Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 02/13/23

Monday, February 13, 2023

Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leader, nasakote ng CIDG

From the Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) (Feb 14, 2023): Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leader, nasakote ng CIDG (Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leader, arrested by CIDG)

Naaresto ng Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) ang sub-leader ng Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) sa ikinasa nilang manhunt operation sa Zamboanga City.

Kinilala ito ni CIDG Director PBGen. Romeo Caramat Jr., na si Isnirul Kirih a.k.a. Isnirul Kirin, Sakirin Isnain Kiram, Sakirin I Kiram, at Sakirin Ll Kiram, 51 years old at residente ng Sinunuc, Zamboanga City.

Nabatid na si Isnirul Kirih ay tinaguriang Top 2 Regional Level Most Wanted Person sa PROBAR.

Siya rin ang itinuturing na sub-leader ng ASG sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni ASG Senior Leader Isnilon Hapilon.

Ayon pa kay Gen. Caramat sangkot ang suspek sa serye ng pakikipagsagupaan sa tropa ng militar mula 2001 hanggang 2003.

Mayroon din itong existing warrant of arrest dahil sa mga kasong Multiple Murder with Frustrated Murder, 7 counts of Murder at 25 counts of Frustrated Murder.

https://rmn.ph/abu-sayyaf-group-sub-leader-nasakote-ng-cidg/

Abu Sayyaf subleader captured in Zamboanga

From the Manila Times (Feb 13, 2023): Abu Sayyaf subleader captured in Zamboanga (By Al Jacinto)

ZAMBOANGA CITY: Police commandos captured a subleader of the Muslim extremist group Abu Sayyaf following a raid in his hideout in the largely Catholic city of Zamboanga in southern Philippines.

Police said Isnirul Kirin, who has a P5 million bounty for his capture, was tracked down in the coastal village of Sinunuc, about 11 kilometers from downtown Zamboanga.

Kirin, 51, is facing over two dozen charges of murder and frustrated murder and had escaped military operations in the island-province of Basilan, about 44 nautical miles from here.

Police did not say how they tracked down the elusive terrorist over the weekend, but the operation also involved the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and several other police units.

It was unknown how long Kirin had been hiding in Zamboanga City, home of the regional military and police headquarters in the Peninsula, or whether his pro-ISIS group was planning an attack.

No other details were released by the police on Kirin's notorious activities.

The Abu Sayyaf, which means "the bearer of the sword," is a small, but notorious group involved in terrorism and ransom kidnappings in the troubled region. Its leaders have pledged allegiance to ISIS or Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, also known as Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.

Continuous security operations against the Abu Sayyaf had either killed or led to the surrender of its fighters in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, while some of its fighters have joined the Dawlah Islamiya or Islamic State and other jihadist groups in Mindanao.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/02/14/news/regions/abu-sayyaf-subleader-captured-in-zamboanga/1878557

Cops nab communist rebel, another one surrenders in Samar

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 13. 2023): Cops nab communist rebel, another one surrenders in Samar (By: Joey Gabieta)

Samar map

TACLOBAN CITY — A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the government while another communist rebel was arrested in Samar province.

“Ka James,” 44, surrendered on Sunday, Feb. 12, at the police station in Basey, Samar. He turned over two caliber 38 firearms with seven ammunition.

James belonged to the Regional Guerilla Unit headed by “Ka Adong” under the South Samar 2 operating in the areas of Sta. Rita, Basey, and Marabut, all in Samar; and other municipalities of Eastern Samar.

James decided to abandon the armed group due to difficulties living in the mountains and the campaign of the government persuading the rebels to surrender and enjoy the programs for those returning to the folds of the law.

Meanwhile, the police arrested alias “Ka Dadang,” 34, in Barangay Pulangi, Calbiga town, Samar, also on Sunday.

Dadang was the subject of an arrest warrant issued by a court in 2010 for murder and attempted murder in relation to her being a member of the armed group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Dadang’s group operated in Calbiga town, known then to be a communist lair.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1729246/cops-nab-communist-rebel-another-one-surrenders-in-samar

2 rebels killed in Cagayan clash

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 13, 2023): 2 rebels killed in Cagayan clash (By: Villamor Visaya Jr.)

CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Isabela — Two alleged members of the New People’s Army were killed during a running gun battle in Baggao town, Cagayan province on Monday (Feb. 13), the military said.

Army Capt. Rigor Pamittan, 5th Infantry Division spokesperson and public affairs chief, said the 17th Infantry Battalion soldiers were patrolling in the forests of Barangay Sta. Margarita when they encountered about 15 members of the communist Cagayan Provincial Committee-Regional Committee-Cagayan Valley, resulting in a clash.

The encounter lasted for more than 30 minutes, the military said.

According to Pamittan, a body of guerrilla was later found while an M-16 Armalite rifle with a magazine was recovered.

The guerrillas immediately fled, he said.

A pursuit operation was immediately initiated by government soldiers and a 15-minute firefight again ensued, killing another alleged guerrilla. INQ

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1729499/2-rebels-killed-in-cagayan-clash

Former rebels receive cash aid, school supplies, motorcycle from government in Surigao

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 14, 2023): Former rebels receive cash aid, school supplies, motorcycle from government in Surigao (By Mike Crismundo)

BUTUAN CITY– The Philippine Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36th IB) conducted a gift giving and hand-over of school supplies, laptop, cash assistance, and motorcycle to former communist-New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who are continually undergoing an Alternative Learning System (ALS) in the 36th IB headquarters in Carmen, Surigao del Sur.

Shown in photo are the former seven NPA rebels who receive their cash gifts, school supplies and a motorcycle during a gift-giving activity conducted by the command group and personnel of the Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion in Carmen, Surigao del Sur, early this week. (Photo courtesy of 36th IB-CMO via Mike U. Crismundo/Manila Bulletin)

The gifts and items given to the former rebels (FRs) were a simple gesture of the 36th IB personnel in accepting them and supporting their dreams of a peaceful and new life together with their family, 36th IB CMO officer 2nd Lt. Charita A. Igdalino told The Manila Bulletin on Tuesday, Feb. 14.

With this, the FRs expressed their sincerest gratitude and added that returning to the folds of the law was the best decision that they have made.

The 36th IB CMO officer said that the FRs also emphasized that other Communist and NPA Terrorists (CNTs) must surrender and go back to the mainstream of society in order to avail the programs of the government and be with their families and live peacefully.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Michael Rey S. Reuyan, commanding officer of the 36th IB, thanked the FRs for returning to the folds of the law and starting a new life.

The 36th IB commander vowed to continuously support FRs in embracing a normal life away from the local armed struggle.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/02/14/former-rebels-receive-cash-aid-school-supplies-motorcycle-from-government-in-surigao/

Strong Ties: U.S. and Philippine Marine Corps Leaders Discuss Way Forward

Posted to Defense Visual Information Distribution System (DVIDS) (Feb 11, 2023): Strong Ties: U.S. and Philippine Marine Corps Leaders Discuss Way Forward (By Danny Nateras)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, left, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC), speaks with Philippine Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean M. Gaerlan, commandant, Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), during the PMC-MARFORPAC Staff Talks, at the Citystate Asturias Hotel in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines, Feb. 10, 2023. The PMC-MARFORPAC Staff Talks serve to strengthen the relationship between MARFORPAC and the Philippine Marine Corps by providing the opportunity to align goals and objectives and collaborate on common interests through bilateral discussions and engagements. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Danny Nateras)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines – Senior leaders from U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, and the Philippine Marine Corps held their annual Marine-to-Marine Staff Talks here from Feb. 8-10, 2023.

The annual Marine-to-Marine Staff Talks are a key component of the U.S.-Philippine defense relationship. They serve as a forum for senior military leaders to exchange views on regional security issues and enhance bilateral cooperation. The discussions from this week further reinforce the strong and enduring bond between both nations and their commitment to regional stability and security.

“[We’re] moving in a direction that is definitely going to improve our operational capabilities – individually, collectively, and in an integrated way,” said Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. “That progress is made during major events like Balikatan, Marine Exercises, and KAMANDAG, as well as all the many high quality, high impact activities that bring us together as regional partners.”

The annual event emphasized the significance of the U.S.-Philippine military relationship and provided an opportunity to collaborate on common interests. During the three-day meeting, leaders from both militaries discussed a variety of topics including recent experiences with amphibious operations, methods of modernizing training, and advancing capabilities to remain ready and responsive in the Indo-Pacific region.

This year’s iteration focused heavily on the development of the Republic of the Philippines-U.S. Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board cycle and evaluation of the 5-year integrated readiness and deterrence plan. The MDB-SEB cycle enhances defense cooperation between the two countries, while the 5-year plan aims to improve the readiness and capability of the Philippine Marine Corps. This process helped compile a list of events for 2024 that will serve as a foundation for the rest of the MDB-SEB cycle.

Representatives participating in the PMC-MARFORPAC Staff Talks discussed future exercises meant to strengthen interoperability between the two services. Militaries from both countries regularly participate in a variety of activities and exercises, such as Balikatan and KAMANDAG, to mutually develop their defense capabilities while aligning to common goals shared between both nations.

“The changing security landscape of the Indo-Pacific… [requires] more collaboration between MARFORPAC and the PMC,” said Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean M. Gaerlan, Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, during the closing ceremony. Gaerlan continued to emphasize the need for more “capability development” through future training and exercises to ensure both nations’ forces can respond effectively to security challenges.

The U.S. and the Philippines have a long-standing diplomatic relationship dating back to 1951, with the signing of the Mutual Defense Treaty, which serves as the foundation for close security cooperation. More than seventy years later, the two nations continue to work closely together towards common goals based on shared values and interests in the region.

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/438398/strong-ties-us-and-philippine-marine-corps-leaders-discuss-way-forward

Marcos open to PH-Japan VFA that won’t raise SCS tensions

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): Marcos open to PH-Japan VFA that won’t raise SCS tensions (By Azer Parrocha)

OPEN TO VFA. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida affirm their commitment to strengthen defense and security cooperation during the former's five-day official trip to Tokyo, Japan. Marcos said he was open to the idea of a Visiting Forces Agreement with Japan if it does not increase tensions in the South China Sea. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the President Facebook page)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is open to the idea of a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with Japan if it does not increase "tensions" in the South China Sea.

“If kung talagang makakatulong (If it really helps), I don’t see why we should not adopt it…. If it is appropriate, if it does not constitute danger of increasing tensions, then that might be useful for the Philippines,” Marcos said in a media interview onboard a plane en route to Manila from Tokyo.

He said the Philippines must be careful to avoid appearing “provocative.”

“Imbis na pinapakalma natin ang sitwasyon sa South China Sea, ang ginagawa natin, mas magiging mainit, 'di ba (Instead of calming down the situation in the South China Sea, it might become worse)? That would be one,” he added.

Marcos likewise recognized that the VFA may help protect Philippine maritime territory and Filipino fisherfolk.

“Ang iniisip ko lang, ‘yung ating mga fishermen kailangang maprotektahan, kailangang maliwanag na tayo sa Pilipinas [ay] talagang… we are patrolling our waters and making sure that it is well-recognized na ‘yan ang talagang… maritime territory talaga ng Pilipinas ‘yan (I'm just thinking, 'Our fishermen need to be protected, it needs to be clear that we in the Philippines [are] really... we are patrolling our waters and making sure that it is well-recognized that this is really... the Philippines' maritime territory')," he said.

Marcos earlier said the Philippines would review a proposed trilateral defense and security deal with two of its closest allies -- the United States and Japan.

“It is something that we certainly are going to be studying upon my return to the Philippines. I think just part of the continuing process of strengthening our alliances because in this rather confusing, and I dare say dangerous situation, that we have, I’m not talking only about the South China Sea, I’m not only talking about the Indo-Pacific region but, of course, there is a conflict still ongoing in Ukraine and the rather disturbing effects that it has all around the world,” he said.

The Philippines, China and several other littoral states have overlapping claims in the SCS.

In a 2016 arbitral ruling, the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruled that Beijing's nine-dash line, a demarcation that covers almost 80 percent of the South China Sea, is illegal. China repeatedly ignored the PCA ruling.

RCEP push

Meanwhile, Marcos maintained his push for the ratification of the Philippines' participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), brushing off criticism that it may affect the country’s agricultural sector.

“I don’t see the logic in that. Actually it will be the contrary because… right now kung wala tayo sa RCEP, hindi natin ma-access ang kanilang mga markets. Iyong mga – lalo na ‘yung mga supply chain na available na ibinigay ngayon sa ASEAN [Association of Southeast Asian Nations] (if we’re not part of the RCEP, we won’t have access to their markets, especially the supply chain being offered to the ASEAN),” he said.

He said participating in the RCEP would allow the country to further strengthen its agricultural value chain.

“It opens more trade, more trade. And lagi kong sinasabi ‘di ba walang yumaman na bansa kung hindi dahil sa trade at kailangan (I always say isn't there a country that gets rich if not because of trade and) we have to involve ourselves in that,” he added.

However, Marcos clarified that he is not lobbying for RCEP in Congress, but waiting for it to be ratified.

“So we are leaving ourselves out there, isolating ourselves from the free trade zone that ASEAN is. So sayang naman ‘yung opportunity (It would be a wasted opportunity). That’s why I think RCEP will be a good thing,” he said.

The Philippines is the only nation in Southeast Asia that has yet to ratify the RCEP.

RCEP is a free trade agreement (FTA) between the 10 member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its five FTA partners: Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and the Republic of Korea.

The Senate is currently deliberating on RCEP, with hearings currently at the sub-committee level.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri earlier said the Senate aimed to ratify the RCEP trade agreement within the first quarter of the year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195026

PH Army probes 4ID camp shooting that left 5 soldiers dead

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): PH Army probes 4ID camp shooting that left 5 soldiers dead (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) said an investigation is underway to determine possible gaps that have triggered the shooting incident at the headquarters of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) in Cagayan de Oro City that left five soldiers dead, including the perpetrator.

"This is an isolated case. The Army is conducting its internal investigation to identify what triggered this incident and to identify gaps in our recruitment and training process in order for us to prevent similar incidents in the future," PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement over the weekend.

The incident occurred at around 1:10 a.m. Saturday at the unit's headquarters in Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.

Police identified the fatalities as Pvt. Joseph Tamayo, Pfc. Prince Kevin Balaba, Sgt. Rogelio Rojo, Cpl. Bernardo Rodrigo, as well as the suspected shooter, Pvt. Johmar Villabito.

Another soldier identified as Staff Sgt. Braulio Macalos Jr. was also wounded in the shooting but is now out of danger.

"The 4th Infantry Division has immediately notified police authorities to investigate while conducting its own probe to identify what triggered this tragic shooting incident that caused the unnecessary loss of lives among our soldiers," Trinidad said.

He also said the PA condoled with the families of the victims and assured them of all necessary support.

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that it is saddened by this tragic event and condoled with the families of the victims.

"We commiserate with the families of our deceased soldiers as we also pray for the safe recovery of the critically wounded personnel now being treated at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital," AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a statement.

He added that the AFP has already directed the PA to conduct a thorough investigation and implement measures that will prevent the recurrence of similar incidents in the future.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195027

AFP, Canadian Armed Forces host 5-day military operational course

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): AFP, Canadian Armed Forces host 5-day military operational course (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Canadian Armed Forces will host a five-day military operational course in Clark, Pampanga which kicked off on Monday.

Some 35 officers from the AFP and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Indonesia, Mongolia, Malaysia, Nepal, Thailand and Vietnam are participating in the course, military public affairs office chief Col. Jorry L. Baclor said in a statement.

"Ambassador David Hartman, Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines graced the event. The Chief-of-Staff, AFP, Gen. Andres Centino, represented by (Marine) Brig. Gen. Noel D. Beleran, the Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Education, Training and Doctrine, J-8 extends his appreciation to the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines and the Department of National Defense of Canada for sponsoring the course," he added.

Baclor, quoting Beleran, emphasized that the AFP puts primacy on fostering stronger and broader collaboration with foreign counterparts.

“This is truly significant for the AFP as this marks the robust partnership between the Philippines and Canada that particularly benefits the AFP in terms of capability enhancement,” Beleran said.

The Canadian Embassy earlier said Ottawa is hoping to finalize and sign a defense cooperation deal with Manila on the margins of the Shangri-La Dialogue in June.

Canada is also looking for opportunities to increase its participation in exercises in the absence of a Visiting Forces Agreement or a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement similar to what the Philippines has with the United States or Australia.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195036

Imee wants her father's self-reliant defense program revived

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): Imee wants her father's self-reliant defense program revived (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

Senator Imee Marcos (Photo courtesy of Senate PRIB)

MANILA – Senator Imee Marcos suggested on Monday to revive the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Program initiated in 1974 by her father, the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

Senator Marcos made the statement after a consultation over the weekend with the Western Mindanao Command about the idea of reviving the SRDP which she said enabled the country’s self-reliance in national defense.

This, after the announcement of the Department of National Defense and the United States' Department of Defense of establishing four new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites and another agreement for stronger defense cooperation with Japan.

“Scale down our dependence on foreign goodwill in the sticky web of geopolitics,” Marcos said in her statement.

“Thailand now customizes rifles that are slimmer and lighter for its soldiers, while Vietnam can now manufacture anti-surface warfare missiles. How far have we gone?” she added.

During its time, Marcos recalled the country's SRDP was already producing M-16 rifles under license, steel helmets, hand grenades and other ammunition, handheld radios, and Jiffy jeeps.

"It also created jobs and minimized foreign spending. There’s no question about Filipino capability, but we must revive the SRDP now,” the senator said.

Marcos recounted that Filipino manufacturers back then used local materials besides the imported parts, from which technological know-how was gained, with the National Science Development Board supporting research and development.

In the 18th Congress, a measure pushing for the revitalization of the SRDP program was already approved on third reading but did not progress to become law.

The SRDP Program was intended to address the secessionist movement in Mindanao and support for the immediate and growing military hardware requirements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195080

China Coast Guard points laser light at PCG ship off Ayungin

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): China Coast Guard points laser light at PCG ship off Ayungin (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

A photo of the China Coast Guard vessel with bow number 5205 taken by a crew member of BRP Malapascua on Feb. 6, 2023. (Courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – A China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel has directed a military-grade laser light at a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship on a rotation and resupply mission of the Philippine Navy (PN) in Ayungin Shoal at the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on Feb. 6.

In a statement on Monday, the PCG said the CCG vessel with bow number 5205 used the laser towards BRP Malapascua, “causing temporary blindness to her crew at the bridge.”

“The Chinese vessel also made dangerous maneuvers by approaching about 150 yards from the vessel's starboard quarter,” it said.

The incident occurred while BRP Malapascua was about 10 nautical miles (NM) from Ayungin Shoal and about 4 nm of the ship’s dead ahead maneuvering from the portside heading starboard side.

In response, the BRP Malapascua altered its course from Ayungin Shoal and instead went towards Lawak Island to continue maritime patrol and support the BRP Teresa Magbanua in a separate rotation and resupply mission to its sub-stations in the Kalayaan Island Group.

“The deliberate blocking of the Philippine government ships to deliver food and supplies to our military personnel on board the BRP Sierra Madre is a blatant disregard for, and a clear violation of, Philippine sovereign rights in this part of the West Philippine Sea,” it said.

However, the PCG asserted it will remain “steadfast in protecting the sovereignty and rights of the country and Filipinos in the WPS.”

“The AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) can always rely on the PCG to support its resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal. Despite the dangerous maneuver of the much larger CCG ships and their aggressive actions at sea, the PCG ships will always be in the West Philippine Sea to sustain our presence and assert our sovereign rights,” it said.

Following the incident, the AFP said the Chinese government “must restrain its forces from conducting any acts that could endanger the lives of people.”

"The Secretary of National Defense (Senior Undersecretary Carlito Galvez Jr.) has already declared or said that the act committed by the Coast (Guard) of China is offensive and unsafe. Therefore, I think it is time for the Chinese government to restrain its forces so it does not commit any provocative act that will endanger lives of people," Col. Medel Aguilar, AFP spokesperson, said.

“They should prove by act that we are friends,” he added.

In another statement, Senator Risa Hontiveros asked the Chinese government to act responsibly and restrain their forces from further inflaming the situation at WPS.

“Atin ang Pilipinas at karapatan nating magdepensa sa ating teritoryo, mamamayan, at soberanya (The Philippines is ours and we have the right to defend our territory, citizen and sovereignty). I also reiterate my call for Malacañang and the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) to meet with other claimant countries in the ASEAN as well as member-states of the QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) to ensure that peace is upheld in our waters. We need to establish an updated security framework with our partners in the region as soon as possible),” Hontiveros said.

QUAD is a strategic security dialogue between Australia, India Japan and the United States.

In August, the CCG also prevented PCG ships from coming closer to the Ayungin Shoal during a PN resupply mission.

During the incident, CCG 5205 removed the cover of her 70 mm naval armament when BRP Teresa Magbanua came close to Ayungin Shoal at a distance of 2.5 NM.

The said ship, together with two Chinese Maritime Militia vessels and CCG 5102, formed a 13 NM-radius blockade to prevent Philippine ships from reaching the troops in the area.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195090

BRP Antonio Luna crew briefed on anti-sub warfare, helicopter ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): BRP Antonio Luna crew briefed on anti-sub warfare, helicopter ops (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of BRP Antonio Luna Facebook page)

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN)'s Anti-Submarine Helicopter Squadron 42 conducted a series of lectures connections in connection with shipboard helicopter operations for the crew of missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) to ensure the seamless integration of the two units in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations.

"As part of the integration process of AgustaWestland AW-159 'Wildcat' to Jose Rizal class frigates, rotary pilots and aircrew under Anti-Submarine Helicopter Squadron 42 of the Naval Air Wing conducted a series of lectures in connection with shipboard helicopter operations last 31 January 2023 aboard BRP Antonio Luna," the ship said in a Facebook post on Monday.

Lecturers also stressed that the ship's flight operation facilities must be certified before undertaking helicopter operations.

They also added that flight quarters and aircrew personnel must be qualified and proficient in the procedures for safe operation.

Aside from the crew of BRP Antonio Luna, personnel from sister ship BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) were also in attendance as part of their education pertaining to flight operation activities.

"For both the air and surface assets of the Philippine Fleet, this training workshop is crucial to put a common understanding of the necessary planning and coordination of anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare operations that will further improve the detection and engagement capabilities of both units," BRP Antonio Luna's post said.

Also in attendance are the crew from BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) who also devoted their time to gain new knowledge pertaining to flight operation activities.

The PN's two AW-159 anti-submarine helicopters were delivered on May 7, 2019, and commissioned on June 17 of the same year.

The aircraft were acquired for PHP5.4 billion including its munition, mission essential equipment, and integrated logistic support.

They can also be armed with rockets, machine guns, missiles, torpedoes, and depth charges and fitted with modern sonar systems for tracking down submarines.

The AW-159s were acquired to complement the Jose Rizal-class frigates' ASW capabilities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195136

ASG ‘spy’ with P5.3-M bounty nabbed in Zamboanga City

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): ASG ‘spy’ with P5.3-M bounty nabbed in Zamboanga City (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

'TERRORIST, SPY.' Authorities arrest Isnirul Kirih (seated, right) on Sunday (Feb. 12, 2023) in Barangay Sinunuc, Zamboanga City. Kirih, an alleged Abu Sayyaf spy and transport provider, is the second most wanted person in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. (Photo courtesy of Area Police Command-Western Mindanao)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities have arrested an alleged spy and transport provider of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) with a PHP5.3 million bounty on his head in a raid in this city, a top police official reported Monday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said police officers armed with an arrest warrant collared Isnirul Kirih in his hideout Sunday in Barangay Sinunuc here.

“The primary task of the subject (Kirih) is to provide intelligence information to ASG leaders and transportation going to Zamboanga City,” Verceles said in a statement.

Verceles said Kirih has standing warrants of arrest for seven counts of murder with no recommended bail, and 25 counts of frustrated murder with PHP200,000 bail for each, issued by a court in Jolo town, the capital of Sulu province.

Kirih is the second most wanted person in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) based on the Department of National Defense-Department of the Interior and Local Government joint order.

He is described as the ASG sub-leader operating in the provinces of Basilan and Sulu under slain ASG leader Isnilon Hapilon who was based in Sumisip town, Basilan; and current ASG leader Radullan Sahiron in Patikul town, Sulu.

The arresting team recovered identification cards from the possession of Kirih bearing different fictitious names Verceles said it was Kirih who provided transportation for Hapilon to reach Marawi City during the 2017 siege.

Hapilon was killed on Oct. 16, 2017 during the battle of Marawi that started in May of the same year.

In 2018, Verceles said the suspect was also involved in a series of clashes against government forces in Patikul.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195022

NPA rebel killed, high-powered firearms seized in Camarines Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): NPA rebel killed, high-powered firearms seized in Camarines Norte (By Connie Calipay)

(Infographic courtesy of 9ID)

LEGAZPI CITY – A still unidentified New People's Army (NPA) rebel was killed while high-powered firearms were seized when government forces engaged armed rebels in a firefight in Labo town, Camarines Norte province over the weekend.

In a report on Monday, Capt. Frank Roldan, 9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief, said the incident occurred on Saturday after troops of the 9th Infantry Battalion verified the report they received on the alleged presence of five armed men which resulted in a firefight in n Barangay Canapawan.

"Government troops recovered an M16 rifle; ammunition; magazines while the fleeing rebel members left the body of the suspected member of the rebel group who died in the encounter. Right now the identity of the said individual is being ascertained," the report read.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao, commander of the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) and Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), assured that they will give the slain NPA rebel a decent burial.

He also urged the remaining rebels to return to the fold of the law and avail of the programs of the government that would help them start a new chapter in their lives.

“Kung sakali man po na walang mag-claim sa bangkay, tayo po mismo ang magbibigay ng maayos na libing para sa kanya. Dahil sa kabila po ng patuloy nilang pakikipaglaban sa pamahalaan, huwag nating kalimutan na sila ay Pilipino rin gaya natin. Nawa’y mapagtanto na rin nila ang matagal na naming panawagan na pahalagahan ang buhay na hiram sa ating mahal na Panginoon sa pamamagitan ng pagbabalik loob sa pamahalaan at pag waksi sa armadong pakikibaka nang hindi na rin nila sapitin ang nangyari sa kanilang mga kasamahan na namatay at iniwan na lamang ng kanilang pinaniniwalaang mga kasama (In the event that no one claims the body, we will provide a proper burial for him because despite their constant fighting with the government, let's not forget that they are Filipinos like us. May they also realize our long-standing call to appreciate the life borrowed from God Almighty by returning to the government and renouncing the armed struggle so that they will not suffer the same fate of their comrades who died and were just left behind by what they believe to be their companions)," Bajao said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195060

NPA rebel, supporter yield in Bataan, Zambales

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): NPA rebel, supporter yield in Bataan, Zambales (By Jason De Asis)

AWARENESS CAMPAIGN. The Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion conducts an awareness campaign on the recruitment efforts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army for 150 junior high school students of Cabog Integrated School in Barangay Matawe, Dingalan, Aurora on Saturday (Feb. 11, 2023). Lt. Col. Julito Recto Jr., commander of the 91IB, said the communists target the youth because of their vulnerability to false ideologies. (Courtesy of Army 91IB)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – A member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and a supporter of the rebel group surrendered to authorities in Central Luzon over the weekend.

Brig. Gen. Cesar R. Pasiwen, regional director of the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3), said alias Ka Rona, 50, and a resident of Barangay Mabatang, Abucay, Bataan, surrendered to the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company.

On the other hand, the Zambales Provincial Mobile Force Company and other concerned police units facilitated the voluntary surrender of alias Bal, 70, a farmer and former Underground Mass Organization member in San Marcelino town.

Pasiwen said Ka Rona also turned in one caliber .38 revolver, one rifle grenade, and high explosive materials.

“I commend our troops for continuously conducting intensified tactical operations and community engagement activities in support of Executive Order (EO) No. 70 to convince communist terrorist members in the region to lay down their arms and live a peaceful life back into the mainstream society,” he said in a statement.

EO 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.

Meanwhile, the intensified awareness campaign against the recruitment efforts of the CPP-NPA is gaining ground as more young people are now educated about the deceitful tactics of the insurgents.

Amando Kiban, class president of Cabog Integrated School in Barangay Matawe, Dingalan, Aurora, said the information drive being spearheaded by the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) in various schools in the province has widened their knowledge about the threat being posed by the terrorist organization on the future of the youth.

“We are now more aware of their move, we will never be one of their victims and they can never engage us in armed conflict against the government,” Kiban said in an interview.

School principal Marvin Sinacay said the information and awareness drive conducted on Saturday made the students more discerning about false information.

“As their principal, we will guard our students against the terrorist organization. The activity was useful, the student participants are now safe, knowledgeable, guided and more aware of the deceptive recruitment of the communist terrorist groups," he said.

The 91IB has been stepping up its information campaign to counter the recruitment efforts of the CPP-NPA, particularly among students in this province, according to Lt. Col. Julito Recto, Jr., 91IB commander.

“Our youth are the future leaders of the country and they play significant roles in our society. Someday they will be in the security forces, legislators, leaders, managers and teachers, among others. We should intensify our campaigns so that they will not be deceived by the lies and propaganda of the terrorist organizations,” he said in an interview.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195078

4 NPA fighters yield in Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): 4 NPA fighters yield in Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato (By Edwin Fernandez)

INTO THE MAINSTREAM. Three communist rebels pose with their rifles after their surrender to the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion in Lebak town, Sultan Kudarat province Sunday (Feb. 12, 2023). On the same day, a female NPA combatant also yielded in T’boli town, South Cotabato. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao Norte – Four communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have separately surrendered to military authorities in Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato provinces, military officials here reported Monday.

In a statement, Lt. Colonel John Paul Baldomar, the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion (37IB) commander, said three of the rebels yielded Sunday at the battalion headquarters in Lebak town, Sultan Kudarat.

Baldomar identified the surrendering guerrillas only through their first names as Patrick, a member of NPA Platoon Madrid; Toto of Platoon Baghdad; and Jay-Ar of Platoon Beijing. They belong to the NPA's Sub-Regional Command (SRC)-Daguma of Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR).

“Based on the initial revelation of the surrenderers, they decided to surrender because of the hardships and pressure brought about by the continuous conduct of focused military operations in the area and lack of moral and financial support from the leadership of the FSMR,” Baldomar said.

The trio turned over an M16 rifle, a .45-caliber pistol, and a 12-gauge shotgun. Brig. Gen. Michael Santos, the 601st Infantry Brigade commander, said the surrenderers were victims of deception and wrong ideology by the NPA operating in Sultan Kudarat.

“These three (rebels), who are victims of deception, are discerning and able to identify the truth from the lies because they have awakened and discovered that the NPA’s philosophies are founded solely on deceit and are utilized solely to serve the NPAs' vested interests,” Santos said.

In T’boli town, South Cotabato, a female NPA fighter also surrendered to the Army's 5th Special Forces Battalion after her husband, also an NPA insurgent who surrendered last year, convinced her to follow suit.

The Army said “Ann-Ann” was a member of Militia ng Bayan of Guerrilla Front Musa of the NPA’s Far South Mindanao Region. She turned in a .38–caliber revolver, a hand grenade, and five pieces of blasting caps.

Major General Alex Rillera, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) commander, said he remains hopeful more rebels will soon come down from the mountains to surrender.

“Evil will not triumph, thus we continue to convince communist rebels to avail of the government’s peace offer and live normal lives with their loved ones,” said Rillera, also chief of the military’s Joint Task Force Central.

Since Jan. 1, a total of 11 NPA rebels have returned to the fold of the law in the 6ID area of responsibility, which includes the provinces of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, South Cotabato, and parts of Sarangani, North Cotabato, and Lanao del Sur.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195115

NPA rebel wanted for kidnapping in Cebu arrested in Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): NPA rebel wanted for kidnapping in Cebu arrested in Caraga (By Alexander Lopez)

ARRESTED AFTER 20 YEARS. The Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13) reports the arrest of Alfredo Oxcellar Pastorete, 74, in Barangay Soriano, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur on Sunday (Feb. 12, 2023). Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, PRO-13 director, says Pastorete, a New People’s Army rebel, is wanted for kidnapping and attempted murder and has been hiding in Surigao del Sur for more than 20 years. (Courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

BUTUAN CITY – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel who is wanted for kidnapping and attempted murder and has been hiding in the Caraga Region for over 20 years was finally arrested Sunday.

Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, the director of the Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13), identified the NPA insurgent as Alfredo Oxcellar Pastorete, 74.

Pastorete was arrested by a team composed of the Tagbina Municipal Police Station, the Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG)-Visayas Unit, and the AKG -Mindanao Field Unit, in Barangay Soriano, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur.

“Pastorete was the subject of an alias warrant of arrest issued by Regional Trial Court, Branch 29 in Toledo City, Cebu under Criminal Case No. TCS-1475 without recommending bail bond,” Labra said in a statement Monday.

Based on their investigation, Labra said Pastorete was one of the suspects in the kidnapping with attempted murder of a certain Expedito Acsoy in Northern Cebu sometime in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The AKG-Visayas also alleged that the suspect was a District Guerrilla Front-Cebu member, who went into hiding in Surigao del Sur after committing the crime.

“The success of this law enforcement operation is credited to the effective intelligence-driven efforts of the joint operatives of the Philippine National Police,” Labra said.

He added that the arrest of Pastorete added to the increasing list of NPA members who were neutralized in the region.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195063

Kalinaw News: Panibagong CTG members sumuko sa Sultan Kudarat

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 14, 2023): Panibagong CTG members sumuko sa Sultan Kudarat (Another CTG member surrendered to Sultan Kudarat)

CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte – Panibagong tatlong mga kasapi ng communist terrorist group ang sumuko sa tropa ng 37th Infantry (Conqueror) Battalion ng 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division sa Brgy Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, nitong Biyernes (February 10, 2023).

Ayon kay Lt. Col. John Paul Baldomar, Commanding Officer ng 37IB ang tatlong mga sumuko ay may mga alyas na Patrick na kasapi ng Platoon Madrid; alyas Toto ng Platoon Baghdad at alyas Jay-Ar ng Platoon Beijing lahat ay sailalim ng Sub-Regional Command (SRC)-Daguma mula sa nauubos at pagwawasak na Far South Mindanao Region.

“Based on the initial revelation of the surrenderees, they decided to surrender because of the hardships and pressure brought about by the continuous conduct of Focused Military Operations in the area and lack of moral/financial support from the leadership of FSMR”, pahayag ni Lt. Col. Baldomar.
Isinuko din ng tatlo ang kanilang mga bitbit na armas na kinabibilangan ng isang 5.56mm Colt M16A1 rifle, isang Cal .45 Pistol at isang 12 Gauge Shotgun.

Malaki naman ang paniniwala ni Brigadier General Michael A Santos, ang Commander ng 603rd Brigade na biktima lamang ang mga ito ng maling ideolohiya na lumason sa kaisipan ng mga residente ng Sultan Kudarat.

“These three CTGs, who are victims of deception, are discerning and able to identify the truth from the lies because they have awakened and discovered that the NPAs’ philosophies are founded solely on deceit and are utilized solely to serve the NPAs’ own vested interests”, wika pa ni Brig. Gen. Santos.

Sa kabila nito ay patuloy naman ang panawagan ni Major General Alex S Rillera, Commander ng 6ID at Joint Task Force Central sa mga natitira pang kasapi ng CTG na magbalik-loob na sa pamahalaan. “Kailan man ay ‘di mananaig ang kasamaan laban sa kabutihan, kaya nais kung tuldukan na ang armadong pag-aalsa at makiisa tayo sa panawagang pagkakaisa ng ating pamahalaan”, mahinahong pagpapaliwanag ng Division Commander ng 6ID.

Sa datos na inilabas ng JTFC sa taong ito, nasa 11 mga CTG na ang nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan mula nakaraang buwan hanggang sa kasalukuyan.

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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/panibagong-ctg-members-sumuko-sa-sultan-kudarat/

Kalinaw News: Dalawang NPA patay, mga armas narekober sa engkwentro sa pagitan ng kasundaluhan at teroristang grupo

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 13, 2023): Dalawang NPA patay, mga armas narekober sa engkwentro sa pagitan ng kasundaluhan at teroristang grupo (Two NPA dead, weapons recovered in encounter between army and terrorist group)

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Ikinalungkot ng 5th Infantry Division (5ID) at ng Provincial Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conlfict (PTF-ELCAC) ng Cagayan ang pagkamatay ng dalawang miyembro ng teroristang grupo matapos ang nangyaring magkasunod na engkwentro sa bahagi ng Barangay Sta. Margarita, Baggao, Cagayan, hapon ng ika-13 ng Pebrero 2023.

Kasalukuyang nagpapatrolya ang kasundaluhan ng 17th Infantry Battalion sa kagubatang sakop ng Barangay Sta Margarita nang makasagupa ang nasa tinatayang 15 na miyembro ng Komiteng Probinsya Cagayan-Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley.

Nagtagal ang sagupaan ng mahigit tatlumpung minuto na nagresulta sa pagkakasawi ng isang NPA at pagkakarekober ng isang M16A1 na may magazine. Matapos nito ay agad na tumakas ang mga miyembro ng teroristang grupo.

Agad namang nagsagawa ng pursuit operation na kung saan muling natunton ng tropa ng 17IB ang mga teroristang NPA. Sa ikalawang pagkakataon, nagkaroon ng sagupaan na nagtagal naman ng labinlimang minuto. Muli, isang miyembro ng teroristang grupo ang nalagas at isang Bushmaster rifle na may magazine ang narekober.

Samantala, nananawagan ang PTF-ELCAC ng Cagayan sa mga natitira pang mga miyembro ng teroristang grupo na magbalik-loob na sa pamahalaan dahil kailanman ay walang pinatutunguhan at walang patutunguhan at pagsasayang lamang ng buhay ang kanilang huwad na pinaglalaban.

Hindi titigil ang 5ID sa pagtugis sa mga miyembro ng Komiteng Probinsya Cagayan-Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley.

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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/dalawang-npa-patay-mga-armas-narekober-sa-engkwentro-sa-pagitan-ng-kasundaluhan-at-teroristang-grupo/

Kalinaw News: ASG members yield to JTF Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 13, 2023): ASG members yield to JTF Sulu

Camp Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – February 13, 2023

An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member voluntarily surrendered to the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu, through the 1103rd Infantry “Kalis” Brigade, in Camp Bud Datu, Barangay Tagbak, Indanan, Sulu on February 9, 2023.

According to Col. Taharuddin P. Ampatuan, Acting Brigade Commander of 1103rd Bde,
“The former bandit was identified as Aklali Badir, a resident of Barangay Mauboh, Patikul, Sulu under ASG subleader Radullan Sahiron. He brought along with him one (1) M1 Carbine Cal. 30 and two (2) magazines loaded with twenty six (26) rounds ammunitions.”

“It was made possible through the collaborative efforts of our troops and the Patikul Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC). The former ASG member was able to return to the folds of the law as he wanted to start anew and live peacefully, ” Col. Ampatuan added.

Meanwhile, an ASG member also surrendered to the 1103 Bde on February 8, 2023. The surrenderee was identified as Sibal Habibul, resident of Barangay Maligay in Patikul, Sulu under ASG subleader Basaron Arok. He brought along with him one (1) M14 rifle.

In his statement, Maj. Gen. Ignatius N. Patrimonio, Commander of the JTF Sulu and 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division lauded the synergy of the military and the local government unit in facilitating the surrender of the said ASG members.

“I commend the 1103rd Bde and the Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF – ELAC) of Patikul for actively reaching out to our brothers who now want to start a new life,’’ said Maj. Gen. Patrimonio.

“I urged the remaining ASG members to peacefully lay down your firearms and return to the folds of the law. Let us therefore continue our concerted efforts to achieve our common vision of sustainable peace in the province of Sulu, ” Maj. Gen. Patrimonio ended.

It can be recalled that as of February 2023, a total of 23 surrenderees have returned to the folds of law.

CPP/NPA-Masbate: Pagpupugay sa mga rebolusyonaryong martir ng Guiom at Eastern Capsay

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 13, 2023): Pagpupugay sa mga rebolusyonaryong martir ng Guiom at Eastern Capsay (Tribute to the revolutionary martyrs of Guiom and Eastern Capsay)

Luz del Mar

Spokesperson

NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)

Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)

New People's Army

February 13, 2023

Pinakamataas na parangal ang iginagawad ng rebolusyonaryong kilusang Masbatenyo kina Rufino “Ka Caloy” Alva, Samuel “Ka Marjon” Nuynay, Reneboy “Ka Jun” Barzaga, Jerome “Ka Mike” Sabang at Atrocinio “Ka Rey” Aton na napaslang sa isang labanan sa Barangay Guiom, Cawayan, Masbate nito lamang ika-9 ng Pebrero. Sa pag-aalay ng buhay para sa mamamayang Masbatenyo at Pilipino, sila’y pinagpupugayan bilang mga huwarang bayani at tunay na anak ng Masbate at ng buong bayang Pilipinas. Ang kanilang pinakamataas na sakripisyo ay inspirasyon sa mga kapwa nila kasama at sa masang Masbatenyo upang magpunyagi sa buhay-at-kamatayang landas ng rebolusyonaryong pakikibaka.

Sila Ka Caloy at mga kasamahan ay pansamantalang huminto sa lugar upang dinggin ang mga hinaing at problema ng masa, laluna sa usapin ng lupa. Sa pagpatay sa kanila, pinatutunayan ng AFP-PNP-CAFGU ang kanilang katangian bilang Hukbo ng naghaharing-uring mapang-api at mapagsamantala.

Nais ding ipaabot ng rebolusyonaryong kilusang Masbatenyo ang pinakamataas na pagpupugay kay Eleazar “Ka Randy” Ontog, na namartir sa isang depensibang labanan sa Barangay Eastern Capsay, bayan ng Baleno noong Enero 8, 2023. Namatay siya sa edad na 49 anyos. Ipinagmamalaki siya laluna ng mga mamamayan ng islang Ticao, partikular sa bayan ng Monreal na kanyang tinubuan.

Ipinapaabot ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan ang taos-pusong pakikiramay sa mga pamilya at kaanak ng mga namartir na kasama. Kaisa niyo kami sa pagtangis. Mapalad ang mga magulang, asawa, kapatid at anak ng mga kasamang ito. Itinulak ng kanilang walng kapantay na pagmamahal sa inyo ang kapasyahang maglingkod sa sambayanan bilang mga pultaym na mandirigma ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan. Dapat niyo silang ipagmalaki dahil namatay silang may kabuluhan at ambag sa pagbabago ng lipunan. Tinitiyak ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan na hindi kailanman mawawala ang kanilang halaga sa inyong buhay.

Nananawagan din ang Jose Rapsing Command – Bagong Hukbong Bayan Masbate sa lahat ng mga Pulang kumander at mandirigma laluna rito sa ating prubinsya na ibayong magpakatatag at tanawin ang galos na ito bilang reyalidad ng ating makatarungang digma. Hindi madali at masalimuot ang tiyak na landas sa tagumpay. Ituon natin ang ating pagdadalamhati at galit sa pagpapatibay ng ating kapasyahang lumaban at sumulong. Marami pang labang susuungin at pagtatagumpayan.

Kinukundena rin ng Jose Rapsing Command – BHB Masbate ang pagdakip ng 2nd Infantry Battalion sa mga sibilyang malamang ay nadatnan at dinampot. Tahasang linalapastangan ng AFP-PNP-CAFGU ang mga makataong batas ng digma. Peke at mukha ng desperasyon ang mga pinalalabas na balita ng kaaway tungkol sa bilang ng NPA na kanilang nakalaban at napatay.

Tiyak na gugulong ang hustisya. Panata ng Jose Rapsing Command – BHB Masbate na lalong magpunyagi sa rebolusyonaryong armadong pakikibaka. Ang pagkabuwal ng mga rebolusyonaryong martir ay dugong pupunla sa katiyakan ng isang Pulang kinabukasan para sa masang Masbatenyo at buong sambayanang Pilipino.#

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/pagpupugay-sa-mga-rebolusyonaryong-martir-ng-guiom-at-eastern-capsay/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Gen. Durante and 1001st IBde, butchers of Davao

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 7, 2023): Gen. Durante and 1001st IBde, butchers of Davao

This article is available in Pilipino Bisaya

February 07, 2023

Military and police cannot deny the crime of 1001st IBde commander Brig. Gen. Jesus Durante III after evidence that he ordered the killing of businesswoman Yvonne Chua-Plaze was exposed to the public. Five soldiers of the 1001st IBde directly involved in the murder pointed to him as the mastermind of the crime. Chua-Plaza was shot in front of her house on December 30, 2022.

Apart from Durante, his vice commander Colonel Michael Licyayo and five other soldiers were implicated in the crime. Before this, relatives and friends of Chua-Plaza released messages from her cellphone exchanged between her and Durante, as well as photos of the businesswoman with bruises on her face and arms. In her messages, she explicitly named Durante as the perpetrator.

Chua-Plaza’s post included threats that she will expose the true story behind the military’s murder of Menardo Villanueva (Ka Bok) and Chad Booc. She said she holds throves of evidence of what Durante did to Villanueva and Booc. Her post included a photo of Ka Bok’s lifeless body and said she had more similar photos.

Durante was assigned as commander of the 1001st IBde in August 2021 after serving as chief of the Presidential Security Group of then president Rodrigo Duterte. Earlier, he was part of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion, and was chief of Task Force Davao.
Lying butcher

On February 24, 2022, Durante boasted of the 1001st IBde murder of teachers Chad Booc and Gelejurain Ngujo, together with civilians Elgyn Balonga, Tirso Añar and Robert Aragon in New Bataan, Davao de Oro. Durante insists that the five were killed in an encounter even as the local NPA unit denied that a firefight took place in the area. The autopsy of Booc’s cadaver revealed that he was summarily executed.

Durante also spewed lies surrounding the killing of three cadres of the Party in Southern Mindanao Region in a supposed encounter in 2022.

One of them is Villanueva who he said was killed in Barangay Libudon in Mabini, Davao de Oro on January 5, 2022. In truth, the 1001st IBde held Villanueva in custody since December 25, 2021. He was held incommunicado and tortured before being killed and surfaced dead. The butchers also summarily executed Sandra Reyes (Ka Kaye) who was likely abducted along with Ka Bok.

Another brutal case involving Durante and the 1001st IBde is the abduction, holding incommunicado and summary execution of Ezequiel Daguman (Ka Rey) in March 2022.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/02/07/gen-durante-and-1001st-ibde-butchers-of-davao/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NDFP consultant, 4 others, unlawfully arrested

This article is available in Pilipino Bisaya

February 07, 2023

The soldiers and forces of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) unlawfully arrested National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) peace consultant Ruben Saluta, 75, and his wife and fellow revolutionary Cordon Saluta, 63, along with with Yvonne Losaria in their residence in Doña Soledad, Barangay Labangal, General Santos City on January 30.

Saluta was arrested based on fabricated charges of murder while Presentacion and Losaria were charged with rebellion cases. In addition, state forces claimed they seized six high-caliber weapons, ammunition and other military equipment from the three. Saluta is old and has chronic pulmonary disease. He and his wife suffer from hypertension.

In Baguio City, police arrested Jennifer Awingan, a native of Kalinga and a member of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA) at her home in Barangay Pinsao Proper on January 30. She was charged with eight others, with a fabricated case of rebellion in the Cordillera and Ilocos region.

Among those charged were Windel Bolinget and Steve Tauli, both officers of the CPA, Sarah Abellon, Lourdes Gimenez, Florence Kang, Northern Dispatch journalist Niño Oconer, and Jovensio Tangbawan and Salcedo Dumayom Dappay Jr. They are not being allowed to post bail.

Police also arrested UP Diliman unionist and professor Prof. Melania Flores on February 6. She was charged with “violations of Social Security Law .” According to various groups, this is part of harassment of activists and progressive individuals.

Meanwhile, on January 30, the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) publicized the “terrorist” designation of Dr. Natividad Castro, a well-known doctor who chose to serve Lumad and peasant communities in Mindanao. The ATC is a body created under the Anti-Terror Law.

Attempted massacre. Danny Malinao was killed in an attempted massacre by the 3rd Special Forces Battalion against five farmers in Sitio Emerald, Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur on January 24. The five were harvesting vegetables when soldiers fired at them. The 3rd SFB claimed an encounter with the people’s army took place.

Violation of humanitarian law. Soldiers of the 85th IB arrested the injured Red fighter Jose Dela Cruz or Ka RC after a battle in Barangay Huyon-uyon, San Francisco, Quezon on January 29. He was paraded like a trophy instead of being recognized as a prisoner of war and having his wounds treated.

Attacks on communities. Around 200 soldiers of the 62nd IB invaded Barangay Amuntay, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental and Barangays of Talaon, Aya and Cansumandig in La Libertad, Negros Oriental from January 21 to 27. Various cases of violations of human rights were recorded.

In the town of La Libertad, soldiers forcibly entered and searched the home of the elderly couple Marting and Roama Pedro in Barangay Amuntay on January 22 and 23. In Barangay Aya, the military ransacked and destroyed Dongkoy Pahayahay’s house on January 26. They also raided the home of the Pecore couple in Sitio Mabato, Barangay Talaon.

On February 2, the 79th IB threatened to behead farmers Rex Lumayno and Eric Opinggo in Sitio Odiong, Barangay Bandila, Toboso, Negros Occidental after they were illegally detained.

Meanwhile, soldiers ransacked Toto Palay’s house in the same village and threatened to bomb it.

On January 7, the military threatened to behead civilian Wendel Pasinabo.

CPP/Ang Bayan: Planned US-Philippines military exercises in Ilocos denounced

February 07, 2023

The National Democratic Front-Ilocos condemned the planned 38th Balikatan Exercises of Filipino and American soldiers to be staged in Ilocos Norte on April 24-27. Up to 16,000 soldiers are set to participate, according to initial news.

According to the NDF-Ilocos, this will be the second military exercise to be staged in Ilocos Norte. Previously, joint exercises of Philippine and US Marines were conducted in Currimao and Laoag City in June 2022.

According to Col. Michael Logico, who will lead the military exercise, they chose Barangay Bayog, Burgos as the “operational area” of the exercises. The coast of Bayog can be used as a site for coastal air defense. Live fire exercises to test new US military hardware are also planned to be conducted here.

According to the NDF-Ilocos, the exercises will endanger the Ilocano people and the Philippine sovereignty. They also warned against threats of environmental destruction that the exercises would bring including damage to coral reefs in the area. They said live fire exercises will imperil communities of fishermen and farmers.

US-RP Balikatan Exercises are conducted under the Mutual Defense Treaty and Visiting Forces Agreement. In addition to Ilocos Norte, exercises are also set to be conducted in Fuga, Calayan and Batanes.

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA strikes at Southern Panay police

This article is available in Pilipino Bisaya

February 07, 2023

The New People’s Army (NPA)-Southern Panay reported armed actions it launched in recent months against police and military forces who have been plaguing residents in the southern part of the island.

An NPA unit fired shots at the police detachment of the 2nd Platoon, 1st Iloilo Mobile Company in Barangay Mayang, Tubungan, Iloilo on February 1. Earlier, the people’s army fired at a CAFGU detachment in Barangay Tubudan, San Remegio, Antique on January 28.

Meanwhile, on December 11, 2022, the NPA ambushed the combined force of the San Remegio Municipal Police Station and the Antique Mobile Force operating in Barangay Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique. Two policemen were wounded in the ambush.

On the island of Negros, the NPA-Southwest Negros struck at soldiers of the 15th IB in an encounter in Sitio Malipayon, Barangay San Jose, Sipalay City on January 18. Three 15th IB soldiers were confirmed killed while seven were injured.

The NPA-North Negros also fired at the CAFGU detachment in Barangay Bandila, Toboso, Negros Occidental on January 31.

CPP/Ang Bayan: Editorial--Marcos then and now: puppet, fascist and oppressive

Propaganda editorial from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 7, 2023): Marcos then and now: puppet, fascist and oppressive

This article is available in Pilipino Bisaya

February 07, 2023

It is crystal clear to the Filipino people that Ferdinand Marcos Jr, current chief of the neocolonial state, is no different from his former dictator father: they are both puppets, fascists, corrupt and oppressive, and grossly indifferent to the people’s hunger and suffering.

These are the reasons that prompted people to unite and rise at EDSA more than three and a half decades ago. The same reasons bind them today in the struggle to advance and defend their rights and well-being, and their desire for genuine national independence and democracy. Like his father dictator, Marcos Jr uses the most vicious and evil ways of the ruling classes to run the crisis-ridden semicolonial and semifeudal system in the Philippines.

Marcos Jr is subservient to foreign powers and completely lacks national dignity in surrendering the country’s sovereignty and welfare to foreign powers, especially the US and China.

Marcos implements the neoliberal policies started by his father in the 1970s. In the name of “throwing the doors wide open,” he pushes all-out import and foreign investment liberalization. Foreign capitalists are afforded all favors and promises, especially low workers’ wages and tax holidays. Foreign capitalists are also given all freedom to take the land of farmers and minority peoples, and plunder the richness of our mountains, rivers and oceans.

For decades now, these policies have destroyed people’s livelihood, local production and the Philippine economy. Import liberalization allowed foreign commodities to flood and drown local production, especially agriculture. The peasant masses are gasping for air under the weight of imported rice, all types of vegetables, onions, garlic, and even salt. Deregulation gave bourgeois compradors who are large merchants, and importers and smugglers (who typically are the same people or families) all the freedom to overprice commodities.

Production has steadily declined over the past four decades, further hobbling the country’s economy. Foreign investments in “export processing zones” are misrepresented as “growth” though these do not help develop the local economy. The chronic lack of currency due to uneven foreign trade makes the country ever dependent on foreign borrowing and dollar remittances earned by sending Filipino workers overseas. Every year, up to a quarter of the country’s budget goes to servicing public debt which people did not benefit from.

Like the malpriorities of his father and succeeding reactionary governments, health, education and other social services lack funds under Marcos Jr’s budget. On the other hand, more and more unproductive funds are wasted on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to buy helicopters and warships, as well as bombs, ammunition and war equipment being used in the suppression, intimidation and repression of the people’s resistance.

Marcos Jr’s declaration of being “everyone’s friend” is, in fact, a slavish policy. Concretely, he recently acceded to the plan of the US government and military to build five more military bases within AFP military camps in Cagayan, Isabela and Palawan. The US plans to use these to station troops and missile that will be aimed against China. Marcos also agreed to have the so-called joint patrols of US warships and AFP forces. These measures are part of the US military strategy to use the Philippines, as well as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and other countries, to provoke war against China, in the same way that it used Ukraine to wage war against Russia.

Meanwhile, Marcos sits idly by in the face of China’s ongoing use of seven military facilities many of which were built within the Philippine maritime territory. In fact, Marcos invited the Chinese Construction and Communication Corporation, a China state-owned company notorious for bribery and corruption. It is among the companies involved in the plunder of Philippine seas. Marcos invited this company to expand operations in the Philippines, in exchange for additional loans from China.

As was during the Marcos dictatorship, the stench of corruption is pervasive. In addition to accepting bribes from foreign companies, it was revealed recently that Marcos Jr is also involved in large-scale smuggling, through some well-known relatives of his wife Liza Araneta. Marcos is also rushing the creation of the Maharlika Investment Fund to control hundreds of billions of government funds to benefit favored businesses.

The intensification of Marcos Jr’s puppetry, corruption and oppression of the people is accompanied by intensified viciousness and brutality of the war of the reactionary state against the people. Also under the direction of the US imperialist, the campaign of suppression of the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) is set to become more cruel. Political repression and counterinsurgency today is as vicious as martial law under the Marcos dictatorship. Violations of human rights and international humanitarian laws are rampant and relentless.

As was under Marcos Sr, the masses of workers, peasants, and entire people under Marcos Jr are mired in hardship and hunger, while landlords, the big bourgeois compradors and big foreign capitalists, bask in wealth and luxury. In the face of their oppression and exploitation, it is clear to the people that there is no other path but that of revolutionary resistance.