From ABS-CBN (Aug 20, 2019): 1 soldier killed, 1 wounded in Basilan ambush
A soldier was killed while another was wounded after they were attacked by a lawless group in Lamitan, Basilan on Sunday night.
The two soldiers were on board a motorcycle, heading to the town of Ungkaya Pukan, when they fired upon by members of the Anjabins group, according to Western Mindanao Command spokesman Cap. Arvin Encinas.
One of the soldiers was able to retaliate. However, he was pursued by the armed men and sustained several gunshot wounds.
Encinas said the same group attacked members of the 74th Infantry Battalion in 2018 and earlier this year in Basilan.
The military said it considers the series of attacks as a retaliation of the group following the arrest of their kin Jerry Anjabin in the town of Mohammad Ajul, Basilan last year.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/20/19/1-soldier-killed-1-wounded-in-basilan-ambush
Monday, August 19, 2019
Marawi Recovery Project (MRP) Project Brief
Posted to the Relief Web (Aug 17, 2019): Marawi Recovery Project (MRP) Project Brief
Download PDF (969.47 KB)
On 23 May 2017, Philippines government forces clashed with the Maute group, local armed fighters reported to have pledged alliance to the Islamic State. Intensive armed conflict erupted and continued unabated for five months, with the loss of at least 770 lives, the displacement of the entire population of Marawi City as well as residents of nearby municipalities, and significant destruction of property. Reports showed that 470,000 people were displaced, including just over 200,000 from Marawi City and another 270,000 from 22 nearby municipalities from Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur.
In response to the crisis, Community and Family Services International (CFSI) and the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) entered into a project partnership entitled the Marawi Recovery Project (MRP). The aim of the Marawi Recovery Project is to promote protection and the psycho-social and economic recovery of at least 6,000 displaced households (32,500 persons), thereby enabling an improved quality of life and greater prospects for peace.
https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/marawi-recovery-project-mrp-project-brief
REPORTfrom Community and Family Services International
Published on 17 Aug 2019 —View Original
Download PDF (969.47 KB)On 23 May 2017, Philippines government forces clashed with the Maute group, local armed fighters reported to have pledged alliance to the Islamic State. Intensive armed conflict erupted and continued unabated for five months, with the loss of at least 770 lives, the displacement of the entire population of Marawi City as well as residents of nearby municipalities, and significant destruction of property. Reports showed that 470,000 people were displaced, including just over 200,000 from Marawi City and another 270,000 from 22 nearby municipalities from Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur.
In response to the crisis, Community and Family Services International (CFSI) and the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) entered into a project partnership entitled the Marawi Recovery Project (MRP). The aim of the Marawi Recovery Project is to promote protection and the psycho-social and economic recovery of at least 6,000 displaced households (32,500 persons), thereby enabling an improved quality of life and greater prospects for peace.
https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/marawi-recovery-project-mrp-project-brief
NBI nabs 2 Abu Sayyaf members
From the Manila Times (Aug 19, 2019): NBI nabs 2 Abu Sayyaf members
TWO alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf were arrested in separate operations, an official of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said on Monday, raising to 15 the number of Muslim extremists arrested in 2019.
The suspects were identified as Abdulla Addi, alias Tuma, and Aluyudan Guru, alias Tarik, who both have standing warrant of arrests from the Pasig City Regional Trial Court Branch 266 for kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom.
Tuma was arrested in Zamboanga City on July 31 and Tarik was in Baclaran on August 15.
Raoul Manguerra, head of the NBI-Counter Terrorism Division (CTD), said a P600,000 reward was offered for information that would lead to the arrest of the suspects.
Tarik and Tuma are detained at the NBI detention facility while waiting to be transferred to the special intensive care area of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Taguig City.
“It’s good for the public to know that no less than the executed affidavits of the survivors of the kidnapping, [that they were] positively identified,” Lavin said.
https://www.manilatimes.net/nbi-nabs-2-abu-sayyaf-members/602790/
TWO alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf were arrested in separate operations, an official of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said on Monday, raising to 15 the number of Muslim extremists arrested in 2019.
The suspects were identified as Abdulla Addi, alias Tuma, and Aluyudan Guru, alias Tarik, who both have standing warrant of arrests from the Pasig City Regional Trial Court Branch 266 for kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom.
Tuma was arrested in Zamboanga City on July 31 and Tarik was in Baclaran on August 15.
Raoul Manguerra, head of the NBI-Counter Terrorism Division (CTD), said a P600,000 reward was offered for information that would lead to the arrest of the suspects.
Tarik and Tuma are detained at the NBI detention facility while waiting to be transferred to the special intensive care area of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Taguig City.
“It’s good for the public to know that no less than the executed affidavits of the survivors of the kidnapping, [that they were] positively identified,” Lavin said.
https://www.manilatimes.net/nbi-nabs-2-abu-sayyaf-members/602790/
2 Abus nabbed in Pasay, Zamboanga
From the Philippine Star (Aug 19, 2019): 2 Abus nabbed in Pasay, Zamboanga
Abdulla Addi and Aluyudan Guru are presented in a press conference at the National Bureau of Investigation headquarters yesterday. Edd Gumban
Two alleged members of the terror group Abu Sayyaf were arrested in separate operations in Pasay and Zamboanga City over the weekend, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said yesterday.
Abdulla Addi, alias Tuma, and Aluyudan Guru, alias Abu Tarik, are accused of taking part in the 2002 Patikul, Sulu kidnapping wherein two hostages were beheaded and four others held for ransom.
The two men were also tagged in the 2000 Sipadan kidnapping wherein 19 foreigners and two Filipinos were held captive at an Abu Sayyaf camp in Jolo, Sulu.
Addi, who was arrested in Zamboanga City following a tip from an informant, led NBI agents to Guru, who was selling socks under the Light Rail Transit’s Baclaran station.
NBI deputy director Vicente de Guzman III said Guru has established himself as a community leader.
Addi is allegedly a close associate of the late Gumbahali Abu Jumdail, alias Dr. Abu, who treated wounded and sick members of the terror group.
Addi was also reportedly involved in the kidnapping of three Indonesian sailors in 2002 and tagged as a participant during the Marawi siege.
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/08/20/1944762/2-abus-nabbed-pasay-zamboanga
Two alleged members of the terror group Abu Sayyaf were arrested in separate operations in Pasay and Zamboanga City over the weekend, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said yesterday.
Abdulla Addi, alias Tuma, and Aluyudan Guru, alias Abu Tarik, are accused of taking part in the 2002 Patikul, Sulu kidnapping wherein two hostages were beheaded and four others held for ransom.
The two men were also tagged in the 2000 Sipadan kidnapping wherein 19 foreigners and two Filipinos were held captive at an Abu Sayyaf camp in Jolo, Sulu.
Addi, who was arrested in Zamboanga City following a tip from an informant, led NBI agents to Guru, who was selling socks under the Light Rail Transit’s Baclaran station.
NBI deputy director Vicente de Guzman III said Guru has established himself as a community leader.
Addi is allegedly a close associate of the late Gumbahali Abu Jumdail, alias Dr. Abu, who treated wounded and sick members of the terror group.
Addi was also reportedly involved in the kidnapping of three Indonesian sailors in 2002 and tagged as a participant during the Marawi siege.
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/08/20/1944762/2-abus-nabbed-pasay-zamboanga
Soldiers, cops seize NPA ‘bomb factory’
From the Panay News (Aug 20, 2019): Soldiers, cops seize NPA ‘bomb factory’
BACOLOD City – Soldiers and policemen overran a suspected New People’s Army (NPA) bomb-making camp in Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.
Troopers of the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion, Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office and Philippine National Police-Special Action Force seized what was considered a repository and manufacturing site of explosive devices of the communist rebels in Sitio Cabilocan in Camindangan, following a brief firefight around 6:30 a.m. on Sunday with suspected NPA rebels manning the site.
The firefight between the troops and five rebel guards lasted 10 minutes, after which the NPAs fled.
During the pursuit operation, at least three suspected NPA members were arrested – Roberto Tingson, 34, and Jory Mate, 38, both suspected members of the NPA’s Yunit Militia in the village, as well as a certain “Amado” who was identified as an explosives expert.
BACOLOD City – Soldiers and policemen overran a suspected New People’s Army (NPA) bomb-making camp in Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.
Troopers of the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion, Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office and Philippine National Police-Special Action Force seized what was considered a repository and manufacturing site of explosive devices of the communist rebels in Sitio Cabilocan in Camindangan, following a brief firefight around 6:30 a.m. on Sunday with suspected NPA rebels manning the site.
The firefight between the troops and five rebel guards lasted 10 minutes, after which the NPAs fled.
During the pursuit operation, at least three suspected NPA members were arrested – Roberto Tingson, 34, and Jory Mate, 38, both suspected members of the NPA’s Yunit Militia in the village, as well as a certain “Amado” who was identified as an explosives expert.
Photo by Molave War Rior (Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion)
Police Regional Office 7 director Brigadier General Debold Sinas said their Explosive and Ordinance Disposal team recovered five sets of live improvised explosive device (IED) , IED materials and components weighing almost two kilos, blasting caps, three radios, assorted ammunition, several firearms, and subversive documents, which were brought to the Sipalay City police station for documentation.
Sinas said the operation was triggered by tips regarding the presence of the NPA camp in the village.
No one was hurt on the side of the government troops during the clash but many of the suspects were able to escape by using the big limestone formation in the area as cover.
Blocking forces were unable to intercept the escaping guerrillas due to the heavy forest.
https://www.panaynews.net/soldiers-cops-seize-npa-bomb-factory/
Police Regional Office 7 director Brigadier General Debold Sinas said their Explosive and Ordinance Disposal team recovered five sets of live improvised explosive device (IED) , IED materials and components weighing almost two kilos, blasting caps, three radios, assorted ammunition, several firearms, and subversive documents, which were brought to the Sipalay City police station for documentation.
Sinas said the operation was triggered by tips regarding the presence of the NPA camp in the village.
No one was hurt on the side of the government troops during the clash but many of the suspects were able to escape by using the big limestone formation in the area as cover.
Blocking forces were unable to intercept the escaping guerrillas due to the heavy forest.
https://www.panaynews.net/soldiers-cops-seize-npa-bomb-factory/
Negrense youth warned vs NPA’s recruitment ploy
From Panay News (Aug 20, 2019): Negrense youth warned vs NPA’s recruitment ploy
Students of Toboso National High School in Negros Occidental sign up for the Youth Leadership Summit organized by the 79th Infantry Battalion, covering the northern portion of the province, earlier this month. The activity, which is part of the Philippine Army’s Community Support Program, was attended by 75 participants. PHOTO COURTESY OF 79TH INFANTRY BATTALION, PHILIPPINE ARMY
BACOLOD City – Officials of the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police called on Negros Occidental youths to be wary of the New People’s Army (NPA) recruitment activities in schools.
Brigadier General Benedict Arevalo, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade (303IB), said on Thursday he has been going around schools, including colleges and universities, to expose the deceptions and lies of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and their political wing, the National Democratic Front.
Arevalo said that he has talked, not only to the youth but to educators and school heads as well, adding that the objective is to spare the youth from the recruitment of militant organizations that can lead to recruitment to the NPA.
“So, I ask the youth to be wary and vigilant of the dubious scheme of enticing them to join or support an underground and terrorist organization of the CPP-NPA,” the Army official appealed.
Battalions under the 303IBde in Negros Occidental, such as the 79th Infantry Battalion, based in Sagay City have also organized youth leadership summits for high school students in northern Negros as part of its Community Support Program.
The latest of which was attended by 75 students of Toboso National High School earlier this month.
Colonel Romeo Baleros, director of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, said the police is also initiating action to counter the CPP-NPA’s recruitment efforts and propaganda campaign in schools.
“We have a compilation of the revelations of all former rebels. Our Community Affairs Section conducts information drive using this audio-visual presentation (AVP) to make the students aware of the recruitment propaganda,” he said.
Although they have not received intelligence reports of direct recruitment of the NPA in schools, Baleros said he is certain some have penetrated the ranks of students.
“Their movement is very discreet, especially in the outskirts areas. For sure, there are those teaching in schools,” he said.
Baleros added that young people should think of their future and not allow themselves to be deceived by communist groups.
“What we show to the students is not propaganda, but the real testimonies of former rebels,” he said.
The police official said they plan to also show the AVP in shopping malls and transport terminals to make more people aware of the deception of the CPP-NPA and prevent the communist-terrorist group from enticing more recruits.
https://www.panaynews.net/negrense-youth-warned-vs-npas-recruitment-ploy/
BACOLOD City – Officials of the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police called on Negros Occidental youths to be wary of the New People’s Army (NPA) recruitment activities in schools.
Brigadier General Benedict Arevalo, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade (303IB), said on Thursday he has been going around schools, including colleges and universities, to expose the deceptions and lies of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and their political wing, the National Democratic Front.
Arevalo said that he has talked, not only to the youth but to educators and school heads as well, adding that the objective is to spare the youth from the recruitment of militant organizations that can lead to recruitment to the NPA.
“So, I ask the youth to be wary and vigilant of the dubious scheme of enticing them to join or support an underground and terrorist organization of the CPP-NPA,” the Army official appealed.
Battalions under the 303IBde in Negros Occidental, such as the 79th Infantry Battalion, based in Sagay City have also organized youth leadership summits for high school students in northern Negros as part of its Community Support Program.
The latest of which was attended by 75 students of Toboso National High School earlier this month.
Colonel Romeo Baleros, director of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, said the police is also initiating action to counter the CPP-NPA’s recruitment efforts and propaganda campaign in schools.
“We have a compilation of the revelations of all former rebels. Our Community Affairs Section conducts information drive using this audio-visual presentation (AVP) to make the students aware of the recruitment propaganda,” he said.
Although they have not received intelligence reports of direct recruitment of the NPA in schools, Baleros said he is certain some have penetrated the ranks of students.
“Their movement is very discreet, especially in the outskirts areas. For sure, there are those teaching in schools,” he said.
Baleros added that young people should think of their future and not allow themselves to be deceived by communist groups.
“What we show to the students is not propaganda, but the real testimonies of former rebels,” he said.
The police official said they plan to also show the AVP in shopping malls and transport terminals to make more people aware of the deception of the CPP-NPA and prevent the communist-terrorist group from enticing more recruits.
https://www.panaynews.net/negrense-youth-warned-vs-npas-recruitment-ploy/
DCPO abli sa imbestigasyon sa ‘pagsukol-patay’ sa NPA member
From Radio Mindanao Network (Aug 20, 2019): DCPO abli sa imbestigasyon sa ‘pagsukol-patay’ sa NPA member
Davao City – Abli ang Davao City Police Office (DCPO) kung aduna may imbestigasyon sa nahitabong pagka-neutralisa sa membro sa Pulang Bagani Command 1 sa New People’s Army (NPA).
Segun ni DCPO spokesperson Police Capt. Ma Teresita Gaspan nga nisukol-patay ang target sa warrant of arrest sa nagkadaiyang kaso si Benjie Clarion o alyas JB sa may Blk 35, Lot 17, Rosalina 3, Brgy. Baliok, Talomo District pasado alas 10 sa buntag adlawng Dominggo.
Segun ni Gaspan awtomatik nga adunay motu propio investigation nga pagahimuon ang Davao City Internal Affairs Service subay sa maong insidente.
Matud ni Gaspan nga kasong murder ang usa sa giatubang sa suspek kinsa gitudlong usa sa mga responsable sa pagpatay kang PS 11 Baguio PNP Intelligence officer PO3 Wilfredo Garol niadtong 2017.
Pipila sa mga narekober sa suspek ang .38 nga armas, shabu, granada ug uban pang mga kagamitan.
Davao City – Abli ang Davao City Police Office (DCPO) kung aduna may imbestigasyon sa nahitabong pagka-neutralisa sa membro sa Pulang Bagani Command 1 sa New People’s Army (NPA).
Segun ni DCPO spokesperson Police Capt. Ma Teresita Gaspan nga nisukol-patay ang target sa warrant of arrest sa nagkadaiyang kaso si Benjie Clarion o alyas JB sa may Blk 35, Lot 17, Rosalina 3, Brgy. Baliok, Talomo District pasado alas 10 sa buntag adlawng Dominggo.
Segun ni Gaspan awtomatik nga adunay motu propio investigation nga pagahimuon ang Davao City Internal Affairs Service subay sa maong insidente.
Matud ni Gaspan nga kasong murder ang usa sa giatubang sa suspek kinsa gitudlong usa sa mga responsable sa pagpatay kang PS 11 Baguio PNP Intelligence officer PO3 Wilfredo Garol niadtong 2017.
Pipila sa mga narekober sa suspek ang .38 nga armas, shabu, granada ug uban pang mga kagamitan.
Cop killer killed
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 20, 2019): Cop killer killed
A figutive, said to be a former rebel who murdered a police officer two years ago, was killed after he allegedly resisted police arrest on Sunday in Barangay Baliok, Talomo District.
Major Ricky Obenza, the commander of Tugbok Police Station, identified the fatality as Benjie Martos Clarion, alias Longlong, in his late 20’s, single and resident of Sitio Battalion, Barangay New Carmen, Tugbok District. Clarion was said to be a member of the Pulang Bagani Command 1 of the New People’s Army (NPA) named Ka JB.
He was tagged as one of the assailants who killed Police Officer 2 Wilfredo Garol of Baguio Police Station on Nov. 13, 2017.
Obenza said they conducted surveillance and monitoring operation in Baliok after they received information that Clarion was in the area. He was reportedly working as a sub-contrator of a Deca Homes project in Baliok.
After confirming the report, operatives then secured the warrant of arrest on the murder case issued by Judge Evalyn Arellano-Morales of Branch 17 of Regional Trial Court XI.
The Tugbok Police Station led by Obenza and the Presidential Anti-Organize Crime Commission (PAOCC) led by Major Alvin Senente served the warrant in his den at Lot 17, Block 35 of Rosalina 3, in Baliok around 10:25 a.m. on Sunday.
Obenza said Clarion opted to resist the arresting officers. He allegedly drew his firearm and fired toward one of the operatives, identified as S/Sgt. Erick Nabuya.
Nabuya, surviving a bullet in his chest as he was wearing a bulletproof vest, returned fire.
The fugitive was hit in the different parts of his body, resulting to his immediate death.
Scene of the Crime Operative (SOCO) agents recovered two guns –a .38 revolver with three live bullets and one fired cartridge and an improvised 9mm with two magazines with 15 bullets – at the crime scene.
A MK2 fragmentation hand grenade was also found in the suspect’s bag. Six sachets of shabu and cash amounting to P670 in different denomination were also recovered.
Obenza said Clarion was listed as No. 1 most wanted person in his station.
The station commander said Clarion worked under the team of Kumander Parago (real name: Leoncio Pitao), the slain NPA commander who was given a hero’s burial in the city in 2015.
Around 7:40 a.m. of Nov. 13, 2017, Clarion and his cousin, only identified as Along, hitchhiked in the motorcycle driven by Garol, 34, and resident of Rubber Village in Calinan.
After arriving at their destination, the suspects then gunned down Garol. The fallen officer sustained multiple gunshot wounds in the different parts of his body, resulting to his immediate death.
Before the incident, the victim transported his wife, a teacher, to the school.
A figutive, said to be a former rebel who murdered a police officer two years ago, was killed after he allegedly resisted police arrest on Sunday in Barangay Baliok, Talomo District.
Major Ricky Obenza, the commander of Tugbok Police Station, identified the fatality as Benjie Martos Clarion, alias Longlong, in his late 20’s, single and resident of Sitio Battalion, Barangay New Carmen, Tugbok District. Clarion was said to be a member of the Pulang Bagani Command 1 of the New People’s Army (NPA) named Ka JB.
He was tagged as one of the assailants who killed Police Officer 2 Wilfredo Garol of Baguio Police Station on Nov. 13, 2017.
Obenza said they conducted surveillance and monitoring operation in Baliok after they received information that Clarion was in the area. He was reportedly working as a sub-contrator of a Deca Homes project in Baliok.
After confirming the report, operatives then secured the warrant of arrest on the murder case issued by Judge Evalyn Arellano-Morales of Branch 17 of Regional Trial Court XI.
The Tugbok Police Station led by Obenza and the Presidential Anti-Organize Crime Commission (PAOCC) led by Major Alvin Senente served the warrant in his den at Lot 17, Block 35 of Rosalina 3, in Baliok around 10:25 a.m. on Sunday.
Obenza said Clarion opted to resist the arresting officers. He allegedly drew his firearm and fired toward one of the operatives, identified as S/Sgt. Erick Nabuya.
Nabuya, surviving a bullet in his chest as he was wearing a bulletproof vest, returned fire.
The fugitive was hit in the different parts of his body, resulting to his immediate death.
Scene of the Crime Operative (SOCO) agents recovered two guns –a .38 revolver with three live bullets and one fired cartridge and an improvised 9mm with two magazines with 15 bullets – at the crime scene.
A MK2 fragmentation hand grenade was also found in the suspect’s bag. Six sachets of shabu and cash amounting to P670 in different denomination were also recovered.
Obenza said Clarion was listed as No. 1 most wanted person in his station.
The station commander said Clarion worked under the team of Kumander Parago (real name: Leoncio Pitao), the slain NPA commander who was given a hero’s burial in the city in 2015.
Around 7:40 a.m. of Nov. 13, 2017, Clarion and his cousin, only identified as Along, hitchhiked in the motorcycle driven by Garol, 34, and resident of Rubber Village in Calinan.
After arriving at their destination, the suspects then gunned down Garol. The fallen officer sustained multiple gunshot wounds in the different parts of his body, resulting to his immediate death.
Before the incident, the victim transported his wife, a teacher, to the school.
Reds attack police precinct in Legazpi City, repelled after gunfight
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 19, 2019): Reds attack police precinct in Legazpi City, repelled after gunfight
Armed men believed to be New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas laid siege to a police station in Legazpi City, Albay province, according to police on Monday (Aug. 19).
Lt. Col. Wilson Asueta, police director of Albay police, told INQUIRER.net that the suspected guerrillas used assault rifles similar to those being used by government soldiers, M-16 Armalite, and also an M-203 grenade launcher during the attack on a small police station at the village of Taysan around 8 p.m. on Sunday (Aug. 18).
Police said the attackers were repelled after a five-to-seven minute gunfight. No casualties or injuries were reported.
Lt. Col. Wilson Asueta, police director of Albay police, told INQUIRER.net that the suspected guerrillas used assault rifles similar to those being used by government soldiers, M-16 Armalite, and also an M-203 grenade launcher during the attack on a small police station at the village of Taysan around 8 p.m. on Sunday (Aug. 18).
Police said the attackers were repelled after a five-to-seven minute gunfight. No casualties or injuries were reported.
IP recruitment by NPA declines, datu claims
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 20, 2019): IP recruitment by NPA declines, datu claims
A tribal leader of the Langilan-Manobo tribe in Davao del Norte said recruitment by the New People’s Army has slowed down because the IP communities are starting to fight back.
In an interview last week at the sidelines of the arrival of eight IP delegates from the US for an international caravan, Datu Malapandaw Nestor Apas, chief of Langilan-Manobo tribe, said they noticed a slight decline in the number of recruitment among their members in the region.
He said they now have a system where tribal datus can report regularly on any attempt at indoctrination by the NPA.
“Also, each leaders will always account how many members in their communities,” he said.
However, he lamented that there are still many IP members who are living in UCCP Haran in Davao City, as well as fighting as communist guerrillas.
Apas said President Rodrigo Duterte had direct knowledge that about 60% of the NPA rebels were members of the IP community. Many heeded the call of the President to lay down their arms and surrender.
“So, many had surrendered,” he said.
According to Datu Apas, within their tribe there were 800 Lumads who surrendered and returned to the government. He also called on the other fellow tribe members to leave the Communist Party of the Philippines.
“Surrender now because your lives are in danger with the NPA group,” he further said.
In an interview last week at the sidelines of the arrival of eight IP delegates from the US for an international caravan, Datu Malapandaw Nestor Apas, chief of Langilan-Manobo tribe, said they noticed a slight decline in the number of recruitment among their members in the region.
He said they now have a system where tribal datus can report regularly on any attempt at indoctrination by the NPA.
“Also, each leaders will always account how many members in their communities,” he said.
However, he lamented that there are still many IP members who are living in UCCP Haran in Davao City, as well as fighting as communist guerrillas.
Apas said President Rodrigo Duterte had direct knowledge that about 60% of the NPA rebels were members of the IP community. Many heeded the call of the President to lay down their arms and surrender.
“So, many had surrendered,” he said.
According to Datu Apas, within their tribe there were 800 Lumads who surrendered and returned to the government. He also called on the other fellow tribe members to leave the Communist Party of the Philippines.
“Surrender now because your lives are in danger with the NPA group,” he further said.
Soldiers point to NPA for attack on quarry site
From the Business Mirror (Aug 20, 2019): Soldiers point to NPA for attack on quarry site
THE commander of the Army’s 403rd Brigade accused New Peoples’ Army (NPA) guerillas as behind the attack on a quarry site of a mining company in Misamis Oriental last Monday.
The initial report by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Brig. Gen. Edgardo de Leon said the NPA guerillas also escaped with the firearms of the firm’s five security personnel.
De Leon said the attackers are members of the Sub-Regional Command 1 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee who swooped down on the quarry site of Minergy Power Corp. at around 6:30 a.m. of August 19.
He said the rebels fired at the security guards deployed at the quarry site located at Quezon Heights, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.
However, de Leon did not say what type of firearms was taken from the guards, adding policemen were investigating if there were other properties that were damaged or destroyed during the attack.
Also on Monday, the AFP reported that two policemen were wounded after they were ambushed by suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu.
Cpl. Angelo Canapi and Pat. Nijar Awwalon, members of the Second Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Sulu Police Provincial Office, were waylaid at around 7:45 a.m. in Barangay Igasan, Patikul, the military said.
The two policemen were said to have been providing security for the car-pooled teachers of the Department of Education assigned in the eastern part of Patikul, Sulu, when they were fired upon.
The initial report by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Brig. Gen. Edgardo de Leon said the NPA guerillas also escaped with the firearms of the firm’s five security personnel.
De Leon said the attackers are members of the Sub-Regional Command 1 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee who swooped down on the quarry site of Minergy Power Corp. at around 6:30 a.m. of August 19.
He said the rebels fired at the security guards deployed at the quarry site located at Quezon Heights, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.
However, de Leon did not say what type of firearms was taken from the guards, adding policemen were investigating if there were other properties that were damaged or destroyed during the attack.
Also on Monday, the AFP reported that two policemen were wounded after they were ambushed by suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu.
Cpl. Angelo Canapi and Pat. Nijar Awwalon, members of the Second Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Sulu Police Provincial Office, were waylaid at around 7:45 a.m. in Barangay Igasan, Patikul, the military said.
The two policemen were said to have been providing security for the car-pooled teachers of the Department of Education assigned in the eastern part of Patikul, Sulu, when they were fired upon.
AFP-CRS: This NPA recruitment is destroying our YOUTH.
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 18, 2019): This NPA recruitment is destroying our YOUTH.
https://www.facebook.com/crg2crsafp/photos/a.555622884555959/2369348219850074/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
https://www.facebook.com/crg2crsafp/photos/a.555622884555959/2369348219850074/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
AFP-CRS: PNP Bacs Revival of Anti-Subversion Law to End Communism
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 18, 2019): PNP Bacs Revival of Anti-Subversion Law to End Communism
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647875025231205/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647875025231205/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
AFP-CRS: 40-Year Rido in Lanao Sur Settled
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 18, 2019): 40-Year Rido in Lanao Sur Settled
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647875481897826/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647875481897826/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
AFP-CRS: Uncoordinated Passage of Chinese Warships Cause for Concern
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 18, 2019): Uncoordinated Passage of Chinese Warships Cause for Concern
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647876828564358/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647876828564358/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
AFP-CRS: Army Activating Another Brigade of Rapid Deployment Force
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 18, 2019): Army Activating Another Brigade of Rapid Deployment Force
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647877805230927/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647877805230927/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
AFP-CRS: Art of Deception Not New to Elago, CPP-NPA Groups
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 18, 2019): Art of Deception Not New to Elago, CPP-NPA Groups
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647878825230825/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647878825230825/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
AFP-CRS: PH-US to Establish Counter-Terrorism Center
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 18, 2019): PH-US to Establish Counter-Terrorism Center
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647879165230791/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2647879165230791/?type=3&theater
[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]
Kalinaw News: Bedridden NPA member rescued in a raid
Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2019): Bedridden NPA member rescued in a raid
Joint operatives from the Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion, Special Action Force, 2nd Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company, all under the Police Regional Office 7, rescued a disabled member of New People’s Army, during a bomb-making facility raid conducted at Sitio Cabilocan, Brgy Camindangan, Sipalay City, August 18.
During the raid of the assaulting teams, PLtCol Ryan Manongdo, Force Commander, 2nd NOCPMFC, noticed a person confined in his bed at one of the huts adjacent to the encounter area, who was later identified as Ka “Amado”.
After initial investigation with members of the community, it was disclosed that Ka “Amado” was left at the area by more or less 30 members of the CPP NPA led by a certain Kumander “KOMPOL” last May 2019. Seeing the struggle of the Ka “Amado” and the lack of adequate health assistance, the residents sought the help of 15IB to extract him at said site and be treated in a medical facility. The Army and police pulled out Ka “Amado” from the encounter site with the use of improvised stretcher made of rice sack and two (2) pieces of wood until he was turned over to the rescue team of Sipalay CDRRMO and later brought to a government hospital. There he was treated accordingly and now being taken cared by medical professionals.
“Kudos to members of 15IB, SAF, PRO7 and 2nd Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company for giving compassion and kindness to a known member of the CPP NPA. In his most unfortunate time, desperate time, we were the answer to his prayers,” said PLtCol Manongdo.
Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land.
e-mail: contact@kalinawnews.com
https://www.kalinawnews.com/bedridden-npa-member-rescued-in-a-raid/
Joint operatives from the Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion, Special Action Force, 2nd Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company, all under the Police Regional Office 7, rescued a disabled member of New People’s Army, during a bomb-making facility raid conducted at Sitio Cabilocan, Brgy Camindangan, Sipalay City, August 18.
During the raid of the assaulting teams, PLtCol Ryan Manongdo, Force Commander, 2nd NOCPMFC, noticed a person confined in his bed at one of the huts adjacent to the encounter area, who was later identified as Ka “Amado”.
After initial investigation with members of the community, it was disclosed that Ka “Amado” was left at the area by more or less 30 members of the CPP NPA led by a certain Kumander “KOMPOL” last May 2019. Seeing the struggle of the Ka “Amado” and the lack of adequate health assistance, the residents sought the help of 15IB to extract him at said site and be treated in a medical facility. The Army and police pulled out Ka “Amado” from the encounter site with the use of improvised stretcher made of rice sack and two (2) pieces of wood until he was turned over to the rescue team of Sipalay CDRRMO and later brought to a government hospital. There he was treated accordingly and now being taken cared by medical professionals.
“Kudos to members of 15IB, SAF, PRO7 and 2nd Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company for giving compassion and kindness to a known member of the CPP NPA. In his most unfortunate time, desperate time, we were the answer to his prayers,” said PLtCol Manongdo.
Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land.
e-mail: contact@kalinawnews.com
https://www.kalinawnews.com/bedridden-npa-member-rescued-in-a-raid/
Kalinaw News: Army unit pushes Whole-of-Nation Effort, more NPA regular surrenders in Agusan Sur
Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2019): Army unit pushes Whole-of-Nation Effort, more NPA regular surrenders in Agusan Sur
ASUNCION, Davao del Norte – Following the recent snowball of surrender of NPA regulars, Militia ng Bayan, and underground mass organization members in Agusan Sur in July, four members of the communist-terrorist group’s Pulang Bagani Command 4 (PBC 4), Southern Mindanao Regional Committee voluntarily surrendered anew to the 60 th Infantry (MEDIATOR) Battalion on Saturday.
The four surrenderees are all members of the Umayamnon-Manobo tribe and are residents of Agusan del Sur. They brought with them their NPA-issued firearms upon surrendering.
Whilst joining the CPP-NPA in different periods, all four surrenderees claim they have been coerced by their terrorist recruiters to join the group. All four also claim that they started as mere couriers of the NPA’s foodstuff and other supplies before they were told to serve the “movement” fulltime.
Alias Ago and alias Dalisay recalls they both resisted at first; pleading their recruiter—a certain Rene Catarata alias “Tata”—that they cannot leave their homes since they both have ailing children during that time. Ago even says that Tata went as far as threatening to kill him and his family if he insisted not to join.
Alias Leroy and alias Korme, on the other hand, had been promised by their recruiters that their families will be financially supported while they are away operating with the NPA.
Leroy, who have been with the NPA for over a year already, and Korme, who was recruited only last May, both discovered from Dalisay (recruited on June) that their families have not received the promised financial support. In fact, their families have already been seeking the help of their local officials in finding them.
On Friday, Tata ordered the four to fetch their new supplies when they accidentally ran into their barangay captain and tribal chief who then convinced them not to return to the armed group.
Dalisay told them that they have already been planning to surrender but they were afraid the authorities will only turn against them.
Both the barangay captain and the tribal chieftain, however, expressed their confidence with 60IB and the local government who have been actively campaigning to end the local insurgency thru peaceful means while also implementing its enhanced reintegration programs. The local officials assured the four that they will be treated fairly by the authorities.
The four was able to recover their respective firearms—one US M1 Carbine, one US-made 12- gauge shotgun, a homemade shotgun, and a caliber .357 revolver—from their hideout before finally surrendering to the authorities.
Assuming operational jurisdiction over the municipalities of Loreto, Veruela, Sta. Josefa, and one barangay of La Paz, Agusan del Sur Province since July, (i.e.) 60IB has been actively working with the different local government units and other institutions to help end the local communist armed conflict in these areas.
Its most recent gain is the surrender of over 30 CPP-NPA members whose revelations and insights have been instrumental to the effective conduct of 60IB’s community support program vis-Ã -vis the delivery of basic services by other government agencies.
The Philippine Army recently conferred the “Proficient Status” under its Army Governance Pathway to 60IB and recognized it as a “Gold Trailblazer,” having received a very high score after its evaluation and validation.
The award was given to 60IB during the 10 th Infantry Division’s anniversary celebration last August 16 (Friday) in Mawab by Army Chief Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto who praised 60IB for having been able to rally for a more effective, genuine Whole-of-Nation approach to ending the local armed conflict, and implementing operational and administrative innovations resulting to major gains in its campaign.
Giving a statement, 60IB commander Lt. Col. Gilbert Ombos said, “It’s not really about the recognition but more about genuinely transforming ourselves—our troops—to becoming an army that really cares for the people. Add to that the parallel transformation of our local government units and other government institutions whose role in ending the local communist armed conflict cannot be more important today than it was yesterday. We realize through our recent gains that the reason these rebels are becoming more confident to voluntarily surrender and cooperate with authorities is because we have become a better government. That’s all we had to do.”
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
ASUNCION, Davao del Norte – Following the recent snowball of surrender of NPA regulars, Militia ng Bayan, and underground mass organization members in Agusan Sur in July, four members of the communist-terrorist group’s Pulang Bagani Command 4 (PBC 4), Southern Mindanao Regional Committee voluntarily surrendered anew to the 60 th Infantry (MEDIATOR) Battalion on Saturday.
The four surrenderees are all members of the Umayamnon-Manobo tribe and are residents of Agusan del Sur. They brought with them their NPA-issued firearms upon surrendering.
Whilst joining the CPP-NPA in different periods, all four surrenderees claim they have been coerced by their terrorist recruiters to join the group. All four also claim that they started as mere couriers of the NPA’s foodstuff and other supplies before they were told to serve the “movement” fulltime.
Alias Ago and alias Dalisay recalls they both resisted at first; pleading their recruiter—a certain Rene Catarata alias “Tata”—that they cannot leave their homes since they both have ailing children during that time. Ago even says that Tata went as far as threatening to kill him and his family if he insisted not to join.
Alias Leroy and alias Korme, on the other hand, had been promised by their recruiters that their families will be financially supported while they are away operating with the NPA.
Leroy, who have been with the NPA for over a year already, and Korme, who was recruited only last May, both discovered from Dalisay (recruited on June) that their families have not received the promised financial support. In fact, their families have already been seeking the help of their local officials in finding them.
On Friday, Tata ordered the four to fetch their new supplies when they accidentally ran into their barangay captain and tribal chief who then convinced them not to return to the armed group.
Dalisay told them that they have already been planning to surrender but they were afraid the authorities will only turn against them.
Both the barangay captain and the tribal chieftain, however, expressed their confidence with 60IB and the local government who have been actively campaigning to end the local insurgency thru peaceful means while also implementing its enhanced reintegration programs. The local officials assured the four that they will be treated fairly by the authorities.
The four was able to recover their respective firearms—one US M1 Carbine, one US-made 12- gauge shotgun, a homemade shotgun, and a caliber .357 revolver—from their hideout before finally surrendering to the authorities.
Assuming operational jurisdiction over the municipalities of Loreto, Veruela, Sta. Josefa, and one barangay of La Paz, Agusan del Sur Province since July, (i.e.) 60IB has been actively working with the different local government units and other institutions to help end the local communist armed conflict in these areas.
Its most recent gain is the surrender of over 30 CPP-NPA members whose revelations and insights have been instrumental to the effective conduct of 60IB’s community support program vis-Ã -vis the delivery of basic services by other government agencies.
The Philippine Army recently conferred the “Proficient Status” under its Army Governance Pathway to 60IB and recognized it as a “Gold Trailblazer,” having received a very high score after its evaluation and validation.
The award was given to 60IB during the 10 th Infantry Division’s anniversary celebration last August 16 (Friday) in Mawab by Army Chief Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto who praised 60IB for having been able to rally for a more effective, genuine Whole-of-Nation approach to ending the local armed conflict, and implementing operational and administrative innovations resulting to major gains in its campaign.
Giving a statement, 60IB commander Lt. Col. Gilbert Ombos said, “It’s not really about the recognition but more about genuinely transforming ourselves—our troops—to becoming an army that really cares for the people. Add to that the parallel transformation of our local government units and other government institutions whose role in ending the local communist armed conflict cannot be more important today than it was yesterday. We realize through our recent gains that the reason these rebels are becoming more confident to voluntarily surrender and cooperate with authorities is because we have become a better government. That’s all we had to do.”
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Kalinaw News: Army welcomes 102 IP youth from CARAGA
Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2019): Army welcomes 102 IP youth from CARAGA
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – A total of 102 IP members of the Youth for Peace from Laz Nievez, Agusan del Norte were warmly welcomed during their Educational Tour at Headquarters, 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army yesterday, August 17, 2019.
The tour was facilitated by the 23rd Infantry Battalion headed by Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina Jr in partnership with the Local Government Units of Agusan del Norte and Youth for Peace-Caraga. The participants were youth from the Higaonon Tribe who recently undergone a 3-day stay-in Barangay Youth Leadership Summit last August 9-11, 2019 at Lawan-lawan National High School, Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.
4ID showcased different activities during the Educational Tour such as the Infantry Rifle Squad Demonstration, K9 Capability Demonstration and the Static Display which exhibited the different equipment and capabilities of the Philippine Army utilized during the conduct of combat and non-combat operations.
Ms Mary Ann Tedio, IP Youth representative said, “Walay kasudlan ang among kalipay nga gibati sa among pagbisita dinhi sa inyong kampo. First time namo nakasulod sa inyong kampo og malipayon kami sa inyong pagdawat sa amoa. Kami nanghinaut nga dili lang kani ang una ug ulahi nato nga panagkita. Daghan salamat sa tanan kasundaluhan ug personahi sa 23IB ug sa 4ID.”
Barangay Captain More Migdayun, Chairman of Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte also expressed his heartfelt gratitude. “Mapasalamaton ako ug daku inubanan sa akong mga ginsakpan sa Brgy ug sa tanan nga mga kabantan-unan nga naa dinhi karong nga nahatagan sa talagsaon kaayo nga higayon nga makabisita dinhi sa 4ID. Ang inyong paghatag ug pagtagad sa pagpadangat sa inyong serbisyo sa among Brgy nakapabag-o sa panlantaw sa among kumunidad. Dili na sama kaniadto nga kami pagahasion lamang sa mga terroristang NPA apan sa karon nga aduna nay presensya sa army sa 23IB sa among lugar ug sa pagdangat sa mga programa paninungod ilabina sa atong pagsalbar sa kabantan-onan sa recruitment sa NPA, among pagyukbo ug pagtahod labaw sa pagpasalamat sa tanan personahi sa Armed Forces of the Philippines.”
Meanwhile, MGen Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander 4th ID, said “You are always welcome in the Home of the Diamond troopers which, to some of you who dreamed of becoming a soldier, will someday become yours as well. We are happy to display some of our capabilities and show how our soldiers strive hard to serve and protect the people.” “May your soldiers become your role models of peace and inspire you to always do your best.” Gacal ended.
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – A total of 102 IP members of the Youth for Peace from Laz Nievez, Agusan del Norte were warmly welcomed during their Educational Tour at Headquarters, 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army yesterday, August 17, 2019.
The tour was facilitated by the 23rd Infantry Battalion headed by Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina Jr in partnership with the Local Government Units of Agusan del Norte and Youth for Peace-Caraga. The participants were youth from the Higaonon Tribe who recently undergone a 3-day stay-in Barangay Youth Leadership Summit last August 9-11, 2019 at Lawan-lawan National High School, Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.
4ID showcased different activities during the Educational Tour such as the Infantry Rifle Squad Demonstration, K9 Capability Demonstration and the Static Display which exhibited the different equipment and capabilities of the Philippine Army utilized during the conduct of combat and non-combat operations.
Ms Mary Ann Tedio, IP Youth representative said, “Walay kasudlan ang among kalipay nga gibati sa among pagbisita dinhi sa inyong kampo. First time namo nakasulod sa inyong kampo og malipayon kami sa inyong pagdawat sa amoa. Kami nanghinaut nga dili lang kani ang una ug ulahi nato nga panagkita. Daghan salamat sa tanan kasundaluhan ug personahi sa 23IB ug sa 4ID.”
Barangay Captain More Migdayun, Chairman of Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte also expressed his heartfelt gratitude. “Mapasalamaton ako ug daku inubanan sa akong mga ginsakpan sa Brgy ug sa tanan nga mga kabantan-unan nga naa dinhi karong nga nahatagan sa talagsaon kaayo nga higayon nga makabisita dinhi sa 4ID. Ang inyong paghatag ug pagtagad sa pagpadangat sa inyong serbisyo sa among Brgy nakapabag-o sa panlantaw sa among kumunidad. Dili na sama kaniadto nga kami pagahasion lamang sa mga terroristang NPA apan sa karon nga aduna nay presensya sa army sa 23IB sa among lugar ug sa pagdangat sa mga programa paninungod ilabina sa atong pagsalbar sa kabantan-onan sa recruitment sa NPA, among pagyukbo ug pagtahod labaw sa pagpasalamat sa tanan personahi sa Armed Forces of the Philippines.”
Meanwhile, MGen Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander 4th ID, said “You are always welcome in the Home of the Diamond troopers which, to some of you who dreamed of becoming a soldier, will someday become yours as well. We are happy to display some of our capabilities and show how our soldiers strive hard to serve and protect the people.” “May your soldiers become your role models of peace and inspire you to always do your best.” Gacal ended.
Division Public Affairs Office 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Kalinaw News: RTF ELCAC’s PLEDS cluster meets; forges action plan
Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2019): RTF ELCAC’s PLEDS cluster meets; forges action plan
RTF ELCAC’s PLEDS cluster meets; forges action plan 1
BACANCI, Butuan City – The Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster of the Regional Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict in Caraga held a Planning and Workshop meeting on August 16, 2019 at the Headquarters of 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, Brgy Bancasi, Butuan City.
The PLEDS Cluster of the RTF ELCAC Caraga spearheaded by its Ex-Officio Chairperson representing the DND at the regional level and the Brigade Commander of the 402nd Brigade, Col Maurito L Licudine, facilitated the planning and workshop to craft an action plan to harmonize the efforts of member agencies and set specific actions and corresponding timelines to achieve the goals and objectives of the TF-ELCAC as a response to the Whole of Nation Approach (WNA) embodied in the EO No. 70.
The highlights during the cluster meeting were the leveling of understanding on the individual roles of the agencies and the actual planning and workshops. The 402nd Brigade discussed the insurgency situation and Community Support Program (CSP); DILG Caraga explained the salient points of the Peace and Development Zone initiative and the Retooled CSP (RCSP) as the banner program to combat insurgency and as the enabling mechanism to operationalize the EO No. 70 in the Caraga region; and PRO13 presented peace and order briefing on Caraga.
Regional member agencies who attended the said meeting were the following: 402nd Brigade and 401st Brigade of the Philippine Army; PRO13 of the PNP; DILG; BFAR; DA; DOJ-RPO; PIA; DOLE; DOTR; NBI; OPPAP; NCIP; DOT and DILG Butuan City.
In his statement, Col Allan D Hambala, the 401st Brigade Commander said, “The cluster meeting with the AFP representing the DND in the regional level gives us the opportunity to synchronize our efforts in defeating the communist terrorist group and set the benchmark towards the journey of attaining a sustainable and lasting peace in the region”.
Meanwhile, Col Licudine stressed the importance of the PLEDS cluster meeting as it will chart its journey towards the realization and success of the EO No. 70 objectives utilizing the RTF ELCAC mechanism. “We need to accelerate our efforts to operationalize the EO No. 70 thru the RTF ELCAC using the PDZ apparatus as the banner program. Unlike with the other clusters, PLEDS will directly confront the existing threats and security challenges in Caraga, hence, it is essential that concrete plans and timelines are set and member agencies roles and task are precisely defined to effectively respond to the issues at hand.”
The cluster meeting ended in the afternoon with the output presentation of the PLEDS Action Plan.
RTF ELCAC’s PLEDS cluster meets; forges action plan 1
BACANCI, Butuan City – The Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster of the Regional Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict in Caraga held a Planning and Workshop meeting on August 16, 2019 at the Headquarters of 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, Brgy Bancasi, Butuan City.
The PLEDS Cluster of the RTF ELCAC Caraga spearheaded by its Ex-Officio Chairperson representing the DND at the regional level and the Brigade Commander of the 402nd Brigade, Col Maurito L Licudine, facilitated the planning and workshop to craft an action plan to harmonize the efforts of member agencies and set specific actions and corresponding timelines to achieve the goals and objectives of the TF-ELCAC as a response to the Whole of Nation Approach (WNA) embodied in the EO No. 70.
The highlights during the cluster meeting were the leveling of understanding on the individual roles of the agencies and the actual planning and workshops. The 402nd Brigade discussed the insurgency situation and Community Support Program (CSP); DILG Caraga explained the salient points of the Peace and Development Zone initiative and the Retooled CSP (RCSP) as the banner program to combat insurgency and as the enabling mechanism to operationalize the EO No. 70 in the Caraga region; and PRO13 presented peace and order briefing on Caraga.
Regional member agencies who attended the said meeting were the following: 402nd Brigade and 401st Brigade of the Philippine Army; PRO13 of the PNP; DILG; BFAR; DA; DOJ-RPO; PIA; DOLE; DOTR; NBI; OPPAP; NCIP; DOT and DILG Butuan City.
In his statement, Col Allan D Hambala, the 401st Brigade Commander said, “The cluster meeting with the AFP representing the DND in the regional level gives us the opportunity to synchronize our efforts in defeating the communist terrorist group and set the benchmark towards the journey of attaining a sustainable and lasting peace in the region”.
Meanwhile, Col Licudine stressed the importance of the PLEDS cluster meeting as it will chart its journey towards the realization and success of the EO No. 70 objectives utilizing the RTF ELCAC mechanism. “We need to accelerate our efforts to operationalize the EO No. 70 thru the RTF ELCAC using the PDZ apparatus as the banner program. Unlike with the other clusters, PLEDS will directly confront the existing threats and security challenges in Caraga, hence, it is essential that concrete plans and timelines are set and member agencies roles and task are precisely defined to effectively respond to the issues at hand.”
The cluster meeting ended in the afternoon with the output presentation of the PLEDS Action Plan.
402nd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT FRANCISCO P GARELLO JR (INF) PA
402nd Bde Civil Military Operations Officer
Contact Number:0915-054-3439/0948-641-6783
Add us on Facebook at: RAJAH KULAMBO (Stinger)
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
CPT FRANCISCO P GARELLO JR (INF) PA
402nd Bde Civil Military Operations Officer
Contact Number:0915-054-3439/0948-641-6783
Add us on Facebook at: RAJAH KULAMBO (Stinger)
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Kalinaw News:Army, armed group clash in Lanao
Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2019): Army, armed group clash in Lanao
CAMP SANG-AN, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur – Army’s 5th Mechanized Battalion, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade clashed against 20 members of an armed group in Brgy Karkum, Sapad Lanao del Norte, 9:50 a.m. Saturday, August 17, 2019.
According to Lt. Col. Rolando Orengo, 5th Mechanized Battalion Commander, “Our troops were able to out-maneuver the armed group even if they were in a well-fortified position”.
The 35-minute firefight made the enemy scampered that led into the recovery one M14, one M16, two Garrand rifles; one rifle grenade; magazines and ammunitions.
No government forces were hurt while undetermined number of enemy casualties based on the traces of bloodstains in their withdrawal route.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Ezra James Enriquez, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander who has operational jurisdiction over Lanao del Norte urged the wounded armed elements to surrender for them to be given proper medical treatment and assured them of their safety and security.
Enriquez also urged the people to cooperate and report to proper authorities if there are presence of armed groups in their communities.
For his part, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, lauded the troops for the successful encounter and the recovery of firearms.
“I urge everyone to continue our efforts in pursuing lasting peace not just for Mindanao but for the whole country. Let us conquer the challenges ahead of us and step up the momentum in sustaining our gains for our common aspiration”, said Ancan.
CAMP SANG-AN, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur – Army’s 5th Mechanized Battalion, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade clashed against 20 members of an armed group in Brgy Karkum, Sapad Lanao del Norte, 9:50 a.m. Saturday, August 17, 2019.
According to Lt. Col. Rolando Orengo, 5th Mechanized Battalion Commander, “Our troops were able to out-maneuver the armed group even if they were in a well-fortified position”.
The 35-minute firefight made the enemy scampered that led into the recovery one M14, one M16, two Garrand rifles; one rifle grenade; magazines and ammunitions.
No government forces were hurt while undetermined number of enemy casualties based on the traces of bloodstains in their withdrawal route.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Ezra James Enriquez, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander who has operational jurisdiction over Lanao del Norte urged the wounded armed elements to surrender for them to be given proper medical treatment and assured them of their safety and security.
Enriquez also urged the people to cooperate and report to proper authorities if there are presence of armed groups in their communities.
For his part, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, lauded the troops for the successful encounter and the recovery of firearms.
“I urge everyone to continue our efforts in pursuing lasting peace not just for Mindanao but for the whole country. Let us conquer the challenges ahead of us and step up the momentum in sustaining our gains for our common aspiration”, said Ancan.
Division Public Affairs Office 1st Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT CLINT ANTIPALA
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 1st Infantry Division
E-mail: tabakdpao@gmail.com
Mobile Number: 09177938341
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
CPT CLINT ANTIPALA
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 1st Infantry Division
E-mail: tabakdpao@gmail.com
Mobile Number: 09177938341
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Kalinaw News: Army intensifies information drive against CPP-NPA-NDF campus recruitment in Agusan Sur
Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2019): Army intensifies information drive against CPP-NPA-NDF campus recruitment in Agusan Sur
BUNAWAN, Agusan del Sur – Three thousand students of Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) have undergone “immunization” after the Armys 401st Infantry Unite N Fight Brigade (401Bde) conducts Information and Education Campaign (IEC) about the CPP-NPA-NDF (CNN) Deceptions and Campus Recruitment Scheme, at Sports and Socio-Cultural Center, ASSCAT Main Campus yesterday morning, August 18.
In partnership with the ASSCAT Office of Student Affairs and 1502nd Community Defense Center, 15th Caraga Regional Community Defense Center Group (15RCDG), Army Reserve Command, the Brigade facilitated the information drive to incoming freshmen students during the National Service Training Program (NSTP) General Orientation and Registration, as part of the school’s curriculum.
During the program, Captain Aldim Viernes, 401Bde Civil – Military Operations Officer, together with Subject Matter Experts from the Army, discussed the CNN Campus Infiltration Scheme to the students, giving emphasis on the step by step processes by which any student could be unknowingly deceived by the left- leaning school organizations such as League of the Filipino Students (LFS), Anakbayan and Kabataan, to be radicalized and eventually recruited as regular member of the New People’s Army, the CPP armed wing.
Glene Nala, Director of the Office of Student Affairs, highlighted the present threat to all students brought by the CNN-affiliated organizations inside other school campuses, “What the Army has presented to us are the present and real danger confronting all of us. Sa experience ni Mam @Cheche, there was no such thing as life in those organizations but there’s certainly death. There will be no freedom when you join them.”
He further emphasized the government programs and efforts which aim to benefit the students to enjoy their right to free education. “Our loyalty should be to the government and our government is trying to afford us our rights, life, liberty and property. Yong unang kailangan natin ngayon ay makatapos ng pag-aaral, and our government is trying to provide us with that one. All of you here are beneficiaries of free education and many are 4Ps beneficiaries, and these are but some of the government efforts for us to fully enjoy our rights, kaya h’wag nyong sayangin iyon”.
@Cheche, a former youth rebel from Loreto, Agusan del Sur, who surrendered last 2018, shared her experiences being an insurgent for three years, how she was recruited by the communist group until she decided to surrender, warned all the students not to join and be involved in any left leaning school organizations recruiting student members to conduct mass actions, rallies and immersions in the countryside. “Ayaw mo pag-apil apil anang mga organisasyon kay mangamatay ra mo diha. Daghan ng inyong nakita sa video nga gipangrekrut sa sulod sa eskwelahan, pero kadaghanan nangamatay lamang sa engkwentro sa lasang. Wala moy kaugmaon sulod sa NPA, mao tong hinungdan nga nag surrender ko,” she said.
One of the Student Council members also said, “We are happy that we heard a very inspiring message from a former rebel, which enlightened us about the activities of the CNN. I realized that no matter how difficult my life is being a student, I will never ever join in those terrorist organizations. A better life is always with the government side.”
The intensified IEC about the CNN Campus Infiltration and Youth Recruitment is part of the Information Operations efforts of the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster under its Action Plan, as mandated in the localized implementation of EO 70 in the Province of Agusan del Sur.
According to Colonel Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander, “As the national government started its investigation on the recruitment of students from different universities and colleges nationwide by the terrorist CPP-NPA front organizations such as LFS and Anakbayan, we, in the PLEDS Cluster in Caraga region also intensified our conduct of IEC about CNN campus infiltration and recruitment here in the province, to inform our students and make them aware of the danger of terrorists’ deceptions and propaganda. Prevention is always better than cure that is why we conducted this activity to protect and enlighten our youths against the CNN tactics.”
The half-day program also discussed Gender and Development Orientation, NSTP Component Orientations on CWTS and ROTC, Students Registration and Army Recruitment Process.
In partnership with the ASSCAT Office of Student Affairs and 1502nd Community Defense Center, 15th Caraga Regional Community Defense Center Group (15RCDG), Army Reserve Command, the Brigade facilitated the information drive to incoming freshmen students during the National Service Training Program (NSTP) General Orientation and Registration, as part of the school’s curriculum.
During the program, Captain Aldim Viernes, 401Bde Civil – Military Operations Officer, together with Subject Matter Experts from the Army, discussed the CNN Campus Infiltration Scheme to the students, giving emphasis on the step by step processes by which any student could be unknowingly deceived by the left- leaning school organizations such as League of the Filipino Students (LFS), Anakbayan and Kabataan, to be radicalized and eventually recruited as regular member of the New People’s Army, the CPP armed wing.
Glene Nala, Director of the Office of Student Affairs, highlighted the present threat to all students brought by the CNN-affiliated organizations inside other school campuses, “What the Army has presented to us are the present and real danger confronting all of us. Sa experience ni Mam @Cheche, there was no such thing as life in those organizations but there’s certainly death. There will be no freedom when you join them.”
He further emphasized the government programs and efforts which aim to benefit the students to enjoy their right to free education. “Our loyalty should be to the government and our government is trying to afford us our rights, life, liberty and property. Yong unang kailangan natin ngayon ay makatapos ng pag-aaral, and our government is trying to provide us with that one. All of you here are beneficiaries of free education and many are 4Ps beneficiaries, and these are but some of the government efforts for us to fully enjoy our rights, kaya h’wag nyong sayangin iyon”.
@Cheche, a former youth rebel from Loreto, Agusan del Sur, who surrendered last 2018, shared her experiences being an insurgent for three years, how she was recruited by the communist group until she decided to surrender, warned all the students not to join and be involved in any left leaning school organizations recruiting student members to conduct mass actions, rallies and immersions in the countryside. “Ayaw mo pag-apil apil anang mga organisasyon kay mangamatay ra mo diha. Daghan ng inyong nakita sa video nga gipangrekrut sa sulod sa eskwelahan, pero kadaghanan nangamatay lamang sa engkwentro sa lasang. Wala moy kaugmaon sulod sa NPA, mao tong hinungdan nga nag surrender ko,” she said.
One of the Student Council members also said, “We are happy that we heard a very inspiring message from a former rebel, which enlightened us about the activities of the CNN. I realized that no matter how difficult my life is being a student, I will never ever join in those terrorist organizations. A better life is always with the government side.”
The intensified IEC about the CNN Campus Infiltration and Youth Recruitment is part of the Information Operations efforts of the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster under its Action Plan, as mandated in the localized implementation of EO 70 in the Province of Agusan del Sur.
According to Colonel Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander, “As the national government started its investigation on the recruitment of students from different universities and colleges nationwide by the terrorist CPP-NPA front organizations such as LFS and Anakbayan, we, in the PLEDS Cluster in Caraga region also intensified our conduct of IEC about CNN campus infiltration and recruitment here in the province, to inform our students and make them aware of the danger of terrorists’ deceptions and propaganda. Prevention is always better than cure that is why we conducted this activity to protect and enlighten our youths against the CNN tactics.”
The half-day program also discussed Gender and Development Orientation, NSTP Component Orientations on CWTS and ROTC, Students Registration and Army Recruitment Process.
401st Infantry Brigade, 4rt Infantry Division Philippine Army
Contact: MAJ RODULFO S CORDERO JR (INF) PA
E-mail Address: s7401bde_4id@yahoo.com
Contact Nr: 0917-711-1627
Contact: MAJ RODULFO S CORDERO JR (INF) PA
E-mail Address: s7401bde_4id@yahoo.com
Contact Nr: 0917-711-1627
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
Kalinaw News: Army, PNP trains village peacekeepers in Bukidnon
Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2019): Army, PNP trains village peacekeepers in Bukidnon
MARAMAG, Bukidnon – 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion with PNP and MLGU of Quezon, Bukidnon facilitated 3 Batches of Barangay Peace Action Team Enhancement Training in the clustered barangays of Quezon, Bukidnon that ended on 16 August 2019.
The clustered barangays include those that were immersed by the Army Community Support Program, namely, Brgy Cawayan, Sta. Felomina, Linabo, Merangeran, Magsaysay, Lumintao, Lipa, Salawagan, Minongan, and Butong.
The 2 days BPATS training with 3 batches started last 10 August 2019 and ended on 16 August 2019 that held at Quezon firing range at Brgy Libertad, Quezon, Bukidnon. The said enhancement training benefited a total of 213 BPAT members from 10 different Barangays.
Subject matter experts (SMEs) from different agencies like; PNP, AFP, MLGU and NGO’s from Quezon, Bukidnon provided essential lectures such as RA 9165 known as Comprehensive dangerous Drug Act, Five Pillars of Criminal Justice System, Fundamentals of Self Defense, Basic Life Support/First Aid, Safety Gun Handling, the Barrio module of the CPP-NPA (or the step by step of infiltrating the brgy by the CNTs) and Info collection and steps in reporting to the authorities.
Lt. Col. Franklin F Fabic, commanding officer of the 88th Infantry Battalion said “BPAT is one of the components of Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) so that even without the Community Support Teams, they will be the one to maintain peace and security in the barangay.
The said activity empowered the BPAT members, boosted their morale and most importantly equipped them with more knowledge that will make them more effective and responsible in performing their duties.
MARAMAG, Bukidnon – 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion with PNP and MLGU of Quezon, Bukidnon facilitated 3 Batches of Barangay Peace Action Team Enhancement Training in the clustered barangays of Quezon, Bukidnon that ended on 16 August 2019.
The clustered barangays include those that were immersed by the Army Community Support Program, namely, Brgy Cawayan, Sta. Felomina, Linabo, Merangeran, Magsaysay, Lumintao, Lipa, Salawagan, Minongan, and Butong.
The 2 days BPATS training with 3 batches started last 10 August 2019 and ended on 16 August 2019 that held at Quezon firing range at Brgy Libertad, Quezon, Bukidnon. The said enhancement training benefited a total of 213 BPAT members from 10 different Barangays.
Subject matter experts (SMEs) from different agencies like; PNP, AFP, MLGU and NGO’s from Quezon, Bukidnon provided essential lectures such as RA 9165 known as Comprehensive dangerous Drug Act, Five Pillars of Criminal Justice System, Fundamentals of Self Defense, Basic Life Support/First Aid, Safety Gun Handling, the Barrio module of the CPP-NPA (or the step by step of infiltrating the brgy by the CNTs) and Info collection and steps in reporting to the authorities.
Lt. Col. Franklin F Fabic, commanding officer of the 88th Infantry Battalion said “BPAT is one of the components of Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) so that even without the Community Support Teams, they will be the one to maintain peace and security in the barangay.
The said activity empowered the BPAT members, boosted their morale and most importantly equipped them with more knowledge that will make them more effective and responsible in performing their duties.
88th Infantry Battalion 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army
CPT NORVEN JAY GARCIA (INF) PA/CMO Officer
Contact Number: 09456077245
Email Address: 88Maringals7@gmail.com
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-pnp-trains-village-peacekeepers-in-bukidnon/
CPT NORVEN JAY GARCIA (INF) PA/CMO Officer
Contact Number: 09456077245
Email Address: 88Maringals7@gmail.com
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-pnp-trains-village-peacekeepers-in-bukidnon/
Rebel camp manufacturing explosives seized in Sipalay
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 19, 2019): Rebel camp manufacturing explosives seized in Sipalay
A New People’s Army camp used as a factory and repository of homemade explosives was discovered and seized yesterday by military and police forces in Sitio Cabilocan, Brgy. Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, after a gunbattle with its rebel occupants.
Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas, Central Visayas regional police director, reported last night that three suspected NPA rebels were also intercepted and arrested during pursuit operations.
Sinas disclosed that the 10 minutes of armed skirmishes ensued after combined operating troops of the 15th Infantry Battalion, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7 striking force, Special Action Battalion 6, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company managed to penetrate the rebel camp undetected.
But Sinas said the occupants managed to escape towards the south direction of the rebel camp, leaving behind five IEDs (Improvised Explosives Devices), 1 and ¾ kilos of IED materials and components, 209 blasting caps, 175.5 inches of detonation cords, six assorted guns, 4,376 cuts of iron bars, 11 batteries, 25 switches, among other materials for making explosives, as well as 75 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Operating troops of the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company also arrested Roberto Tingson, 34, and Jory Mate, 38, who are suspected to be members of the NPA Yunit Militia and a certain Amado, who was identified as one of the manufacturers of IEDs, he added.
Aside from Tingson and Mate, two other residents in the sitio were also invited for questioning by the operating troops, Sinas also said.
He also reported that the arrested suspects were brought to the Sipalay City Police Station for processing and filing of appropriate charges in court.
No casualty was reported on the government side during the encounter.*
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/19/topstory4.htm
Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas, Central Visayas regional police director, reported last night that three suspected NPA rebels were also intercepted and arrested during pursuit operations.
Sinas disclosed that the 10 minutes of armed skirmishes ensued after combined operating troops of the 15th Infantry Battalion, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7 striking force, Special Action Battalion 6, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company managed to penetrate the rebel camp undetected.
But Sinas said the occupants managed to escape towards the south direction of the rebel camp, leaving behind five IEDs (Improvised Explosives Devices), 1 and ¾ kilos of IED materials and components, 209 blasting caps, 175.5 inches of detonation cords, six assorted guns, 4,376 cuts of iron bars, 11 batteries, 25 switches, among other materials for making explosives, as well as 75 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Operating troops of the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company also arrested Roberto Tingson, 34, and Jory Mate, 38, who are suspected to be members of the NPA Yunit Militia and a certain Amado, who was identified as one of the manufacturers of IEDs, he added.
Aside from Tingson and Mate, two other residents in the sitio were also invited for questioning by the operating troops, Sinas also said.
He also reported that the arrested suspects were brought to the Sipalay City Police Station for processing and filing of appropriate charges in court.
No casualty was reported on the government side during the encounter.*
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/19/topstory4.htm
Court junks DOJ request to rearrest Satur Ocampo
From Rappler (Aug 19, 2019): Court junks DOJ request to rearrest Satur Ocampo
Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 32 finds no basis to overtake an earlier Supreme Court decision that gave Satur Ocampo provisional liberty
LIBERTY. Former Bayan Muna representative Satur Ocampo (right) keeps his liberty as the Manila Regional Trial Court rejects prosecutors' request to rearrest him on pending murder charges. File photo by Jire Carreon/Rappler
Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 32 finds no basis to overtake an earlier Supreme Court decision that gave Satur Ocampo provisional liberty
LIBERTY. Former Bayan Muna representative Satur Ocampo (right) keeps his liberty as the Manila Regional Trial Court rejects prosecutors' request to rearrest him on pending murder charges. File photo by Jire Carreon/Rappler
Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 32 denied prosecutors' request to rearrest former Bayan Muna representative Satur Ocampo on pending murder charges, over which he was already granted bail by the Supreme Court (SC).
"The court finds no reason to issue a recommitment order against Ocampo," said Judge Thelma Bunyi Medina.
Manila RTC Branch 32 is handling murder charges against Ocampo, other activists, and National Democratic Front consultants over a mass grave in Inopacan, Leyte, discovered by the military in 2006. The military is alleging that the supposed skeletal remains are those of victims of the so-called purge of communists.
In April 2007, the SC granted Ocampo provisional liberty after he posted bail of P100,000.
Grounds for the request
Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecutors filed on June 13 a motion of issuance of recommitment order against Ocampo, for supposed "proclivity to abuse the provisional liberty."
The prosecution cited the November 2018 incident in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, where police accused Ocampo and ACT Teachers Representative France Castro of kidnapping 14 minors.
Ocampo and Castro had explained that the minors were students in Lumad schools who they evacuated due to alleged harassment by state forces.
But charges of human trafficking and child abuse were filed against Ocampo, pending before Tagum City RTC Branch 2 in Davao del Norte. Ocampo was released on bail and is undergoing pre-trial for this case.
"Instead of making good use of his provisional liberty, accused Ocampo chose to betray the trust of the authority which granted him his temporary freedom by involving himself in another unlawful activity," said the prosecutors.
No conditions
Medina simply cited the SC's granting of provisional liberty to Ocampo which states that the bail remains effective "until the termination of the proceedings" before the Manila RTC.
"Plainly, the grant of bail to Ocampo is not subject to any other condition, except that its effectivity is until the termination of the proceedings of this case," said the judge.
Ocampo called the prosecutors' motion "perverse, presumptuous, and baseless."
"It is a chilling manifestation that their office is again being used and prostituted for political ends," he said.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government is pushing for the restoration of the anti-subversion law which would make it illegal to be a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
The DOJ is also seeking to tag CPP founding chairman Jose Maria Sison and 7 others as terrorists.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/238062-court-junks-doj-request-rearrest-satur-ocampo
"The court finds no reason to issue a recommitment order against Ocampo," said Judge Thelma Bunyi Medina.
Manila RTC Branch 32 is handling murder charges against Ocampo, other activists, and National Democratic Front consultants over a mass grave in Inopacan, Leyte, discovered by the military in 2006. The military is alleging that the supposed skeletal remains are those of victims of the so-called purge of communists.
In April 2007, the SC granted Ocampo provisional liberty after he posted bail of P100,000.
Grounds for the request
Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecutors filed on June 13 a motion of issuance of recommitment order against Ocampo, for supposed "proclivity to abuse the provisional liberty."
The prosecution cited the November 2018 incident in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, where police accused Ocampo and ACT Teachers Representative France Castro of kidnapping 14 minors.
Ocampo and Castro had explained that the minors were students in Lumad schools who they evacuated due to alleged harassment by state forces.
But charges of human trafficking and child abuse were filed against Ocampo, pending before Tagum City RTC Branch 2 in Davao del Norte. Ocampo was released on bail and is undergoing pre-trial for this case.
"Instead of making good use of his provisional liberty, accused Ocampo chose to betray the trust of the authority which granted him his temporary freedom by involving himself in another unlawful activity," said the prosecutors.
No conditions
Medina simply cited the SC's granting of provisional liberty to Ocampo which states that the bail remains effective "until the termination of the proceedings" before the Manila RTC.
"Plainly, the grant of bail to Ocampo is not subject to any other condition, except that its effectivity is until the termination of the proceedings of this case," said the judge.
Ocampo called the prosecutors' motion "perverse, presumptuous, and baseless."
"It is a chilling manifestation that their office is again being used and prostituted for political ends," he said.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government is pushing for the restoration of the anti-subversion law which would make it illegal to be a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
The DOJ is also seeking to tag CPP founding chairman Jose Maria Sison and 7 others as terrorists.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/238062-court-junks-doj-request-rearrest-satur-ocampo
10th ID trumpets gains vs. NPA
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 19, 2019): 10th ID trumpets gains vs. NPA
The 10th Infantry Division recorded significant gains against the New People’s Army, which reportedly continues to suffer reduction in support, firearms, and manpower.
Maj. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., the commander of 10th ID, said during the 13th founding anniversary last Friday in Barangay Tuboran Mawab, Compostela Valley, that the peace and development agenda of the government is working.
“In a span of one year we have doubled the efforts in focused military operations,” he said.
He said they recorded 2,000 former rebels who surrendered to different units since January of this year.
They also surrendered a total of 274 high-powered firearms and 216 low-powered firearms, as well as a number of improvised explosive devices. Military operations also resulted in the capture of 133 rebel encampments. Meanwhile, 92 affected barangays were cleared from rebel infiltration and influence during that span.
“We are optimistic that there will be more surrenderees in the near future as this command will do all means to isolate the enemies of the state, as well as to help those who concede,” he added.
As a result, the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, which he described was one the most organized and well-funded NPA units, “is now forced to do a strategic retreat outside of our area of responsibility in order to preserve their forces from being totally annihilated.”
Also in his message, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto, the commanding General of the Philippine Army commended the 10th ID.
“I congratulate the officers and enlisted personnel for the outstanding work you have done in keeping and soaring high in obtaining the peace and development in Southern Mindanao,” he said.
Also, during the celebration, military officers and enlisted personnel and stakeholders were awarded by the command for their valuable effort and support to the campaign against insurgency.
The 10th Infantry Division recorded significant gains against the New People’s Army, which reportedly continues to suffer reduction in support, firearms, and manpower.
Maj. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., the commander of 10th ID, said during the 13th founding anniversary last Friday in Barangay Tuboran Mawab, Compostela Valley, that the peace and development agenda of the government is working.
“In a span of one year we have doubled the efforts in focused military operations,” he said.
He said they recorded 2,000 former rebels who surrendered to different units since January of this year.
They also surrendered a total of 274 high-powered firearms and 216 low-powered firearms, as well as a number of improvised explosive devices. Military operations also resulted in the capture of 133 rebel encampments. Meanwhile, 92 affected barangays were cleared from rebel infiltration and influence during that span.
“We are optimistic that there will be more surrenderees in the near future as this command will do all means to isolate the enemies of the state, as well as to help those who concede,” he added.
As a result, the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, which he described was one the most organized and well-funded NPA units, “is now forced to do a strategic retreat outside of our area of responsibility in order to preserve their forces from being totally annihilated.”
Also in his message, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto, the commanding General of the Philippine Army commended the 10th ID.
“I congratulate the officers and enlisted personnel for the outstanding work you have done in keeping and soaring high in obtaining the peace and development in Southern Mindanao,” he said.
Also, during the celebration, military officers and enlisted personnel and stakeholders were awarded by the command for their valuable effort and support to the campaign against insurgency.
4 high-caliber rifles siezed in Bukidnon as NPAs escape
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 19, 2019): 4 high-caliber rifles siezed in Bukidnon as NPAs escape
Four high-powered firearms were recovered after an encounter with the communist rebels in Barangay Busdi, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on Aug. 15.
Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, the 8th IB Commander, said troops of the 8th Infantry Battalion clashed with an estimated 40 New People’s Army rebels belonging to the Sentro De Grabidad Dario, Sub-regional Command SRC2, North Central Mindanao Committee.
After receiving information from the locals, Illana said the soldiers planned an assault against the guerrillas.
“The soldiers stormed them in the morning by bursts of gunfire, prompting them to leave some of their firearms and run for their lives. The said troopers immediately occupied and secured the area,” he said.
Troops were able to recover an M1 Carbine, M1 Garrand, M16A1, and AK-47 rifles at the scene. After a thorough search of the area, they also found a rifle grenade, five fully loaded magazines of an AK-47, backpacks, and subversive documents.
“It was covered with thick trees, we are on our way up and we noticed the enemy presence so I alerted my platoon,” said Lt. Carlee Pablo, the platoon leader. “When confirmed that they were armed, we immediately fired at them and tried to outmaneuver but they ran.”
Illana commended the soldiers as he instructed the platoon leader to continue the pressure against the escaping rebels. He also urged the other rebels to surrender.
“The Philippine Army will not stop pursuing the NPAs to cut down their recruitment. The NPA is disintegrating and isolated. It is only a matter of time before they will be totally destroyed,” the battalion commander said.
Four high-powered firearms were recovered after an encounter with the communist rebels in Barangay Busdi, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on Aug. 15.
Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, the 8th IB Commander, said troops of the 8th Infantry Battalion clashed with an estimated 40 New People’s Army rebels belonging to the Sentro De Grabidad Dario, Sub-regional Command SRC2, North Central Mindanao Committee.
After receiving information from the locals, Illana said the soldiers planned an assault against the guerrillas.
“The soldiers stormed them in the morning by bursts of gunfire, prompting them to leave some of their firearms and run for their lives. The said troopers immediately occupied and secured the area,” he said.
Troops were able to recover an M1 Carbine, M1 Garrand, M16A1, and AK-47 rifles at the scene. After a thorough search of the area, they also found a rifle grenade, five fully loaded magazines of an AK-47, backpacks, and subversive documents.
“It was covered with thick trees, we are on our way up and we noticed the enemy presence so I alerted my platoon,” said Lt. Carlee Pablo, the platoon leader. “When confirmed that they were armed, we immediately fired at them and tried to outmaneuver but they ran.”
Illana commended the soldiers as he instructed the platoon leader to continue the pressure against the escaping rebels. He also urged the other rebels to surrender.
“The Philippine Army will not stop pursuing the NPAs to cut down their recruitment. The NPA is disintegrating and isolated. It is only a matter of time before they will be totally destroyed,” the battalion commander said.
NPA rebels disarm security guards of power firm in MisOr
From MindaNews (Aug 19, 2019): NPA rebels disarm security guards of power firm in MisOr
NPA guerillas. MindaNews file photo by FROILAN GALLARDO
New People’s Army rebels disarmed security guards at a quarry site of Minergy Power Corporation in Balingasag town, Misamis Oriental Monday morning.
Lt. Col. Anthony Derilo, commanding officer of 57th Infantry Battalion said the rebels carted away five AK47 rifles a radio and several rounds of ammunition from the guards at Barangay Quezon Heights in Balingasag town.
Derilo said the rebels did not a fire a shot during the raid and fled to the mountains afterward.
Nicholas Marino, spokesperson of the NPA in Misamis Oriental said it only took them five minutes to disarm the security guards of AY 76 Security Agency.
He said they seized four AK 47 rifles (not five as claimed by the military), several radios and 200 rounds of ammunition.
Marino said the NPA in Misamis Oriental decided to raid the outpost of the security guards to teach Minergy Power Corporation “a lesson”.
The company operates a 165-MW coal-fired power plant on the shoreline of Macajalar Bay fronting the province of Misamis Oriental.
“Minergy dumps its highly-toxic wastes in the bay and in a hole in that quarry site,” Marino said.
He said residents have complained to them that they have acquired various diseases including asthma, dizziness and sore eyes after the power plant went full-blast in September 2017.
The Misamis Oriental provincial board conducted an investigation but nothing has come out of it.
The management of Minergy Power Corporation declined to comment on this matter.
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/08/npa-rebels-disarm-security-guards-of-power-firm-in-misor/
Lt. Col. Anthony Derilo, commanding officer of 57th Infantry Battalion said the rebels carted away five AK47 rifles a radio and several rounds of ammunition from the guards at Barangay Quezon Heights in Balingasag town.
Derilo said the rebels did not a fire a shot during the raid and fled to the mountains afterward.
Nicholas Marino, spokesperson of the NPA in Misamis Oriental said it only took them five minutes to disarm the security guards of AY 76 Security Agency.
He said they seized four AK 47 rifles (not five as claimed by the military), several radios and 200 rounds of ammunition.
Marino said the NPA in Misamis Oriental decided to raid the outpost of the security guards to teach Minergy Power Corporation “a lesson”.
The company operates a 165-MW coal-fired power plant on the shoreline of Macajalar Bay fronting the province of Misamis Oriental.
“Minergy dumps its highly-toxic wastes in the bay and in a hole in that quarry site,” Marino said.
He said residents have complained to them that they have acquired various diseases including asthma, dizziness and sore eyes after the power plant went full-blast in September 2017.
The Misamis Oriental provincial board conducted an investigation but nothing has come out of it.
The management of Minergy Power Corporation declined to comment on this matter.
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/08/npa-rebels-disarm-security-guards-of-power-firm-in-misor/
2 Sulu cops wounded in Sayyaf ambush
Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 19, 2019): 2 Sulu cops wounded in Sayyaf ambush
Abu Sayyaf rebels on Monday ambushed 2 policemen escorting government teachers in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, officials said.
Officials said the Patrolman Nijar Awwalon and Corporal Angelo Canapi were wounded in the attack which occurred in the village of Igasan in Patikul town, a known lair of the pro-ISIS group blamed for the spate of terrorism in Sulu, one of 5 provinces under the Muslim autonomous region.
The attack sparked a brief firefight and only stopped after the rebels fled towards the hinterlands. There were no reports of civilian casualties. It was unclear why no military checkpoints were set up in the area considering the presence of rebels in the town.
There was no immediate statement from town officials on the daring ambush.
Last week, Abu Sayyaf gunmen killed a Special Forces soldier and a pro-government militia in an ambush in Talipao town. The soldier and his companion were travelling on a motorcycle in the village of Kagay when rebels ambushed the duo.
Two children nearby were also hit killing one of them and wounding the other. The attack occurred during the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha and while the whole region is in an extended state of martial rule. (Zamboanga Post)
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/2-sulu-cops-wounded-in-sayyaf-ambush/
Abu Sayyaf rebels on Monday ambushed 2 policemen escorting government teachers in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, officials said.
Officials said the Patrolman Nijar Awwalon and Corporal Angelo Canapi were wounded in the attack which occurred in the village of Igasan in Patikul town, a known lair of the pro-ISIS group blamed for the spate of terrorism in Sulu, one of 5 provinces under the Muslim autonomous region.
The attack sparked a brief firefight and only stopped after the rebels fled towards the hinterlands. There were no reports of civilian casualties. It was unclear why no military checkpoints were set up in the area considering the presence of rebels in the town.
There was no immediate statement from town officials on the daring ambush.
Last week, Abu Sayyaf gunmen killed a Special Forces soldier and a pro-government militia in an ambush in Talipao town. The soldier and his companion were travelling on a motorcycle in the village of Kagay when rebels ambushed the duo.
Two children nearby were also hit killing one of them and wounding the other. The attack occurred during the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha and while the whole region is in an extended state of martial rule. (Zamboanga Post)
https://mindanaoexaminer.com/2-sulu-cops-wounded-in-sayyaf-ambush/
29 former BIFF rebels receive livelihood aid from gov't
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 19, 2019): 29 former BIFF rebels receive livelihood aid from gov't (By DPAO-6ID)
Twenty-nine former Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) rebels recently received livelihood package from the provincial government of Maguindanao.
These were the rebels who surrendered to 33rd Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc on May 09, 2018 with the help of their families and local officials in hope that they will be given appropriate assistance to help them re-integrate and start their new lives in the communities.
More than a year after they laid down their arms, the livelihood assistance was given as promised by the government through the effort of the 40th Infantry Battalion which just assumed operational jurisdiction of the municipalities of Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun, Paglat, Paglas, Pandag, Buluan, Mangudadatu, and Sultan Sa Barongis, all of Maguindanao; and Lutayan and President Quirino of Sultan Kudarat.
40th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Rogelio Gabi stated they have sought the help of newly-elected Maguindanao Governor Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu in providing livelihood assistance to the former rebels to help them live normal lives.
The BIFF surrenderees received 20 units of agricultural machineries, 20 sacks of rice seedlings, 13 fishing boats, fishnets, and 60 packs of assorted groceries.
“Programs like these provide a forum where all stakeholders can be brought together to address peace and security challenges in Mindanao with the hope that more extremist fighters will lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law,” said Governor Sangki-Mangudadatu.
The governor also urged the former rebels to discourage their friends and relatives from joining the extremist groups for the sake of their families.
Meanwhile, 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Efren Baluyot emphasized that the activity showcased the convergence of local government units, government agencies, and other stakeholders in promoting peace in the communities. He also pointed out the whole of nation approach in nurturing an environment conducive for sustainable development.
Further, Col. Baluyot noted that resorting to violent means is not the solution to the social problems in Maguindanao because it will only bring more problems and further hamper the development of the province. (DPAO- 6ID)
Twenty-nine former Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) rebels recently received livelihood package from the provincial government of Maguindanao.
These were the rebels who surrendered to 33rd Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc on May 09, 2018 with the help of their families and local officials in hope that they will be given appropriate assistance to help them re-integrate and start their new lives in the communities.
More than a year after they laid down their arms, the livelihood assistance was given as promised by the government through the effort of the 40th Infantry Battalion which just assumed operational jurisdiction of the municipalities of Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun, Paglat, Paglas, Pandag, Buluan, Mangudadatu, and Sultan Sa Barongis, all of Maguindanao; and Lutayan and President Quirino of Sultan Kudarat.
40th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Rogelio Gabi stated they have sought the help of newly-elected Maguindanao Governor Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu in providing livelihood assistance to the former rebels to help them live normal lives.
The BIFF surrenderees received 20 units of agricultural machineries, 20 sacks of rice seedlings, 13 fishing boats, fishnets, and 60 packs of assorted groceries.
“Programs like these provide a forum where all stakeholders can be brought together to address peace and security challenges in Mindanao with the hope that more extremist fighters will lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law,” said Governor Sangki-Mangudadatu.
The governor also urged the former rebels to discourage their friends and relatives from joining the extremist groups for the sake of their families.
Meanwhile, 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Efren Baluyot emphasized that the activity showcased the convergence of local government units, government agencies, and other stakeholders in promoting peace in the communities. He also pointed out the whole of nation approach in nurturing an environment conducive for sustainable development.
Further, Col. Baluyot noted that resorting to violent means is not the solution to the social problems in Maguindanao because it will only bring more problems and further hamper the development of the province. (DPAO- 6ID)
Ex-NPA leader surrenders in Agusan Norte
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 19, 2019): Ex-NPA leader surrenders in Agusan Norte (By 29IB Philippine Army)
CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte -- The former team leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered to the Community Support Team (CST) of the 29th Infantry “Matatag” Battalion (29IB) in Barangay Del Pilar, this city on August 5, 2019.
Alias Cyrus, 25 years old and a member of Sandahang Yunit Pangproganda (SYP) 21B, Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 21C, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), surrendered and brought along his issued AK47 rifle and subversive documents of high intelligence value.
He is the son of alias Giveheart who surrendered to 29IB on January 11, 2019.
In his statement, alias Giveheart thanked the Lord and the army for their efforts to reach out to the NPA members.
“Nagpasalamat ko ug dako sa Ginoo ilabi na sa 29IB sa walay hunong nga pagtabang nila sa mga myembro sa NPA nga gusto na mubalik sa sabakan sa balood. Atong una naglisod ko ug kombinsi sa akong anak tungod kay gahi kaayo siya pasabton ug dili siya gusto musurender kay patyon radaw siya sa sundalo. Ako siyang gipasabot nga dili kana tinood tungod kay ako mismo nakasaksi kung unsa ka buotan ang mga kasundaluhan karon ilabi na ang 29IB. Ako syang giingnan nga ayaw paminawa ang gisulti sa mga NPA kay ila lamang kanang propaganda aron punggan ug hadlukon ka nga musurender (I am thankful to the Lord and the troops of 29IB for their never-ending efforts to reach out to the members of the NPA who want to return to the folds of the law. At first, it was so hard for me to convince my son because he is so hard-headed and would not listen. He thought that the military will kill him if he surrenders. I made him understand that his expectation had no basis, for I have proven how good the military is, especially the 29IB. I also told him not to listen to the NPA because it's part of their propaganda to threaten him and stop him from surrendering)," he said.
Alias Cyrus, 25 years old and a member of Sandahang Yunit Pangproganda (SYP) 21B, Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 21C, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), surrendered and brought along his issued AK47 rifle and subversive documents of high intelligence value.
He is the son of alias Giveheart who surrendered to 29IB on January 11, 2019.
In his statement, alias Giveheart thanked the Lord and the army for their efforts to reach out to the NPA members.
“Nagpasalamat ko ug dako sa Ginoo ilabi na sa 29IB sa walay hunong nga pagtabang nila sa mga myembro sa NPA nga gusto na mubalik sa sabakan sa balood. Atong una naglisod ko ug kombinsi sa akong anak tungod kay gahi kaayo siya pasabton ug dili siya gusto musurender kay patyon radaw siya sa sundalo. Ako siyang gipasabot nga dili kana tinood tungod kay ako mismo nakasaksi kung unsa ka buotan ang mga kasundaluhan karon ilabi na ang 29IB. Ako syang giingnan nga ayaw paminawa ang gisulti sa mga NPA kay ila lamang kanang propaganda aron punggan ug hadlukon ka nga musurender (I am thankful to the Lord and the troops of 29IB for their never-ending efforts to reach out to the members of the NPA who want to return to the folds of the law. At first, it was so hard for me to convince my son because he is so hard-headed and would not listen. He thought that the military will kill him if he surrenders. I made him understand that his expectation had no basis, for I have proven how good the military is, especially the 29IB. I also told him not to listen to the NPA because it's part of their propaganda to threaten him and stop him from surrendering)," he said.
Alias Cyrus said, “Nakamata nako karon sa tinood nga katuyuan sa NPA ug akong nasabtan nga wala silay maayong nabuhat sa katawhan kung dili puro pagpatay sa inosenteng tao, pagpanunug ug mga kabtangan ug pagguba sa kaugmaon sa mga kabatan-onon. Mao ng nangita ko ug pamaagi nga makaikyas sa ilaha.Naningkamot ko nga makaikyas sa kalihukan kay gikapoy nako ug pakigbisog sa walay hinungdan nga idilohiya tumong nga idilohiya. Nagpasalamat ko sa 29IB sa higayon nga gihatag nila sa ako para musurender ug para akong makauban ang akong pamilya ug usab. (I have been awakened now to the real intent of the NPA, and realized that they bring nothing beneficial to the people- they kill the innocent, burn properties, and destroy the lives of the young people. And so, I tried to make a way to escape from them, because I'm already tired fighting for an ideology that doesn't make any sense. I'm grateful to the 29IB for giving me a chance to surrender and be with my family once again.)"
Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB said, Alias Cyrus made the right decision. "I admire him for the courage he had shown to turn his back to the NPA to live a new life with his family. It wasn't easy for him, but he has shown that it is possible if one has the desire to change," he said.
"To those others who are still in the snares of the NPA, surrender now while you still have the chance. The government is here to support you, with its arms of help extended to all of you who will have the desire to surrender," Criste said. (29IB, Philippine Army/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB said, Alias Cyrus made the right decision. "I admire him for the courage he had shown to turn his back to the NPA to live a new life with his family. It wasn't easy for him, but he has shown that it is possible if one has the desire to change," he said.
"To those others who are still in the snares of the NPA, surrender now while you still have the chance. The government is here to support you, with its arms of help extended to all of you who will have the desire to surrender," Criste said. (29IB, Philippine Army/PIA Agusan del Norte)
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