Group lauds gov't for action on communist groups

 Posted to the Manila Standard (Dec 29, 2020): Group lauds gov't for action on communist groups

The group Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI) has praised the government for passing a resolution declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People's Army, and National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) as terrorist organizations.

In a yearend message, LIPI Secretary General Jose Antonio “Ka Pep” Goitia said the fight "is not over" as the nation "must stand by its duly elected government against those who threaten our democracy."

"We must declare in one voice that we reject the evil which is the CPP-NPA-NDF and its associated organizations such as Makabayan, Bayan and Gabriela. We reject the lies, the hate and the demand to transform our free society to communism. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas," Goitia said.

During the past few months, he said the LIPI, together with the League of Parents of the Philippines (LPP) and other groups, had been in the forefront in condemning the violent extremism and radical ideology of the CPP-NPA and its legal fronts in the NDF, Makabayan, Bayan, Gabriela among others.

"Our multisectoral group had been working tirelessly to raise awareness among Filipinos that we must not tolerate nor permit the CPP-NPA-NDF and its legal fronts to destroy the fabric of our nation. The union we all share under our constitution in order for us to form a culturally rich and socially cohesive society," Goitia said.

"Despite the danger our actions may pose to our lives, we forged ahead to inform the public of the truth -- the truth that will save the Republic, its citizens, and especially the youth from lies and deception machinated by destabilizers and terrorists who are dangerous and perennial liars," he added.

Goitia said LIPI's efforts gained traction in the following:

1) Held indignation rallies in schools where recruitment among students are high.

2) Posted banners around Metro Manila condemning the actions of the CPP-NPA-NDF and its legal fronts.

3) Reached out to the media to convey their messages. "We appreciate the coverage we received from them," Goitia said.

4) Observed a strong response from netizens in social media denouncing the CPP-NPA-NDF and its legal fronts. "Engagement on anti-communism is at an all-time high in Facebook and Twitter. These engagements have now reached millions in viewership and responses nationwide," he said.

Goitia added: "I have said in one of my statements in the past that it is the responsibility of the government to protect its citizens from internal and external threats."

"The effort of the government to pass the anti-terrorism law is a big boost in its drive to counter this insurgency. We are grateful the President and Executive Secretary Medaldea through the Anti-Terrorism Council passed Resolutions 12 and 13 designating as terrorist groups the CPP-NPA as well as the Islamic State East Asia, Maute Group, Daulah Islamiya, and associated groups," he said.

https://www.manilastandard.net/news/national/343104/group-lauds-gov-t-for-action-on-communist-groups.html

6 NPAs yield in Agusan; 26th IB vows no more anniversaries for Reds

 From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 29, 2020): 6 NPAs yield in Agusan; 26th IB vows no more anniversaries for Reds (By Mike Crismundo)

Six heavily armed communist-New People’s Army (NPA) members voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur province.

Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, commander of the 26th IB, vowed that this is proof that ‘the government, through the efforts of the NTF-ELCAC, is winning the war against these terrorists and there will be no more anniversaries for them.”

2nd Lt. Cecille C. Tappa, 26th IB Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer, told the Manila Bulletin on Tuesday that the six NPA rebels surrendered so they could be with their families for the New Year’s Day celebration.

As part of the Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (BTF- ELCAC), barangay officials of Barangay Balit in San Luis town, Agusan del Sur province, headed by Chairwoman Elisa P. Gaud, accompanied the surrenderees to the 26th IB headquarters on Monday.

The rebels also surrendered one M16 Armalite rifle, one carbine rifle, 2 caliber 38 revolver, two caliber .45 pistol, one KG9, four magazines, assorted live ammunition, and CPP-NPA flag.

Goce welcomed the surrenderees and assured them of livelihood and cash support through the government’s Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

“These surrenderees have already realized the futility of their armed struggle. We welcome them back to the fold of the law,” Goce said.

“The continuous surrender only means that the CPP-NPA is weakening and the AFP will continue its duty in ending the conflict,” he said.

Currently, the unit of 26th IB is conducting custodial debriefing to the surrenderees and they will be processed for enrollment in the E-CLIP benefits, a government program that aims to help the rebel members of CPP-NPA-NDF to restore their allegiance to the Philippine government.

The 26th IB is on high alert with increased patrols, checkpoints, and strengthened security in its area of operations to prevent the NPA’s threat of violence.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/12/29/6-npas-yield-in-agusan-26th-ib-vows-no-more-anniversaries-for-reds/

AFP: Localized peace talks with CPP-NPA still a go

From CNN Philippines (Dec 29, 2020): AFP: Localized peace talks with CPP-NPA still a go

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 29) — There will no longer be a nationwide ceasefire between the government and the communist rebel groups but localized peace talks may still be pursued to address the insurgents' concerns, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Tuesday.

In an interview with CNN Philippines' The Source, AFP spokesperson Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said a nationwide ceasefire after the shunned peace negotiations between the national government and the rebels may now be treated as "water under the bridge." But he said local governments can still help address concerns of members of the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People's Army, even after the groups were recently declared terrorists.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier this month ruled out any truce or resumption of stalled peace talks with the rebels who have been waging more than five decades of communist insurgency, one of the longest in Asia. Duterte also reiterated a vow to crush the insurgents in the two years remaining in his term.

"Members of the CPP-NPA should no longer expect a national level of ceasefire. That is already water under the bridge. The President himself said he is not aiming for a national ceasefire," Arevalo said.

"But we will always support and we are still supporting localized peace talks. Because in that particular context, local issues and concerns by the local communist terrorist groups could be best addressed in LGUs in their area," Arevalo said. "Therefore, the solutions we will provide will be more fitting."

The statement appears to be contrary to what Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque told CNN Philippines earlier this month. Roque said a localized ceasefire – one facilitated by local government units – is also not possible, after Duterte's pronouncement that that there will be no more truce with the communist rebels for the rest of his term.

READ: Palace: No localized ceasefire with Reds too

"What is important is national agencies, local agencies and local chief executives are working hand in hand to address insurgency in these areas," Arevalo said. "We are hopeful that the defeat of this communist terrorist group will be irreversible and we will be successful before the President ends his term in 2022."

The Anti-Terrorism Council, tasked to designate any individual or group as terrorist, earlier this month issued a resolution formally tagging the CPP-NPA as "terrorist organizations, associations or groups of persons.”

However, only the Court of Appeals can order the proscription. The council's designation would not mean automatic arrest or detention, but would prompt the council to request the Anti-Money Laundering Council to freeze the accounts and assets of the designated terrorists.

Arevalo noted that nonetheless, by unplugging the group's fund sources, the AMLC could run after the bank accounts, deposits and other assets of the CPP-NPA that are used to fund ammunition, and supposedly bribe other individuals to join the group.

"[The resolution] will aid the military largely in the performance of its functions because the AMLC will be empowered in the freezing of the accounts and definitely, this will have an impact on the [group's] capability to wage war," Arevalo said.

Under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the AMLC can issue a 20-day freeze order on bank accounts of designated terrorists. AMLC executive director Mel Racela previously said in a statement that this will be done based on their "analysis of accounts behavior."

In a tweet on Monday, CPP information officer Marco Valbuena responded that they are "not stupid to have bank accounts which the AMLC can freeze," and stressed that such order will only be used against President Rodrigo Duterte's critics accused of funneling funds to the NPA , including party-list organizations and other political parties. He warned that it will also "suppress" human rights defenders, unions and other organizations.

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/12/29/CPP-NPA-localized-peace-talks-still-on-AFP.html

YEARENDER//PH military trudges on a long road to credible defense capacity

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 29, 2020): YEARENDER//PH military trudges on a long road to credible defense capacity (By: Frances Mangosing)

Eighty-five years since its founding, the Armed Forces of the Philippines held a rare parade at sea—a first in recent years. Seven large Philippine Navy ships followed by smaller vessels, passed by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and senior military officials who were aboard the BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602) off the coast of Morong, Bataan on a bright, sunny day in mid-December. Dozens of aircraft, old and new, put on a show in the skies.

Leading the line of ships were no longer hand-me-downs. BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), the newly-acquired multi-role frigate from South Korea, took the lead, while BRP Tarlac (LD-601), an Indonesian-built landing dock vessel like the Davao del Sur, trailed behind.

Just several months ago, the Philippine Navy’s most capable warship was BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39), a former Pohang-class corvette from South Korea, named after a Philippine Army soldier killed in action in the Korean War.

Clearly, the fleet review wasn’t a show of force. Lorenzana acknowledged that the AFP was still nowhere near the military might of its regional neighbors. The event was rather a display of the modest strides in the AFP’s modernization program.

“We want to show the Filipino people that the AFP is continuously upgrading, so they can see where their taxes go… It’s a modest demonstration of our capabilities but it’s a big leap from where we came from before,” he said.

The Philippines, an archipelago with one of the world’s longest coastlines, has one of the weakest armed forces in the region. The military continues to modernize itself, albeit at a rather slow pace, in the face of wide-ranging security concerns, like China’s persistent aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

Efforts to build up the armed forces began under former president Benigno Aquino III in 2012 after the ambitious AFP modernization push in 1995 did not go as planned.

Spotlight on upgrade

The year 2020 presented various challenges to the Philippine military, putting a spotlight on the actual state of the AFP’s modernization program.

When the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States was threatened to be terminated after an outburst by President Rodrigo Duterte early this year, security and foreign affairs officials quickly cautioned against revoking the agreement straight away and pushed for a thorough review instead.

The VFA provides the legal framework for the large-scale entry of American troops into the Philippines. It also allows the US to rapidly assist in disaster response, counter-terrorism efforts and capability building.

Lorenzana told the Senate in February that the Philippines, which depended largely on the US for decades, needed to strengthen its military first if it didn’t want to forever rely on its American ally.

“I think our long-term interest is to be self-sufficient in our defense,” he said.

“We should have at least a minimum deterrent capability. Now, whether we need the VFA indefinitely, I think we do not need the VFA indefinitely. So we should use the interim to build up our capabilities,” he said.

The looming VFA abrogation, however, was abruptly overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic in March. The military, which took an oath to defend the country against all threats, suddenly found itself on the frontlines of an uncharted territory, fighting an unseen enemy amid traditional conflicts.

Troops were deployed to help police enforce checkpoints, help in coronavirus testing, serve as encoders, builders. Military assets were mobilized to transport stranded passengers, personal protective equipment and other crucial supplies.

A pair of the Philippine Air Force’s C-130 cargo planes worked harder than usual, with regular back and forth trips to China to pick up one million PPE sets procured by the government for workers on the frontline of the fight against COVID-19. At one point, Lorenzana expressed fear the planes would be overused.

“That’s what we fear, our planes having trouble. In that case we will have to lease civilian cargo planes,” he told Inquirer.net in April.

The Department of Health (DOH) then said that it was in search for bigger planes than the C-130s, because a single C-130 flight can carry only 15,000 PPE sets.

The Navy’s logistics vessel BRP Bacolod City (LS-550) was deployed to China and hauled 200,000 PPE sets. Bigger ships that could likely accommodate more supplies were elsewhere at the time. The BRP Davao del Sur was in the Middle East, supposedly to repatriate overseas Filipino workers who would want to come home because of the supposed impending conflict there. Tensions cooled down later on but the ship stayed there for a few more months with BRP Ramon Alcaraz. Davao del Sur’s sister-ship BRP Tarlac was in the dry dock.

Because of the pandemic, the government had to realign funds from several agencies for its COVID-19 response, including the defense department’s meager budget for the modernization program. This meant the implementation of some projects had to be pushed back.

The Navy put off the scheduled decommissioning of legacy ships this year because the planned acquisition of new replacements was disrupted due to COVID-19.

The Philippine military’s fragile cyber defense structure also received attention from lawmakers, after the Department of National Defense (DND) went ahead with a deal with Chinese-backed telco Dito Telecom to set up cell towers in military camps.

The DND earlier proposed a P500 million budget for cybersecurity in 2021 to improve its capacity.

Toward the end of 2020, a spate of typhoons highlighted once more the Philippine military’s limited capabilities. Aircraft, vessels and vehicles were deployed, but it did not seem enough.

“The greatest challenge is the lack of equipment,” Lorenzana said in Filipino. “Because AFP equipment is deployed all over the country. The typhoon not only hit Luzon. Central Philippines, Visayas, they also have their own problems,” Lorenzana said in November.

“We have equipment, we have personnel but sometimes it is still lacking,” he said.

New equipment

Despite the pandemic, the military received deliveries of several new equipment this year. In May, South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries delivered BRP Jose Rizal, touted as the Navy’s first missile-capable frigate.

Rizal is the first of two frigates purchased for P16 billion, with another P2 billion for weapon systems and munition. The acquisition of the frigates was fraught with controversies in 2017 because of the defense department’s sacking of then Navy chief Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado over the selection of the combat management systems.

The CMS requirement was not eventually met on time for the delivery as it was promised by the contractor, leaving the DND to accept the South Korean government’s sovereign guarantee. Whether Mercado was right all along in pushing for the Navy technical working group’s preferences of another CMS early on is another story.

Six Super Tucano A29B light attack aircraft from Brazil’s Embraer SA were delivered to the Philippine Air Force last October. These air assets worth P4.698 billion will strengthen close air support for counterinsurgency missions.

Air transport roles would also get a boost with the commissioning of the first 6 of 16 Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters in December. These would be primarily used in ferrying troops and cargo, medical evacuation, resupply, search and rescue, limited close air support, and disaster relief.

Other deliveries in 2020 included Gulfstream G280 transport plane, fast boats, all-terrain vehicles, and KM450 trucks.

The Philippines was also a recipient of assorted military equipment from the United States worth almost P2 billion. These included MK-82 bombs; 100 tube launched optically guided wireless tow missiles 2A Bunker Busters; 12 improved target acquisition system and support equipment, ScanEagle drones, sniper rifles and anti-IED equipment.

Even with some delays due to the pandemic, contracts were still awarded for some projects like air surveillance radar systems, self-propelled howitzers, attack helicopters, light tanks and wheeled armored personnel carriers.

Last November, the DND paid more attention to its self-reliant defense posture by embedding it to its logistics and acquisitions unit as part of a reorganizational structure.

The AFP was able to carry out a major unilateral exercise called DAGIT-PA in late 2020 to test the interoperability of troops and assets among the three branches of service.

“We really have to be interoperable. One service needs another. For example, if you are dealing with a terrorist, it’s not only the Army that is needed. You need the support of the air and naval forces,” AFP vice chief Lt. Gen. Erickson Gloria told reporters.

2021

The AFP modernization budget for 2021, which was earlier pegged at around P33 billion, was slashed by P5.2 billion by the bicameral committee, co-chaired by Sen. Sonny Angara and ACT-CIS Rep. Eric Go Yap. The funds were transferred to the Department of Public Works and Highways, Inquirer earlier reported.

The budget for the upgrade was now set at P27 billion, according to Lorenzana. This would be spent on frigates, combat engineering equipment, unmanned aerial vehicles, attack helicopters, C4ISTAR, radars, ground-based air defense, howitzers, light tanks and wheeled armored personnel carriers, medium-lift aircraft, missile-firing fast attack interdiction craft, and heavy-lift helicopters.

Some of the deliveries expected next year are those for ground-based air defense systems, self-propelled howitzers, second hand C-130 plane, remaining 10 Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk helicopters and the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), the sister-ship of BRP Jose Rizal.

Rizal has so far performed various missions in the first few months after her delivery, including the Navy’s participation in the US-led Rim of the Pacific, the world’s largest maritime exercise held in Hawaii. With the impending arrival of Luna, they will be the most capable ships in the fleet.

The military is anticipated to play another significant role in 2021 on top of its existing responsibilities. Lorenzana said he expects the armed forces to be at the forefront of the distribution of the much-awaited vaccines across the country once these start to arrive. The military’s land, air, and sea assets could be heavily involved in this future task. But there was still no definite plan, he said.
Horizon 2

2021 is the penultimate year for Horizon 2, the second stage of the military’s modernization program. It was designed to achieve minimum credible defense capability and has a timetable of 2018 to 2022.

Based on the DND presentation to the Senate last October, there are at least 20 projects approved by Duterte amounting to P158.55 billion that still needed funds.

According to the agency’s assessment, the current allocation for the AFP modernization program projects is insufficient to support the remaining approved projects under the Horizon 2 and the new AFP priority projects.

Lorenzana told senators that some projects could be moved to Horizon 3, which spans 2023 to 2028.

Under the Horizon 2, the Philippine military planned to purchase multi-role fighters, offshore patrol vessels, corvettes, light tanks, and other assets that would boost its effective force presence.

The military has a long wish list but Navy chief Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said he was looking forward to the acquisition of “game-changers.”

“I’m more excited for the game-changers,” Bacordo said. These included two submarines and a shore-based anti-ship missile system. ”That, for me, are the big game changers,” he told reporters in mid-December.

“It has a big role in deterrence,” he said. “That is for the defense for our archipelago. Can you imagine a scenario where we have mobile missile systems spread all over the archipelago reaching up to 200 nautical mile range, then we will have a credible defense,” he said.

Lorenzana said the Philippines would no longer be bullied if it had a minimum credible defense posture, but without identifying who is the bully.

“So that we will not be bullied. We have something to fight with,” Lorenzana said. “If you get punched, you have something to punch with. They will also have a bloody nose. It’s to defend our territory, not as an offensive force,” he said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1377113/ph-military-trudges-on-a-long-road-to-credible-defense-capacity

Kalinaw News: CAFGU GRADUATES | New Cafgu Recruits Successfully Completed Training, Augments Security Forces in Basilan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2020): CAFGU GRADUATES | New Cafgu Recruits Successfully Completed Training, Augments Security Forces in Basilan



ISABELA CITY, Basilan Province – Fifty-three new Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) recruits successfully graduated from the Basic Military Training (BMT) conducted by the 4th Special Forces Battalion here in Barangay Cabunbata last Tuesday, 22 December 2020,and will be incorporated as additional security forces in the province.

The BMT Class 21-2020, with the class name ‘KAMANDAG’ or Kawal ng Mamamayan Na may Dignidad At Galing, is composed of fifty males and three females who underwent the forty-five days rigorous military training, which prepared them to be readily deployed in both combat and non-combat operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Alex Ampati, the Commanding Officer of 4th Special Forces Battalion, takes pride of the discipline and commitment that the new CAA graduates have shown during their training and ensures the public of the military’s unrelenting effort in sustaining the peace and order.

“The discipline and skill shown by our CAAs proves their dedication to serving the people. And now, our forces have increased even more to maintain peace and security in our province. ”, Lieut.-Colonel Ampati said.

Hon. Roderick H. Furigay, the Vice Mayor of Lamitan City, was invited as the guest speaker during the closing ceremony. In his speech, he praised the military for successfully administering the training to the CAAs, as well as their selfless dedication in serving the people of Basilan. (4SFBN/7)

[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/cafgu-graduates-new-cafgu-recruits-successfully-completed-training-augments-security-forces-in-basilan/

Kalinaw News: ARMED MEN ARRESTED | Army, PNP Arrests Four Armed Men in Tabuan-Lasa

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2020): ARMED MEN ARRESTED | Army, PNP Arrests Four Armed Men in Tabuan-Lasa



TABUAN-LASA, Basilan Province – Four armed men were arrested by the joint elements of the 14th Special Forces Company and Tabuan-Lasa Police Station during the conduct of law enforcement operation here in Barangay Balanting of Saluping Island last Friday, 25 December 2020.

The arrested personalities were identified as Sajid Sampang, Basil Jamjiri, Ebkar Saikano, and Jun Taberoa, a suspect of a frustrated murder case. Recovered in their possession were three (3) M16A1 Rifles, one (1) 9mm Beretta pistol, five (5) 40mm high explosives, and assorted types of magazines and ammunitions.

Accordingly, the four were involved in the recent armed confrontation between the group of Hadji Jerry Dalil and Amil Family in Barangay Balanting last December 24 which resulted to the evacuation of many families in the said barangay.

Lieutenant Colonel Alex Ampati, the Commanding Officer of the 4th Special Forces Battalion, ensured the constituents of Tabuan-Lasa Municipality that crime perpetrators and disruptors of peace in the community shall be brought to justice.

“We will not allow any trouble to start here in the community. We will ensure the immediate arrest of those responsible for the law. ”, Lieut.-Colonel Ampati said.

The local leaders of Tabuan-Lasa Municipality praised the immediate response of the troops which pacified the conflict in the island, and the effective collaboration of the Army and PNP in sustaining peace and order in the municipality. (4SFBN/7)

[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/armed-men-arrested-army-pnp-arrests-four-armed-men-in-tabuan-lasa/

Kalinaw News: NPA leader surrenders, seeks government’s help

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2020): NPA leader surrenders, seeks government’s help



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – A former New Peoples Army (NPA) leader surrendered with firearms to 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion (58IB) at Advance Command Post, Sitio Langusahan, Minalwang, Claveria, Misamis Oriental last November 27, 2020.

The surrenderee was identified as alias Roldan, 28 years old, and a former leader of Squad Dos, Platoon Banglas, Guerilla front 88 of North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC) operating in the boundaries of Bukidnon, Agusan sur and Misamis Oriental.

Alias Roldan brought along with him One M14 rifle, One homemade shotgun and Two sniper scope. According to him, he wanted to surrender and seek government’s help and wished to join his former comrades who already returned to the mainstream society. He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the government for extending help.

Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L Canatoy lauded the decision of Alias Roldan to surrender, saying it was a welcome development as government forces continued to battle with the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) which marked its 52nd founding anniversary last Saturday, December 26.

“I encouraged those who are still in the armed movement to surrender and return to the folds of the law. The government are more than willing to accept your decision towards peace and progress,” Lt Col Canatoy added.

Alias Roldan is now in the custody of 58IB while awaiting for the processing of his enrollment 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/npa-leader-surrenders-seeks-governments-help/

Kalinaw News: 1 NPA combatant killed, 1 captured and HPAFs seized in Malitbog clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2020): 1 NPA combatant killed, 1 captured and HPAFs seized in Malitbog clash

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental- One (1) New People’s Army (NPA) combatant was killed, one (1) was captured and firearms were seized during a clash with the government troops under 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion this morning, December 29, 2020.

The said encounter happened at around 0600H in the hinterland of Brgy Silo-o, Malitbog, Bukidnon while the government troops were checking on the presence of the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) in the said area. This resulted to 1 dead and 1 captured member of NPA. The killed NPA is identified as Leonido Pacheco alias Macdong, member of Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) of the Sub-Regional Committee 1 (SRC1).

Moreover, while conducting a clearing operation, the government troops were able to capture a wounded NPA combatant who was abandoned by his comrades. He was identified as Aman Bilayong alias Neri, a member of Platoon Ryan, Motorola, SRC1), Northern Central Mindanao Region Command (NCMRC). Also, seized from the encounter site were two (2) M16 rifles, one (1) KG-9, magazines,ammunition and subversive documents.

The said encounter is a result of the continuous effort and proactive measures of the government to thwart any activities of the NPA in different communities during this Christmas season.

Meanwhile, Hon. Osmundo dela Rosa, Municipal Mayor of Malitbog expressed his gratitude to the government troops for their continuous efforts in ending local communist armed conflict and for the protection provided to his constituents against the terrorists. However, he was saddened by the death of one of our brothers who fought for the false ideologies of the NPAs.

Also, Hon. Dela Rosa encouraged the remaining members of the NPA to return to the folds of the law. “Isip amahan sa lungsod, andam ang atong gobyerno sa pagtabang bisan ginamay nga ayuda ngadto sa atong mga amigo sa pikas nga mobalik sa sabakan sa atong gobyerno.”

On the other hand, Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB expressed his condolence to the bereaved family of the killed NPA. “Our deepest sympathy to the family of the killed NPA who is just a victim of the CTG’s deception and lies,” Lt. Col. Canatoy said.

“This encounter will serve as a lesson to the members of the CTGs that we will not put our guards down and allow the terrorists to sow fear in the communities. However, we still call on the remaining members of the NPA to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law,” Lt. Col. Canatoy added.

The wounded soldier and NPA were immediately provided with first aid and were later brought to the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital for further treatment.

[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/1-npa-combatant-killed-1-captured-and-hpafs-seized-in-malitbog-clash/

Kalinaw News: 6 More BIFF Members Surrender in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2020): 6 More BIFF Members Surrender in Maguindanao



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – A new batch of six combatants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have withdrawn their membership to BIFF, an extremist group under Karialan faction, and surrendered to 90th Infantry (BIGKIS LAHI) Battalion and Pagalungan Municipal Station in Pagalungan, Maguindanao on December 28, 2020.

These former extremists were presented to BGen. Roberto Capulong, Commander of 602Bde and to Hon. Salik Mamasabulod, Municipal Mayor of Pagalungan in a simple ceremony at Municipal Hall, Brgy. Poblacion, Pagalungan town.

The surrenderers brought with them their surrendered firearms comprised of two M14 Rifles, one Garand Rifle, one 5.56mm Carbine, one locally made Cal 50 Barret Sniper Rifle and one RPG with ammo.

“Nagpapasalamat po kami sa tropa ng pamahalaan dahil hindi nila kami tinuring na mga kalaban, sa halip ay tinulungan pa kami na magbagong buhay”, one of the former extremists said.

They said that an earlier batch of comrades who yielded to the military have convinced them to try the government’s program for surrendering rebels.

“Pagod at hirap na ang aming kalagayan sa bundok, wala na kaming makain at wala ding suporta sa amin. Dagdag pa dito ang patuloy na pagtugis ng mga sundalo sa amin”, they said.

The multiple influx of BIFF surrenders are the product of the “AGILA-HAVEN” program or the “Malasakit ng AGILA” of Maguindanao Governor Bai Mariam Sangki Mangudadatu. All these BIFF surenderees will be enrolled to this program as their psychosocial intervention before they go back to the mainstream society.

Major General Juvymax R. Uy, Commander of 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division said “We welcomed these former BIFF members as they go to the mainstream society; our concerted efforts with the Provincial Local Government of Maguindanao will pave way for the attainment of the lasting genuine peace in this part of Mindanao”.

[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/6-more-biff-members-surrender-in-maguindanao/

Kalinaw News: Army extends assistance to kin of slain NPA in Negros Oriental

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2020): Army extends assistance to kin of slain NPA in Negros Oriental



Siaton, Negros Oriental – The Army’s 11th Infantry (Lapu-Lapu) Battalion headed by Lieutenant Colonel Ramir J. Redosendo extended assistance to the bereaved families of the slain NPA terrorist in Siaton, Negros Oriental on Monday, December 28, 2020.

The financial assistance was handed over to 19-year-old Reggie Sabinan, son of Ricardo “Ka George” Sabinan. Ka George was laid to rest in Siaton on the same day. He is a resident of Sitio Budlis, Barangay Mantiquil. He has a standing warrant of arrest along with three others for the crime of Murder.

It can be recalled that elements of the 11IB encountered remnants of Southeast Front, Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor (SEF, KR – NCBS) at Sitio Libjo, Barangay Tayak (not Barangay Napacao as earlier reported) in Siaton, Negros Oriental on Christmas eve, December 24, 2020.

The encounter happened after the government forces received reports from concerned residents on the presence of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in the area. Two (2) communist-terrorists, including “Ka George,” were killed in a 30-minute firefight against the government forces.

Aside from the goods and financial assistance, the 11IB also provided burial assistance to the family of Ricardo Sabinan.

Captain Francis Salcedo, Civil-Military Operations officer of 11IB, stated that “The other slain NPA member was already identified. He is Wilbert Fuentes, alias “Ka MJ/ Ka ELIAS” and a resident of Barangay San Vicente, Trinidad, Bohol.”

“With the help of 47IB based at Camp Sikatuna in Bohol, we were able to identify and contact the family of “Ka MJ”. We are now preparing all the requirements needed so that we can immediately transport “Ka MJ” back to his family,” Captain Salcedo added.

Lieutenant Colonel Ramir J Redosendo, Commanding officer of 11IB, stressed that “We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families of slain communist-terrorists. Another unfortunate incident, these slain NPA members are just victims of deception and fake ideologies being inculcated to them by their privileged pendejo leaders.”

“We want a decent burial for them; that is why we set aside a small amount to extend help to the bereaved families. We want them to know that they are not left out, and their government and the Philippine Army will never abandon them,” Lt Col Redosendo added.

Colonel Leonardo I Peña, 302nd Brigade Commander also expressed his sadness and extended his condolences to the bereaved family. “It brings us grief to see another life of our kababayan being put to waste. We are just doing our sworn duty and responsibility to protect the community from the enemy of the state. This would be the result if we allow ourselves to be deceived by the NPA terrorists; but despite this, your Army and other Government agencies still join with the family by providing all the necessary assistances for the decent and peaceful burial of Ricardo “Ka George” Sabinan.”

“We are likewise calling all our peace-loving Negrosanons, do not allow our loved ones, relatives, and friends, to fall into the trap of the Communist Terrorist group. Always feel free to send us information if you happen to encounter and notice the NPA presence in your respective community,” Col Peña 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/army-extends-assistance-to-kin-of-slain-npa-in-negros-oriental/

Kalinaw News: Southern Tagalog, Bicol Top NPAs Fall in Rizal

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2020): Southern Tagalog, Bicol Top NPAs Fall in Rizal

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – As the Communist Party of the Philippines supposedly celebrated their anniversary, two of their top NPA members were apprehended after a joint AFP-PNP operations served warrants of arrest in Atimonan, Quezon on December 26.

Per reports, government troops identified the NPA terrorists as Ruel Custodio alias Baste, head of Finance Staff of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee who had a warrant for kidnapping and illegal possession of explosives along with Ruben Estocado alias Oyo, a political instructor of Bicol Regional Party Committee. The duo were arrested in the house of Rhodora “Dhoray” Blas Tan, a Board Member of the 4th District, Quezon Province.

The soldiers and police seized from the terrorists’ possession two Cal. 45 pistols with magazines and ammunition, two hand grenades, several electronic devices, and subversive documents that could lead the authorities in uncovering their extortion activities.

MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of 2ID, said that “this incident shows the drive of our soldiers and police in uniting to end insurgency in our country.”

“Instead of celebrating their anniversary, the few remaining NPA terrorists remain in hiding. Especially in the last few months where most of their cadres were either killed in combat, apprehended or have surrendered to avail of the government’s livelihood programs.”

[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/southern-tagalog-bicol-top-npas-fall-in-rizal/

RTF-ELCAC-10, BP2 Committee endorse investment program

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 29, 2020): RTF-ELCAC-10, BP2 Committee endorse investment program (By Kathleen Emillie A. Navarra)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Dec. 29 -- The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC)-10 and the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa (BP2) Committee endorsed the Northern Mindanao Regional BP2 Action Plan during a joint meeting here.The Action Plan will ensure balanced regional development and equitable distribution of wealth, resources, and opportunities through policies and programs that boost countryside development and inclusive growth, provide adequate social services, and promote full employment, industrialization, and improved quality of life in rural areas.

It will focus on the attainment of four key result areas (KRAs): (1) Empowerment of local industries, (2) Food security and agricultural productivity, (3) Housing, social welfare, health, employment, and human resource development, and (4) Infrastructure development. The total investment requirement to set the plan in motion is seen at PhP36 billion.

Also endorsed are the Updated Regional Development Investment Program (RDIP) 2017-2022 and Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Annual Investment Program for the Security Sector as inputs to the respective FY 2022 budget proposals of concerned agencies.

The priority programs, projects, and activities of the security sector found in the two investment programs are generally responsive to the strategies and outcomes laid out in the RDP 2017-2022 Midterm Update, particularly in Chapter 17: Attaining Just and Lasting Peace and Chapter 18: Ensuring Public Order and Safety.

Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security and Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin M. Andanar presided over the joint meeting. Other highlights include the turn-over of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program benefits, presentation of proposed regional FY 2021 Barangay Development Program, and updates of community development projects for the Convergence Areas for Peace and Development Areas under the FY 2020 Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program.

Major General Andres C Centino, RTF-ELCAC-10 TWG Chair, presented the highlights of the major accomplishments of the task force for the period January to November 2020 that resulted in the surrender of 2,100 Communist NPA Terrorist personalities and supporters. These include 262 regular communist New People’s Army, 222 Milisya ng Bayan, 83 Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad, and 1,533 underground mass organizations’ members and sympathizers. (NEDA10)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062597

Bangsamoro Gov’t names Peace Champion 2020

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 29, 2020): Bangsamoro Gov’t names Peace Champion 2020 (By BARMM Information Office)

MARAWI CITY, Dec. 29 - The Bangsamoro Government, through its Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS), named Esmael Usop Sema from Maguindanao as Bangsamoro Peace Champion 2020.

MPOS Minister Hussien P. Muñoz awarded Sema a trophy, plaque of recognition and Php50,000 cash reward in a ceremony Monday, Dec. 28, in Cotabato City.

Muñoz said the Bangsamoro Peace Champion 2020 is an annual program that aims to recognize the initiatives of peacebuilders and advocates, and to encourage them to continue their noble endeavors.

He stressed that the program intends to acknowledge “exemplary individuals who dedicated their time and resources to peace efforts, initiatives and activities […] to contribute in developing, improving and strengthening the peace environment in their communities and areas within the Bangsamoro Region.”

Sema saw that the community of Barangay Barurao in the town of Sultan Sa Barongis faces various social issues such as lack of potable water, frequent flooding, unpaved roads, presence of lawless elements, and absence of a secondary school.

Bangsamoro Peace Champion 2020 Esmael Usop Sema (at the center) together with other four other peace advocates who “carry genuine and colorful flags of peace initiatives and efforts in their Bangsamoro communities” were also named as finalists for the awarding.

These challenges, Sema noted, result in fewer opportunities of uplifting their lives. Considering their place in a depressed community, people could end up holding arms and engaging in conflicts as chances of education and lower income hover their lives.

This year, Sema founded the Kaliyot B. Sali Peace Academy, Inc. to advocate peace through education and encourage the locality to attend schools.

The school offers free education to its students, including free uniforms and other needed materials.

He highlighted that education promotes peace and it can be one of the most powerful tools to reduce the tendency of people joining militancy and engaging in lawlessness.

“Seeing the good feedback and results of your efforts, you will have more motivation in your peace advocacies,” Sema said.

Four other peace advocates who “carry genuine and colorful flags of peace initiatives and efforts in their Bangsamoro communities” were also named as finalists for the awarding - Lo Ivan Castillon from Cotabato City, Joharie Kabugatan from Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao; Jamilnur Sarip from Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, and Sohaila Macadato from Cotabato City.

The nominees underwent three rigid stages of selection screening and deliberation to ensure they imbibe the core values of being a Bangsamoro Peace Champion and the ministry's ambassador of peace in the region. (Bangsamoro Information Office)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062688

Southern Tagalog, Bicol top NPAs arrested in Atimonan, Quezon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 29, 2020): Southern Tagalog, Bicol top NPAs arrested in Atimonan, Quezon (By PA 2ID DPAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal, Dec 29 (PIA) – As the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) supposedly celebrating their anniversary, two of their top NPA members were apprehended after a joint AFP-PNP operations served warrants of arrest in Atimonan, Quezon on December 26.

The government troops identified the NPA terrorists as Ruel Custodio alias Baste, head of Finance Staff of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee who had a warrant for kidnapping and illegal possession of explosives and Ruben Estocado alias Oyo, a political instructor of Bicol Regional Party Committee. The duo were arrested in the house of Rhodora “Dhoray” Blas Tan, a Board Member from the 4th District of Quezon Province.

The soldiers and police seized from the terrorists’ possession two Cal. 45 pistols with magazines and ammunition, two hand grenades, several electronic devices, and subversive documents that could lead the authorities in uncovering their extortion activities.

MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of 2ID, said that “this incident shows the drive of our soldiers and police in uniting to end insurgency in our country.”

“Instead of celebrating their anniversary, the few remaining NPA terrorists remain in hiding. Especially in the last few months where most of their cadres were either killed in combat, apprehended or have surrendered to avail of the government’s livelihood programs.” (PIA-4A/PA 2ID DPAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062627

PH Navy upgrades arsenal to defend waters

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 29, 2020): PH Navy upgrades arsenal to defend waters (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

The BRP Jose Rizal, the Philippines' first missile frigate is docked at Subic Bay, Zambales. Philippine Navy chief Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said efforts to upgrade the Navy remain intact despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. (File photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

PASIG CITY, Dec. 29 (PIA) -- The Philippine Navy has upgraded its arsenal to effectively defend the country's territorial waters as part of the government's efforts to modernize the military.

Early this year, the Navy commissioned its first-ever missile frigate, the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), this, despite the challenges brought by the ongoing COVID-19 health emergency pandemic.

"Despite the COVID-19 pandemic greatly affecting the implementation of the AFP’s Modernization Program this year, the Philippine Navy has remained in high spirits in terms of developing its capabilities. For one, the Navy has seen the arrival of its first modern frigate, BRP Jose Rizal in May of this year," Navy chief Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said.

The BRP Jose Rizal is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations and was officially commissioned last July 10.

A few weeks after its commissioning, the ship and its crew were deployed to the biennial "Rim of the Pacific" (RIMPAC) exercises off Hawaii, which took place from Aug. 17 to 31.

Bacordo said this deployment is considered the "maiden deployment" of the brand-new missile frigate and called the participation of the ship and its contingent to the RIMPAC as a "sterling one".

Also, no defects were reported aboard BRP Jose Rizal during the two-week maneuvers.

"No reported safety and security incidents. No weapons, communications, electronic(s) and information (system) hull, machinery, and electrical sys(tem) derangements (were) reported," Bacordo earlier said.

He added that BRP Jose Rizal’s participation in RIMPAC 2020 highlights the competence and capability of the ship and its crew to undertake various maritime operational scenarios, may it be multinational operations with other partner nations, maritime security of commercial shipping, or operating on its own or with its onboard helicopter against surface and sub-surface adversaries.

"[The] FF-150 took advantage of RIMPAC 2020 to train as a team, put the ship at pace with possible real-world scenarios, and the crew to gel during this time," he said.

Bacordo said the ship's participation was also recognized by its US counterparts, specifically US Navy Third Fleet commander Vice Admiral Scott D. Conn, who earlier said they are happy to have the Philippines participating in RIMPAC with BRP Jose Rizal.

To recall, the BRP Jose Rizal was launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on May 23, 2019. Its sister ship, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), on the other hand, was launched in the same facility on November 8 last year.

The contract for the two ships amounted to P16 billion and an additional P2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

Aside from the arrival and commissioning of the PN's first guided-missile frigate, another highlight for the Navy this year is the partial delivery of the 10 high-speed and fast boats contracted for the Naval Special Operations Command (Navsocom).

"In addition, in August of this year, the Navsocom also saw the partial delivery of seven out of 10 high-speed and fast boats acquired under the modernization program and meant to boost special operations capability. These are currently undergoing sea trial and technical inspection procedures," Bacordo said.

Also of great importance for the PN was the acquisition of the ScanEagle unmanned aerial system with the assistance of the United States,

"Further, the PN has received through (Foreign Military Sales) FMS the donation of ScanEagle unmanned aerial system (UAS), composing of eight air vehicles, four ground-control stations, and other components that can greatly contribute to the ISR [intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance] operations and RDANA [rapid damage and needs assessment], and support to humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR)," Bacordo said.

Also included in this package are training for the operators and maintainers (10 pilot and six maintainers, four image and video data processors) to ensure optimized utilization," he added.

During the formal turnover of the ScanEagle UAS last Nov. 25 at Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite, Bacordo said the arrival of this platform will allow the Navy to greatly expand the coverage of its internal security, territorial defense, HADR, and maritime law enforcement missions.

ScanEagle unmanned drones

This is the first fixed UAS to be operated by the Navy. The ScanEagle and its associated equipment, worth USD14.79 million, were acquired through the Maritime Security Initiative Program of the United States.

It was requested by the PN in 2017 and was formalized in February 2019 after a series of dialogues with the Philippines’ Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG-Phil).

"Another milestone was achieved just recently which includes the successful negotiations for the Lot 1 (Platforms) & Lot 2 (Combat Systems and Missiles) of the Fast Attack Interdiction Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) Acquisition Project. This resulted in the provisions for an additional one unit with one set of remote combat weapon systems (on top of the programmed eight units FAIC-M) for the PN and an upgrade of the Naval Ship Yard -- without additional cost to the government. Hence, the PN expects to obtain a total of nine missile-equipped FAICs in the coming years," Bacordo said.

The FAIC-Ms, Bacordo said, are expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium (PKM) or medium-sized patrol craft, with deliveries expected to start in 2022.

The project, approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 project list of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, has a budget of P10 billion and is for multi-year contracting.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

With the FAIC-Ms, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu, and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

While operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover.

Another important event for the PN in 2020 is the successful conclusion of the five-day sea acceptance trials (SAT) of BRP Antonio Luna, the second missile frigate ordered by the Navy from HHI.

The SAT started on Dec. 14 and ended on Dec. 18.

"As the second installment of the Frigate Acquisition Project, the FF-151 or BRP Antonio Luna concluded its five-day Sea Acceptance Trials recently on 18 December 2020 in South Korea. As a result, the PN is expecting to welcome this modern vessel in February 2021 and project delivery remains to be right on schedule," Bacordo said.

BRP Antonio Luna

In a media statement, Rear Admiral Alberto Carlos, head of the PN's Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC), declared that FF-151 is compliant with the agreed technical specifications after personally witnessing the warship's performance during the sea trials.

"[The] FF-151 is 95 percent complete at this time. All machinery and combat systems were subjected to test procedures as stipulated in the contract and were observed to be working properly. More importantly, I'm happy to announce that FF-151 passed the prescribed standards and procedures," he said.

Carlos said upon completion of the SAT, BRP Antonio Luna's completion rating is almost 100 percent. This, he added, will pave way for the frigate re-docking and final outfitting before delivery early next year.

Also, Bacordo said parallel with equipment acquisition is the command’s effort on base support and sustainment development that would address the facility requirements for the upcoming deliverables of the PN modernization program like the missile storage facilities and repair of piers and other major infrastructure, among others.

"Moreover, the non-material aspects that are crucial to the overall effort of the PN modernization are considered through the Capability Synchronization Matrix. As a crucial management tool, the matrix is seen to identify, program, integrate, implement, and monitor the overall capability development of the PN," he added.

This also includes alignment of materiel and non-materiel capabilities covering training activities that would enhance personnel competency for our personnel, doctrines development, force restructuring and organizational development, and human resource development.

Also, the PN chief is pleased to announce that the Navy is continuing its efforts in supporting the local defense industry research and development under the Self-Reliant Defense Posture program.

"In 2020, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, we have seen the active implementation and near completion of 'Project Buhawi' or building a universal mount for heavy-barrel automated weapon integration for naval vessels," Bacordo said. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062645

Defense chief to lead observance of 124th martyrdom of Jose Rizal on Dec. 30

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 29, 2020): Defense chief to lead observance of 124th martyrdom of Jose Rizal on Dec. 30 (By Alehia V. Abuan)

Diorama of Dr. Jose Rizal's execution at the Rizal Park in Manila. (Photo courtesy of FAQ.ph from Flicker)

PARAÑAQUE CITY, Dec. 29 (PIA) -- Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, the official representative of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, will lead this year's observance of the 124th Martyrdom of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal on Dec. 30 in Manila.

Lorenzana is set to lead the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies at the Jose Rizal National Monument in Rizal Park at 7:00 a.m. This year’s theme is “Jose Rizal: Inspirasyon sa Pagbangon at Paghilom ng Bayan.”

The defense chief will be joined by National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Chairman Rene R. Escalante, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, and Supreme Commander Sir Elihu A. Ybanez, KGCR.

According to the NHCP, the simple event will have minimal attendees, adhering to the prescribed health standards/guidelines of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID).

President Rodrigo Duterte, for his part, will deliver a virtual message after the flag raising and wreath-laying activity.

The commemorative program will be replicated at the Museo ni Jose Rizal – Calamba, Laguna and Museo ni Jose Rizal – Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte. Museo ni Jose Rizal – Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila will hold a simple wreath-laying activity to honor Rizal.

Various activities related to Rizal and his martyrdom have been scheduled on line. For a complete list of Rizal Day Activities, you may visit the NHCP website at www.nhcp.gov.ph

The NHCP is the national government agency mandated to promote Philippine history through its museums and publications, and preserve the nation’s historical heritage. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062692

Christmas finds three former NPAs way back to government

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 29, 2020): Christmas finds three former NPAs way back to government (By Shaye Dacles)

DAVAO ORIENTAL- Two days before Christmas, three former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) finally surrendered to the government after many years of living life as insurgents.

These former communists who go by the code names “Ramil,” “Dodong Ahos,” and “Rolex” yielded to the government through the Revitalized Police sa Barangay (RPSB) assigned at Barangay Maragatas in the municipality of Lupon.

Police Lieutenant Nadie Lambino and Police Lieutenant Joeffre Q. Narido under the Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office accompanied the former rebels to Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict Vice-Chairman Mr. Ednar Dayanghirang on December 23.

Ramil, Dodong Ahos, and Rolex were operating for more than five years under Front 18 before they surrendered. Right after they decided to lie-low from the movement, they lived in Talaingod, Davao del Norte.

Although it has already been five years since they last operated as members of the Communist-Terrorist group, the three former NPAs said they did not formally surrender out of fear that they would be killed by the government troops.

“Our former comrades told us that the government troops will kill us if we surrender,” said Ramil. He added that they only mustered the courage to come forward after realizing that those were only part of the NPA propaganda.

“On top of it all, we want to live peacefully,” Dodong Ahos said. “We are no longer working for them (CPP-NPA) but we are still hiding. We no longer want to live in fear,” he added.

Their decision to return back to the folds of the government was influenced largely by President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 70 or Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, which they learned about only recently.

Seeing that the program brings genuine services to the hinterlands, gives a second chance to former rebels, and is strongly supported by Governor Nelson Dayanghirang’s Executive Order 13, the three finally had the firm resolve to surrender.

As they had seen the government’s efforts to reach out to hinterland areas to bring government services, they realized that leaving the communist group would not be enough. To live peacefully, they must concede to the government. Upon yielding, they also surrendered a Calibre 38 Revolver and nine live ammunition.

The provincial government will be endorsing these former rebels to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) where they will be holistically processed to prepare them for reintegration into the mainstream society without discrimination.

More former rebels are expected to surrender as the government intensifies its efforts on peace and development under the implementation of President Duterte’s Executive Order 70 or Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflicts. (By Shaye Dacles, PIO Davao Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062670

Army cites role of CAFGUs vs. insurgency in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28, 2020): Army cites role of CAFGUs vs. insurgency in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)

HONORED. Members of Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit Active Auxiliaries are honored in an activity on Monday (Dec. 28, 2020) at the headquarters of the Army's 3rd Special Forces Battalion of the Army in Lianga, Surigao del Sur. Tribal leaders and local officials attended the event. (Photo courtesy of 3SFBn)

The Army’s 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn) recognized the contributions of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliaries (CAAs) in an activity conducted Monday (Dec. 28) at the unit’s headquarters in St. Christine, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

“We would like to honor the CAAs this Yuletide season because we believe that they are the brave men and women and the unsung heroes in our fight against all forms of threat to our national security,” said Lt. Col. Joey B. Baybayan, 3SFBn commander, in a statement Monday.

Baybayan said the CAAs are instrumental in the campaign to end local communist armed conflict and are the "formidable force "that strengthens and sustains the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) and Barangay Self Defense Units (BSDU) that prevent the communist New People’s Army (NPA) from "infiltrating" vulnerable indigenous peoples (IP) communities in Surigao del Sur.

“Just like the soldiers, our CAFGU brothers and sisters, who are mostly IPs, also risk their lives not solely because of the allowance they receive but for their sincerest dream to end the communist NPA terrorists from exploiting and corrupting their tribal culture and tradition in Surigao del Sur,” Baybayan said.

He noted that the CAFGU members are also at the forefront of many humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and security operations in Surigao del Sur--as seen during the recent Tropical Depression Vicky and the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“Long before there were Covid-19 front-liners, there were already CAAs as front-liners in all aspects of peace, order, and security,” Baybayan said.

IP leaders in the area, including Lianga tribal chieftain Datu Constancio Duhac and Datu Alexander Bucales, the newly-installed IP Mandatory Representative (IPMR) in the town, also joined Monday's activity, along with Lianga Mayor Novelita Sarmen.

“The family members of our CAFGUs were also present and received gifts and other support from the Army and the LGU,” 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo J. Punsalan, 3SFBn civil-military operations officer, told the Philippine News Agency.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125809

3 more NPA rebels killed in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28, 2020): 3 more NPA rebels killed in Sultan Kudarat (By Edwin Fernandez)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao--Three more communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists were killed in an encounter Sunday in Sultan Kudarat, raising the death toll in the area to 13 since December 24, military officials said Monday.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army's 6th Infantry Division, said the firefight ensued after government forces confirmed that a group of NPA rebels was resting in a safe house in Barangay Datu Wasay, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.

Uy said the firefight also left four other NPA rebels wounded, three of them were identified by local officials as Cesar Anding, Ruben Alaza, and a certain Edmund.

The three slain NPAs were part of a group of guerrillas who were about to celebrate the 52nd founding anniversary in Mount Lumuton, Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, the Army official said.

Col. Eduardo Gubat, 603rd Infantry Brigade commander, said that clearing operations against the rebels had been launched in the borders of Kalamansig, Lebak, and Palimbang towns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125817

ASG's machine gunner yields in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 29, 2020): ASG's machine gunner yields in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) machine gunner based on the eastern side of Sulu province has surrendered to the government forces, officials said Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu commander, identified the ASG surrenderer as Akri Bauddin Abdulhamsi, 22, who yielded an M-16 Armalite rifle.

Abdulhamsi surrendered Monday to the Army's 4th Marine Brigade headed by Col. Hernanie Songano, said Gonzales, who is also the Army's 11th Infantry Division commander.

Gonzales said Abdulhamsi was a follower of slain ASG sub-leader Hairula Abduraja and has served as the machine gunner of a certain ASG sub-leader Tista.

Songano said the ASG based on the eastern side of Sulu province is now leaderless after sub-commanders Hatib Munap Binda and Ismael Barahama were killed in a firefight last month.

This was the reason, he said, for the surrender of the group's followers recently.

“So just like what is happening in other parts of the province, the ASG in our area of operation is experiencing a vacuum in their leadership,” Songano said.

Earlier this month, 36 ASG members and supporters surrendered to Gonzales and Col. Ruben Candelario, the former 4th Marine Brigade commander.

This was followed by the surrender of two ASG sub-leaders and 15 followers to the JTF-Sulu.

“We promise that the returnees will be treated fairly and will be given a chance for a new beginning. The JTF-Sulu, line government agencies, and local government units are always coordinating and collaborating on how the returnees could be reintegrated to the community,” Gonzales said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125869

6 BIFF gunmen yield in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 29, 2020): 6 BIFF gunmen yield in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Six more Dawlah Islamiya members in the province have decided to abandon extremism and joined the government to live normal lives, the military announced here Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army's 6th Infantry Division, said the surrenderers belonged to the Karialan faction of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), who decided to surrender to the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion.

Pagalungan Mayor Salik Mamasabulod presented the surrenderers to Brig. Gen. Roberto Capulong, commander of 602nd Infantry Brigade at the town’s session hall.

They turned in high powered guns that included two M-14 rifles, a caliber. 30 M1 Garand rifle, a Carbine rifle, a locally-made cal. 50 Barret sniper rifle, and a rocket propelled grenade launcher with ammunition.

“I would like to thank our government troops who we considered as enemies but only to find out they are the ones who helped us to surrender peacefully,” one of the six surrenderers said in the dialect. “They helped us live normal lives and be with our families.”

“I will try to convince my colleagues too (to surrender),” another surrenderer, 38, said. “We are tired of running away from government soldiers, and we had nothing to eat in the marshland of Maguindanao."

Uy said they will be enrolled in the government's reintegration program before returning to mainstream society.

“We welcome these former BIFF members as they go to the mainstream society; our concerted efforts with the provincial government of Maguindanao will pave the way for the attainment of the lasting and genuine peace in this part of Mindanao,” Uy said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125899

35 'MNLF' members nabbed in Rizal for illegal use of guns

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28, 2020): 35 'MNLF' members nabbed in Rizal for illegal use of guns

MANILA – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday said joint elements of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) arrested some 35 suspects who identified themselves as members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Rizal and were caught illegally discharging firearms and engaged in illegal paramilitary training.

DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año, in a news release, said based on reports from officials of Barangay Guinayang, San Mateo, Rizal, the suspects who are not residents of the area, set up a camp in the upper portion of the barangay, and were seen indiscriminately discharging firearms and in a formation in what appeared to be a paramilitary training.

He said this prompted combined elements of the Rizal Provincial Police Office (PPO) and the 80th Infantry Battalion (IB) to conduct a joint operation which led to the arrest of the group led by a certain Lydia Panuelo.

Año said police and Army operatives caught most of the group members illegally wearing military uniforms while in formation and violating Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) guidelines on minimum health protocols (i.e. not wearing face masks and face shields and disregarding physical distancing).

“Wearing of AFP and PNP uniforms by civilians is already a violation of the law. We will make sure that these people will be penalized. Pinababaklas ko na rin sa mga barangay officials at sa LGU ang mga illegal structures na tinayo nila sa lugar (I also ordered barangay officials and the LGU to dismantle the illegal structures that they set up in the area)," he said.

Meanwhile, PNP Calabarzon director, Brig. Gen. Felipe Natividad, said that a certain Deogenes Rodriguez reportedly talked to the group and promised to give PHP300,000 to each of the member after their training "prior to deployment to Mindanao".

Natividad said unlike the real members of the MNLF, they did not speak any Arabic nor Mindanao language but are mostly fluent in Tagalog. Both the PNP and AFP are now validating their alleged affiliation with the MNLF.

Año called on the public to immediately report similar incidents to the proper authorities and to refrain from joining such activities as they will be dealt with the full force of the law.

“Sa ating mga kababayan, maging mapanuri po tayo sa mga sasalihang grupo. Huwag po basta-basta maengganyo sa mga pangako ng mga nanghihikayat na grupo (To our fellow Filipinos, let us be careful in joining groups. Don't be easily enticed by the promises of groups luring you),” he said.

Recovered from the operation are two .45- caliber pistols, several ammunition, assorted army uniforms, five handheld radios, and a jungle knife.

The DILG chief said that the suspects are now detained at the San Mateo Municipal Police Station and cases for Violation of Republic Act (RA) 11332, RA 10591, and Usurpation of Public Authority are now prepared for filing before the Prosecutor’s Office.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125861

PH Navy vice commander retires after 37 years in service

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 29, 2020): PH Navy vice commander retires after 37 years in service (By Priam Nepomuceno)

37 YEARS IN SERVICE. Rear Admiral Rey dela Cruz (right) and Navy chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo (left), during the retirement ceremony for the Navy vice commander held at the Jurado Hall of the Naval Station Jose Francisco in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Monday (Dec. 28, 2020). Dela Cruz formally retired after 37 years in service upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56. (Photo courtesy of the Navy Public Affairs Office)

Philippine Navy (PN) vice commander, Rear Admiral Rey dela Cruz on Monday formally retired after 37 years in service upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Dela Cruz turned over his post to Rear Admiral Adeluis Bordado, incumbent Chief of Naval Staff, during the joint Change of Chief of Office and Retirement Ceremony in honor of the former, held at the Jurado Hall, Naval Station Jose Francisco in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

In his speech, PN chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, said despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, the Navy has been able to push through with all its tasks with the help of dela Cruz's "swift and recognizable efforts and wisdom, which helped and supported" him in many difficult decisions.

"I am grateful for all your contributions, all your efforts, in studying, reforming, and re-adjusting the priorities of our Navy so that it can be a modern and multi-capable defense force in the future," Bacordo said.

Dela Cruz, a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Hinirang” Class of 1987, capped off 37 fruitful years of active military service.

He was a recipient of various awards, recognitions, and commendations, among them two Distinguished Service Stars, three Meritorious Achievement Medals, several Military Merit and Military Commendation Medals, and Plans and Operations and Command at Sea Badges.

Dela Cruz acted as the principal assistant of the Navy chief in the decision-making process and policy formulation and implementation.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125872