NoCot town attends to 1K families displaced by clan war

From the Philippine News Agency (May 12, 2020): NoCot town attends to 1K families displaced by clan war (By Edwin Fernandez)



AIDING THE EVACUEES. Social workers conduct assessment on the situation of some 1,000 families affected by the clan war in the borders of Pikit, North Cotabato, and Pagalungan, Maguindanao that sparked on Sunday (May 10, 2020). The evacuees (inset), all Muslims observing the fasting month of Ramadan, are provided with safe drinking water, among others. (Photo courtesy of DSWD-Pikit) 

The municipal social welfare office of Pikit in North Cotabato has started distributing relief aid to more than 1,000 families affected by the armed hostilities involving Moro clans in the area.

“There appeared to be silence in the conflict area so we started to come in to help the families who are fasting now,” said Mayor Sumulong Sultan of Pikit on Tuesday.

He directed the municipal social welfare office, headed by Imelda Balios, to start distributing food aid and water to affected families from Barangays Balongis, Balatican and Nuangan, all of Pikit.

Balios reported that a total of 1,032 families or 4,574 individuals have been displaced by the conflict. They are now housed in various evacuation sites in Barangay Batulawan, Kalakakan, Dalengaoen and Fort Pikit.

Sultan said all displaced families are Muslims who are observing the fasting month of Ramadan.

Meanwhile, efforts are underway to put an end to the clan war that has affected hundreds of Moro families in the border of Maguindanao and North Cotabato,.

Lt. Col. Edgardo Vilchez Jr, spokesperson of the military’s Joint Task Force Central, said the Army is following a peace mechanism through the Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities of the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH-MILF CCCH).

Involved in the “rido” (family feud) were members of the MILF and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) who have been at odds over control of vast tracts of agricultural lands in the borders of Pikit, North Cotabato and Pagalungan in Maguindanao.

Military reports identified the warring factions as those belonging to MNLF sub-commanders Jainudin Butuan and Kuwat, and the group of MILF 110th base command sub-commanders Abdul Hamid Sansawi, Sambutuan and Ekot.

The local government units of Pikit and Pagalungan, led by Mayors Sultan and Salik Mamasabulod, respectively, had been meeting to ensure the safety of families affected by the hostilities that erupted full-scale on Sunday.

Vilchez told reporters that the fighting had slowed down and that no major skirmishes involving the warring families.

“The parties have been at odds since 2013 but the military came up with a local peace agreement. Sporadic skirmishes, however, occur now and then,” he said.

He said the GPH-MILF CCCH is working, as well as the Ad hoc Joint Action Group, are pushing for the peaceful settlement of the conflict.

Elements of the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade have been sent to the peripheries of the affected villages.

Vilchez said hostilities has been confined in the village of Balongis and that fighting has stopped since Monday.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102558

2 NPAs killed in Zamboanga del Sur clash with military

From the Manila Bulletin (May 12, 2020): 2 NPAs killed in Zamboanga del Sur clash with military (By Bonita Ermac)

Two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter with the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Balonai, Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur at around 11 a.m. Monday, May 11.

The bodies of the two unidentified insurgents were recovered with their AK47 assault rifles, two bandoliers with magazines and ammunitions and a backpack by the government troops after the 15-minute firefight.

There was no reported casualty on the government side.

53rd Infantry Battalion commander Lt Col Jo-ar Herrera disclosed that they were able to engage the Communist rebels in the gun battle after receiving information from local residents who were alarmed by the NPAs’ presence in their communities.

“The people are already proactive in their roles in denouncing the terroristic acts of the NPAs in their barangays,” said Herrera.

Troops were still conducting a pursuit operation to take out the fleeing members of the terrorist group.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/12/2-npas-killed-in-zamboanga-del-sur-clash-with-military/

Gov't, tribal leaders, condemn attack in DavNor village

From the Philippine News Agency (May 12, 2020): Gov't, tribal leaders, condemn attack in DavNor village (By Che Palicte)



DAVAO CITY – Tribal leaders, the people of Kapalong, Davao del Norte, and the military condemned the atrocities committed by communist rebels in Sitio Tapayanon, Barangay Gupitan on Monday.

In a statement on Tuesday, Mayor Maria Theresa Timbol scored the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) for its “total disregard of human life” and performed “traitorous act of cowardice and treason.”

She also assured the public that the government will continue to “safeguard all Kapalongians against the desperate attempt of the CPP-NPA to terrorize innocent lives.”

Meanwhile, the Tribal Council of Sitio Tapayanon, via the Office of the Municipal Tribal Affairs of Kapalong, also condemned the CPP-NPA’s attack while calling for “legal action and justice for the innocent inhabitants of the sitio.”

1Lt. Amadeuz Celestial, 60th Infantry Batallion (60IB) civil-military operations officer, said barely two months after the NPA attack, it has launched another attack on the isolated Ata Manobo tribal community where troops are doing their Community Support Program (CSP).

“The 60IB’s CSP Team and members of the tribal community were going about their daily routine which includes village meetings, tending to individual and communal gardens, and the repair and rehabilitation of some houses and village facilities along with other community-building initiatives,” he said.

He added that the 60IB troops were able to immediately counter the communist-terrorists’ attack and protected the community during the 10-minute firefight.

Celestial also said that 60IB’s position was made even more advantageous by the close air support provided by the Philippine Air Force’s Tactical Operations Group (TOG) 11 based in this city.

“Since the last attack in Tapayanon, the military and the villagers have become more vigilant, and 60IB has since leveled-up the village’s defense system,” he noted.

Celestial also said that no government troop or civilian was hurt during the incident.

Lt. Col. Ronaldo Sarmiento, 60IB Commander, reported that since the “discovery” of Sitio Tapayanon, several interventions — such as the initiation of sustainable food production and farming, health/medical and hygiene and sanitation activities, among others, have already been initiated by various agencies and benefactors.

“We are doing good and this is certainly hurting them (CPP-NPA). Because as we ‘slowly but surely’ rid of Tapayanon’s social, cultural, and economic poverty we are also ripping the CPP-NPA off an entire community and some generations of potential communist-terrorist recruits who they hope would continue to advance their evil intentions and ideologies. We shall persist in this fight and ensure that it will be our communities who will emerge the victors in the end,” Sarmiento said.

The CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front) is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102560

Running gun battle kills 10 rebels in Agusan Norte-MisOr border

From the Philippine News Agency (May 12, 2020): Running gun battle kills 10 rebels in Agusan Norte-MisOr border (By Alexander Lopez)



NPA CASUALTIES. The bodies of the 10 communist New People’s Army rebels are brought to two funeral parlors in Gingoog City early morning Tuesday (May 12), following an encounter Sunday in Sitio Likudon, Barangay Kamanikan in Gingoog City, at the Misamis Oriental-Agusan del Norte border. Pursuit operations and sporadic skirmishes continue as of Tuesday, military officials say. (Photo courtesy of 23IB)

A running gun battle that erupted at dawn last May 10 at the Agusan del Norte and Misamis Oriental border has already killed at least 10 communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, Army officials said Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Francisco Molina, Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion commander, said the first encounter took place in Sitio Likudon, Barangay Kamanikan in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental.

Molina said Sitio Likudon is at the border of Las Nieves town in Agusan del Norte and under the operational jurisdiction of the 23IB, a unit under the 402nd Infantry Brigade (402Bde).

“As of early morning Tuesday (May 12), we already recovered 10 dead bodies of NPA combatants and brought them to two funeral parlors in Gingoog City,” Molina said.

Pursuit operations

He said pursuit operations are still ongoing and sporadic encounters continue since Sunday in the area as the remaining NPA members scampered in different directions after the first armed engagement.

“It’s still dangerous in the area. The NPAs planted landmines and our troopers are very careful while conducting pursuit operations,” Molina said.

He said government troops also recovered five high-power firearms, ammunition, landmines, cellphones, and subversive documents.

Molina said the military operation was launched Sunday after residents reported the presence of around 70 armed men who later turned to be NPA rebels under its Guerrilla Front 4A (GF-4A).

Upon reaching the area at around 4 a.m. on Sunday, Molina said the armed men fired on approaching troopers that resulted in a 10- to 15-minute firefight.

Running gun battle

The Philippine Air Force (PAF), he added, immediately dropped in more Army troopers in the area.

DEAD NPA COMBATANTS. Several cadavers belonging to communist New People’s Army combatants are wrapped before being transported Tuesday, May 12, from the encounter site to the funeral parlors. Ten NPA fighters are killed following an encounter Sunday in Sitio Likudon, Barangay Kamanikan in Gingoog City, at Misamis Oriental-Agusan del Norte border on Sunday. (Photo courtesy of 23IB)
In an interview Tuesday, Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, 402Bde commander, commended the 23IB troopers for the "success of the military operations in the area."

“This is a running gun battle as gun fires can still be heard in the area,” said Licudine, who was in Gingoog City with Molina to personally monitor the continuing pursuit operations.

Licudine said they are expecting more NPA casualties as government troops continued to scour the Agusan del Norte and Misamis Oriental border to pursue the remaining NPA combatants.

Licudine said the rebels harassed, extorted, and collected food from civilians who recently received their relief assistance from the government.

The rebels, he said, were short on food supplies following the lockdowns enforced to contain the 2019 coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

Hunger, exhaustion

"The NPA rebels have suffered hunger and exhaustion as their emissaries encountered difficulties in finding supplies of foods and other basic needs," the Army official added.

He said the NPA is also constrained in obtaining supplies after most barangays in Gingoog City and parts of Agusan del Norte had declared the NPA as persona non grata last year.

“Despite the declaration, civilians continue to fear the presence of the NPA. I commend the courage of some civilians who, despite the danger, managed to provide us accurate information on the area where the NPA were gathering. The information resulted in this successful military operation,” Molina said.

Molina said no casualties were reported on the side of the government.

Persona non grata

1Lt. Roel Maglalang, 23IB civil-military operations officer, said the unit has conducted a series of information drives in the area since last year that resulted in the declaration of persona non grata of communities against the NPA.

Since the declaration, Maglalang said the civilians have been providing vital information on the movements of the NPA.

“The support of the civilians is vital to our effective operations. The recent military operation was a success due to their support and cooperation,” Maglalang said.

Meanwhile, military officials have called on the remaining NPA combatants to surrender and return to their families and communities peacefully.

“The government is always ready to accept them and to provide assistance to start their lives again,” Licudine said.

The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102547

Duterte offers ₱2-million bounty for arrest of top New People's Army leaders

From CNN Philippines (May 12, 2020): Duterte offers ₱2-million bounty for arrest of top New People's Army leaders (By CNN Philippines Staff)



President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday offered up to P2 million reward for anyone who can provide information that would lead to the arrest of top communist leaders.

“Kapag ikaw ang nakaturo at nahuli ang commander na mabigat, may hati ka diyan sa pera,” Duterte said in a taped address. [Translation: If you gave the tip and a commander is arrested, you will get your share of the bounty.]

The President said informants will have to move houses and get a new identity to protect them from the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

“‘Yung mga (the) squealers, you will be given a new identity,” Duterte promised. “I order that you be taken as a witness [under] the protection program.”

Duterte made the announcement after two soldiers escorting aid workers in Aurora province were killed by NPA guerillas in April. The President said the incident was a sign of ‘lawlessness,’ and if these attacks continued, he would declare martial law.

He earlier vowed to ‘finish’ all communist rebels before his terms ends in 2022.

The NPA declared a unilateral ceasefire in response to the call of the United Nations for a global truce so all states can focus on the fight against COVID-19 pandemic. The ceasefire lasted until April 30, two weeks after the government's own suspension of hostilities ended.

The CPP has been waging an insurgency in the country for over five decades.

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/5/12/Duterte-reward-for-NPA-leaders-arrest.html

CPP/Ang Bayan: Monitor and analysis of AFP counterinsurgency operations during Covid-19 ceasefire

Ang Bayan analysis posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 10, 2020): Monitor and analysis of AFP counterinsurgency operations during Covid-19 ceasefire



In 45 days, the AFP deployed its troops in at least 446 villages, 43% of whom were deployed in Visayas and Mindanao, 31% in the Southern Tagalog region, 19% in Bicol, and 7% in provinces north of the National Capital Region (NCR).


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Summary information

Since the Duterte regime declared a lockdown on March 16 over the Covid-19 pandemic, the AFP mounted counterinsurgency operations in over 161 towns and cities in 42 provinces across the country.

In 45 days, the AFP deployed its troops in at least 446 villages, 43% of whom were deployed in Visayas and Mindanao, 31% in the Southern Tagalog region, 19% in Bicol, and 7% in provinces north of the National Capital Region (NCR).

Armed troops roam around communities, enter homes and accuse residents of being members or supporters of the NPA, set up checkpoints, occupy civilian structures and impose curfews and other oppressive policies. There are mounting complaints against soldiers going around and confronting people without wearing face masks raising fears over the probability of spreading Covid-19.

The AFP has conducted at least six aerial bombardment operations in Bukidnon (three rounds), Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte and Sarangani provinces, all in Mindanao, as well as aerial surveillance operations using drones or planes. Helicopters were also used to drop propaganda leaflets in the Mt. Province and Masbate. There have been several attacks on civilians including mass arrests of peasants.

From March 17 to April 30, there were at least 46 armed clashes between various units of the New People’s Army and operating troops of the AFP. From March 16 to April 15, there were 19 such encounters or almost five a week. From April 16 to 30, the number of armed clashes increased to 27 or nearly two a day. Of the 46 clashes, at least 26 were raids against NPA encampments, while others were encounters with NPA units.

In line with the orders of the CPP-CC, NPA units have ceased from mounting tactical offensives against the AFP, the PNP and other armed organizations of the GRP since March 25. Following international humanitarian law, the NPA was also reminded not to prevent, on the contrary, facilitate the work of organizations or agencies delivering relief or assistance to the people. The Central Committee has commended the NPA for strictly observing the ceasefire order, and for training its efforts at addressing the health and economic concerns and problems of the people. While on ceasefire, the NPA was instructed to maintain strict secrecy to avoid detection, and remain vigilant and ready to carry out active defense actions in the face of an armed attack by the AFP. Some units of the NPA have successfully thwarted the offensives of the AFP.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2020/05/12/monitor-and-analysis-of-afp-counterinsurgency-operations-during-covid-19-ceasefire/

CPP/NPA-Southern Panay: Pag-atake sang NPA sa Bag-ong Tukod nga Detatsment sa Igbaras, Iloilo, Panugod nga Pagpanukot sa Pasistang AFP kag Inutil nga Gubyernong Duterte

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 10, 2020): Pag-atake sang NPA sa Bag-ong Tukod nga Detatsment sa Igbaras, Iloilo, Panugod nga Pagpanukot sa Pasistang AFP kag Inutil nga Gubyernong Duterte

ILAYA KANAWAY

NPA-SOUTHERN PANAY

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

MAY 10, 2020

Ginharas sang isa ka tim sang New People’s Army ang CAFGU detatsment sa Brgy. Barasan, Igbaras, Iloilo sang Mayo 3, 2020. Matapos ang istrikto nga pagpatuman sang untat lupok nga direktiba sang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas tubtob Abril 30, 2020, gilayon nga ginsabat sang Mt. Napulak Command ang panawagan nga maglunsar na sang opensiba militar batuk sa nagapakuno-kuno kag butigon nga Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Sa sulod sang panahon nga may untat lupok ang NPA bilang pagpakigbuylog sa ululupod nga pag-atubang sa COVID-19, ginhingalitan ini sang AFP para manugsog kag mag-atake sa mga lugar nga ginahukmungan sang mga yunit sang NPA. Sa pagsuma sang PKP, indi mahimutig ang 36 ka inaway nga nagluntad nga ang kadam-an pagpanurong sa mga kampo.

Ang pagpang-atake sa detatment nga natabu sining damlag lang, panugod pa lamang nga pagpanukot sa pasistang AFP kag gubyernong Duterte sa gindulot nga inhustisya, kapigusan, kapalpakan, pagka-inutil kag ala Martial Law nga pagdomina sa nagaantus nga pumuluyo sa kaumhan kag kasyudaran sa panahon sang COVID-19.

Ginamanduan sang Mt. Napulak Command ang tanan nga yunit sa idalum sini nga indi pagpabay-an nga maglinagaw, sa baylo sukton ang kaaway nga tropa nga nagasulod sa erya batuk sa ginatuga sini nga kalakasan kag agud pangapinan ang ikaayong lawas sang pumuluyo batuk sa COVID-19 nga dala nila. Ginapanawagan man sini sa malapad nga pumuluyo nga ipakigbato ang ila kaayuhan kag kinamatarung sa seguridad sa pagkaon, ikaayong lawas kag pangabuhian kag pamatukan ang naga-operasyon nga tropa, intelligence assets sang AFP, PNP, CAFGU kag RPA nga nagapalapta sang COVID-19 sa ila lugar. Ginapanawagan man ang tanan nga pamatan-on nga naga-edad 18-anyos pataas nga mag-upod sa pagbato batuk sa mapiguson, mapintas, inutil kag pahamak nga gubyernong Duterte paagi sa pagkapot sang armas kag pag-entra sa NPA.

Hustisya para kay John Farochilin, Jory Porquia, 11 ka inosenteng sibilyan nga ginpangdakop sang pasista nga tropa kag iban pa nga biktima sang inhustisya kag kapabayaan sang gubyernong Duterte!

Mabuhay ang nagabato nga pumuluyong nagaantus, ginapigos kag ginahimuslan!
Pumuluyo kag NPA, ululupod nga batuan ang COVID-19!

https://cpp.ph/statement/pag-atake-sang-npa-sa-bag-ong-tukod-nga-detatsment-sa-igbaras-iloilo-panugod-nga-pagpanukot-sa-pasistang-afp-kag-inutil-nga-gubyernong-duterte/

WESTMINCOM: Soldiers, communist terrorists clash in ZDS

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 11, 2020):  Soldiers, communist terrorists clash in ZDS

Military troops clashed with undetermined number of communist terrorists on Monday morning, May 11, 2020.

While conducting combat patrol, troops of the 53rd Infantry Battalion encountered the members of the Communist Terrorist Group in Sitio Pisyo, Barangay Balonai, Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur at 11:05am.

Firefight ensued that lasted for 25 minutes after which enemy withdrew to unknown direction.

"Pursuit and blockade are being conducted by our troops to track down the fleeing terrorists," said Col. Leonel Nicolas, 102nd Brigade Commander.

While scouring the area of engagement, troops recovered two enemy cadavers, two AK47, and one backpack.

"We call on the people to remain vigilant and report to the government forces the presence of suspicious looking people in their communities," said Maj. Gen. Gene Ponio, Joint Task Force ZamPeLan Commander.

Recovered cadavers were extricated from the area for proper disposition.

"I commend the troops of the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan for their remarkable accomplishments amid the health crisis," said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, WestMinCom Commander.

"Rest assured that we will disallow these terror groups to thrive in the communities by exhausting all our capabilities," Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

#afpyoucantrust
#teamwmc
#teamkapayapaan
#wmcyourprotector
#wmcyourpartner

6th Infantry Division - Kampilan 601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade 602nd "Liberator" Brigade 603 Persuader Brigade 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Unang Marinong Brigada Team Tabak Joint Task Force Basilan HARIBON TEAM Magbalantay Cmo 11 Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers" 2MBde Red Shield Gagandilan Siete 1102 Infantry "ganarul" Brigade 1st BCT Aegis Kwatromarinobrigada Sulu Jtf Tawi Tawi Indomalphi Joint Task Force Zamboanga Joint Task Force Zamboanga Virtual Center Unbeatable Ranger Battalion Matatag Battalion Tow Westmin Cmo Tow Westmin Pio Naval Forces Western Mindanao Cmou Western Mindanao Katapatan Pangkatihan-Dagatan 33rd Infantry Makabayan Battalion 57th Infantry Masikap Battalion 1st Mechanized Lakan Battalion 90th Infantry Bigkis Lahi Battalion Seventh Infantry Tapat Battalion Reliablecmo R Section 6IB Redskin 37IB - Conqueror Battalion 40 Infantry "Magiting" Battalion 2nd Mechanized Infantry-MAKASAGBattalion OnlyOurBest MbltFive 38th Infantry We Clear Battalion Arvin John Gullos Encinas Breathe Heart Ruel Casanes Ar-ar Galvez Afman Rosales Jr. Antriosanjh Espenida Nenea Sancus Princy Necessitas La Independencia Filipinas



https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1731441690331213/1731441530331229/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1731441690331213/1731441493664566/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1731441690331213/1731441466997902/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom

Kalinaw News: LGU, tribal leaders, military condemns attack on ‘extremely isolated’ tribal village

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2020): LGU, tribal leaders, military condemns attack on ‘extremely isolated’ tribal village (By 60th Infantry Battalion)



ASUNCION, DDN – Barely two (2) months after the CPP-NPA attacked Sitio Tapayanon in Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte, the same communist-terrorist group launched yet another attack on the extremely isolated Ata Manobo tribal community where troops of the Philippine Army’s 60th Infantry Battalion are currently conducting their Community Support Program (CSP).

The attack transpired yesterday morning while the 60IB’s CSP Team and members of the tribal community were going about their daily routine which includes village meetings, tending to individual and communal gardens, and the repair and rehabilitation of some houses and village facilities along other community-building initiatives.

As before, the 60IB troops were able to immediately counter the communist-terrorists’ attack and protected the community during the ten-minute firefight that ensued. 60IB’s position was made even more advantageous by the close air support provided by the Philippine Air Force’s Tactical Operations Group 11 based in Davao City.

Since the last attack in Tapayanon, the military and the villagers have become more vigilant; and 60IB has since levelled-up the village’s defense system.

No government troop or civilian was hurt during the incident.

Kapalong Mayor Maria Theresa Timbol recently released the LGU’s official statement condemning the CPP-NPA’s “total disregard [for] human life” and “traitorous act of cowardice and treason.” Timbol, through the statement, also reassured the public that the government will continue to “safeguard […] all Kapalongians against the desperate attempt of the CPP-NPA to terrorize innocent lives. [And] strongly enforce President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 […] with bravery and patriotism.”

In a similar tone, the Tribal Council of Sitio Tapayanon thru the Office of the Municipal Tribal Affairs of Kapalong released Resolution 01-2020 which also condemned the CPP-NPA’s terroristic act while calling for a deserved “legal action and justice … for the innocent inhabitants of the sitio.”

Per 60IB’s assessment, the attack may have been a simple “nuisance harassment” meant only to scare the villagers and dissuade them from continuously supporting the government.

It may also be the retaliation of some splinter group of the CPP-NPA who has been taking blow after blow of defeats in these very boundaries where 60IB and other AFP units continue to relentlessly conduct their operations.

Recent government reports imply the serious degradation of the CPP-NPA’s forces with some whole Guerilla Fronts being categorized “weakened” or totally declared “dismantled” by the different AFP units.

“WE SHALL PERSIST IN THIS FIGHT.”

Meanwhile, 60IB together with the Local Government Units of Kapalong and Davao del Norte and their partner National Government Agencies continue to implement their respective development plans and programs for the village.

60IB Commander, Lt. Col. Ronaldo Sarmiento reports that since the “discovery” of Sitio Tapayanon, several interventions—such as the initiation of sustainable food production and farming, conduct of health/medical and hygiene and sanitation activities, enrolment to social welfare programs and emergency employment schemes, the establishment of a DepEd Extension (Annex) School, and the continuing opening of access/farm-to-market roads thru both local and national agency funding; have already been initiated by various agencies and benefactors.

“We are doing good and this is certainly hurting them [CPP-NPA]. Because as we ‘slowly but surely’ rid of Tapayanon’s social, cultural, and economic poverty we are also ripping the CPP-NPA off an entire community and some generations of potential communist-terrorist recruits who they hope would continue to advance their evil intentions and ideologies. We shall persist in this fight and ensure that it will be our communities who will emerge the victors in the end,” Sarmiento added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/lgu-tribal-leaders-military-condemns-attack-on-extremely-isolated-tribal-village/

Kalinaw News: Two NPA killed, yields firearms in Zamboanga del Sur clash (Graphic Photos)

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2020): Two NPA killed, yields firearms in Zamboanga del Sur clash (By 1st Infantry Division)



Zamboanga Del Sur – Two members of the Communist NPA Terrorist were killed and yielded firearms after the encounter with the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Balonai, Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur 11:05 a.m. today, May 11, 2020.

Two cadavers of still unidentified NPAs, two AK47 assault rifles, two bandoliers with magazines and ammunitions and a backpack were recovered by the government troops after the 15-minute firefight.

There were no reported casualties on the government side.

In his statement, Lt Col Jo-ar Herrera said that, “This would not have been possible without the information provided by concerned citizens of the enemy presence in their communities.”

“The people are already proactive in their roles in denouncing the terroristic acts of the NPAs in their barangays,” Lt Col Herrera added.

As of this posting, troops are still conducting pursuit operation against fleeing members of the terrorist group.

Meanwhile, Col Leonel Nicolas, Commander, 102nd Infantry Brigade, who has operational jurisdiction of Zamboanga del Sur assured the public that the army is on top of the situation.

“We will continue the relentless operations against these terrorist groups until their cause and presence become insignificant in our society today,” Col Nicolas said.

Maj General Generoso “Gene” Ponio, Commander, 1st Infantry Division commended the troops for this accomplishment.

“The Tabak Division in partnership with the Local Government Units and other stakeholders through the Local Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (LTF-ELCAC) is committed to put an end to this decades-long insurgency problem in Zamboanga Peninsula,” Maj. Gen. Ponio said.

“Through the Whole-of-Nation Approach, we are positive that we can finally achieve our end goal, to create an environment conducive for sustainable peace and development in the region,” Maj. Gen. Ponio added.

The cadavers are now being transported for immediate identification and decent burial.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/two-npa-killed-yields-firearms-in-zamboanga-del-sur-clash/

Kalinaw News: Army clash with NPA in Surigao Sur, one NPA killed (Graphic Photo)

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2020): Army clash with NPA in Surigao Sur, one NPA killed. (By 4th Infantry Division)



TAGO, Surigao del Sur – The 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion (36IB) clashed with the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in the hinterlands and unhibited area of Vic Katarugan, Sitio Avelino, Brgy Cabangahan, Cantilan, this province today May 11, 2020 at around 8:20 in the morning.

With the reports tip off by locals and nearby communities of the presence of the CNTs conducting extortion and posing threat on the said place. Troops of 36IB immediately responded to the said reports and conducted combat operation on the said area.

Upon reaching the vicinity, the troops were able to track down the pinpointed location and encountered more or less 10 fully armed CNTs believed to be members of Sandatahang Unit Pampropaganda (SYP) 16C1, Guerilla Front (GF16) of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) under @Jacob.

The exchange of fires lasted for about 5 mins and the enemy withdraw to northeast direction leaving their comrade and firearms behind. Engage troops overrun their location and determined bloodstains scattered on the path of enemy withdrawal. While, scouring the troops recovered one NPA killed and one (1) AK 47 with live ammunition, enemy personal belongings and documents with high intelligence value.

In a statement, Lt Col Jezreel Diagmel, Commanding Officer of 36IB said that it is the result of the relentless combat operation and the support of the communities in the 36IB area of operation.

“With the support of the locals and communities, we easily track down the enemy. It is a manifestation that the growing support of the communities is a response that they don’t want the CPP-NPA in their area,” Ltc Diagmel said.

He further added that unit grief with the slain NPA as they are also victims of futile arm and struggle and failed ideology

“I call on the remaining CPP-NPA terrorist to surrender now and return to the folds of the law. Lay down your arms and return to your families. Avail the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program ( E-CLIP), the government intervention package for former rebels. The cadaver of the killed NPA will be turn-over to the Brgy Officials and PNP for identification and post-mortem examination.



[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-clash-with-npa-in-surigao-sur-one-npa-killed/

Kalinaw News: Army strikes NPA, yields high powered firearms, IED

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2020): Army strikes NPA, yields high powered firearms, IED (By 10TH INFANTRY DIVISION)



Mawab, Davao de Oro – The 71st Infantry KAIBIGAN Battalion (71IB) encounters members of the Weakened Guerilla Front 2 (WGF 2) of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Mabini, Davao de Oro, earlier this morning. Two high powered firearms, an improvised explosive device, and other war materiel are recovered.

Following the complaints of the residents that members of the NPA were harassing their community, the 71IB launched strike operations to the perpetrators. A tip from reliable informant revealed the whereabouts of the suspects. This morning, troops of KAIBIGAN Battalion tried to intercept but were fired upon by the criminals who were taking a hault in the vicinity of Sitio Magnonook, Brgy Pangibiran, Mabini, Davao de Oro. 

This led to an armed encounter which transpired at about 7:00 o’clock this morning with more or less 5 members of the WGF 2 of the Southern Regional Command 2 (SRC2) of the NPA. 

After five minutes of firefight, KAIBIGAN troopers scoured the area and recovered 1 improvised explosive device and 2 high powered firearms (1 M16 and 1 AK47 rifles), 10 magazines, 206 live ammos, 7 blasting cap, 100 meter electrical wire, 4 backpacks with personal belongings and subversive documents. Bloodstains were also found along the enemy’s withdrawal route towards southwest.

LTC SONNY E GONZALES, Commanding Officer of 71IB, is determined to destroy WGF 2 that operates in 71IB’s area of operation. “We will not allow NPA to perpetrate horrible acts anymore, or as freely as they like. Nevertheless, let us to strive even harder, think even smarter and move even swifter so that we can really end local armed conflict in our area of operation.”, he emphasized to his subordinates during his briefing prior to the said combat operation. The 71IB covers the municipalities of Mawab, Maco, Mabini and Pantukan all of Davao de Oro and Tagum City of Davao del Norte.

It can be recalled that last April 7, the unit neutralized 2 high ranking NPA members who reportedly terrorized locals in Sitio Ibuan, Brgy Tagdangua, Pantukan. Several high powered firearms and other valuable war materiel were seized. It also facilitated the surrender of 4 regular members of NPA which significantly reduced the manpower of WGF2. Just last week, 71IB helped the NAGMAPPA or “Nagkahiusang Mag-uuma sa Pindasan og Pangibiran” in Mabini to disaffiliate themselves from the “Kilusang Mambubukid ng Pilipinas” or KMP, a legal front organization of CPP-NPA-NDF that organized the former, gave them false promises and taught them to go against the government.

All these feats are the result of the cooperation and synergy in practice by the Local Government Units (LGU) and other peace stakeholders. The LGU actively work-in-hand with the 71IB in attaining sustainable peace in the community. In fact, the LGU Mabini gives incentives to citizens who can give real-time information of the NPA that led to their neutralization or capture.

Meantime, Hon. Reynaldo Dayanghirang, municipal Mayor of Mabini, extended his support and lauded the 71st IB on its recent encounter which caused significant reduction of enemy’s firepower.
“Congratulations to the officers and men of 71IB for having made another great accomplishment. Be assured, I, as the municipal mayor of Mabini will continue to give my support to the men and women in uniform of the AFP to fight aginst insurgency and lawless elements in our community.”

The 71IB continues to enjoin local government unit, line government agencies, civil society organization, private entities and typical locals as peace and order is not just an AFP’s concern but a shared responsibility. “Together, let us continue to hit the NPA hard and tip them off as much as we warmly accept those rebel who submit themselves and return to the folds of the law,” said LTC Gonzales.

The 71ib together with the LGU continues to welcome NpA members who lay down their arms and surrender and assists them to benefit from government’s Enhanced Local Integration Program (ECLIP) that offers them cash and livelihood assistance and even housing program.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-strikes-npa-yields-high-powered-firearms-ied/

2 injured soldiers get assistance

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 11, 2020): 2 injured soldiers get assistance

Two Army soldiers injured in recent armed skirmishes with New People’s Army rebels in Victorias City, Negros Occidental, received special financial assistance from the Comprehensive Social Benefit Program of the government.

Fatima Diaz, DILG Northern Negros Cluster leader, turned over P5,000 worth of groceries and hygiene kits on Friday to Cpl. Ranie Chiefe and PFC Louie Maghanoy, both members of the 79th Infantry Battalion, who were injured in a gunbattle with NPA rebels in Brgy. Gawahon, Victorias City, on April 24.

Army soldiers and troopers of the PNP Special Action Force recovered from the encounter site two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) with blasting caps, a bandolier with five magazines for AK47 assault rifle, and another bandolier with two magazines of M16 rifle with ammunition.

Also recovered from the site were two hand-held radios, two mobile phones, a binocular, a compass, four jungle packs containing personal belongings, five hammocks, eight blankets, 10 ponchos, three rain boots, assorted medicines, and subversive documents.

Diaz said that the Comprehensive Social Benefit Program was institutionalized as a mechanism to provide speedy, sustainable and rationalize social benefit assistance to the military, police and other uniformed personnel.

She added that the initial package will be followed by a full tranche of special financial assistance worth P100, 000 on the category of minor injury after completing the necessary requirements.

Lt. Col. Gerald Alvaran, 79IB commanding officer, thanked the DILG for recognizing sacrifices of the military in combat operations.

These gestures will serve as our inspiration and motivation to do more and continue our selfless service to end local communist armed conflict in northern Negros, Alvaran said.

He added that they will continue to serve as partner to provide security in all of the activities of the government, including the fight against local communist terrorists and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Diaz said the DILG highly appreciates and salutes the heroism of the AFP-PNP in countering the communist terrorist groups that would like to take advantage of COVID-19 pandemic.*

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/May/11/topstory11.htm

CDRRMC,RIATG tackle ELCAC updates and concerns

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2020): CDRRMC,RIATG tackle ELCAC updates and concerns (By PIA CAR)

BAGUIO CITY, May 11(PIA)-- A Militia ng Bayan from Bauko, Mountain Province voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines on April 29, 2020.

@Ambo surrendered without firearm after a series of negotiation. He may be evaluated for possible provision of benefits under E-CLIP program.

National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Deputy Regional Director Cherry Tamang during the Cordillera Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council and Regional InterAgency Technical Group joint coordination meeting on May 6 gave updates on Regional Task Force Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict and conflict concerns amid COVID-19.

Cordillera Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council and Regional InterAgency Technical Group joint coordination meeting tackles concerns on ELCAC.(CCD-PIA CAR)
Tamang presented five issues and concerns involving the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) that need government action. These include the propaganda being launched by the CPP-NPA and their legal fronts especially in social media that aims to undermine the government efforts on COVID; fund raising and solicitation these groups are conducting; conduct of relief operations/mission of CTG; their criticism on the Social Amelioration Program, and the termination by NPA of the multilateral ceasefire last April 30 that signify their objective of advancing their communist agenda amid the COVID pandemic.

“The CTG would seek every opportunity to undermine government efforts in order to advance their communist agenda. Hence, the need for all of us to effectively pre-empt and actively expose their lies and deception,” Tamang said.

CRDRRMC Chairperson and OCD - CAR Regional Director Albert Mogol encouraged member agencies to continue with their programs and services and highlight the good news and best practices while at the same time help counter the lies and misinformation that the CTG are doing. He also advised the law enforcement agencies to look into the relief mission of the CTGs that may have been violating the rules on Authority of Person Outside Residence under the Enhanced Community Guidelines or General CQ guidelines. (PIA CAR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1041528

Phil Army honors 9 soldiers for exemplary combat

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2020): Phil Army honors 9 soldiers for exemplary combat (By Jennifer C. Tilos)



NEGROS ORIENTAL, May 11 (PIA) -- The 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army honored nine soldiers for demonstrating exemplary action during encounters against communist terrorists in the area of operations of the 94th Infantry Battalion (IB).

Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, offered medals or Military Commendation Medals during the awarding rites on Thursday at Brgy. Tambo, Ayungon, this province.

In April, it was reported that the joint Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police elements of 94IB and the police force of Bindoy Municipal Police Station while conducting community security patrols clashed with undetermined number of New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist groups in Sitio Namunduan, Brgy. Cambudlas, Bindoy.

The said encounter resulted in the minor wounding of one soldier while two NPA members killed an undetermined number of casualties based on the heavy bloodstains found in the NPA position and route of withdrawal.

The troops were able to recover at the encounter site the following war materials: one shotgun with live ammunitions; one bandoliers with magazines and live ammunitions; two backpacks; one rifle grenade; six pairs of rain boots; medical supplies and paraphernalias; subversive documents; and other personal belongings.

Troops are still pursuing the fleeing NPA terrorists.

Pasaporte lauded the bravery and selfless dedication of the operating troops to secure and protect the community of Bindoy.

"The medal symbolizes your bravery in facing our enemy and selfless dedication on your oath to protect the people and the country. As your Brigade Commander, I want to recognize your collective efforts and may this simple occasion motivate you to do more and perform well on your next mission,” said Pasaporte.

Addressing to the troops, he added: “Let us continue our efforts in going after the communist NPA terrorists and show to them the true grit of the 94th Infantry ‘MANDIRIGMA’ Battalion.” (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1041532

Army secures emergency cash aid, beneficiaries in Guihulngan

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2020): Army secures emergency cash aid, beneficiaries in Guihulngan (By Jennifer C. Tilos)

Army soldiers provide security during the cash assistance distribution to maintain peace and order in Guihulngan City. (PIA Negros Oriental/Philippine Army)
NEGROS ORIENTAL, May 11 (PIA) -- The Guihulngan City government has completed its emergency cash subsidy distribution of P90.780 million to all family beneficiaries in 33 barangays in Guihulngan.

During the cash distribution from April 16 to May 9, the troopers from 62nd Infantry (Unifier) Battalion, 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, Philippine Army through its Operational Control (OPCON) Unit, Alpha Company, 94th Infantry (Mandirigma) Battalion went to different areas in the city to secure and assist in the conduct of social distancing.

Guihulngan City has a total of 15,130 beneficiaries who received the cash assistance under SAP which include 5,654 families who are unconditional cash transfer (UCT) recipients and other 9,476 poorest of the poor families.

Each qualified family received P6,000 cash aid from the government through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).

The soldiers joined and assisted the Philippine National Police and the local government of Guihulngan City together with CSWDO in maintaining peace and order during the distribution of the cash subsidy to families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A soldier monitors the wearing of face masks and conduct of physical distancing of SAP recipients in Guihulngan City. (PIA Negros Oriental/Philippine Army)
Distribution of the cash aid is in line with Republic Act 11469 known as “Bayanihan Act to Heal as One” enacted in March 2020 granting the President limited emergency powers to address COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

The act grants the President the authority to give low-income families with P5,000 to P8,000 emergency cash aid during the crisis.

Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, commanding officer of 62IB, said the security provided by the soldiers is part of the 62IB transformation effort to collaborate with the partner stakeholders in uplifting the socio-economic conditions in Central Negros.

“In order to protect the people and secure our land, the personnel of 62IB and 94IB are putting their own lives at risk by exposing themselves to possible contamination,” said Flores.

The partnership and collaboration among the concerned agencies ensured the safety and security of the people which led to the successful delivery of cash assistance to the beneficiaries in the city, the army officer said.

It was noted that in other areas of the country, there were reported cases of terrorist attacks by the CPP-NPA on the frontliners to seize goods intended for families in need.

“The 62IB together with LGU/LGAs of Guihulngan City and Guihulgan PNP will continue to serve the people of Negros Oriental to protect the local populace from any barbaric activity of the CPP-NPA terrorists and we will not let any selfish act hamper the government services for the people. Let us not just fight this terrorist but also this pandemic. Our partnership manifests that 'we can win together as one' as 'we heal as one'," said Flores. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1041554

Former rebels in Lanao del Sur receive assistance amidst COVID-19

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2020): Former rebels in Lanao del Sur receive assistance amidst COVID-19 (By 82nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

SAGUIARAN, Lanao del Sur, May 12– Amidst coronavirus disease (COVID-19), 26 former members of the Dawlah Islamiyah – Maute Group (DI-MG) received assistance on Monday at the Municipal Hall of Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

The Ministry of Social Services and Development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSD-BARMM) in collaboration with local government unit (LGU) of Piagapo and the 82nd Infantry Battalion (IB) distributed one sack (25 kilos) of rice to the former rebels (FRs) in the municipality of Piagapo as part of the continuous efforts of the government in aiding the community in fighting and surviving COVID-19.

Troops of Charlie Company of 82IB led by its company commander, 1LT Chris Anthony T. Cayaba facilitated the travel and attendance of the FRs during the distribution of the food assistance.

In his message, vice-mayor Ali L. Sumandar assured his constituents that in trying times like these the government will help the people and no one will be left behind, not even FRs.

It can be recalled that after the liberation of Marawi City from the hands of the ‘ISIS-inspired’ violent extremists, the government offered its doors to those who wanted to return to the folds of the law and be re-integrated in the mainstream society.

Sumandar assisted in numerous negotiations and peace dialogues that resulted in the voluntary surrender of some active and lie-low members of the DI-MG in his municipality.

Meanwhile, LtCol. Rafman S. Altre, commanding officer of 82nd IB called on the remaining active and lie-low members of the DI-MG and also of the Communist Terrorist Group in the area to lay down their arms and accept the peace offered by the government in furtherance to ending the local armed conflict in the province.

“The government is serious in giving you a chance to live peaceful and normal lives once again, just like these former rebels who are now enjoying the different programs of the government in the comfort of their homes and their families, "said LtCol Altre.

Months ago, different agencies of the government including non-government organizations in and out of Lanao del Sur offered psycho-social interventions, livelihood trainings and livelihood assistance to the FRs and their families as part of their rehabilitation and reintegration to the mainstream society.

“While our troops are focus on assisting the different frontliners against COVID-19, there is no let-up on our security and efforts in tracking down the remnants of the Local Terrorist Groups in our area, "LtCol. Altre added. (82IB/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1041599

Sorsogon clash not 'massacre' but legit encounter: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Sorsogon clash not 'massacre' but legit encounter: Army (By Mar Serrano)

An Army commander has denied the accusation of the communist rebel group that the encounter in Sorsogon where five insurgents were killed on Friday last week was a "massacre".

Maj. Gen. Fernando Trinidad, commanding officer of the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) and Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), clarified on Monday that the incident in Barangay Dolos, Bulan town was a legitimate encounter contrary to the claim of the New People’s Army-Romulo Jallores Command (NPA-RJC).
Trinidad said the clash ensued as police operatives, along with Army troops, were about to serve a warrant of arrest to a certain Golima, a suspected NPA member facing murder charges.

“I would like to inform the Bicolanos to be wary of the misinformation being spread by the NPA purposely to discredit the police and the military,” he said in an interview.

Trinidad named the suspected NPA rebels killed in the encounter as Jaime Tañada alias Ame, 54; Reymond “Monding” Tañada, 39; Jerry “Ben” Palanca, 31; Jerick Buno, 30; and Roberto “Furgoso” Villafuerte, 21, all members of Larangan 2, Komiteng Probinsya 3 of the Bicol Regional Party Committee.
“The recovered high-powered firearms and subversive supplies are proofs of their continuous lawless activities that have affected the lives of innocent civilians and surrounding communities,” he said.

Earlier, the NPA-RJC condemned the killing of the alleged "farmers" whom the military has tagged as suspected communist rebels.

Raymundo Buenfuerza, RJC spokesperson, in a press statement, accused the military and police forces of allegedly committing human rights violations.

He claimed the incident last Friday was a “massacre” where the military allegedly planted high-powered assault rifles and ammunition to justify their atrocities.

Buenferza denied the statement of the military that the farmers were members of the communist movement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102445

Clan war displaces hundreds in NoCot during fasting month

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Clan war displaces hundreds in NoCot during fasting month (By Edwin Fernandez)



Google map of Pikit, North Cotabato.

A blood feud or "rido" involving members of two clans erupted anew Sunday in the North Cotabato town of Pikit, sending some 1,500 families to safer grounds while they observe fasting for the Ramadan period.

Fueled by a land dispute, the armed conflict between the warring families have resulted in sporadic encounters that have escalated further as both sides used mortars and machine guns.

Worse, the protagonists raided and burned homes left by fleeing civilians and carted away valuables, food supplies, and work animals, including chickens, goats, carabaos, and cows, according to local and military officials.

Pikit Mayor Sumulong Sultan said skirmishes ignited again on Sunday in the villages of Takepan, Bulol, and Talitay between local factions of Moro National Liberation Front sub-commanders Jainudion Butuan and Kuwat, and the group of Moro Islamic Liberation Front base command sub-commanders Abdul Hamid Sansawi, Sambutuan, and Ekot.

Sultan had earlier gathered both sides to settle the dispute peacefully.

“The fighting slowed down but on Sunday, both sides exchanged bullets again,” Sultan said in a radio interview Monday.

“We pity these people, they avoid bullets but they could hardly move to safer places due to community quarantine,” the mayor added.

Sultan said emissaries of the MILF and MNLF have been sent to put an end to the "rido".

Likewise, the mayor said he has also sought the help of the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade and North Cotabato police provincial office to send in peacekeepers to separate the warring families. Soldiers have been sent and fighting has ceased as of Monday morning. 
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102438

NPA rebel dies after 5-minute clash in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): NPA rebel dies after 5-minute clash in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



CASUALTY. A communist New People’s Army is killed following a five-minute firefight in the Surigao del Sur town of Cantilan on Monday, May 11. The clash broke out after government forces responded to a civilian tip-off on the presence of suspected NPA rebels conducting 'extortion activities' in the area. (Photo courtesy of 36IB)

A communist New People’s Army (NPA) combatant was killed in a fresh firefight between the rebels and the Philippine Army Monday morning (May 11) in Surigao del Sur.

Capt. Jonald Romorosa, the civil-military operations officer of the Army's 36th Infantry Battalion, said the encounter in Barangay Cabangahan, Cantilan town ensued when government forces responded to a civilian tip-off on the presence of suspected NPA rebels conducting "extortion activities" in the area.

Romorosa said the 10 NPA combatants belonging to the Guerrilla Front 16C-1 of the NPA's Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NMRC) of the NPA were headed by a certain “Jacob”.
After a five-minute firefight, he said the NPA rebels retreated into the northeast direction and left the body of a dead comrade near the clash site.

Government forces recovered an AK-47 rifle with live ammunition, personal belongings, and documents with high intelligence value, the Army official said.

Lt. Col. Jezreel Diagmel, 36IB commander, lauded the residents in the area for providing the Army with vital information.

“This is a manifestation of the growing support of communities to the Army and the government and an expression of their disinclination and unwillingness of the presence of the NPA in their communities,” Diagmel said.

He also expressed grief over the death of an NPA combatant, saying the still-unidentified fighter was "another victim of the futile armed struggle and failed ideology of the communist movement in the country".

“I call on the remaining Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) NPA terrorists to surrender now and return to the fold of the law. Lay down your arms and return to your families,” Digamel said.

He added that the government is "always ready to accept NPA members" who will be assisted through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) and other livelihood programs for returnees.

Romorosa said the recovered cadaver will be turned over to the barangay officials in the area and to the Philippine National Police (PNP) for identification and proper disposition, Romorosa said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102454

Davao de Oro firefight yields NPA war materiel

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Davao de Oro firefight yields NPA war materiel (By Che Palicte)



ARMED ENCOUNTER. The Army's 71st Infantry Battalion recovers two high-power firearms, an improvised explosive device, and other war materiel after a firefight with the communist New People’s Army in Barangay Pangibiran, Mabini, Davao de Oro, on Monday (May 11, 2020). Military officials say the crash occurred after the troops responded to the complaints of the residents in the area about the rebels' harassment. (Photo courtesy of 71IB)

The Army's 71st Infantry Battalion (71IB) recovered two high-power firearms, an improvised explosive device, and other war materiel after a firefight with communist New People’s Army (NPA) in the Davao de Oro town of Mabini Monday.

2Lt. Kim Carlos, 71Ib civil-military operations officer, said the encounter broke out after government troops responded on the complaints of the residents about a group of NPA fighters harassing their community.

“No casualty from both sides, but bloodstains were found along the enemy’s withdrawal route,” Carlos told Philippine News Agency (PNA) in an interview.

After the armed encounter with about five NPA combatants, government troops managed to recover an improvised explosive device, an M16 rifle, an AK47, 10 magazines, 206 live ammunition, blasting caps, backpacks with personal belongings and subversive documents, and other pieces of evidence.

“We will not allow NPA to perpetrate horrible acts anymore, or as freely as they like. Nevertheless, let us strive even harder, think even smarter, and move even swifter so that we can really end local armed conflict in our area of operation,” said Lt. Col. Sonny Gonzales, 71IB commander.

Gonzales also vowed the government troops are determined to "destroy communist groups" operating within the 71IB jurisdiction covering the municipalities of Mawab, Maco, Mabini, and Pantukan in Davao de Oro, and Tagum City in Davao del Norte.

Last week, 71IB said it assisted the “Nagkahiusang Mag-Uuma sa Pindasan og Pangibiran” (NAGMAPPA) from the Davao de Oro town of Mabini withdrew their support from the leftist “Kilusan ng Mambubukid sa Pilipinas” (KMP).

The military has long identified KMP as a legal front of the NPA, listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

“All these feats are the result of the cooperation and synergy in practice by the Local Government Units (LGU) and other peace stakeholders”, Gonzales said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102489

Wanted ‘NPA combatant' nabbed in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Wanted ‘NPA combatant' nabbed in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



BUSTED. A team of police operatives arrest Lando G. Turaja, an alleged member of the communist New People's Army in the Surigao del Sur town of Lianga on Sunday (May 10, 2020). Turaja, 50, has standing warrants of arrest for murder and frustrated murder. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

A suspected member of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) with a standing warrant of arrest was arrested by government forces in Lianga, Surigao del Sur over the weekend.

Brig. Gen. Joselito T. Esquivel Jr., Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga) director, identified the suspect as Lando G. Turaja, 50, a resident of Barangay Balibadon in Cortes, Surigao del Sur.

In a statement Monday (May 11), Esquivel said Turaja, who was arrested during a manhunt operation on Sunday, has a standing arrest warrant for murder and attempted murder issued by a regional court in Tandag City.

Turaja is a member of Guerrilla Front 30 of the NPA's North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), Esquivel said, adding the suspect is the fourth most wanted person in Surigao del Sur.

“Our troops confiscated one caliber 9mm Bereta pistol loaded with six ammunition from his possession. Based on our investigation, he was the primary suspect in a shooting incident that killed the Barangay Captain of Cayale, San Miguel Surigao del Sur last 2018,” Esquivel said.

He said PRO-13 remains on a heightened alert against persons with standing warrants of arrest despite the health crisis caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

In a separate interview Monday (May 11), Col. James T. Goforth, Surigao del Sur provincial police director, said Turaja was also involved during the ambush of a police patrol car in Surigao del Sur sometime in 2015.

“During the investigation, Turaja admitted that he was part of the blocking force of the NPA during the said ambush,” Goforth told the Philippine News Agency.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102508