Cops kill alleged Red hitman in Malabon

From the Philippine Star (Dec 19, 2020): Cops kill alleged Red hitman in Malabon (By Ghio Ong)

A man reported to be a member of the communist hit group Alex Boncayao Brigade (ABB) was killed in an alleged shootout with police in Malabon City yesterday.

Gabriel Fernandez was declared dead at the Ospital ng Malabon after he reportedly shot at police officers who served a search warrant at his house in Barangay Tonsuya at around 8 a.m.

The search warrant was issued by Malabon Regional Trial Court Judge Rosario Pinzon in connection with the charge of illegal possession of firearms, according to a report by Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-National Capital Region chief Col. Randy Glenn Silvio.

Police officers reportedly recovered a 12-gauge shotgun, a .45-caliber pistol and a box of bullets for the pistol from Fernandez’s house.

Fernandez reportedly led a gang engaged in contract killing and robbery-extortion, police said.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/12/19/2064817/cops-kill-alleged-red-hitman-malabon

Police, military bare dismantling of two NPA guerrilla fronts in Northern Luzon

From the Business Mirror (Dec 18, 2020): Police, military bare dismantling of two NPA guerrilla fronts in Northern Luzon (By Rene Acosta)

Armed Forces Northern Luzon Command commander Lt. Gen. Arnulfo M. Burgos (left) and Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Daway (right), director of the PNP Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom), sign the document formally declaring two guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army that attest to the dismantling of two guerrilla fronts that used to operate in the country’s northern region. The event coincided with the signing of the joint military-police campaign plan against insurgency, criminal activities and lawless groups in Northern Luzon, according to Major Mikko Magisa, Nolcom spokesman.

Two guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army (NPA) that used to operate in key areas of Northern Luzon have been declared as officially dismantled both by the military and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Police and military officials led by Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command (AFP-Nolcom) commander Lt. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos and Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Daway, director of the PNP Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Northern Luzon, led the signing of document formally declaring the dismantling of the NPA’s Kilusang Larangang Gerilya Southern Ilocos Sur, or KLG SIS, and the KLG Quirino-Nueva Vizcaya.

The KLG SIS operated in the boundaries of the provinces of Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province and Abra while the KLG Quirino-Nueva Vizcaya used to operate in the two provinces’ boundary.

A guerrilla front of the NPA is equivalent to a size of a company in the military.

“The parameters of dismantling NPA fronts are stipulated in the AFP and PNP’s Joint Letter Directive Number 3 series of 2020, which include clearing of all affected barangays, neutralization of the terrorist group’s politico-military structure and reduction of enemy strength to a squad level, among others,” Daway said during the signing of document at the Nolcom headquarters at Camp Aquino, Tarlac.

Prior to the declarations, combined AFP and PNP counterinsurgency operations resulted to a series of decisive engagements which, as described by the military, have pushed the enemies of the state on the verge of “irreversible collapse.”

Among these were the neutralization of one Regional White Area Secretary and two NPA finance officers in just a span of five days.

“These are on top of the 313 former rebels who surrendered 96 firearms this year after deciding to turn their backs from armed conflict, return to mainstream society and avail benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP,” Burgos said.

The Nolcom has attributed the successive operations to its effective and efficient teamwork with their police counterparts, local government units and the general public.

“Your security forces’ ability to dismantle two guerrilla fronts after this year’s military campaign is a result of the unwavering support of our elected leaders and the Filipino people who have gone tired of the NPAs’ abuses and terroristic intentions,” Burgos said.

The Nolcom commander said the “unprecedented” accomplishment in the northern part of the country against rebels” will further inspire soldiers to press the fight, “exploit our gains and finally win the much coveted peace, prosperity and development which every Filipino truly deserves.”

Burgos earlier said that the Nolcom is on track to decimate the few remaining NPAs in Northern Luzon before the end of President Duterte’s term.

The dismantling of the two guerrilla fronts came a week after Nolcom spokesman Maj. Mikko Magisa said that their command is in the process of working for the dismantling of two main NPA guerrilla units in Northern Luzon.

The different AFP Joint Task Force Commanders from across Northern and Central Luzon, as well as the PNP Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Northern Luzon and the PNP directors of Regions 1, 2 , 3 and the Cordillera attended the signing ceremony.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2020/12/18/police-military-bare-dismantling-of-two-npa-guerrilla-fronts-in-northern-luzon/

Seasoned officer named new Marine Corps commandant

From the Business Mirror (Dec 21, 2020): Seasoned officer named new Marine Corps commandant (By Rene Acosta)

A seasoned Marine officer who has seen battles in Sulu against the Abu Sayyaf Group has assumed as the new commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps over the weekend.

Major Gen. Ariel R. Caculitan was installed by Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo as the 33rd commander of the Marines. Caculitan replaces retired Major Gen. Nathaniel Casem.

Caculitan, member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1989, vowed to further improve the overall capability of the Marine Corps as a primary fighting force, especially by the Navy.

He said he will give focus to the unit’s national maneuver amphibious force, coastal defense capability, the Corps’ special operations and humanitarian aid and disaster response.

Caculitan also pledged to strengthen reserve force development, specifically the integration of Marine reservists into the regular force and subject matter expertise exchanges.

Before leading the Marines, Caculitan held various positions, both in the Navy and the Marines, including leading the Marine Battalion Landing Team 4 stationed in Maimbung, Sulu, which was adjudged as the Best Marine Battalion in 2009.

He had also served as the commander of Naval Reserve Command; deputy commandant, Philippine Marine Corps; commander, Combat and Service Support Brigade; superintendent, Marine Corps Force Development Center; assistant chief of naval staff for personnel, Philippine Navy and the first Marine officer to led the Naval Air Group, which was adjudged as the best unit of the Navy’s Philippine Fleet for two consecutive years.

Caculitan had also served as the commander of the Philippine peacekeeping contingent to Haiti.

The new commandant of the Marines is a naval aviator who earned the “Best in Flying” award and a top navy graduate at the AFP Command and General Staff Course at Camp Aguinaldo.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2020/12/21/seasoned-officer-named-new-marine-corps-commandant/

Military engineers’ projects constrict ASG movements

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Dec 20, 2020): Military engineers’ projects constrict ASG movements

ZAMBOANGA. Development projects undertaken by military engineers help constrict the movements of the Abu Sayyaf Group in the province of Sulu. A photo handout shows Brigadier General Anthony Cacayuran, commander of 54th Engineering Brigade, whose unit undertakes development projects in Sulu, given arrival honors during his visit Friday, December 18, to the province. (SunStar Zamboanga)

BRIGADIER General Anthony Cacayuran, commander of 54th Engineering Brigade (54EBde), vowed to continue supporting the 11th Infantry Division (ID) in its quest to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and bring about peace in Sulu.

Cacayuran issued the statement as he visited Friday, December 18, 2020, the province of Sulu and paid a courtesy call to Major General William Gonzales, commander of the 11ID, which has jurisdiction over the province.

“The Abu Sayyaf Group is losing its maneuver space as we are constructing farm-to-market roads for the local populace. But then, I am more grateful that our unit is given the opportunity to help and provide the building blocks for economic development here in this province,” Cacayuran said.

The 54EBde caters to engineering development projects to the whole area of Western Mindanao Command and has deployed 545th Engineering Battalion (EBn) to the province of Sulu to provide support to troops, as well as to contribute to socioeconomic development programs of the provincial government.

Gonzales expressed his appreciation for the contribution of the Army Engineers in rehabilitating the conflict areas in Sulu.

“The Provincial Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict led by Governor Abdusakur Tan, and of course supported by our security forces here in Sulu, were able to return back the bakwits (evacuees) to their respective homes. The contribution of the 54EBde is really unique in a sense that their project is immediate yet lasting,” Gonzales said

He said the engineering brigade has built public toilets and water systems in Maligay and Kabbon Takas villages in Patikul before residents formally returned to their communities.

The 545EBn, a unit of the 54EBde, also has ongoing projects in the second district of Sulu, like the road widening of the circumferential road in the municipalities of Luuk and Omar.

Cacayuran has also checked on the progress of the road widening and the situation of 545EBn in the municipality of Luuk. (SunStar Zamboanga)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1880654/Zamboanga/Local-News/Military-engineers-projects-constrict-ASG-movements

NPA rebel slain in Agusan clash

 From the Mindanao Times (Dec 20, 2020): NPA rebel slain in Agusan clash (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

ANOTHER member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an hour-long encounter with the troops of the 3rd Special Forces in Barangay Magsaysay, Agusan Del Sur on Dec. 18.

The military said they have yet to identify the slain rebel.

1Lt Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan, the civil-military operations officer of the battalion, said soldiers clashed with around 30 rebels after stumbling on a hideout by the NPA under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee led by Rizaldy Sumonod alias Mansoy in Sitio Paradise.

Soldiers recovered four M16 cal 5.56 rifles and one AK-47 rifle, one anti-personnel landmine, nine rounds of 40mm bullets for the M203 grenade launcher, fifty rounds of 7.62mm M60 ammo, two sets of commercial radios, 15 backpacks and personal belongings, medical supplies and equipment, three keypad cellular phones, one touchscreen Android phone, and 20-meter electrical wire.

The NPA’s hideout was about 200 square meters (10mx20m) wide, with 15 tents and a makeshift kitchen.

“The succeeding debacles of the CPP-NPA terrorists in Caraga only show that people had enough of them. They no longer have a safe haven in the IP communities because, for sure, they will be reported and tracked down,” Lt. Col. Joey B. Baybayan, the 3rd SF battalion commanding officer, said.

Brig. Gen. Allan D. Hambala, commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade, said, “We are saddened with the fact that another victim of the CPP-NPA-NDF died in vain. We do not want this and that is why we need to support the NTF-ELCAC to put an end to the CNTs’ useless struggle,”

He said the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict will bring peace and development to far-flung communities that were once out of reach of the government. The NPA has been exploiting this to recruit new members by feeding the communities with propaganda and false promises.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Andres Centino, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, called on the remaining NPA rebels to surrender and lead normal lives again.

“The door toward a peaceful life is always open for those who wish to peacefully surrender. Having said that, we will remain focused and enthusiastic on our mission to end local communist armed conflict in the soonest time possible in the Caraga region,” Centino said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/12/21/npa-rebel-slain-in-agusan-clash/

Maj. Gen. Ariel Caculitan is new PH Marines Commandant

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 20, 2020): Maj. Gen. Ariel Caculitan is new PH Marines Commandant (By Martin Sadongdong)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has welcomed Major General Ariel Caculitan as the 33rd Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), replacing now retired Major General Nathaniel Casem.

Photo from PMC / MANILA BULLETIN

Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy, presided over the joint change of command and retirement ceremony held at the Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City last Friday.

Bacordo expressed confidence that the Marines will be able to sustain its operational gains under the leadership of Caculitan, whom he described as “an accomplished and highly-skilled Marine officer.”

Caculitan belongs to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Makatao” Class of 1989 and has several top notch awards under his name.

He graduated on top of his class at the AFP Command and General Staff Course Class 45 in 2007. He also earned the “Best Flying Award” as a naval aviator and an awardee of the 2015 “Ten Outstanding Filipino Soldiers” by the Metrobank Foundation.

Prior to being the Marine commandant, Caculitan held various key positions in the AFP. He served as the commander of the Naval Reserve Force Command since 2019; and deputy commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps from 2018 to 2019.

He also became the Commander of the Combat and Service Support Brigade; Superintendent of the Marine Corps Force Development Center; and Chief of Staff of the Philippine Marine Corps from 2015 to 2018.

Caculitan was the first Marine officer to become the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Personnel from 201 to 2015, and the first to become the Commander of the Naval Air Group — which was adjudged as the best unit of the Philippine Fleet from 2013 to 2014.

In his early career from 2009 to 2011, Caculitan served as the Commander of the Philippine Peacekeeping Contingent to Haiti; became the Director of the Naval Personnel Management Center, and Commanding Officer of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 4 based in Maimbung, Sulu which was adjudged as the best battalion in the military in 2009.

As the Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, Caculitan said he will prioritize the development of the Marines’ national maneuver amphibious force, coastal defense, special operations, and humanitarian and disaster response (HADR) capabilities to improve the performance of the service unit.

He said he will also focus on the integration of the Marine reservists into the regular force and the unit’s subject matter expertise exchanges to beef up and enhance the force of the service unit.

Meanwhile, Bacordo thanked Casem for his services as he retired with a stellar record.

Casem is a member of the PMA Class of 1987 and is a highly-decorated Marine general who hails from Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/12/20/maj-gen-ariel-caculitan-is-new-ph-marines-commandant/

CPP: Pagsalvage ng PNP sa asset nitong si Alcanso, pakanang paninira sa Rebolusyonaryong Kilusan at panakip-krimen ng PNP at AFP

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 20, 2020): Pagsalvage ng PNP sa asset nitong si Alcanso, pakanang paninira sa Rebolusyonaryong Kilusan at panakip-krimen ng PNP at AFP

RAYMUNDO BUENFUERZA

SPOKESPERSON

BICOL REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND

ROMULO JALLORES COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

DECEMBER 20, 2020

Walang kaugnayan ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan kay Jonel Alcanso, lider ng Alcanso Gun for Hire group, isang armadong grupong sindikatong hawak ng PNP Camarines Norte. Si Alcanso, kasama ang isa pang nagngangalang Joseph Piat, ay pinatay ng pinagsamang pwersa ng Regional Intelligence Unit V, Camarines Norte Provincial Intelligence Branch, PNP-SAF, PMFC at PNP Labo sa kani-kanilang tahanan sa Purok 3, Brgy. Anamiba, Labo, Camarines Norte nang umano’y manlaban matapos silbihan ng search warrant.

Si Alcanso ay hawak ng PNP Camarines Norte at kasapi rin ng armadong grupong sindikatong “Hukbong Itim” na hawak naman ng militar. Notoryus itong impostor at ginagamit ang pangalan ng NPA sa mga kriminal na aktibidad tulad ng panghoholdap, pangingikil at iba pang ipagawang krimen ng PNP upang siraan ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan habang pinayayaman ang ilang mga upisyal ng pulis at militar sa prubinsya.

Ang pamamaslang ng PNP at AFP sa sarili nilang mga asset ay gasgas na pakana upang pagtakpan ang pagkasangkot ng mga upisyal ng militar at pulis mga kriminal na aktibidad sa tabing ng pagdungis sa kredibilidad ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Tiyak na pinatay si Alcanso at Piat dahil hindi na ito makontrol, nilalamangan na ang kanyang mga handler na upisyal ng pulis sa mga kubra mula sa minahan at iba pang sindikatong aktibidad at sa gayo’y liability na ng PNP Camarines Norte. Tiyak ring bahagi ito ng pagtatakip ng 96th IB sa pinsalang kanilang tinamo mula sa matagumpay na ambus ng yunit ng Armando Catapia Command – Bagong Hukbong Bayan sa Brgy. Ba’ay, Labo, sa naturang probinsya nito lamang ika-13 ng Disyembre 2020.

Sa katunayan, kasabay si Alcanso sa naganap na sagupaan ng pulis at ng kanyang grupong Hukbong Itim noong Marso 5, 2019 sa Brgy. Tuaca, Bayan ng Basud na ipinalabas ng militar bilang umano’y enkwentro sa NPA. Matatandaang nagpalabas ng pahayag ang Armando Catapia Command – Bagong Hukbong Bayan Camarines Norte (ACC – BHB Cam Norte) upang pabulaanan ang naturang enkwentro at ilantad ang umiiral na sindikatong kontrolado ng militar at pulis sa prubinsya. Sa naturang sagupaan, pinatay din ng mga pulis ang impostor at asset ng militar na si Jonathan Brondia na dating kasamahan ni Alcanso.

Dapat malalim na imbestigahan ang naturang pamamaslang, higit at iginigiit ng pamilya na sinalvage at hindi nanlaban ang dalawang biktima. Nananawagan ang Romulo Jallores Command – Bagong Hukbong Bayan Bikol (RJC – BHB Bikol) sa mamamayan ng Camarines Norte na makipagtulungan sa ACC – BHB Cam Norte upang mabigyang kalinawan ang naturang pamamaslang.#

https://cpp.ph/statements/pagsalvage-ng-pnp-sa-asset-nitong-si-alcanso-pakanang-paninira-sa-rebolusyonaryong-kilusan-at-panakip-krimen-ng-pnp-at-afp/

CPP/CIO: Panawagan kaugnay ng pagsalanta ng bagyo sa hilagang Mindanao

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 19, 2020): Panawagan kaugnay ng pagsalanta ng bagyo sa hilagang Mindanao

MARCO VALBUENA

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

DECEMBER 19, 2020

Ang mga Pulang mandirigma at organisasyong masa sa mga prubinsya ng Davao Oriental, Agusan Norte at Sur at sa Surigao del Norte at Sur ay pinakikilos ngayon upang alalayan ang ilampung libong magsasakang nasalanta ng mga malawakang pagbaha at pagguho ng lupa bunga ng bagyong Vicky.

Kalapin ang kinakailangang suplay na pangkagipitan tulad ng pagkain, tubig, damit at iba pa. Siguruhing makararating iyon sa masang sinalanta sa pinakaliblib na mga lugar.

Siguruhing ipatupad ang mga hakbangin upang tiyaking muling makabangon ang mga magsasaka na bago pa man ang bagyo’y nilulumpo na ng masidhing krisis sa ekonomya. Suportahan ang pakikibaka nila para sa ayuda, suspensyon sa upa at utang, makatwirang presyo sa produkto at iba pang kagyat na hakbangin.

Ang malawakang mga pagbaha sa kabila ng hindi kalakasang bagyo ay tanda nh labis na pagkawasak ng mga kagubatan at kabundukan dulot ng malawakang pagtrotroso at pagmimina. Kumilos para ihinto ang pandarambong sa kalikasan.

https://cpp.ph/statements/panawagan-kaugnay-ng-pagsalanta-ng-bagyo-sa-hilagang-mindanao/

Kalinaw News: 30 Former Rebels receive financial aid from DSWD

 Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 20, 2020): 30 Former Rebels receive financial aid from DSWD

The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion facilitated the release of financial assistance for thirty (30) former rebels (FRs) who are currently seeking temporary refuge in a halfway house at the unit’s headquarters in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
The distribution of the financial aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development
(DSWD) was conducted last December 8, 2020.

Each of the thirty (30) FRs received PHP10,000 cash benefit from the DSWD which is
intended for their personal needs such as clothing, medicines and other necessary items
while staying at the halfway house and processing their benefits from the Enhanced
Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government.

Apart from the financial assistance, the FRs also received hygiene kits, sleeping kits, and
food packs.

Alias “Judy” is among the FRs at the 23rd IB who benefited from the recent release of cash
assistance.

“Dako kayo og tabang ang gihatag sa gobyerno sa amo hilabi na ang DSWD nga inabagan
sa 23rd IB. Makapalit na ako sa mga panginahanglanon, ilabi na sa akong mga anak
samtang ako naga process sa akong benepisyo nga makuha sa ECLIP program sa
gobyerno. Daghang salamant niini nga tabang. Ako makasulti nga ang gobyerno anaa
kanunay ug andam motabang ilabi na kanamo nga mga kanhing nahisalaag tungod sa
pagpanglingla sa komunistang grupo. Ang kasundalohan, ilabi na ang 23rd IB u gang mga
ahensiya sa gobyerno wala gayud nagpasagad kanamo,” Judy said.

2018 2015 2014

Judy added that she did not regret her decision to abandon the New People’s Army (NPA)
to return to the government and her family. She also asked those who are still inside the
communist movement to make up their mind and return to the fold of the law.

“Balik na kamo sa atong gobyerno. Ayaw na sayanga ang inyong kinabuhi sa walay pulos
nga pakigbisog kontran sa atong gobyerno. Biyai na ninyo kanang sayop nga ideolohiya ug
gimbuhaton sa NPA kay wala gayud kana ikatabang kaninyo, sa inyong pamilya ug sa
atong katilingban. Hawa na kamo niana nga kalihukan ug ubani ang inyong pamilya ilabi na
karong kasaulogan sa pasko,” Judy said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB thanked the DSWD for providing
immediate assistance to the FRs.

He also emphasized the sincerity of the government in helping the former combatants who
decide to leave the communist movement.

“The government and the Army’s 23rd IB will always adhere to its promises of helping the
FRs transform their lives, from combatants to productive and progressive members of
communities,” Paulo said.

He hoped that the assistance given by the government will help the FRs in their daily needs
while processing their benefits from the ECLIP program of the government.

“Through the implementation of the different socio-economic programs and financial
assistance provided by the government under the Executive Order No. 70 and the ECLIP,
we can assure that the lives of our FRs will be improved. What is important is for the FRs to
obtain sustainable livelihoods that they can use to supply the daily needs of their families,”
Paulo said.

He also reiterated his call to the remaining NPA rebels in the area to surrender and receive
the benefits from the programs of the government.

“You still have the time to change your lives. Surrender now and avail of the programs and
services being offered by the government,” Paulo 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/30-former-rebels-receive-financial-aid-from-dswd/

Kalinaw News: E-CLIP team inaugurates halfway house for former rebels in Misamis Oriental

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 20, 2020): E-CLIP team inaugurates halfway house for former rebels in Misamis Oriental



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental- The Province of Misamis Oriental inaugurated the new Halfway house for Former Rebels during a simple ceremony held at Provincial Police Office (PPO), San Martin, Villanueva yesterday, December 18, 2020.

The said inauguration was graced by Hon. Yevgeny Vincente Emano, Provincial Governor of Misamis Oriental and was attended by Engr. Marisia Naybe, Provincial Director of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), MGen. Andres C Centino, Commander of 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, BGen. Maurito L Licudine, Commander of 402nd Infantry “Stingers” Brigade, BGen. Ferdinand T Barandon, Commander of 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade, PCol. Raniel Vallones, Police Director of PNP Misamis Oriental, and Lt. Col Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB. Present also are the head of offices of different government agencies.

Meanwhile, DILG PD Marisia Naybe emphasized that the said halfway house will serve as temporary shelter for the FRs while the concerned unit processes their enrolment to the Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). Likewise, it will serve as a facility for FRs in conducting social healing and reconciliation, rehabilitation, and education and skills training activities that the government would offer.

The establishment of the halfway house is one of the benefits under E-CLIP which is a convergence effort of the National Government Agencies (NGAs) to assist the FRs in returning to the mainstream society. Moreover, E-CLIP was designed to provide not just financial assistance to former rebels, but also to provide them transitional shelters through the construction of halfway houses.

As embodied in the Executive Order No.70 (EO70), the beneficiaries of the program are members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People’s Army (NPA), and National Democratic Front (NDF) who have shown their desire to abandon the armed struggle and become productive members of the society.

PD Naybe also mentioned that the house which can accommodate 35 FRs would address the long-prevailing problem about the accommodation of former rebels while preparing them for community reintegration.

On the other hand, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB said, “The former rebels showed their trust to the government and their sincerity to become productive members of the society by surrendering. They have done their part and next is for us to assist them and go along with them in their journey towards their reintegration to society.”

“Through this, they can be slowly reintegrated to the mainstream society, be with their families, and start over with their new and peaceful lives,” Lt. Col. Canatoy ended.

[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/e-clip-team-inaugurates-halfway-house-for-former-rebels-in-misamis-oriental/

Kalinaw News: 35 Former Rebels Received Crisis Intervention Assistance from the Government

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 20, 2020): 35 Former Rebels Received Crisis Intervention Assistance from the Government



CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan Del Norte– On December 19, 2020, as part of the Executive Order No. 70 that is a whole-of-nation approach in ending local communistarmed conflict and directs the adoption of a national peace framework. the 29IB assists the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) CARAGARegion and the Provincial Social Welfare Office (PSWDO) Agusan del Norte in the distribution of Crisis Intervention Assistance to 35 Former Rebels who surrendered at the 29th Infantry Battalion. The program is part of the support DSWD for the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Program.

Assistance packages handed over to each of the 35 FRs during the event included cash assistance worth 10,000 pesos, food packs, hygiene kits and personal items.

The cash assistance will help the FRs in the sustainment of their chosen livelihood and will also serve as an early Christmas gift for them. Ms. Rosalind Sur, Focal Person of the E-CLIP Committee in the province of Agusan del Sur (PSWDO) said, “ECLIP is a program of the government that was created by our President intended for you and we are so grateful that you have returned again to the folds of our government. Let us give a round of applause for us all because we can finally achieve peace. I wish you a Merry Merry Christmas”

Ms. Lenbie May Comandante (DSWD Representative) said “We are thankful that you have returned to the folds of our government and we are hoping that this little gift will help you in aiding your needs.”

LtCol. Aristotle F. Antonio, Acting Commanding Officer of 29IB said, “our FRs are very lucky with the outpouring of resources for assistance. There is effectiveness of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte in the implementation of E-CLIP with the partnership displayed between the local government unit and different government agencies. It is high time for the members of communist-terrorist group to return to the folds of our government because this activity is a proof that our
government will support them as they pledge to live a peaceful life.”

Alyas Kris, a Former Rebel gave her response, “As a Former Rebel who moved from mountains to mountains, I was deceived to fight against the government that truly only wants us to have a better life. To my former colleagues, descend now from the mountain and join me and our brothers and sisters who are now experiencing the life wherein we tend to get all the benefits and support from our government.”

With all these government efforts, the government will be able to bring down the CPP-NPA-NDF sooner. Peace and prosperity is finally at their doorsteps.

[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/35-former-rebels-received-crisis-intervention-assistance-from-the-government/

Kalinaw News: LGU, Business Owners Unite with Army against NPA Extortion in Butuan City

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 20, 2020): LGU, Business Owners Unite with Army against NPA Extortion in Butuan City



CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – The Local Government Unit and business owners of Butuan City expressed their commitment to the Army’s 402nd Infantry Brigade against the CPP-NPA-NDF extortion activities in Butuan City during the Stakeholders Security Forum on Peace and Development held at Y-Hotel, Montilla Boulevard, Butuan City on December 17, 2020.

A total of sixteen (16) business owners belonging to the Butuan City Chamber of Commerce (BCCC) and Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce Association Incorporated (FCCCAI) participated in the said forum showing their support to finally put a stop to the CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) extortion activities in the city.

The forum aimed to educate the participants on the NPA Extortion Scheme, embolden the business owners to stop yielding to the CNT’s extortion demands and institute efforts to synergize collaboration in ending the CNT extortion activities. It was attended by Mr Rey Desiata, the City Administrator of Butuan City; Director Charissa T Guerta, CESO V, CLGOO of Butuan City, Brigadier General Maurito L Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander; Lt Col Julius Cesar Paulo Jr, 23IB Commanding Officer; and representatives from PRO13 and Butuan City Police Office.

It can be recalled that last July 18, 2020, a total of twenty-five (25) contractors and construction firm owners and security officers together with the Provincial Government of Agusan Del Norte led by Governor Dale B Corvera and the 4th Infantry Division led by Major General Andres Centino, also gathered for the same purpose and presented actions to end the CTG extortion activities in the province.

During the presentation on the CTG extortion scheme in the said forum, Captain Daryl Secong, Operations Officer of the 402nd Brigade, bared that an average of P15, 000.00 to P20, 000.00 have been extorted from various establishments in Butuan City on a monthly basis.

“This is about Php9,380,000 in a year which unfortunately contributed to the growth and sustainment of the strength of the CPP-NPA Terrorist operating in the area. We appeal for your participation in our effort to drastically decrease, or even stop, the NPA fund generation”, Capt Secong urged business owners.

The disclosure of the amount of collected extortion money from business owners in Butuan City and other areas in Agusan del Norte were supported by the revelation of alias Ka Lyn-lyn during the forum. She was a former ‘tax collector’ and designated extortionist of Guerilla Front (GF) 21 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) who surrendered to the Police Regional Office 13 sometime on June 2020.

Brigadier General Maurito L Licudine, Commander of the 402nd Brigade, underscores the surrender of alias Lyn-lyn as another fatal blow to the terrorist group resource generation scheme after several of its Finance Officers conducting extortion activities in Agusan del Norte and some parts of Caraga Region were either captured or killed by the joint law enforcement operations of the Philippine Army and the PNP.

“The extortion capacitates the NPA to perpetrate atrocities. From CY 2010 to date, there are 166 government troops have paid the ultimate sacrifice and 113 innocent civilians were mercilessly murdered and violated by the treacherous communist terrorists all because someone decided to pay one peso to the NPAs”, Brigadier General Licudine said.

On October 22, 2020, three (3) revolutionary tax collectors under GF4A were apprehended by the joint elements of 23IB, Magallanes MPS, ADN PIU and ADNPMFC. The apprehended personalities were the resource and fund generating team of GF4A. They received and collected the money extorted by Jelan Pinakilid alias Baking, Finance Officer, GF-4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) thru the use of money transfer (Palawan Pawnshop) several times in Magallanes Municipality.

Meanwhile, the officials of the two (2) business chambers of Butuan City who were present during the forum offered their assurance of support and cooperation not to give in to the threats and intimidations of the CTGs.

Likewise, Mr Desiata pledged on behalf of the LGU Butuan City to continue working with the business owners. He assured that the LGU Butuan City led by Mayor Ronnie Vicente C Lagnada recognized the pressing problem and shall collaborate with the Philippine Army and PNP to touch base with the establishments who were extorted by the CTG.

“We also urge our colleagues in the Task Force ELCAC and our politicians, to please synergize effort in order for us to prevent NPA extortion activities in the locality. Let us educate companies, business owners and fellow politicians that paying extortion to the NPAs will empower more our common enemy, impede economic growth and will only bring more suffering to our constituents” he ended.

[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/lgu-business-owners-unite-with-army-against-npa-extortion-in-butuan-city/

Kalinaw News: Top Brass Terrorist nabbed by joint AFP and PNP units in Mis Or

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 20, 2020): Top Brass Terrorist nabbed by joint AFP and PNP units in Mis Or

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental- A Search Warrant conducted by combined troops of the Army’s 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion and Salay Municipal Police Station (MPS) resulted to the arrest of a female high-ranking member of New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Looc, Salay, Misamis Oriental last December 17, 2020.

The subject of said search warrant was Urcyril Dave Jabagat y Gultiano alias Tolins, a top brass member of the NPA; unfortunately, he was not present during the conduct of operation. Present was his wife, Marish Jabagat y Caballes alias Maura/Joan, 27 years old, married, and a resident of Purok 4, Brgy Looc, Salay, Misamis Oriental who was arrested through Warrant of Arrest issued by Hon. Fernando R Fudalan Jr., Acting Presiding Judge of 10th RTC Branch 7, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur last January 30, 2020 for two (2) counts of Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention.

Alias Joan served as the Political Instructor of Platoon 2, Headquarters Force- Neo, North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC) as well as Logistical Staff of NCMRC.

The conduct of search warrant was witnessed by Hon. Felix Agocoy, Barangay Chairman of Looc, and Hon. David Damasing, Barangay Councilor of Looc.

Recovered from their possession were IED paraphernalia composed of four (4) blasting caps, two (2) switch box assembly, two (2) 9-volt batteries, and one (1) meter of detonating cord. Also, additional recovered items were subversive documents that include sample of NPA extortion letters.

According to their neighbors, they have been suspicious of the suspects’ movements considering the government health protocols for COVID-19. However, their identities and presence in the area were unknown to the barangay officials.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB lauded the participation and actions of the barangay officials that helped in the arrest of alias Joan. “Their vigilance in accounting newcomers in their area during this pandemic somehow contributed to the apprehension of terrorists who continue to disturb the peace and order of the community,” said Lt. Col. Canatoy.

“The arrest of the terrorist is a result of the intensified campaign of the AFP and PNP against insurgency to attain inclusive peace for the communities in Mis Or. Further, together with the PNP, we will be conducting more joint operations to disable them from their terrorist activities and eventually destroy their organization,” he added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/top-brass-terrorist-nabbed-by-joint-afp-and-pnp-units-in-mis-or/

Army helps settle clan war in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21, 2020): Army helps settle clan war in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

CLASP OF PEACE. Members of Moro families locked in long-standing clan war have agreed to end the dispute peacefully on Sunday (Dec. 20) with the help of the Army and the local government in Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao. The warring families, whose identities were withheld, vowed to contribute to peace and development in the municipality. (Photo courtesy of 33rd IB)

The Philippine Army, with the help of town officials of Rajah Buayan in Maguindanao, has put an end to a long-standing family feud that had claimed lives and destroyed properties in the past.

The Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Colonel Elmer Boongaling, facilitated the covenant signing on Dec. 20 of warring families to end the bloody family feud in Barangay Panadtaban of Rajah Buayan town.

With the help of Mayor Yacob Ampatuan and Vice Mayor Bai Sittie Jinn Princess Lumenda, the Army brought the warring families to the negotiating table and made them sign a peace covenant and swear before the Qur’an that they will no longer use violence to settle their misunderstanding.

“They request that their names be withheld,” Ampatuan said of the families locked in “rido” (family feud) for decades.

“What is important is they buried their misunderstanding and vowed to work together in their village as true brothers and sisters in Islam,” the mayor added.

Boongaling said more settlement programs would take place in the coming days as the Army and the local government of Rajah Buayan prioritized clan war settlement to attain peace and development.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125316