ATC tags CPP-NPA, ISEA, Maute, allies as terror groups

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2020): ATC tags CPP-NPA, ISEA, Maute, allies as terror groups (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. (PNA File photo)

The Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) has designated the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) and the Islamic State East Asia, Maute Group, Daulah Islamiyah, and other associated groups as "terrorist organizations, associations, and/or groups of persons".

The two separate resolutions, which were approved on December 9, were signed by ATC chair, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, and the body's vice chair, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr.

The ATC is composed of nine members of the Cabinet including the Executive Secretary, National Security Adviser, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Secretary of National Defense, Secretary of Interior and Local Government, Secretary of Finance, Secretary of Justice, Secretary of Information and Communications Technology, and the Executive Director of the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

ATC Resolution Number 12 which designated the CPP-NPA, with its armed wing known as the "Bagong Hukbong Bayan", used as a basis the February 21, 2018 petition filed by the National Prosecution Service (NPS) of the Department of Justice (DOJ) before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 19, docketed as Case No. R-MNL-18-00925-CV, "praying that the CPP-NPA be declared as terrorist and outlawed organizations, associations, and/or group of persons pursuant to Section 17 of Republic Act No. 9372, otherwise known as the Human Security Act of 2007 ".

The NPS, in its petition, said the CPP-NPA "was organized for the purpose of engaging in terrorism and, for almost half a century, have been and are still using acts of terror to sow and create a condition of widespread and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace in order to overthrow the duly constituted authorities and seize control of the Philippine Government through armed struggle."

It also cited 12 incidents that constitute terrorist acts of murder, kidnapping, and arson to prove that the CPP-NPA continues to commit acts of terror to sow and create a condition of widespread and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace in order to topple the Philippine government which is the group's ultimate goal.

"Filing of the said petition by the NPS, DOJ clearly established the existence of probable cause that the CPP-NPA committed, or attempted to commit, or conspired in the commission of the acts defined and penalized by the ATA (Anti-Terrorism Act)," ATC Resolution Number 12 read.

In justifying its designation of the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization, it also invoked President Proclamation Number 374 issued on December 5, 2017, declaring the group as designated/identified terrorist organizations under Section 3 (e)(1) of Republic Act No. 10168, otherwise known as "The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012".

The law states that among the designated persons are “any person or entity designated and/or identified as a terrorist, one who finances terrorism, or a terrorist organization or group under the applicable United Nations Security Council resolution or by another jurisdiction or supranational jurisdiction”.

ATC Resolution Number 12 also cited the United States' designation of the CPP-NPA as a "foreign terrorist organization" in August 2002 and those made by the European Union, Australia, United Kingdom, all in 2002; and New Zealand, in 2010.

"Now, therefore, the ATC, by virtue of the powers vested in us by Section 45 of ATA and pursuant to paragraph 3 of Section 25 of the ATA, finds probable cause that the CPP-NPA committed or conspired to commit the acts defined and penalized under Section 4 of the ATA and hereby designates the CPP-NPA as terrorist organizations, associations or groups of persons," it added.

Under Section 25 of the ATA, the ATC may designate individuals or groups as terrorists upon the finding of probable cause that they are in a conspiracy to commit or are committing acts of terrorism.

In justifying the designation of Islamic State East Asia, Maute Group, Daulah Islamiyah, and its associated groups as "terrorist organizations, associations, and /or groups of persons," ATC Resolution Number 13 said the ATC can adopt the United Nations Security Consolidated List which designated individuals or groups as terrorism.

"Whereas, paragraph 1 of Section 25 of the ATA states that, 'Pursuant to our obligations under United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) No. 1373, the ATC shall automatically adopt the United Nations Security Council Consolidated List of designated individuals, group of persons, organizations, or associations designated and/or identified as a terrorist, one who finances terrorism, or a terrorist organization or group'," it added.

It added that on December 17, 2015, the UN adopted UNSCR No. 2253 on ISIL (Da’esh) & Al-Qaida Sanctions List, “reaffirming that terrorism in all forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to peace and security and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivations, whenever, wherever, and by whomsoever committed, and reiterating its unequivocal condemnation of Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as Da’esh), Al-Qaida, and associated individuals, groups, undertakings, and entities for ongoing and multiple criminal terrorist acts aimed at causing the deaths of innocent civilians and other victims, destruction of property, and greatly undermining stability."

ATC Resolution Number 13 said the Philippines, as a UN member state, has an obligation to take the aforesaid measures “with respect to all individuals, groups, undertakings, and entities included in the list created pursuant to UNSCR Nos. 1267 (1999), 1333 (2000), 1989 (2011), 2083 (2012), and 2161 (2014), regardless of the nationality or residence of such individuals, groups, undertakings, or entities."

This is only fitting considering that some militant groups in the Philippines pledged allegiance to the ISIL (Da’esh) and to its erstwhile leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, following the declaration of the caliphate in June 2014 after the group took control of large swathes of land straddling Iraq and Syria.

"Whereas, the Marawi siege in 2017 has served as a paradigm for like-minded groups and personalities in Southeast Asia and other parts of the globe to join the militants in the southern Philippines in their ambition to establish a caliphate in Mindanao, as what the Da’esh leadership has been advocating," it added.

ATC Resolution Number 13, meanwhile, designated the following groups as terrorists: (1) Islamic State in Iraq and Syria in South-East Asia; (2) Dawlatul Islamiyah Waliyatul Masrik; (3) Dawlatul Islamiyyah Waliyatul Mashriq; (4) IS East Asia Division; (5) Maute Group; (6) Islamic State East Asia; (7) Maute ISIS; (8) Grupong ISIS; (9) Grupo ISIS; (10) Khilafah Islamiyah; (11) KIM; (12) Ansharul Khilafah; (13) Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters-Bungos; (14) Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters-Abubakar; (15) Jama’atu al-Muhajirin wal Ansar fil Filibin; (16) Daulah Islamiyah; and (17) other Daesh-affiliated groups in the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125725

Duterte ‘ties’ suspension of VFA termination to Pfizer vaccine

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 27, 2020): Duterte ‘ties’ suspension of VFA termination to Pfizer vaccine (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Anadolu photo

President Rodrigo Duterte warned that he would not order another suspension of the abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States (US) even if the Philippines fails to secure coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines from Pfizer.

Duterte issued the warning in a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases and infectious diseases experts at Malacañan Palace on Saturday after the Philippines reportedly failed to secure a deal with Pfizer, a pharmaceutical giant from the US, on the delivery of 10 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine by January next year.

“Ang kanila lang kasi ay iyong Visiting Forces Agreement, matatapos na. Ngayon, 'pag hindi ako pumayag, aalis talaga sila. Kung hindi sila maka-deliver ng maski na lang (They know the Visiting Forces Agreement will already expire. If the termination of the deal takes effect, they must leave the country. If they cannot deliver even with just) a minimum of 20 million vaccines, ah they better get out. No vaccine, no stay here,” Duterte said.

The Philippines formally notified the US about its decision to revoke the VFA on early February this year. The VFA is a military pact inked in 1998 to allow American soldiers who are participating in joint military drills to go to Manila sans passport and visa.

The VFA remains in effect after Duterte ordered on June 1 the suspension of VFA abrogation “in light of political and other developments in the region”.

Duterte said the VFA’s fate now depends on the result of the ongoing negotiation between his administration and Pfizer.

“If you want to help, if America wants to help, you deliver. Stop talking. What we need is the vaccine, not your verbose speeches,” he said.

The Philippines supposedly missed the chance to receive 10 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine from Pfizer due to the alleged failure of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III to submit the confidentiality disclosure agreement for the purchase of the vaccines.

Some lawmakers have claimed the country would have secured the Covid-19 vaccines from Pfizer as early as January next year had Duque worked on the confidentiality disclosure agreement.

Covid-19 vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., who attended the meeting at Malacañang, said the country is expected to ink the vaccine deal with Pfizer in January next year.

Galvez, who also acts as the National Policy Against Covid-19 chief implementer, told Duterte that the country might be able to secure around 80 million of vaccines from developers in other countries.

“We are already 85 percent of the contract,” he said. “So all in all sir if we will get Novavax, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, J&J, and also Moderna, we might have more or less 80 million doses. And also recently, last -- at the evening of -- at the evening of 24 and also in the morning, the Gamaleya of Russia also negotiated for another 25 million.” 
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125729

2 CPP-NPA leaders nabbed in Quezon

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 27, 2020): 2 CPP-NPA leaders nabbed in Quezon (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Debold Sinas (File photo)

Joint police and military operatives arrested two leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) wanted for a string of criminal cases in Quezon province, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Debold Sinas on Sunday said.

Citing reports from Region 4-A (Calabarzon) regional director Police Brig. Gen. Felipe Natividad, the arrested CPP-NPA leaders were identified as Ruel Custodio alias Baste, and Ruben Istokado alias Oyo/Miles.

The two were captured in a service of warrant operation launched by operatives of Regional Intelligence Division, Quezon Police Provincial Office, and Regional Mobile Force Battalion with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) teams from 201st Infantry Brigade, 2nd Military Intelligence Battalion and 4th Intelligence and Security Unit at 3:30 p.m. Saturday in Barangay Zone 3, Poblacion, Atimonan, Quezon.

Arresting officers confiscated two grenades, three handguns and assorted ammunitions from Custodio and Istokado.

Sinas said the arrests sustain the momentum of continuing active police operations against CPP-NPA-National Democratic Front personalities wanted by the law for criminal activities.

Police records identified Custodio as finance officer of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee responsible for the collection of “revolutionary taxes” in the province of Quezon.

Custodio is also respondent in two separate criminal cases filed in 2019 for kidnapping and illegal possession of firearms, with warrants issued for his arrest.

Istokado, on the other hand, is a political instructor responsible for propaganda work for Komiteng Probinsya 1 of the Bicol Regional Party Committee and also respondent in two separate criminal cases for double murder and multiple murder filed in September 2014.

Both suspects are now undergoing booking procedure and investigation in Lucena City pending their turnover to the court.

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/1125747

ATC designates CPP-NPA as terror group

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 27, 2020): ATC designates CPP-NPA as terror group (By PIA NCR Reportorial Team)

File photo of CPP-NPA militia: AFP/Mitchell Maduro

QUEZON CITY, Dec. 27 (PIA) -- The Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) has designated the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) as a "terrorist" organization, association, and/or a group of persons.

The resolution, approved on Dec. 9, and released to members of media this week, was signed by ATC chair, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, and the body's vice chair, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr.

The ATC is composed of nine members of the Cabinet including the Executive Secretary, National Security Adviser, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Secretary of National Defense, Secretary of Interior and Local Government, Secretary of Finance, Secretary of Justice, Secretary of Information and Communications Technology, and the Executive Director of the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

ATC Resolution Number 12 which designated the CPP-NPA, with its armed wing known as the "Bagong Hukbong Bayan", used as a basis the February 21, 2018 petition filed by the National Prosecution Service (NPS) of the Department of Justice (DOJ) before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 19, docketed as Case No. R-MNL-18-00925-CV, "praying that the CPP-NPA be declared as terrorist and outlawed organizations, associations, and/or group of persons pursuant to Section 17 of Republic Act No. 9372, otherwise known as the Human Security Act of 2007 ".

The NPS, in its petition, said the CPP-NPA "was organized for the purpose of engaging in terrorism and, for almost half a century, have been and are still using acts of terror to sow and create a condition of widespread and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace in order to overthrow the duly constituted authorities and seize control of the Philippine Government through armed struggle."

It also cited 12 incidents that constitute terrorist acts of murder, kidnapping, and arson to prove that the CPP-NPA continues to commit acts of terror to sow and create a condition of widespread and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace in order to topple the Philippine government which is the group's ultimate goal.

"Filing of the said petition by the NPS, DOJ clearly established the existence of probable cause that the CPP-NPA committed, or attempted to commit, or conspired in the commission of the acts defined and penalized by the ATA (Anti-Terrorism Act)," ATC Resolution Number 12 read.

In justifying its designation of the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization, it also invoked President Proclamation Number 374 issued on December 5, 2017, declaring the group as designated/identified terrorist organizations under Section 3 (e)(1) of Republic Act No. 10168, otherwise known as "The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012".

The law states that among the designated persons are “any person or entity designated and/or identified as a terrorist, one who finances terrorism, or a terrorist organization or group under the applicable United Nations Security Council resolution or by another jurisdiction or supranational jurisdiction”.

ATC Resolution Number 12 also cited the United States' designation of the CPP-NPA as a "foreign terrorist organization" in August 2002 and those made by the European Union, Australia, United Kingdom, all in 2002; and New Zealand, in 2010.

"Now, therefore, the ATC, by virtue of the powers vested in us by Section 45 of ATA and pursuant to paragraph 3 of Section 25 of the ATA, finds probable cause that the CPP-NPA committed or conspired to commit the acts defined and penalized under Section 4 of the ATA and hereby designates the CPP-NPA as terrorist organizations, associations or groups of persons," it added.

Under Section 25 of the ATA, the ATC may designate individuals or groups as terrorists upon the finding of probable cause that they are in a conspiracy to commit or are committing acts of terrorism. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062515

Whole-of-nation approach melts NPA fronts in DavNor, DavOro

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 24, 2020): Whole-of-nation approach melts NPA fronts in DavNor, DavOro (By Jeanevive Duron Abangan)

MACO, DAVAO DE ORO, (PIA) - The whole of nation approach to end local communist armed conflict has melted the entire Guerilla Front 33 operating in the provinces of Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro.

1001st Infantry “Pag-asa” Brigade commander, Col Luis Rex Bergante cited the efficiency of WNA in winning over and bringing back to the government, guerilla front commanders, members of mass organizations and supporters.

Addressing the rites to present the former rebels now referred as “Balik-Loob” individuals, Bergante cited the community support program and the military ground operation leading to the meltdown of Guerilla Front 33 as strategies through which the WNA has materialized.

“This is a clear manifestation that together as a whole of nation we can end the over five decades of communist insurgency in the country,” he said.

“It is a proof that the army cannot destroy the enemy on its own and that if we converge as a nation we can make a front secretary, a front commander, its elements, its underground mass organization, and its mass bases and supporter yield to the government,” added.

He said that on December 12, 25th Infantry Battalion troopers encountered the Guerrilla Front 33 elements twice resulting in the recovery of 7 high powered firearms, surrender of alias Brando and alias Mawi, and the death of one amazon member of the New Peoples Army (NPA).

Another two regular members of the NPA of the same front surrendered on the same day bringing along with them three high powered firearms.

This surrender further drew more yields of other regular members of high positions in the GF 33: the Front Secretary identified as Khan and another alias Denden and one member identified as “Malou” bringing along with them one M16 rifle.

Enticed by their commanders, 11 members surrendered bringing along with them three high powered firearms.

This joint operation of the 25th Infantry Battalion (based in Davao de Oro) and the 60th Infantry Battalion (based in Davao del Norte), has brought back to the folds of the law a total of 26 regular NPA members and has led to recovery of 15 firearms from Guerilla Front 33.

“The campaign is not yet over. Other guerilla fronts need to be dismantled,” Bergante said. “Today’s accomplishment report, however, has doubled our confidence that it can be done. We just need to keep using this formula to which you--- military and non-military, government and non-government—are part of ,” he said.

The presentation rites and meet-up of “Balik-loob” individuals done at the headquarters of 100st Infantry Brigade in Maco, Davao de Oro, has drawn the presence of Regional Peace and Order Chairperson, Provincial Governor Nelson Dayanghirang of Davao Oriental; Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon Alvarez; Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib; Davao de Oro Governor Jayvee Tyrone Uy; Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) commander Major General Jose Faustino Jr., 10th Infantry Division Commander; Major General Ruben Basiao together commanders of 60th Infantry Battalion, Lt Col Sarmiento and 25th Inf Battalion commander Lt Col Asnawi Muti. (PIA Jeanevive Duron Abangan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062141

Rebel commander regrets joining NPA

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 24, 2020): Rebel commander regrets joining NPA (By Jan Vincent Leuterio) 

27 members of Guerrilla Front 33 surrenders to the government

DAVAO DEL NORTE, Dec. 18 (PIA) – The commander of Guerrilla Front 33 of the New People’s Army (NPA) has regretted joining the rebellion.

During the Press Conference held at the Total Surrender of Guerilla Front 33 on December 17, 2020 at 1001st Infantry Battalion Camp in Brgy Mapaang, Maco, Davao de Oro, Guerilla Front 33 commander, Khan (alias), said that joining the NPA is not the solution for poverty.

“Sayop jud ang paggunit nato sa pusil. Sayop jud ang pagsulod nato sa kalihokan kay dili ni siya pwede nga pamaagi aron masulbad nato ang problema sa atong nasud (It was a mistake to pick up those guns. It was truly a mistake that we entered the rebellion because this is not the way to solve our problem in our country),” he said.

He added that despite the P1million monthly revenue generated from extortion, the higher-ups of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) failed to provide them with the right budget to take care of their family.

“Sakit man gud sa akong buot nga ang among pamilya, among mga anak dili namo makuyog sa pila ka tuig. Dili nako madawat nganong nag-antos mi ani nga kalihokan (It pained me that for how many years we couldn’t be with our families, our children. I can’t accept why we suffered for this rebellion),” Khan said.

With this, he called on to those left behind in the rebellion to return to the hands of the government.

“Dili jud ta mag-antos sa sulod kay wala jud tay kaugmaon… Naa diri ang atong kaugmaon sa gawas pinaagi sa tabang sa gobyerno (We have no reason to suffer in there because there’s no future…our future is here outside with the help of the government),” he said.

Kahn, along with 26 other members of the Guerilla Front 33, surrendered after having an encounter with the 60th Infantry Battalion at New Corella last December 12, 2020.

Governor Edwin I. Jubahib gave P10,000 cash, 10 sacks of rice, and bihon to each of the surrenderees.

As well, they are expected to be recipients of the Jubahib’s livelihood and service programs in line with Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70) Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

In addition, another P10,000 each and livelihood will be given by Governor Jayvee Tyrone Uy in Davao de Oro, and Mayor Jorjan Federiso in New Corella.

Furthermore, 1st District Congressman Pantaleon Alvarez will lead the giving of skills training, scholarships, and medicine. (lifted from PICKMO Davao del Norte/Jan Vincent Leuterio, PIA XI)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062139

4 CTG members surrender on the eve of AFP’s 85th Anniversary

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 23, 2020): 4 CTG members surrender on the eve of AFP’s 85th Anniversary (By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay)

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Cam.Sur, Dec. 23 (PIA) – On the eve of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) 85th Founding Anniversary, 14 members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), laid down their arms and expressed their intent to return to the folds of the law.

Photo credits: Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO), 9th Infantry Division, PA

In a press statement, CPT John Paul Belleza, Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) Spokesperson, said that leaders and members of CTG who surrendered were presented to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) committee in a simple but meaningful ceremony held at Sorsogon Police Provincial Office, Sorsogon City, Monday, December 21.

“We are happy that before the celebration of Christmas, our brothers who have somehow lost their way, returned to the folds of the law and expressed their desire to avail of the programs being offered by the government. They will be enrolled in the E-CLIP program which will grant them various benefits to help jump start their new lives,” Belleza added.

Aside from turning themselves in, the former rebels also handed one M16 rifle, one caliber .45 and one caliber .38 during the said ceremony.

Belleza also relayed the heart-warming and touching testimony made by “Malou,” one of the surrenderees.

“According to her, she is beyond grateful for the government's sincerity to help despite the treacherous acts committed by them against the communities and the innocent civilians,” the spokesperson said.

"Sabi po ng mga dati kong kasamahan sa Hukbo, kapag ang isang NPA na babae ay nagsurrender sila ay ginagahasa, binabalatan ng buhay, at binabaril. Pero napatunayan ko po sa aking pagsurrender na hindi naman po totoo 'yon,”Malou” revealed.

She also called out the CTG accusing the government of oppression when there are rampant extortion activities being done by their own members, abusing not only the business sector but also the poorest of the poor.

MGEN Henry A. Robinson, Jr. PA, 9ID Commander and Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) Chairperson, commended the 22nd Infantry Battalion (22IB) under Lt. Col. Nelson Mico and 903rd Infantry Brigade under BGEN Noe Alberto Peñafiel for their dedication in encouraging more rebels to surrender.

"This is yet another blow to the already waning capability of the CTG. Ngayon, mismong ang kanilang mga dating myembro na ang nagbibigay patunay sa paninirang ginagawa nila sa gobyerno samantalang sila ang totoong nagpapahirap sa mga mamamayan. Our intensified campaign to end local communist insurgency is unstoppable. Thus, we are expecting more communist NPA terrorists to return to the folds of the law especially that these former rebels vowed to help us win back their former comrades. Indeed, we will be celebrating a more meaningful Christmas this year and we are hopeful for 2021. The best is yet to come," MGen. Robinson said. (LSMacatangay, with reports from JPBelleza, 9ID DPAO-PIAV/Camarines Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062389

Defense chief cites communists' 5 decades of failure, atrocitie

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 26, 2020): Defense chief cites communists' 5 decades of failure, atrocities (By Jimmyley E. Guzman) 

DECEIVED. Alias Kent, 19, is provided with first aid by government soldiers after being abandoned by his New People's Army colleagues following an encounter in Santiago town, Agusan del Norte on Nov. 2, 2019. Kent said he was only 17 when the communist rebels recruited him. (Photo courtesy of Army’s 29IB)

PASIG CITY, Dec. 26 (PIA) -- Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana today cited the five decades of failure and atrocities committed by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on its 52nd founding anniversary.

"Fifty-two years ago today, the Communist Party of the Philippines was founded by Jose Maria Sison with the avowed mission of supplanting our democratic government with a communist one," Lorenzana said in a statement sent to the PIA-NCR.

"In those five decades, the CPP-NPA never came close to achieving its goal and has instead left a trail of death and destruction all over the country that continues to this day — killings of civilians and government troops, recruitment of young kids to their ranks, destruction of properties, and massive extortion of businesses," he pointed out, adding that Sison established a military arm, which he called the New People's Army (NPA) to "wage an armed struggle against the government to achieve their goal."

Lorenzana said CPP-NPA members should consider surrendering, instead of celebrating their "bankrupt" and "destructive ideologies."

"To this day, the CPP-NPA continues to champion a discredited and bankrupt ideology that has long been eschewed by former communist countries. If you, the CPP-NPA, are truly fighting for and are with the Filipino people, I urge you to abandon your destructive ideologies and peacefully work with the government."

In closing, the defense chief called on Filipinos to denouce the "terrorist group."

"I also call on all Filipinos to continue to denounce the propaganda and rhetoric of this terrorist group. It is time for this long-running insurgency to end and for the nation to unite to move forward as one," he said. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062473

467 new militiamen to augment troops in C. Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2020): 467 new militiamen to augment troops in C. Mindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

READY TO SERVE. A total of 467 Cafgu active auxiliary members stand at attention during their graduation at the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) training camp in Barangay Taviran, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on Saturday (Dec. 26, 2020). After completing their six-month basic military training, the new batch of militiamen will be deployed to various provinces under the 6ID’s area of responsibility in Central Mindanao. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) on Saturday completed the training of its 467 new militia personnel to help regular troops in law enforcement operations in Central Mindanao.

With 467 members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) Active Auxiliary (CAA) completing the basic military training, the 6ID is now equipped with additional forces to help maintain peace in Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, Sarangani, and parts of Lanao del Sur.

The 451 male and 16 female CAA graduated after surviving the 45-day rigid training and completing the requirements to become full-fledged members of the Cafgu-CAA at the 6ID training base in Barangay Taviran, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, 6ID commander and concurrent head of the Joint Task Force Central, welcomed the new militiamen who answered voluntarily to the call of being the nation's servant and carry the important role of helping maintain peace and order in communities.

“I am reminding you not to go on AWOL (absence without leave). If you have issues, bring it to your commander,” Uy told the Cafgu-CAA batch.

The CAA-I CL 67-76-2020 batch came from the different provinces under the 6ID’s area of responsibility.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125678

Warring Moro clans settle dispute in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2020): Warring Moro clans settle dispute in NoCot (By Edwin Fernandez)

SETTLED. Members of Moro warring clans are emotional during a peaceful settlement of a long-standing family feud involving three big clans in Banisilan, North Cotabato and Wao, Lanao del Sur on Friday (Dec. 25, 2020). The clans had been at odds for three decades. (Photo courtesy of NoCot PIO)

Warring families in the borders of North Cotabato and Lanao del Sur were brought together on Friday to end their long-drawn “rido” (family feud).

Tears fell and excitement ran high after North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco, with the help of Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr., the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion (34IB), and other local officials, successfully gathered the families who were locked in a decades-old clan war into the negotiating table in Banisilan, North Cotabato.

“I am very glad to be part of the settlement that reunited the families of Rajamuda, Mantitayan, Tidong,” Catamco said, referring to the families who live in Banisilan and the adjacent town of Wao in Lanao del Sur.

The elders of the warring families who, for the past three decades could not see eye to eye, hugged one another and vowed to work together for the good of their families and children.

Part of the settlement were the withdrawal of cases filed before the local courts as a gesture of sincerity and that no “blood money” would be collected.

In the past, the warring sides have filed charges against one another for the deaths of family members.

Lt. Col. Glenn Caballero, 34IB commander, lauded the families for choosing the peaceful way of settling their disputes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125681

Region 8 scores in fight vs. Reds amid pandemic

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2020): Region 8 scores in fight vs. Reds amid pandemic (By Sarwell Meniano)

BACK TO THE FOLD. A rebel hands over a firearm to Police Eastern Visayas regional director, Brig. Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus, in this Dec. 10, 2020 photo. Despite the pandemic, Eastern Visayas region has been gaining ground in its fight against the communist terrorist group New People’s Army (NPA) this year with the dismantling of more guerrilla fronts and persuading more rebel fighters to surrender. (Photo courtesy of Philippine National Police Region 8)

This year amid the pandemic, Eastern Visayas has been gaining ground in its fight against the New People’s Army (NPA) with the dismantling of more guerrilla fronts and persuading more rebel fighters to surrender.

It is on track with its goal to wipe out insurgency by 2022. Of the nine guerrilla fronts monitored this 2020, four have been dismantled in Samar province and some parts of Leyte.

The remaining five fronts are in Northern Samar and Eastern Samar provinces. The target is to disband the remaining organized group of fighters by end of 2021 or early 2022, said Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso III, commander of the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Division, on Friday.

“In Leyte and some areas in Samar, we have clashed with rebels recently since they have already lost their supporters in the community. Every time residents saw them in their areas, government security forces are immediately informed, resulting to a firefight,” Diñoso told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

Unorganized

The remaining members of the NPA are no longer organized, but they still exist to continue their extortion activities and spread the communist ideology, the official said.

The weakening of NPA in Eastern Visayas is a result of a whole-of-nation approach deploying retooled community support program (RCSP) through linking arms between basic service providers from the central government, community participation group from the local governments, and security sector from the military and police.

“In the past, we do the job of almost all government agencies since we are the only group that can reach remote areas. Under RCSP, other officials are on the ground now talking to people. All peace stakeholders are part of ending insurgency,” Diñoso said.

From January to November, the RCSP team held dialogues in far-flung villages of Basey, Sta. Rita, Pinabacdao, and Marabut in Samar; Borongan, Maydolong, General Macarthur, Giporlos, Quinapondan, and Balangiga in Eastern Samar. Still ongoing are RCSP activities in Maydolong, Llorente, and Balangkayan in Eastern Samar.

The RCSP team is to identify issues and concerns in remote communities threatened by the communist terrorist group NPA for consideration of concerned government agencies and local government units.

Convergence

Philippine National Police (PNP) Eastern Visayas regional director, Brig. Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus, said the tasks of these teams are to facilitate solutions for those identified problems through the convergence of efforts of different government agencies supervised by the local task force on ending local communist armed conflict.

“This is a tool to attain the whole of government approach in partnership with national government agencies and local government units. Despite calamities in many areas in the country, our government is still here in Samar helping the poor,” de Jesus said.

The PNP reported that more armed rebels have been persuaded to abandon the communist ideology this year.

From September to the third week of December alone, at least 24 armed rebels have voluntarily yielded to the police and Philippine Army units.

De Jesus said the PNP is stepping up efforts to participate in the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), to entice more local communists abandon their “nonsensical armed struggle.”

“As we continue to bring quality police service closer to the communities, matched with our sustained persuasion efforts, we were able to lead these misguided (people) back to their families. The government is more than willing to welcome those who wish to give up the path of violence and return to the folds of the law, especially this Christmas season,” he added.

Broken promises

Broken promises of NPA leaders, longing to be with their families, and their aspirations to live peacefully are some reasons why NPA members surrendered to authorities.

The voluntary surrender of former fighters of the NPA in Leyte and Samar provinces exemplifies how a whole-of-nation approach works to end the local communist armed conflict, an official of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said.

DILG regional director Karl Caesar Rimando believes that the stronger ties between the police, armed forces, the intelligence sector, and the community have convinced armed rebels to yield to authorities.

“With the increasing ownership shouldered by local and national governments to identify and resolve festering issues, residents of remote villages will no longer be easily swayed by the lies of communist insurgents,” Rimando said in an earlier statement.

The official asked former rebels to encourage those still “involved in the fading rebellion to approach local government units or any law enforcement officer who will facilitate their return to a peaceful and productive life.”

He lauded local government units for joining the drive to wipe out insurgency in their areas through the formation of task force ELCAC.

Base on the third-quarter report of regional task force ELCAC, all seven cities and 135 towns in the region have formed their task forces. About 30 percent of the region’s 4,390 villages have their task forces.

The formation of the task force operationalizes Executive Order 70 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018.

The directive also institutionalizes a “whole-of-nation approach” in attaining an inclusive and sustainable peace.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125524

32 Reds yield in Agusan Norte on CPP anniversary

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2020): 32 Reds yield in Agusan Norte on CPP anniversary (By Alexander Lopez)

MASS SURRENDER. Former members of the New People’s Army torch an effigy representing the communist movement during their formal surrender in Butuan City on Saturday (Dec. 26, 2020), the 52nd founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines. The 32 surrenderers were from Agusan del Norte. (Photo courtesy of ADNPPO)

BUTUAN CITY – At least 32 active members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) formally surrendered to the government on December 26, the 52nd founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Agusan del Norte Police Director, Col. Martin M. Gamba, said Saturday the mass surrender was the result of the collaborative efforts of the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, and national agencies in line with the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 70 in the region.

Signed in late 2018 by President Rodrigo Duterte, EO 70 seeks to end the local communist armed conflicts through a whole-of-nation approach.

“This is a testament that people in the countryside who have been deceived by the CPP into joining the armed struggle had realized that there is only one government that truly cares for their safety and well-being,” Gamba said in a statement.

He said it was only fitting that as the CPP celebrated its founding anniversary, many of its members opted to abandon the movement's "hopeless ideology and return to their families and communities."

The former rebels were presented to Brig. Gen. Romeo M. Caramat Jr., director of Police Regional Office 13 (Caraga) at its headquarters here.

The 32 surrenderers handed over 19 firearms.

“There is nothing to celebrate in the 52 years of chaos made by the CPP. They brainwash the youth to join the armed struggle and die. They extort money from businesses and sabotage government projects. They murder innocent civilians, children, policemen, soldiers, and the Indigenous Peoples,” Caramat said.

He said the mass surrender showed that NPA members "now realize the terrorist image of the CPP-NPA.”

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/1125692

GenSan peace advocates stage indignation rally vs. CPP-NPA-NDF

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2020): GenSan peace advocates stage indignation rally vs. CPP-NPA-NDF (By Richelyn Gubalani)

INDIGNATION RALLY. Peace advocates, including former members of the New People’s Army (NPA), burn the flags of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), NPA, and National Democratic Front of the Philippines in an indignation rally held in front of the Plaza General Santos in General Santos City on Saturday (Dec. 26, 2020). The protest action coincided with the CPP’s 52nd founding anniversary. (PNA GenSan photo by Richelyn Gubalani)

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – Peace advocates in this city and neighboring areas rallied residents to reject the “terrorist agenda” of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its allied organizations during an indignation rally here Saturday.

About 200 members of multisectoral organizations, including former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, marched along the historic Pioneer Avenue and converged before noon in front of Plaza Heneral Santos in a “show of force” against the CPP, which marked its 52nd founding anniversary.

Carrying placards and tarpaulins, they denounced the terrorist activities, as well as the continuing recruitment of minors and indigenous peoples by the CPP, NPA, and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF).

They also burned the flags of the CPP-NPA-NDF to symbolize their continuing protest and rejection of the “communist ideology.”

“It’s time for us to unite and reject their presence in our communities,” said alias Ka Raffy, a former member of the NPA’s “white area” unit.

He said he was witness to the various atrocities committed by the NPA, which mainly victimized civilians and brought conflict to their communities.

The returnee said he saw how rebel units preyed on people in remote communities, causing their situation to further regress throughout the years.

Ka Raffy, who spent more than two decades with the NPA, urged his former comrades to also surrender and join the government’s peace efforts.

“I actually stood up for them right in this same place 22 years ago but I’m here now as a peace and development advocate,” he said.

Maj. Yol Hilado, who represented city police director Col. Gilberto Tuzon, urged residents not to get swayed by the communist propaganda and help counter their activities.

HiIado cited the recruitment of the youth, especially students, and those from the vulnerable sectors by members of its allied progressive organizations to join the NPA.

He specifically cited umbrella groups of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, including party-lists Gabriela, Kabataan, and Bayan Muna.

“They have been fooling us for years and this must end now,” Hilado said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125700