CPP/Information Bureau: NPA Surigao election checkpoints were orderly and just—CPP

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 11, 2022): NPA Surigao election checkpoints were orderly and just—CPP

Information Bureau

Communist Party of the Philippines

February 11, 2022

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today said that the checkpoints mounted by the New People’s Army (NPA) yesterday in Cortes town, Surigao del Sur, were “orderly and just” and were conducted with full respect for human rights and consistent with international humanitarian law (IHL).

“Based on initial information from the area, the checkpoints were conducted in an orderly fashion,” said CPP Chief Information Officer Marco Valbuena.

Reports from various news outfits say that residents noted about a hundred Red fighters of the NPA mounted checkpoints in different points of Cortes town, Surigao del Sur. One of the NPA units was assigned to the portion of the national highway in Sitio Lubcon, Barangay Mabahin, Cortes. The checkpoints were lifted 30 minutes later.

Valbuena described as a “desperate pack of lies” the claims of the 901st Infantry Brigade and Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office that the NPA checkpoints violated IHL.

“Clearly, the NPA forces which conducted the checkpoints were very respectful of the rights of civilians and did not cause much inconvenience,” said Valbuena. He explained that the NPA has the option of mounting temporary checkpoints within its territories or areas of operation to implement policies of the people’s democratic government.

Valbuena said checkpoints can be undertaken as measures to ensure compliance with the people’s government’s policies regarding the conduct of elections prohibiting politicians from bringing armed goons and police and military escorts that usually serve to intimidate the people.

Embarrassed by the NPA’s show of force, Maj. Francisco Garello, spokesperson of the 4th ID, gaslighted the residents by saying the report was inaccurate and only “around 20 rebels” mounted the checkpoint.

According to reports, a police unit dispatched to the checkpoints decided to return to their station after finding out they were “outnumbered.”

https://cpp.ph/statements/npa-surigao-election-checkpoints-were-orderly-and-just-cpp/

CPP/NPA-Agusan del Norte: Mga Nahitabong Sunod-sunod nga Harassment ug Pagpusil-Patay kang Cevirino “Jun” Magallanes Calvarez

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 10, 2022): Mga Nahitabong Sunod-sunod nga Harassment ug Pagpusil-Patay kang Cevirino “Jun” Magallanes Calvarez (Sequence of Harassment and Shooting of Death of Cevirino “Jun” Magallanes Calvarez)

Diwa Habagat

Spokesperson

NPA-Agusan del Norte

Northeast Mindanao Regional Operational Command

New People's Army

February 10, 2022

Dunay 5 ka insidente sa harassment nahitabo bulan sa Disyembre 2021 sa bukirong dapit sa Baryo Putingbato, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte ngadto sa boundary sa Agusan del Norte ug Surigao del Sur .

Unang nahitabo niadtong Dec. 15 sa may alas 8am, ikaduha- Dec. 19 sa may alas 10am, ikatulo ka hugna-Dec. 20 sa may alas 9am, ika-upat nga hugna-Dec. 23 @ 11am ug ikalima nga hugna -Dec. 29 @ 12nn.

Sa maong panghitabo dunay konpirmadong usa nga namatay sa panig sa AFP samtang sa pikas bahin adunay usa ka M16 rifle nga nabilin sa operating team sa NPA apan walay kaswalty.

Jan. 25, 2022-@4:30pm, giharass sa team NPA-ang unit sa 29thibpa nga nagsige og pangharang sa mga mananilay/naga-tunnel sa Maranahao-Puting bato, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte .

Usa niini ang kompirmadong napatay.

Taas na kini nga operation sukad pa niadtong bulan sa octobre sa lungsod sa Santiago, Jabongga ug kitcharao.

Pagka-Decembre12 mao kini ang laing hugna sa pagsulod sa operation sa Puting bato-Cabadbaran ug gilangkob niini pag-abot ang boundary sa Agusan del Norte ug Surigao del Sur.

Mikabat sa 23 ka sakyanan ang nisulod sa baryo Putingbato gikan dec. 12 hangtud dec. 23, 2021. Walay labot pa ang ubang gigikanan entry sama sa Padiay going to upper tago river area pa sa 65thib, ug Cantilan padulong bukirong bahin sa lubo ug hinapuyan-carmen going sa dating kampo 58thib/plaka aron abton sa operation ang mga boundary sa 3 ka nagsilingang 3 ka probinsya.

Mga operating troops niini sa 901st Brigade anaa ang 29thib, 30thib ug 36thib, anaa usab ang 402nd Bde ang 65thib, ug naa ang elite forces ang Scout Ranger ug DRC.

Usa kini ka Division operation nga naga-operate sa probinsya ug sa boundary sa Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte ug Surigao del Sur.

Among gikondena kining taas nang military operation sukad pa kini sa bulan sa Octobre 2021 ug hangtud pa karon.

Usa ka gastuso ug pagwaldas lamang kini nga military operation sa nasudnong panudlanan, Taliwala nga naga-atubang sa krisis ang katawhan sa pandemyang covid19 ug sa bag-ong dakong damyos sa bagyong Odette Nag-unang gitagad ug gibuhusan sa budget sa pinansya ug lohistika sa rehimeng-US Duterte ang dinagko ug tagdugay nga military operations. Gawas pa, laing daghang nakomitar ang AFP nga mga paglapas sa tawhanong katungod sama sa pagbalda sa katawhang nagbukid ug nagatunnel nga libre makapadayon sa ilang inadlaw-adlawng panginabuhi, dugang kining naghatag kapit-os sa daan nang lisud nga kahimtang sa panginabuhi sa masang mag-uuma, bunga sa atrasado ug mapahimuslanong sistema sa ekonomiya, gawas pa laing epekto niini-nagmugna kinig kalisang sa pagbati sa katawhang mag-uuma ug lumad tungod sa daghan nang kasinatian sa walay kukaluoy nga pinataka nga pagpangdakop, pangtorture, pamomba ug pagpamatay sa mga inosenteng sibilyan panahon sa ilang military operation ug mga pagpundo sa komunidad ug baryo.

Kining pagpahigayon sa maong military operation, sa makausa pa, Ilalom kini sa damgo ug hinungog nga paninguha sa reheming-US Duterte nga tapuson ang lokal nga Komunistang Armadong Kalihukan sa tuig 2022. Pinaagi sa pagpatay ug pagpasurender sa mga rebolusyonaryong membro sa New Peoples Army, Partido Komunista ug Nasudnon Demokratikong Prente.

Gi-priority nilang gitarget sa pagpatay ang mga adunay taas nga posisyon sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan tungod kay ang kamatuoran diha sa matag kamatayon sa taas nga ranggo sa kalihukan kakambyo niini ang pagkab-ot sa bag-o nilang taas posisyon o promotion sama ni 4thidpa nga si Major General Brawner. Gawas pa giilogan nila ang taas nga presyo sa patong sa matag ulo sa mamatay nga lider nga rebolusyonaryo.

Jan. 24, 2022 @6:30pm- usa ka Ceverino “Jun” Magallanes Calvarez 65 anyos ang gi-pusil-patay sa NPA-usa ka aktibong nagapang-ispiya/asset sa 29thibpa ug 65thibpa batok sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan, adunay higayon kining nag-uban sa operation aron tuoron ang temporaryong gikampohan sa usa sa mga ka yunit sa NPA. Dati kining

Ang maong binuhatan bisan dili direktang nakig pinusilay sa NPA, apan kamo ang naghatag og information/kahibalo sa AFP-PNP. . Dili kalikayan nga kamo makakita sa unsa mang kalihukan sa NPA tungod kay anaa kamo nanimuyo ug nanginabuhi sa kabukiran. Amo kining dugang gipahimangno sa mga indibidwal nga sibilyan nga mohunong sa mga pagpang-espiya batok sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan aron malikayang mahitabo ang sama sa kamatayon ni Jun Magallanes Calvarez.

https://cpp.ph/statements/mga-nahitabong-sunod-sunod-nga-harassment-ug-pagpusil-patay-kang-cevirino-jun-magallanes-calvarez/

CPP/NPA-Sorsogon: Fake News Alert: Nora Garote

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 10, 2022): Fake News Alert: Nora Garote

 


Samuel Guerrero

Spokesperson

NPA-Sorsogon (Celso Minguez Command)

Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)

New People's Army

February 10, 2022

Inaresto nitong Enero 21 si Nora Garote, isang kagawad sa Brgy. Sta. Lourdes, Barcelona, Sorsogon ng mga elemento ng 31st IBPA at Barcelona PNP.

Pinaratangan siya na NPA supporter, binugbog, tinaniman ng mga ebidensya at sinampahan ng gawa-gawang kaso.

Si Garote ay pang 2 na sibilyan na sinampahan ng gawa-gawang kaso ngayong taon.

https://cpp.ph/statements/fake-news-alert-nora-garote/

CPP/NDF-Sison: I am still alive

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 8, 2022): I am still alive

Jose Maria Sison

Founding Chairperson

Communist Party of the Philippines

February 08, 2022

.

Iam still alive. And I am celebrating my birthday today. Those spreading the rumours that I am dead are liars.

I have no life-threatening illness, only some inflammations on the legs due to rheumatoid arthritis the other day and yesterday. These go away in only 2 to 4 days after medication.

I am healthy and will deliver in the coming days two separate lectures by Zoom on fascism before and after World War II and on the 2022 elections in the Philippines.

I will also introduce by Zoom the screening of Paloma Polo’s El Barro de la Revolucion in Spain. This is about the current people’s war in the Philippines.

https://cpp.ph/statements/i-am-still-alive/

CPP/CIO: Rumors of Ka Joma’s death circulated by NTF-Elcac

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 8, 2022): Rumors of Ka Joma’s death circulated by NTF-Elcac

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

February 08, 2022

Since around three days ago, the NTF-Elcac and its army of trolls on Facebook and Twitter, have been circulating rumors of the passing away of Prof. Jose Ma. Sison, the CPP’s founding chair. They desperately wish to whip up a frenzy but have succeeded only in making themselves look like fools.

Ka Joma has denied these rumors and described them as “greatly exaggerated”, paraphrasing Mark Twain.

The fascist zealots have long had a death wish for Ka Joma because of his strident communist views and promotion of the Filipino people’s national and democratic aspirations.

Ka Joma marks today his 83rd birthday. The tens of thousands of communists and revolutionary fighters, patriots and democrats in the Philippines wish Ka Joma good health and many more years of intellectual and practical work for the Filipino and international proletariat and all oppressed and exploited classes.

https://cpp.ph/statements/rumors-of-ka-jomas-death-circulated-by-ntf-elcac/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: CAA element punished by NPA in Canlaon City

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 8, 2022):

CAA element punished by NPA in Canlaon City

JB Regalado

Spokesperson

NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

February 08, 2022

Red fighters of the Leonardo Panaligan Command – New People’s Army of the Central Negros Guerilla Front, successfully meted out revolutionary justice towards Rene Villasenior, around 6 pm on February 5, 2022 in Sitio Enatito, Barangay Budlasan, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.

Villasenior was a CAA (Civilian Active Auxiliary) element in the military detachment of the aforementioned Barangay, responsible for several crimes against civilians in the area. He was a prolific red-tagger of farmers and farm workers in Canlaon City, La Castellana and Guihulngan City which resulted to illegal arrests, harassment and other gross human rights violations. Most recently, he was involved in the raids, warrantless searches, of households in Sitio Natoling, Barangay Budlasan and indiscriminate firing that victimised even children last January 15, 2022. As such, Villasenior is a legitimate target of the NPA and was therefore punished.

Villasenior’s death serves as a warning to the AFP/PNP/NTF-ELCAC combine. All those who hamper the rights and interests of the broad masses are subject to revolutionary justice and sanctions of their committed crimes. They are enticed to surrender immediately to nearby NPA units or Party branches to face the Revolutionary People’s Court. Elements who wish to genuinely serve the people and leave behind their mercenary lives as puppets to the whims of their murderous military commanders like Pasaporte and Arevalo, and most especially their ailing commander-in-chief Duterte, can instead join the NPA or choose other livelihoods.

The LPC-NPA will continue to wage tactical offensives and other military actions through guerilla warfare on an ever deepening and widening mass base. Guided by the Communist Party of the Philippines and widely supported and nourished by the impoverished masses, it is inspired to resolutely face and overwhelm the difficulties of the enemy’s relentless focused military operations and hamletting of communities to advance the people’s war to greater heights amidst the worsening crisis of the rotting semicolonial and semifeudal ruling system. Instead of faltering, the revolution will persist as the people are more and more persuaded to take up arms against a state servile to imperialism, feudalism, and bureaucrat capitalism. ###

https://cpp.ph/statements/caa-element-punished-by-npa-in-canlaon-city/

NDF-International Office: “Joma” happily celebrates 83rd birthday amidst continuing terrorist threats from Duterte’s NTF-ELCAC

Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Feb 9, 2022): “Joma” happily celebrates 83rd birthday amidst continuing terrorist threats from Duterte’s NTF-ELCAC

Press Statement
Ma. Lourdes Barros
NDFP International Information Office
Utrecht, The Netherlands

8 February 2022

While most people usually expect traditionally to receive gifts during their birthdays, Prof. Jose Ma. Sison or “Joma” on his birthday instead gifted his comrades, allies and friends with the news that he is alive and busy preparing for his next book scheduled to be launched in March this year.

“Joma” happily celebrated his 83rd birthday today at his home in Utrecht, while comrades, allies, friends and Filipino migrants continue to flood him with greetings and expressions of concern over his safety.

This, after rumours circulated obviously manufactured by the NTF-ELCAC’s army of tax-paid cyber rumour-mongers, slanderers and mud-slingers, that Joma had died yesterday, a day before his birthday.

On Sunday, February 6, his latest book On the Communist Party of the Philippines was launched online, but he had to beg off as he was not feeling well because of inflammations on both his legs due to rheumatoid arthritis. The organizers, supporters, friends and comrades also intended the booklaunch to be a virtual birthday celebration for him, and was expected to be physically present at the NDFP International Information Office on the same day.

The cyber terrorists of the NTF-ELCAC on the same day swung into action and circulated the news that Joma has died.

Continuing terrorist threats

Sources among the NDFP staff said there was reason to believe that a possible terrorist action against Joma was planned on that day when he was supposed to be present at the NDFP Int’l Information Office, but the terrorist plan was not executed because Joma did not show up. Still, the NTF-ELCAC’s cyber terrorists led by its “fake news queen” released the “news” on Facebook (Meta) that Joma was already dead.

Threats of terrorist assassination from several Philippine fascist regimes have been hounding Joma ever since he sought political asylum in the Netherlands in the late 1980’s. Some of those previously planned terrorist assassinations, however, were thwarted when a conscientious member of the assassination team became edified on the atrocity of the deed that he exposed the plan to the public and to Joma himself.

However, there is an ongoing assassination threat on Joma which was exposed in January of 2021 so serious and imminent that the Dutch police warned Joma of the threat and advised hims to take measures.

This latest rumour of Joma’s supposed death, NDFP sources say, is most likely part of that ongoing terrorist assassination threat against him.

The last time we checked before releasing this statement, Joma was enjoying his favorite – ice cream!#

https://ndfp.org/joma-happily-celebrates-83rd-birthday-amidst-continuing-terrorist-threats-from-dutertes-ntf-elcac/

NDF-International Office: Young activists express great “optimism in building a new and better world” during launch of Sison’s latest book ‘On the Communist Party of the Philippines’

Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Feb 7, 2022): Young activists express great “optimism in building a new and better world” during launch of Sison’s latest book ‘On the Communist Party of the Philippines’

Press Release
NDFP International Information Office
Utrecht, The Netherlands

7 February 2022

Young activists from different global regions have expressed strong enthusiasm and confidence in building a new world in the struggle to end exploitation and oppression, during the booklaunch of Prof. Jose Ma. Sison’s latest book On the Communist Party of the Philippines. This book is part of the Sison Reader Series, a collection of volumes of the writings of Sison, founding chairman of the CPP and NDFP chief political consultant.

Asked what comes to their mind about communism, the young activists replied: many and majority of the neglected people today will be cherished and given care they rightfully deserve under a classless society. Another said: optimism because another world is being built.

A movement that’s inclusive to everyone who is willing to commit to the collective and the masses, stated another. “It is to the interests of the (working class) and the people to fight for communism,” added another activist.

In a pre-recorded remark during the online booklaunch, Professor Sison gave an overview of the exceptional growth and achievements of the CPP which he co-founded together with 12 other young Marxists-Leninists-Maoists in a village of Alaminos, Pangasinan in 1968.

“Now, the CPP has more than 150,000 members. The New People’s Army has thousands of Red fighters with automatic rifles and operates in more than 110 guerrilla fronts nationwide. It is augmented by tens of thousands of members of the people’s militia and self-defense units of the revolutionary mass organizations. Within the frame of the NDFP, the revolutionary mass organizations and local alliances have millions of members,” Sison emphasized.

Commenting on the state of the people and the revolutionary resistance, Sison said: “The Filipino people and their revolutionary forces can be expected to fight more fiercely than ever against the Duterte terror regime and the entire ruling system when Duterte rigs the elections this year as Marcos did in 1986. They are now far stronger and more tested in struggle than in earlier decades. They are more than ever prepared to wage a resolute and relentless struggle because the chronic crisis of the ruling system is rapidly worsening, they are more desirous than ever for revolutionary change and the CPP and other revolutionary forces are stronger than ever before.

“It is to the outstanding great credit of the CPP that it is one of the proletarian revolutionary parties of the world successfully leading the people’s democratic revolution. It is widely recognized as a torch-bearer of the world proletarian-socialist revolution, whose resurgence is being ushered in by the anti-imperialist and democratic mass struggles all over the world and by the intensification of all major contradictions: between labor and capital, between the imperialist powers and the oppressed peoples and nations, among the imperialist powers themselves and the US and China as the chief imperialist rivals,” Sison concluded.

Luis Jalandoni, senior adviser of the NDFP peace panel commenting on the reestablishment of the CPP led by Sison, said its founding was “marked by revolutionary creativity, daring and remarkable resourcefulness and courage, the twelve founders dared to found the Party and start the people’s war with only 9 automatic rifles and 26 inferior arms, but with the support of thousands of youth, worker and peasant fighters”.

Comrade Joma’s book, Jalandoni stated, teaches us revolutionary lessons learned in the course of conducting people’s war. It is the inspiration for all comrades and friends in the ongoing struggle of the Filipino people for national and social liberation, he added.

Irina Malenko, a Russian Marxist-Leninist, said Sison’s latest book continues to add to her theoretical knowledge of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism, and how to apply this knowledge to the concrete practice of the current specific circumstances of the worldwide crisis of the capitalism system. “I also learn so many new facts of the history of the communist movement in the Philippines which wasn’t properly covered in the Soviet literature available to us in the past,” Malenko also said.

“It amazes me how productively Ka Joma works, even throughout the pandemic, when many comrades unwillingly felt depressed or demoralized by the harsh circumstances, lack of face to face contacts and possibility to travel, as well as very harsh restrictions in many countries, Netherlands and the Philippines included. He is really a shining example for us all on how not to give in to those dark feelings and to turn adversities into opportunities, as our Korean comrades say, ‘even though our path is arduous, we will walk it smiling!’ Thank you for your inspiring example which is of great support to all of us, around the world!,” Malenko concluded.

The program of the booklaunch ended with the showing of the music video “Muog na Buo” (Solid Fortress).

Professor Sison had to beg off from the online booklaunch as he was not feeling well because of inflammations on both his legs due to rheumatoid arthritis. The organizers, supporters, friends and comrades also intended the booklaunch to be a virtual birthday celebration for him. Sison will turn 83 tomorrow, February 8, 2022.

https://www.kobo.com/nl/en/ebook/on-the-communist-party-of-the-philippines-1968-1999

https://books.apple.com/us/book/id1604186373

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/on-the-comm

https://www.scribd.com/author/529454215/Jose-Maria-Sison

For reference:

Ma. Lourdes Barros
NDFP International Information Office

https://ndfp.org/young-activists-express-great-optimism-in-building-a-new-and-better-world-during-launch-of-sisons-latest-book-on-the-communist-party-of-the-philippines/

Kalinaw News: Isa pang sagupaan sa pagitan ng ARMY at NPA, sumiklab sa Surigao del Norte, isang NPA patay

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 11, 2022): Isa pang sagupaan sa pagitan ng ARMY at NPA, sumiklab sa Surigao del Norte, isang NPA patay (Another clash between ARMY and NPA erupts in Surigao del Norte, one NPA dead)

Gigaquit,Surigao del Norte- Nagkaroon muli ng sagupaan sa pagitan ng kasundalohan ng 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion, Philippine Army at mga miyembro ng teroristang grupo ng New People’s Army o NPA dakong Alas-Onse ng tanghali (11:00 AM), ika-10 ng Pebrero 2022 sa bulubunduking bahagi naman ng Brgy.Budlingin , Alegria, Surigao del Norte.

Pagkatapos ng bakbakan nitong nakaraang ika-8 ng Pebrero kung saan nasawi ang isang miyembro ng NPA na kinilala bilang si Narciso Suazo alyas Wolf, nawalan ulit sila isa pang miyembro matapos muling sumiklab ang labanan sa pagitan ng kasundalohan at ng pinagsamang puwersa ng Guerilla Front (GF) 16C1 na pinamumunuan ni Roel Neniel o mas kilala bilang si Alyas Jacob at GF 16C2 na pinamumunuan ni Alberto Castañeda na mas kilala bilang si Alyas J.D.

Nangyari ang engkwentro matapos ipinagpatuloy ng kasundalohan ng 30IB ang paghahabol sa kanilang mga nakasagupa nitong nakaraang araw upang protektahan ang mga komunidad mula sa pang-aabuso ng armadong grupo. At kanilang natunton ang tumatakas ng mga rebelde at muling nagkaputukan na nagresulta din sa pagkasamsam ng iba’t-ibang kagamitang pandigma tulad ng isang IED na may kasamang Detonating device, Blasting Cap, magazines para sa M16 rifle, bandolier, bala ng M16 at AK47, medisina, subersibong dokumento, pagkain at iba pang personal na gamit.

Sa ngayon, ang nasawing NPA ay nakilalang si Ricky Vocales Rosaldo alyas Kenz, miyembro ng Platoon 16C1, GFC16, NEMRC ay pansamantalang nakahimlay sa Gades Funeral Homes sa Brgy Pongtud, Alegria, SDN.

Muli din nagpahayag ng pasasalamat si LTC RYAN CHARLES G CALLANTA, ang pinuno ng 30IB sa mga magigiting na kasundalohan na patuloy na pagganap ng kanilang sinumpaang tungkulin, “Nagpapasalamat ako sa ating mga kasundalohan sa 30IB sa kanilang kagitingan at katapatan. Asahan niyo po na mas lalo pa namin gagampanan ang aming tungkulin sa abot ng aming makakaya upang panatilihin ang kapayapaan at bigyan ng seguridad ang mamamayan sa buong probinsya ng Surigao del Norte”.

Patuloy din nananawagan si LTC Callanta sa mga natitirang aktibong miyembro ng NPA na bumalik na sa kanilang mga pamilya at magbagong buhay bago pa mahuli ang lahat.

[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/isa-pang-sagupaan-sa-pagitan-ng-army-at-npa-sumiklab-sa-surigao-del-norte-isang-npa-patay/

Firearms, Ammunition Seized in Joint Law Enforcement Operation in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 10, 2022): Firearms, Ammunition Seized in Joint Law Enforcement Operation in Sulu



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – February 10, 2022

Combined elements from the Joint Task Force Sulu, different intelligence units, and Sulu PNP conducted a joint law enforcement operation on February 9, 2022, to execute a search warrant issued by Hon. Shene Canete, Acting Presiding Judge, 9th Judicial Region, Branch 4, Parang, Sulu against Abu Sayyaf Group member Muksidal Jumadil.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command said that operating troops proceeded to Barangay Kan Mindus, Luuk, Sulu to implement the search warrant for violation of Republic Act 10591 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act against the abovementioned personality. Sensing the arrival of the government forces, Jumadil open-fired and fled in the direction of Barangay Tangkuan, Omar, Sulu.

According to Brig. Gen. Antonio Bautista, Jr., Acting Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, operating troops are in pursuit of the fleeing terrorist.

Meanwhile, a search was done at the residence of Jumadil and this was witnessed by Barangay Chairman Patta Putuh Bangalan of Kan Mindus. The search was executed together with the personnel of CIDG9 as videographer pursuant to the rules on the use of Body-Worn Cameras in the execution of Warrants (A.M. No. 21-06-08 SC) issued by the Supreme Court which took effect on August 1, 2021.

Firearms and ammunition were recovered by the searching elements at the target’s house. These include one Winchester M14 rifle with three metal magazines, sixty 7.62mm live ammunition, one 9mm pistol with metal magazine and seven live ammunition, and one bandolier. Confiscated items are now under the custody of CIDG9 for proper disposition.

“Your armed forces and other line agencies are working doubly to sustain our gains in peace and development in this part of the country. With everybody’s cooperation we are confident that the law enforcement efforts we launched together with our partners will reap more successes in the coming days,” Lt. Rosario, Jr. stated.



[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/firearms-ammunition-seized-in-joint-law-enforcement-operation-in-sulu/

Kalinaw News: “Soldiers Capture 34 Assault Rifles from NPA Lair in Samar”

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 10, 2022): “Soldiers Capture 34 Assault Rifles from NPA Lair in Samar”

Catbalogan City, February 10, 2022 – Soldiers from 8th Infantry Division (8ID) captured a total of 34 assorted assault rifles believed left behind by fleeing communist NPA terrorists on February 9 in a forested foothills of Pinabacdao town in Samar province.

Soldiers following the foot prints of suspected NPA terrorists were led to a blue plastic drum filled with 24 units of M16 rifles, 2 units of M4 carbine assault rifles, 7 units of China-made AK47 variant rifles, and 1 unit of M14 rifle.

“These are likely excess firearms that the NPA terrorists can no longer bring along because they do not have enough manpower to carry them” Cpt Ryan Layug, 8ID spokesperson said.

801Bde Commander Col Lenart Lelina expressed gratitude to the informant: “we thank the tipster for the valuable and timely information. We have gained the people’s trust and confidence, thats why they are willing to share information. Our prompt action on provided information further encourages more people to provide information” said Col Lelina.

8th Infantry Division Commander Maj Gen Edgardo De Leon commends the troops of 801st Infantry Brigade: “This is one of the biggest, if not the biggest number of assault rifles captured by the AFP from the NPA so far in our counterinsurgency campaign under the leadership of Peesident Duterte. I congratulate the planners, supervisors, and the troops that executed the operations. It is not easy to track down the rebels arms cache in a wide area, parang naghahanap ng karayom sa tambak ng dayami. Pero natunton ng tropa ang stockpile. The capture of 34 assault rifles is a big setback to the NPA in Samar, as this would drastically reduce their capability to carry out acts of terror.”

[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/soldiers-capture-34-assault-rifles-from-npa-lair-in-samar/

Kalinaw News: NPA Ambushes Soldiers, Kills 2 Civilians, including a Minor, and Injures Another

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 10, 2022): NPA Ambushes Soldiers, Kills 2 Civilians, including a Minor, and Injures Another

CATARMAN, NORTHERN SAMAR, February 9, 2022 – Army Troopers hunting terrorist NPAs in the outskirt of Brgy. Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar were ambushed on the afternoon of Feb 8, 2022.

Despite the visible presence of civilians, the communist NPA terrorists did not take any precautionary measures, indiscriminately firing their weapons and hitting civilians resulting in the death of two minors, a 12-year-old boy on the spot and another 13-year-old boy while being treated at the hospital. Another man was injured.

Col Perfecto Peñaredondo, 803rd Brigade Commander reported that he dispatched troops in response to a tipster’s information about the presence of a group of NPA in Brgy. Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar. While on their way to the objective, the troops were ambushed by NPA at a coconut farm in a remote area of Brgy. Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar. “On their way to the reported location of the armed NPA, nadaanan ng tropa yung mga civilians. Sinabihan ng tropa itong mga civilians na manatili sa likod nila dahil may info sila na may NPA sa unahan. Habang dahan dahan na lumalapit ang mga sundalo, pinaputukan na sila ng mga NPA. Naka-abang na pala ang kalaban sa high ground, bandang unahan. Nagawang dumapa ng mga sundalo, pero yung mga civilians na nasa likod nila, nagtakbuhan. Pinaputukan ng NPA yung mga civilians kaya tinamaan agad yung tatlo”, said Col Peñaredondo.

Seeing the civilians were hit, the soldiers shifted on protecting the civilians, while the NPA’s immediately fled. The soldiers opted to apply medical first aid to the wounded instead of pursuing the NPAs.

Another minor managed to escape unharmed and reported the incident to the barangay. This prompted the barangay folk to rush to the crime scene and help evacuate the injured civilians to the hospital, initially using motorcycles to reach the highway, then transferred to the municipal ambulance that brought them to the hospital in Catubig town.

The 12-year-old minor was declared dead on arrival at the Catubig Hospital, and the 13-year-old minor died the following morning while being treated at the Northern Samar hospital.

“Before he died, the 13-year-old boy was able to narrate to the barangay officials that they were hit by NPA gunfire. The 26-year-old survivor revealed that they were behind the soldiers when the NPAs opened fire prompting them to run away but unfortunately they were hit. Consistent with the narrative of the boy, he said the NPA deliberately fired at them”, Maj Gen Edgardo De Leon, Commander, 8ID said.

“Yung bala ng NPA papunta sa direksyon kung saan tumakbo ang mga bata kaya sila ang tinamaan. Nakapwesto ang NPA sa high ground kaya kitang kita nila na civilians ang tinatarget nila. Walang precaution na pinaputukan nila ang mga civilians. That is willfull killing of civilians!” De Leon emphasized .

The Municipal government of Catubig and the provincial government of Northern Samar responded quickly and provided assistance to the relatives of the deceased victims, as well as to the injured. Governor Edwin Ongchuan directed the provincial social welfare officer to assist the families of the victims. The Governor and the Mayor both condemned the communist NPA terrorists for their dastardly act of violence against their constituents. The LGUs vowed to file appropriate cases against the perpetrators and to seek indemnification from the National Democratic Front, the organization that has represented the NPA in negotiations with the government.

[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/npa-ambushes-soldiers-kill-2-civilians-and-injure-another/

Kalinaw News: 1001st Brigade skirmishes with NPAs in New Bataan town

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 10, 2022): 1001st Brigade skirmishes with NPAs in New Bataan town



Maco, Davao de Oro – Following a tip from a concerned citizen, troops from the 1001st Infantry (Pag-asa) Brigade figured in an armed clash with the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in Sitio Tandik, Barangay Tandawan, New Bataan, Davao de Oro at about 3:15 in the afternoon of February 09, 2022.

More or less 20 personnel from the Regional Operations Command (ROC), Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) led by a certain Leo Lacumbo aka OLE scampered towards different directions following a gunfight with the operating troops of 1001st Brigade. There are no reported casualty in the government forces while still undetermined on the CNTs as the troops are still scouring the encounter site. Sporadic gunfire continued from 7pm up to 830pm.

In his statement, Brigadier General Jesus P Durante III, Commander 1001st Brigade assured the populace of their safety. “We call on to the populace of Barangay Tandawan not to panic. The troops are here to protect you from any harm brought about by the terroristic activities of the NPAs. We encourage you to report to us immediately any presence of the armed group so that we can act accordingly”, Durante said.

Moreover, he issued a stern warning to the fleeing NPAs. “This might be your best chance to surrender. Our doors remain open if you choose to do so. To those who continue to fight against the government, I assure you that we will not stop until this part of the region will be totally free from your terroristic activities. We will never stop in hunting you down. We will commit all our resources and ourselves just to ensure that every personnel that you have will be neutralized. We will hit you hard.” Durante added.

It can be recalled that since September of last year, 1001st Brigade has been relentless in its focused military operations targeting the CPP-NPA-NDF’s Regional Headquarters, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (RHQ-SMRC) which resulted to the neutralization of 3 high-ranking NPAs, which includes CPP central committee member Menandro Villanueva aka Bok, and the recovery of high-powered firearms and war materiel. For this year, the Brigade already figured in five armed skirmishes with the CNTs.



[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/1001st-brigade-skirmishes-with-npas-in-new-bataan-town/

Kalinaw News: NoLCom Commander commends 5ID accomplishments; challenges troops to finish insurgency by the end of Pres Duterte’s term

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 9, 2022): NoLCom Commander commends 5ID accomplishments; challenges troops to finish insurgency by the end of Pres Duterte’s term



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- LtGen Ernesto C Torres Jr, Commander of Northern Luzon Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines commended the 5th Infantry Division for their numerous accomplishments in the campaign against insurgency and challenged the troops to end the local communist armed conflict before the end of President Rodrigo Duterte’s term during his three-day visit in the Area of Responsibility of 5ID on February 07-09, 2022.

During his visit, he lauded the accomplishments of 5ID that gave a big blow to the enemy and contributed to the success of the campaign against insurgency in Northern Luzon. “I congratulate you on your imminent win against the insurgents in your AOR. I hereby challenge you to finish the fight against insurgency before the end of President Duterte’s term. Do your best every day, and I will ensure that NoLCom’s all-out support will be given to our soldiers on the ground to perform their mission as advocates for peace and development.”

He then stressed the importance of rendering and exerting the troops’ best effort and performance to end local communist armed conflict in Northern Luzon. “As the year 2022 unfolds, so is our duty to effectively and efficiently manage our capabilities in achieving lasting peace and security in our area of responsibility. The most important asset of the armed forces and its most potent weapon is its soldiers. Hence, we must be good and professional at all times.” The general then boosted the morale of the troops deployed in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAS). “I, therefore, entreat all the commanders and staff to march with me towards the accomplishment of our collective vision of having professional and well-disciplined soldiers who shall vigorously contribute in bringing lasting peace and sustainable development in the whole of Northern Luzon.”

Further, MGen Laurence E Mina, Commander of 5ID extended his gratitude to the NoLCom Commander for extending his support and boosting the morale of the Startroopers. “Thank You Sir for your trust and confidence in the men and women of 5ID. Your support is highly appreciated and will be reciprocated with our best effort as we end the local communist armed conflict in our AOR. Rest assured that we will perform our tasks the Startroopers way, following the Command’s mantra “Only our best is good enough.”

Meanwhile, aside from the 5ID Headquarters, LtGen Torres also visited the 501st Infantry Brigade located in Lal-lo, Cagayan; 502nd Infantry Brigade in Echague, Isabela; and the 503rd Infantry Brigade in Tabuk City, Kalinga.

[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/nolcom-commander-commends-5id-accomplishments-challenges-troops-to-finish-insurgency-by-the-end-of-pres-dutertes-term/

Kalinaw News: Alakdan Division Commander Expresses Gratitude to Sulu Infantrymen

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 9, 2022): Alakdan Division Commander Expresses Gratitude to Sulu Infantrymen

After paying a visit to foot soldiers all over the province, Joint Task Force (JTF) – Sulu and 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division Commander MGen William N Gonzales expressed his appreciation to all military personnel and civilian human resource after a flag raising ceremony last Monday.

“I am here not to bid farewell, but to thank every single one of you for doing an exemplary job during my stint as your commander. This province and everything we’ve experienced together will always have a special place in my heart. I will constantly lobby and support our peace campaign here. I look forward to working with you again wherever our paths cross once more – sterling officers and outstanding non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel,” MGen Gonzales said.

To recall, MGen Gonzales formally assumed as the Inspector General of Armed Forces of the Philippines on January 31, 2022. As he starts working at the AFP General Headquarters at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Assistant Division Commander BGen Antonio I Bautista Jr will be the Acting Division Commander for both JTF-Sulu and 11ID.

As the third commander of the Alakdan Divison, MGen Gonzales served the unit for about a year and a half. During this time, seven (7) internally displaced communities were rehabilitated through the successful implementation of the Balik Barangay Program while 290 ASG sub-leaders and members returned to the folds of the law.

Per MGen Gonzales, his standing order to finish the fight against terrorism in Sulu still remains. “Our goal is to make this terror group completely irrelevant, we owe it to the peace-loving citizens of this island province.

[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/alakdan-division-commander-expresses-gratitude-to-sulu-infantrymen/

Kalinaw News: NPA Cadre na ordnance expert patay sa engkwentro sa Surigao del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 9, 2022): NPA Cadre na ordnance expert patay sa engkwentro sa Surigao del Norte (NPA Cadre ordnance expert killed in Surigao del Norte encounter)



Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte – Isang lider ng teroristang grupo ng New People’s Army o NPA and patay pagkatapos ng labanan sa mga tropa ng 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion, Philippine Army sa bahaging bundok ng Barangay Alipao, Alegria, Surigao del Norte nitong umaga ng ika-8 ng Pebrero 2022.

Kinilala bilang si Alyas Wolf na taga KM 8 Brgy Bolhoon, Surigao del Sur na kasalukuyan pa din inaalam ang tunay na pangalan. Si Alyas Wolf din ang ordnance expert ng buong Guerilla Front 16 na siyang tagagawa ng mga illegal na pamsabog na mga Improvise Explosive Device (IED) na matagal ng pinagbabawal ng Geneva Convention at IHL subalit patuloy parin at walang pakundangang ginagamit ng mga teroristang NPA. Siya din ay isang full time member ng Sub-Regional Committee at dating pinuno ng Sandatahang Yunit Pangpropaganda (SYP) 16C at 16B ng GF16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Naganap ang sagupaan pagkatapos makatanggap ng ulat at sumbong ang himpilan ng 30IB kung saan ang mga armadong grupo ng NPA ay nagsasagawa ng pangingikil at pananakot sa komunidad. Kung kaya agad rumisponde ang kasundaluhan at nagsagawa ng pagpapatrol upang kumpirmahin ang nasabing ulat nang putukan sila ng armadong grupo ng NPA na pinaniniwalaang miyembro ng Sandatahang Yunit Pangpropaganda ng pinagsamang pwersa ng 16C1 na pinamumunuan ni Roel Neniel o mas kilala bilang si Alyas Jacob at 16C2 na pinamumunuan naman ni Alberto Castañeda na mas kilala bilang si Alyas JD.

Tumagal ng halos isang oras ang sagupaan kung saan nasawi si Alyas Wolf at nasamsam ang tatlong matataas na uri ng armas katulad ng isang (1) M16 Rifle, isang (1) AK47 Rifle at isang (1) AR15 Rifle at iba pang kagamitan katulad ng isang (1) Rifle Grenade, isang (1) Anti-Personnel Mine, isang (1) Baofeng radio, ibat-ibang klase ng supply ng mga gamot, isang (1) BP Apparatus, dalawang (2) Magazines ng AK47, tatlong (3) Magazines ng M16, limang (5) piraso ng Poncho tents, dalawang (2) piraso ng duyan, dalawang (2) pares ng rainboots, ibat-ibang kagamitan para sa pampasabog (landmine switch), sampung (10) piraso ng 1.5V battery, isang (1) rolyo ng electrical wire (50 meters), isang (1) piraso ng bandolier at siyam na daan at pitumpu (970) na bala ng Ak47 rifle.

Matatandaan din na nitong ika 16 ng Enero 2022 nagkaroon din ng sagupaan sa pagitan ng dalawang grupo sa Barangay Motorpol, Tubod, Surigao del Norte kung saan nakarekober din ng isang (1) AK47 Rifle na may kasamang mga bala at ibat-ibang klase ng kagamitan pangdigma.

Sa pahayag ni Lt Col Ryan Charles G Callanta, Pinuno ng 30IB, kanyang sinabi ang kanyang pasasalamat sa lahat ng nakikiisa sa layunin ng kasundaluhan upang tuluyan ng matamasa ang kapayapaan sa lugar, “Unang una nais kong muli magpasalamat sa patuloy na pagsuporta ng mamamayan sa ating kampanya na labanan ang terorismo at tuluyan ng magkaroon ng ganap na kapayapaan sa ating lugar. Isang patunay lamang ito na ang lahat ay nag nanais na ng katahimikan sa probinsiya ng Surigao del Norte. Pangalawa, nais din naming ipaabot ang aming pakikiramay sa nasawing miyembro ng NPA kung saan napag alaman po natin na itong si Alyas Wolf ay siya ang responsable sa mga paggawa ng mga iligal na pampasabog sa buong probinsya. Sa pangyayari pong ito, asahan po natin na mas mahihirapan na ang armadong grupo. Kung kaya patuloy tayong nananawagan sa mga natitira pang aktibong miyembro nito na sumuko na bago pa mahuli ang lahat.”

Agad din dinala sa pinakamalapit na punerarya ng Alegria ang nasawing NPA upang mabigyan na din ng maayos na burol at maibalik ng maayos sa pamilya nito sa Surigao del Sur.

[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/npa-cadre-na-ordnance-expert-patay-sa-engkwentro-sa-surigao-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: 4 CTG Female members surrender with firearms in Ilocos Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 9, 2022): 4 CTG Female members surrender with firearms in Ilocos Norte



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — Following the implementation of the programs under Executive Order No. 70 of the government, four female members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) have submitted themselves to the authorities along with their firearms in Ilocos Norte on February 7, 2022.

Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA, Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army identified the female CTG personalities as alias “Ligaya”, “Teresa”, “Elvie” and “Marinel” who were residents of Marcos, Vintar, and Carasi Ilocos Norte, respectively.

They surrendered along with one (1) M14 rifle; one (1) US Remington Model 03-03; and one (1) homemade shotgun.

Combined elements of Ilocos Norte PNP and troops of 24th Infantry (WILDCAT) Battalion, Philippine Army facilitated their surrender at Marcos and Carasi Municipal Police Stations.

The four personalities revealed during the interview that they were recruited during the era of renegade Catholic Priest Father Conrado Balweg and went on lie-low upon realizing that the government is sincere in putting an end to the communist insurgency through the ‘whole-of-nation’ approach.

The Commander of 702nd Infantry (DEFENDER) Brigade BGen Krishnamurti A. Mortela welcomed the surrender of the four female CTG members and encouraged them to support the peace and development initiatives of the government now that they are free from the influence of the terrorist organization.

Meanwhile, MGen Costelo reiterates his call to the remaining members of the CTG to join their comrades in a free community that advocates peace and development.

“We will be relentless in our efforts as we conduct our Focused Military Operations. Our call for their surrender remains but we will not back down in fight as we are committed to ending this as soon as possible time,” said MGen Costelo.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/4-ctg-female-members-surrender-with-firearms-in-ilocos-norte/

Kalinaw News: ASG Firearms seized in Patikul

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 9, 2022): ASG Firearms seized in Patikul



February 07, 2021, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – Yesterday, following a tip-off from concerned locals, troops of 6th Special Forces Battalion (6SFBn) and the CAFGU Active Auxiliary stationed in Patikul recover two high-powered firearms of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits under Radulan Sahiron.

According to Joint Task Force (JTF) -Sulu and 11th Infantry Division (11ID) Acting Commander BGen Antonio I Bautista Jr, 6SFBn immediately acted upon the intelligence report and proceeded to a grassy area by the hinterlands in Brgy Tanum, Patikul around 5:40pm yesterday.

“We captured an M14 and M16 rifle. I’m certain that this accomplishment will impact their depleting supplies. More importantly, it will demoralize them given that Tanum residents pinpointed the location of the cache,” notes BGen Bautista.

Per 6SFBn Commander Ltc Rafael P Caido, other items found were four steel magazines, several rounds of ammunitions, bandolier, solar panel, seven sim cards, hammock, and a backpack.

“There were 8 CAAs, all Tausug, who were part of the 22-man team led by my executive officer, Maj Rudyard Garcia. Very integral ang role ng CAA dahil kabisado nila ang Tanum. Dito natin nakikita ang dedikasyon nila sa trabahong sundalo, dito natin nakikita ang pagmamalasakit nila sa kanilang lugar.”

11ID Acting Division Commander BGen Antonio I Bautista Jr congratulated the troops of 6th Special Forces Battalion (6SFBn) and the CAFGU Active Auxiliary for the continuous effort and support to serve the people and the province of Sulu.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/asg-firearms-seized-in-patikul/

Kalinaw News: New 4ID commander ramps up operations against CPP-NPA-NDF; Seizes 16 firearms, neutralize 17 NPAs

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 9, 2022): New 4ID commander ramps up operations against CPP-NPA-NDF; Seizes 16 firearms, neutralize 17 NPAs



CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Brigadier General Wilbur C Mamawag, the recently installed Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army has ramped up its focused military operations and dealt anew significant blows against the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs).

Barely a week after BGen Mamawag’s assumption as 4ID commander last February 3, 4ID has neutralized a total of 17 CNTs and seized 16 high-powered firearms thru encounters and successful negotiation of surrender by its different line units.

On February 4 and 8, five (5) high-powered firearms composed of four (4) AK47 Rifles and one (1) M14 Rifle were seized in an encounter against the CNTs after the 23rd Infantry Battalion of the 402nd Infantry Brigade has launched combat operations at the hinterlands of Brgy Tungao, Butuan City while three (3) firearms composed of one (1) AK47 Rifle, one (1) M4 Rifle, one (1) M16 Rifle were also captured and one (1) unidentified male CNT had died during a 50-minute encounter of the 30th Infantry Battalion of the 901st Infantry Brigade against CNTs at the mountainous area of Brgy Alipao, Alegria, Surigao del Norte.

Meanwhile, 12 CNTs bringing along their five (5) high powered firearms composed of three (3) M16 Rifles and two (2) AK47 Rifles have peacefully surrendered to the 1st Special Forces Battalion of the 403rd Infantry Brigade at Barangay Mampayag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on Friday, February 4 while three (3) CNTs with their three (3) high powered firearms composed of one (1) AK47 Rifle, one (1) Shotgun, and one (1) Garand Rifle with scope have also surrendered to the 29th Infantry Battalion on Saturday, February 5.

In a statement, BGen Mamawag stated that while 4ID has collectively achieved so much for the past few periods of the campaign, there is a need to sustain the gains and its efforts and use all available resources to push further for the total defeat of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) within the given timeline as set by the President to defeat the communist insurgency in the country.

“With our earnest desire to bring lasting peace in our communities, we have pushed the enemy to the brink of defeat. However, with barely five (5) months to go before the end of our campaign and to accomplish the President’s directive to end local communist armed conflict, we will even step up some more in order to destroy the remaining CTG. Hence, we are calling upon them to instead return to the folds of the law and cooperate with us or else be ready to face the consequences,” BGen Mamawag 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/new-4id-commander-ramps-up-operations-against-cpp-npa-ndf-seizes-16-firearms-neutralize-17-npas/

Philippines gets new training aircraft from US

From Rappler (Feb 11, 2022): Philippines gets new training aircraft from US (By JAIRO BOLLEDO)

The four brand new CESSNA 172S Skyhawk Trainer Aircraft, procured under the US Foreign Military Financing Program, are worth $2.2 million

The Philippines received four new training aircraft from the United States on Thursday, February 10.

The Philippines’ Department of National Defense received four brand new CESSNA 172S Skyhawk Trainer Aircraft worth $2.2 million from its longtime ally under the US Foreign Military Financing Program. The DND told Rappler that the new aircraft were provided through a grant.

In a separate release, the Navy said that the military procured the assets under the Joint US Military Assistance Group. Under the US military’s financing program, their partner nations can purchase US defense articles, services, and training either through grant or direct loan.

 

NEW AIRCRAFT. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and US Chargé d’affaires Heather Variava with the new aircraft.

The ceremony was held at Sangley Point in Cavite. Aside from Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, US Chargé d’affaires Heather Variava, Armed Forces chief General Andres Centino, and Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado attended the ceremony.

According to the DND, the new aircraft will be used by the Philippine Navy Naval Air Wing. Bordado said the new assets would be excellent utilities for the Naval Air Wing students.

 

Navy and military officials joining Lorenzana and Variava in the turnover ceremony of the newly purchased aircraft.

“These four units of Cessna 172 Skyhawk to the Philippine Navy will definitely be an excellent utility to our Naval Air Wing students…These units are the most appropriate training aircraft to prepare them for future missions and naval air operations, using modern and state of the art technology. At the same time, these aircrafts will help us improve the operational readiness of our naval air component,” Bordado said.

The newly procured aircraft are designed for general utility and training purposes. They have a maximum range of 640 nautical miles and 878 pounds useful loads. –

https://www.rappler.com/nation/philippines-gets-training-aircraft-united-states/

4 presidentiables want resumption of talks with Reds

From the Davao Today (Feb 9, 2022): 4 presidentiables want resumption of talks with Reds (By JIGGER J. JERUSALEM)

Screenshots from The Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews

Four presidential candidates have expressed willingness to reopen negotiations with the communist movement if ever they get elected, raising hopes from peace advocacy groups especially in Mindanao.

The four presidential aspirants – Vice President Leni Robredo, Senators Manny Pacquiao and Panfilo Lacson, and Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso – were one in saying that they would revive peace talks. This was raised during the televised interview with GMA broadcast journalist Jessica Soho on January 22.

The interfaith group Sowing the Seeds of Peace in Mindanao welcomed the candidates’ pronouncement.

“If these four presidential candidates are committing to the peace talks, that’s a welcome for us peace advocates and churches, as well,” said Bishop Felixberto Calang, head of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente in Cagayan de Oro, and Sowing the Seeds lead convener, in a phone interview.

Calang said the negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) must be revived after President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the talks midway into discussing the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reform in 2017.

Duterte, a former ally of the communist movement, created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict after the breakdown of talks. This has led to red tagging and harassment of activists and critics.

Several consultants of the National Democratic Front and key leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines were also killed in military operations in the past few years.

But peace groups including Sowing the Seeds and the Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform said the military approach has made peace more elusive

READ: Senate cuts NTF-ELCAC budget, groups want more

“Our society needs to pursue peace talks with the rebel groups because the purpose of going to the negotiating table is to address the root cause of the armed conflict,” Calang said.

He added that after more than 50 years of waging war against the revolutionary movement, “the military might have been tested to be a failure.”

With a new leadership coming in a few months from now, Calang said they are looking forward to the resumption of the peace talks.

“The peace agreement that will be crafted once the talks are realized is to address the roots of poverty and discrimination, and that is good. It is important for governance, so people’s lives could be uplifted,” the prelate said.

The Jessica Soho interviews invited Ferdinand Marcos Jr. who declined to attend the event. Another presidential candidate, labor leader Leody de Guzman, was not included, but had expressed openness to talk with the communists to resolve the roots of the armed conflict.

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/4-presidentiables-want-resumption-of-talks-with-reds/

Marines recover more arms cache in Roxas, Brooke’s Point

From Palawan News (Feb 9, 2022): Marines recover more arms cache in Roxas, Brooke’s Point (By Aira Genesa Magdayao)

Photo courtesy of 3MBdeMBLT-4

Authorities in Palawan recently recovered high-powered firearms in three separate operations in the towns of Roxas and Brooke’s Point.

Operating forces of Joint Task Force Peacock (JTF Peacock), Joint Task Group North, and other intelligence operatives recovered a M14 rifle in Sitio Karatong on February 1, and a M14 rifle, improvised hand grenades, 203 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, five M14 magazines, bandolier, backpack, and assorted documents in Sitio Bayugon on February 4, both in Barangay Tinitian, Roxas, according to a report by the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBde).

During an operation in Sitio Inababoy, Barangay Aribungos last February 6, joint forces of JTF Peacock, Marine Battalion Landing Team-4 (MBLT-4), 1st Palawan Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st PPMFC) of the Philippine National Police, and other operating units recovered a M16 and a M14 rifle, chest rig, bandolier, leaflets, sweatshirts with NPA markings, solar panels, batteries, AVR, and power bank.

3MBde commander Brig. Gen. Jimmy Larida said the recovered high-powered firearms and other war materials were part of the inventory of armaments hidden by former rebels in the province.

“For the past months, our brigade continued to recover CTG war materials in various parts of Northern Palawan. Recently, a tip-off from reliable sources brought us to Brooke’s Point, which resulted in this recovery. The JTF Peacock will not stop its relentless military operations until we finally put an end to the communist armed conflict in the province of Palawan,” Larida said.

https://palawan-news.com/marines-recover-more-arms-cache-in-roxas-brookes-point/

Businessman alleges NPA extortion

From Palawan News (Feb 10, 2022): Businessman alleges NPA extortion (By Arphil Ballarta and Aira Genesa Magdayao)

File photo

A businessman in Puerto Princesa City said he experienced an alleged extortion through his mobile phone from an individual who claimed to be a member of the New People’s Army (NPA).

The businessman, who requested that his identity and business name be kept, told Palawan News in a phone call that an unknown number called him and texted him continuously asking for money two days ago.

He said he did not send any amount of money because he also doubted if the callers were legitimate members of the rebel group.

“They started [contacting me] two days ago and asking for bags of rice and some P20,000. I did not send any money because I doubted that they were NPA,” he said.
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“In my opinion, it is an organized scam. We also traced the number and it is in Pasig. This is to help the locals and the less fortunate individuals [who might become victims of their scheme],” he added.

He said although he reported the incident to the police, he just wanted to give awareness to other business owners in the province and to prevent these individuals from victimizing them.

“This is to give awareness to residents [of Palawan] because it is not good to ask for any money considering the typhoon Odette that affected the majority of business establishments,” he said.

Meanwhile, P/Col. Adonis Guzman, Palawan Police Provincial Office (PPPO) provincial director, said that municipal police stations in the province have not yet recorded any such incident this year.

“From January up to this date ay walang monitored na ganyang information sa other stations. Kung mayroon man ay hindi na NPA ang mga ‘yan, iba na ‘yan,” Guzman said.

P/Lt. Col. Alonso Tabi Jr., spokesperson for the Puerto Princesa City Police Office (PPCPO), said they will check the information and ask for the help of the people who have been scammed.

“I-validate natin ang information [at] makipagtulungan lang po ang tinawagan na tao,” Tabi said.

https://palawan-news.com/businessman-alleges-npa-extortion/

‘WE HIT THEM HARD,’ Reds no longer control brgys in Panay – Army

From Panay News (Feb 9, 2022): ‘WE HIT THEM HARD,’ Reds no longer control brgys in Panay – Army (By Ruby Silubrico)

INSIGNIFICANT FORCE? There are around 145 rebels left hiding deep in Panay Island’s jungles, according to the Philippine Army’s 301st Brigade. If the 3rd Infantry Division were to be believed, these rebels have become an insignificant force, following a series of devastating military offensives last year. PN PHOTO

The Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) has lost control of the barangays in Panay Island where they used to have sympathizers, according to the Philippine Army.

“We hit them hard on the battle of perception and at the level of combat operations,” said Captain Kim Apitong, officer-in-charge of the 3rd Infantry Division’s (3ID) Public Affairs Office.

The lack of mass actions in Panay Island each time the CPP-NPA has an event such as their anniversary indicates that they have become insignificant, he pointed out.

“We have already cleared the barangays. However, there are some sitios (zones) where rebels continue to threaten residents,” said Apitong.

Panay Island is composed of 3,291 barangays spread in the provinces of Iloilo, Antique, Aklan, and Capiz.

Apitong lauded barangay residents for providing the Army with relevant information, resulting to successful anti-insurgency operations.

Just this January, seven rebels surrendered to the 3ID. They were members of the Southern and Central Fronts of the Komiteng Rehiyonal-Panay, according to Army Brigadier General Marion Sison of the 301st Brigade.

The surrenderees also turned over to the Army one M16 rifle, an improvised shotgun, a .45 pistol; a homemade M79 grenade launcher, and four 40MM cartridges.

According to Sison, around 145 rebels are left in Panay’s mountains. He expressed confidence that “malaki ang effect ng pag-surrender…namulat sila na nawala silang mapala sa kanilang pakikibaka.”

“Those who are still in the mountains we encourage to surrender because there are lots of government reintegration programs,” said Sison.

With two of their top leaders neutralized by government troops in 2021, the rebels are no longer a significant force in Panay, declared Apitong.

“Neutralized” means the rebels either died in battle, surrendered or got captured, he explained.

Apitong identified the two neutralized leaders as Joven Ceralvo alias Lex, commanding officer of the Front Operational Command and deputy secretary of the Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyonal Panay; and Reynaldo Bocala alias Russ/Bading, chief regional finance bureau of Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay.

“We hit them directly. We targeted them in such a way that they were surprised,” said Apitong.

Ceralvo was among those killed in the Dec. 1, 2021 operation of Army troops in the NPA hideout in Sitio Burak, Barangay Alimodias, Miag-ao, Iloilo.

Bocala, on the other hand, died in a shootout with government troops on May 28, 2021 in Pavia, Iloilo.

Apitong said the Dec. 1, 2021 operation was a big blow to the CPP-NPA. Aside from Ceralvo, eight other NPA rebels were killed.

The 3ID’s various units, he said, neutralized last year a total of rebels in Western and Central Visayas – 71 surrendered, 49 died in clashes, and 22 were apprehended.

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 Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973. (With a report from the Philippine News Agency/PN)

https://www.panaynews.net/we-hit-them-hard-reds-no-longer-control-brgys-in-panay-army/

NPA rebels set up checkpoint in Surigao del Sur

From MindaNews (Feb 10, 2022): NPA rebels set up checkpoint in Surigao del Sur (By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN)

Some 100 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels set up a checkpoint along the national highway in Cortes town in Surigao del Sur around 8:00 a.m. Thursday and ransacked the sari-sari store and house of a former Army officer located nearby.

The Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office confirmed the incident by posting on their page a photo of the incident posted by a netizen on social media.

The checkpoint put up by by the NPA Guerilla Front 30-Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee reportedly led by Joel Mahinay alias Ka Nico prevented motorists and commuters from passing through the national highway in Sitio Lubcon in Barangay Mabahin, Cortes.

NPA rebels prevent motorists from passing through their checkpoint. Photo courtesy of Netz TV Caraga

“Many of the workers never pursued their travel going to work out of fear. This is a violation of the International Humanitarian Law,” the Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office post said.

Patrolman Melvin Castro, who was assigned to respond to calls from the Provincial Tactical Operation Center of the Provincial Police Office, said the rebels had left when the Police Provincial Mobile Force and the 36th Infantry Battalion arrived in Sitio Lubcon.

Clearing operations ended around 9 a.m., he said.

The rebels went to the nearby store and home of former 2nd Lt. Joven Rivera. It was not clear if the former Army officer had a firearm, and if there was, if the guerrillas confiscated it.

Lt. Jimel Acuesta, chief of police of Cortes said that witnesses saw the rebels take foodstuff from the store.

He said the entire incident, including the looting of the store, lasted around 30 minutes.

He added the rebels just talked to the commuters and motorists and did not harm them.

Policemen from the Provincial Mobile Force had set up a checkpoint along the national highway in Barangay Buenavista in Tandag City to block a possible attack by the NPA rebels.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/02/npa-rebels-set-up-checkpoint-in-surigao-del-sur/

New rights bill all Red 'propaganda'

From the Manila Times (Feb 11, 2022): New rights bill all Red 'propaganda' (By Franz R. Sumangil)

THE Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-Elcac) of Soccsksargen (Region 12) has again questioned the Human Rights Defenders Bill, describing it as "dangerous."

According to Director Eduardo Marquez of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency-12, also a member of the RTF-Elcac, the bill is nothing but a "propaganda" of communist organizations to allow human rights defenders in Congress to advance their deceits.

Marquez said the bill could serve and protect the interests of dissident organizations such as the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

If passed into law, he also said the measure will open the floodgates of supposed abuse and torment of the people by the CPP-NPA-NDF and other radicals.

The bill, Marquez added, will make the Anti-Terrorism Law that was recently declared constitutional by the Supreme Court ineffective and toothless.

"Every individual can be considered as a human rights defender and this should not be selective. What's bad about this is that the human rights issue has been exploited or abused to discredit the government and romanticize the agenda of some individuals or groups who have the intention to demonize the government like what these communist groups are doing," he said.

Calling it a "ludicrous" bill, Marquez also said it defines who are and are not "human rights defenders," a definition so broad that, according to him, even the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the Abu Sayyaf Group and the CPP-NPA-NDF can be regarded as rights defenders.

The approved bill is a consolidated version of proposed bills from House members Albay First District Rep. Edcel Lagman, Quezon City Sixth District Rep. Jose Christopher "Kit" Belmonte, and the Makabayan bloc, including Bayan Muna party-list Representatives Carlos Isagani Zarate, Eufemia Cullamat and Ferdinand Gaite, Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro and Kabataan party-list Rep. Sarah Elago.

The proposal was approved by the House of Representatives on third and final reading on Jan. 17, 2022 with 200 affirmative votes, zero negative votes and no abstentions.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/02/11/news/regions/new-rights-bill-all-red-propaganda/1832535

Sayyaf member eludes capture

From the Manila Times (Feb 11, 2022): Sayyaf member eludes capture (By Al Jacinto)

THIS ONE GOT AWAY A photo released by the Western Mindanao Command to The Manila Times shows the M14 rifle and ammunition seized from the house of Abu Sayyaf member Muksidal Jumadil in Sulu's Luuk town. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

A lone Abu Sayyaf terrorist managed to elude capture after a firefight with security forces sent to arrest him in the town of Luuk in Sulu province, officials said on Thursday.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said policemen and soldiers exchanged gunfire on Wednesday with Muksidal Jumadil in his house in the village of Kan Mindus in Luuk, but he was able to escape.

Rosario added that troops were hunting Jumadil.

Security forces recovered an M14 rifle and ammunition from Jumadil's house.

"Your Armed Forces and other line agencies are working doubly to sustain our gains in peace and development in this part of the country. With everybody's cooperation, we are confident that the law enforcement efforts we launched together with our partners will reap more successes in the coming days," Rosario said.

There was no report of government casualties.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/02/11/news/regions/sayyaf-member-eludes-capture/1832538

SoCot LGU vows to safeguard IPs from NPA exploitation

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): SoCot LGU vows to safeguard IPs from NPA exploitation (By Roel Osano)

UNEARTHED FIREARMS. Government troops unearth an M16 rifle and an M79 grenade launcher following the surrender of two New People's Army rebels in T’boli, South Cotabato on Feb. 4, 2022. The T’boli local government vowed to protect its indigenous peoples community following the surrender of the two rebels, both IP members, from the abuse of communist rebels. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

The local government unit of T’boli in South Cotabato vowed to safeguard its indigenous peoples (IP) community from the manipulation of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

In a statement Wednesday, T’boli Mayor Dibu Tuan said they can carry out such undertaking through the mechanism of the government’s National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

“The ideology of Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples’ Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) is a poison that destroys the culture and tradition of the IPs,” he said.

The mayor’s pronouncement came after the surrender on February 4 of two NPA rebels to the Army’s 11th Special Forces Company, 5th Special Forces Battalion in the area.

The surrenderers were identified by the military only as alias Dagul, a political guide, and alias Tata, both of the Platoon Central, NPA Guerilla Front Musa, Far South Mindanao Region.

Both are IPs and residents of nearby Lake Sebu town, Tuan said.

The surrenderers brought along with them an M79 grenade launcher with five rounds of 40mm ammunition.

With the help of Dagul, government troops were also able to unearth an arms cache containing an M16 rifle and another M79 grenade launcher in Barangay Laconon, T’boli.

Brigadier General Pedro Balisi Jr, commander of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade believes that the surrender of Dagul and companion is a big loss to the GF MUSA.

“With this accomplishment, we are expecting more surrenders to happen in the next few days,” Balisi said in a separate statement on Wednesday.

Major General Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the troops for the surrender of Dagul and Tata, as he also commended for the T’boli LGU’s support to the government’s deradicalization campaign.

“We are one with you in protecting your communities and families from the atrocities and exploitations of the NPAs,” Uy said

Uy said the campaign to crush the NPA will continue for those who refuse to surrender.

The 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 NDF as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167378