Kalinaw News: Northern Luzon declares 12 barangays in Mt. Province insurgency-free

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 3, 2021): Northern Luzon declares 12 barangays in Mt. Province insurgency-free



Camp Aquino, Tarlac City – Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) and the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations – Northern Luzon (DIPO – NL) jointly signed a document on Tuesday formalizing the successful clearing of 12 barangays and three Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) allied organizations in Mt. Province free from the clutches of the communist terrorists.

According to the military, Barangays Dalican, Guina-ang, and Mainit of Bontoc; Barangays Aguid, Fedilisan, Madongo, Bangaan, Pide, and Angkileng of Sagada; Brgys Balintaugan, Bagnen Proper, and Bagnen Oriente of Bauko were among the 12 barangays declared free of insurgency during the Area Clearing Validation Committee (ACVC) Meeting jointly presided by NOLCOM Deputy Commander, Brigadier General Andrew D Costelo, and PNP Deputy Director for Integrated Police Operations in Northern Luzon (DIPO-NL), PMGen Domingo S Cabillan.

In addition to the 12 barangays, three CTG allied organizations were also declared clear, following the neutralization of the party structure established by the communist terrorists within said organizations.

The 12 barangays and the 3 CTG allied organizations are focus areas of Platoon William under the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya (KLG) AMPIS, the communist terrorist group that sowed terror in the areas of Abra, Mountain Province and Ilocos Sur.

The clearing parameters under the AFP – PNP Joint Letter Directive No. 03 (series 2020), were utilized during the evaluation and validation process prior to the official signing.

Director for Integrated Police Operations in Northern Luzon (DIPO-NL), Police Lieutenant General Marni C Marcos JR attributed the success of their recent accomplishments to “the support and synergistic collaboration of the AFP and PNP”

NOLCOM Chief, Lieutenant General Arnulfo Marcelo B Burgos Jr. lauded the troops involved in the clearing efforts, saying that “This is a historic event, let me congratulate our troops, particularly Joint Task Force (JTF) Tala for their unyielding efforts to protect the well-being of our people in Mountain Province and free them from the menace of the communist terrorists.”

He emphasized that the continuous collaboration and active coordination between the AFP and the PNP significantly contributed in clearing North and Central Luzon from NPA infestation, “Our task of defeating the communist terrorists was made easy with our continuous collaboration and active coordination. Several initiatives from JTF Tala and JTF Kaugnay were successful because of the active support and complementary efforts of our PNP counterparts.”

Lt Gen Burgos ended by emphasizing that the communist rebels are already ‘losing the support of the community’ which is manifested in the series of setbacks ranging from the ‘neutralization of their ranking leaders, mass surrender from their ranks, and mass withdrawal of support from their exploited supporters resulting to the irreversible collapse of the various NPA fronts in our area of responsibility.

It can be recalled that three guerrilla fronts have already been dismantled in Northern and Central Luzon: KLG Southern Ilocos Sur; KLG Quirino- Nueva Vizcaya; and KLG – Sierra Madre. Said guerilla fronts have not recovered and the remaining guerilla fronts are weakening, as the support from the community continues to dwindle.

[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/northern-luzon-declares-12-barangays-in-mt-province-insurgency-free/

Kalinaw News: CTGs suffers tactical defeat for the last month, 10 CNTs neutralized and 5 firearms recovered

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 3, 2021): CTGs suffers tactical defeat for the last month, 10 CNTs neutralized and 5 firearms recovered



Brgy Mayahag, Davao City – Since the series of focus military operation that started last September 17, 2021 Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) operating in the Municipality of Talaingod suffers debacle and tactical defeats after the captured of one member and pointing out an arm cache containing three high powered firearms.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Osmalik D. Tayaban, Acting Commanding Officer of 56TH Infantry (TATAG) Battalion the captured of Jayson Dagkitan y Mantoaw, alias “Duroy”, a member of Segunda, Platun Basil, SRGU, SRC5, SMRC on November 1, 2021 led to the discovery of armed cache containing three (3) high powered fire arms: one (1) bushmaster, and two (2) M16 rifle, thus add to the five recovered firearms.

The combined troops of 1003rd Infantry (RAPTOR) Brigade coming from 27IB, 3IB, 89IB and 56 IB conducted series of Focus Military Operation (FMO) in the Municipality of Talaingod, Davao Del Norte that resulted to heavy losses of the Communists NPA Terrorist Group (CNTG). For the month, their losses accounts to one IED recovered, five firearms recovered, one dead in an encounter at Sitio Cabadiangan, Barangay Palma Gil, Talaingod, Davao Del Norte, captured of three people and six surrendered including the 3 females.

COLONEL CONSOLITO P YECLA MNSA PA, Commander of 1003rd Infantry Brigade, “the tactical defeats of the CTGs can be attributed to the combined military actions that caused its members to demoralize after suffering from heavy combat operations, lack of food probation, health problems and demoralization of their ranks. Development is already on its way, for decades a motor trail was established reaching a 10 kilometer distance reaching Sitio Bagang. Masses had withdrawn support to CNTs and the “bayanihan spirit” grows in participating through “panpan”, he 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/ctgs-suffers-tactical-defeat-for-the-last-month-10-cnts-neutralized-and-5-firearms-recovered/

Kalinaw News: Remains of Ka Oris turned over to CIDG, IATF/LGU

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 4, 2021): Remains of Ka Oris turned over to CIDG, IATF/LGU



CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Major General Romeo S Brawner Jr, Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, pronounced today, November 3, that the remains of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leader Jorge Madlos alias Ka Oris and NOC staff Eighfel Dela Peña alias Pika/Maui, were already turned-over to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Impasugong in Bukidnon province yesterday.

“The 4ID thru the 403rd Infantry Brigade has already turned-over the remains of the CTG leader and member to the CIDG and LGU of Impasugong, after both terrorists were found COVID-19 positive based on the Reverse Transcription – Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) results released yesterday by the Philippine National Red Cross. They are the responsible agencies for the proper disposition of the remains in accordance with the COVID protocols and guidelines. Other forthcoming actions depends on the decision of the LGU”, MGen Brawner announced.

It can be recalled that the said remains were subjected to RT-PCR tests after their bodies were found by government troops as a result of an encounter last October 30, Saturday. The tests were made before extracting their remains from the encounter site as a 4ID SOP when a CTG rebel is killed or captured in an encounter or have surrendered in order to ensure that the troops will not get infected.

MGen Brawner Jr also disclosed that that the remains of Madlos and Dela Pena were cremated last night based on the decision of the IATF and in accordance with the existing COVID-19 protocols.

“We are committed to respecting human rights and in adhering to International Humanitarian Law, consistent with the rule of law. Our soldiers are professionals and have sworn to serve the people and protect the land. We have delivered justice for the victims of Madlos who was responsible and accountable for all the atrocities committed during his reign as a notorious and most wanted NPA Commander”, MGen Brawner Jr said.

Meanwhile, MGen Brawner Jr once again extended his sincerest condolences to the families of Madlos and Dela Pena as he emphasized that the armed encounter that tragically ended their lives is unfortunate but an imperative in the Army’s mandate to serve and protect the people, particularly in responding to the appeal for help by the civilian populace when they reported the presence of armed groups in their communities.

“It is in our sincerest desire that the remains will be laid to rest and the families can mourn the passing of their loved ones. After all, even as enemies of the state, they are Filipinos and deserved to have decent burials. On the other hand, I urge the remaining CTG members to finally realize the futility of their armed struggle and put down their arms. In the meantime, we will further intensify and relentlessly implement our focused military operations to go after the remnants of the group of Ka Oris,” MGen Brawner 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/remains-of-ka-oris-turned-over-to-cidg-iatf-lgu/

No human rights violated in rescue of minors in Roxas – 3MBde

From Palawan News (Nov 3, 2021): No human rights violated in rescue of minors in Roxas – 3MBde (By Aira Genesa Magdayao)

The three apprehended NPA members, two of them are females who are minors. (Photo by Philippine Marine Corps/File photo)

The Philippine Marines on Tuesday dismissed the accusation of the Bienvenido Vallever Command (BVC) that their troops violated human rights when they rescued two female child soldiers, including a 14-year-old pregnant recruit, from the rural parts of Sitio Karatong, Barangay Tinitian in Roxas in October.

In a statement released by acting Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer Cpt. Ellaine Rose Collado, the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBde) said that the rescued minors can recount how they were treated when they were found in Karatong and if any of their rights were violated by their troops who were conducting focused military operations (FMO) on October 13.

3MBde’s explanation came in response to a statement made by a certain Andrei Bon Guerrero, spokesman for the New People’s Army’s (NPA) BVC Bagong Hukbong Bayan-Palawan, saying that they violated the human rights of the minors.

It said that the BVC seemed to be driven to disseminate propaganda after a spate of rebel surrenders and withdrawals of support from their sympathizers, which the rebel group confirmed when they stated that the FMOs had been hitting them hard.

According to Col. Jimmy Larida, commander of the 3MBde, their reaction is in support of the Marines and other government soldiers who have been working tirelessly to maintain peace in Palawan.

“Ang mamamayan ng Brgy, Tinitian, Roxas, partikular ang mga nag-surrender, ang makakapaglinaw kung may katotohanan nga ba ang akusasyon na ibinabato sa amin ng teroristang grupo,” he said.

“Subalit bilang pagkilala sa ginagawang sakripisyo ng ating mga Marines, nararapat lamang na maipahayag ko din
ang panig ng 3MBde. Sa pagganap namin ng aming tungkulin, sinisiguro namin na walang naaagrabyadong mamamayan at lalong wala kaming nalalabag na batas,” Larida added.

Guerrero, in a statement on October 25, alleged that the Marines’ FMOs initiated since October 12 in Tinitian had caused the violation of the human rights of farmers, particularly the minors.

Additionally, the BVC spokesman said that the Marines went too far in presenting the two female adolescents they captured to the public as “NPA fighters.”

He further claims that troops get P15,000 for each NPA member who surrenders from the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF ELCAC) and the national government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

“Sa paghahabol ng mga opisyal ng 3MBde ng malaking pera mula sa pondo ng PPTF ELCAC, isinagawa nito ang todo-todong panggigipit at interogasyon sa mamamayan ng Brgy. Tinitian. Hindi pinatawad sa interogasyon kahit ang mga menor de edad, kabilang ang isang 9 na taong gulang na bata,” Guerrero said.

On this, Larida believes that the BVC’s assertions through Guerrero are nothing but deception and that they are being made since the rebels are already suffering due to the large number of members who are surrendering.

“Napaka-epektibo ng istratehiyang ito ng ating gobyerno upang labanan at tuldukan ang insurgency kaya sa pagtutulong-tulungan ng mga ahensya na kabilang sa PTF-ELCAC, at ng bawat mamamayan, hindi nakakapagtaka na umaray na ang mga teroristang grupo sa bawat hakbang ng ating kasundaluhan,” Larida said.

“Sana magpasya na ring sumuko sa gobyerno ang mga natitira pang myembro ng CNT (CPP-NPA-Terrorists) dito sa Palawan at tuluyan na nilang talikuran ang armadong pakikibaka upang makasama na nila ang kani-kaniyang pamilya, lalo na at magpapasko at muli ay makapamuhay na rin sila ng normal gaya ng mga naunang miyembro nila na sumuko,” he added.

According to the 3MBde, an estimated 20 insurgents willingly surrendered to the military and local authorities in Roxas as a result of the government’s determination to achieve its aim of ending the local insurgency via the “Whole-of-Nation” strategy.

https://palawan-news.com/no-human-rights-violated-in-rescue-of-minors-in-roxas-3mbde/

AFP modernization to boost PAF’s operational readiness

From Palawan News (Nov 3, 2021): AFP modernization to boost PAF’s operational readiness (By Maridel Pillo)

The S-70i Black Hawk choppers. | Photo courtesy of the AFP Modernization & News Update

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) said Tuesday that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Act has increased its operational preparedness.

In a statement, the PAF said they are gaining capability upgrades through Republic Act (RA) 10349, also known as the Revised AFP Modernization Act, which extends the modernization program for another 15 years, allowing it to effectively fulfill its constitutional mandate of upholding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

PAF said the modernization act is helping them, especially in terms of improving their air defense posture.

“Seeing the need to revive and support PAF’s modernization, current government and AFP efforts have been fast-tracked,” PAF said, adding that other sectors of society are also helping to generate necessary funds.

PAF stated it is proud of its successes in recent years, notably the purchased aerial platforms and equipment, “thanks to the government’s overwhelming support”.

Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana recently oversaw the transfer, acceptance, and blessing of five S-70i Black Hawks and four Scan Eagle Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for the PAF.

PAF’s air and ground capabilities were greatly enhanced as a result of the acquisition of these flying units and equipment, it said.

The PAF said to meet its demand for combat utility helicopters, the S-70i Black Hawk helicopters were bought under the AFP Revised Modernization Act’s “Horizon 2” phase. These helicopters are capable of carrying troops and conducting air assaults, as well as command and control, border patrol, search and rescue, freight transport, and VIP transport.

“Despite its recent arrival, the Black Hawk helicopters have already performed a variety of missions, such as the conduct of disaster response operations in the areas of Cagayan, as well as the transport of vaccines and personal protective equipment sets to the remotest areas of the country,” it added.

The Scan Eagle UAVs, on the other hand, were acquired from the United States through foreign military financing grant. These UAVs will strengthen the AFP’s ground, air, and naval operations as they are capable of performing internal security operations, counter-terrorism, limited maritime patrol, humanitarian assistance and disaster, damage assessment, and aerial survey.

Super Tucano planes find new home at MDAAB

Meanwhile, the Philippine Air Force’s fleet of newly purchased Embraer A-29B “Super Tucano” aircraft was formally relocated to Major Danilo Atienza Air Base at Sangley Point, Cavite on October 21.

The Super Tucano is a Brazilian-made trainer/light attack aircraft produced by Embraer Defense & Security. Close air support, light assault, observation and reconnaissance, air-to-air interception, counter-insurgency, and pilot training will all be conducted with these platforms.

Replacing the PAF’s OV-10 Bronco turboprops, the arrival of the A-29s to its fleet fulfills the 15th Strike Wing’s ambition of modernizing its fixed-wing platforms and ensuring the AFP’s continued ability to provide critical firepower.

“Despite some unforeseeable situations causing the delays of some big-ticket projects, PAF has been working harder to beef up its air defense capabilities in order to become a dependable and credible air force, which was then one of the most well-equipped air forces in Asia,” PAF said.

https://palawan-news.com/afp-modernization-to-boost-pafs-operational-readiness/

5 more members, sympathizers withdraw support from NPA in Palawan

From Palawan News (Nov 1, 2021): 5 more members, sympathizers withdraw support from NPA in Palawan

An estimated 17 individuals were reported to have abandoned their allegiance for the NPA in Palawan and surrendered in recent weeks in the villages of Jolo and Tinitian in Roxas. (Photo from MBLT-3)

Five more New People’s Army (NPA) militants and sympathizers have willingly surrendered to authorities in northern Palawan’s Roxas municipality, claiming they were misled into accepting the group’s ideals.

A statement released over the weekend by the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 (MBLT-3) under the Joint Task Group-North (JTG North) said their surrender on October 26 happened in Barangay Tinitian in the said municipality, where they were met and welcomed by village officials led by barangay captain Andrew Golifardo.

The statement said that MBLT-3 troops stationed in northern Palawan assisted in arranging their surrender.

The most recent set of surrenderees included four females and one male, all of whom were thought to have been recruited, organized, and trained by the NPA, the statement said.

The MBLT-3 said they have been turned over under the care of their communities and will be monitored by the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF ELCAC) of Roxas.

“Nagpapasalamat ako na hindi kayo nagpatuloy na sumapi sa mapanlinlang na gawain ng komunistang teroristang grupo. Wala itong maidudulot na maganda sa ating buhay, pamilya, at sa ating komunidad,” Golifardo was quoted in the statement in telling the voluntary surrenderees during the event.

“Nagpapasalamat din ako sa ating mga kasundaluhan at kapulisan sa pagpapaigting ng katahimikan at kapayapaan sa ating komuninad. Huwag na huwag tayong magkakamaling sumapi sa mga komunistang teroristang grupo dahil makakasira lamang ito sa ating buhay at sa ating barangay,” he added.

READ RELATED STORIES
Marines apprehend 3 NPA fighters, including pregnant 14-year-old in Roxas town
NPA sympathizers, members surrender to gov’t troops in Roxas

An estimated 17 individuals were reported to have abandoned their allegiance to the NPA in Palawan and surrendered in recent weeks in the villages of Jolo and Tinitian in Roxas.

Col. Jimmy Larida, commander of the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBde) under the Western Command (WESCOM), stated anybody else wishing to lay down their weapons and rejoin society is welcome.

“Kaugnay pa rin dito, patuloy kaming nananawagan sa ating mga kapatid na naliligaw ng landas at kasalukuyang nasa hanay pa ng mga komunistang teroristang grupo na iwanan na ang armadong pakikibaka at magbalik-loob sa ating pamahalaan tungo sa pagbabagong-buhay, lalo pa at paparating na ang panahon ng kapaskuhan,” he said.

https://palawan-news.com/5-more-members-sympathizers-withdraw-support-from-npa-in-palawan/

Remains of Ka Oris cremated after testing positive for Covid-19

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 3, 2021): Remains of Ka Oris cremated after testing positive for Covid-19

TURN OVER. Photo released on Wednesday (Nov. 3, 2021) shows the reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) result (left) and certificate of cremation of New People's Army leader Jorge Madlos alias Ka Oris. The remains of Madlos, who was killed in an October 30 encounter with government troops in Bukidnon were turned over to local government authorities on Tuesday (November 2). (Photo courtesy of 4ID)

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Major General Romeo S Brawner Jr., Commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), said on Wednesday that the remains of New People's Army leader Jorge Madlos alias Ka Oris, and NPA National Operation Command staff Eighfel Dela Peña alias Pika/Maui, were cremated and turned over to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the local government unit (LGU) of Impasugong in Bukidnon province on Tuesday (November 2).

“The 4ID thru the 403rd Infantry Brigade has already turned over the remains of the CTG (Communist Terrorist Group) leader and member to the CIDG and LGU of Impasugong, after both terrorists were found Covid-19 positive based on the Reverse Transcription -Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) results released yesterday (Tuesday) by the Philippine National Red Cross. They are the responsible agencies for the proper disposition of the remains in accordance with the Covid protocols and guidelines. Other forthcoming actions depend on the decision of the LGU,” Brawner said.

Their remains were subjected to RT-PCR tests after their bodies were found by government troops as a result of an encounter last October 30. The tests were made before extracting their remains from the encounter site as a 4ID standard operating procedure or SOP when a CTG rebel is killed or captured in an encounter or has surrendered in order to ensure that the troops will not get infected.

Brawner also disclosed that the remains of Madlos and Dela Peña were cremated Tuesday night based on the decision of the IATF and in accordance with the existing Covid-19 protocols.

“We are committed to respecting human rights and in adhering to International Humanitarian Law, consistent with the rule of law. Our soldiers are professionals and have sworn to serve the people and protect the land. We have delivered justice for the victims of Madlos who was responsible and accountable for all the atrocities committed during his reign as a notorious and most wanted NPA commander,” Brawner said.

Meanwhile, Brawner once again extended his sincerest condolences to the families of Madlos and Dela Peña as he emphasized that the armed encounter that tragically ended their lives is unfortunate but an imperative in the Army’s mandate to serve and protect the people, particularly in responding to the appeal for help by the civilian populace when they reported the presence of armed groups in their communities.

“It is in our sincerest desire that the remains will be laid to rest and the families can mourn the passing of their loved ones. After all, even as enemies of the state, they are Filipinos and deserve to have decent burials. On the other hand, I urge the remaining CTG members to finally realize the futility of their armed struggle and put down their arms. In the meantime, we will further intensify and relentlessly implement our focused military operations to go after the remnants of the group of Ka Oris,” Brawner said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158700

Military launches airstrikes vs. NPAs in Bukidnon town

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 3, 2021): Military launches airstrikes vs. NPAs in Bukidnon town (By Nef Luczon)

ABLAZE. A drone shot shows a part of the forested area in Barangay Dumalaguing, Impasugong, Bukidnon blazing on Tuesday (Nov. 2) night. The Facebook page of the Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security–Region 10 posted a statement that it was an airstrike attack from the 5th Strike Wing of the Philippine Air Force-against communist rebels in the area. (Photo courtesy of Ram Gania Abejero)

Government forces have launched airstrikes in the hinterlands of Barangay Dumalaguing in Impasugong, Bukidnon to flush out remaining combatants of the New People’s Army (NPA), the military confirmed Wednesday.

In a radio interview, Maj. Francisco P. Garello Jr., the Army’s 4th Infantry Division public affairs office chief, said the airstrikes were necessary to protect Army troops on the ground as they attempted to penetrate the NPA lairs in the area.

"They (NPA) have their tactics in place - they put landmines around against approaching soldiers to defend their camp (hideout)," he said.

Garello said other details have to be kept confidential so as not to jeopardize government ground troops in the ongoing operation.

This came about after the Facebook account of the Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) 10 (Northern Mindanao) posted drone shots captured by a certain Ram Gania Abejero of a burning forested area of Dumalaguing on Tuesday night.

In its post, the CORDS-10 said the photos showed the bombardment of "jet fighters” from the 5th Strike Wing of the Philippine Air Force.

The noise of the jets in flight on Tuesday night had startled residents as they shared speculations about the incident in their social media posts.

Barangay Dumalaguing was where Jorge "Ka Oris" Madlos, the commander and spokesperson of the NPA’s national operations command and spokesperson of the National Democratic Front (NDF) in Mindanao, was killed in an encounter, together with his medic, Eighfel dela Peña, on October 30.

Madlos and Dela Peña were earlier found to be infected with the coronavirus disease 20219 after their cadavers were swabbed following the encounter, said Maj. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., the 4ID commander.

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 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/1158694

Ex-MILF combatants receive financial aid

 From the Manila Times (Nov 4, 2021): Ex-MILF combatants receive financial aid (By Julmunir Jannaral)

CASH AID A former combatant of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front receives a P10,000 financial aid from member of Parliament Abdullah ‘Commander Bravo’ Macapaar (right) during the distribution ceremony organized by the Ministry of Public Order and Safety on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021 in Marawi City. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

COTABATO CITY: Sixty former combatants of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) from Camps Bilal and Busrah in the provinces of Lanao each received a P10,000 financial aid through the Peacebuilding Towards Normalization program of the Bangsamoro government on Sunday in Marawi City.

Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS) director Al-Rashid Balt said the intervention was intended for the vulnerable and marginalized sectors, such as the MILF combatants who did not qualify in the decommissioning program of the national government.

Balt and Peace Program Officer Sittie Janine Gamao led the distribution of the cash assistance.

Gamao told the former combatants that the Bangsamoro government will continuously help those who have struggled to achieve sustainable peace in the region.

"Iba-iba man tayo ng pamamaraan sa pagkamit ng kapayapaan, lubos kaming nagpapasalamat sa mga katulad ninyo na kung saan sa loob ng ilang taon ay ipinaglaban ang kapayapaan sa ating mga komunidad, lalo na ang kapakanan naming mga kababaihan (We may have different ways in achieving peace, but we're very much thankful to someone like you who fought for many years the peace and tranquillity for the welfare of women)," said Gamao.

The MPOS aims to give aid to a total of 180 former combatants from the six MILF recognized camps in the region as embodied in Executive Order 79 under the Annex on Normalization.

Identified beneficiaries will go through profiling, capacity building, listening sessions, social healing and provision of assistance.

"Pagkatapos ng profiling, nag-evaluate at nagkaroon tayo ng capacity building sa kanila, more on kung paano ma-normalize 'yung buhay nila. Parang journey of life siya na activity, pina-share natin sa kanila ano yung mga karanasan nila (After the profiling, we evaluated, we have capacity building for them on how to normalize their lives. It is more of an activity on their journey of life. We let them share their life experience)," Gamao added.

The MPOS is also set to distribute the same cash aid to beneficiaries in Camp Abubakar in Barira Municipality and Camp Rajamuda in Pikit town on November 9, while former combatants in Camp Omar in Datu Hoffer municipality and Camp Badre will receive theirs on November 10.

MILF commanders and members of Parliament Basit "Jannati Mimbantas" Abbas and Abdullah "Commander Bravo" Macapaar were also present during Sunday's event.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/11/04/news/regions/ex-milf-combatants-receive-financial-aid/1820861

Taliban not yet source of worry for PH war on terror, say officials

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 3, 2021): Taliban not yet source of worry for PH war on terror, say officials (By: Frances Mangosing)

The rapid Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has no direct impact yet on the Philippine terror threat landscape, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Wednesday (Nov. 3).

At an online forum, Lorenzana said the Taliban, which took control of Afghanistan in a surprising speed as the United States withdrew its troops last August, is currently trying to present itself as a legitimate government both internally and before the rest of the world.

Taliban, Lorenzana said, is also not known to have any significant links with local terror groups in the Philippines. Philippine militants, led by Abu Sayyaf Group, had linked up with Islamic State, or Daesh, in 2014.

“The Taliban’s main ally Al-Qaeda does not have any significant influence on any of the local terrorist groups in the country since their allegiance has shifted to the Daesh in 2014,” Lorenzana told the forum hosted by the Philippine Council for Foreign Relations.

He also cited the Philippine government’s success in the Bangsamoro peace process, which “contributed to the further decline of Al-Qaeda’s appeal in the country.” The Taliban, he said, also does not have global ambitions as it was focused on gaining control of Afghanistan.

Still, the situation in Afghanistan should be watched closely even if the Taliban takeover is currently not a threat to public safety in the Philippines, Lorenzana said.

“We should still watch the developments in Afghanistan. While a resurrection of Al-Qaeda’s influence in the Philippines is not evident, dwindling resources could spark LTGs renewed interest in the Taliban,” he said.

“It was the financial resources of Daesh in 2014 that enticed LTGs’ allegiance to the extremist group. The Taliban’s next move would most probably depend on how other nation states respond to its regime,” he added.

Similar assessments

Two security officials shared the same view with Lorenzana, but they acknowledged that the Taliban’s return to power could have long-term impact.

“The events in Afghanistan in the last few months appeared to have little effect on the local terrorist groups,” said Damian Carlos, National Security Council (NSC) deputy director general, at the same forum.

“And for now, and I emphasize for now, there is a noticeable lack of public expression of support for the Taliban from the local terrorist groups,” Carlos said.

While the chance of Taliban’s renewed influence on Philippine terrorists remained low, it cannot be ruled out because the new rulers of Afghanistan were awash with cash with assets estimated to be worth $1.6 billion to $7 billion in 2020, Carlos added.

“There is also the possibility for the local terrorist groups to join the bandwagon with other terrorist groups in Southeast Asia, as a result, reinvigorate the fraternal networks and alliances already existing between them,” Carlos said. The Jemaah Islamiyah, which has links to Taliban-affiliated Al-Qaeda, could re-emerge as a major terrorist group in the region, he added.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said while Taliban is “not an immediate tactical threat” to the Philippines, “the possible long term repercussions of this return to power” should be watched.

Then Afghanistan-based IS fighter Saifullah, who financed Isnilon Hapilon’s terrorist activities, remained at large. Hapilon, Abu Sayyaf leader and supposed emir of IS in the Philippines, was killed during the Marawi siege in 2017.

“While Saifullah is not a direct threat to the Philippines, his activities could possibly affect the Asean region,” Año said.

Terrorists in Mindanao could also be inspired by Taliban supremacy and view it as “a symbol of victory for mujahideen and jihadism.”

“We must closely observe the situation in view of not only our diplomatic and security dynamics with other countries, but also the Taliban’s previous connection to local terrorist groups, particularly the ASG since the Taliban’s re-emergence could offer the ASG and other local terrorists another avenue to sustain or even reignite their terror activities,” Año said.

There could also be a revival of training sites, sanctuaries, transit points, and launching pads for terror attacks, he added.

With all these developments, Lorenzana said the Armed Forces of the Philippines continued to be vigilant and proactive in its counter terrorism efforts.

“Our troops are ready to control any possible impact of the Taliban rule,” he said.

Aside from modernizing its military, the Philippines has been diversifying and strengthening its defense cooperation with other countries on counterterrorism.

“With the borderless nature of terrorism, more and more nation states are encouraged to adapt collective actions,” Lorenzana said.

The Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia have been working together to prevent the proliferation of terrorists in case there were Southeast Asian fighters in Afghanistan who might return home, he added. Indonesia will host a trilateral defense ministerial meeting in January.
US pullout

With the US departure in Afghanistan, Lorenzana said he expected a shift in greater attention to the Indo-Pacific, a region that is becoming the main battleground of the United States and economic rival China.

“We can expect more and deeper engagements with them as they pursue a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Lorenzana said.

He said this was already evident in the renewed commitment on Quadrilateral Security Dialogue—US, India, Japan and Australia—and the formation of AUKUS (Australia, UK, and United States) partnership that shows their commitment to security and prosperity in the region.

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/200075/taliban-not-yet-source-of-worry-for-ph-war-on-terror-say-officials

NTF-ELCAC to present MIMAROPA’s peace, dev’t accomplishments to Duterte

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 3, 2021): NTF-ELCAC to present MIMAROPA’s peace, dev’t accomplishments to Duterte (By Martin Sadongdong)

President Duterte will visit the MIMAROPA Region (Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan) on Thursday, Nov. 4, to witness the presentation of the peace and development initiatives of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

National Security Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon Jr. (File photo/ MANILA BULLETIN)

Duterte, also the chairman of the NTF-ELCAC, will be joined by Cabinet members and top officials from the national government agencies, local chief executives including Palawan Gov. Jose Chaves Alvares and Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron, senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP), and other members of the anti-communist task force in the ceremony.

National Security Adviser (NSA) and ELCAC vice chairman Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said the Regional Task Force (RTF)-ELCAC has implemented various initiatives to aid communities in MIMAROPA out of poverty and stagnation.

Among these include sustainable agriculture and livelihood programs such as “Project Save” and “Project Sagip” which have since assisted local farming communities while livelihood assistance were also provided to 224 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who surrendered to the government.

From a total of 822 barangays nationwide that are recipients of the Barangay Development Program (BDP), a total of 25 barangays are in MIMAROPA after they were cleared of communist influence due to the dismantling of two guerilla fronts in the region from 2020 to 2021.

Under the BDP, the flagship program of the NTF-ELCAC, each beneficiary is entitled to P20 million for the establishment of development packages that will sustain the progress in the barangay after being freed from the clutches of the communist groups.

Esperon said the RTF-ELCAC in MIMAROPA has implemented 109 BDP projects worth P500 million in the 25 barangay beneficiaries.

The BDP projects are consisted of five core programs that would establish farm-to-market roads, school buildings, water and sanitation systems, livelihood programs, and health stations in the communities.

“These programs will ensure that our communities are fully equipped with the essentials required for a respectable standard of living,” Esperon said.

In 2022, a total of 1,406 barangays nationwide are included in the second batch of the beneficiaries of the BDP where 54 barangays are located in MIMAROPA.

https://mb.com.ph/2021/11/03/ntf-elcac-to-present-mimaropas-peace-devt-accomplishments-to-duterte/

No more autopsy as body of NPA leader cremated

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 3, 2021): No more autopsy as body of NPA leader cremated (By: Divina Suson, Germelina Lacorte)

Jorge Madlos —KARLOS MANLUPIG

Swab tests conducted on the remains of rebel leader Jorge Madlos and his medical aide showed they were positive for COVID-19, prompting the military to cremate their bodies instead of turning these over to their families who earlier asked for an independent autopsy.

Maj. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, said Madlos, a senior New People’s Army (NPA) commander also known as “Ka Oris,” and Eighfel dela Peña, known as “Pika” or “Maui,” were cremated in accordance with government health protocols.

He said the remains were subjected to reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction tests, a standard operating procedure for the military, after their bodies were found by government troops following a 30-minute clash on Oct. 29. The military’s account of how Madlos and Dela Peña died, however, had been disputed by the NPA and the rebel leader’s family, saying they were ambushed.

“The remains of Madlos and Dela Peña were cremated based on the decision of the IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases) and in accordance with the existing COVID-19 protocols,” Brawner said in a statement released by the 4th ID.

The military said the ashes had been turned over to the police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the local government of Impasugong in Bukidnon province on Tuesday.

“They are the responsible agencies for the proper disposition of the remains in accordance with the COVID-19 protocols and guidelines. Other forthcoming actions depend on the decision of the [local government],” Brawner said.

‘Getting away with murder’

But the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) questioned the decision to cremate Madlos’ remains, saying the military was “trying to get away with murder.”

“The AFP’s lies to cover up their murder of Ka Oris and Ka Pika just continue to pile up,” Marco Valbuena, the CPP chief information officer, said in a statement emailed to the Inquirer. “They are trying to get away with murder by burning all evidence when they had Ka Oris’ remains cremated with dispatch on the pretext of COVID-19 protocols. They did not even have the human decency to wait for the family to view his remains for the last time,” Valbuena said.

Madlos’ wife, Maria Malaya, earlier said her husband and Dela Peña were ambushed after they left Impasugong town, refuting the military’s claim that the NPA leader died in a clash with government troops. Malaya said Madlos, who was on his way to a medical checkup, was unarmed.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1510131/no-more-autopsy-as-body-of-npa-leader-cremated

Military launches fresh offensive against Madlos followers in Bukidnon

From Rappler (Nov 3, 2021): Military launches fresh offensive against Madlos followers in Bukidnon (By BOBBY LAGSA)

Major Francisco Garello Jr., 4th Infantry Division spokesman, says the fresh military offensives are intended to finish off the core security group that protected the late NPA leader Jorge 'Ka Oris' Madlos

The military stepped up its offensive against the followers of slain New People's Army (NPA) leader Jorge "Ka Oris" Madlos in Bukidnon province, launching more air strikes and barring people from entering a hinterland village.

The Air Force dropped more bombs in Impasug-ong on Tuesday night, November 2, and continued ground operations on Wednesday.

It was the same town where Madlos, the NPA operations command chief and National Democratic Front-Mindanao (NDF) spokesman, was killed by soldiers last weekend.

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Tension gripped the town and neighboring areas as government troops launched pursuit operations against a group of heavily armed rebels.

Authorities set up checkpoints to prevent non-residents of Sitio Gabunan, Barangay Dumalaguing, Impasug-ong town, from entering because of safety concerns.

The town government counted at least 33 villagers who initially fled their homes at the barangay hall of Dumalaguing for fear of getting caught in the crossfires, said Impasug-ong Mayor Anthony Uy.

The hinterland village is located some 14 kilometers from the town center.

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Madlos tested positive for COVID-19, remains cremated – military

Uy said the air strikes were launched at around 9 pm on Tuesday, three days after the military confirmed that Madlos and his aide were killed.

Major Francisco Garello Jr., 4th Infantry Division spokesman, said the fresh military offensives were intended to finish off the core security group that protected the Madlos.

Garello said the Army asked the Air Force to bomb a specific area where Madlos' followers were confirmed to have been holed up.

He said the military would continue with its offensives against the Madlos' group that has been crisscrossing northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/military-launches-fresh-offensive-against-madlos-followers-bukidnon

Rights group calls for independent probe of killing of communist leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 3, 2021): Rights group calls for independent probe of killing of communist leader

A HUMAN RIGHTS group on Wednesday called for an “independent and impartial” investigation into the killing of a leader of the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed branch of the communist movement.

Karapatan said a probe is needed to determine the actual circumstances of the deaths of NPA leader Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos and his medical aide, Eighfel Dela Peña, in Bukidnon last week.

The group said the killings could possibly violate the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) signed by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), the political arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), and the national government.

“Military officials who commit, abet, and order war crimes and violations of the CARHRIHL should be held accountable as war criminals and serious allegations should not go unnoticed, especially when there appears to be attempts to cover up such violations,” said Karapatan Secretary General Cristina E. Palabay.

Reports from the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division said that Mr. Madlos, who has several pending criminal cases, and Mr. Dela Peña were killed during an armed encounter.

CPP Chief Information Officer Marco Valbuena, on the other hand, said the two were unarmed on Oct. 29 while seeking medical treatment and were “murdered in cold blood.”

COMMUNIST MATERIALS
Meanwhile, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) said schools have the “academic freedom” to remove materials they deem “subversive.”

CHED Chairperson Prospero E. de Vera III, in a statement on Tuesday evening, said the turnover of NDFP-related materials by three state-owned universities to the government were done with “sufficient administrative discretions under existing laws.”

The turnover was made by Kalinga State University, Isabela State University, and Aklan State University.

Mr. De Vera’s remarks came after officials of the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, the biggest state-funded academic institution, condemned the removal of materials as a “clear example of censorship.”

“It abandons the freedom to think, ask questions, and research; and on the freedom to discover the truth based on the students’ own abilities,” the UP officials said in Filipino.

Mr. De Vera said UP Diliman should “respect these decisions… in the spirit of mutual respect and proper governance of their institutions.”

“It would be best for the chancellor of UP Diliman and their officials to be more prudent, circumspect, respectful, and discerning in issuing statements especially involving the exercise of academic freedom of other higher education institutions,” he said.

The Makabayan bloc filed a resolution at the House of Representatives on Oct. 13 seeking for a probe into the matter.

https://www.bworldonline.com/rights-group-calls-for-independent-probe-of-killing-of-communist-leader/