ASG members yield to government forces

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 21, 2023): ASG members yield to government forces

Camp Bautista Jolo, Sulu – April 20, 2023

Four (4) Abu Sayyaf members voluntarily surrendered to the 1101st Infantry “Gagandilan” Brigade of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu at Barangay Saimbangon, Pata, Sulu on April 17, 2023.

According to Brig. Gen. Eugenio C. Boquio, Commander of 1101st Brigade, “The surrender was made possible through the efforts of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Benito G. Ramos. They were identified as @Tapsil, @Ridong, @Uram, and @Mimpe, all formerly under ASG Sub-leader Galib-Andang @Robot. Moreso, they formally handed-over one (1) 5.56mm M16 Rifle, two (2) Cal.30 M1 Garand Rifle, and one (1) Cal.45 Norinco Pistol bearing.”

The former ASG members were turn over to the Municipal Task Force – Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC) of Pata in order to avail the ASG Returnee Reintegration Program of the government. During the event, the ASG returnees signed the peace covenant declaring the ASG and other lawless elements as Persona Non-Grata.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Ignatius N. Patrimonio, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu and 11th Infantry Division lauded the efforts of the troops and acknowledged the support of local government units.

“Without your untiring efforts and support, we cannot achieve our mission to end local armed conflict here in the province of Sulu. Let us, therefore remain focused and I assure you that the JTF Sulu will continue to its task in order to accomplish its mission for the peace and development.”

The activity was witnessed by Pol. Col. Narciso C Paragas, Provincial Director, Sulu Provincial Police Office, Pata MTF-ELAC Council, and other local government officials.

[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/asg-members-yield-to-government-forces/

Kalinaw News: Gamit pandigma ng KLG-Abra, narekober

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 21, 2023): Gamit pandigma ng KLG-Abra, narekober (KLG-Abra war weapons, recovered)

Narekober ng mga kasapi ng 24th Infantry Battalion ng Philippine Army ang inabandonang gamit pandigma ng mga makakaliwang grupo sa lalawigan ng Abra.

Ayon sa report, nakatanggap sila ng impormasyon kaugnay sa natagpunag mga kagamitan sa isang bakanteng lote.

Kabilang sa mga natagpuan ang anim na piraso ng 60mm high explosive mortar rounds, 62 piraso ng live ammunitions para sa m60 machine gun, at isang 12v motorcycle battery.
Pinaniniwalaang gamit ito ng Komiteng Larangan Guerilla (KLG) North Abra.

[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/g%f0%9d%97%94%f0%9d%97%a0%f0%9d%97%9c%f0%9d%97%a7-%f0%9d%97%a3%f0%9d%97%94%f0%9d%97%a1%f0%9d%97%97%f0%9d%97%9c%f0%9d%97%9a%f0%9d%97%a0%f0%9d%97%94-%f0%9d%97%a1%f0%9d%97%9a-%f0%9d%97%9e%f0%9d%97%9f/

Kalinaw News: NPA member killed in clash in Moises Padilla identified

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 20, 2023): NPA member killed in clash in Moises Padilla identified

CAMP GERONA, MURCIA, Negros Occidental – One (1) NPA terrorist member was killed in a clash with elements of the 62nd Infantry (Unifier) Battalion, 3ID, Philippine Army at Sitio Lower Tiyos, Brgy Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental at around 5:30 A.M. April 18, 2023 (Tuesday).

The encounter lasted for 5 minutes after which the enemy withdrew towards the northern direction leaving behind 1 NPA fatality identified by former rebels (FRs) as Jose Albores Jr aka “JOJO”, member of the Communist Terrorist Group in Central Negros 1 (CN1) under Leonardo Panaligan Command New People’s Army (LPC-NPA). Seized from the encounter site were one (1) KG9, one (1) hand grenade, subversive documents, and personal belongings.

Former rebels and civilians revealed that aka JOJO is a known local CNT leader being one of the heads of the “Kangaroo Court” (refers to the NPA’s justice system) in the boundaries of Moises Padilla, La Castellana, Isabela in Negros Occidental, and Canlaon City and Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental who are responsible for the killing of innocent civilians including their own members who were suspected as government assets who no longer wanted to support the armed group. Also, he is the source of fake news exploited by JB REGALADO, Spokesperson of LPC-NPA who spreads and wrote fake news about the false encounter against the government.

Troops from 62IB led by Lt.Colonel William Pesase Jr., Battalion Commander in coordination with Moises Padilla MDRRMO and local police facilitated the retrieval of the dead body of the killed Communist terrorist member who was left behind by his comrades who scampered to different directions during the encounter.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Orlando Edralin, 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander said that, “The encounter in Barangay Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla was a result of the timely and accurate information provided by the local residents about the presence of armed group who are foraging
and extorting from the local populace in the area and that the NPAs already losing their support from the masses

As long as there are remaining armed communist terrorists who continue to threaten the peacefulness of our communities, your Army in Negros will continue to be relentless in pursuing the perpetrators of senseless brutal killings, arson, extortion and other atrocities against our localities,” BGen Edralin added.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-member-killed-in-clash-in-moises-padilla-identified/

Kalinaw News: Dalawang dating kasapi ng teroristang komunistang grupo sumuko sa pinagsanib pwersa ng kapulisan ng Cagayan and ng kasundaluhan ng 77IB

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 20, 2023): Dalawang dating kasapi ng teroristang komunistang grupo sumuko sa pinagsanib pwersa ng kapulisan ng Cagayan and ng kasundaluhan ng 77IB (Two former members of the communist terrorist group surrendered to the combined forces of the Cagayan police and the army's 77IB)

So Burubur, Brgy Magapit, Lal-lo, Cagayan, – Dalawang dating kasapi ng terosritang komunistang grupo ang sumuko sa pinagsanib pwersa ng kapulisan ng Cagayan at ng Kasundaluhan ng 77th Infantry (Don’t Dare) Battalion. Nakilala ang dalawang sumuko na sila Ka Harry at Ka Lisa noong ika-19 ng Abril taong kaslukuyan.

Sa pahayag nina Ka Harry at Ka Lisa, kahirapan sa loob ng kilusan ang nag-udyok sa kanila na sumuko. Kasabay nito isinuko rin nila ang iba’t ibang uri ng mga gamit pandigma kabilang dito ang isang M203 Grenade launcher, dalawang homemade gun, limang M203 cartridge, assorted na bala ng baril, medical paraphernalia, mga gamit pang-komunikasyon at mga ilang mahahalagang dokumento sa loob ng kilusan.

Ayon pa sa kanila, lumalala na ang kahirapan at gutom sa loob kilusan dahil sa mas pinaigting na kampanya ng kasundaluhan sa kanayunan at pinaigting na military operation at Community Support Operations sa mga lugar na kinikilusan ng mga teroristang grupo. Maliban dito nagkakaroon narin ng hindi pag kakaunawaan sa pagitan nila dahil sa pagkabalisa at pagkakawala ng ilang matataas na pinuno nito bunsod ng kanilang pag-suko at mga namatay sa nakaraang enkwentro sa pagitan nila at kasundaluhan.

Kung mataandaan, sunod sunod ang sagupaan sa pagitan ng kasundaluhan ng 501st Infatry Brigade at ng komunistang teroristang grupo na nagresulta pagkakamatay sa ng ilang matataas na pinuno sa kanilang hanay, pagkakasagip sa inabandonang kasamahan nilang sugatin na si ka Brown na kinilalang si Orion Yoshida at pagkakarekober ng mga matataas na kalibre na baril at mga gamit.

Bago pa ang pagsuko nila ay una ng rumesponde ang kapulisan sa isang impormasyon mula sa isang impormante at concerned citizen na nagsabing mayroon mga pinaghihinalaang kasapi ng teroristang grupo na pumunta sa pagamutan . Dito natagpuan at nakilala nila sina Agnes Mesina at Walter Villegas. Kalaunan pag katapos suriin ang mga salaysay nila at sa kadahilanan mayroon silang kasama na wounded at hindi sila galing sa EDCA site bagkus sa bundok, ay nakumpirma ng mga kapulisan na sina Agnes Mesina at Walter Villegas ay lihitimong miyembro ng komusitaang teroristang grupo. Ito din ay naayon sa rebelasyon ng mga dati nilang nakasama sa loob ng kilusan na sumuko noong nakaraan na sina Ka Eren at Ka Armin.

Samantala, positibo si Colonel Ferdinand Melchor C Dela Cruz MNSA PA, Commander ng 501st Infantry (Valiant) Brigade na malapit ng matapos ang laban kontra insurhensiya. Patuloy parin ang isinasagawang focused military operations ng kasundaluhan sa nasasakupan ng 501st Infantry Brigade. Ayon naman kay Police Colonel Julio S Gorospe Jr, Provincial Director ng Cagayan Police Provincial Office na handa sila sa lahat ng pagkakataon at nakikiisa sa isinisulong na kapayapaan sa lambak ng Cagayan.

Sa Kasalukuyan sila Ka Harry at Ka Lisa ay nasa pangagalaga ng 501st Infantry Brigade para sa agarang tulong, debriefing at pangangalaga ng kanilang kalusugan, habang pinoproseso pa ang kanilang dokumento para sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) firearms renumeration.

[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-dating-kasapi-ng-teroristang-komunistang-grupo-ang-sumuko-sa-pinagsanib-pwersa-ng-kapulisan-ng-cagayan-at-ng-kasundaluhan-ng-77ib/

Upcoming Marcos-Biden meeting 'significant, historic' for PH-US ties - envoy

Posted to CNN Philippines (Apr 21, 2023): Upcoming Marcos-Biden meeting 'significant, historic' for PH-US ties - envoy (By Tristan Nodalo)

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 21) — The upcoming official visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Washington and his bilateral meeting with United States President Joe Biden is "significant and historic" for both countries, according to Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez.

"It will be a significant and historic meeting between two leaders of two countries with aligned and common interests," Romualdez told CNN Philippines.

He said these high-level visits between Manila and Washington officials are part of the current administration's strategy.

Apart from the bilateral meeting, Marcos will also have a very full three-day schedule during his visit.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said Marcos will be in the US on April 30 to May 4.

"He will be meeting with business leaders, he will also be having bilateral meetings with Cabinet members of the Biden administration. He will also be talking about energy and climate change,” Romualdez said.

The envoy added that the issue on the four new additional sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement or EDCA may not be extensively discussed since it was already raised during the 2+2 meeting early this month between defense and foreign affairs officials.

Marcos and Biden first met in New York during the United Nations General Assembly in September last year.

The two leaders also had a brief encounter on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in Cambodia.

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/4/21/marcos-biden-upcoming-bilateral-meeting.html

SC upholds acquittal of retired general, wife from tax evasion case

From Rappler (Apr 20, 2023): SC upholds acquittal of retired general, wife from tax evasion case

The High Court says it 'finds that there was nothing capricious, whimsical, or even arbitrary in the CTA's ruling that the prosecution failed to establish accused-respondents' guilt beyond reasonable doubt'

MANILA, Philippines – The Supreme Court (SC) affirmed the decision of the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) that acquitted retired Lieutenant General Jacinto Ligot and wife Erlinda on tax evasion charges.

In a 20-page decision penned by Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul Inting, the High Court’s Third Division affirmed the CTA ruling that cleared the couple of four counts of tax evasion case over under-declaration of income from 2001 to 2004 amounting to P458 million. The High Court also said the CTA did not commit grave abuse of discretion in junking the case against the couple.

The case stemmed from the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s (BIR) probe into the former generals’ book of accounts. The said books contained real and personal properties of the couple acquired during the taxable years of 2001 and 2004.

The list included parcels of land, condominium units, a vehicle, and bank deposits, among others. The investigation showed that the couple’s acquisition of the said properties, bank deposits, and investments were disproportionate to what they declared in their Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth and Income Tax Return.

In affirming the CTA’s Third Division’s ruling, the SC said that it “resolved the case only after all the evidence was considered, weighed, and passed upon.”

“In view of the foregoing, the Court finds that there was nothing capricious, whimsical, or even arbitrary in the CTA’s ruling that the prosecution failed to establish accused-respondents’ guilt beyond reasonable doubt,” the SC said.

The CTA Third Division, in its ruling dated January 8, 2019, said the prosecution failed to prove that Ligot couple are guilty of violating section 254 (Attempt to Evade or Defeat Tax) and section 255 (Failure to File Return, Supply Correct and Accurate Information, Pay Tax Withhold and Remit Tax and Refund Excess Taxes Withheld on Compensation) of the National Internal Revenue Code or the Tax Code.

The prosecution’s theory in the criminal charges were founded on the alleged existence of the couple’s bank deposits and other financial affairs. But, the prosecution’s evidence, which includes bank statements, have been excluded by the law – thus, inadmissible.

In addition, the tax court said exceptions to the bank secrecy laws cannot be extended to tax evasion cases. It added the evidence submitted against the couple have either been excluded or were found to have insufficient probative value because of the prosecutors’ failure to establish the evidence’s authenticity and execution.

In October 2019, the CTA also denied the motion for reconsideration filed by the BIR and the Department of Justice.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/supreme-court-decision-acquittal-retired-general-ligot-tax-evasion-case/

Biden to meet Marcos at White House on May 1

 From Rappler (Apr 21, 2023): Biden to meet Marcos at White House on May 1 (By REUTERS)

(2ND UPDATE) 'During the visit, President Biden will reaffirm the United States’ ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines,' the White House says

US President Joe Biden will meet his Philippine counterpart Ferdinand Marcos Jr at the White House on May 1 to discuss economic cooperation and the Indo-Pacific region, Manila and Washington said on Friday, April 21.

The treaty allies have enjoyed warmer ties since Marcos took office last June, reversing his predecessor’s anti-US stance.

Next month’s bilateral talks will be the latest in a series of high-level meetings the Philippines has conducted with leaders of the United States and China, both of which are jostling for strategic advantage in the region.

Biden and Marcos will discuss economic and defense cooperation, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.

“During the visit, President Biden will reaffirm the United States’ ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines, and the leaders will discuss efforts to strengthen the longstanding U.S.-Philippines alliance,” the statement said.

The Philippines this month identified four more military bases that the US may access amid shared concerns about China’s growing might.

China’s ambassador to Manila last week accused the Philippines of “stoking the fire” of regional tensions by offering the expanded base access to the US.
‘Reaffirming special relationship’

In a statement, Malacañang said the official visit will be “aimed at reaffirming the special relationship between the Philippines and the United States.”

“The President’s itinerary will begin on 1 May with a meeting with US President Joe Biden, followed by an expanded meeting with key Cabinet officials,” the Philippines’ Presidential Communications Office said.

“It will substantively progress efforts to further deepen relations and political ties, to bring about lasting socio-economic partnerships, as well as to enhance defense and security cooperation,” Malacañang said.

Topics Marcos and Biden are expected to discuss include agriculture, energy, climate change, digital transformation and technology, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, supply chains, and infrastructure, said Malacañang.

“The trip will highlight the steadfast commitment by both sides to be reliable and resilient allies and partners in times of crisis and prosperity, amid a challenging global and regional environment,” it added.

Marcos’ visit to the US happens days after the 2023 iteration of Balikatan, the annual bilateral exercise between Filipino and American troops, wrap up. The 2023 version of the exercise is the largest one to date, according to the US Embassy in Manila.

In what will be his second trip to the United States in less than a year, the presidential palace said on Friday that Marcos will travel to Washington from April 30 to May 4 to meet Biden and key cabinet officials.

Marcos first met Biden on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York back in September 2022.

It was that working visit to the US when Marcos, speaking at the New York Stock Exchange, said he “cannot see the Philippines in the future without having the United States as a partner.”

It was a sneak peak into one of Marcos’ major deviations from his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, whose governance Marcos vaguely promised to continue when he ran in 2022.

“It will substantively progress efforts to further deepen…political ties, to bring about lasting socio-economic partnerships, as well as to enhance defence and security cooperation,” the palace said.

Marcos will seek closer partnership in agriculture, energy, climate change, digital transformation, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, supply chains, and infrastructure, it added.

More than 17,000 Philippine and US soldiers are currently conducting their largest ever joint military drills in the Southeast Asian country, drawing criticism from China.

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang will meet his local counterpart and Marcos on Saturday, just weeks after the Philippines gave the United States access to four additional military bases.

In March, the Philippines hosted a meeting between Manila and Beijing’s diplomats to discuss the South China Sea, a key trade corridor that’s also a source of tensions between the two countries.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/biden-marcos-jr-meeting-white-house-united-states-may-2023/

More lies than facts in CPP statement on Tiamzons, says retired AFP general

From Rappler (Apr 21, 2023): More lies than facts in CPP statement on Tiamzons, says retired AFP general (By JAZMIN BONIFACIO)

Retired major general Edgardo de Leon, the former commander of the 8th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Storm, says troops did not come near the 'rebel VIPs' on land as they used technology to track them at sea

SAMAR, Philippines – The retired general of the Samar-based Army division allegedly responsible for the deaths of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) leaders Benito and Wilma Tiamzon described the rebels’ claim that they had been captured on land, tortured, and then killed as “propaganda” and “drama.”

“I categorically deny that,” retired major general Edgardo de Leon, the former commander of the 8th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Storm, told Rappler in an interview on Friday, April 21.

De Leon said he could not confirm whether the Tiamzons were among the ten rebels that perished in a pre-dawn sea explosion off Catbalogan on August 22, 2022.

The CPP statement, which said the rebels died a day earlier, said only eight bodies had been recovered.

“I said before, only science would tell us who these casualties were, through DNA tests,” De Leon said in a mix of English and Tagalog.

“When someone claiming to be Benito’s sister surfaced, I advised them to go to the Philippine National Police (PNP) for DNA tests. There was no follow-up,” he told Rappler.

“They mixed facts, and lies, in one article,” De Leon said. “The positions of the Tiamzons are facts; they have been in the top leadership for five decades.”

But the retired general said, “they are lying in saying the Tiamzons were captured because we were not able to capture them.”

“We did not capture them on the road because we were aware of their escorts and that if there were a firefight, people would get caught in the crossfire. We wanted to avoid that,” he stressed.

Government forces did not even come close to the rebels on land, De Leon told Rappler.

“We used technology for tracking them. We had a way of tracking them.”

The CPP narrative, he said, was aimed at the rebel forces.

“The purpose is to give some drama on the death of their leaders, to create heroic deeds for their tributes.”

MUST READ
8-month chase leads to sinking of ‘communist VIPs’ in Samar waters

Read parts 2 and 3 of the report here:

(Part 2: Air, land, river operations put rebels in Samar on the defensive)
(Part 3: Wounded land: The cost of war in Samar)

Unarmed, tortured

A press release by Marco Valbuena, the CPP’s chief information officer, cited a months’ long probe by the CPP central committee.

Government troops flagged down the “unarmed” Tiamzons’ on the national highway near Catbalogan City between 12 to 1 pm of August 21, said the CPP statement..

Benito, the party’s executive committee chairperson, and Wilma, the CPP’s secretary general, were traveling on two separate vehicles, Valbuena said.

TIAMZON COUPLE. Benito and Wilma Tiamzon are photographed after their arrest in this file photo.

The couple and their eight companions, all from the party’s central headquarters, were reportedly beaten badly.

The Tiamzons and their companions were already dead when troops dumped their bodies on a motorboat filled with explosives and tugged from the waters off Catbalogan midway toward Taranganan island before detonation, the CPP said.

Rappler earlier interviewed De Leon in September 2022 to get a clearer picture of the events that led to the explosion at that time.

It also tried to ask known spokespersons of the CPP and its regional organs, but the common response of the rebels was there was no word about the couple’s fate.

The CPP April 20 statement said the political bureau and its executive committee received confirmation and capture of the killings within a few days.
Precautions

In the September 2022 series of interviews, De Leon used the third person when discussing the military operation.

On Friday, he admitted personally managing and leading the eight-month operation until its final moments.

The retired general reacted to statements by activist and human rights groups, all quoting the CPP statement, that the events surrounding the rebels’ deaths and other incidents of hors de combat were “blatant violations of international humanitarian law.”

“I always look into the three principles of international humanitarian law or the laws of armed conflict,” he said.

“Even if the target is distinct, we exercise precaution to make sure they really are the enemy. So during the actual operation, we used a loudspeaker. Instead of stopping, they fired at our troops, confirming that they are indeed combatant, kalaban.”

De Leon also said it was his decision to accost them on “the high seas, as a precaution, so nobody would be affected.”

The choice of weapons, he added, was meant to ensure “there would be no collateral damage.”

De Leon said he doubted the CPP did any forensic investigation.

“Perhaps, they eventually learned from those inside (central headquarters) what took place before they left, and they talked with the unit where the couple was attached, what were their last plans. That’s probably what they mean by investigation.”

The retired general said the official announcement should encourage other families to submit to tests and claim the remains of their kin.

“We also want closure on this and nakiki-dalamhati tayo, hindi natin kagustuhan at kapwa Pilipino yun, (we condole and we did not want that to happen as they are fellow Filipinos). We are just performing our duty to end the conflict within out country,” he said.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/retired-afp-general-says-more-lies-than-facts-cpp-statement-benito-wilma-tiamzon/

US to reaffirm ‘ironclad commitment’ to PH defense

Posted to Panay News (Apr 22, 2023): US to reaffirm ‘ironclad commitment’ to PH defense

US President Joe Biden meets with Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City on September 22, 2022. PHOTO BY MANDEL NGAN / AFP

MANILA – The United States (US) is expected to reaffirm its “ironclad commitment” to its defense of the Philippines during a bilateral meeting between President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and US President Joe Biden at the White House on May 1.

According to the White House, other than defense the two world leaders will also discuss the economy, clean energy and more.

“During the visit, President Biden will reaffirm the United States’ ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines, and the leaders will discuss efforts to strengthen the longstanding US-Philippines alliance,” said the White House in a statement on Thursday (US time).

The White House said that Biden and Marcos will tackle regional matters and joint efforts to “uphold international law and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

“The two leaders will review opportunities to deepen economic cooperation and promote inclusive prosperity, expand our nations’ special people-to-people ties, invest in the clean energy transition and the fight against climate change, and ensure respect for human rights,” said the White House.

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said that Marcos would be in Washington DC from April 30 to May 4.

Marcos is also expected to meet with key Cabinet officials in the US.

“The visit will reaffirm the bonds of friendship that give definition and significance to the many facets of the bilateral relationship, underpinned by the close affinity shared by Filipinos and Americans alike for many years,” said the PCO.

According to the PCO, the visit will also advance efforts to deepen relations and political ties.

Marcos is also eyeing partnerships in agriculture, energy, climate change, technology, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, supply chains, and infrastructure.

“The United States is a major bilateral trade and official development assistance partner and maintains a shared commitment with the Philippines for more dynamic economic relations. The trip will highlight the steadfast commitment by both sides to be reliable and resilient allies and partners in times of crisis and prosperity amid a challenging global and regional environment,” said the PCO.

This is not the first time that the two presidents will meet. In September 2022, Biden and Marcos Jr. met during the United Nations 77th General Assembly.

This follows tensions amid the West Philippines Sea and controversial statements from Chinese Envoy Huang Xilian, who said that the Philippines is “stoking the fire” by allowing the US access to military bases near the Taiwan Strait. (Jean Mangaluz © Philippine Daily Inquirer)

https://www.panaynews.net/us-to-reaffirm-ironclad-commitment-to-ph-defense/

2 rebels killed, two soldiers hurt in renewed skirmishes

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 21, 2023): 2 rebels killed, two soldiers hurt in renewed skirmishes (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN

A series of armed skirmishes in Binalbagan, Isabela, and Escalante Negros Occidental, yesterday led to the killing of two members of the New People’s Army, and injuries to two Army soldiers.
Col. Orlando Edralin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, disclosed that the first encounter took place between 15 NPA members and 62nd Infantry Battalion, which started at about 2:30 a.m. yesterday, in Brgy. Camang Camang, Isabela.

Two more encounters ensued in Brgy. Santol, Binalbagan, as the 94th Infantry Battalion joined the 62IB in the conduct of pursuit operations, Edralin said.

The identity of the slain rebel has not been established, while pursuit operations against the fleeing rebels are still underway as of press time.

None of the Army troopers were either injured or killed in the three gun battles in Binalbagan and Isabela.

A NPA member also died yesterday in another encounter in Escalante City, while two soldiers of the 79th Infantry Battalion were injured in the gun battle.

Recovered from the encounter site were the cadaver of slain rebel, an M14 assault rifle, three rifle grenades and three more 40mm grenade launcher ammunition.

The latest gun battle took place two days after an encounter also ensued in Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, that claimed the life of rebel leader Jose Albores, a member of the Leonardo Panaligan Command, who heads a “kangaroo court”, responsible for conviction of numerous civilians tagged as military informants, who were then killed in central Negros.

Also recovered from the encounter site were KG9 automatic assault pistol, a hand grenade, and personal belongings.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, 3rd Infantry Division commander, commended the 62nd, 94th and 79th IBs for their relentless anti insurgency effort that resulted in the successful combat operations in Negros.

There were reports also that rebels encountered by Army soldiers have plans to attack a detachment in Brgy. Cansolongon, Isabela.

https://visayandailystar.com/2-rebels-killed-two-soldiers-hurt-in-renewed-skirmishes/

Tiamzon couple’s death proves gov't success vs. Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21, 2023): Tiamzon couple’s death proves gov't success vs. Reds (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar (File photo)

MANILA - The admission of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) that its ranking leaders, Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, were killed last year in an encounter with patrolling military troops highlights the government's success against fugitives.

"The recent CPP-NPA-NDF's (New People's Army-National Democratic Front) declaration of the demise of the Tiamzon couple, if indeed true, was the success of government operations against the fugitives of the law, as they confirmed in their statement that these personalities have important positions in the CTG (communist terrorist group) organization," AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a statement Friday.

He added that the AFP has long suspected of the couple's demise following an encounter with government troops in the waters of Catbalogan City, Samar in August 2022 but could not confirm it due to lack of evidence.

However, Aguilar said CPP allegations that the AFP captured and tortured the Tiamzons before killing them is but propaganda and an attempt to deceive the public.

"Their allegations of capture and torture are part of their propaganda and an attempt to deceive the Filipino people. What happened in August 2022 operation was a legitimate encounter acting on information that VIPs of CPP-NPA were escaping from ongoing military operations," he said.

Aguilar said the AFP maintains that the operation succeeded, with the CPP-NPA-NDF's confirmation of their casualties, which included the Tiamzons.

"The alleged death of the Tiamzon couple and their Chairman Emeritus Jose Maria Sison in December 2022 only reveals the vacuum in the organizational and ideological leadership of the Communist Party. The leadership vacuum, therefore, leaves the underground movement without a sense of strategic and operational directions and the reason for its existence," he added.

Aguilar also said that they are urging the remaining members of NPAs and other insurgent allies to surrender and reunite with mainstream society in developing the country.

"As the AFP commits to relentlessly pursue the remnants of the CPP-NPA-NDF who sow terror in our peace-loving communities, we urge them to abandon violence and help contribute to the government's development programs," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1199868

PH Air Force 'Black Hawks' spearhead Zambales air assault drills

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21, 2023): PH Air Force 'Black Hawks' spearhead Zambales air assault drills (By Priam Nepomuceno)

HELIBORNE OPS. Army soldiers board the "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopter on April 19, 2023 to participate in the air assault exercise in Zambales. Air Force spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo on Thursday (April 20) said the S-70is are from the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and played a "critical role" in the drills. (Photo from PAF)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Thursday night reported that two of its newly-acquired S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters participated in the air assault exercises by transporting 72 fully armed troopers from Nueva Ecija to Zambales on April 19.

Air Force spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the S-70is are from the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and played a "critical role" in the drills.

"Demonstrating their ability to quickly deploy troops to conflict areas, the Black Hawk helicopters inserted 72 fully-equipped Army troopers from the 103rd Infantry 'Mabalasik' Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, in two shuttles from Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, into the exercise area in Zambales," she said.

Castillo said the training exercise aimed to improve the joint interoperability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)'s air and ground combat forces.

"Both the aircrew and troops were given hands-on experience to become familiar with the correct approach for performing heliborne assault operations," she added.

This simulation, Castillo said, is expected to boost the AFP's capability to promptly deploy forces to an engagement area while also identifying and addressing any necessary gaps for future exercises.

She added that the PAF's American counterparts observed the entire exercise.

Castillo said the 580th Aircraft Control and Warning Wing also took part in the "Balikatan" subject matter expert exchange on forward interface control cell held at Wallace Air Station, San Fernando City, La Union on April 18.

"Topics discussed during the activity include data link, tactical air control systems identification and rules of engagement procedures management, and platform roles and missions. Participants also exchanged insights, best practices, and innovative approaches related to air battle management," she said.

Castillo said this learning session proved to be an effective opportunity for both forces to enhance knowledge, improve capabilities, and foster collaboration and partnership.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1199869

DND chief welcomes Cagayan mayors support for EDCA

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21, 2023): DND chief welcomes Cagayan mayors support for EDCA (By Priam Nepomuceno)

DND chief Carlito Galvez Jr. (File photo)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) on Friday said it strongly welcomes the expression of support coming from mayors of Cagayan regarding the implementation of additional and new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in their province.

Twenty-one Cagayan mayors have so far expressed support for the EDCA with the United States.

"As of now, 21 mayors have expressed their support and we expect this number to increase, with one municipality even intimating the possibility of donating a tract of land for the use of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)," DND chief Carlito Galvez Jr. said in a statement.

He added this overwhelming support coming from local chief executives in Cagayan supporting EDCA highlights the Filipinos' appreciation of the merits of EDCA that is aimed at boosting Philippine national security and providing opportunities in developing local communities.

The Philippines earlier named Naval Base Camilo Osias in Sta. Ana, Cagayan; Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo Cagayan; Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; and Balabac Island in Palawan as additional EDCA sites in addition to the five locations earlier picked by Manila and Washington.

These are Cesar Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga; Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation in Nueva Ecija; Lumbia Airport in Cagayan De Oro; Antonio Bautista Air Base in Puerto Princesa, Palawan; and Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu.

"As part of our efforts to prepare to respond to contingencies, the four additional EDCA sites are expected to serve as points for the evacuation of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the event of a flare-up in the region's flashpoints. Our Defense Attachés (DAFAs) have been working and coordinating with their host countries on possible repatriation operations, which can be undertaken with our US allies, should the need arise," Galvez said.

The DND chief added that other advantages of developing these sites cannot be understated, especially on the continued modernization of the AFP.

Galvez said the new locations, especially Balabac in Palawan and Camilo Osias Naval Base in Cagayan, will strengthen the country's maritime domain awareness and security.

These facilities will serve as stations and shelters for radar local monitoring systems and new assets such as the Navy's offshore patrol vessels and corvettes, which are now under construction, as well as the future multirole fighters for the Air Force.

"More importantly, the deployment and modernization of the AFP Forces through EDCA, which is an integral part of our Mutual Defense Treaty, shall boost our territorial defense capabilities and will enable our fisherfolk to freely pursue their livelihood in our waters," Galvez stressed.

The DND chief also reported that the US pledge of USD100 million which is equivalent to PHP5.5 billion in modernization assistance will be utilized for the acquisition of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) configured medium-lift helicopters for the disaster response and non-combat operations of the AFP.

"The US has also increased the funding for the development of the EDCA sites from USD82 million to USD100 million, which is equivalent to another PHP5.5 billion. This brings the total of the US’s pledge of support for the HADR helicopters and EDCA projects to USD11 billion," he added.

Galvez also said the various projects in these EDCA sites, most of which are for warehousing and storage for HADR-related materiel, are scheduled for completion by the end of 2023.

"In our pursuit of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, enabling economic development for all Filipinos is our paramount consideration. In fact, during the 2+2 Ministerial Meeting in Washington, the US side expressed that they will pursue more economic investments in the Philippines with the support also of the USAID socio-economic programs in the communities where EDCA sites are located. This is the DND and DFA’s humble effort in ensuring that the President’s economic agenda will be successful for the betterment of the Filipino people," he added.

And with all these developments, Galvez said the DND looks forward to exploring and undertaking more collaboration with its stakeholders aimed at improving the country's collective aspirations.

"In line with the President's guidance that we will not cede a single inch of Philippine territory to anyone, we shall continue to build on the momentum for the AFP, as we shift our focus to territorial defense and it remains on track to become a strategic player in maintaining peace and prosperity in the region," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1199910

3rd NPA fighter killed this week in renewed clashes in NegOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21, 2023): 3rd NPA fighter killed this week in renewed clashes in NegOcc (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

THIRD ENCOUNTER. A third skirmish between New People’s Army fighters and Philippine Army troops in Negros Occidental this week took place in the hinterlands of Escalante City on Thursday morning (April 20, 2023). Another communist rebel died, the third following the series of gunbattles. (Image courtesy of 303rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – A third New People’s Army (NPA) rebel died this week in renewed clashes between insurgents and government troops, with the latest encounter in the hinterlands of Barangay Binaguiohan, Escalante City in northern Negros Occidental on Thursday morning.

The fatality has yet to be identified, according to the Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade (IBde) report.

“One unidentified NPA terrorist member was killed and two soldiers were hurt,” the 303 IBde report added.

The two wounded soldiers in the Escalante City clash were from the 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB).

During the clearing operation, troops of 79IB recovered an M14 rifle, three rifle grenades, three 40mm high explosives grenades, and personal belongings.

At about 2 a.m. on the same day, troops of the 94th IB encountered a group of NPA fighters at the boundary of Binalbagan and Isabela, which claimed the life of a still unidentified communist rebel.

Meanwhile, the firefight in Barangay Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla on Tuesday led to the death of Jose “Jojo” Albores, one of the leaders of the “kangaroo court” tasked to kill persons suspected to be against the NPA, under the Central Negros Front 1 of the Leonardo Panaligan Command.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1199903

1 killed, bomb-making components seized in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21, 2023): 1 killed, bomb-making components seized in Basilan (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

KILLED IN SHOOTOUT. Suspected armed group leader Ganim Muksin lay dead in his house following a shootout with police and military personnel in Barangay Maganda, Lamitan City, Basilan, on Thursday night (April 20, 2023). Found at the house of the suspect were bomb-making materials and a .45-caliber pistol. (Photo courtesy of Lamitan City Police Office)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A suspected private armed group leader was killed as troops seized bomb-making components in Lamitan City, Basilan province, a top police official said Friday.

Lt. Col. Arlan Delumpines, Lamitan police chief, said Ganim Muksin opened fire while a team of police and military personnel were serving the warrant against him in Barangay Maganda around 6:20 p.m. Thursday.

Delumpines said Muksin was killed in the ensuing shootout.

Muksin, he said, had no ties with the Abu Sayyaf Group, although he maintained several armed followers.

The warrant servers were from the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the Army’s 18th Infantry Battalion troopers.

Bomb-making components seized from Muksin's house included four improvised electric blasting caps, ammonium nitrate fuel oil, black power, electric switches, and five big polyvinyl chloride pipes packed with three and six-inch nails. A .435-caliber pistol was also recovered.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1199897

Viscom slams CPP’s propaganda on Tiamzon couple’s death

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21, 2023): Viscom slams CPP’s propaganda on Tiamzon couple’s death (By John Rey Saavedra)

The slain Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) leaders, couple Wilma (front) and Benito Tiamzon (right). (PNA file photo)

CEBU CITY – The Visayas Command (Viscom) on Friday branded as mere propaganda the statement released by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) surrounding the death of leaders, couple Benito and Wilma Tiamzon.

“The statement is nothing but mere propaganda. This a blatant attempt of the CPP to once again deceive the Filipino people by spreading lies and fabricating stories,” Viscom chief Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo said in a statement.

Arevalo said the allegations that the Tiamzon couple were captured and tortured have been part of their misinformation to discredit the successful operation of the government against the communist terrorist groups.

He added that the Armed Forces of the Philippines has long suspected the death of the Tiamzon couple after the encounter between government forces and the communist members on August 22, 2022, off Catbalogan City.

“However, there was no apprehension or capture, not even torture that occurred as alleged in the article. The operation launched was a legitimate operation, as the government acted upon the information that several NPA key personalities were escaping from the ongoing focused military operation launched in Northern Samar,” Arevalo said.

The pursuing troops “were fired upon while communicating with the operator of the motorboat using a megaphone to halt for visual inspection, and in the middle of the firefight, the boat exploded,” he added.

His statement came after CPP chief information officer Marco Valbuena claimed that the Tiamzon couple and 10 other individuals were abducted while on their way to Catbalogan City and were subsequently held captive and tortured in Samar before they were killed.

Valbuena further claimed that their remains were dumped on a motorboat with explosives and tugged from Catbalogan midway to Tarangnan before it was detonated.

Despite the claims of the CPP, Arevalo still welcomed its confirmation that the Tiamzon couple and eight other members of the Central Committee were killed during the encounter.

“Justice has indeed been served. The fugitives’ demise, if it is indeed true, is a huge loss to the terrorist group, as this would create a leadership vacuum in their organization and cause them to lose operational direction on the ground,” the Viscom chief said.

Arevalo called upon the few remaining members of the CPP’s armed wing, the New People’s Army in the Visayas to “lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law while you still can.”

“Your leaders continue to fall, the same as your group continues to stumble and suffer defeat. Do not let the long arms of justice catch up with you,” the Army official added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1199896

3 ex-CTG members surrender in C. Luzon

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21, 2023): 3 ex-CTG members surrender in C. Luzon (By Zorayda Tecson)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – Three former members of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) under the New People’s Army (NPA) formally surrendered to authorities in Central Luzon on Thursday.

In his report on Friday, Brig. Gen. Jose S. Hidalgo Jr., regional director of the Police Regional Office-3 (Central Luzon), said the three former CTG members in Pampanga and Olongapo City also turned over war materiel.

He noted that they have been inactive in the rebel movement for some time, but it was only now that they gave themselves up.

Hidalgo said in Angeles City, alias “Ka Bong” turned over a caliber .38 revolver, a 40 mm grenade and ammonium nitrate fuel oil, which is an explosive material.

“Ka Buknoy,” a former member of Kilusang Larangan Guerilla (KLG West), surrendered a caliber .45 pistol, a magazine, and an M67 grenade.

In Olongapo City, police and military units facilitated the surrender of “Ka Julie,” a farmer and native of San Marcelino in Zambales Province, is a former member of Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) Sangay Yunit Guerilla/Provincial Yunit Guerilla (SYG/PYG) operating in the province.

"Ka Julie" yielded a caliber .38 revolver with ammunition and one hand grenade.

Meanwhile, three female members of Anakpawis from the Bulacan chapter withdrew their support from the militant group and turned over a caliber .38 revolver with four live ammunition to the police in Limay, Bataan.

Hidalgo said these accomplishments are the results of the joint police and military’s persistent operations in identified CTG-affected areas.

He called on the remaining CTG leaders and members to surrender and join the government in attaining long-lasting peace and development for the sake of their families.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1199909

6 NPA rebels yield in Zambo Sur, Sibugay provinces

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21, 2023): 6 NPA rebels yield in Zambo Sur, Sibugay provinces (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Six members of the New People’s Army (NPA) separately surrendered to authorities in Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay provinces Friday.

The Area Police Command-Western Mindanao (APC-WM) identified the NPA surrenderers as Misa Sarmiento, Margie Mapula, Olympio Dinolan, Julieta Brade, Benvinido Lara, and Alvin Ocnip.

Sarmiento and Mapula of the defunct NPA Guerrilla Front Kara presented themselves at the police station of Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur around 10:30 a.m., APC-WM said

Dinolan, on the other hand, yielded around 11 a.m. before Councilor Rollie Rambo at the municipal hall village of Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur.

Less than an hour later, Brade of the NPA Regional Urban Committee likewise surrendered to Councilor Mansueto Martinez of San Miguel town of the same province.

In Zamboanga Sibugay, Lara of the NPA’s Guerrilla Front Big Beautiful Country, submitted herself to authorities around 9 a.m. in Barangay Manangon, Diplahan town.

At 10:30 a.m., Ocnip of the NPA’s Main Regional Guerrilla Unit followed and voluntarily turned over a loaded Magnum .357 revolver to Barangay Tampilisan officials in Kabasalan town.

The APC-WM said the NPA surrenderers were all given food packs as initial assistance.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1199906