CPP/NDF-ST: Pahayag ng suporta para sa laban ng mga jeepney drivers at operators

NDF-Southern Tagalog propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 6, 2019): Pahayag ng suporta para sa laban ng mga jeepney drivers at operators

PATNUBAY DE GUIA

NDF-SOUTHERN TAGALOG

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES /

OCTOBER 06, 2019

Nakikiisa at sinusuportahan ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines—Southern Tagalog (NDFP-ST) sampu ng mga rebolusyonaryong mamamayan ng rehiyon ang pambansang tigil-pasada ng mga jeepney drivers and operators na kabilang sa Pinagkaisahang Lakas ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON), Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization (ACTO) at Stop and Go Coalition laban sa jeepney modernization program ng pasistang rehimeng Duterte para isagasa ang jeepney phase-out. Lehitimo ang iginigiit na mga kahilingan ng mga tsuper at opereytor laban sa isang pakana na kikitil sa hanap-buhay ng daan-libong tsuper at operator sa buong bansa.

Mariin din naming kinokondena ang pagbibingi-bingihan ng Malacañang sa lehitimong isyu at mga kahilingang ipinaparating ng kapus-palad na mga tsuper na siyang pangunahing tatamaan ng jeepney phase out ng jeepney modernization program ng gubyernong Duterte. Imbes na harapin ang lehitimong kahilingan ng mga nagpoprotestang mga tsuper at opereytor, nagawa pang kutyain ng palasyo ang kakayahan ng mga ito na paralisahin ang ilang mayor na ruta ng transportasyon sa kalakakhang Maynila, sa mga kanugnog na bayan at syudad na nakapaligid dito at sa mga pangunahing lunsod at bayan sa bansa. Patunay lamang na walang anumang pagmamalakasakit ang administrasyong Duterte sa kapakanan ng mga maliit na tsuper at opereytor ng jeep sa bansa. Mas hangad ng Malacañang na protektahan at isulong ang interes ng malalaking negosyo at kapitalista sa industriya ng tranportasyon sa tabing ng jeepney modernization program.

Kabaligtaran sa inaasahan ng Malacañang, malinaw sa mga pumapasok na ulat at balita sa media na tagumpay ang pambansang tigil pasada dahil sa marami ang nakiisa at lumahok sa kilos-protesta mula sa iba pang jeepney transport organization. Batay sa mga ulat, umabot sa 80%-90% ang hindi pumasada sa mga mayor na ruta ng jeep sa bansa at may makabuluhang ruta na umabot sa 95-100% paralisado ang byahe sa mayor na mga linya sa Laguna, Cavite at Rizal.

Nanawagan din kami sa publiko at mga mananakay ng jeep na unawain at suportahan ang ginagawang protesta ng mga kaawa-awang tsuper na tanging layunin ay dinggin ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno ang kahilingan nilang huwag patayin ang kanilang hanapbuhay sa pag-aalis ng kanilang minamanehong jeep sa kalsada at palitan ito ng “modernong” electronic-jeep (e-jeep) na ang tanging makakapag-atikha ay mga mayayamang jeepney operator’s cooperatives at negosyanteng malalapit sa palasyo. Lalong higit na makikinabang sa jeepney modernization program ng administrasyong Duterte ang malalaking dayuhang negosyo at mga lokal na kasosyo nito sa bansa na siyang nakakuha ng basbas at pabor mula sa palasyo na magsusuplay ng mga “modernong” jeepney tulad ng e-jeep.

Walang kakayahan ang mga ordinaryong opereytor na makabili ng 2-3 milyong pisong halaga ng isang yunit ng e-jeep na nilalako at siyang pinapaboran ng gubyerno na papalit sa mga sinasabi nilang luma at bulok na jeepney na tumatakbo sa mga kalsada ng bansa.

Kailangang maunawaan ng taumbayan na ang ginagawang pagtutol ng mga naglulunsad ng pambansang tigil-pasada sa jeepney phase-out ay hindi lamang sa kapakanan ng mga maliliiit na tsuper at opereytor kundi para na rin sa mga mananakay. Kapag nagtagumpay ang administrasyong Duterte na maipatupad ang jeepney modernization program, sisirit ang halaga ng pamasahe sa bansa dahil babawiin lamang sa mga mananakay ng mga mayayamang opereytor at mga kooperatiba ang kanilang ginastos sa pagbili ng napakamahal na “modernong” jeep.

Malinaw ang pahayag ng mga nagpoprotestang tsuper at opereytor na hindi sila tutol sa ideya ng pagmomodernisa ng jeepney transportation sa bansa. Ang tinututulan nila ay ang iskema ng jeepney modernization programa na pinapaburan lamang ang interes ng malalaking negosyo sa industriya ng transport. Tinututulan nila ang kawalang-tulong at subsidyo mula sa gubyerno para magkaroon sila ng kakayahan na bumili ng higit na mura at maayos na sasakyang kanilang ipapamasada at hindi basta walisin sila sa kalsada at patayin ang kanilang pinagkukunan ng kabuhayan.

Dapat ding sumama at lumahok ang taumbayan sa mga pagkilos at pangangalampag sa gubyerno na isinasagawa ng mga progresibong transport sector at iba pang makabayan at progresibong organisasyon para sa pagpapatupad ng public mass transport system sa bansa. ####

https://cpp.ph/statement/pahayag-ng-suporta-para-sa-laban-ng-mga-jeepney-drivers-at-operators/

CPP/CPDF: Rotten to the core

Cordillera People's Democratic Front (CPDF) propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 6, 2019): Rotten to the core

SIMON 'KA FILIW' NAOGSAN

SPOKESPERSON

CORDILLERA PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC FRONT

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 06, 2019

The spate of brutal shootouts between Philippine Army, PNP and paramilitary members happening either inside their detachments or while on operations highlights one thing: that the AFP and PNP are rotten to the core characterized by their mercenary tradition abetted by the reigning culture of impunity!

These are not isolated cases. Similar and frequent cases in the recent past cannot just be dismissed and therefore highlight the bankruptcy and rottenness of the reactionary security forces.

The following incidents speak for themselves:

In the Army-CAA Detachment at Sitio Mong-ol, Barangay Maguyepyep, Sallapadan, Abra, two CAFGU members were killed by their fellow paramilitary members inside their detachment last August 15, 2019 before mid day due to a simple issue of “golden kuhol” viand which they did not know how to apportion among themselves. The thing is, their army corrupt officers pocketed their measly allowances. To cover up the fiasco, the 24th IB army officers ordered their men and CAFGU militia men to stage a mock battle and made a preposterous report that their camp was attacked by members of the NPA.

In the Regional Mobile Police Battalion patrol base at Banaue, Ifugao last Sept 29, two police officers were killed by their fellow policeman for a simple misunderstanding among themselves on the flimsiest of reasons.

Much earlier, on March 20, a unit of the 50th IB on patrol mis-encountered a group of CAFGUs whom the army sent out for an advance reconnaisance within the boundary of Barangays Buaya and Mabaca, both of Balbalan, Kalinga. One army man was sacrificed in the misencounter. To save face, the 50th IB army officers made it appear as an encounter between their troops and a unit of the NPA, and reported 1 M16 captured, all of which would surely be used for promotion and monetary awards.

These are trademarks of the reactionary military and police forces whom the tyrant Duterte has favored and coddled to enforce his pipe-dream of Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict before his term expires on 2022. These reactionary armed units, thrown into the doom of battle, have no regard at all for the respect of human rights and international humanitarian laws and bear a culture of impunity emboldened by their Commander-in-Chief’s taunts and tirades against the revolutionary forces and anyone opposed to his tyrannical rule. Thus, these rampaging troops inflict untold hardships among the peasants in the countryside and progressive legal organizations in the urban areas. But Duterte and his cohorts make no mistake, that the Filipino people including the national minorities of the Cordillera are rising in numbers, resisting and fighting his brutal rule.

The Cordillera People’s Democratic Front and its allied revolutionary mass organizations, together with the masses in the region and the entire nation, are determined to oust this dreaded regime and advance the national democratic revolution to a higher level until final victory. ##

https://cpp.ph/statement/rotten-to-the-core/

Army claims control in Manjuyod encounter

From the Negros Chronicle (Oct 6, 2019): Army claims control in Manjuyod encounter

The Philippine military claims to have retaken control in rebel- inflicted areas losses to the rebels in a fresh encounter in Manjuyod town, Thursday.

In a report, troops belonging to the 94th Infantry Battalion conducting combat operations encountered more or less 20 alleged rebels at Sitio Cabangahan, Barangay Bantolinao, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental at about 2:45 PM, Thursday.

The soldiers fought the rebels in a 40-minute running gun battle, after which the enemy withdrew towards the northwest direction of said barangay.

No soldiers were hurt in the encounter but the military believes the rebels suffered undetermined casualties based from the heavy bloodstains found in the position and route of withdrawal.

The troops recovered the following war materials and other items; an anti-personnel mine (IED); parts (a bolt, a buffer spring and a charging handle) of an M16 rifle destroyed during the encounter; 1 commercial handheld radio; 1 AM radio; 2 cellular phones and subversive materials. The troops are still clearing the area and conducting pursuit operations.

This is the 2nd encounter in Barangay Bantolinao, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental since last June (under 302nd Brigade) where 5 anti-personnel mines (IEDs) were recovered, and the 14th armed clash of soldiers under 303rd Brigade against the terrorist NPAs for this year.

https://negroschronicle.com/army-claims-control-in-manjuyod-encounter/

Soldier shot dead in Marawi

From GMA News Online (Oct 7, 2019): Soldier shot dead in Marawi

A soldier was shot dead by a still-unidentified individual or individuals in Marawi City on Sunday, the Philippine Army said.

According to the Army, the gunman or gunmen used a .45 pistol to kill Staff Sergeant Paul S. Polines of the 553rd Engineer Battalion at around 2:30 p.m. in Barangay Basak Malutlut.

He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival, the report said.

The Marawi police and the Army's 103rd Brigade are investigating the incident.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/content/710678/soldier-shot-dead-in-marawi/story/

IS luring new fighters with cash, says PNP exec

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 7, 2019): IS luring new fighters with cash, says PNP exec

Recruiters for terror groups target young, out-of-school Moros in Maguindanao



TERROR LINKS The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), founded by the late Ameril Umra Kato (second from left), is among the Islamic State-linked armed groups that the government is fighting in Mindanao. Esmael Abubakar (right) now leads a faction of BIFF. —Jeoffrey Maitem

BULUAN, Maguindanao, Philippines — Groups allied with the Islamic State (IS) continue to recruit young Moros, luring them with at least P50,000 outright cash and a P10,000 monthly allowance, a top police official said on Sunday.

Col. Arnold Santiago, chief of the Maguindanao Police Provincial Office, made the disclosure following last week’s clash between the IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Seven MILF fighters were killed in the four-hour clash on Oct. 3 at Barangay Dasawao in Shariff Saydona Mustapha town. The village is the birthplace of Esmael Abubakar, alias Kumander Bungos, leader of one of three BIFF factions, Santiago said.

BIFF members have been especially targeting the young, out-of-school Moros to take up arms, Santiago said in a telephone interview.

“They are offered cash to become IS fighters,” he said.

The recruits, he said, were being indoctrinated with the wrong teachings of Islam, including violence.

The Oct. 3 clash erupted after BIFF men under Abubakar went to the MILF-controlled village, brandishing their high-powered firearms.

According to Santiago, fighters from the BIFF and the MILF have a longstanding “rido” (clan war) due to a land dispute.

The MILF, he said, had long requested BIFF members, who are related to its members, to avoid visiting Barangay Dasawao while carrying high-powered weapons, as this could trigger a gun battle that could result in civilian displacement.

Santiago also said that once the presence of BIFF fighters was detected in the community, government forces would launch military operations in the area, which would send residents fleeing to safety.

Foreign fighters

Rommel Banlaoi, chair of the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research, earlier told the Inquirer that foreign IS fighters were still going to Mindanao despite their defeat in Marawi City in 2017, to help local militant groups establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia.

Armed men belonging to the Maute Group, which had pledged allegiance to the IS, laid siege to Marawi in 2017. Government forces engaged them in a five-month battle that ended with the killing of the group’s leaders, brothers Omar and Abdullah Maute, and their top lieutenants.

Banlaoi said the foreign fighters monitored to have entered Mindanao came from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Morocco, Spain, France, Tunisia, Iraq, Somalia, Egypt, Yemen, Libya, Pakistan, Bangladesh and China.

But the bulk came from Indonesia and Malaysia, which both share maritime borders with the Philippines.

Home base

“The [foreign fighters] regard Mindanao as the new land of jihad (fight against enemies of Islam), safe haven and alternative home base,” Banlaoi said.

To counter IS recruitment, Santiago said the Maguindanao police had been sending representatives to talk at the ‘madaris’ (Islamic schools) or with the ‘ustadz’ (religious scholar) to propagate the “true essence of Islam” as a religion of peace.

For Muslims in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, the real war “is the war to eradicate poverty and hunger,” he said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1174119/is-luring-new-fighters-with-cash-says-pnp-exec

Military forms task force to rescue abducted Briton

From the Manila Times (Oct 7, 2019): Military forms task force to rescue abducted Briton

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Mindanao Command (AFP-WestMinCom) has ordered the formation of a task force that will spearhead efforts to rescue a couple abducted last week in Zamboanga del Sur.

The task force will be headed by Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, commanding general of the Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division, according to Maj. Arvin Encinas, WestMinCom spokesman.

The unit, to be called Task Force Hyrons, will lead efforts to rescue Briton Allan Hyrons, 70, and his Filipino wife Wilma. Armed men kidnapped the two at a beach resort in Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur on Friday.

Briton Allan Hyrons, 70, and his Filipino wife Wilma

“As of this time, our coordination with our counterparts are ongoing, including the Philippine National Police and the community since they can also help us in determining the exact location where the couple was brought,” Encinas said in a radio interview.

He added that it was too early to conclude if the Abu Sayyaf Group was behind the abduction.

“There are no signs yet saying that the Abu Sayyaf is behind this abduction. There have been lawless elements in Zamboanga del Sur and they are in a group conducting kidnap-for-ransom,” Encinas pointed out.

He refused to divulge other details, saying it might compromise ongoing operations.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2019/10/07/news/national/military-forms-task-force-to-rescue-abducted-briton/627728/

Soldiers overrun rebel encampment in Negros Occidental

From the Cebu Daily News (Oct 6, 2019): Soldiers overrun rebel encampment in Negros Occidental



Items recovered after the encounter between government troops and suspected rebels in n Sitio Bugo, Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on Oct. 6, 2019.|Photo credit: 62nd IB.

The Joint Task Force Negros ( JTF Negros) engaged anew suspected communist rebels and overran a New People’s Army encampment following a gun battle early on Sunday, October 6, 2o19 in the hinterlands of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

The search and destroy operations for fleeing NPA rebels on Negros Island continues as government troops from the 31st Division Reconnaissance Company (DRC) under the operational control of the 62nd Infantry Battalion once again engaged in a running gun battle with more or less 15 suspected rebels in Sitio Bugo, Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City at 5:20 a.m. on Sunday, October 6, 2019.

As earlier reported, the 30-minute exchange of gunfire resulted to the death of two suspected rebels and discovery of an NPA encampment area, according to the press statement from the 303rd Infantry Division, Camp Gerona, Murcia, Negros Occidental.

Several war materials were also recovered, including a backpack with personal belongings, 45 rounds of 5.56mm Live Ammunition, one unit cellphone; and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

There were no casualties on the government side.

Items recovered after the encounter between government troops and suspected rebels in n Sitio Bugo, Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on Oct. 6, 2019.|Photo credit: 62nd IB.
“We will continue to hunt you down, we will not stop until the last one of you drops. We have given you two options; you either surrender now, or die fighting for a meaningless belief and for people who are only using you for their selfish intentions, the choice is always yours,” said Brigadier General Eric Vinoya, Commander of JTF Negros.

As of press time, the troops are still in the area conducting follow-up operations.

Vinoya added, ”We will be relentless in our conduct of Focused Military Operations to ensure that the Negrenses will be guarded from threats imposed by the CPP-NPA Terrorist. We are here to help them fulfil their dream of an insurgency-free and progressive community where they can live peacefully and grow economically.”

Vinoya reiterated the military’s call for the insurgents to surrender and avail the government’s reintegration program and live a normal life with their respective families./

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/262508/soldiers-overrun-rebel-encampment-in-negros-occidental

229 new Army soldiers to join war vs NPA

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 6, 2019): 229 new Army soldiers to join war vs NPA



Occidental Mindoro Rep. Josephine Ramirez Sato congratulates a new Army private. With her is Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., commander of the 2nd Infantry Division. (Photo from the Facebook account of the 2nd ID)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon, Philippines – A total of 229 new Army soldiers will be deployed to strengthen the government’s anti-communist insurgency campaign, a military official said.

In a press release issued on Sunday, Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., commander of the 2nd Infantry Division based in Tanay, Rizal, said the new Army privates would be a “welcome addition to our frontline units as we go all out for the government’s final push to finally put an end to the New People’s Army terrorists’ insurgency.”

Capt. Jayrald Ternio, chief of the Army’s 2nd ID Public Affairs Office, said the new privates — graduates of the 2nd Division Training School (2DTS) Candidate Soldier Course — were taught with the basic knowledge and skills of soldiery during their four months of training.

“The graduates are ready to assume the role of being advocates of peace, servants of the people and defenders of Southern Tagalog,” Lt. Col. John Jadloc, 2DTS commandant said.

Burgos congratulated the 2DTS for successfully “re-orienting the happy-go-lucky teenage mentality of our soldier-applicants to the matured and disciplined military way of life.”

Rep. Josephine Ramirez Sato of Occidental Mindoro, who was the guest speaker during the graduation ceremony, commended the soldiers’ transformation “to becoming heroes of the modern time while continuously setting an example that inspired others to become heroes themselves.”

She also thanked the soldiers “for going to places where others dare not go and for instilling courage and pride upon the hearts and minds of the people by committing to fight and offering your lives to protect the sanctity of our national sovereignty and every inch of Philippine territory.”

The new soldiers were also trained to perform non-traditional military roles, such as humanitarian assistance and disaster response in times of crisis and calamities and in participation in community-based programs and activities.

The rookie soldiers will be deployed in 2nd ID units in the Calabarzon and the island provinces of Mindoro Oriental, Mindoro Occidental, Marinduque and Romblon.

Jadloc said the latest 2DTS graduates earned a rating of 92% after an evaluation conducted by the Philippine Army with a focus on soldier’s core competencies of marksmanship and navigation.

The 2DTS is also rated as the top training school across the entire Philippine Army, he added.

An Army private receives a monthly base pay of P29,000.

“With ads-ons, the new soldier will receive a gross earning of P40,000 a month,” Ternio said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1174038/229-new-army-soldiers-to-join-war-vs-npa

NPA camp seized in Negros

From the Philippine Star (Oct 7, 2019): NPA camp seized in Negros

A 30-minute firefight ensued between the guerrillas and the pursuing Army troopers in Sitio Bugo, Barangay Buenavista after the military discovered the camp in nearby Sitio Ulitao in the same village, according to Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, chief of the Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade.
AP Photo/Aaron Favila

Two suspected New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas were believed killed after Army troopers seized a rebel camp in Himamaylan, Negros Occidental on Saturday.

A 30-minute firefight ensued between the guerrillas and the pursuing Army troopers in Sitio Bugo, Barangay Buenavista after the military discovered the camp in nearby Sitio Ulitao in the same village, according to Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, chief of the Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade.

The troopers recovered a backpack, hammock, medicine, wallet, several pairs of rain boots and rubber shoes, ammunition and bomb paraphernalia at the camp.

Arevalo said the camp could accommodate two platoons of rebels.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/10/07/1957966/npa-camp-seized-negros

AFP-CRS: Bukidnon tribal leaders, ex-NPA, soldiers fortify ties via ritual rites

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): Bukidnon tribal leaders, ex-NPA, soldiers fortify ties via ritual rites

Higaonon chieftains, former rebels, and soldiers orchestrated a “Pamungkas, Panlitub, Pambadbad” ritual rites at the Headquarters of 8th Infantry Battalion, on Friday, October 4, in respect to the customary belief of the Indigenous People (IP) community.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2745437788808261/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: NPA Leader in Palawan Arrested in a Joint Law Enforcement Operation

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): NPA Leader in Palawan Arrested in a Joint Law Enforcement Operation

Camp General Artemio Ricarte, Puerto Princesa City – At around 11:00 PM. of October 4, 2019,operating forces under Western Command together with the Puerto Princesa City Police Office, and Palawan Provincial Police Office conducted Joint Law Enforcement/ checkpoint operation at Barangay San Jose, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan that resulted to the arrest of Domingo Ritas, one of the top NPA leaders in Palawan, and 6 other NPA members.
\

AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.745817715436955/2746710468680993/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Philippine Army to recruit more troops

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): Philippine Army to recruit more troops



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.745817715436955/2745381442147229/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Miss Earth 2019 candidates visit CRSAFP

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): Miss Earth 2019 candidates visit CRSAFP

Sixteen (16) candidates of Miss Earth 2019 visited CRSAFP Headquarters and welcomed by CRS personnel led by BGEN EDGARD A AREVALO AFP, Acting Commander.

The candidates' visit is part of the "Adopt a Delegate" partnership between pageant organizer Carousel Productions and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2744653942219979/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Ranking Abu Sayyaf sub-leader arrested in Quezon City

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): Ranking Abu Sayyaf sub-leader arrested in Quezon City
An alleged high-ranking officer of a subgroup of the Abu Sayyaf (ASG) was arrested at Barangay Batasan Hills, Quezon City.

Ibrahim Lambog Mullo, 26, was recruited by the ASG sub-group (Ajang-Ajang Group) and had been involved in armed encounters against government forces in Patikul, Sulu Province, after joining the ASG in 2017.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2742876372397736/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: CNT Leadership crumbling down in Sursur

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): CNT Leadership crumbling down in Sursur
The communist NPA Terrorist leadership crumbling down in Surigao del Sur as series of CNT leaders and supporter surrenders to Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion from October 2 and 3 at H36IB, Brgy Dayoan, Tago, this province.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2742868492398524/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: NPA Partisan Unit Leader Surrenders

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): NPA Partisan Unit Leader Surrenders

A full-time member of Front Guerilla Unit, GF 53, and also the Team Leader of NPA's Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) voluntarily surrendered to to 72nd Infantry Battalion.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2744850622200311/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

Kalinaw News: Lawmaker to soldiers: thank you for your service

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 6, 2019): Lawmaker to soldiers: thank you for your service

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – A lawmaker expressed her appreciation to soldiers in a speech delivered before the 2nd Infantry Division’s 229 new privates and their families during the Closing Ceremony of the Army’s Candidate Soldier Course here on Friday.

Congresswoman Josephine Y. Ramirez Sato, Representative of the Lone District of Occidental Mindoro, thanked the men and women in uniform “for going to places where others dare not go and for instilling courage and pride upon the hearts and minds of the people by committing to fight and offering your lives to protect the sanctity of our national sovereignty and every inch of Philippine territory.”

She ended her remarks by commending “the soldiers’ transformation to becoming heroes of the modern time while continuously setting an example that inspired others to become heroes themselves.”

The activity’s highlight was the “Symbolic Entrustment of Firearms” which signifies every soldier’s responsibilities and readiness as they accomplish their mandate to serve the people and secure the Filipinos’ homeland.

According to Lieutenant Colonel John Jadloc, Commandant of the 2nd Division Training School (2DTS), the graduates “were taught with the basic knowledge and skills of soldiery and developed their character thereby making them ready to assume the role of being advocates of peace, servants of the people and defenders of Southern Tagalog.”

He added that the 229 privates earned an excellent rating of 92% after an evaluation conducted by the Headquarters Philippine Army focused on every soldier’s core competencies of marksmanship and navigation.

2DTS is also rated as the top training school across the entire Philippine Army.

Brigadier General Arnulfo Marcelo B Burgos Jr, Commander of 2ID, congratulated the 2DTS’ training committee for successfully “re-orienting the happy-go-lucky teenage mentality of our soldier applicants to the matured and disciplined military way of life“ as he urged the new privates “to maintain the highest standards of soldiery as you dedicate your lives to serve our God, flag, country and people.”

BGen Burgos added that the new privates will be a “welcome addition to our frontline units as we go all out for the government’s final push to finally put an end to the NPA terrorists’ insurgency.”

He reminded everyone that “today is the best time to become soldiers because aside from having a very supportive President and elected officials, we enjoy our people’s trust, confidence and support like never before.”

Soldiers’ salaries and benefits, currently at a record high, is also one of the highest and most stable across the bureaucracy.

The new soldiers will be deployed with 2ID frontline units and will see action across CALABARZON, MIMARO Provinces, Davao, Zamboanga, Basilan and Sulu.

They are also trained and expected to perform non-traditional military roles such as humanitarian assistance and disaster response in times of crisis and calamities as well as community based programs and activities.

Division Public Affairs Office 2nd Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT JAYROLD TERNIO
Chief, DPAO, 2ID, PA
Camp General Mateo Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal
09175047068

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/lawmaker-to-soldiers-thank-you-for-your-service/

SOLCOM: National Security Concern Awareness to all NSTP Students at Manuel S Enverga University

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): National Security Concern Awareness to all NSTP Students at Manuel S Enverga University

“Ugnayan sa Paaralan” on 05 0800 October 2019

The 374th Naval Reserve Center Southern Luzon, Naval Reserve Command invited LTC DIEGO A PILAR PAF, GC, Civil Relations Group during the National Security Concern Awareness to all NSTP students at Manuel S Enverga University Foundation Gymnasium, Lucena City. He conveys inspirational message to the students and encourages them to engage in extra curricular activities that has significance and meaningful their youth and inspires them to focus on their studies. Moreover, he says to become more vigilant on the propaganda of the CPP-NPA-NDF which leads to the deception and recruitment of their target other students who were victims of false hopes of CPP-NPA. Likewise, TSg Tolentino of this unit presented Commander, 2nd CRG requests the students to write a letter of encouragement to our brothers who are still blinded by their wrong ideology while he was performing an inspirational music using his saxophone.

The Group displays #AFPyoucanTRUST tarpaulin as backdrop during the symposium.

Open forum follows wherein selected students voices out there questions.

The activity was successfully done through the efforts of Enverga University administrators, NSTP, NRC and 2CRG.

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/pcb.2369001576693235/2369001076693285/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/pcb.2369001576693235/2369001106693282/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/pcb.2369001576693235/2369001160026610/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/pcb.2369001576693235/2369001483359911/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/pcb.2369001576693235/2369001513359908/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/pcb.2369001576693235/2369001546693238/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/pcb.2369001576693235/2369001016693291/?type=3&theater

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

SOLCOM: Youth Gather for National Security Concern Awareness Symposium at Enverga University

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 6, 2019): Youth Gather for National Security Concern Awareness Symposium at Enverga University



https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/a.1503968379863230/2369002203359839/?type=3&theater

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

Parents form core group to combat NPA recruitment in Bukidnon school

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 5, 2019): Parents form core group to combat NPA recruitment in Bukidnon school (By 8th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon - Parents of students of Malaybalay City National Science High School organized the “SANDIGAN, a core group of parents who volunteered to support students’ activities for peace promotion to combat insurgency, during a symposium held in the said school at Aglayan, Malaybalay City, October 3.

As resource speakers in the symposium, the 8th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army together with some former rebels and representatives of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA)- 10 enlightened some 200 parents regarding the recruitment scheme of the New People's Army (NPA) in schools.

The parents, wanting their children to be safe from this scheme, formed the SANDIGAN as an exclusive group under the Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) to oversee this kind of activity and act as advisers to the students if ever such a case arises.

“We want to protect our children from NPA recruitment. We want them to be productive citizens of our society, that’s the reason we came up with this special group,” said Mr. Roger Nemenzo, PTA president and member of the Sandigan group.

 

Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana, the commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion, encourages the parents to send their children to military schools and get the privilege and honor of serving the country.

Mr. John Rarogal, the Secondary School Principal, expressed his gratitude to the stakeholders who gave time to the school’s request.

“I really appreciate the participation of the stakeholders in our invitation. I believe that working together and helping each other will create an enormous result especially in combatting this NPA recruitment on the campus,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana, the commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion encouraged the parents to send their children to military schools and get the privilege and honor of serving the country.

There are stories of mothers who deeply desire for the return of their beloved missing children without knowing they are already engaged in leftist organizations.

The effort of the parents to have a core group within the campus to monitor NPA recruitment of students is substantial to the government program on ending the local communist armed conflict. (8IB,PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028331

Bukidnon tribal leaders, ex-NPAs, soldiers fortify ties via ritual rites

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 5, 2019): Bukidnon tribal leaders, ex-NPAs, soldiers fortify ties via ritual rites (By 8th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)



IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon -- Higaonon chieftains, former rebels, and soldiers orchestrated a “Pamungkas, Panlitub, Pambadbad” ritual rites at the Headquarters of 8th Infantry Battalion, on Friday, October 4, in respect to the customary belief of the Indigenous People (IP) community.

Nine Higaonon chieftains came across between the former rebels temporarily staying inside the camp and the army troopers to put an end to the belief that an enemy will always be an enemy, through a ritual.

A hog and fowls were offered as chieftains performed series of tribal prayers to call on the Supreme Creator to bless the people inside the camp and that they may be protected from any sickness.

The activity was attended by the 8th IB troopers, 20 former rebels, other visitors and stakeholders.

Datu Amay Matangkilan, the tribal elder of Impasugong expressed his appreciation saying, “I thank the Army and the former rebels for considering this tradition. As an elder in the community, I now feel comfortable that soldiers and former rebels have a deep respect and care for each other.”

Likewise, Mr. Felix Vergara, one of the stakeholders who joined the ceremony got a chance to offer the vacant security job in his company to the former rebels. The former rebels will soon be briefed and train for the mastery of the placement.

Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana, the commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion who attended the activity said, “We always treasure the customary practice of the IP community especially that our camp is within the premises of Impasugong. We care for our former rebels and we will support them in everything they need.”

The 8th Infantry Battalion is located in Impasugong, Bukidnon which happens to be the Tribal Capital of Bukidnon. It will always respect and participate in any customary tradition that the community is practicing.

The “Pamungkas, Panlitub, Pambadbad” Ritual is one custom and tradition being observed by the tribe. (8IB,PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028332

Multi-sectoral caravan vs communists brings services in Sorsogon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 6, 2019): Multi-sectoral caravan vs communists brings services in Sorsogon

SORSOGON CITY (PIA) – The Army’s 903rd Infantry Brigade (903rd IB) and the Sorsogon Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) have successfully conducted a one-day convergence in Gubat town in Sorsogon province.

The convergence of the task force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) in Gubat town in Sorsogon features Serbisyo Caravan with more than 700 participants from 20 participating government agencies.

The event was divided into three main activities, namely: Serbisyo Caravan, activation of Gubat Municipal Task Force-ELCAC, and a meeting among the provincial heads of the national government agencies and the heads of barangays (villages) where the communist New People’s Army (NPA) still wields influence.

The main purpose of the convergence was to discuss the importance of ending the armed conflict between the NPA and the government forces so that NPA members can live a peaceful life in the community where services of the government are always available to all.

903rd IB’s data reveal that there are eight barangays in Gubat that remain under the influence of communist ideology and these barangays are experiencing exploitation in the hands of the NPA.

The convergence of the task force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) in Gubat town in Sorsogon features Serbisyo Caravan with more than 700 participants from 20 participating government agencies.

Julius Cal Ortiz, director of Department of the Interior and Local Government for Sorsogon, said barangay officials have a big role in the implementation of the whole-of-nation approach under Executive Order 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte because they are the government’s representatives on the ground.

Ortiz added that they don’t need to worry about the expenses because the task force will bring them the necessary logistics to carry out its goal—to attain peace once and for all.

For his part, Col. Noe Alberto Penafiel, commander of 903rd IB said ending local communist armed conflict is everybody’s concern and duty.

Penafiel said local barangay officials should threw away the apprehension that the local communist has instilled in them.

Although the NPA has impunity in remote barangays, Penafiel said he continues to hope that through the whole-of-nation approach, and with help of the barangays and government agencies concerned, the armed conflict will come to an end.

The convergence of the task force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) in Gubat town in Sorsogon features Serbisyo Caravan with more than 700 participants from 20 participating government agencies.

The brigade commander appealed to the barangays to support the civilian-led approach in addressing communism in the country

The caravan featured the services of the government that its line agencies have provided to the participants in the convergence.

Among the services availed by the most number of beneficiaries of the caravan were medical checkups, verification of 4Ps beneficiaries with the DSWD, free legal assistance, comelec satellite registrations, free haircut and many others.

Melanie Capito of Gubat expressed her gratitude to the organizers of the event for giving the less fortunate villagers like her a chance to avail themselves of the services of various government agenciest.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa serbisyo caravan kasi marami itong natutulungan na mga mahihirap upang mabigyan kami ng ganitong serbisyo ng pamahalaan,” said Capito.

Capito and her fellow participants were likewise provided with a live band entertainment that made them feel relaxed.

The convergence ended with the participants signing a manifesto to support the ELCAC. (PIA5/Sorsogon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028298

Tagalog News: Wescom, pinuri ang otoridad sa pagkakahuli ng NPA leader sa Palawan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 6, 2019): Tagalog News: Wescom, pinuri ang otoridad sa pagkakahuli ng NPA leader sa Palawan

Ilang mga gamit na nakuha sa nahuling mga miyembro ng New Peoples Army (NPA) sa Palawan noong Oktubre 4. (Larawan mula kay Ruth Rodriguez)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan -- Pinuri ni Western Command (WESCOM) Commander Vice Admiral Rene V. Medina ang kanyang mga tauhan at ang kapulisan ng Lungsod ng Puerto Princesa at Lalawigan ng Palawan sa pagkakahuli ng tinaguriang isa sa mga lider ng New People’s Army (NPA) sa Palawan na kinilalang si Domingo Ritas alyas Ka Dino at ang anim pang kasamahan nito.

Ayon kay VAdm. Medina, nais nitong bigyan ng komendasyon ang kanyang tropa at ang kapulisan sa matagumpay na operasyon sa pagkakahuli ng nasabing mga NPA na malaki ang naiambag sa kampanya ng ating pamahalaan na mawakasan ang armadong pakikibaka hindi lamang sa Palawan maging sa buong bansa.

Si Ritas na tinaguriang Deputy Secretary ng Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA) o itong Bienvenido Vallever Command (BVC) at ang mga kasamahan nito ay nahuli noong gabi ng Oktubre 4 sa isang checkpoint sa kilometer 6, North National Highway ng Bgy. San Jose, Puerto Princesa kaugnay ng isinagawang joint operation ng Wescom, PNP-Puerto Princesa at PNP-Palawan.

Si Ritas ay isang wanted person dahil sa paglabag sa Republic Act No. 10591 o ang ‘Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act’. Kasama nitong nahuli ang tatlong babae at tatlo pang lalaki na kinumpirma ng Wescom na mga miyembro ng NPA sa Palawan.

Base sa ulat na inilabas ng PNP-Mimaropa Regional Police Office ang mga nahuling miyembro ng NPA ay bumiyahe mula sa Bgy. Caruray sa Bayan ng San Vicente, Palawan sakay ng isang pribadong sasakyan at patungo sana sa bahaging sur ng lalawigan.

Nakuha sa mga ito ang mga sumusunod: isang caliber 9mm pistol na mayroon dalawang magazines na puno ng bala, rifle grenades, time fuse, blasting cups, improvised galvanometer, batteries, MK2 hand grenades, improvised hand grenade, mga electronic gadgets tulad ng laptop at cellphone, iba’t-ibang klase ng gamot, backpacks, duyan, uniporme ng pulis at military, mga damit pang-sibilyan, mga subersibong dokumento, NPA uniforms at National Democratic Front Flags.

"Ang Wescom ay patuloy na makikiisa at makipagtulungan sa iba’t-ibang ahensya ng gobyerno para sa proteksiyon ng mga tao at mga pamayanan laban sa mga hindi kumikilala sa batas at mga grupo ng mga komunistang terorista upang mapigilan ang kanilang harangin na maghasik ng kaguluhan sa Palawan na malaking hadlang sa isinusulong na kapayapaan, seguridad, at pag-unlad ng probinsya", sabi ni Medina.

Patuloy din aniya nilang hinihimok ang natitira pang mga miyembro ng CPP-NPA na piliin ang landas ng kapayapaan. Nawagan ito sa kanila na magbalik-loob na sa pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng pagbaba ng kanilang mga sandata at pagsuko.

"Ang Wescom kasama ang mga ahensiya ng gobyerno ay handa silang tulungan na makabalik sa kanilang mapayapang pamumuhay kasama ang kani-kanilang mga pamilya at mga mahal sa buhay”, dagdag ni Medina . (OCJ/PIA-MIMAROPA, Palawan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028333

Hunt on for killers of cassava firm worker in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 6, 2019): Hunt on for killers of cassava firm worker in Maguindanao



AMBUSHED. Police probers cordon off the crime scene where victim Rocelito Balboa, 50, chief mechanic of the Sultan Kudarat-based Lamsan Trading Corporation, was shot dead by armed men on board a sports utility vehicle in Barangay Pigcalagan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on Saturday morning (Oct. 5, 2019.)The local police said it is pursuing a good lead in resolving the case. (Photo courtesy of Sultan Kudarat MPS)

SULTAN KUDARAT, Maguindanao -- Police personnel here have launched a manhunt against armed men aboard a sports utility vehicle (SUV) who shot dead the chief mechanic of a cassava firm here Saturday.

Lt. Col. Arnold Santiago, Maguindanao police director, said the suspects were on board a Ford pickup when they opened fire on Rocelito Balboa, 50, chief mechanic of the Sultan Kudarat-based Lamsan Trading Corporation at 6 a.m.

Maj. Julhamin Asdani, Sultan Kudarat municipal police office chief, said Balboa, who hails from Barangay Bager, Libungan, North Cotabato, was driving his motorbike on his way to work when he was ambushed along the national highway in Kilometer 17, Barangay Pigcalagan here.

Asdani, quoting witnesses, said the vehicle that the suspects used bore no license plate.

Balboa sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died on the spot.

Police found empty shells for .45-caliber pistol and 9mm pistol at the scene.

Asdani said police are still clueless about the identities of the suspects but it is following up a “good lead.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082402