Clash erupts between Army, rebels in Himamaylan

From Panay News (Mar 2, 2023): Clash erupts between Army, rebels in Himamaylan (By DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA)

Around 81 families from Barangay Carabalan, Himamaylan City fled their homes following an encounter between government troops and the New People's Army. CSWDO HIMAMAYLAN FACEBOOK

BACOLOD City – Yesterday in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, the Philippine Army’s 94th Infantry Battalion (94IB) and the New People’s Army (NPA) clashed.

Lieutenant Colonel Van Donald Almonte, commander of the 94IB, said the encounter began around 6 a.m. in Barangay Carabalan, Himamaylan City. Government troops were conducting a security patrol in the barangay to validate reports of extortion.

At least 81 families composed of 355 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from sitios Canagbaan, Da-at, Florete and Cabalungan fled their homes and are presently sheltering at the Barangay Carabalan multi-purpose gym, according to the Himamaylan City Social Welfare and Development Office.

In a video by a local vlogger, intense automatic gunfire and loud explosions could be heard.

Almonte believed the rebels were from the NPA’s Central Negros Front 2.

As of this writing, combat operations were still taking place in the area.

In October last year, a week-long gun battle also ensued in the barangay, which resulted in the death of Romeo Nanta, or “Ka Juanito Magbanua”, commanding officer of the Regional Operational Command of the NPA’s Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, as well as spokesperson of the NPA’s Apolinario Gatmaitan Command.

https://www.panaynews.net/clash-erupts-between-army-rebels-in-himamaylan/

4 rebels killed in Himamaylan gun battle

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 2, 2023): 4 rebels killed in Himamaylan gun battle (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

An injured Army soldier receives a medal from Col. Orlando Edralin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, in recognition of his bravery during an encounter with NPA rebels in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.* PA photo

Four suspected New People’s Army rebels died, while six high-powered firearms were recovered by Army soldiers, during series of encounters yesterday in Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, according to initial reports received by the Armed Forces of the Philippines Visayas Command.

The identities of the four slain rebels were yet to be established, as of press time last night.

Recovered from the encounter sites were two AK-47 assault rifles, two M-16 assault rifles and two M203 grenade launchers, the VISCOM reports further said.

The renewed armed clashes between 94th Infantry Battalion soldiers and about 20 suspected NPA in Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City, also triggered another temporary dislocation of 181 families.

Himamaylan City Mayor Raymund Tongson supervises the distribution of relief assistance to 181 families temporarily displaced by renewed armed clashes between Army soldiers and suspected rebels in Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City.* LGU photo

The affected families, composed of 651 individuals, are now temporarily staying at the Carabalan barangay covered court, and their basic needs are being attended to by the City Social Welfare and Development Office, as per instructions from Himamaylan City Mayor Raymund Tongson.

Of the temporarily displaced residents, 194 came from Sitio Canagbaan, 175 from Sitio Cabalungan, 141 from Sitio Casipungan, 130 from Sitio Daat, and 11 others are residents of Sitio Florete, all in Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City, according to a report issued by the Punong Barangay Mildred Titular.

Two Army soldiers were also injured in the gun battle.

One of them was immediately awarded yesterday with a Wounded Personnel Medal by Col. Orlando Edralin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, at a private hospital in Bacolod City.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, 94th Infantry Battalion commander, disclosed that the running gun battle ensued for about 20 minutes, after government troops responded to the information of civilians relayed to them on the presence of about 20 rebels in their community.

Almonte said that pursuit operations against the fleeing rebels, who scampered in various directions, are still ongoing as of press time.

He also lauded barangay residents for the timely information relayed to them, as they were able to thwart the extortion activities of NPA rebels in the area.

https://visayandailystar.com/4-rebels-killed-in-himamaylan-gun-battle/

PH Army deploys new pilots to Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 2, 2022): PH Army deploys new pilots to Mindanao (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of Army Aviation Regiment)

MANILA – The Army Aviation Regiment (AAR) successfully rotated and relieved its pilots deployed in Mindanao from Feb. 23 to 24.

"A new set of Army aviators to be stationed at Mindanao were transported by Cessna 172 (PA -891) aircraft from Fort Magsaysay Army Aerodrome via Naga International Airport and landed at Mactan International Airport, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on February 23, 2023," it said in a Facebook post on Wednesday night.

At the same time, another Cessna 172 (PA-072) departed from Cotabato Airport, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao with Army aviators returning back to the AAR headquarters in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

Aside from facilitating the deployment of personnel, these multiple, long-range flight missions enhance the flight/navigational skills of Army aviators and familiarize them with various routes and airport procedures in these areas.

"At the same time, the continuous rotation of aviators to Mindanao allows them to gain valuable experience in a new environment and develop their confidence in the conduct of aerial missions in support of the ground forces in the area," it added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196417

NPA fighter wanted for murder raps falls in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2022): NPA fighter wanted for murder raps falls in Agusan Norte (By Alexander Lopez)

ARRESTED REBEL. Police and Army operatives arrest a communist insurgent identified only as "Yangyang, during an operation Tuesday (Feb. 28, 2023) in Sitio Bokbokon, Las Nieves town, Agusan del Norte province. The rebel has a standing arrest warrant for multiple attempted murder charges in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. (Photo courtesy of ADNPPO)

BUTUAN CITY – Policemen have apprehended a communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebel wanted for multiple attempted murder charges in Bukidnon province in the Agusan del Norte town of Las Nieves, a police official said Wednesday.

Col. Felimon Pacios, Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office (ADNPPO) director, identified the arrested suspect only as "Yangyang," 31, a political guide under the NPA Guerrilla Front 4B, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

“Yangyang was arrested Tuesday during a joint operation conducted by the Las Nieves police and the Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion in Sitio Bokbokon of the municipality,” Pacios said.

The suspect’s arrest warrant was issued on Aug. 29, 2019 by the Regional Trial Court Branch 9 in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

Yangyang is the third most wanted NPA rebel in the Caraga region, Pacios said,

Pacios credited the arrest of Yangyang to local leaders and residents in communities who continue to provide support to the ADNPPO operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196319

Hundreds of villagers displaced by fresh clash in central Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2023): Hundreds of villagers displaced by fresh clash in central Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

DISPLACED. The City of Himamaylan in Negros Occidental province, together with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, assists some 81 displaced families from four sitios (sub-village) in Barangay Carabalan, following a clash between New People's Army rebels and Philippine Army troops on Wednesday (March 1, 2023). The affected residents have been evacuated to the village covered court. (Photo courtesy of Himamaylan City Social Welfare and Development Office)

BACOLOD CITY – A renewed clash between New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and Philippine Army troops injured a soldier and displaced at least 351 persons from 81 families in Barangay Carabalan, Himamaylan City in Negros Occidental province on Wednesday.

The City Social Welfare and Development Office said in a report the internally displaced persons, who are residents of Sitios Canagbaan, Da-at, Florete and Cabalungan, have been evacuated to the village covered court.

The Army, due to ongoing operations, has yet to identify the wounded government trooper confined in a hospital here.

The encounter, which took place past 6 a.m., came five months after a series of clashes in the same village, which affected more than 5,000 individuals in Carabalan and three adjacent villages, including one in the neighboring Binalbagan town.

“We ask for fervent prayers for the safety of our brothers and sisters in Barangay Carabalan,” said Mayor Rogelio Raymund Tongson in a Facebook post.

The city government, together with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, has provided food packs and hygiene kits to displaced families.

In a separate report, the 94th Infantry Battalion (94IB) said its troops engaged around 20 communist rebels in a 20-minute firefight while conducting a security patrol operation after the village officials reported the presence of armed men asking for food and supplies, based on the information provided by the locals.

“I commend the efforts of the concerned citizens and barangay officials of Carabalan in reporting the presence of the NPA. This encounter demonstrates the commitment of the 94IB to protect and serve the people of Himamaylan,” Lt. Co. Van Donald Almonte, commanding officer of 94IB, said in a statement.

Almonte urged the remaining NPA combatants to surrender as well and avail of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program for former rebels.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196395

ASG 'courier' nabbed in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2023): ASG 'courier' nabbed in Basilan (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Lantawan municipality, Basilan.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Police forces have arrested an alleged courier of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Basilan province in a counter-terrorism operation, a top police official said Wednesday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said Insani Joy Samla was arrested around 5:50 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay Lantawan Proper, Lantawan, Basilan.

Samla served as the courier of food, medical supply and ammunition for the ASG bandits based in Basilan province, Verceles said.

He has a standing arrest warrant for frustrated murder with multiple attempted murder issued by a court in Isabela City, Basilan, on May 8, 2017.

According to Verceles, Samla is the uncle of late ASG leader Isnilon Hapilon, who was appointed as the “emir” of Islamic State forces in the country.

Isnilon was killed on Oct. 16, 2017 during the Marawi City siege, along with Omar Maute, one of the leaders of the Maute local terror group.

Samla was taken to the Lantawan municipal police station for documentation and later placed under the custody of the Isabela City police in the province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196365

4 ex-rebels embark on chicken egg-laying business

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 2, 2023): 4 ex-rebels embark on chicken egg-laying business (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

LIVELIHOOD. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) turns over livelihood packages to four former rebels in Negros Oriental province on Tuesday evening (Feb. 28, 2023). Assisted by the 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, the beneficiaries each received a chicken egg-laying package to boost their income. (Photo courtesy of the 11th IB)

DUMAGUETE CITY – Former members of the New People’s Army in Negros Oriental province who have reintegrated into mainstream society are now embracing a new life as entrepreneurs.

The former rebels received Tuesday night their livelihood kits – layering chicken packages – from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) during a small ceremony at the headquarters of the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion (11IB) in Barangay Salag, Siaton town.

The livelihood package, worth around PHP30,000 each, consists of 24 heads of ready-to-lay chickens, chicken feed, and a mechanical egg collection unit, according to DOLE-Negros Oriental provincial chief, Ma. Theresa Tanquiamco.

The chickens that were delivered are ready to lay eggs already, and in a few weeks, the beneficiaries can begin collecting and selling them.

The egg production business is expected to boost the income of the former rebels who were reunited with their families after they surrendered last year to the 11th IB.

Lt. Col. Roderick Salayo, 11IB commanding officer, told the Philippine News Agency, that the livelihood assistance is a concrete example of the government’s sincerity to help rebel returnees start a new life.

He stressed the need to sustain these government efforts to support them and their families now that they have a new life outside of the insurgency.

“Ka Salvino” (not his real name), now living with his wife and three young children, is happy that they now have a stable source of income. His biggest desire is for his 20-year-old son to surrender to authorities.

The son is still active in the insurgency movement and the family does not have any means to communicate with him to convince him to return home.

To help jumpstart their business, Salayo said they will be purchasing the eggs from the returnees once they are ready to sell, hoping that this project will also be a confirmation of the government’s sincere efforts to help the former insurgents.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196398

From militancy to PhD: Brother of Bali bombers reaches academic peak

 From BenarNews (Feb 28, 2023): From militancy to PhD: Brother of Bali bombers reaches academic peak (By Eko Widianto)

Ali Fauzi Manzi is interviewed by journalists at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang, East Java, Indonesia, Feb. 21, 2023. [Eko Widianto/BenarNews]

Ali Fauzi Manzi, a former terror convict whose brothers were behind the 2002 Bali bombings, shed tears as he delivered a speech during commencement at a university in Malang last week.

The repentant former bomb-maker for the al-Qaeda-affiliated Jemaah Islamiyah had just received his doctorate in Islamic education for his research subject, “Religious moderation for former terrorism convicts.”

Ali, 51, says meeting with the Bali bombing survivors and the victims’ families made him dedicate his life to helping former militants like himself reintegrate into society.

“This is the happiest day of my life,” he said to loud applause in front of more than 2,000 other graduates at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang.

“I was once a terrorist who was shunned by society. But today I have achieved a high academic degree,” he said, while speaking about the doctorate he achieved after 3½ years of research.

When Ali met the victims of the Bali bombings and their relatives in 2011, some had permanent disabilities or had lost loved ones.

“My heart was torn apart,” Ali told BenarNews, adding he embraced them and apologized.

He then founded Lingkar Perdamaian (Circle of Peace), a foundation focused on aiding former radicals and militants reenter society.

Ali was not directly involved in the Bali bombings. But he is a brother of the trio of militants behind the 2002 attack – Ali Imron, Ali Ghufron and Amrozi.

Ghufron and Amrozi were executed by firing squad in 2008, along with another Bali bomber, Imam Samudra. Imron is serving a life sentence and has cooperated with the police in counter-terrorism efforts.

The Bali bombings of Oct. 12, 2002, killed 202 people and injured hundreds more.

Ali spent three years in the 1990s fighting alongside the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in the southern Philippines.

He returned to the southern Philippines in 2002 to lead a militant camp, the same year Jemaah Islamiyah militants carried out the bombings in Bali – the country’s worst terrorist attack.

Ali was arrested by the Philippine authorities and was deported to Indonesia in 2004 where he was imprisoned for three years after being convicted for terrorism.

‘Like a disease’

For his PhD dissertation, Ali said he interviewed six former terrorism convicts.

They told him that they joined militant groups after being swayed by teachings about jihad (religious war) from religious leaders in school.

Ali underwent rehabilitation and deradicalization in 2004 at the national police headquarters after arriving in Indonesia from the Philippines.

Back then, he said he was sick and injured.

“I was treated well by the police. I thought I would be tortured and experience violence,” he said.

Still, Ali criticized some deradicalization efforts by the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) and the Densus 88 anti-terrorism police unit for treating each individual the same way.

Ali said his research found that deradicalization programs for former terrorists would not work if authorities did not understand how they became radicalized.

There is no one-size-fits-all model, he said.

“It’s like a disease. The doctor has to diagnose what’s wrong and prescribe the right medicine with the right dose,” he said.

Ali said his foundation approached each individual differently, starting with discussions on a book that deals with different opinions among Islamic scholars on a host of issues.

“The book shows that there is no unanimity among scholars. We should not treat differences with hostility. The early scholars were very tolerant of differences. They did not think they were always right,” he said.

A screen shows Ali Fauzi Manzi delivering a speech at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang, East Java, Indonesia, Feb. 21, 2023. [Eko Widianto/BenarNews]

The Jakarta-based Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC) said the government’s deradicalization programs are “largely ineffective,” partly because they mostly draw in prisoners who have already decided on their own to disengage.

A 2020 IPAC report said 11% of terror convicts in the country become repeat offenders.

Freed terror convicts reoffend because they are surrounded by a high level of radicalism in prison, or they are in close contact with a militant family member after their release, or there is a powerful ideological movement that looks attractive, the report said.

A 2019 IPAC report said there were about 1,200 convicted terrorists in Indonesia, of whom half were in prison. Only about 10% of the released prisoners had participated in any formal deradicalization program.

‘Education defeats terrorism’

Ali’s academic achievement and deradicalization efforts were praised by a controversial figure, Umar Patek, a convicted Bali bomber who was released on parole in December 2022 after serving two-thirds of his 20-year sentence.

Umar had been wanted by governments of the United States, Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia, but Indonesian counterterrorism officials tout him as a deradicalization success.

The news of his early release angered people and officials in Australia – 88 Australians were killed in the Bali bombings.

Umar attended Ali’s graduation ceremony and took a photograph with him.

“Who says terrorists are stupid? It’s not easy to obtain a doctorate degree,” Umar said about Ali.

“Education defeats terrorism. This is a strong message for me and other former terrorists.”

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/indonesian/indonesia-former-terror-convict-gets-phd-02282023132940.html

PH Army reserve command gets new chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2023): PH Army reserve command gets new chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) has named a new head of its Reserve Command (RESCOM).

In a statement Wednesday, PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said Maj. Gen. Romulo A. Manuel assumed as the RESCOM commander in relinquishment and assumption of command ceremony in Camp General Mariano Riego de Dios, Tanza, Cavite on Monday.

Manuel is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1990 and holds a Master's degree in Business Administration from Xavier University and a Master's degree in Public Management from the Development Academy of the Philippines.

Prior to his appointment, Manuel served as the Armed Forces of the Philippines deputy chief of staff for reservist and retiree affairs and deputy chief of staff for intelligence.

He also served as commander of the Army Artillery Regiment and assistant chief of staff for plans of the PA.

Manuel replaced Col. Samuel B. Manzano who served as acting RESCOM commander for three months.

Manzano will assume his new position as RESCOM deputy commander.

"He also served as the deputy regiment commander and chief of the Office of Ethical Standard and Public Accountability (OESPA), all under the Light Reaction Regiment; chief of staff of the First Scout Ranger Regiment; and assistant chief-of-staff for intelligence, G-2, of the Special Operations Command," Trinidad said.

Manzano is a graduate of the Officer Preparatory Course and was commissioned in 1993. He holds a Master's degree in Public Management from the Development Academy of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, PA commander Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. relayed his kind wishes to Maj. Manuel and Manzano on their new assignments.

He also encouraged RESCOM to give the same level of support to both commanders.

“Let us continue to work on making the Army Reserve force even better. Your cooperation with your new commander will enable the entire Philippine Army to better serve the people and secure the land, making the Army become a world-class, multi-mission ready, and a cross-domain capable Army,” Brawner said.

Taking care of aviators' mental health

Meanwhile, Army aviators attended a two-day stress manager seminar as part of the service's efforts to take care of their mental health.
The seminar was conducted by the Army General Hospital (AGH) last February 23 to 24 at the Aviation Hangar, Army Aviation Regiment, Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

"The two-day seminar capacitated Army aviators in identifying causes of work-related stress. AGH resource persons also shared insights on practical and effective tools to avoid, reduce and manage stress, both on and off the job," Trinidad added.

He said the first day's activities include written individual and group exercises, group discussions, and group activities to facilitate a highly effective learning experience.

"On the second day, Army aviators participated in a team-building activity aimed at reducing stress and helping improve the ability of team members to respond effectively to workplace stressors and challenges," he added.

Trinidad said the two-day activity is in line with the Army’s leadership’s thrust to ensure the mental health and well-being of soldiers through the implementation of responsive and comprehensive mental health programs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196325

Following new basing agreement, Berger hosts Philippines Marine Corps chief

 Posted to Breaking Defense Indo-Pacific (Feb 28, 2023): Following new basing agreement, Berger hosts Philippines Marine Corps chief (By JUSTIN KATZ)

Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan will spend several days in the US with Gen. David Berger.



U.S. Marine Corps Commandant Gen. David Berger receives an honors ceremony from the Philippine Marine Corps Commandant, Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan, at Philippine Marine Corps Headquarters, Manila. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kathryn Adams)

WASHINGTON — Off the heels of a bilateral announcement to expand basing access in the Philippines, the commandant of the US Marine Corps is hosting his counterpart, Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan, in the US this week.

The US and the Philippines in early February announced plans to “accelerate the full implementation” of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, effectively giving the Pentagon access to four additional bases in the country.

Today, Gen. David Berger began hosting Gaerlan, who became the commandant of the Philippines’ Marine Corps in August, at Marine Barracks Washington for an honors ceremony. The visit comes at a time when both services find themselves in a position of needing to learn from their counterparts.

“They move comfortably between pieces of land and through the water because — this is just natural for them. But for us, the [Marine] Littoral Regiment, this is what they have to learn to do,” said Berger, referencing the new unit type established by Force Design 2030. “So, we’re learning from them. How do you maneuver? How do you move your forces between islands comfortably and it’s something that they are teaching us.”

That kind of island hopping is exactly what Berger has been aiming to prepare his service for through both the formation of the Marine Littoral Regiments as well as the development of a new warship, dubbed the Landing Ship Medium. The US Marines anticipate receiving an experimental ship, dubbed a Stern Landing Vessel, in March with plans to use it to fully develop the requirements for the Landing Ship Medium.

For the Philippines Marine Corps, that service is also establishing a new unit type, a Coastal Defense Regiment. The purpose of the new regiment is to begin shifting the force away from the counterinsurgency operations that have occupied its attention since its inception in the 1950s and move it towards what Gaerlan called “territorial defense.”

“For the Coastal Defense Regiment, it’s very new, and a lot of our equipment are still arriving,” said Gaerlan. “That’s why what we’re doing now is we’re sending our Marines for training, especially with the US Marine Corps, and some of the tactics and procedures are being observed, especially during exercises like Balikatan.”

“Balikatan” refers to one of the most prominent annual military exercises conducted jointly between the US and the Philippines.

In September, shortly after becoming the Philippines Marine Corps’ chief, Gaerlan hosted Berger for a visit in Manila. Gaerlan described that visit as one of “continuing the relationship” in light of other events that had been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“And it was also during the [September visit] that a lot of new ideas were presented. And during this year, we had already meetings with Marine Forces Pacific,” he added.

https://breakingdefense.com/2023/02/following-new-basing-agreement-berger-hosts-philippines-marine-corps-chief/

‘Alakdan’ division installs new HHSBn commander

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Feb 27, 2023): ‘Alakdan’ division installs new HHSBn commander

ZAMBOANGA. Army’s 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division (ID) installs a new commander of its Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion (HHSBn) based in Camp Teofulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu. A photo handout shows Lieutenant Colonel Charlotte Jenifer Valdez (left) relinquished her command to Lieutenant Colonel Eddie Abolencia (right) with Major General Ignatius Patrimonio, 11ID commander, presiding the change of command ceremony on Friday, February 24, 2023. (SunStar Zamboanga)

THE Army’s 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division has installed a new commander of its Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion (HHSBn) based in Camp Teofulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu.

Installed as the new HHSBn commander is Lieutenant Colonel Eddie Abolencia who replaced Lieutenant Colonel Charlotte Jenifer Valdez.

During the change of commander ceremony on Friday, February 24, Major General Ignatius Patrimonio, 11ID commander, pinned the Military Merit Medal to Valdez for her invaluable services and untiring efforts rendered as the HHSBn commander from February 24, 2021 to February 24, 2023.

Valdez also received the Plaque of Recognition from the 11ID.

Valdez, who served as HHSBn commander for two years, demonstrated exemplary performance as a senior female officer that is worthy of being emulated.

“My assignment here in Sulu was the most unexpected and memorable experience. The milestone in my career is even more special because only a few female officers are given the chance to lead a battalion,” Valdez said.

“The Alakdan Division has given me the opportunity to break barriers of norms and stereotyping in the military. It’s been an honor to lead and serve this diverse unit. To the incoming Commanding Officer, I assure you that you have the finest men and women to carry on the work that remains to be done,” Valdez added.

“As I go forward on performing my new duties and responsibilities, I am thankful for another opportunity, trust and confidence entrusted to me. Rest assured that I will exert all efforts to deliver what you expected of me,” Abolencia said.

“To my predecessor, we will continue what you have started. I assure you that the unit personnel and its resources is on the hands of a noble shepherd,” Abolencia added.

Meanwhile, Patrimonio lauded Valdez for her excellent leadership during her stint and challenged Abolencia for his new position.

“Lieutenant Colonel Valdez your dedication and determination turned the unit with a culture of excellence. Your leadership has influenced the mentality of the personnel. You are not only exemplars of professionalism but you are also instrumental in the accomplishment of this unit,” Patrimonio said.

“To Lieutenant Colonel Abolencia, you are chosen and hand fit to lead this unit. We expect that you will continue what your predecessor has started. We believe that you can transform and improve more and maintain the disciplined of this unit,” Patrimonio added.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1954592/zamboanga/local-news/alakdan-division-installs-new-hhsbn-commander

CPP: Digmang bayan para sa kalayaan at demokrasya

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 28, 2023): Digmang bayan para sa kalayaan at demokrasya (People's war for freedom and democracy)

 


Communist Party of the Philippines
March 01, 2023

Simulan nating gunitain ang ika-54 na taon ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) at ng magiting na pagsusulong ng digmang bayan sa Pilipinas. Sa Marso 29, 2023, ituon nating lahat ang ating tanaw sa landas patungo sa tagumpay habang binabalikat ang mabigat na tungkulin sa pagharap sa pasistang terorismo sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Marcos-Duterte.

Bakit may digmang bayan sa Pilipinas? Ito’y dahil hangarin ng sambayanang Pilipino na kamtin ang tunay na pambansang kalayaan at demokrasya para sa Inang Bayan: kalayaan mula sa paglukob ng imperyalismong US, at demokrasya mula sa tiraniya ng malalaking komprador, panginoong maylupa at mga burukratang kapitalista.

Ang digmang bayan ay makabayan, rebolusyonaryo, makatarungan at tumatamasa ng malalim na suporta ng masa. Hindi ito kailanman magagapi dahil kinakatawan nito ang hangarin ng bayan. Determinasyon silang bawiin ang yaman ng Pilipinas mula sa mga dayuhang mangangamkam at mga kasabwat ng naghaharing uri, wakasan ang malakolonyal at malapyudal na sistema sa bansa, at likhain ang maunlad at lumalagong bansa para sa mga Pilipino.

Ang tagumpay ng digmang bayan ay nakasalalay sa panlahatang pagpapakilos ng sambayanan, higit sa lahat, ng masang magsasaka. Sa pangkalahatan at esensya, ito’y isang digmang magsasakang pinamumuan ng uring manggagawa sa pamamagitan ng Partido. Lupa ang pangunahing demokratikong kahingian ng mayorya ng sambayanan. Sa digmang bayan, ito ang mapagpasyang usapin.

Higit na malaki at makapangyarihan ang kaaway na imperyalismong US at ang papet nitong Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Philippine National Police (PNP). Hawak nito ang malalakas na sandatang eroplano, helikopter, drone, mga bomba at walang kaubusang bala. Katumbas ng lakas ng kaaway ang kanyang pasistang kalupitan. Habang ginagamit ang malalakas na sandata para supilin ang bayan, lalo niyang inihihiwalay ang sarili sa masa at itinutulak silang lumaban.

Kulang man ang sandata, taglay naman ng BHB ang hanay ng mga Pulang mandirigma na mataas ang disiplina at kamulatang pampulitika. Hindi lamang sila mga mandirigma. Sila ri’y mga duktor, titser, artista, at pwersa sa produksyon na pawang nagsisilbi sa interes ng masa. Mahigpit na pinagkakaisa ang mga upisyal at mandirigma ng demokrasya sa ekonomya, pulitika at militar. Beterano o baguhan, anuman ang kasarian o uring pinagmulan, lahat ay magiting na nakikibaka para sa kalayaan ng bayan. Buong-puso ang kanilang kahandaang magsakripisyo para paglingkuran ang masa at kamtin ang tagumpay.

Matagalan ang digmang bayan sa Pilipinas. Kailangan ang mahabang panahon para mag-ipon ng lakas ng BHB hanggang kaya na nitong gapiin ang kaaway at agawin ang kapangyarihan sa buong bayan. Sa pamamagitan ng pakikidigmang gerilya, hakbang-hakbang na inuuk-uk ang lakas ng kaaway, yugtu-yugtong nag-iipon ng lakas ng BHB, at nililikha ang kundisyon para sa tagumpay.

Dahil gutay-gutay ang malawak na kanayunan ng bansa sa maraming nahihiwalay na isla, kailangan ang panahon upang sumulong mula sa pagiging maliit at mahina tungo sa malaki at malakas sa buong kapuluan. Ang lakas ay unang ipinundar sa mas malalaking isla, at paalon na sumulong para tahiin ang mga pwersang gerilya sa maraming isla.

Pira-pirasong ginugupo ng BHB ang mas modernong hukbong inaarmasan at pinopondohan ng pinakamakapangyarihang imperyalista sa mundo. Nag-iipon sila ng pwersa para gupuin ang mahihinang bahagi ng kaaway, puksain ang mga pasista at kunin ang kanyang mga sandata at kagamitang militar. Kapag mas malakas ang kaaway, pleksibleng kumakalat ang mga pwersang gerilya upang maggawaing masa at maglipat upang hindi masubo sa labanang hindi pinaghandaan. Kahit pansamantalang iwan ang naipundar na base, titiyakin nilang yayabong at mababalikan ang nakapunlang mga binhi ng rebolusyon at makapagtatanim sa mas malawak pang masa.

Gagap ng mga Pulang mandirigma na hindi ang lakas ng sandata ang mapagpasya sa gera, kundi ang kapasyahan at hindi magagaping diwa ng mamamayan. Anupamang kakulangan sa materyal na bagay ay pinangingibabawan ng malalim na suporta ng masa, ng malawak na paglahok nila sa digma, katuwang ang kabayanihan ng mababalasik nilang mandirigma. Lahat ng pwedeng gamiting sandata—baril, itak, kahoy o bato—ay gagamitin laban sa kaaway. Ang maliit ay lalaki, at ang dambuhalang kaaway ay magagapi. Susulong at makapananaig ang sambayanang at ang kanilang hukbong bayang armado ng wastong teorya at ideolohiya. Ito ang batas ng kasaysayan ng digmang bayan, anuman ang daanan nitong liko’t ikot, pag-atras at pagsulong.

Ibayong susulong ang armadong pakikibaka kaakibat ang laganap na mga pakikibaka ng masa. Pinakasusi sa pagsulong ng digmang bayan ang mahigpit na pagkakaisa ng masa at kanilang hukbong bayan. Ang naglalagablab na apoy ng mga pakikibakang masa sa kanayunan, kasabay ng lahat ng paraan ng armadong paglaban ng mga milisyang bayan at yunit ng BHB, ang lalamon at tutupok sa pasismo ng papet na estado.

Nasa ilalim ng absolutong pamumuno ng Partido ang BHB. Ang wastong pamumuno ng Partido ang naghulma sa hukbong bayan, at nagpapanatili ditong tapat sa hangarin ng aping bayan para sa kalayaan at demokrasya. Tinuturuan ang mga Pulang mandirigma ng Marxismo-Leninismo-Maoismo upang gamiting gabay sa lahat ng gawain nito. Ang Partido ang bakal na gulugod ng BHB.

Sa paggunita natin ng ika-54 na taon ng BHB, ibayong patatagin natin ang ating kapasyahang lumaban. Magpunyagi sa landas ng matagalang digmang bayan. Isulong ang masaklaw at maigting na pakikidigmang gerilya sa batayan na papalawak at papalalim na baseng masa. Palakasin at palawakin ang mga yunit ng hukbong bayan at mga yunit ng milisyang bayan. Baha-bahaging bigwasan, gapiin ang palalong kaaway. Kamtin ang isanlibo’t isang tagumpay. Puspusang paglingkuran ang masa, at bagtasin ang mahabang landas tungo sa kalayaan at demokrasya!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/digmang-bayan-para-sa-kalayaan-at-demokrasya/

AFP starts construction of 2-story ambulatory care facility

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2023): AFP starts construction of 2-story ambulatory care facility (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducted the groundbreaking rites for the construction of a two-story ambulatory care building unit at Camp Victoriano K. Luna in Quezon City on Tuesday.

This was made possible through the assistance of the Department of Health (DOH) and AFP Health Service Command (HSC), AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor said in a statement.

Present during the event was DOH Assistant Secretary Leonita Gorgolon, representing Undersecretary Lilibeth David, and AFP chief Gen. Andres Centino.

"This project would be another manifestation of the robust collaboration between the AFP and other agencies of government in uplifting the morale and welfare of our personnel and their dependents," he said.

Centino also commended the AFPHSC for sustaining excellent services and their steadfast commitment to care for military personnel's health and welfare, contributing to the nation's security and stability.

The project, which aims to provide a more conducive facility for patients and medical personnel, is under the Health Facility Enhancement Program of the DOH under "The Philippine Health Agenda 2016-2022."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196232

Japan mulls maritime cooperation; no plans yet on SCS patrols

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2023): Japan mulls maritime cooperation; no plans yet on SCS patrols (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

INCURSION. About 30 suspected Chinese vessels are still at the Sabina and Ayungin Shoals within the country's exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea, according to the Philippine Coast Guard on Feb. 22, 2023, based on information gathered from the National Task Force - West Philippine Sea. The PCG said it will publicize all reported incursions into Philippine waters to force China to respond. (Courtesy of PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela)

MANILA – The Japanese Embassy in Manila on Tuesday said there is no specific plan yet on a South China Sea (SCS) joint patrol with the Philippines, the United States, and Australia but Tokyo will “explore” possible maritime cooperation to secure the Indo-Pacific region.

As of now, there is no specific discussion about the possibility of joint patrol, the Japanese Embassy in Manila told the Philippine News Agency via a statement.

“Japan will explore the possibility of cooperating with partners to reinforce Maritime Domain Awareness and the maritime law enforcement in the Indo-Pacific,” read the embassy statement.

The statement comes following a report quoting Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez that Manila is in talks to possibly include Tokyo and Canberra in planned joint patrols in the SCS.

The Australian Embassy in Manila, on the other hand, deferred to Australia’s Department of Defence when asked to comment.

Meanwhile, the Japanese Embassy said Tokyo is committed to further enhancing defense exchanges with Manila through the Japan-Philippine-US trilateral dialogues.

“As in the Japan-Philippines Joint Statement of Feb. 9, both leaders welcomed deepening defense engagements through the participation of the Japan Self-Defense Forces in the Philippines-US joint exercises, and committed to further enhancement of defense exchanges through JP-PH-US trilateral dialogues,” it said.

In a news channel interview in January, Romualdez said the possible joint patrols between the Philippines and the US will enhance "interoperability" and is not necessarily directed against any country.

He said Manila has always had an agreement with the US for maritime patrols but it was "never really implemented" formally.

"This has been on the table for quite some time and I'm sure that at some point our defense establishment and the US defense establishment will come out with an operational plan to be able to have these joint patrols," he said, adding such activities can also include other partners like Japan and "possibly Australia."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196295

PNA celebrates 50 years of telling news stories, inspiring change

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2023): PNA celebrates 50 years of telling news stories, inspiring change (By Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

PNA office in Quezon City

MANILA – The state-run Philippine News Agency (PNA) celebrates Wednesday its golden anniversary with monthlong activities starting March 1.

To mark its founding day, an afternoon Mass and a small gathering will be held at PNA's main office in Quezon City.

For four Fridays this month, activities include an exhibition of old published PNA news articles and photos; recent agreements with partner agencies; and citations, and awards received by the agency’s reporters and photographers.

Past and present heads of the agency will be honored via a display of their portraits inside the PNA's office premises.

Moreover, the PNA Style Guidebook cover page will also be launched.

Winners of the essay writing and photo contests by PNA employees, best reporter in the National Capital Region (NCR), best photographer in NCR, best bureau chiefs in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao will be awarded on March 24.

Serving as the government's official newswire, the PNA was created in 1973 through a special order by the Department of Public Information (DPI) Secretary and later on Senator Francisco S. Tatad.

It was established as the news division of the DPI's former Bureau of National and Foreign Information.

The first PNA correspondents were chosen from among the former Philippine News Service (PNS) stringers covering the country’s then just 70 provinces and 60 cities.

The PNS is the country's first privately-owned news agency established in October 1950.

Since the news agency does not have its own building, the PNA has transferred at least six times in the past 50 years. The first was from the NPC Building to nearby UPL Building in front of Fort Santiago (1978-1981); to Puyat Building on Solana Street, also in Intramuros (1981-1983); Office of Media Affairs on Bohol Avenue, Quezon City (1983-1987; back to the NPC Building (1988-1996) and finally to its present site at the second floor of the Philippine Information Agency Building at the Media Center along Visayas Avenue in Diliman, Quezon City.

Currently, the PNA is a division of the News and Information Bureau headed by Director Raymond Robert C. Burgos and Assistant Director Lee Ann L. Pattugalan. They are assisted by Executive Editor Demetrio B. Pisco Jr. and Deputy Executive Editor Luis A. Morente.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196309