Terrorist leader, wife slain in Maguindanao raid

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 30, 2021): Terrorist leader, wife slain in Maguindanao raid (By: Bong Sarmiento, Edwin O. Fernandez)

Salahuddin Hassan —COURTESY OF 6TH INFANTRY DIVISION

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao — The military scored a major victory against local affiliates of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist network with the killing of the leader of Daulah Islamiyah (DI) in Maguindanao on Friday.

According to Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID), Salahuddin Hassan and his wife, Jehana Minbida, were killed in the course of an early morning raid on a house in Sitio Pinareng, Barangay Damablac, Talayan town, Maguindanao.

The raid was a joint operation by police and soldiers.

“He (Hassan) resisted arrest and traded shots with lawmen, triggering a brief firefight,” Uy told reporters in a news briefing on Friday.

Minbida succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds.

Uy described Hassan, who also goes by the names Orak, Salah, Tulea, and Abu Salman as “emir of Daulah Islamiyah-Philippines.”

Strongholds

DI was suspected to be behind the bombing of the Roxas night market in President Rodrigo Duterte’s hometown of Davao City on Sept. 2, 2016.

Uy said Hassan’s wife served as finance officer of the group, adding that DI operates in Mindanao’s southern and central regions and maintains several strongholds in Maguindanao province together with another group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Hassan and Minbida have been the subject of an intense manhunt for the past several months.

Col. Pedro Balisi Jr., commander of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, said intelligence operatives and local informants first reported about a group of armed men coming into Damablac. Balisi said it was later verified that Hassan was among them.

Several firearms, including a 5.56mm R4 rifle, and ammunition were recovered from the house where Hassan was holed up.

According to the 6ID, the slain couple’s relatives have claimed their bodies and buried them in accordance with Muslim rites.
String of crimes

Hassan was suspected to have organized the crime group Al-Khobar, which was blamed for extortion activities in central Mindanao from 2007 to 2015, as well as terrorist activities such as the bombing or burning of passenger buses whose operators refused to pay protection money.

One such incident was the 2014 bombing of a bus operated by Rural Transit Mindanao in Maramag, Bukidnon. Eleven were killed and 15 were wounded in that incident.

Authorities said recent attacks on bus companies had the imprint of Hassan. These include the bombing of a Yellow Bus Line (YBL) vehicle in Tulunan, Cotabato, on Jan. 27, and the burning of another YBL bus in M’lang, Cotabato, on June 3.

After Al-Khobar, Hassan became drawn to Islamic extremism, joining the ranks of bombmakers trained by the late Abdul Basit Usman of the BIFF and Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan.

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. said in a statement: “This latest accomplishment is a significant blow against the [DI] and another victory in our thrust against terrorism. With their leader now dead, the terrorist group will certainly crumble.”—WITH A REPORT FROM Dexter Cabalza

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1508292/terrorist-leader-wife-slain-in-maguindanao-raid

AFP chief says military on target to crush NPA by mid-2022

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 29, 2021): AFP chief says military on target to crush NPA by mid-2022 (By: Ryan D. Rosauro)

AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino (Image from Twitter / Armed Forces of the Philippines)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Jose C. Faustino Jr. has said that the military is on track in its mission to crush the communist movement by the middle of next year, citing the significant gains of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

Faustino, who is set to retire next month, visited troops of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) here on Wednesday, and led the demilitarization of 316 firearms seized from New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in various operations from February to December last year.

The firearms, mostly M16 and AK47 assault rifles, were cut into pieces using a circular band saw and then burned.

Faustino said the seized firearms indicate the military’s success in curtailing the strength of the NPA in this part of the country.

The 4ID covers the entire Caraga region, and the provinces of Bukidnon, Camiguin and Misamis Oriental, and the highly urbanized cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan in Northern Mindanao.

This is the military area which has the most active presence of the NPA guerrillas.

“Right now, we are on target,” Faustino said, referring to their self-imposed deadline of crushing the NPA by the time President Duterte bows out of office on June 30, 2022.

Faustino particularly pointed to the dwindling strength of the rebels in the eastern Mindanao region where he used to hold command as an Army official.

“Our enemies are getting weaker,” he said, adding that a similar trend is observed in other parts of the country that have the presence of NPA guerrillas.
‘Good strategy’

Faustino hailed the NTF-ELCAC’s Support to Barangay Development program which is aimed at stirring development and bring social services closer to people in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas who are thought to be vulnerable to NPA influence and recruitment.

“We have a very good strategy. It is really working, we see how effective it is. We have here a strategy that works,” Faustino said.

This year, the national government is releasing P20 million to each of the 822 villages throughout the country for various development initiatives under the NTF-ELCAC’s program.

A total of 119 are in Northern Mindanao, including 71 in Bukidnon which continue to grapple with NPA presence.

Northern Mindanao local leaders are proposing the inclusion into the program of 178 more villages by 2022.

The program, according to Faustino, will help “insulate” villages that were taken by government forces away from NPA control through focused military operations.

With the entry of development into these communities, Faustino said the villagers will be effectively weaned from rebel influence.

In the last several months, the rebels in Northern Mindanao have suffered serious setbacks from military operations, mainly through deaths, captures and surrenders of fighters.

Early this month, a former guerrilla led authorities to a large cache of explosives kept by the NPA in Bukidnon.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1507944/afp-chief-says-military-on-target-to-crush-npa-by-mid-2022

2 ranking NPA leaders surrender in Isabela

From the Manila Times (Oct 30, 2021): 2 ranking NPA leaders surrender in Isabela (By Leander C. Domingo)

CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, ISABELA: Local supporters of the communist New People's Army (NPA) have turned over their firearms following the surrender of two high ranking NPA rebels to the Army's Fifth Infantry Division (5th ID), according to Maj. Jekyll Julian Dulawan, 5th ID public affairs officer.

In a report released on Tuesday, Dulawan said Alias Rence and Alias Maki, both members of the Militia ng Bayan, handed over an M16 rifle and an M16A rifle to the 5th ID's 98 Infantry Battalion (IB) in Sitio Nursery, Barangay Disulap in San Mariano town.

Also in Barangay Ditarum in Divilacan town, residents turned over two M16 rifles and two bandoliers owned by the NPA rebels.

Meanwhile, Dulawan said two high-ranking personalities of Komiteng Larangang Guerilla-Baggas, Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee have surrendered to the 50th IB in Tabuk City, Kalinga province.

Alias Brix and Alias Maxine said they decided to return to the folds of the law since the group has been demoralized after successive losses and debacles of the rebel movement, according to Dulawan.

READ: 2 NPA rebels killed in Mountain Province clash

Maj. Gen. Laurence Mina, 5th ID commander, lauded the troops in the aggressive conduct of focused military operations to end the local communist armed conflict both in Cagayan Valley and in Cordillera.

Mina lauded the local residents for their support and cooperation in the campaign against insurgency saying the support and cooperation of the people are the vital factors that will put an end to the insurgency.

"The different government agencies exert efforts to bring the services and projects to the people, especially those who were previously influenced by the CNTs (communist NPA terrorists). We are certainly closer to our goal of having an insurgency-free country," he said.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/09/08/news/regions/2-ranking-npa-leaders-surrender-in-isabela/1813928?utm_campaign=magnet&utm_source=article_page&utm_medium=related_articles

Vote buying politicians will be arrested – CPP

From the Visayan Daily Star (Oct 30, 2021): Vote buying politicians will be arrested – CPP (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Communist Party of the Philippines has issued a warning that politicians who will be caught in the act of vote buying will be facing arrest and reprimanded.

Vote-buying is prohibited in the revolutionary areas because it is typically accompanied by intimidation or coercion, disclosed CPP spokesperson Marco Valbuena, adding that it furthermore tends to sow disunity and bickering among the people with some receiving more than the others.

Valbuena added that the recovered cash monies will be immediately turned over to the local organs of political power and reported to higher territorial governmental organs, which will be used to augment local funds used for socioeconomic programs for the benefit of the people.

He also advised political parties and politicians to consult with local units of the New People’s Army which are responsible for enforcing the CPP policy and other measures.

The aim of these policies is to ensure that election campaigns are conducted in an orderly manner and not used to sow violence and terror among the people, Valbuena added.

In addition to the prohibition on vote-buying, he also said that political parties and candidates who wish to conduct election campaigns in the revolutionary territories are not allowed to bring firearms or have armed bodyguards, including military and police escorts or their own goons.

This is to prevent them from subjecting people to armed intimidation, as well as avoid armed encounters during their campaign sorties. Valbuena said.

He also advised politicians who wish to donate money to the people to contribute funds to programs of local revolutionary organizations to help boost production, such as buying farm implements, or farm machinery), and maintain public health, including provision of supplies for community clinics.

The election period starts January 9 next year. During this period, an election gun ban will be imposed, and use of security personnel as well as the transfer of civil servants and suspension of elected official are prohibited.

The campaign period for candidates for president, vice president, senators, and party-lists will be from February 8 to May 7.

For local candidates, their campaign period will be from March 25 to May 7.

https://visayandailystar.com/vote-buying-politicians-will-be-arrested-cpp/

Philippine Govt Forces Kill Top IS Militant, Wife in Mindanao Raid

From BenarNews (Oct 29, 2021): Philippine Govt Forces Kill Top IS Militant, Wife in Mindanao Raid

Authorities display the covered bodies of Salahuddin Hassan, a suspected senior Islamic State militant, and his wife after they were killed during a dawn raid by government forces in Talayan, Maguindanao province, southern Philippines, Oct. 29, 2021.  Courtesy Armed Forces of the Philippines

A senior Filipino militant described as the overall leader of the so-called Islamic State in the Philippines was killed along with his wife in a clash on Friday with police and the military in the country’s south, authorities said.

Salahuddin Hassan previously was identified as a top lieutenant in the southern Mindanao region under the command of Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, the leader of the Philippine IS branch of Islamic State (IS). Military intelligence officials have said they believe Sawadjaan was killed in a clash last year although his body has not been recovered, and that Hassan has played a more active role since then.

“Hassan or alias Orak is the overall Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) leader not just in central Mindanao but in the country,” said Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, the local infantry commander, using the Arabic name that Filipinos use to refer to IS.

“He was involved in many terror activities and bombings, targeting business establishments and businessmen and exacting extortion money.”

Hassan and his wife were killed during a dawn raid in Talayan, a town near a vast Maguindanao province marshland where militants are known to hide, Uy said.

“With his death we are expecting more of his followers to come out and surrender peacefully,” said Lt. Col. John Paul Baldomar, spokesman for the 6th Infantry Division.

Hassan’s group has been blamed for attacks including a bombing at a night market in Davao City that killed 15 people and injured scores of others in 2016. In separate raids, authorities arrested 10 IS militants who were convicted of murder in September 2020 for their roles in the bombing.

In May 2020, Philippine counter-terrorism analyst Rommel Banlaoi wrote that the Hassan-led group “has emerged to become the most active in conducting terrorist bombings in Mindanao.”

In an analysis piece at the time for Eurasia Review, Banlaoi said Hassan developed bomb-making skills after he joined pro-IS followers in Central Mindanao in 2012. When one of his mentors, Basit Usman, was killed during a military operation in 2015, Hassan joined a cell of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) group to establish Dawlah Islamiyah.

“The military calls his group Hassan Salahuddin Group or Dawlah Islamiyah Salahuddin Group (DI-SG) with around 10 followers trained in bomb making,” Banlaoi wrote last year.

He blamed Hassan’s group for bombings in late August and early September 2018 in Sultan Kudarat town in Maguindanao province.

On Friday, spokesman Baldomar said Hassan was responsible for two bus bombings in southern Cotabato City early this year that killed three people.

The military expects Hassan’s followers to disperse, surrender or join up with other Muslim militant factions operating in the south, including under the BIFF, Baldomar said.

The BIFF is a splinter group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which was the country’s largest separatist group before its leaders signed a peace deal with the government in exchange for self-rule in the south.

The BIFF itself is divided into smaller groups, one of which is led by Abu Turaife, who also publicly pledged allegiance to the IS.

It backed a five-month siege of Marawi, a city in another part of the south that was carried out by Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern pro-IS fighters beginning in May 2017, but held off from sending BIFF fighters. About 1,200 militants, government forces and civilians were killed there, including Isnilon Hapilon, who was considered the regional IS emir.

Regional and Filipino intelligence officials have said that after the militants were pushed out of Marawi, they retreated to other parts of Mindanao and have recruited young fighters to replenish their ranks, especially children of dead Muslim fighters.

Hassan’s attacks were concentrated in central Mindanao and were separate from Sawadjaan’s, which aimed to sow terror on the island of Jolo farther south, according to authorities.

In 2019, 23 people were killed in an attack on a church in Jojo, including an Indonesian couple who carried out the twin-suicide bomb attack. The next year, a similar bombing near the cathedral left 14 dead.

Jeoffrey Maitem and Mark Navales in Cotabato, Philippines, contributed to this report.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/militant-killed-10292021134428.html

BIFF recruiting new members in Sarangani

From the Manila Times (Oct 30, 2021): BIFF recruiting new members in Sarangani (By Jerry Adlaw)

RENEGADE members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a militant organization that sympathizes with the Islamic State of Syria (ISIS) have been sighted encamped at the hinterland town of Kiamba and Maitum in Sarangani province and reportedly recruiting for members from the indigenous tribes of Blaan and Manobo in the area.

This was revealed to The Manila Times by one of the tribesmen who were recruited by the group.

A Blaan recruit who asked not to be named, said they were offered a monthly salary by a BIFF commander to join their cause. He said he was told that the BIFF funds came from outside the country.

The recruit also revealed that as recently as last week, various high-caliber firearms and ammunition were unloaded from the motorized pump boat at the shores of Maitum. He said the items were delivered to the nearby town of Kiamba.

An intelligence officer who requested not to be named said that the BIFF have been recruiting new members since last year when some of their members surrendered and returned to the folds of the law. The Philippine government has been aggressive in its campaign to lure extremists and rebels to surrender in exchange of benefits such as housing units and livelihood incentives.

"The BIFF may have been recruiting new members for them to be funded by ISIS with the intention to create another strong faction in preparation for the coming 2022 elections," said the intelligence officer.

Sarangani Gov. Steve Solon refused to be interviewed about the reported encampment of the BIFF in Kiamba and Maitum.

Residents from the two towns have expressed fear over the presence of the BIFF as they believed that the IS sympathizers will create atrocities and hostilities in their towns considering that recruitment of new members is ongoing.

The police and military however, have been deployed in various towns in Sarangani to secure peace and order in the entire province.

READ: Terrorists yield in Maguindanao

Sarangani local officials, meanwhile, brushed aside the report, saying that the information was unfounded.

There are unverified reports, too, that the BIFF has joined forces with another Mindanao-based terrorist group Dawlah Islamiya.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/10/30/news/regions/biff-recruiting-new-members-in-sarangani/1820215

Kalinaw News: AFP gathers Affiliated Reserve Units to advance Disaster Response Capabilities

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 29, 2021): AFP gathers Affiliated Reserve Units to advance Disaster Response Capabilities

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday gathered the Commanders of its Affiliated Reserve Units (ARUs) from around the country to test their disaster response capabilities.

The AFP ARUs Commanders Convention 2021 held on 28-29 October was held through a combination of face face-to-face and video teleconferencing at the AFP Commissioned Officers Club in Camp Aguinaldo.

The Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs (OJ9) facilitated the event which carried the theme “Developing a Credible and Responsive AFP Affiliated Reserve Units Amidst Challenging Times”.

“This convention gives us a great opportunity to practice unity in diversity – integrating different units of different levels of various private companies and institutions for the purpose of having a more defined concept of employment and support of the ARUs,” said Major General Eugenio Hernandez, Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs.

The activity sought to advance the strategic initiatives, significant policies and directives pertaining to the AFP’s Reserve Force Development. It also organized ARUs to test its capabilities in performing their roles during mobilization and utilization in a given Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) scenario, dubbed as “The Big One”.

The activity was participated in by AFP ARU Commanders nationwide coming from Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Navy, and AFP Reserve Command as well as Reservist and Retiree Affairs Officers from the Major Services and Unified Commands.

Part of the convention was the levelling brief on the AFP Contingency Plan “Pagligtas”. In the plan, the AFP along with its reserve units shall provide necessary assistance to the HADR operation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) in the event of a 7.2 magnitude earthquake dubbed as “The Big One”.

The ARU capabilities were showcased in a video presentation shown in the second day of the convention. Undersecretary Ricardo Jalad, NDRRMC Executive Director and Civil Defense Administrator attended as the guest of honor and speaker.

The ARUs have unique roles, assets and capabilities that could provide essential services to the AFP within its areas of responsibilities during times of national emergency.

“Despite receiving no compensation, Professionals in the reserve force remain committed and dependable in advancing the national interest and well-being of our citizens. They are not simply force multipliers; they are important component and partners in various non-combat operations and activities especially in nation-building and humanitarian assistance,” AFP Chief of Staff General Jose Faustino Jr 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-gathers-affiliated-reserve-units-to-advance-disaster-response-capabilities/

Kalinaw News: India’s defense attaché renders an introductory call to CGPA.

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 29, 2021): India’s defense attaché renders an introductory call to CGPA.



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The newly installed non-resident Defense Attaché of India to the Philippines Capt. Saikat Chatterjee rendered a virtual introductory call to Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Andres C. Centino (CGPA) yesterday, October 28, 2021.

During the call, the CGPA underscored the importance of India as a vital partner in Asia for the Philippine Army’s (PA’s) capability development and modernization. He also expressed the PA’s willingness to forge an Army Level Terms of Reference to strengthen both armies’ military-to-military engagements.

“The Philippine Army is committed to expanding and increasing engagements with India through education, training, and other bilateral exercises to attain the full potential of our partnership with India’s defense forces,” the CGPA said.

“These initiatives will surely help foster closer military relations between our countries,” he added.

Singapore-based Capt. Chatterjee expressed gratitude to the CGPA for the warm accommodation. He also affirmed his strong commitment to fostering a closer military relationship between his country and the Philippines.

[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/indias-defense-attache-renders-an-introductory-call-to-cgpa/

Kalinaw News: Overall emir of Daulah Islamiyah-Philippines neutralized in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 29, 2021): Overall emir of Daulah Islamiyah-Philippines neutralized in Maguindanao



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 29, 2021

Western Mindanao Command Chief Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. divulged the information that the overall emir of the Daulah Islamiyah-Philippines was neutralized in a joint operation conducted in the wee hours of October 29, 2021.

“Based on the report from the ground, Salahuddin Hassan, a.k.a. Orak/Abu Salman/Abu Saif, emir of the Daulah Islamiyah-Hassan Group (DI-HG) and overall emir of the Daulah Islamiyah-Philippines was successfully neutralized in a joint AFP and PNP operation conducted at Sitio Pinareng, Barangay Damablac, Talayan, Maguindanao at about 2:25 in the morning, Friday,” said Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr.

According to Col. Pedro Balisi, Jr., Commander of the 1st Mech Bde, a brief firefight ensued which lasted for about five minutes that resulted in the deaths of Hassan and his wife, Jehana Mimbida, a.k.a. Jen, who was also the finance officer of the DI-HG. Troops of the 1st and 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalions and the intelligence units then conducted clearing operations and recovered the cadavers of the slain notorious terrorists. Also recovered were war materials including one Cal. 223-5.56 MOD R4, one bandoleer, two cellular phones, and six long magazines for R4 ammunition.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of Joint Task Force Central commended the combined elements of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade and intelligence units in the area for this laudable accomplishment.

Troops continue to scour the area while the cadavers and recovered items were brought to the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion headquarters in Barangay Kabengi, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao for proper disposition.

“With the death of their leader, we are certain that the group will crumble. This is a significant breakthrough in our campaign against terrorism in central Mindanao,” said Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr.

[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/overall-emir-of-daulah-islamiyah-philippines-neutralized-in-maguindanao/

Kalinaw News: Army Regiment Commander, PCG Commandant visit WestMinCom

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 29, 2021): Army Regiment Commander, PCG Commandant visit WestMinCom

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 29, 2021

Brig. Gen. Romulo Manuel Jr., Regiment Commander of the Army Artillery Regiment, Philippine Army and Coast Guard Vice Admiral Leopoldo Laroya, Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard visited the Western Mindanao Command on October 27, 2021.

The two separately paid a courtesy call on WestMinCom Commander Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. at Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city. Foyer Honors was rendered to the distinguished visitors during their respective arrival.

They were then individually received by Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr. at the Laong Laan Hall of the command. The two expressed their elation for the opportunity to get acquainted with the WestMinCom Commander.

“I am grateful for the overwhelming support I receive from my comrades-in-arms and fellow law enforcers. I am happy that we are able to establish a good relationship as we continue to perform our duties as public servants amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr. stated.

Brig. Gen. Manuel, Jr. will grace the anniversary of the 8th Field Artillery Battalion in Sulu on October 29 while Vice Admiral Laroya will preside the inauguration of the Coast Guard Special Operations Group-Southwestern Mindanao Building and the groundbreaking of the Coast Guard Regional Training Center in this city on October 28 to 29.

[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-regiment-commander-pcg-commandant-visit-westmincom/

Kalinaw News: Highest Ranking Military Official lauds 10ID as the Best

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 29, 2021): Highest Ranking Military Official lauds 10ID as the Best



MAWAB, DAVAO DE ORO – The highest-ranking military officer in the country, General Jose C Faustino Jr, Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines visits the home of the Agila troopers at Brgy. Tuboran, Mawab, Davao De Oro on Thursday morning, 28 October 2021.

Upon the arrival of Gen Faustino, he was then received by Agila Division Commander Major General Ernesto C Torres Jr and was given full military honors followed by talk to troops held inside the Agila Hall.

“Ang standard ng Armed Forces of the Philippines ngayon when it comes to defeating the enemy is 10ID (10th Infantry Division) and EMC (Eastern Mindanao Command). It is backed up by data, evidences, and successes, and best practices na ina-adopt sa buong Armed Forces of the Philippines. Ang 10ID ngayon ang pinapantayan. Pinaghirapan natin ito and you deserve it. You are already in the sustainment.” General Faustino said.

Aside from citing the exceptional performance displayed by the enlisted personnel and officers of Agila Division, General Faustino also said that he developed his commandership in 10ID.

General Faustino added that 10ID has set the standards in terms of counter-insurgency campaign against the Communist Terrorist Group and clearing guerilla fronts in the country.

“People’s organization yan na ang bread and butter ng 10ID and I want that copied by other divisions, yan ang standard. More than 50 percent of the score ng Armed Forces before comes from 10ID. In this division I am very confident that the enemy cannot recover dismantled guerilla fronts because properly ang pagkatrabaho. Without bias, 10ID is the best Division for me.” Gen Faustino added.

“Siya ay ang ika-labing isang commander ng 10th Infantry AGILA Division. Sa kanyang panunungkulan, alam naman natin na anim (6) na Pulang Bagani Command at apat (4) na Guerilla Fronts ang kanyang nasupil.” MGen Torres said.

General Faustino served as the Division Commander of the 10th Infantry AGILA Division from December 16, 2018, to January 25, 2020, then Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command, Acting Commanding General of the Philippine Army before assuming the post as Chief of Staff of the AFP.

[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/highest-ranking-military-official-lauds-10id-as-the-best/

Kalinaw News: Mahigit 100 na mga miyembro ng UGMO tinalikuran ang komunistang grupo sa Baggao, Cagayan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 29, 2021): Mahigit 100 na mga miyembro ng UGMO tinalikuran ang komunistang grupo sa Baggao, Cagayan



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Sabay-sabay na tinalikuran at inabandona ng 147 na mga miyembro ng Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs) ang Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) sa bayan ng Baggao, Cagayan noong ika-27 ng Octubre 2021.

Nagbalik-loob sa hanay ng 77th Infantry Battalion ang 34 na mga miyembro ng Pambansang Kaisahan ng mga Mambubukid (PKM), 18 na mga miyembro ng Kabataang Makabayan (KM), 18 na mga miyembro ng grupong Malayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan (MAKIBAKA), habang nasa 57 na mga miyembro ng Militia ng Bayan (MB), 18 naman ang tumalikod bilang Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL).

Nagmula sa mga barangay ng Asinga Via (12), Bunagan (63), Carupian (34), at Hacienda Intal (38) ang mga nagbalik-loob na mga miyembro ng UGMOs na namulat sa tunay na layunin ng CTG.

Ang naturang apat na mga barangay ay dating baseng masa ng mga CTG. Sa pamamagitan ng inilatag na Community Support Program, napatunayan ng mga nagbalik-loob ang sinserong layunin ng pamahalaan na magtulungan ang bawat mamamayan lalo na sa mga liblib na lugar upang matugunan ang mga suliranin sa kanilang komunidad. Kung kaya, hindi na sila nagdalawang-isip pa na talikuran ang teroristang kilusan at lumapit sa hanay ng kasundaluhan upang makipagtulungan laban sa insurhensiya.

Maliban dito, inilahad din ng grupong Sentrong Alyansa ng Mamamayan Para sa Bayan (SAMBAYANAN)-Baggao Chapter- grupo ng mga Former Rebels (FRS) ang kanilang mga karanasan mula nang magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan. Naging daan ang SAMBAYANAN upang maipamulat sa mga residente sa bayan ng Baggao ang malaking pagkakaiba ng ginagawang hakbang ng gobyerno upang matulungan ang mga mamamayan kumpara sa ginagawang panlilinlang ng teroristang grupo para lamang sa kanilang pansariling interes.

Nagpasalamat si BGen Steve Crespillo, Brigade Commander ng 501st Infantry Brigade sa tulong na inilaan ng grupong SAMBAYANAN upang maipakita ang tunay na anyo at kulay ng CTG. “Mulat na tayo sa kasinungalingan ng CTG hindi lamang laban sa pamahalaan, kundi maging sa mga inosenteng indibidwal. Wag na kayong magpamanipula sa mga teroristang grupo dahil napatunayan ninyong ginagamit lamang kayo sa kanilang mga pansariling interes. Ang inyong pagsuko ay malaking tulong upang masugpo natin ang problema sa insurhensiya. Sama-sama nating tapusin ang limang dekadang nagpahirap sa ating bayan.”

Habang sa mensahe naman ni MGen Laurence E Mina, Commander ng 5th Infantry Division, patunay lamang ito na natutugunan ng pamahalaan ang mga suliranin na ginagamit ng teroristang kilusan upang i-organisa ang mga mamamayan laban sa gobyerno. Aniya, dahil mulat na ang mga residente sa mga barangay ng Baggao, makakamit na rin nila ang tunay na kaginhawaan at kaunlaran sa kanilang mga lugar. “Lugod ang pasasalamat namin sa inyong naging desisyon na suportahan ang layunin ng pamahalaan na wakasan ang insurhensiya. Ang laban na ito ay para sa ating lahat, para sa inyo, at sa mga susunod pang henerasyon. Lumalakas ang pwersa ng pamahalaan dahil sa inyong pagbabalik-loob. Kung kaya, natitiyak ko na matatapos natin ito dahil sa inyong tulong at suporta. Sa pagtutulungan ng bawat isa, hindi tayo mabibigo sa ating adhikaing makamit ang tunay at makatotohanang kapayapaan at pag-unlad ng ating bayan.”

[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/mahigit-100-na-mga-miyembro-ng-ugmo-tinalikuran-ang-komunistang-grupo-sa-baggao-cagayan/

Murad hails signing of law postponing BARMM elections

From Rappler (Oct 29, 2021): Murad hails signing of law postponing BARMM elections (By ROMMEL REBOLLIDO)

Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim says extending the transition period of the BARMM is the 'desire of our people in making sure that we have a strong regional bureaucracy that can address our decades-long challenges'

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Interim Chief Minister Ahod "Al Haj Murad" Ebrahim on Friday, October 29, hailed President Rodrigo Duterte's signing of a law that postpones the elections in the region for three years.

Duterte has signed Republic Act No. 11593, moving the BARMM elections and extending the term of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to 2025.

The new law allows the next President to appoint the next set of BTA members.

Murad welcomed the move, saying that extending the transition period of the BARMM was the "desire of our people in making sure that we have a strong regional bureaucracy that can address our decades-long challenges and make sure that a brighter future awaits them – free from corruption, from manipulation, and any ills of government."

He added: "This extension, as what we have said, was never about power. The establishment and the triumph of the BARMM are not only directed to specific individuals or groups but the whole Bangsamoro, especially for the next generations that will inherit whatever we leave them during this transition period."

BARMM Cabinet Secretary Asnin Pendatun said the signing of the new law was "a crucial step" in sustaining the gains of the peace process.

RA 11593 is an amendment to the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), which provided that the first election for BARMM officials would be synchronized with the national elections in May 2022.

With this, the Bangsamoro elections would now be synchronized with the 2025 national elections.

The law also gives Duterte's successor the power to appoint the 80 BTA members.

The BTA members' terms expire on June 30, 2022, the same day that Duterte would step down.

Since the new law amended only a clause in the Bangsamoro Organic Law related to the BARMM elections, the provision that the BTA should be led by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front or MILF stays.

"This is our shared legacy to the people of Mindanao and the rest of the country," said Murad as he called on the people of BARMM "to set aside differences, move forward, and help one another in transforming the Bangsamoro."

https://www.rappler.com/nation/murad-hails-signing-law-postponing-elections-bangsamoro-autonomous-region-muslim-mindanao

Army kills Daulah Islamiyah leader in Mindanao – AFP

From Rappler (Oct 29, 2021): Army kills Daulah Islamiyah leader in Mindanao – AFP (By JAIRO BOLLEDO)

AFP chief Faustino says terrorist leader Salahuddin Hassan was killed by Philippine Army troops

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday, October 29, announced that Philippine Army troops have killed the leader of the Daulah Islamiyah in Maguindanao.

“The AFP leadership commends the operating units from the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) for the successful operations that led to the demise of wanted terrorist leader Salahuddin Hassan,” AFP chief of staff General Jose Faustino Jr., said in a statement on Friday.

The Philippine military said Hassan, leader of Daulah Islamiyah-Hassan Group (DIHG), was the mastermind behind the series of bombings and terror attacks in the provinces of Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat.

Hassan and his wife Jehana Minbida, who served as the finance officer of the DIHG, were killed following the special operations of the Army’s 6ID in Sitio Pinareng, Barangay Damablac, Talayan, Maguindanao on Friday morning. According to the AFP, the couple’s remains were also recovered the same day.

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The Army personnel also retrieved a 5.56 R4 rifle, a bandolier, and long magazines loaded with ammunition. According to the 6ID, Hassan’s death was a result of their sustained military operations in the area.

“The successful neutralization of said terrorist leader came after the continuous manhunt and sustained military operation with the help of several leads from concerned residents in the area who reported the presence of suspicious armed individuals in their community,” the 6ID said.

Colonel Pedro Balisi, commander of the 1st Mechanized Brigade, which guards the area, told the 6ID that Hassan’s group tried to escape in Sitio Pinareng by engaging troops in battle. However, Hassan was seriously wounded in the operation.

Balisi added that Hassan was left by his group in the area, alongside his wife. In a separate interview, the commander also told Rappler that the firefight lasted for about five minutes.

Hassan, known as Abu Salman of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, carried a P1.3-million reward on his head. He was described by a security expert as being a protégé of the notorious bomb maker Zulkifli Bin Hir, alias Marwan.

Marwan was killed in the famed 2015 Mamasapano Clash that cost the lives of 44 elite policemen. Of late, Hassan reportedly led a faction of the Dawla Islamiya terror group operating in south central Mindanao and was also known for his aliases Orak, Salah, and Tulea.

Based on the records of the 6ID, Hassan was also the former leader and founder of Al-Khobar Group involved in various terror attacks in the south from 2007-2015. The slain terrorist leader also replaced Hatib Sawadjaan as the overall amir (chief) of the DIHG.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/army-kills-daulah-islamiyah-mindanao

AFP chief lauds EastMinCom for role in counter-insurgency

From the Mindanao Times (Oct 29, 2021): AFP chief lauds EastMinCom for role in counter-insurgency (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

Photo courtesy of Eastern Mindanao Command

THE ARMED Forces of the Philippines chief of staff lauded the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) for setting the military standard in combatting communist insurgency in the country during his official visit to the Naval Station Felix Apolinario, in Barangay Panacan, Bunawan District on Oct. 27.

Gen. Jose C. Faustino Jr., who served as the EastMinCom commander before becoming the acting commanding general of the Philippine Army and AFP Chief of Staff, said that he made sure to visit the command before he ends his long military career.

The outgoing AFP chief of staff said that EastMinCom troops played a vital role in helping the AFP earn the highest approval rating among government agencies in the country, citing the result of the latest non-commissioned survey conducted by independent pollster PUBLicus Asia, Inc. where the AFP got a 67% approval rating.

Faustino expressed his gratitude to the troops for their contribution to the AFP’s accomplishments, emphasizing the significant role of EastMinCom in maintaining and facilitating sustainable development in Eastern Mindanao.

The AFP chief also did not fail to commend the incumbent EastMinCom commander, Lt. Gen. Greg T. Almerol, for maintaining the command’s tradition of excellence, saying that he had personally witnessed how the latter has strived to further improve EastMinCom’s operations.

“If you look at EastMinCom’s accomplishments and compare it to other commands and divisions, you will see that nothing compares to it. EastMinCom is being looked up to because of its best practices. It has become the standard on how to fight the insurgents,” Faustino said.

“I would also like to congratulate EastMinCom on its recent successes in the neutralization of communist terrorists, focused military operations, and also on its intensive stakeholders’ engagement and collaboration,” he added.

Meanwhile, the AFP chief also reminded the troops to do their best in ensuring a safeand clean national election in 2022.

Faustino took the reins of the AFP on July 31, 2021, after his stint as the first-ever commander of the new Joint Task Force Mindanao on June 4. He became the 12th commander of the EastMinCom following his stint as commander of the 10th Infantry Division.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/10/29/afp-chief-lauds-eastmincom-for-role-in-counter-insurgency/

316 firearms destroyed at 4ID headquarters in CDO

From the Mindanao Times (Oct 29, 2021): 316 firearms destroyed at 4ID headquarters in CDO (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

Photo courtesy of 4th Infantry Division

MORE THAN 300 firearms seized by the troops of the 4th Infantry Division were destroyed at its headquarters in Cagayan de Oro City on Wednesday, Oct. 27.

Gen. Jose C. Faustino Jr., the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP), spearheaded the ceremonial demilitarization of 316 firearms held at the Alcoseba Hall of the headquarters of the 4ID in Camp Evangelista, Barangay Patag.

The firearms were captured and recovered by the troops from the period of February to December 2020.

Maj. Francisco Garello Jr., the 4ID spokesman, said 88 were standard firearms that were beyond economical repair and 228 were non-standard firearms. Non-standard firearms refer to firearms that are not in the AFP’s inventory

The CSAFP is on his farewell visit at the headquarters of the 4ID/Joint Task Force Diamond (JTFD). He was warmly welcomed with full military honors by the officers and enlisted personnel of the JTFD led by Maj. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., the 4ID commander.

In his statement, Faustino said that the demilitarization of CCSR firearms is conducted as part of a procedure that will ensure that these firearms will not be used anymore for other purposes.

He said, “The demilitarization of firearms is a demonstration of the government’s commitment to end the local communist armed conflict by destroying the very instruments used to propagate terrorism against our people.”

He also emphasized that the effort to entice CTG members to surrender is continually undertaken as the AFP is collaborating with other government agencies in advancing the E-CLIP.

“Bukas ang ating AFP, everyone can interview the former rebels on how they were treated and how they are living normal lives right now. We are still offering the hand of peace to the members and leaders of the CTG. The government has the programs and instrumentalities to accept those who decide to surrender,” Faustino added.

Meanwhile, Brawner said that since January 2021, the 4ID was able to capture 151 high powered and low powered firearms during armed encounters, seize 77 high powered and low powered firearms from apprehended personalities and from arms caches, and further gain 170 high powered and low powered firearms from surrenderers.

“We will recommend the recent CCSR firearms for demilitarization in order to show to the general public that we will not allow the CTG to advocate violence, and intimidate and threaten innocent civilians with the said firearms,” Brawner added.

Demilitarization is the destruction of firearms by “cutting” its parts using a circular saw, whereby all firearm parts shall be rendered ineffective for use as a component or a complete firearm. Subsequently, the metal parts and scraps of demilitarized CCSR firearms must be finally disposed of through burning.

After the ceremonial demilitarization of the CCSR firearms, Brawner presented to the CSAFP the JTFD’s significant accomplishments followed by the awarding by the CSAFP of the battle streamers to the 402nd Infantry Brigade, 403rd Infantry Brigade, 26th Infantry Battalion, and 1st Special Forces Battalion for major accomplishments.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/10/29/316-firearms-destroyed-at-4id-headquarters-in-cdo/

BDP-funded road opens in Escalante

Posted to the Visayan Daily Star (Oct 29, 2021): BDP-funded road opens in Escalante

The ongoing concreting of the Alimango-Lawis Road in Barangay Alimango, Escalante City, Negros Occidental.* 303rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army photo

More opportunities await residents of Barangay Alimango in Escalante City, Negros Occidental with the improvement of the village’s farm-to-market road funded through the Barangay Development Program (BDP) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The P17.5-million concreting of the Alimango-Lawis Road is ongoing, but the ceremonial groundbreaking was held in Sitio Lawis only on Wednesday after several delays due to restrictions posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Mayor Melecio Yap Jr. thanked President Rodrigo Duterte anew for the implementation of the BDP in insurgency-cleared villages as he expressed high hopes that Escalante will be finally free from communist armed conflict.

The mayor’s message and details of the event were released to the media yesterday.

Yap commended the efforts of the national government as well as the troops of the Philippine Army in their commitment and resolve to end the insurgency.

Alimango councilwoman Merlyn Patigas urged village residents to take care of the concrete road as it will make transportation easier for them and their children.

Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, said the improved road will be beneficial especially for farmers in transporting their agricultural products.

“It will provide residents faster and better access to nearby barangays and also farmers will be able to deliver their produce directly to the market,” he added in a statement.

Pasaporte said in the past, Barangay Alimango was the center of insurgency, but its people now have hope for change.

“Since the beginning of this project, the Army was there and I can say this project opens huge opportunities to everyone here,” he added.

During the event, Yap and Pasaporte were joined by Lt. Col. J-Jay Javines, commander of the 79th Infantry Battalion, whose troops are closely working with the insurgency-cleared villages in northern Negros in the implementation of the BDP, and by representatives of the Department of the Interior and Local Government-Negros Occidental and Escalante City Police Station.

Alimango, one of the 14 insurgency-cleared villages in Escalante, is a recipient of the P20-million funding from the NTF-ELCAC’s Local Government Support Fund-Support to Barangay Development Program.

Aside from the road concreting project, the village will also avail of the installation of solar street lighting worth P1.5 million and a water system project amounting to P1 million.

The BDP, with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities, has a total of P16.44 billion allocated funding to rehabilitate and develop 822 barangays formerly established as guerrilla fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (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://visayandailystar.com/bdp-funded-road-opens-in-escalante/

Duterte signs law postponing 2022 Bangsamoro polls to 2025

From MindaNews (Oct 29, 2021): Duterte signs law postponing 2022 Bangsamoro polls to 2025 (By BONG S. SARMIENTO)

The seat of power in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in Cotabato City, 22 September 2021. MindaNews photo by GREGORIO BUENO

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday enacted into law the postponement of the 2022 parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), effectively extending the Bangsamoro transition period for another three years to 2025.

Maguindanao 2nd District Rep. Esmael Mangudadatu, principal author of the House version seeking the postponement of the BARMM elections, lauded Friday Duterte for approving the consolidated Senate Bill 2214 and House Bill 10121.

“We would like to thank those who supported the proposal until the end…This measure is a step to ensure that the peace agreement will be implemented for the welfare of the entire Bangsamoro and the Philippines,” he said in a statement in Filipino.

Mangudadatu was referring to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the final peace agreement signed by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in 2014 after 17 years of negotiations.

The key component of the CAB was the creation of a Bangsamoro region, which was realized in 2019 after its enabling law, Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the BARMM, was ratified in a plebiscite.

The Bangsamoro region, which replaced the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, is governed by the MILF-led, 80-member interim Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA).

Under RA 11054, the mandate of the BTA is until June 30, 2022, when the new set of elected officials shall have taken their oath of office.

But with Duterte’s signing of Republic Act 11593, which postpones the 2022 Bangsamoro parliamentary elections to 2025, the BTA shall continue to serve as the interim Bangsamoro government. The elections for various local positions such as governors and mayors, will push through in 2022, however.

The President, however, may appoint the 80 new interim members of the BTA who shall serve up to June 30, 2025 or until their successors shall have been elected and qualified, according to RA 11593.

Under the reconciled version of the Senate and the House of Representatives, the 80-member BTA shall continue as the interim government in the Bangsamoro region. The President may appoint the 80 new interim members of the BTA who shall serve up to June 30, 2025 or until their successors shall have been elected and qualified.

The proposal to extend the Bangsamoro transition period was among the recommendations made by the peace advocacy group Mindanao People’s Caucus (MPC) after conducting a rapid midterm review of BTA’s performance last year.

Mary Ann Arnado, MPC secretary general, said they were happy that Duterte heeded the proposal and signed it into law.

“We are very grateful that our national leaders in Congress heeded our call for extension and we especially commend President Duterte for listening to the voices of Mindanao and the Bangsamoro,” she said.

According to her, Duterte’s action protected his “peace legacy and championed the cause of the Bangsamoro.”

Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, also the MILF chair, earlier backed the extension of the transition period, noting the need for more time to fully implement the provisions of the CAB, including the normalization process.

Under the Annex on Normalization, MILF combatants will be decommissioned along with their weapons as major milestones of the CAB are achieved. Recognized MILF camps will also be transformed into productive economic zones.

To date, the decommissioning process is set to start with the third phase involving some 14,000 MILF members. The Phase 3 involves 35 percent of the 40,000-strong MILF, which waged a decades-old war with the government in a bid for Muslim self-rule in Mindanao.

In backing the extension of the transition period, Ebrahim said that COVID-19 also disrupted the performance of the Bangsamoro government in delivering services to its constituents.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/10/duterte-signs-law-postponing-2022-bangsamoro-polls-to-2025/

Daulah Islamiya chieftain, wife killed in Maguindanao clash – military

From MindaNews (Oct 29, 2021): Daulah Islamiya chieftain, wife killed in Maguindanao clash – military (By Bong S. Sarmiento and Ferdinandh Cabrera)

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, 6th Infantry Division commander, announces the deaths of Salahuddin Hassan, alias Orak, head of the Daulah Islamiya-Philippines, and his wife, Jehana Minbida, in a clash in Talayan, Maguindanao on Friday (29 October 2021). MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH CABRERA

The Amir (commander-in-chief) of the Daulah Islamiya – Philippines and his wife were killed in a joint military-police operation in Maguindanao province Friday morning, officials said.

Col. Pedro Balisi, commander of the 1st Mechanized Brigade, identified the fatalities as Salahuddin Hassan, alias Orak, head of the Daulah Islamiya-Philippines, and Jehana Minbida, Hassan wife’s and the group’s finance officer.

The two were killed following a clash with the operating team in Barangay Damablac, Talayan town, Balisi said.

The neutralization of Hassan came after continuous manhunt and sustained military operations, following tips from concerned residents who reported the presence of suspicious armed individuals in their community to authorities.

Hassan and his men engaged the troops in a gunfight, Balisi said.

“Our operating troops were able to recover the cadaver of Hassan and Minbida together with several firearms,” the official said in a statement.

Recovered from the clash site were a 5.56mm R4 Rifle, bandoliers, ammunition, various war paraphernalia and subversive documents, he added.

Hassan was the former leader and founder of the notorious Al-Khobar Group, which was involved in different terroristic attacks in Mindanao from 2007 to 2015, according to the 6th Infantry Division (6th ID).

The 6th ID profiled him as a student of bomb experts, the late Basit Usman and the slain Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Abdhir, alias Marwan, a top Jemaah Islamiya operative in Southeast Asia.

Hassan replaced Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan as the over-all Amir of Daulah Islamiyah in the Philippines after the latter’s death in 2019, it added.

Hassan was identified as the mastermind of the Yellow Bus unit bombing early this year in Tulunan, North Cotabato and the burning of another Yellow Bus unit in M’lang, also in North Cotabato, last June 3, which resulted in the deaths of four civilians and the wounding of several others.

His group was also identified to be among the terror groups involved in the 2014 Maramag Bukidnon Rural Transit bus bombing, which left at least 11 dead and 15 injured; the Davao Night Market bombing in 2016 that killed at least 14 civilians; and the Isulan twin bombings in 2018, which killed five individuals and wounded at least 40 others.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, 6th ID chief and commander of Joint Task Force Central, noted the death of Hassan is a big blow to the Daulah Islamiya terror group.

“With the help of the community and other stakeholders, we can defeat these terrorist groups and realize our desire for a safe and peaceful community,” he said.

Uy urged the remnants of the Daulah Islamiya – Philippines to return to the folds of the law and live normal lives with the help from the government.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/10/daulah-islamiya-chieftain-wife-killed-in-maguindanao-clash-military/

Military lauds NCIP approval of resolutions vs. NPA atrocities

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2021): Military lauds NCIP approval of resolutions vs. NPA atrocities (By Che Palicte and Priam Nepomuceno)

President Rodrigo R. Duterte exchange pleasantries with indigenous peoples' leaders during the 70th founding anniversary celebration of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency in July 2019. (PPD File photo)

The military lauded the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples’ (NCIP) approval of four en banc resolutions addressing the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front’s (CPP-NPA-NDF) killings, continued atrocities, and exploitation of the indigenous peoples (IP).

The Army's Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom), in a statement on Oct. 28, said the move is a big leap in bringing justice to the long-neglected IP communities of the country which bear the brunt of the CPP-NPA-NDF’s continued killings, exploitation, recruitment, and other atrocities and acts of violence for decades.

“Let us all collaborate and use our resources to conduct an honest and credible investigation and bring justice and lasting peace to the IP communities,” it said.

The NCIP, in its October 20 ruling, approved the en banc resolutions pertaining to the CPP-NPA-NDF’s continued killing of IP leaders and members; radicalization, recruitment, and exploitation of IP youth; misrepresentation of the interests of the IPs through the establishment of IP organizations without consent; and continued exploitation of Bae Bibyaon, the culture bearer and highly respected “Bae” of the Matigsalug Indigenous Cultural Communities in San Fernando, Bukidnon.

The Eastmincom also urged all concerned government agencies and local government units to work together in adopting measures to address the problems by the CPP-NPA-NDF in IP communities.

“Once and for [let us] all end its menace by holding it responsible for its crimes through the filing of appropriate charges before domestic and international courts for violation of human rights and International Humanitarian Law,” it added.

The Eastmincom said the NCIP’s approval of the en banc resolutions was a bold step that spotlights the deplorable plights of the IPs under the CPP-NPA-NDF’s agenda of terror and violence.

The NCIP's decision also sheds light on how the communist terrorist group (CTG) is using the IPs as "milking cows" to generate financial support from international organizations.

“Rest assured that the Eastmincom, to the fullest extent of its authority and resources, has already been working with other government agencies to help the IPs exercise their rights to self-determination and attain peace and development in their communities,” it said, assuring the public that it continues to investigate the atrocities by the CTG’s on the IPs.

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in a statement Friday, expressed support for the NCIP’s move.

“We laud the issuance of four Commission En Banc Resolutions on October 20 that expose, condemn, and rally support against the exploitation, killing, and radicalization of ICC (indigenous cultural communities)/IPs by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army and its front organizations,” said AFP spokesperson, Army Col. Ramon Zagala.

He added that this will help bring justice to the victims of the communist movement’s atrocities.

“Our brothers and sisters have suffered long and hard at the hands of the CTG. We enjoin every Filipino to help us demand justice for the vulnerable and marginalized indigenous communities and peoples and protect them from further exploitation and violence by the CPP-NPA-NDF,” he added.

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.

The NDF, meanwhile, has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158135

6 North Samar villages break free from NPA, get gov’t aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2021): 6 North Samar villages break free from NPA, get gov’t aid (By Sarwell Meniano)

ROAD TO PROGRESS. Officials visit the remote village of Hitapian in Catubig, Northern Samar for an outreach activity in this Jan. 14, 2021 photo. The village is one of six former rebel-infested areas in Eastern Visayas identified as a recipient of Barangay Development Program. (Photo courtesy of DILG-8)

The province of Northern Samar recently kicked off development projects in six communities previously infiltrated by the New People's Army (NPA).

The government earmarked PHP120 million, or PHP20 million for each village, Northern Samar provincial information officer Jhon Allen Berbon said in a phone interview.

The recipient communities are Hitapian, Osang and Nagoocan in Catubig town; San Miguel in Las Navas; Quezon in Catarman; and Calantiao in Bobon.

The Barangay Development Program, a hallmark program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), brings progress to former conflict-prone communities.

The NTF-ELCAC, created by virtue of Executive Order 70 issued on Dec. 4, 2018, is tasked to “provide an efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of the whole-of-nation approach to aid in the realization of collective aspirations for inclusive and sustainable peace.”

The projects include PHP31.93-million farm-to-market roads, PHP17.49-million water and sanitation system, PHP18.5-million health stations, PHP24.8-million school buildings, PHP11-million electrification, PHP10.05-million assistance to poor families, and PHP6.22-million agricultural and livelihood training assistance.

The funding has been released by the Department of Budget and Management to recipient local governments upon completion of required documentation.

Berbon said bidding is ongoing for infrastructure projects while proposals for the livelihood and skills training for some recipient villages are being finalized at the municipal level.

He said the program launch will be held in Las Navas next month.

“The whole-of-nation approach requires us to collaborate and cooperate to end insurgency. We need to push for these projects or else, the communist terrorist groups will come up with issues against the government,” Department of the Interior and Local Government Eastern Visayas Regional Director Arnaldo Escober Jr. said in a statement.

The Philippines' Anti-Terrorism Council has designated the Communist Party of the Philippines, NPA, and National Democratic Front as terrorist groups.

The United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines also listed the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158152

NPA rebel in Agusan Norte guv ambush nabbed in Makati

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2021): NPA rebel in Agusan Norte guv ambush nabbed in Makati (By Alexander Lopez)

NABBED. Photo shows Jefred L. Flores, alias Cardo, 26, a New People’s Army member who was arrested by Police Regional Office 13 operatives on 1842 Escuela St., Barangay Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City on Thursday (Oct. 28). He was involved in the ambush of the convoy of then Agusan del Norte Gov. Maria Angelica Amante-Matba in Nasipit town on March 27, 2015. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel, who has been in hiding for nearly six years for his crimes in Caraga Region, including the ambush of a former governor, has been arrested in Makati City on Oct. 28.

In a statement on Friday, Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 Director Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr. identified the suspect as Jefred L. Flores, alias Cardo, 26, team leader of Squad Uno, Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda Kingdom of Guerrilla Front 4-A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA.

“Flores was arrested by the personnel of the intelligence unit of PRO-13 and Police Sub-Station 6, Makati Police Station on Thursday at 1842 Escuela St., Barangay Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City,” Caramat said.

The suspect was arrested by virtue of arrest warrants for attempted murder and multiple attempted murder issued on August 11, 2020, by the Regional Trial Court Branch 33 in Butuan City.

Caramat said Flores was involved in the ambush of the convoy of then Agusan del Norte Gov. Maria Angelica Amante-Matba in Nasipit town on March 27, 2015.

Amante-Matba survived the ambush. She is serving as Agusan del Norte Second District Rep. in the House of Representatives.

A police officer who was part of Amante-Matba’s convoy was hurt during the ambush.

“The suspect was also involved in the burning of vital equipment inside the compound of Agusan Milling Philippines in Barangay Camagong, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte last July 28, 2018,” Caramat said.

Flores is detained at Police Sub-Station 6 in Makati City while arrangements are being facilitated for his transfer to PRO-13.

“Justice will always be served and distance and time are not a hindrance in attaining it. This accomplishment will serve as another major setback to the Communist Terrorist Group as this added to the increasing list of neutralized members,” Caramat said.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

The National Democratic Front, meanwhile, has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158170

Rebel reunites with mom 7 years after joining NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2021): Rebel reunites with mom 7 years after joining NPA (By Che Palicte)

MOTHER'S LOVE. Nora Mansumuy-ut (right) hugs his son alias “Ram” tightly at the Camp Panacan Hospital in Davao City on Friday (Oct. 29, 2021) after not seeing him for seven years. Ram left his family to join the New People's Army when he was 15 but got wounded in a recent firefight with government troops. (PNA photo by Che Palicte)

A wounded member of the New People's Army (NPA) confined at the Camp Panacan Hospital here on Friday was reunited with his mother whom he has not seen for seven years.

In an emotional encounter, Nora Mansumuy-ut said it was her first time seeing his son, alias “Ram”, in seven years and was glad that he was still alive.

“There was a sigh of relief on my part. When he was still in the armed struggle, I cannot focus on my work. I miss him so much,” she said in the vernacular.

Nora narrated that Ram joined the armed struggle at the age of 15.

She added that for seven years, she feared for the life of Ram and often wondered what he was going through at the hands of the communist terrorist group (CTG).

“What if my son was killed in an encounter? These are my thoughts. I fear losing him and won’t be able to see him again,” Nora said.

“I was afraid that if he will die in an encounter, they will bury them without us knowing,” she added.

Ram, the vice commanding officer of Andoy Platoon under the Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU) Sub-Regional Command (SRC) 5, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC), along with alias Sander, the commanding officer of Basil Platoon, SRGU, SRC5, SMRC, got wounded during an evening encounter with government troops in Barangay Sto. Domingo, San Fernando, Bukidnon on October 24.

Sander sustained gunshot wounds in his head and thigh, while Ram was hit in his thigh and stomach.

Both were immediately treated and given first aid by Army troopers of Charlie Company, 89th Infantry Battalion (89IB) before being evacuated to the 10th Infantry Division (10ID) Station Hospital for further medical attention.

Ram was then transferred to Camp Panacan Hospital in this city, while Sander was sent to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) for surgery.

Lies and deceit

After surviving the incident, Ram thanked the Armed Forces of the Philippines for taking care of him.

“I am very happy right now. When I was still there, I was not able to see my family because they [NPA} would not let me,” he said in the vernacular.

He admitted he used to think of the military as barbaric and brutal, beliefs which the NPA had instilled in him.

“They took care of me. Our cadres told us that when we will surrender, the military will torture us,” Ram said in an interview. “But I was wrong. Instead, they help me live.”

He added that during his stay with the government troops, nobody scolded him or tried hurting him.

“They are different [government troops]. Our leaders threatened us and told us that if we surrender, the military will just hurt us,” he said, adding that was the reason why he hesitated to surrender at first.

“But deep inside me, I wanted to return to the folds of the law,” Ram said.

Ram also said he regretted joining the armed struggle as he observed that only those in the lower ranks were deployed to fight, while the leaders were comfortably resting and just gave instructions.

“I regret it. I said to myself that the leaders are very lucky because they will not get hurt. We are the ones getting most of the bullets,” he said.

Meanwhile, Capt. Mark Tito, the 10ID spokesperson, told the Philippine News Agency in an interview that Ram will undergo the deradicalization process after he recuperates.

The deradicalization process will prevent Ram from being lured back into the communist ideology.

Aside from undergoing the deradicalization process, Ram and Sander will be undergoing skills and livelihood training and will be processed to avail of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (e-CLIP).

The Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

The National Democratic Front, meanwhile, has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158210

Top DI terrorist, wife slain in Maguindanao clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2021): Top DI terrorist, wife slain in Maguindanao clash (By Edwin Fernandez)

NEUTRALIZED. The remains of top Dawlah Islamiya (DI) couple Salahuddin Hassan and Jihana Moinbida, who were killed during a pre-dawn encounter with government forces in remote Barangay Damablac, Talayan, Maguindanao on Friday (Oct. 29, 2021). Hassan, who carried a PHP1.3-million bounty on his head, was the emir of the DI terror group operating in south central Mindanao at the time of his death. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The leader of the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) terror group in Mindanao and his wife were killed during a pre-dawn law enforcement operation in Maguindanao on Friday.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, 6th Infantry Division commander, told a news conference here that Salahuddin Hassan and his wife were killed in remote Barangay Damablac, Talayan town.

Until his death, Hassan who carries the aliases Orak/Salah/Tulea/Abu Salman was the emir of the DI terror group operating in south central Mindanao. He had a PHP1.3-million reward on his head.

The country’s Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) named Hassan as among the top terrorists operating in Mindanao.

In a December 2020 resolution, the ATC identified the Islamic State East Asia, the Maute Group, the DI, and other associated groups as “terrorist organizations.”

Uy said Hassan and his wife, Jehana Minbida, were killed following a brief firefight with government forces in Barangay Damablac.

His wife is the DI finance officer in Mindanao.

“Our troops were to arrest him (Hassan) but he resisted arrest and traded shots with lawmen,” said Uy, also the commander of Joint Task Force Central.

He said locals have alerted units of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade under Colonel Pedro Balisi about the presence of gunmen in Barangay Damablac.

After confirming the report, the Army hatched an operation to arrest Hassan that led to the exchange of gunfire.

Police and military authorities have tagged Hassan for the burning and bombings of Yellow Bus Lines in North Cotabato this year, and also for the series of terror attacks in Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat.

Hassan was also linked to the September 2, 2016 bombing of a night market in Davao City that left 14 dead and hurt more than 60 others.

Relatives claimed the remains of the slain couple and immediately buried them according to Islamic rites.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158216

Army chief to increase support for troops in far-flung areas

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2021): Army chief to increase support for troops in far-flung areas (By Priam Nepomuceno)

SUPPORT FOR TROOPS. Army chief, Lt. Gen. Andres Centino (2nd from right) visits troops of the Maguindanao-based 6th Infantry Division on Oct. 27, 2021. Centino has been visiting remote Army units to check on the situation of soldiers, boost troop morale, and reiterate his command guidance to ground commanders. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

The Philippine Army (PA) will provide all necessary logistics and combat support to troops to make their presence felt, even in the remotest parts of their areas of operations, an official said Thursday.

"The Philippine Army (PA) will provide the needs of troops and units from supplies, firepower, mobility to communication equipment," PA chief Lt. Gen. Andres Centino said in a statement posted on the Army's Facebook page.

This came after Centino visited far-flung patrol bases of the Maguindanao-based 6th Infantry Division, the San Jose patrol base in South Upi, Maguindanao, and the Blit patrol base in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato on Wednesday.

The PA chief has been visiting remote Army units to check on the situation of soldiers, boost troop morale, and reiterate his command guidance to ground commanders.

Centino also directed commanders to "lead from the front" and make their presence felt even in the remotest parts of their respective areas of responsibility.

"The PA will go where the enemies are. We support the establishment of new forward operating bases (FOBs) and sustain existing FOBs," he said.

He added the "enemy is on the brink of irreversible defeat" and that the Army will not forgo this opportunity.

"The attainment of genuine and lasting peace is our mission, and there is no one in a better position to accomplish this but us," Centino said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158159

Faustino lauds troops for successful mission vs. terror leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2021): Faustino lauds troops for successful mission vs. terror leader (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Recovered R4 rifle (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief, Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., on Friday commended operating units of the 6th Infantry Division for the successful operations that led to the death of terrorist leader Salahuddin Hassan.

The cadavers of Hassan and his wife, Jehana Minbida, who served as finance officer of the Daulah Islamiyah - Hassan Group (DIHG), were recovered following special operations in Barangay Damablac, Talayan, Maguindanao on Friday.

"The notorious leader of the DIHG was blamed for a series of bombings and terror attacks in Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat," Faustino said.

Troops also recovered an R4 rifle, bandolier, and long magazine with ammunition.

"This latest accomplishment is a significant blow against the DIHG and another victory in our thrust against terrorism. With their leader now dead, the terrorist group will certainly crumble," Faustino said.

He attributed the success of AFP operations against local terrorists to the dedication and perseverance of soldiers "and the growing support of our people in the whole-of-nation approach towards peace and development".

"Peaceful activities such as Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism programs, which address the root causes of terrorism, prove to be effective in denying terrorists the opportunity to recruit members and stage atrocities in vulnerable communities," Faustino said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158271