PBBM to new PSG chief: Help me protect PH

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 18, 2023): PBBM to new PSG chief: Help me protect PH (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

CHANGE OF COMMAND. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the Presidential Security Group (PSG) Change of Command Ceremony at the PSG Grandstand in Malacañang Park, Manila on Wednesday (Oct. 18, 2023). During the ceremony, Marcos presented the Distinguished Service Star to outgoing PSG commander Brig. Gen. Ramon Zagala for the latter’s "valuable and exceptional" service. (Screenshot from Radio Television Malacañang)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called on newly installed Presidential Security Group (PSG) Brig. Gen. Jesus Nelson Morales to help him in protecting the Philippines under his watch.

Marcos made the call, as he vouched for Morales’ competence to lead the PSG.

“As the PSG embarks on a new chapter, let me join you in welcoming our new commander, Brigadier General Jesus Nelson Morales. Thank you for stepping up and taking on this assignment as the next head of PSG,” he said during the PSG change of command rites at the PSG Grandstand in Malacañang Park, Manila.

“I am confident with your training, your experience and overall competence, the PSG will continue to fulfill its role in protecting this institution. I certainly look forward to working with you,” Marcos added.

Marcos also urged the PSG personnel to give their full support to Morales.

“Together, let us continue to perform our duties to the best of our ability. Let us remain steadfast in safeguarding our country so that we can fulfill our sworn duty of providing a peaceful and secure life for every Filipino,” he said.

The change of command ceremony was held a day after Malacañang announced the appointment of Morales as the new PSG head.

Morales is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1993.

He joined the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and took the Undergraduate Pilot Training Course at the PAF Flying School in Lipa City, Batangas where he earned his Military Pilot Wings in 1995.

Morales was assigned to conduct flight missions during the “all-out war” in Mindanao from 1998 to 1999, leading a flight of Huey helicopters in the areas of Zamboanga, Cotabato, Lanao del Norte and Marawi against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels and Abu Sayyaf terrorists.

He later joined the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing as a helicopter pilot of former presidents Joseph Estrada and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

He became an instructor pilot, test pilot and flight commander of various platforms such as the Bell 412, S70 Blackhawk, S76 Sikorsky, Sokol, Bell 205 and Huey helicopters. He obtained the highest pilot qualification as a flight examiner.

He also became the commander of the 505th Search and Rescue Group and squadron commander of the Supply Support Squadron of 250th Presidential Airlift Wing.

Morales also worked as PAF Director for Plans and Programs in the Office of the Assistant Chief of Air Staff for Logistics, OA4 from 2008 to 2012 and became the chief of the said office and as the primary adviser of the PAF Commanding General in 2017.

He was later transferred to the Tactical Operations Command based in Zamboanga City as its chief of staff, supporting the Western Mindanao Command units in Zamboanga, Basilan and Jolo until 2020.

He later assumed more critical positions as the chief of staff of the Air Combat Command and the deputy wing commander of Tactical Operations Wing, Eastern Mindanao.

In 2021, Morales was designated as the deputy wing commander of 410th Maintenance Wing under the Air Logistics Command in Clark Air Base.

New assignment

Morales replaced Brig. Gen. Ramon Zagala who will assume a new role as commander of the Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

During the ceremony, Marcos presented the Distinguished Service Star to Zagala and thanked the latter for his achievements during his stint at the PSG.

“Under your able leadership, you have kept me, the first family, visiting former dignitaries and foreign presidents, as well as the general public within the vicinity of Malacañang safe and away from any serious threats to human or national security,” Marcos told Zagala.

“You have also maintained and guarded the PSG's distinction as one of the best protectors of the land worthy to preserve the presidency as a stern and reliable institution with the unified efforts of the office of the president and the PSG,” he added.

Marcos lauded Zagala for providing security to nearly 500 domestic and international presidential engagements, as well as for facilitating the conduct of training programs on VIP protection which benefitted the 545 PSG personnel.

He also recognized Zagala’s efforts to acquire advanced and modern equipment for the presidential security aides and renovate the PSG headquarters.

“With that being said, I wish you well and all the best in your new assignment as the commander of the AFP Civil Relations Service. We can safely say that you have left the Presidential Security Group a more capable more efficient and a better unit than you found,” Marcos said.

“Your experience as PSG commander will undoubtedly come in handy for all that you will do in the future. For all the duties and all the commands that you will hold, I am very certain that your experience here with us at the Presidential Security Group will serve you well.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212043

PCG to acquire two 19-seater planes for WPS patrol ops

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 18, 2023): PCG to acquire two 19-seater planes for WPS patrol ops (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

PATROL OPS. Philippine Coast Guard personnel on patrol near BRP Corregidor (AE-891) in this undated photo. The Philippine Coast Guard is looking to acquire two 19-seater airplanes for its patrol operations in the West Philippine Sea. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is looking to acquire two 19-seater airplanes for its patrol operations in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a message to reporters on Wednesday, PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armando Balilo said the bidding process for the two planes would begin soon after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. gave his approval and a budget of PHP1.6 billion.

“This will complement the vessels deployed in the WPS and other areas of concern while on patrol operations,” Balilo said.

To date, he said the PCG has one Islander airplane and one Cessna airplane deployed to assist PCG substations and detachments in the WPS.

During the PCG’s 122nd founding anniversary on Tuesday, Marcos vowed to support and upgrade the PCG through the provision of modern equipment and personnel training to meet the challenges in the WPS and its role in search, rescue, and disaster response.

He announced plans to acquire 40 more 15-meter fast boats for the PCG that will be used as patrol vessels and thanked the country's allies for assisting in the WPS.

“The Philippines is lucky as we have many friends around the world and marami sa ating mga kaibigan na karatig bansa at kahit na ‘yung galing sa malalayo ay tinutulungan tayo para pagandahin at patibayan ang ating PCG (and many of our friends, both near and far, are helping us improve and strengthen the PCG),” he said.

During the celebration, PCG Commandant, Admiral Artemio Abu presented the PCG’s recent key accomplishments including rescuing a total of 6,332 persons in distress and participating in anti-smuggling operations that targeted 24 warehouses in Manila.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212049

US ready to help PH combat cyberattacks amid spate of hackings

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): US ready to help PH combat cyberattacks amid spate of hackings (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson (PNA photo by Joyce Rocamora)

MANILA – The United States expressed its readiness to help the Philippines find ways to combat cybercrimes and cyberattacks amid the spate of hackings in government websites over the past weeks.

In a roundtable discussion Wednesday, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said there is no specific request for assistance from the Philippines as of yet but communication is ongoing on ways to address “all types” of cyberattacks.

“We are already working closely on cyber issues,” she said. “We have a very active coordination on how we can together combat cybercrimes and cyberattacks of all types.”

She said cybersecurity is central to the Philippines-US relations given that data from the US is also tied to Philippine data, especially with the country’s large business process outsourcing sector.

“[W]hen Wall Street closes down a lot of those backroom operations transfer out here so it’s not just Philippine data that is endangered by any attacks here, it’s US data, it’s data globally that could potentially be affected,” she said.

“This is an important issue for US-Philippine relations and we are working very closely with the Philippines on ways that we can combat cyberattacks,” she added.

The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. was earlier subjected to a ransomware attack, with cyberhackers demanding roughly PHP17 million for the compromised database.

This month, the Philippine Statistics Authority also suffered a data breach in its Community-Based Monitoring System.

More funds to counter cyberattacks

On Wednesday, Makati City Representative Luis Campos Jr. called for additional funding of up to PHP3 billion for the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to bolster the government's cybersecurity defenses.

Campos cited the need to reinforce the CICC with a highly advanced data fusion hub and a round-the-clock security operations center for threat detection, response and prevention.

“We must bolster the CICC with all the necessary cutting-edge technologies to swiftly produce actionable intelligence against all types of threat actors – from thrill seekers and hacktivists to cybercriminals and cyberterrorists,” Campos said.

Campos noted that the CICC--which is the inter-agency body created by the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 to suppress criminal activities that either target or use a computer, a computer network, or a networked device--has a budget of only PHP347.7 million in this year’s General Appropriations Law.

Campos said the center has only PHP320.8 million under the proposed 2024 national budget.

The center integrates the cybercrime-fighting divisions of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police, and the Department of Justice.

“We must also improve the center’s digital forensics and electronic evidence management systems,” Campos said.

Campos, citing the San Antonio, Texas-based business consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, said that the Philippines could be incurring up to USD3.5 billion (or nearly PHP200 billion) in economic losses every year due to cybercrime.

Cybercrime costs include stolen money, data damage and destruction, lost productivity, personal and financial data theft, intellectual property theft, embezzlement, fraud, post-attack business disruption, forensic investigation, restoration and deletion of hacked data and systems, and reputational harm.

On Tuesday, 4Ps Party-list Rep. JC Abalos and Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan jointly filed House Resolution 1392, urging the House Committee on Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to conduct an investigation on the cyberattacks on the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), and the House of Representatives.

PhilHealth's database was hacked through the Medusa ransomware, which infected 72 workstations and the e-claims, member portal, and collection systems.

To contain the issue, the agency resorted to a temporary shutdown of its website and implemented the manual processing of services.

It was followed by another hacking of the Community-Based Monitoring System of the Philippine Statistics Authority and the website of the House of Representatives.

Abalos said the resolution "signifies a pivotal step in safeguarding data privacy in the Philippines".

"These incidents highlight the threat to the security and integrity of the digital platforms of our agencies, emphasizing the necessity of implementing additional measures to prevent such occurrences," Abalos added.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said the alarming series of cyberattacks underscores the need for the government to bolster its cybersecurity.

“Concerted effort ito. Sinasadya at tinetesting ang capability ng ating gobyerno. Nakakabahala na baka lumalim,” (They are testing the government’s capability, this is alarming, which might deepen),” Gatchalian said.

He said one thing is clear “that we are not ready and we need to act right away and address it right now.”

He said even the DICT has admitted that the government is ill-prepared for such incidents.

Gatchalian earlier said he favors providing DICT with confidential funds to help enhance the agency’s capability to help shield the country from cybersecurity attacks. (with a report from Filane Mikee Cervantes/Leonel Abasola/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212098

Go beyond limits in protecting PH, Brawner tells Navy air troops

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): Go beyond limits in protecting PH, Brawner tells Navy air troops (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BEYOND LIMITS. AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (center) poses with aviators of the Naval Air Wing during its 76th founding anniversary celebration at the Sangley Point in Cavite City on Wednesday (Oct. 18, 2023). Brawner honored the men and women of the NAW for their dedication to duty and encouraged them to go beyond their limits in protecting the country's maritime territories. (Photo courtesy of the AFP)

MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. urged all pilots and personnel of the Naval Air Wing (NAW) to go beyond their limits in protecting the country's vast maritime territories.

“May we forever prioritize safety as a cornerstone of our operational success. Together, we will uphold the core values of the NAW – soaring safely towards unparalleled excellence. I would like to challenge you to try to surpass the limits that you have set for your unit," Brawner said during the celebration of the NAW's 76th founding anniversary at the Sangley Point in Cavite City on Wednesday.

Brawner also acknowledged the difficulty of the job of NAW aviators, especially their flying missions to defend and protect Philippine territorial integrity.

He also lauded the NAW for its swift response and crucial support to the ground forces during the Marawi Siege, which celebrated the 6th anniversary of its liberation on Oct. 17.

“The NAW fulfills a vital mission in ensuring the safety and security of our nation’s airspace and maritime territories. Through relentless training and an unwavering commitment to safety, the NAW has rightfully earned its reputation as a dependable and formidable force of the Philippine Navy,” he said.

Brawner also honored the men and women of the NAW for their dedication to duty and encouraged them to renew their commitment to excellence and professionalism.

The NAW, formerly known as Naval Air Group, started as a Naval Air Section and was founded on Oct. 7, 1947.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212104

OPAPRU: Marcos admin to expedite Marawi rehab

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): OPAPRU: Marcos admin to expedite Marawi rehab (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MOVING FORWARD. OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. delivers President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s message on the 6th anniversary of the liberation of Marawi City on Oct. 17, 2023. The President vowed to fast-track the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the city which was devastated by a five-month siege by ISIS-inspired terrorist groups in 2017. (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU)

MANILA – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) on Thursday said the Marcos administration is fast-tracking the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Marawi, the country’s only Islamic city, and usher in sustainable development and long-lasting peace to its residents.

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. gave this pledge as national, local, and military officials observed the 6th year anniversary of Marawi's liberation from ISIS-inspired terrorist groups on Oct. 17.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in his message delivered by the OPAPRU chief, honored 168 soldiers and police officers who perished during the siege and expressed his unwavering commitment and solidarity with the Maranao people.

“I am one with you in raising the banner of peace, inclusivity, and prosperity over this land, and over the next generations who will build and inherit its dynamic legacy,” Marcos said in his message.

“Rest assured, my dear fellow Filipinos, that this administration will strive to achieve the goals we have set for you and your city. The government will expedite the completion of all the Marawi rehabilitation projects and process all the claims with utmost urgency and responsiveness,” he added.

The five-month battle to free Marawi from its captors left the city in ruins and forced its residents to seek refuge in evacuation centers.

A massive rehabilitation and recovery program is carried out by the national government to bring the community back on its feet.

“In the face of extremism — of twisting hate and violence guided by personal and political interests — we witnessed something remarkable and inspiring: people looking out and caring for one another, regardless of their position in society, tribe, or religion,” the President said.

“Despite all the pain that we suffered and endured as a people, we still proudly celebrate this anniversary, for it brings to the fore something worth remembering and fighting for: that peace will always prevail. And it will prevail especially when we remain resolute in our commitment, solidarity, and faith for the nation,” Marcos said.

The President, who is also the Commander-in-Chief, lauded the military and police for their “sacrifice and utmost dedication to their duty to protect the Maranao people, ensure their safety, and bring peace to their homeland no matter what the cost.”

“Here, we saw the steadfast dedication of our military and police forces who left their families behind to battle the terrorists, and reclaim the future the Maranao people rightfully deserve. Here, we saw how Muslims and Christians did not limit their understanding, kindness, and assistance to those of the same faith, but, instead, freely gave their compassion, support, and love for their fellow humans. Here, we saw what it meant to respect people’s diversity and unite for the good of all. Here, we saw what it means to be peace-loving Filipinos,” Marcos noted.

He also acknowledged passionate groups and individuals who "tirelessly work to uplift Marawi and make it the bustling city it used to be.”

“If the accomplishments, changes, and promises that come with this year’s celebration highlights anything, I hope that it underscores our unceasing dedication to help our Maranao brothers and sisters achieve peace, security, and normalcy. Much remains to be done despite all that we have accomplished. So, I hope that we will continue to dedicate ourselves to the noble tasks that still lie ahead of us,” the President said.

Commitment

Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. reaffirmed the military’s commitment to protect the Maranao people, as he cited the military’s efforts to help provide essential services to communities such as the construction of a water tank within the city’s most affected area.

“It brought many memories, not of death and destruction but of courage, compassion, and resilience. If you go to Marawi now, you will not see destruction but progress,” he said.

Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra, meanwhile, said the people of Marawi have shown "strength and resilience”, which he described as characteristics that truly define the city.

“Together we will rebuild [the] spirit and soul with the heroism and resilience that unfolded, which brought us together as a community. With bayanihan and your unwavering commitment, together we can give a brighter future for Marawi City,” Gandamra said.

Lanao del Sur First District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, chair of the Special Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation and Recovery and chair of the Oversight Committee on Marawi victims’ compensation, said he will continue to push for an increase in funding for the city’s rehabilitation, as well as remuneration for residents affected by the siege.

Former Bangsamoro Transition Authority Member of Parliament Maisara Dandamun-Latiph, chair of the Marawi Compensation Board (MCB), said the PHP1 billion which has been allocated as compensation for the victims shall be fully disbursed by year end.

Dandamun-Latiph said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman has been working closely with the MCB to ensure the victims’ claims are processed and approved as quickly as possible.

She said the DBM understands the importance of compensating the victims as soon as possible so that they can rebuild their lives.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212106

Gavan is PCG's new commandant

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): Gavan is PCG's new commandant (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

NEW PCG COMMANDANT. CG Admiral Ronnie Gil Latorilla Gavan (middle) has been appointed as the Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) 30th commandant following the announcement from Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista (right) on Thursday (Oct. 19, 2023). Prior to his appointment, Gavan served as the PCG’s deputy commandant for administration. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – CG Admiral Ronnie Gil Latorilla Gavan has taken the helm at the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) following the retirement of CG Admiral Artemio Abu Thursday.

During the change of command ceremony at the PCG national headquarters, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista announced Gavan’s appointment by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Gavan is the 30th commandant of the PCG.

Bautista said Gavan would have the same peaceful approach as Abu that steered the country from escalating the volatile situation in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

“My belief that [Admiral] Ronnie Gavan will do the same is anchored on his record of shifting to the 'white hull approach' when securing our maritime borders and his introduction of female radio operators, called 'angels of the sea,’” he said.

During the ceremony, Gavan took his oath before Bautista and received the rank of admiral from vice admiral.

Marcos chose Gavan among five recommended candidates when Abu’s retirement was announced after over 35 years of service.

Prior to his appointment, Gavan served as the PCG’s deputy commandant for administration.

His accomplishments include the training and capacity-building of angels of the sea --female PCG personnel working as radio operators onboard PCG vessels in the WPS to diffuse tension during sea conflict.

He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Maalab Class of 1993.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212144

AFP sees no threat from PH terror groups amid Hamas' attack calls

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): AFP sees no threat from PH terror groups amid Hamas' attack calls (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Thursday said no local terrorist groups in the country seem to be supporting Palestinian militant group Hamas' calls for Muslims all over the world to join them in their cause.

"(Initially) this is concerning for us because of the experiences that we have when it comes to terrorism but as we monitor the situation in the country we are happy to note that so far there are no indications of any terrorist groups (in the Philippines) heeding the calls of jihad (by Hamas)," Brawner said in a forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines.

Earlier, Hamas called on all Muslims worldwide to protest in support of Palestinians and for those in neighboring countries to join in the ongoing fight against Israel.

The AFP chief said ground commanders and local government officials, whom he met during his visit to Marawi City last Oct. 17 to mark the 6th year anniversary of its liberation from ISIS-inspired terrorists, assured that they have yet to detect any terrorist activity arising from this call.

"They assured us that they have not monitored any terrorist groups or even individuals attempting to wreck havoc or do any terrorist activity. We have alerted our commanders nationwide for the AFP and the Philippine National Police to be alert, to be on the lookout for any of these possible spillovers of the events that’s happening in Gaza," he added.

Brawner said they have yet to receive any intelligence reports regarding entry of foreign terrorists in the Philippines.

"As of the last report that we have there are no more foreign terrorists in the country," he added.

Expanding cybersecurity

Meanwhile, Brawner said he is looking to enhance the existing AFP Cyber Group also known as the AFPCyG, by recruiting more personnel and acquiring more equipment, to allow it to be named as Cyber Security Command or Cyber Command.

"In the US for instance they have their Cyber Command so we are looking at also increasing that unit, (AFPCyG), into a Cyber Command that would include more capabilities, more personnel of course, and more equipment, this will allow us to defend our networks better in terms of cyber security," he added.

Brawner also said that they will try to recruit more IT personnel from the youth sector, especially those interested in serving or joining the AFP.

"Again we are opening up our doors to these individuals who are highly skilled in terms of cyber, and we are relaxing some of the requirements. For instance, (the) physical and medical aspects of the requirement procedures, we are going to relax a bit," he added.

Brawner said this due to the realization that these "new breed of warriors" are not required to be physically strong but only intelligent and very skillful in the cyber domain.

He added that studies for expanding the AFPCyG are now ongoing, noting that he expects the report to be completed by the end of the year.

Brawner said the proposed AFP Cyber Command will not have a physical territory but it would be responsible for defending the cyber networks of the military.

He said the creation of such a unit is timely in the wake of hacking incidents affecting government websites.

He also added that all AFP cyber units have been warned to be vigilant and on the lookout for possible hacking attacks.

While there have been attempts to hack into AFP cyber systems, Brawner is pleased to report that they have been very successful in warding this off.

"But we're happy to note na so far hindi naman naging (are not) successful, we have been very successful in warding off, in defending our network(s)," he added.

Brawner said the attempts to attack the military systems are made by both foreign and local hackers.

"I'm not sure but what I could say is that almost everyday we experience attempts to attack our, the entire networks of the AFP," he added.

Brawner said the AFP will be defended against these threats once the proposed Cyber Command is activated.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212151

4 most-wanted NPA insurgents fall in Caraga

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 18, 2023): 4 most-wanted NPA insurgents fall in Caraga (By Alexander Lopez)

(Image courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

BUTUAN CITY – Four rebels of the communist New People’s Army (NPA), listed as among the most wanted in the Caraga Region, fell in a series of recent arrests in Lianga town, Surigao del Sur, an official said Wednesday.

“The four are active NPA members with standing arrest warrants for various crimes and listed as most-wanted individuals in the regional and provincial levels,” Maj. Jennifer Ometer, Police Regional Office 13 (Caraga) information office chief, said in an interview.

Ometer was referring to the separate arrests on Monday of Gretchen Baroro, and cousins Bonie Tejero, Alicia Tejero, and Jayson Tejero.

Baroro, listed as the second wanted person in the region by PRO-13, is a member of the NPA Guerrilla Front (GF) 14 under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC). She has a standing arrest warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 55 in Trento, Agusan del Sur for attempted murder and frustrated murder.

She also has a separate arrest warrant from RTC Branch 7 in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur for kidnapping and serious illegal detention, destructive arson, and robbery.

Bonie Tejero and Alicia Tejero are from the dismantled GF-19, Sub-Regional Command (SRC) Southland, NEMRC; and Jayson Tejero is a member of the weakened NPA GF-30, SRC Westland, NEMRC.

Jayson is the most-wanted person in Surigao del Sur with an arrest warrant for murder issued by RTC Branch 28 in Lianga, while Bonie and Alicia, who are wanted for grave coercion, also belong to the province’s most-wanted list.

PRO-13 Director, Brig. Gen. Kirby John Kraft, said the arrests were the result of the efforts of the command to bring to justice wanted NPA rebels.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212025

2 NPA rebels killed, weapons seized in north Negros clash

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 18, 2023): 2 NPA rebels killed, weapons seized in north Negros clash (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

REBELS’ FIREARMS. The high-powered firearms seized by troops of the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion following a clash with remnants of the New People’s Army Northern Negros Front in the remote Barangay Canlusong, E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental on Tuesday (Oct. 17, 2023). The rebel fatalities were identified as couple Christian Job Joaquin Vargas of E.B. Magalona town, and Mylene Malasabas Salgado of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City. (Photo courtesy of 79th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – An encounter in the hinterlands of E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental claimed the lives of two Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) rebels and led to the recovery of various weapons on Tuesday afternoon.

In a report on Wednesday, the Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) said troops of the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) engaged about nine remnants of the dismantled NPA Northern Negros Front (NNF) in Sitio Nabalas Dos, Barangay Canlusong, a former rebel-influenced village later declared as insurgency-cleared.

The fatalities were identified as couple Christian Job Joaquin Vargas of E.B. Magalona town and Mylene Malasabas Salgado of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City.

Vargas is the leader of Squad 3 of the remnants of NNF, and both were dispatched by the NPA’s Regional Operations Command from Central Negros to reinforce the recovery efforts of the dismantled NNF, according to a separate report of 79IB.

Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of 3ID, said the attempt of the communist-terrorists to regain their influence in Barangay Canlusong has failed.

“The residents themselves rejected them. They no longer want the (CPP-NPA) manipulating the people in their communities. Clearly, the people have chosen to live in peace and made a stand to end local armed conflict,” he said in a statement.

Records of E.B. Magalona police showed that both Vargas and Salgado have a warrant of arrest for attempted murder issued by Acting Presiding Judge Walter Zorilla of Regional Trial Court Branch 56 in Himamaylan City.

Vargas also has multiple arrest warrants for murder with no recommended bail from the RTC Branch 61 in Kabankalan City.

According to the 3ID, troops responded to reports from the locals of rebels conducting extortion activities, which led to a 15-minute gunbattle.

There were no reported casualties among the soldiers.

At the encounter and the subsequent clearing operation, they recovered three M16 rifles and an M14 rifle, an AR15 rifle, and Garand rifle along with four rifle grenades and assorted live ammunition.

Also found were personal belongings and subversive documents.

As an insurgency-cleared barangay, Canlusong is a recipient of projects under the Local Government Support Fund-Support to Barangay Development Program.

Some 80 former members and mass supporters of the CPP-NPA pledged loyalty to the Philippine government in 2019, and the following year, a barangay resolution declared the CPP-NPA and its political wing, the National Democratic Front, as persona non grata.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212078

Viscom chief to soldiers securing polls: Don’t fail our people

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 18, 2023): Viscom chief to soldiers securing polls: Don’t fail our people (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

TROOP DEPLOYMENT. Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo (right), Visayas Command chief, shakes the hand of an Army officer during a send-off ceremony on Wednesday (Oct. 18, 2023) at the 302nd Brigade in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental. Hundreds of security forces from the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, and Coast Guard are in the province to secure the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections. (PNA photo by Mary Judaline Flores Partlow)

DUMAGUETE CITY – The outcome of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in Negros Oriental is critical in determining the future of the province and its people, a key Army official said on Wednesday.

Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the Visayas Command (VisCom), urged the soldiers to give their best in securing the Oct. 30 polls during a send-off ceremony of troops at the 302nd Brigade in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental,

“We cannot fail our people in this election. This is very important to ensure that our future and the future of our children will be protected,” Arevalo said.

“Of all the units in the Visayas, only Negros Oriental is augmented with this kind of force,” he added.

He said the move to deploy over a hundred troopers in the province coming from other units in the Visayas, including counterparts from the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Coast Guard, is to safeguard the elections following the controversy brought about by the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo last March.

The 181 augmentation forces coming from outside of Negros Oriental include four officers and 109 enlisted personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army); 1 officer and 28 enlisted personnel from the Philippine National Police (Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7); and 1 officer and 38 enlisted personnel from Coast Guard in Region 7.

They arrived in Negros Oriental early this week. This is on top of the other augmentation troops that were deployed to the province for the same purpose, although their assignments were not revealed.

Arevalo said he was “surprised in a happy way” to see that the other uniformed agencies also deployed more troops to Negros Oriental to beef up the current security force in the province.

He noted that Negros Oriental hogged the limelight for several months since Degamo’s murder, referring to the succeeding events that led to the arrests of several suspects, the revelations of witnesses and fresh information on crimes and killings perpetrated over the years.

The Army commander said government authorities do not want this to happen again and thus the commitment to ensure that lawless elements will not succeed in their efforts to muddle the upcoming polls.

The VisCom chief expressed confidence that with passion and dedication, and with the support of the other agencies, and the people of Negros Oriental, “we will succeed in this mission”.

The augmentation troops will be deployed to the critical areas in the province as the campaign period formally begins on Oct. 19.

Lawyer Felicisimo Catacutan Jr., election officer of Tanjay City, and representing the Commission on Elections provincial and regional offices, in the same activity, thanked the security forces for providing tight security in Negros Oriental.

He highlighted the importance of peace in achieving a successful election, pointing out that a failure of elections could possibly happen in the absence of security forces.

Private army no longer a threat

Meanwhile, Col. Ronan Claravall, acting police provincial director, said the presence of a private armed group in Negros Oriental no longer “posed a threat” even though some members are still on the loose.

Claravall said these people are no longer capable of sowing terror as many of them are in hiding or have transferred to another place.

But Brig. Gen. Leonardo Peña, Assistant Division Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, stressed the need not to let their guard down because these lawless elements can still perpetrate crimes if left unattended.

Peña, representing 3ID commander Maj. Marion Sison, said government forces must remain vigilant and continue monitoring of armed individuals and threat groups to ensure the success of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections in Negros Oriental.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212073

Ammo, bomb components seized in Negros Oriental

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): Ammo, bomb components seized in Negros Oriental (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

DISCOVERY. Police operatives have recovered several rounds of ammunition and what appears to be bomb components on Thursday (Oct. 17, 2023) at a cave in Mabinay, Negros Oriental. The cave is believed to be a temporary harbor area of alleged Communist New People's Army members, the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office said on Wednesday (Oct. 18, 2023). (Photo courtesy of NOPPO)

DUMAGUETE CITY – Police operatives have seized a cache of ammunition and bomb components at a temporary harbor site of Communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Mabinay, Negros Oriental.

They discovered the items in a cave at Sitio Cansanaan in Barangay Abis on Tuesday, Lt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson and deputy chief of the Police Community Affairs and Development Unit (PCADU) of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOPPO) on Wednesday said.

The 704th Provincial Mobile Force Company received a report of the presence of unidentified armed men believed to be NPA members and immediately conducted an operation in the vicinity of Barangays Bato, Abis and Samac, Polinar said.

They found the cave reportedly been used by suspected NPA members.

A subsequent search yielded one red chest bag containing assorted medicines; a container with suspected ANFO (ammonium nitrate and fuel oil) of approximately four liters; an orange backpack containing two pieces of electric blasting cap; two pieces of 9-volts battery; two rolls of firing wire 10-20 meters each; and several rounds of live ammunition of various caliber for short and long firearms; two magazines; a pair of rainboots; and assorted “subversive” documents.

Polinar said the police are now coordinating with their Philippine Army counterparts in scouring the area for the suspected NPA rebels who he said are mobile and could be crossing the boundaries of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212085

E. Visayas army sends troops to secure polls in Negros Oriental

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): E. Visayas army sends troops to secure polls in Negros Oriental (By Sarwell Meniano)

SECURING POLLS. Some of the soldiers assigned in Eastern Visayas deployed to secure elections in Negros Oriental during a ceremony in Tacloban City on Thursday (Oct. 19, 2023). Soldiers who will render election duty in Negros Oriental will be deployed inside the voting centers along with policemen. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, Samar, has sent 113 soldiers to Negros Oriental province to help secure the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) there.

Brig. Gen. Perfecto Peñaredondo, assistant commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said the deployed troops is a composite team from the 14th Infantry Battalion, 46th Infantry Battalion, 52nd Infantry Battalion, and 78th Infantry Battalion who will be placed under the operational control of Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade of the 3rd Infantry Division.

"You will make a great contribution to preserving democracy and ensuring that the voice of the people is heard,” Peñaredondo said during the send-off ceremony at the Air Force headquarters here on Thursday.

The official reminded the troops to maintain discipline, professionalism, and respect for human rights as they perform their sworn duty, and as deputized by the Commission on Elections in securing peaceful, orderly, fair, and honest elections.

The soldiers who will render election duty in Negros Oriental will be deployed inside the voting centers along with policemen. In other provinces, the military cannot go beyond the 50-meter radius from the voting centers.

Currently, Negros Oriental province has nine villages under the Comelec areas of concern, including eight villages with reported presence of armed rebels and one village with intense political rivalry.

The military plans to deploy more troopers in the province coming from other units in the Visayas to safeguard the elections following the controversy brought about by the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo last March.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212147

Army urges Misamis Oriental youth to reject NPA recruitment

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): Army urges Misamis Oriental youth to reject NPA recruitment (By Nef Luczon)

Google map of Misamis Oriental.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Philippine Army based in Misamis Oriental urged the youth to reject any attempts of recruitment to become communist rebels under the New People’s Army (NPA), especially with the start of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Election BSKE) campaign period.

Lt. Col. Christian Uy, Army’s 58th Infantry Battalion (IB) commander, said youth empowerment and education in countering extremist ideologies are two important aspects that can dissuade the youth from joining the rebel group.

"Ultimately, this will promote peace and security in the country and safeguard the youth as a contributor to nation-building," Uy said in a statement Thursday.

By equipping the student sector with knowledge and awareness, Uy said the Philippine Army can help young people make informed decisions and avoid being recruited by the NPA.

Earlier this month, the 58IB collaborated with the local government of Balingasag, Misamis Oriental in a series of community outreach programs targeting the youth sector.

Last month, the Army's 16IB and the Commission on Elections led the signing of the BSKE peace covenant in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, which included hundreds of youth poll aspirants.

In a media interview, Lt. Theofratus Pia, the Misamis Oriental police office spokesperson, said 23 barangays from eight local government units are considered "areas of concern" in the province.

Pia said the listed areas had history of NPA activities, although these are under monitoring and no conflicts have been reported recently.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212119

Army to ensure polls won’t be disrupted by rebels in Negros

From the Philippine News  Agency (Oct 19, 2023): Army to ensure polls won’t be disrupted by rebels in Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

BACOLOD CITY – The Philippine Army has vowed to ensure a peaceful and orderly Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in Negros Occidental in the wake of the recent clashes between government troops and communist rebels in the hinterland villages.

Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, said on Thursday he does not consider the presence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) a “big problem” with the military collaborating with other government security forces and concerned agencies.

“We are doing everything; we are coordinating at the highest level. We continue to conduct focused military operations to ensure they cannot conduct any atrocities during the elections,” Edralin said in an interview.

The Army official attended the final meeting of the Provincial Joint Security Coordinating Center, together with Col. Leo Pamittan, director of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, and Provincial Election Supervisor Ian Lee Ananoria at Negros Residences here, which coincided with the start of the campaign period.

On Tuesday, troops of the 79th Infantry Battalion conducted security operations in the remote Barangay Canlusong in E.B. Magalona town, leading to the death of two CPP-NPA rebels from the dismantled Northern Negros Front attempting to regain their influence in the now insurgency-cleared village.

Data from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) showed election areas of concern in Negros Occidental remain at 51.

Among these are three barangays placed under the red category, or grave areas of concern, including Minapasuk in Calatrava town in the north and Barangays Quintin Remo and Macagahay in Moises Padilla town in central Negros, which all have monitored presence of the CPP-NPA.

Some 45 barangays are under the orange category, or immediate areas of concern, while three villages are in the yellow category, or areas of concern.

The 511 other barangays in Negros Occidental, including this capital city, are under the green category or have no threats.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212134

Ex-rebels' revelations lead to recovery of weapons in Sorsogon

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 19, 2023): Ex-rebels' revelations lead to recovery of weapons in Sorsogon (By Connie Calipay)

Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson (PNA file photo)

LEGAZPI CITY – Three New People's Army (NPA) members who surrendered to government forces in Sorsogon on Wednesday revealed the location of the group's stash of firearms and ammunition, which led to its recovery, the Police Regional Office (PRO)-5 (Bicol) said on Thursday.

In an interview, Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson, identified the rebels as "Ka Kiko" and "Ka Henry", members of Platoon 1, Larangan 1, Komite ng Probinsya 3, Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC), and "Ka Renz", a member of the Regional Yunit Guerrilla, BRPC.

After their revelation, troops recovered in Barangay Sangat, Gubat town various war materiel that included one US M2 caliber .30 carbine, five magazines for caliber .30 carbine, two anti-personnel mines, two bandoliers, 25 meters of wire, and 56 rounds of .30-caliber ball ammunition.

"The surrendered NPA members and recovered firearms are now in the custody of the 31st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army," Calubaquib said.

Meanwhile, in Camarines Norte, a female member of the NPA's Armando Catapia Command also surrendered to government troops on Wednesday.

"She handed over an improvised firearm with no markings or serial number and eight live ammunition rounds. Alias 'Lina' and the surrendered firearm are now under the custody of Camarines Norte 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company for proper disposition," Calubaquib said.

She said the continued surrender of NPA members is the result of the Retooled Community Support Program of the Philippine National Police.

"They will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), where they will receive various forms of support to aid in their successful reintegration into their communities," Calubaquib said.

ECLIP is a government initiative that aims to provide a comprehensive package of benefits and assistance to former rebels who have decided to return under the rule of law. Beyond financial support, it also aims to empower these individuals to rebuild their lives and become productive, law-abiding members of the communities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1212179