12 ex-rebels receive P65,000 cash assistance via E-CLIP in MisOcc

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): 12 ex-rebels receive P65,000 cash assistance via E-CLIP in MisOcc (By Shaine Mae R. Nagtalon)



OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, June 22 (PIA)--Fulfilling President Rodrigo Duterte’s commitment to providing former rebels (FRs) a good life once they return to the folds of society, a total of 12 former New People’s Army (NPA) members from the province and neighboring provinces each received P65,000 checks under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), June 18 at HalfwayHouse, Camp Burgos, Oroquieta City.



One of the 12 FRs receives his immediate and livelihood assistance during the turn-over of financial assistance and the closing ceremony of reintegration activities for 12 FRs in Misamis Occidental Province under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), June 18.
(SMRN/PIA Misamis Occidental)

The financial assistance includes P15,000 immediate aid and livelihood assistance worth P50,000 and other needs-based benefits.

During the closing ceremony of the 28-day reintegration program and turn-over of the financial assistance to batch 4 former rebels in Misamis Occidental, Commanding Officer of 10th Infantry Battalion LtCol Ray Tiongson said the release of the financial assistance shows that the government is committed to assist the rebel returnees.

“The Philippine Army is always here to provide assistance to our local government in terms of providing security and a peaceful environment for our people,” Tiongson said.

He also added that as the former rebels have chosen to return to the folds of the law, they now have a second chance in life and enjoy freedom. Tiongson assured that the government is always ready to accept and provide the FRs with the E-CLIP.

Meanwhile, Misamis Occidental Governor Philip Tan underscored the government's sincere desire to assist the FRs and their families from poverty saying, “The government is very sincere to give you second chance and to renew your lives."

The governor guarantees that the provincial government will provide the FRs with other necessary assistance including livelihood programs, hospitalization, and aid for education.



The ECLIP Committee together with the national line agencies and 12 former rebels. (SMRN/PIAMisamis Occidental)

Two of the FRs shared their testimonies on why they decided to yield to the government. They mentioned that the longing for their families during his time with the rebels compounded by the hardships, fear, and anxieties they experienced are their reasons for surrendering.

For his part, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Pablio Benitez, Jr. presented the activities and programs from January-June 2020 as part of the accomplishments of E-CLIP.

Benitez thanked the line agencies for the assistance, training, seminars, and other interventions in the communities aimed to transform former rebels. "It takes a village to transform the lives of former rebels and with the presence of the different agencies, I see that there is unity."

Benitez administered the Oath of Allegiance of the FRs, which signified their full commitment in returning back to the government and mainstream society and their loyalty to the Republic of the Philippines. (SMRN/PIA Misamis Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045441

Bukidnon halfway house seen to transform ex-rebels’ lives, reunite families—DILG

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Bukidnon halfway house seen to transform ex-rebels’ lives, reunite families—DILG (By Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy)



In an interview during the CORDS X Podcast of Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, DILG Provincial Director Carmelo Enrique Libot reports that the halfway house nears its completion. He said the facility which is now being constructed in the scenic countryside within Magbuliga Development Complex, Impasugong, Bukidnon would house former NPA rebels from around the province who surrendered and heeded the government’s call to avail of the E-CLIP benefits. (DILG Bukidnon)

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon, June 22 (PIA) -- In pursuit of attaining the government’s goal to end the communist insurgency in the country, Provincial Director Carmelo Enrique Libot of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Bukidnon said the halfway house, once working, would transform many lives and reunite families.

In an interview during the CORDS X Podcast of Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, DILG provincial director Enrique Libot said the facility would house former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) from around the province who surrendered and heeded the government’s call to avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits.

He clarified that the halfway house will provide services such as psychological and psychosocial counseling, livelihood training, and capacity building activities to help the former rebels (FRs) cope with their confidence and freedom as they returned to the folds of the law.

“This is a genuine proof that the government is very serious in helping out our former rebels. This is not just an effort of DILG, this is not just an effort of the municipality, the province, the Army, and the police. It is the effort of all of us. This is our way of supporting the government’s ‘whole-of-nation approach’ to finally end insurgency,” Libot said.

Located in Magbuliga Development Complex, Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon, the halfway house is nestled within the one-hectare scenic countryside in a peaceful conservation area donated by the local government of Impasugong.

Libot also said that the facility for FRs in the province is 20 percent accomplished and is targeted for completion before the year ends.

To date, reports showed that 524 former rebels in Bukidnon—both regular and Milisyang Bayan—returned to the folds of the law since the E-CLIP implementation and some of their benefits are now being processed by the Bukidnon E-CLIP committee.

Libot also shared during the CORDS X Podcast show that the army’s 403rd Brigade and the Department of Agriculture would establish a farming site within the area for self-sufficiency while the ex-rebels make their transition back into community life. (RLRB/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045434

Malaybalay Task Force ELCAC sends off CSP troops to strengthen peace, development efforts

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Malaybalay Task Force ELCAC sends off CSP troops to strengthen peace, development efforts (By Camille M. Bumatay, CMO, 8IB)

Malaybalay City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF ELCAC) sends off troopers from the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) who will be actively engaged in the government’s development and peacekeeping efforts at the city’s three rural and urban barangays namely Linabo, San Jose, and Kalasungay. (CMO, 8IB, 403Bde/Phil. Army)

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon, June 22 — Malaybalay City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF ELCAC) organized a send-off ceremony for the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) troopers who will be actively engaged in the peacekeeping efforts at the city’s three rural barangays, which is part of the Philippine Army’s Community Support Program (CSP) Team.

City Mayor Florencio Flores Jr, with Vice Mayor Jay Warren Pabillaran and a representative from the Army presented the CSP Team members and were formally accepted by the Punong Barangays (village chiefs) of barangays San Jose, Linabo, and Kalasungay where the CSP Team will conduct activities in line with the peace and development agenda of the national government.

In his speech, Mayor Flores lauded the Philippine Army and declared his unwavering support to help the government’s TF ELCAC attain its goals in sustaining peace and growth especially in rural communities.

"Ang lokal nga kagamhanan sa Malaybalay kanunay mo-suporta sa kahusay ug kalinaw nga mga paningkamot. Sa among mga kauban gikan sa militar, ako nagapasalig nga ang among suporta anaa kaninyo sa tanan nga pamaagi. (The local government of Malaybalay always supports peace and development efforts. To our partners from the military, rest assured that our support is with you all the way),” the mayor said.

The Philippine Army, likewise, acknowledged and appreciated Malaybalay LGU’s help in embarking on various activities geared towards guiding communities to break free from the clutches of insurgency.

"Ako nagapasalamat sa inyoang pagdawat sa kupunan sa CSP ug dugang nga suporta sa pagsunod sa gobyerno. Sa inyong suporta, mahimo natong makab-ot ang malungtaron nga kalinaw ug tapuson ang insurhensiya. (I am thankful to your acceptance of the CSP team and support in adherence to the government’s program. With your support, we can attain long lasting peace together and end insurgency),” said Lt. Col. Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, Commanding Officer of 8th Infantry Battalion in his message delivered by Major Bacarro, who represented the commanding officer during the send off ceremony.

Bacarro explained that CSP is one of the tools employed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines that is in line with the government’s efforts to combat activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), which is focused on socio-economic and cultural problems.

He clarified that the CSP deployment ventures into freeing the pre-identified barangays from communist shakedowns and likewise helps the LGU in identifying socio-cultural issues arising within the barangays. These issues will be elevated and addressed further through the City TF ELCAC in support of the government’s whole-of-nation approach. (CMO, 8IB, 403Bde, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045435

Over P2M E-CLIP fund released to AgNor FRs amid COVID-19 pandemic

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Over P2M E-CLIP fund released to AgNor FRs amid COVID-19 pandemic (By Jennifer P. Gaitano)

BUTUAN CITY, June 22 -- While the government continuously address the pressing issues and concerns related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, it also ensures that other concerns are being addressed such as the problem on insurgency.

With the continuing effort of the concerned government agencies in the fight against terrorism and insurgency, some 22 former rebels have received financial assistance from the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

The former rebel-beneficiaries are provided with the livelihood, immediate and reintegration assistance amounting to P86,000 as a head start in their journey to a new life. A total of P2.8-million was released to the beneficiaries.

Alias Karla, who was recruited in the movement of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) when she was 14 years old was one of the beneficiaries of the E-CLIP.

According to Karla, her life now gets better, which is far different from her life when she was still involved in the circle of CPP-NPA. And as she, along with other former rebels surrendered to the folds of the law, they were able to see and experience how the government authorities take care of them.

“I voluntarily returned to the government’s fold because I can no longer bear the hardships and difficulties I am experiencing with the CPP-NPA, and I miss my family so much,” she said.

Alias Boyka also expressed his gratitude to all the concerned government agencies that helped them as they return to the mainstream society.

“I do not want to die of starvation, which I used to experience when I was still in the movement. I want to live a peaceful life with my family,” he said.

Apart from the financial assistance, the former rebel also received hygiene kits from the Department of Health (DOH), and 10 of them were also given the firearms remuneration depending on the type of firearms which they surrendered.

Meanwhile, Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera and District Representative Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba, recognized the heroism of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel who continue to resolve the insurgency problem in the province.

Matba also appealed to the public to support the government’s proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill.

Governor Corvera also directed the Provincial Social Welfare and Development to fast-track the establishment of the halfway house for the former rebels. (JPG/NCL/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045197

NPA couple reunites with daughter during Father's Day

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): NPA couple reunites with daughter during Father's Day (By 58th Infantry Battalion)

NPA couple reunites with 2-year-old daughter during Father's Day at Impasug-ong, Bukidnon yesterday June 21, 2020. (58IB)

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental, June 22 - To feel what it is like to be parents, recently surrendered NPA couple reunited with two-year-old daughter during Father's Day at Impasug-ong, Bukidnon yesterday, June 21.

The said reunion was made possible through the joint effort of 58th Infantry (Dimalulupig) Battalion and 8th Infantry (Dependable) Battalion troopers who spent their Father’s Day away from their families just to ensure the success of the reunion of the former CTG family.

According to the couple, hunger and hardships in the mountain are just part of the reason why they returned to the folds of the law. What really prompted them to surrender is the longing to see and be with their daughter who were away with them for almost three years.

"Pagka human ug panganak gi dala namo ang bata sa bukid pero pagkatapos sa unom ka adlaw gikuha ni Ka Jane sa Kalasangan sa Sitio Mahagwa, Barangay Hagpa ang bata (Six days after giving birth, we left our child in the hinterland of Mahagwa, Barangay Hagpa in the care of alias Jane to provide support while they are pursuing the government forces)," Dina said.

As tears welled up in his eyes, alias Dino expressed his gratitude for seeing again his daughter. "Dako kaayo akong kalipay nga nakauban ug nakita nako akong anak karun adlawa (As a father, I am really happy that we are with our daughter this special day)," he said adding "We are now happy and ready to provide parental love which was deprived during our revolution against the government troop."

In a statement, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB said: "To our brothers and sisters in the mountains, I urge you to come down and lay down your arms. Your Army is always open and ready to help and assist you to be with your families and live a peaceful life. Stop wasting your time in fighting you wrong ideologies."

The couple will be in the custody of 58IB while waiting for their enrollment in the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). (58IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045487

Ex-communist leader reports high powered arms cache in Misamis Oriental

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Ex-communist leader reports high powered arms cache in Misamis Oriental (By 58th Infantry Battalion)



The troops has recovered Two AK 47 rifles, One M16 rifle and two Magazines for AK47 and serviceable ammunitions at the boundary of Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon yesterday June 21. (58IB)

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental, June 22 – As an expression of goodwill, a former communist NPA leader previously surrendered to the 58th Infantry 'Dimalulupig' Battalion (IB) reveals the location of three high powered firearms at the boundary of Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon Yesterday June 21, 2020.
Alias Dino along with two others disclosed significant information which pointed to the exact location of the firearms and assorted ammunition.

In coordination with 8th Infantry 'Dependable' Battalion assigned in Impasugong, Bukidnon a joint operation was conducted to retrieve the arms cache. The troops recovered Two AK 47 rifles, One M16 rifle and two Magazines for AK47 and serviceable ammunitions. In addition to the previous reported, alias Dino accumulated a total of five high powered Firearms from his group which further degrade their capability.

The surrender of alias Dino was the result of the relentless focused Military Operations done by the 58th IB to degrade the remaining force of threat groups who will continue to spoil peace. The way that the NPAs are stashing their firearms strongly manifest the dwindling manpower of the armed group which eventually lead on their collapse.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy Commanding Officer, 58 IB lauded the Former Rebels (FRs) for their aspirations to bring peace and bright future for their family. "Sa tabang sa mga FR, nakit-an namo ang cache sa armas nga mahimo nilang magamit sa pagpahigayon og mga mapintas na binuhatan bisan unsang oras. Buhaton namon ang labing kaayo nga paningkamot aron matabangan kadtong nagtinguha alang sa kalinaw. Ug usa pa, dili magduha-duha ang mga kasundaloan ug kanunay andam nga gamiton ang puwersa batok sa mga hulga sa grupo nga magpadayon batok sa gobyerno," he said. (With the help of the FRs, we located the arms cache which they can possibly be used in conducting atrocities anytime. We will do the best effort we can to help those who aspire for peace. However, the Army will not hesitate and is always ready to use its force against threat groups who will continue to go against the government).

"Kini usa ka ebidensya nga mahimong mabag-o ang usa ka rebelde. Mapasalamaton ako nga ang rebelde nga kaniadtoang among labing daotan nga kaaway karun mao na ang among kauban sa pag-angkon sa makatarunganon ug malungtarong kalinaw," said Lt. Col. Edgardo V Talaroc Jr, Commanding Officer of 8IB. (It is an evidence that a rebel can changed. I am grateful that the rebel that once our worst enemy is now our partner in attaining just and lasting peace.) (58IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045489

Cebuano News: 13 ka E-CLIP FRs nakadawat sa tabang pinansiyal

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Cebuano News: 13 ka E-CLIP FRs nakadawat sa tabang pinansiyal (By DILG Misamis Occidental)

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, June 22 (PIA)--Migradwar sa Reintegration Program ug nahatagan sa ilang immediate ug livelihood assistance ang 13 ka kanhi rebelde nga gidumala sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee sa Misamis Occidental, Hunyo 18 sa E-CLIP Halfway House, Camp Burgos.

Muabot sa P65,000 ang madawatang ayuda sa mga FRs na makahuman sa reintegration program. (DILG MisOCC)

Gipadali sa maong komite ug sa Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Office ang pagpanghatag sa tabang pinansiyal.

“Isa sa mga programa nga dili pwede i-drop sa kasamtangang adminstrasyon mao ang pagpatuman sa E-CLIP,” sulti ni DILG Provincial Director Pablio Benitez, Jr. nagpasabot nga bisan pa sa mga pagbag-o dala sa COVID-19, magpadayon gihapon ang mga programa batok terorismo.

Gipangunahan ni E-CLIP Committee Chairperson Governor Philip Tan ang pagpanghatag sa mga tseke nga nagkantidad ug P15,000 para sa immediate assistance ug P50,000 para sa livelihood assistance matag isa ka benepisyaryo.

Gipaabot ni Tan ang iyang pagpasalamat sa mga FRs sa ilang desisyon na mubiya sa mga buhat sa teroristang grupo.

Sumala pa ni Tan, ang hinungdan sa pag-rebelde sa usa ka tao mao ang kakabus.

Tungod niini padayon niyang gipasiugda na ang “access to education” mao ang tubag sa problema.

“Ang inyong masaligan pirmi, ang inyong kinaadman kay kung wala ni, maglisod gyud mo sa inyong panginabuhi bisan pa ug nakadawat mo sa mga ayuda,” giingon ni Tan sa mga FRs.

Human sa paghatag sa testimonya sa mga FRs, mas nasabtan pa sa ECLIP Committee gipanguluhan ni Tan kung unsa kalisod ang kinabuhi nga ilang nahiaguman sa kaniadtong apil pa sila sa kalihukang CPP-NPA.

Dungan niini ang pagdawat nila sa uban pang ayuda gikan sa mga kauban na ahensya, civil society organizations (CSOs), ug mga gikan sa pribadong sektor na mitambong sa maong closing ceremony. (DILG MisOCC/PIA 10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045512

ID commander is RTF-ELCAC 10 TWG's new chair

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): 4ID commander is RTF-ELCAC 10 TWG's new chair (By National Economic Development Authority 10)

MGen Andres C Centino (right), newly installed commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division – Philippine Army, serves as Chairperson of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC)-10 Technical Working Group. (NEDA-10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 22 - The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict-X Technical Working Group (RTF-ELCAC X TWG) has welcomed its new chairperson, Major General (MGen) Andres C. Centino, the newly installed commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division – Philippine Army.

In a virual meeting last June 19, General Centino expressed his gratitude and eagerness to continue with the tasks at hand. The military commander explained that though the infantry’s territory of responsibility has been downsized, they have received additional battalions to focus on combating the lingering problem of insurgency.

Meanwhile, Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno discussed the challenges amid COVID-19 pandemic.

“The task ahead is made challenging by the pandemic. There are health issues and economic downturns and unfortunately, [persisting] local communist insurgency. We were the frontrunner in economic improvement, but hopefully, it can be overtaken by confidence, the ability to rise up, and to build back better. This meeting is a reassuring event amid the current crisis,” Mayor Moreno said.

Meanwhile, Dir. Tarhata S. Mapandi, regional director of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-10, reported the recent launch of the Region X Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster at Talakag, Bukidnon, where the team conducted discussions on land, livelihood, and other issues with the indigenous communities.

The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict-X Technical Working Group (RTF-ELCAC X TWG) holds a video conference on 19 June 2020. (NEDA-10)

NEDA-10 Regional Director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño also updated the member on the status of the sanctioned research studies related to ELCAC, as she underscored the importance of pursuing programs and projects backed with research.

Cariño assured that while the outbreak held back the schedule, the research proponents, Central Mindanao University and Northern Bukidnon Community College, are proceeding with the activities. Results of the studies on the ELCAC state and the satisfaction surveys on the performance of the 1st and 4th infantry divisions will be presented in September.

Moreover, the NEDA-10 chief presented an inter-agency effort to draft a “one control map," which consolidates territorial information from the databases of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-10, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-10, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)-10, and the AFP. Said map will serve as basis for decision and policy-making relating to conflict resolution on territorial claims.

Member-agencies of the 12 Lines of Effort (LoE) also reported their accomplishments with regard to military operations, knowledge management, Convergence Areas for Peace and Development infrastructure projects, and organization of Local Task Forces – ELCAC.

MGen Centino assumed the post as commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division – Philippine Army vice MGen Franco Nemesio M Gacal.

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno, chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-10 administered the oath of office. General Centino will also sit as the vice chair of the RPOC-10. (NEDA-10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045467

73 orphans receive gifts from Army's 4th Mech Bn

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 22, 2020): 73 orphans receive gifts from Army's 4th Mech Bn (By Apipa P. Bagumbaran)

BALOI, Lanao del Norte, June 22 -- Seventy-three male orphans recently received gift packs from the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

The gifts are filled with school supplies such as notebook, ballpen, pencil, and crayons, and hygiene kit with bath soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, and face towel.

Aged four to 16 years old, the children are under the care of Darul Aitam Toril in Baloi, Lanao del Norte which serves as their home and school for Islamic studies.

The troops also gave the Toril two trays of eggs, 51 sacks of 5-kilo rice, and assorted canned goods, noodles and biscuits.

A 4x8 whiteboard with whiteboard markers and ink refill was also donated to the Toril.

The relief aid and gift-giving were made possible through the support of the local government of Baloi, Lanao del Norte, Gaisano Iligan, and a private individual.

Lt.Col. Domingo Dulay Jr, commander of 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, was thankful that several stakeholders supported the advocacy of the Battalion to help those who are in need.

"In this simple activity, we are happy to bring hope and love to these kids," he said emphasizing that the community has to give support and attention to the kids to prevent threat groups from influencing them.

Accordingly, the school supplies will aid the orphans in understanding Islam as a religion of peace while the hygiene kit will help ensure their personal hygiene as the world continues to battle against the dreaded coronavirus disease.

Happy with the relief aid, Aslanie Hadji Abbas, the secretary of the Toril, expressed appreciation to the 4th Mechanized Battalion.

"Sobrang hirap sa una kasi naranasan namin na dalawang beses lang kumain sa isang araw, kaya malaki ang pasasalamat namin sa Philippine Army at sa mga sponsors na nagbigay," she said.

(It was hard at first because we experienced eating only twice a day, so we are very grateful to the Philippine Army and the sponsors who provided the relief.)

Meanwhile, the local government unit (LGU) of Baloi gave an assurance that they will continue to help the Toril.

"Ang LGU Baloi po ay hindi sila papabayaan, gagawin namin ang lahat upang masolusyonan ang problema nila," said Municipal Councilor Jamaloding Usman Mamad.

(The LGU Baloi will not neglect them, we will do everything possible to solve their problem.)(APB/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1045552

PNP initiates dialogue among members of feuding Moro clans

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): PNP initiates dialogue among members of feuding Moro clans (By Edwin Fernandez)



SECURITY CHECKPOINT. The police in Sultan Kudarat town, Maguindanao, puts up more checkpoints around town to ensure public safety following the clashes between Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front factions in Barangay Macaguiling on Sunday (June 21, 2020). Local authorities say they are finalizing the schedule of the peace dialogue between the warring groups. (Photo courtesy of Sultan Kudarat MPS)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) in the Maguindanao town of Sultan Kudarat town has initiated dialogues among members of two Moro commanders locked in a clan war that erupted Sunday.

Maj. Julhamin Asdani, Sultan Kudarat police chief, said a meeting between families involved in the armed conflict is scheduled either Monday or Tuesday.

“We are bridging them, we would like to put an end to hostilities and possible retaliatory attacks from both sides,” Asdani said of the warring clans belonging to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

Clashes erupted when MNLF members, led by Commander Samad, attacked the house of MILF Commander Sulaiman Makauyag before dawn Sunday in Barangay Macaguiling, police said.

The brief firefight resulted in the injury of Makauyag. He is now recuperating in the hospital, police said.

Police said the firefight only stopped when police and Philippine Marines servicemen arrived in the area.

Sultan Kudarat Mayor Shameem Mastura has asked the local police to initiate peaceful dialogues to prevent the conflict from escalating and affecting civilians.

Security checkpoints were set up around Macaguiling village to prevent similar attacks in the future as the local police set the date for the dialogue of the feuding clans.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106578

Family of slain 'rebel' receives aid from NegOr LGU, Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Family of slain 'rebel' receives aid from NegOr LGU, Army (By Mary Judaline Partlow)



FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE. The local government unit of Mabinay, Negros Oriental, and the 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army on Sunday (June 21, 2020) handed over financial assistance to the family of a suspected NPA member who was killed in an encounter with government troops in that town last June 18, 2020. Shown in photo are (from left to right) Elna Bito, Livelihood Branch staff of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, Emma Ravilista, wife of the deceased Isaias Ravilista alias "Ka Jabar"; and Sgt. Ramie L. Cabayao of the 11th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army. (Photo courtesy of the 11th IB/3ID/Philippine Army)

The local government unit (LGU) of Mabinay, Negros Oriental and the 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army have extended assistance to the family of a suspected New People’s Army (NPA) member who was killed in a recent encounter with government troops.

The financial assistance was handed over Sunday to the family of Isaias Ravilista, alias "Ka Jabar", said Maj. Cenon Pancito III, chief, Division Public Affairs Office and spokesperson of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, in an interview on Monday.

It was turned over by the LGU-Mabinay, through Elna Bito, Livelihood Branch staff of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, and Lt. Col. Ramir Redosendo, 11th IB battalion commander.

Ravilista was laid to rest in Mabinay on Sunday afternoon.

He was among five suspected NPA members killed in an encounter with government troops last June 18 at Sitio Talingting in Barangay Lungay of the said town.

The clash occurred after Army and police personnel acted on a tip from civilians about the presence of Ravilisita and other armed men in two houses in Talingting.

They proceeded to the area to serve an arrest warrant against Ravilista for violation of Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

Upon reaching the place, the government troops were fired upon, triggering a 30-minute clash which resulted in the death of five suspected NPA rebels, and the seizure of high-powered firearms, ammunition, an explosive device, and subversive documents.

Mayor Joeterry Uy thanked the 11th IB for preserving the peace and order in Mabinay and in the neighboring towns. “We would like to thank the Philippine Army for your endless service towards achieving peace and national development in (these) trying times,” he was quoted as saying.

Redosendo said the Philippine Army, together with the local government of Mabinay, "would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Ka Jabar”.

“What happened in Barangay Luyang, Mabinay is a very unfortunate incident, and Isaias Ravilista is only one of the many victims of deception” of the NPA, he was quoted as saying in a statement.

He also reiterated their call to the NPA members to lay down their arms, surrender, and avail of the government’s reintegration program, while appealing for more public support in the implementation of the Whole-of-Nation approach to end the long-running insurgency in Negros.

Meanwhile, the four other casualties in last week's encounter have been identified as Raymond Cadayona of Barangay Candabong, Manjuyod in Negros Oriental; Romel Angeles of Sitio Calasa, Barangay Caradio-an; Joey Tabuyo, of Sitio Sig-ang, Barangay Carabalan; and Roland Germino, of Sitio Beto, Barangay Buenavista, all in Himamaylan, Negros Occidental.

Family members have already claimed their bodies, Pancito said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106631

Cops prepare arson raps vs. NPA in SoCot attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Cops prepare arson raps vs. NPA in SoCot attack (By Allen Estabillo)



Col. Jemuel Siason, South Cotabato police director. (File photo courtesy of the provincial government)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is preparing to file arson charges against the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, who have been tagged behind the burning of three heavy equipment last week in a quarry site at the boundary of Tboli and Surallah towns in South Cotabato.

Col. Jemuel Siason, South Cotabato police director, said Monday said they already identified several persons of interest in connection with the incident and were beefing up the pieces of evidence based on statements from several witnesses.

Siason said the rebels involved in the attack operate under the NPA’s Guerilla Front 72, which operates in Tboli and the neighboring areas.

Four unidentified men armed with short firearms poured gasoline and burned three heavy equipment of Gemma Construction Company that were deployed at the Sinfed quarry site along the Allah River around 3 p.m. on June 15. The area is located at the boundary of Sitio Dahlia, Barangay Edwards in Tboli, and in Barangay Veterans, Surallah town.

Police initially eyed extortion as the motive for the NPA attack that destroyed several heavy equipment worth around PHP20 million.

Siason said they will also charge leaders of the NPA-Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) after the group claimed responsibility for the attack.

A certain Ka Garry who claimed to be the rebels' spokesperson, said in an interview aired on Monday over Bombo Radyo in Koronadal City that the attack was a “punishment” for the company’s supposed involvement in "anti-people" activities, including mining.

“Since he already claimed it, we will include alias Garry and the rest of the members and officials of Front 72 and FSMR in the charge sheet. His admission will be among the basis for the filing of charges,” Siason said.

Siason said the NPA unit was misinformed, as Gemma Construction was not involved in mining and mainly into the construction business.

He added that the company has no ongoing infrastructure project in the area and was then hired by an agribusiness firm based in Surallah.

The official said the attack was clearly meant to disrupt peace and order as well as the development and growth of the affected localities.

Siason said it appears that the NPA is deliberately committing atrocities to "justify its relevance in the province amid the series of surrenders since last year of its members and supporters".

Since he assumed as South Cotabato police director in late November last year, Siason said a total of 206 NPA combatants and their allies have “returned to the folds of the law”.

Last week, he said 10 more NPA regulars surrendered in Lake Sebu town and another 28 in Tupi.

The returnees included around 50 unit commanders, vice commanders, finance officers, platoon leaders, medics, as well as “white area committee” organizers, he said.

“These only showed that the NPA was losing its regular cadres or members and the mass bases in the province as well,” Siason added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106605

Army exec hits NPA for ruined family ties

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Army exec hits NPA for ruined family ties (By Alexander Lopez)



DESTROYING FAMILIES. Lt. Col. Julius Cesar Paulo (right), commander of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion, criticizes the communist New People’s Army for disregarding the value of family among their members. Paulo led the celebration of Father’s Day on Sunday (June 21, 2020) with Army troopers and former rebels at their headquarters in Barangay Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. (Photo courtesy of 23IB)

A top military official in Agusan del Norte scored the communist New People’s Army (NPA) for destroying the family ties among its combatants and supporters.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar Paulo, the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion commander, said that based on the accounts of former rebels, the NPA would "forcefully" separate its members from their families while inside the communist rebel movement.

“The CNTs (Communist NPA Terrorists) are known for destroying families, of separating husbands from their wives and the children from their parents,” Paulo said in a statement Monday (June 22).

Paulo’s criticism came after the 23IB marked Father’s Day on Sunday with former rebels at its headquarters in Barangay Alubijid in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

During the celebration, former rebels testified about the difficulties they faced in keeping their ties with family members while inside the rebel movement.

"Inside the movement, bonding with our family members is not a priority. We were told not to mind our family members and focus on fighting the government. For more than two years, I have not seen my wife and children,” Jonel, a former member of the NPA's Guerrilla Front 4A, was quoted by 23Ib as saying.

Jonel also expressed gratitude to the 23IB for the chance to live a new life with his family.

During the Father’s Day celebration, Jonel was joined by her daughter Jasmin whom he did not see for nearly two years.

Paulo said the occasion also provided relief for 23IB troopers who have not seen their families for several months due to the coronavirus disease crisis.

“The former rebels, on the other hand, also longed to be with their families to recompense the months and years spent with the CNTs, for while inside the movement, they were not allowed to visit their families nor given time to have bonding with their children,” Paulo said.

He said the Father’s Day celebration reflects the Filipino values that emphasize “close family ties”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106660

Maguindanao town mayor survives bombing

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Maguindanao town mayor survives bombing (By Edwin Fernandez)



CHEATING DEATH. The muddied pick-up truck of Mayor Reynalbert Insular of South Upi, Maguindanao, after unidentified suspects set off a roadside bomb at 3 p.m. Monday (June 22, 2020) at the back of the town hall. Insular was not inside the car during the bomb attack. (Photo courtesy of Jayjay Nable–South Upi)

Mayor Reynalbert Insular, of the upland town of South Upi in Maguindanao, escaped harm when unidentified saboteurs set off a roadside bomb that hit his vehicle on Monday afternoon, police said.

Insular was not inside the black Mitsubishi pickup truck when the bomb went off past 3 p.m. at the back of the town hall, the police said in a report. The vehicle sustained minor damage.

Insular had just arrived in South Upi from Cotabato City and decided to stay home.

Police said the mayor’s driver, also unhurt, was about to park the pick-up vehicle at the back of the town hall when the bomb went off.

Insular believed he was the target of the bomb attack, the second since he was elected town mayor in 2016.

“I have no enemies,” he told reporters in a radio interview following the incident. No one has claimed responsibility for the attack.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106673

Militiamen repel NPA attack in Sarangani

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Militiamen repel NPA attack in Sarangani (By Richelyn Gubalani)

Government militiamen foiled on Sunday an attempt by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels to harass workers of a private construction firm assigned on a road project in a remote village in Maitum town, Sarangani province.

Major Romel Calamba, the spokesperson of the Sarangani Police Provincial Office, said Monday that nine personnel of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) held off around 20 NPA rebels from a base of Jargon Construction/John Mark Builders in Barangay Zion, Maitum town, in an encounter around 6:50 a.m.

Calamba said the militiamen were securing the heavy equipment and personnel of the two companies when the rebels opened fire at them.

Calamba said a 20-minute firefight ensued, with the rebels, who were reportedly under the NPA’s Guerilla Front 73, eventually withdrawing from the area.

“No one was reported hurt among the CAFGU personnel and we’re still verifying possible casualties from the side of the NPA,” he said in a report.

Around 20 families evacuated from the area as sporadic gunfire can still be heard until Sunday night from the outskirts of the village.

Calamba said the evacuees, who took temporary shelter at the village gymnasium, returned to their homes on Monday morning.

He said joint police and military operations were ongoing against the attackers, who reportedly fled towards the mountainous portions of the municipality.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106637

PH seeks stronger naval ties with India

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): PH seeks stronger naval ties with India (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Philippine Navy flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo. (File photo)

The Philippine Navy (PN) expressed hope for stronger ties with the Indian Navy following its assistance to the repair of the BRP Ramon Alcaraz, whose engine room caught fire off Cochin, India on May 7.

"Your support in this unfortunate incident is way beyond our expectations and is a testament of your sincerity in deepening our Navy-to-Navy partnership. Rest assured that the Philippine Navy remains committed to this partnership and we hope to expand this relationship as we seek better ways to make our seas safer and more secure for everyone," PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said in his letter to Indian Navy chief-of-naval staff, Admiral Karambir Singh last week and a copy of which was acquired by the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Sunday night.

BRP Ramon Alcaraz, one of the two ship components of Naval Task Force 82 deployed to the Middle East in January for possible repatriation missions of overseas Filipino workers following tensions between Iran and the United States, was starting its voyage home when a fire broke out in its engine room last May 7.

The ship immediately returned to Cochin, India for repairs with BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) initially deciding to go home alone.

However, Cyclone Amphan which battered eastern India and Bangladesh forced BRP Davao del Sur to return to the Indian port to seek shelter.

Repairs to the BRP Ramon Alcaraz's engine room were completed on May 27 and both ships resumed their voyage home on May 31 and arrived home in Manila on June 12.

"We are likewise thankful for the airlift and one of our sailors to INHS Sanjivani Naval Hospital under the leadership of Surgeon Commodore MS Honwad for the treatment of his second-degree burns," Bacordo said.

He also expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Indian Navy's Southern Naval Command, which is under Vice Admiral AK Chawla, for being receptive to the entire PN contingent.

"Again, accept my sincerest thanks for the Indian Navy's invaluable assistance and allow me to convey my fervent wishes for your continuing success in leading the Indian Navy's sustained resolve to be a global maritime force," Bacordo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106565

Navy transports stranded passengers, med supplies for Visayas

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Navy transports stranded passengers, med supplies for Visayas (By Priam Nepomuceno)



ON THE WAY HOME. Passengers wave aboard the BRP Davao del Sur, as it leaves the Manila South Harbor on their way to their hometowns in the Visayas on Monday (June 22, 2020). The passengers will disembark at the Port of Iloilo and only medical supplies will be transported to Cebu City which has been reverted to the enhanced community quarantine. (Photo courtesy of the Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy (PN)'s strategic sealift vessel, BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) on Monday departed from Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila transporting 405 passengers and medical supplies to Iloilo and Cebu, respectively.

In a statement, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, PN public affairs office chief, said this was a reduction from the original 450 persons earlier scheduled to board the ship, as some who underwent medical screening tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) rapid testing while those bound for Cebu City did not push through due to travel restrictions imposed by the re-implementation of enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in the area.

BRP Davao Del Sur, the other ship component of Naval Task Force 82, arrived in Manila after a five-month deployment in the Middle East last June 12. The ship, along with BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), proceeded there last January following tensions between the United States and Iran.

"In addition to these 402 LSIs (locally stranded individuals) are the remaining three repatriates from India and Sri Lanka. This makes a total of 405 passengers bound for Iloilo," Roxas said.

She added that the LSIs in transit will only be allowed to disembark at the Port of Iloilo as Cebu City bans entry of LSIs under its ECQ rules.

Only the 2,508 boxes of personal protection equipment (PPE) and medical supplies intended for the front-liners in the region will be unloaded for delivery to the Office of Civil Defense in Cebu.

BRP Davao Del Sur commanding officer, Capt. Homer Gonzalez, said that the 30-hour voyage will be safe and convenient travel for their passengers.

Roxas said the ship is expected to arrive at the Port San Pedro, Iloilo City on Tuesday afternoon.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106602

CHR slams alleged gov’t penchant for red-tagging after farmer’s slay

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 22, 2020): CHR slams alleged gov’t penchant for red-tagging after farmer’s slay (By: Gabriel Pabico Lalu)

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has slammed the government’s alleged tendency to label people in rural areas as members of communist rebel groups, following the death of a farmer believed killed during a military operation.

CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said in a statement Monday that hasty red-tagging in the midst of the extrajudicial killings issue and the government’s anti-communist drive gives the picture of it is not receptive to contrary opinions.

“The state’s haphazard labelling of individuals as affiliated to communist or leftist terrorist groups directly threatens the lives or safety of individuals,” De Guia said.

“Red tagging in the context of the increasing extrajudicial killings in rural Philippines and the government’s counterinsurgency program, may be seen as a manifestation of repression and the criminalization of political dissent,” she added.

CHR’s statement came after suspected NPA leader Zalday Meraya and his aide were killed in a supposed firefight with agents of the Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion in Palapag, Northern Samar on Saturday.

Authorities said that Meraya was the finance officer of SRC Arctic — an armed group that allegedly extorts money and targets government projects in Northern Samar’s coastal towns.

However, rights group Hustisya claimed that it was the military that opened fire at Meraya’s family house, injuring his relatives including daughter Jolina Calot, who studies at the University of Eastern Philippines and also a member of progressive group League of Filipino Students (LFS), a left-leaning youth organization.

Calot is currently in critical condition.

CHR said it will conduct its own investigation of the attacks on Calot’s family, including reports that the victims were falsely tagged as communist fighters.

“The Commission on Human Rights… calls for justice for the family of Jolina Calot, a student of the University of Eastern Philippines and a member of the League of Filipino Students. Her father and his companion were reported to be falsely red-tagged by law enforcement agencies,” De Guia said.

“The Commission extends its deepest sympathy to the families of the fallen farmers and commits to conduct an independent investigation of the case. We call on the local government of Northern Samar to equally probe the violent incident and deliver immediate justice to the victims,” she added.

The incident is not the first time CHR called out the government for red-tagging activities. Last May 22, the commission asked government officials to stop labeling students, activists, and even journalists as part of the communist armed movement, as they have faced threats due to the insinuations made by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

According to a post made by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief of Staff for civilian operations Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., a member of the NTF-ELCAC, several groups created by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) were chiming in on the ABS-CBN shutdown issue, and using it to gather support.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1295683/chr-slams-alleged-govt-penchant-for-red-tagging-after-farmers-slay

AFPMBAI donates 10 vehicles for COVID-19 response efforts

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 22, 2020): AFPMBAI donates 10 vehicles for COVID-19 response efforts (By Martin Sadongdong) 

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) received 10 vehicles worth P14.1 million that were donated by the Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefit Association, Inc. (AFPMBAI) in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday.

General Felimon Santos Jr., AFP Chief of Staff, said the donations will enhance the mobility and logistics operations of the military especially in the on-going fight against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Santos received one minibus, five vans, and four multi-purpose vehicles from retired Major General Robert Arevalo, AFPMBAI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

The AFP General Headquarters and the Philippine Army will be the recipients of the donations, he said.

As such, the top military commander expressed his gratitude to the AFPMBAI for its “unceasing generosity” to the AFP.

“We hope that the private sector like the AFPMBAI will never get tired of assisting and cooperating with the public sector, and the bayanihan spirit to continue to inspire each and every one of us especially in this time of crisis brought by the COVID19,” Santos said.

Vice Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr., AFP Vice Chief of Staff, and Major General Reynaldo Aquino, Vice Commander of the Philippine Army joined Santos in the turnover ceremony.

In May 2020, the AFPMBAI also donated P26 million worth of medical equipment to the AFP which were distributed to various military medical facilities.

The Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) had also received vehicles and medical equipment from the AFPMBAI.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/06/22/afpmbai-donates-10-vehicles-for-covid-19-response-efforts/

AFP gets 90% satisfaction rating in Covid-19 response survey

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): AFP gets 90% satisfaction rating in Covid-19 response survey (By Priam Nepomuceno)




RELIEF DRIVE. AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. (center) leads the distribution of relief packs to residents of Purok 1 and 2 in Barangay New Lower Bicutan, Taguig City on May 14, 2020. The AFP received a 90-percent satisfaction rating among government agencies surveyed for their coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) response based on a non-commissioned survey conducted by RLR Research and Analysis Inc. (File photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) received a 90-percent satisfaction rating among government agencies surveyed for their coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) response.

This was based on an uncommissioned survey conducted by RLR Research and Analysis Inc., which asked around 1,275 household heads in Metro Manila via computer-assisted telephone interviews.

"This survey is non-commissioned and the company's own contribution to fulfilling the information needs of citizens, government and community institutions, businesses, etc.," RLR Research and Analysis Inc. said.

In a statement Monday, Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata, military public affairs office chief, said Joint Task Force-National Capital Region leads the AFP's Covid-19 response efforts in Metro Manila.

The AFP through its Mobile Kitchen program also provided free meals to over 70,000 individuals in Metro Manila since April 20.

"The AFP has also provided personnel in Quarantine Assistance Stations, helped built and co-managed emergency quarantine facilities, and provided free transportation services to commuters nationwide," he added.

Over 2,400 locally stranded individuals were also assisted through the AFP's Tulong Uwi program while more than 1,000 tons of cargo were also airlifted by the Philippine Air Force planes Philippine Navy vessels.

"The AFP understands the weight that is being carried by every Filipino in these trying times. Rest assured that, shoulder-to-shoulder, we will overcome this pandemic and stand up better and more resilient," AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. said.

Other agencies whose performance were measured were the Philippine National Police (88 percent), the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (74 percent), Department of Health (68 percent), Department of Social Welfare and Development (59 percent) and the Department of Labor and Employment (45 percent).

The survey ran from May 14 to June 2 and employed interviewers tasked to recruit respondents.

The report also said 20 percent of the interviews were back-checked and 10 percent of interviewers were supervised via three-way calls.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106580

Sultan Kudarat bombing suspect arrested in Maguindanao

From the Philippine Star (Jun 22, 2020): Sultan Kudarat bombing suspect arrested in Maguindanao (John Unson)

This photo shows Dawlah Islamiya member Momong Esmael, who is now detained.
The STAR/John Unson

The police on Sunday arrested a senior member of the Dawlah Islamiya implicated in two deadly bombings in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat in 2018.

Combined personnel of regional police offices in Region 12 and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region cornered Dawlah Islamiya member Momong Esmael along a stretch of the Cotabato-Isulan highway in Ampatuan, Maguindanao.

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Esmael is a known henchman of Iman Bongos, leader of one of three factions in the Dawlah Islam, also known as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, which uses the flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria as banner.

Esmael voluntarily surrendered when he was shown copies of the warrants for his arrest in connection with his involvement in the August 28 and September 2, 2018 bombings in Isulan, provincial capital of Sultan Kudarat, that killed three people and left more than 50 others wounded.

The warrant for his arrest was issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 19 in Isulan.

Esmael is now detained at the municipal police station in Isulan, about 20 kilometers south of Ampatuan where he was arrested.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/06/22/2022709/sultan-kudarat-bombing-suspect-arrested-maguindanao

Cops look into 'extortion' in quarry site attack in Bukidnon

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Cops look into 'extortion' in quarry site attack in Bukidnon (By Jigger Jerusalem)



CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Extortion could be the motive behind the attack and the subsequent torching of heavy equipment in a quarry site in Valencia City, Bukidnon, the police said Sunday.

Lt. Col. Surki Sereñas, commander of the Valencia City police, said they are investigating the incident although the initial information gathered has so far pointed to extortion as the most probable reason for the attack.

He said a group of 10 young men, barefoot and armed, stormed the quarry site in Purok 6, Barangay Sinabuagan at about 5:45 a.m. on Saturday.

Witnesses told investigators the armed men introduced themselves as members of the New People’s Army (NPA).

Torched by the attackers were two payloaders, a dump truck, a backhoe, a mini-dump truck, and two new payloader spare tires. The police placed the estimate of the damage on the equipment at PHP2.4 million.

“Quarry equipment operators said the armed men, most of them minors, introduced themselves as NPA,” Sereñas said Sunday.

Sereñas said before the burning, two unidentified men were already seen in the area.

However, since it is a wide-open space, the quarry operator just ignored them, he added.

He said they believed the culprits met in Sitio Kalawag, Barangay Apo Macote, and crossed the Polangui River before going to the quarry area. Witnesses noticed most of the suspects were barefoot, he said.

“We are still investigating, but according to witnesses, they recognized familiar faces. They (witnesses) were able to identify some of those in the group,” Sereñas said.

He said the attackers were young, with ages ranging from 16 to 24 years old. It took only about 10 minutes for the suspects to burn the vehicles, after which the attackers fled to different directions.

Sereñas said the equipment operators managed to put out the fire right after the suspects left.

“The NPA was in a hurry because the nearest military detachment is only about two kilometers away, who were alerted right away,” he said.

Sereñas said members of the attacking group are natives in the area as evident in their conversation, although he did not mention the tribe the suspects belong to.

“We do not intend to besmirch their name but I believe they are being misled into believing the distorted doctrine of the NPA,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106556

6 NPA rebels surrender in South Cotabato

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Jun 21, 2020): 6 NPA rebels surrender in South Cotabato

Six communists New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrender to government authorities Thursday, June 18, in Tupi, South Cotabato. A photo handout shows the six NPA surrenderers standing up on stage during the surrender ceremony in Lunen villahe in the town of Upi. (SunStar Zamboanga)

SIX New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have surrendered in the hinterlands of South Cotabato, military officials announced.

Major General Diosdado Carreon, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the NPA rebels surrendered Thursday, June 18, in Lunen village, Tupi, South Cotabato.

Carreon said the six surrendered after the conduct of lecture on Executive Order No. 70 and Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) facilitated by the joint military and police forces in the Kalkam and Lunen villages in Tupi municipality.

Carreon identified the NPA surrenderers as the following: Ariel Simpal alias Ka Hector; Ating Tayo alias Ka Lawin; Edgardo Mahusay alias Ka Greg; Ronnie Clus alias Ka Rey; Andoy Flang alias Ka Bruno; and, Baring Sakam alias Ka Sadam.

He said they turned over two homemade 12 gauge shot gun with five ammunition and two steel magazines; one homemade shotgun; one improvised M-79 Grenade Launcher; one caliber 38 revolver with six ammunition; and, one fragmentation grenade.

During the simple surrender ceremony, Mayor Romeo Tamayo has provided food packs to the NPA surrenderers.

The NPA surrenderers were brought to the Tupi municipal police station for profiling and validation for them to be able to avail of the E-CLIP and other programs of the government.

“The massive support we get from the communities inspire us to remain committed in ending terrorism and winning peace in Mindanao,” said Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1860901/Zamboanga/Local-News/6-NPA-rebels-surrender-in-South-Cotabato

Top NPA extortionist killed in Northern Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): Top NPA extortionist killed in Northern Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)



FALLEN REBEL. The partly hidden body of Zaldy Meraya alias "Podyot", a finance officer of the New People's Army (NPA) who was killed in a brief encounter in Bagacay village in Palapag, Northern Samar on Saturday (June 20, 2020). Government troops were about to serve a warrant of arrest against him when he opted to shoot it out with lawmen. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army's 20th IB)

A notorious member of the New People’s Army (NPA) responsible for various extortion activities in Northern Samar was killed while resisting arrest in an upland village in Palapag town over the weekend.

Lt. Col. Juan Gullem, commander of the Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion (IB), said in a phone interview Monday that Zaldy Meraya alias "Podyot", finance officer of the NPA in the province, was killed in a brief firefight in remote Bagacay village, Palapag town.

“The government troops were about to serve a warrant of arrest issued by Judge Decoroso Turla dated May 11, 2020 for multiple attempted murder, when he fired his gun, which triggered a brief armed engagement,” Gullem told the Philippine News Agency.

The operation was an offshoot of the encounter between the government troops and the communist terrorist group in the same village on June 14, which led to the discovery of the NPA lair large enough to accommodate about 50 fighters with 21 makeshift bunkers, four posts, and toilets.

The operation was conducted after soldiers received information from residents about the rebel presence in their area.

Combat tracking on Saturday led the soldiers to the safehouse of the notorious NPA fighter, where troops recovered two .45-caliber pistols, a laptop, 12 mobile phones, three flash drives, and subversive documents.

Gullem is optimistic that Meraya’s death will lessen, if not totally stop the extortion activities and resource generation of the communist terrorist group in the pacific towns of Northern Samar.

The rebels have been reportedly threatening government contractors and business establishment to be able to raise funds.

Since 2019, the 20th IB has captured eight rebels including Rey Christian Sabado, a former student of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.

Northern Samar is considered to be the NPA’s stronghold in Eastern Visayas due to poor road network, thick forest, high poverty incidence, and low level of education in upland communities.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106582

NPA platoon commander, 2 others yield to Army in Northern Mindanao

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 22, 2020): NPA platoon commander, 2 others yield to Army in Northern Mindanao (By Mike Crismundo)

A New People’s Army (NPA) platoon commander, his wife, and a regular guerilla fighter surrendered to a field unit of the 58th Infantry Battalion (58th IB) in Misamis Oriental over the weekend, said 58th IB Civil Military Operations (CMO) Officer First Lt. Jefferson M. Mariano on Monday.

Their identities were concealed for security reasons.

The NPA platoon commander and his wife, who was a medical officer, decided to yield to the government forces because they wanted to raise their family outside the Communist movement, the 58th IB CMO officer said.

The NPA “propaganda of equal rights to all is just a decisive way to gain more members and supporters,” Mariano said, quoting the initial statement of the couple.

The three NPA rebels surrendered two high-powered firearms, assorted ammunitions, subversive documents and a laptop used in the communist movement.

“We realized that there’s no purpose for our armed struggle, so I suggested to my comrades-in-arms that we go down (from the mountains) and lay down our arms and carve our own future,” added the 58th IB CMO officer, quoting the former NPA Platoon commander.

Meanwhile, 58th IB commanding officer Lt. Col. Ricky L. Canatoy said the series of surrenders among the NPA ranks in Misamis Oriental province and neighboring areas was “a strong indication” that the Communist terrorists movement was “on the brink of collapse.”

Earlier four high-ranking NPA leaders and six other rebels perished in clashes with government troops at the provincial border of Agusan Norte and Misamis Oriental early last month.

The former platoon leader, his wife and the other former NPA regular will be enrolled in the Enhanced Local Integration Program for them to receive benefits for choosing the road to peace,” Canatoy added.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/06/22/npa-platoon-commander-2-others-yield-to-army-in-northern-mindanao/

Basilan villagers alert Army to IEDs along roadside

From the Philippine Star (Jun 21, 2020): Basilan villagers alert Army to IEDs along roadside (Roel Pareño)

Satellite image shows Basilan.  Google Maps

Alert residents helped the military find and neutralize bombs that the Abu Sayyaf Group is believed to have left in Ungkaya Pukan town, Basilan.

Brig. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, Joint Task Force Basilan (JTFB) and 101st Infantry Brigade commander, said troops sent its explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team to deal with improvised explosive devices along the road in Barangay Buhe Pahu.

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Reyeg said the IEDs were fashioned from 60mm mortar rounds and had a remote triggering device.

Reyeg lauded the vigilance of the Basilan residents in foiling the bombing attempt.

The military said the bombs may have been meant for police or military personnel on patrol.

"Truly, the participation of the populace is very vital in our efforts against the local terrorist group and other lawless elements," Reyeg said.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, urged the community to remain vigilant.

Sobejana believes the foiled bombing could be part of a diversionary tactic and propaganda of the dwindling Abu Sayyaf group, which has been isolated in the jungles of Sampinit complex in Basilan.

"Let us continue to help one another to prevent the terrorists from sowing terror in the communities," Sobejana said.

According to Sobejana, the total participation of the community will constrict any terror plot of the local terror group.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/06/21/2022489/basilan-villagers-alert-army-ieds-along-roadside