WESTMINCOM: WestMinCom Chief lauds Sulu troopers for the massive surrender of LTG members

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 17, 2020): WestMinCom Chief lauds Sulu troopers for the massive surrender of LTG members

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- October 17, 2020

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., the Commander of the Western Mindanao Command lauded the troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu led by Brig. Gen. William Gonzales for their relentless efforts that led to the surrender of 11 local terrorist group members on October 16, 2020, at 1:30 in the afternoon.

“Your hard work has paid off. Keep it up for our Tausug brothers and sisters,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

Motivated by their desire to avail of the benefits of the Localized Social Integration Program provided by the provincial government and the Joint Task Force, eleven disgruntled local terrorist group members submitted themselves to Col. Antonio Bautista Jr, the Commander of the 1101st Infantry Brigade.

A.k.a. Alji, 24 years of age; a.k.a. Gaspar, 45; a.k.a Amz, 45; a.k.a Ardin, 32; a.k.a. Bebs, 25; a.k.a. Madz, 48; a.k.a. Uyong, 34; a.k.a. Bahad, 52; a.k.a. Navin, 35; a.k.a. Allon, 45; and a.k.a. Asir, 42 handed over seven high-powered firearms composed of M16 armalite and M1 garand rifles.

“The returnees will be undergoing the Social Integration Program managed by the LGU and the JTF Sulu. They have undertaken their physical and medical examination at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital and will go through the profiling process for the next few days before the administration of psychosocial interventions,” said Major General William Gonzales.

Col. Bautista likewise elaborated that the returnees will be enrolled in livelihood training and seminars to be conducted in partnership with TESDA and the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) – BARMM.

“The local government units play a vital role in this reformation process; together with the Municipal Mayors, the 1101st Brigade will facilitate the integration to the mainstream society of these returnees.” Col Bautista added.

It can be recalled that last October 8, 2020, the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), BARMM distributed financial assistance amounting to Fifteen Thousand Pesos (Php 15,000.00) to 144 LTG returnees in Sulu.

From 2017 to date, a total of 344 local terrorists returned to the fold of the law in Sulu. 217 had already availed of the livelihood assistance and 127 are yet to be enrolled in BARMM’s program.

According to Maj. Gen. Gonzales, “The process will still be the same. I will submit the names of these 11 returnees to WESTMINCOM, AFP for them to avail the livelihood program extended by MSSD after finishing their skills training. Under the guidance of Lt. Gen. Vinluan Jr, the JTF Sulu will continuously implement the Social Integration Program for Sulu ASG returnees in close coordination with Governor Abdusakur Tan and the rest of the Municipal Mayors of Sulu.”

The surrender was facilitated by the 41st and 100th Infantry Battalions and the Municipal Task Force on Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC) of Patikul, Maimbung, Indanan, Talipao, and Pata, Sulu.

“Through the resolute efforts of our troops and the positive gesture of support and cooperation of our stakeholders, we continue to make unprecedented accomplishments evinced by the influx of terrorists who decide to return to the mainstream society,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan continued.

“Nonetheless, we will sustain our focused operations to dampen the will and strength of the adversaries who remain indoctrinated by the false beliefs of the group,” the commander added.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
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AFP-CRS: P2.4M financial aid released to former rebels in Davao de Oro

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 17, 2020): P2.4M financial aid released to former rebels in Davao de Oro

DAVAO CITY--At least 100 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who surrendered to the government received over PHP2.4-million financial aid from the Department of Social and Welfare Development in Davao Region (DSWD-11), the Davao de Oro provincial government said in a statement on Wednesday.

Each rebel returnee received PHP20,000 under DSWD's Sustainable Livelihood Program’s-Livelihood Settlement Grant (SLP-LSG), including an additional PHP4,000 for food and assistance as part of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Programs (ECLIP), during Tuesday's distribution activity.

READMORE: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118561

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AFP-CRS: 2 miyembro ng NPA nagbalik-loob sa Isabela

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 17, 2020): 2 miyembro ng NPA nagbalik-loob sa Isabela

Camp Melchor F Dela Cruz, Upi, Gamu, Isabela-The two supply officers of the rebellious New People's Army are back to the government in the town of San Mariano, Isabela while two weapons were recovered, on the 11th. In October, present person.

In the evangelism of their wives who were first to come back, surrender to the ranks of the 95th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army and policemen, alyas Grace and alyas Lita of the Committee Region-Cagayan Valley (KR-CV) ..

READMORE: https://www.kalinawnews.com/2-miyembro-ng-npa-sa-isabela-nagbalik-loob-sa-pamahalaan-2-armas-narekober/

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4 senior police officers shuffled as PNP boosts drive vs Reds

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 17, 2020): 4 senior police officers shuffled as PNP boosts drive vs Reds (By Aaron Recuenco) 

Four police senior officers have been designated to lead the anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism area command units of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in a latest revamp aimed at complementing the security operations of the military.

PNP chief Police Gen. Camilo Pancratius Cascolan said the fill-out of its Directorate for Integrated Police Operations (DIPOs) also premised on the familiarity of the officers to their field assignments.

In the case of Police Major Gen. Dionardo Carlos, Cascolan said the official was originally designated as DIPO-Southern Luzon director but has to be moved to the DIPO-Visayas since the former was assigned to various posts in the Visayas.

Carlos will be replaced by Police Brig. Gen. Manuel Abu as DIPO Southern Luzon director since his hometown is located in the southern part of Luzon.

Police Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Daway will take over the DIPO for Eastern Mindanao while Police Major Gen. Jose Chiquito Malayo will assume the leadership of the DIPO-Western Mindanao.

The PNP created five DIPOs during the term of President Gloria M. Arroyo to synchronize the anti-insurgency operations with the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The five PNP DIPOs are equivalent to the five area commands of the AFP — the Northern Luzon Command, Southern Luzon Command, Central Command, Eastern Mindanao Command, and Western Mindanao Command.

Cascolan earlier empowered the DIPOs to what is really created for. The DIPOs have gained notoriety as the assignment for retiring senior police officers and those who are not allies of the sitting chief PNP.

No senior police officers would want to be assigned to the DIPOs but now, Cascolan is also pushing to have the directors of the five DIPOs to be a three-star rank.

The DIPOs, according to Cascolan, will have direct supervision over the regional and provincial units of the police’s mobile forces battalions and companies.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/17/4-senior-police-officers-shuffled-as-pnp-boosts-drive-vs-reds/

2 NPA amazons, 1 supporter yield to authorities in Isabela

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 17, 2020): 2 NPA amazons, 1 supporter yield to authorities in Isabela (By Freddie Lazaro)

CAMP MELCHOR F. DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela – Two female New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and one of their supporters surrendered to joint police and army operatives in San Mariano, Isabela province, according to the Army’s Fifth Infantry Division (5th ID) Spokesperson Maj. Jekyll Julian D. Dulawan.

Dulawan identified the NPA amazons as “Ka Grace” and “Ka Lita”, who were supply officers of the Komiteng Rehyon- Cagayan Valley (KR-CV)

The NPA supporter, who surrendered to the authorities, was identified as “Dalisay”, a member of the Milisyang Bayan (MB), which is an NPA support group. She also surrendered an Armalite rifle.

Dulawan said the 95th Infantry Battalion (95th IB) and the local police worked out the surrender of the two NPA amazons and the former MB member.

In a related development, Dulawan said operatives of the 95th IB recovered an M16 rifle and a carbine M1 rifle in an NPA arm-cache in Barangay Cadsalan, San Mariano, Isabela.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/17/2-npa-amazons-1-supporter-yield-to-authorities-in-isabela/

CPP/NDF-Ilocos: NDF-Ilocos: Defend the revolutionary heroes of the Cordilleras! Honor the Macliing Dulag legacy through steadfast armed struggle!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 17, 2020): NDF-Ilocos: Defend the revolutionary heroes of the Cordilleras! Honor the Macliing Dulag legacy through steadfast armed struggle!

ROSA GUIDON

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-ILOCOS

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 17, 2020

For the police force and bureaucratic units of the province of Kalinga, the marker commemorating Macliing Dulag, Pedro Dungoc and Lumbaya Gayudan should have been but an inoffensive roadside marker. Although, for the indigenous peoples of Kalinga, Mountain Province and the rest of the Cordilleras, the simple memorial is no less than a reminder of their remarkable history and own great potential.

Whole-of-Nation Approach

And yet, in another shameless display of disrespect for the plight and struggle of minorities, the local police has found an ally in the office of the Department of Public Works and Highways to push for the marker’s demolition. Using the cunning whole-of-nation approach where local government units (LGU) move cooperatively against national democratic organizations, the Upper Kalinga District Engineering Office hawks about road encroachment as a reason to have it taken down while the Police Regional Office admits to having their Provincial Advisory Council recommending so to the provincial government because the progressive legal organization Cordillera Peoples’ Alliance which installed it, ‘deceives the youth,’ as they absurdly say. The Kalinga LGU could not even come up with smarter excuses.

This is not a simple case of road encroachment, contrary to what the Kalinga police is so quick to defensively point out as if washing their hands of any trace of collusion. If so, then the LGU would’ve just proposed to have the marker transferred to a better location. But not only did the latter never think to honor the Kalinga heroes who fought for the land and territory that they still get to enjoy today, it now wants the memorial gone from the sight of national minorities whose struggle to eke out a living despite exploitative companies and colluding government has become a exhausting daily activity. Worse, for the families of Macliing Dulag and the rest of the fallen martyrs whose lives were cut short due to fascist attacks, the marker may be a poor substitute for justice but at least it celebrates and remembers the noble cause of their deaths.

The National Democratic Front – Ilocos (NDF-Ilocos) stands in solidarity with the progressive and revolutionary organizations under the Cordillera People’s Democratic Front in opposing such proposed action by the Kalinga LGU. The NDF-Ilocos believes that these are but different tunes to the same anti-Communist song. The most rabid of anti-Communism tactics is the US-Duterte regime’s brand as proven by the merciless execution of three leading cadres of the New People’s Army (NPA) in February in Ilocos Sur, by the cold murder of Ilocos Sur Judge Mario Anacleto Bañez who earlier ruled to acquit wrongly accused and incarcerated Rachel Mariano and by the long-running militarization of Ilocano communities that they deem supportive of the revolutionary army.

Afraid of a Simple Marker

Hidden between the lines of their tiresome chorus, however, is the truth that the reactionary government and its fascist troops fear armed revolutions. A simple memorial upsets state agents because it would rather that the Cordillera people forget how their brave elders fought and died for their collective right to self-determination. For the national minorities so rooted to their ancestral territories, to lose their land is equivalent to ethnocide or the murder of their own race. And an armed revolution is the only way to effectively fight for it.

Armed uprisings have long been the most justifiable resort of the masses in fighting for their rights. In the same vein that indigenous peoples need to take up arms to defend their ancestral territories, the Filipino people are pressed to wield weapons as part of the program to build a people’s government. In the countryside, where interference from the reactionary government is minimal to nil, establishing a people’s democratic government is possible and is actually taking place in many areas of the country. Peasants everywhere, including fisher folk from coastal Ilocos and indigenous tribes from Cordillera interiors, are forming themselves into committees to collectively advance their economic situation, develop a mass-oriented culture and education, improve health and medical capacities and get better at governing themselves. All this is possible because they can defend themselves, through their own militias and with the support of the NPA.

The spirit of armed struggle lives on. All the Kalinga LGU is doing by trying to take down a marker of the great elders of the Cordillera is to betray their own inadequacies, pettiness and fear of a people’s uprising. The people of Kalinga can be rest assured that the national democratic organizations of Ilocos marches in step with them in protecting the legacy of their revolutionary heroes and grabbing political power through unwavering armed revolution. ###

https://cpp.ph/statements/ndf-ilocos-defend-the-revolutionary-heroes-of-the-cordilleras-honor-the-macliing-dulag-legacy-through-steadfast-armed-struggle/

Kalinaw News: AFP Chief salutes Heroes of Marawi

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 17, 2020): AFP Chief salutes Heroes of Marawi (By Armed Forces of the Philippines)

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Gilbert Gapay on Saturday commemorated the heroism of government forces that helped in the liberation of war-torn Marawi City. “I share the honor and glory of every soldier of the AFP in giving our snappiest salute to all our heroes, the sung and the unsung, for all that they have done in the fulfilment of their sworn duties to protect and serve our nation and our people. Their service and their sacrifice is a legacy that will live on forever,” General Gapay said.

The government is commemorating the third year of the Liberation of Marawi after a five-month battle that led to the defeat of the Daesh-inspired terrorist Maute Group from May to October 2017. The inter-agency activities were held in the city on October 17, 2020 where an inauguration ceremony for Bonggolo Bridge and ground breaking activity for the proposed Bato Mosque were held. Also conducted was a wreath-laying ceremony at the Heroes Memorial inside Philippine Army’s 103rd Brigade headquarters. In a video message, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez said the Bonggolo Bridge became vital to military troops during their fight against the terrorist.

“Had it not been for this bridge, it would have been very difficult for government forces to successfully carry out its mission. Today the Bonggolo Bridge will serve an entirely different purpose; it will help with social cohesion and mutual trust and understanding among residents,” Secretary Galvez said.

Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamara on the other hand expressed his gratitude to the men and women in uniform for not giving up on the Maranao people even after its liberation. “To the valiant and courageous men and women in uniform, who have fought and even laid down their lives so that the Philippine Flag could still fly high above and free in the flagpoles all over Marawi City, we owe it all to you. Three years on, we are still telling your family that your sacrifices have not been in vain,” said Mayor Gandamara.

Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr, BARMM Deputy Chief Minister and Marawi Special Committee Chairperson Ali Solaiman, and Task Force Bangon Marawi Chairman and Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario also attended the ceremonies. “The war was over but we have never left Marawi. To date, our soldiers still actively participate in endeavors that pursue peace and development in Marawi. We have not ceased in giving our 100%, war or no war,” General Gapay said.

The AFP continues to be a part of government-initiated infrastructure projects by providing the expertise, skills, man-power, and equipment instrumental in the completion of various projects inside the Most Affected Area (MAA). It joins the Task Force Bangon Marawi in carrying out measures to hasten the remaining projects so it could meet the respective deadlines amid the pandemic and other challenges.

The military likewise continues to engage with stakeholders who share the same objectives in providing assistance and support to the people of Marawi. Among projects outside the MMA are school buildings for the displaced Maranao children.

Meanwhile, it continues to uphold its stronghold in Marawi with no similar acts of terrorism occurring in the past three years. Field units are also doing well in foiling the plans of local terrorists, some of whom even returned to the folds of the government.

General Gapay said the intensified implementation of E.O. 70 was a big factor in advancing the peace and progress in the city and nearby areas citing the military and local communities’ harmonized efforts paved way to a holistic approach needed to counter insurgency and terrorism. “We are hopeful to the good the Anti-Terrorism Law will bring. We’ve already lost too many lives, including innocent citizens who are victims of different terrorist acts. With the implementation of this law, we now have better means to defend the nation against threats to our peace,” General Gapay said.

[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/afp-chief-salutes-heroes-of-marawi/

Kalinaw News: Army assists distribution of food packs, hygiene kits to 150 Dumagat Families in Nueva Ecija

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 17, 2020): Army assists distribution of food packs, hygiene kits to 150 Dumagat Families in Nueva Ecija (By 91st Infantry Battalion)

Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija – The troops of 91st Infantry Battalion together with the members of the Gabaldon PNP assisted in the distribution of food packs and hygiene kits donated by Project Millennial PH to 150 Dumagat families at Sitio Dupinga, Barangay Ligaya, and Sitio Pag-asa, Barangay Malinao, Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija last October 11, 2020.

According to 91st Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio (GSC) PA, the assistance of the troops to their partner-stakeholders, like the Project Millennial PH, was part of their month-long activities during the imposed community quarantine in their area of responsibility.

“The Army is glad to assist our partner-stakeholders in the endeavor that helps our Indigenous People’s community. We are one with you in this kind of advocacy,” said Lt. Col. Rubio.

Transportation vehicles from the 91st IB were used in the distribution of food packs and hygiene kits to the residents of the two Sitios.The Project Millennials PH head of Logistics and Communication Director Ms. Marahia June Inna Santos led the distribution together with 1LT Jun Niño O. Espora of 91IB, PCpt. Guy R. Pacamo, Gabaldon Municipal Police Station.

“We would also like to thank our military partner 1LT Espora and the Barangay officials for assisting us from the start of the mission till the end,” Santos said.

Meanwhile, 703rd Brigade Commander Brigadier General Andrew Costelo PA, lauded the complementing efforts of the Army, PNP and the stakeholder on extending help to our IP community especially that we are facing a global health crisis.

“The conduct of this activity only proved that through our united efforts we can help more people especially those in the marginalized sectors. We are looking forward to more partnerships for our future endeavors,” said Brig. Gen. Costelo.

[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-assists-distribution-of-food-packs-hygiene-kits-to-150-dumagat-families-in-nueva-ecija/

Kalinaw News: LGUs, Army recommend 11 barangays as insurgency-free

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 17, 2020): LGUs, Army recommend 11 barangays as insurgency-free (By 26th Infantry Battalion)

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur – A total of eleven (11) barangays from Esperanza and San Luis have been recommended by the Army’s 26th Infantry Battalion and the LGUs of the said municipalities, free from the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) affectation during the conduct of Community Support Program (CSP) Area Clearing Evaluation (ACE) on Friday morning, October 16, 2020.

After a thorough analysis and spontaneous contribution of ideas from the Local Chief Executive, Punong Barangays, PNP, 26IB, and other concerned agencies, the ACE Chairman Col. Cerilo O. Balaoro Jr., deputy brigade commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade, said these barangays passed the parameters set by Joint Letter Directive Nr. 3, revised version, series of 2020, to be declared as insurgency-free.

Based on CSP teams, these former CNT influenced barangays are Sinakungan, Salug, Nato, Balobo, Guibonon, Oro, Segunda, Maliwanag, Remedios and Kinamaybay of municipality of Esperanza; and Brgy Coalicion of San Luis.

The 11 barangays that passed the evaluation will now undergo validation to be conducted by the Area Clearing Validation Board (ACVB), to finalize if the said barangays have sustained the parameters set as totally free from CNT affectation prior endorsement to NTF- ELCAC, to be set as priority barangays for development in 2021 and on succeeding years.

“This clearing evaluation from CNT affectation is very important because this will pave the way for the entry of development and economic opportunities in every barangay which means even the delivery of basic services by the local government will not be hampered, which is the main struggle if there is a presence of CNTs”, Col. Balaoro said, as he explained the reasons on clearing the barangays.

As per JLD Nr. 3, a barangay will only be declared as insurgency-free when the parameters are met such as the dismantling of CPP-NPA politico-military structure; the denial of CPP-NPA access to the area, resources, and manpower; and the establishment of a functioning barangay information network and integrated community public safety system, among others.

Relatively, Mayor Leonida P. Manpatilan of Esperanza commended the firm affirmation and perspective of the Punong Barangays in fighting insurgents in their area. “As your local chief executive at the same time your mother here in Esperanza, it hurts me seeing my constituents struggling from fear and discomfort because of the NPA’s presence in your area. Hopefully, you and your people will sustain and continue to refute these lawless elements in order for the local and national government to freely pursue and pour all the necessary infrastructures and economic programs, projects in your areas without being hampered by the NPAs”, she said.

Historically, CNTs are involved on the series of arson activities in the country most especially to construction companies and business establishments who refused their support and denied to give financial support for the extortion activities conducted by the CNTs. “We have to unite and work hand in hand in order to defeat these NPAs. As per mandate to us by EO70 to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, inter-agency efforts are deemed necessary to address the issues and concerns being used as deceptive propaganda by the NPAs”, mayor Manpatilan added.

[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/lgus-army-recommend-11-barangays-as-insurgency-free/

Another 11 Abu Sayyaf members surrender to JTF Sulu, WESTMINCOM, AFP

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 17, 2020): Another 11 Abu Sayyaf members surrender to JTF Sulu, WESTMINCOM, AFP (By 11th Infantry Division)

Camp Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – Motivated by their desire to avail of the social integration benefits provided by the Joint Task Force Sulu and Provincial Government of Sulu under the Localized Social Integration Program, Eleven (11) disgruntled Abu Sayyaf members under Mundi Sawadjaan and Radulan Sahiron surrendered to Col Antonio I Bautista Jr, Commander, 1101st Brigade at 1:30 PM of 16 October 2020.

The returnees, not in their true names for security reason, are alias Alji, 24 years old; Gaspar, 45 yo; Amz, 45 yo; Ardin, 32 yo; Bebs, 25 yo; Madz, 48 yo; Uyong, 34 yo; Bahad, 52 yo; Nayin, 35 yo; Allon, 45 yo; and Asir, 42 yo. The surrender was facilitated by 41st IB, 100th IB, and 11th MIB under the municipal Task Force on Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF ELAC) of Patikul, Maimbung, Indanan, Talipao, and Pata, Sulu. They have brought with them their seven (7) assorted high powered firearms primarily composed of M16 armalite and M1 garand rifles.

“The returnees will be undergoing the Social Integration Program managed by the LGU and JTF Sulu. They have undertaken their physical and medical examination at Camp Bautista Station Hospital today and will go through profiling process for the next few days prior to the administration of psychosocial interventions.” said Major General William N Gonzales.

Col Bautista likewise elaborated that the returnees will be enrolled to livelihood trainings and seminars to be conducted in partnership with TESDA and Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) – BARMM.

“The Local Government Units play a vital role on this reformation process; together with the Municipal Mayors, the 1101st Brigade will facilitate the integration to the mainstream society of these returnees,” Col Bautista added.

It can be recalled that last October 8, 2020, the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), BARMM distributed financial assistance in the amount of fifteen thousand pesos (Php 15,000.00) to 144 ASG returnees of Sulu for livelihood purposes. From calendar year 2017 to date, a total of 344 ASGs surrendered to AFP, PNP, and LGU Sulu. 217 had already availed of the livelihood assistance and 127 are yet to be enrolled in BARMM’s program.

According to MGen Gonzales, “The process will still be the same; I will submit the names of these 11 returnees to WESTMINCOM, AFP for them to avail the livelihood program extended by MSSD after finishing their skills training. Under the guidance of our WESTMINCOM Commander, Lt Gen Corleto S Vinluan Jr, the JTF Sulu will continuously implement the Social Integration Program for Sulu ASG returnees in close coordination with Governor Abdusakur M Tan and the rest of the Municipal Mayors of 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/another-11-abu-sayyaf-members-surrender-to-jtf-sulu-westmincom-afp/

Kalinaw News: 2 NPA members in Aurora surrender with firearms, and ammunitions to Army’s 91IB and PNP

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 17, 2020): 2 NPA members in Aurora surrender with firearms, and ammunitions to Army’s 91IB and PNP (By 91st Infantry Battalion)

BALER, Aurora — Two members of the Domingo Erlano Command of the New People’s Army (NPA) have surrendered to the security forces in Northern Aurora towns, turning over to authorities firearms and ammunition, a top military official said last October 15, 2020.

LTC REANDREW P RUBIO (GSC) PA, Commander of 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, Philippine Army said that 1LT BOBBY A FERRER (INF) PA, Bravo Company Commander together with Dinalungan Municipal Police Station of Aurora Police Provincial Office and other friendly forces facilitated the voluntary surrender identified as alias @ Burda, Assistant Squad Leader, 35 yo, married, armed with one (1) M16 rifle bearing serial number RP046928, three (3) long magazines for M16, and thirty (30) rounds of ammunition for M16 and alias @ Eric, Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) member, 29 yo, married.

The two are former members of Domingo Erlando Command under Ka Isaac.

The recent surrender of two (2) CNTs with firearm indicates the effective implementation of Task Force End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF ELCAC).

“They will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and other benefits to start their new life. I urged the remnants of KLG Sierra Madre to include the Milisyang Bayan and their supporters to peacefully surrender and avail the different services and programs of the government,” LTC RUBIO said.

He added that the two decided to surrender because being with the NPA only gave them misery, losing the chance to be with their family and loved ones.

“The two are currently undergoing a joint validation by the Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP) and the Philippine National Police and the issuance of the certification will begin the processing of their benefits under the E-CLIP. The firearms they surrendered will also be paid based on the firearms remuneration program of the E-CLIP.

Orientation, and custodial debriefing, will also be given to them at the Headquarter of Bravo Company, 91IB in Barangay Dibaraybay, Dinalungan, Aurora.

They will also be provided skills training by the government to equip them with the knowledge and be able to continue a life of peace.

LTC RUBIO said that the government is sincere and willing to provide them (NPA surrenderers) with better lives through programs, assistance, benefits, among others.

Meanwhile, Ka Burda said he decided to surrender for peace in order to be with his family.

“Sa isang taong at kalahati na sumampa ako sa hukbo naranasan ko ang hirap at gutom sa bundok. Gusto ko rin linisin ang pangalan ko para makapamuhay ako ng normal at walang takot.

[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/2-npa-members-in-aurora-surrender-with-firearms-and-ammunitions-to-armys-91ib-and-pnp/

PH cites 2020 ATA as valued tool in fight against terrorism at UNGA Sixth Committee opening

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 17, 2020): PH cites 2020 ATA as valued tool in fight against terrorism at UNGA Sixth Committee opening (By Alehia Therese V. Abuan) 

PARAÑAQUE CITY, Oct. 17 (PIA) --The Philippines condemned terrorism “anywhere in the world however inspired” and said that the 2020 Anti-Terrorism Act shores up the legal framework by allowing prosecution of foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) and acts of terrorism.

At the opening of the main session of the Sixth Committee in the UN General Assembly (UNGA) on 06 October 2020, minister and legal adviser of the Philippine Mission to the UN Maria Angela Ponce said that the enactment of the Anti-Terrorism Act was done pursuant to the Philippines’ commitment and strict adherence to relevant Security Council resolutions, including Resolutions 1373 & 2178, and to the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

She stressed that the law mandates the State to uphold the basic rights and fundamental liberties of the people as enshrined in the Constitution.

Minister Ponce added that the Anti-Terrorism Act is complemented by the National Action Plan on Preventing & Countering Violent Extremism, which addresses underlying conditions that drive individuals to join violent extremist groups.

The Anti-Terrorism Act also strengthens the Philippines’ efforts on terrorist financing, in compliance with directives of the Financial Action Task Force, which set an October 2020 deadline for the Philippines to reform its anti-terrorism laws or face possible greylisting.

The Philippines also expressed support for UN Office of Counter-Terrorism “as a credible partner in the fight against terrorism”. As such, the Philippines is proceeding with its participation in the UN Countering Terrorist Travel Programme.

Minister Ponce also stressed the need to continue to work towards a Comprehensive Convention for Combating International Terrorism, which has been under consideration by the UN for over 20 years.

While noting that a state’s foremost responsibility is to “protect the law-abiding against the lawless; and the innocent against those who threaten their safety and wellbeing”, she added that “this must be done with strictest regard for human rights and the rule of law.”

The Sixth Committee is the primary forum for the consideration of legal questions in the General Assembly.

The full Philippine statement may be accessed here.#PHinUN #DFAinACTION DFA/PIA-NCR)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056279

Ex-NPA rebel lauds anti-insurgency program

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 17, 2020): Ex-NPA rebel lauds anti-insurgency program (By Edwin Fernandez) 

NORMAL LIFE. Former communist rebel Ka Menard (center) gets a cow from the North Cotabato provincial government during the livestock dispersal program held in Tulunan town on Friday (Oct. 16, 2020). Nineteen other former comrades of Ka Menard who earlier surrendered also received farm animals during the activity. (Photo courtesy of Tulunan LGU)

A former communist rebel in North Cotabato who surrendered last month said he had no regrets yielding to the government to live a peaceful life with his family.

“I was duped in the past. I was told being with the communist movement was fruitful and fulfilling,” said Ka Menard, 40, a former member of Guerilla Front 53 of the New People’s Army (NPA) and is now a beneficiary of a government livelihood program in Tulunan, North Cotabato.

Menard said life as a civilian is vastly different from his life hiding in the mountains, as he is free to go wherever he wishes and is no longer afraid of seeing or getting close with the authorities.

“The government program is real, fruitful,” he said in a mix of Cebuano and Ilonggo dialects.

Menard was one of the 20 beneficiaries of an animal dispersal program of the North Cotabato provincial government on Friday after community development workers (CDWs) assessed and qualified him to be a recipient of the carabao dispersal program.

His other request was for the government to help him send his four children to school to give them a "future so they will not be lured to the underground movement."

The enlistment of CDWs is part of the provincial government's initiatives in support of the government's End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) program that has gained the attention of the Department of the Interior and Local Governments (DILG) 12 (Soccsksargen).

The initiative includes the immersion of development workers to help them determine what the former combatants need and what the government has to offer to them.

“This clearly shows the commitment of the provincial government to effectively implement ELCAC by deploying development workers as support mechanism of the program,” said Ian Jon Clemente, DILG -12 focal person for the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 70 on the local government’s deployment of CDWs.

EO 70, issued by President Rodrigo Duterte in late 2018, aims to institutionalize the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, creating a national task force to end local armed conflict and the adoption of a national peace framework.

On Thursday, Clemente met with North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco and informed her of the DILG’s assessment of the province’s implementation of EO 70.

“This is one of the best practices of the region,” he said.

Catamco has earlier pushed for the deployment of CDWs who will assess villages involved in the ELCAC program and help the government identify further intervention that could be applied to improve and effectively enforce the ELCAC program.

She said one of the innovations implemented by the provincial government with regards to the ELCAC program, is the animal dispersal, where NPA surrenderers receive farm animals as livelihood assistance.

On Friday, 20 ELCAC program beneficiaries in barangays Banayal and Bituan in Tulunan, North Cotabato received cows and carabaos.

Next week, Catamco said the provincial government’s “Local Serbisyo Caravan” would start rolling again to ELCAC-covered villages “to bring genuine government services to communities affected by decades of armed conflict.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118839

Troops, ASG bandits clash in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 17, 2020): Troops, ASG bandits clash in Basilan (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Government forces are tracking down members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) who figured in a firefight with the troops in Basilan province, officials said Saturday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the clash occurred around 1:45 p.m. Friday in Barangay Benembengan, Sumisip after the troops under the 68th Infantry Battalion chanced upon 10 bandits while conducting a combat operation in the area.

Vinluan said the firefight lasted for about five minutes before the bandits fled, bringing along their casualties.

Bloodstains were found along the bandits' withdrawal route, he added.

Col. Domingo Gobway, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan, said government troops are still scouring the area "to determine the number of casualties on the enemy side."

Gobway said soldiers were deployed to establish a blockade along the bandits' possible withdrawal routes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118849

11 ASG bandits yield in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 17, 2020): 11 ASG bandits yield in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)  

ASG SURRENDERERS. An Abu Sayyaf Group surrenderer hands over a high-power rifle to Col. Antonio Bautista Jr. (3rd from left), commander of the Army's 1101st Infantry Brigade, during the surrender ceremony in Sulu on Friday (Oct. 17, 2020). A total of 11 bandits surrendered to the military to avail of the government’s social integration program. (Photo courtesy of the 11th Infantry Division)

Saying they want to avail of the government’s social integration program, 11 members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) have surrendered to military authorities in Sulu province, an official said Saturday.

The 11 ASG surrenderers, who are followers of ASG leaders Mundi Sawadjaan and Radulan Sahiron, turned themselves in on Friday to Col. Antonio Bautista Jr., commander of the Army's 1101st Infantry Brigade.

Bautista said the surrenderers, whose identities were not divulged for security reasons, also turned over seven assorted high-power firearms.

Their surrender was facilitated by the Army's 41st Infantry Battalion (IB), 100IB, the 11th Military Intelligence Battalion, as well as the Municipal Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC) of the towns of Patikul, Maimbung, Indanan, Talipao, and Pata.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the 11th Infantry Division, said the 11 ASG surrenderers would undergo a social integration program managed by the local government unit and Joint Task Force Sulu.

Bautista said they would be enrolled in livelihood training and seminars to be conducted in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

“The local government units play a vital role in this reformation process. Together with the municipal mayors, the 1101st Brigade will facilitate the integration to the mainstream society of these returnees,” he added.

At least 144 ASG surrenderers each received PHP15,000 in livelihood assistance from BARMM's Ministry of Social Services and Development on October 8.

The Joint Task Force Sulu said 344 ASG bandits have surrendered in Sulu since 2017.

Of the total, 217 have availed of the livelihood assistance and 127 are yet to be enrolled in the government’s social integration program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118857

Reds hallucinating on attack threats: AFP spox

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 17, 2020): Reds hallucinating on attack threats: AFP spox (By Priam Nepomuceno)

A ranking official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Saturday the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) must be hallucinating when it called upon the New People's Army (NPA) to intensify its attacks against government security forces.

Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesperson, said the entire military is puzzled by the communist rebels’ temerity, considering the massive losses the insurgents have suffered in the past months.

"With the outpour of surrenders both in terms of manpower and firearms and the number of communist terrorists neutralized, we wonder where this Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) is drawing the nerve to make such a declaration," Arevalo said in a statement.

He said the CPP-NPA has always been trying to attack and defeat security troops but has dismally failed every time.

Arevalo added that the communist terrorists only succeed when they attack unarmed AFP personnel who were deployed to help fellow Filipinos in times of disasters, calamities, or during the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"No wonder, our people have been fighting back or reporting the communist terrorists’ presence in the communities they pester. And those vital information given to the AFP (have) resulted (in) the enemy annihilation, arrest, or seizure of their arms cache," he said.

Arevalo said the military is bewildered by the term "Filipino people" who are supposedly “clamoring for justice” being referred to by the communist terrorists.

"The last time we checked, the Filipino people – especially the rural folks and the indigenous people they murder, rape, and rob – have strongly rejected them. And if ever there are people clamoring for justice, it is against the CTG for the many atrocities and abuses they commit against our hapless people," he said.

Arevalo said the AFP is one with the Filipino people in their desire to end the more than 50 years of lies and deception that caused them numerous deaths, destructions, and sufferings.

"We will not fail our people," he said.

Meanwhile, Arevalo said the AFP joins the nation in the continuing fight against terrorism.

He made the statement as the country observes the third anniversary of the Liberation of Marawi City.

"This is highlighted by the tragic beginning and end of the Siege of Marawi that we commemorate today," Arevalo said.

The Battle for Marawi City started on May 23, 2017, when Islamic State-inspired and Abu Sayyaf terrorists attacked the area.

In the five-month battle that ensued, about 1,000 terrorists were killed, along with more than 170 government troops.

"The Marawi crisis reminds us that the vigorous campaign should not be focused only on combatting terrorism but more importantly on preventing the menace from invading our communities and cities," he said.

Arevalo said the AFP’s Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) campaign, which came to the fore after the liberation of Marawi, looks into sectors vulnerable to radicalism and violent extremism, such as orphanages, schools, and evacuation centers.

"The AFP works with other agencies of government, like DepEd (Department of Education), DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development), and LGUs (local government units) to name a few, to empower and capacitate the administrators of these facilities to ward off terrorists from encroaching into their domains," he added.

Arevalo also said these strong partnerships and collaborations have proven to be an effective deterrent against attempts by some individuals or groups with links to terrorist groups to radicalize and recruit members from those facilities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118868