CPP/NPA-Northern Negros: Paghanduraw sa ikaduhang anibersaryo sa pagpatay kang Kerima Lorena Tariman///Ka Ella: “Pildihon ang kaaway!”

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Aug 20, 2023): Paghanduraw sa ikaduhang anibersaryo sa pagpatay kang Kerima Lorena Tariman///Ka Ella: “Pildihon ang kaaway!” (Reflection on the second anniversary of the killing of Kerima Lorena Tariman///Ka Ella: “Defeat the enemy!”)

Cecil Estrella

Spokesperson

NPA-Northern Negros (Roselyn Pelle Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

August 20, 2023

Nagpabiling buhi ang kaalam, tampo ug hagit ni Ka Ella sa mga pareho niyang rebolusyonaryo, hilabi na sa mga Pulang kumader ug manggugubat ilalom sa Roselyn Jean Pelle Command – Northern Negros Guerilla Front sa NPA ug sa tanang rebolusyonaryong alyado ug pwersa.

Sa diwa sa usa ka proletaryadong rebolusyonaryo, niabot si Kerima Lorena Tariman gikan sa halayo nga lugar sa Manila sa prenteng gerilya sa Northern Negros sa katapusang bahin sa 2018. Makita sa mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa ang iyang kadasig ug gihatagan og bili ang iyang mapanghagit nga mga punto sa tanang nataran sa rebolusyonaryong gimbuhaton.

Isip bag-o sa lugar, gitun-an dayon ni Ka Ella ang mga aspeto sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan sa Northern Negros: ang social terrain, kahimtang sa mamumuo sa katubhan, ang pisikal nga tereyn, tawag sa mga tumandok sa mga bukid, sapa, ang rebolusyonaryong pwersa, lenggwahe, kanta, ug uban pa. Gipaninguhaan niya nga makakat-on sa mga lenggwaheng bisaya (Cebuano) ug Hiligaynon aron epektibo nga makalambigit sa masa ug mga kauban. (Ang Northern Negros natunga sa duha ka lenggwahe: Cebuano para sa mga lugar nga gaatubang sa Cebu ug Hiligaynon para sa mga lugar nga atbang sa Iloilo).

Sa iyang pagpanguna, nasistematisa, napagawas ug napalapnag ang mga mahinungdanong mga dokumento sa larangan, sama sa SICA Paper sa Northern Negros ug Kahimtang sa mga Mamumuo sa Kampo.

Isip Ka Em-em, mas gipalagsik niya ang gimbuhatong propaganda sa komprehensibong pamaagi. Pabalik-balik niyang gisilsil ang panginahanglan nga masamaran, kung dili man mapildi, ang mga kaaway sa hut-ong paagi sa mga sinulat, debuho, obrang pangkultura ug uban pang produkto nga gamiton sa propaganda. Ang buot niyang ipasabot, kinahanglan nga maghulagway ang produktong pang-propaganda sa tinuod nga kahimtang sa masa ug ang ilang tinguha sa rebolusyonaryong kausaban samtang gatubag punto-por-punto sa mga bakak ug gasaway sa kahimuan sa mga kaaway. Niining panahona, gipundar balik ang Nagabagang Duta, ang pahayagan sa RJPC-NPA.

Rebolusyonaryong kauban usab siya, isip Ka Em-em. Dili siya katahaan sa mga kauban ug dali ra pakigsultihan. Apan, kanunay niya ginadala ang mga hisgutanan sa pulitikanhong pag-ambitanay sa mga reyalidad ug nangunang isyu sa katilingban. Pila ka higayon nga makita nimu siya, kuyog ang mga kauban, nga magduyog og gitara o magpagawas og tablet, magkanta og mga rebolusyonaryong kanta. Sa higayon nga may okasyon, magluto siya og pagkaon, hilabi na nga dili siya mukaon og karne, sama sa isapageti nga gisagolan og talong, kalabasa, sardinas ug kinhason.

Isip Ka Alice, mapangahas siya nga kadre sa Pulang hukbo. Nakig-unong siya sa sakripisyo ug kalisud sa mga Pulang manggugubat ug nakigkuyog sa pagkat-on gikan sa kasinatian. Gisubaybayan niya ang pagpatuman sa mga plano ug naghatag og anaa-sa-panahon nga mga sugyot ug rekomendasyon. Sa usa ka proyektong pangmilitar, kuyog siya sa tibuok proseso, gikan sa plano hangtud sa hingpit nga implementasyon.

Naputol ang pagpangabuhing rebolusyonaryo ni Ka Ella human tuyong gipatay sa #DiMasaligan79IB, kuyog ang mga hangol sa kwarta ug kaharahuy nga mga traydor, human nadakop nga samaron pagkahuman sa usa ka engkwentro sa tunga sa yunit sang RJPC-NPA ug sa nasambit nga pwersa sa pasistang estado kaniadtong Agosto 20, 2021 sa Hacienda Raymonda, Barangay Kapitan Ramon, Silay City, Negros Occidental. Namartir usab sa maong hitabo si Joery Dato-on “Ka Pabling” Cucoba.

Si Kerima Lorena Tariman, nga nailhan sa rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa norte nga bahin sa Negros isip Ka Ella, Ka Em2 ug Ka Alice, nagapanghagit kanunay nga muhatag sa tanang makaya para mapalambo ang isig ka tahas dira sa inang-ang nga pagpauswag sa rebolusyon, partikular sa Northern Negros, ug sa tibuok nasud.

Nagpabiling hagit ang iyang mga pulong sa kasamatangang panahon nga nagka-grabe ang sosyo-ekonomikanhong krisis kadungan sa nisamot nga terorismo sa estado. Naglanog-lanog gihapon ang panawagan ni Ka Ella, “Pildihon ang kaaway!”

Mabuhi ka, Ka Ella!
Mabuhi ang rebolusyon!
Mabuhi ang mga rebolusyonaryong martir!
Hustisya para sa mga rebolusyonaryo nga tuyong gipamatay!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/ka-ella-pildihon-ang-kaaway/

CPP/NDF-Ledesma: ‘Not an isolated incident’: Hold the PNP and Marcos Jr. accountable for the killing of 17-year-old Jemboy Baltazar

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Aug 19, 2023): ‘Not an isolated incident’: Hold the PNP and Marcos Jr. accountable for the killing of 17-year-old Jemboy Baltazar

Coni Ledesma

Head

Special Office for the Protection of Children

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

August 19, 2023

The Special Office for the Protection of Children (SOPC) of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) expresses outrage on the killing of another minor at the hands of the fascist GRP police forces. In another shocking display of brutality, six Navotas policemen rained bullets on 17-year-old Jerhode “Jemboy” Baltazar and his friend in the river while cleaning their boat last 2 August 2023.

The circumstances surrounding Jemboy’s killing is senseless. In the first place, the policemen involved did not even verify his identity before shooting and the reason for shooting remains unclear to this date. The fact that his family was barred from the scene to check for signs of life, the fact that the body cameras of the police forces were turned off, and the overall lack of transparency in the (Philippine National Police) PNP’s internal investigation is highly suspicious and symptomatic of the GRP’s modus operandi of covering up their tracks to escape accountability.

According to an autopsy, Jemboy suffered multiple gunshot wounds and died of brain injuries with drowning as a contributing factor. If they allowed the family access to immediately search for the body, Jemboy could still have been saved. But the fact that his body was only recovered three hours after being submerged in water is utterly reprehensible.

The cruel death of Jemboy at the hands of state armed forces is not an isolated incident. It is part of an alarming pattern of impunity in killings under the fascist rule of the US-Marcos regime which bears chilling resemblance to the dark legacy of the Marcos fascist dictatorship marked by rampant human rights abuses and unchecked authority.

The SOPC holds the PNP and their commander-in-chief Marcos Jr directly accountable for the killing of Jemboy. We call on the international community, human rights groups, and advocates for children’s rights to make the US-Marcos regime answer to their crimes against children and humanity.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/not-an-isolated-incident-hold-the-pnp-and-marcos-jr-accountable-for-the-killing-of-17-year-old-jemboy-baltazar/

US, Japan and Australia plan joint navy drills in disputed South China Sea, Philippine officials say

From ABC News (Aug 20, 2023): US, Japan and Australia plan joint navy drills in disputed South China Sea, Philippine officials say (By JIM GOMEZ Associated Press)

Two Philippine security officials said that the United States, Japan and Australia are planning a joint navy drill this week in the South China Sea off the western Philippines after a recent show of Chinese aggression in the disputed waters

MANILA, Philippines -- The United States, Japan and Australia are planning a joint navy drill in the South China Sea off the western Philippines this week to underscore their commitment to the rule of law in the region after a recent show of Chinese aggression in the disputed waters, Filipino security officials said Sunday.

On Aug. 5, Chinese coast guard ships used water cannons against Philippine vessels in the contested waterway where disputes have long been regarded as a potential flashpoint and have become a fault line in the rivalry between the U.S. and China in the region.

The drill will include three aircraft and helicopter carriers sailing together in a show of force and undertaking joint drills. Their commanders are set to meet with Filipino counterparts in Manila after the offshore drills, two Philippine security officials told The Associated Press.

Both spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not allowed to publicly discuss details of the planned drills.

The U.S. plans to deploy an aircraft carrier, the USS America, while Japan would send one of its biggest warships, the helicopter carrier JS Izumo. The Royal Australian Navy would send its HMAS Canberra, which also carries helicopters, one of the two officials said, adding that the joint drill was planned a few months ago.

The Philippines would not be part of this week's drills due to military logistical limitations but is open to becoming a participant in the future, the official said.

The United States, Japan and Australia were among several countries that immediately expressed support for the Philippines and concern over the Chinese action following the tense stand-off earlier this month.

Philippine officials said six Chinese coast guard ships and two militia vessels blocked two Philippine navy-chartered civilian boats taking supplies to the Philippine forces stationed at the Second Thomas Shoal. One supply boat was hit with a powerful water cannon by the Chinese coast guard while the other managed to deliver food, water, fuel and other supplies to the Filipino forces guarding the shoal, the Philippine military said.

The Chinese coast guard acknowledged its ships used water cannons against the Philippine vessels, which it said strayed without permission into the shoal, which Beijing calls Ren’ai Jiao.

“In order to avoid direct blocking and collisions when repeated warnings were ineffective, water cannons were used as a warning. The on-site operation was professional and restrained, which is beyond reproach,” the Chinese coast guard said. “China will continue to take necessary measures to firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty.”

The Philippine military said on Saturday that it would again attempt to deliver basic supplies to its forces in the Second Thomas Shoal, but didn't provide further details.

The mission “to the shoal is a clear demonstration of our resolve to stand up against threats and coercion and our commitment in upholding the rule of law,” the Armed Forces of the Philippines said in a statement.

Following the incident, Washington renewed a warning that it is obliged to defend its longtime treaty ally if Philippine public vessels and forces come under armed attack, including in the South China Sea.

https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/us-japan-australia-plan-joint-navy-drills-disputed-102402889

2 alleged NPA members, 12 militiamen return to fold of law in Samar

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 20, 2023): 2 alleged NPA members, 12 militiamen return to fold of law in Samar (By: Joey Gabieta)

Eastern Samar map. INQUIRER FILES

TACLOBAN CITY — At least two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and 12 militia members based in Eastern Samar returned to the fold of the law, considered by military officials as a sign of the weakening of the communist armed group in the province.

The rebels and the militia members also turned over several firearms consisting of two M-16 rifles, one Cal.30 Ml carbine, two Cal.45 pistols, one Ca.38 revolver, and two anti-personnel mines to the 78th Infantry Battalion based in Borongan City on Friday (August 19).

Joining them in their decision to return to the folds of the law were 61 of their civilian sympathizers, all from Barangay San Andres, Borongan City.

As a sign of their decision to leave the communist armed group, they took an oath of allegiance to the government in the presence of top Army officials led by Brigadier General Noel Vestuir, the commanding officer of the 802nd Infantry Brigade (IB) and Col. Allan Tria, the commanding officer of the 78th IB.

Borongan City Mayor Jose Dayan Ivan Agda was also present during the event.

The rebel members and their sympathizers decided to stop their engagements with the Communist Party of the Philippines(CPP)-NPA due to the campaign of the government under its End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

Vestuir said that the “mass surrender” of these former rebels and their sympathizers will result in more surrender and in the process, help end the insurgency problem in Eastern Samar and parts of Samar, areas under the control of his brigade.

He then urged the other remaining active NPA rebels to yield their arms and return to the folds of the law.

“Your withdrawal of support and oath of allegiance to the government were not just a mere talk nor a piece, written on paper. We should be truthful in ending our support to the communist terrorist group, we should cut the connection of the barangay to the CPP-NPA-NDF. Let us make our community inhospitable to the CPP-NPA-NDF,” Vestuir said during the ceremony.

“Your violent communist ideology is no longer welcomed by the people in the communities since they are already with us in our efforts to end this 54-year local communist armed conflict. They are now giving us the information on your whereabouts, the locations of your arms cache and even the foods that you hide and prepositioned in the area,” he added.

Mayor Agda also expressed his gratitude to the former rebels and their sympathizers.

“I am thankful that you have finally decided to return your trust and support to the government. Expect that the city government has programs intended for you,” the city mayor said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1819268/2-alleged-npa-members-12-militiamen-return-to-fold-of-law-in-samar

21 communist guerillas yield in Central Luzon

From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 20, 2023): 21 communist guerillas yield in Central Luzon (By LIEZLE BASA IÑIGO)

Aug 20, 2023 00:55 AM

CAMP Olivas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga – Twenty-one New People’s Army members and supporters in Central Luzon surrendered and pledged loyalty to the government on August 17.

Militia ng Bayan member “Ka Bruno” disclosed the location of an arms cache composed of two rifle grenades, M203 ammunition, a hand grenade, magazines, live ammunition, tactical gear, wire, and a battery in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija.

Sixteen NPA in the Barrio members yielded in Aurora and turned over firearms, explosives, and subversive materials.

"Ka Nato" and "Rowena" from underground mass organizations surrendered firearms, explosives, and communist literature.

In Zambales, NPA fighters "Ka Ana" and "Ka Recca" turned themselves in with Ka Recca surrendering a firearm and ammunition.

Communist guerrilla "Roy" pledged allegiance to the State in Pampanga.

Police Regional Office-3 Director Police Brig. Gen. Jose S. Hidalgo Jr. affirmed their support for reintegration efforts. He encouraged the surrenders to contribute to peace and progress alongside the military and Regional Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/8/19/21-communist-guerillas-yield-in-central-luzon

3 alleged NPA rebels killed in Camarines Sur, Masba

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 20, 2023): 3 alleged NPA rebels killed in Camarines Sur, Masbate (By: Ma. April Mier-Manjares)

LEGAZPI CITY – Three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed on Saturday in separate encounters with the government troops in Camarines Sur and Masbate.

In a belated report, Major Frank Roldan, spokesperson of the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, said the members of 81st Infantry Battalion and the police had a 15-minute encounter with suspected rebels in Barangay (village) Salvacion in Ragay, Camarines Sur at around 9:45 a.m.

The slain rebel was identified as Nestor Postre, alias “Barbie” or “Bebot.”

In San Jacinto, Masbate, two unidentified rebels were also killed in another clash in Barangay Jagnaan at around 3 p.m.

Roldan said the 96th Infantry Battalion and the Masbate police had a 30-minute firefight with around 20 armed individuals.

An M-16 rifle and M203 grenade launcher were recovered from the area.

No one was hurt on the government side.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1819214/3-alleged-npa-rebels-killed-in-camarines-sur-masbate

3 BIFF extremists, 3 NPA insurgents yield in S. Kudarat

Posted to Notre Dame Broadcasting Corporation (NDBC) Website (Aug 20, 2023): 3 BIFF extremists, 3 NPA insurgents yield in S. Kudarat (By PNA)

COTABATO CITY – Three members of outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and three New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas have surrendered to police authorities in Sultan Kudarat province, officials said Friday.

In a statement, Col. Christopher Bermudez, Sultan Kudarat provincial police director, said he welcomed on Thursday afternoon the surrender of the three BIFF members under the Karialan faction who turned in an improvised explosive device and a Carbine rifle during their surrender in Isulan town.

Bermudez identified them only through their aliases as “Kandatu,” 42, “Alex,” 28, and “Taniks,” 22, all of Barangay Ganta, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao del Sur.

“One of them told me that they were duped into joining a struggle they do not know about,” he added.

On Thursday, three members of Platoon Dos, NPA Sub-Regional Command-Daguma Range, Far South Mindanao Region, also surrendered to police in Kalamansig town.

Bermudez said the communist rebels turned in a pistol and ammunition.

He said the rebels admitted they have been tired of running away from government forces that have been hunting them in the mountains of Kalamansig and Lebak towns.

They will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program in coordination with the Kalamansig Social Welfare and Development Office.

Soccsksargen region comprises the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani; and the cities of Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal, and Gen. Santos. (PNA)

https://ndbcnews.com.ph/news/3-biff-extremists-3-npa-insurgents-yield-s-kudarat

Six BIFF, NPA rebels surrender in S. Kudarat

From the Manila Times (Aug 20, 2023): Six BIFF, NPA rebels surrender in S. Kudarat (By Franz Sumangil)

THREE members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and three New People's Army (NPA) communist rebels surrendered to the authorities in Sultan Kudarat province, police officials announced on Friday, August 18.

Sultan Kudarat provincial police director Col. Christopher Bermudez said he welcomed on Thursday the surrender of the three BIFF members under the Karialan faction who turned in an improvised explosive device and a Carbine rifle during their surrender in Isulan town.

Bermudez identified them only through their aliases as "Kandatu," 42, "Alex," 28, and "Taniks," 22, all of Barangay Ganta, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao del Sur.

"One of them told me that they were duped into joining a struggle they do not know about," said Bermudez.

Also on Thursday, three members of Platoon Dos, NPA Sub-Regional Command-Daguma Range, Far South Mindanao Region, surrendered to police in Kalamansig town.

Bermudez said the communist rebels turned in a pistol and ammunition.

He said the rebels admitted they have been tired of running away from government forces that have been hunting them in the mountains of Kalamansig and Lebak towns.

They will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program in coordination with the Kalamansig Social Welfare and Development Office.

Sultan Kudarat is part of Soccsksargen region that also includes the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato and Sarangani, and the cities of Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal and General Santos.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/08/20/regions/six-biff-npa-rebels-surrender-in-s-kudarat/1906187

Army seizes NPA cache containing ammo, bomb parts

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 20, 2023): Army seizes NPA cache containing ammo, bomb parts (By RHODA GRACE SARON)


Army seizes NPA cache containing ammo, bomb parts

THE 65TH Infantry Battalion seized a cache of anti-personnel mine, ammunition, and other supplies believed to be owned by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the hinterlands of Kolambugan, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, on Aug. 18.

Second Lieutenant Anne Aclan, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of the 65th Infantry Battalion under the 402nd Infantry Brigade, said soldiers seized a 2.5HP generator set; 15 rounds of 5.56mm ball for M16A1; 30 rounds ammo for AK45; 15 rounds ammo for Cal. 50; two magazines for M16A1; a magazine for AK47; 125 pieces of blasting caps; 150 meters of detonating cord; 20 kilos of explosive materials, and various subversive documents.

The army said the discovery of the cache was a result of the tip volunteered by concerned residents.

Aclan said the recovery of anti-personnel mines clearly indicated that the communist insurgents continue to defy the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as part of “their attempt to intimidate the local populace who are now denouncing their presence in the area.”

Moreover, Lt Col Michel Mortejo, the 65IB commanding officer, vowed to ensure the safety of the residents.

“Intensified operations and activities of the Army against the recovery efforts of the counter-terrorist groups will continue and that the troops along with other government agencies stand in the frontline to secure the area against any form of terrorism,” Mortejo added.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2023/08/20/residents-tip-lead-to-bomb-parts-ammo-cache-in-agusan-sur-army/

Village leaders surrender weapons cache

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 20, 2023): Village leaders surrender weapons cache

KIDAPAWAN CITY – About a dozen village leaders in the special geographic area of the Muslim autonomous region in North Cotabato have surrendered a cache of weapons, including anti-tank rocket launchers and sniper rifles ahead of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.

This was confirmed by the Western Mindanao Command, saying the mass surrender of weapons is part of the military’s campaign in the southern region.

It said the military collected at least 22 illegal weapons from the village leaders who voluntarily surrendered the firearms. It was unknown whether the weapons belonged to the former rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front or civilians.

The Western Mindanao Command also quoted Brig. Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade, who attributed the surrender of the weapons to the government’s “Balik-Baril” (Bring a Rifle Improve your Livelihood) program or “Guns-for-Peace Program” – it lures rebels to return to the folds of the law in exchange for rewards and livelihood aid for those who surrender their weapons - dilapidated, vintage or not.

Gumiran said they collected two .50-caliber Barrett rifles, five rocket-propelled grenade launchers and six ammunition, four sniper rifles, six 12-gauge shotguns, one 9mm pistol, one .22-caliber revolver, one .38-caliber revolver, one .45-caliber pistol, one .357 caliber revolver, four shotgun magazines, four sniper rifle magazines and one magazine for .45-caliber pistol. He said the weapons are now in the custody of the 34th Infantry Battalion.

“With the participation of local governments and our peace partners, the campaign was sustained in preparation for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan 2023 elections. Rest assured that the Joint Task Forces will continue to facilitate law enforcement support operations to prevent lawless violence and curb illegal activities in the joint area of operations,” the Western Mindanao Command quoted Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido.

The Balik-Baril program was first introduced during President Corazon Aquino’s time where the government pays as such as P25, 000 for every weapon surrendered by rebels, aside from at least P18,000 in initial aid. Formerly under the National Reconciliation and Development Program (NRDP) which was intended to coordinate and integrate efforts of the government and non-governmental organizations, and the private sectors for the rebel returnees.

According to the government, although launched on December 24, 1986, it was not until 1988 that the NRDP went into full swing providing loans to rebel returnees under Balik-Baril program. The Aquino administration said the program was so successful that it transferred Balik-Baril to Peace and Order Councils which facilitated and hastened the processing of assistance to the rebels at the lowest levels of government.

It said NRDP had greatly contributed to the substantial neutralization of the secessionist movement in southern Philippines as well as improved peace and order situation in erstwhile insurgent affected areas.

With the success of the program, the government expanded this and called it the Social Integration Program and offered rebel returnees higher cash aid of P20,000 improved emergency assistance, P50,000 livelihood fund and increased amount for the Balik-Baril component.

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/08/village-leaders-surrender-weapons-cache.html

BIFF leader is new IS emir in Southeast Asia: Report

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 20, 2023): BIFF leader is new IS emir in Southeast Asia: Report

THE RECENT announcement of a new Filipino leader of the Islamic State (IS) terror group in Southeast Asia has generated a buzz in the online sphere.

Esmael Abdulmalik, also known as Abu Turaife, the leader of the Turaife faction, one of the two pro-IS factions of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) terror group in the southern Philippines, was touted recently by pro-IS media channels as the new emir.

Abu Turaife allegedly stepped up to the regional IS top spot after the killing of his predecessor, Maute Group leader Faharuddin Hadji Sattar, also known as Jer Mimbantas and Abu Zacharia, in a Philippine military operation in June of this year.

Analysts offered differing opinions on whether Abu Turaife would galvanize support for the terror group in the Philippines and the wider region.

For one thing, the new leader may bring new tensions to Southeast Asia and encourage nationals from the region to join IS, according to an Indonesian analyst.

“The announcement was very concerning, but predictable,” Ulta Levenia Nababan, the lead researcher at Jakarta-based think tank Galatea, told The Diplomat.

“According to my research findings with Semar Sentinel [a think tank] in 2019, he was indeed very influential. I did not manage to meet him, but I met his senior, Kagi Karialan, and made a short observation of the Turaife camp in Maguindanao province.

BIFF

“Kagi Karialan had 50-100 men but Abu Turaife had around 100-200 militias because he was hosting remnants of the Marawi siege from the Maute Group after they were defeated in Marawi.”

Kagi Karialan is the moniker of Mohidin Animbang, who leads the non-IS-aligned Karialan faction of the BIFF, a splinter from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), a former rebel group which now administers an autonomous region called the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The Maute Group, along with another pro-IS group, the Abu Sayyaf Group, laid siege to the southern city of Marawi in 2017 in an attempt to establish a territory for the so-called Islamic State East Asia (ISEA) wilayat, or province, which reportedly encompassed the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

A fierce five-month urban battle ensued before Philippine government troops retook the city from the clutches of the IS militants in October of that year.

According to Ulta, Karialan further said that Turaife welcomed foreign terrorist fighters mainly from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and some Arab nations after the Marawi siege. Karialan said he was unsure about their nationalities, though he knew they were not Filipinos.

“Before they [Turaife and Karialan] broke up, Turaife also offered Karialan to host those foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) in exchange of funds from ISIS but Karialan rejected it,” said Ulta, who conducted field research in Mindanao in 2019.

“I think, with this new designation for Turaife, it would again open up the possibility of more foreign terrorist fighters into the southern Philippine terrorism movement or conflict. My assessment is that Turaife is still very keen to welcome those FTFs and fight with them against the Philippine government.”

Ulta said last year’s information indicated Abu Turaife was injured in attacks by the Philippine military, but has likely now recovered and is again raising tensions in the region.

“Also those terrorists who were under the Anshar Khalifah Philippines or AKP previously led by Tokboy Maguid are now with Turaife,” said Ulta, referring to another local terror group aligned with IS.

“This is why I think Turaife as a new IS emir will bring new tension in the region and probably will provoke Southeast Asian nationals to join him.”

Jihadists

A Philippines-based analyst said Abu Turaife’s appointment was unexpected but still logical.

“Last year, he was very sick and this has led some to believe he actually died. Not many jihadists from the last seven years are alive, so if there was a choice, then Turaife is natural – combining credibility as a preacher, fighter and someone who already became a name,” said Georgi Engelbrecht, senior Philippines analyst at the International Crisis Group.

“Most of his fighters are relatives and as a Maguindanaon, he may not have a lot of soft power over Maranaos or the Tausugs. Given the Abu Sayyaf (ASG) in Sulu is in disarray in any case, and the Maute remnants are also without a leader after Zacharia’s killing, we can probably expect each theater to focus on their own issues,” explained Engelbrecht, referring to the two major ethnic groups in Mindanao.

Engelbrecht said the position of emir is highly symbolic, but in terms of operational capabilities, the militants are under serious pressure as they would need more adaptive and creative leaders.

“Turaife is old school and an old guard, so we know it will be difficult for him to both operate on his own in central Mindanao, let alone control fighters elsewhere,” he said.

“I think the loss of Salahuddin Hassan was also a big disadvantage to the militants. At some point, he and Turaife were not even in one organization, it seemed he did his own thing. In any case, after he died, some of his men returned back to Turaife while others ventured out,” Engelbrecht added, referring to another slain Filipino IS leader for the region.

Despite his potential menace, Abu Turaife is confronted with the formidable task of convincingly asserting his emirship and gaining the unwavering allegiance of his followers, said a Malaysian analyst.

“We know that he had been turned down for the role before, which signals his reluctance to take charge for his own reasons. The fact the group continues to follow the declaration protocol, confusing as it was, suggests their belief in the relevance of their existence to the expansion efforts of IS in the region,” Munira Mustaffa, executive director and principal consultant at Chasseur Group, told The Diplomat.

“This is notwithstanding the overall diminishing and weakening of the organization, and I supposed the counterterrorism efforts have not been substantial enough to quell its persistence or cease its potential resurgence. Its militant members, stubbornly optimistic, continue to operate as an active insurgency, despite the ongoing Philippine military pressure.”

Munira, a former analyst at Malaysia’s Southeast Asia Regional Centre of Counterterrorism, said it remains uncertain whether Abu Turaife’s announced leadership will substantially affect or influence any militants in Malaysia, considering their divergent political agendas and long-term and short-term objectives.

“The prospect of receiving support from Malaysia appears slim due to these preference divergences,” she said. “The fact that this announcement is unofficial implies a detachment from the operational priorities of central IS, suggesting the general status of IS in the region is dwindling and that they are now, or have been, operating independently from IS.

“In contrast, IS remains an enduring problem in the Middle East and Africa,” she added. “Therefore, the IS brand in Southeast Asia, the so-called ISEA, may hold some symbolic value, but it might not have any substantive value beyond that.”

Similarly, Engelbrecht said he believed that apart from a short buzz in the online sphere, there will not be substantive reaction on the ground to the announcement.

“Turaife’s relatives and perhaps the members of Salahuddin Hassan’s group would try to get a boost out of it, but the Maute remnants and the ASG have other things to focus on,” he said.

“I’m not sure if there will be a competition to Abu Turaife even though the Maranaos would probably wonder why not another Maranao replaced Zacharia.”

Mindanao

Engelbrecht said IS has definitely weakened in Mindanao. “Usually, these movements are also tied to the legitimacy of the peace process and the overall sphere of things. Should the BARMM underperform and issues between government and the MILF remain at times tense, then it might get revitalized,” he said.

“The key date for this is 2025. But again, not all frustrated rebels would jump on a jihadist alternative,” said Engelbrecht, referring to the year the Bangsamoro Parliament election is scheduled to take place in BARMM.

“Well, the usual caveats – all politics and conflict are highly local, there are mixed results from government/regional interventions and you cannot kill an idea by force. A key period to watch will be the village elections in late October this year.

“I feel ISEA / Southeast Asia is not much of a priority (for IS) anymore.”

Anti-terrorism

A spokesman for a military command in Mindanao said they have not received any information on Abu Turaife as the new leader of IS in the Philippines and the region but operations against the various terror groups were ongoing.

“We have decisive military operations, intel operations and civil-military operations to neutralize these terrorists like DI, BIFF and Abu Sayyaf Group,” Maj. Andrew Linao, the spokesperson for the Western Mindanao Command, told The Diplomat.

“We are also declaring areas clear of terrorists and ready for further developments like Sulu province and Zamboanga peninsula.”

DI is short for Dawlah Islamiyah or Islamic State, an umbrella term for pro-IS terror groups. It is also sometimes used to refer to the Maute Group.

The Philippine military in July announced that the southern island province of Sulu had been cleared of Abu Sayyaf bandits, although sub-leader Mudzrimar Sawadjaan, also known as Mundi, a bomb expert wanted by the Philippines and Malaysia, is still at large was reportedly last seen in Basilan province.

He was tagged in suicide bombings in Sulu including by Indonesian IS terrorists.

The newly installed Philippine military chief, Gen. Romeo Brawner, also in July said the nation expects to see total victory against Moro militants by the year’s end, a familiar statement made by almost all previous chiefs during their respective tenures.

Whether Abu Turaife will garner support from IS adherents in the region and galvanize local militants to support him back home, and whether pro-IS groups in the Philippines will cease to exist by the year’s end or remain, only time will tell. (Zam Yusa, The Diplomat)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/08/biff-leader-is-new-is-emir-in-southeast.html?zx=c0a9d49757573316

Serve and protect the people, Marcos tell ex-rebels-turned-cops

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 20, 2023): Serve and protect the people, Marcos tell ex-rebels-turned-cops

MAGUINDANAO DEL NORTE - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reminded the 102 former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) rebels-turned-police officers to always remember their oath to serve and protect the Filipino people.

A photo released by the regional police in BARMM shows the 102 former MILF and MNLF rebels-turned-police officers. Of the 1,134 MILF and MNLF applicants, only 102 (52 were from MILF and 50 from MNLF) had passed the police examinations.

Marcos told the former rebels that their pledge of allegiance is not just for the Philippine National Police (PNP), but also for the public.

“The moment you take your oath, you pledge your allegiance not just to the Philippine National Police. You pledge your commitment and dedication to the public, to the Filipino people (whom) you promise to serve and protect,” he said.

“You will be issued with arms, which you will be using for the protection of the Filipinos; the arms of protection, which you will now use with the government and not against it. Because at the end of the day, we all have that one thing we aim to achieve – lasting peace and sustainable progress,” he added.

The recruits took their oath recently at the regional police headquarters at Camp Brig. Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun in Parang town here which Marcos considered as a “history in the making.”

The oath-taking and turnover ceremony marks the first PNP event with former rebels being sworn in to become members of the country’s police force as it also marks the successful implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, or Republic Act No. 11054.

“May this PNP uniform remind you of your mission to guard the vulnerable, be the champion of truth, and be that example of bravery and of responsibility,” Marcos said as he reminded the new police members that they are now the inspirations of former MILF and MNLF fighters.

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos also called on the new police officers to become an inspiration of bravery and strength to attain lasting peace in Mindanao, as he assured the Bangsamoro Government of his support, as well as from the national government, and from the President.

“We have already taken steps towards attaining lasting peace in the region. Sama-sama tayo sa pagkamit ng pagkakaisa dito sa Mindanao. The DILG and the whole national government shall continue to implement programs that uplift the welfare of our people, ensuring that our Moro brothers will not be left behind,” Abalos said. “The national government shares the same dream of the Bangsamoro, for a peaceful community where everyone lives in peace and in harmony.’

Abalos also called on everyone’s support to attain lasting peace in Mindanao as he emphasized that peace and sustainable development can only be achieved when people are united.

Unfortunately, of the 1,134 MILF and MNLF applicants, only 102 (52 were from MILF and 50 were from MNLF) had passed the police examinations.

But for BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, the special entry of the MILF and MNLF members to the police force will be instrumental in ensuring there is peace and order in the region and its people are protected. “We are confident that this special set of new policemen and policewomen will contribute in protecting our citizens and ensuring peace and order in the region,” Ebrahim said, calling it “unprecedented historical ceremony.”

Ebrahim said the national government and the Bangsamoro government will explore the possibilities of providing further opportunities for MILF and MNLF members to join the PNP. “This will be done in conjunction with the continuing assertion of the full implementation of the normalization process. Needless to say, this aspect of the Bangsamoro peace process is crucial in sustaining the gains of peace,” Ebrahim said. (Mindanao Examiner. With reports from Johanie Mae Kusain and Bai Omairah Yusop)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/08/serve-and-protect-people-marcos-tell-ex.html

DOD announces establishment of generative AI task force

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 20, 2023): DOD announces establishment of generative AI task force

WASHINGTON - The Department of Defense (DoD) announced the establishment of a generative artificial intelligence (AI) task force, an initiative that reflects the DoD's commitment to harnessing the power of artificial intelligence in a responsible and strategic manner.

Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks directed the organization of Task Force Lima; it will play a pivotal role in analyzing and integrating generative AI tools, such as large language models (LLMs), across the DoD.

"The establishment of Task Force Lima underlines the Department of Defense's unwavering commitment to leading the charge in AI innovation," Hicks said. "As we navigate the transformative power of generative AI, our focus remains steadfast on ensuring national security, minimizing risks, and responsibly integrating these technologies. The future of defense is not just about adopting cutting-edge technologies, but doing so with foresight, responsibility, and a deep understanding of the broader implications for our nation."

Led by the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO), Task Force Lima will assess, synchronize, and employ generative AI capabilities across the DoD, ensuring the Department remains at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies while safeguarding national security.

"The DoD has an imperative to responsibly pursue the adoption of generative AI models while identifying proper protective measures and mitigating national security risks that may result from issues such as poorly managed training data," said Dr. Craig Martell, the DoD Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer. "We must also consider the extent to which our adversaries will employ this technology and seek to disrupt our own use of AI-based solutions."

Leveraging partnerships across the Department, Intelligence Community and other government agencies, the task force will help minimize risk and redundancy while pursuing generative AI initiatives across the Department.

Artificial intelligence has emerged as a transformative technology with the potential to revolutionize various sectors, including defense. By leveraging generative AI models, which can use vast datasets to train algorithms and generate products efficiently, the Department aims to enhance its operations in areas such as warfighting, business affairs, health, readiness, and policy.

"The adoption of artificial intelligence in defense is not solely about innovative technology but also about enhancing national security," said U.S. Navy Capt. M. Xavier Lugo, Task Force Lima mission commander and member of the CDAO's Algorithmic Warfare Directorate. "The DoD recognizes the potential of generative AI to significantly improve intelligence, operational planning, and administrative and business processes. However, responsible implementation is key to managing associated risks effectively."

The CDAO became operational in June 2022 and is dedicated to integrating and optimizing artificial intelligence capabilities across the DoD. The office is responsible for accelerating the DoD's adoption of data, analytics, and AI, enabling the Department's digital infrastructure and policy adoption to deliver scalable AI-driven solutions for enterprise and joint use cases, safeguarding the nation against current and emerging threats. (Mindanao Examiner, DOD)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/08/dod-announces-establishment-of.html

Anti-terror squad arrests suspected terrorist in Bekasi

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 20, 2023): Anti-terror squad arrests suspected terrorist in Bekasi

JAKARTA - The Indonesian Police's anti-terror squad Densus 88 (Special Detachment 88) has arrested a suspected terrorist in Bekasi City in West Java, a spokesman said.

The suspect, identified by his initials as DE, is believed to be a supporter of the terrorist network ISIS and was allegedly spreading terror propaganda on social media actively, said police spokesperson Brig. Gen Ahmad Ramadhan.

He said DE is an employee at a state-run company and was captured recently in Bulak Sentul, Harapan Jaya, North Bekasi Sub-district.

The suspect reportedly posted a digital poster containing the text of an oath of allegiance to the Islamic State leader Abu Al Husain Al Husain Al Quraysi on his Facebook account. The text was in both Arabic and Indonesian. "The suspect was allegedly involved in fundraising," Ramadhan said.

DE reportedly joined a group on messaging platform Telegram and served as an admin at Breaking News, an update channel on global terrorism.

Ramadhan said the police questioned DE and searched his house in Harapan Jaya Village. The anti-terror squad seized homemade firearms, ammunition, books, a laptop, and a camera from his house.

This is not the first time a state-owned firm employee has been arrested in connection with terrorism. Earlier in September 2021, Densus 88 arrested a suspected terrorist, identified by the initial S, in Bekasi who was an employee of state-run pharmaceutical firm PT Kimia Farma.

In May, Densus 88 also arrested two suspected terrorists of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) terrorist groups in East Java. The suspects were identified by their initials as Y, a member of JI; and T, from the JAD group. Both have been named as suspects.

On March 17, 2023, the squad captured five suspected terrorists of the JI network in Palu City and Sigi, Central Sulawesi. Furthermore, on January 20, 2023, three suspected members of the JI terrorist group were arrested in the provinces of Jakarta and Banten. (ANTARA)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/08/anti-terror-squad-arrests-suspected.html

Nolcom keeps close eye on foreign ships in PH territories

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20, 2023): Nolcom keeps close eye on foreign ships in PH territories (By Priam Nepomuceno)

RETURN TO SEA. After much-needed repairs, BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS17) established sustained naval presence in the West Philippine Sea on July 24 to Aug. 13, 2023, ensuring territorial integrity and asserting sovereignty within the Kalayaan Island Group. The regular patrol in the critical areas of interest enabled the offshore patrol vessel to provide enhanced maritime situational awareness that can be a factor in planning, decision-making and future deployment. (Photo courtesy of BRP Andres Bonifacio Facebook)

MANILA – The Tarlac City-based Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) announced that its littoral monitoring detachments have so far detected 22,474 foreign and domestic vessels in its maritime areas.

In a news release, Nolcom acting public affairs office chief Maj. Al Anthony Pueblas said these detections were made possible by their monitoring detachments strategically positioned in Bani, Zambales; Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte; Batan and Mavulis, both in Batanes.

Headed by Lt. Gen. Fernyl BucaI and in conjunction with the Area Task Force-North, an inter-agency coordinating body operating under the umbrella of the National Task Force - West Philippine Sea, Nolcom has undertaken 60 successful air patrols and 30 surface patrols from the first quarter of the year to date, ensuring the nation's territorial security.

“Nolcom will continue to launch maritime patrols (MarPat) in collaboration with key government agencies such as the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to ensure the safety of our fellow Filipinos, specially our fishermen and protect our marine resources for the benefit of current and future generations," Buca said.

MarPat is a Nolcom routine security patrol which covers three maritime areas -- Bajo De Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea, Philippine (Benham) Rise) and the Batanes Strait.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1208193

Rebel’s remains recovered in Agusan Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20, 2023): Rebel’s remains recovered in Agusan Sur (By Alexander Lopez)

RECOVERED. The troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion recovered various war materiel after an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) insurgents in a hinterland barangay of Prosperidad town in Agusan del Sur on Friday (Aug. 18, 2023). A cadaver of an NPA combatant was also recovered near the encounter site the following day. (Photo courtesy of 401Bde)

BUTUAN CITY – The troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB) of the Army recovered on Saturday afternoon a cadaver of a New People’s Army (NPA) rebel in the hinterland Barangay Laperian, Prosperidad town in Agusan del Sur.

The recovery took place a day after the 75IB troopers engaged around 30 NPA insurgents in a 15-minute encounter.

“One day after the encounter, or on Saturday, the barangay officials of Laperian reported the discovery of the body,” the 401st Infantry Brigade said in a statement Sunday.

Government troops are now working to identify the recovered cadaver so they can turn it over to the family.

The recent encounter happened after concerned civilians reported the presence of NPA rebels who were conducting extortion activities.

Troopers recovered one M16 Bushmaster rifle, one grenade, one rifle grenade, four pieces of 40mm high explosive live ammunition, one set of anti-personnel mine, 15 meters of detonating cord, 22 long and one short 5.56mm magazines, 58 pieces of cal. 30 ammunition, 200 pieces of 5.56 ammunition, three bandoliers, eight backpacks, three analog cellular phones, one USB (Universal Serial Bus), various medical and dental paraphernalia and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

In a separate statement, the Army’s 65th Infantry Battalion reported the recovery of several war materials on Friday in remote Barangay Kolambugan, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.

The recovered items include one 2.5 horsepower generator set, 15 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition for the M16A1 rifle, 30 rounds of ammo for the AK47 rifle, 15 rounds of ammo for 50 caliber machineguns, two magazines for M16A1 rifles, one magazine for AK47, 125 pieces blasting caps, a 150-meter of detonating cord, 20 kilograms of explosive materials and various subversive documents.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1208177