Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 10/24/20

Saturday, October 24, 2020

Bicol’s NPA officer tagged in killing rebel returnee nabbed in Pasig

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 24, 2020): Bicol’s NPA officer tagged in killing rebel returnee nabbed in Pasig (By Aaron Recuenco)

Police have arrested an alleged official of the New People’s Army (NPA), who was tagged in the killing of a rebel returnee in Bicol, during a raid on a residential area in Pasig City.

Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas, director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), said the 59-year old Esteban Sergio Sales was collared in Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City in an operation on Thursday that stemmed from a confirmed tip that he was hiding in the area.

He is reportedly a member of the Executive Committee Kilusang Larangang Guerilla” (KLG 73), Bicol Region Party Committee (BRPC), and a member of “Komite sa Seksiyon sa Platon (KSPN 1), “Komite Seksiyon Sa Iskwad” (KSSI 1).

“He is included in the national government’s wanted list and is carrying a P700,000 reward,” said Sinas.

Sales was charged with murder after he was accused of shooting to death a rebel-turned government militiaman in Ragay, Camarines Sur in 2000. He is also facing a case of malicious mischief.

Sales is now detained at the Regional Special Operations Group detention facility of the NCRPO and is expected to be presented to the courts which had issued arrest warrants against him.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/24/bicols-npa-officer-tagged-in-killing-rebel-returnee-nabbed-in-pasig/

451 Kadamay members surrender in Bulacan

From the Manila Times (Oct 25, 2020): 451 Kadamay members surrender in Bulacan (By Frederick Silverio)

IN support of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s “whole-of-nation approach” in ending local communist armed conflict, the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-Elcac) through the Provincial Government of Bulacan, headed by Gov. Daniel Fernando, led the 451 former members of the Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (Kadamay) as they withdrew their support and membership from the communist terrorist group during presentation and oath taking of the mass-based activist returnees held last Thursday in Atlantica Pandi 2 Resettlement Area in Barangay Mapulang Lupa, Pandi, Bulacan.

The former Kadamay members, who inhabited the housing projects of the National Housing Authority in Pandi without authorization in 2017, recited the pledge of allegiance to the Philippine Flag before burning the flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army together with their IDs as a symbol of their surrender and support to the government. A community consultation and problem-solving session were also held for the surrenderees, spearheaded by the Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management and Local Peace Engagement cluster of RTF-Elcac.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/10/25/news/regions/451-kadamay-members-surrender-in-bulacan/785301/

NPA rebel arrested in Surigao del Norte

From the Philippine Star (Oct 25, 2020): NPA rebel arrested in Surigao del Norte (By Ben Serrano)

A New People’s Army rebel was arrested in San Francisco, Surigao del Norte on Friday.

Daniel Betita, 26, is a member of the Guerrilla Front 16-B of the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, according to Caraga police director Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat.

Police said Betita is among those tagged in the killing of barangay kagawad Johnny Bernadez.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/10/25/2052050/npa-rebel-arrested-surigao-del-norte

NPA leader in Cotabato killed in clash with Army soldiers

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 24, 2020): NPA leader in Cotabato killed in clash with Army soldiers (By: Julie S. Alipala)

One of the top leaders of the New Peoples’ Army (NPA) in Cotabato province was killed in a 20-minute encounter in Matalam town on Saturday morning, Oct. 24, the military said.

Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said troops of the Army’s 62nd Division Reconnaisance Company, were conducting a patrol in Matalam’s Arakan Village when they encountered around a dozen NPA armed fighters.

The military identified the lone fatality as Zaldy Gulmatico Pulido, also known as Joel and Cobra.

Vinluan said Pulido was the secretary of the Guerilla Front 53, under the NPA’s Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Vinluan added that Pulido’s M16 rifle, three magazines, assorted ammunition, two cellular phones, and propaganda materials, were recovered after the firefight.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1352027/npa-leader-in-cotabato-killed-in-clash-with-army-soldiers

2 soldiers, 2 militias injured as landmine planted by local IS forces blasted in Maguindanao

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 24, 2020): 2 soldiers, 2 militias injured as landmine planted by local IS forces blasted in Maguindanao (By: Jeoffrey Maitem, Julie Alipala)

Suspected pro-Islamic State militants detonated a landmine in Ampatuan town, Maguindanao province on Friday, leaving four government troops wounded, a military official said.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, said soldiers were on a road and mine-clearing operations when an anti-personnel mine planted by suspected Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) exploded.

Uy said the incident left two soldiers and two members of the Civilian Active Auxiliary wounded.

“They were immediately evacuated by the responding team to the nearest hospital,” he said.

“I call on the peace-loving people to please pray for the safety of our soldiers as they continue to clear and secure the communities to thwart the hostile plans of the lawless group,” Uy appealed.

The BIFF is a breakaway faction of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), at one time the country’s leading separatist group, which signed a peace pact with the government in 2014.

The BIFF is also one of several groups in Mindanao that pledged allegiance to the Islamic State.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1352032/2-soldiers-2-militias-injured-as-landmine-planted-by-local-is-forces-blasted-in-maguindanao

Aide of Basilan Abu leader surrenders to Army

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 24, 2020): Aide of Basilan Abu leader surrenders to Army (By: Julie S. Alipala)

An aide of Basilan Abu Sayyaf leader Furuji Indama surrendered to the Army on Friday, the military said.

Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said Kahar Hamid Muktar, 25, also known as Abu Krima, brought with him an M1 Garand rifle and a clip of eight bullets.

Vinluan said Muktar is among the trusted aides of Indama.

According to Col. Domingo Gobway, commander of Joint Task Force Basilan, Muktar is the 19th bandit to have surrendered this year.

More than 200 Abu Sayyaf gunmen have turned their backs from banditry from 2016 to 2018, under a joint program by the Army, Basilan provincial government and the then Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao led by now Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman.

They were offered opportunities to finish school, among others, so they can start peaceful and productive lives.

Gobway said that Muktar intimated that he had long wanted to be reunited with his family in Lamitan City.

“His longing to be with his family was actually the primary reasons why he wanted to abandon the group,” Gobway added.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1352061/aide-of-basilan-abu-leader-surrenders-to-army

Another rebel surrenders in Guihulngan

From the Daily Guardian (Oct 23, 2020): Another rebel surrenders in Guihulngan (By Glazyl Y. Masculino)

Another alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered to the Local Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental last Tuesday.

A report from the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo) said that a 30-year-old resident of Barangay Humay-Humay admitted to the authorities that he’s a member of the SDG Platoon, Squad 1, under the NPA’s Leonardo Panaligan Command (LPC) operating in Central Negros 1.

The surrender was witnessed by Mayor Carlo Jorge Joan Reyes, a representative from the Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB), and police officers.

According to the police, the rebel decided to return to the folds of the law to change his life and be with his family.

He is now in the custody of the government troops for debriefing.

The police said that the local task force is actively formulating and implementing programs in cooperation with government agencies to address rebellion in Guihulngan City.

https://dailyguardian.com.ph/another-rebel-surrenders-in-guihulngan/?fbclid=IwAR2zlcVqA5-5pX0eeqrhXqRImOOfHdi2d9Lxw8BM9zh0T-QVDCpxDrcQlGs

WESTMINCOM: Kidnap-for-ransom group member yield in Tawi-Tawi

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 22, 2020): Kidnap-for-ransom group member yield in Tawi-Tawi

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- October 22, 2020

A joint military and police operation resulted in the surrender of a local terrorist group/kidnap-for-ransom group member on October 22, 2020.

According to Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., a.k.a. Young Driver submitted himself to the troops of the 2nd Marine Brigade at Marine Barracks Domingo Deluana in Barangay Sanga- Sanga, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi at 9 a.m. of the same day.

“A.k..a. Young Driver handed over one Cal. 30 Garand rifle to Col. Arturo Rojas, the Commander of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi. He was involved in the attempted abduction of the American-Nigerian Guest Professor of MSU-TCTO identified as Dr. Percival Showers in 2001. He was also involved in an encounter between the troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-9 and the LTG/KFRG under the late sub-leader Sakkam Pakam, a.k.a. Last Pangit at Sitio Siola, Barangay Montay-Montay, Bongao sometime on December 2017,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

The surrendered personality underwent a medical check-up conducted by the Forward Support Medical Team (FSMT-21) after which he was turned-over to the local government unit and was received by Bongao Mayor Jimuel Que.

“The successful operation is attributed to the convergence of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi, the Provincial Police Office, the intelligence operatives, the Ministry of Interior and Local Government, and the peace-loving people of Tawi-Tawi,” said Col. Rojas.

Col. Rojas further said that the troops of the JTF Tawi-Tawi will continue to strengthen collaboration with the different sectors of the government to sustain the peace and tranquility in the province.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
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https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/a.1253339768141410/1888277527980961/?type=3&theater

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WESTMINCOM: Troops intensify operations to foil local terrorists' bomb ploys

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 23, 2020): Troops intensify operations to foil local terrorists' bomb ploys

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- October 23, 2020

Military troops continue the conduct of security operations to deter the terroristic activities of the local terrorists group in Maguindanao.

In a report received by the Western Mindanao Command, on the morning of October 23, 2020, while the personnel of the Joint Task Force Central was conducting a road and mine-clearing operations in Barangay Salman, Ampatuan, Maguindanao an anti-personnel mine exploded.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., the Commander of the Western Mindanao Command stated that the incident resulted in the wounding of two soldiers and two members of the Civilian Active Auxillary.

“They were immediately evacuated by the responding team to Tamondong Hospital for medical treatment,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. added.

Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. stressed that the ground forces remain steadfast in the implementation of pre-emptive measures to prevent security lapse.

Meanwhile, Joint Task Force Central Commander Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy said, “I call on the peace-loving people to please pray for the safety of our soldiers as they continue to clear and secure the communities to thwart the hostile plans of the lawless group”.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
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#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/a.1253339768141410/1888525781289469/?type=3&theater

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WESTMINCOM: Troops encounter communist terrorists amid intensified operations in Sultan Kudarat

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 23, 2020): Troops encounter communist terrorists amid intensified operations in Sultan Kudarat

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- October 23, 2020

Troops of the Joint Task Force Central clashed with the communist terrorist group in Sultan Kudarat on October 23, 2020.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., the Commander of the Western Mindanao Command said that amid the intensified conduct of combat clearing operation, combined elements of the 7th Infantry Battalion and the 43rd Special Action Company of the PNP-Special Action Force encountered an undetermined number of communist terrorist group leader Felimon Agsim a.k.a. Buhawi of the East Daguma Front at Sitio Bagangbagang, Barangay Lagubang, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat at 10:45 in the morning of the said date.

“Based on the initial report submitted by Maj. Gen. Uy, the exchange of fires lasted for about 15 minutes and our troops are currently in pursuit of the fleeing enemies,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. added.

Further, Brig. Gen. Roy Galido, the Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade said that the unit immediately deployed supplemental teams to establish blockade on the possible withdrawal routes of the CTG.

Meanwhile, JTF Central Commander Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy stated that the unit continues to intensify its offensives against the threat groups in its area of operation to neutralize the remaining militants and ensure the safety of the people.

Likewise, in another statement, Lt. Gen. Vinluan said, “Terrorism remains to be a sickening problem that needs to be thoroughly addressed. But, with the convergent efforts of all the sectors of the society, this will soon be over”.

No casualty was reported on the government side while troops are yet to determine that of the enemy side.

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https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/a.532970753511652/1888820204593360/?type=3&theater

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WESTMINCOM: ASG supporter yields in Basilan

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 24, 2020): ASG supporter yields in Basilan

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City - October 24, 2020

A local terrorist group supporter yielded to the government forces on October 23, 2020.

"Based on the report submitted by Col. Gobway, the Abu Sayyaf Group supporter identified as Kahar Hamid Muktar, a.k.a. Abu Krima yielded to the 4th Special Forces Battalion at 9 a.m. yesterday. A.k.a. Abu Krima was under ASG leader Furuji Indama group," said Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., WestMinCom Commander.

Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. also said that a.k.a. Abu Krima, 25, and a resident of Barangay Bohe Nangeh, Lamitan City, Basilan handed over one M1 garand rifle and one clip with eight ammunition.

Meanwhile, JTF Basilan Commander Col. Domingo Gobway said that the successful operation was a result of the joint special intelligence operations conducted by the operatives of the 4SFBn and PNP-Special Action Force.

"Our strong collaboration with our police counterpart is yielding positive results in our campaign against lawlessness in our area of operation," Col. Gobway added.

Subject personality and the turned over items were placed under the custody of 4SFB for proper disposition.

Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. commended the troops of the JTF Basilan for the unit's series of accomplishments this past few months.

"Continue doing your job well with passion and enthusiasm," Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. added.

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

WESTMINCOM: One Communist Terrorist killed, HPFA recovered following a clash in North Cotabato

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 24, 2020): One Communist Terrorist killed, HPFA recovered following a clash in North Cotabato

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 24, 2020

A communist terrorist was killed during an encounter with the government forces on October 24, 2020.

“Our troops from the 62nd Division Reconnaisance Company under the 602nd Infantry Brigade encountered more or less 12 fully armed Communist Terrorist Group members at Sitio Rodson, Barangay Arakan, Matalam, North Cotabato at 8:30 in the morning today,” said Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“Based on the initial report submitted by Brig. Gen. Capulong, the exchange of fires resulted in the death of one CTG member and the recovery of one M16A1 rifle, three magazines, assorted ammunition, two cellular phones, and propaganda materials,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. added.

The firefight lasted for twenty minutes after which the enemy withdrew to different directions.

“Congratulations to the troops of the 62DRC for this significant gain,” said 602nd Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Roberto Capulong.

No casualty was reported on the government side.

Meanwhile, JTF Central Commander Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy said, “This successful operation bespeaks of our relentless efforts to end terrorism in our area of operation”.

Troops continue to scour the area.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
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WESTMINCOM: 9 more BIFF members yield in Maguindanao

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 24, 2020): 9 more BIFF members yield in Maguindanao

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 24, 2020

The intensified military operations in Maguindanao led to the surrender of nine Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) members on Saturday morning, October 24.

WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr. said that a report from the ground revealed that the following personalities submitted themselves to the 57th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Jonathan Pondanera: Rahib Baguindali Nawal, a.k.a. Rahib, a Field Commander; Abdulrahim Kinona Mariano, a.k.a. Junior, an IED Maker; Zed Baguindali Nawal, a.k.a.Jerome; Mamalinta Em Abdul, a.k.a. Alvin; Kasim Mujahid Abdul, a.k.a. Bots; Abdul Rafael Kanda, a.k.a.Pai; Jessie Abunawas Abdul, a.k.a. At; Surab Abdullah, a.k.a. Bhods; and Mentato Mesol, a.k.a. Palangan.

“The said personalities handed over high-powered firearms including one M4A1 Carbine Cal. 5.56mm, one Bushmaster Cal 5.56mm, one Heckler and Koch 416 Cal. 5.56mm, one Elisco M16 A1, one M14 rifle Cal. 7.56mm, two Homemade Cal. 50 Sniper rifles, and two Homemade RPGs with two ammunition,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. added.

Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. further said that the surrendered personalities participated in the series of armed engagements in Barangay Salman, Ampatuan, Maguindanao in March 2020. However, due to the continuous combat operations by the government forces, they were tired and nothing to eat.

Likewise, said group participated in different harassments and armed encounters in the area of Maguindanao and North Cotabato.

The nine were presented to JTF Central Commander Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy and 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Jesus Rico Atencio during the 33rd Founding Anniversary Celebration of the 6th Infantry Division at the unit’s headquarters in Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on the same day.

“This success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the military, local government units, the traditional leaders, and the peace-loving people of Maguindanao,” said Brig. Gen. Atencio.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Uy vowed support to the surrendered personalities in their reintegration into mainstream society.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
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https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1889897631152284/1889897274485653/?type=3&theater

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AFP-CRS: Why should I apologize?

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 24, 2020): Why should I apologize?

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/3768737666478263/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: AFP just giving Liza Soberano and Catriona Gray warning about left

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 24, 2020): AFP just giving Liza Soberano and Catriona Gray warning about left

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) was not red-tagging actress Liza Soberano and 2018 Miss Universe Catriona Gray but just giving them a warning that their advocacies might be used by the Left-leaning groups, Malacañang said on Thursday.

“Well, tingin ko naman sa statement mismo ng AFP, sinabi naman niya walang ganoon (I think based on the AFP statement, he said there is no such thing),” Roque said in a virtual Palace briefing.

Roque was referring to the statement of Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. who advised Soberano to “abdicate” her ties to Gabriela Youth.

READ MORE: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1119466

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https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: GENERAL PARLADE claims Gabriela part of terrorist organization

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 24, 2020): GENERAL PARLADE claims Gabriela part of terrorist organization

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. on Friday alleged that women’s group Gabriela is “part of the terrorist organization.”

Parlade made the allegation after he was accused of “red-tagging” actress Liza Soberano when he warned her about engaging with Gabriela.

In an interview over ABS-CBN News Channel, Parlade claimed that Gabriela, especially those nominated as party-list members, are allegedly connected with communists.

READ MORE: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/…/parlade-claims-gabriela-par…

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https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/3768762089809154/?type=3&theater

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Kalinaw News: Top NPA leader killed in clash with Army soldiers in Cotabato

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): Top NPA leader killed in clash with Army soldiers in Cotabato

Matalam, Cotabato – One of the top leaders of the New Peoples’ Army in Cotabato was killed in a 20-minute encounter in Matalam town on Saturday morning, Oct. 24.

Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said troops of the Army’s 62nd Division Reconnaisance Company, under First Lieutenant Roy John G Atiga Philippine Army were conducting a patrol in Matalam’s Arakan Village when they encountered around a dozen NPA armed fighters.

The military identified the lone fatality as Zaldy Gulmatico Pulido, aka JOEL/COBRA was the secretary of the Guerilla Front 53, under the NPA’s Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Vinluan added that Pulido’s M16 rifle, three magazines, assorted ammunition, two cellular phones, and propaganda materials, were recovered after the firefight.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/top-npa-leader-killed-in-clash-with-army-soldiers-in-cotabato/

Kalinaw News: AFP Statement on LtGen Parlade’s pronouncements pertaining to Ms. Soberano’s attendance to Gabriela Youth Webinar

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): AFP Statement on LtGen Parlade’s pronouncements pertaining to Ms. Soberano’s attendance to Gabriela Youth Webinar

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The AFP Spokesperson statement on Lieutenant General Antonio Parlade Jr. pronouncements pertaining to Ms. Soberano’s attendance to Gabriela Youth Webinar, we have three major points to say in this regard:

1) The AFP has the highest respects for women and women’s rights that are also being espoused by Ms. Soberano and Ms. Gray. We even accorded military honors to the former Miss Universe in August 2019 for bringing prestige to Filipino Women and for her advocacies.

2) Recruitment by the CTG from among the students, youth leaders, and influencers is not a propaganda —it is real. Student leaders Lapira; Manalo; et al. who figured and died during Armed encounters with soldiers were testaments to this deadly trail. The fact that Hands Off Our Children came about is a truth to tell.

3) We in the AFP has the solemn obligation to fight & defeat communist terrorists w/c means death from either side. But before we reached that point, we trail our focus on prevention. Hence the effort to inform Ms. Soberano and educate the netizens.

We are not saying that Ms Soberano is a member of NPA, but we are worried that she and her genuine advocacies may just be used by some sectors with reported links to the underground movements in recruiting for the CTG owing to her popularity.

And this sworn duty of protecting our people is what we in the AFP cannot abdicate knowing the stories of many young and idealist student leaders who were dragged into the ranks of the CTG and meeting their untimely death for a worthless cause that is now being rejected not only by our people but by nations all over the world.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/afp-statement-on-ltgen-parlades-pronouncements-pertaining-to-ms-soberanos-attendance-to-gabriela-youth-webinar/

Kalinaw News: Secretary Andanar inspects halfway house, visits Former Rebels in Bukidnon

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): Secretary Andanar inspects halfway house, visits Former Rebels in Bukidnon

IMPASUGONG, BUKIDNON – The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) 10 Secretary Martin Andanar inspected the on-going construction of halfway house and visited the newly created Bukas Kalinaw 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion (8IB) Chapter, an organization of former rebels, on Friday, October 23, 2020 at Impasugong Magbuliga Development Complex, Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon.

The construction of the halfway house is one of the programs of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) which the province has allocated PhP 5M for its construction while the municipality of Impasugong donated one-hectare of land where the building is being constructed. Sec. Andanar ensured that the said facility will be excellently constructed as a temporary shelter and treatment facility for the former rebels.

Sec. Andanar further visited the Bukas Kalinaw 8IB Chapter – Lumadnong Organisasyong Dalangpanan (LINONDIGAN), an organization of the former rebels of 8IB who benefited from the various interventions of RTF-ELCAC. He also witnessed other interventions of the government such as the two-day skills training dubbed as “TESDA Interventions and Concerns for Bukidnon (TICBuk) Meat Processing” which benefited a total of 20 former rebels and the Arm-to-Farm Program of this unit, a four-hectare farm for former rebels.

The Secretary was accompanied by Mr. Franklin Gumapon, Regional Director of Philippine Information Agency Region 10; Ms. Tarhata S. Mapandi, Regional Director of TESDA – 10; Hon. Maria Norly D. Pepito, Municipal Vice-Mayor of Impasugong; Colonel Ferdinand T. Barandon, Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade; Col Jose Arn M Real, Deputy Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade and Lieutenant Colonel Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr., Commanding Officer of 8IB during the Secretary’s assessment on the implementation of the government’s initiatives.

“Si Sec. Andanar nagabisita aron masiguro ang mayo nga pag-implementar ug ka-epektibo sa adbokasiya sa gobyerno sa pagpaundang sa armadong pakigbisog. Kini nagapakita lamang nga ang atong gobyerno seryoso sa pagbatok sa insurhensiya sa atong nasod.” Lt. Col. Talaroc Jr said. (Sec. Andanar visited to ensure the proper implementation and effectiveness of the government’s advocacy in ending armed conflict. This only shows that our government is serious in its fight against insurgency in our country.)

Col. Barandon said “Mapasalamaton ako kang Sec. Andanar sa paghatag nato ug tabang aron maundang ang lokal na komunistang armadong pakigbangi diri sa atong nasod. Ang kasundalohan makasiguro kauban ang among mga kaabag magapadayon sa pagsuporta sa mga programa sa gobyerno sa pagpanday sa kalinaw ug kalamboan sa pagpa-undang sa insurhensiya.” (I am grateful to Sec. Andanar’s assistance in our shared efforts to end the local communist armed conflict here in our country. Rest assured that the army together with our partners will always support the programs of our government in building peace and development in ending insurgency).

[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/secretary-andanar-inspects-halfway-house-visits-former-rebels-in-bukidnon/

Kalinaw News: AFP Chief lauds commanders as COVID-19 cases in military drop

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): AFP Chief lauds commanders as COVID-19 cases in military drop

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff
lauded commanders of different military units and offices for successfully containing the
spread of COVID-19 in the AFP.

General Gilbert Gapay said this as the number of admitted cases drop to 307 last Friday,
October 23, from as high as 1,327 early in September.

“Our Commanders and Chiefs of Offices have done a great job in enforcing social distancing
measures and strict health protocols inside camps, in turn keeping our military and civilian
personnel able to perform their respective duties,” he said.

Among the active cases were 256 military personnel currently admitted in military treatment
facilities nationwide.

There are also 19 civilian personnel, and 32 dependents currently receiving treatment.

“The AFP is enhancing our safety and health protocols and other measures to protect the
best interest and wellbeing of our soldiers, particularly those in the frontlines. Our troops’
health will always be of utmost importance as we continue to preserve the AFP’s fighting
strength to help the country win over this battle,” General Gapay added.

He also acknowledged the hard work of personnel performing various tasks in support to the
national government’s efforts to contain the pandemic.

Over 13,800 military personnel, reservists, and auxiliary personnel are deployed nationwide
manning community quarantine assistance stations, quarantine areas, various ports, and
testing facilities.

Fifteen vessels of the Philippine Navy and seven aircraft of the Philippine Air Force have so
far transported over 1.7 million kilos of cargo.

“We want to let our people know that they really have an Armed Forces that is truly
dependable and reliable, and can be called upon in any time of need or crisis. One that is
also versatile to perform various missions and adapt to different situations from peacetime,
crisis, conflict, and even in addressing a pandemic,” General Gapay said.

“Our sacrifices have been duly recognized and we continue to enjoy the trust and support of
the people. Let us not waste this opportunity to prove our capability on our way to becoming
a truly world-class armed forces,” General Gapay added, citing the 90 percent public
satisfaction rating, highest among government agencies, the AFP received in June.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/afp-chief-lauds-commanders-as-covid-19-cases-in-military-drop/

Kalinaw News: DILG: Nothing wrong with anti-NPA tarpaulins

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): DILG: Nothing wrong with anti-NPA tarpaulins

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government said that they see nothing wrong with the posting and displaying of tarpaulins or messages denouncing communist rebels or terrorist groups all over the country because it is protected speech under the Constitution.

“The expressions of sentiment against CPP/NPA/NDF atrocities are free speech and are legally protected under the Constitution. Remember, these are the terrorists’ groups driven by an archaic ideology who have been killing our police and soldiers and extorting from innocent civilians for the past 50 years. It is just right that people denounce them for their crimes against the people,” said Secretary Eduardo M. Año.

“If you are not a member of the CPP/NPA/NDF [Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, and the National Democratic Front], then you have nothing to worry about. How can these be “red-tagging” when they are Communists or Reds by their own admission,” he said,

The DILG Chief said that it was CPP Founder Joma Sison, who is comfortably in-exile in The Netherlands, who red-tagged the groups in the first place so they should complain to their leader and not to the government.

“In Belgium, Sison clearly named their open sectoral front organizations as part of their United Front building. Unmasking these groups controlled and directed by the Communist Party of the Philippines through party branches embedded in them is the solemn duty of government. Otherwise, we will not be doing our duty,” he said.

Previously, tarpaulins and banners declaring CPP-NPA-NDF as persona non grata sprouted along Roxas Boulevard and other areas in Metro Manila.

“I believe these tarpaulins are mere expressions of citizens or certain groups that they are fed up with abuses and atrocities perpetrated by the CPP/NPA/NDF. I welcome such kind of expression to send the message to the CPP/NPA/NDF that they are not welcome in the national capital region, just like what other provinces, cities, and municipalities all over the country,” he said.

“We encourage all LGUs and other organizations fed up with the lies, deceitfulness, and atrocities of the CPP/NPA/NDF to place their own tarpaulins and billboards to send a strong message that their terrorism and criminal acts are not tolerated by the people,” he added.

DILG Undersecretary and Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said that 20,085 LGUs nationwide (60 provinces, 96 cities, 1,204 municipalities, and 18,698 barangays have issued resolutions declaring the CPP/NPA/NDF as persona-non-grata or unwelcome in their respective LGUs.

In NCR, Mandaluyong City and Muntinlupa City have passed resolutions against the CPP/NPA/NDF as well.

Malaya said that the CPP/NPA/NDF has been declared in the country as a terrorist group through Proclamation 374 s. 2017 while other countries like the US, New Zealand, UK, Australia, the European Union have also declared them as terrorist organizations.

He said that the communist movement in the country has lost a lot of support. In fact, some 297 NPA rebels, militia ng bayan, and members of CPP underground mass organizations recently surrendered in Eastern Mindanao after intensified police and military operations in the area. The surrenders yielded various firearms and subversive documents.

“All the surrenderers will receive financial and other assistance from the government through the Enhanced Comprehensive Integration Program (ECLIP) of the DILG. This will allow them to go back to mainstream society and live productive and peaceful lives,” he said.

Kalinaw News: 6th ID Commander Presides Turn-Over of Command

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): 6th ID Commander Presides Turn-Over of Command

Camp Siongco, Maguindanao-The Commander 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division Maj. Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, presided over the turn-over ceremony of the Task Force Gensan held at Headquarters, TFG in Barangay Bula, General Santos city on October 19, 2020.

Col. Eduardo Gubat, outgoing commander of Task Force Gensan, relinquished his post to Col. Galileo Goyena as the incoming commander of TF Gensan.

TF Gensan became a part of 6th ID just this May 2020 after an adjustment has been made in the areas of responsibility between the two higher commands the Eastmincom and the Westmincom.

“Col Gubat, during his term as the Task Force Gensan Commander was able to lead the conduct of intelligence operations which include intelligence meetings and for a which resulted to the neutralization of threat personalities, and the recovery of various ammunition and high powered firearms” Maj. Gen. Uy said during the traditional military change of command.

The commander also congratulated Col. Gubat for a job well done. His hardwork has greatly contributed to the outstanding performance of 6th ID, over the years.

“The incoming Task Force Gensan Commander, Col. Galileo Goyena, is a distinguished officer himself. He is the former head of the Division Governance and Strategy Management Office which achieved a lot in favor of the 6th ID. He did a laudable job in his effort on the re-certification of 6th ID’s institutionalized status with the Gold Trailblazer award” Major General Uy said.

“To the incoming and outgoing commanders of Task Force Gensan. I am hopeful that this turn-over will be an opportunity for both of you to share your ideas for the improvement of our unit” the Commander of JTF Central added.

Kalinaw News: Dating sentro ng bakbakan , binisita ng pinuno ng Joint Task Force Sulu

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): Dating sentro ng bakbakan , binisita ng pinuno ng Joint Task Force Sulu

Patikul , Sulu-Sa kabila ng napakalakas na ulan , madulas na daan at banta mula sa mga teroristang Abu Sayaff, masayang binisita ng buong liderato ng 11th Infantry ” ALAKDAN” Division sa pamumuno ni Major General William N Gonzales, Philippine Army ang Brgy Kabbontakas , Patikul Sulu noong ika 23 ng Oktubre 2020.

Ang Barangay Kabbontakas ay isa mga barangay na naging sentro ng bakbakan sa pagitan ng mga military at ASG sa mga nakaraang taon. Ito ang nagbunsod upang lisanin ng mga residente ang lugar at mamuhay bilang mga IDPs sa mga katabing barangay simula 2017. Sa magkatuwang na proyekto ng Lokal na Gobyerno ng Patikul sa pamumuno ni Mayor Kabir Hayudini at ng 1102nd Brigade sa ilalim ni Brigadier General Ignatius N Patrimonio Philippine Army, unti – unting inihahanda ang mga tao at lugar upang kala una’y makabalik ang mga residente sa kanilang mga tahanan.

Upang masiguro na umuusad ang programa, mismong sina MGen Gonzales at Mayor Hayudini kasama sina BGen Patrimonio, Col. Bautista ng 1101st Bde, Col. Ampatuan at mga Battalion Commanders ng 6SFBn, 45IB,15CMOBn at 545Engr Bn ang bumisita sa kasalukuyang ibinabangon na komunidad. Si District Engineer ng DPWH na si Engr Ajan Ajijul ay buong loob din na sumama upang ipakita ang suporta sa kanyang mga kababayan.

Sa nakitang determinasyon at sakripisyong ibinibigay ng mga sundalo at ang Lokal na Gobyerno sa kanyang barangay, emosyonal na nagpasalamat si Hon Ahajuli Ahajani sa buong kasundaluhan ng 11th Infantry Division sa pamumuno ni MGen Gonzales. Ayon pa sa kanya ” hindi namin muling mababalikan ang aming lugar , kung hindi sa mga sundalo na nagbibigay ng pag -asa , seguridad at walang humpay na tulong sa muli naming pagbangon bilang isang barangay” .

Ang mga residente ng Brgy Kabbontakas ay nakatakdang bumalik sa kanilang lugar ngayong buwan ng Nobyembre sa ilalim ng Balik Barangay Program . Sa kasalukuyan, magkatuwang na inihahanda ng mga sundalo,LGU Patikul, DPWH at mga residente sa ilalim ng pinagsamang ahensya sa loob ng MTF ELAC, Patikul ang lugar sa pamamagitan ng pagtatayo ng mga panibagong mga bahay , water system at iba pang pangunahing pangangailangan ng isang komunidad.

Ang MTF ELAC ng Patikul ay pinangungunahan ni Mayor Hayudini na aktibong pinakikilos ng sectetariat nito sa pangunguna nina HRMO Salip Sakip Ali , MDRRMO Eleonor Hayudini, SB Sec Alfidzrah Maharael, MPDO Luzviminda Hayudini , PIO Rosalain Insani at representante mula sa iba’t ibang sangay ng Gobyerno tulad ng AFP , PNP at PCG .

” Walang iwanan! Iyan ang ating naging kasunduan na lalong pinagtibay ng ating Peace Covenant noong nakaraang Agosto. Kaya’t ang 1102nd Brigade sa ilalim ng Joint Task Force Sulu ay makakasama ninyo hanggang sa tuluyang makabalik at makabangon ang Barangay Kabbontakas. Kami’y hindi lang inyong mga sundalo kundi inyo ding mga kaibigan na inyong maaasahan sa programang pangkapayapaan at pangkaunlaran ” pahayag ni BGen Patrimonio.

[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/dating-sentro-ng-bakbakan-binisita-ng-pinuno-ng-joint-task-force-sulu/

Kalinaw News: Army’s 91IB and 307th Aurora Reservists training on Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance Agent (EORA) ends with 57 graduates

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): Army’s 91IB and 307th Aurora Reservists training on Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance Agent (EORA) ends with 57 graduates

BALER, Aurora-Fifty-seven individuals were feted in a graduation ceremony of the Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance Agent (EORA) training Class 01-2020 on Thursday, October 22, 2020, at the Bayanihan Hall of 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, Philippine Army.

The 57 who came from the Philippine Army’s 91st IB and 307th Aurora Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion, 307th Community Defense Center (CDC), 3rd Regional Community Defense Group (3RCDG), completed a 5-day EORA with cross training on Counter Hybrid Threats (CHT) and Terrorism Consequence Management (TCM) at the said headquarters in Barangay Calabuanan, Baler, Aurora.

Of the said figure, 29 are selected reservist from 307th, RRIBn and 28 are from 91st IB.

LtCol. Reandrew P. Rubio Philippine Army, Battalion Commander of 91st IB said to the graduates that the training is very important to every individual soldier in order to effectively and efficiently perform his job and attain the unit mission.

“You (graduates) shall apply whatever you learned not only during the training but in the future conduct of operations. Share the knowledge and skills you acquire during the training,” LtCol Rubio said.

He added that the training is not just compliance to higher headquarters of the Philippine Army but also purposely to hone and sharpen their skills and core competency which is war fighting.

“EORA is very important because our enemy is also using landmines which is a clear violation of human rights, international human rights and rule of law. Thank you so much explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) Family for sharing your time, expertise, and knowledge which greatly contribute to the accomplishment of our mission,” LTC RUBIO said.

The EOR training aimed in countering any threat of terrorism and insurgency.

Major Edward A Pineda (RES) Battalion Commander of 307th, Aurora RRIBn said safety and security is everyone’s concern.

“There is a need for a joint anti-terror effort. The said training will surely equip safety and security personnel in responding to emergency situations against threats. I extend my sincerest thanks to the EOD experts and 91st IB for continually supporting the reservist,” Major Pineda 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/armys-91ib-and-307th-aurora-reservists-training-on-explosive-ordnance-reconnaissance-agent-eora-ends-with-57-graduates/

Kalinaw News: Army Aviation (Hiraya) Regiment launches 1st “Lipad Aklat Project” in Aurora schools

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 24, 2020): Army Aviation (Hiraya) Regiment launches 1st “Lipad Aklat Project” in Aurora schools

BALER, Aurora-In order to promote quality education through continues learning and improve literacy in the country today, Thursday, October 22, 2020, the aviation “Hiraya” regiment of the Philippine Army based in Fort Magsaysay Palayan City, Nueva Ecija launches “Lipad Aklat” Project to two schools in Aurora Province.

Colonel Andre B. Santos, regiment commander of army aviation said two Cessna 172 Aircraft belonging to Philippine Army landed this morning at Baler Airport and transported almost 900 assorted books and schools’ equipment in helping the poverty-stricken students in this province, one in the capital (Baler) and one in rural area in Casiguran town.

He added that the advocacy project is in collaboration with Books for a Cause and Embrace of Jaime V. Ongpin Foundation, Incorporated.

Santos said that personnel from Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion under Lieutenant Colonel Reandrew P. Rubio, Commanding Officer provided assistance in the turn over ceremony of 552 assorted books, two units of Desktop Computers and one Smart TV 43 inches to Dr. Eutiquio Rotaquio, President of Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) in Barangay Zabali, Baler, Aurora and 341 assorted books to Leidy Ryll M. Berna, Officer-in-charge School Principal of Dimaguipo Elementary School in Sitio Dimaguipo, Barangay Cozo in Casiguran town held at 91st IB, Barangay Calabuanan, Baler, Aurora.

“The Lipad Aklat project will be sustained by the regiment in partnership with our active partner stakeholders in order to reach out the different schools in far flung areas and help our educators in the promotion of quality education,” Col. Santos said.

He said that the project will continue in their identified school-beneficiaries.

“We are planning to give books and schools equipment in Jomalig Island in Quezon province,” Santos said.

Dr. Rotaquio said after receiving the books said they fitted well into the needs of 5,079 ASCOT students who are presently enrolled in their school.

“Aside from the students in this province, the state colleges has also students from the provinces of Batanes, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija and Isabela,” he said.

He furthered that the computer sets and books would enrich the students’ learning and is really a big help for the schools in general.

“We are very thankful to our soldiers who help us in this noble project in helping our schools particularly our faculty and students,” Rotaquio said.

The Officer-in-charge School Principal of Dimaguipo Elementary School also expressed their appreciation for the generosity in support of their pupils’ education.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-aviation-hiraya-regiment-launches-1st-lipad-aklat-project-in-aurora-schools/

Opinion: Exposed: NPA sex

Opinion piece in the Manila Times (Oct 24, 2020): Exposed: NPA sex (By Mauro Gia Samonte)

FOR the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army (CPP/NPA) insurgency, the commentary of Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. on Friday, October 23 in The Manila Times must have been a double-bladed whammy.

On the one hand, it did a lot by way of clarifying matters for the beleaguered Liza Soberano, who was widely blasted by netizens for speaking her mind against women and children in a webinar conducted by the Gabriela party-list. It would appear that public outrage over this party’s recruitment of innocent young girls for eventual integration into the NPA has grown so far and wide so that Liza’s mere participation in a Gabriela virtual forum was reason enough for her to be tagged a communist already.

The gentleman that he is, General Parlade appeared unable to resist a seizure of chivalry for the beauteous lady. I thought I saw a Sir Walter Raleigh who, seeing Queen Elizabeth 1st about to step on mire, swept his cloak off his shoulders and spread it over the muddy spot for the queen to continue her regal gait unperturbed by filth.

“Let’s not red-tag Liza Soberano,” said Parlade in his commentary. “It’s not fair to her. She is merely supporting advocacy for women’s rights. Is she an NPA? No, of course not. Not yet. So, let’s help educate her and other celebrity targets of Malayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan (Makibaka), the underground organization hiding under Gabriela.”

But the problem for the CPP/NPA is that in his earnest desire to sway Liza away from the possibility of integration into the rebel movement, the general had to make disclosures of NPA evils otherwise quite unknown to the public, much less to the girl.

Parlade wrote, “Ka Shane, in her interview, revealed how she was raped in the organization which she believed respected women and LGBT rights. What our people don’t know is that sexual molestation, rape and assault are happening, not only against lady red fighters, but also against men, who are raped by their gay NPA cadres.”

There goes the double whammy. Not only has the CPP/NPA lost another potential pretty recruit but has also been exposed for sex perversion prevalent in its camp.

If you ask me, Parlade’s exposé is what you might call a modern-day revelation of what actually has been CPP/NPA moral decadence from way back when.

In 1989, during a meeting of the CPP Politburo, one whom I knew was a member of the powerful body, kept to his lonesome on the stairway leading to the second-floor sala where his comrades were deliberating on something. Just to keep the guy company, I sat behind him.

“Bakit hindi ka sumama sa kanila (Why are you not joining them)?” I asked, gesturing upward.

”Sila-sila na lang ‘yun (They’re all to themselves),” he replied lamely.

There was deep sadness in his voice, and when he looked at me, his eyes conveyed an imploring, some deep-seated plea for understanding, for succor or help in one moment of desperation, I couldn’t quite place the emotion, but in any case, I thought here was a man appearing having gone deeply contrite. His lips nearly quivering with what exquisite inner pain, he smiled faintly, plucked a bullet from the magazine that was tucked in his back pocket and handed it to me.

No words needed to be said, He was giving me the bullet as a souvenir.

Days after that evening, the N2 chief of the NPA would reveal to me what that Politburo meeting was all about: Judgment Day for that guy for charges of sexual molestation of male combatants of the rebel army. The information made me understand the message the guy was trying to tell me, that he would no longer be visiting my place, that that would be the last of the meeting of the politburo he would be attending, because as the N2 chief would disclose, he would thenceforth be demoted to mere lowly cadre.

During the memorial for that guy in 2018, here are words from one eulogizing speaker: “Like any cadre determined to fight the enemy and learn lessons from the process of fighting, he scored achievements and had his own share of errors and weaknesses, which he overcame through the process of criticism and self-criticism. In accordance with principles and the facts, he promptly admitted and actively corrected mistakes and shortcomings. Thus, his revolutionary merits far outweigh his demerits.”

An admission of guilt nonetheless, you might say. And in sex offenses, contrition by the offender no matter how deep and sincere, won’t bring back the chastity and honor of the offended.

In exceptional cases when the molester proves upright after all by offering to marry the molested, sexual exploitation is ideologically deodorized to the term “liberalism.” And for the couple, all’s well that ends well — that is, after they get out of the rebellion and find their bearings back in the fold of the law. One comrade, a female, got out early enough to finish a law course, be a trial judge and has now risen to the top echelon of the country’s judiciary.

She calls me “Uro,” as she did in the good ole days of idealistic struggle. By that she strikes up a wisdom: “Everything that happened is part of what I am today. They will never change.”

But as far as Parlade is concerned, better for all youth to be spared the rigors and horrors and terrors of a never-ending protracted people’s war. They will get out of the quagmire sooner or later after all, why get in at all?

As a final plea to Liza, Catriona and all else in imminent danger of being sucked into the Sisonite insurgency, Parlade has this to say: “Liza Soberano there’s a still chance to abdicate that group. If you don’t, you will suffer the same fate as that of Josephine Anne Lapira @Ella, former Deputy Secretary General of Gabriela Youth of UP Manila and defender of women’s rights, even against sexual predators among her comrades in the NPA unit she joined which is clearly stated in her handwritten letter addressed to a certain Emil. It’s a pity she learned about nonsense things like nabbing a firearm, NPA machismo and sexual exploitation while already inside the underground. It was too late, she is dead.”

I took pains researching that letter and got this result:

“Ka Emil,

“Kumusta? Wala ako masyadong makekwento pa. He he. ‘Yan pa rin ang mga gawain dito. Mejo naiba lang dahil naaangkop sa sitwasyong militar. Pero marami pa ring masa na nakakausap at naoorganisa.

“Tinuruan ako ng isang kasama na mag-arnis, umagaw ng baril at iba pang self-defense. Mahaba na kwentuhan at kulitan namin dito. He he. Lagi nilang sinasabi na mataray ako. Ha ha. Dahil nagpupuna ako palagi sa mga macho nilang joke o pahayag. May isang kasama pa rito na nagdrawing ng malaswang picture ng babae! Nasungitan ko talaga sila lalo’t walang umamin tas nakangisi pa. Pero nagsabe rin naman yung gumawa kaya okay na.

“Ayan na lang muna. Maghahanda ako para sa detachment. :) Miss pa rin kita.

“Mahal kita.”

After this letter, next we hear about Ka Ella is that she died in an encounter with government troopers.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/10/24/opinion/columnists/exposed-npa-sex/784902/

Southern Negros NPA front dismantled

From the Philippine Star (Oct 24, 2020): Southern Negros NPA front dismantled (By Gilbert Bayoran)

A guerrilla front of the New People’s Army (NPA) on Negros island has been dismantled, the military reported.

Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, 3rd Infantry Division (ID) commander, said government troopers dismantled one of the five NPA guerrilla fronts under the Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor.

Vinoya made the announcement as Col. Leo Peña was installed as commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade (IB) at Camp Leon Kilat in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental on Thursday.

In his speech during the turnover ceremonies, Vinoya directed Peña to sustain the gains achieved by the 302nd IB under Brig. Gen. Noel Baluyan.

Baluyan was named deputy commander of the 3rd ID based in Jamindan, Capiz.

As the new 302nd IB commander, Peña will supervise the 11th, 15th and 94th IBs in the campaign against NPA guerrilla fronts in central and southern Negros.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/10/24/2051801/southern-negros-npa-front-dismantled

Firearm of NPA recovered

From the Mindanao Times (Oct 23, 2020): Firearm of NPA recovered (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

LAW ENFORCERS were able recover a high-powered firearm that members of the New People’s Army hid in a village in Davao Oriental last week based on the information from a resident.

Based on the military report, soldiers belonging to the 66th Infantry Battalion discovered the high-powered firearm after a resident who benefited from the community outreach program of the government in Tarragona informed the soldiers of the location of the arms in Tubaon village.

A team of military and police went to the area and recovered a loaded 5.56mm rifle.

Col. Krisnamurti Mortela, 701st Infantry Brigade commander, said the operation was based on the report of a civilian on the activities of the armed group as the military theorized that the outlawed armed group left the firm after an encounter.

Davao Oriental Gov. Nelson Dayanghirang, said residents of the rural areas have become active in the campaign to end the armed conflict.

Tarragona Mayor Nestor L. Uy lauded the police and the military for their efforts in ending the armed conflict. “I commend the troops of 66IB and PNP members of Davao Oriental Police Office for the successful conduct of their joint operations in my municipality,” Uy said.

Mortela thanked the residents for providing “positive and timely information to the government forces regarding the activities and concealed High-powered firearm and ammunition”.

“We are glad that the residents of Tubaon village willingly supported us in ending insurgency in conflict-affected areas,” he added.]

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/10/23/firearm-of-npa-recovered/

Bayan Muna urges dismantling of NTF-ELCAC amid red-tagging issues

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 24, 2020): Bayan Muna urges dismantling of NTF-ELCAC amid red-tagging issues (By: Gabriel Pabico Lalu)

Party-list group Bayan Muna has called for the dismantlement of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) amid issues hounding the task force regarding red-tagging, urging fellow lawmakers in the Senate to consider removing its funds.

Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate and Rep. Ferdinand Gaite said on Friday that the NTF-ELCAC should not receive taxpayers’ money if all it does was spread lies and disinformation about people expressing legitimate dissent.

This request from the two lawmakers came after NTF-ELCAC member and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. received flak for warning actress Liza Soberano against being associated with Gabriela Women’s Party-list — which some perceived as a threat.

In his statement, Parlade said that Soberano should not be subjected to red-tagging — or labeling people as sympathizers of the communist armed movement — as she is “not yet” a member of the New People’s Army. He then said that fellow actress and activist Angel Locsin would not tell Soberano the truth about the former’s sister who is allegedly an NPA member.

READ: Stop ‘mansplaining’: Parlade chided for ‘threats’ vs Liza Soberano, other celebrities

“We have here a task force that is only spreading lies, disinformation and fake news that would be funded by around P19 billion of taxpayers money that could have been allocated to fighting the Covid pandemic, give aid to those left jobless by the pandemic and help our agriculture,” Zarate said.

“Its primary mouthpiece, Gen. Parlade’ s only occupation now is to malign, red-tag or terrorist-tag any group or individuals like Liza Soberano, Angel Locsin, Ella Colmenares and Catriona Gray, or anyone who opposes or criticizes the anti-people policy of the Duterte administration. So why waste hard earned money on this fake news agency and just dismantle it,” he added.

According to Zarate, the P19 billion funding placed for NTF-ELCAC should just be allocated somewhere else, probably to help the government in its COVID-19 response.

In a post on social media, celebrity Angel Locsin — whose sister Ella Colmenares was tagged by Parlade as an NPA member — also said that NTF-ELCAC funds be allocated to soldiers on the frontlines and other Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) departments.

READ: Angel Locsin: ‘Kung magkaiba tayo ng paniniwala, hindi ibig sabihin pwede mo na ako i-red tag’

Parlade was reacting on Wednesday to Soberano’s attendance in an online forum hosted by Gabriela, warning her that Locsin would not tell her about Colmenares’ NPA membership. But a lot of people slammed this move from Parlade, saying that it is a veiled threat against women activists.

Groups have pointed out that Soberano merely spoke about women’s rights, and nothing about left-leaning or communist ideologies. For Parlade’s side, he insisted that he did not mean to threaten any of the artists, as he was only advising Soberano.

Meanwhile, Gaite said that NTF-ELCAC funds might be misused, like how state authorities manipulated photos of alleged rebel surrenderees.

“Gen. Esperon further appeals that this fund allocation seeks to develop our rural communities, we then ask: why not give the control of these funds directly to the concerned agencies, the ones that have the lawful mandate?” Gaite asked.

“Why does this fund need to go to and needs approval of NTF-ELCAC instead of going directly into the implementation of projects that would spur rural development?” he added. “It also begs to be asked, why ask for control of these funds during a preparatory year for the 2022 elections? Why dangle this multi-million carrot now?”

Parlade again found himself in controversy’s way after he asked earlier whether Manila Mayor Isko Moreno is welcoming NPA rebels into the city after the latter ordered the removal of tarpaulins declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines, the National Democratic Front, and the NPA as persona-non-grata.

Gaite asked whether the funds of NTF-ELCAC would be used to produce similar materials.

“Would this fund be used to dismantle legitimate people’s organizations including the base of support of progressive party-lists—an aim the NTF-ELCAC so desperately belabors itself with? Would this fund be used to hang tarpaulin spreading black propaganda and fake news?” Gaite questioned.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1351849/bayan-muna-urges-dismantlement-of-ntf-elcac-amid-red-tagging-issues