‘NPA weakened via NTF-ELCAC’

From the Manila Standard (Dec 19, 2021): ‘NPA weakened via NTF-ELCAC’ (By Joel E. Zurbano)

The administration of President Rodrigo Duterte has successfully dismantled guerilla fronts and weakened the forces of the New People’s Army (NPA), through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, also vice chairman of the NTF-ELCAC, said this as he stressed Filipinos in areas which used to be NPA-infested areas has begun to enjoy development and peace and order.

As the NTF-ELCAC celebrates its third year, Esperon reported what he said as “the significant weakening of the Communist Party of the Philippines and NPA (CPP-NPA).

For this year alone, Esperon said the NTF-ELCAC, with the help of the Regional Task Force-ELCAC and law enforcement agencies, was able to dismantle 10 guerilla fronts and weakened 14 other fronts nationwide. “As the NTF-ELCAC celebrates its 3rd year anniversary, I am proud to declare that we have accomplished substantial and considerable gains in defeating the Communist Terrorist Group. I wish to underscore this as I, the Vice Chair of the NTF-ELCAC, as I have witnessed firsthand the improvement in the lives of our people, notably in conflicted communities,” Esperon said.

“This we have achieved through the twin strategies of peace and order initiatives couples with socio-economic and development intervention programs,” he added.

On December 4, 2018 President Duterte signed Executive Order No. 70 or Institutionalizing the while-of-nation approach in attaining the sustainable peace, creating the NTF-ELCAC.

Part of the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 is to attain inclusive and sustainable peace through intensified development and other peace-building initiatives in conflict-affected and vulnerable communities.

The NTF-ELCAC has launched Serbisyo Caravans and Barangay Development Program (BDP) which main purpose is to help barangays, formerly under the influence of NPA, to live normal and have development.

Under the BDP, chosen barangays or 822 nationwide, is receiving each P20 million worth of projects including farm-to-market roads, school building, barangay halls, water sanitation, livelihood and even financial assistance to the indigents.

Esperon said these communities, formerly affected by the Communist Terrorist Group, are now made beneficiaries to development initiatives of the government and experiencing a life of peace and better life.

Also Esperon said that through the initiatives of the NTF-ELCAC, about 3,488 NPA members have returned to the folds of the law since 2019 together with 19,000 militias and underground members.

“The progress of these communities are anchored upon a Whole of Nation Approach for their return to normalcy and upliftment. Without a doubt, the aspirations for a peace and productive life have been realized in many parts of the country,” he said.

He is confident that the hold of the CPP NPA NDF over its unwitting victims is now coming to an end.

“The coming collapse of the CPP-NPA-NDF can be attributed to a number of factors, but most importantly, our people now see through the group’s deceit and self-serving ideology. We at the NTF-ELCAC take pride in the chance to participate in this opportunity for nation-building.”

“We take it to heart that millions of Filipinos have benefitted from this national program, and we look forward to its fulfillment through the Whole of Nation Approach we have undertaken throughout its three years of implementation,” he added.

https://manilastandard.net/news/314022832/npa-weakened-via-ntf-elcac.html

15 acquitted in Inopacan ‘traveling skeletons’ case

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 19, 2021): 15 acquitted in Inopacan ‘traveling skeletons’ case (By: Dexter Cabalza)

A Manila court has junked multiple murder charges against several consultants to the aborted peace talks who were tagged as high-ranking officers of the Communist Party of the Philippines and accused of mass killings in Inopacan, Leyte province, in 2006, in what has been called the case of “traveling skeletons.”

In its 97-page order dated Dec. 16 and made public on Saturday, the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 32 granted the demurrers to evidence separately filed by eight of the more than 30 accused, after finding that the prosecution failed to prove that they were involved in the killings.

Among those cleared of 15 counts of murder were former lawmaker Satur Ocampo; National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) peace consultants Rafael Baylosis, Adelberto Silva and Vicente Ladlad; former Mayor Exuperio Lloren of Jagna town, Bohol; and farmers Norberto Murillo, Dario Tomada and Oscar Belleza.

Also acquitted were peace consultants Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, Felomino Salazar, Presillano Beringel, Luzviminda Orillo, Muco Lubong and Felix Dumali.

The court ordered the release of all the accused currently in detention, unless they had arrest warrants for other charges.

The court earlier dropped from the list of accused NDFP consultants Bernabe Ocasla (who died while in detention in November 2016 at 66 years old); Randall Echanis, (who was killed in August last year at 72), and Jaime Soledad (who was set free in 2011 to continue the then-ongoing peace talks).

‘Contrarities, infirmities’

The cases were formerly heard by the RTC Branch 18 in Hilongos, Leyte. But the Supreme Court ordered them transferred to Manila in 2008 where they were raffled off to Manila RTC Branch 32.

In granting the demurrer, Judge Thelma Bunyi-Medina found “overwhelming contrarieties and infirmities in the testimonies of the prosecution’s witnesses.”

The prosecution presented 32 witnesses, including National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., then chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, relatives of the 15 victims and individuals who claimed to be former members of the New People’s Army.

According to them, the 15 victims were among the hundreds summarily executed by the communist rebels as part of their efforts “to cleanse” their ranks of military infiltrators in “Operation Venereal Disease” in the 1980s.

Mass grave

A mass grave of the supposed victims was uncovered on Aug. 26 to Aug. 29, 2006, at Mt. Sapang Dako in Barangay Kaulisihan, Inopacan town.

According to the court, Dr. Mamerto Bernabe, the forensic pathologist from the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory, admitted that he examined the skeletal remains found in the mass grave but “did not conclusively identify any of these bones as belonging to a particular person.”

It also noted that the prosecution was unable to prove through DNA tests that the skeletal remains belonged to any of the 15 victims.

The court also gave weight to the assertion of the defense lawyers that some of the skeletal remains in Inopacan were inexplicably found on June 27 to June 28, 2000, in mass graves at Barangay Monterico, Baybay town, also in Leyte province, about 10 kilometers away.
‘Impossible’

Among the supposed victims in the Baybay case were Concepcion Aragon, Juanita Aviola and Gregorio Eras, who were also said to be among the 15 victims buried in Inopacan.

The Baybay multiple murder case was dismissed by RTC Branch 18 in 2005.

“Of course, logic dictates that these eventualities cannot or are impossible to happen unless these skeletal remains, as conjured by the defense, were exhumed in one place and thereafter, transferred and/or buried in another,” the court said.

The prosecution did not present forensic evidence or other evidence, such as a death certificate or declaration of presumptive death, the court said.
‘Palpably unreliable’

It found that the testimonies of the witnesses were “palpably unreliable” due to “overwhelmingly numerous” contradictions.

The Public Interest Law Center (PILC), which represented some of the accused, welcomed the decision, saying the acquittals were an early Christmas gift.

“We are delighted that the court has well-taken our consistent position that these cases are trumped-up, arguably part of an elaborate ploy to vilify our clients,” the PILC said in a statement. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1529361/15-acquitted-in-inopacantraveling-skeletons-case

Surrender of 12 combatants signals downfall of BIFF –Army

Posted to GMA News Online (Dec 18, 2021): Surrender of 12 combatants signals downfall of BIFF –Army

The military claimed Saturday that the surrender of 12 Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) combatants is another major setback to the renegade group.

In a press release, the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division of the Philippine Army said that the 12 BIFF members had surrendered to local government leaders of Datu Salibo, Maguindanao and Joint Task Force Central (JTF Central) forces and were presented at the Headquarters of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, Barangay Kamasi, Ampatuan, Maguindanao on the morning of December 17, 2021.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of Joint Task Force Central and the 6th ID, disclosed that the surrender of the 12 combatants was realized through the joint efforts of the community and Local Government Unit of Datu Salibo, Maguindanao; military forces coming from the 1st Mechanized Battalion and 6th Infantry Battalion; and police forces coming from PPO-Maguindanao and PRO-BARMM.

“The 12 former BIFF combatants belong to Bungos-Faction who likewise turned over 10 high-powered firearms which includes one (1) Cal .50 Machine Gun, one (1) 5.56mm M16 Ultimax Rifle, our (4) 7.62mm M14 Rifles, one (1) Mauser Sniper Rifle, and three (3) 7.62mm Sniper Rifles,” said Col. Pedro Balisi, Commander of 1st Mechized Brigade .

The former BIFF combatants are set to receive livelihood assistance and packages based on their based their respective needs as part of the AGILA-HAVEN Program of Maguindanao Province.

For this year alone, the program has catered to almost 300 former BIFF and Daulah Islamiya members who have decided to return to the folds of the law in Maguindanao Province.

“Our efforts along with the community and the LGU prove to be effective, as influx of surrenders has been recorded in Maguindanao. The AGILA-HAVEN Program and the relentless focused military operation of the JTF Central forces gave these former BIFF and DI members the realization that peace is a better option together with their families,” stressed by Maj. Gen. Uy while continuing the call to the remaining BIFF and DI members who are still in hiding to surrender and lay down their arms.

The 12 former BIFF combatants are under the custody of JTF Central for de-briefing and processing of their JAPIC prior to being enrolled under the AGILA-HAVEN Program. —LBG, GMA News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/815061/surrender-of-12-combatants-signals-downfall-of-biff-army/story/

MILF: LGU Gensan conducts awarding ceremony for Musabaqah Ammah 2021 winners

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 16, 2021): LGU Gensan conducts awarding ceremony for Musabaqah Ammah 2021 winners (By Gandhi Kinjiyo)



The Local Government Unit of General Santos City conducted the awarding ceremony for the winners of Musabaqah Ammah 2021: Academic and Classroom Competitions last Tuesday (December 7, 2021) at Maahad Shar-ie Al Islamie in Camasi Barangay Ligaya.

The academic competition included Nasheed, Khitabah, Azan and Reading Qur-an. It was conducted virtually and in limited face-to-face set-up.

In the classroom competition 45 Madaris joined and showcased their improved classroom facilities with the respective learning materials inside.

Musabaqah is an annual event of Madaris in General Santos City whose main objective is to entice the learners to study hard and excel both in the academic and athletic fields.

Introduced in 2020 due to the restriction brought by health protocol, the classroom competition aims to encourage the Asatidz, parents and stakeholders to develop their classrooms.

“It is one way of motivating our Madaris stakeholders to participate in improving the Madrasah facilities,” said Jocelyn Lambac-Kanda, Division head of City Mayor’s Office-Integrated Cultural Communities Affairs Division (CMO-ICCAD).

CMO-ICCAD is the unit of LGU-Gensan that implements various programs and projects of the Indigenous Peoples and Muslim constituents of the city.

Winners received cash prizes and certificates of recognition. Outstanding presenters of classroom competition were also recognized.

The teachers of Arabic Literacy and Islamic Values Education were also tapped to coach in the production of learning materials and in improving classroom arrangement.

[Luwaran is the official online publication of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Committee on Information, MILF Central Committee]

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2414/lgu-gensan-conducts-awarding-ceremony-for-musabaqah-ammah-2021-winners

MILF: WIM-RAMP undergoes training on mediation approaches

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 16, 2021): WIM-RAMP undergoes training on mediation approaches (By Gandhi Kinjiyo)


Photo courtesy of UNDP

The Women Insider Mediators – Rapid Action and Mobilization Platform (WIM-RAMP) underwent Training on Mediation Approaches last November 4-8, 2021 at Greenleaf Hotel in General Santos City as part of the efforts to capacitate the Bangsamoro and IP women on their role in peace-building.
The Mediators Network for Sustainable Peace (MedNet), a non-governmental organization with expertise in facilitating conflict settlement through mediation and providing training on mediation, facilitated the activity.

 
The participants, comprised of Moro and IP women leaders from the Bangsamoro and IP communities learned about negotiation, framing and reframing issues, co-mediation and caucus.

They also learned harmony, narrative and transformative mediation and the qualities and ethical dilemmas of mediators.

WIM-RAMP is an initiative of the United Nations Development Programme and Bangsamoro Women’s Commission.

The group has committed to work towards strengthening the role of women in building peaceful and resilience communities in the Bangsamoro through changing attitudes and behaviors that promote conflict and violence,

creating spaces for dialogue and mediation for peaceful resolution of conflicts, facilitating rapid response for the prevention of violence, and enhancing participation and leadership of women in local peace processes.

More than twenty IP and Moro women leaders joined the activity. They look forward on applying the learnings they gained from the training to help strengthen community peace.

[Luwaran is the official online publication of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Committee on Information, MILF Central Committee]

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2416/wim-ramp-undergoes-training-on-mediation-approaches-

MILF: MTIT shares programs, services in promoting trade, investments, and tourism in the Bangsamoro

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 15, 2021): MTIT shares programs, services in promoting trade, investments, and tourism in the Bangsamoro (By Muhammad Musa, Luwaran)



The Director General of Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT), Rosslaini Alonto-Sinarimbo shared the ministry’s program and services in promoting trade, industry, and tourism in the new Bangsamoro region during the 29th episode of the Kaularan sa Bangsamoro hosted by Bangsamoro Multimedia Network (BMN) Inc. last Wednesday, December 08, 2021.

Alonto-Sinarimbo said the MTIT is one of the unique ministries in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

“If you could remember, before the establishment of Bangsamoro government, we have separate departments, these were the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Tourism, and Board of Investments, but in today’s Bangsamoro government, the three major offices and agencies joined forces to form a ministry and that’s the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism,” she narrated.

The director-general mentioned about the Eco Zone Development and Freeport of Polloc in which it is under the ministry’s supervision. “It [MTIT] is quite wide in scope and one of the ‘super ministries’ of the Bangsamoro,” she pronounced.

Alonto-Sinarimbo said that the mandate of MTIT is based on the R.A. 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law where the ministry is given twenty six (26) enumerated powers derived from the national and was assigned in the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism.

“The mandate is said to be “About the Trade, Investments, and Tourism, and the Ecozone Development,” she underscored.

Citing the ministry’s major programs she said, “The function of the DTI passed to the MTIT, firstly, the registration of the business name or renewing of business names. We are also monitoring the process of primary products and commodities, because the unprocessed and fresh products are being handled by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR).”

“Aside from that we have Negosyo Centers spread in the Region, right now it has reached seventeen (17) Negosyo Centers. These centers with the partnership with the Local Government Units and few of the services of MTIT will be seen inside of these centers,” she said.

The director-general said there is no need to go to the MTIT’s regional or provincial office since Negosyo Centers are present in the partner municipalities. “That’s what we intend to do and to build more— Negosyo Centers to be replicated in the ground—in the municipal level or even in the barangay level,” she added.

Alonto-Sinarimbo said under the Industry Cluster Development Program where our winning products-- industries are being promoted in the region like the rubber in Basilan, Abaka in Lanao Del Sur, sea weeds for Tawi-Tawi, Coffee in Sulu in which it is very famous, and palm oil and coconut for Maguindanao.

“Accreditation of tourism establishments and for investments we are assisting the major investments in where they’ll deposit their capital in the Bangsamoro and we will pass it to Bangsamoro Board of Investments, because they’re our incentive giving body that approves the incentives of these huge entrepreneurs in our region,” DG Rosslaini narrated.

She further conveyed that they have Polloc port as Freeport which is still being improved. It is the only one in the entire region where we have an Economic zone at the same time Freeport and that’s the one, shall we say, which welcomes our investors; they could deposit a capital and transport their goods in our ports.”

“Bangsamoro Economic Zone Authority, they’re the ones who declare— assist our investors if they want to locate in the Bangsamoro,” Alonto-Sinarimbo added.

She said, “Tawi-Tawi is leading in the seaweeds production, in fact the region is leading with the combined Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Maguindanao, and Sulu production, we’re number one producer of seaweeds in the entire country but how do we convert the seaweeds in a sum of money? We need the right process with standard.”

The director-general mentioned the ministries they work together with other ministries in conducting some of their services like the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) for production, Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) for research and technology and preservation of food, Ministry of Health (MOH) for the issuance of License to Operate.

For tourism, she said the MTIT partnered with the PNP Security Sector, Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) for linkages in terms of variety of vehicles that tourists could use, and Ministry of Public Works (MPW) for the construction of roads in order to accommodate tourist spots in the region.

She also shared the Networking Investment for Local Executives citing, “It’s a duty and an obligation of a LGU not only to protect its people, but to promote investments because through investments, through establishment of businesses small, or large, medium, this helps in creating jobs for our citizens and LGUs want their businesses to flourish, because this is not just promotion of their places, but an income to an LGU.”

According to Alonto-Sinarimbo, the ministry also held a photo contests harnessing the beauty of the region in promotion of tourism. The output of the participants were uploaded in their social media account and gained a lot of attention. The ministry also conducted a few training sessions for the Local Government Units on how to manage these tourist spots.

She also shared the TOP-COP Program which started from the province of Tawi-tawi. This program is training for what they call Tourism Police. This program is to ensure the Peace and Security of the province, “We’re preparing Tawi-Tawi for the influx of tourists,” as the Tawi-Tawi provided establishments and resorts and is now gaining the attention of the tourists.

The director-general further shared their program for producers like coffee farmers by training them on the right selection of beans and actual product processing to improve product quality that will help increase their income.

The MTIT executive discouraged reliance to block grant or IRA. “We could only get the other incomes if our businesses flourish, be it tourism, small scale and medium enterprises of food processing, services, trading, and manufacturing. These are the potential that we observe in the Bangsamoro in order to attain income generating through revenues. If there will be businesses it will translate into a job for our people,” she explained.

She looks forward on strengthening and promoting the region as Halal hub and barter trading which is also a promising industry.

[Luwaran is the official online publication of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Committee on Information, MILF Central Committee]

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2413/mtit-shares-programs--services-in-promoting-trade--investments--and-tourism-in-the-bangsamoro

MILF: Equal Access International – Philippines congratulates Moros with special, distinctive awards

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 15, 2021): Equal Access International – Philippines congratulates Moros with special, distinctive awards (By Gandhi Kinjiyo)


Photos courtesy of EAI-Philippines

Equal Access International (EAI) – Philippines and the OURmindaNOW family congratulated four (4) Moro individuals who recently received distinctive awards for their contributions to peace-building in Mindanao.

The four awardees are Nishreen Hashim, Raydan Tangwayan, Bangsamoro Youth Commission Nasserudin Dunding.

Hashim is a Grand Champion of the Bangsamoro Peace Champion 2021 awarded by BARMM’s Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS). He is one of the EAI-Philippines’ Peace Promotion Fellowship alumna from its pioneering batch in 2019 and has actively campaign on preventing and countering violent extremism.

Tangwayan is one of the UNESCO Club’s 2021 Outstanding Young Professional in the Philippines. He is EAI’s Tech Camp alumnus from the UP2Youth Project in 2019 and the composer and voice behind the OURmindaNOW jingle.

Commissioner Dunding is also one of UNESCO Club’s 2021 Outstanding Young Professional in the Philippines and a member of OURmindaNOW’s Kutawato Regional Messaging Hub through the Bangsamoro Youth Commission. The young commissioner is one of EAI’s prime partners in youth empowerment in the Bangsamoro region.

EEAI-Philippines cited the awardees for being models in their communities and the Bangsamoro autonomous region.

The organization is an international non-profit organization supporting vulnerable countries and communities to drive social change by providing critically needed information and education through combining interactive media programming. (Source: EAI-Philippines)

[Luwaran is the official online publication of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Committee on Information, MILF Central Committee]

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2415/equal-access-international-----philippines-congratulates-moros-with-special--distinctive-awards

CPP/NDF-PKM: Magsasaka-gardinero, magkaisa! Labanan ang kahirapan, kagutuman, at kapabayaan ng gobyerno!

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Dec 18, 2021): Magsasaka-gardinero, magkaisa! Labanan ang kahirapan, kagutuman, at kapabayaan ng gobyerno!

PAMBANSANG KATIPUNAN NG MGA MAGBUBUKID-IFUGAO

December 18, 2021


Malaking pagkalugi na naman ang kinalaharap ng mga magsasaka ng highland vegetables sa Cordillera sa kasalukuyan dahil sa sobrang baba ng presyo ng gulay sa mga malalaking trading post tulad ng La Trinidad Trading Post at Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Trading Center. Umaabot ng tatlo hanggang limang piso kada kilo ng gulay ang bili ng malalaking middleman sa mga gardinero, ngunit nananatiling mataas ang presyo ng gulay sa mga palengke, at nananatili ring mataas ang presyo ng mga agricultural input na kinakailangan sa pagtatanim ng gulay. Ang sabi ng Department Agriculture, ang mababang presyo ng mga gulay ay dahil sa pagpasok ng mga gulay mula sa ibang bansa tulad ng China, at wala raw kontrol ang gobyerno dito. Liban pa sa pagkalugi dahil sa pagmamanipula ng malalaking kartel ng gulay sa presyo ng mga produkto, kinakaharap din natin ang malakihang pagkasira ng ating mga pananim dahil sa mga magkakasunod na bagyo, at wala man lang tayong nakuhang ayuda mula sa gobyerno.

Ang ganitong lugmok na kalagayan nating mga magsasaka ay dagdag sa pahirap na nararamdaman ng taumbayan. Ngayong naka-lockdown ang maraming lugar bansa, tiyak na gutom ang kakaharapin ng mamamayan. Ang ating mga pinagpagurang pananim na gulay ay nasisira at nasasayang lang dahil wala naman tayong kakayahang ibenta ang mga ito sa sobrang mababang presyo. Isang malaking kabalintunaan na tayong mga magsasaka ang nagtatanim upang pakainin ang buong bansa, ngunit tayo ang nakakaranas ng matinding gutom at kahirapan. Lalo pang nakakagalit na bilyun-bilyong pondo mula sa kaban ng bayan ang kinukurakot ni Duterte at ng kanyang mga kroni ngayong panahon ng pandemya at matinding krisis pang-ekonomya.

Mga kababayan, huwag nating hayaang manatili ang lugmok nating kalagayan. Magkaisa tayong labanan ang lahat ng porma at pagsasamantala sa ating mga magsasaka. Suportahan at lumahok sa armadong pakikibaka na inilulunsad ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan. Wala tayong ibang paraan upang baguhin ang ating kalagayan kundi ang makibaka para sa demokrasya at kalayaan.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/12/18/magsasaka-gardinero-magkaisa-labanan-ang-kahirapan-kagutuman-at-kapabayaan-ng-gobyerno/

CPP: Mobilize the people in the wake of typhoon Odette’s destruction

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Dec 18, 2021): Mobilize the people in the wake of typhoon Odette’s destruction

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

December 18, 2021

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) extends its sympathies to the millions of people who suffered the devastation wrought by supertyphoon Odette in Eastern Visayas, Central Visayas, Western Visayas, Northern Mindanao regions and in Palawan island. Thousands upon thousands of homes, agricultural fields, fishing boats, and other sources of livelihood were destroyed or severely damaged.

The toiling masses are the most grievously affected, especially the fisherfolk, the small peasants and farm workers. The destruction brought about by the typhoon has worsened their grave socioeconomic conditions and will surely bring worse poverty and hunger.

The Party calls on all revolutionary and patriotic forces to organize and mobilize the people to carry out relief and rehabilitation efforts in the wake of widespread destruction wrought by supertyphoon Odette. The Party urges people not affected by the typhoon’s destruction, as well as overseas Filipinos, and progressive and revolutionary organizations abroad, to extend all possible resources and assistance to the millions who lost their homes and livelihood.

The Party instructs units of the New People’s Army (NPA) to organize and mobilize the masses in the areas of devastation to collectively rise up from the disaster at the soonest possible time. The NPA must immediately form teams to help in the reconstruction of homes and in repairing dikes and farm plots, as well as to attend to the people’s health.

In addition to performing these social duties, the NPA must also help the peasant masses amplify their demand for reducing or suspending land rent and cancellation of debts, and for urgent state subsidies to help them recover from their losses.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/12/18/mobilize-the-people-in-the-wake-of-typhoon-odettes-destruction/

CPP/NPA-Negros: The truth on Ka Kelly’s murder

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Dec 16, 2021): The truth on Ka Kelly’s murder

JUANITO MAGBANUA

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-NEGROS

December 16, 2021

The New People’s Army-Negros Island Apolinario Gatmaitan Command condemns to the highest terms the brutal murder of Florida “Ka Kelly” Ceballos and her companion, Wilfredo Fuentes, by bloodthirsty troops of the 94th Infantry Battalion under the 303rd Brigade, Philippine Army.

We would like to make clear:

Ka Kelly went missing while she was conducting social investigation on the current situation of farmers and farm workers in the haciendas of Himamaylan City and Kabankalan City, particularly the land holdings of Eduardo Cojuangco Jr. last December 8, 2021. While travelling on a motorcycle with civilian, Wilfredo Fuentes, on her way to Kabankalan City, around 4:00 in the afternoon, she was captured by criminal soldiers of the 94IB. Since then, she and her companion went missing, tortured and salvaged by state forces, until the 94IB declared her dead yesterday, December 15, 2021.

It was a cover up, not an encounter the 303rd Brigade and 94IB touted that happened on the afternoon of December 14 in Sitio Belo (at the foot of Mt. Cansermon), Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, where they deceitfully claimed of finding the bodies of Ka Kelly and Wilfredo Fuentes.

Only fascist brutes in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can blatantly rejoice while their hands are crimsoned with the blood of revolutionaries they mercilessly murdered.

Ka Kelly is the tenth revolutionary in Negros within 2021 whose rights as hors de combat was violated along with Ka Jekjek and Ka JK in Guihulngan City last March 24, Ka Michael and Ka Kenken in Hinobaan last April 17, Ka Ella in Silay City last August 20, and Ka Monet, Ka Brod, Ka Huawei and Ka Simo in Manapla last September 30.

Based on the principles and standards of international humanitarian law, upon capture, not in anyway with the capacity to fight, she should have been entitled to respect for her life, dignity, human rights, political convictions and moral and physical integrity. She should have been treated humanely.

Though revolutionaries are ready to face sacrifices and difficulties, and even offer their lives, to serve the people and wage a just war to achieve national liberation and genuine peace, senseless killings of revolutionaries and blatant violations of the protocols of war is unacceptable.

The revolutionary movement in Negros will not rest until justice is achieved for Ka Kelly and all the victims of atrocities and human rights abuses of the AFP and the Duterte regime.

We call on international and local human rights bodies to investigate this incident. If left unchecked, state forces will continue to kill with impunity. Bodies are piling up on the doorstep of the AFP.

Finally, we call on the local government unit of Himamaylan City to release the bodies of Ka Kelly and Wilfredo Fuentes to their families so they can be laid to rest.

JUSTICE FOR FLORIDA “KA KELLY” CEBALLOS AND WILFREDO FUENTES!

MAKE THE AFP/PNP ACCOUNTABLE FOR ALL VICTIMS OF HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS AND STATE FASCISM!

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/12/16/the-truth-on-ka-kellys-murder/

CPP/NPA-Kalinga: 50IB fake news maker! Numero unong sinungaling!

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Dec 15, 2021): 50IB fake news maker! Numero unong sinungaling!

TIPON GIL-AYAB

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-KALINGA

ILOCOS-CORDILLERA REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (CHADLI MOLINTAS COMMAND)

December 15, 2021

Mariing pinabubulaanan ng Lejo Cawilan Command – NPA Kalinga ang ipinagmamalaki ng 5th Infantry Division na labanan sa pagitan ng tropa ng 50IB at isang yunit ng NPA sa bahagi ng Brgy. Mabaca, Balbalan, Kalinga. Ayon mismo sa tagapagsalita ng 5ID, narekober sila ng dalawang (2) M16 rifle, isang (1) M653, hand grenade, tatlong (3) explosives devices sa labanang tumagal di umano ng limang minuto. Walang katotohanan ito bagkus ay panakip-butas lamang sa kapalpakan ng mga nag-ooperasyong tropa nito. Ang totoo, misenkawnter sa pagitan ng tropa ng 50IB ang nangyari kung saan nagresulta ito sa pagkamatay ng isa nilang elemento. Para pagtakpan ang pagpaslang nila sa mismo nilang katropa, patagong iniatras ang bangkay ng kaswalti. Halos parehong modus ang ginamit nila noong labanan sa Brgy. Bagtayan, Pasil kung saan dalawang sundalo ang namatay pero sa mismong opisyal na ulat ng 50IB ay idineklara nilang wala silang kaswalti. Ang masaklap pa rito ay kinokonsinte mismo ng mga opisyal ng 5ID at 50IB ang pagpapakalat ng mga kasinungalingan at maling impormasyon upang pagtakapan ang kanilang mga kapalpakan, makapagpasikat at makakuha ng promosyon at pabuya.

Malayong-malayo ang ganitong gawain sa disiplina at dangal ng mga kasamang NPA. Opensiba o depensiba man na labanan ang maisagawa, mayroon mang kahinaan ay buong-buong inaako ng mga yunit ng NPA ito at pinaghahalawan ng mga aral, nagpupuna kung kinakailangan. Buong dangal ding pinagpupugayan at pinaparangalan ang lahat ng mga nagmartir na mandirigma nitong magiting na nag-alay ng buhay para sa digmang bayan.

Pinapayuhan ang lahat na maging kritikal at mapanuri sa mga pahayag at balita na nagmumula sa numero unong fake news maker na AFP at amo nitong si Duterte.###

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/12/15/50ib-fakew-news-maker-numero-unong-sinungaling/

AFP mobilizes units for relief missions in 'Odette'-hit areas

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17, 2021): AFP mobilizes units for relief missions in 'Odette'-hit areas (By Priam Nepomuceno)

TO THE RESCUE. Troops from the disaster response and rescue team of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao assist in the conduct of preemptive evacuation of residents in low-lying areas in Surigao City on Thursday (Dec. 16, 2021). Military units are now conducting disaster response operations in areas battered by Typhoon Odette. (Photo courtesy of Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday said its units are now conducting disaster response operations in areas badly hit by Typhoon Odette.

This is being done in close coordination with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), AFP spokesperson, Army Col. Ramon Zagala, said.

"In close coordination with the NDRRMC, our disaster response operations are ongoing in areas that were and will be affected by Typhoon Odette. These include emergency preemptive evacuations, search and rescue, clearing, and transport assistance for the delivery of relief goods," Zagala said in a statement.

With the AFP being the lead agency in the search, rescue, and retrieval cluster of the NDRRMC, Zagala said the military has already mobilized units from our regional commands to the battalion level to ensure the widest coverage possible.

"Air and naval assets are also on call and ready for deployment to support the national and local disaster risk reduction and management councils and other response clusters. Other units that are not in the typhoon's path are also on standby to provide support when necessary," he added.

Even with help on the way, Zagala also urged those who can extend assistance to their part for those affected by "Odette".

"In this trying time, we enjoin those who can help to extend assistance in any way they can to those who are badly affected by this typhoon. Help is on the way and the AFP along with other government agencies are working 24/7 to reach those who are in need," he added.

In a briefing on Friday noon, NDRRMC operations center chief, Joe-mar Perez, said initial reports indicated that Western Visayas has some 5,864 affected families or around 17,238 persons.

He added that they have yet to receive reports of casualty, if any, for the region even as Western Visayas recorded power interruptions in Negros Occidental, Guimaras, portions of Antique, and parts of Capiz, Aklan, and Iloilo.

Meanwhile, an assessment on affected families is still ongoing in Central Visayas.

Power interruptions were also reported in Bohol, Cebu, and Negros Oriental.

Communication/signal interruption were also reported in Cebu while Mactan Airport remains non-operational.

In Eastern Visayas, affected families were placed at 5,275 which is equivalent to 20,103 individuals. Power interruptions were also reported in Southern Leyte and in portions of Leyte and Biliran.

Aside from this, communication/signals interruptions were also recorded in Southern Leyte. In Caraga, affected families were placed at 104 which is equivalent to 235 persons.

Power interruptions were also experienced in the Dinagat Islands, Siargao, Surigao Del Norte and portions of Surigao Del Sur. Communication/signal interruption was also experienced in the Dinagat Islands.

Perez also said they are validating reports of one death and two injured in San Fernando, Bukidnon as of this time.

He also reported that 48 emergency alert and warning messages were issued to the public along with 425 NDRRMC advisories published via monitoring dashboard and mobile application.

Meanwhile, the number of families preemptively evacuated was placed at 83,026 which is equivalent to 332,855 persons residing in Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and the Caraga.

Meanwhile, Office of Civil Defense deputy administrator for operations, Assistant Secretary Casiano Monilla said unofficial reports of damage due to "Odette" seemed not that massive.

"As to the damages naman unofficially ang report naman sa region(s) is hindi sya ganun ka-massive ano, even casualties, sabi ko nga wala kaming nare-receive na unofficially na maraming casualties for this Typhoon Odette, yung pananalasa ni Typhoon Odette. Yun lang siguro masasabi ko sa ngayon (As to the damages, unofficially, the reports from the regions seemed to indicate that it is not that massive, even in casualties, we are still to receive official reports stating that a large number of casualties was caused by the onslaught of Typhoon Odette, that's what I can say for now)," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163048

PNP readies raps vs. Reds in Samar, Surigao Sur attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17, 2021): PNP readies raps vs. Reds in Samar, Surigao Sur attacks (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Criminal charges will be filed against the communist terrorists behind two attacks on government disaster response missions ahead of the onslaught of Typhoon Odette in Samar and Surigao del Sur on Wednesday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Friday.

“It appears these two incidents could be part of deliberate and simultaneous attacks coordinated at a higher level of the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army) leadership,” said PNP chief, Gen. Dionardo Carlos, in a statement.

Initial investigation by the Police Regional Office (PRO)-Caraga identified the ranking communist official responsible for the Surigao del Sur attack as a certain “Ka Megan”, alleged leader of the NPA's Guerilla Front 30 operating in the Caraga region.

This developed as the PRO-Caraga clarified that no casualties were reported in the incident when communist terrorists ambushed a convoy of Philippine Army soldiers and civilians engaged in preemptive evacuation operations in Barangay Cancavan, Carmen, Surigao del Sur at around 11 a.m. on Wednesday.

Reports said the two civilians on board the motorcycle were wounded in the attack while the Army soldiers on board a pick-up truck initiated counter-ambush maneuvers and were able to extricate, the PNP chief said.

In Samar, two PNP Special Action Force troopers and a civilian were wounded in another attack in Barangay del Rosario in Matuguinao town while police and local government authorities were prepositioning relief supplies to high-risk communities lying at the path of the typhoon.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163054

Hunt on vs. Reds behind attacks on 'Odette' response ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17, 2021): Hunt on vs. Reds behind attacks on 'Odette' response ops (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief, Gen. Dionardo Carlos (File photo)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) condemned the latest atrocities by communist terrorists on humanitarian and disaster response missions in the Visayas and Mindanao.

In a statement on Thursday night, PNP chief, Gen. Dionardo Carlos echoed the condemnation by the Department of the Interior and Local Government officials of the twin attacks by New People's Army (NPA) members in Samar and Surigao del Sur provinces on government personnel and civilians engaged in preemptive evacuations ahead of the onslaught of Typhoon Odette.

“These are totally deplorable actions by the local communist terrorists that deserve the strongest condemnation of civil society,” he said.

Carlos vowed to mobilize the full might of the PNP to “arrest the authors and actors of these crimes against humanity”.

In Barangay Esperanza, Carmen, Surigao del Sur, communist rebels ambushed a convoy of soldiers, health workers, and evacuees moving to safer grounds on Wednesday as local authorities ordered a preemptive evacuation of residents in low-lying areas.

Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander Pimentel said two civilians were wounded in the incident.

Also on Wednesday, two PNP Special Action Force troops and a civilian were wounded in another NPA attack in Barangay del Rosario, Matuguinao, Samar while police and local government authorities were prepositioning relief supplies to high-risk communities along the projected path of 'Odette'.

Wounded in the attack were Cpl. Abner Balante, Cpl. Manuel Carlos, and civilian Jomar Diaz.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163026

5 BIFF bomb-makers, 7 others surrender in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 18, 2021): 5 BIFF bomb-makers, 7 others surrender in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

PEACEFUL LIVES AHEAD. A dozen members of the extremist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters pledge their oath of allegiance to the government after their surrender in Maguindanao on Saturday (Dec. 18, 2021). The surrenderers also turned over 10 high-powered firearms. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – A dozen members of the lawless Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), five of them bomb-makers, surrendered to the military in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Saturday.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander and concurrent chief of Joint Task Force Central (JFTC), said the surrenderers handed over 10 assorted firearms, including a .50-caliber machine gun, to the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade (MBde) with the help of local officials.

“The military’s campaign to win the hearts of Moro extremists and make them live normal lives is continuously gaining headway after a dozen members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters peacefully surrendered to military authorities,” Uy said via text message.

The 12 pledged their allegiance to the Philippine flag with local officials as witnesses in ceremonies inside the 1MBde headquarters in Barangay Kamasi.

Uy said five of the BIFF men admitted they were trained bomb-makers.

“I call on other BIFF out there to consider the reconciliation program of the government,” Uy said.

The surrenderers will get a livelihood package from the provincial government.

Records of the 6ID showed more than 300 BIFF members have yielded to military and police authorities under the Army-led JFTC here during the past 15 months.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163143

Reservists boost Sulu community defense vs. ASG

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 18, 2021): Reservists boost Sulu community defense vs. ASG (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

RESERVE FORCE. Three-hundred Tausug tribe members finish a 45-day Basic Citizen Military Training on Thursday (Dec. 16, 2021) in Jolo, Sulu. They will reinforce the community-based security force against the Abu Sayyaf Group and will become ambassadors of peace. (Photo courtesy of JTF - Sulu)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines continues to reinforce its community-based security forces against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sulu province.

The latest addition is a group composed of 300 Tausug tribe members who completed a 45-day Basic Citizen Military Training (BCMT) by the 906th Community Defense Center of the Army Reserve Command.

The graduates of BCMT Class 02-2021 include the youth sector, militiamen, and other individuals coming from various fields such as education, engineering, and local governance.

“Although this batch is composed of reserve privates, its diverse demographic will add value to what the first ready reserve battalion can do to advance our campaign for peace here in the province,” Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, 11th Infantry Division (ID) commander, said in a statement Saturday.

“Our youth will be less vulnerable to the recruitment of terror groups. Instead, they will be ambassadors of peace,” added Gonzales, who is also the Joint Task Force - Sulu commander.

One of the graduates is 31-year-old Sharryhama Serajani, who holds a Nursing degree and works at the Jolo municipal government.

“During my childhood days, I don’t really understand the works of a soldier. But after I completed the training, I already understand the purpose why there are soldiers assigned in our place,” Serajani said in a statement. “Now I like to be part the changes and development here in Sulu as a reservist.”

Gonzales said the reservists will become part of the Army's future structure, a regular force supported by a strong reservist force.

“Aside from providing additional manpower to the Philippine Army in dealing with external and territorial threats, they have a crucial role stabilizing Sulu's socio-economic situation. They can help in strengthening education, employment, order and safety,” he added.

Gonzales brought up the idea of recruiting reservists during his first meeting with Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan after he was designated as 11 ID commander last year.

“Now we have two reservist companies composed of very talented individuals,” he said.

There are now 515 Army reservists in Sulu after the first batch finished the BCMT in January.

Lt. Col. Andres Soriano, 906th Community Defense Center director, said they are planning to train around 600 individuals to man Sulu's first ready reserve battalion.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163140

Gov’t troops capture 3 NPA rebels in Zambo Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 18, 2021): Gov’t troops capture 3 NPA rebels in Zambo Norte (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

CASUALTY. Medics of the 97th Infantry Battalion provide first aid to Antonia Morato, a New People's Army rebel who was captured with two others following a clash in Zamboanga del Norte amid the onslaught of Typhoon Odette on Friday (Dec. 17, 2021). Morato and another wounded rebel, Villamor Galleon, were brought to the Zamboanga del Norte Medical Center. (Photo courtesy of 97IB)

Government troops captured three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, two of them wounded, following a clash Friday amid the onslaught of Typhoon Odette in Zamboanga del Norte.

The three rebels were captured following a 10-minute firefight in Barangay Nazareth, Sergio Osmeña Sr. town, Lt. Col. Nolasco Coderos, 97th Infantry Battalion commander, said in a phone interview on Saturday.

Coderos identified them as Antonia Morato, 57, a medic; Villamor Galleon, 64; and Rosalinda Saberon, 53, members of Guerilla Front Big Beautiful Country of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

They were provided with first aid while Morato and Galleon were brought to “where our ambulance was deployed and transported to the Zamboanga del Norte Medical Center.”

No soldier was hurt in the encounter.

A joint team of the 97th and 42nd Infantry Battalions launched the operation after they received a report on the presence of about 15 NPA rebels in Barangay Nazareth.

“This encounter was a result of the report by concerned residents,” Coderos said.

Recovered from the encounter site were four mobile phones, assorted food items, medical paraphernalia, 11 rounds of .45-caliber ammunition, one solar-powered and two mobile phone batteries, two phone chargers, documents with high intelligence value, and personal belongings.

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.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163132

4 NPA rebels killed in Masbate encounter

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17, 2021): 4 NPA rebels killed in Masbate encounter (By Connie Calipay and Mar Serrano)

Google map of Placer, Masbate province

Four New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in an armed encounter with government troops in the boundaries of the towns of Esperanza and Placer in Masbate province on Friday morning.

Major John Paul Belleza, 9th Infantry Division spokesperson, said in a statement that concerned citizens reported the presence of NPA guerillas in their area prompting soldiers of 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) under the 903rd Infantry Brigade and supported by Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct security operation.

The government troops encountered at least 20 NPA members at the boundary of Barangay Baras, Esperanza, and Barangay Manlut-od, Placer.

"The intense firefight between the two forces lasted for an hour resulting in the killing of the still-unidentified NPA members and capture of one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two M653 rifles, one Garand rifle, two rifle grenades, one hand grenade, anti-personnel mines, and terroristic propaganda materials," Belleza said.

He added that no one was hurt from the government side.

Lt. Col. Siegfried Felipe Awichen, commander of the 2nd Infantry Battalion, lambasted the rebels for their attempt to terrorize the Masbateños at the height of Typhoon Odette.

"In times when we should be lending our hands to the populace in the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), the rebels continue to plunder the countryside further adding to the woes of our impoverished fellow Filipinos," Awichen said.

Col. Aldwine Almase, commander of 903rd Infantry Brigade, thanked the residents for their prompt report which prevented the terrorist group from committing atrocities.

"Our troops will continue searching for other NPA members who are now on the run to stop them from hurling any terroristic attack against the innocent civilians and their communities," Almase said.

Meanwhile Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, PRO5 regional director, directed his troops to scour downtown areas in Masbate for the rebels who will try to find shelter after the encounter.

Brig. Gen. Adonis Bajao, acting division commander, assured the Bicolanos of the Army's stringent security measures being laid out in the entire region while also on alert for the preemptive efforts due to the typhoon.

Before this, in the area of 902nd Infantry Brigade, a series of successful operations were conducted by the 9th Infantry Battalion from December 10-12 in Ragay, Camarines Sur which resulted in the killing of one CTG member and capture of two M16 rifles, bandolier, three Molotov bombs, four detonators, two cellphones, three jungle packs, terroristic propaganda materials, and personal belongings.

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

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163076

Kalinaw News: EastMinCom Commander Visits Typhoon-Battered Areas, Calls for Unity Amid Adversity this Christmas Season

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 18, 2021): EastMinCom Commander Visits Typhoon-Battered Areas, Calls for Unity Amid Adversity this Christmas Season

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) Commander LtGen. Greg T. Almerol visited some areas in Eastern Mindanao that were slammed by Typhoon Odette and called for unity amid adversity as thousands of Filipinos were forced to leave their homes for safety during this Christmas season.

LtGen. Almerol joined soldiers yesterday, December 17, who were conducting aerial inspections over the areas of Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Norte to conduct an assessment on the damage caused by Typhoon Odette’s rampage.

According to the EastMinCom Commander, their assessment revealed that a total of 94,104 individuals were affected by the typhoon in 328 barangays and 49 municipalities across Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Island, Bukidnon, and Misamis Oriental.

EastMinCom troops, Local Government Units (LGUs), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other responding government agencies also continue to work together in setting up and securing a total of 259 evacuation areas across the said provinces.

EastMinCom’s new air assets, the four S-70i Blackhawk helicopters, and naval boats were also deployed in Dinagat Island and Siargao for the continuous conduct of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations including the transport of relief goods.


Several typhoon-hit areas also lost their electricity, communication signal, and some roads were not passable when LtGen. Almerol’s team first arrived at the scene but these were soon cleared as soldiers on the ground along with the LGUs and PNP worked together to clear the debris blocking the roads.

LtGen. Almerol said that the roads from Butuan City going to Surigao City were already cleared by the troops and other government agencies but they remain aggressive in conducting relief operations in the affected areas.

“This situation calls for a whole-of-nation approach in order to help our fellow Filipinos who are fighting for their survival during this calamitous event. During this season of giving, let us all come together to help Filipinos who are affected by Typhoon Odette in our little way,” LtGen. Almerol said.

“I saw firsthand the extent of the damage brought by the typhoon especially in Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Norte and the people who are residing there really need our help through provision of relief goods and other forms of assistance,” LtGen Almerol expressed.

“Once again, let us rise above this challenge by doing what we know best, that is, by unleashing our spirit of Bayanihan. We have already shown this as we navigated the surge of Covid-19 cases when we established community pantries all over the country. Let us show it once again for the benefit of the thousands of Filipinos affected by the Typhoon,” LtGen Almerol urged other Filipinos.

EastMinCom has activated its HADR operations all over Eastern Mindanao even before Typhoon Odette struck the country to facilitate preemptive evacuation.

[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/eastmincom-commander-visits-typhoon-battered-areas-calls-for-unity-amid-adversity-this-christmas-season/

Kalinaw News: Christmas comes early for NPAs in jail

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 18, 2021): Christmas comes early for NPAs in jail



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – The 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion together with its partner stakeholder and some family members and former comrades of NPA rebels, paid a visit to the apprehended NPA rebels and distributed gift packs, Christmas cards, and hot meals, at Misamis Oriental Provincial Jail and Cagayan de Oro City Jail, December 16, 2021.

The activity dubbed as “Oplan Christmas Visitation”, is an activity aimed at visiting Former Rebels and/or Captured NPA rebels in the precinct to boost their morale, bring light and hope during the Christmas season, and show them that they are not neglected or forgotten despite their current situation.

The primary goal of this activity is to simply check in on their situation, how things are going with them, and to speak with them and share a bundle of joy by distributing food packs and Christmas cards from their former comrades, providing hot meals from our partner stakeholder, and having their families and loved ones present.

21 NPA personalities, including alias Mosong and Maya, top NPA leaders in Misamis Oriental who were apprehended on September 16th, were visited and given Christmas gift packs and hot meals sponsored by the Commonwealth Insurance Company, Cagayan de Oro branch headed by Ms. Catherine Jean P Ugmad, Branch Manager, and each was given a Christmas card with personal messages from their former comrades and family members, currently residing at 58IB.

Some of the detained NPA rebels became emotional, especially after seeing a family member for the first time in months. They were extremely grateful for this visit as well as the giveaways.

“Through this initiative, we hope that we are able to bring hope and happiness to these apprehended NPA rebels despite their current situation,” said Lt Col Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB. May this simple act mean something to them and inspire them to keep going and persevering. ‘Habang may buhay, may pag-asa,’ as the saying goes.

[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/christmas-comes-early-for-npas-in-jail/

Kalinaw News: “Finally Home.” 2 NPAs killed in an encounter return to their families and laid to rest

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 18, 2021): “Finally Home.” 2 NPAs killed in an encounter return to their families and laid to rest



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – Two NPA rebels killed in an encounter with the 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Troopers and 16th Infantry Battalion in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental last December 14, 2021, were given a decent and proper turn-over to each family at a funeral home in Barangay Bal-ason, December 16, 2021.

The encounter that occurred in the hinterlands of Barangay Bal-ason, Gingoog City, last December 14 resulted to the troops’ recovery of five high-powered firearms and fatal death of Isidro Sarosad, alias Wawang/Bruha, team leader of SRSDG Eagles, SRC 1, NCMRC, a resident of Barangay Lanise, Claveria, Misamis Oriental; and Francisco Eranio, alias Lahoy, member of Guerilla Front Huawei, SRC1, NCMRC, and a resident of Barangay Ili-ilihon, Salay, Misamis Oriental.

Following the identification of the cadavers, troops from 58IB acted immediately and informed the family members about the tragic event. They facilitated and assisted Mr. Camilo S Catibag, alias Wawang’s stepfather, and Mrs. Marissa Marianas, alias Lahoy’s wife, in claiming the cadavers of their loved ones.

Marissa Marianas revealed that after Lahoy left home and disappeared, he did not contact or connect with his family in any way. “Dili nako mabasul ang mga sundalo kay grabe naman pud ang ilang paningkamot sa ilang mga pagpasabot, pag isturya sa among mga pamilya na aduna pay bana, anak, igsoon tua pa sa bukid na mahataga’g bag-ong kinabuhi basta mubalik na sa sabakan sa gobyerno ug misurender na lang. Makaingon gyud kong nahimo na ang tanan pero kay mas gipalabi man niya ang nasulod sa iyang huna huna ug gahi gyud sya. Ako gyud nang ginatry sya ikontak pero dili na pud sya makontak bisag unsaon. Hangtod maabot kaning higayuna na makauli sya sa amo wala nay kinabuhi.”

She continued to express herself and gave advice to remnants of NPAs and the general public. “Ang akong ika isturya sa mga iyang kauban karon, kung mahimo, kung dili mo gusto mapariha sa akong bana, pagnaog na mo tungod kay sakit na kaayo nang nibiya mo sa inyong pamilya, tapos muuli mo na wala nay kinabuhi. Sa mga ginikanan, asawa, bantayan ninyo ang mga myembro sa pamilya na dili muagni sa bukid mukapit sa ilang grupo tungod kay wala lang gihapoy saktong padulngan sahi sa ilang pasalig na mahatagan ug maayong panginabujian ang pamilya labi na ang mga anak. Ang akong mga anak, wala na silay amahan tapos maglisod pud ko magtubag sa ila kung asa ilang amahan.”

Marissa expressed gratitude to the government for all of its assistance and support to their family, particularly for facilitating the long-awaited, yet heartbreaking, reunification of Lahoy’s body with his family. “Akong pasalamat sa mga sundalo sa pag facilitate na makuha pa nako ang akong bana, gikan sa bukid hangtod maabot diri bisag wala na sya’y kinabuhi at least amo gihapon syang mahatagan ug simple ug disente nga lubong.”

“Yet again, lives were lost in the war against the failed ideology of the Communist NPA Terrorists,” said Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of the 58th Infantry Battalion (CNTs). “I am urging all NPA members who are still hiding in the hinterlands to come down in peace, lay down your arms, and return to the folds of the law while time and opportunity still exist. Put an end to this way of life; constant suffering in vain, with little regard for your own or others’ lives. We send our deepest sympathies to the bereaved family.”

[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/finally-home-2-npas-killed-in-an-encounter-return-to-their-families-and-laid-to-rest/

Kalinaw News: Army launches rescue and relief efforts for Typhoon “Odette” victims

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 17, 2021): Army launches rescue and relief efforts for Typhoon “Odette” victims



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Philippine Army units in the Visayas and Mindanao launched humanitarian assistance and disaster-response efforts in communities battered by Typhoon “Odette” today, December 17, 2021.

Various units from the Army’s 4th Infantry Division held rescue and relief efforts in communities hit hard by “Odette,” the strongest tropical cyclone to hit the country this year.

Troops from the 401st Infantry Brigade provided manpower and transportation assistance to stranded commuters in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Moreover, 58th Infantry Battalion troops cleared toppled trees that blocked vital roads in their area of operation in Misamis Oriental.

Troops and reservists also launched pre-emptive evacuations, search and rescue efforts, and relief missions in far-flung areas of the Caraga and Northern Mindanao regions.

The 3rd Infantry Division meanwhile mobilized its HADR teams in Panay and Negros Island for the onslaught of “Odette.” Army reservists also launched preemptive evacuation for residents living in flood-prone barangays in Roxas City, Capiz.

Additionally, the 8th Infantry Division marshaled its various units for rescue and preemptive evacuation efforts in disaster-prone communities in Eastern Visayas.

Army troops and reservists are currently conducting relief and rescue efforts for families in typhoon-battered communities.

The Philippine Army has issued a directive to its units since December 15 to prepare a disaster response team and coordinate closely with the Local Government Units (LGUs) and other government agencies for humanitarian assistance and disaster-response missions in line with the onslaught of Typhoon Odette.

[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-launches-rescue-and-relief-efforts-for-typhoon-odette-victims/

Kalinaw News: 4 CTG Members Killed, Firearms and Explosives Captured after Gov’t Troops Thwarted CTG’s Terroristic Attack at the Height of Typhoon Odette

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 17, 2021): 4 CTG Members Killed, Firearms and Explosives Captured after Gov’t Troops Thwarted CTG’s Terroristic Attack at the Height of Typhoon Odette



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur—Four communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) were killed in another successful military engagement initiated by the government troops in Masbate around 5:50 in the morning, Friday, December 17.

Concerned citizens reported about the presence of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in their area which prompted the elements of 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) under 903rd Infantry Brigade supported by PNP to conduct security operation and encountered at least 20 CNTs at the boundary of Barangay Baras, Esperanza, and Barangay Manlut-od, Placer of the said province.

An intense firefight between the two forces lasted for an hour resulting in the killing of the still-unidentified CTG members and capture of one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two M653 rifles, one garand rifle, two rifle grenades, one hand grenade, anti-personnel mines, and terroristic propaganda materials.

No one was harmed in the government side.

Lt. Col. Siegfried Felipe Awichen, Battalion Commander of 2IB, lambasted the CTG for their attempt to terrorize the Masbateños at the height of typhoon Odette.

“In times when we should be lending our hands to the populace in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas(GIDA), the CTG continues to plunder the countryside further adding to the woes of our impoverished fellow Filipinos,” Lt. Col. Awichen added.

On the other hand, Col. Aldwine Almase, Brigade Commander of 903rd Infantry Brigade, thanked the residents for their prompt report which prevented the terrorist group’s atrocities.

“Nagpapasalamat tayo sa mga Masbateño na hindi nagdalawang-isip na isumbong sa atin ang pagkilos ng mga teroristang ito na itinaon pa sa panahong sinasalanta ng bagyo ang ating mga kababayan. Patunay lamang ito ng kanilang pagiging makasarili at kawalang malasakit sa mga mamamayan. Our troops will continue searching for other CTG members who are now on the run to stop them from hurling any terroristic attack against the innocent civilians and their communities,” Col. Almase said.

Meanwhile, PBGEN JONNEL C ESTOMO, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 5 (PRO-5) directed his troops to scour every nook and cranny of downtown areas in Masbate for CTG members who will try to find shelter after the encounter.

“Sa kabundukan man o sa kalunsuran, tutugisin natin ang mga miyembro ng CTG na ito upang hindi na makapaminsala pa ng sinuman lalo na ngayong halos lahat sa atin ay apektado ng sama ng panahon,” PBGen. Estomo said.

Furthermore, BGEN ADONIS R BAJAO, Acting Division Commander of 9ID, assured the Bicolanos of the Army’s stringent security measures being laid out in the entire region while also on alert for the preemptive efforts due to the effect of typhoon Odette.

“Binabalaan natin ang CTG, kung inaakala ninyo na nakatutok lamang ngayon ang mga sundalo sa disaster response, nagkakamali kayo. Nakaalerto ang buong hanay ng Joint Task Force (JTF) Bicolandia upang tiyaking ligtas ang ating mga kababayan hindi lamang sa bagyo kundi sa maitim na balak ng teroristang grupong ito. Sa mga natitirang miyembro ng CTG, ilang araw na lang ay Pasko na. Maging paalala sana ang selebrasyong ito sa inyo na pahalagahan ang inyong nag-iisang buhay at ang kinabukasan ng inyong pamilya,” BGen. Bajao said.

Prior to this, in the area of 902nd Infantry Brigade, a series of successful operations were conducted by the 9th Infantry Battalion from December 10-12 in Ragay, Camarines Sur which resulted in the killing of one CTG member and capture of two M16 rifles, bandolier, three molotov bombs, four detonators, two cellphones, three jungle packs, terroristic propaganda materials and personal belongings.

[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/4-ctg-members-killed-firearms-and-explosives-captured-after-govt-troops-thwarted-ctgs-terroristic-attack-at-the-height-of-typhoon-odette/

Kalinaw News: Disgruntled Communist Terrorist member yield in Isabela

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 17, 2021): Disgruntled Communist Terrorist member yield in Isabela



Camp Aquino, Tarlac City – December 17, 2021

A disgruntled member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operating in Cagayan Valley voluntarily surrendered to the troops of the 502nd Infantry Brigade under the Joint Task Force (JTF) Tala in Barangay Dibuluan, San Mariano Isabela, on the early afternoon of December 17, 2021.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Danilo Benavides, Commander of the 502nd Infantry Brigade, said that the former member of the communist terrorist yielded one (1) Elisco M16A1 rifle bearing SN: 148397 and one (1) short magazine loaded with ten (10) live ammunition.

Brig. Gen. Benavides identified the former terrorist as Mauili Jr a.k.a. “Jun”, a 57-year-old member of the Yunit Militia and Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL).

“A.k.a. Jun is a member of the dwindling Communist Terrorist Group of the Cagayan Valley Regional Committee (KR-CV). He voluntarily surrendered to our troops after he was enlightened of the deception and lies of the communist terrorist, ” said Brig. Gen. Benavidez.

Maj. Gen. Laurence Mina, Commander of the JTF Tala thanked the community in assisting the former CTG member in going back to the folds of the law.

“The peaceful surrender is attributable to information provided by our concerned populace complemented by the relentless efforts of our security forces on the ground,” said Maj. Gen. Mina.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Andrew Costelo, Acting Commander of the Northern Luzon Command (NoLCom), which covers northern and central Luzon, lauded the JTF Tala troopers and policemen for being steadfast in their duty of creating an environment of peace in their area of responsibility.

Brig. Gen. Costelo also called out to the few remaining NPA terrorists in Regions 1, 2, 3, and the CAR to abandon their useless armed struggle and return to the folds of the law, and avail the government’s grants through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, or E-CLIP.

“The Christmas season is fast approaching. I call on the remaining members of the communist terrorist to peacefully lay down their arms and go back to the folds of the law while you still have the chance to be with your families,” Brig. Gen. Costelo added.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/disgruntled-communist-terrorist-member-yield-in-isabela-2/

Kalinaw News: 5ID supports NCIP in condemning CTG atrocities

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 17, 2021): 5ID supports NCIP in condemning CTG atrocities



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army roots for the resolutions passed by the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) in condemning the violence and atrocities of the Communist Terrorist Group with its terrorist front organizations.

The NCIP Region 02 and the other NCIP Commissioners have passed three resolutions condemning the atrocities of the terrorist Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) last October 20, 2021. Based on the data of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), more or less 70% of the members of the CTG are reported to be IPs.

On December 14, 2021, NCIP – Isabela and the representatives of every IP community have adopted the NCIP National Office resolutions. This is to condemn the killings, radicalization, deceptive recruitment, and exploitation of IPs for them to join the terrorist group, particularly in the province of Isabela.

“The NCIP is mandated to protect the interest and well-being of our IPs with due regard to their beliefs, customs, traditions, and institutions. Together with the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Isabela, we will ensure that our IPs are safe from the atrocities of the CTGs,” Esther O Nalliw-Licnachan, Provincial Officer of NCIP Isabela said.

MGen Laurence E Mina, Commander of 5ID, supports the resolutions to protect the welfare of the IPs who are vulnerable to the deception of the CTGs. “We in the 5ID, fully support the resolutions passed to protect our IPs. I also laud your initiative in adopting the resolutions that only manifest your concern for our IPs. Through the Whole-of-Nation Approach, we will protect everyone, and no one will be left behind.”

Meanwhile, the said agency and the 86th Infantry Battalion visited the Agta Community in Sitio Dilukot, Barangay Burgos, San Guillermo, Isabela. They conducted a seminar to give awareness IP on the different government programs to prevent them from being manipulated and deceived by the CTG.

[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/5id-supports-ncip-in-condemning-ctg-atrocities/

Kalinaw News: SULU gains 300 more Army Reservists

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 17, 2021): SULU gains 300 more Army Reservists



December 17, 2021, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Jolo, Sulu – Yesterday afternoon, Basic Citizen Military Training (BCMT) Class 02-2021 concluded, officially adding 300 more citizens from different walks of life to Sulu’s military reserve force.

With Joint Task Force – Sulu and 11th Infantry Division Commander MGen William N Gonzales as guest of honor, the 45-day BCMT- which comprised of basic military skills, relief and rescue operations, disaster response, field training exercise and firearms proficiency – culminated in a closing ceremony at the Sulu State College in Jolo. As part of the program, the enlistment order of the graduates was read and immediately followed by the pinning of their ranks.

“Although this batch are all reserve privates, its diverse demographic will add value to what the first ready reserve battalion can do to advance our campaign for peace here in the province. Our youth will be less vulnerable to the recruitment of terror groups, instead, they will be ambassadors of peace,” noted MGen Gonzales.

“They are part of the army’s future structure – a regular force supported by a strong reservist force. Aside from providing additional manpower to the Philippine Army in dealing with external and territorial threats, they have a crucial role stabilizing Sulu’s socio- economic situation. They can help in strengthening education, employment, order and safety,” the commander added.

Notably, the class included members of the youth sector, CAA members, and other individuals coming from various fields such as education, engineering, and local governance. One of them is 31 year-old Pvt Sharryhama D Serajani (Res) who is a nursing graduate currently working as a government employee at Jolo’s Muncipal Hall.

“Noong kabataan ko, hindi ko talaga naiintindihan ang trabaho ng Sundalo. Pero ngayong nakapag-training na rin ako naiintindihan ko na kung anong layunin ng mga sundalo dito sa lugar namin. At gusto kong maging parte ng pagbabago at pag-unlad dito sa Sulu bilang isang reservist,” she said.

With the addition of new privates from BCMT 02-2021, there are now more than 515 army reservist in Sulu. According to 906th Community Defense Center Director Ltc Andres A Soriano, they are planning to train more or less 600 of individuals to complete the manning of Sulu’s first ready reserve battalion. Meanwhile, there are 56 marine reservists mostly residing in the province’s second district.

Maimbung Mayor Sgt Shiela T Hayudini (Res) was also part of the BCMT 02-2021 class while 1st, District Engineer Cpt Ajan Ajijul (Res), Engr 2Lt Jal-Ameer H Jimlan (Res) and Sulu State College President Sgt Charisma Ututalum (Res) were members of class 01-2021.

“Finally, we can see the realization of the idea we had about a year ago. When I first met with Gov Tan, we’ve talked about the possibility of recruiting reservists in Sulu. Now we have two reservist companies composed of very talented individuals,” MGen Gonzales said during his remarks.

The event was also graced by 9RCDG ARESCOM Commander Col Patricio S Tomales, 906th (SULTA) CDC Director Ltc Andres A Soriano, Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan respresented by Mr Erwin Tan and the families of the new reservists who were very eager and proud to witness the closing ceremony.

[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/sulu-gains-300-more-army-reservists/

Kalinaw News: Army Reservists launch humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts in Odette-affected communities.

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 16, 2021): Army Reservists launch humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts in Odette-affected communities.



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Army reservists from the 1502nd Community Defense Center launched humanitarian assistance and disaster-response operations in communities affected by Typhoon “Odette” in Agusan del Sur today, December 16, 2021.

“Staying true to our mandate, we are always ready to assist in relief and rescue efforts, especially during calamities,” said Lt. Col. Maria Teresa Baylon (Res), Commanding Officer of the 1502nd Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (1502RRIBn) of the 1502nd Community Defense Center (1502CDC).

Typhoon “Odette,” affecting the Caraga and Eastern Visayas regions, is the strongest tropical cyclone to directly affect the country this year.

Commanding General of the Philippine Army (CGPA) Maj. In his recent assumption speech, Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. has said that the command is aiming to recruit quality reservists that will effectively complement the Army’s regular force.

The Philippine Reservists Act (Republic Act 7077) mandates reserve units to assist relief and rescue efforts during calamities and socio-economic development initiatives.

[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-reservists-launch-humanitarian-assistance-and-disaster-response-efforts-in-odette-affected-communities/

Kalinaw News: Army installs new Chief of Engineers

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 16, 2021): Army installs new Chief of Engineers



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army installed a new chief of the Office of the Army Chief of Engineers (OACE) yesterday, December 15, 2021.

Chief of Staff, Philippine Army (CSPA) Maj. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong presided leadership turnover from the outgoing ACE Col. Randy Fajilagutan to incoming Acting ACE Col. Antonio Rota.

Before his post, Col. Rota serves as the Deputy ACE since August 2020. He was commissioned in 1991 and completed the Officer Preparatory Course in 1993. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the Misamis Institute of Technology and completed a Master in Public Management Major in Development Security. He was assigned to various Army engineer units where he held key positions such as the Chief of Staff and Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations of the 54th Engineer Brigade (54EBde). He also became the Commanding Officer of 547th Engineer Combat Battalion and Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations of the 52nd Engineer Brigade.

During Col. Rota’s assumption speech, he called on the OACE to continue being innovative and adaptable to changes as it is necessary to make the office’s output relevant when rendered to the ground. He also highlighted the importance of stewardship of Army facilities, equipment, and other resources because these are drivers and enablers of the office’s mission.

On the other hand, Col. Fajilagutan will assume as the next Commander of the 54th Engineer Brigade. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Masters in Management. He completed the Officer Candidate Course in 1991. Among the notable projects of the OACE under his leadership is the preparation of the detailed Architectural and Engineering Plans of 19 new and six repair projects of Army facilities.

Despite limitations due to the pandemic, Col. Fajilagutan closely coordinated with the concerned units to successfully conduct meetings and conferences to monitor and supervise administrative and contract projects.

In his message, the CSPA encourages the personnel of OACE to support the newly installed ACE to serve the Philippine Army better.

“To the OACE family, welcome your new Chief as his designation embodies the continuity of your hard work and hope for further initiatives. Work with Col Rota as one team and serve selflessly while ensuring timely compliance. In line with your outgoing Chief’s reminders, I encourage all of you to make the utmost of your talents and skills in the service of God, country, and people,” addressed Brig. Gen. Capulong.

[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-installs-new-chief-of-engineers/