Kalinaw News: Unli Shopping, ibinahagi sa mga dating rebelde sa Davao Occidental

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 18, 2021): Unli Shopping, ibinahagi sa mga dating rebelde sa Davao Occidental



Malita, Davao Occidental – Binigyan ng pagkakataon ang 23 na mga dating rebelde na sumuko sa kasundaluhan ng 73rd Infantry Battalion na mamili ng kanilang gamit ng walang limitasyon nitong ika-17 ng Enero 2020.

Kamakailan noong 31 Disyembre 2020, nabalitaang nagbahagi ang Team Bautista at ang mga kasundaluhan ng mga prutas sa mga mamamayan ng Poblacion ng nasabing bayan.

Sa ngayon, binigyang naman ng Team Bautista ang mga rebeldeng nagbalik-loob ng pagkakataon upang maramdaman nila ang mainit na pagtanggap sa kanila ng gobyerno sa simpleng tanghalian na inihanda at oportunidad na mabili ang kanilang pangangailangan ng hindi iniisip ang gagastusin.

“Mga rebelde sila kaniadto apan kauban pa sila sa mga tawo sa probinsya sa Davao Occidental. Sa ato pa, sila mga tawo sa gobyerno nga kinahanglan nga dawaton ug sagupon sa bug-os nga kasingkasing,” madamdaming sabi ni Cong. Bautista-Bandigan. (Rebelde sila noon ngunit kabilang parin sila sa mamamayan ng probinsya ng Davao Occidental. Sa madaling salita, tao sila ng gobyerno na kailangang tanggapin at yakapin ng buo)

Namili ang mga dating rebelde ng pantalon, t-shirt, sapatos, bag, bisikleta para sa kanilang anak at kung ano-ano pang kagamitan na magagamit nila sa pang araw-araw nilang aktibidades.

Nabanggit naman ni Lt. Col. Ronaldo G Valdez ang kanyang pasasalamat sa Team Bautista sa walang sawang pagtulong na ibinahagi nila sa mga dating rebelde. “Unang beses lamang nangyari sa kasaysayan ng 73rd IB ang ganitong pagkakataon. Bakas ang kasiyahan at kapanatagan sa mukha ng ating mga kapatid,” kanyang sabi.

Ang 73IB kasama ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno ay patuloy sa pagtanggap ng mga terroristang NPA na nais mag balik loob sa ating gobyerno. Sa kasalukuyan mayroong kabuuang 89 na mga dating rebelde ang sumuko sa yunit.

[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/unli-shopping-ibinahagi-sa-mga-dating-rebelde-sa-davao-occidental/

Kalinaw News: 23IB initiates forum for business sector vs NPA extortion

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 18, 2021): 23IB initiates forum for business sector vs NPA extortion



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Business owners and members of the Rotary Club of North Butuan joined the one-day information drive initiated by the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB) which was aimed to bring education and enlightenment on the different schemes of extortion activities of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorists (CNTs) upon the business sector in the area.

The forum which was held on January 14, 2020 at the unit’s headquarters at Jamboree Site, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte was also designed to win the support of the business sector to finally put an end to the extortion activities of the CNTs in the areas of operation (AORs) of the 23IB.

The Rotary Club Butuan North which is a non-profit organization is a long-time partner of the 23IB and other government agencies especially in the efforts to bring the needed assistance and social development of communities in Butuan City and parts of Agusan del Norte. The partnership between the said organizations and government agencies promote different strategies to ensure better services for communities as part of the state’s efforts to realize sustainable development and inclusive peace.

During the forum, Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, commander of 23IB, presented an overview of the unit, including its mission and objectives and the accomplished goals that considerably weakened the foremost enemy of the people of Butuan and Agusan del Norte – the guerrilla front (GF) 4A of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the NPA.

He also stressed the harmonious implementation of government programs through the convergence of different line agencies that brought positive impacts among the lives of residents in different communities in the AOR of 23IB.

During the forum, the business owners expressed their gratitude to the unit for the shared knowledge and information about the NPA activities. They also assured their commitment to help the government, particularly the 23IB in its goal of ending the extortion activities of the CNTs in the area.

Lt. Col. Paulo expressed gladness upon the show of support of the business community towards the mission of the unit. He thanked the business owners and members of the Rotary Club of North Butuan for the time they spent with the 23IB, especially during the presentations and discussions in the said forum.

“As partners of the unit in peace and development, your unmeasured support to promote sustainable and long-lasting peace of the government for the community is highly appreciated. I urge you all to stop paying the revolutionary taxes being demanded by the NPA,” Paulo said.

Paulo also emphasized that winning peace and development, especially in communities, cannot be done solely by the government.

“There must be a harmonious partnership between the government and private sectors to bring peace and development in communities. This kind of convergence is very much needed now as the government successfully weakened the GF-4A and the remnants of their members are now on the run. Let us grab this situation and together let us go down to our people in communities to facilitate various development initiatives,” Paulo said.

He also emphasized that under the whole-of-nation approach of the government, the private sector can join and share their expertise in addressing development gaps in communities.

“The ultimate solution to the insurgency is the convergence of all efforts from the government and private sector,” Paulo said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/23ib-initiates-forum-for-business-sector-vs-npa-extortion/

Kalinaw News: 9 NPA rebels surrender, yield firearms in Nueva Ecija

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 18, 2021): 9 NPA rebels surrender, yield firearms in Nueva Ecija

BALER, Aurora-Nine New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have surrendered to government troops in Barangay Bugnan, Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija on Friday, January 15, 2021 following of a series of focus military operation by the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, Philippine Army.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, Battalion Commander of 91st IB said on Saturday the rebels yielded voluntarily along with their firearms to their unit last Friday in Barangay Bugnan, Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija.

Rubio said that combined elements of Delta Company of 91st IB, 7ID, PA under Captain Bethoven B. Cabanlit, OIC of Delta Company (lead unit) under the operation control of 703rd (Agila) Brigade under Brig. General Andrew D. Costelo, Commander of 703rd Brigade together with 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of Nueva Ecija Police provincial Office, Gabaldon Municipal Police Station and Bongabon Municipal Police Station facilitated the voluntary surrender of nine terrorists.

The surrenderers were identified as Jerry/Ben, S4 Komiteng Larangang Guerrilla Sierra Madre (KLG-SM) with one (1) M14 rifle (defaced) with (3) mags and (30) rounds of ammunitions; Alias DiwayIL, LGY, with one (1) M16 rifle (defaced), 1 magazine with 9 rounds of 5.56 ammos; alias Dondon, Political Guide (PG) of Front 88, 4A and 4B with 1 cal.38 revolver; alias Jeng SDG Pampanga with cal. 38 revolver; alias Renz, member Aurora Provincial Committee with cal. 38 rev and three (3) Milisyang Bayan (MB) of KLG-SM and, MB of STRPC and withdrawal of support of Eriberto Papa Sr., AMGL Nueva Ecija/Bayan Muna at Barangay Bugnan, Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija.

As of this posting, they (surrenderers) were in the custody of the 91st IB and will be enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

“The successive surrender of the NPA members bespeaks the forthcoming collapse of the NPA in the area as it successively loses valuable manpower and firepower,” Rubio said, explaining that the activity is a momentous event.

He thanked the military, PNP and other government troops for a job well done.

“Today, we have seen the fruit of our efforts, especially in battling with insurgency, let these successes inspire those who still bear arms on waiving their abysmal struggle of rising through violent acts and to champion progress through peaceful collaborations,” Rubio said, pointing out that they will assist the surrenderers to enroll and benefit with the government’s E-CLIP,”

Rubio is hoping that some of the surrenderers comrades will soon follow their path for them to benefit the program of the government.

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

[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/9-npa-rebels-surrender-yield-firearms-in-nueva-ecija/

Kalinaw News: Army, DepEd and GMA Foundation join forces in gift giving in Aurora

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 18, 2021): Army, DepEd and GMA Foundation join forces in gift giving in Aurora



BALER, Aurora-The 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion, 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army together with the GMA Kapuso Foundation Inc. conducted a three-day gift-giving activity with the theme “Give a Gift, Alay sa Batang Pinoy”.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of 91st IB said that the activity was spearheaded by Ms. Maricel Tarrayo of GMA Kapuso Foundation Inc.

He added that the gift-giving activity of the foundation targeted students from nursery to grade 6 in the towns of San Luis and Maria Aurora in this province.

Each gift bag consisted of food items such as canned goods, pansit bihon, biscuits and jelly aces. Toys were also included such as jumping ropes and inflatable balls.

An estimated of 2,500 students benefited from the said activity.

The success of the activity was also in collaboration and Partnership with 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st PMFC), Aurora Police Provincial Office (APPO), School Division of Aurora and local government units (LGUs).

“We assisted and provided security, manpower, and transportation assistance to GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc. for the “Give a “Gift (GAG) “Alay sa Batang Pinoy Christmas Project” in the selected Public Schools of San Luis, and Maria Aurora in this province of Aurora,” Rubio said.

He added that the activity was led by 1LT CANDIDATO S PADUMAN (INF) PA, Civil-Military Operations Officer wherein it was conducted from January 13 to 15, 2021 in separate places.

“Thank you so much GMA KAPUSO Foundation for touching the hearts of the people of Aurora,” Rubio said.

GMA Kapuso Foundation Inc. is a socio-civic organization founded by GMA Network Inc. to facilitate social and outreach programs to the public. Since 1991, the foundation has been touching the lives of communities everywhere. Its projects help uplift and bring happiness to the countless beneficiaries.

According to Ms. Tarrayo, the foundation’s gift giving activity is their way of creating an impact to the community in order for the people to support the government’s programs in enforcing and sustaining peace and development and at the same time to draw a smile in every faces especially the children.

She also expressed her gratitude to the Philippine Army for the undying support on their charity programs.

“Thank you very much to the 91st IB for always giving their time in providing security assistance, transport assistance, manpower among others. We will continue to provide charity programs in your province especially to the far flung barangays and conflict affected areas to make them happy and that the government is always helping them,” she added.

Back to Rubio, he commended and expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the foundation in collaboration with the DepEd for the successful conduct of the gift giving activity.

“Again, thank you for the help to the people of Aurora. I am very grateful that there is a foundation like this that is committed in uplifting and empowering the lives of every Filipinos especially the less fortunate,” Rubio said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-deped-and-gma-foundation-join-forces-in-gift-giving-in-aurora/

Kalinaw News: Guihulngan City Task Force grants P273K Firearms Remuneration and Financial Assistance to 28 Former Rebels and Milisya ng Bayan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 18, 2021): Guihulngan City Task Force grants P273K Firearms Remuneration and Financial Assistance to 28 Former Rebels and Milisya ng Bayan



GUIHULNGAN CITY, NEGROS ORIENTAL – 28 Former Rebels (FRs) and Milisya ng Bayan members (MBs) of Leonardo Panaligan Command- New People’s Army (LPC- NPA), Central Negros 1 (CN1), Komiteng Rehiyon- Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR-NCBS) received firearms remuneration and financial assistance from the Guihulngan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (GCTF-ELCAC) on January 15, 2021 at City Task- Force ELCAC Office, Brgy Poblacion, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

The ceremonial giving of firearms remuneration and financial assistance and the unveiling of the Guihulngan City Peace Pole was headed by Hon. Carlo Jorge Joan L. Reyes, City Mayor and Chairman of GCTF-ELCAC together with Lieutenant Colonel Melvin N Flores, Commanding Officer of 62nd Infantry (Unifier) Battalion, Ms. Maridel T Gamo, CLGOO, and Police Lieutenant Crisanto G Areglo, Deputy Chief of Guihulngan City Police Station and department heads of different local government agencies.

Five (5) FRs and MBs who surfaced and turned over their firearms were awarded firearms remuneration. Alias “Ka Mel”, who voluntarily surrendered on October 27, 2020, bringing with him an M16 Rifle received a bank check amounting to 45,000.00, Alias “Ka Sammy” who surrendered on November 08, 2020, with his two (2) Caliber .357 and ammunition, received a bank check amounting to 24,000.00, Allan Estrada, who voluntary surrendered on November 08, 2020, alias “Ka DIM/DEM” and alias “Ka Noky” who voluntarily surrendered on October 16, 2020, bringing with them, their Caliber 38mm received a bank check amounting to 12,000.00 each.

Furthermore, a total of 28 FRs and MBs received financial assistance base on categorization; four (4) FR received 10,000 pesos each, eight (8) Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) members received 6, 000 pesos each, and 16 MBs received 5,000 pesos each. As promised, the GCTF- ELCAC has given the equivalent amount based on the Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), and financial assistance within the city level. The assistance will help them go back to their normal lives as peace-loving citizens and be with their family.

Also, the activity was highlighted by the unveiling of the Peace Pole of GCTF- ELCAC installed in front of the City Hall which symbolizes the city’s commitment to peace and bears the message, “Kalinaw ug Kahusay Ipatunhay” and “Let peace prevail”.

Meanwhile, Hon. Reyes said,” We are thankful that you decided to return to the fold of our government and you will not regret it. Our 62IB, PNP, Local Government Agencies (LGAs), and City Government of Guihulngan are always ready to help you. I hope that all of your comrades will be encouraged to surrender”.

Lt. Col. Flores said, “Today is another milestone on how to achieve genuine peace in Guihulngan City and you are playing an enormous role. Now, we also have the unveiling of the ELCAC Peace Pole, which symbolizes our strong commitment and quest for peace.

We are going to maintain it here in Guihulngan City. We are a part of this historic activity and I’m proud that I become part of it. I hope that you will continue to be peace advocates and good citizens as well. Rest assured that the 62IB will continue to collaborate with Task Force – ELCAC to end the armed conflict and to achieve a just and lasting peace here in Guihulngan City.”

[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/guihulngan-city-task-force-grants-p273k-firearms-remuneration-and-financial-assistance-to-28-former-rebels-and-milisya-ng-bayan/

Kalinaw News: Army captures NPA rebel, seizes explosives in Borongan clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 18, 2021): Army captures NPA rebel, seizes explosives in Borongan clash



BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar – An NPA terrorist who was left behind by his fleeing comrades was captured after a 30-minute gun battle with the operating troops of 78th Infantry Battalion at Sitio Manaba, Brgy. Pinanag-an, Borongan City, Eastern Samar on January 17, 2021 at 3:30 p.m.

A certain Bienvenido Abagancia, 65 years old and a resident of Brgy. Layo, Pinabacdao, Western Samar was captured. The operating troops at the encounter site also recovered four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), one improvised 7.62mm rifle, one locally-made cal.38 revolver, 16 short/long magazines for M-16 (336 ammunition), one M14 magazine (15 ammunition), three backpacks containing subversive documents and personal belongings.

The success of the operation was made possible because of the cooperation from the communities that are fed up with the lies and atrocities of the CNTs.
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The seizure of the explosives prevented a major catastrophe that might befall on innocent civilians and security forces conducting community support programs that will improve the lives of the populace in conflict-affected communities in Borongan City.

Lieutenant Colonel Oliver C. Alvior, Commanding Officer of 78th Infantry Battalion, lauded the troops for their successful operation and extended his gratitude to the locals in saving the lives of the soldiers, “Your Philippine Army will continue to use its military might against the armed group that threatens the peace and stability of Eastern Samar.”

Lieutenant Colonel Alvior renewed his appeal to the other members of the CNTs to surrender and return to the folds of the law and avail the government’s Balik Baril program intended for them.

[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-captures-npa-rebel-seizes-explosives-in-borongan-clash/

Kalinaw News: Army’s 2nd Infantry Division Dismantles Three NPA Guerilla

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 18, 2021): Army’s 2nd Infantry Division Dismantles Three NPA Guerilla Fronts in Southern Tagalog

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – The Southern Tagalog NPAs lost another three Guerilla Fronts as the government’s campaign to end local armed conflict intensifies.

Guerilla Fronts are local NPA organizations responsible for extortion, murder of government officials including AFP and PNP members, harassment of businesses and destruction of flagship projects.

The dismantling of these fronts have effectively put an end to the NPA’s terroristic activities in most parts of CALABARZON.

Gen Gilbert Gapay, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on Friday, conferred the battle streamer awards to various military units in the successful dismantling of 13 NPA fronts across the country while urging military commanders to simultaneously address and defeat all remaining weakened communist guerrilla groups by 2021.

The military is optimistic that with the intensification of the current campaigns, the few remaining NPAs will surrender and more people will be aware that there is nothing to gain in joining terrorism but grief and suffering.

For his part, MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of 2ID, expressed his gratitude and praised the soldiers for their dedication to their sworn oath.

“These achievements were made possible by the relentless efforts and commitment of our soldiers and the unity of all levels of government through the different Task Forces to End Local Armed Conflict in pursuit of the much-coveted peace for our country.”

The Army’s 2nd Infantry Division is committed to its mandate and assures the people that these achievements are proof of the soldiers’ devotion toward a secure and peaceful future for every Filipino.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/armys-2nd-infantry-division-dismantles-three-npa-guerilla-fronts-in-southern-tagalog/

Duterte gov’t ends 1989 deal barring troops from UP

From Rappler (Jan 18, 2021): Duterte gov’t ends 1989 deal barring troops from UP (RAMBO TALABONG)

The 1989 UP-DND Accord prevented state forces from entering the state university without notifying the school administration

The Duterte administration through the Department of National Defense (DND) ended the government's decades-long accord with the University of the Philippines (UP) that prevented state forces from entering its campuses.

In a letter dated January 15, DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the accord was "terminated or abrogated effective this date."

The accord, signed in 1989, prevented state forces from entering UP campuses without notifying the university administration. If the termination is implemented, this means police and military can enter UP campuses freely.

The termination comes at a time when protests have been restricted by the pandemic and the Duterte government's antagonistic treatment of demonstrators.

The Duterte government's reason

Lorenzana justified ending the accord by citing reported in-campus recruitment activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People's Army – which the Duterte government declared as a terrorist organization as it cracks down on activists and critics.

"This department intends to remedy this situation by terminating or abrogating the existing agreement in order for us to perform our legal mandate of protecting our youth against CPP/NPA recruitment activities," Lorenzana said in his letter.

Lorenzana said the government will not start an outpost or station in the campus.

A blow to activism

The UP campuses have been a refuge for student activism since the 1980s. This was a result of a long history of student disappearances and killings that took place within the vicinity of the campuses during the time.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/duterte-government-ends-department-national-defense-university-philippines-accord-january-2021

Alleged NPA liquidation squad member arrested

From the Mindanao Times (Jan 18, 2021): Alleged NPA liquidation squad member arrested (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

AN ALLEGED member of the New People’s Army’s special partisan unit (Sparu) was arrested in a joint police and military operation in Marihatag, Surigao del Sur on Friday.

1Lt. Krisjuper Andrei Punsalan, the civil-military operations officer of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, identified him as Ernest Abenio Valdez, 48, married.

The military said Valdez was a member of the depensa/Milisyang Bayan (MB) and liaison officer of the Sub-Regional Command Southland and the brother of Felizardo Valdez, the secretary of the NPA’s Southland.

He was arrested in his house in Purok Camansi, Barangay Bayan of the said town by virtue of the search warrant issued by 11th Judicial Region, Regional Trial Court of Cantilan for violation R.A. 10591 or illegal possession of firearms issued.

His wife, Rubelyn Felimon Cuyno, and barangay officials were present during the arrest.

Confiscated from him included a .45 caliber pistol with a magazine and six bullets, one improvised marble gun, and a short magazine for an M-16 rifle.

He is now in the custody of the Marihatag Police Station.

Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, commanding officer of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, said they will continue to do their task of eradicating the NPA in Surigao Del Sur.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Allan D. Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade commander, warned that they will file a case against people who coddle NPA rebels. “If we find out that you go against the law by protecting the NPA terrorists, we will hit you hard using all legal means as provided by law,” he said.

Datu Alexander Bucales, Lianga IPMR, said the IP leaders of Surigao Del Sur are ready to face the NPA following its threat of deploying its liquidation squads to go after its enemies.

The death of our Indigenous Peoples’ Mandatory Representative (IPMR), Datu Jumar S Bucales did not scare us at all. It only made us angrier and determined to track down NPA terrorists with the help of the AFP, “ he said.

“We already accepted that our lives as IP leaders fighting the NPA terrorists are on the line. As IP leaders, we are ready to become heroes for our tribe even if it costs our lives,” he added.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/01/18/alleged-npa-liquidation-squad-member-arrested/

Another NPA member linked to Toboso ambush arrested

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 18, 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/

4 clashes in one day

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 18, 2021): 4 clashes in one day (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The relentless combat operations of the 62nd Infantry Battalion in central Negros led to armed skirmishes with New People’s Army rebels in upland barangays of Sandayao and Trinidad in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, since Saturday, and pursuit operations are still ongoing, Col. Michael Samson, acting commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, said.

Samson said the 62IB is now being assisted by the Philippine Air Force in the pursuit of a group of heavily armed NPA rebels, who figured in a series of encounters in barangays Sandayao and Trinidad, all in Guihulngan City.

The first encounter between 62IB soldiers and 20 suspected NPA rebels took place at the boundary of sitios Punong and Batong Buang in Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan, at about 1 p.m. Saturday.

It was followed by three successive encounters with another group of fleeing rebels, as the running gunbattles reached Brgy. Sandayao, also in the city, Maj. Cenon Pancito, 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson, said.

Samson said 62IB soldiers are still in pursuit of the fleeing rebels, and scouring the encounter sites, as of this time.

He added that nobody was hurt among the 62IB soldiers, while they are still trying to establish if there were any casualties on the NPA side. Samson reiterated his appeal for the NPA remnants to avail of the programs being offered by the government, as he warned them of relentless operations should they continue the armed struggle.

https://news.visayandailystar.com/4-clashes-in-one-day/

Joint AFP-PNP troops apprehend NPA member in Talisay City

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 18, 2021): Joint AFP-PNP troops apprehend NPA member in Talisay City (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, Jan. 18 (PIA) – A member of the New People's Army (NPA) was apprehended by the joint elements of 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion and Talisay City PNP on January 14, 2021 at Hda. Ambulog, Brgy San Fernando, Talisay City, Negros Occidental.

According to 1Lt. Norman Sorila, the Civil Military Operations Officer of the 79th IB, the arrest came after an incident that transpired on January 13, 2021 where unidentified persons, believed to be members of CPP-NPA, escaped when the troops responded to a report on the presence of armed group in Hda. Ambulog.

The troops were monitoring the area when they noticed a suspicious person about to enter the house of Marilyn Dianton, hence, immediately held the said individual for questioning.

The apprehended person was later identified as Ruffa Baynosa y Sobelario aka “Reniel,” a resident of Brgy San Jose, Toboso, Negros Occidental, Sorila said.

Upon verification by the PNP Talisay, Ruffa Baynosa has an existing three warrants of arrest with Criminal Case no. 4353, 4354 and 4355 all for murder; Criminal Case no. 4356, 4357, 4358 all for frustrated murder; and Criminal Case no. 4359, and 5356-58 for another frustrated murder issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 58, San Carlos City Presiding Judge Ma. Rita Bascos Sarabia.

Baynosa was one of the 20 fully armed NPAs involved during the ambush against civilians onboard a Utility Truck at Purok Mabuhay III, Sitio Toril, Brgy Salamanca, Toboso, this province on July 13, 2009 that resulted in the death of three civilians and wounding three others.

Meanwhile, 79IB Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Gerard Alvaran commended the efforts of the troops and personnel of Talisay City Police Station led by Police Major Jigger Gimeno for their perseverance and commitment which led to the apprehension of said NPA member.

Alvaran.said "Your Army and PNP will be unrelenting in the pursuit of peace and development for the local populace of Northern Negros.”

He also encouraged the public to stay vigilant and report the presence of NPAs in their area as he reminded the community not to get easily be swayed by the propaganda spread by the left-leaning groups. (PIA6/With report and photos from 79IB-Phil. Army)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064181

Army's 2ID dismantles 3 NPA guerilla fronts in Southern Tagalog

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 18, 2021): Army's 2ID dismantles 3 NPA guerilla fronts in Southern Tagalog (By PA 2ID PDAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal, Jan 19 (PIA) – The Southern Tagalog NPAs lost another three guerilla fronts as the government’s campaign to end local armed conflict intensifies.

Guerilla fronts are local NPA organizations responsible for extortion, murder of government officials including AFP and PNP members, harassment of businesses and destruction of flagship projects.

The dismantling of these fronts have effectively put an end to the NPA’s terroristic activities in most parts of CALABARZON.

Gen Gilbert Gapay, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on Friday, conferred the battle streamer awards to various military units in the successful dismantling of 13 NPA fronts across the country while urging military commanders to simultaneously address and defeat all remaining weakened communist guerrilla groups by 2021.

The military is optimistic that with the intensification of the current campaigns, the few remaining NPAs will surrender and more people will be aware that there is nothing to gain in joining terrorism but grief and suffering.

For his part, MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of 2ID, expressed his gratitude and praised the soldiers for their dedication to their sworn oath.

“These achievements were made possible by the relentless efforts and commitment of our soldiers and the unity of all levels of government through the different Task Forces to End Local Armed Conflict in pursuit of the much-coveted peace for our country.”

The Army’s 2nd Infantry Division is committed to its mandate and assures the people that these achievements are proof of the soldiers’ devotion toward a secure and peaceful future for every Filipino.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064112

13 ex-rebels in Laguna receive livelihood assistance from DOLE

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 18, 2021): 13 ex-rebels in Laguna receive livelihood assistance from DOLE (By PIA LAGUNA)

Former rebels who belonged to the communist terrorist group New People's Army received livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment - Laguna under the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program during a ceremony held at the 202nd Brigade Headquarters in Cavinti town on Friday, January 15. The awarding of assistance was graced by 202nd Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Alex S Rillera, DOLE Laguna Provincial Director Guido Recio, and DILG Laguna Provincial Director John Cerezo.

CAVINTI, Laguna, Jan 18 (PIA) – At least 13 former rebels who surrendered to government troops in Laguna were given livelihood assistance under the national government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

The 13 former rebels who belonged to the communist terrorist group New People’s Army received the assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Laguna in a ceremony held at the 202nd Brigade Headquarters in Cavinti town on Friday, January 15.

DOLE Laguna Provincial Director Guido Recio who led the turnover said the reintegration a

ssistance reflects the efforts of the Laguna Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) to address problems on insurgencies and armed conflict in the province and helping former rebels to return to their normal lives.

“Ang ipinamahagi ng gobyerno na livelihood assistance ngayong araw na ito ay isang maliit na bagay lamang. Ang tunay na kahalagahan po niyan ay yung ipinakita ng inyong gobyerno na sinsiridad na tanggapin ng buong puso ang pagbabalik ng ating former rebels,” Recio said.

“Inaasahan po namin na makakatulong ito sa inyo, sa inyong pamilya at kami’y muling nangangako na patuloy kayong tutulungan sa inyong pagbangon at mapayapang pamumuhay," he added.

Brig. Gen. Alex S Rillera, commander of the 202nd Brigade, commended the Laguna PTF-ELCAC for its efforts and commitment in addressing the root causes of insurgencies, armed conflicts, and other CTG threats in the province.

He also urged the former rebels to convince their former comrades to go back to the fold of the law and share renewed lives with their families instead of pursuing the armed struggle.

“Ang mahihiling ko lng sa inyo ay ikalat ninyo yung inyong magandang karanasan sa pagbabalik loob sa ating gobyerno. Ating hikayatin ang iba pa nating kasamahang naliligaw ang landas na iwaksi ang armadong pakikibaka para magkaisa na tayo at maging mapayapa na ang ating bansang Pilipinas," Rillera said.

A rebel surrenderrer expressed his gratitude to the government for the livelihood assistance and commit to do everything they could to encourage more surrenderers.

“Pinapaabot ko po at ng aking mga kasamahan sa ating gobyerno ang taus-pusong pasasalamat sa napakalaking tulong na ipinamahagi nyo sa aming hanay ngayong araw na ito dahil magkakaroon kami kagamitan na aming pagsisimulan sa aming kabuhayan,” said a rebel surrender.

“Umasa po kayo na gagawin po namin sa abot ng aming makakaya na ipapaabot sa mga kasamahan namin na nananatili sa kabundukan na makita nila ang kahulugan ng aming pagbabalik loob,” he added.

According to John Cerezo, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Laguna provincial director, E-CLIP is one of the programs created by the government to facilitate the mainstreaming of former rebels as they return to the society. Aside from the livelihood assistance, Cerezo said, under the E-CLIP, a former rebel is alo entitled to receive other assistance such as firearms remuneration, half-way house assistance, medical assistance, education assistance, and housing assistance. (with reports from 202nd Unifier Brigade)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064133

Air Force, DA distribute over 12,800 veggie seeds to villages

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 18, 2021): Air Force, DA distribute over 12,800 veggie seeds to villages (By Merlito G. Edale, Jr.)

CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, Jan. 18 (PIA) - The Philippine Air Force - Tactical Operations Group (PAF-TOG) - 2 and Department of Agriculture - Cagayan Valley Research Center (DA-CVRC) led the distribution of 12,800 vegetable seeds and seedlings to the nine barangays of Cabatuan town.

The vegetable seeds and seedlings distribution is in support of the agriculture department’s Plant, Plant, Plant program or the Ahon Lahat Pagkaing Sapat (ALPAS) in the fight against COVID-19.

Cagayan Valley Research Center chief Rolando Pedro has advised the beneficiaries of vegetable seeds and seedlings to plant and care them as those will serve as their foods in the future.

Pedro said that while the threat of COVID-19 and African Swine Fever are still present today, the residents should make themselves busy by planting vegetables in their backyards or small gardens.

“We are here to distribute these vegetable seeds, plant and grow them so that in the future, you will benefit from them,” Pedro said.

Meanwhile, Air Force T/Sgt. Cyril Mendoza of TOG-2 has expressed his gratitude to DA-CVRC for granting their request to provide vegetable seeds to the residents of Cabatuan town as part of helping the people in their area of operations and produce their own food in this time of pandemic.(MDCT/BME/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063719

AFP units to coordinate more with CHR

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 18, 2021): AFP units to coordinate more with CHR (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

PASIG CITY, Jan. 18 (PIA) -- Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff General Gilbert Gapay on Sunday called on all military services 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," Gapay 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. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064099

Active NPA member surrenders to police in Nueva Ecija

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 18, 2021): Active NPA member surrenders to police in Nueva Ecija (By Gabriela Liana Barela)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Jan. 18 (PIA) -- An active member of the New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered to police in Nueva Ecija.

"Ka Edwin," resident of Pantabangan town surrendered with him one Squires Bingham Shotgun without serial number, and three rounds of live gauge 12 shotgun ammunition.

Police Regional Director PBGen. Valeriano De Leon shared that "Ka Edwin" served as courier of food and medicine in 2006 and in 2007, he had a direct contact to NPA's Pakikisalamuha program.

Active rebel "Ka Edwin" handed over one Squires Bingham Shotgun without serial number, and three rounds of live gauge 12 shotgun during his voluntary surrender to police in Nueva Ecija. (Police Regional Office 3)

"He became full time NPA member roaming in the mountainous areas of Nueva Ecija and Aurora a year after, and from 2016 he settled at Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija and served as an informant of NPA in the area,” De Leon said.

De Leon noted that the police’s continuous Localized Peace Engagement such as information dissemination and situational interviews becomes an eye-opener to former rebels to return to the government.

“More active and former members of Communist Terrorist Groups are becoming aware of their opportunity to change their lives and correct the mistakes they have committed due to deception and, at the same time enticed to avail of the government's programs made for them,” De Leon said. (CLJD/GLSB-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064201

Sexagenarian NPA rebel nabbed in Eastern Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18, 2021): Sexagenarian NPA rebel nabbed in Eastern Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

REBEL-INFESTED VILLAGE. Soldiers and civilians head to a remote rebel-infested village in Borongan City, Eastern Samar covered by a community support program, in this undated photo. Government troops captured an elderly fighter of the New People’s Army (NPA) who was left behind by his comrades following a gun battle at the outskirts of Borongan City in Eastern Samar on Sunday (Jan. 17, 2021). (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army's 78th Infantry Battalion)

Government troops captured a 65-year-old fighter of the New People’s Army (NPA) left behind by his comrades and seized several explosives and firearms following a gun battle at the outskirts of Borongan City in Eastern Samar on Sunday.

The Philippine Army identified the rebel as Bienvenido Abagancia, a resident of Layo village, Pinabacdao, Samar. Soldiers captured him around 3:30 p.m. shortly after a 30-minute firefight with a small group of rebels in Pinanag-an village.

At the encounter site, the military also recovered four improvised explosive devices, one improvised 7.62mm rifle, one homemade .38-caliber revolver, 16 short/long magazines for M-16 with 336 pieces of ammunition, one M14 magazine with 15 pieces of ammunition, three backpacks containing subversive documents, and personal belongings.

“The success of the operation was made possible because of the cooperation from the communities that are fed up with the lies and atrocities of the communist terrorist group,” said Lt. Col. Oliver Alvior, Philippine Army 78th Infantry Battalion commander, in a statement on Monday.

Alvior renewed his appeal to other NPA members to surrender and return to the fold of the law and avail the government’s programs intended for them.

The seizure of the explosives prevented a future terrorist attack against government forces conducting community support programs, according to Alvior.

It was also in Pinanag-an village where six soldiers died and 20 other government troops were critically injured when NPA rebels detonated a landmine during an ambush on Nov. 11, 2019.

Borongan, the capital of Eastern Samar province, is home to about 70,000 people.

At least nine of its 61 villages are still threatened by activities of the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

The 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/1127668

'Genuine autonomy' achieved in BARMM: Ebrahim

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18, 2021): 'Genuine autonomy' achieved in BARMM: Ebrahim (By Edwin Fernandez)

CLOSE TOGETHER. The flags of the Philippine government and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) fly side by side in the Bangsamoro regional center following their hoisting during the region’s second anniversary celebration on Monday (Jan. 18, 2021) in Cotabato City. During the commemoration, officials unveil the new rescue speed boats (inset) to help the regional government quickly respond to disasters in the island-provinces of the region. (Photos courtesy of BIO-BARMM)

Chief Minister Ahod “Murad” Ebrahim of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) said “genuine autonomy” has been achieved in the region as he led Monday the commemoration for the second founding anniversary of the newly-minted regional government with the hoisting of the Philippine and Bangsamoro flags.

Speaking inside the BARMM government center, Ebrahim said that “genuine autonomy” has been achieved in BARMM, even as he called on residents to support the regional government's moral governance campaign.

“We can now proudly say that we have achieved genuine autonomy that encapsulates the long history of Bangsamoro people, our sacrifices, and our shared visions for the next generation,” Murad said.

Since its creation in the last two years, Murad said BARMM has seen “an incredible number of challenges and opportunities that defined what makes of our new bureaucracy and how we can address such concerns that will ultimately benefit everyone.”

The chief minister maintained that the next level of the Bangsamoro struggle could be considered successful "if the moral governance thrives. We cannot claim success in this next level of our struggle if we will not be successful in building a real governance, which is founded on moral governance."

During the kick-off ceremonies, Murad sounded the “gong” (Muslim percussion instrument) to signify the formal start of festive events.

It was followed by the symbolic relief goods distribution and launch of regional vehicles and equipment, including a rescue speedboat, acquired to address disaster incidents.

Meanwhile, BARMM Interior Minister Naguib Sinarimbo also signed memoranda of agreements supporting infrastructure projects with Maguindanao provincial and town officials.

The last day of the anniversary celebration set on Jan. 21 is expected to be attended by OPAPP Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana, Interior Sec. Eduardo Año, Budget Sec. Wendel Avisado, and DOF Sec. Sonny Dominguez alongside Undersecretary David Diciano.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127690