CPP/NPA-Central Negros/Negros Island ROC: 62nd IB Nagpakuno-kuno nga mga NPA sa Central Negros

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 27, 2024): 62nd IB Nagpakuno-kuno nga mga NPA sa Central Negros (62nd IB Pretending to be NPAs in Central Negros)

JB Regalado

Spokesperson

NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

February 27, 2024

Mabaskog nga ginakondenar sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army (LPC-NPA) ang pakana sang 16 ka tropa sang berdugong 62nd IB nga nagpakuno-kuno nga mga katapo sang NPA agud mangilkil kag mangayo sang pagkaon sa mga pobre nga mangunguma sa mga sityo sang Amumuyong, Kambairan kag Banderahan tanan sang Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental sadtong Pebrero 26-27. Pilit nga ginpangsaka-saka ang mga kabalayan sa tion sang kagab-ihon tubtob kaagahon kadungan sa pag-imbestigar sa mga kababainhan kon diin na ang ila mga bana kag kabataan nga lalaki. Nagtuga ini sang kahadlok sa mga magagmay nga kabataan upod sa ila mga iloy sang puluy-an sa nasambit nga lugar.

Suno pa sa panayasat sang LPC-NPA, sa Sityo Mang-angkaw, Barangay Sikatuna, Isabela, Negros Occidental halos duha man ka adlaw nga ginapangsaka-saka ang mga kabalayan sang mga inosenteng mangunguma kag pilit nga ginateniran sang pasistang 62nd IB ang ila mga panimalay sadtong Pebrero 24-25, sa pihak sang ila pagpamalabag.

Samtang sa mga barangay sang Yubo kag Araal, La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, pilit nga ginapatawag ang mga pumuluyo nga magtambong sa mga pulong-pulong nga ginalunsar sang manugpatalang nga mga katapo sang 62nd IB. Ini ang nagaperwisyo sa mga mangunguma sa pagpangita sang ila palangabuhian kag pagpanguma.

Subong man sa La Castellana, Negros Occidental, masobra na sa duha ka semana nga ginatublag sang berdugong 62nd IB ang kalinong nga katulugon sang mga mangunguma sa mga sityo sang Mercedes, Tres Elis, Gomez, barangay proper tanan sang Barangay Sag-ang; mga sityo sang Kandalaba kag Taytay-bato sakop sang Barangay Cabacungan; mga sityo sang Mandayao Dos, Mandayao Tres, kag Montinola sang Barangay Mansalanao, kag mga sityo sang Mandayao Kwatro, Ilongga kag barangay proper sang Barangay Kamandag kag Sityo Polonia sang Barangay Manghanoy.

Sa pihak nga bahin, may mga check-point nga ginmuntar ang pasistang militar sa Crossing Cambagting, Crossing Asay kag Sityo Paktay sakop tanan sang Brgy Cabacungan, La Castellana, Negros Occidental gikan pa sadtong Pebrero 23, 2024. Tubtob karun padayon pa ang nasambit nga check-point nga nagadisturbo sa normal nga paghulag sang mga pumuluyo sang La Castellana kag kasikbit nga mga banwa kag syudad kaangay sang Canlaon sa Negros Oriental kag mga sakop sang Negros Occidental pareho sang Magallon, Isabela, Pontevedra, La Carlota kag iban pa.

Makahuluya nga pasulit-sulit ang deklarasyon sang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) sa isla nga “dismantol” na ang lima ka mga larangan gerilya apang wala-untat ang pagdeploy sang binatalyon nga pwersa militar sa mga kaumhan sang Negros diin padayon sila nga nagabayolar sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung batok sa pumuluyo bunga sang masingki nga militarisasyon.

Nagakahulugan nga paslaw kag desperado ang AFP, PNP kag NTF-Elcac sa ginalunsar sini nga kontra-insurhensiya sa isla idalum sa US-Marcos Jr kasugpon sadto sa kampanya militar sang US-Duterte nga rehimen. Maathag nga wala sang basehan ang pagpaidalom sa Negros sa SIPS (Stable Internal Peace and Security) nga ginarekomendar sang 3ID-Philippine Army paagi kay M/Gen. Marion Sison.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/62nd-ib-nagpakuno-kuno-nga-mga-npa-sa-central-negros/

CPP/CPP Cagayan PC: Mensahe ng Parangal kay Kasamang Gerald "Ka Daloy" Lerio Paredog//Pinakamataas na pagpupugay at Pulang saludo kay Kadua Daloy, martir ng rebolusyong Pilipino!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 27, 2024): Mensahe ng Parangal kay Kasamang Gerald "Ka Daloy" Lerio Paredog//Pinakamataas na pagpupugay at Pulang saludo kay Kadua Daloy, martir ng rebolusyong Pilipino! (Message of Honor to Comrade Gerald "Ka Daloy" Lerio Paredog// Highest tribute and Red salute to Kadua Daloy, martyr of the Filipino revolution!

 


CPP Cagayan Provincial Committee

Communist Party of the Philippines

February 27, 2024

“Ang katapangan hanggang sa huling hininga ang bumubuhay sa isang martir, higit pa sa kanyang kamatayan.”

Naghihinagpis ang buong rebolusyonaryong pwersa, mga kasama, mga kaibigan, mga magsasaka at pambansang minorya sa pagpanaw ng isang tapat at tunay na komunista. Malaking kawalan sa buong rebolusyonaryong lakas ang pagkawala ni Kasamang Gerald Lerio Paredog o mas kilala ng masa bilang Ka Andres o Ka Daloy. Iginagawad ng Komiteng Probinsya ng Cagayan ang pinakamataas na pagpupugay at pinakamatikas na Pulang saludo sa kanyang naging dakilang buhay at kabayanihan at sa kanyang mga di-matatawarang ambag sa pagsusulong ng matagalang digmang bayan sa Cagayan, lalo na sa pinakakrusyal na mga panahon.

Nasawi si Ka Daloy sa isang labanan sa pagitan ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan at mga tropa ng 502nd IBde noong tanghali ng Pebrero 23, 2024 sa Sityo Laoc, Barangay Pateng, Gonzaga, Cagayan.

Mula sa kaibuturan ng aming puso, lubos kaming nakikiramay sa kanyang naiwang pamilya, anak, mga kaibigan at kamag-anak.
Mukha ng kasigasigan ng kabataan

Nagmula sa uring malaproletaryado si Ka Daloy. Tubong Samar ang kanilang pamilya bago namalagi sa NCR. Aktibista ang kanyang mga magulang at mga kapatid. Sa pamumuhay sa lungsod, maaga siyang namulat sa kahirapan at pagsasamantala. Kaya nang mamulat, ipinaglalaban at isinusulong ng mga tulad niya ang pambansang industriyalisasyon na magbibigay ng disenteng trabaho para sa lahat, magwawakas sa kontraktwalisasyon at pagkakaroon ng nakabubuhay na sahod. Sa loob ng organisasyon, aktibo at masigasig siya sa pagpapatupad ng mga gawain. Disyembre 2016 nang dumalo sa anibersaryo ng BHB ang kanilang grupo. Sa pagkakatong ito, nagpasya siyang makipamuhay sa hukbo at kalaunan nga’y nagpahayag na magpultaym.

Dahil may mga pulitiko-militar na mga pag-aaral at pagsasanay, agad na naarmasan ng kaalaman at kasanayan si Ka Daloy sa mga unang taon niya pa lang sa hukbo. Nahasa siya bilang kombat medik at palaging nasasama sa mga aksyong militar. Kasama siya ng hukbo at Partido sa pagwawasto ng konserbatismong militar noong 2017 at isa sa mga aktwal na naglunsad ng serye ng mga taktikal na opensiba. Kabilang dito ang pagpaparusa sa despotikong panginoong maylupa at mga proyektong mapandambong na sumisira sa kalikasan at pumapatay sa kabuhayan ng mamamayan.

Isa sa mga unang pangyayari ang pagkarelis ng kanilang tim para sa isang atritibong aksyon kung saan natamaan ang kanilang gayd. Kalmado niyang nilapatan ng paunang-lunas ang kasama at ligtas na nai-atras. Mataas ang kumpyansa ng mga kasama sa kanya kahit sa mga depensibang labanan. Hindi lang iisang kasama ang kanyang ginamot at matiyagang binuhat, pasan sa kanyang balikat o sa likod, sa mahabang lakaran at maniobra upang makaiwas sa kubkob ng kaaway. Maging siya man mismo ay natamaan sa paa noong nakaraang taon, hindi ito naging hadlang sa kanya upang magpatuloy.
Huwarang kabataang kadre

Hindi lang sa mga labanan mahusay si Ka Daloy. Malaki ang kanyang naging papel sa pagbrektru at pagsasanay sa mga lokal na pwersa noong lumarga ang mga lokal na yunit gerilya ng mga lokal na komiteng seksyon. Sa mga panahong ito na may relatibong tagal ng panahon silang nakadetats sa main body, komprehensibo silang nagkasa ng mga gawaing pang-ideolohiya, pampulitika, pang-organisasyon at pangmilitar. Binalikan nila ang mga naiwang erya, nakapagpalawak, nakapaglunsad ng aksyong militar, nagbigay ng BKP at nakapagpalawak ng kasapian at nagkapaglunsad ng kilusang anti-pyudal.

Tumagos ang pagmumulat at gawaing masa ni Ka Daloy sa kanyang pamilya. Sa kagustuhang higit pang palalimin ang paggagap nila sa paglulunsad ng digmang bayan, mapangahas niyang pinag-integrate sa hukbo at sa gawaing pulitiko-militar ang ilan sa kanyang pamilya. Walang pag-aalinlangan, sa pakat man ng ambus o maniobra sa pag-iwas sa kaaway, kasama niya sila sa mga pagkakataong ito. Parehong sigla at optimismo rin ang makikita sa kanya sa paghikayat niya sa kanyang dating mga kakolektibo na makipamuhay sa hukbo.

Bilang kabataang kadre na puno ng mga bagong ideya, bukas na nagbabahagi at nakikipagtalastasan sa mga pagpupulong si Ka Daloy. Marami siyang mauunlad na ideya sa pagbubuo at pagpapatupad ng mga plano. Sa mga pagpupulong din na ito naipupunto at naiwawasto ang kanyang mga kalakasan, kahinaan at mga maling pananaw at mga katangian at pag-iisip na bahid ng kanyang uring pinagmulan. Ito ang nagpapanday sa kanya bilang proletaryado. Isa rin siya sa mga pinakahuling nakapagtapos ng Abanteng Kurso ng Partido (AKP) gayundin ng Batayang Kurso Pulitiko-Militar (BKPM) at Basic Medical Training (BMTr).

Kahanga-hanga rin ang angking sipag ni Ka Daloy. Sa kanyang tungkulin man bilang medik o iskwad lider, maging sa mga gawaing manwal a teknikal. ‘Mapangnamnamaan’ ika nga sa Ilokano. Sa ilang panahong kinaharap ng yunit ang matinding blokeyo sa pagkain, siya ang isa sa mga laging maaasahan para sa pagkomando at paghakot ng suplay. Mulat din siya sa gawaing produksyon, nakahimpil man o nasa masa, lagi siyang may tanim na ipinupunla para sa mga susunod na pangangailangan.
Hukbong pampropaganda at pangkultura

Maraming baong kwento at palabiro din si Ka Daloy. Hindi mauubusan ng topiko sa mga kumpulan, sa hukbo man o sa hanay ng masa, bagay na nagpalapit sa kanya sa kanila. Maliban sa mapagkasama, madaling matandaan ng masa si Ka Daloy dahil sa sigla niya sa gawaing propaganda at kultural. Bagamat may limitasyon sa lenggwahe, matiyaga at masipag siyang nagpopropaganda sa masa at nagbibigay ng mga oryentasyon at pag-aaral sa kanila. Dahil sa katangiang ito, hindi lamang mga suliraning pulitikal ng masa ang nasusolusyonan o naihahapag, maging ang mga personal na problema o di kaya’y hidwaan sa pagitan ng mga mamamayan.

Ang ganitong talas sa mga dinaramdam at saloobin ay naging malaking tulong din sa pagpapanatili ng malusog na pagkakaisa at demokrasya sa loob ng hukbo. Kadalasan, mga bagong pultaym ang naitatalagang kabadi niya. Matiyaga niya itong pinapaliwanagan, pinapalalim ang kamulatan, ginagabayan sa buhay sa hukbo at nag-oobjectify sa kanilang mga iniisip.

Kinagigiliwan din siya ng mga masa sa kanyang kasigasigan sa gawaing kultural. Ipinapasulat niya ang mga kantang gusto niyang ikabisa o matutunan. Mahilig siyang kumanta ng kantang Iloko. At sa panahon ng mga kahirapan, ang pag-awit ng mga rebolusyonaryong kanta ang isa sa mga nagpapalakas sa kanya. Maging sa pag-arte ay wala siyang inuurungan, basta’t para sa masa.
Napanday sa pakikibaka

Maraming pagsubok ang hinarap at napangibabawan ni Ka Daloy sa loob ng pitong taon niyang pagkilos sa kanayunan. Marami rin siyang mga kontradiksyon sa sarili na nilutas at sa proseso ay nagpanday sa kanya bilang isang matatag at huwarang kabataan na kadre ng Partido at Pulang mandirigma. Sa mga panahon din ng kanyang pagkilos ay kinaharap at naranasan niya ang matitinding sakripisyo at kahirapan. Sa panahon ng mga panlulumo, lagi’t lagi niyang binabalikan ang diwa ng buong pusong paglilingkod sa sambayanan. Hindi naaapula ang apoy sa kanyang damdamin sa tuwing binabalikan niya ang kalagayan ng mga mamamayan, kabilang ang kanyang pamilya, sa kalunsuran man o sa kanayunan, na patuloy na nakararanas ng inhustiya at pang-aapi.

Kayat ganoon na lamang ang galit sa kanya ng kaaway dahil sa kabila ng mabangis na teroristang paninibasib sa ilalim ng dating rehimeng US-Duterte, hanggang sa pagpapatuloy at pagsahol ng kalagayan sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Marcos Jr ay hindi siya sumuko. Bagkus, mas humigpit ang pagtangan niya sa kanyang armas, hanggang sa huli niyang hininga. Kaya anu’t ano pa man ang pagtatangka ng kaaway na dungisan ang kanyang pangalan at naging buhay, bigo pa rin sila. Takot sila sa mga katulad ni Ka Daloy na pinanday ng tibay at bakal na kapasyahan.

Kulang ang mga salitang maglalarawan sa kung papaanong sa kabila ng matinding gutom, hirap at pagpapakasakit, hanggang sa dulo ay hindi bumitaw si Ka Daloy. Kulang sapagkat higit pa sa mga salita at letra ang buhay at kamatayang pakikibaka upang isulong at itayo ang lipunang tunay na may hustisya, kalayaan at demokrasya. At tulad ng kanyang paboritong kanta, pamalagiang paalala na “sa bawat pagwasak may kaayusan tayong lilikhain, buhay mong alay sa masa sa akin alay mo na rin, bukas ay paparating ilang tulog na lang bayan ay gising na, bilangin ang pagpanaw na magsisilang ng pag-asa.”

Kailanman ay hindi malilimutan ng sambayanang Pilipino, lalo na ng mga magsasaka at pambansang minorya ng Cagayan at masang anakpawis, si Kadua Daloy, komunista at Pulang mandirigma, at ang kanyang mga naging ambag sa pagsusulong ng matagalang digmang bayan sa Pilipinas.

Mabuhay ang buhay at pakikibaka ni Ka Daloy!
Mabuhay ang kanyang mga alaala!
Mabuhay ang pambansa-demokratikong rebolusyon!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/pinakamataas-na-pagpupugay-at-pulang-saludo-kay-kadua-daloy-martir-ng-rebolusyong-pilipino/

CPP/NPA-Batangas/Southern Tagalog ROC: 59th IB PA, AFP at Marcos II: Basurero, Latak ng Kasaysayan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 27, 2024): 59th IB PA, AFP at Marcos II: Basurero, Latak ng Kasaysayan (59th IB PA, AFP and Marcos II: Trash, Dregs of History)

 


Gregorio Caraig

Spokesperson

NPA-Batangas (Eduardo Dagli Command)

Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)

New People's Army

February 27, 2024

Walang tigil ang kakapalabas ng 59th IB PA at ng 201st ID PA-AFP ng mga post at pahayag sa midya hinggil sa diumano ay panibagong mga sumukong NPA.

Lagi’t laging ginagawang katawa-tawa ng mga berdugong ito ang kanilang sarili sa kasasabing iilan na lang ang natitirang NPA sa Batangas pero maya’t maya naman nilang sinasabi na may sumuko na namang NPA. Aba, ay wala talagang kaubos-ubos ang NPA sa Batangas!

Walang ipinag-iba sa basurero ang desperasyon ng 59th IBPA at ng AFP na i-recycle ultimo mga taong pinapalabas nilang sumuko. Bukod sa pananakot at panggigipit nila sa karaniwang sibilyan at mga dating NPA o minsang sumampa sa NPA na matagal na panahon nang namumuhay bilang sibilyan, napapagmukhang marami ng desperadong 59th IB PA at AFP ang mga diumano’y napapasuko nito sa pamamagitan ng paulit-ulit na pagpapatawag at pag-litrato sa mga dati na rin namang indibidwal na kada palit nalang yata ng presidente ay pinapalabas na sumukong NPA! Nagiging palasak na tuloy na biruan ng mga karaniwang masa sa mga komunidad ang kunwari ay magpanggap din na NPA na susuko kapag namumroblema na sila sa pambili ng bigas.

Dagdag pa, bukod sa nire-resiklong NPA surrenderees, pati mga ipinapalabas na gamit militar na nahukay ay nire-recycle din ng 59th IB PA. Kung makakapagsalita lang siguro ang mga bomba, granada, baril at bala, siguradong hihingi na sila ng mas mataas na talent fee sa kaiilang ulit nang exposure nila sa media.

Ginawa nang raket ng 59th IB PA, ni Teneza at ng AFP ang mga kunwaring suko at mga sibilyan na sapilitang pinasuko gayundin ang mga diumano’y gamit militar na paulit-ulit na lang ding hinuhukay para makubra nila ang bilyun-bilyong pisong maanumalyang pondo na inilalaan ng gubyerno para sa NTF-ELCAC at sa walang katuturang programa nitong E-CLIP. Dagdag pa sa kanilang palabas ang pag-iipon nila ng mga ex-NPA na naging mga kontra-rebolusyonaryong taksil sa kabiguang makapagpanibagong hubog at bunsod ng labis na pagkapit sa pansariling interes. Sa huli, wala nang ipinag-iba sa laos na sitcom ang mga pakulong ito ng 59th IB PA at ng AFP.

Tuwang-tuwa rin ang 59th IBPA at ang AFP sa animo’y koleksyon nila ng mga kontra-rebolusyonaryong taksil sa loob ng kanilang mga kampo pero ang totoo’y kapwa lang nila niloloko ang isa’t isa—ang mga ex-NPA na kapag di na pakikinabangan ng AFP ay kaagad din nilang ididispatsa at ang AFP na siya pa kaya ang tapat na pagsilbihan ng mga kontra-rebolusyonaryong taksil na ito kung nagawa nga nilang talikuran at ipagkanulo ang sariling uring pinagmulan at ang masang labis na nagmahal at nagtiwala sa kanila ng walang pasubali? Kung mayroon mang pagkakapareho ang AFP at ang mga kontra-rebolusyonaryong taksil na ito, kapwa sila sagad sa kaibuturan ang itim ng budhi at kawalang pakialam sa hinagpis at rebolusyonaryong adhikain ng masang anakpawis.

Pero ang totoo, nakakahiya ikumpara maski sa basurero ang 59th IB PA at ang AFP. Dahil ang basurero, matiyagang nagbabatak ng buto para kahit paano ay kumita sa gitna ng kapit sa patalim na kondisyon ng pamumuhay. Hindi katulad ng 59th IBPA at ng AFP na namumulot at nagreresiklo ng mga basurang kasinungalingan para lamang maging gatasan ng kanilang pansariling interes.

Sa muling paggunita ng buong sambayanang Pilipino sa maniningning na kasaysayan ng EDSA People Power, kung saan ang nagkakaisang mamamayan ay tumindig at sama-samang nag-alsa laban sa pasismo at diktadura, lalong tumitingkad ang puwestuhan ng mga berdugong instrumento ng estado tulad ng AFP-PNP at ng reaksyunaryong estado bilang mga latak ng kasaysayan. Ang walang kaparis na pagpapahirap at karahasang inihasik ng diktadurang Marcos mula 1972 hanggang 1986 ang kumalos sa huling hibla ng pagtitiis ng sambayanang Pilipino na bumulwak sa pag-aalsang EDSA at nagpahinog sa ibayong pagsulong ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa iba’t ibang panig ng bansa.

Sa muling pagkaluklok ng isa na namang Marcos—animo’y nag-rewind lamang ang kasaysayan at muling nanumbalik sa mata ng sambayanang Pilipino ang lagim at bangungot ng diktadura at maka-dayuhang patakaran ng naunang Marcos sa Malakanyang—ang nepotismo o pamamayagpag ng mga kamag-anak at personal na kaibigan ng mga Marcos sa iba’t ibang posisyon sa gubyerno, ang garapalang kurapsyon at maluluhong byahe at pamumuhay ng first family, ang paninikluhod sa imperyalistang US bilang masugid na tuta nito, at ang walang kaparis na pampulitikang panunupil at paglabag sa karapatang tao sa pamamagitan ngayon ng pagwasiwas sa Anti-Terror Law at paggamit sa mga bang-aw na aso ng NTF-ELCAC na sumasalasa sa buhay at karapatang sibil ng mamamayan.

Pero habang masugid na tinatahak ng ilehitimong rehimeng Marcos II at ng kanyang mga aso sa AFP-PNP ang kaparehong pagkakamali na ginawa ng naunang Marcos sa kasaysayan, lalo lamang nilang pinapabilis ang kanilang paghukay sa sariling libingan at pinahihinog ang galit at alimpuyo ng binubusabos at sinusupil na mamamayan na siyang ganap na maglulugmok sa kanila sa basurahan ng kasaysayan. Sa EDSA man o hindi sa EDSA, sa lahat ng larangan ng paglaban, mula kanayunan hanggang kalunsuran, ang kapangyarihan ng sambayanang lumalaban at naghihimagsik ang mapagpasya!###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/59th-ib-pa-afp-at-marcos-ii-basurero-latak-ng-kasaysayan/

AFP: Troops neutralize high ranking NPA leader in Zamboanga del Sur

 Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Facebook Page (Feb 27, 2024): Troops neutralize high ranking NPA leader in Zamboanga del Sur

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The 102nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army neutralized the Secretary of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) during an encounter in Brgy. Malagalad, Dumingag, Zamboanga Del Sur on February 27.

 
Aprecia Rosete @ Bambam, the Secretary of WMRPC, died in a clash with Army troops. She is known to be the mastermind behind heinous acts in Zamboanga Peninsula such as extortion, murder of innocent civilians, and destructive sabotage of critical infrastructure projects with over 30 warrants of arrest against her.

Recovered at the encounter site following the clash were one (1) AK47, magazines with serviceable ammunition, one (1) cal.45 pistol and personal belongings.

 
General Romeo S Brawner Jr, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, lauded the 102nd Infantry Brigade and the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division under the leadership of MGen Gabriel Viray III, for the successful focused military operations in Zamboanga del Sur.

 
"I commend the remarkable efforts of the Tabak troopers for their dedication to eradicating the armed group responsible for spreading fear and havoc in Zamboanga del Sur," Gen. Brawner said.

 
“The AFP stands firm in our resolve to confront threat groups as we remain steadfast in our duty to safeguard peace and security throughout the country. We urge their remaining members to surrender or suffer the same fate as your dead comrades,” he added.///

#OneAFPOnePHILIPPINES
#StrongAFPStrongPHILIPPINES
#AFPyoucanTRUST

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=774921174670295&set=a.219815943514157

https://www.facebook.com/armedforcesofthephilippines

‘Just speculations’: AFP responds to torture claims of Bar passer in Bohol clash

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 27, 2024): ‘Just speculations’: AFP responds to torture claims of Bar passer in Bohol clash (By MARTIN SADONGDONG)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) denied that Hannah Jay Cesista, a Bar passer who died in an encounter by state security forces with New People’s Army (NPA) in Bohol, was tortured and killed.

Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, AFP spokesperson, said that claims on the circumstances of the death of Cesista, who passed the Bar examinations in 2022, were mere speculations to conceal the NPA’s deception.

“These are just speculations. We speak about the facts that we receive from the… facts that were given to us from the ground,” she said on Tuesday, February 27.

The military spokesperson noted that the AFP would not dignify the “propaganda” being spread by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the NPA, regarding the operation in Bohol last week.

“The CPP-NPA can say what they want to say to conceal their deception and cruel ways against our people. We stand by the legitimacy of our operations,” she stressed.

The AFP said that joint military and police personnel encountered remnants of the NPA’s Bohol Party Committee (BPC) in Bilar, Bohol on February 23, which resulted in the death of five communist rebels. They were identified as Cesista, Domingo Compoc, Parlito Historia, Marlon Omosura and Alberto Sancho – collectively known as “Bilar 5”.

"Hannah Jay Cesista was a victim of the communist-terrorist group’s deception and ideology. It was unfortunate that such a loss occurred and she could have been a productive member of our society, who could have contributed in advancing peace and protecting our people from the ways of the CPP-NPA," Padilla said.

However, the National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) condemned the death of Cesista and her companions as they claimed that no encountered occurred and the Bilar 5 were allegedly taken alive, tortured and killed by the government forces.

“Several accounts support that no encounter has transpired. Instead, the five individuals were ordered to vacate the house where they were staying. The four men were forced to strip off their shirts. Along with Cesista, they were forced to roll in the mud. The witnesses narrated that they were pleading with state forces to stop their inhumane acts but to no avail,” the NUPL-Cebu Chapter said in a statement.

In this photo released by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on February 24, 2024, a shirtless man is shown captured by another man in fatigue uniform, with his hands tied behind his back. The CPP identified the shirtless man as Domingo Compoc, the pinpointed leader of the remnants of the Bohol Party Committee (BPC). Compoc, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), died in an encounter in Bilar, Bohol on February 23, 2024. (Photo from CPP's website)

A photo showing a man with his hands bound behind his back circulated on social media shortly after the encounter was announced by the military. The man was identified by the CPP as Compoc alias “Silong,” the head of the remnants of the BPC.

Marco Valbuena, chief information officer of CPP, said the photo of Compoc proved that he was captured alive by the military.

“Compoc, who was in his 60s, was suffering from arthritis and was in no position to fight. He was subjected to severe torture in front of a number of people in the village in the hope of striking fear among them. Based on facts initially gathered in the area, Ka Silong was hacked to death, suffering fatal wounds on his neck and abdomen,” Valbuena said.

“Cesista, on the other hand, a young lawyer from Cebu, who chose to serve the peasant masses and their revolutionary movement in Bohol, was thrown to the ground by the soldiers and made to lie and crawl on the mud, before she was eventually shot to death,” he added.

The AFP could not immediately confirm the veracity of the photo, or whether the man was actually Compoc.

However, Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the Visayas Command (VISCOM), said that the claims of the CPP-NPA of torture and murder were already a “recycled statement.”

“That’s the usual claim. There is nothing new. We are not hearing anything new from what they are saying. They’ve been saying that in all the operations that we have,” he pointed out.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/2/27/just-speculations-afp-responds-to-torture-claims-of-bar-passer-in-bohol-clash?fbclid=IwAR0uLkac0C4HJOqPdu4CEQXMAa8rjbD8nm6HZocWtt9jQHKfRpgkCldAx-g&__cf_chl_tk=sLdYW59LQ2WYsUS_546Yv4UR4neYIrIzoVku9_6QjlE-1709116156-0.0-6354#google_vignette

WESCOM’s Carlos inspects, tests Navy Wildcat’s weapon system

From Palawan News (Feb 27, 2024): WESCOM’s Carlos inspects, tests Navy Wildcat’s weapon system (By Celeste Anna Formoso)

Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, Wescom chief, gives a thumbs-up to the .50 caliber heavy machine gun aboard the AW159 Wildcat Anti-submarine Helicopter after test-firing it in Ternate, Cavite, on February 26. (Photo from the Western Command PIO)

Western Command Chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos took the lead on Monday in inspecting the .50 caliber heavy machine gun onboard the AW159 Wildcat Anti-submarine Helicopter at the Marine Base Gregorio Lim firing range in Ternate, Cavite.

Captain Ariel Joseph Coloma, the public information officer of the Western Command (Wescom), said on Tuesday that Vice Admiral Carlos spearheaded the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) for the Philippine Navy’s (PN) Anti-submarine Helicopter acquisition project on February 26.

He said that drawing upon his extensive naval aviation expertise, Carlos oversaw the inspection to ensure that the helicopter’s weapon systems align with the military’s operational requirements.

Carlos witnessed the actual in-flight test firing of the said armament at the Marine Base Gregorio Lim firing range in Ternate, Cavite yesterday, February 26.

The addition of the .50 caliber heavy machine gun substantially augments the aircraft’s mission capabilities, equipping the AFP with a formidable weapon system to counter potential threats in the maritime domain.

“Vice Admiral Carlos, a naval aviator and former commander of the Naval Air Wing, played a major role in the inception of the PN’s anti-submarine helicopter acquisition project sometime in 2010,” Coloma said.

Present during the test fire and inspection were members of the TIAC, representatives from Leonardo United Kingdom (UK), the Department of National Defense’s (DND) Procurement System Office, the Navy Office for Plans and Programs (N5), and the end-user, represented by Commodore Juario Marayag, commander of the Naval Air Wing.

The AW159 Wildcat Helicopter is a versatile military air asset, developed under license by Leonardo UK, a British aerospace company.

“It is the newest addition to the PN’s maritime air assets and an integral part of the Jose Rizal Class Anti-submarine Frigate’s firepower,” Coloma said.

“As a multi-role platform, it is also designed for missions such as anti-surface warfare, maritime surveillance, maritime interdiction, and other mission-essential and utility operations,” he added.

The acquisition of these helicopters, he said, represents a critical capability upgrade for the Philippine Navy, bolstering its anti-submarine and maritime security operations capabilities.

https://palawan-news.com/wescoms-carlos-inspects-tests-navy-wildcats-weapon-system/

CHR probes recent northern Negros clashes

Posted to Panay News (Feb 28, 2024): CHR probes recent northern Negros clashes

BACOLOD City – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) began its investigation into the clashes that took place between government forces and the New People’s Army (NPA) in the northern part of Negros Island recently.

Vincent Parra, head of the CHR in Negros Occidental, said the probe is specifically centered on the two fatalities—Jose Caramihan and Emaren Pastidio.

According to the initial information received by the CHR, Caramihan’s family denied his involvement with the rebel movement and claimed that he was only a farmer.

Pastidio’s case, meanwhile, is to ascertain whether her rights, as recognized by the gender ombud under the magna carta for women, have been violated. She is the lone female fatality and allegedly a high-ranking NPA member.

The third fatality in the clashes was Michael Cabahug, who, together with Pastidi, was previously identified as a “child soldier.”

At present, the CHR is gathering additional statements and evidence regarding the clashes and is getting in touch with the families of the two fatalities.

Meanwhile, a ninth encounter took place on Tuesday morning, Feb. 27, between the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB) and the NPA rebels believed to be remnants of the dismantled Northern Negros Front.

According to the 79IB, the encounter took place in the hinterland areas of Escalante City.

Following the new clashes in the area, Mayor Melecio Yap Jr. again ordered the suspension of classes for all levels in the villages of Libertad, Pinapugasan, Binaguiohan, Paitan, Dian-ay, Magsaysay, Malasibog, and Tamlang until further notice.

As of writing, the 79IB has yet to release information regarding the new clashes in the area.

The series of encounters began last week, on Feb. 21, in Sitio Mansulao, Barangay Pinapugasan of Escalante City. (Watchmen Daily Journal)

https://www.panaynews.net/chr-probes-recent-northern-negros-clashes/

Viscom chief: CPP-NPA preying on young minds

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 28, 2024): Viscom chief: CPP-NPA preying on young minds (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines Visayas Command (VISCOM) branded the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army “a menace and a predator who preys on young minds,” following the confirmation that one five rebels killed in the recent armed encounter in Brgy. Campagao, Bilar, Bohol was a young lawyer from Cebu.

Hannah Jay Cesista aka Maya and Lean, one of the five NPA rebels who died in an armed encounter with 47th Infantry Battalion troopers and policemen on February 23, is the latest addition to the long list of victims of the CPP-NPA’s deception whose bright futures were wasted, fighting for the terrorist group’s selfish interest and false cause, disclosed VISCOM chief Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo.

Arevalo expressed his sadness at the loss of another Filipino bright mind, and his disgust for the terrorist group.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Hannah Jay, she could have been a good practicing lawyer, if not for the deception of the CPP-NPA. The CPP-NPA is indeed a menace and a mindless predator who preys on young minds in our country,” he stressed.

Hannah Jay is from Catubig, Northern Samar. She studied her preparatory course for law at the University of the Philippines – Cebu and completed her law degree at the University of San Carlos.

Cesista, according to a statement issued by VISCOM, became a lawyer after passing the 2022 BAR Exam. At the same time, she was an active member of Anakbayan Cebu, Karapatan Central Visayas, and later the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL), and became a ‘full-time’ member of the CPP-NPA in 2023.

“May this serve as a lesson to our youth and the parents as well. Let us be very vigilant in the activities of our children and the groups or organizations that they join,” Arevalo said.

Two of the three NPA fatalities in the February 21 armed encounter in Escalante City, Negros Occidental, were also minors when they were recruited by the CPP-NPA, according to Lt. Col J Jay Javines, Civil Military Operations chief of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division.

Arevalo pointed out that the threat of CPP-NPA’s destructive recruitment of youth is real.

“The terrorist group cares for nothing and will value nothing, not even the welfare of their members. They will just use our children as a sacrificial lamb to foster their hideous agenda,” he further stressed.*

https://visayandailystar.com/viscom-chief-cpp-npa-preying-on-young-minds/

Classes suspended as clashes erupt anew in Escalante

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 28, 2024): Classes suspended as clashes erupt anew in Escalante (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Classes for all levels in eight hinterland barangays of Escalante City, Negros Occidental, were suspended until further notice by Mayor Melecio Yap, following the resumption of armed clashes between Army soldiers and fleeing New People’s Army rebels on February 27.

From Feb. 21 up to present, the 79th Infantry Battalion soldiers have already figured in eight armed clashes with remnants of the dismantled rebel Northern Negros Front, with the latest encounter taking place Tuesday morning in Brgy. Pinapugasan, Escalante City.

Classes have been suspended in the villages of Libertad, Pinapugasan, Binaguiohan, Paitan, Dian.-ay, Magsaysay, Malasibog, and Tamlang, all in Escalante City.

Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan, 79IB commander, disclosed the intention of the New People’s Army rebels to move and bring the battle to populated areas of Brgy. Pinapugasan, Escalante City, which prompted them to harden the pressure to keep the local terrorist group within the encounter sites.

Calaoagan also said that the use of close air support against a strategic rebel position paved the way towards decisive and advantageous positions for 79IB troopers, ultimately leading to the protection of innocent civilians.

About 100 individuals have preferred to stay at the evacuation center in Brgy. Pinapugasan, Escalante City, Negros Occidental, disclosed regional Army spokesman Lt. Col. J Jay Javines.

Three suspected NPA rebels died, while four government troopers were injured in the initial encounter on Feb. 21 in Sitio Masulao, Brgy. Pinapugasan, Escalante City.

The family of Jose Caramihan, one of the three slain alleged rebels, insisted that he was not part of the NPA, claiming that he was only a farmer.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has started a motu propio probe centered on the two fatalities in the encounters, Caramihan and Emaren Pastidio, the lone female fatality.

Regarding the case of Pastidio, CHR provincial head Vincent Parra said they will establish if her rights, as recognized by the gender ombud under the Magna Carta for Women, have been violated.

The series of encounters also resulted in the recovery of at least six high powered firearms with ammunition, an improvised landmine, 40mm ammunition for M203 grenade launcher, several rifle grenades, subversive documents, and a CPP-NPA flag, among others.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, slammed the NPA for its continuing use of anti personnel mines, which is a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law.*

https://visayandailystar.com/classes-suspended-as-clashes-erupt-anew-in-escalante/

Former rebels receive gifts from LGU

From the Mindanao Times (Feb 28, 2024): Former rebels receive gifts from LGU (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

 


Fifty former rebels who surrendered to the military and police in Paquibato district received cash assistance from the local government last week.

In accordance with Executive Order No. 70, which established the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), the said former rebels or they called them ‘peace champions’ received packages of assistance from city government during the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) Awarding ceremony at Arcadia Event Center, Ecoland.

E-CLIP chairperson, Mayor Sebastian Duterte personally handed over the individual checks to 50 former rebels and delivered his message of unwavering support.

In addition, each former rebel received an extra cash incentive of P15,000.

Notably, 34 of them originated from Marilog and Paquibato Districts, Davao City, surrendered to the DCPO Revitalized-Pulis sa Barangay assigned to those areas with the aim of empowering the peace champions to become productive members of society, support the government, and contribute to sustainable peace and development.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Davao under director Vicky P. Sarcena initiated the activity with Julie Dayaday, (City Social Welfare and Development Office) CSWDO Officer In-Charge; Lawyer Jonah Margarette Presto of Peace 911; Lawyer Francis Mark Layog, City Administrator; Brig Gen Marion Ancao, commander of 1003rd Infantry Brigade, Vice Chair and ECLIP members, City Police Office director Col Alberto Lupaz and Col Vimellee Madrid of Regional Community Affairs and Development Division.

The event stressed the commitment of the Local Government Unit of Davao City to embrace those who were victims of deception.

Col Lupaz said the activity exemplifies the genuine efforts of the government for the collective benefit, ensuring that no one is left behind.

“As proud Dabawenyos, we currently relish the reality of an insurgency-free environment, achieved through the collaborative efforts of all, employing a whole-of-nation approach. This showcases the true spirit of community and resilience in our beloved city,” he further said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/former-rebels-receive-gifts-from-lgu/

Top NPA leader slain in Zambo clash

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 27, 2024): Top NPA leader slain in Zambo clash

PAGADIAN CITY – Government troops clashed Tuesday with communist rebel group and killed the female leader of New People’s Army tagged as behind the spate of attacks on military targets in the southern Philippines region of Zamboanga where the Maoist guerillas are actively operating.

Senior army officials hailed the slaying of Aprecia Rosete, alias Bambam, who had dozens of arrest warrants and rewards for her capture dead or alive. Rosete, head of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front, was killed in an encounter with the military in the village of Malagalad in Zamboanga del Sur’s Dumingag town.

The 102nd Infantry Brigade said Rosete, a native of Davao region, was tagged as the mastermind behind the series of extortion, murders, and sabotage activities in the Zamboanga Peninsula. It said Rosete had 30 warrants of arrest against her at the time of her death.

Troops recovered Rosete’s AK47 assault rifle with two magazines, a caliber .45 pistol with one magazine, and personal belongings.

Major Gen. Gabriel Viray III, commander of the 1st Infantry Division, congratulated the 102nd Infantry Brigade for their accomplishment. “This operation marks a critical step towards dismantling the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee that will eventually allow unhampered delivery of basic services in all remote areas of Zamboanga Peninsula. I commend the bravery and dedication of the troops involved; your sacrifices and hard work have finally paid off,” he said.

Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, also commended the 1st Infantry Division for their relentless efforts in bringing justice and peace to the region.

“For too long, the insurgency has plagued the Zamboanga Peninsula, but justice has been served with the fall of Rosete,” Gonzales said. “This victory marks a significant milestone in our journey towards peace and stability, paving the way for sustainable regional development.”

Lt. Col. Terrence Ylanan, commander the 53rd Infantry Battalion and commander of Task Unit Terminator, whose unit was responsible for the killing of Rosete, assured assistance for the proper burial of the rebel leader.

“Our troops have displayed exceptional courage and professionalism in this operation. This successful neutralization underscores our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the safety and security of our communities. We will ensure that Aprecia's remains are handled with respect and returned to her family," Ylanan said.

Brig. Gen. Elmer Suderio, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, condoled with the family of Rosete and at the same time commended the soldiers for their dedication and bravery. “While we celebrate this victory, we cannot overlook that Bambam's demise could have been prevented if she opted to surrender. We mourn the loss of life and remain steadfast in our commitment to preventing such incidents in the future,” Suderio said.

There was no immediate statement from the hierarchy of the communist rebel group on the slaying of Rosete. The NPA has been fighting for many decades now for the establishment of a communist state in the country. (Mindanao Examiner)

 
https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2024/02/top-npa-leader-slain-in-zambo-clash.html

Military beefs up PNP’s security efforts in Leyte’s 3rd District

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2024): Military beefs up PNP’s security efforts in Leyte’s 3rd District (By Sarwell Meniano)

AUGMENTATION. Military trucks in Calubian, Leyte in this Feb. 27, 2024 photo. The Philippine Army has joined the police in intensifying anti-criminality operations in Leyte’s 3rd congressional district after the recent killings of village officials. (Photo from the Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Army has joined the police in intensifying anti-criminality operations in Leyte’s 3rd congressional district after the recent killings of village officials.

Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, said the military, in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), held a series of dialogues with the town and village officials to go after the perpetrators.

“We are deploying additional troops to restrict the freedom of movement of those armed criminals and deter them from terrorizing the people. This will make our people and communities feel secure,” Vestuir said in a phone interview Wednesday.

He declined to disclose the number of soldiers deployed to the 3rd District due to security reasons. He, however, added that the figure is more than double that of those deployed to patrol bases in Villaba and San Isidro towns.

A patrol base is a security perimeter that is set up when a squad or platoon of soldiers conducts a patrol halt for an extended period.

“We have deployed a lot of troops with tanks. We must project that we have many personnel in the area to frighten those who have plans to commit crime,” Vestuir told the Philippine News Agency.

The military provides support to the PNP through law enforcement operations.

“Our troops are tasked with conducting roving patrols with the PNP in areas with high threats. They are also ready to augment PNP checkpoints if needed,” he added.

The military deployed more troops to the 3rd District after a series of attacks targeting barangay officials, the latest of which was the killing of Diot village chief Elizalde Tabon, village councilor Paulo Mendero, and village watchman Rusty Salazar in San Isidro town on Feb. 24.

Four gunmen riding two motorcycles reportedly barged into the village hall and attacked the victims while attending a meeting. Two other village officials were injured.

The incident happened just hours after the shooting-to-death of village councilor Rodulfo Cajes of Tag-abaca village in Leyte, Leyte on Feb. 23.

He was heading for the local agricultural office when he was ambushed.

On Feb. 20, a gunman shot and killed village councilor Ronald Palacio in Tugas village, Tabango, Leyte.

The towns of San Isidro, Leyte, and Tabango are part of Leyte’s 3rd legislative district.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1219706

3 NPA rebels killed in Iloilo town clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2024): 3 NPA rebels killed in Iloilo town clash (By Perla Lena)

ENCOUNTER. Three unidentified male bodies of the New People’s Army are left at the encounter site following the 20-minute exchange of fire between the 61st Infantry Battalion of the 301st Infantry Brigade and the Southern Panay Front, Komiteng Rehiyon - Panay (SPF KR-Panay) of the NPA in Barangay Torocadan, San Joaquin town in Iloilo on Wednesday (Feb. 28, 2024). Soldiers recovered at the encounter site four M-16 rifles, an AK-47 rifle, and nine backpacks containing the rebels’ personal belongings. (Photo courtesy of 301st Infantry Brigade)

ILOILO CITY – Three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed during an encounter with soldiers in the village of Torocadan, San Joaquin town in Iloilo before dawn Wednesday.

The 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) of the 301st Infantry Brigade (301IBde) was conducting a focused military operation in the area when they were attacked by around 20 members of the Southern Panay Front, Komiteng Rehiyon - Panay (SPF KR-Panay) under Nahum Camariosa alias Bebong, the 301st Infantry Brigade said in a statement.

The exchange of fire happened at 3:20 a.m. and lasted for about 20 minutes until the rebels retreated, leaving three of their comrades.

Recovered during the clearing operations at the encounter site which also served as the rebels’ temporary harbor site, were four M-16 rifles and an AK-47 rifle, three bandoleers, a commercial radio, and nine backpacks containing the rebels’ personal belongings.

The temporary harbor site, with an area of 15,000 square meters, has 10 makeshift tents.

Brig. Gen. Michael Samson, 301IBde commander, said they delivered early this morning artillery fires supported by the ground troops to preempt any atrocity the rebels intend to create.

“They (61IB) requested us to provide indirect artillery fire, but we have surveillance planes to support our troops,” he said in a media interview, noting that the troops on the ground were in a disadvantaged position when approaching the area.

Samson thanked the locals for providing timely information.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1219732

Service caravan to reach out to over 1K N. Samar families

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2024): Service caravan to reach out to over 1K N. Samar families (By Sarwell Meniano)

SERVICE FAIR. A service caravan in Gamay, Northern Samar in this Nov. 17, 2023 photo. The Northern Samar provincial government will provide services to at least 1,122 poor families in Laoang town during the caravan on February 29. (Photo courtesy of Northern Samar provincial government)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Northern Samar provincial government will provide services to at least 1,122 poor families in Laoang town in its service caravan on February 29.

The provincial government said the first caravan this year would cover the farming villages of Catigbian, Sibunot, Gibatangan, Yabyaban, Palmera, Cabagngan, and Cabulaloan, all in the municipality of Laoang.

Provincial social welfare and development officer Jenny Darish said this is the 21st Kauswagan (progress) caravan since its launch in 2019.

“These communities, all agricultural and situated along the river and by the mountainside, are eager to be reached by government services and receive any form of support from other stakeholders, including well-meaning individuals, organizations, and private partners, which has been the call of Governor Edwin Ongchuan,” Darish said in a statement Wednesday.

Participating agencies and partners have committed to delivering services ranging from free medical consultations, school supplies, farm tools, veterinary services, haircuts, circumcisions, legal and career counseling, among others.

In 2023 alone, the Kauswagan caravan program, participated in by some 100 partner agencies, non-government and private organizations, reached 11,381 families from 47 villages in the province.

The service caravan is one of the flagship programs of the province, aimed at bringing government services closer to the people.

The program is also in support of Executive Order No. 70, which institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict in the country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1219719

PH Navy to commission 2 Israeli missile boats in March

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 27, 2024): PH Navy to commission 2 Israeli missile boats in March (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PN spokesperson Commander John Percie Alcos (PNA photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) on Tuesday announced that it would commission two fast attack interdiction craft (FAIC) equipped with the Israeli-made Spike NLOS (non-line of sight) missiles this March.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA), PN spokesperson Commander John Percie Alcos confirmed that these FAICs have bow number 906 and 907.

"The newly-delivered FAICs, these are equipped with NLOS capabilities. (They will be commissioned) next month," he added.

Asked if the ships will have the chance to test fire their weapons, Alcos said they have to check with the "TIAC (technical inspection and acceptance committee) team if a test firing will be conducted."

The PN received the two FAICs, also known as the Acero-class gunboats from Israel on Nov. 18, 2023.

The gunboats were delivered through the general cargo ship Kogra Royal and are now at the Commodore East Posadas Wharf in Cavite City for enhancement, maintenance, and training.

The platforms will be commissioned as PG-906 and PG-907 under the Acero-class patrol vessels of the Fleet’s Littoral Combat Force.

The delivery is part of the FAIC Acquisition Project of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program (RAFPMP) Horizon 2 contracted with Israel Shipyards, which includes a total of nine platforms, and the transfer of technology to bolster the PN shipbuilding capability.

With the delivery and pending commissioning of PG-906 and PG-907, the PN now has six Acero-class gunboats.

The first two Acero-class gunboats, BRP Nestor Acero (PG-901) and BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902) were delivered in September 2022 and commissioned in November of the same year.

The third and fourth FAICs, BRP Gener Tinangag (PG-903) and BRP Domingo Deluana (PG-905) were delivered in April and commissioned the following month. The remaining three Acero-class gunboats are expected to be constructed and delivered within the next two years.

Four of the FAICs will be armed with NLOS missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other five will be armed with Typhoon-mounted 30mm main cannons and .50 caliber heavy machine guns.

The acquisition of the FAICs is among the 2019 projects approved by former president Rodrigo Duterte under the Horizon 2.

The notice of award for the FAIC project, worth around PHP10 billion, was issued on Jan. 5, 2021.

Anti-sub chopper test fires weapon system

Also on Tuesday, the PN announced that the .50 caliber weapon system projected to be fitted on the AW-159 anti-submarine warfare helicopters was test-fired at the Marine Base Gregorio Lim firing range in Ternate, Cavite on Monday.

"Said test firing was an essential part of the inspection conducted by the AFP Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) led by Western Command Chief, Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos," Alcos said.

Officials from the Procurement System Office of the Department of National Defense; Naval Air Wing commander, Commodore Juario Marayag; representatives from PN’s Office for Plans and Programs; and project proponents from Leonardo United Kingdom witnessed the inspection.

The AW-159 "Wildcat" helicopter, a British license-built multi-role military helicopter developed by Leonardo UK, is a significant addition to the PN’s maritime air assets and an integral part of the Jose Rizal class anti-submarine frigate's firepower.

The acquisition of these helicopters is a crucial capability upgrade for the PN, enhancing its anti-submarine and maritime security operations capabilities.

The inclusion of the .50 caliber heavy machine gun further enhances the aircraft's mission capabilities, providing the AFP with a potent weapon system to combat potential threats in the maritime domain.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1219621

5 PNP colonels promoted to 1-star rank

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2024): 5 PNP colonels promoted to 1-star rank (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

MANILA – Five colonels of the Philippine National Police (PNP) have been promoted to brigadier generals, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said Wednesday.

Promoted to one-star rank were Colonels Florendo Gerdan Jr., Porfirio Calagan, Rolly Octavio, Bernard Yang and Rogelio Raymundo Jr., based on the memorandum issued by the DILG.

Meanwhile, 15 officers with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel were also promoted to Colonel -- Arnel Ramos, Michael John Mangahis, Vivian Paclibon, Joefel Siason, Susan Mangaldan, Sajid Mukaram, Nilo Texon, Joan Montero, Dexter Tinepac, Resty Valmores, Charlie Vete, Leo Mendoza, Paul Gamido, Jaime Barredo Jr. and Emerson Dante.

In January, the DILG assured that there would be no delay in the processing of promotions of third-level police officers.

The National Police Commission (Napolcom) earlier passed a resolution mandating the completion of the processing of promotions for third-level police officers within 30 days after receipt of complete documentary requirements.

DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., also the chair of the Napolcom, said the promotion would further improve the morale of the personnel and inspire them to work relentlessly in fighting criminality, illegal drugs, corruption and in maintaining peace and order in their assigned jurisdictions.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1219709