262 new officers join PH Army

From the Philippine News Agency (May 27, 2020): 262 new officers join PH Army (By Priam Nepomuceno)



NEW OFFICERS. Graduates of the Officer Preparatory Course Class 71-2019 and Officer Candidate Course Class 53-2020 take their oath as new Philippine Army officers during their graduation ceremony in Camp O’Donnell in Capas, Tarlac on Tuesday (May 26, 2020). They will be commissioned as second lieutenants and will soon be deployed to the different Army units nationwide. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

Philippine Army (PA) commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, lauded 262 individuals for having the courage to join the military and choosing to serve the country and its people.

Gapay made this remark as he presided over the graduation ceremonies of the Officer Preparatory Course (OPC) Class 71-2019 and Officer Candidate Course (OCC) Class 53-2020 at the headquarters of the Training and Doctrine Command in Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on Tuesday.

A total of 70 graduates from OPC and 192 graduates from OCC will be commissioned as second lieutenants and will soon be deployed to the different Army units nationwide.

The graduation of the new Army officers came amid the country's battle against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“Recall when you signed up for the Army. That single step you made for this journey is now culminating and the succeeding step to your dream has begun. And no matter how it will end, the most important thing is that you mustered enough courage to enter the door of many possibilities,” Gapay said.

He also commended the new officers for their hard work in preparation for their duties.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104023

Gloria named new Western Command head

From the Philippine News Agency (May 27, 2020): Gloria named new Western Command head (By Priam Nepomuceno)



NEW WESCOM CHIEF. Lt. Gen. Erickson Gloria (center) steps down as AFP deputy chief-of-staff after being named as the new chief of the Palawan-based Western Command in a ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday (May 26, 2020). AFP Inspector General, Lt. Gen. Antonio Ramon Lim will replace Gloria in an acting and concurrent capacity. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

 Lt. Gen. Erickson Gloria on Tuesday relinquished his post as deputy chief-of-staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to take over the Puerto Princesa, Palawan-based Western Command (Wescom).
Gloria will replace Vice Admiral Rene Medina who will retire from the service on Thursday.

Meanwhile, taking over his post in acting and concurrent capacity is AFP Inspector General, Lt. Gen. Antonio Ramon Lim.

AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., presided over the change-of-chief of office ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo.

"As the chief executor and adviser on matters pertaining to policy formulation and implementation, and command decision-making process through completed staff actions, the (Office of the Deputy Chief-of-Staff AFP) plays a very important role in overseeing and ensuring that the different staff and services are working harmoniously towards the direction set by the AFP leadership,” Santos said.

Gloria previously served as deputy chief of staff for personnel, J-1; wing commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing; deputy commander of the Air Mobility Command; and deputy commander of the Air Logistic Command.

He was also designated as squadron commander of the 5051st Search and Rescue Squadron based in Palawan and 5053rd Search and Rescue Squadron in General Santos City; and commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing.

Gloria is a tactical and rescue pilot and holds a command pilot rating in the Philippine Air Force. Early in his military career, he was awarded different aircrew qualifications that ranged from being a pilot, element lead, flight commander, test pilot, to instructor pilot for the UH-1H and Bell 205 helicopters.

He also qualified as a pilot of the Sikorsky S-76A. He logged more than 2,500 accident-free flight hours and was awarded the Command Pilot Badge for his feat.

"Congratulations Erick on your new assignment as the new commander of Western Command! Palawan will be your new responsibility but GHQ will always be your home and OTDCSAFP (Office of the Deputy Chief-of-Staff of the AFP) will always be your family," Santos said.

Medina, Gloria's predecessor at Wescom, will retire after 38 years of serving in the military.

Before taking over Wescom in March 2019, Medina served as commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, the Philippine Navy's largest operating force and recipient of the prestigious award as Naval Operating Forces of the Year 2018.

Medina is an accomplished and experienced naval commander, with command tours in four Philippine Navy vessels -- the BRP Leopoldo Regis (PG-847), BRP Apollo Tiano (PG-851), BRP Salvador Abcede (PG-114), and BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS-37).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104025

Wanted NPA member captured in Agusan

From Tempo (May 26, 2020): Wanted NPA member captured in Agusan (BY MIKE U. CRISMUNDO)

A tip provided by former rebels and the Barangay Intelligence Network (BIN) led to the arrest of a wanted New People’s Army (NPA) member in the town of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, a police official said Tuesday.

Caraga Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) director Brig. Gen. Joselito T. Esquival, Jr. said suspect Ispan J. Tumanan, 28, of Barangay Remedios, Esperanza town, was captured at 9 a.m. on May 23 in his residence by the operatives of the Regional Intelligence Unit 13 and Esperanza Municipal Police Station.

He has a standing warrant of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by Judge Fernando R. Fudalan, Jr. of 10th Judicial Region, RTC Branch 7, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur with no bail, police chief said.

Esquivel said that based on investigation, the suspect is a member of the Guerilla Front 88 of the CPP-NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Committee operating in the areas of Agusan del Sur and west of Agusan River.

He said the suspect was one of the NPA terrorists who attacked the New Tubigon Patrol Base in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur on December 19, 2018.

The group kidnapped two Army soldiers and 12 members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU).

“Our intelligence monitoring is underway to arrest his other cohorts and we will make sure they will face the full wrath of the law because kidnapping and serious illegal detention is punishable under Art. 267 of the Revised Penal Code,” Esquivel said.

http://tempo.com.ph/2020/05/26/wanted-npa-member-captured-in-agusan/

Seized documents to unravel NPA financiers in Surigao Sur: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (May 26, 2020): Seized documents to unravel NPA financiers in Surigao Sur: Army (By Alexander Lopez)



NPA MATERIALS. Government troops under the Army's 36th Infantry Battalion seize hundreds of materials and important documents in a hideout of the New People’s Army in Sitio Poog, Barangay Maitom, Tandag City on Monday (May 25, 2020). The recovered documents may lead authorities to identify persons or groups that provide financial aid to the communist rebels. (Photo courtesy of 36IB)

Documents recently seized by the Philippine Army from communist guerillas in Surigao del Sur may lead authorities in identifying individuals or groups that continue to provide financial means of support to the New People’s Army (NPA) in the province.

Hundreds of propaganda materials and documents that the military said contained high tactical value were seized in an area believed to be a hideout of the NPA in Sitio Poog, Barangay Maitom, Tandag City on Monday, May 25.

Capt. Jonald Romorosa, the civil-military operations officer of the Army's 36th Infantry Battalion, said Tuesday that government troops also recovered personal belongings and war materials.

Romorosa said former rebels helped the government troopers discover the hideout.

In a statement Tuesday, Lt. Col. Jezreel Diagmel, 36IB commander, said the seized documents may lead to the disclosure of NPA supporters and financiers who are aiding the communist rebellion.

Diagmel said the documents will be processed in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP) for proper filing of charges against any individuals or groups found to be supporting the NPA's armed rebellion.

“Those who support and give financial aid to the CNTs (Communist NPA Terrorists) are criminally liable,” Diagmel pointed out, specifically cited the provisions of the Republic Act 10168, otherwise known as “The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012," as well as other applicated laws.

Diagmel lauded residents and former rebels for the information that led to the discovery of the hideout.

“This success is an indication that the CNTs are already losing their mass support. With the collaborative efforts of former CNT trusted supporters and former rebels will definitely end this long-decade armed struggle in the province,” Diagmel said.

Romorosa said the materials and personal belongings belong to the members of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 1 (SYP 1) of the "weakened" Guerilla Front-30 of the NPA's North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

"The group is headed by a certain Joel Mahinay or alias “Nicko”, he added.

The seized materials include 52 NPA printed sweatshirts, two 50-meter improvised explosive device (IED) wires, four NPA flags, 17 printed tarpaulins of NPA front organizations, 41 NPA checkpoint signage, one base radio, a binocular, a PNP Pershing cap, a handcuff, live ammunition, laptop accessories, medical supplies, revolutionary documents and other vital documents with high intelligence value.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103925

Police regain control of NPA stronghold in South Cotabato

From the Manila Bulletin (May 26, 2020): Police regain control of NPA stronghold in South Cotabato (By Joseph Jubelag)

Police authorities have regained control of a New People’s Army-controlled stronghold in a mountain village in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, following the mass surrender Monday of at least 36 New People’s Army (NPA) supporters and sympathizers.

South Cotabato Police Director Colonel Jemuel Siason said the mass surrender of the NPA community members was facilitated by the provincial government and the provincial police force in a bid to regain control of the remote mountain village bordering the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani from the influence of Communist rebels for the past years.

He said for the past years the surrenderers disguised themselves as ordinary members of the community but pledged their allegiance to the shadowy government of the Communist underground group.

He said the surrenderers opted to abandon the Communist group, and returned to mainstream society by availing of the government’s peace and reconciliation initiatives as prescribed under President Duterte’s Executive Order No.70 which mandates a whole-of-the-nation approach to put an end to Communist armed conflict in the countryside.

The surrenderers burned the NPA flag as a gesture of their withdrawal of allegiance from the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), as they later took their oath of allegiance to the government.

Siason said the surrenderees were given relief packs and cash assistance by the provincial government while waiting for their enlistment into the Comprehensive Local Integration Program where they will be provided with livelihood assistance and job opportunities by the provincial government.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/26/police-regain-control-of-npa-stronghold-in-south-cotabato/

AFP’s chief administrator is new commander of WesCom

From the Manila Bulletin (May 26, 2020): AFP’s chief administrator is new commander of WesCom (By Martin Sadongdong)

Lieutenant General Erickson Gloria on May 26, Tuesday, relinquished his post as The Deputy Chief of Staff (TDCS) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as he is set to take on a new role as the commander of the Western Command (WesCom).



Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) (MANILA BULLETIN)

General Felimon Santos Jr., AFP Chief of Staff, presided over the Change of Chief Office ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City with Lt. Gen. Antonio Ramon Lim, erstwhile AFP Inspector General, replacing Gloria in an acting capacity. Gloria will head the WesCom which has military jurisdiction over the islands of Palawan and Kalayaan, including the Kalayaan (Spratly) Islands Group in the disputed West Philippine Sea.

As the chief executor and adviser on matters pertaining to policy formulation and implementation, and command decision-making process through completed staff actions, the Office of the TDCS plays “a very important role” in overseeing and ensuring that the different staff and services are working harmoniously towards the direction set by the AFP leadership, according to Santos. He thanked Gloria for his contributions to the AFP as TDCS, and wished him good luck on his new assignment.

Gloria previously served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, J1, Wing Commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, Deputy Commander of Air Mobility Command, and Deputy Commander for Air Logistic Command. He was also designated as Squadron Commander of the 5051st Search and Rescue Squadron based in Palawan and 5053rd Search and Rescue Squadron in General Santos City, and Commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing.

He is a tactical and rescue pilot and holds a command pilot rating in the Philippine Air Force. Early in his military career, he was awarded with different aircrew qualifications that range from pilot, element lead, flight commander, test pilot, and instructor pilot for the UH-1H and Bell 205 helicopters.

Gloria will replace Vice Admiral Rene Medina, who is set for retirement, as WesCom chief in a change of command and retirement ceremony on May 21, Thursday. Meanwhile, Medina is capping a successful military career of over 38 years.

Before assuming as commander of Western Command in March 2019, Medina was the Commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, the largest naval operating force of the Philippine Navy and the recipient of the prestigious award as Naval Operating Forces of the Year 2018.

He is an accomplished and experienced naval commander, with command tours in four Philippine Navy vessels specifically BRP Leopoldo Regis (PG847), BRP Apollo Tiano (PG851), BRP Salvador Abcede (PG114), and BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS37).

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/26/afps-chief-administrator-is-new-commander-of-wescom/

Tip from former rebels leads to capture of NPA fugitive in Agusan del Sur

From the Manila Bulletin (May 26, 2020): Tip from former rebels leads to capture of NPA fugitive in Agusan del Sur (By Mike Crismundo)

A tip provided by former rebels and the Barangay Intelligence Network (BIN) led to the arrest of a New People’s Army (NPA) member in the town of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, a ranking official in the region on Tuesday said.

Caraga Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) Regional Director Brig. Gen. Joselito T. Esquival, Jr. disclosed that suspect Ispan J. Tumanan, 28 of Barangay Remedios, Esperanza town, Agusan del Sur was captured at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, in his residence by operatives of the Regional Intelligence Unit 13 and Esperanza Municipal Police Station.

He had a warrant of arrest for alleged kidnapping and serious illegal detention.

Esquivel said that, based on the investigation, the suspect was a member of the Guerilla Front 88 of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Committee operating in the areas of Agusan del Sur and west of Agusan River.

He said the suspect was one of the NPA terrorists who attacked the New Tubigon Patrol Base in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur on December 19, 2018. The group kidnapped two Army soldiers and 12 members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU).

“Our intelligence monitoring is underway to arrest his other cohorts and we will make sure they will face the full wrath of the law because kidnapping and serious illegal detention is punishable under Art. 267 of the Revised Penal Code,” Esquivel added.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/26/tip-from-former-rebels-leads-to-capture-of-npa-fugitive-in-agusan-del-sur/

210 IP families flee homes as NPAs attack village

From the Manila Bulletin (May 26, 2020): 210 IP families flee homes as NPAs attack village (By Mike Crismundo)

About 210 families have fled their homes in the farming town of San Fernando in Bukidnon after an attack by the New People’s Army (NPA) on the village last Friday, May 22, according to the military.

Shown in photo is the personnel of the 403rd Brigade and local government unit of San Fernando town in Bukidnon province assisting the evacuees who fled from their respective homes due to alleged harassment by communist terrorists in highland villages of that same town on Friday, May 22, 2020. (Photo courtesy of 403rd Brigade-CMO via Mike U. Crismundo/Manila Bulletin)

Civil Military Operations (CMO) Officer of 403rd Brigade Capt. Rene M. Belmonte, Jr. told The Manila Bulletin on Tuesday that field units of the 403rd Brigade were currently assisting the local government of San Fernando in distributing food packs to each of the families, which are being of temporarily sheltered at the town and barangay proper evacuation centers.

Food packs per family consisted of five kilos rice, can goods and other immediate needs of the highland villagers.

The San Fernando municipal government and 403rd Brigade also extended assistance to the family of Jerson Bianza, son of the chairperson of Barangay Magkalungay, who died May 22 after the NPAs fired at his home in Sitio Spring, Barangay Cawayan.

“This harassment by the Communist terrorists made the highland people flee their homes,” Belmonte said.

“The terrorists do this out of desperation to recover the village who was once an NPA stronghold,” the 403rd CMO officer said.

Aside from relief assistance, stress debriefings were also conducted to ease the fear and panic amongst the internally displaced peoples (IDPs), he said.

Government security forces were present in the area to provide security and manpower assistance.

San Fernando Mayor Levi C. Edma, who is also chairman of San Fernando Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF- ELCAC) condemned the attack of the Communist insurgents.

“I am very much disappointed in the barbaric acts committed by the NPA at Sitio Spring, Barangay Kawayan of our municipality. I really feel bad that in the midst of the present pandemic crisis, these rebels took advantage of the situation. Napakasama ang mga ganitong mga salot sa ating lipunan,” Belmonte said, quoting the statement of the town chief executive.

The town mayor also appealed to the 403rd brigade to conduct pursuit operation to wipe out and prevent the NPA from coming to their town again.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/26/210-ip-families-flee-homes-as-npas-attack-village/

NOLCOM: 20 Anyos ns NPA, Pinatay ng mga Kasamahan sa Abra

Posted to the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) Facebook Page (May 24, 2020: 20 Anyos ns NPA, Pinatay ng mga Kasamahan sa Abra



https://www.facebook.com/crgnolcom/photos/a.607791242603248/3152277071487973/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/NOLCOM/

SOLCOM: CamSur Armed Clash: 1 CTG Member Killed

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (May 26, 2020: CamSur Armed Clash: 1 CTG Member Killed

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) under MGEN FERNANDO T TRINIDAD AFP congratulates the combined forces of the military & the police in a well executed engagement with the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) resulting in the death of one of its members and recovery of high powered firearm around 5:15 in the morning at Barangay Sta. Cruz Norte, Iriga City, Friday, May 22.

Special commendation is reserved for the newly installed Battalion Commander of the Army's 83rd Infantry Battalion, LTC Clark Dalumbar for a successful operation together with the PNP.

“The personnel of 83IB and the PNP were able to conduct security operation due to the strong community support. Reports about the presence of CTG/NPA in the area allegedly conducting propaganda and recruitment reached us to which we responded with urgency," MGen. Trinidad said.

The government troops encountered at least 20 armed insurgents resulting in exchange of bullets lasting for 15 minutes before the enemies retreated in different directions leaving one dead comrade behind. No one was harmed in the government side.

Recoveries in the encounter site include: One M653 rifle, rifle grenade, four magazines, ammunitions, training kits, subversive documents, and other personal belongings.

Gen. Trinidad once again thanked the public for its cooperation with the government's intensified campaign against insurgency. This only proves that the community strongly rejects the CTG/NPA and its terroristic activities while the whole nation is battling a health crisis.

Notwithstanding, the JTFB continues to offer a peaceful hand to every CTG member.

“We encourage them to abandon the armed movement, avail of the government benefits, and enjoy peaceful productive lives together with their family within the fold’s of law," MGen. Trinidad added.

https://www.facebook.com/508253552519229/photos/pcb.3261053967239160/3261053680572522/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/

SOLCOM: Siya si Alexandria Padilla Pacalda naging biktima ngf CPP/NPA/NDF recruitment mg

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (May 26, 2020: Siya si Alexandria Padilla Pacalda naging biktima ngf CPP/NPA/NDF recruitment mga estudyante



https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/a.1503968379863230/2578526329074091/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/

WESCOM: Army, Air Force, and Philippine National Police (PNP) airdropped 5,500 COVID-19 info kits in far-flung communities in Bukidnon

Posted to the Western Command (WESCOM) Facebook Page (May 26, 2020): Army, Air Force, and Philippine National Police (PNP) airdropped 5,500 COVID-19 info kits in far-flung communities in Bukidnon 

The Army, Air Force, and Philippine National Police (PNP) airdropped 5,500 COVID-19 info kits in far-flung communities in Bukidnon on May 20, 2020.

In support to Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Disease (IATF-MEID), Philippine security forces airdropped info kits about the threats of COVID-19 and the ways on how to prevent the spread of the disease in Bukidnon's far-flung communities.

This is to ensure communities not reached by television and radios are informed about the pandemic.

#ServethePeople
#GoodGovernance
#CORDSdivision
#NTFELCAC
#EO70

https://www.facebook.com/ntfelcac/photos/a.206424564129269/241522383952820/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/

WESCOM: PTF ELCAC's PLEDS Cluster refreshes action plan against KLG Palawan

Posted to the Western Command (WESCOM) Facebook Page (May 26, 2020): PTF ELCAC's PLEDS Cluster refreshes action plan against KLG Palawan

The Palawan Provincial Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (P2PLEDS) Cluster of the Palawan Task Force to End Local Communists Armed Conflict (PTF ELCAC) met on May 21 at Headquarters 3rd Marine Brigade, Marine Base Rodolfo Punsalang, Brgy Tiniguiban to re-examine its action plan against the Kilusang Larangang Guerilla (KLG) in Palawan.

BGen Nestor C Herico AFP, Commander of the 3rd MBde, facilitated the activity which planned and presented the action plans of law enforcement agencies that compose the PLEDS to check if their strategies are still necessary and timely, especially now that there is a quarantine due to COVID-19.

The attendees are official heads of the Coast Guard District Palawan, National Bureau of Investigation, PPC Police Office, and Palawan Provincial Police Office.

Herico, who co-chairs the PLEDS, said it is important to check the progress of the action plans to ensure they are synchronized to achieve their goals in ending the armed conflict in Palawan.

"Kailangan nagkakaunawaan tayo sa mga ikinikilos natin at sa mga capabilities na kayang gawin ng partners natin kasi mas napapadali at napapagaan natin ang trabaho ng bawat isa. Hindi lang yun, ung maliliit na effort ng bawat isa sa atin ay malaki ang maiaambag sa pag-accomplish natin ng mission natin, which is to dismantle KLG Palawan," he said.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1706912646129218&set=pcb.1706913086129174&type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/

EASTMINCOM: EASTMINCOM will continue to be relentless against NPA rebels as the military supports COVID-19 frontliners

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 25, 2020): EASTMINCOM will continue to be relentless against NPA rebels as the military supports COVID-19 frontliners



https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/a.912869452106626/3088123867914496/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/

WESTMINCOM: Joint Task Force Zamboanga Joint Task Force Zamboanga Virtual Center

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 25, 2020): Military, local chiefs convene to resolve security issue in DSA

In a meeting in Maguindanao at 1pm on May 25, 2020, local officials and military officers tackled about the security issues that need to be addressed the soonest.

The assemby came following the explosion incident in Barangay Kitango, Datu Saudi Ampatuan at 4:20 p.m., May 24, 2020 that killed two innocent civilians and wounding a number of others.

Said meeting was held at the 601st Infantry Brigade headquarters located in Shariff Aguak which was presided by Western Mindanao Command chief, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana. I attendance were Datu Saudi Ampatuan Mayor Resty Sindatok, BARMM Interior and Local Government Minister Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, Joint Task Force Central commander Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, 1st Mechanized Brigade Commander, BGen Efren Baluyot, 601IBde Officer In-Charge Col. Joel Mamon, and other military officers.

The said Local officials and military officers agreed to conduct of an honest and parallel investigation to ensure transparency.

Lt. Gen. Sobejana vowed to support the local government and other stakeholders for the immediate resolution of the case.

"We will let the Bayanihan spirit work to give justice to the victims and ensure protection of the people from harm," said Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

#afpyoucantrust
#teamwmc
#teamkapayapaan
#wmcyourprotector
#wmcyourpartner

6th Infantry Division - Kampilan 601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade 602nd Liberator Troopers 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.1743780995763949/1743780592430656/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

Kalinaw News: 4ID Chief honors wounded soldiers

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 25, 2020): 4ID Chief honors wounded soldiers (By 4th Infantry Division)



CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – The Commander of 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army, Major General Franco Nemesio M Gacal, honored ten (10) wounded soldiers held at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH), Patag, Cagayan de Oro City this Monday morning, May 25, 2020.

MGen Gacal individually pinned the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) to one (1) Officer and nine (9) enlisted personnel for their gallantry in action and acts of heroism while serving the people of Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions. Brigadier General Oliver T Veslino, the Assistant Division Commander, and Colonel Roy Anthony C Derillo, the Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, accompanied the 4ID Chief.

The WPM awardees include 1LT Jobert A Acut, Corporal Crisanto B Acar, Corporal Joselito C Arsenas, Corporal James G Ylanan of 65th Infantry “Stalwart” Battalion, 9th Infantry (Spear) Division placed operational control to 4ID, during an encounter against more or less twenty (20) Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) at the hinterland areas of Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on 19 May 2020.

Other WPM awardees include Staff Sergeant Aristio A Ampoloquio, Corporal Nieljohn O Arandela, Private First Class Richard G Tagunan, Private First Class Jambie A Patilan and Private First Class Virgel A Batle who sustained gunshot wounds during a gun battle against threat groups terrorizing civilians in the 4ID area of responsibility.

1Lt Acut who held the position as Ex-O of Charlie Company, 65IB expressed his gratitude to the leadership of 4ID for the immediate medical support provided to battle casualties.

“Dako akong pasalamat sa 4ID nga gipangulohan ni Major General Franco Nemesio M Gacal sa daliang suporta sa mga battle casualties sama kanamo. Bisan kami sakop sa 9ID nga na-OpCon sa 4ID wala jud mi pasagdi. Nalipay kami ug dako sa abtik nga pagtabang hinungdan nga niining mga taknaa nagaginhawa pa kami ug makapadayun pa kami pagserbisyo sa katawhan pinaagi sa pagpanalipod kanila batok sa mga hulga dinhi sa atong katilingban,” 1Lt Acut said.

(I am thankful to the 4ID leadership especially to Major General Franco Nemesio M Gacal, our Commander, for the immediate medical support provided to us, battle casualties. Though we are placed operational control to the division they never left us. We are very grateful that because of the fast actions taken by 4ID we are still breathing (alive) and with that, we can still serve the people of Mindanao and secure their lives from the threats brought by the CNTs)

The WPM is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines who are injured or wounded in combat in a legitimate encounter against the enemy. The 4ID battle casualties also received food packs and vitamins for their fast recovery.

The military organization is proud to congratulate the recipients of such awards. This selection manifests the bravery, heroism, and excellence of our soldiers who continue to be a source of pride for the country.

MGen Gacal extends his undying gratitude to all the personnel who continue to risk their lives to attain lasting peace and stability for the country. The wounded personnel deserved recognition, especially those who perished in defense of the country and the Filipino people.

“My salute to our gallant soldiers who risks their lives in the accomplishment of the mission and worthy of emulation by others for their display of courage in combat. I will make sure that they receive the support that they need while recuperating,” Gacal said.

[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/4id-chief-honors-wounded-soldiers/

Kalinaw News: Army transports 517 sacks of food packs to Malimono Town in Surigao Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 25, 2020): Army transports 517 sacks of food packs to Malimono Town in Surigao Norte (By 4th Infantry Division)



Bancasi, Butuan City – The 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade continues to extend various assistance in support to partner agencies amidst the COVID-19 pandemic crisis as Army Troopers and Malimono Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) personnel loaded and transported five hundred seventeen (517) sacks of Food Packs to Malimono, Surigao del Norte in the morning of May 22, 2020.

The 402nd Brigade together with its operationally controlled Battalions, the 30th Infantry Battalion and 23rd Infantry Battalion, upon request for manpower assistance by the MSWDO of Malimono, Surigao del Norte, immediately assisted the MSWD personnel in loading and hauling of food packs from the DSWD’s Warehouse located at Brgy Bancasi, Butuan City to Malimono, Surigao del Norte.

A total of 2,609 families in Malimono town will benefit from the food packs consisting of six (6) kilos of rice, four (4) pieces canned sardines, four (4) pieces canned corned beef and six (6) pieces 3 in 1 coffee as the pandemic crisis continues. The loading of food packs started since May 20, 2020 and was completed on May 22, 2020.

Ms Lenie L Seguis, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) Officer of Malimono town conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to the Army troops in providing manpower and security assistance without hesitation even with only a short notice. “Big salute to the Philippine Army. They are the epitome of the word “Maaasahan”. This could be a small thing for them because they are trained in various skills but for us, it is a big deal especially now that the troops are needed more than ever to protect our communities against the terrorists and yet they also have time to help us. Thank you Philippine Army”.

Since the start of the pandemic crisis, the 402nd Brigade had performed a support role to the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) particularly in implementing the protocols and guidelines of the Community Quarantine in the Brigade’s AOR. The Brigade had conducted 2, 231 COVID-19 Checkpoints, extended 1, 214 Security Assistance, transported fifteen 15 stranded civilians to include foreign nationals, extended 33 transportation assistance to deliver food packs to beneficiary communities, and provided 33 manpower assistance in repacking of food packs. Meanwhile, to ensure that the protocols and guidelines of COVID 19 are followed, the 402nd Brigade had been conducting information awareness campaigns through its 220 Loudspeaker operations, distributing of leaflets, posting of 56 tarpaulins, to include 94 radio guestings and programming.

In his statement, Brigadier General Maurito L Licudine, the 402nd Brigade Commander said, “We have continuously extended support to the Inter-Agency Task Force amidst the ongoing crisis. Our troops implementing the community support program to the far-flung communities have shifted its effort, for the time being, to implement COVID-19 protocols and guidelines and extended various assistance to partner agencies and private individuals and corporations. The distribution of food packs and the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) is very critical to our fellow Filipinos particularly those who were affected because of this crisis, hence, your Army will not waiver on its mandate to serve the people and ensure the safety of the communities”.

[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-transports-517-sacks-of-food-packs-to-malimono-town-in-surigao-norte/

Kalinaw News: Amid COVID19 Pandemic, 119 Yield, 2 Killed in AFP operations vs. Communist NPA Terrorists

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 25, 2020): Amid COVID19 Pandemic, 119 Yield, 2 Killed in AFP operations vs. Communist NPA Terrorists (By Kalinaw News)



CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) continues to degrade the Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) as 119 returned to the folds of the law, two killed and three apprehended in intense military operations from May 17 to 23.

The AFP also seized 18 high-powered firearms, five improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and 413 rounds of ammunition during the period.

Of the enemy losses, 36 returned to the folds of the law, one killed and three apprehended in Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM); 82 yielded in Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM); while one surfaced and one killed in Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM).

In EASTMINCOM, 29 CNTs yielded to the 88IB in San Fernando, Bukidnon on May 19. On the same day, two personalities using the aliases ‘Jimboy’ and ‘Meme’ surfaced to government troops in Magpet, North Cotabato. They brought along with them a caliber .45 pistol. An alias ‘Kaypee’ and ‘Wena’ also submitted themselves to the Army’s 23IB in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte also on May 19; and an alias ‘Loko’ who brought along an AK47 rifle loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition yielded to authorities in South Cotabato on May 22.

Another CNT with an alias ‘Camal’ presented himself to the Army’s 56IB in Talaingod, Davao del Norte on May 18. He brought along his M16 rifle with magazine loaded with 29 rounds of ammunition. An alias ‘Bakal’ surfaced to 36IB troops in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur on May 17. In a separate operation, troops accompanied by three former terrorists seized a caliber .45 pistol, hand grenade, 62 rounds of ammunition, rifle scope, transistor radio, anti-personnel mine switch, assorted medicines and paraphernalia and subversive documents in Cantilan.

Meanwhile, a CNT was killed after an encounter in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on May 18. Two AK47 rifles, three rifle grenades, 146 rounds of ammunition, two IEDs, bomb-making materials and assorted medicines were confiscated after the firefight.

EASTMINCOM’s focused military operations also led to the apprehension of two CTG members in Asuncion, Davao del Norte and Lianga, Surigao del Sur on May 19; and one in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte on May 20. Troops confiscated two IEDs from the captured personalities.

Government troops also seized an AK47magazine loaded with 28 rounds of ammunition in Tago, Surigao del Sur; a US (M1917) Garand rifle, improvised shotgun, anti-personnel mine, 21 rounds of ammunition in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental; and two IEDs in Trento, Agusan del Sur all on May 17. This was followed by another confiscation of an IED in Malaybalay, Bukidnon on May 20 by troops of the 65IB, and on May 23, troops of the 88IB seized an M16 rifle and other war materiel in San Fernando, Bukidnon.

In NOLCOM, an alias ‘Red’ returned to government fold in Bulacan on May 18. Moreover, the Command facilitated the withdrawal of support to the CTG by 81 individuals in Nueva Ecija from May 21 to 23. Troops also seized two M16 rifles with four magazines loaded with 97 rounds of ammunition in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan on May 22.

In SOLCOM, an alias ‘Jigs’ presented himself to authorities in Macaleon, Quezon City. Government troops also killed a CNT member during a fierce firefight in Iriga City, Camarines Sur on May 22. They later seized an M16 rifle and rifle grenade after the encounter.

During a separate operation, joint Army elements under Central Command seized an M16A1 rifle with magazine loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition in Bindoy, Negros Oriental on May 18.

“The increasing support of communities and local government units through the National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) contribute to the continuous success of the AFP’s operation against the Communist Terrorist Groups,” AFP Chief of Staff General Felimon Santos Jr. said.

“The AFP will not stop until we completely destroy the armed capabilities of the Communist Terrorist Groups who continue to threaten the safety and security of our people and hamper peace and development in our nation,” General Santos 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/amid-covid19-pandemic-119-yield-2-killed-in-afp-operations-vs-communist-npa-terrorists/

Moro leaders condemn Maguindanao incident

From the Manila Times (May 26, 2020): Moro leaders condemn Maguindanao incident (By Masiding Noor Yahya)

Bangsamoro leaders on Monday joined Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Chief Minister Alhaj Murad Ebrahim in condemning the Maguindanao incident that killed two children and injured 14 others.

Ebrahim, on the same day, described the mortar shelling by government troops of a terrorist lair on Sunday as “inhumane, evil and wicked.”

BARMM Executive Secretary Abdulraof Macacua said it was difficult and painful to accept the death of innocent minors whose death came from mortar shelling committed by people who know very well what they are doing.

“Especially when their tragic death and the wounding of others happened on Eid al-Fitr, which is one of the two important days of Islam celebrated by the entire Muslims around the globe, and at a time that everybody wishes all people should be saved from the pandemic Covid-19,” Macacua added.

“Despite the efforts of the President (Rodrigo Duterte) to protect its citizens from this Covid-19, there are still sectors of our society who disregard the value and importance of life,” he said.

Macacua voiced regret that the tragic incident happened amid the desire for a lasting peace in the region by implementing all agreements signed by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

“We have these agreements on cessation of hostilities, on dealing with other armed groups and on coordination. Incidents like this would have been avoided if all these protocols have been followed,” he said.

“The [saddest] part of the incident is that we are about to commence the next decommissioning of our combatants and I hope that this will not cause a hindrance to the next process,” Macacua pointed out.

Maranao federalist leader Bayan Goling Balt said, “It is unfortunate that despite the peace agreements between the [Philippine government] and the MILF and the signing into law of the BOL (Bangsamoro Organic Law), violence still flares up in Muslim areas. This may be due to non-observance of the mechanisms built in the peace agreement.”

Balt, head of the Maranao federal state movement and former Lanao del Sur chapter president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, added, “We reiterate our call to the military to exercise prudence in the conduct of military operations, sparing innocent civilians with due regard to the peace agreement.”

But he urged the MILF to adhere to its obligation under the peace pact to prevent violence so that all Filipinos can enjoy the dividends of peace.

The fatalities in the Maguindanao incident were identified as Aslamiya Tambak, 10, and Asnaida Tambak, 7, both females.

Wounded were Noraisa Tambak, 40, mother of Aslamiya and Asnaida; Norsaid Tambak, 5, male; Badria Ebus, 35, female; Saud Ebus, 7, male; Aida Kembeg, 35, female; Tata Kembeg, 30, female; Najima Pua (a person with disability), 16, female; Jepu Pua, 15, female; Muslima Tambak, 40, female; Mati Ali, 45, male; Mia Elian, 20, female; Salonga Marcos, 20, male; and Halid Dagedeban, 21, male.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/05/26/news/regions/moro-leaders-condemn-maguindanao-incident/727197/

2 NegOcc top NPA officials surrender to Army’s 15IB

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 26, 2020): 2 NegOcc top NPA officials surrender to Army’s 15IB (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, May 26 (PIA) - Two high-ranking officers of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Western Visayas voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion based at Barangay Tiling in Cauayan town, Negros Occidental on May 14, 2020.

In a press release issued by the battalion’s Civil Military Operations (CMO) Officer Weann Sandag, the returnees were identified by 15IB Commander Lieutenant Colonel Erwin Cariño as Hermosilla Villamor alias “Aya” and Teody Manorte alias “Koko.”

Alias Aya is a 45-year old female, who is said to be a Front Committee member of the South West Front in Negros.

She is a former finance and medical officer of the NPA’s South East Front and Medical Staff of Front 1B, Bohol Party Committee, and now the political guide of the SYP Platoon of South West Front, the press release said.

Alias Koko is a 27-year old, male who is a Squad Leader of SYP Platoon of the South West Front, noted in the news release.

The two returnees yielded through the effort of the Community Support Program (CSP) Team of the 15IB operating in Barangay Sangke in Hinobaan town, Negros Occidental.

On his part, Cariño warmly welcomed the returnees who apparently realized that their lives in the communist movement have led nowhere.

“Their surrender is a concrete proof of increasing dissatisfaction among the NPA ranks brought by their false ideological hopes and dwindling leadership. Like many other former NPA members, they’ve given up after hiding and worse, being away from their loved ones, as well as dissatisfaction of the organization’s policy and ideology,” Cariño said.

He also assured the surrenderers that the Army’s battalion will assist them particularly in the processing of all necessary documentary requirements for their enrollment in the government’s Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which will allow them to be completely integrated into the society.

Cariño also encouraged the remaining members of the communist terrorist group to heed the government’s call for peace while they still have time.

“Our anti-insurgency effort will be relentless. We will continue our counter-terrorist operations and keep the pressure on the enemies of the state to ensure the safety of the people in our area of operation while helping those who are willing to give up their anti-government activities,” he added.

Meanwhile, Col Noel Baluyan, Commander of Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade, lauded the 15IB for facilitating the surrender of the two NPA officials.

“Negrenses are already fed up of the NPA’s extortion activities and deceitful tactics of exploiting and agitating vulnerable sectors of the society including the youth,” Baluyan said.

He called on the locals to remain vigilant and resist the communist-terrorist group’s efforts to mobilize and organize the youth and other community members to join their ranks.

“Communism, an atheistic ideology that does not believe in the existence of God and religious beliefs, is unacceptable to God-fearing Filipinos,” he said. (JBG-PIA6/15IB-CMO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1042892

4ID to construct 3-storey admin building

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 26, 2020): 4ID to construct 3-storey admin building (By Cpt Al Anthony Pueblas, 4ID)

In observance of the health protocols, selected guests were invited to mark another history of 4ID in the making. Present during the simple yet momentous ceremony include Engr. Mabel F. Saa, the Chief of Staff of the 1st District Engineering office who represented the DPWH Secretary Mark Villar being the Guest of Honor and Speaker. LtGen Jose Faustino AFP, Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command attended the activity together with other senior military officers. Also witnessing the ceremony were NICA-10 Regional Director Manuel M Orduna and NEDA-10 Regional Director Mylah Faye Aurora B Cariño. (4ID)

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, May 26 (PIA)--Aspiring for modernization and a world-class division of the Philippine Army, the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division initiated a groundbreaking ceremony marking its construction of a world-class 3-storey 4ID Administrative Building in Camp Evangelista, Patag, here, May 22.

The said ceremony was led by MGen Franco Nemesio M Gacal, commander of the 4ID, held at the division’s tennis court area. In observance of the health protocols, selected guests were invited to mark another history of 4ID in the making.

The administrative building will soon rise replacing the 66-year old admin building of the army division. The old admin building commonly called the “White House,” was built in 1954 during the stint of Col Tirso G Fajardo as the Commander of the 4th Military Area (IVMA), an important landmark that witnessed the transition from IVMA to 4th Infantry Division in 1970.

Gacal said it has indeed stood the test of time and has very well served its purpose even up to the present. However, the building is now in the advanced stage of deterioration. “Had it been a government employee like us, it would have long retired from the service. It is but time to give it its well-deserved rest as it may no longer be in its best shape to cater to the needs of the division nowadays,” the commander added.

The 4ID admin building project is under the “Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad” (TIKAS) Program of the DPWH with a programmed budget of P60 million. The government started the TIKAS program in 2019 and had accomplished more than 300 structures of military camps built and improved. It was initiated for the mutual benefit of the two government agencies, namely, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Department of National Defense (DND) wherein the latter can mount projects with the DPWH, while the DND shall safeguard DPWH projects in conflict affected areas.

“My deepest gratitude to the DPWH under the inspiring leadership of Sec. Mark A Villar for helping us realize our aspiration of constructing a new 4ID headquarters that will provide an efficient working environment for the personnel and will also give justice to their heroism as it stands through time and witness the resounding glorious future and milestones up ahead,” Gacal said.

LtGen Gilbert I Gapay, commanding general of the Philippine Army, lauded the leadership of 4ID, sent through an audio-visual presentation, for brokering and making the project a reality.

Secretary Mark Villar, the guest of honor and speaker, in his statement sent through a recorded audio-visual message, commits to continue and strengthen the TIKAS program in recognition of every soldier’s dedication to service.

“It is an honor for me to be invited and be part of the groundbreaking ceremony. Rest assured that DPWH will not cease in supporting our AFP. We will continue this TIKAS program specially in upgrading the structures of our military camps. We believe that this is the right time for our AFP to have a quality and world-class facilities,” Villar said.

Gacal is very hopeful that the new project will stand testament to the enduring commitment the AFP have towards continuous progress and development to the Caraganons and Northern Mindanaoans. Above all, such will further enable the unit to continuously and relentlessly pursue their core purpose of serving the people and securing the land. (4ID/PIA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1042895

NPA 'spreading lies' on gov’t peace efforts in Surigao Sur: IPMR

From the Philippine News Agency (May 26, 2020): NPA 'spreading lies' on gov’t peace efforts in Surigao Sur: IPMR (By Alexander Lopez)



Hawudon Jumar Bucales, the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative of Lianga, Surigao del Sur. (PNA file photo by Alexander Lopez)

A tribal leader in Surigao del Sur province has criticized the "lies" being sown by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), against the government’s peace and development efforts in the area.

In an interview on Tuesday, Manobo leader Hawudon Jumar Bucales, the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) in Lianga town, said the CPP-NPA – through their allied groups – are using social media to destroy the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP) amid the latter’s efforts to help implement government programs in the area.

“The front organizations and allies of the CPP-NPA are again out to discredit the government, especially the Army and the PNP, by imputing on them misdeeds and offenses, which in truth, are not committed by the security forces of the government. It’s the NPA who has been harassing IP communities and killing IP leaders in Surigao del Sur,” Bucales said.

In particular, he pointed to the group Save Our Schools (SOS) Network, which he alleged is responsible for "corrupting the IP children."

Bucales urged the SOS Network to "stop using and exploiting the IP children for their political ambition and return these children to their respective communities."

He also lambasted the SOS Network and other groups over the alleged militarization that are taking place in Barangay Diatagon, Lianga and other parts of Surigao del Sur.

“On the issue of militarization, we the IP leaders and the communities have requested the Army’s presence in our ancestral lands because we want the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) to stop their abuse, exploitation, and killings of innocent IPs who refuse to give in to their violent armed struggle and ideology,” Bucales said.

He also cited the recent killings of IP leaders perpetrated by the NPA in Surigao del Sur, particularly in the town of San Miguel and the harassments conducted by the rebels in rural communities at the height of the implementation of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) quarantine.

Bucales also hit the SOS Network for insinuating that the military attacked schools in Surigao del Sur.

“There are no schools under attack. In fact, we are building DepEd (Department of Education) IP schools to replace the communist infested schools, such as TRIFPSS and Alcadev that poisoned the minds of our children. It is the IP community that wanted TRIFPSS and Alcadev to be closed,” Bucales said.

The TRIFPSS (Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur) and Alcadev (Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development, Inc.) have consistently been linked by the military to the communist rebel movement.

Late last week, Lianga’s municipal government, led by Mayor Novelita M. Sarmen, issued a statement expressing full support for the peace, law enforcement, and development operations of the Army and the PNP in the area.

“As we have recently declared the Communist NPA Terrorist personalities and their cohorts as persona non-grata, we, in the Lianga LGU and the Lianga IP Tribal Council, are declaring our strong support to the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support Cluster’s (PLEDS) efforts, such as the continuous combat operations against CNTs and the law enforcement support operations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police to eventually end the local communist armed conflict in our municipality and to put a stop to the CNTs’ abuse, exploitation, and killings of innocent Indigenous Peoples who refuse to give in to their violent armed and political struggle and pointless ideology within the IPs’ ancestral lands,” the statement read.

The LGU said it recognizes “the constitutionally binding duties and responsibilities of the AFP and PNP to protect the people and the state from these terrorists and other threats to national security.”

1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo J. Punsalan, civil-military operations officer of the Army's 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn), said the IP leaders themselves requested the presence of the military and the police in their communities as they fear the continuing harassments of the NPA.

“The IP leaders and residents in communities in Lianga have reported sightings of NPAs. The rebels are now targeting IP leaders and communities that are opposing their presence,” Punsalan said in an interview on Tuesday.

He added that 38 households were forced to leave their homes from Sitio Hayon and Sitio Sangay and temporarily settle in the center of Barangay Libas-Sud in San Miguel town last May 13 due to the sightings of NPA rebels.

On the same day, seven families from Sitio Lagangan sought refuge in the houses of their relatives in Barangay Caras-Anin in Tago, Surigao del Sur due to fear of sighted rebels, Punsalan added.

He said the displaced IP residents have already returned to their respective communities with the help of the military and the LGU of Lianga.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103921

New Army brigade commander assumes Saragani post

From the Philippine News Agency (May 26, 2020): New Army brigade commander assumes Saragani post (By Richelyn Gubalani)



Col. Potenciano Camba, the new commanding officer of the Army’s 1002nd Infantry Brigade. (Photo grab from the Philippine Army website)

An experienced Army field officer assumed Tuesday as the new commander of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade (1002nd IBde) based in Malungon town, Sarangani province.

Capt. Richard Caspillo, 1002nd IBde spokesperson, said Col. Potenciano Camba, the former Army assistant chief of staff for personnel or G1, took over the post in a ceremony held at the brigade headquarters in Sitio Pulatana, Barangay Malandag in Malungon.

Camba replaced Brig. Gen. Adonis Bajao, who was reportedly reassigned to a new unit based in the Bicol Region.

Before the G1 assignment, Camba served as the deputy commander of the Presidential Security Group.

He said the Army official also served as commanding officer of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion and 3rd Special Forces Battalion under the Army Special Forces Regiment (Airborne).

A member of the Philippine Military Academy’s "Sambisig" Class of 1991, Camba holds a master’s degree in Public Management Major in Development Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines and underwent training abroad, including the United States.

Caspillo said in a statement that they will continue to strengthen their operations and campaigns to ensure that the area will remain secure against any threat.

He said they will sustain their close collaboration with local leaders and other government agencies as part of the continuing convergence effort to end the local communist armed conflict in the area.

The Army’s 1002nd IBde has operational jurisdiction over portions of the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato in Region 12, and Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental in Region 11.

It also covers the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Kidapawan and Digos.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103937