Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 10/07/20

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Nolcom chief, 29 other AFP officers get CA approval

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 7, 2020): Nolcom chief, 29 other AFP officers get CA approval (By: Christia Marie Ramos)

Thirty senior officers on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) face the Commission on Appointments (CA) at the Senate on Wednesday, October 7, 2020. Screengrab from CA Youtube livestream

The Commission on Appointments (CA) on Wednesday confirmed the ad interim appointments and nominations of 30 senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

During its plenary session, the CA confirmed the nomination of Lt. Gen. Arnulfo Burgos, head of the Northern Luzon command.

Burgos previously served as commander of the Army’s civil-military operations group, assistant chief of staff of the Army’s civil-military operations and as AFP spokesperson.

The nomination of Brig. Gen. Pedro Francisco III, deputy commander of the Philippine Air Force’s air defense command, was also approved by the commission.

The CA, likewise, confirmed the ad interim appointments of Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson, head of the Camarines Sur-based 9th Infantry Division, Brig. Gen. Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander, and Brig. Gen. Noe Alberto Peñafel, commander 903rd Infantry Brigade.

The following ad interim appointments were also approved by the CA:

Louie Villanueva to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Darren Comia to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Jose Jesus Luntok to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Proceso Rebancos to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Bernardo Tagueban to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Edgar Catu to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Benjamin Leander to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Felimon Dumoran to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Jessie Trinidad to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Arnold Corpuz to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Manolo Santiago to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Antonio Rafael Abundabar to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Ulysses Mancao to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Ma. Consuelo Castillo to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Air Force
Dennis Alcarde to the rank of Colonel Philippine Airforce
Jeff Rene Nadugo to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Dwight Steven Dulnoan to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Virgilio de Guzman to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Salvador Sambalilo to the rank of Captain, Philippine Navy
Rommel Pagayon to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Maynard Camarao to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Haron Akaz to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Emil Rex Santos to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Leopoldo Babante to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army
Vener Morga to the rank of Colonel, Philippine Army

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1344560/nolcom-chief-29-other-afp-officers-get-ca-approval

Understanding the Plague of Violence and Impunity on Negros Island

Posted to The Diplomat (Oct 6, 2020): Understanding the Plague of Violence and Impunity on Negros Island (By Luke Lischin)

There persists on Negros a climate of violence and impunity supported by, but beyond the control of, the Duterte administration.

Protesters march towards a town square during a rally calling for justice for the victims of alleged extra-judicial killings of local villagers, leaders and other human rights activists in Negros province and other townships in the central Philippines and other parts of the country Tuesday, August 20, 2019, in Manila, Philippines.Credit: AP Photo/Bullit Marquez

As the number deaths from COVID-19 rises in the Philippines, homicide victims on the island of Negros are also piling up in numbers that have yet to be fully accounted for. Most victims were shot to death by unknown gunmen in or near their homes, but others were found stabbed, bound, and with their throats slit. Although 2020 has not witnessed massacres similar to those targeting farmers in 2019, there persists on Negros a climate of violence and impunity supported by, but beyond the control of, the Duterte administration. International observers rightly lay the blame for extrajudicial killings in the Philippines at the feet of President Rodrigo Duterte, but the killings in Negros are symptomatic of an administration incapable of containing the violence it cultivates.

The Duterte administration is notorious for denouncing political opponents and critics as communist terrorists, while security forces including paramilitaries are able to take advantage of de facto impunity in Negros by coercing, detaining, or killing the accused. This practice, known as red-tagging, recently led to the high-profile murder of human rights activist Zara Alvarez on August 17 in, Barangay Mandalagan, Bacolod City. Alvarez was a paralegal and research/advocacy officer for the Negros-based offices of human rights organization Karapatan. She was branded as a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines and New People’s Army, becoming one of 600 people listed in 2018 as communist terrorists by the Duterte administration. After her murder, Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade maintained that Alvarez was a rebel, stating “You claim that Zara Alvarez is an activist? She is NOT.”

Whereas the murder of Alvarez was a high-profile case that provoked national and international responses, it was by no means exceptional; the numerous, often serial targeted killings of ordinary Negrenese is a fact of life on the island. From May 5-13, seven people were killed in shooting incidents, while another 10 were killed in separate incidents from June 12-17. These and other cases are different from the murders carried out by armed robbers, the buy-bust operations of Duterte’s War on Drugs, and the cyclical violence of counterinsurgency efforts against the New People’s Army. These murders, by contrast, offer few clues as to the identity and motivations of the killers. In some cases, particularly those wherein the victims were activists, journalists, and farmers, security forces including paramilitary groups are accused by human rights groups of perpetrating the killings. Authorities almost always deny these claims, as in they have most recently in the case of a Negrenese farmer whose body was discovered in a ravine.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) faces widespread accusations of corruption, a fact often acknowledged by President Duterte, and the potential involvement of security forces in incidents of political violence looms large over many unsolved murders. As elsewhere in the country, electoral violence is a persistent feature of local politics in Negros, and frequently targets municipal or barangay officials. Among those murdered in Negros in recent months was a former vice mayor in Pamplona, the back to back slaying of a village chief and councilman in Dumaguete city, and a councilman shot to death in Nagbinlod. This summer, tensions surrounding Governor Roel Degamo’s controversial bid for a fourth term in office resulted in the interlinked murders of a radio journalist and a security contractor, which in turn called the integrity of local government and police into question.

On May 5, 2020, Dumaguete City radio broadcaster Cornelio Pepino, popularly known as Rex Cornelio, was murdered by unknown gunmen. Pepino was a long-time critic of Degamo, and had been unsuccessfully sued by the governor for libel in 2014. One week after Pepino’s murder, Rodel Barillo, an owner of a regional security agency was killed in Guihulngan City just hours before police could serve a warrant for his arrest. The gun used to kill Pepino was found in Barillo’s home, and the car Barillo allegedly used to tail Pepino was a government vehicle registered to the Negros Oriental Provincial Assessor’s Office, leading authorities to suspect that his death was a part of a conspiracy. The houses of the governor and one of his police aides were searched by investigators for any potential linkages to the Pepino and Barillo killings, but nothing was found.

As these investigations were being carried out, Degamo claimed that three men apprehended in Caticlan port on June 29 were hired killers on a mission to assassinate him. Degamo believes that the assassination attempt was plotted by his political opposition, who seek to prevent him from running for a fourth term in office. While COVID-related needs were cited for the decision, the subsequent decision of the PNP to recall the police escorts of politicians in Negros Oriental was almost certainly a bid by the police to curtail further violence by removing personnel who may have been involved in any potential conspiracies.

The recall of police escorts from Negros Oriental was also an indicator that violence in the province and the rest of the island is beyond the power of the national government to control. Indeed, regional law enforcement also suffers from severe structural weaknesses that impede investigation into anonymous killings. The continuous reshuffling of police personnel frustrates investigations into homicide cases, and case files are frequently taken by departing officers, leaving local precincts without copies. Moreover, the Central Visayas police chiefs average around one year in their position, leaving the Central Visayas region without consistent police leadership. Most recently, Central Visayas police chief Brig. Gen. Valeriano de Leon was sacked after four months on the job due to a failure to perform in February 2020. Similarly, Valeriano de Leon’s replacement, Brig. Gen. Albert Ignatius Ferro is expected to be reassigned to Southern Luzon. Due to these institutional shortcomings, a backlog of hundreds of unsolved murder and homicide cases in Negros Oriental from 2016-2020 remains to be resolved.

With the goal of lending interagency support to investigations into alleged extra-judicial killings, the Department of Justice and the Commission on Human Rights signed a data-sharing agreement on September 2. The agreement will be difficult to implement, however, due to the noted unwillingness of the PNP to share information on killings in Negros with other agencies including those aforementioned. Moreover, the protections from scrutiny enjoyed by state security forces under the newly passed Anti-Terrorism Act and the political support of the Duterte administration for state security forces will severely curtail the ability of the interagency to influence the PNP or the military. Even investigations conducted independently of the PNP will have difficulty overcoming the climate of fear gripping the people of Negros, which silences potential witnesses to killings for fear of reprisal. Under these prevailing conditions and despite the best efforts of advocates and reformers within and outside of government, the killings that plague Negros are unlikely to abate in the years to come.

[Luke Lischin is an assistant research fellow at the National War College.]

https://thediplomat.com/2020/10/understanding-the-plague-of-violence-and-impunity-in-negros/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Rice farmers demand subsidy

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): Rice farmers demand subsidy

The Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) demanded the Duterte regime to subsidize palay farmers to save them from bankruptcy amid falling farmgate prices of palay. According to KMP, the regime may use the ₱10.727 billion in rice import taxes that it was able to collect to aid approximately 72,800 peasant families. This October, the farmgate price of palay fell to ₱10-14 per kg.

Meanwhile on October 1, peasant groups launched a campaign to promote agroecology, a farming approach which centers on food production that makes use of nature while not destroying resources. The campaign is spearheaded by Pesticide Action Network Asia Pacific in coordination with the Unyon ng Manggagawa sa Agrikultura, SAKA and MASIPAG.

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

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/07/rice-farmers-demand-subsidy/

CPP/Ang Bayan: US bill to block military funding

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): US bill to block military funding

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The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) welcomed the Philippine Human Rights Act introduced by US Congress Rep. Susan Wild on September 17. The bill aims to block US funding for the Philippine military and police over widespread reports of human rights violations.

Wild described the Duterte regime as “brutal” which she said has intensified attacks against trade unionists, workers and its rivals. The bill was co-sponsored by 24 other lawmakers.

The Philippines recieved the highest US military aid in East and Southeast Asia over the past 4 years. The Duterte regime has received a total of $554 million in military aid from the US since 2016.

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/07/us-bill-to-block-military-funding/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Groups commemorate 48th year of martial law

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): Groups commemorate 48th year of martial law

Various organizations mounted activities last September 21 to commemorate the 48th anniversary of the declaration of martial law by the Marcos dictatorship in 1972. More than 2,000 protested at the University of the Philippines-Diliman in Quezon City with the theme “Fight tyranny! Oust Duterte!” They said that the dire situation at present is not different from the situation under the Marcos dictatorship.

Similar protests were mounted in Naga City, Legazpi City and Sorsogon City. In Iloilo City, Mayor Jerry Treñas, who was arrested during martial law, participated in the program. He said that more activists are needed today to defend democracy and human rights.

Mobilizations were also conducted in Baguio City, Angeles City, Davao City, Cebu City, Capiz, Kabankalan, and in communities in Kalibo and New Washington, Aklan.

In the US, Bayan-USA conducted and the Malaya Movement conducted a candle lighting ceremony in front of the US Capitol, Washington DC, for all the victims of the Marcos dictatorship and the fascist Duterte regime.

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/07/groups-commemorate-48th-year-of-martial-law/

CPP/Ang Bayan: AFP bombing ravages forest

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): AFP bombing ravages forest

Over the past two years, the Duterte regime has incessantly utilized its attack planes and helicopters from the US to bomb civilian communities. Aside from terrorizing residents, these attacks also cause massive destruction of forests.

This October, the New People’s Army-Surigao del Sur posted several images showing the damage caused to forests by indiscriminate bombings perpetrated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Earlier, various NPA units in the province reported four bombings perpetrated by the Eastern Mindanao Command in May and July. Using FA-50 fighter jets, AgustaWestland and MG-520 helicopters, artilleries and drones, the military bombed barangays Libas Sud and Siagao in San Miguel on Mayo 14 and 18; Diatagon in Lianga on July 7; and Anahaw Daan in Tago on July 14.

The 401st, 402nd at 901st IBde currently occupy villages in Cortez, Lanuza, Carmen, Cantilan, San Miguel, Tago and Lianga.

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/07/afp-bombing-ravages-forest/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Heroism of the toiling masses: Tatay Yulo’s secret

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): Heroism of the toiling masses: Tatay Yulo’s secret

This article is part of Ang Bayan’s series recognizing the daily heroism of the toiling masses in advancing the national democratic revolution. Ang Bayan enjoins all units of the Party, people’s army and revo

lutionary mass organizations to submit stories depicting the resilience, courage and militance of the toiling masses in the face of the reactionary state’s heightened attacks to suppress the raging people’s war.

Walking downstream through a river, Tatay Yulo noticed something submerged in water and sand. At first, he thought that it was a piece of rubber boot. He picked up the object and was surprised to see that it was an M16 rifle complete with ammunition. He placed the firearm inside a sack and waited until evening before returning home. The barrio where he resides is one of the areas in Mindanao where the New People’s Army (NPA) operates.

Several months before finding the rifle, an encounter between the people’s army and military took place place near the river. After the encounter, soldiers besieged and occupied Tatay Yulo’s community under the guise of “delivering services to conflict-affected areas.” Tatay Yulo, however, was aware that the program ultimately aims to deceive people and force them to surrender. He witnessed how other villagefolk were lured into signing attendance sheets during military assemblies which were later used to claim that they surrendered.

In other barrios and cities, soldiers boast of stories about growing number of “surrenderees.” Over the past weeks, the Eastern Mindanao Command touted that more than 200 “surrendered,” yielded their firearms and pledged to live peaceful lives. Tatay Yulo was aware that this was merely a manipulative scheme of the military and the Duterte government.

He somehow felt apprehensive that his secret might be uncovered by soldiers anytime. He was aware that people found to be in possession of firearms often end up in serious trouble. He knew that he could be arrested, tortured or killed by soldiers.

However, his conviction to serve the revolution remained firm. He proved that his principles can never be suppresed by fascists.

After a few months, a unit of Red fighters stopped by his house and requested to stay there temporarily. He has long waited for this opportunity. After welcoming the Red fighters with handshake, Tatay excitedly handed over the sack which he hid beneath his house to the NPA commander.

“I am not sure if this belongs to you or to the enemy. But since this is a weapon, this should be given to comrades,” said Ka Yulo while handing over the rifle.

Little did Tatay Yulo know that the M16 rifle was formerly issued to Ka Mando, a Red fighter who was martyred during the encounter in the area, three months ago. Comrades were able to retrieve the body of Ka Mando and thought that his firearm has already been seized by the enemies.

The rifle is now issued to another Red fighter who carries on in waging the indefatigable armed revolution.

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/07/heroism-of-the-toiling-masses-tatay-yulos-secret/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Duterte’s butchers are on rampage

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): Duterte’s butchers are on rampage

Four barangay officials and a resident were killed by state forces in Bicol in just a week. A farmer in Negros and two Lumads in Sultan Kudarat also experienced intense brutality in the hands of the military. All of the victims were tagged as memebers of the New People’s Army (NPA).

In Masbate, three civilians were abducted in separate places by the 2nd IB and the 1st Masbate Police Mobile Force Company on September 26 and brought to Barangay Alas, Mandaon where they were summarily killed two days later at around 5:30 a.m..

The victims were identified as businessman Jerry Regala of Barangay Dalipe, Cawayan who was abducted while delivering rice supplies; and village councilors Judy Barruga and Joey Asne who were abucted at their homes in Barangay Cajonday, Baleno. Rifles and explosives were planted in their possession to make it appear that they were killed in an encounter. This is the fifth massacre perpetrated by state forces in Masbate under Duterte.

A few hours after the incident, the police illegally arrested a motorist Ronald Azucena at a checkpoint in Barangay Dayao in the same town. He was planted with a firearm and was brought to and detained at the Mandaon police station.

In Guinobatan, Albay, the 49th IB murdered Barangay Batbat captain Luzviminda Dayandante and treasurer Albert Orbina in an ambush in Barangay Sinungtan on September 21. Prior to the killing, the two actively exposed the abuses perpetrated by the said unit in their barrio. More than 30 villages are currently occupied by the 49th IB in the province.

On September 25, the 49th IB indiscriminately fired their weapons near a school in Barangay Oma-oma, Ligao City to make it appear that they encountered an NPA unit in the area. Because of this, teachers who were preparing for the opening of classes were forced to evacuate.

In Negros Occidental, soldiers of the 94th IB beheaded farmer Bernardo Guillen, 50, in Barangay Tan-awan, Kabankalan City on September 17. Before he was killed, the soldiers encountered an NPA unit near his farm. He immediately evacuated with his family but decided to return to salvage belongings which they left. He went missing for three days until his decomposing and decapitated body was found near the site of encounter..

In Sultan Kudarat, the 37th IB killed two Lumad residents of Sitio Loboc, Barangay Sta. Clara, Kalamansig in the evening of September 4. The victims were catching frogs when they were gunned down.

Earlier on September 2, soldiers also mauled motorists Renato Angulin, Jun-jun Mandong and Cris Macagarsi at Sitio Lower Nursery in the same barangay.

Fake surrender. In Negros Occidental, the 79th IB forced 63 residents of Barangay Sta. Rosa, Murcia to “surrender” last September 21. Officials of the said unit are believed to have pocketed at least P4 million. On the other hand, “surrenderees” were only given 5 kilos of rice each.

In the Mindoro island, hundreds of Buhid minorities, including minors, were also coerced to surrender by the 203rd Brigade in the towns of Bongabong, San Jose, Mansalay at Rizal. Residents were lured by soldiers to go their camp to receive relief goods. During the relief distribution, residents were interrogated and forced to surrender.

Disregarding health protocols against Covid-19, the 50th IB forced residents of three barangays in Pinukpuk, Kalinga to participate in rallies on September 22-24. Villages in Balbalan, Lubuagan, Pasil and Tabuk are currently occupied by the military. Deception, harassment and forced surrenders are prevalent in these areas.

Illegal arrest. Police and soldiers held and arrested four civilians at a checkpoint in Barangay Alingasaw, Moises Padilla, Negros Oriental on October 2. They were with firearms and explosives to justify the arrest. The victims were identified as human rights defender Wilmar Pognasi, Leoltren Trinidad, and two habal-habal drivers.

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/07/dutertes-butchers-are-on-rampage/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Justice served for Lianga massacre

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): Justice served for Lianga massacre

Hawudon Jumar Bucales and two other elements of the Magahat-Bagani paramilitary force were killed in a firefight with the New People’s Army-Surigao del Sur last October 4. Red fighters ambushed Bucales at Sitio Mamsapranon, Barangay Banahao in Lianga, Surigao del Sur. Bucales masterminded the massacre of ALCADEV executive director Emerito Samarca and Lumad leaders Datu Bello Sinzo and Dionel Campos on September 1, 2015.

Justice, which Lumads of Lianga have been denied of for over five years, has finally been served. After the massacre in 2015, the Armed Forces of the Philippines rewarded Bucales with cash, livelihood and power. They had him appointed as the mandatory representative of Lumads and as member of the the provincial tribal council. His paramilitary group is funded and directly operated by the 3rd IB. The group was involved in the combat operations and fake surrender campaign in Lianga over the past months.

A cadreman was also killed in an NPA ambush against a CAFGU detachment in Barangay Pakwan, Lanuza on October 3. A .45 caliber pistol was seized from him.

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA ambushes Consunji’s military security guards

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): NPA ambushes Consunji’s military security guards

The New People’s Army (NPA) mounted successive attacks against soldiers securing the plunderous mining and logging operations of big bourgeois compradors in Mindanao over the past few months. Forty soldiers were killed and at least 34 were wounded during the attacks in Sultan Kudarat and Surigao del Sur.

On September 2, the NPA-Far South Mindanao Region ambushed 37th IB troops aboard a military truck in Barangay Sta. Clara, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat. Twenty-four soldiers were killed and 28 others were wounded. The troops were on their way to reinforce security forces of the ABU-Gemma Construction Company in Barangay Datu Andong in the same town

A few hours earlier, the NPA paralyzed a backhoe of the said company. The construction firm is undertaking road widening projects in the area to pave way for the largescale logging operations of D.M. Consunji Incorporated in the first district of Sultan Kudarat. On August 17, Red fighters ambushed a unit of the 37th IB in the same barangay. Three soldiers were killed and another was wounded.

In Surigao del Sur, the people’s army launched successive armed actions against operating troopers of the 3rd SFB, 36th IB, 65th IB and 75th IB serving as security forces of plundererous mining operations in the province. Killed during the attacks were 2nd Lt. Danus and 12 other soldiers. Five soldiers were wounded.

The NPA also blasted operating soldiers in Barangay Hinapuyan, Carmen on July 30. Earlier, the NPA also mounted three harassment operations in barangays Libas Sud and Siagao, San Miguel from May 14 to 18.

The NPA launched another ambush and three harassment operations against joint troopers of the 36th IB, 75th IB and 65th IB from August 4 to 8.

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/07/npa-ambushes-consunjis-military-security-guards/

CPP/NDF-Negros Island: AFP illegally arrests human rights defender and 3 others in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 7, 2020): AFP illegally arrests human rights defender and 3 others in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental

BAYANI OBRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-NEGROS ISLAND

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 07, 2020

On October 2, elements of the 62nd Infantry Batallion and Civilian Auxiliary Force and Geographical Unit (CAFGU) apprehended Wilmar Pongasi, Jovanie Bohol, Leoltran Trinidad, Juannie Obedas in Brgy. Montilla, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

Wilmar Pongasi is one of the convenor of Kabataan Para sa Karapatan – Negros (KPK-Negros). KPK is a network of young human rights defenders. He was accompanied by Jovanie Bohol, local peasant organizer who hails from Cebu and two habal-habal drivers. The four were on their way to conduct research onground following the series of human rights violations in Central Negros when they were held at a checkpoint.

In true AFP/PNP fashion, they planted firearms and explosives on the four farmers which they illegally arrested. The four are currently detained in Moises Padilla police jail.

According to Ka JB Regalado, spokesperson of Leonardo Panaligan Command, the the fascist troops of the Duterte regime have been stepping up its suppression campaign against the people as it continues to attack peasants and human rights defenders.

He added that 3 farmers from Brgy. Mabunga, Guihulngan City were tortured by elements of the 94th IBPA. Last September 17, farmer Ernie Jacolbe was fired upon by operating troops of the 62nd IBPA. Another farmer, Gilbert Reyes was also apprehended and beaten up at the same day.

Ka Bayani Obrero, spokesperson of National Democratic Front – Negros, demands for the tyrant Duterte and his armed cohorts to stop targeting and attacking civilians.

https://cpp.ph/statements/afp-illegally-arrests-human-rights-defender-and-3-others-in-moises-padilla-negros-occidental/

4 suspected NPA rebels fall in Negros

From Panay News (Oct 7, 2020): 4 suspected NPA rebels fall in Negros (BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL BAÑAGA)

BACOLOD City – A team of police and Army personnel nabbed four alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) at a checkpoint in Barangay Montilla, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

Army Major Cenon Pancito, spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, identified the suspects as 25-year-old Jovanie Bohol; 24-year-old Wilmar Pongasi; 31-year-old Juannie Obidas; and 31-year-old Lioltren Trinidad.

According to Pancito, troops of the 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) and police force of the Moises Padilla installed checkpoints on the evening of Oct. 2 after receiving information from locals about four suspicious individuals on board two motorcycles.

Shortly after 8 p.m., the four suspects passed through the checkpoint and while being questioned, one of the alleged insurgents yielded a gun, prompting the army and police personnel to make the arrest.

The four were believed to be members of the NPA’s Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor.

Cops were able to recover a .45-caliber pistol from Bohol while Pongasi yielded a loaded M203 grenade launcher.

Law enforcement also confiscated a transistor radio, a pair of rain boots, an NPA flag, a printer, and subversive documents.

Among the documents also include a marriage certificate owned by Nona Espinosa and Adidas Acero, who were arrested last month in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Major General Eric Vinoya, 3rd Infantry Division commander, also questioned Pongasi as it indicates the direct participation of legal organizations in NPA’s activities in the town.

Pongasi is said to also be a member of the Farmers Development Center (FARDEC) based in Cebu. He was believed to be a legal front of the insurgents.

“The arrest of Wilmar Pongasi, a staff of FARDEC, only reveals his affiliation with the Communist Terrorist Group. This is a clear manifestation of the deceptive nature of the communist rebels as they use legal organizations and terrorism against our communities to fuel their ill-motivated intent of raising funds to fill the pockets of their greedy leaders,” Vinoya added.

http://www.panaynews.net/4-suspected-npa-rebels-fall-in-negros/

Kalinaw News: NPA war materials recovered in Aurora town

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 7, 2020): NPA war materials recovered in Aurora town

BALER, Aurora-Various war materials allegedly belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) have been dug up at an abandoned place for safekeeping and future purposes of communist terrorist groups in the vicinity of Barangay Umiray, Dingalan, Aurora on Tuesday (September 6, 2020).

The 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion of the Philippine Army seized several items including two (2) anti-personnel landmines, two (2) anti-tank landmines, detonating cord, and three (3) pieces of triple A battery at the unoccupied place located at Sitio Pilipit in the said village at around 4:00p.m.

LTC REANDREW P RUBIO INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 91st IB said that the government troops, after receiving a report from an informants in the area, conducted security operations, which led to the discovery of the war materials.

“The recent discovery of landmines is a clear evidenced that the Communist Terrorist Groups are still using this kind of war materials to inflict more casualties against government security forces and innocent civilians amidst COVID-19 pandemic. It is also a clear violation of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law as embodied in the Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law,” LTC RUBIO said.

He added that the civilians do not like the presence of NPA terrorists in their area and doing their part in making their community peaceful and insurgency-free.

LTC RUBIO also urged the people of Dingalan to continually report in case there are presence of NPAs in their communities in order to prevent their extortion and other terroristic activities in the area.

He added that the group of 1st Lieutenant Jun Niǹo O. Espora, commander of Alpha Company of 91st IB while conducting intel-driven operations in response to the information from a local residents resulting in the recovery of the said war materiel.

The said war materials were brought to the headquarters of Alpha Company of 91st IB based at Barangay Tanawan, Dingalan, Aurora for proper disposition.

[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/npa-war-materials-recovered-in-aurora-town/

210 cops, soldiers get medals

From the Visayan Daily Star (Oct 7, 2020): 210 cops, soldiers get medals

The 303rd Infantry Brigade honored the 210 Army and police personnel, who received medals Saturday in Brgy. Libas, Isabela, Negros Occidental, for demonstrating commendable exemplary actions during a series of combat and law enforcement operations in central Negros that led to the arrest of nine suspected New People’s Army rebels and recovery of a cache of firearms.

Col. Michael Samson, deputy commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, led the pinning of Military Commendation Medals on members of the 62nd Infantry Battalion. Present were Isabela Mayor Irene Montilla, Guihulngan City Mayor Carlo Jorge Joan Reyes, and Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, commander of the 62IB.

Samson cited the army and police personnel for the arrest of nine NPA rebels, including two ranking officials, linked to the ambush-slay of then Guihulngan City police chief Supt. Arnel Arpon and five other policemen in 2017, as well as the liquidation of Army Cpl. Mark Anthony Quiocson in July this year.

A cache of guns, including two M-16 rifles, two shotguns and eight .38 caliber revolvers, were recovered by the 62IB troopers after an encounter with suspected NPA rebels on Sept. 17 in Sitio Bungao, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City.

Three days after, a joint operation of the 62IB, 6th Special Action Battalion of the PNP and the local police led to the arrest of nine suspected rebels in Brgy. Buenavista, also in Guihulngan City, that yielded five high-powered firearms, including 9mm and .45 caliber pistols and 357 revolvers, two hand grenades, among others.

Samson lauded the bravery and selfless dedication of the operating troops to secure and protect the community of the entire central Negros.

"The medal symbolizes your bravery in facing our enemy and selfless dedication to your oath to protect the people and the country. As your Deputy Brigade Commander, I want to recognize your commitment to the service, hard- work and bravery in fighting the terrorist NPAs,” he said.

https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/October/07/topstory2.htm

Army nabs four ‘rebels’ at MPadilla checkpoint

From the Visayan Daily Star (Oct 7, 2020): Army nabs four ‘rebels’ at MPadilla checkpoint

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division reported yesterday the arrest of four suspected New People’s Army rebels at a checkpoint in Brgy. Montilla, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, that also yielded explosives and a .45 caliber pistol.

The arrested rebel suspects identified as Jovanie Bohol, alias Jojo, of Danao City, Cebu; Wilmar Pongasi, alias Rain, of Dumaguete City; Juannie Obidas, of Brgy. Macagahay, Moises Padilla; and Leoltren Trinidad, of Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City, are now detained at the Moises Padilla police jail after charges for illegal possession of firearms and explosives were filed against them before the Negros Occidental Provincial Prosecutor’s Office.

Maj. Cenon Pancito III, spokesperson of the 3rd Infantry Division, said yesterday that the arrest of four NPA members Friday, who were riding on two motorcycles, yielded a .45 caliber pistol with two magazines containing 12 ammunition, four 40mm M203 grenade ammunition, a flag of the NPA, two transistor radios, a pair of rain boots, a computer printer, subversive documents, and a copy of the marriage certificate of two ranking rebel leaders, Nona Espinosa and Adidas Acero, who were previously arrested in Brgy, Buenavista, Guihulngan City.

Pancito said that Bohol is a member of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda Platoon of the Central Negros 1, while Pongasi is a known member of the Kabataang Makabayan and a staff member of the Farmers Development Center (FARDEC) based in Cebu City.

Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, 3rd Infantry Division commander, attributed the successful operations to the full cooperation of Negrenses in the government’s fight against terrorism and insurgency, as exemplified by their utmost vigilance.

Vinoya said the arrest of Pongasi, who is a staff member of FARDEC, reveals his affiliation with the communist terrorist group.

“This is a clear manifestation of the deceptive nature of the CPP-NPA-NDF as they use legal organizations and terrorism against our communities to fuel their ill-motivated intent of raising funds to fill the pockets of their greedy leaders.” he said.

On Sept. 20, Espinosa and Acero, who are both ranking rebel leaders of the NPA in central Negros, and seven others, were apprehended during a joint operation of the 62IB and police in Brgy. Buenavista, Guihulngan City, that also yielded guns and explosives.*

https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/October/07/topstory1.htm

Anti-terror simex to include public for the first time: TFD

From the Mindanao Times (Oct 7, 2020): Anti-terror simex to include public for the first time: TFD (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

THE TASK Force Davao will test how Davaoeños cooperate with authorities and react to terrorism incidents in the upcoming community exercise as part of the Davao City’s culture of security campaign.

The community exercise next week is aimed at evaluating the cooperation of the public in reporting suspicious persons, staying true to the culture of security’s campaign slogan, “May Nakita, Dapat Magsalita.”

The exercise also seeks to eliminate the tendency of the public to panic, and instead develop or increase their level of vigilance and aggressiveness in the fight against terrorism. This is also a test on the impact of flashing or disseminating the identity of suspected terrorists to the public.

Col. Consolito Yecla, Task Force Davao commander, said that this is the first time that the public will be involved in the city’s anti-terrorism simulation exercise.

“What we want to happen is to test how the individuals will react without causing panic in the city,” Yecla said.

He urged everyone, especially establishment owners and their customers, to participate in the community exercise. “If in case these actors are in their area, we urge you to report them to the appropriate authorities so they will be neutralized,” he added.

In the scenario, the Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC), through the Central 911, will announce using radio stations and other means of communication the presence of 25 persons who will play the role of terrorists.

Churches, hotels and inns, restaurants, malls, and government establishments will be targeted by the five actors.

Once the “terrorist” is reported either to TFD, DCPO (Davao City Police Office), or the PSSCC, it will be counted as “neutralized” by the sector.

Launched on July 1, 2020, the culture of security is a people-centered campaign that encourages Davaeños to be vigilant and report suspicious individuals immediately to authorities.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/10/07/anti-terror-simex-to-include-public-for-the-first-time-tfd/

ANGAY-ANGAY LANG: Pamalandong sa Bangsamoro Self-determination via RCC-MM (Part 2 of 7)

Posted to MindaNews (Oct 7, 2020): ANGAY-ANGAY LANG: Pamalandong sa Bangsamoro Self-determination via RCC-MM (Part 2 of 7) (By RUDY BUHAY RODIL)

Part 2 of 7: What is the Expected RCC-MM Output?

ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews / 7 Oct) – Beyond the phrase “final report,” Republic Act 6649 said nothing more about the expected output of the Regional Consultative Commission for Muslim Mindanao (RCC-MM). During the organizational phase, some time was spent figuring out what this output might be.

The guiding question was what would be the most worthwhile assistance of the Commission to Congress. The answer agreed upon: a draft organic act. And the reasons bear recalling here.

The Commissioners are all long-time residents in the region; they have lived with the problem at hand and are therefore expected to have a feel of the situation better than any grouping. In addition, they would be conducting public consultations at both district and regional levels as prescribed by the law.

In the months of May and June, the individual Commissioners went into the consultation process without any agreed format at the Commission level. Neither specific methods nor specific goals were arrived at.

It was clear enough what district Commissioners would be doing, but the same was not true with Commissioners-at-Large. Thus, consultation methods varied from one Commissioner to another.

There were those who went from one barangay to the next or to as many municipalities within their district; there were those who confined themselves to the specifics of their committees and consulted only with relevant groups; there were those who went to several districts; there were those who limited themselves to information drives through radio, and there were those who stayed at home and merely waited for constituents to come.

Needless to say the results were as varied as the methodology. Still, on the whole, the consultation did produce substantial input in a manner that is not easy to quantify. Insights derived from people’s comments and translated into concrete proposals cannot be reduced to mathematical terms.

In the month of July and in the first week of August, regional level consultations were conducted in Puerto Princesa City, Zamboanga City, Marawi City, Cotabato City and General Santos City.

Easily the most controversial, meaning touchy issue in almost all the consultations was the name of the autonomy. Non-Muslims generally reacted with alarm over “Muslim Mindanao.”

This was taken as proof of their suspicion that the Muslims were out to dominate the government of the autonomy. Surprisingly, even Muslims (some being members of the MNLF) sensed the divisive effect of this name; some of the latter in Sulu even commented that the introduction of the phrase was a deliberate ploy on the part of the central government precisely to sabotage the struggle of the Bangsamoro for self-determination.

But because the phrase was claimed to be enshrined in the 1987 Constitution, and in reaction to negative feedbacks, advocates and defenders of the name shot back that proposals to delete it were in effect resuming the colonial policy of annihilation, except that now it took the form of deletion.

And so, as early as May and June, the Commission was deeply aware of the temper of the people.

Those opposed to the name and were automatically for non-inclusion of their respective places from the territory of the autonomy were the Christian-dominated provinces and cities, as follows: Davao del Sur, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Cotabato, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Palawan, General Santos City, Cotabato City, Iligan City, Pagadian City, Dapitan City, Dipolog City, Puerto Princesa City and Zamboanga City.

Generally in favor of inclusion in the autonomy were the Muslim dominated provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Marawi City.

Such a result reflected the findings of the survey-study shared earlier by Dr. Marilou Costello.

Not surprisingly, the issue of the name became the dominating controversy in the entire Commission and remained unresolved until the last day of the plenary deliberations.

For those who were members of the Committee on Preamble, Regional Territory and Declaration of Principles, of which I was one, being in the eye of the storm for four months was not exactly a pleasant experience. The turbulence that raged outside was intensely replicated within the Committee itself.

August to September, especially the last 11 days, were plenary session days. On the evening of the last, September 30th, the Commission stopped the clock at exactly 11:53 PM and went on sine die session.

At around 2:00 AM, the chairman of the Committee on General and Transitory Provisions walked out unexpectedly, and shortly thereafter, after a brief recess and consultation, there was a motion for adjournment, and the Chairman declared the session indefinitely adjourned.

What was the status of the envisioned draft organic act at the time of adjournment? The following were to-be-accomplished:

1) For completion of second reading for:
preamble, title, name, territory and declaration of principles;
b. administrative organization of the government structure; and
c. general and transitory provisions.

2) For third reading for the entire draft organic act.

The abrupt ending which was triggered by the walk out of a Commissioner from Zamboanga City erased all possibilities of any other decision. As soon as the adjournment was declared, authority for the Commission to deliberate as a body ceased altogether.

There was no decision, for instance, that whatever the Commission accomplished ought to be called a draft organic act.

Tomorrow: Part 3: Value of the RCC-MM as a Political Process

[Si Prof. Rudy Buhay Rodil ay aktibong historyan ng Mindanao, tagapasulong ng kalinaw (Bisaya sa kapayapaan). Kilala siyang espesyalista sa paghusay ng mga gusot sa Mindanao-Sulu. Naging Komisyoner noon ng Regional Consultative Commision sa siyang nagbuo ng draft organic law ng Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao noong 1988. Dalawang beses siyang naging miyembro ng GRP Peace Negotiating Panel. 1993-1996, pakikipag-usap sa Moro National Liberation (MNLF), at noong 2004-2008 sa pakikipag-negosasyon sa Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Naging visiting propesor sa Hiroshima University, Oktubre-Disyembre 2011. Nagretiro noong Oktubre 2007.]

https://www.mindanews.com/mindaviews/2020/10/angay-angay-lang-pamalandong-sa-bangsamoro-self-determination-via-rcc-mm-part-2-of-7/

Tagalog News: Halfway house para sa mga former rebels sa probinsya ng Agusan del Norte, pinasiyanaan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 7, 2020): Tagalog News: Halfway house para sa mga former rebels sa probinsya ng Agusan del Norte, pinasiyanaan (By Nora C. Lanuza)

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 7 (PIA) -- Upang mas mapadali ang pagbalik sa kanilang normal na pamumuhay ang mga former rebels sa probinsya ng Agusan del Norte, binigyang importansya ng probinsya ang konstruksyon ng halfway house ng probinsya bilang temporaryong tahanan ng mga former rebels sa pangangasiwa ng Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO).

Ang halfway house ay may 16 na silid at pwedeng makapag-accommodate ng hanggang 50 former rebels kung saan sila ay magkakaroon din ng debriefing at treatment.

Ang nasabing pasilidad ay binigyang prayoridad ng probinsya sa pangunguna ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera at Second District Representative Maria Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba sa pamamagitan ng pag-allocate ng pondo upang maipatayo ito.

Siniguro din ni Gob. Corvera na tututukan ng probinsya ang maayos na operasyon ng halfway house sa tulong na din ng iba’t ibang ahensya ng gobyerno upang maging mas madali sa mga former rebels ang pag-re-integrate sa kani-kanilang mga pamayanan.

Dagdag din ni Silver Joy Tejano, ang PSWDO chief na malaki ang maitutulong ng halfway house sa mga former rebels dahil sa loob ng dalawa hanggang anim na buwan dito sila magkakaroon ng psychological debriefing, treatment at pati na rin ang kahandaan nila at pagkakaroon ng mga kaalaman bago ang kanilang reintegration.

Umabot sa P10 milyon ang konstruksyon ng nasabing haflway house na matatagpuan sa loob ng 402nd brigade headquarters. Ayon din kay BGen. Maurito Licudine, ang 402nd brigade commander, inaasahan nilang tataas ang bilang ng mga magsusurender na mga NPA terrorist dahil sa maayos na implementastyon ng E-CLIP sa probinsya. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055256

2 CNT leaders surrender to Army in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 7, 2020): 2 CNT leaders surrender to Army in Agusan Norte (By 23rd infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BUENAVISTA Agusan del Norte, Oct. 7 -- Two dismayed members of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) group who previously held the positions of team leaders of the movement voluntarily surrendered recently to the troopers of 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army in separate occasions at the battalion’s headquarters in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The two disgruntled CNT leaders were identified as alias FREDIE/ERWEN and JAY-R/BADOY/BEBS. Alias FREDIE/ERWEN, 39, a team leader of Squad Dos, Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) CAOCAO, Guerrilla Front (GF) 4A of the North Central Mindanao Committee (NCMRC) and a resident of Purok Lumbia, Barangay Poblacion, Carmen, Agusan del Norte while alias JAY-R/BADOY/BEBS, 24, is also the team leader of Squad Dos, SDG CAOCAO, GF-4A, NCMRC who is a resident of Purok 8, Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

Alias FREDIE/ERWEN turned over to the 23rd IB one MK-2 fragmentation hand grenade.

Alias FREDIE/ERWEN narrated the difficult experiences he had while inside the movement that pushed him to abandon the terrorist group.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Acting Commander of 23IB, said the battalion is always open to welcome and help every member of the CNT group who wishes to live normally and peacefully.

“More CNT members are now coming back to the folds of the government because they never understood the kind of life they had inside the said movement,” Paulo said.

He also expressed gladness to the decision made by the two CNT team leaders, saying that the armed movement will never help them but instead, pull them down to miserable lives.

“With a strong belief, they joined the armed group believing that they will be given better lives but in contrast, they were only being enslaved by their leaders and they are forced to follow orders without having any repay to their prostration,” Paulo said.

He added that inside the 51 years of CNT existence, the Filipino people have not seen a single member of the group who testified that they now live a luxurious and comfortable life after joining the communist movement. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055246

Tired high-ranking CNT member in AgNor abandons movement

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 7, 2020): Tired high-ranking CNT member in AgNor abandons movement (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Oct. 7 -- After years of serving the group which he thought would give him and his family a better life, a high-ranking member of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) finally made up his mind and called off his association with the communist movement and returned to the folds of the law.

Alias Dansoy/Kevin, 40, the Political Instructor (PI) of Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) CAOCAO, Guerilla Front (GF) 4A of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the CNT surrendered to the troopers of 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23IB) recently at the battalion’s headquarters in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. He also handed over to the Army during his surrender three high-powered firearms and assorted ammunition. Alias Dansoy/Kevin is a resident of Km. 14, Sitio Hinandayan, Barangay Camagong, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB personally welcomed Alias Dansoy/Kevin and received the high-powered firearms and ammunition he surrendered, to include one M16 Rifle with an attached grenade launcher, 40mm M203, one M4 Rifle and one Carbine Rifle which is all serviceable.

During the interview, Alias Dansoy/Kevin said he was recruited and joined the CNT movement because of their propaganda and promises. He was made to believe by the CNT leaders that abundant life will be given to him and his family. After five long years with the movement, he realized that the promises made to him were false and deceptive. During his stay in the CNT movement, he also made some realizations, the biggest of which is the fact that the armed revolution the communist movement espouses is not designed to liberate the people, especially the poor, but to terrorize and press them more to hunger and poverty. He also measured, after years of fighting the government, that the CNT movement will not win as hatred and detestation of the people, especially those who fell in their terroristic activities, are now growing.

Dansoy/Kevin also testified that infighting among the CNT leaders and within the members also start to divide the movement. With the pandemic that made the government impose quarantine protocols coupled with the surrender of mass supporters, hardships also struck the movement due to the scarcity of food and other basic needs.

Lt. Col. Paulo assured the former Political Instructor of GF-4A that the government will provide help to his family through the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“The surrender of this high-ranking CNT member is a manifestation that their weakened group is slowly attenuating. Aside from that, they can no longer move from place to place because our troops are visible anywhere. We have deployed our joint Community Support Program Teams of the army and Community Action Teams of the PNP in vulnerable areas and we are also relentlessly conducting our focused military operations to clear the areas that were commonly known as CNT lairs. Clearly, these CNTs have nowhere to hide now, and they will surely suffer from great hunger due to less access to food supplies. As you can see, Alias Dansoy also starved even though he was ranked higher than his comrades, and his family whom he left behind also suffered because the CNT does not regularly provide food to them,” Paulo said.

He also reiterated his call to the remaining CNT members to lay down their arms and go back to their family and to the government.

“Real victory will only be felt once you leave the armed group. They will never help nor value you. Our government is waiting for your return and is always willing to help you to change your lives in order for you and your family to have a brighter future,” Paulo said. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055255

Hiligaynon News: Dugang nga AFP medical team nag abot sa Bacolod City

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 7, 2020): Hiligaynon News: Dugang nga AFP medical team nag abot sa Bacolod City (By Lorenzo O. Lambatin, Jr.)

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Oktubre 7 (PIA6) -- Nag-abot sining karon lang ang tatlo ka hubon sang medical team nga maga bulig sa syudad sang Bacolod sa pag pakig bato sini sa coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), suno kay 303rd Infantry Brigade (IB), Civil Military Officer Captain Kelvin Bayaban.

Ginbaton sila ni Colonel Michael Samson nga Deputy Brigade Commander sang 303rd IB sa Bacolod-Silay Airport, kon diin sila gin abi-abi kag ginpahibalo sang ila hilikuton kag kon sa diin sila ipahamtang.

Suno kay Bayaban, ang nasambit nga medical team gin padala man sang una sa Cebu sang nagsaka ang kaso sang COVID-19 didto.

Ang dugang nga AFP medical team gin pangunahan ni Captain Romuel Rabara.

Paga buslan nila ang nahauna nga duha ka AFP Medical Team nga gina pamunoan ni Captain Liza Dorao sang Medical Corps bangud natapos na ang ila tour of duty sang bulan sang Septyembre.

Sila magadugang sa mga katapo sang frontline medical workers sa syudad sang Bacolod agud mapanubo ang mga kaso sang COVID-19.

Igapadala ang duha ka hubon sa at Riverside Hospital kag ang isa naman sa Queen of Mercy Hospital.

Samtang, si Colonel Samson nagpahayag sang iya pagpasalamat sa Commander sang Central Command AFP sa amo nga programa nga may tuyo magbulig sa mga masakiton kag mag luwas sa kabuhi sang madamo nga pumoluyo. (JSC/Lljr/PIA6 Negros Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055354

Gov't Troops Overrun CTG's Hideout in Masbate clash

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 6, 2020): Gov't Troops Overrun CTG's Hideout in Masbate clash (By 9ID DPAO)

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur -- Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Masbate continues to suffer heavy losses as joint forces of the Army and PNP intensify and maintain the momentum of operations in the island province.

Two days after the armed encounter in Mandaon where three communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) were killed, another armed clash broke out between these terrorists and the combined elements of 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) and the PNP in Brgy. Piña, San Jacinto town at around 11AM, Thursday, October 1.

Tip-off from the residents about the presence of armed group in the area prompted government troops to conduct security operations and encountered at least 12 CNTs.

After a 5-minute firefight, government troops were able to overrun the enemies' hideout while the communist terrorists fled towards unknown directions.

No one was harmed on the government side, but still undetermined casualties on the part of the NPA.

Captured from the encounter site were M653 rifle and several terroristic propaganda materials.

The hideout on the other hand is composed of five huts which can accommodate at least 30 persons.

LTC Siegfried Felipe Awichen, 2IB's Battalion Commander thanked the residents for their support to the government law enforcers highlighting that this is a manifestation that Masbateños are long tired and fed up of the CTG's deceptions, atrocities and terrorism.

Meanwhile, MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, Commander of Joint Task Force Bicolandia stressed that with the collaborative efforts between the government and the people, local communist insurgency will soon face its natural death.

"Wala ng kawala sa atin ang mga communist terrorists na ito kaya tuloy-tuloy na ang kanilang paghina hanggang sa lubusan ng matapos ang armadong tunggalian. We have warned them already to return to the folds of the law or else, they will be just wasting their precious lives in this useless cause because our operations will only get more and more decisive and extensive. Wala na silang tatakbuhan o pagtataguan lalo na at katuwang natin sa kampanya ang mga Bicolano upang tapusin na ang local communist insurgency," MGen. Robinsond added. (CPTJPBelleza-9ID DPAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055210

26 former rebels in Mountain Province receive livelihood aid

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 7, 2020): 26 former rebels in Mountain Province receive livelihood aid (By Redjie Melvic Cawis)

BONTOC, Mountain Province, Oct. 7(PIA) -- At least 26 former rebels here received financial assistance from the government.

The Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) and Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) awarded Livelihood Settlement Grant to former rebels in a simple ceremony here last Monday (October 5).

The awarding was led by Gov. Bonifacio Lacwasan, Vice Gov. Francis Tauli and DSWD Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace Undersecretary Rene Glen Paje.

The 26 former rebels who have surrendered to authorities in the province received P20, 000 each as part of the assistance of government intended for former rebel- beneficiaries under the Executive Order 70 or the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The FRs are from the municipalities of Natonin with nine, Sadanga with six, Bontoc with four, Sagada and Tadian with two each and one each for Bauko, Besao, and Paracelis.

In his message, Usec. Paje underscored the joint efforts of all national line agencies with the local government units in advocating peace and in convincing rebels to return into the mainstream of society.

Paje expressed regret that many are still being deceived by the CPP-NPA. He cited the youth and some idealists who have for long been enticed by the rebel group. Time will come that recruits will do introspection and will suddenly realize that they have been deceived and brainwashed by the teachings of the communists-terrorist group, he said,

“Our activity today is a proof na hindi kayo habang-buhay ay pwedeng linlangin. Magigising din kayo sa katotohanan. Itong pagtitipon na ito ay katunayan o katibayan na ang mga tao ay may sariling pag-iisip at may hangarin na umunlad at mamuhay ng mapayapa,” Paje said.

“Sa giyera walang panalo. There are no victors in war, especially so that we are fighting Filipinos against Filipinos, brothers against brothers. Tayo’t tayo lang naman ang naglalaban kaya hindi umuunlad ang Pilipinas. Ngayong may COVID-19 ay mas mahirap pa. Kumbaga tayo ay nakasakay sa iisang bangka kaya dapat ay iisang direksyon ang sagwan natin tungo sa progress, development and peace,” Paje added.

Lacwasan, for his part, stressed to the FRs that the cash assistance awarded to them is not a prize money for their surrender but rather, it symbolizes the sincerity of the government thru the ELCAC Tasks Force to support those who are willing to go back to mainstream society.

“Thru the ELCAC, all agencies are helping one another to prove that your suspicion that the government does not care is not true. We are here to show to the people most especially those who took up arms that the government cares for everyone. We are here to show that at any cost, we are to bring your former comrades back into the fold of the law,” Lacwasan added.

The Governor stressed that his administration will continue to cooperate and work with the national line agencies and the different law enforcement agencies for more livelihood grants for those who surrendered back to the folds of the law.

Also present during the ceremony were 503rd Infantry Brigade Commander BGen Henry Doyaoen, DSWD CAR OIC Regional Director Leo Quintilla, Mountain Province Provincial Police Office Director PCol. Homer Penecilla, Land Bank Bontoc Manager Genaro Dumpayan, DILG LGOO Gyda Namingit, 54th Infantry Battalion Commander LTC Franz Josef Diamante, Rev. Fr. Marcial Lloyd Castaneda, TESDA Senior TESD Specialist Madelieine Lomeng, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Miguela Angwani and other representatives. (JDP/RMC- PIA CAR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055383

513th ECB implements infra projects in disadvantaged areas

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 7, 2020): 513th ECB implements infra projects in disadvantaged areas (By Oliver T. Baccay)

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, Oct. 6 (PIA) - - The 513th Engineers Construction Battalion of the Philippine Army has implemented road and bridge projects in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) and rebel influenced zones in Cagayan Valley and eastern Cordillera.

Lieutenant Colonel Cresencio M Mogado, corps of engineer, said in his barely five-month reign as the head of the battalion, 5,000 community folks who are mostly farmers are now benefiting from the completed farm-to-market road at barangay Sta. Isabel in Jones, Isabela.

Aside from this, Mogado bared that they have already constructed seven school building facilities in the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela and ongoing road projects and bridges in the other towns of the said provinces.

"We provide engineering support to our military units as well as to the Local Government Units and other government agencies that want to partner with us in so far as construction of infrastructure facilities in the hotspot areas and disadvantaged areas," Mogado said.

In the Cordillerar Region, Mogado added that they have ongoing seven-kilometer opening in Ifugao, and a farm-to-market road and hanging bridge in Apayao.

"Aside from constructing facilities, we also conduct other activities that benefit the people like the blood letting activity we conducted recently in partnership with hospitals," he added.

Mogado stressed that their efforts in building facilities and opening accessibilities in the remote and disadvantaged areas are part of the government's thrusts to deliver the services to the people which will enable human and economic development in the countryside.

These projects are in support to the government's thrust to sustain the peace and usher in development for the provinces under the 5th Infantry Battalion's area of jurisdiction.

He also urged LGUs and other agencies to coordinate with them if there are projects or programs that they want to conduct in partnership with them in the GIDA and New People's Army influenced areas. (MDCT/OTB/PIA 2-Cagayan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055260

4 suspected NPA members nabbed, charged in NegOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 7, 2020): 4 suspected NPA members nabbed, charged in NegOcc (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

ARRESTED, CHARGED. Suspected Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army members (from left) Jovanie “Jojo” Bohol, Wilmar “Rain” Pongasi, Juannie Obedas, and Leoltren Trinidad were arrested in a checkpoint operation in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Friday (Oct. 2, 2020). They were indicted for illegal possession of firearms and explosives by the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Bacolod City on October 5. (Photos courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

Four suspected members of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) were apprehended during a checkpoint operation in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on the evening of October 2.

Their arrest was reported by the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) on Tuesday afternoon, a day after they were indicted for illegal possession of firearms and explosives by the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor here.

The suspects, who belong to the Komiteng Rehiyon - Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor, were identified as Jovanie “Jojo” Bohol, 25, a resident of Danao City, Cebu; Wilmar “Rain” Pongasi, 24, of Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental; Juannie Obedas, 31, of Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental; and Leoltren Trinidad, 31, of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, commander of the 3ID, attributed their arrest to the cooperation and vigilance of Negrenses in the government’s fight against terrorism and insurgency.

Vinoya said the association of Pongasi, a staff of the Cebu-based Farmers Development Center, with the CPP-NPA shows the direct participation of such a legal front organization in terroristic activities in central Negros.

“Pongasi’s arrest reveals his affiliation with the communist-terrorist group, which manifests its deceptive nature by using legal organizations and terrorism to fuel their ill intent of raising funds to fill the pockets of their greedy leaders,” he said.

According to the Army’s report, the four were flagged down by personnel of the 62nd Infantry Battalion and Moises Padilla Municipal Police in Sitio Proper, Barangay Montilla at about 8 p.m. after they were informed by residents about the presence of suspicious individuals on two motorcycles.

Bohol, which belongs to the CPP-NPA’s C1 Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda Platoon, was found possessing a caliber .45 pistol while Pongasi, also a known member of Kabataang Makabayan, yielded an M203 grenade launcher.

Also seized from the group were two magazines of a caliber .45 pistol with 12 live ammunition; four 40mm M203 grenade launcher live ammunition; two transistor radios; a pair of rain boots; an NPA flag; and a printer.

Subversive documents indicating the suspects’ connection with the CPP-NPA and a marriage certificate of top-ranking NPA couple Nona Espinosa and Adidas Acero, who were arrested in Guihulngan City last September 20, were also found in their belongings.

The charges against the four were filed by Capt. Randy Babor, officer-in-charge of the Moises Padilla Police.

In the October 5 joint inquest resolution signed by Prosecution Attorney Ken Furuyama, all four respondents were indicted for violation of Section 28(a) in relation to Section 28 (e) (1) of Republic Act 10951 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and Section 3 of Presidential Decree 1866 as amended by RA 9516 or illegal possession of explosives.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117721

76th Leyte Gulf Landings anniversary to proceed sans crowd

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 7, 2020): 76th Leyte Gulf Landings anniversary to proceed sans crowd (By Roel Amazona)

The MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Palo, Leyte (PNA file photo)

Leyte’s provincial government will proceed with some activities to commemorate the 76th Leyte Gulf Landings despite movement restrictions due to the pandemic.

Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla said traditional activities would be held with a limited audience and strict adherence to minimum health protocols.

“Celebrating the Leyte Gulf Landings is important, not only for the province and the country but also for the entire world as it was the turning point of World War II,” he told local officials in a meeting on Tuesday.

Although there will be a commemorative program at the MacArthur Landing Memorial Park, no foreign and national officials would be physically present to deliver their messages.
“There is no point for a guest to deliver a message here because there is no crowd who will be listening to them. We may even lock down the area on that day to make sure that there will be no large gathering,” Petilla said.

The traditional flag-raising ceremony, wreath-laying rites, and 21 gun salute will be followed by the playing of commemorative video messages of ambassadors of the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and Japan.

World War II (WWII) veterans are prohibited from physically attending the event since senior citizens are not allowed to leave their residences.

The region has 86 remaining living WWII veterans, the oldest being a 105-year-old from Javier town in Leyte province.

Aside from the event on October 20, several events have been lined up by local government units to commemorate the historic event.

In Tolosa town, Mayor Maria Ofelia Alcantara said they have prepared a simple ceremony on October 18 to commemorate Signal Day.

The activity will start with a thanksgiving mass and will be followed by a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony and a short program with messages to be delivered by representatives of the relatives of Scouts Valeriano Abello, Antero Junia Sr., and Vicente Tiston.

Abello, Junia, and Tiston were young scouts who warned the incoming Allied Forces on October 18, 1944, using the semaphore signal to spare the shorelines from bombing due to the presence of thousands of residents in the area.

On Oct. 20, 1944, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, together with President Sergio Osmeña and Gen. Carlos P. Romulo, again set foot on Philippine soil after leaving Corregidor in 1942.

Their arrival started a battle that spanned 100,000 square miles of sea and was fought for three days, from October 23 to 25, during the invasion of Leyte by the Allied Forces.

The battle signaled the fulfillment of MacArthur's famous words, “I shall return,” after going to Australia to muster support from the Allied Forces in the quest to liberate the Philippines from Japanese occupation.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117737

Army says abandoned NPA lair in Aurora yields landmines

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 7, 2020): Army says abandoned NPA lair in Aurora yields landmines (By Jason De Asis)

WAR MATERIEL. The war materiel recovered by government troops in an abandoned lair of the New People's Army in Barangay Umiray, Dingalan, Aurora Tuesday (Oct. 6, 2020). A concerned citizen provided the information to the military that led to the recovery. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 91IB)

BALER, Aurora – Government troops recovered some war materiel reportedly belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) in an abandoned lair believed being used for safekeeping and future purposes of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) in Barangay Umiray, Dingalan, this province on Tuesday afternoon.

The Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) seized two anti-personnel landmines, two anti-tank landmines, a detonating cord, and three pieces of triple A battery following a report from an informant in the area.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, commanding officer of 91IB, said the discovery of landmines is clear evidence that the CTGs are still using this kind of war materiel to further inflict harm against government security forces and innocent civilians.

“It is also a clear violation of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law as embodied in the Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law,” Rubio said.

He said the civilians do not like the presence of NPA terrorists in their area and are doing their part in making their community peaceful and insurgency-free.

Rubio asked the people of Dingalan not to hesitate to report the presence of NPAs in their communities to prevent extortion and other terroristic activities in the area.

The war materiel were brought to the headquarters of Alpha Company of the 91IB based in Barangay Tanawan, Dingalan for proper disposition.

Brig. Gen. Andrew Costelo, commander of 703rd Infantry Brigade, lauded the efforts of the 91IB and the full cooperation of the concerned citizen, who reported the location of the recovered war materiel.

“We expect more recovery of NPA firearms, war materiel items and the surrender of CPP- NPA members and their supporters in the province of Aurora. We will continue to track them and stop them from creating havoc in the communities,” Costelo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117735

Cop, 4 civilians hurt in Samar NPA attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 7, 2020): Cop, 4 civilians hurt in Samar NPA attack (By Sarwell Meniano)

AMBUSHED. The police vehicle and passenger van which were hit by two landmines planted by rebels in Jiabong, Samar. The explosion on Wednesday (Oct. 7, 2020) wounded a police officer and four civilians. (Photo courtesy of Romyette Verdeflor)

A police officer and four civillians were injured when suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) sprang an ambush and detonated two landmines along a major highway in Jiabong, Samar Wednesday morning.

Injured was Patrolman Ace Denver Aharuddin who suffered three gunshot wounds on his waistline, according to initial reports reaching the Philippine National Police regional office here.

The landmines that targeted a patrol car of the Pinabacdao police station also hurt the four passengers of a van passing at the major highway in Tagbayaon village that links Samar and Leyte provinces.

The civilians onboard a passenger van were identified as driver Reynaldo Calipis, 51; and his passengers, Elma Geli, 58; and teachers Erixon Gacumo, 33; and Realy del Rio, 22; all residents of Villareal, Samar.

The passenger van was tailing the police car heading to Catbalogan City when two roadside bombs exploded around 8 a.m. on Wednesday.

Operatives of police mobile force company launched a pursuit operation against the fleeing perpetrators while police stations were directed to be vigilant and establish checkpoints within their respective areas.

Last May, four improvised explosive devices were recovered in a foiled ambush attempt by NPA rebels along the national highway also in Jiabong town.

Last year, two employees of a car manufacturer also survived a landmine attack when their vehicle was mistaken for a police patrol car as they were passing the same town.

In December 2015, government troops and two female staff of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on board two trucks coming from relief operations in Northern Samar during the onslaught of Typhoon "Nona" (Melor) were ambushed by armed rebels also in Jiabong town.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117759

Negros town opens center for anti-insurgency initiatives

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 7, 2020): Negros town opens center for anti-insurgency initiatives (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

PLEDGE. Isabela town Mayor Irene Montilla signs the pledge of commitment expressing support and cooperation for the successful operation of Task Force Isabela ELCAC Fusion Center during the inauguration rites held on Sept. 30, 2020. It is first-ever inter-agency facility established in Negros Occidental to support the initiatives of the whole-of-nation approach in addressing the local communist armed conflict. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion)

The municipality of Isabela has established the first-ever inter-agency facility in Negros Occidental that will implement programs aiming to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC).

The Task Force Isabela ELCAC Fusion Center, located in Barangay 4, has been serving as the municipal government’s centralized office for the implementation of anti-insurgency plans and programs since it was inaugurated on September 30.

Mayor Irene Montilla said in a statement on Wednesday that peace and order is one of the priorities of her administration as she cited the town’s improving security conditions, resulting from the concerted efforts of the local government unit (LGU) and its residents with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.

Isabela is situated in central Negros, which still has the presence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army.

The town’s Barangay Libas hosts the headquarters of the Philippine Army 62nd Infantry (IB) troops which have recently encountered communist-terrorist rebels in the surrounding areas.

Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, commanding officer of 62IB, also on Wednesday lauded the effort of the municipal government in taking a lead role in ending insurgency.

“With the support of the counterpart agencies and the people, we can say that the peace objectives can be achieved. I urge other LGUs to step up the fight against insurgency and take the path towards the attainment of genuine peace and progress,” he added.

The Isabela ELCAC Fusion Center is supporting the initiatives of the whole-of-nation approach to address insurgency as provided in President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order (EO) 70.

The facility serves as the venue for capacity-building in implementing the President’s directive and to further foster a model municipality in good governance.

It also aims to promote inter-agency collaboration to produce developmental and synergized ideas that can greatly contribute in maintaining the peace and order not only in Isabela, but also in Negros Occidental as a whole.

In January this year, Isabela activated the Municipal Task Force-ELCAC to coincide with the launching of the “Serbisyo Negrosanon” to implement the Retooled Community Support Program and further empower LGUs in achieving peace and development.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117822

13 former NPA rebels train as peace advocates

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 7, 2020): 13 former NPA rebels train as peace advocates (By Perla Lena)

PEACE ADVOCATES. Former rebels train as members of the speakers’ team training to help the government to end insurgency at Camp General Macario B. Peralta Jr. in Jamindan, Capiz. They were chosen from among former rebels who voluntarily surrendered because of their potential to become good speakers, said Maj. Cenon Pancito III, chief of the Division Public Affairs. (PNA photo by 3ID PAO)

Former rebels turned ally of the government will be utilized to convince their former comrades to turn their back from the communist terrorist group (CTG) and embrace the opportunity that awaits them.

Maj. Cenon Pancito III, chief of the Division Public Affairs (DPAO) of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army, said 13 former rebels completed the speakers’ team training for the deradicalization program held at the Camp General Macario B. Peralta Jr. in Jamindan, Capiz from Sept. 22 to Oct. 2.

“This is actually an effort for the 3rd Infantry Division to come up with a good source of speakers, a good source of cadres. We know that the main weapon of the NPA (New People’s Army) is very good speakers, very-well learned cadres who can really speak,” he said in a phone interview on Wednesday.

Out of the many former rebels, they picked those with high educational attainment and those with potential to become good speakers or already speakers when they were with the movement.

Five from Panay island and eight from Negros island who voluntarily surrendered underwent the "deradicalization" program that was held with the support of People's Advocacy for Collaboration and Empowerment (PeACE), an organization of former rebels.

They were taught about the fundamentals of public speaking as they would be deployed to assist the government in its peace and development initiatives.

Equipped with training, they will be sent to counter those who are still organizing and recruiting for the armed movement, he said.

“We believe that former rebels are in authority to speak aside from the Philippine Army. We talked to them and told them that the government is needing their help and we are glad that they are with us in our campaign against insurgency,” Pancito said.

He added they “are counting on them” because being former rebels, they knew how the movement works.

“This is a non-traditional tool that will effectively deliver our desire to really put an end into this insurgency,” he said, citing the need to connect with the people even if combat operations have been doing good in reducing “significantly the number of NPA”.

He added the first batch is just a test case and their effectiveness will have to be evaluated.

“If we know that this is the best weapon that we have, and this is the best tool that we have, then we will replicate the training in the future,” he said.

After their training, they were deployed back to Philippine Army units handling Panay and Negros.

Two other former rebels from Bohol also joined the training virtually.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117817