Saturday, March 26, 2022

WESTMINCOM: Philippine and US soldiers perform close quarter battle drill

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 26, 2022): Philippine and US soldiers perform close quarter battle drill



Armed Forces of the Philippines

2 days to go before PH-US Exercise Balikatan 2022

LOOK I Philippine and United States Army performed a close-quarter battle drill in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, on March 10, 2022. The training is part of the Army-to-Army bilateral exercise between the two countries, which aims to develop the capability and interoperability of both armies.

On March 28, both armies will participate in a much bigger exercise which includes other armed services of both countries.
 
PH-US Exercise Balikatan 2022 will involve around 8,900 participants composed of Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine troops of both armed forces.
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=330193165809767&set=a.219815940180824

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/?ref=page_internal

Sayyaf leader wanted by U.S. killed in Southern Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 26, 2022): Sayyaf leader wanted by U.S. killed in Southern Philippines

Zamboanga-Filipino soldiers shot dead a senior Abu Sayyaf terrorist leader wanted by the United States for the July 2011 kidnapping of an American woman and her son in the southern Philippine port city of Zamboanga.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of the Joint Task Force-Basilan, said Radzmil Jannatul was killed in a military operation late Friday in the neighboring Muslim island-province of Basilan, just 29 miles south of here. There was no military casualties.

He said Jannatul was killed in Baiwas village in Sumisip town after a 15-minute gun battle with members of the elite 5th Scout Rangers who tracked him down. “Firefight ensued which lasted for about 15 minutes after which the enemy withdrew, living behind their slain comrade. While scouring the encounter site, troops recovered the dead body of the ASG personality who was positively identified as Jannatul,” Gobway said.


The general said more soldiers were deployed on Saturday to hunt down other Abu Sayyaf fighters who managed to escape the assault. “Pursuit operation is currently being conducted while troops from the 64th Infantry Battalion were directed to establish blockades to possibly neutralize the fleeing enemies,” he said, adding the slain terrorist leader was notorious.

Jannatul, he added, was the Abu Sayyaf leader in Basilan after taking over from Furuji Indama who was killed two years in a clash two years ago.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command, commended the soldiers involved in the operation “for taking down the ASG leader,” adding the Jannatul’s slaying will totally weaken the Abu Sayyaf forces in the province, a major stronghold of the pro-ISIS group. “This will totally weaken the group and force the remaining members to give up their fight and save themselves,” he said.

Jannatul was among four Abu Sayyaf gunmen indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice for kidnapping the 43-year old Gerfa Yeatts Lunsmann and her son, Kevin, 14; and a Filipino nephew Romnick Jakaria, 19, while on a holiday here on July 12, 2011. Jakaria managed to escape from his captor on November 13, 2011.

The others were Indama, Muadz, and Abu Basim and the indictment alleges that the group held the Virginia mother for 82 days and the son for 151 days, and forced the family to pay ransom for their return. “While on a family vacation overseas, a Virginia mother and her teenage son were captured, forced into boats at gunpoint, and taken to an island where they were held hostage for ransom,” said U.S. Attorney Machen.

Both hostages were forced into boats at gunpoint, brought to Basilan and forced to march to a camp where they were held until September 2011. The kidnappers released the mother on October 2, 2011, but retained her son as a hostage, and demanded that she pay a large ransom for his freedom. The son eventually escaped from his captivity on December 9, 2011.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/03/sayyaf-leader-wanted-by-us-killed-in.html

WESTMINCOM: Abu Sayyaf Group top leader neutralized in Basilan

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 26, 2022): Abu Sayyaf Group top leader neutralized in Basilan

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – March 26, 2022

Abu Sayyaf Group top leader Radzmil Jannatul was neutralized in an encounter in Sumisip, Basilan on March 25, 2022.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, Joint Task Force Basilan Commander confirmed that the ASG personality who was killed during an encounter late afternoon of Friday was identified as the group’s current top leader, Radzmil Jannatul, a.k.a. Khubayb. According to Brig. Gen. Gobway, troops of the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion were conducting combat operations when they encountered more or less four members of the Abu Sayyaf Group at Sitio Center, Barangay Baiwas, Sumisip.
 
Firefight ensued which lasted for about 15 minutes after which enemy withdrew living behind their slain comrade. While scouring the encounter site, troops recovered the dead body of the ASG personality who was positively identified as Jannatul.
 
Pursuit operation is currently being conducted while troops from the 64th Infantry Battalion were directed to establish blockades to possibly neutralize the fleeing enemies.
 
Jannatul was a notorious Basilan-based ASG sub-leader who replaced the late Furuji Indama as the top leader of the group following the latter’s death sometime in October 2020.
 
Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command commended the troops of Joint Task Force Basilan for taking down the ASG leader. “This will totally weaken the group and force the remaining members to give up their fight and save themselves,” the WestMinCom Commander said.
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https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/photos/a.109730861361803/265857619082459/

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/?ref=page_internal

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: 14 na motorsiklong pag-aari ng mga sundalo at tauhang CAFGU, winasak ng BHB

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda posted to the PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 25, 2022): 14 na motorsiklong pag-aari ng mga sundalo at tauhang CAFGU, winasak ng BHB (14 motorcycles belonging to CAFGU soldiers and personnel were destroyed by the NPA)






March 25, 2022

Winasak ng isang yunit ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB)-Napoleon Tumagtang Command ang 14 na motorsiklong pag-aari ng mga elemento ng CAFGU at regular na sundalo na nagugwardya sa kumpanyang Century Peak sa Sityo Insobrehan, Barangay Igcabugao, Igbaras, Iloilo noong Marso 21. Kilala ang kumpanya ng Century Peak sa paglabag sa karapatan ng mga manggagawa nito at pagkakait ng sapat na sahod at benepisyo.

Pinasinungalingan ni Ka Ariston Remus, tagapagsalita ng yunit ng BHB, ang pinakakalat ng 3rd ID na pag-aari ng mga sibilyan ang naturang mga motorsiklo. Ayon kay Ka Ariston, ang pekeng balita na ito ay para pagtakpan ang pagkatalo ng mga sundalo.

“Maid-id nga ginpanilagan sang mga kaupod ang lugar para maseguro ang target kag wala sang madalahig nga propyedad sang sibilyan,” salaysay ni Ka Ariston. (Masugid na sinubaybayan ng mga kasama ang lugar upang tiyaking walang madamay na pag-aari ng mga sibilyan.)

Isinagawa ang armadong aksyon laban sa mga pang-aabuso at operasyon ng CAFGU at sundalo kabilang na ang pagbabantay sa mga kagamitan ng Century Peak sa kabila ng mga kasalanan nito sa sambayanan. Dati nang pinarusahan ng BHB ang kumpanyang Century Peak noong Disyembre 2015 dahil sa hindi pagbibigay ng kumpensasyon sa mga magsasaka at residenteng naapektuhan ng kanilang mga proyekto.

Ang armadong aksyon ay inilunsad ilang linggo matapos ideklara ng Armed Forces of the Philippines na nagtatagumpay sila laban sa rebolusyonarying kilusan sa isla ng Panay. Ayon sa mga sundalo, 142 ang kabuuang napasuko, naaresto at napaslang nito sa kanilang kampanya. Ang totoo, mga sibiliyang magsasaka at katutubong Tumandok na kanilang binibiktma. Pinakatampok sa kanilang mga krimen ang pagmasaker sa mga Tumandok noong huling bahagi ng 2020.

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/14-na-motorsiklong-pag-aari-ng-mga-sundalo-at-tauhang-cafgu-winasak-ng-bhb/

CPP/NPA Front 12-Panay ROC: Pagsunog sang 14 ka motorsiklo, Gina-ako sang Napoleon Tumagtang Command

Propaganda statement posted to PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 25, 2022): Pagsunog sang 14 ka motorsiklo, Gina-ako sang Napoleon Tumagtang Command (Burning 14 motorcycles, Napoleon's Tumagtang Command)
 


Ariston Remus
Spokesperson
NPA-Front Twelve (Napoleon Tumagtang Command)
Panay Regional Operational Command
New People's Army

March 25, 2022

Gina-ako sang Napoleon Tumagtang Command, New People’s Army ang pagpangsunog sang 14 ka motorsiklo nga ginapanag-iyahan sang mga CAFGU kag armi nga nagagwardya sa kompanya sang Century Peak, sa Sityo Insobrehan, Brgy. Igcabugao, Igbaras, Iloilo sadtong Marso 21, 2022.

Sa pihak nga bahin hugot namon ginakondenar ang malisyuso kag binutig nga pahayag ni Capt. Apitong, spokesperson sang 3ID Phil Army nga kuno ginlakip sang NPA sunog ang motorsiklo nga ginapanag-iyahan sang mga sibilyan. Luyag lang ni Apitong hinabunan ang ila kahuy-anan kag kapalpakan sa intelligence. Maid-id nga ginpanilagan sang mga kaupod ang lugar para maseguro ang target kag wala sang madalahig nga propyedad sang sibilyan.

Ginpatuman sang yunit sang NPA ang nasambit nga aksyon para dulaan sang madasig nga mobilidad ang CAFGU kag kontroler sini nga bulag nagadepensa sang interes kag kagamitan sang Century Peak. Kon madumduman pa, ginpenahan sang NPA sadtong Disyembre 2015 ang nasambit nga kompanya bangud sang indi paghatag sang nagakaigo nga sweldo kag benipisyo sa ila mga obrero, indi paghatag sang nagakaigo nga kumpensasyon sang kadutaan kag ulumhan nga nadalasa sang ila proyekto. Humalin sadto, ang Phil Army nga ginaswelduhan halin sa buhis sang pumuluyo nangin “blue guards” na sang Century Peak.

Indi dapat himuon nga palahog sa mga turista ang NPA! Wala sang ginhalitan nga turista ang NPA. Sa baylo, sa kunsaran sang bukid Napulak mismo may nga ginbulong ang medik sang NPA nga turista bangud indi na ini makatakod maglakat. Sang 2011, may grupo sang turista nga nagsaka sa Igcabugao nga nagpamalibad magpagwardya sa 82nd IB, PA nga nakabase sa ila Coy HQ sa Brgy. Igtalungon, Igbaras. Kag bangud namilit gid ang army, temprano nga nagpanaog ang mga turista bangud nahadlukan sila mag-upod sa Phil. Army. Indi dapat kahadlukan sang pumuluyo ang NPA bangud ini ang matuod nga hangaway sang banwa, tunay nga hangaway sang masa!

https://cpp.ph/statements/pagsunog-sang-14-ka-motorsiklo-gina-ako-sang-napoleon-tumagtang-command/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Bikolano ruling classes’ support of Marcos-Duterte, escalation of destitution and deaths for Bikolanos

Propaganda statement posted to PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 25, 2022): Bikolano ruling classes’ support of Marcos-Duterte, escalation of destitution and deaths for Bikolanos
 


This article is available in Pilipino

Ma. Roja Banua
Spokesperson
NDF-Bicol
National Democratic Front of the Philippines

March 25, 2022

Despite the Bikolano public’s disavowal of Marcos and Duterte’s bid to reclaim Malacañang, Bikol political dynasties especially those which have benefited massively under Duterte, have been underhandedly maneuvering to ensure Bongbong and Sara’s victory in the region. Along with the military, they have abandoned the people’s interests in exchange with perpetuating their hold on the public coffers. With the local campaigns commencing, the Bikolano masses must prevent all attempts by these big regional political dynasties to seat the Marcos-Duterte alliance in power and to rob them of their long-sought for meaningful change.

These powerful clans’ backing of Bongbong and Sara is frighteningly predictable. The Kho dynasty in Masbate will further profit from the large expanse of Marcos’ lands and his cronies in the province. The Tallados of Camarines Norte seek to expand their mining ventures. Meanwhile, billions of Villafuerte’s plundered wealth from his infrastructure projects will be in a precarious situation once the Dutertes lose their hold on power. The Cuas of Catanduanes wishes to fortify their bureaucratic domination with the blessing of their master Marcos. By endorsing Sara, Joey Salceda of Albay wants to remain as chief architect of neoliberal destruction. Nine mayors from Camarines Sur also supports the Marcos-Duterte tandem in exchange of the assurance that the EO 70-National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict will remain as their personal cornucopia of corruption. Each of these political chameleons have their own machinations to support these candidates while dodging public disapproval.

These dynasties have sold their souls to the Joint Task Force Bicolandia to intensify militarization and ensure that the election results in the region will be in favor of the Marcos-Duterte tandem. The Bicol Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and the Regional Peace and Order Council deployed additional military troops, especially in Masbate, to pressure local officials and the masses to support and vote the dictators’ heirs.

If the Marcos-Duterte camp succeed, with the help of Bikol’s local ruling class, their reign will spell an even rapid economic decline and aggrandizement of crises both in the region and the whole country. Destructive projects will flood Bikol, landgrabbing will worsen, agriculture will further falter and more jobs will be lost. This, along with massive killings, aerial bombings and violence against civilians.

NDF-Bikol calls on all the Bikolano masses to utilize the opportunities provided by the reactionary elections to advance their democratic interests and their struggle for life, land and rights. Whatever the outcome of the reactionary elections be, they will certainly have the wisdom and need of mounting a people’s democratic revolution to attain genuine societal change.

https://cpp.ph/statements/bikolano-ruling-classes-support-of-marcos-duterte-escalation-of-destitution-and-deaths-for-bikolanos/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Social media attacks by the US-Duterte regime, part of last push in their failed counter-insurgency campaign

Propaganda statement posted to PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 26, 2022): Social media attacks by the US-Duterte regime, part of last push in their failed counter-insurgency campaign
 


This article is available in Pilipino

Ma. Roja Banua
Spokesperson
NDF-Bicol
National Democratic Front of the Philippines

March 26, 2022

The National Democratic Front-Bikol expressly denounces the coordinated cyberattacks launched by imperialist US through Google in connivance with Duterte and the Armed Forces of the Philippines against various social media accounts handled by the revolutionary movement. Aside from CPP Information Bureau’s email accounts, likewise victimized were NDF-Bikol and NPA Sorsogon’s Facebook, YouTube and email accounts. The series of censorship activities were conducted before the forthcoming 53rd anniversary of the New People’s Army.

The motivation behind said attacks on social media is to deprive the people of any platform to celebrate their imminent frustration of the US-Duterte regime’s war against the people under the pretext of counter-insurgency. The regime is likewise fearful of the reverberating anti-imperialist condemnation in the Philippines, fueled by the recent intensifying proxy war between US and Russia in Ukraine.

In spite of this, the revolutionary movement is certain that their voice will never be fully curtailed. This is because the US-Duterte regime can never stop the people in reverberating their determination to advance the democratic revolution to finally overthrow the fascist regime.

In line with these, the NDF-Bikol enjoins all friends from the media to stand in solidarity in condemning this fascist move by the regime and exercise their professionalism in opening their platform for the revolutionary movement’s standpoint.#

https://cpp.ph/statements/social-media-attacks-by-the-us-duterte-regime-part-of-last-push-in-their-failed-counter-insurgency-campaign/

CPP/CIO: Condemn Google and Facebook for fascist online purge against CPP and others

Propaganda statement posted to PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 26, 2022): Condemn Google and Facebook for fascist online purge against CPP and others

Marco Valbuena
Chief Information Officer
Communist Party of the Philippines

March 26, 2022

Over the past few days, big US online companies have carried out an online purge against the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and Filipino revolutionary forces and people. With these purges, they are effectively serving the US government’s drive to clamp down on democratic cyberspace and deny any opportunity for anti-imperialist and revolutionary dissent on the internet.

Without warning, online company Google has purged back-to-back the accounts of the CPP Information Bureau and its Chief Information Officer Marco Valbuena, resulting in loss of data and other information. We have also received that revolutionary forces in other regions have lost their email accounts, along with their blogsite and Youtube channels.

At the same time, Facebook has removed the social media accounts of the revolutionary forces in Bicol, Negros and others denying them of means to communicate with their constituencies, promote their views on current issues, and share information with the public. The official Facebook account of National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Chief Political Consultant Prof. Jose Maria Sison has been disabled since last month.

For certain, the coordinated purge by Google and Facebook is being carried out in active collusion with the National Task Force-Elcac. We fear that with the connivance of the NTF-Elcac, Google and Facebook will soon go after organizations, personalities and media outfits that are being red-tagged by the NTF-Elcac.

With Duterte’s draconian “Anti-Terrorism Law,” the NTF-Elcac, together with the military and police have heightened efforts to censor progressive and revolutionary ideas, including the recent attempt to remove revolutionary and progressive literature from school libraries.

By purging the CPP and its allies from their services, Facebook and Google can anticipate the further proliferation of fake news and disinformation on their platforms, especially those circulated and promoted by the NTF-Elcac, the military, police and other agencies of the Philippine government.

In the past, the CPP and other revolutionary forces, as well as legal democratic organizations, have been actively challenging the lies promoted by the NTF-Elcac on the internet. Recall recently how the military used Facebook to circulate disinformation to cover-up the massacre of Lumad teacher Chad Booc and four other companions in New Bataan, Davao del Norte.

These acts of fascist censorship by Google and Facebook expose the hypocrisy of these big social media companies as platforms for “freedom of expression.” In carrying out their purge, they serve as judge of what they will allow and what they will take down using blanket authority.

In fact, both Google and Facebook are purveyors and beneficiaries of the US “war on terror” having received government contracts with the US Pentagon, including those on weapons research and development. Like the US imperialists, they denigrate anti-imperialist revolutionary forces as “terrorists.”

The Filipino people must condemn and oppose the intensified cyber crackdown against those who challenge the lies promoted by US imperialism and the Philippine fascist butcher Rodrigo Duterte over the internet.

The CPP and all revolutionary forces will continue to utilize and maximize all available platforms on the internet to promote the people’s patriotic and democratic aspirations. The Philippine Revolution Web Central (https://cpp.ph), the website of the NDFP (https://ndfp.org) and other websites will continue to provide timely news and information and all statements from the CPP and allied organizations of the NDFP.

https://cpp.ph/statements/condemn-google-and-facebook-for-fascist-online-purge-against-cpp-and-others/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Bikolanos, rise up! Unite and strengthen struggle for basic rights!

Propaganda statement posted to PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 26, 2022): Bikolanos, rise up! Unite and strengthen struggle for basic rights!
 


This article is available in Pilipino

Ma. Roja Banua
Spokesperson
NDF-Bicol
National Democratic Front of the Philippines

March 26, 2022

The incomprehensible poverty that the masses endure are rousing an even greater number of the population, compelling them to organize and mobilize for their socioeconomic rights. Members of different sectors suffer from an endless stream of problems: anti-poor policies of the government, the still rampaging pandemic and now, the sky-rocketing oil prices.

Bikolanos are shaking in fury with the regime’s statements regarding the oil price crisis. According to the capitalist-stooge US-Duterte regime, they cannot suspend the oil excise tax because the amount to be collected will be used to fund the government’s destructive projects such as the Build, Build, Build.

Duterte’s grave misprioritization results to wide-reaching and deeply entrenched suffering for the masses. The incomparable hardship that the fisherfolk and the peasantry experience now is brought by ceaseless policies crucifying them to the crux of poverty. Workers who have long been bearing their inadequate wages are now wrung further through the proposal of additional work hours. Meanwhile, women are exhausting all means to make their husbands’ income enough for their households. Many of whom are peasants, fisherfolk or workers.

The current conditions are ripe for the strengthening of all Bikolanos’ unity in their demand to suspend the excise tax on oil, repeal the Oil Deregulation Law and other anti-people laws such as the Rice Tariffication Law, Philippine Fisheries Code Amendments of 2015, TRAIN Law among others. They must seize the situation to reach an even greater number to be aroused, organized and mobilized and to bolster their struggle for the people’s right to live decently. Their unity is an unwavering force that shall frustrate all US-Duterte regime’s destructive policies and steps.

The Bikolanos must not accept extreme poverty just so the avaricious US-Duterte regime can save the ruling class. They must be even more active in their struggle and to finally resolve their problems. Because of the immeasurable paucity they suffer, it only becomes clearer that the only genuine way to achieve societal justice is to end the semicolonial and semifeudal society.

https://cpp.ph/statements/bikolanos-rise-up-unite-and-strengthen-struggle-for-basic-rights/

Philippine Air Force airlifts wounded Army trooper in Northern Samar

From Philippine Defense News (Mar 25, 2022): Philippine Air Force airlifts wounded Army trooper in Northern Samar (By: Ryan Warren)

One soldier wounded-in-action (WIA) was airlifted by Philippine Air Force’ Black Hawk Helicopter at around 3PM, March 22, 2022 from Brgy Nagoocan, Catubig, Northern Samar to Catarman, Northern Samar.

Then soldier was wounded after members of Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) deliberately attacked government troops on Community Support Program operation in the said Barangay at around 10AM earlier that day.

“The WIA is PFC Gilbert I Gabin whom was hit on his right leg and was evacuated by Black Hawk helicopter. He was immediately transported to Northern Samar Provincial Hospital for appropriate medical intervention,” said Second Lieutenant Escobio, 20IB spokesperson.

“Brgy. Nagoocan is one of the six barangays that is 2021 recipient of ₱20 million Support to Barangay Development Program (SBDP). This is courtesy to our soldiers that worked hard to clear the barangay from NPA influence. However, NPAs returned in attempt to recover their lost mass base. This is one of the reasons why we redeployed soldiers to also ensure that the project implementation of SBDP will push through and not be put into waste. We cannot allow the people of Nagoocan to be deprived of government services because of NPA’s deceptive propaganda and blank promises,” Escobio added.

The CPP-NPA-NDF have once again made a serious violation of International Humanitarian Law in the Municipality of Catubig. It can be recalled that on February 8, 2022, the CNTs indiscriminately fired their weapons resulting to the death of two civilians and wounding of another at Brgy Roxas, Catubig. Likewise, on March 5, 2022, Sgt Amado was wounded after the deliberate attack of the CNTs to the CSP team despite the presence of civilians at Brgy. CM Recto, Catubig.

“Mariin naming kinokondena ang walang pakundangang pag-atake ng mga teroristang NPA sa CSP team sa aming barangay sa kabila ng presensya ng mga sibilyan. Ang CSP team na ito ang naging katuwang namin sa pag-abot sa aming hangarin na magkaroon ng mapayapang komunidad at maunlad na pamumuhay,” said Hon. Fe M. Baldoza, Barangay Captain of Brgy. Nagoocan, Catubig, Northern Samar.

“Masaya na kami sa atensyon na ibinibigay ng gobyerno sa amin pero bakit di kami tinatantanan ng mga teroristang NPA. Ang patuloy na paghahasik ng kaharasan ng mga NPA sa aming lugar ay pagpapatunay lamang ng kanilang paglapastangan sa Karapatang Pantao at International Humanitarian Law,” Baldoza added.

https://defense.ph/2022/03/25/air-force-airlifts-wounded-army-trooper-in-northern-samar/

Philippine Army launches first-ever air ambulance

 From Philippine Defense News (Mar 25, 2022): Philippine Army launches first-ever air ambulance (By: Ryan Warren)

The Philippine Army launched its first-ever air ambulance manned by a critical care aeromedical team that will bolster the Army’s life-saving capabilities for combat-wounded troops in an aerial medical evacuation simulation at Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on March 21, 2022.

A team composed of military doctors, nurses, pilots and their crew led the simulation highlighted by the roundtrip flight of the Army Aviation Regiment’s reconfigured Bolkow helicopter from the Army Support Command open field to the Hunters-ROTC Parade Grounds.

“Caring for our soldiers, from difficult and austere environments to higher levels of care, is now possible due to the continued advancements in military medicine and dedication of the Philippine Army to turn the Aeromedical Evacuation Capability into reality,” Army Chief Nurse Col. Maria Victoria Juan said.

Col. Juan emphasized that evacuation is crucial because around 90 percent of combat fatalities occur before wounded troops are transported to the nearest hospital. The Army chief nurse added that aerial medical evacuation is the fastest way to transport a combat casualty from the injury site to the nearest hospital.

“We are developing the Army’s casualty evacuation because the life of each soldier counts. Even if we save only one life through this capability, it is already worth it,” Commanding General, Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., said in his remarks following the simulation.

“This will boost the morale of our troops on the ground because they know that help is readily available in case anything happens while they are accomplishing their mission,” the CGPA said, adding that the command is eyeing for additional air ambulances as part of the army’s capabilities.

https://defense.ph/2022/03/25/philippine-army-launches-first-ever-air-ambulance/

Lanao del Sur’s most wanted yields to AFP, PNP officers

 From the Philippine Defense News (Mar 26, 2022): Lanao del Sur’s most wanted yields to AFP, PNP officers (By: Ryan Warren)

Joint AFP-PNP Law Enforcement Operations led to the successful surrender of the most wanted person of Lanao del Sur on March 21, 2022.

According to NFWM PAO, Marine battalions MBLT-2 and MBLT-5 under Naval Task Group Central and Naval Intelligence Operatives together with their PNP counterparts
facilitated the surrender of Mamaroba Calib Gaosil a.k.a. Manny and Tuttoh.


The surrenderee, a leader of a lawless group surrendered at Brgy Biasong, Picong, Lanao del Sur along with his high-powered firearms, an AK-47 rifle, M14 rifle, and a Cal. 45 pistol. He also gave up assorted ammunitions.

According to reports, alias Manny allegedly participated in the attack and burning of the Picong Integrated National Police Station in Brgy Poblacion, Picong, Lanao del Sur sometime in 1981 and was also involved in the July 1986 encounter with the Philippine Army troops in Brgy Biasong, Picong, Lanao del Sur. He also participated in committing atrocities in Picong.

“I Commend our troops’ relentless Focused Military Operations (FMO) and Law Enforcement Operations (LEO) for this successful accomplishment. The surrenderer finally embraced the law and soon would have the chance to be reunited with his family and live a normal life,” said Col. Eric Macaambac PN(M), the Commander of NTG Central.

https://defense.ph/2022/03/26/lanao-del-surs-most-wanted-yields-to-afp-pnp-officers/

US vows to strengthen alliance with PH in defending West PH Sea

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 25, 2022): US vows to strengthen alliance with PH in defending West PH Sea (By: Romar Miranda)



The BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS-36), which was on duty to secure the Philippines-Indonesia border, was pulled out from the Eastern Mindanao area and redeployed to Palawan, the province closest to Philippine claims in the Spratly Islands in the West Philippine Sea. NAVY FACEBOOK

The United States continues its alliance with the Philippines in protecting its territory and is helping to increase its capability to man the West Philippine Sea against foreign intrusions, a US official said Friday, March 25.

According to Heather Variava, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the US Embassy in the Philippines, the Balikatan Exercise between Filipino and American soldiers would help boost the country’s defense team.

Variava made the remark during a turn-over ceremony of outboard engines to the Philippine National Police (PNP) 2nd Special Operations Unit-Maritime Group (SOU-MG) at Honda Bay here on Friday afternoon.


“We continue to support the Philippines in expressing and establishing its rights. As we said back in November, any incursion in the South China Sea is covered in the Mutual Defense Treaty, so we constantly coordinate with the Philippines in this regard,” Variava told the reporters.

Variava made the remark after she was asked to comment on the summons issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs to the Chinese Embassy on March 14, after reports of Chinese militia were seen “lingering presence” during the Philippine and US Marines Marine Exercise 2022 (MAREX 22) off Palawan in January 2022.

“It is a significant incursion. We certainly support the right of the Philippine government to clarify its rights and its rules in its territorial waters, and we continue to work with the Philippines on a range of exercises and activities that will continue, ” she added.

The Chinese ship was seen off Palawan’s Cuyo Group of Islands and Apo Island off Mindoro, after it entered the Philippine waters, even after repeated demands from the Philippine Navy’s BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) to leave immediately.

The ship responded that it was “exercising innocent passage,” in which the DFA rejected the Chinese vessel’s explanation for its presence.

The PH-US MAREX 22 was intended to boost the mutual defense capabilities of the two longtime allies. It started on Jan. 27 and ended on Feb. 2.

On March 22, the joint information bureau of the PH-US Balikatan 2022 said an estimated 3,800 personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and 5,100 soldiers from the U.S will train together from March 28 to April 8 in areas across Luzon, which they described as the “largest ever”.

During the ceremonial turn-over ceremony, six of a total of 16 outboard engines were donated to the maritime group in this city that will help in patrolling its waters.

A total of P31.5 million worth of engines were donated, including 12 that will be turned over to Tawi-Tawi province.


https://globalnation.inquirer.net/203224/us-vows-to-strengthen-alliance-with-ph-in-defending-west-ph-sea

Philippines reaching back to US as Duterte fades away

Posted to the Asia Times (Mar 25, 2022): Philippines reaching back to US as Duterte fades away (By RICHARD JAVAD HEYDARIAN)

US-Philippines will hold largest joint exercises in recent memory as outgoing leader’s reach to China, Russia fails to take hold


A US Marine from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade runs with a Philippine soldier during assault exercises in joint drills aimed at enhancing cooperation between the allies at a Philippine Naval base San Antonio, Zambales October 9, 2015. Photo: Agencies

“America has lost now,” declared Philippine President Duterte just months after assuming office in 2016 and having chosen to visit Beijing for his first major foreign trip.

“I’ve realigned myself in your ideological flow and maybe I will also go to Russia to talk to [President Vladimir] Putin and tell him that there are three of us against the world – China, Philippines and Russia. It’s the only way,” the Filipino populist added in the Great Hall of the People, with no less than Chinese Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli in attendance.

Days later, during a visit to Tokyo, Duterte upped the ante by announcing his preference for booting out all American troops stationed in the Philippines within his first two years in power.

“I want, maybe in the next two years, my country free of the presence of foreign military troops,” declared the Filipino president ahead of a summit with then-Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, a staunch US military ally.

In 2020, Duterte came closest to fulfilling his early threats after unilaterally suspending the Philippine-US Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which facilitates large-scale joint military drills, amid disagreements on human rights issues with Washington.

But as the Filipino populist enters his twilight months in office, Philippine-US military cooperation seems stronger than ever while Duterte’s years-long strategic flirtation with both Russia and China has produced more disappointment than concrete achievements.

In the coming days, the Philippines and US are set to conduct their largest “Balikatan” (shoulder-to-shoulder) joint military drills in recent memory. Close to 9,000 troops from both the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the US military are set to conduct war games from March 28 to April 8 in the northern island of Luzon, the seat of power and economic hub of the Philippines.

If anything, this year is expected to see the AFP conducting more than 300 joint military activities with its American counterparts, more than any other ally or strategic partner in the entire Indo-Pacific. Ahead of the May 9, 2022, presidential election, the Pentagon and the Philippine defense establishment seem intent on setting the tone for robust military cooperation under whoever becomes the next Filipino president.

The US Embassy in Manila, which has been bereft of an ambassador throughout the pandemic, billed the forthcoming exercises as the “largest-ever iteration” of the joint military exercises as the two allies celebrate the 75th anniversary of US-Philippine security cooperation.


Philippine and US Marines during a surface-to-air missile simulation as part of exercise KAMANDAG on October 10, 2019. Photo: Lance Cpl. Brienna Tuck / US Marine Corps

Under Duterte, the Balikatan exercises were twice canceled, first in 2016, as he tried to build strategic bridges with China and Russia, and again in 2020 amid the China-originated Covid-19 pandemic, which disrupted US military operations across the Indo-Pacific. But last October, the AFP announced that joint military exercises will be back in full scale in 2022, along with more than 300 other scheduled joint activities with the Pentagon.

Crucially, the upcoming Balikatan exercises will feature for the first time in years more US military personnel (5,100) than Filipino forces (3,800). The two sides are expected to focus on “maritime security, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban operations, aviation operations, counterterrorism, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,” according to the US Embassy in Manila.

To enhance interoperability, the two mutual defense treaty (MDT) allies are also scheduled to conduct a command post exercise which “tests the two militaries’ ability to plan, command, and communicate with each other in a simulated environment. This training will bolster the collective security and defensive capabilities of the alliance,” the US Embassy said.

US Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Heather Variava described the massive exercises as “a critical opportunity to work shoulder-to-shoulder with our Philippine allies toward a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific that is more connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient,’ as our Indo-Pacific Strategy calls for.”

Major General Jay Bargeron, US 3rd Marine Division Commanding General, hailed the upcoming Balikatan as a chance for both allies to “train together to expand and advance shared tactics, techniques, and procedures that strengthen our response capabilities and readiness for real-world challenges.”

“Our alliance remains a key source of strength and stability in the Indo-Pacific region,” the US general added.

For his part, Major General Charlton Sean Gaerlan, the AFP Exercise Director for Balikatan 22, was similarly effusive about the Balikatan exercises, describing them as “a testament to the strength of the Philippines and United States’ security relationship.”

“The experience gained in the exercise complements our security cooperation endeavors and will help to enhance existing mutual security efforts,” the Filipino general added.

The steady and robust revival of Philippine-US military cooperation has coincided with manifold challenges bedeviling Duterte’s pivot to China and Russia. Despite its promise of as much as $26 billion in large-scale investments, China has yet to finalize a single big-ticket infrastructure investment project during Duterte’s nearly finished tenure.


Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte salutes Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) navy soldiers during a visit to a Chinese Naval ship in Davao city, Philippines, May 1, 2017. Photo: China Daily

In the South China Sea, meanwhile, the Asian powerhouse pressed ahead with fully militarizing disputed islands as well as unleashing an armada of paramilitary vessels, which have been harassing Philippine troops and fishermen across the disputed areas, most dramatically in the Reed Bank and Whitsun Reef.

In response, even Duterte called out Beijing’s actions during the ASEAN-China Summit last year, where the Filipino president chastised his ally for aggressive activities that do “not speak well of the relations between our nations and our partnership.”

By and large, the Filipino public has also been highly distrustful of China. According to the Social Weather Stations (SWS) polling agency, China’s net trust rating in 2019 reached a low of -33% compared to 72% for the US.

Based on a preliminary survey, which the author and his colleagues at the National Defense College of the Philippines conducted in 2018, the vast majority of next-generation military officers in the AFP also expressed similar views towards the two superpowers.

In short, both the Philippine public and defense establishment have been largely skeptical of China, while recognizing the value of robust defense cooperation with the US.

Meanwhile, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has torpedoed its burgeoning defense cooperation with key Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines. Early in office, Duterte described the Russian leader as his “favorite hero”, welcoming large-scale defense cooperation in a bid to lessen his country’s dependence on the US.

The imposition of a new barrage of Western sanctions, however, has thrown the future of Philippine-Russian defense cooperation into doubt. It’s highly unlikely that the US will grant its Southeast Asian ally any waivers from tightening sanctions on Russia’s defense sector under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

With Russia increasingly isolated, Duterte has accordingly changed tone, recently describing Putin as “suicidal”, while offering Philippine bases to the US in the event of an all-out global conflict between the two superpowers.

“[Duterte] was very clear that – if push comes to shove – the Philippines will be ready to be part of the effort, especially if this Ukrainian crisis spills over to the Asian region,” Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Manuel Romualdez told reporters in Manila during an online forum.


Russian President Vladimir Putin and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte meet on the sidelines of the APEC summit last year. Photo: Sputnik / Mikhail Klimentyev

“He offered that the Philippines will be ready to open its doors, especially to our ally the US in using our facilities, any facilities they may need,” the influential diplomat, who is widely seen as a top contender to become the next Philippine foreign affairs secretary, added.

Although Russia has no direct territorial disputes with the Philippines, and bilateral trade and investment relations have been hampered by Western sanctions, its trust rating among ordinary Filipinos has been largely at par with China’s.

By all indications, the Philippines, after years of mostly fruitless strategic flirtation with Beijing and Moscow, is now closing ranks with the US as Duterte fades from the scene.

https://asiatimes.com/2022/03/philippines-running-back-to-us-as-duterte-fades-away/

Kalinaw News: Miltary strengthens collaboration with “peace-inclined group” in Mindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 26, 2022): Miltary strengthens collaboration with “peace-inclined group” in Mindanao



Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – March 26, 2022 Maj. Gen. Ignatius N. Patrimonio PA, Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu and 11th Infantry Division, PA, accompanies Lt. Gen. Alfredo V. Rosario, Jr. PA, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), in a meeting with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari in the latters residence in Davao City on March 25, 2022.

In a fruitful discussion, Chairman Misuari reassured the military of the MNLF’s support to the government’s peace initiatives and programs specifically on the MNLF Transformation Roadmap that is being spearheaded by Secretary Carlito Galvez of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU).

Chairman Misuari also expressed his gratitude to WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Rosario Jr. and his party for taking time to personally visit him in Davao City.

“I am elated of your efforts of going here in Davao City to meet with me. The AFP and the MNLF have a good working relationship that is anchored on the 1996 GRP-MNLF Final Peace Agreement as manifested by the continuing partnership and collaboration in bringing lasting peace, security, and development in Mindanao,” said MNLF Chairman Misuari.

Chairman Misuari added saying, “as the head of the MNLF, you can be rest assured of our continuing support to all future undertakings of mutual interest for lasting peace and sustainable development in Mindanao.”

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Patrimonio extended his sincere gratitude to Chairman Misuari of his reassured commitment in supporting the peace initiatives and programs of the government, specifically the MNLF Transformation Roadmap that is currently being undertaken in Sulu.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Patrimonio said, “This is now my third time to personally meet Chairman Misuari. When I was the brigade commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade in Sulu in 2020, I met with Chairman Misuari twice, and assisted us in our efforts to drive away the terrorists Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) roaming near the MNLF communities in Indanan, Sulu.”

“We are here to solidify our partnerships with MNLF Chairman Misuari to help us implement the MNLF Transformation Program intended for the remaining MNLF combatants in Sulu,” said Maj. Gen. Patrimonio.

“Through the support of Chairman Misuari coupled with the successful implementation of the MNLF Transformation Roadmap, your security forces are optimistic that the province of Sulu will experience a lasting peace that is conducive for sustainable development, ” Maj. Gen. Patrimonio added.

In the said meeting, WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Rosario Jr. was accompanied by former WestMinCom Commander retired Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr, Col. Jose Emmanuel Mariano, Col. Montano Almodovar, Col. Yasser Bara, Col. Wendel Basat, Col. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos and Lt. Col. Saupi Jalkanain.

Currently, the OPAPP, in partnership with the JTF Sulu and partner agencies, is finalizing the implementing rules and regulations for the MNLF Transformation Roadmap.

The MNLF Transformation Roadmap includes all the government’s initiatives, projects, and other developmental activities such as socio-economic, community healing and reconciliation, and security and confidence-building measures that would be implemented in the identified MNLF communities.



https://www.kalinawnews.com/miltary-strengthens-collaboration-with-peace-inclined-group-in-mindanao/

Kalinaw News: Military recovers high-powered firearm in a clash with terrorists in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 26, 2022): Military recovers high-powered firearm in a clash with terrorists in Sulu



Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Jolo, Sulu – March 26, 2022 The 41st Infantry Battalion of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu encountered the Abu Sayaff Group (ASG) members in Barangay Bungkaong in the municipality of Patikul, Sulu in the early morning of March 26, 2022.

Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu, said, “Based from the report submitted by 1101Bde Commander Brig. Gen. Eugenio Boquio, operating troops of the 41st Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. James Erasmus Gagni were conducting focused military operations when they encountered more or less seven (7) ASG members believed to be under ASG Sub-leader Basaron Arok in the vicinity of Barangay Bungkaong, Patikul, Sulu.”

Maj. Gen. Patrimonio further revealed that “after the brief exchanges of fires, the terrorists fled towards south-east direction, leaving along one (1) M16 rifle and their personal belongings.”

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Boquio said that he deployed additional forces to pursue the fleeing enemies. “We deployed additional forces to possible exit points of the fleeing bandits. This is a relentless pursuit operation, especially now that our troops were able to locate the bandits positions,” said Brig. Gen. Boquio.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Patrimonio lauded the efforts and commitment of the troops and the peace-loving Suluanons for their commitment of ensuring peace, security, and development in the province of Sulu.

“This accomplishment is our collective effort backed by the support of the peace-loving residents who are tired of the violence brought by the ASG bandits in their communities. The tipping-off of the ASG presence in their communities is a manifestation of their continuing support us. Let us continue to press on the remaining ASG bandits and end terrorism here in Sulu,” said Maj. Gen. Patrimonio.

“Now, it is only a matter of time before we can finally say that Sulu is completely free from the threats and terrorism of the ASG bandits. We enjoin the public and encourage the remaining ASG bandits, particularly those who were encountered by our troops to go back to the folds of the law and live their normal lives. We are always here to help you start anew,” added by Maj. Gen. Patrimonio.

Since January this year, the JTF Sulu recovered a total of 25 firearms. Of the 25 firearms, 19 are high-powered firearms (HPFA), while six (6) are low-powered firearms (LPFA).

[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/military-recovers-high-powered-firearm-in-a-clash-with-terrorists-in-sulu/

Kalinaw News: Philippine Army, U.S. Army Pacific conclude Salaknib Exercise 2022

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 26, 2022): Philippine Army, U.S. Army Pacific conclude Salaknib Exercise 2022



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army and the U.S. Army Pacific concluded the 20-day Salaknib Exercise 2022 at the 1st Brigade Combat Team headquarters, Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on March 24, 2022.

Salaknib—which means “shield” in Ilocano—is an annual combined exercise aimed at enhancing the Philippine Army and U.S. Army Pacific’s capacity and interoperability across the spectrum of military operations, while also strengthening alliance between the two nations.

“Over the years, the Philippine Army and the U.S. Army Pacific have remained united through the long-standing bilateral relations in pursuit of the common goal of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” Commanding General, Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., who served as the event’s guest of honor and speaker, said.

Around 2,200 Philippine Army and U.S. Army Pacific soldiers trained side-by-side in this year’s edition of Salaknib, consisting of multiple field training and battalion-level staff exercises, combined live fire exercises, subject matter expert exchanges, medical training, and the first-validated U.S. Jungle Operations Training Course in the Philippines.

The two armies also shared best practices on functional areas such as fire support, communications, engineering, counter improvised explosive devices, and military intelligence that enabled troops to develop interoperability. Simulated war-fighting scenarios meanwhile enhanced both armies’ defense readiness.

Philippine Army troops from 1BCT, Training and Doctrine Command, Army Support Command, 51st Engineering Brigade, Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Army Artillery Regiment, Army Aviation Regiment, Armor Division, Light Reaction Regiment, Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), and First Scout Ranger Regiment took part in this year’s edition of Salaknib.



[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/philippine-army-u-s-army-pacific-conclude-salaknib-exercise-2022/

Kalinaw News: Philippine Army, U.S. Army Pacific conclude Jungle Operations Training Course

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 26, 2022): Philippine Army, U.S. Army Pacific conclude Jungle Operations Training Course



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army and the U.S. Army concluded on March 24, 2022 the first-ever U.S.-validated Jungle Operations Training Course which is among the highlights of this year’s Salaknib Exercise at the Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) headquarters, Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

Subject matter experts from the Philippine Army’s SFR(A), First Scout Ranger Regiment and instructors from the U.S. Army’s Lightning Academy facilitated the eleven-day course. Around 100 troops from the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (3IBCT) of the U.S. Army 25th Infantry Division (25ID) and 91st Brigade Reconnaissance Company (91BRC) of the Philippine Army’s 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) completed the course which focused on jungle tactics and operations.

Participating troops learned lessons on jungle skills assessment, land navigation, communication, patrol techniques, tactical combat casualty care, mobility, combat tracking, counter improvised explosive device, waterborne operations and jungle survival that culminated in a comprehensive application exercise.

U.S. Army 25ID Commander Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, who served as the concluding ceremony’s guest of honor and speaker, donned the U.S. Army jungle tab to Philippine Army and U.S. Army troops who completed the said course.

Meanwhile, 1st Lt. Junrey M. Bordado, 91BRC commanding officer, received an award for his outstanding performance in the course.



[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/philippine-army-u-s-army-pacific-conclude-jungle-operations-training-course/

Kalinaw News: Peace Rallies held in Zamboanga Peninsula

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 26, 2022): Peace Rallies held in Zamboanga Peninsula



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – March 25, 2022 Members of the National Freedom for Peace Movement (NAFPEM), SAMBAYANAN in Zamboanga del Sur, and the National Alliance for Democracy (NAD) in Zamboanga Sibugay Province conducted a simultaneous Peace Rally on March 25, 2022.

NAFPEM members together with the 4th Area Cadre Team initiated a Peace Rally/Motorcade in Molave, Zamboanga del Sur to counter and dishonor the 53rd Founding Anniversary of the New People’s Army. The rally was conducted at 2 p.m. Friday.

Also, the National Alliance for Democracy led by Chairman Jommy Montealto conducted a Condemnation Rally/Motorcade in Buug, Zamboanga Sibugay Province at the same time and day. The activity started with a short program followed by the burning of NPA flags and placards to show the participants’ displeasure to the communist terrorist group. More or less 200 members including personnel from the Buug Bureau of Fire, Buug Municipal Police Station, and Buug Sure FM participated in the activity.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, Commander of Joint Task Force ZamPeLan said the eagerness of the different sectors to join in the peace rally exemplifies their unity for peace. “We gather to denounce the treacherous acts of violence of the communist terrorist group in our area of operation,” Maj. Gen. Ponio further stated.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command said the military supports the call for peace by sustaining its combat and non-combat operations. “We assure that our anti-insurgency campaign is bolstered to prevent the communist terrorists from settling in our lands and poisoning the minds of the vulnerable groups of society,” the WestMinCom Commander stressed.



[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/peace-rallies-held-in-zamboanga-peninsula/

Kalinaw News: Military solidifies partnership to end terrorism in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 25, 2022): Military solidifies partnership to end terrorism in Sulu



Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – March 25, 2022 Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu, together with the JTF Sulu subordinate units, attended the Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting held at Sumadja Hall, Sulu Area Coordinating Center (SACC) in Barangay Bangkal, Patikul, Sulu, on March 25, 2022, to discuss the current peace and security situation as well as to address the challenges in sustaining the peace and order in the Province of Sulu.

In a statement, Sulu Provincial Governor Abdusakur M Tan, Chairperson of the Sulu Peacr and Order Council (PPOC), expressed his gratitude to the security sectors, local chief executives, head of agencies, and other stakeholders of their cooperation and commitment of stable peace and order being felt in Sulu.

Gov. Tan said, “We are very grateful to our security sectors, the military and the police, of their professionalism, passion, and dedication of bringing peace and order in Sulu.”

“I can say that Sulu’s security landscape is improving as manifested by the growing influx of visitors coming from different agencies visiting Sulu. Most importantly, Sulu’s economy and the tourism industry are blooming. Our kababayan have so many places to go, and they are now free to roam anywhere in Sulu,” said Gov. Tan.

Gov. Tan stressed that “as we sustain pur gains, we must also have to sustain the support for former violent extremists (FVEs) and their communities through our “Balik-Barangay” Programs in order to have a lasting peace in our province .”

In the said meeting, Joint Task Force Sulu Civil-Military Operations Officer Col. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos apprised the members of the council of the current security situation, best practices, and ways ahead of the JTF Sulu on its peace, security, and development campaign. Likewise, Sulu Provincial Director Police Col. Jaime Mojica apprised the body of the data of criminality indexes, anti-criminality campaign, as well as the current peace and order efforts to include the ways forward of the PNP in the province of Sulu.

Police Col. Mojica said that the Sulu PPO is in close coordination with the JTF Sulu in ending terrorism. He also informed the council that the PNP, as a deputized by the COMELEC, is preparing for the security of the national and local elections.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Patrimonio reassured the commitment and full support of the JTF Sulu’s peace and security efforts in Sulu.

“Your security forces here in Sulu will continue to perform its mandated task to support and collaborate with the local government units to bring lasting peace and sustainable development in the island of Sulu,” said Maj. Gen. Patrimonio.

“To the members of the council, particularly the local chief executives, our partnerships and collaborative efforts have been proven effective as manifested by the improved security environment and growing number of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members going back to the folds of the law. Let us continue our quest for lasting peace by convincing the remaining members of the ASG to lay down their arms, be with their families, live peacefully, and start anew,” Maj. Gen. Patrimonio added.

The Sulu Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) is a body composed of local chief executives, head of the security forces, and chief of agencies in-charge in resolving issues and concerns pertaining to peace and order matters.

Dubbed as the first quarter Sulu PPOC meeting, it is intended to make preparation, recommendations, proposals, and strategies that would effectively respond to the peace and order challenges in 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/military-solidifies-partnership-to-end-terrorism-in-sulu/

Kalinaw News: Barangays in Salay, MisOr continue to benefit thru SBDP

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 25, 2022): Barangays in Salay, MisOr continue to benefit thru SBDP



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – A groundbreaking ceremony of the Local Government Support Fund—Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) was held for the seven Local Access Roads of five barangays in the municipality of Salay, MisOr, on March 21, 2022.

Bunal, Tinagaan, Yungod, Membuli, and Looc are among Misamis Oriental’s 40 SBDP 2021 beneficiary barangays, each receiving PHP 20 million. The funds from the LGDF-SBDP will be used to build local access roads in each of the barangays.

The Barangay beneficiaries recalled and praised the Army’s efforts in their areas over the years in conducting Community Support Operations (CSP), which paved the way for road improvements and access roads to be built. They also praised the national government and local administration for improving their quality of life and constructing road projects that are desperately needed by residents, as these projects will undoubtedly help them with community development and livelihood sustainability.

Meanwhile, 58IB’s Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Ricky L. Canatoy, is pleased with the implementation of the stated local access roads, believing that it will have a significant impact on the unit’s overall mission success. The road to putting an end to insurgency is the road itself. In order to intensify and sustain this program, local government units, national and local government agencies, and other stakeholders must all commit. And I am confident that with the residents’ help and cooperation, this project will be a success.”

The ceremony was spearheaded by Hon. Angelo G. Capistrano, Municipal Mayor, together with Hon. Rey Amelito K Tan, Vice Mayor, Engr. Marisia Naybe, Provincial Director, DILG Misamis Oriental, Engr. Maria Theresa Neri, Project Engineer of Mikkil Construction, the Barangay Chairmans, BFP, PNP, and the 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion.

Hon. Angelo G. Capistrano Jr., the Municipal Mayor, believes that the completion of these projects will undoubtedly help Salay’s peace and order situation, paving the way for progress and development. Because their residents have shown support and cooperation for the government’s efforts, these will also eliminate the presence of armed locals.





[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/barangays-in-salay-misor-continue-to-benefit-thru-sbdp/