Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 12/25/20

Friday, December 25, 2020

Kalinaw News: High-ranking NPA terrorist leader killed in Northern Samar clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 24, 2020): High-ranking NPA terrorist leader killed in Northern Samar clash

CAMP SUMUROY, Brgy. Dalakit, Catarman, Northern Samar – A high-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist leader was killed in a 30-minute encounter in San Isidro town Northern Samar, morning of December 21, 2020.The troops of the 43rd Infantry Battalion clashed with around 60 Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) with the aid of new military technology that pinpointed the location of the enemy in the vicinity of Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro. The clash resulted to the death of a certain alias ‘Apple’, Secretary of Front Committee 2, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Emporium, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) whose body was left behind by the retreating comrades. No casualty was reported on the government side. Meanwhile, the government troops successfully overran the CNT’s lair that can accommodate more or less 60 rebels consisting of 30 bunkers, two sentinel posts, three comfort rooms, one kitchen and one mess hall and several firearms. The troops also recovered one cellular phone, two bottles of dextrose and subversive documents of high intelligence value. According to the Commanding Officer of the 43rd Infantry Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Raymundo C Picut Jr. the timely and accurate information given by the residents helped in the neutralization of the armed group responsible for the recent atrocities in Northern Samar.

“Tuloy-tuloy po ang inyong kasundalohan sa pagbabantay at pagseserbisyo sa ating mga kababayan para masigurong ligtas sa panggugulo at pangingikil ng mga NPA ngayong panahon ng kapaskohan.” “Nagpapasalamat ako sa impormasyon ng mga taga barangay at sa tulong na rin ng makabagong teknolohiya ay naging matagumpay ang ating operasyon laban sa mga teroristang grupo. Nakakalungkot lang isipin na ilang araw na lang ay sasapit na ang Pasko at may isang pamilya na nawalan ng mahal sa buhay ng dahil lang sa ipinaglalaban na maling idiolohiya. Kaya sa mga kapatid natin na nasa kilusan pa, bumaba na kayo at magbalik-loob sa gobyerno. Masarap ang mamuhay na kapiling ang pamilya.” Picut 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/high-ranking-npa-terrorist-leader-killed-in-northern-samar-clash-2/

Kalinaw News: High Ranking NPA Official Falls in NegOc

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 24, 2020): High Ranking NPA Official Falls in NegOc

CAUAYAN, Negros Occidental – The Army’s 15th Infantry (Molave Warrior) Battalion intercepted and arrested a High Ranking New People’s Army (NPA) Official in Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental on 22 December 2020.

The 15 IB troopers, together with the Philippine National Police Joint Law Enforcement Security Operations, arrested the 43-year-old Radino Giltendez Villacarillo with aliases Romil G. Villacarillo, Poldo, Rading, Ado, Kanor, Baldo, Tauros, and Yongyong. Giltendez is currently the Regional Committee (RCOM) Secretary of the Second National Urban Center (2NURC), formerly known as Cebu Party Committee, and serves as the Military Hardware Liaison for Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR-NCBS) Regional Operational Command (ROC) Ordnance Staff. He was also a former Regional Committee Member of Komiteng Rehiyon- Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR-NCBS); Commanding Officer, Rehiyon Sentro De Grabidad (RSDG) KR-Negros Front; Committee Member of North Negros Front (NNF); and Front Operational Command North Negros Front (FOC NNF).

The following war materiel was recovered from his possession: one (1) caliber 45 automatic pistol; one (1) magazines; two (2) hand grenades; two (2) laptop computers; eight (8) cellular phones; two (2) pocket Wi-Fi; external drive; four (4) USB; and (1) unregistered motorcycle and subversive documents.

Lieutenant Colonel Erwin Cariño, 15IB Commanding Officer, said the arrest of High Ranking NPA is another major setback to the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorists operating in Negros Island.

Lt. Col Cariño said that allegedly, Poldo was among the NPA insiders tasked by the rebel group to spy not only on various personalities in urban areas but also to closely monitor the operations of the Special Partisan Unit (SPARU).”

“He was also tasked to keep in touch with politicians sympathizers with their cause, for him to move freely in different municipalities, district clinics, as well as churches,” Cariño said.

Cariño ensures that the15IB together with the PNP will continuously monitor and look into this type of “modus operandi.”

Meanwhile, Colonel Leonardo Peña, Commander of Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade, lauded the15IB Troopers and PNP counterparts’ effort and commitment.

“The successful Joint Enhanced Military and Police Operation manifests the strong commitment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police assigned in Negros,” Peña said.

“With a stronger collaboration, your Army, together with the Philippine National Police, will work hand in hand to protect the Negrenses against the NPA terrorist group,” Peña added.

Kalinaw News: Another NPA combatant yields to Army as Christmas is fast approaching

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 24, 2020): Another NPA combatant yields to Army as Christmas is fast approaching

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental. December 22- A top brass member of the New People’s Army voluntarily surrendered without firearms to 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion at Headquarters 58IB, Sitio Migbanday, Poblacion, Claveria, Misamis Oriental three days before Christmas.

The surrenderee is identified as Urcyril Dave Gultiano Jabagat alias Tolins, 31 years old, a resident of Purok 4, Brgy Looc, Salay, Misamis Oriental, and a staff member of Headquarters Force- Neo, North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC). Also, he is the husband of Marish Jabagat y Caballes alias Joan who is a Political Instructor of Platoon 2, Headquarters Force- Neo, NCMRC.

It can be recalled that last December 17, 2020, his wife, alias Joan was arrested in their house in Brgy Looc, Salay, Misamis Oriental through a search warrant against alias Tolins that was conducted by the combined forces of the 58IB and Salay Municipal Police Station (MPS).

According to Alias Tolins, he wanted to surrender last September when he came down from the mountain but, it was set aside because he was preoccupied with their livelihood and a search warrant is already issued against him.

Moreover, a day after the arrest of his wife, her sister wrote him a letter encouraging him to surrender and avail the programs of the government. He then decided to surrender because he also does not want to spend Christmas alone hiding from the government authority while his wife was arrested.

Alias Tolins expressed his gratitude to the government for extending their arms to him. “Daku akong pasalamat sa gobyerno ilabi na sa 58IB sa pagdawat kanaku sa kagustuhan nakung magbalik loob ug makabaton ug kalinaw. Nanghinaot ko nga unta sensero ang gobyerno sa kung unsa ang mga plano ug programa nga makatabang ug makapalambo sa katawhan aron matuldokan na ang ugat hinungdan nganung naay NPA,” alias Tolins said.

In return, Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB conveyed his gratitude to the surrenderee for his decision to return to the folds of the law. “I also commend his sister for her deed which contributed to the achievement of our mission. In lieu, I urged everyone to encourage your family members who are still in the organization to leave the armed struggle and make your family complete this Christmas season. We assure you that your Philippine Army will assist you in processing your enrolment to the Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP),” Lt. Col. Canatoy said.

Alias Tolins is now in the custody of 58IB while awaiting for the processing of his enrolment to E-CLIP.

[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/another-npa-combatant-yields-to-army-as-christmas-is-fast-approaching/

Kalinaw News: Female NPA Terrorist killed in a clash with Army troops in SurSur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 25, 2020): Female NPA Terrorist killed in a clash with Army troops in SurSur

Brgy Magroyong, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur (Stn) – One (1) female New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist was killed in a firefight with the operating troops of the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion, 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army in Purok Quarry, Sitio Kabalawan, Brgy Anahao Daan, Tago, Surigao del Sur on December 23, 2020.

The clash occurred at around 5:00 o’clock in the afternoon between the government troops and more or less ten (10) Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) of SYP Platoon, Guerilla Front 19 (GF19), North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) under Mario Himo Y Pison @ REN-REN/COBY, which resulted in the death of one (1) female NPA terrorist and the recovery of one (1) AK47 rifle, two (2) bandoliers, nine (9) magazines with one hundred sixty-seven (167) live ammunitions, fifty (50) meters blasting cord, cellular phones, subversive documents, back packs with personal belongings and assorted food supplies.

Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey A Villarosa, Commanding Officer of 75IB, said, “we are thankful to the residents of Anahao Daan and the nearby barangay of Bangsud for the information they provided about the presence of the NPA unit of AKA Renren/Coby. They have had enough of the extortion and the NPAs mere menacing presence. The residents’ timely and corroborating reports helped us a lot in accurately locating the terrorists, thus, this armed encounter. We are saddened though for the wasteful demise of the still to be identified female NPA member. We are closely working with Anahao Daan officials and Tago LGU for the proper identification and disposition of the cadaver.”

It must be recalled that SDS PLGU, Tago LGU, National Line Agencies, and 75IB, witnessed the mass surrender of Militia ng Bayan members and withdrawal of support of around 300 members of the underground mass organizations of the NPA of Guerilla Front 19 under Corazon de Jesus aka AKIRA during the grand pulong-pulong and serbisyo caravan in barangays Lindoy, Layog and Caras-an all of Tago, and barangays Libasud, San Roque and Bolhoon all of San Miguel. The ex-NPA supporters showed their retraction of support to the NPAs in a simple but solemn Oath of Allegiance to the Philippine Constitution. Among the commitments that the ex-NPA supporters gave to the government forces is that they will fervently help insulate their respective communities from the NPAs when they attempt to return by timely reporting any NPA presence or any NPA attempt to re-establish contact to any of the residents of their place.

“This encounter is a concrete manifestation of the residents’ commitment to help rid their communities with the NPA menace. They no longer want the communist terrorists to deceive and take advantage of them again. On the other hand, I call on the families and loved ones of active NPA members and NPA militias, your duly constituted government sincerely intends to give them another chance to live peaceful lives. Closely work with us so we can recover your family members and loved ones from the terrorists before it is too late. Let us take them back from the clutches of the NPAs. Their voluntary surrender will make them eligible to the benefits of our government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) and amnesty,” Villarosa ended.

Kalinaw News: 2 NPAs killed, firearms seized in a clash against government forces during Christmas Eve

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 25, 2020): 2 NPAs killed, firearms seized in a clash against government forces during Christmas Eve

SIATON, Negros Oriental – Elements of the 11th Infantry (Lapu-Lapu) Battalion, Philippine Army encountered remnants of Southeast Front, Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor (SEF, KR – NCBS) at Sitio Libjo, Barangay Napacao, Siaton, Negros Oriental at about 7:25 PM of December 24, 2020 (Thursday).

The encounter happened after the government forces received reports from concerned residents and Barangay officials on the presence of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in the said area.

After the exchange of firefight during that night, the troops were able to outmaneuver the said terrorists and successfully seized their position.

The encounter resulted in the recovery of two dead bodies of communist-terrorists together with their firearms; one caliber 5.56mm M653 (Baby Armalite) and one caliber .45 pistol. Also recovered from the encounter site were subversive documents, one bandolier with two magazines of M14, one backpack with medical supplies, two backpacks with personal belongings and medical paraphernalia.

As of this writing, the troops are still in the process of scouring the perimeter of the encounter; while the PNP SOCO team are checking the cadavers and pieces of evidence for forensic investigation as part of the processing of the crime scene.

Lieutenant Colonel Ramir J Redosendo, Commanding Officer of the 11th Infantry (Lapu-Lapu) Battalion, Philippine Army, stated, “We would like to thank the residents and Barangay officials of Barangay Napacao for these efforts as they provided the necessary information needed which led to the successful engagement against the NPA. This is also brought about by the intensified peace and security operations being undertaken through the Joint Enhanced Military and Police Operation (JEMPO).”

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those killed communist-terrorists. This could not have happened if the leaders of this communist-terrorist organization did not deceive and offered lies to its members,” Lt Col Redosendo added.

Colonel Leonardo Peña, the Commander of 302nd Infantry Brigade, stressed that “May this encounter serve as a lesson to all members of the CPP-NPAs and we reiterate our message to their remaining members just to lay down their arms and come back to the folds of the law to embrace the peace offered by the government and be reconciled with their families. It is just unfortunate that lives were being wasted for a cause that offers no solution but only armed struggle and deception. In this celebration of Christmas, we will appreciate you coming to us and we will help you join your family like your former comrades who are now happily celebrating holidays with their respective loved ones.”

Major General Eric C Vinoya, the Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, in his statement, said, “The incident is unfortunate but necessary in protecting more of our kababayans from the terroristic activities of the CPP NPA. Your Philippine Army will continue to fulfill its mandate 24/7 as more soldiers will be deployed on the ground just to make sure that everyone can celebrate the holiday season safe and sound.”

“We have been telling this all along, that there will be no good in fighting the government through violence and terrorism as the Philippine Army is mightier than any terrorist group such as the NPA. They only have two options, surrender or die fighting a lost cause,” Vinoya added.

Lieutenant General Roberto T Ancan, Commander of Central Command, AFP said in his statement, “Sa atong mga ka igso-onan nga myembro sang NPA naga hinaot ko unta nga mubalik na kamu sa sabakan sang atong gobyerno arun manginabuhi ug magpuyo nga malinawon. Ikanaog dal a inyung pusil para makadawat benepisyu ug magsugod sang bag-ong kinabuhi uban sa inyung mga pamilya. Sa mga tao sa komunidad, maraming salamat sa tulong at pagpapaabot ng impormasyon dahil alam natin na sawa na kayo sa perwisyo ng mga NPA sa inyong lugar.”

Lt Gen Ancan also lauded the troops for the successful encounter, “Sa tropa ng 11IB, ng 302nd Brigade at ng JTF Spear/3ID at maging sa ating mga kapulisan na naging katulong nila sa pagsugpo ng ganitong kasamaan, congratulations at maraming salamat sa mga sakripisyo para makamtan ang tunay na kapayapaan at katahimikan para sa mga taga-Negros Oriental.”

https://www.kalinawnews.com/2-npas-killed-firearms-seized-in-a-clash-against-government-forces-during-christmas-eve/

Kalinaw News: Army Units Recognized as Best RCSP Implementing Partner in Caraga

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 26, 2020): Army Units Recognized as Best RCSP Implementing Partner in Caraga

CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – In time with the celebration of the AFP’s 85th Founding Anniversary, Army units in Caraga region received awards and plaques for their contribution to the implementation of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) during the RCSP Awarding Ceremony held at Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, Brgy Doongan, Butuan City on December 21, 2020.

During the awarding ceremony dubbed as “Incentivizing LGUs and Implementing Partners in RCSP Practices, Advocacy and Services”, DILG Caraga region recognized Army units, Local Government Units and Local Government Agencies who contributed immensely as partners in the implementation of the RCSP in the region.

Ms Annabelle Yangson, the Local Government Capability Development Division Chief of DILG Caraga, said “We will be recognizing LGUs, NGAs, RCSP Teams and Innovations as a gesture of our appreciation in the demonstration of their dedication and commitment instrumental in achieving the objectives of the RCSP”.

The RCSP is a convergence mechanism for local governments, particularly in the barangay level for the identification of issues and needed government interventions. It is an offshoot of the Community Support Program (CSP) conducted by the Philippine Army where CSP Teams are immersed in the barangays categorized as Geographically Isolated, Disadvantaged and Conflict Affected Areas to address the socio economic and infrastructure issues and concerns that fuels the insurgency to thrive in the said areas.

Recognized as Regional Awardees for Best RCSP Implementing Partner (NGA Category) with a Plaque of Award were Charlie Company of the 23IB under the operational control of the 402nd Brigade based in Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte and the 9th Special Forces Company of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion based in Surigao del Sur for their collaborative and active partnership in the implementation of the RCSP which contributed to the successful pursuit of peace and development in the region while Major Francisco P Garello Jr, the Civil Military Operations Officer of the 402nd Bridade, along with Dr Emmanuel Victor Ozarraga of Gawad Kalinga, a Civil Society Organization, also received a Plaque of Appreciation for their commendable commitment and unwavering support to the RCSP.

Awarded also with Plaques of Appreciation for their unwavering support extended in the implementation of the RCSP epitomizing the whole of government approach, contributing significantly to the pursuit of lasting and inclusive peace and development in the region were the Army Brigades in Caraga region namely: 401st Brigade, 901st Brigade and 402nd Brigade, and the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division based in Cagayan de Oro City and an NGA, Philippine Information Agency Caraga.

Meanwhile, the City of Cabadbaran of Agusan del Norte and Municipality of San Miguel of Surigao del Sur were chosen as the regional finalist for the Best RCSP Teams and Core Teams LGU Category while Agusan del Sur bested other provinces for most number of awards received during the said awarding ceremony.

“We are sincerely grateful for the recognition, particularly the DILG and the LGUs who nominated Army units. As we celebrate the 85th AFP’s Founding anniversary, we are truly honored that our stakeholders appreciate the sacrifices of our soldiers. It is the satisfaction and simple gesture of recognition from stakeholders that emboldens our resolve to continue serving and protecting the people. It definitely uplifts our morale as we offer these awards to the soldiers, the men and women who are at the frontlines braving risk of life and implementing various interventions in collaboration with partner agencies and other stakeholders to end the local communist armed conflict in the region”, BGen Licudine said.

Kalinaw News: NPA Cadres surrender during entrapment operations

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 26, 2020): NPA Cadres surrender during entrapment operations

MAGPET, COTABATO – Thru deliberate and relentless planning against high profile NPA Cadre, the combined Combat Operation of Scout Platoon and Special Intelligence Operations of Intel Section of 72nd Infantry “Gabay” Battalion under the supervision of LTC Rey T Alvarado, entrapped that led to surrender of two full time NPA Cadres of Sub Regional Committee 3 and Guerilla Front 53 and later declared their withdrawal of support from the CPP-NPA-NDF last November 29, 2020.

The surrenderees were identified as certain @Macoy/Greg/Raprap, 30yrs old Secretary, SRC3 (PSRL) and his party wife @Pops/Elai, 26 yrs old, fulltime member of GF53, both from Southern Mindanao Regional Committee. Due to physical exhaustion, weakened party leadership, weakening of mass bases; series of neutralization of other high profile NPA Cadres, false promises of of the Communist Terrorist Groups; and specially their isolation from their love ones caused them to pledge their full cooperation and support to the government. During their surrender they brought the following war materials: one Cal 9mm Glock pistol; one Cal 40 Armscor Pistol with Defaced serial number, one Magazine loaded with seven ammos; several cellphones with sim cards and reserve batteries; flashdrives/card readers; connector; charger; audio speaker; personal belongings; several assorted gadgets and other subversive materials.

As a result of continuous custodial debriefing, @Macoy/Greg/Raprap revealed the whereabouts of other war materials in isolated areas of Pres Roxas and Magpet, all of Cotabato. Intel Section of this unit led by Cpt Catalan conducted another Special Intel Operations and led to the capture of one (1) Cal 5.56mm Bushmaster rifle; and one (1) Cal 5.56mm Colt M16 rifle with two magazines and ammos.

The 72IB called on the remaining members of the Terrorist Groups operating in North Cotabato to peacefully surrender and embrace the government’s peace initiative under ELCAC program and start living a more meaningful life together with their families and loved ones.

Kalinaw News: Government troops repel CTG’s intents to sow havoc during Christmastime in Northern Samar

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 25, 2020): Government troops repel CTG’s intents to sow havoc during Christmastime in Northern Samar

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City, Samar – In a series of encounters this week, the government troops repelled Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) who were planning to sow chaos during the Christmas celebration in Northern Samar.

A high-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist leader was killed while another wounded NPA was arrested during the five successive encounters. Several high and low-powered firearms, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), claymore mines, and grenades were also seized.

The 30-minute gunfight resulted in the death of a certain Jerry Lutao, alias ‘Apple’, Secretary of Front Committee 2, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Emporium, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) whose body was left behind by the retreating comrades.

The troops also overran the CNT’s lair and successfully seized one M16, M4, M4KG, .38 revolver, magazines, two rifle grenades, a hand grenade, four IEDs, claymore mine, bomb triggering devices, backpacks, cellphones, generator sets, medical supplies, NPA flag, and subversive documents.

The first encounter between the troops of the 43rd Infantry Battalion and a group of CNTs occurred in Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro, in the morning of December 21, 2020.

In the morning of December 22, 2020, while on pursuit operation, the troops of the 43rd IB encountered six CNTs at the vicinity of Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro.

No casualty on the government side while an undetermined casualty on the enemy’s side was reported during the 10-minute firefight.

Five hours after the morning encounter, troops of 43rd IB clashed with the same group of CNTs at the vicinity of Sitio Agsam, Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro.

Seized during the encounter were two shotguns, one caliber .38 revolver with ammunition, one magazine of .45 pistol loaded with 7 rounds of ammunition, cellphones, and backpacks.

The fourth encounter transpired at dawn of December 23, 2020, at the vicinity of Km 14, Barangay Happy Valley of the same town.

One Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was wounded and troops immediately gave him first aid. He was identified as Jonas Dela Torre alias Jonel, 36, years old, Team Leader of Squad Uno, Front Committee 2. Troops were able to recover Dela Torres’s AK47 rifle.

The last encounter happened hours before Christmas Eve when troops from 43rd IB engaged in a 15-minute gunfight with three CNTs still at Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro, Northern Samar.

There were no reported casualties on the government side while there are heavy casualties on CNT’s side as indicated by bloodstains at enemy’s route of withdrawal.

Recovered at the encounter site were two M16 rifles, magazines, ammunition, and one improvised hand grenade. Troops are still on pursuit operation.

According to 43rdIB Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Raymundo C Picut Jr, all their military intelligence are closely monitoring the activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) this holiday season as it planned to really conduct atrocities in the Province.

“Maliban sa panggugulo ngayong kapaskuhan sa mga remote at vulnerable areas ay magsasagawa rin sila ng mga tactical offensives sa mga military detachments at police stations lalo na ngayong nalalapit na rin ang ika-52 anibersaryo ng CPP-NPA,” Picut said.

Because of the dwindling ranks of the NPA, 8th Infantry Division Commander Major General Pio Q Dinoso III said, it is unlikely for the Communist Terrorists to hold a large meeting during CPP’s founding anniversary on December 26.

He assured the people of Eastern Visayas that troops will be guarding communities to ensure a meaningful and peaceful Christmas celebration.

“Bilib at hanga ako sa lakas at determinasyon ng ating mga tropa. Gamit ang ating makabagong technology, military assets kasama ang ating K9 team at mga pursigidong sundalo at sa tulong ng mga residente, hindi natin titigilan ang pagtugis sa mga teroristang NPA hanggang sa magapi natin sila. Maliban na lamang kung mapag-pasyahan na nilang sumuko para maibalik natin sila ng buhay sa kanilang mga pamilya.” Major General Diñoso added.

Reds should show remorse for 52nd year of CPP existence: AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 25, 2020): Reds should show remorse for 52nd year of CPP existence: AFP (By Priam Nepomuceno) December 25, 2020, 6:10 pm

PNA file photo

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) should show remorse for the atrocities it has committed against the Filipino people through all of its years of existence, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said Friday.

"They (CPP) might as well add 'remorseful' to their uneventful activity. Their unity of purpose with the National Democratic Front (NDF) and the New People’s Army (NPA) that has caused murder, pillage, arson, and extortion, among other crimes, has brought indescribable pain and misery to our fellow Filipinos. Those are enough reasons for them to seek forgiveness from our people who now have largely rejected them," Arevalo said in a message to reporters in response to CPP pronouncements that it will be celebrating its 52nd founding anniversary in "simple but joyous" means on December 26.

He added that the big number of CPP central committee members and NPA members and supporters who have surrendered or were arrested or killed when they shoot it out with security forces should already give them "clear signals" that the communist-terrorists have nothing to celebrate.

"The AFP under the clear directions and leadership of Gen. Gilbert Gapay will continue with our unrelenting operations until we have finished this communist-terrorist group (CTG) before the end of President Rodrigo Duterte’s term," Arevalo said.

The backing of local chief executives and agencies in local governments and the strong support of the people in the communities and villages make military operations immensely successful, he said, adding that this contributes strongly to the decline and defeat of the communist terrorists.

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana noted that despite its 52nd year of existence, the CPP has not come close to achieving its aims of toppling the country's democratic form of government.

"In those 52 years, the CPP/NPA never did come close to achieving its aim. It is a total failure. Rather, it left a trail of death and destruction all over the country that continues to this day: killings of innocent civilians and government troops, recruitment of young kids to their ranks to fight the government, destruction of properties, and massive extortion of businesses all over the country," Lorenzana said in a statement Friday.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125673

Caraga biz sector urged to help gov’t end NPA extortion

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2020): Caraga biz sector urged to help gov’t end NPA extortion (By Alexander Lopez)

Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade, Army. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)

A top Army official has called on Caraga Region's business sector to help the government end the extortion activities of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in the area.

Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of the Army's 402nd Infantry Brigade (402Bde), said extortion "capacitates the NPA to perpetrate atrocities".

In an interview Tuesday, Licudine cited the 402Bde data showing that from 2010 to date, the rebels had killed 166 government troopers and 113 civilians in Caraga Region.

“We capacitate these terrorists to kill more government troopers, workers, and innocent civilians by giving them funds through their extortion activities,” Licudine said.

The Army official’s call came after 16 business owners belonging to the Butuan City Chamber of Commerce (BCCC) and Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce Association Incorporated (FCCCAI) pledged their commitment on Dec. 17 to stop paying the revolutionary taxes being demanded by the NPA.

In July this year, at least 25 contractors and construction firms in the region also pledged not to give in to the rebels' extortion activities.

Licudine said that based on the brigade's information, the NPA collects around PHP15,000 to PHP20,000 a month from different business establishments in this city alone.

“In our estimate, the NPA rebels collect around PHP9.3 million every year in Butuan City alone. This amount of money is a big contribution for the NPA to grow their strength and sustain their terroristic activities in the area,” Licudine said.

He said former NPA rebels have also provided vital information on the scope of the rebels' extortion activities.

One of the surrenderers, he said, was Lynlyn (name withheld for security reasons), who worked as a revolutionary tax collector for the NPA's Guerrilla Front 21.

Licudine said the surrender of Lynlyn sometime in June this year was a fatal blow to the extortion activities of the guerilla unit, led by its finance officer identified as Jelan Pinakilid.

Sometime in October this year, Licudine said authorities have arrested three revolutionary tax collectors of the same rebel unit.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125414

Troops play ‘Santa on Bikes’ in Zambo Sur town

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2020): Troops play ‘Santa on Bikes’ in Zambo Sur town Troops play ‘Santa on Bikes’ in Zambo Sur town (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

SANTA SOLDIERS. Government soldiers from the 1st Cavalry Battalion play "Santa on Bikes", giving gifts to children in a far-flung village in Tukuran, Zamboaga del Sur. Lt. Col. Rommel Pereña, 1st Cavalry Battalion commander, said Tuesday (Dec. 22, 2020) the activity is in line with his command’s “Alay Padyak Program”. (Photo courtesy of 1st Cavalry Battalion)

Bicycle-riding troops of the 1st Cavalry Battalion have played Santa Claus to bring joy to children in the mountainous community of Zamboanga del Sur amid the health pandemic.

Lt. Col. Rommel Pereña, 1st Cavalry Battalion commander, said in a statement Tuesday that the activity is in line with his command’s “Alay Padyak Program”.

“It was a 32-kilometer bike ride to the far-flung mountainous community in the municipality of Tukuran,” he said without mentioning the specific barangay.

Pereña said the troops decided to play Santa Claus and bring toys to the homes of children as the restrictions to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) are greatly affecting the observance of the Christmas season.

“Generally, Christmas is for the children. This is the season where the kids expect to attend Christmas parties and receive gifts,” he said.

“To promote the spirit of Christmas even during the pandemic, the troops decided to give toys and candies to children along the way,” he added.

Pereña said the troops also took the opportunity to distribute face masks and reminded the villagers of the danger of Covid-19.

He said the activity is a continuous endeavor of the 1st Cavalry Battalion to bring necessities to the community and conduct activities to help the residents.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125453

2 BIFF gunmen yield, turn over sniper rifle

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23, 2020): 2 BIFF gunmen yield, turn over sniper rifle (By Edwin Fernandez)

BIFF SURRENDERERS. Brig. Gen. Samuel Rodriguez Jr. (foreground), BARMM police director, presents to reporters the two BIFF surrenderers during a simple ceremony held at the PRO-BARMM headquarters in Camp S.K. Pendatun, Parang, Maguindanao on Tuesday (Dec. 22, 2020). The two belonged to the BIFF-Karialan faction operating in the Liguasan marshlands of the province. (Photo courtesy of PRO-BARMM)

Two members of the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) operating in Maguindanao surrendered to the police and local government of Datu Montawal town on Tuesday afternoon.

Brig. Gen. Samuel Rodriguez, director of the Police Regional Office - Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BARMM), said the two belonged to the BIFF-Karialan faction.

Capt. Razul Pandulo, chief of the Datu Montawal town police, said the two coordinated with the police for their desire to surrender a week earlier.

"The two had turned over a homemade .50-caliber Barret sniper rifle to Datu Montawal Mayor Ohto Montawal during surrender ceremonies,” Pandulo said.

In appreciation of the decision of two BIFF surrenderers, Vice Mayor Vicman Montawal handed over a sack of rice and cash assistance to each of the former BIFF combatants.

“Life is hard, we always run from government forces, so we decided to surrender so we can be with our families this new year,” Abdul, one of the surrenderers, said in the vernacular.

The mayor appealed to other BIFF members still in the Maguindanao marshland to avail of the government’s offer of livelihood if they surrender.

“I am calling (on) the other members and leaders of (the) BIFF to lay down their arms and return to the fold of (the) law to achieve lasting peace in Maguindanao,” he said.

Rodriguez aired the same appeal.

“Rest assured that they will be supported by the government to start a new life,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125497

200 ex-NPA rebels, supporters attend peace camp in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23, 2020): 200 ex-NPA rebels, supporters attend peace camp in NoCot (By John Andrew Tabugoc)

NO TO COMMUNISM. At least 200 200 former New People’s Army rebels and mass-based supporters participate in a peace rally hours before their three-day peacebuilding seminar in Tulunan, North Cotabato, on Monday (Dec. 21, 2020). The rally participants burned the flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines to signify their rejection of the communist rebel movement. (Photo courtesy of 39IB)

TULUNAN, North Cotabato --At least 200 former rebels and underground supporters of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) are undergoing a three-day peace-building seminar here initiated by the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion (IB).

1st Lt. Walter Jhun Orille, 39IB civil-military operations officer, said the activity, which kicked off Monday, aims to shift the perspective of former NPA rebels and supporters into becoming proponents of peace and development.

Most of the participants are erstwhile members of the “Komiteng Rebolusyon sa Munisipyo,” a mass-based organization in villages here considered "NPA-influenced areas."

During the kick-off ceremony, Orille said the participants staged a peace rally at the town center and burned the flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) "to show their disgust at the NPA’s crimes against the people."

“This act simply shows that the seminar participants are now on the right standpoint, which is far different from the CPP-NPA false ideology,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125449

BIFF terrorist slain, militiaman injured in Maguindanao clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 24, 2020): BIFF terrorist slain, militiaman injured in Maguindanao clash (By Edwin Fernandez)

SEIZED. The slain BIFF member's motorbike (left) and rifle (right) recovered following a 45-minute clash by government troopers with 10 BIFF gunmen in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on Wednesday (Dec. 23, 2020). A government militiaman was wounded in the same incident and is now being treated at a local hospital. (Photo courtesy of 1MIB)

A Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) gunman was killed while a government militiaman was hurt in a clash in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on Wednesday afternoon.

Lt. Col. Cresencio Sanchez Jr., 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion (1MIB) commander, said government forces manning the Limbongo Patrol Base were conducting clearing operations in the camp vicinity when they encountered about 10 BIFF gunmen.

A 45-minute gun battle ensued, resulting in the death of a BIFF terrorist and the wounding of a member of the local Civilian Active Auxiliary Force.

“We immediately deployed supplemental troops to reinforce the Limbongo base troopers who pursued the fleeing enemies in the mountainous part of Datu Hoffer,” Sanchez said.

The militiaman, whom Sanchez declined to identify for security reasons, sustained a gunshot wound on his left leg.

“He was rushed by the troops to the hospital for immediate treatment,” Sanchez said.

While clearing the encounter site, government troops recovered the dead body of the slain BIFF combatant identified as a certain Nasser Kandao.

Also recovered near Kandao’s body were an M16 rifle, his motorcycle, and two short rifle magazines.

The cadaver and the motorcycle were turned over to Datu Hoffer municipal police station while the retrieved firearm was deposited at the 1MIB headquarters for safekeeping.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125592

Gov’t troops nab top NPA leader in NegOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 24, 2020): Gov’t troops nab top NPA leader in NegOcc (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

NPA LEADER FALLS. Radino Giltendez Villacarillo, 43, secretary of the New People’s Army Regional Committee Second National Urban Center, previously known as the Cebu Party Committee, was arrested by joint military and police team in Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental on Tuesday (Dec. 22, 2020). He was among the NPA insiders assigned to spy on various personalities in urban areas and closely monitor the operations of the NPA hit squad Special Partisan Unit or SPARU, an Army official said. (Photo courtesy of 15th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

A top leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Negros and Cebu was arrested by a joint military and police team in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental early morning on Tuesday.

In a report on Thursday, the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion (15IB) identified the communist-terrorist personality as Radino Giltendez Villacarillo, 43, the current secretary of the NPA’s Regional Committee Second National Urban Center, previously known as the Cebu Party Committee.

Villacarillo, who also uses the name Romil G. Villacarillo as well as six other aliases, has also been identified as the military hardware liaison for Komiteng Rehiyon (KR)-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor Regional Operational Command Ordnance Staff.

Col. Leonardo Peña, commander of 302nd Infantry Brigade, which has territorial jurisdiction over the 15IB based in southern Negros, commended the soldiers and their police counterparts for the arrest of the ranking rebel leader.

“The successful joint enhanced military and police operation manifests the strong commitment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police assigned in Negros. We will work hand-in-hand to protect the Negrenses against the NPA terrorist group,” Peña said.

During the operation in Sitio Ma-oy, Barangay Camindangan, Villacarillo, who also served as the commanding officer of Rehiyon Sentro De Grabidad KR-Negros Front, and committee member of North Negros Front and Front Operational Command North Negros Front, yielded a .45-caliber pistol with one magazine, two hand grenades, and two laptop computers.

Also found in his possession were eight mobile phones, two pocket Wi-Fi devices, an external drive, four USB flash drives, subversive documents, and an unregistered motorcycle.

A photo released by the 15IB showed that Villacarillo has been booked by the police for violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and RA 9516 or the Illegal Possession of Explosives.

Lt. Col. Erwin Cariño, commanding officer of 15IB, said Villacarillo was "among the NPA insiders assigned to spy on various personalities in urban areas and closely monitor the operations of the (NPA hit squad) Special Partisan Unit".

“His arrest is another major setback to the CPP-NPA and the National Democratic Front terrorists operating in Negros Island,” he said.

Cariño added that Villacarillo was “also tasked to keep in touch with politician-sympathizers for him to move freely in different municipalities, district clinics, and churches”.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125597

Army discovers NPA lair with 2 bodies in S. Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 24, 2020): Army discovers NPA lair with 2 bodies in S. Kudarat (By Edwin Fernandez)

Google map of Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat

Pursuing government forces stumbled upon a lair of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, and found two cadavers of NPA terrorists inside, the Army here said Thursday.

Col. Eduardo Gubat, 603rd Infantry Brigade commander, said the soldiers belonging to 63rd Reconnaissance Company discovered the NPA lair while conducting a focused military operation in Barangay Namat Masla on Wednesday afternoon.

“The discovery of the NPA lair also led to the recovery of two cadavers whose remains are already in an advance state of decomposition, numerous propaganda materials, and makeshift huts,” Gubat said in his report to Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander.

The NPA lair has barricades and bunkers that can accommodate about 20 persons, Gubat added.

Uy said pursuit operations against the communist rebels would continue without let-up.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125588

Sipadan hostage taker surrenders in Tawi-Taw

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 25, 2020): Sipadan hostage taker surrenders in Tawi-Tawi (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit involved in the Sipadan mass kidnapping 20 years ago has surrendered to government authorities in the province of Tawi-Tawi, military officials announced Friday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), identified the ASG surrenderer as Barri Lakibol, 44, who carries the aliases of Barley Badeng, Otoh Itom, and Robin.

SURRENDER. Barri Lakibol, 44, a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (right), surrenders and turns over an M-14 rifle to Lt. Col. Henry Espinosa, commander of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-12 (MBLT-12), Wednesday in Barangay Nalil, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. Lakibol was involved in the 2000 mass kidnapping in Sipadan, Malaysia. The hostages were herded to the province of Sulu and were released in batches in the same year. (Photo courtesy of MBLT-12)

Vinluan said Lakibol surrendered and turned over a US-made M-14 rifle with ammunition Wednesday at the headquarters of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-12 (MBLT-12) led by Lt. Col. Henry Espinosa in Barangay Nalil, Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi province.

Vinluan said Lakibol was recruited by the late Sulu-based ASG leader Ghalib Andang alias Commander Robot in January 2000 and was involved in the Sipadan mass kidnapping in the same year.

The ASG bandits seized 21 people, mostly European tourists, from the dive resort island of Sipadan, Malaysia on April 23, 2000 and herded them to the province of Sulu.

The hostages were freed in batches after alleged payment of a huge amount of ransom.

Vinluan said Lakibol was also involved in the kidnapping of 12 Filipino evangelists led by Pastor Wilde Almeda, whose group went to the ASG lair for prayer healing and to comfort the hostages taken from Sipadan dive resort.

He said during the debriefing, Lakibol revealed that he left the ASG in 2006 due to the intensified offensives launched by the military, which resulted in the neutralization of prominent ASG personalities in the province of Sulu.

Col. Arturo Rojas, Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi commander, said Lakibol will be turned over to the municipal government of Bongao for his enrolment to the reintegration programs of the government.

“We are looking forward to more enemy surrenders and we encourage them to do so as it is best that they peacefully return to the mainstream society rather than engage in gunfights,” Rojas added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125649

Body of another rebel found in abandoned lair in S. Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 25, 2020): Body of another rebel found in abandoned lair in S. Kudarat (By Noel Punzalan)

Google map of Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat

Soldiers discovered the body of a third combatant of the New People’s Army (NPA) in an abandoned lair in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat on Thursday afternoon, the Army here reported.

“Found beside the cadaver were two improvised explosive devices,” Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army’s Infantry Division, said in a statement on Friday.

The latest discovery came a day after two dead NPA guerillas were also found in an advanced state of decomposition in a bigger lair in the same remote village of Namat Masla in the municipality.

On Wednesday, government troops engaged the rebels in a 45-minute gun battle in Namat Masla after villagers reported their presence in the area.

“Our troops are still clearing the village that is being terrorized by the NPA (rebels),” Uy said.

He said operating troops of the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion have found more than a dozen satellite lairs at the Lumotan mountain range in Barangay Namat Masla at the border of the villages of Datu Wasay and Sangay in adjacent Kalamansig town.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125650

Zarate uses Reds’ tax money to fund son’s Europe educ: Duterte

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2020): Zarate uses Reds’ tax money to fund son’s Europe educ: Duterte (By Azer Parrocha)

President Rodrigo Duterte (Presidential Photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte scored Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate Monday night accusing the solon of using rebel taxation to pay for his son’s education in Europe.

Duterte said Zarate was fooling everyone when he claimed that his mother was paying for his son’s tuition in a university in Poland.

“I’d like to -- I’d like to call the attention of Carlos Isagani Zarate, he’s a congressman. ‘Adre, may anak ka na nag-aaral sa Europe. And sinasabi mo na si Xandro, ‘yung anak mo, ginagastusan ni -- ng lola (you have a son studying in Europe. You said your son’s education is funded by his grandmother),” he said in a taped speech.

“You know, baka sabi mo talaga maloloko mo ang Pilipino, lalo na ang -- kami dito. Ang lola tinignan namin ang ano, matanda na wala namang propedad, walang income. Paano makagasto ng -- (You know you think you can fool Filipinos. The grandmother is already old, she has no income. How can she spend for that)?” he added.

Duterte said that he was probably using funds collected by communist rebels to pay for his son’s schooling.

“At saka kung ang suweldo mo, Zarate, iyan ang ginagastos mo para sa anak mo, pinapasa mo doon sa nanay mo na matanda na (And your salary, Zarate, that’s what you’re using for your son’s schooling, you’re passing it on to your mother who’s old), eh you're pulling everybody's leg. Huwag mo kaming bolahin. Baka kaya siguro ang ginagastos mo 'yung pera ng kinokolekta ng mga NPA dito (Don’t fool us. You’re probably spending funds collected by NPA here),” he said.

“Hindi nila alam na sila, ang kinokolekta nila, pumupunta doon 'yan sa mga lider mga malaki ang kita. Tapos sila, hirap. Iyan ang problema diyan sa mga NPA. Nagpapaloko kasi kayo. Alam mo 'yang koleksyon ninyo, mga siguro 30 percent lang ang maiwan para sa mga suweldo-suweldo ninyo (They don’t know the funds collected go to their leaders who earn big while they remain poor. That’s the problem with NPA, you’re willing to be fooled. You know your collection, only 30 percent is left for your salary),” he said.

He urged Zarate to respond to the allegations, questioning his sincerity to go after those who violated the law.

“Pakisagot lang po (Please respond). Kaya ikaw you have an incongruity sa iyong ideology. Kunwari galit ka sa mga mayaman. Kunwari galit ka sa mga hindi nagbabayad ng wastong buwis, nagfa-falsify ng mga properties nila (You’re pretending to be angry with the rich, angry with those not paying proper taxes, those falsifying taxes on their properties),” he said.

Duterte called Zarate a “communist” anew, adding that he has documents he could use against him.

He also challenged Zarate to face him, adding that he could even bring former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV with him.

“Kaya ikaw (You), Zarate, you are a hypocrite. You are ano... May sakit ka (you’re sick). You are on top of it all. You are a chauvinist pig. Totoo 'yan. Gusto mong magkausap sa akin? Paalamin mo lang ako. Tayong dalawa lang. Gusto kitang kausapin (That’s true. You want to speak to me? Let me know. Just the two of us. I want to talk to you),” he said.

In previous speeches, Duterte said Zarate “cannot deny” his links to the communist movement because of his “personal” experience and knowledge.

Malacañang earlier rejected claims made by Zarate that Duterte’s tirades against leftist lawmakers were meant to “discredit” them in the next elections.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125402

NPA, other terror groups’ capabilities ‘significantly degraded’

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2020): NPA, other terror groups’ capabilities ‘significantly degraded’ (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay (File photo)

This year when the pandemic upended everyone's lives, the leadership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has cited several achievements, including clipping the firepower and support of terrorist groups and acquiring big-ticket military equipment.

In his speech at the AFP's 85th founding anniversary Monday night, AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay said the military has "significantly degraded" the armed capabilities of the Communist Party of the Philippines' armed wing, the New People's Army, and other local terror groups such as the Abu Sayyaf Group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and Dawlah Islamiya-affiliated groups.

"Their manpower, firepower and mass-based support are on the decline. They are experiencing leadership vacuum and their recruitment and extortion activities were neglected as well," Gapay said.

He said this could be seen as "light at the end of the tunnel" as he expressed confidence that internal armed conflicts would soon be put to rest before the end of President Rodrigo Duterte's term in 2022.

He also cited the acquisition of several modern military equipment as part of the modernization efforts this year.

"I am proud to report that with these equipment, we have once again established effective pressure on WPS (West Philippine Sea) in asserting our sovereignty," he added.

Some of the military equipment acquired include the Philippine Navy’s first missile-capable frigate BRP Jose Rizal and fast attack craft, the FA 50 jets, Super Tucano ground attack aircraft, and the S-70i 'Black Hawk' combat utility helicopters for the Philippine Air Force.

Expected to be delivered soon for the Philippine Army are light tanks, self-propelled artillery and modern riverine equipment.

Gapay said the AFP is ready to protect the people and secure the sovereignty of the state, adding the military stand firms in addressing the various challenges facing the country.

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, in a statement Tuesday, said the challenges have made the AFP and its personnel a "model of modern heroism" which has inspired Filipinos and "gained their trust and confidence".

"This fierce commitment of our brave soldiers to guard our country against all internal and external threats, even at the risk of their personal safety, has made the AFP a model of modern heroism, which has inspired the Filipino people and gained their trust and confidence," he said.

He also urged the AFP personnel to "always be courageous and righteous" in the performance of their duties.

“We have all sworn to be loyal to our country and people. May we always remember this especially when cowardice, greed and ambition tempt us to take shortcuts or become oblivious to wrongdoings that would divert us from pursuing our sacred mandate,” Lorenzana said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125403

Reds’ activities this holiday season monitored: AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23, 2020): Reds’ activities this holiday season monitored: AFP chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) this holiday season is monitored by military intelligence units, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, said Tuesday.

"Our intelligence community is closely monitoring their actions. They have planned really to conduct atrocities in different parts of the country, particularly (against our) vulnerable, remote communities," Gapay said in an online briefing Tuesday.

They plan to conduct extortion and recruitment, he said, noting the threat to security forces, especially those deployed to remote detachments.

“Talagang pinagpaplanuhan nila 'yan (They are really making plans.) They are just waiting (for an) opportune time to (launch their attack),” Gapay added.

He said due to the dwindling ranks of the NPA, it is unlikely that the communist-terrorists would be able to hold a "plenum" or large meeting during the CPP’s founding anniversary on December 26.

In previous years, the CPP-NPA has always been vocal on its websites about holding a plenum and its agenda, Gapay said.

He, however, assured that troops would be guarding communities to ensure Filipinos have a meaningful and peaceful Christmas celebration.

Earlier, the CPP urged all NPA units to conduct secret meetings to mark its 52nd founding on December 26.

The communist-terrorists also said they would continue with their harassments during the holiday season since the AFP did not declare a ceasefire this year.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125503

Reds ‘capitalizing, exploiting’ Tarlac incident: group

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 24, 2020): Reds ‘capitalizing, exploiting’ Tarlac incident: group (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

A group of former New People’s Army cadres and members on Wednesday condemned the alleged exploitation of some organizations linked to the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) on the recent shooting incident involving a police officer in Tarlac.

In a statement, the Sentrong Alyansa ng mga Mamamayan para sa Bayan (SAMBAYANAN) called for the administrative sanctions against Police Senior Master Sgt. Jonel Nuezca, who gunned down an unarmed mother and her son in Paniqui, Tarlac.

"SAMBAYANAN, as the alternative people's alliance and campaign center, calls for stronger discipline and accountability mechanisms with speedy internal administration of justice in the Philippine National Police (PNP), that should be institutionalized, in light of the most recent incident of an apparent lack of discipline and orientation on handling conflict with civilians as shown in the very unfortunate shooting incident in Tarlac by a PNP personnel on two unarmed persons," the group said.

SAMBAYANAN, meanwhile, said the incident is being used to undermine the integrity of the government's efforts to push peace and order in the country.

"We likewise condemn the scandalous opportunist posture of the CPP-NPA-NDF and its front organizations including its party-list operators and the so-called 'human rights defenders' for their self-serving and malicious maneuvers to exploit and capitalize on the recent Tarlac incident, so that, they can again attack and subvert the integrity and efforts of the government in the aspect of public safety and the prevailing law and order situation in our country," the group said.

The group said these efforts are part of the tactical propaganda movement of the communist group and its front-organizations to divert the attention of the public.

"This brazen display of opportunism by the CPP-NPA-NDF and their legal cohorts is a classic propaganda platform based on their primary objective of destroying the government. We must reject this kind of communist-terrorist plot," SAMBAYANAN said.

Meanwhile, SAMBAYANAN said the incident serves as a wake-up call for security forces to seriously consider disciplinary measures among their ranks.

"This may be an isolated and particular incident but it is also a strong wake-up call on the part of the leadership and the entire organization of the PNP for them to seriously consider and take drastic measures that would address similar incidents of discipline breakdown and seemingly weak accountability mechanism in its organization," it said.

"Swift administration of administrative and criminal justice components must be immediately implemented, especially on this particular incident in Tarlac," it added.

SAMBAYANAN supported the remarks made by Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, who called for a thorough, impartial, and swift investigation on the incident.

"SAMBAYANAN supports the statement of DILG Secretary Eduardo Año calling for swift administration of justice against the erring PNP personnel, and for an immediate review of discipline and protocols in the organization of the PNP, so that their mandate of serving and protecting the Filipino people from all forms of threat especially in strengthening public safety and law enforcement can be best performed with the utmost exercise of prudence, propriety and due diligence, at all times," SAMBAYANAN said.

Año has earlier condemned the incident and assured that justice will be duly served to the family of the victims.

Criminal action has been initiated against Nuezca.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125513

Suspect in 2015 kidnapping of 3 foreigners in Samal Island falls

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 24, 2020): Suspect in 2015 kidnapping of 3 foreigners in Samal Island falls (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Debold Sinas (File photo)

A key suspect in the kidnapping of three foreigners and a Filipina in Samal Island in 2015 was arrested in Manila on Thursday, Philippine National Police chief, Gen. Debold Sinas said.

Sinas said based on the reports from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief, Maj. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr., Jehan Aklul alias Khalid Akhalul/Abu Khalid was arrested at 1:50 a.m. Thursday in a 5th floor rented unit on Carlos Palanca St., Brgy. 648, San Miguel, Manila.

Sinas said Aklul is the subject of a warrant of arrest issued by the Regional Trial Court 11th Judicial Region Branch 34 of Panabo City for kidnapping with homicide case.

Also arrested was Mohammad Amara Muslimin,30, for possession of two hand grenades, a detonating cord, and a blasting cap inside their rented residence.

Police records identified Aklul as involved in the kidnapping of Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, and a certain Tess, a Filipina in Samal Island on Sept. 21, 2015.

The victims were transferred to Sulu from Samal, during negotiations.

The two Canadians were beheaded while the Norwegian and the Filipina were released later in 2017.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125620

Reds in no shape to celebrate 52nd anniversary: AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 25, 2020): Reds in no shape to celebrate 52nd anniversary: AFP chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay (File photo)

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) is in no shape to celebrate its 52nd founding anniversary following a series of political and tactical setbacks, the chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.

"The CPP-NPA (New People's Army) and their front organizations have nothing to celebrate. They failed on the ground, got exposed in Congress, and were unmasked abroad for their fake advocacies," AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay said in a statement Thursday.

The CPP's anniversary is December 26.

Gapay cited significant accomplishments on the ground and in the political arena, including the recent exposé by former rebels of party-list groups involved in the radicalization and recruitment of individuals to the communist terror group (CTG).

Gapay said tactical accomplishments brought by internal security operations resulted in the death, capture, and surrender of communist terrorists on the ground, as well as the further erosion of their mass base with underground and party members continuing to withdraw their support.

These include the deaths of three CTGs during an encounter with government troops at Pangi, Tandag City, Surigao Del Sur on October 31. Seven firearms were also confiscated from around 40 NPA members who fled the encounter site.

On November 13, the 28th Infantry Battalion also killed in an encounter one terrorist and seized six high-powered firearms against the CTG in Tampilisan, Zamboanga Del Norte.

Five more high-powered firearms were confiscated from the terror group on November 15, this time in Barangay Marayag, Lupon, Davao Oriental.

One communist terrorist was also killed in an encounter with the 31st Infantry Battalion on November 19 in Barangay San Jose, Bulusan, Sorsogon.

Six high-powered firearms were captured at the encounter site.

One CTG was killed when the 3rd Special Forces Battalion encountered around 30 NPAs in Marihatag, Surigao del Sur on November 28. Five high-powered firearms were also captured from the fleeing terrorists.

On December 2, joint law enforcement operations at Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato resulted in the death of five CTGs who resisted arrest.

Found in their possession are four assorted firearms and anti-personnel mines (APM).

Meanwhile, the 25th Infantry Battalion in an encounter with around eight CTGs in Barangay Sto Niño, New Corella, Davao Del Norte on December 12.

One NPA was killed and another wounded. Government forces also captured seven high-powered firearms from the fleeing communist terrorists.

Meanwhile, four communist terrorists were killed in an operation launched by the AFP in Rizal, Occidental Mindoro on December 14.

Eight firearms were also confiscated from the CTGs. Another joint law enforcement operation also led to the death of five NPA members who fired upon government troops while being served an arrest warrant in Baras, Rizal on December 17.

Five firearms were also seized from the suspects. Another communist terrorist was also killed in an encounter against troops of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion on December 18 in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

Found in the encounter site were five firearms, APMs, and assorted ammunition.

Most recently, troops of the 8th Infantry Division encountered around 60 communist terrorists in Barangay Happy Valley in San Isidro, Northern Samar.

This resulted in one terrorist dead, suspected to be the notorious front secretary in the area, and the confiscation of five high-powered firearms.

Aside from their mass base and main fighting units, Gapay said the group also continues to suffer setbacks with the neutralization of CPP ranking personalities.

These include Julius Giron, Chairman of CPP/NPA, and Head of the National Military Commission; Agaton Topacio Staff National Military Commission, CPP; Eugenia Magpantay-Topacio, Head National Education Department; Teresita Lapuz Naul, Secretary, Regional White Area Committee, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee; and Alvin Luque, Spokesperson of Komisyong Mindanao.

"We have decisively won the war against the CTG in various regions of the country with the dismantling of 10 so-called guerilla fronts or gangster of the CPP-NPA. These are located in Isabela province and Bicol region in Luzon; Leyte and Samar in the Visayas; and various provinces in Western, Southern, and Eastern Mindanao," AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a year-end briefing on December 22.

Tactical accomplishments also resulted in the overall decline in NPA-initiated atrocities against civilians from 113 in 2019 to 78 so far this year.

"The CPP-NPA is in a political and tactical crisis given the high impact accomplishments of our troops both on the ground and at the General Headquarters. Paired that with the highly developed capability and equipment of our fighting units, there is nowhere else to go but down for the enemy," Gapay said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125645