Kalinaw News: More ASG Members Yield to JTF-Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 17, 2021): More ASG Members Yield to JTF-Sulu



January 17, 2021, Camp Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – Four more Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members surrendered to the 11th Infantry Division led by MGen William N Gonzales.

Following the surrender of 13 ASG members yesterday, another four ASG personalities, who are reportedly core members of said terrorist organization, surrendered to 11th Infantry Division Commander MGen William N Gonzales.

The former ASG members were identified as Alkandi Jilbasar, Samsudin A Abral, Algabid A Abral under ASG senior leader Radulan Sahiron, and Sudimar M Ahmad under ASG Sub Leader Hajan Sawadjaan, all residents of Patikul, Sulu. They also surrendered four firearms comprised of M14, M1, and G1 rifles, cal .45 pistol along with magazines and ammunition.

According to MGen Gonzales, the surrender was made possible by the efforts of the 6th Special Forces Battalion under Ltc Rafael P Caido with the support of the 1102nd Brigade under Col Benjamin G Batara Jr. Meanwhile, the ASG surrenderees were welcomed by BGen Manuel V Sequitin, ADC, 11th Infantry (Alakdan) Division in a ceremony held at their headquarters in So Maglibak, Brgy Buhanginan, Patikul, Sulu.

Significantly, the former terrorist group members denounced the ASG saying that it is pursuing a pointless struggle. They further said that they would rather be with their wives and children after hearing of the programs laid out for them by the government.

MGen Gonzales stressed that the series of surrenders demonstrate the dwindling forces of the ASG and its inability to keep pace with the government forces in Sulu. “The terrorist groups are now in a defensive and disadvantaged position. Given the intense combat and civil military operations by the JTF-Sulu, we anticipate that the ASG will soon be defeated” he said. MGen Gonzales then urged all remaining ASG members to lay down their arms and avail of the integration program set for them by the government.

[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/more-asg-members-yield-to-jtf-sulu/

Kalinaw News: Former ASG members surrender to JTF Sulu; to begin transformation program

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 17, 2021): Former ASG members surrender to JTF Sulu; to begin transformation program

January 16, 2021, thirteen (13) ASG members formally surrendered to troops of the 11th Infantry Division led by MGen William N Gonzales in a ceremony held at the 1101st Infantry Brigade Headquarters in Sitio Bayog, Brgy. Samak, Talipao, Sulu.

The surrender of the former ASG members was facilitated by 1101st Infantry Brigade Commander Col Antonio I Bautista Jr. They were presented to 11th Infantry Assistant Division Commander BGen Manuel V Sequitin. The surrenderees yielded six (6) firearms including three (3) Garrand rifles, one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) grenade launcher, one (1) M2 carbine. The said former terrorists were under Radullan Sahiron, Hatib Sawadjaan Group and Kidnap for Ransom Group operating in Patikul, Talipao, Maimbung and Indanan all of Sulu.

Notably, one of the surrenderees, 27 y/o Arlyn Kanlon, is in the government’s “wanted” list. She provided logistical support to the group of her cousin, infamous bomber Mundi Sawadjaan . Her husband, who is also a former member of the ASG, also surrendered to the authorities in the last quarter of 2020.

11th Infantry Division Commander MGen William Gonzales lauded the efforts of the JTF troops, saying that the surrender of the former ASG members demonstrate the relentless efforts of the government forces to bring peace in the region. He urged the former rebels to grab this opportunity to begin anew and move towards a more peaceful and productive life.

MGen Gonzales stated that the newly surrendered individuals will undergo the ASG Returnees Localized Social Integration Program aimed at providing a holistic transition and reformation program for them to return to mainstream society.

[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/former-asg-members-surrender-to-jtf-sulu-to-begin-transformation-program/

Another NPA member linked to Toboso ambush arrested

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 17, 2021): Another NPA member linked to Toboso ambush arrested (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade said yesterday that they arrested another suspected member of the New People’s Army in Brgy. San Isidro, Toboso, Negros Occidental, who is facing a string of murder and frustrated murder charges.

Col. Michael Samson, 303rd IB acting commander, said that Roberto Pandacan, a member of the NPA Northern Negros Front, was arrested on Jan. 14 by the police and 79th Infantry Battalion soldiers, by virtue of the arrest warrants issued by San Carlos Regional Trial Court Judge Danilo Amisola, for murder and frustrated murder.

Pandacan, alias Berting, was linked to the ambush of civilians in Sitio Toril, Brgy. Salamanca, Toboso, on July 13, 2009, that left three civilians dead, including a 13-year-old minor, and injured three others.

Samson said Pandacan was also denied bail by Amisola, on the murder charges filed against him.

The arrest of Pandacan was made on the same day that policemen and 79IB soldiers apprehended Ruffa Baynosa, alias Ka Nexie, in Brgy. San Fernando, Talisay City, for similar charges.

Baynosa was reported to have returned to the house of Marilyn Dianton on Jan. 14, a day after a 2-month-old infant was left behind by a group of NPA rebels, who scampered to different directions, after they noticed soldiers approaching the house. “May justice be served to the victims and their families of the unfortunate incident in 2009,” Samson said.

https://news.visayandailystar.com/another-npa-member-linked-to-toboso-ambush-arrested/

Helicopter did not explode when it crashed in Bukidnon; all 7 bodies recovered

From MindaNews (Jan 17, 2021): Helicopter did not explode when it crashed in Bukidnon; all 7 bodies recovered (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

CAGAYAN DE ORO (MindaNews / 17 January) — The ill-fated Philippine Air Force Huey UH-1H helicopter did not explode on impact when it crashed on the edge of a ricefield in the mountains of Bukidnon Saturday afternoon, killing all seven passengers and crew on board.

Major Rodulfo Cordero Jr., spokesperson of the 4th Infantry Division identified the fatalities as Lt. Col. Arnie Arroyo; 2Lt. Mark Anthony Caabay and their crew; Sgt. Melven Bersabe and A1C Stephen Agarrado; Sgt. Julius Salvado of the Philippine Army, and militiamen Jerry Ayocdo and Jhamel Sugalang of the 8th Infantry Battalion.

Their bodies were recovered and brought to Malaybalay City late Saturday night.

Troops who reached the crash site at Sitio Nahigit, Barangay Bulonay, Impasug-ong town late Saturday afternoon found the aircraft “a total wreck” but did not explode and was not in flames.

The military earlier identified the crash site to be near Barangay Busdi, Malaybalay City but corrected it Sunday adding that the crash site can be reached by vehicles from Impasug-ong town.

The Huey helicopter crashed Saturday afternoon in Sitio Nahigit, Barangay Bulonay, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon. Map courtesy of Google Maps

Lt. Col. Edgardo Talaroc Jr., commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion said the helicopter did not explode.

Talaroc said soldiers and militiamen who responded to the incident found the wreckage of the ill-fated helicopter amid banana plants on the edge of a rice field.

“The bodies of the fatalities were still strapped to their seats but were badly mangled,” Talaroc said.

He said six bodies were found inside the downed helicopter while the seventh body was found a few meters away — apparently thrown off by the impact.

Talaroc said the downed aircraft did not burn as earlier feared.

The Vietnam vintage helicopter with tail number 517 and another Huey helicopter were ferrying supplies, ammunition and troops from the 403rd Infantry Brigade in Malaybalay City to the military bases in Pantaron mountain range last Friday and Saturday, according to Talaroc.

He said the choppers made two ferry missions to their camp Saturday morning and was flying for its third mission when one of the helicopters crashed at around 2:30 p.m.

“The choppers carried food supplies and ammo on the first two missions. They were carrying troops for replacements on their last and fatal mission,” Talaroc said.

Major Gen. Andres Centeno, commander of the 4th Infantry Division said the pilots of the second Huey helicopter noticed smoke trailing from the ill-fated aircraft.

Centeno said the pilots radioed the ill-fated aircraft on what they saw and got confirmation from its co-pilot that they were executing a turn to return.

Talaroc said residents of Sitio Nahigit recalled seeing the helicopter turn then suddenly nosedive to the ground. (Froilan Gallardo / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/01/helicopter-did-not-explode-when-it-crashed-in-bukidnon-all-7-bodies-recovered/

13 Sayyaf terrorists yield in Sulu

Posted to the Mindanao Examiners (Jan 17, 2021): 13 Sayyaf terrorists yield in Sulu

Over a dozen Abu Sayyaf terrorists surrendered to the military in Sulu province with security officials offering possible amnesty despite the group’s notoriety and ruthless campaign in the volatile Muslim region.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the 11th Infantry Division, said 13 terrorists, including a woman who provided “logistical support” to an Abu Sayyaf, surrendered over the weekend in Talipao town.

He also led a ceremony where the terrorists were given white envelope each and believed to contain money in exchange for the weapons they surrendered – three Garand rifles, one M16 automatic rifle, one Carbine rifle and a grenade launcher.

The terrorists were followers of notorious Abu Sayyaf leaders Radulan Sahiron and Hajan Sawadjaan.

“Notably, one of the surrenderees, 27-year old Arlyn Kanlon, is in the government’s wanted list. She provided logistical support to the group of her cousin, infamous bomber Mundi Sawadjaan. Her husband, who is also a former member of the Abu Sayyaf, also surrendered to the authorities in the last quarter of 2020,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales lauded the efforts of the troops in convincing the terrorists to surrender peacefully, saying it demonstrates the relentless efforts of the government forces to bring peace in the region. He urged the terrorists to grab this opportunity to begin a new, peaceful and productive life.

“The surrendered individuals will undergo the Abu Sayyaf Returnees Localized Social Integration Program aimed at providing a holistic transition and reformation program for them to return to mainstream society,” he said.

Thousands of Abu Sayyaf in the Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi surrendered to the government the past 2 decades since the time of President Fidel Ramos and were provided financial and livelihood programs. But almost all of them cannot be accounted for now and many re-joined the Abu Sayyaf or other rebel groups after spending their money. (Zamboanga Post)

Military photos show the surrendered Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Sulu province.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/01/13-sayyaf-terrorists-yield-in-sulu.html

RTF8-ELCAC bares 2020 milestones

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 16, 2021): RTF8-ELCAC bares 2020 milestones (By Ninfa Iluminada B. Quirante) 

BORONGAN CITY, Jan. 16 (PIA) - - The 2020 milestones of the Eastern Visayas Regional Task Force - ELCAC were disclosed in a virtual presser organized and hosted by the Philippine Information Agency Head Erlinda Olivia Tiu on January 15.

In response to a question posed as to their milestone, Lt. Col Perfecto Penaredondo, Chief of Staff of the 8th Infantry Division (8th ID) said that despite the onset of the pandemic, the TF achieved significant milestones in the fight against insurgency.

For one, he reported that as of January 2020 came in, no less than President Rodrigo Roa Duterte awarded P13-M E-CLIP benefits to 262 former rebels in San Isidro, Leyte.

At the same time, the provincial government of Leyte also provided 120 hectares of an area called Peace and Prosperity Village where the former rebels are now engaged in profitable farming.

The official also stated that an influx of surrenderrees came about where 93 were hard-core NPAs, 653 that belong to Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad, 1,416 Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) members, and 592 Militia ng Banyan.

"We also had a series of consultative meetings with former rebels to know what made them turn against the government and how they can successfully re-integrate into mainstream society." said the army official.

As to ward-off communists from engaging with barangay officials, some 1,513 out of the 4,390 barangays have declared the NPAs as ‘persona non-grata.’

He added that all provinces have also declared NPAs as ‘persona non-grata.’

The official also took pride in saying that The Task Force has successfully engaged the religious sector in the fight against insurgency and the presence of Bishop Isabelo Abarquez of Calbayog Diocese who joined them ‘demilitarize’ at least 400 firearms. The bishop is also one of the convenors of the Samar Island Partnership for Peace and Development (SIPPAD) which is now part of the RTF8- ELCAC TWG.

He also mentioned that the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) with TESDA as head has reached the most remote and conflict area Brgy. Balagon, in Can-avid, E. Samar and has brought skills training to the residents with the program Agrikultura at Kabuhayan Tungo sa Kaunlaran at Pangkapayapaan (AKKAP).

Significant arrests were also achieved notably the Tacloban 5 where high-ranking NPAs were cornered.

As the year 2020 brought in the pandemic COVID-19, the task force also assisted in the COVID-19 Response by assisting the local governments man border controls, transport logistics involving other units like the navy, coast guard and other security forces.

With all those accomplishments in the past year, Penaredondo said that the Task Force is willing to meet the year 2021 head-on. (nbq/PIA 8-E. Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064018

JTF Central, 6ID create TF to resolve conflict in South Upi

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 17, 2021): JTF Central, 6ID create TF to resolve conflict in South Upi (By PIA Cotabato City) 

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao, Jan. 17– The Joint Task Force Central and the 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division recently initiated a peace dialogue to address conflict in South Upi, Maguindanao.

Major General Juvymax Uy, commander of 6ID and JTF Central called for the dialogue after the series of incidents in the said municipality which resulted to the burning of houses, evacuation of hundreds of families, ambush of the convoy of Mayor Reynalbert Insular, and the harassment of the vehicle of SB Member Basit Kamid.

During the event, Major General Uy gave chance to all interested parties to air their sentiments by exclusively talking to them by group to determine the root cause of the problem. Also, the task force’s Conflict Resolution Strategy, as the framework for peaceful resolution of conflict, was presented.

Lt. Col. Anhouvic Atilano, spokesperson of the 6ID and commander of the 6th Civil Military Operations Battalion noted the creation of a task force which will address the matter.

“We will create the Task Force Ketenanek to help facilitate the resolution of the conflict, secure the communities, and diffuse the tension by repelling the armed lawless groups in the area,” he said.

The TF “Ketenanek” or TF “Katahimikan” in Teduray dialect will provide steps to unite the tri-people in South Upi and create a peaceful community by reconciling the conflicting parties through their local government unit, the Provincial Government of Maguindanao, and the Bangsamoro government while the security sector assures to provide adequate efficient security forces.

All stakeholders in attendance have signified their commitment to help end violence and expressed support for the peace framework mechanism.

Meanwhile, JTF Central now facilitates the safe return of the over 500 internally displaced families and the immediate peaceful resolution of the problem to bring back normalcy in the area. (With reports from DPAO-6ID)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063899

Bukidnon chopper crash site restricted as PAF probe continues

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17, 2021): Bukidnon chopper crash site restricted as PAF probe continues (By Jigger Jerusalem)

HELICOPTER CRASH. The ill-fated UH-1H Huey helicopter that crashed in Barangay Bulonay, Impasugong, Bukidnon on Saturday afternoon (Jan. 16, 2021), killing seven men on board. This photo circulated online on Sunday. (Contributed Photo/8IB)

The site where a UH-1H Huey helicopter crashed on Saturday afternoon in the southern province of Bukidnon is still off-limits to the public as a team from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) continues to investigate the cause of the incident.

In a telephone interview Saturday evening, Maj. Rodulfo Cordero Jr., spokesperson of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said the wreckage of the helicopter that crashed in the mountainous village of Barangay Bulonay in Impasug-ong town is now being guarded by soldiers from the 8th Infantry Battalion until experts from the PAF can complete their investigation.

He said the helicopter crashed probably due to a mechanical malfunction and not because of the weather condition.

Cordero said it was also unlikely shot down by the communist guerrillas as military helicopters usually fly at an altitude of about 800 meters beyond the range of assault rifles.

An M-16 rifle, for instance, has an effective range of only 460 meters, he added.

The military helicopter on a supply run to government troops fighting communist rebels crash landed in Impasug-ong town, killing seven Air Force and military personnel, report said.

Cordero said the helicopter came from the 403rd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Malaybalay City and was on its way to a remote army patrol base in Impasug-ong town near the Agusan del Sur boundary to bring provisions.

Cordero said there were actually two helicopters flying in convoy en route to their destination.

The helicopters belonged to the PAF’s 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing in Cebu, with the Tactical Operations Group-10 based in Barangay Lumbia, this city, as the controlling unit.

Cordero identified those who died in the crash as Lt. Col. Arnie Arroyo, pilot; 2nd Lt. Mark Anthony Caabay, co-pilot; Sgt. Mervin Bersabe; Airman 1st Class Stephen Agarrado; Sgt. Julius Salvado; Jerry Ayocdo; and Jhamel Sugalang.

Arroyo, Caabay, Bersabe and Agarrado are PAF personnel, Salvado is from the Army, and Ayocdo and Sugalang are members of the Army’s Cafgu Active Auxiliary.

Cordero said the bodies of those who died in the crash were recovered and brought to the 403rd camp in Malaybalay City.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127622

Army vows justice for 3 troopers killed in Lanao Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17, 2021): Army vows justice for 3 troopers killed in Lanao Norte (By Divina Suson)  

GREAT LOSS. The public viewing of the three soldiers who died in a shooting incident on Thursday morning in Poona Piagapo, Lanao del Norte. A necrological service was held Saturday (Jan. 16, 2021) at the newly-finished chapel inside the headquarters of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Barangay Maria Cristina, Iligan City. (Photo by Divina M. Suson)

The Philippine Army in Lanao del Norte vowed to get justice to the death of three soldiers who were shot on Thursday in Poona Piagapo, Lanao del Norte.

Lt. Col. Domingo Dulay, commander of the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion (4Mech), said "losing three men all at the same time is heartbreaking and truly devastating."

"This is a very difficult moment for all of us. As the commander, I never felt the heaviness of the responsibility given to me until this moment came. These were my men. These were the very same soldiers I sent to combat missions," Dulay said in a tribute program after a necrological service over the weekend inside a newly-finished chapel at the headquarters of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Barangay Maria Cristina, Iligan City.

Corporals Albert Saura, 31, and Bryan Binayug, 26 and Private First Class Albert Soriano, 29, were on their way down to the battalion headquarters in Baloi town to submit their Statement of Assets Liabilities and Networth (SALN) report and to buy their food supplies when the shooting incident happened.

The three were crossing Radapan River, about six to seven kilometers away from their detachment in Barangay Tangclao, pushing their motorcycle against the strong current of the water when they were fired upon by five to nine armed men, according to Dulay.

An 18-year-old civilian was also hit which caused his death.

The two corporal's service firearms, both .45-caliber pistols, were also taken.

Dulay said the three soldiers were part of the combat operation in Marawi City in 2017 that drove away Dawlah Ismiya (DI) who wanted to establish their place in the city.

They were part of the troops deployed at the boundaries of Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte to prevent the DI in entering Lanao del Norte area.

"We will mourn, we will grieve, but we shall all muster our courage to overcome such a great loss. Your ultimate sacrifice will fuel our resolve to seek justice against those who continue to thread the path of violence. We shall be unrelenting in our mission to bring peace here in our area," Dulay said as he spoke in front of the three flag-draped coffins.

On Saturday, the remains of the three soldiers were brought to their respective hometowns via the Armed Forces of the Philippines' C-130.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127625

16 PMA personnel complete training on contact tracing

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17, 2021): 16 PMA personnel complete training on contact tracing (By Liza Agoot)

CONTACT TRACING TRAINING. A total of 16 personnel from the Philippine Military Academy completed the training on contact tracing techniques on Jan. 8, 2021 jointly conducted by the Baguio City Police Office and the city government. The training is aimed at controlling the further spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 which as of Jan. 14, 2021 has infected 101 cadets, personnel, and civilian workers inside the military academy. (PNA photo courtesy of PROCOR-PIO)

Authorities have conducted a training on contact tracing in a bid to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) which is being monitored as among the areas in the region with clustering of cases.

Capt. Marnie Abellanida, Police Regional Office Cordillera information officer, on Sunday said the PMA leadership, the city government, and the Baguio City Police Office collaborated to train academy personnel on the techniques for the proper conduct of contact tracing.

The 16 personnel of the country's top military institution attended the training last week using the modules developed in Baguio and are being used by the National Task Force.

In a statement, Mayor Benjamin Magalong, the country's contact tracing czar, lauded the participants for their support in controlling the spread of the Covid-19 not only in PMA, but in the city as well.

Magalong also urged the leadership of PMA to organize their own contact tracing team, similar to what the local government unit has, to ensure that close contacts, especially the possible carriers, are found, isolated, and treated.

He assured the city is willing to assist in the formation of teams if asked.

The Department of Health in the Cordillera Administrative Region on Jan. 14 reported 101 Covid-19 positive cases at PMA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127630

NegOr residents flee as gov’t troops clash with NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17, 2021): NegOr residents flee as gov’t troops clash with NPA (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

Google map of Guihulngan City 

 
At least 20 families have evacuated to safer ground as government troops entered their second day of clashes with the New People's Army (NPA) in Barangay Trinidad in Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental.

Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, on Sunday said troops are currently conducting clearing/pursuit operations after the conduct of air strike by Philippine Air Force’s attack helicopters Sunday morning.

The families from Sitio Batong-Buang in Barangay Trinidad have evacuated the area and have been attended to by the Guihulngan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (IF-ELCAC).

On Saturday afternoon, troops of the 62nd Infantry Battalion encountered an undetermined number of suspected NPA rebels in the sitio.

At least four encounters ensued that day and continued the next day, warranting air support.

Pasaporte said the site of the clashes are not densely populated.

Reinforcements from the Special Action Force were also deployed, he said.

Trinidad is one of the barangays in Negros Oriental included in the TF-ELCAC’s priority areas under the whole-of-nation approach in ending local communist armed conflict to achieve inclusive and sustainable peace.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127628

Another wanted NPA rebel arrested in northern Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17, 2021): Another wanted NPA rebel arrested in northern Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

ARRESTED. Alberto “Berting” Pandacan, 70, a cadre of the New People’s Army Northern Negros Front Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, was arrested by Army and police personnel in Sitio Seraje, Barangay San Isidro, Toboso, Negros Occidental last Thursday (Jan. 14, 2021). The suspect, who was linked to an ambush of civilians in the town in 2009, has warrants of arrest for frustrated murder and murder. (Photo courtesy of 79th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

Another suspected member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) facing murder and frustrated murder charges was arrested by Army and police forces in Toboso, Negros Occidental on Jan. 14.

On Sunday, the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division confirmed the arrest of Alberto “Berting” Pandacan, 70, who belongs to the NPA’s Northern Negros Front (NNF) Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros.

Pandacan’s arrest comes after his comrade Ruffa Baynosa, 44, known as “Ka Reniel” and “Nexie”, a medical officer of NNF’s Sandatahang Yunit Propaganda, was apprehended by government troops at Hacienda Ambulog, Barangay San Fernando in Talisay City on the same day.

Pandacan was arrested at his house in Sitio Seraje, Barangay San Isidro, at around 1 p.m. by virtue of the warrants issued by then Presiding Judge Danilo Amisola of the Regional Trial Court Branch 58 in neighboring San Carlos City.

He and Baynosa, who hail from Barangay San Jose, Toboso, were allegedly among the group of NPA rebels who ambushed civilians on board a utility truck at Sitio Toril, Barangay Salamanca, Toboso on July 13, 2009, that killed three persons and injured three others.

In a statement, Col. Michael Samson, acting commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade based in Murcia, Negros Occidental, said the arrest of the two CPP-NPA members is a manifestation of the strong collaboration of the Army and the Philippine National Police.

“May justice be served to the victims and their families of the unfortunate incident in 2009. We will be relentless in pursuing the NPA. I urge the others to stop running and surrender peacefully,” he added.

Pandacan is currently detained at the custodial facility of Calatrava Municipal Police Station while Baynosa, who is also facing frustrated murder and murder charges, is under the custody of Talisay City Police Station.

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/1127648

AFP chief seeks to dismantle all communist fronts this year

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17, 2021): AFP chief seeks to dismantle all communist fronts this year (By Priam Nepomuceno)

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

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay has ordered all his commanders to totally dismantle all remaining New People's Army (NPA) guerrilla fronts as the communist terrorists have been seriously weakened by government offensives.

"All remaining communist guerrilla fronts shall be simultaneously addressed and defeated toward the end of 2021. I noticed a lot of these NPA units have been weakened so this is our target for all the Unified Commands," he said in a statement late Saturday.

Gapay also ordered all area commanders to set priority targets per quarter along with their task to expedite the clearing of identified focus areas to hasten the dismantling of remaining guerrilla fronts.

A total of 54 so-called guerrilla fronts remains with nine other regional armed groups which were already decimated and on the brink of collapse. This came after the successful dismantling of 22 communist fighting and propaganda units.

"Focused military operations shall be intensified in order to destroy the armed groups, taking advantage of our newly acquired game-changer assets," Gapay said.

In line with this, AFP units were tasked to develop innovative employment of joint operations supported by enhanced and modernized intelligence gathering.

To neutralize local terrorist groups, Gapay directed AFP units to further intensify focused military operations along with the conduct of "preventing and countering violent extremism" programs to avoid the radicalization and recruitment of vulnerable sectors and communities.

"We have significantly decimated these groups such that we could target to catch up on our goals toward the end of the first semester of this year," Gapay said.

In territorial defense, Gapay said the Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity remains secured and the country's strategic resources and critical infrastructures are protected.

"But we need to adjust to effectively address the growing challenges in the West Philippine Sea (WPS)," he added.

Gapay ordered both field units and AFP General Headquarters to review lines of operations, lines of efforts, and key tasks to ensure the military remains effective in responding to prevailing situations.

"Continue to find innovative ways in asserting our sovereignty over our territorial claims and exercising our sovereign rights in the WPS," he said.

He added the Northern Luzon Command and Western Command were designated as area task force chairs to rationalize the utilization of maritime patrol assets in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and other maritime law enforcement agencies.

"I enjoin everyone to observe excellence and professionalism in the performance of our duties while living up to our core values of honor, service, and patriotism," Gapay said.

As this developed, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Debold Sinas on Sunday said 11 NPA communist terrorists and their affiliates surrendered to the police in Central Luzon last Saturday.

"We are keeping our doors open to enlightened members of the local communist terrorist movement who wish to return to the fold of the law and lead new lives with their families," he said.

Citing reports from Central Luzon PNP director Brig. Gen. Valeriano De Leon, Sinas said local authorities facilitated the voluntary surrender of the 11 communist fighters along with their firearms.

"We are now reaping the gains of local peace initiatives being pursued by the security sector in collaboration with local government units all over the country. We hope that other concerned sectors and other members of the community will channel their initiatives and support these peace endeavors of government so that we can all together achieve lasting peace for the country," Sinas said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127619

PCOO mourns death of AFP personnel in Bukidnon chopper crash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17, 2021): PCOO mourns death of AFP personnel in Bukidnon chopper crash (By Azer Parrocha)

The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) extended condolences to the families of the five soldiers and two government militiamen who died in a helicopter crash in Bukidnon on Saturday.

Reports showed that the military helicopter was on a supply run to government troops fighting communist rebels when it crash-landed at 2:30 p.m. in Impasug-ong town, killing seven Air Force and military personnel.

In a statement on Saturday, PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar said the agency is “saddened” by the fate of the seven soldiers.

“We are saddened by the helicopter crash involving our Philippine Air Force personnel while resupplying troops to counteract communist rebels in Bukidnon yesterday (Saturday). With this, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and loved ones of our fallen heroes,” he said.

Andanar also extended thoughts and prayers to their families.

He remembered the soldiers for their “stark bravery, courage, and patriotism” which never waived until their last hours of serving the country.

“May their love for our country inspire many soldiers and Filipinos to uphold peace among each other to attain development and security while respecting differences,” he added.

The site where a UH-1H Huey helicopter crashed is still off-limits to the public as a team from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) continues to investigate the cause of the incident.

In a telephone interview on Saturday evening, Maj. Rodulfo Cordero Jr., spokesperson of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said the wreckage of the helicopter that crashed in the mountainous village of Bulonay in Impasug-ong town is now being guarded by soldiers from the 8th Infantry Battalion until experts from the PAF can complete their investigation.

He said the helicopter crashed probably due to a mechanical malfunction and not because of the weather condition.

Cordero said it was also unlikely shot down by the communist guerrillas as military helicopters usually fly at an altitude of about 800 meters beyond the range of assault rifles.

He identified the victims as Lt. Col. Arnie Arroyo, pilot; 2nd Lt. Mark Anthony Caabay, co-pilot; Sgt. Mervin Bersabe; Airman 1st Class Stephen Agarrado; Sgt. Julius Salvado; Jerry Ayocdo; and Jhamel Sugalang.

Arroyo, Caabay, Bersabe and Agarrado are PAF personnel, Salvado is from the Army, and Ayocdo and Sugalang are members of the Army’s Cafgu Active Auxiliary.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127644

AFP units told to coordinate more with CHR

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17, 2021): AFP units told to coordinate more with CHR (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay (File photo)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay on Sunday called on all military units to intensify their coordination with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and similar bodies to further document human rights abuses conducted by the New People's Army (NPA) communist terrorists.

"Let us endeavor to raise all violations of human rights and international humanitarian law to legitimate organizations that are mandated to protect and promote the well-being of non-combatants," he said.

The AFP earlier submitted a report to and sought the assistance of the CHR to investigate 532 incidents of attacks on civilians and their properties perpetrated by the communist terrorist group since 2010.

The same report was also submitted to the United Nations (UN) through the Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights and the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Philippines.

Last year, the AFP also submitted a report to the UN and CHR detailing a list of child warriors employed by the communist terrorist group.

A total of 544 minors were used and exploited by the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), according to the document signed by the AFP Human Rights Office chief Col. Alejandro S. Nacnac.

The reports said these so-called child warriors were used by the communist terrorists in their armed activities.

"It is now the time to unmask the NPA and their front organizations for who they are --human rights violators and purveyors of violence towards civilians," Gapay said.

He also called out CPP founding chair Jose Maria "Joma" Sison who earlier goaded NPAs to carry out executions in urban areas.

"Let us empower civilian agencies and work together with them in ensuring that pertinent laws are respected and the full weight of the law pressed upon the violators," Gapay said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127643