Abu Sayyaf leader killed, 5 followers wounded in clash

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer ()Nov 27, 2019): CA panel recommends ad interim appointments of 113 senior AFP officers

MANILA, Philippines — The ad interim appointments of 113 senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have been recommended for confirmation by a panel of the powerful Commission on Appointments (CA).

CA’s Committee on National Defense approved the recommendation of the AFP officers’ confirmation in a hearing on Wednesday.

Below is the list of ad interim appointments:

Alex V. Gianan to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Rosemarie R. Tanap to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Felipe F. Bautista to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Jose B. Petilla Jr. to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Alexander G. Gigantone to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Navy-Marines
Danilao I. Dupiag to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Alvin V. Luzon to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Mario M. Genosa to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Nicolas J. Quemado Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Lorenzo H. Bolor Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Henry B. Bellen to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Apollo Jun F. Lamaton to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Eric D. Guevarra to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Luisito R. Perez to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Emmanuel L. Cabasan to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Salvador Henry H. Quinto to the rank of Captain, Philippine Army
Nelson A. Buhay to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Patrick E. Cinco to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Primo M. Ferrer to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Allan Jose L. Taguba to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Lennon G. Babilonia to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Markton G. Abo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Zacarias B. Batalla Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Antonio C. Rota Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Arnulfo Ferdinand G. Bajarin to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Virgilio M. Ruiz to the rank of Captain, Philippine Army
Diosdado E. Peji to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Andor Val P. Abayon to the rank of Captain, Philippine Army
Edgardo Q. Villanueva to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Glenn M. Alvarez to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Axel H. Villarina to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Nieves E. Gat-Eb to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Noel B. Delerio to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Jose Vladimir R. Cagara to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Leroy S. Daanton to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Noly F. Lapizar to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Paulo C. Teodoro to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Patrick B. De Villa to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Raymund P. Lachica to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Francis P. Carandang to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Rodrigo P. Magallanes to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Hubert Acierto to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Richard E. de Guia to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Renato I. Osorio to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Denis M. Tanzo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Edgar R. delos Reyes to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Nomer G. Tumesa to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Evan M. Bermudo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Rosemawattee A. Remo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Rolando D. Palomar to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Thurman B. Fanugao to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Francis Anthony M. Coronel to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Ruben B. Matillano to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Roberto R. Bunagan to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Marces T. Gayat to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Beerjenson N. Aquino to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Marion T. Angcao to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Emmanuel C. Mirafuentes to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Enstein B. Calaoa Jr to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Navy-Marines
Rommel R. Cordova to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Jerry Y. Garrido Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Navy
Emilio D. Pedro Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Eugene A. Badua to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Gasanara M. Sultan to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Emerlito S. Angulo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Allan G. Napisa to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Ariel C. Leonida to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Navy
Joel R. Tamayo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Navy
Lauro T. Banusing Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Romeo E. Cabanalan to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Redentor L. Mojares to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Enrique L. Clemente to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Erwin R. Salibad to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Francis S. Wong to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Antonio B. Dalnuan Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Francis Carter L. Sibal to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Arnel A. Floresca to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Prudencio A. Iddoba to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Ferdinand C. Compay to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Jose Ambrosio F. Rustia to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
George M. Domingo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Michael D. Licyayo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Ali Luis D. Macawaris to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Ramon P. Flores to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Nicefero M. Diaz Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Miguel E. Ceballos to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Benjamin Daniel D. Tianco to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Ehrlich Noel V. Paraso to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Felix Ronnie B. Babac to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Billy O. Dela Rosa to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Leonardo P. Pagaduan to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Nestor C. Galindo Jr. to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Jonathan V. Zata to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Irvin D. Tanap to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Jenie M. Heyesa to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Gilbert Roy S. Ruis to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Lambert Jonathan I. Gesolgon to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Ferdinand G. Encomienda to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Armando L. Diango to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Walter O. Icaro to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Ismael P. Mandanas Jr. to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Charles Merric A. Villanueva to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Arnold P. Tapia to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Michael A. Banua to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Rowell S. Velasquez to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Gieram R. Aragones to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Navy-Marines
Nedy C. Espulgar to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Enrico C. Chavez to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Rover T. Sobrino to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Gerry M. Besana to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Lauro G. Oliveros to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Roderick A. Balbanero to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army

The committee also approved a motion to waive the appearance of Petilla, Luzon, Abayon, Calaoa, Babac and Tanap who are in official travel abroad.

The panel’s recommendation would be transmitted for approval at the plenary.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1195058/ca-panel-recommends-ad-interim-appointments-of-113-senior-afp-officers

AFP-CRS: Arrests of CPP-NPA leader, a big blow to communist

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 26, 2019): Arrests of CPP-NPA leader, a big blow to communist



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2867256543293051/?type=3&theater

Arrests of CPP-NPA leader, a big blow to communist

The arrest of Jaime Padilla, a suspected leader of the New People's Army (NPA), is a big blow to the communist group according to Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo.

Civil Relations Service AFP|afpcrs.com
#AFPyoucanTRUST #SupportOurTroops

[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/

AFP-CRS: AFP troops rescue kidnapped British couple in Sulu

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 26, 2019): AFP troops rescue kidnapped British couple in Sulu



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2864339240251448/?type=3&theater

AFP TROOPS RESCUE KIDNAPPED BRITISH COUPLE IN SULU

• The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Chief, General Noel Clement expresses his elation over the successful rescue of kidnap victims (KVs) Allan Hyron and spouse Wilma. They are, as we speak, undergoing medical examinations, debriefing, and other processes prior their flight to Manila.

-Marine Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo
AFP Spokesman

[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/

AFP-CRS: 1st PH-Indonesia Maritime training kicks-off

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 26, 2019): 1st PH-Indonesia Maritime training kicks-off



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2864336173585088/?type=3&theater

1st PH-Indonesia Maritime training kicks-off

The first Philippine-Indonesia Maritime Training Activity (MTA) kicked-off at the Naval Station Felix, Apolinario, Panacan

Read more here: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086979

Civil Relations Service AFP|afpcrs.com
#AFPyoucanTRUST #SupportOurTroops

[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/

AFP-CRS: No more safe place for ASG terrorists in Sulu

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Nov 26, 2019): No more safe place for ASG terrorists in Sulu

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2864334480251924/?type=3&theater

No more safe place for ASG terrorists in Sulu

A mid-level leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and five followers were killed while 11 others wounded in two separate clashes in the province of Sulu

Read more here: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1086933

Civil Relations Service AFP|afpcrs.com
#AFPyoucanTRUST #SupportOurTroops

[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/

Kalinaw News: Troops recover more improvised explosive devices in continuing military operation

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 27, 2019): Troops recover more improvised explosive devices in continuing military operation



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – JTFC troops under 601st Infantry Brigade have recovered more improvised explosive devices (IEDs) yesterday morning, November 24, 2019, in the continuing military operation in the province of Maguindanao.

The IEDs were discovered around 4:45 a.m. by the 57th Infantry Battalion at Barangay Pusao, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao while pursuing the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) and Dawla Islamiyah Terror Group (DITG).

Upon clearing the area from the terror groups, troops found an IED made from Jetmatic pump, 4 Claymore mine type IEDs and IED-making components like blasting cap, electric wires, assorted nails, and black powder.

“Our troops manning the checkpoint have tightened the security within the bounderies of the area of the operation. We are tightly monitoring the terrorists for possible withdrawal from the area since we must contain them in the specific area of engagement,” said Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Edwin Alburo.

At around 10:30 a.m., another IED was found by the troops of 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion in Barangay Pamilian of Shariff Saydona Mustapha town.

The recovered IED was made from 81mm mortar round attached to a cellphone as triggering device and was positioned along the trail where the troops were about to pass.

“The IED found in Barangay Pamalian is meant to inflict harm on our operating troops since the operation against those terror groups is gaining ground,” said 1st MechBn Commanding Officer Lt. Col. James Fernando.

601st Brigade Commander Col. Jose Narciso said that the IEDs and the IED making components found during on-going military operation is clear manifestation that the local terror groups are planning to conduct more bombing attacks in Central Mindanao as indicative in the series of IEDs found in the area of operation the past days.

Joint Task Force Central and 6ID Commander, Maj. Gen. Diodado C. Carreon, reminded and urged everyone to be highly vigilant to resist the possible bombing attacks

from the terror groups and report to authorities any suspicious acts and things.

“The discoveries of IEDs and war materiels in Maguindanao are results of the intensified military operation of our ground troops against tjese terror groups to prevent them from conducting atrocities in the communities,” the Commander added.

Source: 601st Infantry Brigade 

[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/troops-recover-more-improvised-explosive-devices-in-continuing-military-operation/

Kalinaw News: 703rd Infantry (Agila) Brigade saddened by death of amazon, exerted efforts to lay her to rest

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 27, 2019): 703rd Infantry (Agila) Brigade saddened by death of amazon, exerted efforts to lay her to rest



BONGABON, Nueva Ecija –The 703rd Infantry (Agila) Brigade under Col Andrew D Costelo, exerted all efforts to be able to lay to rest the body of Joy Cantero Omania, resident of Brgy. PacoRoman, Rizal, of this province.

Joy Cantero Omania was killed in an armed encounter between government security forces against more or less 20 members of the Komiteng Larangan Guerilla Sierra Madre at Brgy. Villa, Maria Aurora, Aurora before sunset of November 19, 2019.

Prior to the encounter, 703rd(Agila) Brigade received reports about the presence of armed terrorists conducting extortion and demanding food and other supplies from poor residents of said barangay.

To address the situation, Lt. Col Jose Mari F Torrenueva II, Commanding Officer of 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion under direct orders from Colonel Costelo, conducted Focused Military Operation in the area. While on their way, the troops were fired upon leaving them no option but to retaliate and defend themselves.

The firefight lasted for less than an hour and bore no casualties from the government’s side. Recovered in the area were one (1) M-16A1 Rifle with defaced serial number, 130 ammunition, seven backpacks, two land mines, three radio antenna, assorted medical supplies, CPP/NPA/NDF flags and subversive documents and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED).

Omania also known as Jojo, 26, was positively identified by her brother Rex, was airlifted from the mountainous areas of Maria Aurora to the nearest municipality of Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija. Cpt Jimson S. Masankay, 703rd Brigade’s Civil-Military Operations Officer, 703rd Brigade immediately sought help from the Local Government Unit (LGU) under Mayor Jovy Emata, which paved the way for Omania’s proper burial receiving her final Christian rites, officiated by lay ministers El Cielo Jintalan and Orlando Del Rosario at the Bantug Public Cemetery, Bantug, Gabaldon.

Colonel Costelo appeals to the remaining members of Communist Terrorist Group operating in Region 3 to lay down their arms and return to the fold of law and avail the benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and start a new life. Agila troopers remain steadfast as they continuously provide peace and development in its area of concern, uphold human rights and religiously follow rules of engagement in battlefields.



Source: 703rd Infantry (Agila) Brigade

[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/703rd-infantry-agila-brigade-saddened-by-death-of-amazon-exerted-efforts-to-laid-her-to-rest/ 

Kalinaw News: Notorious NPA commander “AKA HIKER” killed in Compostela Valley

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 28, 2019): Notorious NPA commander “AKA HIKER” killed in Compostela Valley



ASUNCION, DDN – Receiving tips from local officials on the whereabouts of a notorious NPA leader in Laak town, Compostela Valley Province, the combined troops of the 60th Infantry Battalion and the 25th Infantry Battalion of the 1001st Infantry Brigade together with the Laak Municipal Police successfully neutralized Marjun Taba aka “Hiker” in a joint law enforcement operation launched early morning on Wednesday.

Per the military, certain local government officials from Tagum City and Laak have been in coordination with them and the police to bring Taba to the folds of the law for the last couple of months.The military says that Taba, however, adamantly refused and neglected negotiations for his surrender.

“We really wanted him to surrender. [And] I believe we have exhausted all means and options to get to that end because we know that there is more to gain if he surrenders as opposed to his dying like this in the field,” Lt. Col. Gilbert Ombos, Commander of the 60th Infantry Battalion, said.

Ombos further says that they have even asked for the help of ComVal Guv Jayvee Tyron Uy, Loreto (Agusan Sur) Mayor Lorife Otaza, and Taba’s family to facilitate the latter’s surrender, but to no avail.

Notwithstanding, the local government and his family’s pleas, Taba and his NPA cohorts continued to terrorize communities in the boundaries of Compostela Valley, Agusan del Sur, and Davao del Norte.

Following several leads and eventually pinpointing his location, the joint law enforcement operation to capture Taba was launched early Wednesday morning in Brgy. Kapatagan, Laak leading to a five-minute firefight with at least five armed men and the eventual killing of Taba. The police says the four (4) others were able to run away, although blood stains were discovered in their escape route.

Recovered from the encounter site is Taba’s cadaver along side his cal .45 pistol and two (2) anti-personnel improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Taba, or more known by his alias “Hiker”, is first Deputy Secretary of the CPP-NPA’s Sub-regional Committee 4, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) while also sitting as plenary member of the SMRC. He has six (6) standing warrants of arrest for the crimes of murder, attempted murder, rebellion, serious illegal detention, double murder, and double frustrated murder.

In a statement, Colonel John Oberio, 1001st Infantry Brigade commander, reiterated the government’s call for leaders and members of the CPP-NPA to surrender “sooner rather than later.”

“Everyone knows of the President’s marching orders to end the local communist armed conflict as soon and as quickly as possible. This is why the government has stepped up on its campaign to bring the CPP-NPA to its knees. On our end, we would like to reassure everybody that we are doing all that we can to draw this insurgency’s end to a peaceful, bloodless closure. But we cannot promise such peace to those who insist to terrorize our people. Thus, again, we would like to appeal to those still taking part in the CPP-NPA’s terrorism to surrender now and avert suffering such an undignified end,” Colonel Oberio added.

Meanwhile, the Department of the Interior and Local Government XI has just concluded its 3-day “Regional Campaign on Strengthening Reintegration Efforts for Former Rebels and their Immediate

Family Members through Convergence and Unified Efforts” held at Grand Regal Hotel, Davao City on November 25 to 27, 2019. The activity was attended by various national government agencies, local government representatives, AFP and PNP counterparts, and selected civil-society partners.

Source: 1001st Infantry Brigade

[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/notorious-npa-commander-aka-hiker-killed-in-compostela-valley/

Kalinaw News: 61IB recovers anti-personnel landmine, wires and detonator in Tubungan clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 28, 2019): 61IB recovers anti-personnel landmine, wires and detonator in Tubungan clash

CAMP MONTECLARO, Miagao, Iloilo—The Army’s 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion(61IB) foiled the CPP-NPA Terrorist’s plan to conduct atrocities in the 1st District of Iloilo following an encounter in Barangay Igtuble, Tubungan, Iloilo at about 6:15 in the evening of November 26, 2019.

According to LTC Joel Benedict Batara, Commanding Officer, 61IB, the troops responded to a report about the presence of armed CPP-NPA terrorists in the area. When members of the 61IB reached the area, the armed engagement immediately transpired between the troops and more or less 10 communist-terrorists believed to be members of Sibat 1, Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay under Moncino Tacaisan alias Dana, said LTC Batara.

The firefight lasted for about ten (10) minutes, and the enemy scampered towards different directions. No one was hurt on the government side. The enemy suffered injuries based on the traces of bloodstains seen on their withdrawal routes.

The troops recovered an anti-personnel landmine, 18 meters electrical wire anddetonator in the encounter site. “Tubungan specifically Barangay Igtuble is a strategic place for the CPP-NPA Terrorist to hide because of its mountainous terrain. But we will not allow these terrorists to destroy the breathtaking landscape of Tubungan and its blooming tourism industry. We will not rest on our laurels, and we will be doubling our efforts in keeping this town free from the menace of insurgency,” Batara emphasized.

“Keeping the town free from insurgents is not only our business. It’s a responsibility of every Tubunganon, hence, I am reiterating my call to all residents to continue supporting their soldiers through giving accurate information about the movement, location and activities of the CPP-NPA Terrorist to prevent them from terrorizing the town and its people,” he added.

Source: 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion

[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/61ib-recovers-anti-personnel-landmine-wires-and-detonator-in-tubungan-clash/

CPP/NPA-EV: Unwittingly, Gen. Dagoy of the 802nd IBde helps the NPA advance in Leyte

NPA-Eastern Visayas (EV) propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 27, 2019): Unwittingly, Gen. Dagoy of the 802nd IBde helps the NPA advance in Leyte

KARLOS MANUE

NPA-EASTERN VISAYAS

EFREN MARTIRES COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

NOVEMBER 27, 2019

The Efren Martires Command of the New People’s Army in Eastern Visayas today dismissed the prediction made by 802nd Infantry Brigade commander Lope Dagoy that Leyte will be “insurgency-free” by 2020, as it called the Army official responsible for the state repression and climate of impunity in the island which persuade the masses to fight for democracy and support the revolutionary movement.

“By overseeing extra-judicial killings, militarizing communities and Red-tagging, Gen. Dagoy unwittingly provides the fertile ground from which the people’s hatred of the Duterte regime grows and from which the revolutionary movement is sure to advance so that such attacks upon the masses will finally end,” said EMC spokesperson Ka Karlos Manuel.

Manuel cited reports reaching the People’s Democratic Government in Leyte where five civilians have been killed by suspected state forces in recent months, including Maureen Japzon, a former activist who was killed even though she was already working as a local election officer. Other civilians killed were a peasant leader in Calubian, Leyte last June, a barangay captain in Kananga, Leyte last October, and recently a teacher in Matag-ob, Leyte.

Militarization persists in the island as Army troops maintain their combat operations in Sogod, Southern Leyte, and their triad operations under the guise of peace and development teams/community support programs (PDT/CSP) in Carigara and Albuera, Leyte. Military troops have not permitted peasants in Sogod town to go to their farms so they can earn a living. In Baybay City, Southern Leyte, posters openly criminalizing alleged CPP-NPA personalities whom they accused of murder, illegal recruitment and rebellion were spread across the city proper.

“The people of Leyte grow more convinced to support the armed struggle and the national-democratic movement calling to end Duterte’s tyranny implemented by his fascist troops. Gen. Dagoy is apparently all talk and too dull to realize he is shooting himself in the foot,” Manuel said.

The NPA spokesperson pointed out that Gen. Dagoy is racing to declare the “insurgency-free” tag on Leyte so he can transfer combat operations to Samar island and decisively end the NPA in the region. “Gen. Dagoy wants to pin a badge to himself that he has ‘defeated’ the NPA in Leyte, and is now rushing to do so in Samar before he retires next year. He fails to comprehend how the deepening economic and political crises exacerbated by officials of the AFP show that the NPA can only grow stronger and cannot be defeated.”

Manuel said, “There are those in the 8th ID who express that the Army will need to implement Executive Order 70 or the ‘whole of nation’ approach past the end of Duterte’s term in 2022 so it can defeat the NPA in Eastern Visayas. Gen. Dagoy along with his fellow officials and his commander-in-chief Duterte keep on extending the deadline to defeat the NPA because it is impossible to do – they know how deeply rooted the NPA is among the masses, while they also aim to squeeze the corruption money out of his fake surrender program and livelihood projects that are far detached from reality.”#

https://cpp.ph/statement/unwittingly-gen-dagoy-of-the-802nd-ibde-helps-the-npa-advance-in-leyte/

CPP/NDF-EV: NDF-EV condemns military for widespread witch-hunting in schools and online

NDF-Eastern Visayas (EV) propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 27, 2019): NDF-EV condemns military for widespread witch-hunting in schools and online

FR. SANTIAGO “KA SANNY” SALAS

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-EV

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

NOVEMBER 27, 2019

The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas today assailed the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army for widespread witch-hunting since Duterte’s Memorandum Order 32 (MO 32) and Executive Order 70 (EO 70) placed the region under de facto martial law. “The 8th ID has been on a blitz of witch-hunting in high schools and colleges region-wide, through Red-tagging legitimate youth groups and brainwashing students against these, such as recently done in Samar State University,” said Fr. Santiago “Ka Sanny” Salas, NDF-EV spokesperson. “The 20th IB has also been witch-hunting, using its Facebook account, as well as another Facebook “fan page” connected with the battalion. A photo of alleged student activists linking them to the New People’s Army is posted on the Facebook page.

“Meanwhile, the ‘fan page’ contains a rant against the vice governor and certain municipal officials as well as the chief of police of Las Navas, Northern Samar, for entertaining a party-list congressman investigating the military’s human rights violations in the town.”

Fr. Salas accused the 20th IB of using Facebook to put the alleged students on “trial by publicity” and imputing guilt by association, in violation of their basic rights and of due process. He also noted that these alleged students could also be set up for summary executions, in light of the rampant extrajudicial killings in the country of political activists that have outraged world opinion. “The fascist battalion violates even the basic individual rights and due process under the reactionary government. We fear that the military is increasingly arrogating upon itself the role of judge, jury and executioner. By spreading photos of alleged students who are Red-tagged, the military is also sending signals to the death squads it is using and that have been systematically killing peasants, workers, students, environmentalists and others whose only crime is social activism.”

The NDF-EV spokesperson also slammed the 8th ID for the militarization and fascization in the region. “The 20th IB’s contemptuous regard for the civilian officials in Las Navas underscore its striving for dominance over the entire government and society. The military does not want any investigation into its human rights violations in Las Navas and elsewhere in the country. By brandishing Duterte’s MO 32 and EO 70, the military enforces de facto martial law in the region and nationwide towards an eventual Duterte dictatorship.”

Fr. Salas called on the youth and the people to reject the military’s witch-hunting and to fight for their democratic rights. “We urge the youth to stand up to the bullying by the military and to struggle for student rights and welfare as well as genuine social change. We urge all freedom-loving people to resist the militarization and fascization of the government and society. Let us form the broadest unity against the fascist, corrupt and pro-imperialist Duterte regime. Let us use all means of struggle to weaken and overthrow the current monster atop the ruling system and fight on until we can achieve national freedom and democracy.”#

https://cpp.ph/statement/ndf-ev-condemns-military-for-widespread-witch-hunting-in-schools-and-online/

CPP: Immediately release Ka Diego!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 27, 2019): Immediately release Ka Diego!


2019 CPP Statements

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) denounces the arrest of Jaime “Ka Diego” Padilla, spokesperson of the New People’s Army-Southern Tagalog (Melito Glor Command).

Ka Diego, who is in his senior years, is suffering from heart problems and various physical ailments. With the material support and various assistance of friends and allies of the CPP and NPA, he was brought to Manila to undergo diagnostics and medical treatment. He was confined in a Manila hospital when he was arrested last night.

The CPP demands the immediate release of Ka Diego and his three companions and the dropping of all trumped-up criminal charges filed against him to prolong his detention. He must be given full access to his lawyers as well as doctors and medical care services. The Party demands that he be accorded full respect which he deserve as a revolutionary activist and humble servant of the people.

Indeed, the toiling masses and people of Southern Tagalog consider the arrest of Ka Diego as a setback to their revolutionary cause. In the past three years, the NPA spokesperson has ably represented the NPA forces in Southern Tagalog in his interaction with the media and the public in general. He has consistently exposed the disinformation and fake news churned out by Duterte’s factory of lies. He has exposed and denounced as well the grave crimes and rights abuses perpetrated by the AFP against the people of Southern Tagalog.

The AFP has long wanted to silence Ka Diego. His arrest, however, will fail to suppress the truth about the oppression and the struggles of toiling masses of Southern Tagalog against the tyranny and state terrorism of the Duterte regime, the grave exploitation of workers and peasants, and the imperialist and big corporate plunder of the rich resources of the region.

Issued by: Marco L. Valbuena, CPP-CPIO

https://cpp.ph/2019/11/27/immediately-release-ka-diego/

‘Non-stop’ war grinds on vs Reds

From Panay News (Nov 27, 2019): ‘Non-stop’ war grinds on vs Reds

BACOLOD City – The top Philippine Army official in Western and Central Visayas ordered government troops to pursue a relentless battle against Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

“Fiercely hunt down these terrorists and bring them to justice,” Brigadier General Eric Vinoya, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) stressed.

He said soldiers should never back down from their resolve to serve the Filipinos as all military resources will be utilized to crush the “peace spoilers.

Vinoya, who concurrently heads the Joint Task Force Negros, made this statement following soldiers’ successful encounters against communist rebels last week.

He commended the troops of the 62nd Infantry Battalion for their “gallantry in showcasing the might of the Army against the NPA” during the encounter in Barangay Cansalungon, Isabela, Negros Occidental on Friday afternoon.

The hour-long firefight left an NPA fighter dead and his comrade wounded. Seven suspected rebels were also arrested in the vicinity of the clash site, which also served as their hideout in Sitio Canlusong.

Soldiers recovered personal items such as clothes, slippers and rubber boots, hand-held radios, electrical wires as well as cooking utensils and food stuff.

Moreover, Vinoya reiterated his call to the remaining NPA fighters to return to the fold of the law before it’s too late.

“Surrender now or be killed. You cannot win the war against the government forces,” he added.

He said through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the government shows its sincere efforts to assist former rebels.

“We ensure the security and safety of those who will come down and we will help them return to the mainstream society and live a peaceful life,” Vinoya added.

The 3ID commander also lauded the Negrenses for their strong commitment to end insurgency in the island, following the series of resolutions by several towns and villages in Negros Occidental declaring the CPP-NPA persona non grata.

“Their coming out to signify their stand that for more than 50 years the NPA has not brought anything good, but chaos and perdition in the island sends a clear signal that these terrorists are no longer welcome in their communities,” Vinoya said.

https://www.panaynews.net/non-stop-war-grinds-on-vs-reds/

CPP demands release of NPA spokesperson, 3 others

From GMA News Online (Nov 27, 2019): CPP demands release of NPA spokesperson, 3 others

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Wednesday called for the immediate release of the spokesperson of its armed wing New People's Army-Southern Tagalog, along with his three other companions, who had been arrested by joint police and military forces at a hospital in San Juan City earlier this week.

In a statement released by CPP chief public information officer Marco Valbuena, he said that the government should drop what he called were trumped up charges against the four.

"Ka Diego, who is in his senior years, is suffering from heart problems and various physical ailments. With the material support and various assistance of friends and allies of the CPP and NPA, he was brought to Manila to undergo diagnostics and medical treatment," Valbuena said.

"He must be given full access to his lawyers as well as doctors and medical care services. The Party demands that he be accorded full respect which he deserve as a revolutionary activist and humble servant of the people," he added.

The police said that Jaime "Ka Diego" Padilla has standing warrant of arrest for multiple murder. Hence, he was arrested on Monday while confined at the Cardinal Santos Medical Center.

Padilla and his three alleged cohorts are detained at the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-National Capital Region in Camp Crame.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo earlier said that the communist leader's arrest was a big blow to the Reds.

Valbuena said that Padilla served as an effective spokesperson of the NPA forces in Southern Tagalog and that his arrest was merely a move of the military to silence him.

"Indeed, the toiling masses and people of Southern Tagalog consider the arrest of Ka Diego as a setback to their revolutionary cause," Valbuena said.

"He has consistently exposed the disinformation and fake news churned out by Duterte’s factory of lies. He has exposed and denounced as well the grave crimes and rights abuses perpetrated by the AFP against the people of Southern Tagalog," he added.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/716985/cpp-demands-release-of-npa-spokesperson-3-others/story/

Military general booed out of anti-crackdown forum

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 27, 2019): Military general booed out of anti-crackdown forum

MANILA, Philippines – Activists on Wednesday forced Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., deputy chief of staff for civil-military operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), out of a forum on the supposed military crackdown on militant groups and administration critics, which was held at the Quezon City Sports Club in Quezon City.

Renato Reyes Jr., secretary-general of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), said Parlade was there only to “spread lies”

“Today, the incorrigible Gen. Antonio Parlade attended a forum on the weaponization of the law and crackdown on dissenters organized by the National Union of People’s Lawyer and the Movement Against Tyranny,” Reyes said in a statement.

“The forum wanted to highlight the abuses committed against critics of the administration,” he added. “Parlade, however, wanted to use the forum as a platform to spread more of the lies and disinformation being peddled by the National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict. Parlade is at the forefront of the vile red-tagging and smear campaign against progressive groups.”

A video, which was sent to reporters by Reyes, shows Parlade being escorted by Dr. Carol Araullo, Bayan chairperson, when he tried to speak during the open forum.

Reyes said the military man’s mere presence was “causing discomfort among forum participants.”

“He insisted on speaking and was booed and chanted out of the venue,” he said.

The forum focused on the recent joint military-police operations where the offices of Bayan Muna, Gabriela, and Bayan in the Visayas were raided.

In the offices of Gabriela and Bayan Muna in Bacolod, 57 persons, 10 of them minors, were arrested for allegedly taking part in firearms and explosives training.

Parlade’s relationship — or lack thereof — with left-leaning organizations have been well documented.

In 2018, Parlade said the military had truckloads of evidence to prove that certain organizations acting as legal fronts of communist rebels had been helping the armed struggle.

He said that the group got its funding from organizations in Europe, including the European Union (EU). These funds, he said, were then transferred to the New People’s Army, the armed group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

READ: EU, Belgium trace funding for CPP fronts – AFP exec

He was also behind the revelation of the Red October plot — a plan to overthrow the administration allegedly hatched by the leftists and the opposition from the Liberal Party. Such a plot did not materialize, but Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that was because it evaporated on being exposed.

Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate, an ally of the militant groups, claimed Parlade was only aiming for a promotion — an accusation that the general denied.

RELATED

Lorenzana: ‘Red October’ plot no more

Parlade targeting Makabayan bloc to win AFP top post— Zarate

AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations reacts to Bayan Muna Party-list Rep. Zarate


https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1195227/activists-throw-out-military-general-who-attended-anti-crackdown-forum

Tension rises in progressives’ forum as Parlade gate-crashes

From Rappler (Nov 27, 2019): Tension rises in progressives’ forum as Parlade gate-crashes

Major General Antonio Parlade is booed out of the Quezon City Sports Club



TENSION. Army Major General Antonio Parlade is booed out of an event of progressive groups on November 27, 2019. Photo sourced by Rappler

Tensions rose at an event of progressive groups on Wednesday, November 27, when Major General Antonio Parlade – who is leading the military's campaign against communism – attended the forum and was booed out as a result.

Progressive groups Movement Against Tyranny (MAT) and National Union of Peoples' Lawyers (NUPL) held a forum titled, "Weaponizing the Law, Criminalizing Dissent" at the Quezon City Sports Club Wednesday afternoon to discuss the legal assaults on activists and opposition members in the Duterte administration.

Parlade attended the event. The NUPL, as well as rights group Karapatan, have filed petitions for writs of Amparo against Parlade and the military as a whole for red-tagging and harassment. 

(READ: Amid crackdown, activists lose another bid for extraordinary legal remedy)

At the open forum segment of the event, Parlade raised his hand in an apparent attempt to speak but was told by a host that "this is a venue for victims of the anti-people policies of Duterte."

Another host said: "Kung mamarapatin po ay 'yung natitirang time ay gamitin natin sa iba pang gustong mag-raise ng legitimate questions." (If we can please give the remaining time to those who want to raise legitimate questions.)

However, activist Mae "Juana Change" Paner acknowledged Parlade and asked him: "General, ano po ba ang masasabi ninyo sa mga narinig niyo sa nagsalita ngayon?" (General, what can you say to those who spoke here in this event?)

Parlade quickly went in front of the room to speak, but he was stopped by Carol Araullo of the group Bayan.

"Excuse me General Parlade, and I'm sorry Mae, this is a forum organized by the Movement Against Tyranny, General Parlade has every platform that he can get, including mass media, to spill his lies, mga pambabaluktot (his spin), he's not welcome," said Araullo.

Araullo also asked why there were "many policemen" outside the venue.

"If you would be so kind, act like a gentleman, and please step out of this hall," Araullo said.

Parlade appeared to be talking to Araullo as he was being led out of the room, as the audience chanted, "Makibaka, Huwag Matakot." (Fight, fear not.)

On his way out, he left a folder.

Parlade later revealed the documents he called "5 taong programa ng Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples' Army."

By the door, Araullo told him once more: "Please go out, you are not welcome here."

Lian Buan

✔@lianbuan

WATCH: Tensions rise at progressives event on crackdown on activists and opposition as Army Major General Antonio Parlade attempts to speak. Not seen in video: Parlade raises hand from audience area, was rejected, but called again by Mae Paner. NUPL @rapplerdotcom

22

4:57 AM - Nov 27, 2019

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Parlade's response
In a series of tweets, Parlade said "he came in good faith to share our side and answer queries."

Parlade criticized Vice President Leni Robredo's lawyer in the sedition case, Marlon Manuel, for violating sub-judice.

"They discussed earlier the 'red tagging' and arrest of dissenters, that is why I brought with me the CPP document that says it all," said Parlade, adding that "ironically they were all afraid."

Parlade called the organizers "CPP stooges."

NUPL and International Association of Democratic Lawyers (IADL) president Edre Olalia said Parlade's attendance "is akin to a serial rapist or serial murderer who barges cockily into a meeting of victims and their kin."

"It is premeditated taunting and evident provocation. At long last, have you left no sense of decency, sir?" said Olalia. – Rappler.com

Inside Track is Rappler's intelligencer on people, events, places and everything of public interest. It's a take-off from Newsbreak's Inside Track section. Contributions are most welcome. Just send bits of information to investigative@rappler.com.

https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/inside-track/245907-tension-progressives-forum-quezon-city-parlade-attends

Ex-rebels' surrendered firearms to be demilitarized

Posted to the Malaysia Sun (Nov 28, 2019): Ex-rebels' surrendered firearms to be demilitarized



CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 27 --Turned-in firearms, explosives, and ammunition of the former rebels in Northern Mindanao are to be demilitarized on Thursday, November 28.

This is according to Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) 10 Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe as DILG-administered package assistance worth Php2,862,000.00 will also be given to ex-rebels via the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) during the activity.

E-CLIP provides a complete package of assistance to former rebels who were members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People's Army (NPA), and National Democratic Front (NDF), as well as their family members who have surrendered to the government to abandon armed struggle.

"It is not every day that rebels who choose to go back to the folds of law will be given such an opportunity to redirect their lives through the assistance given to them. Hence, our rebels should know that 'now' is the perfect time to surrender to the government," Agabe said.

A total of 105 former rebels are expected to be granted the financial assistance packages composed of immediate, reintegration and livelihood assistance, and firearm remuneration, depending on the benefits they are entitled to.

"We have dubbed this activity as 'Kalinaw sa Amihanang Mindanaw' because this is an avenue for us to showcase the government's efforts in seriously working towards peace and progress not only in Region 10 but also in the whole island of Mindanao," Agabe added.

The Regional Director reiterated that the activity, conducted by the Regional Inter-Agency Task Force on ECLIP (RIATFE), is in support of the operationalization of Executive Order 70, known as the "Whole-of-Nation Approach" in ending local communist and armed conflict.

"Region 10 is actively gearing up to finally end the insurgency problem the soonest and the essence of the said directive is for everyone to work as one," Agabe said.

The said activity will also showcase the services provided by the RIATFE member-agencies and advocate in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace in ending local communist armed conflict in Northern Mindanao. (Rezza Mae B. Tolinero/DILG-10)

https://www.malaysiasun.com/news/263213121/ex-rebels-surrendered-firearms-to-be-demilitarized

Army troops drive Reds from remote Tubungan barangay

From Panay News (Nov 28, 2019): Army troops drive Reds from remote Tubungan barangay

ILOILO City – Two weeks after the new commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) vowed to hunt and hit rebels hard, government troops warded off a band of New People’s Army (NPA) from the remote barangay of Igtuble in Tubungan, Iloilo.

Soldiers of the Army’s 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion also recovered anti-personnel landmine, 18 meters electrical wire and detonator from the encounter site.

There were no casualties on the government side, according to Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, battalion commander.

The skirmish happened at around 6:15 p.m. on Tuesday. Army soldiers, who verifying reports from villagers about armed men in the area, encountered an estimated 10 rebels.
On Nov. 12, new 3ID commander Brigadier General Eric Vinoya warned the rebels: “If you don’t surrender, expect more combat encounters in the next few weeks. All military units in our area of responsibility will be utilized to hunt you and hit you very hard.”

Tuesday’s encounter lasted for some 10 minutes until the rebels retreated to the mountains.

Batara could not confirm if there were casualties or injuries on the part of the NPA.

But he said the rebels belonged to Sibat 1, Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay under Moncino Tacaisan alias Dana.

“Residents alerted us about armed men in their area,” said Batara. He thanked them.

“Tubangan, specifically Igtuble, is a strategic place for the NPA rebels to hide because of its mountainous terrain. But we will not allow these terrorists to destroy the breathtaking landscape of Tubunguan and its blooming tourism industry,” stressed Batara.

Those rebels were the ones sending extortion letters and harassing Century Peak Energy Corp. in nearby Barangay Igcabugao, Igbaras, he added.

“The rebels are hungry. They extort money from businessmen just to survive,” said Batara.

Early this month, Tubungan committed to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to create a Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) by the end of November.

Tubungan had been identified as “vulnerable” to the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

“The task force will serve as a convergence platform for the delivery of basic services which will lead to good governance,” said DILG-Iloilo director Teodoro Sumagaysay.

Rebels thrive in villages where development and government services are seldom seen by residents, she explained.

Five other towns also committed to establish their respective municipal ELCACs – Alimodian, Calinog, Janiuay, Maasin, and Lambunao – in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 70 institutionalizing the “whole-of-nation approach” in combatting insurgency. Its rationale is: Neither the Armed Forces nor any law enforcement squad alone can conquer insurgence. All agencies aboard should do its share in ending communist insurgency across the country. The support of all stakeholders must be enlisted.

The target is to end the insurgency by 2020, according to 3ID’s Vinoya.

He appealed for support from local chief executives and the public in general.

“We must be more aggressive, proactive and purposive in our efforts,” said Vinoya.

To the rebels, he further said, “You still have a chance to leave the armed movement and go back to the fold of law enjoying true freedom and various government basic services together with your loved ones.”

https://www.panaynews.net/army-troops-drive-reds-from-remote-tubungan-barangay/

Philippines: Mindanao Humanitarian Situation as of 27 November 2019

Posted to the Relief Web (Nov 27, 2019): Philippines: Mindanao Humanitarian Situation as of 27 November 2019

INFOGRAPHIC

from UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Published on 27 Nov 2019

Download PDF (914.29 KB)


MARAWI CONFLICT

More than 70,000 people continue to be displaced according to the data validation meeting on 28 October 2019. From this, 16,250 people are staying in evacuation centres, community based centres and transitory sites while 55,000 people are home-based or staying with host communities. Validation is ongoing of unrecognized ECs and community based centres.
Results will be presented at the next data validation meeting.

DISPLACEMENT IN SULU

Law enforcement operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the Abu Sayyaf group (ASG) have displaced more than 3,000 people in Patikul municipality in Sulu Province since January 2019. Displaced families are mobile, and tend to their crops during harvest season and then return to their host communities. Due to high risk of kidnapping and ongoing military operations, access remains limited. UNHCR working with local NGOs plans an IDP profiling in the island provinces, including Sulu to ensure the real IDPs are counted and receive assistance from the government and humanitarian agencies.

DISPLACEMENT IN MAGUINDANAO

According to the Protection Cluster, on 9 November fighting between government armed forces and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) faction with alleged allegiance to the Islamic State group in Barangay Tukalinapao in Mamasapano municipality resulted to displacement of 14,300 people. As of 14 November, the Mamasapano DRRMO reported a total of 520 families remain displaced from Barangays Tukanalipao and Pimbalkan, all staying with relatives. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation.

DISPLACEMENT IN NORTH COTABATO

An encounter between government forces and a non-state armed group on 23 October in Barangay Tumbras, Midsayap, North Cotabato province resulted in the displacement of nearly 500 families who are currently staying in evacuation centres in barangays Tumbras and Kapinpilan. Regional and local authorities provided food assistance to the displaced families. Regional authority continue to monitor and validate the status of displaced families.

NORTHEASTERN MINDANAO DISPLACEMENT

More than 2,000 people remain displaced in northeastern Mindanao due to insecurity according to the Protection Cluster. In Davao region, more than 600 people, mostly indigenous people (IPs) are still displaced due to insecurity in their place of origin since September 2018, while 1,500 people are still displaced from Agusan del Norte, Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon due to clashes between government forces and New People’s Army (NPA). Humanitarian agencies face challenges in providing assistance as most of the displaced IPs are not officially recognized as IDPs.

NORTH COTABATO EARTHQUAKES

A series of earthquakes struck in Tulunan and Makilala, North Cotabato, between 16 and 31 October 2019. The earthquakes caused displacement, loss of lives and extensive damage to properties and infrastructures. As of 27 November, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reports more than 319,000 people affected in Regions XI and XII. Out of this, a total of 56,648 people are staying in 105 evacuation centres (ECs) while 126,104 people are served outside ECs.

More than 41,200 houses in Region XI, XII and BARMM were reported damaged. Government authorities continue to validate and verify reported damage to infrastructure.

UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs:
To learn more about OCHA's activities, please visit https://www.unocha.org/.

https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/philippines-mindanao-humanitarian-situation-27-november-2019

Rescue efforts underway to find 3 Indonesian hostages: Philippine military

From Xinhua (Nov 27, 2019): Rescue efforts underway to find 3 Indonesian hostages: Philippine military

MANILA, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines has assured Indonesia that efforts are underway to rescue the three Indonesian fishermen being held hostage by Abu Sayyaf terrorists in the southern Philippines, a Philippine military spokesman said on Wednesday.

Major Arvin Encinas, the spokesman for the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Western Mindanao Command, said that Westmincom Commander Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana gave the assurance to Indonesian Consulate General Dicky Fabrian during their meeting on Tuesday.

Encinas quoted Sobejana as telling Fabrian that the Philippine military is "doing its best to rescue their fishermen. "Our efforts are continuing," Encinas quoted Sobejana as saying.
According to Encinas, the Abu Sayyaf terrorists abducted the three Indonesian fishermen in the waters near Sabah, Malaysia in September and then brought them to Sulu province in the southern Philippines.

On Monday, Philippine government troops rescued British businessman Allan Hyrons and his Filipino wife after a gun battle with Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Sulu. Unidentified armed men kidnapped the Hyrons on October 4 from a beach resort in Zamboanga del Sur province in the southern Philippines.

After the Hyrons rescue, Sobejana said the troops are also tracking down the three Indonesians.

"We had a parallel operation (on both kidnapping cases). We have a unit focused (on the Hyrons) and we have another unit focused on the Indonesians," Encinas said.

Encinas voiced hope to find the Indonesians before the end of the year. The Indonesians are the only hostages in the hands of Abu Sayyaf terrorists.

"Our operations to rescue them is continuing. We are not going to stop. Our troops are on the ground," Encinas said.

Abu Sayyaf Group is considered the smallest but the most violent of the extremist groups in the southern Philippines. The group, which has an estimated 400 fighters, is active in the impoverished island provinces of Sulu and Basilan.

The group is responsible for the series of kidnappings-for-ransom, deadly bombings, ambushes of security personnel, public beheadings, assassinations, and extortion in the southern Philippines.

The group, which has been terrorizing the Philippine southern region since the 1990s, preys on foreign tourists, businessmen and fishermen not only from the Philippines but also from Indonesia and Malaysia and hide them in Philippine jungles or remote islands.

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-11/27/c_138587253.htm

Guv turns over P25M peace projects

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 27, 2019): Guv turns over P25M peace projects

Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson led the turnover of the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn-Department of the Interior and Local Government (PAMANA-DILG) and Development Acceleration Program-Funded projects worth P25 million at the peace and development community sites in Sitios Ilan and Mambinay in Brgy. Locotan, Kabankalan City, yesterday, a press release from the Capitol said.

More than 800 beneficiaries availed of government services such as free medical and dental aid, skills and livelihood training, massage and haircut, and Negros Occidental Health Care Program (NOCHP) enrolment, among others.

A memorandum of understanding was also signed between the provincial government, City Government of Kabankalan led by Mayor Pedro Zayco, and Kapatiran Para sa Progresong Panlipunan Inc. (KAPATIRAN) led by Veronica Tabara and witnessed by Department of National Defense Undersecretary Cesar Yano, 302nd IB Commander Col. Noel Baluyan, Brgy. Locotan Punong Barangay Zhawrigley Dayon and 6th District Board Member Jeffrey Tubola, among others.

The MOU aims to strengthen the mutual cooperation and peace building support, particularly in providing for the Kapatirans socio and economic reintegration in line with President Rodrigo Duterte's call for a whole of nation approach to end local conflict, the press release said.

"For peace to be real, we must address, preserve and respect the core of humanity and human dignity and it must be the kind that leaves no one behind," Lacson said.

The projects include concreting and improvement of the Locotan Road with canal lining, additional classrooms, construction of a four-classroom school building, a day-care center, a multi-purpose building and health center, and rehabilitation of Locotan-Mambinay Road.

The activity is also a highlight of the Negros Peace Week Celebration.*

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/November/27/topstory5.htm

Army synergizes effort for Lakbay Bata 2019

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 27, 2019): Army synergizes effort for Lakbay Bata 2019

The Philippine Army’s 71st Infantry “Kaibigan” Battalion parterned with different agencies, local government units, and private companies for the successful Lakbay Bata 2019 at Robinson’s Place and Energy Park in Tagum City on Friday, Nov. 22.

Almost 300 children and parents belonging to the least privileged families from the outskirt sitios of Barangay Anitapan, Golden Valley, Cabuyoan, Cadunan and Libudon–all of Mabini, Compostela– 

participated in the activity.T

his story appears on Page 13 of the November 27 issue of Mindanao Times. Click on the image for an online copy.

The 71st IB spearheaded the Lakbay Bata 2019 in celebration of the 27th National Children’s Month, which highlights the role of children in nation-building and promote their moral, social and spiritual well-being.

Participants from the poorest among the poor were given a simple tour of Robinson’s Place and Energy Park in Tagum City. Various stakeholders gave gifts to children and parents. They were also treated to a magic show, as well as given a chance to meet Jollibee. The children enjoyed the free Jollibee meal at lunch.

According to Ltc. Esteveyn Ducusin, commanding officer of 71st IB, “It aims at providing happiness to very less privileged children from geographically isolated and disadvantaged area of the municipality of Mabini, CVP and further envisions to widen the children’s perspective in life.”

The Municipal Social Welfare Development Office of Mabini gave a lecture on children’s rights and welfare, along with the significant points of the Violence against Women and Children’s Act. Meanwhile, a representative of the Department of Agriculture promoted home-based gardening.

The activity was supported by the local government unit of Mabini; Tagum City; MSWDO-Mabini; Department of Agriculture Region XI; Philippine Information Agency XI; HEXAT Mining Corporation; APEX Mining Company Inc.; Koopking Multi-Purpose Cooperative; Kiwanis International; Tagnanan CARP Beneficiaries; Phoenix Gas Station Mabini; Tagnanan Cooperative; and the Office of Congressman Vincent Garcia.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/11/27/army-synergizes-effort-for-lakbay-bata-2019/

New RMFB head is former SAF officer

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 27, 2019): New RMFB head is former SAF officer

The Regional L Mobile Force Battalion has a new commander, Col. Richard Binaldo Basco, who is replacing Col. Maximo Sebastian.

Sebastian, who held the position since Aug. 24, 2018, has been assigned to the Regional Plans and Strategy Management Division.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Say Cabillan, PRO XI deputy regional director for administration, led the turnover of command ceremony for the RMFB at 9 a.m. in the Bagani Hall of the PRO XI headquarters on Monday, Nov. 25.

Cabillan reminded the officers to perform their duties to the best of their abilities. They have the responsibility to maintain peace and order, and do efficient police work through the active support of the community.

“Both officials will surely uphold the mission and vision of the PNP organization in whatever assignments they would have,” Cabilan said.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/11/27/new-rmfb-head-is-former-saf-officer/

NPA rebel wounded, rifles seized in ComVal encounter

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 27, 2019): NPA rebel wounded, rifles seized in ComVal encounter

Two high-powered firearms, ammunition, and war materiel were recovered by soldiers of the 71st Infantry Battalion following a clash with communist rebels in Pantukan, Compostela Valley on Monday.

Meanwhile, a rebel was wounded and later arrested to face a slew of charges the police prepared against him.

Capt. Jerry Lamosao, the spokesperson of the 10th ID, said one team from the Pantukan Municipal Police Station responded to a civilian report of harassment by an armed group in Barangay King-King, Pantukan on Nov. 25.

The police personnel were supported by soldiers and they exchanged gunfire with the rebels, who escaped following a two-minute clash.

Lamosao said the troops were able to recover one M14 rifle, M16 rifle, M203 grenade launcher, about 300 rounds of ammunition, nine M14 rifle magazines, as well as five long and five short M16 magazines.

The wounded rebel was evacuated to the nearest hospital.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Jose C. Faustino Jr., commander of the 10th ID, commended the troops for the mission.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/11/27/npa-rebel-wounded-rifles-seized-in-comval-encounter/