Philippine coast guard boosts presence in South China Sea

From Rappler (Feb 6, 2023): Philippine coast guard boosts presence in South China Sea

'We can stay there longer, farther and we can we can cover a bigger area now (in the West Philippine Sea),' says Admiral Artemio Abu, Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Coast Guard has stepped up its presence in the disputed South China Sea by deploying additional vessels and conducting more sorties and overflights to protect maritime territory and the country’s fishermen, its chief said on Monday, February 6.

Beijing’s sweeping claims of sovereignty over the waterway have drawn repeated complaints from Manila, which has ramped up its rhetoric against reported Chinese construction activities and the “swarming” of Chinese vessels in the resource-rich waterway.

“We’re making sure that the presence of coast guard vessels is felt by the fishermen in the area,” Admiral Artemio Abu, Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), said in an interview.

Last month, PCG said it received a report that a Filipino fishing boat was forced by China’s coast guard to leave the Second Thomas Shoal, known locally as Ayungin Shoal, which lies within the country’s exclusive economic zone.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/philippine-coast-guard-boosts-presence-in-south-china-sea/

PH-US ‘Balikatan’ exercises set in April

Posted to Palawan News (Jan 6, 2023): PH-US ‘Balikatan’ exercises set in April (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Palawan News file photo

This year’s “Balikatan” military exercises between U.S. and Filipino troops will take place in April.

“The AFP and the US Armed Forces are once again holding the 38th iteration of annual bilateral ‘Balikatan’ exercises. although this is a bilateral activity, the AFP takes the lead in planning and execution, supported by the US Armed Forces with other like-minded nations as observers,” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a statement Monday.

Aguilar said “Balikatan” 38-2023 will help the AFP in developing its external defense capabilities and fulfilling its obligations to other countries in the region in terms of countering terrorism and other security threats.

“‘Balikatan’ 38-2023 will result in the development of the AFP capability not only in the conduct of external defense operations but also in fulfilling its obligation in working with other countries in the region against terrorism and other threats,” he added.

The AFP neither indicated the exact dates of the exercises nor gave an exact number of participating American and Filipino military personnel for this year’s exercises.

However, it said the maneuvers will be held in the areas of jurisdiction of the Northern Luzon Command, Visayas Command and Western Command.

“Yun (the) number of (participating) personnel is still undergoing discussion,” AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor told reporters.

He also said the “Balikatan” exercises are for the second week of April but added that this is still “tentative” and is still “to be finalized”.

In the 2022 iteration of “Balikatan,” around 3,800 members of the AFP and 5,100 US military personnel — the largest number of combined personnel of the two militaries in the annual exercise since the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in 2020, participated in the annual exercises.

The Philippines and US exercise forces employed more than 50 aircraft, four ships, 10 amphibious craft, four high mobility artillery rocket system launchers, and four Patriot missile systems during “Balikatan” 2022.

“Balikatan” 2022 also included approximately 40 personnel from the Australian Defense Force.

Meanwhile, Aguilar said the AFP is grateful for the support extended by Senators Francis Tolentino, Francis Escudero and Sherwin Gatchalian to the implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement where the Philippines and US both agreed on four new locations as EDCA sites last week.

“This manifestation of support is in line with our treaty obligation as contained in the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951,” he added.

Since the signing of EDCA in 2014, Aguilar said EDCA has continuously facilitated the conduct of military exercises and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations in support of the AFP mission.

“Likewise, with the threat of climate change, our partnership with modern and well-equipped countries such as the United States of America will develop the capability of our troops in executing HADR operations in times of natural calamities and disasters,” Aguilar said.

“In addition to capability development, our engagement with a friend and a long-time ally also brings economic activities and opportunities that will benefit the people of the host local government units. This will further improve business confidence that will provide the economic stability that investors seek,” he added.

Cagayan De Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez welcomed the decision to expand the EDCA with US.

“It is in our national interest to pursue and expand our defense partnership with the United States to deter further aggression from China in the West Philippine Sea and possible Chinese seizure of islets that belong to us under International law,” he said in a statement on Monday.

He said the expanded EDCA should be further broadened, including in areas where Filipino fishermen have been experiencing harassment.

“I support the Philippine Air Force base at the former Lumbia airport in our city. I expect the US government to pour in more funds to develop and fully capacitate the air base,” Rodriguez said.

He said the free ports in Subic, Zambales and Clark in Angeles City, Pampanga, which are former US military bases, should be part of EDCA training-exercises and humanitarian activities.

“The presence of the US in the former US Navy base in Subic could deter Chinese Coast Guard and military vessels from driving away our fishermen from their traditional fishing grounds in Scarborough or Panatag Shoal, or Bajo de Masinloc, which is near Zambales and Pangasinan,” he said.

Rodriguez proposed that Pag-asa Island off Palawan should also be included in EDCA.

He said expanded defense cooperation in the south should prompt the Marcos administration to allow and support oil and gas exploration in the Reed Bank near Palawan.

He noted that Reed Bank or Recto Bank is reportedly holding more oil and gas reserves than the Malampaya natural gas project, also located in Palawan. (with reports from Zaldy De Layola/PNA)

https://palawan-news.com/ph-us-balikatan-exercises-set-in-april/

Binalbagan DRRMO shirt found in NPA belongings

From Panay News (Jan 8, 2023): Binalbagan DRRMO shirt found in NPA belongings (By DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA)

CATALOGO

BACOLOD City – The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) will conduct an investigation as to why the New People’s Army (NPA) had a shirt belonging to the Binalbagan Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO).

Soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 94th Infantry Battalion (94IB) recovered the said Binalbagan DRRMO shirt following a gun battle with NPA rebels in Barangay Oringao, Kabankalan City over the weekend.

Police Capt. Judesses Catalogo, NOCPPO spokesperson, raised several possibilities as to why the rebels had the DRRMO shirt, such as one of the rebels may be related to someone working at the municipal government, or perhaps the shirt was stolen by the rebels.

Catalogo also pointed out that this case is not unique; NPA rebels have a history of using uniforms belonging to the Philippine Army or police in conducting illicit activities.

The NOCPPO spokesperson said they will try to find out who originally owned the DRRMO shirt.

“One way or another, they could be using government shirts and uniforms as a disguise to blend in with the locals,” Catalogo said.

He also confirmed that two of the three rebels killed during the encounter have already been identified: 42-year-old Junjun Callete of Tayasan, Negros Oriental and Joemarie Calumba of Barangay Oringao.

Callete was positively identified by a village official from Barangay Tanlad, Tayasan.

Based on the information provided by Callete’s mother to the authorities, his son was invited to the insurgent group last year by his friends.

Callete’s friends, however, already surrendered to the government after a series of defeats last year.

The mother had also tried to convince his son to surrender but Callete ignored her.

Meanwhile, cops have yet to identify the third fatality in the encounter. The remains are at a funeral parlor in Kabankalan City./PN

https://www.panaynews.net/binalbagan-drrmo-shirt-found-in-npa-belongings/

3 rebels killed in gun battles, 258 families evacuate

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 6, 2023): 3 rebels killed in gun battles, 258 families evacuate (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Three suspected New People’s Army rebels died, while 258 families fled their homes, following two successive encounters in Brgy. Oringao, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, on February 4 and 5.

Capt. Mervin Rosal, 303rd Infantry Brigade Civil Military Operations officer, yesterday said that the cadavers of three slain rebels were discovered at the encounter site in Sitio Bugne, Brgy. Oringao, Kabankalan City, by 94th Infantry Battalion soldiers, after a gun battle on Saturday.

Rosal reported the recovery of an M14 rifle, a super .38 caliber pistol, a caliber .45 pistol, backpacks containing personal belongings and subversive documents, at the encounter site.

Pursuit operations on the fleeing rebels yesterday led to another encounter in the same area, Rosal said.

He reported that no 94IB soldier was hurt in the two armed encounters.

In his Facebook account, Mayor Benjie Miranda reported that 258 families have been temporarily displaced by the series of encounters.

Miranda said the displaced 258 families, composed of 718 individuals, are now temporarily staying at the Oringao barangay covered court for their safety, and their needs are being attended to.

Col. Orlando Edralin, newly installed 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, and Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, 94IB commander, lauded the cooperation extended to them by civilians in the area, who immediately reported the presence of rebels to troops stationed in the area.

“The bravery that you exhibited during the series of security operations for the people of Negros, especially in Kabankalan is incomparable,” Edralin said.

https://visayandailystar.com/3-rebels-killed-in-gun-battles-258-families-evacuate/

Guns, food supplies recovered from rebel camp

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 7, 2023): Guns, food supplies recovered from rebel camp (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Assorted guns recovered by the RMFB 7 and PNP Special Action Force troopers during encounters in Santa Catalina and Sibulan, Negros Oriental.* PNP photos

Police troopers seized a New People’s Army camp and recovered assorted guns, following two encounters on February 3 and 4 in Santa Catalina and Sibulan, all in Negros Oriental, according to a report of the Police Regional Office 7.

The first encounter ensued Friday night, between troopers of the 705th Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 7, and 15 suspected NPA rebels at Sitio Tubod Bagtik, Brgy. Enrique Villanueva, Sibulan, Negros Oriental.

No casualties were reported on the government side.

The next day, troopers of the 704th Maneuver Company of the RMFB 7 and 61st Special Action Company of the PNP Special Action Force also encountered about 10 suspected NPA members in Sitio Bukal-bukal, Brgy. Talalak, Sta. Catalina, also in Negros Oriental.

The running gun battle, which lasted about eight minutes, ended with the communist rebels scampering in various directions, leaving behind a KG9 automatic pistol with two magazines containing ammunition, and an M203 grenade launcher with ammunition.

A follow up joint operation of the 705th Maneuver Company, also of the RMFB 7, 62nd Special Action Company of PNP SAF and Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion also resulted to the seizure of a rebel camp at Sitio Bukal-Bukal in Brgy. Talalak, Santa Catalina.

At the abandoned camp, government troopers recovered a Glock 9mm pistol with a magazine containing ammunition, and food supplies left behind by the fleeing rebels.

In a statement, PBrig. Gen. Jerry Biarez, PRO 7 director, said that the accomplishments were made due to intelligence-driven operations, in tandem with other law enforcement agencies and the Philippine Army, in cooperation of residents in the area.

https://visayandailystar.com/guns-food-supplies-recovered-from-rebel-camp/

Bangsamoro mourns death of first Wali

From MindaNews (Jan 6, 2023): Bangsamoro mourns death of first Wali (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

Wali Khalifa Nando. Photo courtesy of Bangsamoro government

COTABATO CITY (MindaNews / 06 February) – Sheikh Khalifa Nando, the first Wali of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) died on Sunday morning of natural causes.

“It is with a deep sense of loss that we express our condolences and sympathy to the family of Sheikh Khalifa Nando, the Wali of the Bangsamoro on his return to the mercy of Allah today,” said lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, BARMM spokesperson and interior and local government minister.

“The Wali is the symbolic Head of the Bangsamoro Government and his demise is a loss not only to his family but to the entire Bangsamoro,” Sinarimbo added.

Nando, one of the founders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), was 81.

Around 1,500 family members, MILF leaders and fellow Muslims attended his burial on the same day in Barangay Kayaga, Pandag, Maguindanao del Sur.

Officials estimated the attendees at about 1,5000 family, friends and Bangsamoros.

Social media was flooded with messages of condolences and prayers.

Nando was last seen in public during the opening program of the BARMM 4th foundation anniversary last January 25, standing side by side with Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim and traveled to Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte for the turnover of the facilities for the orphans and grand Masjid.

Defense Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr, also the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity was saddened by the passing of Nando.

“Wali Nando was considered a major pillar of the Bangsamoro peace process,” Galvez said in a statement sent to the MILF and BARMM leaders.

“But Wali Nando will be best remembered for his work as a religious leader and peacebuilder. As the BARMM’s Wali, he was instrumental in promoting the culture of peace, inter-religious dialogue, and social healing and reconciliation among the Bangsamoro people,” he said.

“His legacy of peace will continue beyond his passing,” he added.

Nando, more known as “Sheikh Khalifa,” studied at the Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt along with MILF founding chair Salamat Hashim.

As a co-founder of the MILF, he served as chair of its Central Committee on Education, chair of Majlis Al-Shura (Consultative Assembly), and as head of the MILF Sharia Supreme Court.

During the inaugural session of the Interim Bangsamoro Parliament on March 29, 2019, he was appointed as the first Wāli of the newly constituted BARMM.

He likewise opened the inaugural session of the second interim parliament on September 15, 2022.

Sinarimbo said Nando led some of the efforts in strengthening the Bangsamoro resistance movement and was a constant source of wisdom and advice in the transition to peace and governance of the MILF.

“He has been very active even during these past few months in carrying out his role as symbolic head of the Bangsamoro Government and in visiting Bangsamoro communities in the islands and even in Muslim communities in Luzon,” he said.

The wālī is an elective position endorsed by the council of elders to be nominated by the parliament and is regarded as the ceremonial head of the Bangsamoro Government.

The holder of the position performs the following ceremonial functions: Opening of the parliament session, administering the oath of office, dissolving the Bangsamoro Parliament as advised by the Chief Minister, calling for the election of a new parliament, attending public ceremonies and welcoming foreign and local dignitaries. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/02/bangsamoro-mourns-death-of-first-wali/

1 Marine killed, 3 others injured in Lanao del Sur ambush

From MindaNews (Jan 5, 2023): 1 Marine killed, 3 others injured in Lanao del Sur ambush (By MARIVIC OMANDAM DAVIS)

ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews / 05 Feb) – A Marine sergeant was killed while three others were injured in an ambush by still unidentified suspects on Saturday afternoon in Barangay Cabasaran, Marogong, Lanao del Sur.

Killed was Sgt. Tonti Melbert Pamaran while injured were Sgt. Aninon, Sgt Jeram Aradji, and Cpl. Mark Anthony Banares from the of MBLT-2 Philippine Marines were wounded.

According to the report of P/Lt. Joseph Chicano of the Marogong Municipal Police station, they received a call at around 3:55 p.m. about the ambush. They said the Marines were just passing by when shot by still unidentified suspects.

Lt. Col. Sergio Reyes Ronquillo, Battalion Commander of MBLT2, said his soldiers were conducting community relations in the barangay when ambushed.

  

At the ambush site in Barangay Cabasan, Marogong, Lanao del Sur. Photo courtesy of Marogong Police.

Recovered from the scene of the ambush were empty shells from a 5.56 mm rifle.

The soldiers said they returned fire with their caliber .45 pistols and sought cover until their fellow Marines arrived. (Marivic Omandan Davis / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/02/1-marine-killed-3-others-injured-in-lanao-del-sur-ambush/

Retaliation eyed in ambush of Marines in Lanao Sur

From MindaNews (Feb 6, 2023): Retaliation eyed in ambush of Marines in Lanao Sur (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

A scene after the ambush in Barangay Cabasaran, Marogong, Lanao del Sur. Contributed Photo

COTABATO CITY (MindaNews / 06 February) – Officials of the Philippine National Police and Philippine Marines said the ambush of members of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT-2) in Lanao Del Sur could be a retaliation after security forces foiled an attempt by suspected members of a group with alleged links to the ISIS to build a training camp in the area.

Killed in the attack on Saturday afternoon in Barangay Cabasaran, Marogong town was Marine Sgt Tonti Melbert Pamaran while wounded were Cpl. Mark Anthony Bañares, Sgt. Jeram Aradji and Sgt. Joan Aniñon.

“It’s possibly a retaliation,” according to Major Alvison Mustapha, spokesperson of the Lanao Del Sur police when asked what could be the possible motive of the attack.

He pointed to a group allegedly formed by remnants of Dawla Islamiya led by Faharuddin Hadjisatar, a.k.a. Abu Zacariah, as the perpetrators of the attack.

He said charges will be filed Monday in the local court against Hadjisatar, the alleged new ISIS emir in Southeast Asia.

Police said Hadjisatar has outstanding warrants of arrest.

Lt. Joseph Chicano of the Marogong Municipal Police Station said they received a call around 3:55 p.m. about the ambush.

Lt. Col. Sergio Reyes Ronquillo, battalion commander of MBLT-2, said his soldiers were conducting community relations in the barangay when ambushed.

Recovered from the scene of the ambush were empty shells from a 5.56 mm rifle. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/02/retaliation-eyed-in-ambush-of-marines-in-lanao-sur/

Local ISIS fighters ambush troops

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 6, 2023): Local ISIS fighters ambush troops

COTABATO CITY - Suspected Filipino Muslim militants ambushed a group of soldiers Saturday in the southern Philippines, leaving one dead and three others wounded, officials said Monday.

The attack came days after United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III visited a military base in Mindanao where he assured America will help the Philippines on its anti-terror crackdown in the south.

Soldiers belonging to 2nd Marine Battalion Landing Team were on a community service in the village of Cabasaran in the town of Marogong in Lanao del Sur shortly around 3:00 p.m. when they were attacked by an undetermined number of Daulah Islamiyah.

"Daulah Islamiyah" means "Islamic State" in the local language. Its membership comprises fighters from several Filipino militant factions, including the Maute Group, which had provided men and logistics during a five-month siege of Marawi by pro-IS fighters in 2017.

“There’s an ongoing pursuit operation against the perpetrators,” town police chief Lt. Joseph Chicano told a local radio station.

Killed in the ambush was Sgt. Tonti Melbert Pamaran while those wounded rushed to the local hospital Sgt.Aninon, Sgt. Jeram Aradji and Cpl Mark Anthony Banares, all members of Philippine Marines.

Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said that based on their information the mastermind behind the incident was Faharudin Hadji Satar, one of the leaders of Daulah Islamiyah.

“They wanted to show that they still have capability,” he said.

The latest attack happened days after Austin met senior Filipino military officials in the country to convey America’s support for the Philippines.

In 2017, a small team of U.S. troops assisted Philippine forces in defeating pro-Islamic State (IS) militants who had seized the city of Marawi, a predominantly Muslim city in the southern Philippines.

While the American troops were restricted from combat operations, they helped their Filipino counterparts gather intelligence that led to victory in the five-month battle where at least 1,200 militants, government forces and civilians were killed.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/02/local-isis-fighters-ambush-troops.html

2 Sayyaf terrorists yield in Sulu

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 7, 2023): 2 Sayyaf terrorists yield in Sulu

SULU - Two Abu Sayyaf terrorists have surrendered to the military authorities in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, once a stronghold of the dreaded pro-ISIS group.

Photo released by the Western Mindanao Command shows the two Abu Sayyaf terrorists following their surrender on Monday, February 6, 2023 in Sulu's Patikul town.

Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, has identified the duo only by their alias Hadjang, 50; and Nadz, 20. He said the two men surrendered on Monday, February 6, to the 6th Special Forces Battalion under Lt. Col. Harold Nemeño in the village of Buhanginan in Patikul town.

“The two Abu Sayyaf members surrendered to the military in Sulu on Monday morning, February 6. They also surrendered one M16 rifle and one .45-caliber pistol,” he said.

Army Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, lauded the surrender of the two Abu Sayyaf fighters.

“We attribute this success to the collaborative efforts of Joint Task Force Sulu, the provincial government of Sulu, our partners and stakeholders, and the peace-loving people of Sulu.”

“The employment of the whole-of-nation approach has brought our campaign against terrorism to a greater height. Rest assured that we will continue to intensify our efforts to bring lasting peace and progress in Sulu and the rest of the provinces in our area of operation,” Galido said.

Dozens of Abu Sayyaf terrorists had surrendered since last year and were provided financial aid by the provincial and municipal governments, including a livelihood package from the national government as part of a program to lure Muslim extremists to return to the fold of the law and live peacefully with their families and become responsible citizens. (Al Jacinto)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/02/2-sayyaf-terrorists-yield-in-sulu.html

DND lauds senators for support to EDCA, joint US-PH patrols

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): DND lauds senators for support to EDCA, joint US-PH patrols (By Priam Nepomuceno)

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (left) and DND OIC-Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (right) (PNA file photo by Joey Razon)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. lauded three of the country's senators for expressing their support to the move of the Philippines and the United States to designate four more locations as Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites and the possible conduct of joint maritime patrols.

"On behalf of the DND, I sincerely thank our lawmakers for expressing their support for EDCA and the resumption of joint PH-US maritime patrols," he added in a statement late Sunday.

Galvez said it is encouraging for the DND to know that lawmakers are aware of the importance of EDCA and joint maritime patrols to the national interest.

He was referring to the favorable sentiments shared by Senators Francis Tolentino, Francis Escudero and Sherwin Gatchalian on these favorable Philippine defense and security developments last week.

Tolentino was earlier quoted as saying as "I am in favor of defense/security cooperation ‘upgrades’ with reliable allies like the United States, considering the evolving regional conditions and challenges, so long as this is anchored on solid constitutional foundations and for the greater interests of the nation and EDCA is evidently a good model."

Meanwhile, Escudero said there is no reason for the Philippines not to continue its joint patrols with the US considering that America has been the country's ally since the late 1940s.

Escudero also emphasized that joint patrols would help reduce encroachments and acts of harassment in the area.

Meanwhile, Gatchalian shared that joint patrols and other cooperative military activities with the US would enhance military interoperability between the two countries.

Gatchalian also stressed that these activities are not limited to combat operations but also cover disaster preparedness efforts.

Galvez also expressed hope that local government units realize that the EDCA is not just about security.

"We enjoin them to look into the potential foreign investments and economic development that EDCA sites will bring to their communities as well as the enhancement of the protection of our areas that are vulnerable to the effects of climate change and the quicker disaster response and mitigation if our front-liners are called to action," he added.

Galvez stressed that these efforts being done by the DND to boost the country's capabilities are consistent with the President's foreign policy of being a friend to everyone and an enemy to no one.

"It is truly encouraging that our distinguished senators are aware of the importance of EDCA and joint maritime patrols to our national interest. I thank them again for their support," he added.

Also, Galvez said the Philippines shares the vision of like-minded nations in ensuring freedom of navigation and a peaceful, stable and free Indo-Pacific.

"As a member of the international community, we have a responsibility to protect the global commons in order to prevent humanity from constricting itself by ensuring that vital sea lines of communications are kept open. We must also promote responsible stewardship over our marine resources which are being threatened by overfishing and man-made ecological degradation," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194447

BARMM's Wali Nando major pillar of peace process: OPAPRU

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): BARMM's Wali Nando major pillar of peace process: OPAPRU (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BARMM Wali Khalifa Nando (Photo courtesy of the Bangsamoro Office of the Wali)

MANILA – Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. extended his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Wali Khalifa Nando who passed away on Sunday.

"Wali Nando was considered a major pillar of the Bangsamoro peace process. He was appointed by the BARMM interim government as its first Wali on March 29, 2019. He also opened the inaugural session of the second Bangsamoro Parliament on September 15, 2022," Galvez said in a statement Monday.

Wali Nando is the ceremonial head of the BARMM.

Wali is an Arabic word that could be translated into "master," "authority," "custodian," and protector.

Galvez also paid tribute to Nando's work as a religious leader and peacebuilder.

He said the late leader was instrumental in promoting the culture of peace, interreligious dialogue, and social healing and reconciliation among the Bangsamoro people.

"His legacy of peace will continue beyond his passing," Galvez said.

"May Wali Nando find eternal peace in the hands of Allah. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilayhi Raji'un! (Surely, we belong to Allah and verily to Him do we return)," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194449

PH-US 'Balikatan' exercises set in April

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): PH-US 'Balikatan' exercises set in April (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(File photo)

MANILA – This year's "Balikatan" military exercises between American and Filipino troops will take place in April.

"The AFP and the US Armed Forces are once again holding the 38th iteration of annual bilateral 'Balikatan' exercises. although this is a bilateral activity, the AFP takes the lead in planning and execution, supported by the US Armed Forces with other like-minded nations as observers," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a statement Monday.

Aguilar said "Balikatan" 38-2023 will help the AFP in developing its external defense capabilities and fulfilling its obligations to other countries in the region in terms of countering terrorism and other security threats.

"'Balikatan' 38-2023 will result in the development of the AFP capability not only in the conduct of external defense operations but also in fulfilling its obligation in working with other countries in the region against terrorism and other threats," he added.

The AFP neither indicated the exact dates of the exercises nor gave an exact number of participating American and Filipino military personnel for this year's exercises.

However, it said the maneuvers will be held in the areas of jurisdiction of the Northern Luzon Command, Visayas Command and Western Command.

"Yun (the) number of (participating) personnel is still undergoing discussion," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor told reporters.

He also said the "Balikatan" exercises are for the second week of April but added that this is still "tentative" and is still "to be finalized".

In the 2022 iteration of "Balikatan," around 3,800 members of the AFP and 5,100 US military personnel -- the largest number of combined personnel of the two militaries in the annual exercise since the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in 2020, participated in the annual exercises.

The Philippines and US exercise forces employed more than 50 aircraft, four ships, 10 amphibious craft, four high mobility artillery rocket system launchers, and four Patriot missile systems during "Balikatan" 2022.

"Balikatan" 2022 also included approximately 40 personnel from the Australian Defense Force.

Meanwhile, Aguilar said the AFP is grateful for the support extended by Senators Francis Tolentino, Francis Escudero and Sherwin Gatchalian to the implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement where the Philippines and US both agreed on four new locations as EDCA sites last week.

"This manifestation of support is in line with our treaty obligation as contained in the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951," he added.

Since the signing of EDCA in 2014, Aguilar said EDCA has continuously facilitated the conduct of military exercises and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations in support of the AFP mission.

"Likewise, with the threat of climate change, our partnership with modern and well-equipped countries such as the United States of America will develop the capability of our troops in executing HADR operations in times of natural calamities and disasters," Aguilar said.

"In addition to capability development, our engagement with a friend and a long-time ally also brings economic activities and opportunities that will benefit the people of the host local government units. This will further improve business confidence that will provide the economic stability that investors seek," he added.

Cagayan De Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez welcomed the decision to expand the EDCA with US.

“It is in our national interest to pursue and expand our defense partnership with the United States to deter further aggression from China in the West Philippine Sea and possible Chinese seizure of islets that belong to us under International law,” he said in a statement on Monday.

He said the expanded EDCA should be further broadened, including in areas where Filipino fishermen have been experiencing harassment.

“I support the Philippine Air Force base at the former Lumbia airport in our city. I expect the US government to pour in more funds to develop and fully capacitate the air base,” Rodriguez said.

He said the free ports in Subic, Zambales and Clark in Angeles City, Pampanga, which are former US military bases, should be part of EDCA training-exercises and humanitarian activities.
“The presence of the US in the former US Navy base in Subic could deter Chinese Coast Guard and military vessels from driving away our fishermen from their traditional fishing grounds in Scarborough or Panatag Shoal, or Bajo de Masinloc, which is near Zambales and Pangasinan,” he said.

Rodriguez proposed that Pag-asa Island off Palawan should also be included in EDCA.

He said expanded defense cooperation in the south should prompt the Marcos administration to allow and support oil and gas exploration in the Reed Bank near Palawan.

He noted that Reed Bank or Recto Bank is reportedly holding more oil and gas reserves than the Malampaya natural gas project, also located in Palawan. (with reports from Zaldy De Layola/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194466

AFP must be more agile in diplomacy, geopolitical talks: Marcos

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): AFP must be more agile in diplomacy, geopolitical talks: Marcos (By Azer Parrocha)

AGILE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the oath-taking ceremony of generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at Malacañan Palace on Monday (Feb. 6, 2023). In his speech, he urged the military to "keep up with the times" and be more agile in fostering partnerships as the global situation becomes "more and more complicated." (Photo courtesy of the Office of the President)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday urged the military to "keep up with the times" and be more agile in fostering partnerships as the global situation becomes "more and more complicated."

He made this remark in a speech at the oath-taking ceremony of generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Malacañan Palace.

"We, therefore, have to be more agile in our responses not only in the military area but also in diplomacy, also in geopolitical negotiations, and in our partnerships that we foster with our friends and allies around the world," he said.

Marcos, as AFP commander-in-chief, underscored the need to strengthen the country's collaboration with various government agencies, allies, partners and other stakeholders to safeguard and advance the country's national interest amid tensions and challenges.

He said the role of the AFP and its commanders has changed hence the need to continue to keep up with the times.

"Not only has the situation – the geopolitical situation become more complex, even the method of warfighting has become more complex with the new technologies, with the new capabilities that have become available to us," he added.

He, likewise, said the military has to make sure it knows "very well how to use the tools that are given us to the best effect for the national interest."

Marcos lauded the AFP and congratulated the newly promoted generals and flag officers.

"The AFP has never failed in that mission, and I only hope to continue to inspire to keep up the good work and keep the Philippines safe," he added.

He also assured the administration's continuous support of the programs promoting the welfare of troops and their families, as he reiterated that the modernization of the AFP is one of his top priorities to address national security concerns.

The AFP consists of three main service branches: the Army, the Air Force and the Navy. It is currently headed by AFP chief of staff, Gen. Andres Centino.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194545

Mandatory ROTC to boost trainees' resilience, character

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): Mandatory ROTC to boost trainees' resilience, character (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of PLM Reserve Officers' Training Corps 2022-2023 Facebook page)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. clarified that the proposed enhanced Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program would allow trainees to beef up their resilience and character -- qualities that are believed to foster good mental health.

The DND chief made this clarification Monday night after some reports claimed that ROTC would help "cure" or address mental health issues.

"We have learned of the sensitivities raised by our mental health practitioners and advocates on what they believe is the improper use at the Senate hearing on Monday, February 6, of the word 'cure' for mental health issues," Galvez said.

The DND chief said they understood and appreciated the concerns of these groups as mental health is an issue that affects the broadest spectrum of society.

"What we intended to convey during the hearing was that through our enhanced ROTC program, we would be able to build the strength of character and resilience of our trainees, qualities which positively foster mental health," Galvez said.

He also added that the ROTC program also aims to develop among the trainees the basic psychosocial support competencies that are crucial in responding to stressful situations and contexts.

Galvez stressed that the ROTC program they envisioned in the DND includes courses that are specifically designed to foster resilience, self-leadership, character-building and discipline.

"We believe these are virtues that our trainees must cultivate not only for their personal growth and development as individuals, but more importantly, enable them to play a key role in building a just, humane and democratic society," he added.

Galvez also assured the public that DND leadership shall carefully take into account the spirit of Republic Act 11036 (Mental Health Act of 2018) and the issues raised by our mental health experts in the crafting of the ROTC training program.

77 new senior AFP officers take oath

After a hiatus of three years brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, the DND announced that 77 newly appointed and promoted Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) generals and flag officers took their oath before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañan Palace.

Taking their oath before the chief executive and commander in chief is one of the most important traditions of the AFP, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

"President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. administered the oath of office to 77 senior officers of the AFP on Monday, 6 February 2023 -- the first time the ceremony was undertaken since he was elected to office," he added.

The President congratulated the newly promoted officers and reminded them of "the new mission that our Armed Forces has to face in this day and age."

The Chief Executive also emphasized the AFP's crucial role in protecting the country's interests amid the complex security landscape "That is why it is up to us to make sure that we know very well how to use the tools that are given us to the best effect for the national interest," Marcos added.

Among the officers who took their oath are Lt.Gen. Arthur M. Cordura, vice chief of staff of the AFP; Lt. Gen. Rowen S. Tolentino, superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy; Vice Admiral Toribio D. Adaci Jr., Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy; Lt. Gen. Stephen P. Parreño, commanding general of the Philippine Air Force; and Lt. Gen. Efren P. Baluyot, commander of the AFP Southern Luzon Command, and others.

"The act of taking our oath is a spiritual and emotional commitment to do our duty, render service to our nation and people, and uphold the supremacy of civilian authority over the military," Galvez stated.

He added that this ceremony headed by the commander in chief is a testament to the respect and full support of the national leadership for the AFP.

"We are grateful to the President for the importance that he gave to this milestone in the selfless service of the defenders of our republic as well as to their families, who also endure the hardships and sacrifice that every one of our soldiers faces when they risk their lives for our country and people," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194557

PH Army honors outgoing AFP deputy chief of staff

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): PH Army honors outgoing AFP deputy chief of staff (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (right) and AFP) deputy chief of staff Vice Adm. Rommel Anthony SD Reyes (left) (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) has rendered honors to outgoing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) deputy chief of staff Vice Adm. Rommel Anthony SD Reyes who retires next month.

These honors were given after Reyes' exit call to PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio on Monday.

"Vice Admiral Reyes, who is set to cap his military service next month, thanked the 110,000-strong PA for being a responsive, professional, and committed force provider to the AFP," Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Tuesday.

Reyes was appointed AFP deputy chief of staff in February 2022, succeeding Vice Adm. Erick Kagaoan.

He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1989 and has a Master’s in Public Management major in Development and Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines.

Reyes has specialized in various warfare and staff functions and has held key staff and command positions throughout his sterling career.

Meanwhile, Brawner graced the 53rd founding anniversary of the 4th Infantry Division at Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on Feb. 3.

Anchored on the theme "Sustaining excellence, strengthening partnership," the anniversary ceremony recognized the efforts of all people behind the success of the unit throughout the years.

During the event, Brawner presided over the pinning of the Institutionalized Status of the 26th Infantry Battalion, which exhibited exemplary performance in good governance.

He also commended the division’s state-building capabilities through the support of the soldiers and stakeholders who always extended their service for the betterment of the community and the country.

“To all the military personnel and stakeholders, please continue supporting your PA and AFP. We need your support and help because if we work together, we will have a better nation,” Brawner said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194563

PH Army, USARPAC to help each other in capability dev't

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): PH Army, USARPAC to help each other in capability dev't (By Priam Nepomuceno)

United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) deputy commanding general Lt. Gen. James B. Jarrard (left) and Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. (right) (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) and its counterpart, the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), have agreed to support each other in their ongoing capability development.

This came following the courtesy call of USARPAC deputy commanding general, Lt. Gen. James B. Jarrard, to PA commander, Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Tuesday.

"During the visit, Lt. Gen. Brawner and Lt. Gen. Jararrd explored a range of engagement opportunities to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The two generals also discussed the preparations on capability development and training, particularly the upcoming 'Salaknib' and 'Balikatan' exercises," said Army spokesperson, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement.

"Salaknib" is scheduled for the first quarter of 2023 while "Balikatan" is on the second quarter of this year.

"Moreover, both Armies likewise agreed to support each other’s organizational and capability development plans, especially towards the PA’s modernization initiatives which would play a key role in revolutionizing and equipping the Army," Trinidad added.

Joining Jarrard in his courtesy call were 19 USARPAC delegates including 25th Infantry Division (25ID) commanding general, Maj. Gen. Joseph Ryan; 25ID deputy commanding general for operations, Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Van Antwerp; 1st Multi-Domain Task Force commanding general, Brig. Gen. Bernard J. Harrington; and other staff members.

Jarrard also visited the Nueva Ecija, Fort Magsaysay-based 7th Infantry Division and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement project sites there.

He is set to visit the Northern Luzon Command which is located in Tarlac City.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194593

AFP to send rescue teams to quake-hit Türkiye

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): AFP to send rescue teams to quake-hit Türkiye (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of Bea Bernardo, PTV)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said it would deploy 33 military personnel to help in ongoing search and rescue efforts in Türkiye which was rocked by a magnitude 7.8 earthquake on Monday.

The personnel are trained in search and rescue operations and have the equipment for the special task, according to AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Andres Centino.

"We are sending two groups, from the Army and the Air Force. A total of 33 personnel -- 21 from the Army, 12 from the Air Force," Centino told reporters on the sidelines of the inspection of responding troops and equipment at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

While this is the first time for some of the troops to be deployed abroad, Centino said they have responded to various calamities and typhoons in the Philippines, including the aftermath of Typhoon Odette in December 2021.

Centino said he advised the troops to prepare for Türkiye’s cold weather, which will fall to as low as 3 degrees Celsius in the next two weeks, according to forecasts.

The AFP will provide the proper clothing and equipment while security arrangements are being prepared.

PH rescue teams mobilized

Meanwhile, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) chairperson and Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge (OIC) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. inspected and sends-off the inter-agency response teams to be deployed to Türkiye.

Galvez was accompanied by Centino, Department of Health OIC Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) OIC Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, Centino, Metro Manila Development Authority acting chairman Romando Artes, and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Fire Department manager Ranny Magno.

The response came after the call for assistance from the international community of Türkiye through its embassy in Manila requesting for emergency medical teams (EMTs) and urban search and rescue (USAR) teams.

"Our response is in solidarity with the People of Türkiye who have helped our country, especially in attaining peace in Mindanao," Galvez said.

The Philippines is set to deploy an 85-man team that is composed of personnel two personnel from the OCD, 33 personnel from the medium USAR team of the AFP, 10 from the Metro Manila Development Authority, and nine from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and EMTs from the Department of Health numbering 31.

"We aim for this team to be self sufficient, who can rely on their own, and not a burden to the host country," Galvez added.

Aside from EMTs and USAR teams to be deployed, they will also bring with them goods to be donated to the affected people of the

These goods include clothing and sleeping kits for winter, and hygiene and sanitary kits, which will be provided by the OCD, together with the private sector and local government units.

The team will be deployed to Türkiye for at least two weeks and is set to depart on Wednesday at the earliest via a commercial flight provided by Turkish Airlines.

"This is our contribution to humanity, and the President ordered us for the response teams to prepare for deployment, for the People of Türkiye," Galvez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194655

Marcos wants to ‘rationalize’ AFP promotion system

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): Marcos wants to ‘rationalize’ AFP promotion system (By Azer Parrocha)

PROMOTION SYSTEM. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. poses for a photo opportunity with newly sworn in Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) generals and flag officers at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (Feb. 7, 2023). Marcos said he wants to “rationalize” the AFP promotion system. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the President)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said he wants to “rationalize” the promotion system in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

He made this remark after administering the oath of office to 77 newly appointed and promoted AFP generals and flag officers at Malacañan Palace on Monday.

This is the first time that happened since the Covid-19 pandemic hit the country in 2020.

“‘Yung promotion, SOP [standard operating procedure] na ‘yan (Promotion is already SOP). That’s why we did what we did earlier to normalize and I used the word rationalize ‘yung promotions system na ginawa sa AFP (the promotions system being done at AFP),” he said in a media interview after the 2023 Tax Campaign kickoff of the Bureau of Internal Revenue at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

“So this is just another part of that ongoing process. We normalize the process of promotion already and naibalik natin sa dati (brought it back to what it used to be),” he added.

In his speech during the oath-taking ceremony, Marcos urged the military to "keep up with the times" and be more agile in fostering partnerships as the global situation becomes "more and more complicated."

"We, therefore, have to be more agile in our responses not only in the military area but also in diplomacy, also in geopolitical negotiations, and in our partnerships that we foster with our friends and allies around the world," he said.

Marcos, as AFP commander-in-chief, underscored the need to strengthen the country's collaboration with various government agencies, allies, partners and other stakeholders to safeguard and advance the country's national interest amid tensions and challenges.

He said the role of the AFP and its commanders has changed hence the need to continue to keep up with the times.

"Not only has the situation – the geopolitical situation become more complex, even the method of warfighting has become more complex with the new technologies, with the new capabilities that have become available to us," he added.

NSC priority programs

Meanwhile, Marcos on Tuesday convened the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss its priority programs in a meeting at the state dining room of Malacañan Palace.

Marcos was joined by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Secretary Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr. and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile.

NSC Director General and National Security Adviser (NSA) Secretary Eduardo Año presented his report to the President.

Año was accompanied by NSC Deputy Director Generals Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Nestor Herico and Marlo Guloy, as well as National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Executive Director Ernesto Torres Jr.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194642

Additional combat duty pay eyed for uniformed forces

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): Additional combat duty pay eyed for uniformed forces (By Leonel Abasola)

(Courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – As the nation’s protectors who preserve peace and harmony and ward off threats, it is only fitting that members of the military, police and coast guard be provided with adequate compensation and substantial benefits.

Under Senate Bill 1816 or the Combat Incentives Act filed by Senator Raffy Tulfo, the Combat Duty Pay (CDP) will be fixed at PHP5,000.00 per month for members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

On the other hand, the Combat Incentive Pay (CIP) will be PHP1,000 per day provided that the operation to which the enlisted personnel or officer is deployed must be for a specific combat mission that is duly covered by an Operations Order or Fragmentary Order for the AFP or a Mission Order for the PNP; the personnel involved in combat must be in the published task organization of the AFP Operations Order or Fragmentary Order or the PNP Mission Order; and the total additional CIP for each qualified individual shall not exceed 50 percent of the base salary pay per month.

The CIP shall be over and above the CDP and will be tax-exempt.

Combat duty includes field operations involving armed hostilities against insurgents or dissidents, outlaws, and terrorists; operations against armed criminals such as hostage rescue operations, anti-hijacking operations, hot pursuit operations, and other similar armed confrontations; planned activities undertaken independently or in coordination with civilian entities; activities designed to preserve internal security against insurgents, secessionists, and terrorists, including intelligence; providing security to the President and family; and seaborne or mobile patrols within coastal areas conducted by PCG uniformed personnel who are in actual operation against elements of maritime threats.

Under Executive Order 201 in 2016 signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte, all uniformed personnel were given a fixed rate of PHP3,000 CDP and daily CIP of PHP300.

“Our soldiers and police personnel receive measly salaries, inadequate allowances and insufficient benefits, compared to the circumstantial stressors and challenges they face. Some of these are societal isolation, the sleep deprivation that comes with long shifts, and continued exposure to harmful human elements,” read the bill’s explanatory note.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194577

South Negros village residents flee homes amid armed clashes

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2023): South Negros village residents flee homes amid armed clashes (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

EVACUATION. Displaced residents stay in modular tents at the covered court of Barangay Oringao in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental following armed clashes between government troops and communist rebels. As of Sunday (Feb. 5, 2023), 822 individuals from 283 families are staying in the evacuation site. (Courtesy of Kabankalan City-DRRMO)

BACOLOD CITY – Hundreds have fled their homes amid the ongoing armed clashes between troops of the Philippine Army's 94th Infantry Battalion (IB) and New People's Army (NPA) rebels in the remote village of Oringao in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.

Data released by Mayor Benjie Miranda showed that as of 6 p.m. on Sunday, 822 individuals from 283 families, are staying in the village covered court.

"Another encounter transpired between troops of 94IB and more or less 15 members of the NPA on Feb. 5," the battalion reported at past 10 a.m. on Sunday.

The initial encounter took place on Saturday.

The report added the soldiers engaged the rebels during security patrol operations after receiving reports of extortion and harassment.

On Saturday night, the City Department of Social Welfare and Development and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office installed modular tents and distributed food assistance to affected residents from three sitios (subcommunities) -- Mansawin, Nabalikan and Pitgong.

Last month, more than 200 residents of Purok Malipayon, Barangay San Jose, Sipalay City, also in southern Negros, were displaced following two armed clashes between 15IB troops and NPA rebels.

The first encounter on Jan. 18 took place in the hinterlands of Barangay Camalandaan, Cauayan town, followed by another clash later in the afternoon in adjacent Purok Malipayon during the pursuit operations for some 20 rebels.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194434

Bodies of 3 NPA rebels, weapons recovered in Negros clash site

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): Bodies of 3 NPA rebels, weapons recovered in Negros clash site (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

CASUALTIES. Two of the three bodies of unidentified New People's Army rebels recovered by joint military and police forces on Sunday (Feb. 5, 2023), after a two-day gun battle in the hinterlands of Barangay Oringao, Kabankalan City over the weekend. Troops also found three firearms, personal belonging and subversive documents. (Photo courtesy of 303rd Infantry Brigade Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – Joint military and police troops recovered the bodies of three unidentified New People's Army (NPA) rebels and their weapons on Sunday, following a two-day clash in Barangay Oringao, Kabankalan City in southern Negros Occidental.

The casualties resulted from the 20-minute encounter between government forces and a group of 15 rebels in Sitio Bugne around 8 a.m. on Sunday, the Philippine Army's 94th Infantry Battalion (94IB) said in a report.

The first skirmish took place at past 5 p.m. on Saturday when 94IB troops together with personnel of the Philippine National Police's Regional Mobile Force Battalion-Western Visayas and 2nd Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company responded to the presence of armed men in the remote sitios of the village.

In a statement Sunday night, Col. Orlando Edralin, commander of 303rd Infantry Brigade, commended the 94IB troops for their immediate response to the information given by the locals.

"The bravery you exhibited during the series of security operations in Kabankalan is incomparable," he said.

Edralin also acknowledged the vigilance and cooperation of the residents that manifest their genuine desire for NPA-free Kabankalan City.

Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, commander of 94IB, also thanked the locals for providing information to government forces.

"This is a clear manifestation that communist-terrorists are not welcome in Kabankalan," he added.

During the clearing operation, troops found an M14 rifle, .45 and .38 caliber pistols, all loaded with ammunition, along with backpacks, personal items and subversive documents.

"The NPA terrorists are fighting a losing war. Their armed struggle is ending. They must surrender before it's too late," Almonte said.

Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda said the series of encounters displaced more than 800 residents who have sought shelter in the village covered court since Saturday night.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194448

Suspects in ambush of Marines in Lanao Sur pursued

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): Suspects in ambush of Marines in Lanao Sur pursued (By Edwin Fernandez)

AMBUSHED. A Marine sergeant was killed while three others were wounded in an ambush by suspected Islamic militants in Marogong town, Lanao del Sur province, on Saturday (Feb. 4, 2023). The injured are getting medical care in a local hospital in Parang town in neighboring Maguindanao province. (Photo courtesy of Marogong MPS)

COTABATO CITY – Police and Marine field units are hot on the trail of suspects behind the weekend ambush in Marogong town, Lanao del Sur province, that killed a Marine sergeant and injured three others, a police official said Monday.

“We have identified the suspects and a joint police and Marine manhunt operation is ongoing,” said Lt. Joseph Chicano, Marogong municipal police station chief, referring to the ambush of a Marine vehicle in Barangay Cabasaran, Marogong at around 3:50 p.m. on Saturday.

Slain Marine Sgt. Tonti Melbert Pamaran, and his wounded companions identified as Sgts. Jeram Aradji and Joan Aniñon, and Cpl. Mark Anthony Bañares, are all under the 2nd Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT-2) based in Malabang town, Lanao del Sur.

Chicano said around 10 gunmen, led by Faharudin Hadjisatar, leader of Dawlah Islamiya (DI) in Lanao del Sur, positioned on both sides of the dirt road in Barangay Cabasaran and opened fire on the approaching military vehicle, triggering a brief firefight.

“It was unclear if the ambushers also suffered casualties during the exchange of gunfire," Chicano said.

According to military and police intelligence reports, Hadjisatar is now the leader of the DI in Lanao del Sur, a remnant of the Maute terror group that laid siege in Marawi City in 2017.

Hadjisatar succeeded Owaida Marohombsar, also known as Abu Dar, the leader of the DI-Maute Group who was killed in Lanao del Norte in March 2019.

The Marawi siege left more than 1,200 soldiers, civilians, and terrorists killed and ruined the city.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194452

MILF co-founder Sheik Khalifa Nando dies, 82

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7 ASG bandits killed, 2 captured in Sulu clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): 7 ASG bandits killed, 2 captured in Sulu clash (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

SULU CLASH. Seven followers of the Abu Sayyaf Group were killed while two are captured in a clash Sunday (Feb. 5, 2023) in the boundary of Maimbung and Parang towns in Sulu. Government troops recovered seven high-powered firearms after the 30-minute clash. (Photo courtesy of Area Police Command-Western Mindanao)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Seven Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) extremists were killed while two others were captured following a firefight in the hinterlands of Sulu province, a top police official said Monday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said the clash broke out around 1:21 a.m. Sunday on the border of Barangays Labah and Kapuk in the towns of Maimbung and Parang, respectively.

Verceles identified the slain ASG members as Juko Dahim, Aldimar Kanih, Gamil Halik, Norhan Pasi, Malik Iron, Jimming Akjal and his son, only known as alias Iron.

He said they were taken to the hospital but were declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

Those captured were identified as Julmin Amdan and Rogir Mukatrir.

Wounded in the crossfire were Crismalyn Hail Tajid, 22, and a child who were both taken to a hospital in Jolo, the capital town of Sulu.

Verceles said the firefight broke out when the policemen led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) were fired upon by the group of Juko and Alganer while they were about to serve a warrant of arrest for murder against the former.

A 30-minute firefight ensued as the policemen fired back, resulting in the death of Juko and six of his companions. Alganer managed to escape.

Verceles said Juko was involved in the ambush-slay of Col. Julasirim Kasim, the police director of Sulu, in 2009 in Barangay Bato Ugis, Maimbung, Sulu.

He said the slain ASG members were followers of Majan Sahidjuan operating in the towns of Indanan, Parang and Maimbung.

Sahidjuan was killed in a clash with government troops in March 2021 in Kalupag Island, Languyan, Tawi-Tawi.

Verceles said the policemen recovered nine high-powered firearms, assorted ammunition and war materiel from the clash site.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194446

4 BIFF extremists renounce violence, get livelihood aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): 4 BIFF extremists renounce violence, get livelihood aid (By Edwin Fernandez)

BIFF SURRENDERERS. Four former Moro extremists show their firearms before formally turning over them to military authorities as they renounce violence in favor of peace. Their surrender took place at the Army’s 92nd Infantry Battalion headquarters in Midsayap town, North Cotabato province on Sunday (Feb. 5, 2023). (Photo courtesy of MILG-BARMM)

COTABATO CITY – Four members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have received food aid and livelihood assistance after they laid down firearms and renounced violence in Midsayap town, North Cotabato province, officials reported Monday.

Naguib Sinarimbo, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) interior and local government minister, said the ex-Moro rebels who surrendered were presented by the Army’s 92nd Infantry Battalion (IB) to Maj. Gen. Roberto Capulong, the 2nd Infantry Division (ID) commander, on Sunday.

Sinarimbo assured the BARMM government will assist the ex-combatants through the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government's (MILG) Project TuGoN (Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit).

TuGoN is a project of the BARMM government aimed at ending local armed conflict. It is a humanitarian assistance program administered by the MILG for former members of other local armed groups in the region who have chosen to return to the folds of the law.

The activity was carried out in collaboration with the Ministries of Social Services and Development, Public Order and Safety, and other line agencies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194541

2 ex-rebels, 15 supporters cut ties with CPP-NPA in Aurora

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): 2 ex-rebels, 15 supporters cut ties with CPP-NPA in Aurora (By Jason De Asis)

OATH OF ALLEGIANCE. Two former members and 15 supporters of the communist terrorist group take an oath of allegiance following their surrender to the Philippine Army's 91st Infantry Battalion in Baler town, Aurora province on Sunday (Feb. 5, 2023). Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto Jr., 91IB commander, assured that the Army will help them as they rejoin the mainstream society. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 91IB)

BALER, Aurora – Two former members and 15 supporters of the communist terrorist group (CTG) in this province have surrendered to the military on Sunday.

Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto Jr., commander of the Army’s 91 Infantry Battalion (91IB), said on Monday the two surrendered rebels were former members of the Aurora Provincial Party Committee of the dismantled Domingo Erlano Command of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Recto said the 17 surrenderers signified their withdrawal of support from the CTG as they took their oath of allegiance to the government during a ceremony in this town.

“Those people voluntarily submitted themselves to 91B. They came here for a lasting sense of peace and are now committed to supporting the government’s program,” he said in an interview.

Recto lauded the decision of the surrenderers as he pointed out that the government is always ready to accept and help them lead peaceful lives anew.

“They were all victims of the lies, deceptions and propaganda of the terror organization which added fire and fabricated issues against the government to destroy its good image," he said.

He assured that the Philippine Army will help the surrenderers in their reintegration into mainstream society.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194521

10 former rebels to get P65K E-CLIP benefits

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): 10 former rebels to get P65K E-CLIP benefits (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

Provincial Director Farah Diba Gentuya of the Department of the Interior and Local Government of Negros Oriental. (PNA file photo)

DUMAGUETE CITY – Ten former rebels (FRs) of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) who surrendered to authorities in Negros Oriental province will soon receive financial assistance of PHP65,000 each under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Provincial director Farah Diba Gentuya, of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Negros Oriental, said the FRs have complied with all the requirements and the monetary aid for them is now ready for downloading.

“Of the total amount, PHP15,000 is for immediate cash assistance while PHP50,000 is for livelihood assistance”, Gentuya told the Philippine News Agency on Monday.

“The immediate cash assistance could not be released right away following the surrender of a former rebel as that person still has to go through a validation process and is required to comply with certain documentary requirements," she said.

The 10 E-CLIP beneficiaries have surrendered separately to either the police of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Negros Oriental between 2020 and 2021, although their identities are withheld for security reasons.

On top of the PHP65,000 aid, each qualified FR will also receive a PHP21,000 re-integration assistance which shall be granted to the receiving unit, such as the Philippine Army or the Philippine National Police, who will facilitate the beneficiaries as they return to or resume their normal lives, the DILG official said.

Brig. Gen. Leonardo Peña, commander of the Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, said they usually cover the expenses of the FRs while awaiting the release of the re-integration assistance.

The brigade has completed construction of a halfway house for the FRs, funded by the provincial government, and is awaiting its formal turnover, alongside the assignment of government workers to run the facility, he said.

An E-CLIP audit to check on solutions to hasten documentation and release of benefits was held here recently to help improve some processes, as it usually takes a year or longer to complete all the necessary requirements due to a variety of reasons, Gentuya said.

These include the certification from the Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee (JAPIC), the absence of birth certificates, valid identification, and other credentials, among others.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194529

Cebu Army reservists upgrade skills, combat capabilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): Cebu Army reservists upgrade skills, combat capabilities (By John Rey Saavedra)

MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING. Photo shows Army reservist, Staff Sgt. Adonis Quitoy, head of the security office of a giant mall in Cebu City, assisting a fellow volunteer during the "Tansan Challenge" marksmanship training at the Visayas Command firing range in Camp Lapu-Lapu on Feb. 5, 2023. Brig. Gen. Erik Miguel Espina on Tuesday (Feb. 7) said the marksmanship is included in the monthly skills training of the 1901st Reader Reserve Infantry Brigade. (Photo courtesy of 1901st Public Affairs Team)

CEBU CITY – Army reservists in Cebu province will undergo monthly skills training to upgrade their capabilities in both humanitarian operations and combat tactics to prepare them for disaster and territorial emergencies, an official said on Tuesday.

Brig. Gen. Erik Miguel Espina, head of the 1901st Ready Reserve Infantry Brigade, said the initiative for regular skills advancement activities came up during the recent Assembly Test where the reservists gathered for capabilities inventory as well as records updating.

Apart from being a “force multiplier” for disaster emergencies, Espina said there is also a need to send reservists to continuous training to expose them to different combat capabilities even without actual threats.

“In other countries, they have recruitment centers, one has to fill out a form (and) then become a reservist. If you are a citizen, you are welcome because you are willing to give your time to serve. In our country, it is pure volunteerism, it’s a privilege to serve (the reserve force),” he told the Philippine News Agency.

Espina commended the reservists for attending a one-day marksmanship proficiency training and a lecture on field artillery on Sunday (Feb. 5).

“They are supposed to be with their families because (that) was a Sunday. But because of their love of service to our Inang Bayan as volunteer soldiers, they underwent a crash course on field artillery and hone their skills on rifle shooting,” Espina said.

Reservists Technical Sergeant Andy Chua, a businessman, and Staff Sergeant Adonis Quitoy, head of the security office of SM Seaside, assisted their fellow reservists in marksmanship proficiency training dubbed as "Tansan Challenge" at the Visayas Command’s firing range.

Retired Maj. Gen. Alan Bontuyan gave the reservists an overview of artillery operations, discussing the effective range and lethality of mortars, 105mm and 155mm Howitzers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194567

2 NPA rebels yield in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): 2 NPA rebels yield in Sultan Kudarat (By Roel Osano)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – Two members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) have surrendered to authorities in Lebak town, Sultan Kudarat province after they survived a clash with government forces in the area, an official bared Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Guillermo Mabute Jr., commander of the Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion (IB), welcomed the two rebels during surrender rites held in Barangay Salangsang, Lebak, on Monday.

Mabute identified the ex-NPA fighters through their aliases as "Malakas" and "Justice," both active members of the Baghdad Platoon, NPA Daguma Command, Far South Mindanao Region.

The surrenderers handed over an M16 rifle and an M14 assault rifle with ammunition.

Mabute lauded the intelligence information provided by residents in the village that helped in the surrender of the rebels.

“We were continuously monitoring their whereabouts after the recent encounter with troops of the 57IB in the nearby municipalities where they have scampered into different directions following the clash,” he said.

Mabute described the duo’s surrender as a “right move” to be with their families again.

“Their families are residing in our area of responsibility (AOR) so they will soon be reunited with their respective families,” he said.

Major Gen. Alex Rillera, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) commander, said the two surrenderers will be enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and other “Balik-Loob” aid packages of the Sultan Kudarat provincial government.

“The 6ID is reiterating its call to remaining NPAs operating in our AOR to peacefully return to the folds of the law and avail various amelioration benefits offered by the government,” Rillera, also the commander of Joint Task Force Central, said.

Last month alone, at least 10 communist rebels surrendered to the Army’s ID area of operation in the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and parts of Sarangani, North Cotabato, and Lanao del Sur.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194617

MILF member tagged as Zambo Norte’s 10th most wanted arrested

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): MILF member tagged as Zambo Norte’s 10th most wanted arrested (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Sirawai municipality, Zamboanga del Norte.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities have arrested in a manhunt operation a Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) member tagged as the 10th most wanted person in Zamboanga del Norte province, a top police official reported Tuesday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said Masuud Hassan Alip was arrested around 5:30 p.m. Monday in Barangay Panabutan in Sirawai town, Zamboanga del Norte.

He said Alip, 29, has a standing arrest warrant for murder with no recommended bail issued by a municipal court in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte, in April last year.

The suspect is also linked to the killing of a former militiaman in 2021 in Barangay Doña Cecelia, Sirawai.

Verceles said the suspect is also believed to be a contract killer working with Abdul Lumarang, the leader of the Lumarang crime group that has ties with the Sulu-based Abu Sayyaf Group.

Alip was taken to the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Police Office for documentation and proper disposition before his turnover to the court.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194568

Cops recover NPA claymore mine, pipe bomb in Butuan village

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): Cops recover NPA claymore mine, pipe bomb in Butuan village (By Alexander Lopez)

RECOVERED EXPLOSIVES. The Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga) reports on Tuesday (Feb. 7, 2023) the recovery of two deadly improvised bombs hidden by New People’s Army rebels in Barangay Taligaman, Butuan City. The recovery of the explosives was made possible through information provided by a tipster in the area. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

BUTUAN CITY – Policemen recovered two deadly explosives hidden by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in a village here, an official said Tuesday.

“The communist group buried the improvised explosive devices in Purok 1 of Barangay Taligaman,” Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga) director, Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, said in a statement.

Acting on a tip, he said personnel of the Butuan City Police Station 4 found the improvised claymore mine, a cylindrical pipe bomb, and four plastic containers filled with rice explosives on Monday.

A report from the PRO-13 intelligence division said the recovered explosives were from the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 21C, Weakened NPA Guerilla Front 21, Sub-Regional Command Westland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee under a certain Arnel Banguis.

“The PRO-13 expresses appreciation for the informant's assistance in the recovery of the dangerous explosives,” Labra said.

The support, he said, proves the strong partnership between the police and the communities in the region.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194614

Army targets end of NegOr insurgency in 2023 Q1

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): Army targets end of NegOr insurgency in 2023 Q1 (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

RELIEF AID. Residents of Barangay Oringao, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental receive food packs at a gymnasium where they stayed following clashes between government forces and the New People's Army on Sunday (Feb. 5, 2023). An Army official on Tuesday said they target to end the communist insurgency in Negros Oriental by the first quarter of this year. (Courtesy of the Philippine Army)

DUMAGUETE CITY – The Philippine Army targets to end the communist insurgency in Negros Oriental as early as the first quarter of this year with sustained operations.

Brig. Gen. Leonardo Peña, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, told the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday that continuous combat and non-combat operations in the province and in Negros Occidental will reduce the fighting capabilities of the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

“Actually, our objective at the brigade is to completely flush out the ranks of the NPA or reduce it to the lowest, insignificant level, or in a state where they can no longer fight the government forces,” Peña said in mixed English and Filipino.

“That is why we have intensified our combat operations to track these NPA rebels down and ensure that they can no longer regain their strongholds and build up their mass base,” he added.

Peña said the recent encounters between the NPA and government forces on Negros Island are the result of the civilian populace’s cooperation with their anti-insurgency efforts.

The clashes in Barangay Oringao, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, which is near the boundary of Negros Oriental, over the weekend forced 800 individuals to leave their homes and seek safety.

Peña said Executive Order (EO) No. 70 of former president Rodrigo Duterte is now seeing gains in this Central Visayas province, the only one among four provinces in Region 7 (Central Visayas) that is still dealing with insurgency.

EO No. 70, signed in December 2018, created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict that employs a whole-of-nation approach to end communism and institute peace-building initiatives.

“We intend to make Negros Oriental insurgency-free, just like Bohol, and we need the cooperation of government agencies, local government units, local chief executives, and various stakeholders for us to achieve this goal,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194647