NPA rebel yields to Roxas City cops

From Panay News (Sep 9, 2020): NPA rebel yields to Roxas City cops

A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered to police authorities in in the town of President Roxas, Capiz.

The 25-year old surrenderer also known as “Nonoy” and “Ka Alan” brought with him a hand grenade when he recently yielded to the personnel of the Pres. Roxas municipal police station (PRMPS) to live a normal and peaceful life.

Town police chief Captain Rachelle Garnica said the surrender of “Ka Alan” was through the effort of the Regional Intelligence Unit 6 under the supervision of Major Delfin Tan with the assistance of the 1st Capiz Provincial Mobile Force Company Intelligence Officer Lieutenant Jay Lagan, and President Roxas mayor Receliste Escolin.

“The exhausted NPA rebel decided to surrender after he realized that he was deceived by the terrorist group and already tired of living a miserable life in the mountain,” Garnica said.

This simply shows that the anti-insurgency campaign of local authorities is doing well in the province, she added.

Alias “Nonoy,” who is now in the RIU6 custody, claimed that he was a member of Eastern Front Nonito Aguirre Command under Ka Pedic, Ka Reagan and Romeo Ganggoso.

Last March, the Capiz Police Provincial Office has also presented before local tri-media practitioners alias “Art” who was then a rebel red fighter but surrendered and returned to the folds of law as a result of the intensified and comprehensive conduct of intelligence and information operation by the police operatives in coordination with the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Barangay Intelligence Networks.

Alias “Art” said to the media that he surrendered because he could no longer bear the hardship, starvation, lack of security and hopelessness in the mountains.

The surrender of Ka Art and Ka Alan took place as the government is implementing the “Whole-of-Nation” approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in order to attain inclusive and sustainable peace and development.

The surrenderers will be enrolled to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program so they can start the soonest possible time a new and better life.

http://www.panaynews.net/npa-rebel-yields-to-roxas-city-cops/

5 Sayyafs slain in Zambo town, 2 soldiers wounded

From the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 9, 2020): 5 Sayyafs slain in Zambo town, 2 soldiers wounded

ZAMBOANGA CITY – At least 5 Abu Sayyaf gunmen were killed and two soldiers wounded in fierce clashes Wednesday in Zamboanga Sibugay province in southern Philippines, officials said.



Policemen man a checkpoint in Zamboanga City. Security forces kill at least 5 Abu Sayyaf gunmen in R.T. Lim town in the neighboring province of Zamboanga Sibugay on Wednesday, September 9, 2020, following sporadic battle since Sunday in Alicia town. (Zamboanga Post)

Officials said the fighting erupted in the village of President Roxas in the town of R.T. Lim where security forces caught up with a group of gunmen escaping a military operation from the nearby town of Alicia where a gunman had been killed and 2 soldiers and three civilians wounded in the battle in La Paz village.

Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, commander of the 44th Infantry Battalion, whose group is pursuing the terrorists, said they have killed 5 gunmen in the latest fighting, but two more soldiers were also wounded in the clashes before sunrise.

“This is the result of our pursuit operations against the armed elements of Abral Abdusalam and Sahibad Group led by Furuji Indama after our encounter in Barangay La Paz in Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay dawn of Sunday, September 6,” he said.

Templonuevo said troops recovered the bodies of the gunmen and their automatic weapons. The identities of the dead remain unknown, he said, adding, soldiers clashed with at least 10 armed men in the area. “Pursuit operation is still on-going,” he said.

Citing intelligence reports, Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, said the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf gunmen were on a kidnapping mission.

Last October 4, gunmen led by a rogue leader Abdul Alip, of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, kidnapped a 70-year old British man, Allan Arthur Hyrons, and his Filipina wife, Welma Paglinawan, in Tukuran town in Zamboanga del Sur.

Alip handed over the couple to the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu province where the pro-ISIS group demanded P50 million for the safe release of the victims. The victims were allegedly rescued by soldiers November 25 after a clash with the Abu Sayyaf.

Mayor Beng Climaco said security is tight in Zamboanga City since the twin suicide bombings in Sulu's capital town of Jolo late last month. She said roadblocks and checkpoints around the city are being guarded by soldiers and policemen and patrols continue even at night.

The latest fighting coincided with the commemoration of rebel attacks in Zamboanga City by the followers of Moro National Liberation Front chieftain Nur Misuari in 2013. The siege lasted for three weeks and left hundreds of people dead and wounded. It was the second attack of Misuari's group in Zamboanga City since 2001. (Zamboanga Post)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/09/5-sayyafs-slain-in-zambo-town-2.html

Counterinsurgency expert now leads Northern Luzon military command

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 7, 2020): Counterinsurgency expert now leads Northern Luzon military command (By: Frances Mangosing)

Maj. Gen. Arnulfo Burgos Jr., known for his expertise in civil military and counterinsurgency operations, assumed leadership of the Northern Luzon command on Monday (Sept 7).

Prior to his new assignment, he led the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division based in Tanay, Rizal. His area of responsibility covered the Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon (Calabarzon) region and the provinces of Marinduque, Romblon, Occidental Mindoro, and Oriental Mindoro.

Burgos, a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maringal” Class of 1988, will now be based at Camp Aquino in Tarlac City. His area of jurisdiction now spans Northern and Central Luzon, as well as critical areas Bajo de Masinloc and Philippine Rise.

In a small turnover ceremony, Armed Forces Chief Gen. Gilbert Gapay commended Burgos for the “headways that 2ID, under your leadership, has recorded particularly in pushing the NPA terrorists’ Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee on the verge of collapse.”

Aside from counterinsurgency operations and territorial defense, Burgos said he would also give priority to “proactive disaster response, forging domestic and international alliances as well as promoting prosperity and development in the north by ensuring the security of critical infrastructures, private businesses and flagship projects.”

His other previous assignments included commander of 202nd Infantry Brigade, commander of the Army’s civil military operations group, assistant chief of staff of the Army’s civil military operations and AFP spokesperson.

Burgos replaced Lt. Gen. Ramiro Rey, who reached the mandatory retirement age of 56.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1332518/counterinsurgency-expert-now-leads-northern-luzon-military-command

BCDA denies it owes the military P13.2 billion in remittances

From Rappler (Sep 7, 2020): BCDA denies it owes the military P13.2 billion in remittances (By JC GOTINGA)

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority says it contributed P15.16 billion to the military in the first 3 years of the Duterte administration – higher than the Aquino administration’s 6-year total

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) denied it owed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) billions of pesos in unremitted earnings, as AFP chief General Gilbert Gapay stated in a Senate hearing last week.

On Monday, September 7, the BCDA said the supposedly unremitted P13.2 billion mentioned during the Senate hearing was part of the agency’s unutilized remittances still parked with the Bureau of the Treasury, awaiting appropriation.

“There are no unremitted earnings of P13.2 billion. The BCDA has diligently remitted the share of all government agencies, especially the AFP, as mandated by law every year,” the BCDA said in a statement.

The agency said it has sent a letter to the Senate and to Gapay to clarify the matter.

The BCDA said it posted its “highest contributions” totalling P15.16 billion to the AFP in the first 3 years of the Duterte administration. This was higher than the total P13 billion it remitted to the AFP during the entire 6 years of the Aquino administration, the agency said.

The BCDA’s contributions to the AFP during the Duterte administration constitutes 33% of the total contributions it made since 1993, the agency added.

Total remittances to the national government in the first half of the Duterte administration amounted to P16.367 billion – a record high, the BCDA said.

Combined remittances under the Ramos, Estrada, and Arroyo administrations totaled P32.31 billion, while remittances under the Aquino administration reached P14.464 billion, according to the agency.

On Wednesday, September 2, Gapay told lawmakers during his confirmation hearing with the Commission on Appointments (CA) that the AFP “expected billions more” in remittances from the BCDA as a result of the use and sale of former military reservations.

Senator Panfilo Lacson said records showed the BCDA had only so far remitted to the AFP P6.8 billion out of an expected P20 billion for fiscal year 2020.

When Lacson asked whether the BCDA owed the AFP the remaining P13.2 billion, Gapay answered in the affirmative. The senator then told the general to collect the remaining balance from the BCDA.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, who attended Gapay’s CA hearing, afterwards said it was “unacceptable” that the BCDA is only able to remit up to a tenth of the amount the AFP needs for its modernization program.

Gapay earlier said the AFP had P300 billion worth of unfunded projects that included current phases of its modernization program to build a credible defense posture.

The BCDA is one of several funding sources for the AFP modernization program. Gapay said the military expects an estimated P10 billion to P15 billion more in remittances from the BCDA over the next 5 years.

https://rappler.com/nation/bcda-denies-owes-military-billions-remittances

Lorenzana signs deal for China-backed Dito to put up cell towers in military camps

From CNN Philippines (Sep 8, 2020): Lorenzana signs deal for China-backed Dito to put up cell towers in military camps (By Melissa Luz Lopez, CNN Philippines)


FILE PHOTO

China-backed Dito Telecommunity has been officially allowed to put up cell towers inside military camps, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Tuesday.

The Cabinet official told House members that he recently signed an agreement allowing the new telecommunications player to install cell towers within camps, similar to mobile service providers Smart and Globe.

Last year, the Armed Forces of the Philippines allowed the country's third telco player to set up communications equipment in its camps, but was halted amid security concerns raised by some lawmakers about allowing the China-backed firm to do so.

RELATED: Barring Chinese-backed Dito from military camps against competition laws – DICT

Lorenzana explained that the document was submitted to him in 2019 but went under Senate review.

"They came out with nothing naman, wala silang complaint or any recommendation on the contract. It was returned to us," he said, noting that the AFP pledged to install safeguards.

However, Cagayan de Oro Representative Rufus Rodriguez said it was wrong to compare Smart and Globe with Dito, as the latter is 40 percent owned by a Chinese state-run company.

"Can you imagine there will be Chinese (individuals) allegedly employees of Dito who may be spies for China – where we have a conflict especially in the West Philippine Sea – entering our camps and being able to secure installations which should not be known by outside forces?" Rodriguez emphasized during the agency's budget hearing.

Dito is a brand built through the partnership of businessman Dennis Uy's Udenna Corporation and Beijing-run China Telecom through a $5.4 billion (about ₱60 billion) investment deal last year. The joint venture plans to put up 10,000 cell towers in the next five years.

READ: Bicam on Bayanihan 2 OKs move to expedite cell towers construction

Dito paid a ₱25.7-billion performance bond to the government as it pledged to provide internet service with a speed of 27 megabits per second to more than a third of the population on its first year of operation. Failure to deliver meant the government gets to keep the money.

The third major player pushed back its rollout target from July 2020 to next year, saying lockdowns due to the pandemic delayed its processes.

READ: Duterte tells telcos Smart and Globe to improve services before December

Meanwhile, Lorenzana supported President Rodrigo Duterte's order to honor all other contracts with Chinese firms despite a blacklist by the American government, a retaliatory move against Beijing's incursions in the South China Sea.

"If we will get out of the contract, granting it has been signed, then we will be slapped with huge damage," the defense chief said, adding that projects like the ₱500-billion contract for the Sangley airport upgrade was secured "fair and square."

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/9/8/DND-deal-Dito-cell-towers-military-camps.html

At least 8 foreign terrorists 'hiding' in the Philippines, says military chief

From Rappler (Sep 8): At least 8 foreign terrorists 'hiding' in the Philippines, says military chief (By RAMBO TALABONG)

They are 'integrated in the local terrorist groups faction, particularly the Abu Sayyaf,' says Philippine military chief General Gilbert Gapay

At least 8 foreign terrorists are "hiding" in the Philippines, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Gilbert Gapay said on Tuesday, September 8.

"Right now, we have identified 8 foreign terrorists hiding in our country and integrated in the local terrorist groups faction, particularly the Abu Sayyaf," Gapay said in during the military's budget briefing at the House of Representatives.

Gapay added that they are also monitoring at least 29 other suspected foreign terrorists in the Philippines.

The military chief was responding to Deputy Speaker and Basilan Representative Mujiv Hataman, who asked for a brief on the military's anti- terrorism campaign.

Why does this matter?

Although the foreign terrorists exact terror links have yet to be ascertained, the AFP said in July 2019 that factions within the ASG and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) – a splinter group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) – have pledged allegiance to ISIS.

Then-Western Mindanao Command chief Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana said at the time that the foreign suspects were grooming local terrorists to become bombers, or even suicide bombers, and training them in “other terroristic actions.”

Another 42 people were “watchlisted" and were "being monitored” for possible terror links, the military official said last year.

Crushed in the Middle East, ISIS has shifted its focus to Southeast Asia and called on its followers there to carve out a “caliphate” in the region.

Foreign terrorists were involved in attacks in the Philippines, including the Marawi siege, and bombings in Jolo, Sulu.

To prevent more foreign terrorists from entering the country, Gapay said the country must ramp up its maritime security and immigration screening, as these individuals enter the country through its porous borders and use fake identities to escape detection by immigration authorities.

https://rappler.com/nation/military-chief-says-foreign-terrorists-hiding-in-philippines

Suspected Abu Sayyaf hideout stormed in Zamboanga Sibugay

From ABS-CBN (Sep 8, 2020): Suspected Abu Sayyaf hideout stormed in Zamboanga Sibugay (By Queenie Casimiro)

Courtesy of the Army 1st Infantry Division
Operatives from the military and police raided a suspected hideout of the Dawlah Islamiya-Abu Sayyaf Group in Alicia town, Zamboanga Sibugay on Sunday dawn.

This, after authorities received information from residents about suspicious individuals frequenting the village of Sitio Tubigsina in Barangay La Paz, Alicia.

Authorities believe that the house was used as a hideout of Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group leader Furuji Indama.

After a series of encounters with the suspects, government troops discovered a cadaver of a certain Idris Aquilon who is said to be a close associate of Indama and a member of the Sahibad Group, a local terror group operating in the province.

Also recovered were ammunition and explosives.
Two soldiers were injured in the firefight while three civilians were also hurt after getting caught in the crossfire.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/09/08/20/suspected-abu-sayyaf-hideout-stormed-in-zamboanga-sibugay

2 Reds slain in Kudarat encounter

From the Philippine Star (Sep 8,  2020): 2 Reds slain in Kudarat encounter (By John Unson)

Two suspected New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas tagged in the burning of construction equipment and killing of a soldier were killed in an encounter in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat on Sunday.

The guerrillas, whose identities were not immediately available, reportedly exchanged fire with troopers of the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion at the boundary of Barangays Santa Clara and Andong, according to Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon of the Army’s 6th IB.

The suspects were among a group of men who torched a backhoe in Barangay Andong after its owner reportedly refused to pay revolutionary taxes.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/09/08/2040752/2-reds-slain-kudarat-encounter

'Why are they terribly threatened of NTF-ELCAC?' Badoy says of Makabayan solons

From GMA News Online (Sep 8, 2020): 'Why are they terribly threatened of NTF-ELCAC?' Badoy says of Makabayan solons (By ERWIN COLCOL)

"Why are they terribly threatened with the presence and the whole-of-government approach of the NTF-ELCAC (National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict) in ending this communist terrorist scourge?"

This was the response of NTF-ELCAC spokesperson Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy after Gabriela Women's Party Representative Arlene Brosas called for a "zero budget" and the abolition of the task force following the former's "red-tagging" remarks.

In a statement sent to GMA News Online late Monday night, Badoy maintained that the NTF-ELCAC, at its very core, is about "good governance."

"We have come to realize that the worst of us — these communist terrorists — have been able to exploit the most helpless, the most vulnerable in our midst because government, for the longest time, did not serve our people well," she said.

"And so our people had become vulnerable to the lies and deceptions of a most deceitful, most hypocritical, barefaced liars who say one thing and mean another," she added.

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Badoy, in a separate statement over the weekend, called Makabayan Bloc lawmakers "high-ranking party members" of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) whose goals are to weaken the government until it is totally destroyed "so that the CPP may topple our democracy and install, in its place, communism."

Such statement did not sit well with Brosas, prompting her to call for a zero budget and the abolition of the NTF-ELCAC.

"The red-tagging and terror arm of the government should be abolished and its P19 billion budget be realigned to COVID-19 response," Brosas said.

"That would be enough to triple the proposed P6.7 billion budget for urgent COVID-19 response," she added.

But Badoy claimed that it was CPP founding chairman Jose Maria Sison himself that declared the party-lists whom the Makabayan Bloc lawmakers represent are "fronts of the terrorist CPP NPA NDF (New People's Army - National Democratic Front).

"And so GABRIELA's Rep. Arlene Brosas asking that Congress give the Task Force tasked to end this communist terrorist scourge zero budget comes as no surprise to me," she said.

"Even though it is true that CPP NPA NDF founder Joma Sison has redtagged his own comrades, Makabayan Bloc members give themselves away with their words, their actions, their affiliations, their deeds," she added.

Badoy also defended the NTF-ELCAC's proposed P16-billion barangay development program for communities "cleared" of insurgency, which ACT Teachers party-list Representative France Castro earlier questioned.

"The NTF ELCAC have crafted a budget where government finally does what it's supposed to do and where a huge part of NTF ELCAC's budget will go to our country's most geographically isolated and disadvantaged barangays," she said.

Badoy stood by the "whole-of-government" approach being espoused by the NTF-ELCAC.

"I am confident NTF ELCAC's goals of ending this blood-soaked chapter in our country's history, where Filipinos kill fellow Filipinos and where we empower the poorest of the poor to live lives of quiet dignity and where our country can be all that we had hoped it would be squares neatly with the goals of the real representatives of the people," she said.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/754651/why-are-they-terribly-threatened-of-ntf-elcac-badoy-says-of-makabayan-solons/story/

Asia Watch: Glass half-full, half-empty

Posted to the Australia/Israel Jewish Affairs Council (Sep 7, 2020): Asia Watch: Glass half-full, half-empty (By Michael Shannon)

The success of the joint Philippines-US counterterrorism mission is still an open question

The Philippines Armed Forces has been bolstered by advice, equipment and financial assistance from the United States for decades in its efforts to subdue violent Islamist militants in the archipelago nation’s southern islands.

The current iteration of this cooperative effort has been known as Operation Pacific Eagle – Philippines (OPE-P), launched in September 2017, when Philippine government forces were battling pro-IS fighters who had taken over the southern city of Marawi. The US deployed military advisers and drones to help the Philippines retake the city, kill the top leaders of the militant siege and flush out their forces a month later.

But nearly three years later, the two forces have differing assessments of the success of their joint mission.

The latest report to the US Congress from the Pentagon said the current counter-terror offensive had not made any significant inroads against Islamic State-aligned extremist groups.

“[T]here has been little change in the capabilities, size, financing, and operations of ISIS-EA [East Asia],” said Sean W. O’Donnell, the US Defence Department’s acting inspector general, in the quarterly report on the US military aid program to Manila.

“In general, efforts to reduce extremism in the Philippines do not appear to have made a substantial difference since the launch of OPE-P. ISIS-EA and the other violent extremist groups in the Philippines that either coordinate with or share members with ISIS, have remained about the same size and strength for the last few years,” O’Donnell said, noting that the militant groups have operated in the same region for decades and that “little progress has been made” in improving the economic, social, and political conditions there.

The Philippines’ military chief and other generals responded with a more upbeat assessment. Armed forces head Gen. Gilbert Gapay said, “WestMinCom [Western Mindanao Command] has accomplished so much as far as degrading. Maybe we have not yet defeated [them] but we have degraded their capabilities, especially the Abu Sayyaf.”

Government forces have depleted the Abu Sayyaf Group ranks by up to 70% since last year, Gapay said. He did not give estimates of the group’s current strength, but military sources place its troop levels at between 300 and 500 fighters.

Gapay made his comments days after a senior Abu Sayyaf commander, Abduljihad “Indang” Susukan – wanted for at least 23 cases of murder and five kidnapping cases, including of Westerners who were executed by their Abu Sayyaf captors – was taken into custody. He voluntarily surrendered to Philippine authorities after being wounded in fighting on Aug. 13.

Susukan was alleged to be a contemporary of Zulkifli bin Hir, the Malaysian militant and bomb-maker also known as Marwan, who was killed by Philippine police commandos during a raid in January 2015. Marwan was a primary suspect in the 2002 Bali bombings.

Susukan also became a lieutenant to Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, an Abu Sayyaf militant who took over the command of the Philippine branch of Islamic State after Isnilon Hapilon was killed at the end of the Marawi siege in October 2017. Sawadjaan’s group was also blamed for twin bomb blasts that killed 23 people at a church in Jolo, the capital of Sulu province, in January 2019.

With the Abu Sayyaf under pressure from security forces and reportedly short of cash, experts predict that an increase in kidnappings is likely. Five Indonesians, including a minor, are currently being held by the group, according to the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, but there have been no new kidnappings since January, according to authorities.

Deka Anwar, a researcher at the Jakarta-based Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC), told a recent online forum that there was a lull in kidnappings in 2016 and 2017 following large-scale operations by the Philippine military against the militants and a series of money transfers from Islamic State to Abu Sayyaf.

But with those funds largely depleted, the Abu Sayyaf is increasingly targeting Indonesian shipping crews because ransom payments have been secured for their release, he said, adding that about 93% of coal exports from Indonesia to the Philippines pass through Mindanao waters. The slow-moving boats allow Abu Sayyaf militants to abduct sailors.

Ali Fauzi, a former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) member and executive director of the Circle of Peace Foundation, has a different take, telling BenarNews that the Abu Sayyaf’s piracy has deep roots.

“Their ancestors in the Sulu Kingdom were notorious for their piracy tradition,” Ali said. “They need money, not only for their struggle but to support poor people. They are considered Robin Hoods. They and their community need each other. If they are pursued by the Philippine authorities, they can blend in with the people and the people will protect them,” he said.

https://aijac.org.au/australia-israel-review/asia-watch-glass-half-full-half-empty/

Hundreds call for justice for Kabacan massacre victims

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 7, 2020): Hundreds call for justice for Kabacan massacre victims (By: Williamor Magbanua)

Moro leaders initiated the peace rally in support of the victims’ families



PEACE RALLY People from Bangsamoro villages join a peace rally along the Davao-Cotabato national highway on Saturday, calling for justice for the nine Moro civilians executed near the university granary in Kabacan, Cotabato. —WILLIAMOR MAGBANUA

Hundreds of people from Bangsamoro villages in Cotabato province gathered on Saturday to denounce the killing of nine Moro civilians in Kabacan town and to ask for the speedy investigation of the case.

The protesters also hung a huge tarpaulin in front of the mosque in Kabacan’s Kayaga village which read, “Justice for Kabacan massacre,” referring to the nine Moro civilians, two of them minors, who were executed along the road near the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) granary in Kabacan town by gunmen wielding high-powered firearms exactly a week ago on Saturday.


Along the opposite sides of the highway, protesters waved placards which read, “Give us justice,” “Huwag idaan sa limot ang hustisya ng Kabacan massacre (Don’t forget to deliver justice to the Kabacan massacre),” “Bangsamoro, Kristiyano at Lumad; mahal namin ang isat-isa. Kami ay nagkakaisa (Bangsamoro, Christians and Lumad: we love each other, we stand as one).”

The peace rally caught the attention of some commuters along the Cotabato-Davao highway, some of them stopped and briefly disembarked to express support for the protesters.

“We are one with the Bangsamoro people in praying for justice for the victims. The culprits should be placed behind bars,” one of the commuters said.

Impartial probe

At least two victims who were minors were able to relay to relatives before they died that the police held and attacked them. Top police officials, however, earlier issued statements they were still investigating the case.

Jabib Guiabar, the designated caretaker for seven Kabacan barangays who opted to join the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), said Moro leaders initiated the peace rally in support of the victims’ families who were crying out for justice.

“We want to air our sentiments. What we want is justice and impartial investigation of the case,” Guiabar said. He said the peace rally had the support of the top officials of the BARMM, who vowed to help the families at all cost to deliver justice for their loved ones.
BIAF still alive

The armed forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), one of the Moro separatist groups that inked a peace agreement with the government, also expressed support for the families of the victims.“The Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) is still alive and ready to defend the rights of the Bangsamoro people,” Abdulraof Macacua, BIAF chief of staff and current member of the Bansamoro Transition Authority (BTA).

Among those who lost a son, a son-in-law and the nephew has been a decommissioned MILF combatant.

HIGHWAY PROTEST Moro residents of Kabacan town line the Davao-Cotabato highway to call for justice for nine slain Moro civilians.—WILLIAMOR MAGBANUA

Earlier, Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, minister of the interior and local governments of the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), said listening to the former combatant’s story broke his heart. The man joined the MILF in the 60s and the 70s to protect his family and community from the infamous massacres that included the Manili massacre north of Kabacan town.

“After the GPH-MILF peace agreement (was signed), he gave up his arms in the hope of finding a peaceful and productive life,” Sinarimbo said. “(But) on August 29, he lost three dear members of his family.”

Health protocol observed

The crowd at the rally swelled towards noontime but organizers made sure that health protocols against COVID-19 were strictly observed.

Guiabar told participants they could not enter the mosque without their face masks and without undergoing thermal scanning and foot bath. Persons also roamed around to remind participants to observe a one-meter distance from each other.

This developed as Kabacan Mayor Herlo Guzman accompanied the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the region to the crime scene on Saturday for the start of the preliminary investigation. Guzman did not give additional details on the NBI visit.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1332049/hundreds-call-for-justice-for-kabacan-massacre-victims

SOLCOM: 2ID Commander Takes Command Of NOLCOM

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 8, 2020): 2ID Commander Takes Command Of NOLCOM

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte designated the Commander of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division as Commander of the AFP’s Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) on Monday.

Major General Arnulfo Marcelo B Burgos Jr was formally installed by the AFP Chief of Staff General Gilbert I Gapay in a military ceremony at Camp Aquino Tarlac. MGen Burgos took over the command of NOLCOM vice LtGen Ramiro Manuel A Rey who is scheduled to retire on Tuesday.

Gen Gapay urged the new Commander of NOLCOM to “continue the AFP’s operational momentum in this critical part of our land by ensuring efficient interoperability between and among the different services which are now under your command.”

He ended his remarks by commending Maj Gen Burgos for the “headways that 2ID, under your leadership, has recorded particularly in pushing the NPA terrorists’ Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee on the verge of collapse” while wishing Lt Gen Rey “all the best as you enjoy the fruits of your almost four decades of dedicated and faithful service to our flag, country and the Filipino people.”

In his retirement speech, LtGen Rey expressed his gratitude to his soldiers and subordinate commanders for the support that they have extended upon him during his incumbency.

He added that “our commitment and dedication to serve our people and secure our territory despite the challenges and odds have made the difference in this part of the country.”

Lt Gen Rey ended his speech by urging his troops “to extend to your new commander the same degree of support that you have extended upon me.”

Maj Gen Burgos reaffirmed during his speech his “commitment to the AFP’s most solemn oath of serving our people and protecting our sovereignty wherever, whenever, whatever or whoever the threat may be.”

He added that “I am bringing with me the learnings and experiences that I accumulated in my more than 36 years of military service as well as the innovations, approaches and best practices from the immediate south of Metro Manila, which has pushed the once mighty Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee on the verge of irrecoverable defeat.”

He ended his speech by expressing his gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte “for his unwavering trust and confidence in my abilities as a military commander” while directing his troops to “deal the NPA terrorists the decisive blows necessary to finish insurgency before the end of the President’s term.”

Aside from territorial defense and counterinsurgency operations, among the priorities of Maj Gen Burgos as Commander of NOLCOM are proactive disaster response, forging domestic and international alliances as well as promoting prosperity and development in the north by ensuring the security of critical infrastructures, private businesses and flagship projects.

Maj Gen Burgos is a member of PMA “Maringal” Class of 1988 and a native of Lipa, Batangas.

Under his command, 2ID has pushed insurgency in Southern Tagalog on the verge of irrecoverable defeat and is just awaiting for the formal declaration of dismantling of the STRPC’s Guerilla Front Cesar which operates in the provinces of Rizal, Laguna, Quezon and Bulacan.

It will be the second NPA front under the STRPC to be dismantled in two years following GF Honda which 202nd Infantry Brigade dismantled in 2019 when Maj Gen Burgos was its Brigade Commander.

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/posts/2668449323415124?__tn__=K-R



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SOLCOM: CTG's Extortion Activities Amid the COVID 19 Pandemic is Brutality

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 8, 2020): CTG's Extortion Activities Amid the COVID 19 Pandemic is Brutality



https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/a.1503968379863230/2668802903379766/?type=3&theater

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SOLCOM: NPA Extortionist Killed in Encounter with Security Forces in Masbate

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 8, 2020): NPA Extortionist Killed  in Encounter with Security Forces in Masbate

NPA EXTORTIONIST KILLED IN ENCOUNTER WITH SECURITY FORCES IN MASBATE

The people of Monreal, Masbate reported a group of NPA terrorists extorting money and supplies in their place to which the PNP and AFP responded.

A brief five minutes exchange of gunshots occured between the escaping NPA terrorists and government forces which leave one terrorist dead in that Sunday morning of September 6 at Brgy Morocjorocan.

The casualty was identified as “Ka Roy”, member of Larangan 1, Komiteng Probinsya 4 of Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC).

One shotgun and undetermined amount of cash were captured from the fleeing CTGs.

Joint Task Force Bicolandia under MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA condemned the continuous extortion activities of the CTG amid the COVID-19 crisis.

“Public knowledge naman ang dobleng hirap na nararanasan natin ngayon dahil sa epekto ng pandemic. Marami ang nawalan ng trabaho at nahihirapang maghanap-buhay dahil sa mga restrictions na ipinatutupad bilang bahagi ng COVID-19 protocols. The continuous extortion activities of this terrorist group is a total neglect of the people’s everyday struggles. Makasariling gawain na hindi dapat tularan. Thus, your Army in Bicol is relentless and persistent in its thrusts to put an end to the CTG’s unlawful activities and acts of terrorism,” MGen. Robinson added.

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/a.1503968379863230/2668810333379023/?type=3&theater

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SOLCOM: Alam N'yo Ba? Isa sa mga Napatay na Teroristang NPA ay Dayo Lang sa Palawan?

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 8, 2020): Alam N'yo Ba? Isa sa mga Napatay na Teroristang NPA ay Dayo Lang sa Palawan?



https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/a.1503968379863230/2669202690006454/?type=3&theater

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SOLCOM: Impormasyon ay Mahalaga Lagan sa Teroristang CPP-NPA!

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 8, 2020): Impormasyon ay Mahalaga Lagan sa Teroristang CPP-NPA!



https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/a.1503968379863230/2669202946673095/?type=3&theater

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EASTMINCOM: Davao de Oro launches new Halfway House, De-Radicalization Program for FRs

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Sep 8, 2020): Davao de Oro launches new Halfway House, De-Radicalization Program for FRs



MACO, Davao de Oro - A new Halfway House for the Former Rebels (FRs) in Davao de Oro was launched by the Provincial Local Government Unit and 1001st Infantry Brigade on September 7, 2020, at Brgy. Mapaang, Maco, Davao De Oro.

Spearheaded by Col. Luis Rex D. Bergante, Commander of the 1001st Infantry Brigade and Mr. Noel C. Duarte, DILG Provincial Director of Davao de Oro, the new facility called "Balai Pag-Asa" will serve as a temporary home for the former rebels while undergoing healing and reconciliation processes.



The event also served as the Opening Ceremony of the 10-day De-Radicalization Program for the 1st batch FRs composed of 13 individuals.

It aims to change the extreme and violent ideologies and doctrines acquired by the rebel returnees and prepare them as they go back to mainstream society.



Mr. Duarte who served as the keynote speaker, praised the former rebels for their courage of going back to the folds of the law and assured them of government assistance to help them become productive citizens.

Meanwhile, Col. Bergante thanked the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro led by Gov. Jayvee Tyron L. Uy for fully supporting the program.

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 1001st Infantry Brigade, Joint Task Force Agila, PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/09/davao-de-oro-launches-new-halfway-house.html

WESTMINCOM: Local terrorist yields, hands over firearm in Sulu

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 8, 2020): Local terrorist yields, hands over firearm in Sulu

Through the efforts of the 6th Special Forces Battalion and the peace-loving people of Sulu, a local terrorist group member yielded to the government forces on September 7, 2020.

Fadzrimar H. Jawali, a.k.a. TONG, 38 years old, and a resident of Barangay Silanggan, Parang, Sulu handed over his M14 rifle with one magazine and 19 rounds of caliber 7.62mm ammunition.

Subject personality was subsequently presented to Brig. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, 1102nd Infantry Brigade Commander at the unit’s headquarters in Camp Bud Datu, Barangay Tagbak, Indanan, Sulu after which he was brought to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Baustista Station Hospital for medical examination.

“Those who wish to surrender are always welcome. We ensure that they will be assisted in their reintegration to the mainstream society,” said Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

Jawali will undergo debriefing and documentation at the 6SFBn headquarters in Barangay Buhanginan, Patikul, Sulu.

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6th Infantry Division - Kampilan601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade602nd Liberator Troopers603 Persuader Brigade1st Mechanized Infantry BrigadeUnang Marinong BrigadaTeam TabakJoint Task Force BasilanHARIBON TEAMMagbalantay Troopers11th Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers"2MBde Red ShieldGagandilan Siete1102 Infantry "ganarul" Brigade1st BCT AegisKwatromarinobrigada SuluJtf Tawi Tawi IndomalphiJoint Task Force ZamboangaJoint Task Force Zamboanga Virtual CenterJoint Task Force SuluUnbeatable Ranger Battalion29th Infantry DivisionTow Westmin CmoTow Westmin PioNaval Forces Western MindanaoCmou Western MindanaoKatapatan Pangkatihan-Dagatan33rd Infantry Makabayan Battalion57th Infantry Masikap Battalion1st Mechanized Lakan Battalion90th Infantry Bigkis Lahi BattalionSeventh Infantry Tapat BattalionReliablecmo R SectionRedskin Cmo37IB - Conqueror Battalion40 Infantry "Magiting" Battalion2nd Mechanized Infantry-MAKASAGBattalionOnlyOurBest MbltFive38th Infantry We Clear BattalionAr-ar Galvez Afman Rosales Jr.La Independencia FilipinasDrei Eldrei Hiloma

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AFP-CRS: Mataas na Lider ng NPA sa Palawan, Patay sa Engkwentro

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 7, 2020): Mataas na Lider ng NPA sa Palawan, Patay sa Engkwentro

Palawan’s Top NPA leaders killed

High-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leaders were killed in an encounter with Marine troops in Sitio Kubuyoan, Brgy Mainit, Brooke’s Point, Palawan Today, Sep 3, 2020 around 5:53am which resulted to five (5) CTGs killed and one (1) Killed-in-Action on the government side.

Bonifacio Magramo @ Boywan, Secretary, Sub-Regional Military Area -4E (SRME-4E); Andrea Rosal @ Naya (Daughter of Ka Roger Rosal), Deputy Secretary, Noel Siasico @ Ka Celnon and two other guerrilla fighters known as Ka Rj (Male) and Ka Pandan/Lemon (Female) were the identified casualties during the eight minutes encounter with our Marine Troops under 3rd Marine Brigade headed Bgen Nestor C Herico PN(M). He said Magramo, Rosal, and Siasico has standing warrant of arrest and were among the Top wanted NPA in Palawan. They were also the masterminds in the harassment to government forces and atrocities to our COVID-19 frontliners which killed a civilian nurse.

READ MORE: https://www.kalinawnews.com/palawans-top-npa-leaders-killed/

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[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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AFP-CRS: To Cristina Palabay of Karapatan: Explain Why an Activist was there in a Violent Incident in Palawan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 7, 2020): To Cristina Palabay of Karapatan: Explain Why an Activist was there in a Violent Incident in Palawan

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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AFP-CRS: NPA's Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee Continues to Crumble

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 7, 2020): NPA's Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee Continues to Crumble

Another 'activist' who had been complaining of being red-tagged ends up dead with the Reds.

In the encounter at Brooke's Point, Rona Jane "Ren" Manalo, a Gabriela official in Mindoro was found dead. Ren Manalo was a member of PAMALAKAYA and infiltrated legal orgs in mindoro such as SAMAKASAMIN or Samahan ng mga Kababaihan sa Mindoro as the Provincial Coordinator, HAGGIBAT and BAYAN Mindoro.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/3620529617965736/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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AFP-CRS: Ex-NPA Supporters in Agusan del Sur now Catalysts for Change: Army

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 7, 2020): Ex-NPA Supporters in Agusan del Sur now Catalysts for Change: Army

MASS SURRENDER. At least 46 members of the communist rebel movement's underground mass organization as well as 200 mass base supporters of the New People’s Army surrender during a ceremony in Barangay Maasin, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur. The military in the province says the insurgency problem is a concern of every sector.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/3620567611295270/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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AFP-CRS: Members of the Communist Terrorist Group Surrendered

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 7, 2020): Members of the Communist Terrorist Group Surrendered

7 NPA’S SURRENDERED. Through Focused Security Operations and Community Support Programs backed by accurate Intelligence Operations have forced them to abandon their hideouts and grab the opportunity to surrender. They were informed that many of their former comrades who surrendered earlier to the 39th Infantry Battalion are now leaving peacefully and comfortably with their families.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/3620573004628064/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

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Kalinaw News: Army’s 91IB assisted the LGU for the distribution of food packs in coastal barangays of Aurora town

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 8, 2020): Army’s 91IB assisted the LGU for the distribution of food packs in coastal barangays of Aurora town

BALER, Aurora-All households in the coastal barangays in the municipality of San Luis, Aurora get family food packs from the Aurora Representative Rommel Rico T. Angara, Lone District Aurora Province and local government unit (LGU) of San Luis, Aurora on 05-06 September 2020.

LTC RUBIO said that they have fast-tracked the distributions to all households assisting the LGU headed by San Luis Mayor Ariel Angara de Jesus, Vice Mayor Tristan Eric Pimentel, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Chief Gabriel Llave, Board Member Philip B. Bautista and Sangguniang Bayan Claro Q. Olivar.

The personnel of Charlie Company of 91st IB led by Sgt. Edgardo Villajuan Jr. together with 4 personnel of Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliaries delta company from Barangay Dibut patrol base under 1st Lieutenant Carlo T. Omayon, Charlie Company Commander provided the 2-day security assistance and manpower in the distribution of 1,639 food packs along coastal barangays of San Luis town.

296 food packs (families) have been distributed in Barangay Dibut; 296 in Sitio Diotorin, barangay Dibayabay; 365 in Barangay proper Dibayabay; 532 in Barangay Dikapinisan; 446 in Sitio Alasanay, barangay Dimanayat and Barangay proper and hazard pay to all front liners at coastal barangays of the said places.

“Our government troops secured the barangays and gave them family packs house-to-house. The residents have been advised to stay in their respective houses and wait for the distribution team to maintain social distancing and prohibit people from gathering,” LTC RUBIO said, explaining that the 91st IB will continue their active participation in endeavors like this in the service of the Filipino people especially during these times of crisis.

[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/armys-91ib-assisted-the-lgu-for-the-distribution-of-food-packs-in-coastal-barangays-of-aurora-town/

Kalinaw News: DA-ATI, Army conduct livelihood training at Gabay Farm School

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 8, 2020): DA-ATI, Army conduct livelihood training at Gabay Farm School

MAGPET, COTABATO – Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)- Regional Training Center XII under Department of Agriculture (DA)-Magpet in collaboration with Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) and partnership with 72 Infantry Battalion initiated a 3-Day Training on Backyard Organic Free-Range Chicken to 20 selected farmers of Magpet, Cotabato that commenced earlier this day, September 08, 2020 at the newly opened Integrated Farm School of 72IB located at Barangay Pangao-an, Municipality of Magpet.

The said seminar will be a series of lectures, discussions and practical demonstration on poultry industry in the country, benefits of organic farming and production management of Free-Range Chicken.
The opening program was attended by Ms. Donabelle Cabaya, Farm Manager/LSA Cooperator; Ms. Shirley L Beldia, OA Focal Person ATI RTC XII; Mr. Billy Maratas, representative MARO-Magpet; personnel of DA-ATI and Staff of 72IB.

“Some of our trainings were delayed due to Covid-19 Pandemic but that will not hinder us from going to your places and give knowledge on livelihood agriculture and trainings. We are here for 3 days and we hope that you will learn something from us that you can share it in your neigborhood. We will be releasing starter kit on the last day, 10 free range chicken each participant to be specific.” Ms. Shirley L Beldia said in her message.

Moreover, the activity will be the first training to be conducted at Gabay-Bayawanon Integrated Farm School operated by 72IB. Said training will also be facilitated by the troops of 72IB and the supervisory group of DA-ATI.



[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/da-ati-army-conduct-livelihood-training-at-gabay-farm-school/

Kalinaw News: AFP-PNP rescued five (5) Former Rebels back into the folds of law in Isabela

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 8, 2020): AFP-PNP rescued five (5) Former Rebels back into the folds of law in Isabela

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela – Five (5) regular members of the Communist-NPA-Terrorist (CNT) in San Mariano, Isabela were rescued by the joint forces of 95IB, 5th Infantry (Star) Division, Philippine Army; Police Regional Mobile Force Battalion 2 (PRMFB2); and Isabela Police Provincial Office (IPPO) on September 06, 2020.

The rescued CNT personalities were identified as Ka Renato, Ka Jaime, Ka Kanoy, Ka Butoc and Ka Didag- all former members of Sub Guerilla Unit of Central Front Committee, Komiteng Rehiyong-Cagayan Valley (SGU, CFC, KR-CV). Among these five (5) Former Rebels (FRs), three (3) belong to the Indigenous People (IP) Agta Tribe of Isabela who were recruited in Sierra Madre Mountain Range.

According to these FRs, they decided to surrender due to the difficulties and hardships they experienced inside the NPA.

LtCol Gladiuz C Calilan, Battalion Commander of 95th Infantry (Salaknib) Battalion, 5ID, PA said that the five (5) FRs will be included in the “Salaknib Former Rebels Integrated Farmers’ Association (SFRIFA)” in Headquarters, 5ID, PA, Camp Melcher F Dela Cruz, Upi, Gamu Isabela.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Laurence E Mina, PA Commander of 5ID commended the troops in their continuous effort to enlighten the people of the lies and deceit of the CPP-NPA.

“It is never too late to start a new life and change for the better. I will never get tired of convincing the remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law. They should decide now, before it is too late,” BGen Mina 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/afp-pnp-rescued-five-5-former-rebels-back-into-the-folds-of-law-in-isabela/

CPP-NPA leader, cohorts face raps for IHL violations in Bukidnon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 8, 2020): CPP-NPA leader, cohorts face raps for IHL violations in Bukidnon (By 4th Infantry Division)

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, Sept. 6 – An NPA leader and 17 others operating in region 10 face raps for various atrocities against innocent civilians and destruction of properties.

Through Bukidnon's Provincial State Prosecutor Rommel Alonto, the group sued the local NPA cadres for violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) or R.A. 9851 also known as Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and other Crimes Against Humanity.

The private complainants filed cases against Dionisio Micabalo alias Muling, Secretary of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) at the Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Cagayan de Oro on Wednesday morning, Sept. 2.

Micabalo and 17 others are charged with burning a sugarcane plantation owned by Jonathan Salas in Brgy New Eden, Pangantucan, Bukidnon for failing to give in to the NPA’s extortion demands.

“Accused, conspired, confederated mutually by helping one another unlawfully and deliberately burned down the sugarcane plantation in Sitio Mapait, New Eden, Pangantucan, Bukidnon," part of the complaint read.

403rd Brigade Commander Col Ferdinand T Barandon shares they are assisting the legal process through identifying suspects and assist in the build-up of the case. (VPSB/PIA10)

The attack happened on December 12, 2015 around 7:15 a.m.

Alonto said that during armed conflict between the government and Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), civilians who are not part of the conflict and their properties are protected by the IHL and shall not be destroyed. Destruction of such constitutes a violation of IHL and R.A 9851.
Under RA 9851, the law prohibits killing or “attacks against the civilian population or individual civilians not taking direct part in hostilities.” It is also stated that it is unlawful to attack civilian properties which are undefended and which are not military objectives.

Col. Ferdinand T. Barandon, 403rd Infantry Brigade Commander, who assisted the complainants said, “We are here to facilitate in identifying the suspects with the aid of witnesses and to assist in the case build-up in coordination with the PNP to ensure that justice will be served."

Meanwhile, Major General Andres C Centino, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, said that the filing of IHL cases against Micabalo and his cohorts is a step closer to bringing the perpetrators to the bar of justice for their inhumane acts against innocent victims. “We will not stop until justice is served against these NPA bandits," he said.

Micabalo’s co-accused were fellow NPAs: Lorna Micabalo, Juvilito Pontillas, Almer Calacar, Alias Ka Yaya, Vicente Pontillas Jr., Vicente Pontillas Sr., Warwen del Rosario, Virgilio Canoy, Reynaldo Libres, Bernie Hentapa, Richard Libres, Dahulo Ortez, Lorena Micabalo, Rosalie Omandam, Jonald Saludar, Emie Santa Ana Y Menenter and Alias Arabu.

The suspects, if found guilty, may suffer 20 years imprisonment and a fine ranging from P100,000 to P500,000. (4ID/PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052335

Cebuano News: Tabang panginabuhi-an gitunol sa 44 kanhi rebelde sa Bohol

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 8, 2020): Cebuano News: Tabang panginabuhi-an gitunol sa 44 kanhi rebelde sa Bohol (By Rey Anthony H. Chiu)



CORTES, Bohol, Sept. 7 (PIA) –- Kahamugaway sa kinabuhing malinawon, layo na sa tun-og ug lubat-lubat nga maapsan sa mga patrolya, ug karon may libre nga panginabuhi-an pa ang nadawat sa 44 ka mga kanhi nga rebelde nga karon nakahunahuna na sa kawalay hinungdan sa ilang kinabuhi nga gigamit lamang sa uban.

Niining bag-o lamang, ang kagamhanan nga ilang tumong nga lumpagon, mao pay minghatag pinaagi sa Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), 47th Infantry Battalion sa Philippine Army ug Kagamhanang Probinsyal sa Bohol ang mitugyan niadtong Biyernes, sa tagsa-tagsa ka livelihood starter kits nga tag P10,000 didto sa Ceremonial Hall sa Kapitolyo.

NAGKADAGHAN NA NGA NAKASABUT. Human sa gipalapdan nga kampanya sa kagamhanan sa pagpaundang na sa armadong pakigbisug sa termino ni Presidente Duterte, nagkadaghan na ang mga Bol-anon nga nanabok balik sa dalan sa kalinaw. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

Ang kinatibuk-an nga P440, 000 nga Negosyo Kits mga nagkadaiya nga starter kit alang sa mini grocery, pangbugasan, panghayupan sama sa pangkandingan, baboyan, bakahan ug manokan, may mga pagkaon sa mga hayopan ug bitamina, pang-itlogan, capital alang sa bahalinahan, pangbakery, pang agrivet ug pangumahan, segun pa ni IlT Elma Grace Remonde-Arbulencia, information officer ug Civil Military Operations Officer sa 47IB.

Kini gitunol nila ni DTI Provincial Director Maria Soledad L Balistoy uban ni DTI Assistant Secretary Asteria Caberte, Gobernador Arthur Yap, Vice Governor Rene Relampagos, Kongresista Edgar Chatto, representante ni Kongresista Aris Aumentado ug Army Major Mozart Jaque, ang Battalion Executive Officer sa 47IB.

Una na nga naghimo og assessment ang DTI ugang mga rebelde nga karon mipili na sa kinabuhi nga layo sa kakuyaw ug kagubot.

Ang hinabang sa kagamhanan kabahin sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) aron abagan ang mga kanhi rebelde nga karon kauban na sa kaugmaran, sa ilang pagtipo og balik sa katilingban nga linaw nga nanginabuhi.

Ang 44 ka mga kanhi rebelde, dinhi naglibotlibot sa Bohol ug boluntaryo na nga mitahan sa ilang kaugalingon ug gitabangan sa ECLIP.

Sa laing bahin, ang pagpanghatag sa tabang kapanginabuhi-an ngadto sa mga kanhi rebelde, kabahin sa “Pangkabuhayan sa pag Bangon at Ginhawa” nga programa sa DTI.

Kining programa, nagtumong sa pag-pataas sa kahimtang sa mga namuhunan ilabi na niadtong may gagmay lamang nga puhunan, segun usab sa rekomendasyon sa Provincial Task Force ELCAC.

Segun pa sa usa sa mga kanhi rebelde nga mingdawat, “ang tabang nga among nadawat karon, bisan pag unsa ka gamay alang sa uban, daku na kayo alang kanamo."

Matud ni alias Ka Berting, "niini, makasugod na kami og panginabuhi-an uban sa among pamilya nga among nabiyaan niadtong nahungog pa kami sa bakak nga saad."

“Nagmapasalamaton kami sa daku nga hinabang nga gihatag sa kagamhanan ug kami nana-ad nga among paningkamotan nga mogaya kini nga negosyo aron dili ma-usik ang tabang gikan sa kagamhanan,” dugang niya.

Agi og dugang saad, gipanumpa ni Ka Berting nga manginlabut na siya ug manguna sa kampanya batok sa insurhensya.

Sa laing bahin, si Jaque, Battalion Executive Officer sa 47IB, mipadayag sa ilang gaimbuhaton sa pagtagad sa aghat ni Presidente Rodrigo Duterte nga taposon na ang local nga armadong pagpakigbisug dinhi sa Bohol.

"Ang tabang panginabuhi-an nga inyong nadawat karon gikan sa sinsero nga tinabangay sa mga ahensya sa kagamhanan aron makasugod kamo sa pagpuyo nga malinawon ug magsugod sa bag-ong kinabuhi uban sa inyong mga banay," matud sa opisyal.

"Sa atong paghiusa, ato nga ikapatunhay ang kahapsay ug kalinaw dinhi sa lalawigan sa Bohol," panapos ni Maj Jaque. (rahc/PIABohol uban ni 1Lt. Grace Arbulencia)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1052406