive development for more than four decades now.

VADM MEDINA also thanked President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and the AFP leadership for the trust and confidence in appointing him as new WESCOM Commander.

VADM MEDINA said, "While the leadership of Western Command has changed, our purpose and commitment have not. WESCOM will continue to perform its mission in a robust fashion, to provide a safe and secure environment for all Palaweños where freedom of movement is guaranteed not only for the locals but also for the visiting tourists."

"Sa Sambayanang Palaweño, ngayon palang nais ko nang sabihin na maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat dahil alam ko na bibigyan din ninyo ako ng suporta tulad ng ginawa ninyo sa mga naunang kumander sa akin. All together, we will "Win and Sustain the Peace" in Palawan and in our country and as a whole", he added.

#TeamWESCOM #OneWESCOM #NagkakaisangPalaweñoParaSaKapayapaan

 https://www.facebook.com/wescom/posts/1274912855974206?__tn__=K-R



https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1274912855974206/1274910195974472/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1274912855974206/1274911729307652/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1274912855974206/1274911712640987/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/

WESCOM: NPA squad leader in Palawan surrenders to WESCOM

From the Western Command (WESCOM) Website (Mar 4): NPA squad leader in Palawan surrenders to WESCOM

 

Camp General Artemio Ricarte, Puerto Princesa City -- A squad leader of the New People's Army in Palawan surrendered to the operatives of Western Command's Joint Task Group South on 02 March 2019 in Barangay Quinlogan, Quezon, Palawan.

Marine Battalion Landing Team 4 facilitated the successful surrender of Alyas Ka George/ Ka Etan, with the help o...f local officials and residents. The said surrenderer revealed that there are many of his fellow ranking leaders and subordinates who wanted to leave the communist terrorist group at any opportune time.

Alyas Ka George/ Ka Etan disclosed that he left the armed group because of corruption in their ranks as fund support do not reach them. He also indicated his frustration because of numerous deceitful and unfulfilled promises from their leaders.

"His surrender is a clear indication of his unwillingness to continue with the armed struggle. This is another blow to the ranks of the communist terrorists as more of their members and leaders choose to abandon their worthless struggle and to take the path that leads to peace," said Vice Admiral Rene V Medina AFP, Commander WESCOM said.

The NPA surrenderer will be processed to avail the benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Social Integration Program (CLIP) of the national government and the Local Social Integration Program (LSIP) of the Provincial Government of Palawan. These programs are intended for the members of NPA and militiang bayan in Palawan, which are also extended to their families.

"We continue to urge the remaining members of communist terrorists NPA to choose the path of peace. We call on them to put their arms down, surrender and rejoin the society. WESCOM and other government agencies and units are more than willing to assist them to start their lives anew with their families and loved ones," Vice Admiral Medina said.

#BagongBuhayBagongPagasa
#NagkakaisangPalawanKontraNPA
#NagkakaisangPalawanParasaKapayapaan
#BayanihansaPalawan #TeamWESCOM

 

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/a.308629875935847/1276226842509474/?type=3&theater

 

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/

WESTMINCOM: Gov’t forces nab Sayyaf spotter in Zambo Sibugay

From the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Mar 5, 2019): Gov’t forces nab Sayyaf spotter in Zambo Sibugay



Security forces nabbed a spotter of the Abu Sayyaf Group in a combined operation launched in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay at the wee hours of March 4, 2019.

Government troops arrested Abu Sayyaf member Maldimar Mahmor by a search warrant for violations of Republic Act No. 10591 (Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition) in Barangay Madaup at 1am yesterday.

Operating troops of the 44th Infantry Battalion and the Philippine National Police recovered from Mahmor’s possession a Caliber .38 revolver, a hand grenade, an M-16 magazine with ammunition, and a rocket-propelled grenade ammunition.



Mahmor is a follower of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Idang Susukan and previously of Galib Andang, alias Commander Robot.

“Mahmor currently serves as the Abu Sayyaf’s liaison and facilitator in its kidnapping activities in the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur,” said Lieutenant Colonel Don Templonuevo, the 44th Infantry Battalion Commander.

He is tagged in the kidnapping of the Duterte couple in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte and former Mayor Gemma Adana of Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay.

He also took part in the Sipadan kidnapping in 2000, where Abu Sayyaf militants kidnapped 21 European and Malaysian tourists and Filipino resort workers.

“The arrest of Mahmor is a big loss for the Abu Sayyaf militants because it will disrupt their illegal activities, particularly kidnapping, in our area of operation,” said Colonel Bagnus Gaerlan, Jr., the 102nd Infantry Brigade Commander.

“In collaboration with the police, the Tabak Troopers will intensify joint law enforcement operation to protect the people and communities against terrorists,” said Brigadier General Roberto Ancan, the Joint Task Force Zampelan Commander, who lauded the troops for the arrest of Mahmor.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, the commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said, “Combat troops sustain their offensives on the ground and support police operations to hunt down and neutralize Abu Sayyaf militants in ZamBaSulTa area.”

“With the pressure employed by operating troops, terrorists are now on the run, debilitated by the massive casualties they incurred from the successive, armed engagements with our troops in Sulu and Basilan,” he added.

“Notwithstanding this feat, we will be firm in our efforts to defeat terrorists that wreak havoc in this part of the country,” added Lieutenant General Dela Vega.

http://www.westmincom.com/govt-forces-nab-sayyaf-spotter-in-zambo-sibugay/

WESTMINCOM: Soldiers, NGO distribute slippers, feed children in Maguindanao

From the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Mar 5, 2019): Soldiers, NGO distribute slippers, feed children in Maguindanao



Soldiers of 90th Infantry Battalion, 603rd Infantry Brigade and members of Taga Cotabato Ka Kung, Inc. initiated an outreach program benefiting 75 students in Maguindanao on March 4.

Lieutenant Colonel Crizaldo Fernandez, the 90IB Commanding Officer, and Cathleya Diocolano, the TCKK President, distributed slippers and fed students of Mompong Primary School in Datu Odin Sinsuat and in Barangay Kuden in Talitay, both in Maguindanao.



Military troops also discussed Anti-Violence against Women and Children, Child Protection Rights, and Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism with parents of the said beneficiaries and other participants.



“We will continue to support community-focused development programs benefiting the less fortunate children,” said Colonel Wilbur Mamawag, the 603rd Bde Officer-In-Charge.

“This was possible because we have a committed team of military personnel from the Joint Task Force Central, who devoted their time, talents, and resources to serve children from the most conflict-affected areas,” said Diocolano.



“Our outreach program prioritized the most vulnerable, so the people we are working with have the sensitivity to reach out to those who are affected by the conflict in the area,” said Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana, the JTF Central Commander.



Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, the commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said, “We continue to be involved in wide-ranging community programs that seek to help and guide children and other vulnerable sectors that may be influenced by the adverse effects of armed conflicts in the area.”

“We want to make them feel that they are not helpless and that there are those, including soldiers, who are willing to extend their helping hands,” he added.

http://www.westmincom.com/soldiers-ngo-distribute-slippers-feed-children-in-maguindanao/

EASTMINCOM: Windfall of surrender: CNTG Leader Surrender to Gov’t Troops

From the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Mar 5, 2019): Windfall of surrender: CNTG Leader Surrender to Gov’t Troops



NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - Nine CPP-NPA Terrorist Group (CNTG), to units under Eastern Mindanao Command the past days.

Two commanding officers, one squad leader, two team leaders, two medics and one supply officer yielded to 26th Infantry Battalion under Ltc. Romeo C. Jiminea at Talacogon, Agusan Del Sur on March 3, 2019.

Accordingly, the CNTGs who surrendered are members of the CNTG being monitored in the boundary of Compostela Valley and Agusan Sur.



They handed-over assorted firearms and explosives which include; two M16 rifles, two US Garand rifles, one US Carbine rifle, one Improvised M79 Grenade Launcher, three Caliber 45 pistols, one improvised anti-personnel mine, and one hand grenade.

Tonton (not his real name), one of the squad leaders, said their decision came after witnessing the surrender of their former comrades in December last year, who were subsequently assisted and provided with necessary support through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

He also claimed to have gotten tired of violence, and from running and hiding due to the intensified security operations being conducted by government troops and the pressure of the communities.

In a separate instance, six CNTG occupying various leadership position surrendered to the 75th Infantry Battalion under Ltc. Jaime Datuin at Bgy. Maharlika, Bislig City, Surigao Del Sur.

Accordingly, the surrenderees composed of one Commander of a Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit, one Political Officer, Platoon Leader, Platoon Guide and two Team Leader from a Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit in the South Eastern Surigao and Northern Davao Oriental yielded with the help of their relatives and communities.

They brought with them, one AK47, one M16 rifle, two caliber 45 pistols, two caliber 38, two hand grenades, landmine, and landmine paraphernalia.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander, Eastern Mindanao Command debunked George Madlos on his claim that the windfall of surrender in Eastern Mindanao is fake.

"These surrenders can attest that real members of the CNTG who are giving up are real and not fake. We call on Mr. Madlos to wake up from reality that they are losing people brought about by the sincerity of the government to resolve issues compared to false promises that the CNTG are articulating. Instead, join them and abandon his futile revolutionary armed struggle while there is time," he said.

The former CPP-NPA Terrorists are now undergoing necessary procedures to facilitate their inclusion in the E-CLIP.



BGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander, 4th Infantry Division, welcome the surrender and that his command in partnership with other government agencies is putting their acts together to promote a just and long-lasting peace in its area of jurisdiction particularly in the conflict-affected and vulnerable areas.

Brig. Gen. Andres C. Centino, Commander of 401st Brigade who is leading the peace effort in Surigao Sur and Agusan Sur is optimistic that the more surrenders will come, brought about by peace initiatives of other Government agencies and the implementation of comprehensive Community Support Programs backed by intensified security operations.

Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP

 

http://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2019/03/windfall-of-surrender-cntg-leader.html

‘Local peace talks gaining ground’

From Rappler (Mar 5, 2019): ‘Local peace talks gaining ground’

State security officials yesterday declared that localized peace talks are gaining ground in Negros Occidental.

Police Brig. Gen. John Bulalacao, regional police director of Western Visayas, and Col. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, yesterday cited the surrender of 25 New People’s Army rebels, who also turned over 27 high-powered firearms Saturday, to the 79th Infantry Battalion, Special Action Battalion 6 and Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office..

”This is already a clear manifestation of successful localized peace talks”, Bulalacao stressed.

If there is no effort for the AFP to have a dialog with the NPA leaders, there could have been no surrenders, the regional police director said, apparently referring to the surrendered guns.

Arevalo also shared the statements of Bulalacao, on the surrender of guns, that he considered the biggest haul of firearms in Negros, and proof that localized peace talks in Negros are succeeding, contrary to the claims of the CPP-NPA top leaders that it will not work.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello,who chaired the government peace panel, earlier said that the peace talks with communist rebels are still alive, despite their suspension.

Bulalacao said CPP founding chairman Jose Maria Sison vehemently opposed the localized peace talks, as he always wants to be in the center.

But Sison does not know the situation in the ground, as he is living a luxurious life in the Netherlands, he added.

Lt. Col Emelito Thaddeus Logan, 79th Infantry Battalion commander, also cited the important role of barangay officials in urging the NPA to give up violence, in support to the localized peace talks initiated by the 303rd Infantry Brigade since last year.

The 25 NPA red fighters and squad leaders belonging to the Platoon Robinson of the Northern Negros Front surrendered 27 firearms, including three M16 rifles, an M14 assault rifle, four M1 garand rifles, 12 caliber 45 pistols, a caliber 22 magnum rifle with scope, four 12 gauge shotguns, and two 9mm Uzi machine pistols, a caliber 38 revolver, magazines with ammunition.

The 303rd Infantry Brigade and NOCPPO under the leadership of Police Colonel Romeo Baleros are now coordinating with the DILG in processing the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program that can be availed of by the former rebels.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/05/topstory7.htm

Lorenzana-Locsin clash over Mutual Defense Treaty heats up

From Rappler (Mar 5, 2019): Lorenzana-Locsin clash over Mutual Defense Treaty heats up



Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana fears 'being involved in a war that we do not seek and do not want' when the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty kicks in

MUTUAL DEFENSE TREATY. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is pushing for a review of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States. File photo by Darren Langit/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – The clash between two of the President's men heated up on Tuesday, March 5, as Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana rejected arguments of Foreign Secretary Teodoro "Teddyboy" Locsin Jr about the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT).

The MDT states that the Philippines and the United States will come to each other's aid in case of armed attacks. Lorenzana is seeking a review of the MDT contrary to the stance of Locsin.

In a statement on Tuesday, Lorenzana contradicted Locsin's argument that the "vagueness" of the MDT will serve as a "deterrent" to attacks against the Philippines.

"I do not believe that ambiguity or vagueness of the Philippine-US Mutual Defense Treaty will serve as a deterrent. In fact, it will cause confusion and chaos during a crisis," Lorenzana said.

"The fact that the security environment now is so vastly different and much more complex than the bipolar security construct of the era when the MDT was written necessitates a review of the treaty," he added.

Lorenzana did not name the foreign secretary, but issued his statement days after Locsin commented on the 68-year-old MDT. "In vagueness lies the best deterrence," Locsin said in a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Manila last Friday, March 1.

Pompeo in Friday's press conference assured Filipinos that "any armed attack on any Philippine forces, aircraft, or public vessels in the South China Sea will trigger mutual defense obligations under Article 4 of our Mutual Defense Treaty." Locsin quoted Pompeo as telling him, "We have your back."

Pompeo's assurance was seen to quell doubts, especially from President Rodrigo Duterte himself, about the US' commitment to defend the Philippines against possible attacks by China. (READ: Pompeo visit: Philippines gets timely assurance from oldest ally)



Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said that "this is the first time that the US made a policy statement" like this. Former foreign secretary Albert del Rosario agreed that Pompeo's assurance is "one of the most important statements made in the many decades since the Mutual Defense Treaty was ratified in 1951."

Fearing 'a war that we do not seek'

Lorenzana, on the other hand, is the strongest voice pushing for a review of the MDT. A retired general, Lorenzana once served as head of veterans affairs at the Philippine embassy in Washington DC when Del Rosario was ambassador to the US.

In his statement on Tuesday, the defense chief argued that the MDT "should have been reviewed when the US bases were terminated in 1992 and we lost our security umbrella."

He noted that a couple of years after the US left these bases, the Chinese "began their aggressive actions" on the Philippines' Mischief Reef. While this was not an armed attack, he said that this "was aggression just the same," and "the US did not stop it."

Lorenzana said: "The Philippines is not in a conflict with anyone and will not be at war with anyone in the future. But the United States, with the increased and frequent passage of its naval vessels in the West Philippine Sea, is more likely to be involved in a shooting war. In such a case and on the basis of the MDT, the Philippines will be automatically involved."

"It is not the lack of reassurance that worries me. It is being involved in a war that we do not seek and do not want," the 70-year-old Lorenzana said.

 

https://www.rappler.com/nation/224962-lorenzana-clashes-locsin-philippines-us-mutual-defense-treaty

6th ID soldiers urged to be cautious against BIFF ‘hit squad’

From MindaNews (Mar 5, 2019): 6th ID soldiers urged to be cautious against BIFF ‘hit squad’



Major General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Joint Task Force Central and the three members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters who surrendered on 22 June 2018. MindaNews file photo by FERDINANDH B. CABRERA

TACURONG CITY, Sultan Kudarat (MindaNews/5 March) – Alarmed by the spate of killings of military personnel, the 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division warned soldiers under its command to be extra-vigilant against a “hit squad” admittedly owned by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Major General Cirilito Sobejana, 6th ID commander, said the morale of his troops “remain high” despite the killing of four soldiers in the past few days in Cotabato City and Maguindanao province.

“(Our) troops are reminded to be extra vigilant even while on off-duty as they are falling prey to treacherous attacks. Similar caution is given to the people in Central Mindanao,” Sobejana said in a statement Monday evening.

He said the liquidations against soldiers under the 6th ID are indicative of “retaliatory actions by terror and lawless groups” as they suffered numerous setbacks from the relentless security operations conducted by government forces.

Sobejana did not name the terror group but the BIFF, through its spokesperson Abu Misry Mama, had admitted responsibility on the spate of fatal attacks against soldiers.

Mama said they gunned down the soldiers to avenge the killing of a certain “Boy Native” in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao Tuesday last week. The BIFF blamed the military for the death of their comrade.
A source said the slain BIFF member had a bounty on his head.

Two days later, in the afternoon of Thursday, BIFF members ambushed a car carrying soldiers in Datu Salibo town en route to Shariff Aguak, also in Maguindanao. Killed were Army Privates Junard Estribor and Nelier John Pinto, both of 57th Infatry Battalion.

Another soldier and a female civilian aboard the car were wounded.

Earlier at around noontime that day, BIFF hit men shot dead SSgt Lervin Lardera in Cotabato City while he was en route to the 6th ID camp in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on a motorcycle.

Last Sunday at around 7 p.m, alleged BIFF members shot dead Corporal Sahelbasar Alaja, who was off-duty, in Datu Odin Sinsuat.

On Thursday evening last week, the military bombarded with artillery fire the position of BIFF members in Datu Piang, Maguindanao.

Sobejana said the military will continue its focused military operations “to put an endgame to terrorism” in the area.

He also ordered an intensified intelligence operation to foil attempts by the terrorists in attacking off-duty military personnel.

Sobejana urged the cooperation of the public, noting this is vital in achieving sustainable peace.

“The shooting incidents were so disturbing (and we) need to stop it in no time,” he said.

Particularly Cotabato City, being the political and economic hub of the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), needs to be insulated from security threats, Sobejana said.

The BIFF is a breakaway group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which forged a final peace deal with the government in 2014 that paved the way for the creation of the BARMM.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/03/6th-id-soldiers-urged-to-be-cautious-against-biff-hit-squad/

ARESCOM-Biliran needs reservists, volunteers

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 5, 2019): ARESCOM-Biliran needs  reservists, volunteers



The Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM) - Biliran Community Defense Center (CDC) based in Brgy. Larrazabal, Naval, Biliran, is in need of army reservists.

Maj. Edward C. Jornales, Philippine Army reserve operations officer, announced during PIA-Biliran’s Pulong-Pulong ng Bayan over Radyo Natin-Naval, that the Biliran CDC endeavors to establish one battalion of 532 active reservists. As of this writing, ARESCOM-Biliran CDC has over a hundred active volunteers.

Jornales informed that in order to qualify in the Army Reserve Command, an applicant must be 18 years old and above and a graduate of the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) with serial number. Those without serial numbers must undergo the Basic Citizen Military Training (BCMT).

He said entry to the army as volunteer or reservist entails no salary or honorarium. They only earn credits for every hour of active duty rendered which they can use in applying for promotion or entry to the Philippine Army for a regular military service.

In addition, volunteers are only provided free regular trainings with subsistence allowance for the duration of the training, Jornales said.

He said Army reservists are localized and are only called for community works and rescue operations, and war is their final call of duty as the troops’ last recourse for the country’s defense.

Army reservists are classified into ready reserve for 18-35 years old, standby reserve for 36-51 years old, and retirees reserve or the think tank for 51 years old and above, Jornales added.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1019122

Maguindanao village execs yield more loose firearms

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5, 2019): Maguindanao village execs yield more loose firearms



SURRENDERED. The guns handed over to the military by officials of Barangays Kuden, Gadungan, and Bintan, all of Talitay, Maguindanao on Monday (March 4). (Photo by 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao — The military’s disarmament campaign continues to gain support from locals in Maguindanao as another set of loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine Army in Talitay town.

“It was the effort of the 90th Infantry Battalion (90IB) to gather as many loose firearms in its area of assignments and prevent the proliferation of weapons that could be used to kill or injure civilians,” said Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander.

On Monday, officials of Barangays Kuden, Gadungan, and Bintan handed over two rifles, a handgun, and two 40-mm rifle grenade projectiles to the 90IB.

Sobejana, concurrent head of Joint Task Force Central, said the surrender of additional firearms was made possible with the help of town Councilor Kamid Buisan and the town’s association of village chairpersons.

On March 2, officials of Talitay also facilitated the surrender to the military of nine illegal firearms from the hands of civilians.

“We are calling on the people in Central Mindanao to sustain their support and cooperation in our campaign on loose firearms,” Sobejana said.

“For those who still possess firearms without legal documents, we will give you the chance to hand it over, otherwise you are subjected to legal actions,” he added.

To date, a total of 2,028 assorted firearms were either handed over or recovered by the 6th ID in its area of responsibility.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063622

6ID condemns attacks vs. off duty, unarmed soldiers

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5, 2019): 6ID condemns attacks vs. off duty, unarmed soldiers

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao — The chief of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) said its morale remains high despite the series of retaliatory attacks by lawless elements that left four soldiers dead here and in neighboring Cotabato City in recent days.

“Despite the hostilities, our troops' morale remains high that sustains their resolve to beat the menace of terrorism,” said Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana in a statement released on Monday evening.

Sobejana vowed the 6ID will further strengthen its intelligence operations to foil attempts by the terrorist groups in attacking off-duty military personnel.

“We will continue to step up our focused military operations to put an end-game to terrorism. The troops are likewise reminded to be extra vigilant even on off-duty as they are falling prey to treacherous attacks,” Sobejana said.

The Army official issued a similar reminder to the residents of Central Mindanao, 6ID’s area of responsibility, admitting that the series of shooting incidents have affected the peace and order in the area.

“The perpetrators on the recent atrocities have to face the consequences of their inhuman acts,” Sobejana warned.

At about 7 p.m. Sunday, a lone attacker shot dead an off-duty soldier, Cpl. Sahelbasar Alaja, a detachment commander and member of the 90th Infantry Battalion, while onboard a pedicab in Barangay Broce, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

On Feb. 28, suspected Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters ambushed and killed two of three off-duty soldiers who were onboard a car at 4 p.m. in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.

Slain were Privates Junard Estribor and Nelier John Pinto, both of 57th IB, while another colleague, Pvt. Muqtahar Sampulna, was wounded. A female bystander was also hit and injured by a stray bullet during the ambush.

Earlier on the same day, a motorcycle riding-in-tandem also gunned down S/Sgt. Verande Lardera of the 37th IB in Cotabato City.

Lardera was driving his motorbike en route to the 6ID camp when ambushed at about lunchtime along Sinsuat Avenue, Cotabato City. He died in the hospital.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063624

Abu Sayyaf 'liaison officer' nabbed in Zambo Sibugay

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5, 2019): Abu Sayyaf 'liaison officer' nabbed in Zambo Sibugay

Military and police operatives arrested on Monday Maldimar Mahmor, an alleged Abu Sayyaf liaison officer, and seized a caliber .38 revolver, ammunition, and explosives from his possession. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 44th Infantry Battalion)

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- A team of military and police operatives arrested an Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit involved in the Sipadan kidnapping almost 19 years ago, officials said Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, the Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion commander, identified the arrested ASG member as Maldimar Mahmor, said to be a liaison officer and facilitator of the group's kidnapping activities in the Zamboanga provinces.

Templonuevo said Mahmor was arrested through a search warrant for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition around 1 a.m. Monday in Barangay Magdaup, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Templonuevo said Mahmor is a follower of ASG sub-leader Idang Susukan whose group was also involved in the April 6, 2015 kidnapping of then-Mayor Gemma Adana of Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay, and March 3, 2017 kidnapping of Jose Duterte and his wife, Jessica, in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte.

ASG gunmen abducted 21 people, including resort workers and 10 European tourists, on April 23, 2000 from a diving resort in Sipadan Island, Sabah, a Malaysian state which the Philippines has a dormant claim.

The ASG bandits herded the victims to Sulu and were later released in batches following ransom payments.

Recovered from Mahmor’s possession were a .38-caliber revolver, a grenade, an M-16 magazine with ammunition, and one rocket-propelled grenade ammunition.

“The apprehension of Mahmor is a big loss for the ASG because it will disrupt their illegal activities, particularly kidnapping, in our area of operation,” said Col. Bagnus Gaerlan Jr., the Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, who has operational jurisdiction over Zamboanga Sibugay.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the Army’s 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (the Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, has commended the efforts of the troops that led to the arrest of Mahmor.

“The Tabak Troopers in collaboration with the PNP (Philippine National Police) will intensify joint law enforcement operation to protect the people and communities against terrorists,” Ancan said.

“We also urge the stakeholders and local populace to be more vigilant and report to the government forces any suspicious group or individuals in order to end the acts of terror and sustain the peace and development efforts of the government,” Ancan added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063634

Feud among 4 families in Maguindanao-NoCot border settled

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5, 2019): Feud among 4 families in Maguindanao-NoCot border settled

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- Four families in two upland towns bordering Maguindanao and North Cotabato provinces have sworn before the Quran to settle the long-standing feud that has troubled the involved parties for more than a decade now.

Led by Buldon Mayor Abolais Manalao, in coordination with the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion (37IB), the feuding families of Pacasum, Macabangon, Aragasi, and Mimbisa met and embraced each other during a “rido” (family feud) settlement at the camp of 37IB Alpha Company in Barangay Oring on Monday.

The settling families are from barangays Nuyo and Edcor in Buldon, Maguindanao, and neighboring villages in Alamada, North Cotabato,” Col. Roberto Go Jr., 37IB commander, said in a statement.

Go said the families also surrendered three Carbine rifles and an M16 rifle during the settlement.

He said the long-standing feud that has claimed the lives of several members of the warring clans began with allegations of cattle rustling, theft, and envy, among members of the families.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063630

Ambiguities in US-PH treaty won’t deter aggression: Lorenzana

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5, 2019): Ambiguities in US-PH treaty won’t deter aggression: Lorenzana

 

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Tuesday said that ambiguity or vagueness in the Philippine-US Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) will not act as deterrent against any act of aggression against the country.

"I do not believe that ambiguity or vagueness of the Philippine-US Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) will serve as a deterrent. In fact, it will cause confusion and chaos during a crisis," he said in a statement forwarded to reporters.

Lorenzana also pointed out that the present security environment is much more different compared to when the MDT between Manila and Washington was crafted.

"The fact that the security environment now is so vastly different and much more complex than the bipolar security construct of the era when the MDT was written necessitates a review of the treaty," the DND chief stressed.

The MDT, signed in 1951, contains eight articles requiring the two Pacific allies to provide aid in case of an armed attack against either Washington or Manila by an external party.

Last December, Lorenzana ordered the treaty's review to assess whether there is a need to maintain, strengthen, or abrogate the only defense pact of the Philippines with a foreign nation.

"I would even argue that the MDT should have been reviewed when the US bases were terminated in 1992 and we lost our security umbrella. A couple of years after the US left the bases, the Chinese began their aggressive actions in Mischief Reef -- not an armed attack but it was aggression just the same. The US did not stop it," the DND chief pointed out.

Also, he said that the Philippines is not in a conflict with anyone and will not be at war with anyone in the future.

"But the United States, with the increased and frequent passage of its naval vessels in the West Philippine Sea, is more likely to be involved in a shooting war. In such a case and on the basis of the MDT, the Philippines will be automatically involved," he added.

"It is not the lack of reassurance that worries me. It is being involved in a war that we do not seek and do not want," Lorenzana stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063629

DND joins Women's Month observance

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5, 2019): DND joins Women's Month observance



Aside from participating in the worldwide observance of International Women's Day (IWD), the Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday also participated in the celebration of National Women's Month (NWM) with the theme “We Make Change Work for Women”.

DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana spearheaded the observance of NWM with Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) independent consultant Susan Jalla as the event's guest-of-honor and speaker.

Jalla, in her speech, echoed the different strategies needed to overcome these challenges such as being positively and politically savvy, building an influential coalition, and having a work-life balance.

For his part, Lorenzana acknowledged the role of women in sustaining nation-building and ensuring national security.

The DND chief also expressed the department’s commitment to continue supporting and implementing policies for gender empowerment and equality in the organization. Through the enactment of Presidential Proclamation 227, series of 1988, March has been declared as the NWM.

Meanwhile, the theme, “We Make Change Work for Women”, crafted by PCW, which spearheads the observance of NWM at the national level, will be used for every NWM celebration from 2017– 2022 and will highlight the empowerment of women as active contributors to and claimholders of development.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063631

In-depth probe of CPP’s EU funding vowed

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5, 2019): In-depth probe of CPP’s EU funding vowed

BRUSSELS, Belgium -- As the government takes its war against local communist armed conflict a step further, the National Task Force got the assurance of European officials who vowed to look into the information presented by the Philippine government on the reported funding of Belgium and other EU-member countries for CPP activities.



Gilles de Kerchove, EU Counter Terrorism coordinator

In a series of recent engagements with officials of the European Union (EU), European Parliament, and European Commission (EC), the Philippine delegation requested to “stop the flow of funds to identified communist terrorist front organizations.”

Alarming information
Data presented by the Philippine delegation showed that communist front organizations receive funds from the Belgian government and some European countries in the guise of marginalized and pro-poor programs.

Documents obtained by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also reveal that the Belgian government has released its first tranche of more than 621,000 Euros (PHP36,663,840) out of the 15-million Euro (PHP885,600,000) grant to some non-government organizations for the 2017-2021 program. This year, some 1.3 million Euros (PHP76,752,000) are expected to be released.

According to Brig. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, the communist terrorist groups hide behind legitimate organizations.

The military has identified seven recipient organizations based on documents from the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, not to mention those from other European countries.

“We bring this to the EU as one of our major concerns and we seek your cooperation for the sake of our people by helping us stop the flow of funds,” said Alex Paul Monteagudo, Director General of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency.

Parlade said the information about the EU and Belgian government unwittingly funding organizations affiliated with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and New People’s Army (NPA), came from EU and the Belgian government themselves.

“Many of this money was channeled by these NGOs to other organizations whose only objective is to portray President (Rodrigo) Duterte as a tyrant and his administration as oppressive,” he added.

He said, “What we wanted the EU and UN (United Nations) to also know is that the CPP and its front organizations, like Karapatan, are consistent and persistent in providing UN and European governments with all these false data.”

Multi-funding scheme
Monteagudo said what is even more appalling is that funding countries are not aware of the multiple funding scheme that communist terrorist front organizations employ.

Multiple funding, he added, refers to a project wherein communist front organizations would solicit simultaneously for funds from three or four different agencies or countries. It would be a fortune if these funding agencies approve their requests because it would allow them to undertake the legitimate programs and still have extra money to spend for anti-government activities.

“This is the revelation of surrendered communists who said that on the average, they are able to divert 60 percent of funds to the communist party, which used the money to support their activities, such as rallies, armed activities, purchase of weapons and ammunition, and terrorizing and killing of Filipinos,” he said.

These front organizations, Monteagudo said, have mastered the art of sourcing and diverting funds to buy weapons and train children to become warriors in their alleged schools.

“They focus on the indigenous people because they are vulnerable and entrust their children to these schools,” he added.

Serious scrutiny
Gilles de Kerchove, EU Counter Terrorism coordinator, promised to look into the information very seriously and develop a more intense cooperation.

He said he will talk with his colleagues in the European Commission and have an independent financial audit.

“You can be assured that we will monitor the country’s expenditures and donors who may have given to the organizations for the same activity,” de Kerchove added. “We will share with you the outcome of (the) external audit."

De Kerchove expressed concern about terrorist financing and that the level of threat remains serious, saying it can happen anytime, like what happened in the Jolo church bombing.

“Some terror groups are re-emerging like al-Qaeda, persisting propaganda that can easily seduce (the) young. There is no reason to be complacent,” he said.



Peter Kouroumbashev of the European Parliament

He added that the EU has posted counter terror experts to its Jakarta delegation to enhance security in ASEAN and other states.

“We hope to send our colleague to the Philippines who will reach out to you soon. We are eager to explore with the Philippines to maximize efforts,” he said.

Meanwhile, Gunnar Weigand, Managing Director of European External Action Service and European Commission South East Division of Development and Cooperation (DEVCO), promised to conduct an independent financial audit this month.

“It is important that the taxpayers’ money is well spent. We take concerns seriously,” Weigand said.

He requested the Philippine delegation to provide any information at the soonest possible time so that they can inform auditors of what to look into.

“We share the same challenges. We have done it in the last two years and we will do more,” he added.

Aside from climate change, Weigand said security is high and complex in Europe, especially after the 2001 New York 9-11 and 2004 Madrid terror attacks.

Europe, he said, like the Philippines is also confronted with terrorism challenges and they are prepared to face the threats.

He admitted that quite a challenging job is information sharing among agencies on terror financing and trafficking of arms.

As EU tries to engage countries faced with terrorism, mainly in Asia, Weigand promised to channel to their different networks the information presented by the Philippine delegation.

“They (communist front organizations) should not be able to collect money in anyway. We will talk to the people in charge,” he said.

Weigand also echoed de Kerchove’s promise to task the security attache in Indonesia to look into the communist funding information.

European Parliament member Peter Kouroumbashev also vowed to make an alarm of the information and conduct an investigation of the funds.

The Philippine delegation expressed optimism for a productive European engagement, saying that so long as the funding continues to pour in to these front organizations, the CPP-NPA will have the capability to sustain their terror activities.

“Fifty years is long enough. President Rodrigo Duterte issued EO (Executive Order) 70 to mobilize the whole of government to address the root cause of insurgency,” Monteagudo said.

“We look at communist terrorists in the same manner as other terror groups. If we have to win the war against terrorism, we have to share information,” he added.

 

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063645

AFP expresses full support for E-CLIP

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5, 2019): AFP expresses full support for E-CLIP



The military's support for the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) is still in full swing to ensure that surrendering communist rebels have a holistic package of benefits that they can avail of, such as livelihood assistance, medical assistance, education, housing, and legal assistance.

“We hope that more members of this group realize that they are fighting for a lost cause. And we call on those remaining members to avail of the E-CLIP and come back to their families to live a free and peaceful life away from violence,” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato, said in a statement forwarded to reporters Tuesday.

The reintegration assistance is in support of the receiving unit to which the rebels surrendered.

These units spend money for the former rebels’ daily meals, mobility, identification cards, papers, and other basic expenses.

The AFP also helps provide protection to hundreds of E-CLIP beneficiaries from their former cadres who might hurt them and deprive them of this opportunity to be with the mainstream society again.

“These actions manifest the sincerity and the desire of the government to eradicate communist terrorism through peaceful means,” Detoyato added.

In the first two months of 2019, a total of 608 NPA members and supporters surrendered to government troops.

This can be broken down into 107 regular armed rebels, 137 members of the "Milisya ng Bayan", and 364 mass supporters.

“We hope to receive more rebels who want to return to the folds of the law rather than the casualties we record daily in the bloody battlefield,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063673