Saturday, August 29, 2020

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Desperado nga Kampanya Konra-insurhensya Ginaputos sang Kabutigan kag Nagatuga sang Madata nga Pagpang-atake sa mga Sibilyan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 28, 2020): Desperado nga Kampanya Konra-insurhensya Ginaputos sang Kabutigan kag Nagatuga sang Madata nga Pagpang-atake sa mga Sibilyan

JB REGALADO
SPOKESPERSON
NPA-CENTRAL NEGROS
LEONARDO PANALIGAN COMMAND
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY
AUGUST 29, 2020



Indi na marisi nga pagpang-atake sang 62nd IBPA ang naagyan sang mga sibilyan ilabi na sa mga mangunguma. Nagapakita ini sang pagka desperado sini sa ila napaslawan nga kampanya kontra-insurhensya. Tungod wala sang anu man nga kadalag-an sila nga nalab-ot, nagahimo-himo nalang sila sang mga kabutigan para magpalupad sang mga disimpormasyon sa publiko pareho sang peke nga surenderes, peke nga engkwentro, pagpamatay sang mga sibilyan kag ila ipagwa nga NPA, mga ginapangdakop nga mangunguma kag ginapahug para piliton nga mag-istorya sang mga indi matuod batok rebolusyonaryong hublag kag pagpang engganyo sa pagsurender kabaylo sang momho nga ila makuha sa E-CLIP.

Agosto 24, sang gab-e sa Sitio Pinasagan, Brgy. Linantuyan, Guihulngan City, ginsulod sang mga katapu sang 62nd IBPA ang balay ni Geling Agbon kag ila gindakop ang iya nga anak nga si Ronil Agbon , may asawa kag mga kabataan, ila siya gindala sa Brgy. Libas, Isabela 62nd IBPA Head Quarter. Pagka sunod nga adlaw Agosto 25, 2020 ila ginpagwa sa balita nga si Ronil Agbon, katapu sang LPC-NPA SPARU (Special Partisan Unit) boluntaryo nga nagsurender sa ila dala ang duha ka 38 rebolber nga armas kag may dugang pa nga scripted nga pahayag ini. Ang matuod si Ronil Agbon isa lamang ka ultimo nga mangunguma kag 100% nga indi katapu sang anu man nga unit sa idalm sang LPC-NPA. Ini lunsay hinimo-himo lamang kag pabalik-balik nga modus sang 62nd IBPA. Wala man ini sang kinalain sa ila ginhimo kay Porferio Landesa sang Sitio Batong Buang Brgy. Trinindad, Guihulngan City.

Tungod sa napaslawan ining mga pasistang tropa sa idalum sang 303rd BPA sa ila kampanya para wasakon ang rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan sang pumuluyo, ila gingamit ang duguon nga kamot kag malaba nga bangkil para halitan ang pumulyo kag bungkagon ang ila malinong nga pagpangabuhi . Ila man ginagamit ang mga malain nga elemento kag mga grupo sa mga baryo para magpalapnag sang kakugmat kag mga kontra sosyal nga aktibidad pareho sang mga kawatan nga ila ginahimo nga asset ukon manugpaniid sa mga mga hulag sang NPA kag mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa. Isa ka halimbawa sini ang ila ginahimo sa Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla nga sumugod sang nag sige-sige ang operasyon militar kag operasyon paniktik sang ila mga asset nagdamu man ang kinawatay sang mga kasapatan pareho sang baka kag mga manok. Wala man ini kinalain sa ginahimo sang mga tropa sang 62nd IBPA sa mga sityo sakop sa Brgy. Trinidad nga ila ginapang kawat kag ginapang ihaw ang mga manok sang pumuluyo sa mga balay nga wala sang tawo tungod sa pagbakwit.

Ang ini nga mga kalakasan sang militar batok sa pumuluyo, segurado nga magatulod sa madamu pa nga pumuluyo nga mag-upod sa armadong pahimakas para depensahan ang ila kaugalingon kag ila komunidad batok sa kapintas sang pasistang militar. Magatulod man ini sa pumuluyo para sa paglunsad sang Gerilyang pakig-away para hatagan sang nagakaigo nga hustisya ang ila pamilya kag kasahi nga mangunguma kag sukton ang pisistang tropa nga may utang nga dugo kag nagapanghalit sa pumuluyo.

Ang pasismo sang China-US Duterte nga rehimen nagalaragway sang pagkadunot sang istemang malakolonyal-malapyudal kag pagkamakatarunganon sang rebolusyonaryo nga paghimakas sang pumuluyo. Ang nagalala nga kapintas sang militar patimaan sang nagahuyango nga rehimen kag katapusan sang iya buylo kag ginhawa. Wala na sang lain nga padulongan ang mapiguson nga sistema sang sosyedad kundi amo ang pagbag-o sini paagi sa rebolusyonaryo nga kusog sang pumuluyo para sa makatarunganon nga sosyedad.

Mabuhay ang sahing Pigos!

Mabuhay ang rebolusyonaryong armadong paghimakas!

https://cpp.ph/statements/desperado-nga-kampanya-konra-insurhensya-ginaputos-sang-kabutigan-kag-nagatuga-sang-madata-nga-pagpang-atake-sa-mga-sibilyan/

CPP/NPA-Southeast Negros: Intensifying military operations in Siaton’s contested lands

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 28, 2020): Intensifying military operations in Siaton’s contested lands

ESTRELLA BANAGBANAG
SPOKESPERSON
NPA-SOUTHEAST NEGROS
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY
AUGUST 29, 2020



The 11th IB has escalated its operations against the farmers in the hinterland villages of Siaton, Negros Oriental cultivating parcels of rugged and unproductive public lands for food production to support their families.

From the initial platoon deployed last Monday (August 24), the size of fascist troops now increased to almost 200 armed to the teeth soldiers. The ongoing operations covered more about 14 sitios of Barangays Tayak, Napacao, Mantiquil in the town of Siaton and Barangay Najandig in the adjacent town of Zamboanguita.

According to NPA Southeast Negros spokesperson Ka Estrella Banagbanag, the immense projection of force is “grossly overkill” considering what they are facing are clearly farmers and civilians.

“11th IB have no justification whatsoever to intervene and suppress the struggle of the farmers. Their struggle is legitimate and within the bounds of legality. They are not armed and should not be treated like military targets in accordance with international norms of war,” Banagbanag added.

About 110 farmers cleared and cultivated around 250 hectares of almost barren public land in which an incumbent barangay captain, political level appointee and ranking clergy claimed ownership. ###

https://cpp.ph/statements/intensifying-military-operations-in-siatons-contested-lands/

CPP: Message of condolences to Bishop Oscar Cruz’s family and friends

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 28, 2020): Message of condolences to Bishop Oscar Cruz’s family and friends

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
AUGUST 29, 2020



The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and all revolutionary forces wish to express sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of former CBCP (Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines) president and Lingayen Bishop Oscar Cruz who passed away last August 26 at the age of 85.

He will always be remembered for his commitment to the poor and their aspiration for better conditions. He was a vocal opponent of corruption and the immorality of big bureaucrats who abused their power to aggrandize their wealth and power. He was a critic of the deep-seated social ills, linked arms with peasants and workers and supported their struggle for social justice. He defended the people’s civil and political rights. He joined mass struggles and stood among the people in their manifestation of their democratic will.

For his democratic commitment, Bishop Cruz will always be a friend of the Filipino people.

https://cpp.ph/statements/message-of-condolences-to-bishop-oscar-cruzs-family-and-friends/

CPP/News: Protokol sa baryo pang-Covid-19, inihanda ng masa at hukbong bayan

Propaganda news article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 28, 2020): Protokol sa baryo pang-Covid-19, inihanda ng masa at hukbong bayan

NEWS STORIES
AUGUST 28, 2020



Tuluy-tuloy ang kampanya ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) para sa kalusugan ng mamamayan habang hindi pa naaapula ang pandemyang Covid-19. Sa 17 baryo sa Samar, tulong-tulong ang hukbong bayan at mga organisasyong masa sa paghahanda sa posibleng pagkalat ng sakit sa kanilang mga baryo. Nagtakda sila ng mga protokol pangkalusugan kada baryo sakaling may mahawa at naghanda ng mga pasilidad sa kwarantina.

Sunud-sunod na inilunsad ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang mga kampanyang pangkalusugan sa gitna ng masisinsing operasyong militar noong Hunyo. Sa isang larangang gerilya, nagbigay ng batayang pagsasanay medikal ang apat na yunit ng BHB sa mga komiteng pangkalusugan ng mga rebolusyonaryong organisasyon ng magsasaka. Pagkatapos nito, naglunsad ng klinikang bayan ang bagong-sanay na mga medik para sa tsek-ap, dental, menor na operasyon at tradisyunal na paggagamot. Mahigit 400 residente mula sa apat na baryo ang nakabenepisyo dito.

Sinaklaw ng mga yunit ng BHB sa 17 baryo upang magbigay ng edukasyon kaugnay sa Covid-19. Ipinanawagan ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang paggawa ng herbal garden, produksyon ng halamang pangmedisina tulad ng multivitamin, lagundi syrup at powder, at pagpapasigla ng produksyon para sa masustansyang pagkain.

Gayundin, sinisikap ng mga Pulang mandirigma na maging huwaran ng kalinisan at sanitasyon. Patuloy ang kanilang kampanya sa hanay ng mga yunit kung saan maramihan ang paggawa ng mga face mask, sinusunod ang itinakdang social distancing at tinitiyak ang kalinisan sa loob ng mga base. Ginagamit din ang mga tradisyunal na pamamaraan ng paggamot gaya ng akupangtura at mga herbal na medisina.

https://cpp.ph/statements/protokol-sa-baryo-pang-covid-19-inihanda-ng-masa-at-hukbong-bayan/

Kalinaw News: Joint task force sulu search & destroy operations resulted to the death of two Abu Sayyaf Group members

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): Joint task force sulu search & destroy operations resulted to the death of two Abu Sayyaf Group members
August 29, 2020, Jolo, Sulu – Following the twin bombings last August 24 at Jolo town, BGen Gonzales, Commander, Joint Task Force, Sulu ordered an intensified focused military operation against the Abu Sayyaf Group under Mundi Sawadjaan.

This morning at 9:45 AM, the 3rd & 5th Scout Ranger Battalions successfully encountered the fleeing Abu Sayyaf in Patikul, Sulu which resulted to the death of its two members and recovery of two high powered firearms. At this moment, BGen Gonzales directed all units under his Command to track downMundi Sawadjaan and his cohorts.

“We will employ all military assets to destroy the fleeing Abu Sayyaf members who are perpetrators of the Jolo bombing. I personally thank the Mayor of
Patikul, Sulu, Hon Kabir Hayudini, for declaring the Abu Sayyaf PERSONA NON GRATA last August 27 which led to the successful armed encounter of our
troops this morning in his municipality.” BGEN WILLIAM N GONZALES, COMMANDER, JOINT TASK FORCE SULU



[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/joint-task-force-sulu-search-destroy-operations-resulted-to-the-death-of-two-abu-sayyaf-group-members/

Kalinaw News: Army 301st Brigade, Human Right Commission and Red Cross conclude IHL Month Celebration

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): Army 301st Brigade, Human Right Commission and Red Cross conclude IHL Month Celebration

CAMP HERNANDEZ, Dingle, Iloilo—The Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade, the Commission on Human Rights Region 6 and the Philippine National Red Cross jointly concluded the month-long celebration of the International Humanitarian Law Month through an IHL poster-making contest on Friday, August 28 at Camp Hernandez, Dingle, Iloilo.

The event was noted as the first ever joint activity of the three agencies in observance to the IHL Month and in signifying the agencies’ full commitment to adhere on the provisions stated therein that shall promote the dignity of every human being.







This year’s IHL Month theme is “Preserving Human Dignity in Times of Armed Conflict: A Shared Responsibility.”

Brigadier General Marion R. Sison Philippine Army, Commander, 301st Brigade vows that every Bayanihan troopers will observe and respect human rights at all times. Personnel were deployed to Quarantine Control Points and assist government agencies in the conduct of COVID19-related activities in the Islands of Panay and Guimaras to show the human side of every soldier; that as the military continue to conduct security operations in the hinterlands, the army will always find time to respond to its legal and moral duty to help the people.

Atty. Jonnie Dabuco, Regional Director, CHR VI, stressed the importance of humanitarian law as he pointed out that after the war and conflicts, soldiers, law enforcement agents and other government workers all go back to who they used to be, a normal human being and citizen.

CHR VI also awarded the winners of the Poster Making Contest. All entries submitted by the units and dependents were posted and displayed inside the Brigade Multi-purpose building. Artists from Iloilo City and members of PRC and CHR-VI served as judges.

The 301st Brigade entries won First and Second Place while entry from 552nd Engineer Construction Battalion won the 3rd Place. Likewise, five consolation prizes were given to 6RCDG, 61IB, Tactical Operations Group 6 and two from 301st Brigade. Units are allowed to submit at least five entries.

All entries will be turned-over to CHR-VI.







[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-301st-brigade-human-right-commission-and-red-cross-conclude-ihl-month-celebration/

Kalinaw News: Officials and Residents of Sta Lucia, Ilocos Sur Condemn the CPP-NPA Terrorist Group thru an Indignation Rally

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): Officials and Residents of Sta Lucia, Ilocos Sur Condemn the CPP-NPA Terrorist Group thru an Indignation Rally

STA. CRUZ, ILOCOS SUR. After experiencing different encounters and reported presence of the elements of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), particularly members of the Kilusang Larangang Guerilla – South Ilocos Sur (KLG SIS), the officials and people of the municipality of Sta Lucia, Ilocos Sur has had enough of the group and expressed their condemnation of the CPP-NPA thru an Indignation Rally held in Brgy Ayusan, Sta Lucia Ilocos Sur last 27 August 2020. More than 200 residents of the municipality participated and expressed their dismay of the CTGs’ continued deception and disrespect to the peace loving communities of Sta Lucia, Ilocos Sur.

The said rally was orchestrated by the Local Government of the said municipality headed by Hon Joseph S Valdez, Municipal Mayor and the Chairman of the Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC). It was attended by the Sangguniang Bayan members headed by Vice Mayor Hon Eduardo Toquero, Brgy Chairperson together with their councilors headed by ABC President Hon Sotelo Avila, Ms Imelda OrdoƱo, the MLGOO; Sangguniang Kabataan Federation/Youth For Peace Movement of Sta Lucia Chapter and also participated in by troops from the Philippine Army and PNP.

It can be recalled that the municipality of Sta Lucia had various experiences with the continued presence and exploitation of the CTGs in Sta Lucia. Last February 13, 2020, three (3) CTG leaders were killed in an encounter with the government forces in Brgy Namatican. This was followed by another encounter in Brgy Suagayan last August 8, 2020 wherein five (5) CTG members were killed. This was further followed with the arrest of two (2) CTG top ranking leaders last 14 August 2020 in Brgy Damacuag. Aside from the casualties incurred by the CTGs as well as from the government forces, one (1) civilian was also killed by the CTGs. But apart from these, these events brought social and psychological trauma to the communities and the people as a whole and further degrade the image of the municipality.






With these, the officials and residents took the initiative to undertake the rally to once and for all put an end to the continued maneuverings of the communists and its armed elements in their localities. The rally kick-off at around 9 o’clock in the morning wherein all of the participants marched off carrying their placards saying “PUMANAW KAYO NGA NPA DITOY STA LUCIA” and a tarpaulin of “Persona Non Grata of the NPA in the Ilocos Sur” in front the Municipal Hall as the assembly area going to the venue at Brgy Ayusan.

Vice Mayor Toquero welcomed the participants and remarked with intense resentment to the NPA terrorists which curtailed the life of his nephew who died last August 8, 2020 encounter. During the program, one of the Former Rebel, who was once deceived by the wrong ideology of NPA Bandits, shared his experiences on how they lied and exploited the people by using various but twisted issues in the barangay. He also disclosed their hardships inside the organization and realized that it is not worth sacrificing their lives and times away from their families.

Further, Hon Sotero Avila, the Brgy Chairman of Suagayan and also the ABC President of Sta Lucia, denounced the continued visitation of CNTs in their communities and vehemently declared them as Persona non Grata in the municipality. Also, Hon Napoleon Cortez, Brgy Chairman of Namatican said that, “We, the Brgy Chairpersons of Sta Lucia, Ilocos Sur, are united to fight our enemy to attain peace and development in our town”. Moreover, Mr Jayson Ordanza, a representative of the Youth sector of Sta Lucia, encouraged his fellow youth to be vigilant on their surroundings, and if ever they saw unfamiliar persons in their barangays, they should not hesitate or be afraid to report it either to the Army or PNP Troops.

The activity was highlighted with the burning of Terrorist flag and effigies of Joma Sison, as well as the other faces of NPA Bandits operating in the province of Ilocos Sur . This was spearheaded by Mayor Valdez, Vice Mayor Toquero, PPO Director PCol Ronald Tagao, Hon Avila, and Ms Imelda OrdoƱo, which basically signifies their regrets, hatred and withdrawal of support to the Communist Terrorist Group. Finally, the releasing of white doves and simultaneously exploding of red balloons followed as it signifies that the municipality is not in favor of the presence of the CPP-NPA Terrorist in the municipality and they are one and united in the pursuit of Peace and Development in the area.

“Let there be Peace in Sta Lucia and let it begin with us!” Hon Valdez said. He further added that, “I am encouraging all the Brgy Chairpersons and Councils to unite with the Army and PNP Troops for the sake and peace of our town.”

Maj Rogelio A. Dumbrigue (OS) PA, Civil-Military Operations Officer of 702nd (DEFENDER) Brigade stated that, “We need the cooperation of the people of Sta Lucia, Ilocos Sur in order to become peaceful and insurgency free. We must help our brothers and sisters who are still on the other side to surrender and come back to the folds of the government.”

Lt. Col. Rodrigo A. MariƱas Jr, INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 81IB reiterated that,

“Your Army, specifically the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion, are very delighted to the people of Sta Lucia in uniting to condemn the CPP-NPA Terrorist in their beloved municiplaity.” He further added, “Rest assured that your Army and PNP will continue to serve and provide support to the communities in achieving and maintaining peace and development in the province of Ilocos Sur.”






[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/officials-and-residents-of-sta-lucia-ilocos-sur-condemn-the-cpp-npa-terrorist-group-thru-an-indignation-rally/

Kalinaw News: Brigadier General Acorda retires as AFP Human Rights Chief

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): Brigadier General Acorda retires as AFP Human Rights Chief

CAMP GENERAL EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The AFP Human Rights Office bids farewell to Brigadier General Raymundo R Acorda as Chief, AFPHRO in a Change of Chief of Office and Retirement Ceremony on Friday, August 28, at the AFP Commissioned Officers Country. The position will now be assumed by Colonel Joel Alejandro S Nacnac.

Brigadier General Acorda was honoured with awards and recognition in the ceremony presided by The Deputy Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Ramon Antonio A Lim.

“Your career has now come to an end, but your contributions left a significant impact on the AFP and the lives of the people you have worked with. They will remain valuable even for the years to come,” Lieutenant General Lim said.

Throughout his career Brigadier General Acorda has held numerous positions in the military including; Battalion Commander of the 55th Infantry Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Chief of Staff, Headquarters and Headquarters Support Group, PA, Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Intelligence, U2, Central Command, AFP, and Philippine Defense and Armed Forces AttachĆ© to India, among others. He earned a Master’s Degree in National Security and Resource Strategy from National Defense University in Washington DC and Master’s Degree in Business Administration at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business.

Under his leadership, the AFPHRO has conducted various seminars, workshops and discussions focused on inculcating Human Rights and Role of Engagement to uniformed personnel. The office also initiated multisectoral dialogues for open and constructive discussions of laws and policies in pursuit of peace, development, and the protection of human rights.

Col Nacnac on the other hand previously occupied notable positions such as Army Provost Marshal, Chief of Morale, Welfare and Development, J1, AFP, and Commander, 19th Infantry Battalion. He is also a graduate of Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Cordilleras. “As we continue to wage war against terrorism and violence, we are faced with challenges that threaten dignity, freedom and rights for all. Nevertheless, we are confident that with Col Nacnac in command of the AFPHRO, we will remain steadfast in our mission to uphold, respect, and protect the basic rights of every citizen,” Lieutenant General Lim said.// (Photos by SN1 Donald Viluan PN/PAOAFP)

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/brigadier-general-acorda-retires-as-afp-human-rights-chief/

Kalinaw News: 12th Infantry Battalion, NPA clash anew in Janiuay, Iloilo

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): 12th Infantry Battalion, NPA clash anew in Janiuay, Iloilo

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – The Army’s 12th Infantry Battalion engaged in two consecutive encounters with armed members of the CPP-NPA Terrorist in Barangay Panuran, Janiuay Iloilo on Wednesday morning of August 26, 2020.

The first encounter transpired between 12IB troops and more or less 20 members of SYP Baloy Platoon, Central Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay of CPP-NPA Terrorist at about 6:56 a.m.

The troops were conducting combat operations in response to reports from the civilian populace on the presence of armed NPAs in the area conducting extortion activities when they encountered the said group.

At about 7:00 a.m, the blocking force of the 12IB also encountered the escaping members of Baloy Platoon in the same barangay. No one was hurt on the government side.

Seized from the encounter site are Magazines for M16 with ammunitions, two cellphones, five backpacks, assorted medicines, oral contraceptive pills, personal belongings and subversive documents.

Major General Eric Vinoya, the Commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division slammed the CPP-NPA Terrorists for threatening the people in the area despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Instead of staying in their lairs, these terrorists opted to aggravate the burden of the people by extorting their hard-earned money and even their last grain of rice. Only heartless and cold-blooded terrorists like them can do this inhumane act,” MGen Vinoya stressed.

As he lauded the 12IB troops for driving off the communist-terrorists from the barangay, the 3ID Commander assured the people of Janiuay that the Spearhead Troopers will continue to perform their mandate of protecting them from a deadlier virus; the CPP-NPA Terrorists.

“Rest assured that your Army in Panay with your support and cooperation, will be relentless in pursuing these communist-terrorists to put their decades-long cruelty to its end,” he added.

On August 08, 2020, the 12IB also encountered the members of CNTs in Brgy. Atimonan, Janiuay, Iloilo.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/12th-infantry-battalion-npa-clash-anew-in-janiuay-iloilo/

Kalinaw News: Relentless combat operations in Negros yield 4 New Peoples Army militias

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): Relentless combat operations in Negros yield 4 New Peoples Army militias

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – Four members of the NPA’s Yunit Militia were captured by the Army’s 94th Infantry Battalion on Thursday, August 27, 2020 following an encounter at the vicinity of Sitio Cunalom, Barangay Carabalan, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

The captured NPA militias were identified as Francisco Verde Jr., 38 years old; Jeobel Pacheco, 41 years old; Geneboy Verde, 32 years old; and Ronald Pacheco, 22 years old.

Seized from their possession were one caliber 22 rifle; two revolver pistols; one home-made shot gun; 40mm grenade launcher ammo, and other war materiel.

One of the operating troops sustained a slight gunshot wound below his left armpit during a five-minute firefight. He is now in stable condition.

The captured YMs and the seized firearms were turned over to the Himamaylan City Police Office for proper disposition.

94IB Commanding Officer LTC Angelo Guzman confirmed that they were receiving reports about the persistent extortion activities of the communist-terrorists in the area in the past week.

For his part, MGen Eric Vinoya, the Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division commended the 94IB for foiling the illegal activities of the communist-terrorist group in the area.

He further directed the unit to pursue the remaining members of the group and never allow them again enter in the communities and extort from the people especially during this trying time.

“Terrorists like NPAs have no place in our peace-loving communities; hence, we will not rest until they will be rendered irrelevant and our communities are free from the threats that these terrorists pose,” MGen Vinoya stressed.
https://www.kalinawnews.com/relentless-combat-operations-in-negros-yield-4-new-peoples-army-militias/

Kalinaw News: Valor Awardee Army Chief Visits 3rd Infantry Division

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): Valor Awardee Army Chief Visits 3rd Infantry Division

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, the 62nd Commanding General of the Philippine Army made his first visit at Headquarters, 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division on August 27, 2020.

He was warmly welcomed by the Spearhead Troopers through a traditional military arrival honors led by Major General Eric Vinoya, the 3ID Commander.

Major General Vinoya was delighted for the visit of the new Army Chief who never forgets to know and look out for the welfare of his troops especially during these trying times.

“It is both an honor and privilege for us to be visited by our Commanding General who is considered as one of the great living heroes of the country. His visit surely boost the morale and welfare of all Spearhead Troopers and will inspire them to stay firm and committed especially now that they are serving as frontliners in the government’s fight against COVID-19,” Major General Vinoya said.

In his customary moment with the Spearhead Troopers dubbed as “Talk to Troops”, Lieutenant General Sobejana said, “We should walk together so that we can cover a further distance, so that we will be able to win all obstacles, by working together, we will win together. By working together with the pandemic, we will heal together and I expect it from every member of Spearhead Division”.

Sobejana assumed leadership of the Philippine Army on July 30, 2020. He is a member of Philippine Military Academy “Hinirang” Class of 1987. He is considered as one of the country’s living heroes, being a recipient of the Medal for Valor, the highest military honor bestowed for demonstrating bravery and sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty when he fought Abu Sayyaf terrorists in 1995. He was then an Army captain when he led his troops against hundreds of ASG members in a fierce battle that lasted more than four hours.

He commanded different units of the Army most notably the 1st Scout Ranger Company and the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion where both units were adjudged as Best Company and Best Battalion, respectively during his stint. He also served as the Commandant of the Scout Ranger Training School, First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR); and as Commander of the Civil-Military Operations Group. He later served as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, G3, PA and then commanded the 601st Infantry Brigade, the Joint Task Force “Sulu”, and the 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division. In 2013, he was sent in the truce line between Syria and Israel as the first Filipino to become the Chief of Staff of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force. Prior to his assumption as Army Commanding General, he served as Commander of the Western Mindanao Command since June 2019.

He was bestowed the award of Philippine Legion of Honor (Degree of Officer) by President Rodrigo Duterte in May 2019, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service rendered to the Philippine government, particularly to the Armed Forces of The Philippines. And in July 2019, the first parliament of Bangsamoro Transition Authority of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region In Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) passed resolution NR 18, commending Sobejana for his unwavering support in the peace process and commitment in bringing peace in the Bangsamoro Homeland.







[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/valor-awardee-army-chief-visits-3id/

Kalinaw News: AFP Chief of Staff enjoins public to honor the fallen, victims in terror attacks

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): AFP Chief of Staff enjoins public to honor the fallen, victims in terror attacks

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City–Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff enjoined the public to honor and remember the victims of the twin suicide bombing attacks on Monday, August 24, in Jolo, Sulu. The explosions that killed 15 and wounded 74 including civilians were attributed to the notorious Abu Sayyaf Group that has been the subject of intense intelligence monitoring and combat operations.

“The AFP remains unshaken, steadfast, and committed in fulfilling our mandate to the Filipino. We ask everyone to join us in honoring and remembering the soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty and innocent civilians who were caught in these hapless attacks,” AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen.

Gilbert LTGen Gapay also reminded the public on their role in peace and security and their duty as citizens of the country. “Security is a shared responsibility, one that should be embedded in our consciousness. The Anti-Terror Act of 2020, despite enhancing our capability to prevent such careless hatred, will fail without the mindful cooperation of every Filipino,” Lt. Gen. Gapay said.

Two female suicide bombers were identified to be behind the attacks. Senior military officials identified them as the wife of 23-year-old Norman Lasuca, the first identified Filipino suicide bomber; while the other was the widow of Talha Jumsah alias Abu Talha, a slain bomb expert. The AFP chief assured every Filipino of the military’s commitment to secure the country against all threats, lauding the bravery of those in the frontlines of battles against enemies seen and unseen.

“The AFP lauds all our frontline personnel who continue to step up and lead the charge to keep our communities safe, even at the risk of their own lives,” “This week we have been reminded of the volatile security situation in Sulu and how the threat of terrorism and extremism continue to affect the lives of civilians in Western Mindanao. This threat persists and the twin suicide bombing in Jolo last Monday shows how it has evolved over the years,” Lt. Gen. Gapay added. “Again, we are calling on everyone to do your share in keeping our country safe. With your help, we are confident that we will triumph over these challenges together,” Lt. Gen. Gapay concluded.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/afp-chief-of-staff-enjoins-public-to-honor-the-fallen-victims-in-terror-attacks/

Kalinaw News: Army and DENR ink pact to beef up peace, law enforcement, development support operation and disaster relief in Aurora

From Kalinaw News (Aug 29, 2020): Army and DENR ink pact to beef up peace, law enforcement, development support operation and disaster relief in Aurora

BALER, Aurora-A team-up between the 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion, Philippine Army and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to intensify its effort for peace, law enforcement, development support operation and disaster relief.

LTC REANDREW P RUBIO INF (GSC), commanding officer of 91st IB said that the MOU was signed at DENR’s Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Sitio Puntangan, Barangay Pingit, Baler, Aurora.

LTC RUBIO and PENRO Alfredo B. Collado facilitated the Signing of MOU for the motorized boat donated to the 91st IB that shall be used for Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support Operations and Disaster Relief Operations in the province of Aurora.

“We will continue our mandated duty to help and do everything that is right with good and effective governance and good management to strengthen the implementation of law enforcements for peace, rescue reliefs and the protection and conservation of our natural resources,” LTC RUBIO said.

Aurora Governor Gerardo A. Noveras said that he is very grateful to be invited to that kind of noble activity.

“I hope the good relationship of different government agencies will still remain and be going stronger in maintaining peace and development of our province. I am extending my sincerest thanks to the Philippine Army for being industrious and really working on a way to develop what they want to do for the people,” Noveras said.

PENRO Collado said that it is very important to secure our province especially if there are disasters, emergencies or events that can ruin everyone.

“So we are grateful that the donation of the motorized banca to 91IB has been properly decided to help maintain peace here in the province of aurora and it can be used also for Law Enforcement and Development Support Operations and Disaster Relief Operations,” Collado said.
The activity was also witnessed by the personnel of PNP, PCG and 91st IB.





[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-and-denr-ink-pact-to-beef-up-peace-law-enforcement-development-support-operation-and-disaster-relief-in-aurora/

Malaysia opposes PH claim to Sabah, portion of West PH Sea

From Rappler (Aug 29, 2020): Malaysia opposes PH claim to Sabah, portion of West PH Sea (By JC GOTINGA)



Malaysia insists on its claim to an extended economic shelf that includes a portion of the West Philippine Sea, and which is reckoned from the shores of Sabah

Malaysia has reiterated its rejection of the Philippines’ sovereignty claim over Sabah, and reasserted its claim to a portion of the South China Sea that Manila said is part of its West Philippine Sea.

In a verbal note to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres dated August 27, Malaysia said its earlier submission seeking to establish the limits of its extended continental shelf (ECS) in a portion of the South China Sea is legitimate under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The original submission by Malaysia on December 12, 2019, stated a claim to an ECS – a portion of the seabed beyond its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone – that included a swathe of sea and several islets that form part of the Philippines’ Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) in the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines opposed Malaysia’s claim in a verbal note to the UN on March 6. Besides reasserting its claim to the KIG, Manila also argued that Malaysia’s ECS claim is void because it was reckoned from baselines in Sabah, which the Philippines claims as territory.

Sabah is currently occupied and governed by Malaysia as one of its federal states.

In its latest submission to the UN, Malaysia reiterated that it rejects the Philippines’ claim to Sabah, also called North Borneo, saying “it has no basis under international law.” It cited an October 2001 ruling of the International Court of Justice that mentions an opinion by Judge Ad-hoc Thomas Franck.

“Historic claims and feudal pre-colonial titles are mere relics of another international legal era, one that ended with the setting of the sun on the age of colonial imperium,” Franck said in the ruling Malaysia cited.

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr drew renewed attention to the Sabah dispute when he tweeted in late July that “Sabah is not in Malaysia.” It was in reaction to an earlier tweet by the US Embassy in Manila that mentioned “Sabah, Malaysia.”

Although the Philippines has never relinquished its claim of sovereignty over Sabah, it has for the most part kept that claim dormant in order to maintain harmonious ties with Malaysia.

The dispute stems from a 19th century document signed by Sulu Sultan Jamalul Alam, which the Philippines interprets as a lease to the British colonizers at the time, but which Malaysia considers a sale.

When Malaysia gained independence from Britain in 1957, control over Sabah transferred from the British to the nascent Malaysian government.

The West Philippine Sea is the part of the South China Sea that the Philippines claims as maritime territory. It overlaps with portions of the sea also claimed by Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam, Taiwan, and China.

An UNCLOS arbitral tribunal in July 2016 affirmed the Philippines' exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, which comprises much of what Manila considers the West Philippine Sea. The tribunal said China's 9-dash line claim to virtually the entire sea is void.

https://rappler.com/nation/malaysia-opposes-philippine-claim-sabah-portion-west-philippine-sea

Security forces hunt 2 Indon, Filipino terrorists in Zamboanga region

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 29, 2020): Security forces hunt 2 Indon, Filipino terrorists in Zamboanga region

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Security forces have launched a massive hunt for 2 Indonesian and a Filipino member of the pro-ISIS terror group Abu Sayyaf who are planning attacks in Zamboanga Peninsula in southern Philippines.



Mayor Beng Climaco has released the photos of the terrorists and warned the public to keep on the lookout for the trio.

She said the government has offered a P3 million reward for the capture of the Indonesian Andi Baso and his female partner Reski Fantasya; and Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Mundi Sawadjaan, who is being linked to the recent twin suicide bombings in Jolo town in the neighboring province of Sulu.

“Authorities warn the public against 3 members of the Sulu-based ASG believed to have been sent out for a mission to sow terror in Zamboanga Peninsula. The national government is offering a reward of P3M for the information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of each of the suspects,” Climaco said in an advisory alongside photos of the terrorists.

The photos were provided by the military’s anti-terror Joint Task Force Zamboanga which also called on the public to stay vigilant. “The community is advised to be vigilant and immediately report any suspicious person / local terrorist,” it said.

Last Wednesday, police captured an Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Jamiul Nassalon whose group was reportedly planning to launch attacks in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Brig. Gen. Jesus Cambay Jr, the regional police chief, said Nassalon was tracked down in his hideout in Caliran village in Zamboanga Sibugay’s Mabuhay town. “Presently, Jamiul Nassalon is in the process of organizing his group intended for another terroristic activity within the Zamboanga Peninsula,” he said.

“Jamiul Nassalon was arrested (by police forces) after a 3-hour travel using high-speed sea craft which surreptitiously entered the shorelines of Mabuhay municipality, taking advantage of the darkness of the night and unknown to him a police asset and members of the Barangay Intelligence Network had been monitoring his activities,” he added.

He said the 41-year old Nassalon, who uses various nom de guerre, is facing a string of criminal charges in connection to his bloody attacks against civilians in the region.

Nassalon was also implicated in the 2009 kidnapping of 71-year old Doroteo Gonzales, a carpenter in Zamboanga City who was eventually beheaded in Basilan province after his family failed to pay P25 million ransom in exchange for his life.

He was tagged as involved in the bombing of a provincial bus in Zamboanga City in 2012 that wounded at least 6 people. And the killings of 8 fishermen off Siromon Island, also in Zamboanga in 2017; and the strafing of a provincial in Buenavista village here that injured at least 8 passengers.

Nassalon’s capture came after National Police Chief General Archie Gamboa ordered an intensify campaign against the terrorist group linked to ISIS and Climaco also ordered the police and military to tighten security in Zamboanga City following the August 24 bombings - claimed by ISIS - carried out by widows of slain Abu Sayyaf fighters in Jolo. The suicide attacks had killed over a dozen people and injured many civilians.

It was not immediately known whether Nassalon provided intelligence to the police and military about the plan of the Indonesian and Filipino terrorists to launch attacks in the region. (Zamboanga Post)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/08/security-forces-hunt-2-indon-filipino.html

Troops kill 2 Sayyafs in fresh ops in Sulu

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 29, 2020): Troops kill 2 Sayyafs in fresh ops in Sulu

SULU – Army soldiers killed 2 Abu Sayyaf fighters in a clash Saturday in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, officials said.



Officials said the fighting occurred in the township of Patikul, a known stronghold of the pro-ISIS group. Other militants managed to escape the army operation, but troops were pursuing them.

Members of the 3rd and 5th Scout Ranger Battalions
recovered the bodies of the militants, including their weapons, according to Brig. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of both the 11th Infantry Division and anti-terror Joint Task Force Sulu.

He said
the slain terrorists were followers of Mundi Sawadjaan, who is being linked to the recent twin suicide bombings in the capital town of Jolo that killed and wounded dozens of soldiers and civilians.


“We will employ all military assets to destroy the fleeing Abu Sayyaf members who are perpetrators of the Jolo bombings,” Gonzales said, adding he ordered all units under him to track down Sawadjaan and his cohorts.

Brig. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, said there will be no let-up in the operation until Sawadjaan’s group is neutralized.

“The 1102nd Infantry Brigade, under the direction of the Joint Task Force Sulu, will continue to conduct sustained military operations to pursue the perpetrators of the twin bombings. There will be no let-up until we have neutralized the terror group of Mundi Sawadjaan,” he said.

Both Gonzales and Patrimonio did not say if there were military casualties.

Security forces also launched a massive hunt for 2 Indonesian and a Filipino member of the Abu Sayyaf who are planning attacks in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Mayor Beng Climaco released the photos of the terrorists and warned the public to keep on the lookout for the trio.

She said the government has offered a P3 million reward for the capture of the Indonesian Andi Baso and his female partner Reski Fantasya; and Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Mundi Sawadjaan, who is being linked to the recent twin suicide bombings in Jolo town in the neighboring province of Sulu.

“Authorities warn the public against 3 members of the Sulu-based ASG believed to have been sent out for a mission to sow terror in Zamboanga Peninsula. The national government is offering a reward of P3M for the information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of each of the suspects,” Climaco said in an advisory alongside photos of the terrorists.

The photos were provided by the military’s anti-terror Joint Task Force Zamboanga which also called on the public to stay vigilant. “The community is advised to be vigilant and immediately report any suspicious person / local terrorist,” it said.

Last Wednesday, police captured an Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Jamiul Nassalon whose group was reportedly planning to launch attacks in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Brig. Gen. Jesus Cambay Jr, the regional police chief, said Nassalon was tracked down in his hideout in Caliran village in Zamboanga Sibugay’s Mabuhay town. “Presently, Jamiul Nassalon is in the process of organizing his group intended for another terroristic activity within the Zamboanga Peninsula,” he said.

“Jamiul Nassalon was arrested (by police forces) after a 3-hour travel using high-speed sea craft which surreptitiously entered the shorelines of Mabuhay municipality, taking advantage of the darkness of the night and unknown to him a police asset and members of the Barangay Intelligence Network had been monitoring his activities,” he added.

He said the 41-year old Nassalon, who uses various nom de guerre, is facing a string of criminal charges in connection to his bloody attacks against civilians in the region.

Nassalon was also implicated in the 2009 kidnapping of 71-year old Doroteo Gonzales, a carpenter in Zamboanga City who was eventually beheaded in Basilan province after his family failed to pay P25 million ransom in exchange for his life.

He was tagged as involved in the bombing of a provincial bus in Zamboanga City in 2012 that wounded at least 6 people. And the killings of 8 fishermen off Siromon Island, also in Zamboanga in 2017; and the strafing of a provincial in Buenavista village here that injured at least 8 passengers.

Nassalon’s capture came after National Police Chief General Archie Gamboa ordered an intensify campaign against the terrorist group linked to ISIS and Mayor Beng Climaco also ordered the police and military to tighten security in Zamboanga City following the August 24 bombings - claimed by ISIS - carried out by widows of slain Abu Sayyaf fighters in Jolo. The suicide attacks had killed over a dozen people and injured many civilians.

It was not immediately known whether Nassalon provided intelligence to the police and military about the plan of the Indonesian and Filipino terrorists to launch attacks in the region. (Zamboanga Post)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/08/troops-kill-2-sayyafs-in-fresh-ops-in.html

AFP medical mission team arrives in Bacolod

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 29, 2020): AFP medical mission team arrives in Bacolod (By Lorenzo O. Lambatin, Jr.)

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BACOLOD CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA)—Responding to the call of Bacolod City mayor Evelio Leonardia for medical manpower augmentation due to the growing number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases here, two medical teams of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) arrived in Bacolod City yesterday, August 28, to help local medical personnel here.

According to 303rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army Captain Kelvin Bayaban, the teams were received at the Bacolod-Silay airport by Colonel Michael Samson, Deputy Brigade Commander of the brigade, together with Dr. Elizabeth Altamira of the Department of Health (DOH) and Ben Arnel De La Cruz, also of the DOH.

“The AFP medical team is composed of two doctors, four nurses and six medical aides who will augment the frontline medical workers of Bacolod City to help handle the growing number of COVID-19 cases as well as provide needed assistance to the health system capacity of the city,” Bayaban said.

One team will be deployed at the Queen of Mercy Hospital headed by Captain Liza Dorao of the AFP Medical Corps, while the other team, headed by Probationary 2nd Lieutenant Stephen Nasiad, also of the Medical Corps will be deployed at the Riverside Hospital, he noted

Bayaban said the Central Command under Lieutenant General Roberto Ancan is not only focused on bringing security and transportation of basic goods to communities but also on providing assistance on health and medical services during emergencies.

The AFP medical team gave the 303rd Infantry Brigade 50 pieces of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to be distributed to military frontliners in Negros Occidental, he revealed.

Meanwhile, Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander, expressed his gratitude to the commander of Central Command AFP for extending support to Bacolod City and the Province of Negros Occidental by dispatching the AFP medical team to boost the efforts and curb the spread of COVID-19 here and for the AFP Medical team for heeding the call of duty.

“We need your medical expertise against our fight on COVID-19. Let us help each other against this coronavirus," Pasaporte said. (303 Infantry Brigade, 3ID, PA/JSC/Lljr/PIA6 Negros Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051662

Ilocos town residents launch a protest rally against NPA rebels

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 28, 2020): Ilocos town residents launch a protest rally against NPA rebels (By Freddie G. Lazaro) n

STA. LUCIA, Ilocos Sur, Aug. 28 (PIA) - - Residents in this town launched on Wednesday a rally condemning the presence of the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels here.

More than 200 residents and youth led by Mayor Joseph S. Valdez, the chairperson of the Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC), marched along the streets in the town proper calling for the ending of the local insurgency problem to give way for the nurture of peace and progress.

Carrying a streamer with messages declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA rebels as persona non-grata in the town, the residents asked the rebels to get out from their place without compromising their peaceful living.


Residents in Santa Lucia, Ilocos Sur stage a rally at the town proper on Wednesday declaring the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels as “persona non grata” in their place. (Courtesy photo from the army’s 81st Infantry Battalion)

On August 8, 2020, the peace and order situation in Sta. Lucia town was affected by an encounter between the soldiers and the NPA rebels in Suagayan village that resulted in the death of seven persons involving five rebels, one soldier and one civilian.

Village chairman Sotero Avila, the president of the town’s Association of Barangay Chairman (ABC), and the residents denounced the presence of the NPA rebels in their barangay.

In his message, Mayor Joseph S. Valdez said the local government and the residents are always giving all-out support to all the initiatives of the army and the police to end the problem on the insurgency in his town.

“We, the people of Sta. Lucia town, are continuously extending our full support to all the initiatives of the government to achieve our long time aspiration of peace and sustainable community development,” said Valdez.

“Let there be peace in Sta Lucia and let it begin with us!” said Mayor Valdez.

He added, “I am encouraging all the barangay chairpersons and councils to unite with the army and police troops for the sake of peace in our town.”

Jayson Ordanza, a representative of the youth sector of Sta. Lucia town urged his fellow youth to become more vigilant about what is happening in their communities and their surroundings.


The people of Santa Lucia, Ilocos Sur march along the streets of the town proper condemning the presence of the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in their place. (Courtesy photo from the army’s 81st Infantry Battalion) 

“If ever you see unfamiliar persons in your barangays, don’t hesitate or don't be afraid to report it either to the army or to the police,” said Ordnanza.

The youth, together with the local officials and residents joined together in showing their condemnation against the evil works and ideology of the NPA rebels.

During the short program, AKA Devon, a former rebel who was once deceived by the wrong ideologies of NPA and returned to the fold of the law, shared his experiences on how the rebels deceived the people using the local issues in the barangay.

He narrated the hardship he experienced while being a member of the NPA fighting against the government. Until such time that he decided to surrender to the government to live in a normal life.

As an expression of their all-out protest against the ideologies of the CPP-NPA, Mayor Valdez led the participants in burning the CPP-NPA flag and effigies of Joma Sison, as well as the other faces of NPA rebels operating in the province of Ilocos Sur.

The residents also released on air white doves while simultaneously exploding red balloons showing that they are not in favor of the presence of the CPP-NPA in the town.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo A. MariƱas Jr., the commander of the army’s 81st Infantry Battalion, lauded the united effort of the local officials and residents in condemning the CPP-NPA rebels in the town. (JCR/FGL, PIA 1)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051709

AFP’s new Human Rights chief assumes office

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 29, 2020): AFP’s new Human Rights chief assumes office (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

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PASIG CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) -- Colonel Joel Alejandro S. Nacnac has assumed office as new Human Rights chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday.

In a Change of Command ceremony presided by the Deputy Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Ramon Antonio A. Lim, Brigadier General Raymundo R. Acorda turned over the leadership of the Human Rights Office to Colonel Nacnac.

The AFP Human Rights Office is the main office that takes “the lead role in all human rights concerns involving AFP personnel.”


Throughout his career, Acorda has held numerous positions in the military including Battalion Commander of the 55th Infantry Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Chief of Staff, Headquarters and Headquarters Support Group, PA; Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Intelligence, U2, Central Command, AFP; and Philippine Defense and Armed Forces AttachƩ to India, among others.

He earned a Master’s Degree in National Security and Resource Strategy from National Defense University in Washington DC and Master’s Degree in Business Administration at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business.

Under his leadership, the AFPHRO has conducted various seminars, workshops and discussions focused on inculcating Human Rights and Role of Engagement to uniformed personnel. The office also initiated multisectoral dialogues for open and constructive discussions of laws and policies in pursuit of peace, development, and the protection of human rights.

“Your career has now come to an end, but your contributions left a significant impact on the AFP and the lives of the people you have worked with. They will remain valuable even for the years to come,” Lim said.

Nacnac, on the other hand, previously occupied notable positions such as Army Provost Marshal, Chief of Morale, Welfare and Development, J1, AFP, and Commander, 19th Infantry Battalion. He is also a graduate of Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Cordilleras.

“As we continue to wage war against terrorism and violence, we are faced with challenges that threaten dignity, freedom and rights for all. Nevertheless, we are confident that with Col Nacnac in command of the AFPHRO, we will remain steadfast in our mission to uphold, respect, and protect the basic rights of every citizen,” Lim added. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051702

NV PPOC seeks PRRD, OPAPP's help on road dev't for Ambaguio

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 29, 2020): NV PPOC seeks PRRD, OPAPP's help on road dev't for Ambaguio (By Benjamin Moses M. Ebreo)

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Aug. 29 (PIA) - Officials and members of a peace and order body here have asked President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to consider the funding of a Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) in the upland town of Ambaguio to uplift its socio-economic and agri-tourism potentials.

Governor Carlos Padilla said they have recommended the continuation of the ongoing road project from barangay Camandag in Asipulo, Ifugao to barangay Camandag in Ambaguio town to bring in more progress and development among the villagers.

"This was recommended through the Office of Presidential Affairs on the Peace Process (OPAPP) in the hope that it can get the necessary funding priority considering its impact to our convergence program to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC)," he said.



Padilla also said other proposed major infrastructure projects for Ambaguio town also need funding through the assistance of President Duterte.

Jason Fajardo, DILG's Local Government Operations Officer bared that hanging and footbridges, tramlines, electrification, Farm-to-Market Roads and water systems, among others have been listed by barangays Dulli, Amweg, Camandag and Napo as major priority projects for the villagers.

These were also recommended for funding through the Office of the Presidential Affairs on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

"These projects were contained in various barangay and municipal resolutions through the Barangay and Municipal ELCAC of Ambaguio," Fajardo said.

The recommendation for the proposed infrastructure projects was approved during the third quarter joint meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) and Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) at the Pasalubong Center.

The PTF-ELCAC has identified barangays Camandag, Dulli, Ammoeg and Napo in Ambaguio town as hotspots for Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs), preying on upland villagers to gain their mass support.

Through the ELCAC Convergence Program national as well as local government units concerned are expected to pour in their Programs, Projects and Activities (PPAs) to bring in various livelihood projects, job opportunities and other basic social services on health and social welfare, among others.(MDCT/BME/PIA 2-Nueva Vizcaya)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051696

2 female NPAs involved in Janiuay clash surrender

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 29, 2020): 2 female NPAs involved in Janiuay clash surrender (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) —Two female members of the CPP-NPA terror group surrendered to the Army’s 12th Infantry (Lick Em) Battalion on Saturday, August 29, 2020.

The surrenderers were identified as “JL” and “Alexa” who are members of BALOY Platoon, Central Front, Komiteng-Rehiyon Panay, the same group that the 12IB encountered and engaged in consecutive firefights in Janiuay town, Iloilo, a press report from the 3rd Division Public Affairs Office said.

The armed engagements have caused demoralization within their ranks as the Army registered consecutive victories against the terrorists through the help of the people who shared vital information that led to the decisive hit against the enemy who continue to lose maneuver space in their former strongholds.

JL and Alexa admitted that they were with the group that the 12IB engaged on August 26 and 28, the report said, adding that the two positively identified their personal belongings recovered by the troops from the encounter area.



It added that their surrender was facilitated by a barangay kagawad who brought them to the headquarters of 12IB in Calinog, Iloilo after their comrades abandoned them in the aftermath of the said armed engagement.

301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade commander Brigadier General Marion R Sison lauded the troops for their successful combat operations that continues to put intense pressure on the NPA terrorists, denying them the opportunity to further commit their atrocious acts.

He likewise thanked the barangay officials for their support especially in assisting JL and Alexa to return to the folds of the law.

“There will be no let up in our hunt for these communist terrorists. Your Army here in Panay and Guimaras will relentlessly pursue these enemies of the state, to prevent them from sowing terror in the communities and to save our youth from getting involved in the senseless bloody armed struggle,” Sison said.

He also assured that “We are here to protect, and here to serve; thus our door is always open to those who choose peace. And in time with the nation’s celebration of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Month, the surrender of JL and Alexa speaks volumes about the Army’s high regard for human dignity as manifested by how we have protected these surrenderers.”

“We compel the people to abandon communist ideology that has only caused death and misery; we shall show compassion and assist those who choose to return to the folds of the law in going back to mainstream society,” Sison stressed. (JBG-PIA6/With report and photos from 3ID-DPAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1051718

8 killed in North Cotabato shootout

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 29, 2020): 8 killed in North Cotabato shootout (By Edwin Fernandez)



BLOODY ENCOUNTER. Members of Kabacan police conduct a post-crime investigation in an armed encounter involving two groups of armed men in Kabacan, North Cotabato. Initial police report says eight persons (inset) were killed in the incident. (Photo courtesy of DXND - Kidapawan)

At least eight persons were killed when a group of armed men fired on a group of individuals the North Cotabato town of Kabacan on Saturday, police said.

Police Lt. Ernie John Saratao, Kabacan deputy police chief for operations, identified the fatalities as Kors Salilangan, Sandigan Zailon, Benladin Dimanalao, Romeo Balatamay, Katindig Kagayawon, Fahad Mandigan, all of Kabacan, North Cotabato; Budsal Lipusan of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao; and Musaid Jaiden of Midsayap, North Cotabato.

Tong Guiman, a resident of Barangay Aringay, Kabacan, was critically injured and is undergoing medication at a private hospital, police said.

Saratao said the victims were resting beside the highway when gunmen on separate motorbikes arrived and opened fire on them.

Witnesses said one of the victims managed to return fire but was overpowered.

Police said the shooting may have been triggered by a “rido” or blood feud.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113818

66 NPA militiamen, supporters yield in MisOr

 From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 29, 2020): 66 NPA militiamen, supporters yield in MisOr



Google map of Misamis Oriental.

At least 66 members of the Militia ng Bayan (MB) and mass supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) surrendered to the government Friday in the Misamis Oriental town of Magsaysay.

The surrenders took an oath of allegiance during the mass surrender facilitated by the Community Support Program (CSP) team of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) and Community Action (ComAct) Team of the Philippine National Police (PNP), barangay and municipal officials of Magsaysay, the 23IB said in a statement Saturday.

The surrenderers also denounced the CPP-NPA and the group's political arm--the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP)-
-and the communist rebel movement's "terroristic activities that affected the lives of the residents and communities in Misamis Oriental," 23IB said.


Magsaysay Mayor Rey Buhisan told the former rebels that the government is serious in its pursuit to attain "genuine peace and development."

“Our government is serious in its mission of pursuing development in every community through ending the local communist armed conflict and with the convergence for peace and development program," Buhisan said during the surrender ceremony.

“You are not doing this only for yourselves but also for the future of your children and for the next generation. We always wish to give you all a peaceful life apart from the CNTs (Communist NPA Terrorists) who keep on exploiting and disturbing you," the mayor added.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar Paulo, 23IB commander, thanked the surrenderers for declaring their support to the government.

“We thank the former CNT members and supporters for trusting the government and bravely submitting themselves to the folds of the law. Our government is always willing to help you start a new beginning in order for you and your children to have a brighter future because you chose to stand in the right path,” Paulo said.

He also assured that the 23IB and various government agencies "are always ready to help and will remain sincere in providing support to the former rebels."

“Let us give back to the government all the great plans they want for us by giving our support and by helping one another. We urge you not to be afraid of the CNTs and don’t believe in their deceptions who will just take advantage of your innocent vulnerabilities. They are just using socio-economic issues to agitate you to fight the government,” Paulo said.

The CPP-NPA 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/1113831

Gov't set to rebuild mosques destroyed during Marawi siege

 From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 29, 2020): Gov't set to rebuild mosques destroyed during Marawi siege (By Lade Jean Kabagani)



Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) chairperson Sec. Eduardo del Rosario (File photo)

The government is set to reconstruct various mosques in Marawi City destroyed during the five-month-long siege, Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) chairperson, Secretary Eduardo del Rosario said Saturday.

In a statement, del Rosario said the task force is preparing to repair three mosques through the incentivized use of housing developers’ escrow funds of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and other private developers.

Del Rosario, also the housing czar, said it is the first time for the housing department to release escrow funds amounting to PHP32.14 million.

The task force has alloted PHP4.39-million fund to rebuild the Masjid Darussalam in Barangay Raya Madaya.

The Masjid Disomangcop in Barangay Daguduban will be funded amounting to PHP 12.25 million and the White Mosque in Barangay Lumbac Madaya will be reconstructed with PHP15.5 million allotment fund.

“This is a milestone in the history of the Department and Task Force Bangon Marawi," del Rosario said. "For the first time, we will use the escrow donation component for the building of the first three mosques inside the most affected area."

Del Rosario reiterated that the rehabilitation of the Marawi City is still on track despite the coronavirus pandemic.

He echoed President Rodrigo Durterte's remarks to prioritize the reconstruction of mosques in Marawi City.

"Today marks our strong commitment and compliance to the instruction of our President, hence, construction will commence and will be will be completed soonest," del Rosario said.

He added that the task force is readying to reconstruct more or less 30 mosques including the Dansalan Bato Mosque and the Grand Mosque, using the donations from private organizations.

The reconstruction of the mosques could also help the social healing and recovery of the residents affected by the armed conflict.

Del Rosario cited the support of DHSUD's partner-developers to provide an escrow fund.

"These mosques are important monuments of Muslim history and Islamic tradition in the Philippines," he said.

"The generosity and goodwill of our partner-developers will go a long way in boosting the morale and contribute to the overall well-being of the people of Marawi that were destroyed along with these physical structures that represent and embody their faith,” he added.

Del Rosario said the rehabilitation of Marawi City will be completed on its timeline by December 2021.

“We will continue our engagements, we will pursue our commitment and ensure that Marawi will ‘rise again’ as committed by our President,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113833