CPP/PKM-Panay: Isa ka Rebolusyonaryo nga Pagpasidungog para Kay Ka Malvin Villaruel Cruz halin sa Rebolusyonaryong Kubay sang Masang Mangunguma

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 6, 2020):  Isa ka Rebolusyonaryo nga Pagpasidungog para Kay Ka Malvin Villaruel Cruz halin sa Rebolusyonaryong Kubay sang Masang Mangunguma

MARIO LABRADOR

SPOKESPERSON

PKM-PANAY

PAMBANSANG KATIPUNAN NG MGA MAGBUBUKID

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JULY 07, 2020

Pahayag sang Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (PKM) – Panay

Isa ka pinakamataas nga pagpasidungog ang ginahalad sang Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (PKM) – Panay kay Malvin Villaruel Cruz. Si Ka Malvin isa ka huwaran nga pamatan-on: maisog kag wala sang pagpang-alang-alang nga ginhalad nya ang iya kinaalam kag kabuhi para sa kawsa sang mangungumang pigos kag ginahimuslan.

Ang PKM amo rebolusyonaryo nga organisasyon sang mga mangunguma kag mamumugon sa uma nga nagalunsar sang isa ka kabuhi-kag-kamatayon nga armadong paghimakas agud bag-uhon ang ginatos ka tuig na nga kapigusan sang sahi. Kapigusan nga gintuga sang mga agalon nga mayduta kag burgesya kumprador kag sang amo sini nga imperyalistang Estados Unidos. Ang PKM man ang pinakamaukod nga taga-tib-ong sang New People’s Army kun sa diin ang amon pinakamaayo nga mga kabataan nga pamatan-on nagapasakop bilang mga Pulang Hangaway kag mga kumander sini.

Ang NPA amo ang matuod-tuod nga hangaway sang pumuluyo, ilabi na sang sahing mangunguma. Ang demokratiko nga rebolusyon sang banwa isa ka gyera nga ginalunsar sang rebolusyonaryong pumuluyo agud ipatuman ang rebolusyonaryong agraryo kag agawon ang gahum pampulitika. Ang rebolusyonaryong agraryo handus sa dughan sang manug-ulipon nga agalon nga mayduta kag magahilway sa sahing mangunguma sa kadena sang pagpanghimulos sang agalon nga mayduta, burgesya kumprador kag imperyalistang Estados Unidos.

Wala nagpahigot sa edukasyon sa sulod sang unibersidad, namuklat si Ka Malvin sa kamatuoran sang kahimtangan sang sahing mangunguma kag ang iya pagpatapu sa NPA isa ka dalayawon nga buhat. Halin sa saray sang petiburgesya, napangibabawan nya ang iya indibidwalista kag maki-kaugalingon nga mga handum agud ihalad sang wala’y kutod ang iya kinaalam, kinaadman, kag kabuhi para sa bwas-damlag sang tanan nga Pilipino nga kabataan kag pamatan-on nga nagaantus sa subong nga katilingban. Pag-antus nga dugang ginpalala sang rehimeng Duterte sa tunga sang iya nagahimumugto na nga pangginahum.

Si Ka Malvin nag-fulltime sa NPA sa una nga bulan nga nag-18 anyos na sya sadtong Hulyo, 2017. Amo man ni ang tuig kun sa diin ginlunsar sang rehimeng Duterte ang wala-pugong nga pagpamatay sang mga sibilyan sa ngalan sang iya gyera kontra-druga. Linibo ka pumuluyo ang na-EJK, dala na ang mga pamatan-on nga ginpang-murder sang kapulisan. Linibo man kag kabataan kag pamatan-on ang nailo sa ila mga ginikanan. Ang tanan nga pamatan-on may duha ka banas nga ginapilian: ang banas nga magapabilin sang madulom kag miserable nga kahimtangan sang pumuluyo, kag ang rebolusyonaryo nga banas sang pagbag-o.

Ginpili ni Ka Malvin ang banas sang rebolusyon.

Ang kada mangunguma nga tatay kag mangunguma nga nanay, nagadayaw kay Ka Malvin. Bal-an namon nga bilang estudyante nga naghalin sa isa ka pamilya nga may ikasarang sa pangabuhi, isa ka daku nga bagay ang pagpili ni Ka Malvin sa banas sang rebolusyon. Mas dalayawon pa gid ang maukod nga pagtinguha ni Ka Malvin nga mag-remolde sang kaugalingon kag pangingibabawan ang mga kabudlayan sang wala-naandan nga pagsinalayo sa kaumhan. Suno pa sa isa ka masang mangunguma sa nabagatnan nga bahin sang Panay: “Tandaan ko pa nga una kaw nagkadto diya nga indi kaw kamaan magpanaw sa kahon, pirme lang gakasandad kag indi kamaan magpanguma, pay, dukaron daw tumandok ka ron dya.”

Huo, mabug-at ang kamatayon ni Ka Malvin, mabug-at pa sa mga binukid sang Panay kun sa diin nagtugdo, nanalingsing kag padayon nga nagalambo ang rebolusyon. Nadulaan ang pumuluyo sang isa ka isganan nga hangaway, batid nga organisador, maalam nga manunudlo, pinalangga nga kaupod.

Ang kabuhi ni Ka Malvin nagahatag sang inspirasyon para sa mga kaupod, masang mangunguma kag pamatan-on agud padayunon ang kawsa sang rebolusyon tubtob sa kadalag-an. Bangud ang kabuhi nga ginhalad para sa pagserbisyo sa pumuluyo, isa ka kabuhi nga mapuslanon kag dungganon, isa ka kabuhi nga nagakadapat tularan.

Pinasahi, dalayawon, kag tub-tob san-o indi malipatan si Ka Malvin — sa kada ambahanon kag binalaybay nga pagadihunon sang hublag, sa kada pasidungog kag adlaw sang mga pagdumdum sang mga martir, sa matag-adlaw nga kabuhi sang mga mangunguma nga gin-haladan ni Ka Malvin sang iya kabuhi. Isa ka rebolusyonaryo nga baganihan si Ka Malvin Villaruel Cruz.

Padayon kita sa pag-usoy sa banas sang armadong paghimakas. Ang masanag nga bwas-damlag maagum lamang paagi sa demokratikong rebolusyon sang banwa. Pamatan-on, magpasakop sa New People’s Army!

Mataas nga pagsaludo sa imo Ka Malvin Villaruel Cruz!
Mabuhay ang New People’s Army!
Mabuhay ang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sang mangunguma!
Isulong ang demokratiko nga rebolusyon sang banwa tubtob sa kadalag-an!

Padayon!

https://cpp.ph/statement/isa-ka-rebolusyonaryo-nga-pagpasidungog-para-kay-ka-malvin-villaruel-cruz-halin-sa-rebolusyonaryong-kubay-sang-masang-mangunguma/

AFP, PNP team up to resolve insurgency in Misamis Oriental

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 8, 2020): AFP, PNP team up to resolve insurgency in Misamis Oriental (By 58th Infantry ‘Dimalulupig’ Battalion)



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental- The Army’s 58th Infantry ‘Dimalulupig’ Battalion joined in the Provincial Joint Peace Security Coordinating Council (JPSCC) conference held at Headquarters Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office, San Martin, Villanueva, Misamis Oriental last July 06, 2020.

The said conference was graced by PCOL Robert Roy V Bahian, Provincial Director of Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office and was attended by the Police Strategy Management Unit (POMU), Police Intervention Unit (PIU), Army’s 23rd Infantry ‘Masigasig’ Battalion, 1st Special Forces ‘Anytime, Anywhere’ Battalion, and 58IB.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) gathered together to discuss the security preparations and preventive actions to deter CTG’s plan and to strengthen the overall security and target hardening measures, coordination and collaborations.

The said JPSCC meeting was convened to further synergize the police and military strategies into a national campaign that will defeat all threat groups and criminal elements, to ensure security and to maintain public safety to contribute to socio-economic development of the country.

During the meeting, the agenda being discussed was the present situation of said province in terms of Internal Security Operation (ISO), Anti-criminality, and updates of COVID-19. The key leaders also discussed the current operations and accomplishments of AFP-PNP ISO that resulted to the imminent downfall of the enemy.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB said, “Together with the PNP, we will continue develop well rounded defense system in assuring the safety of the peace and loving people of Misamis Oriental. Your uniformed men will continue its active liaising and collaborating with other line agencies and our civilian partners to attain our shared goal that is lasting peace and development of our country.”

“We need better coordination and cooperation in our operations on internal security, anti-criminality, and counter-terrorism,” Lt.Col.Canatoy added.

The uniformed men and women of the AFP and PNP assured that their relationship will remain strong and steadfast as they perform their mandated duty to promote peace and support the development initiatives of the government towards inclusive growth.

[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/afp-pnp-team-up-to-resolve-insurgency-in-misamis-oriental/

COVID-19 infects 7 Negros Army soldiers from Cebu

From Panay News (Jul 7, 2020): COVID-19 infects 7 Negros Army soldiers from Cebu (By Ruby Silubrico)

Major Cenon Pancito III,

ILOILO City – At least seven soldiers in Negros Oriental tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Major Cenon Pancito III, spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), said these soldiers belong to the 302nd Infantry Brigade. They were among the 11 new cases in the province, he said.

The soldiers were deployed in Cebu last March to help implement the community quarantine measures in the island.

They subjected themselves to reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction testing after exhibiting flu-like symptoms upon arrival in Negros Oriental late last month.


According to Pancito, they are currently isolated at their brigade’s headquarters at Camp Leon Kilat in Tanjay City.

“Ang kanilang kasamahan ay nasa isolation pa rin while waiting for the result of their swab testing,” the Army official said.

He added that the 33 remaining soldiers – currently isolated at a quarantine facility – underwent swab tests and they are waiting now for the results.

Pancito said these were the first COVID-19 cases in the 3ID.

“Our men risked their lives to help contain COVID-19. We are not happy about this news but as government forces, we have the mandate to serve and protect the people,” Pancito added.

http://www.panaynews.net/covid-19-infects-7-negros-army-soldiers-from-cebu/

2 NPA rebels surrender

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 7, 2020): 2 NPA rebels surrender

Two members of the New People’s Army in southern Negros have surrendered to the Philippine National Police, Col. Gilbert Gorero, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office 6, said last night.

Gorero identified them only through their aliases as Ka Marcial, who is a member of the Political Organizing Team of the South West Front Armadong Yunit Pampropaganda, and Ka Babes, also a member of the Armadong Yunit Pamproganda of the same rebel group.

Their surrender was facilitated by the PRO 6 Regional Intelligence Division and the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, he said.

Gorero added the two former rebels will be processed for them to avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the Department of the Interior and Local Government. Both are entitled to receive P15,000 in financial assistance and P50,000 livelihood assistance.

Gorero said that PRO6 is encouraging other NPA members, who were deceived to join the rebel group, to return to the mainstream society as government full support will be extended to them.

Brig. Rene Pamuspusan, Western Visayas police director, lauded the RID 6 and NOCPPO for the surrender of the two former rebels.

“We will strengthen our campaign against terrorists until such time that no one is left in the mountains,” Pamuspusan said in a statement.

https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/July/07/topstory11.htm

Army clashes with DI in Lanao del Sur

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 7, 2020): Army clashes with DI in Lanao del Sur (By Tabak Division, Philippine Army)

MADALUM, Lanao del Sur, July 7 (PIA) -- The Army's 55th Infantry Battalion (IB) clashed with members of the ISIS-linked Dawla Islamiya Local Terrorist Group (LTG) Monday, July 6, in Barangay Tamparong here.

The troops were conducting combat operations in response to the reports from concerned citizens regarding the presence of armed members of the said LTG conducting recruitment and forcing them to procure rations for the group.

"The battalion has been unrelenting in the conduct of combat operations following the series of encounters that transpired during previous weeks in the hinterland boundary of Madalum and Bacolod-Kalawi both of Lanao del Sur," said Lt. Col. Franco Raphael Alano, commanding officer of the 55IB.

With fierce firefight, the troops were able to overrun the terrorist encampment.
One soldier, however, died due to IED explosion left by withdrawing LTG members. No other troops were injured during the explosion.

Meanwhile, Col. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, who has operational jurisdiction over Lanao del Sur, expressed his grief that one of the soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the province from the LTGs.

"Rest assured, we will continue the fight, we will not stop until we could declare the whole province of Lanao del Sur terrorist free," he said.

Maj. Gen. Generoso M. Ponio, 1st Infantry Division Commander, vowed to sustain the military operations against the Dawla Islamiya in its area of responsibility.

"We remain relentless against these terrorist groups. However, we will still encourage them to return to the folds of the law," he said.

Maj. Gen. Ponio added that they will be facilitating the necessary support and assistance for the bereaved families. (Tabak Division/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1046894

A wasted life of an activist-turned NPA

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 7, 2020): A wasted life of an activist-turned NPA (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

“To live peacefully is to live happily, but to live with misery leads to jeopardy.”

The life of a campus student activist was wasted, after joining the senseless armed struggle, fighting a battle that he should not be, and dying in a place that meant nothing to him.

The recent encounter that occred in Sitio Lay, Brgy. Dalije, Miagao, Iloilo last June 29, 2020 between the operating troops of 61IB and members of CPP-NPA Terrorist resulted in the loss of life of a one NPA member named Malvin Christian V Cruz also known as Alyas LEAN/LUCAS who.

Cruz was the TM Leader of Squad 3, Suyak Platoon, Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay, who was killed in action (KIA) by operating troops of 61IB Philippine Army while conducting a combat operation in the mountainous part of the said barangay.

This, after the 61IB troops received information from concerned citizens that the NPA terrorists have been recruiting minors in San Joaquin and Miagao, all of Iloilo and following to the discovery of the troops about their hideouts, that will be used as staging area for their terroristic attacks against government forces and innocent civilians through the conduct of ambuscades and liquidations.

The NPA members were believed to be under the Suyak (SDG) Platoon, Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay led by Joven Ceralvo Alyas LEAN/LUCAS.

The body of Cruz was found dead in the encounter site along with his M16 rifle after receiving fatal gunshot wound and being left by his comrades.

Alyas LEAN/LUCAS, a 21-year old campus activist that turned to rebel, was studying Bachelor of Science in Statistics Circa at the University of the Philippines Visayas –Miagao Campus in the inclusive years of 2015-2016.

He has been an active member of the League of the Filipino Students (LFS) in the UPV Miagao Campus and a member of IBON Foundation, a Non-Government Organization (NGO).

He was recruited and eventually joined the NPA at the age of 17 years old.



Alyas LEAN/LUCAS, being an active member of LFS, used to join rallies and campaigns against the government to address educational issues and school repression.

He is from Barangay San Nicolas, Oton, Iloilo and spent his elementary education at Iloilo Central Elementary School (ICES) and his secondary education at Oton National High School in Oton, Iloilo.

The student activist died after choosing to live in misery hiding and enduring hardships in mountains after abandoning his own freedom and family. This is also a clear evidence that the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNTs) continue recruiting minors and youth from target universities being the vulnerable sectors in our society.

Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, Commanding Officer of 61IB, 3rd Infantry Division, has expressed his sincere condolences to the bereaved family and warned the remaining NPA members to surrender and be instruments of peace and development.

Batara also reminded all parents to watch over their children from the deceptive recruitment schemes of the communist terrorists. (1LT Gil T Gamay/CMO Officer/JBG-PIA6)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1046911

Former rebels in AgSur town receive aid from government

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 7, 2020): Former rebels in AgSur town receive aid from government (By Jennifer P. Gaitano)

BUTUAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) -- Despite the ongoing threat posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the government remains steadfast in curbing the local communist armed conflict and in providing necessary and appropriate interventions to the affected residents particularly in the remote areas in the municipality of La Paz in Agusan del Sur.

In time with the conduct of the three-day Peace-Building Seminar with the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in Barangay Kasapa II, the locals also initiated a peace rally and ceremonial signing of the resolution in the declaration of persona non-grata to the communist-terrorist CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army - National Democratic Front).

Apart from these, some 59 former rebels also received cash assistance from the government worth 15,000 pesos each. Four people’s organizations were also given tissue culture lacatan plantlets with organic fertilizers, vegetables, and corn seeds from the provincial and municipal agriculture offices.

According to Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr., the IPs have been very supportive and cooperative in the local peace talks and dialogue and actively join other sectors towards achieving peace and development in the region.

Many of the former rebels have also returned to the folds of the government and chose to live peacefully and start anew in mainstream society. They are now inclined in spending quality time and living with their family especially during this COVID-19 crisis.

“Peace and development are achieved only if people in the community are united and willing to do whatever it takes to keep everyone safe and secure. We thank our IPs for joining the government in its effort to curb the insurgency problem in the region,” bared Cane.

The official added that a barangay health station is soon to be constructed in the area so locals would have easier access to medical services considering that said barangay is situated far from the municipal proper.

Mayor Michael Lim also stressed that the local government supports the presence of the military in the area to ensure the safety and protection of the residents, as well as the necessary infra projects intended for them.

Meanwhile, the local government also targets to put up a secondary school and a multi-purpose building where community activities will be held. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1046879

NPA member leads Army to arms cache

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 7, 2020): NPA member leads Army to arms cache (By Rudolph Ian Alama)

A New Peoples Army (NPA) member led the 71st Infantry Battalion to an arms cache which contained two high powered firearms in Barangay Rizal, Monkayo in Davao de Oro.

The surrenderer was identified as Julieto M Refuela alyas Dan/Bihan, 29, of Purok 4 Brgy Rizal, Monkayo, Davao de Oro. He was a fulltime NPA member serving as a political guide of the Guerilla Front 20, Sub-Regional Committee 1, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).
Bihan decided to surrender to the 71st “Kaibigan” Infantry Battalion and on Sunday (July 5) revealed the location of the arms cache containing two (40mm) M79 grenade launchers. The 71IB in coordination with the 67IB and 25IB located and recovered the said cache.

The grenade launchers were brought to 71IB headquarters for proper disposition,

Bihan said he left the NPA because he missed his family so much and wanted to start earning a decent living.

Two 40 mm grenade launchers found in the arms cache

“Lisod sa kalihokan kay di man ko paulion bisan gimingaw na kaayo ko sa ako pamilya,”. (Being in the NPA was very hard for me because I was not allowed to go home even though I already missed my family so much) he said in his dialect. Bihan has 2 sons, Julian (5 years old) and Almar (1 year old).

He said his family did not receive a single penny from the CPP-NPA, despite promising him of what he termed as “Suporta sa Pamilya.”

Bihan revealed he was further indoctrinated with deceptive ideologies as he underwent courses given by the CPP-NPA such as PADEPA or Pambansang Demokratikong Paaralan, Basic Party Course, Intermediate Course and Batakang Kurso sa Partido Militar. All these courses contain subjects that aim to advance CPP-NPA ideologies and beliefs.
Bihan is currenrly in the custody of the 71st IB and is undergoing debriefing prior to enrollment to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

Lt. Col. Sonny Gonzales, 71IB commander said that the surrender of Bihan is a manifestation that the 71IB is continuously winning the hearts and minds of the people even among the NPA members themselves.

Last month, the 71st IB in coordination with the member agencies of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF ELCAC) facilitated the benefits of 16 former rebels through the Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (ECLIP) that offers cash and livelihood assistance to its beneficiaries. (PIA/RG Alama with reports from 71IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1046940

5 ASG bandits killed, 2 soldiers hurt in Sulu clashes

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): 5 ASG bandits killed, 2 soldiers hurt in Sulu clashes (By Ely Dumaboc and Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Five Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits were killed while two soldiers were wounded in series of clashes in the province of Sulu, a top military official said Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the first firefight broke out when the Scout Rangers encountered some 40 ASG bandits while on a military operation around 3:55 p.m. Monday in Sitio Libug Wani, Barangay Bakung, Patikul, Sulu.

Vinluan said the firefight lasted for about 30 minutes before the bandits led by Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hadjan Sawadjaan fled in different directions.

Vinluan, who is also the Army's 11th Infantry Division commander, said the second encounter occurred around 4:40 p.m. on the same day when another Scout Ranger team encountered some 30 followers of Sahiron and Sawadjaan in Sitio Lumbaan, Barangay Buhangian, also in Patikul.

An hour later, Vinluan said another Scout Ranger team encountered some 40 ASG bandits, who are also followers of Sahiron and Sawadjaan, in Sitio Bakud Uwak, Barangay Tanum, in the same town.

He said the ASG bandits scampered in different directions following an hour-long firefight.

Two soldiers, identified as S/Sgt. Ramonito Diapolet and Cpl. Maynard Cabote, were slightly injured during the clashes, while five ASG bandits were killed.

The mortar team of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion and two MG-520 attack helicopters provided fire support to the ground troops, Vinluan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108167

Suspects in killing of soldier, 3 others yield in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): Suspects in killing of soldier, 3 others yield in Basilan (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



SURRENDER. The firearms belonging to the four members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team who are tagged as responsible in the July 3 killing of a soldier and three others in Barangaay Bohe Lebbung, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan. The suspects surrendered to military authorities Sunday (July 5, 2020). (Photo courtesy of the Army's 101st Infantry Brigade)

The four members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) involved in the killing of a soldier and three others in Basilan province surrendered to authorities, military officials said Tuesday.

Brig. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, Joint Task Force Basilan commander, identified the surrenderers as Karim Manisan, 31; Saham Mohammad, 45; Lito Manisan, 45; and Ayatula Mohammad, 40.

They are all members of BPAT in Barangay Bohe Lebbung, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, who surrendered Sunday to the headquarters of the Army’s 4th Special Forces Battalion in Barangay Cabunbata, Isabela City, Basilan.

The four were tagged as responsible for the July 3 killing of PFC Mark Anthony Monte; militiamen Samy Akay and Alibasa Antaas; and Kong Uging, a civilian.

Monte and his companions were walking home when the suspects ambushed them around 10:30 p.m. in Barangay Bohe Lebbung, Tipo-Tipo.

Militiamen Randy Ibung and Gary Cuevas, and civilians Halam Jainul and Hakim Marani were also injured during the incident.

“The relentless efforts of the combined elements from the 18th Infantry Battalion, 4th Special Forces Battalion, and the local police, pressured the gunmen to yield,” Reyeg said.

Reyeg said the suspects turned over four high-powered firearms consisting of two M16A1 rifles, an M14 US-made rifle, and an M1 US-made carbine with several magazines and ammunitions.

He said the suspects were aware that charges have been filed against them “and they are ready to face the consequences of their actions.”

The police said earlier the group had a misunderstanding, and that Monte and the other victims confronted the suspects minutes before the incident.

Reyeg said the suspects were turned over to the custody of the police.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said they will closely monitor the development of the case to ensure that justice is accorded to the victims.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108198

Troops overrun Dawlah Islamiya lair in Lanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): Troops overrun Dawlah Islamiya lair in Lanao Sur (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Government troops overran a hideout of the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired Dawlah Islamiya following a clash in the hinterlands of Lanao del Sur, officials said Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Franco Rapahel Alano, commander of the Army’s 55th Infantry Battalion, said the firefight occurred Monday in Barangay Tamparong, Madalum, Lanao del Sur.
Alano said the clash broke out after the troops launched combat operations in response to civilian tipoffs about the presence of Dawlah Islamiya terrorists recruiting and forcing them to procure food items.
Alano said the troops overran the hideout following a fierce firefight.

He said a soldier was killed as he accidentally tripped on an improvised explosive device (IED) fashioned out as a landmine left by the Dawlah Islamiya terrorists when they fled.

Meanwhile, Col. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commander of the Army's 103rd Infantry Brigade, expressed grief that one of the soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the province from the Dawlah Islamiya terrorists.

“Rest assured, we will continue the fight, we will not stop until we could declare the whole province of Lanao del Sur terrorist free,” Cuerpo said.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, 1st Infantry Division commander, vowed to sustain the military operations against the Dawla Isamilya in its area of responsibility.

"We remain relentless against these terrorist groups; however, we will still encourage them to return to the folds of the law," Ponio said. "Likewise, we will be facilitating the necessary support and assistance for the bereaved families."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108224

Mother longs for lost son after joining militant group

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): Mother longs for lost son after joining militant group (By Marita Moaje)



‘I’LL NEVER GIVE UP.’ Therese Fuentes posts a throwback picture with her son, Frances Ern, on her Facebook page. Fuentes said she “will never give up” with her son, who allegedly became a member of the communist New People’s Army. (Photo grabbed from Therese Fuentes' FB page)

Therese Fuentes has been longing for her eldest son.

And like any mother, she would do everything to get him back, even if it means exposing and opening up her private life to the public to be able to reach out to him.

Therese shared in her Facebook account on Sunday (July 5) how her son, who had big dreams and goals in life, ended up traversing an unexpected path.

From the day she gave birth to her son, Frances Ern, Therese looked back at the precious moments she shared with her son.

“For 9 months I carried you in my womb without any complains, always praying that the delivery would be normal and successful. Thanks to God, everything went well, and on March 13, 1999, you were born,” her post stated.

“You’ve been a happy kid. Very playful but a smart one. We had a simple but happy life. You became a big brother after two years and following after, was your little sister. You’ve been so happy and excited; you love her so much. You tried to be the best big brother to her. Our family at that time was grateful and contented," she continued.

Therese, in her post, said Frances Ern grew up so fast, but they were proud of their son for being intelligent and having big dreams in life.

His son started an important phase in life – going to college to slowly fulfill his goals.

Therese and her husband enrolled Frances Ern at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa, Manila.
“(When) you started your life in PUP, we thought this is where you can start to build your dreams. As a mother, I was so excited, and you have all the support from us. But I never thought that was also the end of your dreams,” she wrote.

At first, she said Frances Ern was excited every time he would come home from school.

Theresa said she was even more excited to listen to her son and hear about things happening at school.

But all of a sudden, she said, his son changed.

“One day, you came home late. And the next day I saw that there's no smile on your face. I wonder what happened. You’re not the same Frances that I know. Just three months since you been there but you became different. And one day you did not come home,” Therese said.

Therese was so worried and prayed all night for Frances Ern’s safety.

Then one day, Therese said the news came to her that her son Frances Ern has become a member of the militant youth group, Anakbayan.

She blamed Frances Ern's friend, whom she named Alex Danday, for what happened to him.

Theresa got the shock of her life when she saw a video of Frances Ern saying, “NPA (New People’s Army) ako (I am an NPA member)".

"I’ve been horrified, I never expected that it will go that far. Asking myself what happened. Been going on with all the pain, crying for four years, and never know when this hurting (would) stop," she wrote.

Therese fumed with anger and wanted to scream over both disappointment and fear.

“I want to shout to them, want to tell them all the bad words I know. They never know the hurt they cause," she said.

Theresa said she doesn’t even know where exactly Frances Ern is now, or what had happened to him.

With all the hurt she feels, she said she thought of other parents who are in the same situation as her.

Therese said she misses hugging her son.

“I miss you son, Frances Ern, and I love you so much. All I pray (is) that God will give us another chance to be a complete family again," she said.

Therese took the risk of opening up about his son on social media, believing it might be the only way she could reach him.

On Monday, Theresa posted another message on Facebook for her son.

“Naalala mo sabi ko sa iyo. Lahat ng tao sa paligid mo mawawala, pero ako at ako ang matitira na mag-aabot ng kamay ko sa iyo para ibangon ka (Remember when I told you, everybody may leave you, but I will remain here by your side, extending my hand to lift you up). I will always here waiting for you to come home. There's always a way to make things right. Trust me, France, ang pagmamahal ko sa iyo ang hahatak sa iyo sa tama (my love will lead you to the right path). I will never give up I'll fight for your life," she wrote.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108127

BRP Jose Rizal commissioning rites set July 10

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): BRP Jose Rizal commissioning rites set July 10 (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BRP Jose Rizal. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The commissioning ceremony of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s first missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), will be held in Subic Bay, Zambales on Friday (July 10).

"(The) hand over, christening, and commissioning ceremony (of BRP Jose Rizal) will take place (in) Subic Bay, Zambales (on July 10)," said PN public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Monday afternoon.

Roxas said President Rodrigo Duterte was officially invited as the guest of honor.

"But we don't have confirmation yet," she said.

BRP Jose Rizal's commissioning ceremony was earlier scheduled for June 19, coinciding with the birthday of the national hero to which the frigate was named after, but this was canceled after one of its crew tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) as confirmed by PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo.

"May nag-positive na (isang crew) (One of the crew members tested positive) which was later tested and proved to be negative. But because of SOPs (standard operating procedures) na nag-negative siya, dun nagsimula ngayon ang count ng 14 days (when the results turned negative, we started the 14-day count), so because of the counting of the 14 days, it left the TIAC (Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee) with so little time before the commission. So in order not to hurry the TIAC, the conduct of the technical inspection, we recommended it to be postponed," Bacordo earlier said.

Bacordo added that the crew member already yielded negative results based on confirmatory swabbing at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center that came out earlier in June.

Navy willing to reset rites to accommodate PRRD

Meanwhile, Bacordo said they want the President to attend the commissioning ceremonies of the country's first missile frigate which is scheduled at the Alava Wharf in Subic Bay.

"We recommended that date (July 10) to him but we are still to get a confirmation till now," he added in a media interview Tuesday.

Bacordo added that once the President confirms his attendance, the event will push through will go as scheduled.

However, should the Chief Executive decides to move the commissioning on another day, he said that the PN will comply.

"Should the President schedule it for July 12, then we will move the commissioning date to July 12, and if he will say that he prefers it on July 16 then, we will hold it on that date, but what is important is, we want the President to be the guest-of-honor for the commissioning," Bacordo said.

However, he added that they understand the restrictions imposed by the Inter-Agency Task Force and of the Presidential Security Group, as to whether the Chief Executive can attend.

The ship arrived in Subic Bay, Zambales last May 23 after leaving Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea last May 18. BRP Jose Rizal is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations.

BRP Jose Rizal was launched at the HHI shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on May 23, 2019.

Incidentally, BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), the sistership of BRP Jose Rizal, was launched in the same facility on November 8 of last year.

The contract for the two ships is placed at PHP16 billion with another PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108149

Army Aviation Regiment feted for Covid-19, air patrol initiatives

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): Army Aviation Regiment feted for Covid-19, air patrol initiatives (By Priam Nepomuceno)



ARMY AVIATION REGIMENT. Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay interacts with the members of the Army Aviation Regiment in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on Monday (July 6, 2020). Gapay lauded the AAR for its contribution in containing the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic and helping secure the country's vast maritime territories via aerial reconnaissance and maritime patrols. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

Philippine Army (PA) commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay on Monday commended the Army Aviation Regiment (AAR) for its contribution in containing the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic and helping secure the country's vast maritime territories via aerial reconnaissance and maritime patrols over Northern Luzon, Eastern Mindanao, and Western Mindanao.

“President (Manuel) Quezon uttered these words 83 years ago but they currently speak about us: ‘Our Army is rapidly taking form as an agency equipped to provide for future Philippine security.’ Indeed, we are getting closer to our vision of a world-class Army that is a source of national pride, and I can see that in you,” Gapay said in his speech during the AAR's activation anniversary ceremony at Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.

In a message to the Philippine News Agency, PA spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala said the AAR's air assets have been involved in securing the country's air and maritime territories as well as in transporting medical supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) sets for front-liners to battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Gapay, meanwhile, congratulated the regiment in their modernization efforts, particularly in the training of additional aviators, rotary-wing pilots, multi-engine rating, and air traffic personnel.

He also acknowledged the unit's efforts in improving existing doctrines as a result of added capabilities and changing operational environment.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108152

Anti-terror law 'reinvigorates' fight to crush terrorism

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): Anti-terror law 'reinvigorates' fight to crush terrorism (By Marita Moaje)

The newly signed anti-terrorism law will secure the country's freedom and democracy and "reinvigorates our constant vigil against the relentless threat of terrorism," the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said Monday, as it lauded President Rodrigo Duterte's recent signing of the measure.

NTF-ELCAC's Legal Cooperation Cluster-Coordinated Legal Action and Support Services (LCC-CLASS) made this comment in the wake of protests on the signing of the law, with several groups saying the new law is dangerous and will worsen attacks against human rights defenders.

LCC-CLASS cited the timely passage of the measure, saying Human Security Act (HSA) of 2007 has "withered through the times and rendered itself kaput calling for its repeal”.

The country has been under threats of terroristic attacks in recent years, which includes the Jolo Cathedral attack in 2019, the Sulu encounter in 2018, Marawi siege in 2017, the Davao City night market bombing in September 2016, the Sawmill kidnapping and beheading in April 2016 when the Maute came out as a supporter of ISIS, and the Zamboanga siege in September 2013.

Despite these attacks, only one was convicted under the Human Security Act, Nur Sapian, leader of Hukbong Federal for the Marawi Siege, and only one prescribed organization which is the Abu Sayyaf.

Data from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology shows there are 735 suspects or respondents undergoing trial, but not one of them is being tried for violation of the HSA.

Cases range from murder and illegal possession of firearms even though they were captured at the Marawi siege.

Even Abu Sayyaf members who were caught by government forces were mostly convicted of kidnapping, but not in violation of the HSA.

This is because HSA, the LCC-CLASS said, has no teeth.

It said up to this day, the constant threat of terrorism continuously manages to evade the long arm of the law.

“Now, with this more comprehensive measure, our government shall be better equipped to frustrate, foil, and preempt terrorist attacks and further radicalization,” it said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108197

PH backs UN experts in combating recruitment of child soldiers

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): PH backs UN experts in combating recruitment of child soldiers


Ambassador Evan P. Garcia, Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations (Contributed photo)

GENEVA, Switzerland – Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), Ambassador Evan P. Garcia, on Monday conveyed the country's full support for the work of the UN experts and urged them to continue paying close attention to the modus operandi through which recruitment of child soldiers is carried out in different settings.

Responding to two UN experts’ statements and reports in the ongoing 44th UN Human Rights Council Session, who drew attention to the situation of children being recruited for armed combat, Garcia cited the example of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) that has exploited the cover of charitable schools and school-based youth organizations, among others, to train child combatants for their terroristic activities.

“The terrorist group abuses the cover of 'human rights defender' to escape detection, project legitimacy, solicit funds from unwitting foreign donors, and evade accountability while victimizing thousands of vulnerable children, especially those from indigenous communities," he said.

UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Virginia Gamba, outlined the challenges in ending and preventing grave violations against children including their recruitment and use, killing and maiming, abduction, and rape and sexual violence.

Meanwhile, UN Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, Maria Grazia Giammarinaro, highlighted how conflict and post-conflict settings heighten the vulnerability of children to being trafficked to serve as soldiers, servants, or sexual slaves.

The report of Gamba acknowledged the Philippines' law on "Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict” that was enacted in January 2019.

She recognized the law to be an important measure toward improving the protection of children and ensuring accountability for grave violations.

She also referred, in her report, to a mission conducted in the Philippines in December 2018 where lessons and best practices were gathered relative to her meeting with UN entities, government officials, and disengaged child soldiers of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and their families.

As Garcia encouraged the UN experts to further intensify their work in the area of combating the recruitment of child soldiers, he flagged about the employment by certain armed non-state actors or terrorist organizations such as the CPP-NPA-NDF in the Philippines of insidious means to recruit child combatants, taking them away from the safety of their families, schools, and communities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108236

BRP Jose Rizal to join RIMPAC 2020

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): BRP Jose Rizal to join RIMPAC 2020 (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BRP Jose Rizal. (File photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy (PN) said on Tuesday its up-to-date and heavily armed ship, the missile-frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) will be participating in this year's "Rim of the Pacific" (RIMPAC) exercises.

PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the BRP Jose Rizal will depart for Hawaii, where the RIMPAC 2020 will be held, by July 29 to 30.

RIMPAC 2020 is from August 17 to 31.

"To date, (only) three Asean countries (will be) participating (and these are) Singapore, Brunei, and the Philippines," Bacordo said.

As of this time, he said only 11 countries will be sending ships to join the biennial maneuvers described as the largest maritime warfare exercise in the world.

In 2018, the PN participated for the first time in RIMPAC deploying strategic sealift vessel BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) and offshore patrol vessel BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17), an AgustaWestland naval helicopter.

Around 700 sailors and marines joined the exercises, which started June 27 and ended on Aug. 2, 2018.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108205

SC asks Palace to comment on petitions vs. anti-terror law

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2020): SC asks Palace to comment on petitions vs. anti-terror law (By Benjamin Pulta)

The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday asked the executive department to comment on the petitions questioning the legality of Republic Act 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

"The Supreme Court ordered the consolidation of the four petitions, and required the respondents to file their respective comments on the petition and application for TRO (temporary restraining order) within a period of 10 calendar days from notice," SC spokesman Brian Keith Hosaka told reporters at the end of the high court's en banc session.

No TRO sought by the petitioners was handed down by the court in the meantime.

The suits were originally filed on Monday separately by lawyer Howard M. Calleja, Albay Rep. Edcel C. Lagman, lawyer Melencio Sta. Maria and Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Carlos Zarate.

Among other things, the petitioners assailed issues on powers of the Anti-Terrorism Council, provisions on the forms of speech and expression, surveillance, and detention.

The petitions also questioned the definition of the crime of terrorism under the law claiming it as vague and ambiguous, the maximum of 24 days of prolonged detention of a suspect without a judicial warrant or without charging him, the maximum of 90 days technical surveillance and wiretapping of communications, the maximum of six months investigation of a suspect’s bank accounts and the freezing of assets and the authority to designate a person or association as a terrorist without judicial intervention.

President Rodrigo Duterte signed the measure into law on July 3 which repeals Republic Act 9372 or the Human Security Act of 2007.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108216