Kalinaw News: Special Forces Clash With Abu Sayyaf Terrorist

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 22, 2021): Special Forces Clash With Abu Sayyaf Terrorist



11th Infantry Division Commander Major General William N Gonzales stated that around 10:00 AM today, January 22, 2020, troops of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion under Lieutenant Colonel Jooney Jay R Businos encountered more or less fifteen (15) Abu Sayyaf Group Members in Brgy. Langhub, Patikul Sulu.

“The Combat Group of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion led by Captain Ramer R Cababaan encountered more or less fifteen (15) Abu Sayyaf Members believed to be under senior leader Radulan Sahiron. The encounter resulted in the recovery of an M16 Rifle, charging handle and firing mechanism of an M16, backpacks, cell phones and combat boots. The Fire fight lasted for 15 minutes and the enemy fled to the South – South East direction. Our forces are in hot pursuit of the fleeing bandits” said MGen Gonzales.

[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/special-forces-clash-with-abu-sayyaf-terrorist/

Kalinaw News: Army-NPA clash in AgSur, 1 rebel killed

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 22, 2021): Army-NPA clash in AgSur, 1 rebel killed



TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur – One (1) member of the CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) was killed and two (2) high-powered firearm, M16 and attached M203 grenade launcher, were recovered by the troops of the 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion, Philippine Army during an encounter with more or less 20 fully-armed CNTs while conducting combat operations at Brgy. Segunda, Esperanza, ADS, yesterday, January 20, 2021.

The encounter transpired at around 02:00 o’clock in the afternoon and the fierce firefight lasted for twenty (20) minutes. The 26IB conducted focused military operations in the area as a respond to the reports of some concerned citizens that members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were seen roaming in the area and were planning to conduct atrocities against the government. Other war materials such as four (4) M203 ammunitions, three (3) long magazines, subversive documents and other personal belongings were also recovered during the encounter.

The fatality was an unidentified male NPA combatant and was believed to be a member of RSDG COMPAQ of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC). His fellow wounded NPA comrades abandoned his body while withdrawing from the encounter site. The cadaver was turned-over to the Municipal Police Station (MPS) of Esperanza for proper disposition.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, 26IB Commanding Officer, extended his gratitude to the citizens for their cooperation. “I commend the concerned citizen who reported the presence of these terrorist NPA. Through their cooperation, we were able to immediately disrupt the planned atrocities of these lawless elements. If we weren’t able to pre-empt the NPA’s plan, it may cause additional burden to our constituents near the area.”, he said.

On the other hand, the military and the local government once again called the attention of the remaining NPAs to return to the folds of the law for them to avail the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and live in harmony away from violence and useless armed struggle.

“The cooperation of our fellowmen in the countryside is a firm manifestation of their weary suffering on the chaos brought about by the NPA. We must protect our people against these law violators as mandated to us by our Constitution. This terrorist group will be pursued aggressively with due regard to the rule of law. We have laid the better option for them, to surrender. If not, the Armed Forces will continue on using its force to destroy this armed terrorist group.”, Lt. Col. Goce ended.



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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-npa-clash-in-agsur-1-rebel-killed/

Kalinaw News: 10 former NPA supporters released, case acquitted

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 22, 2021): 10 former NPA supporters released, case acquitted



Advance Command Post, 27IB, Paquibato District, Davao City – The 27th Infantry “Action” Battalion in coordination with the City Government of Davao through Peace 911, Municipal Administrator, Sto Tomas, DDN, PNP Paquibato District, Brgy Officials of Barangays Malabog, Mapula, Paquibato Proper and Lumiad, and other government agencies of Davao City facilitated the release of 10 individuals who were alleged former NPA supporters with attempted murder case.

Through the concerted efforts of the different agencies of the government, the whereabouts of the 10 individuals were located and were informed of their case. Series of dialogue were conducted to ensure that these individuals shall not resist arrest but instead surrender themselves voluntarily assuring that the government will help them in their case. Hence, on 10 January, these individuals were peacefully turnover by LTC VICTORINO M SEÑO INF (GSC) PA, Commander, 27th Infantry Battalion to Davao City Police headed by PCOL KIRBY JOHN KRAFT and Focal Person of Peace 911, Miss Aileen Mabanding. While detained at Malabog PNP Station, the Focal Person of Peace 911, Miss Aileen Mabanding and Atty Elisa Evangelista-Lapiña in coordination with PNP Paquibato District led by PMAJ MARVIN HUGOS and 27th Infantry Battalion headed by LTC SEÑO provided the necessary assistance for the speedy resolution of the case.

On 19 January, the case was ordered dismissed for lack of evidence to prove their guilt beyond reasonable doubt which eventually cleared their names. Words are not enough to express their joy not only for the speedy resolution of the case but more importantly they were exonerated. Family members expressed their gratitude and appreciation to the local government of Davao City for the continuous support and help accorded them. One of the surrenderers said that “Nalipay mi kay natabangan mi sang Davao City kag sa 27IB, local officials, Peace 911 ug Atty Lapiña na ma clear ang amu-ang pangalan”.

Hon. Jeselito Areja, Barangay Chairman of Brgy. Malabog, PDDC congratulates the 10 personalities and thank them for cooperating with the government in submitting themselves until the case was closed. “We are thankful as well for this might not happen without the effort and help of our Army, PNP, LGUs and other government agencies” Chairman Areja said.

Meanwhile, LTC SEÑO reminds them to never involve again and be deceived by the NPA terrorist instead embrace the peace and help the government in maintaining the peace and order in their respective barangays. He also added that the NPA terrorist will only involve them in atrocities and abandon them when problem arises or eventually force them to join the terrorist organization.
The 10 individuals were released by Paquibato District PNP and happily received by their respective families. Indeed, cooperation works and it works well for the betterment of the community.

[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/10-former-npa-supporters-released-case-acquitted/

Kalinaw News: High-powered firearms recovered in Borongan, E.Samar

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 21, 2021): High-powered firearms recovered in Borongan, E.Samar



BORONGAN CITY, EASTERN SAMAR – High-powered firearms and explosives left behind by fleeing members of the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were recovered on Sunday afternoon in a remote barangay in Borongan City, Samar.

The 78th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Oliver C. Alvior said while the troops were in pursuit operations in connection with the recent 30-minute encounter on Sunday in Barangay Pinanag-an, Borongan City, resulted in the capture of a 65 years old NPA rebel named Bienvenido Abajencia.

Upon scouring the area, the troops were able to recover one M16 rifle ELISCO, one MAGPUL caliber .223/5.56 mm Carbine rifle, one M14 US Springfield rifle, one improvised 7.62mm rifle, one caliber .45 Colt pistol and caliber .38 revolver.

Alvior said a total of four high and two low-powered firearms, five improvised hand grenades, one explosive detonator, assorted magazines and ammunition, subversive documents and medical paraphernalia were recovered after the clearing operation.

“Hindi porke’t matanda ay iniwan na lang nila ng basta-basta ang kanilang kasamahan na para bang walang pakinabang. Sa takot ay kumaripas sila ng takbo kaya naiwan nila ang mga armas at kagamitan. Hindi namin kayo titigilan. Sa halip na tumakbo, tumago at magutom sa kabundukan ay bumaba na lang at magbalik loob sa pamahalaan,” Alvior 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/high-powered-firearms-recovered-in-borongan-e-samar/

Kalinaw News: Anti-Insurgency Program to Launch in Claveria Misamis Oriental

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 21, 2021): Anti-Insurgency Program to Launch in Claveria Misamis Oriental



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – The 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion in coordination with the municipality of Claveria facilitated a Needs Assessment and Site Survey at Sitio Kalhaan, Brgy Minalwang, Claveria, Misamis Oriental the other day, January 19, 2021.

The said activity was participated by other government agencies namely, the Department of Agriculture Region X (DA R-X), Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Insititute (DAR-ATI), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Municipal Social Welfare Development (MSWD), University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (RDEO-USTP) and the local government unit of Claveria.

Sitio Kalhaan is a remote site in the Barangay of Minalwang, which has been deserted by its residents, Indigenous People – Higa-onon tribe for almost ten years now. The presence of the Communist Terrorist Group in the area, caused the Higa-onons to transfer from their hometown to neighboring sites such as Sitio Impadiding and Sitio Mintapod of Barangay Calabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.

According to DA Regional Director Carlene Collado, Sitio Kalhaan will be an adopted community of the DA R-X and by the Regional Management Committee (RMC); and will grant anything in its capability to assist the residents in improving their way of life. The support is in line with the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70) or the Whole of the Nation Approach. The site inspection was made possible by the barangay officials and local government of Claveria headed by Hon. Mayor Meraluna Salvaleon Abrogar.

Meanwhile, Mayor Abrogar said, “In support to the implementation of Whole of the Nation approach, we will continue to uphold the value of public service for the people by rendering true service to our utmost ability thru the provision of livelihood programs and the delivery of basic services.”

In addition, Lt. Col. Ricky L. Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB said, “Sitio Kalhaan was once a thriving community. But you were forced to leave your own homes and livelihoods because of the threat in your security brought by the oppression of the NPA rebels, as you had no desire to believe in their wrong ideologies. With the mandate of our government, we will do our best effort to get your life back here at Sitio Kalhaan. Rest assured that we at the 58IB, together with the Claveria LGU and other government agencies are your public servants for peace and development.”

[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/anti-insurgency-program-to-launch-in-claveria-misor/

Kalinaw News: Former rebels, soldiers jointly finish livelihood training in Leyte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 21, 2021): Former rebels, soldiers jointly finish livelihood training in Leyte

CAMP LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY, SAMAR – Fifteen former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Samar and Leyte are now job-ready as they completed a 27-day skills training conducted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The livelihood training the former rebels have completed is the Landscape Installation and Maintenance (Softscape) NC II.

Ten soldiers of the 8th Infantry Division also attended the same training as former rebels training partners to show unity and peaceful endeavor.

The graduation was held at the Villaconzoilo Farm School, Barangay Villaconzoilo, Jaro, Leyte on January 20, 2021.

TESDA Regional Director Gamaliel Vicente Jr. congratulated the graduates and hoped that more rebels would enroll for them to gain skills and later have jobs, which are beneficial for their families.

“TESDA is in full support to former rebels in providing livelihood training opportunities in pursuit of peace,” Dir. Vicente said.

Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla said the local government units are offering livelihood training to bring the government closer to the people and encourage rebels that some programs and services await them if only they return to the folds of the law. He added that skills training is a venue for more rebels to address poverty in their families and communities which is one of the socio-economic issues being used by the NPA to lure and recruit individuals in the region.

A former rebel, who introduced himself as Jade said that he is thankful for the government’s intervention. He was not only given the chance to live peacefully with her family but was also given livelihood.

“Masayang-masayang ako dahil nabigyan ako ng scholarship sa TESDA sa pamamagitan po ng Task Force – ELCAC. Di ko pa po naranasang grumaduate dahil hanggang grade 1 lang po ako ngunit ngayon ay naka-graduate na at ganap nang landscaper,” Jade said.

Among the graduates, Jade was ranked as top 3 and received awards as best in indoor gardening and best in dish gardening.

The 802nd Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Zosimo A. Oliveros who facililated the surrender of some former rebels pledged to work and encourage more NPA surrenderers to sustain the gains of peace and development in the province.

[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-rebels-soldiers-jointly-finish-livelihood-training-in-leyte/

Kalinaw News: Another Communist Terrorist Killed, High Powered Firearms and Explosives Captured as Gov’t Troops Hunt Down CTG who Murdered Barangay Officials in Masbate

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 20, 2021): Another Communist Terrorist Killed, High Powered Firearms and Explosives Captured as Gov’t Troops Hunt Down CTG who Murdered Barangay Officials in Masbate



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-A communist NPA terrorist (CNT) was killed while high powered firearms and explosives were captured after two separate armed encounters broke out between the government troops and the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Masbate province, Wednesday, January 20.

Joint elements of 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) and PNP conducting hot pursuit operations following the murder of a Barangay Councilor and a Tanod in Barangay Cabas-an in Aroroy town yesterday, clashed with the fleeing communist terrorists in the towns of Mandaon and Baleno.

During the said armed skirmishes, no one was harmed in the government side but one CTG member who is yet to be identified was killed.

Operating troops also captured two M16 rifles, anti-personnel mines, medical paraphernalia, terroristic propaganda materials and personal belongings from the encounter sites.

Lt. Col. Siegfried Felipe Awichen, Battalion Commander of 2IB thanked the local populace for helping the troops locate the enemies by sending reports about the CTG’s presence in their area.

Enraged about the latest incident, residents in Masbate are eager to help the government in arresting the perpetrators and hold them accountable for their gruesome crime.

Meanwhile, MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, Commander of Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) is confident that with the effective interoperability of the Army, police and other law enforcement agencies, coupled with the public’s eagerness to help the pursuing troops in the area, other CNTs responsible for the said terroristic attack will be put behind bars if not killed in armed encounters if they will not surrender peacefully.

“Muli kaming nagpapasalamat sa mga Bicolano lalo na sa mga Masbateño na patuloy na sumusuporta at tumutulong sa gobyerno upang mapanagot ang mga komunistang teroristang ito. We will sustain this momentum of defeating the communist insurgency here in Bicol. Let us not allow the CTG to continue murdering innocent and defenseless people. We will press on and push this 5-decade armed struggle into its total extinction. Spreading violence in communities is their way of threatening the people and regaining their lost mass bases. But there is no way they can ever escape from the expiration of their lost cause. To all the people who are still supporting and condoning the evil deeds of these murderers and terrorists, you are only contributing to their terrorism. Tolerating their wickedness will give them the guts to murder more innocent civilians, carry out unlawful activities and disrupt our region’s security and stability,” MGen. Robinson 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/another-communist-terrorist-killed-high-powered-firearms-and-explosives-captured-as-govt-troops-hunt-down-ctg-who-murdered-barangay-officials-in-masbate-2/

Kalinaw News: TF Gensan’s Gift Giving to 13 Former Rebels

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 20, 2021): TF Gensan’s Gift Giving to 13 Former Rebels



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The Task Force Gensan together with the Local Government Unit of General Santos City facilitated the “Task Force Gift Giving” to thirteen Rebel Returnees held at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Task Force Gensan on January 14, 2021.

It was attended by the officers and enlisted personnel of TF Gensan led by Task Force Commander Col. Galileo Goyena and General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera. Food packs and livelihood aid were handed-over by the government to the former rebels.

“Labis akong nagpapasalamat sa ating gobyerno dahil sa tulong na binigay nila sa amin kahit kami ay kalaban ng estado noon. Ngayong nagbalik loob na kami sa gobyerno, malaki ang pasasalamat namin sa pagkakataong ito dahil makakapamuhay na kami ng normal sa aming komunidad,” said by one of the beneficiaries of the program.

The program was anchored to the flagship programs of the Duterte administration that seek to address social healing and national unity towards the higher objective of having just and lasting peace.

“Sa tulong ng Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program o E-CLIP ng national government pinapakita natin sa kanila (former rebels) na handa tayong tanggapin sila at tulungan para sa kanilang tuluyang pagbabago at pagtalikod sa kanilang armed struggle sa gobyerno na walang kahahantungang maganda,” said JTF-Gensan Commander, Col. Goyena.

He also urged other members of the former rebels to return to the folds of the government and surrender their firearms for their own benefit and in order to attain the government’s program.

It can be recalled that the TF Gensan became a part of 6th Infantry Division since May 2020 after an adjustment has been made in the areas of responsibility between the two higher commands, the EastMinCom and the WestMinCom.

[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/tf-gensans-gift-giving-to-13-former-rebels/

Kalinaw News: Civilian tip leads to encounter, yields firearm and war materiel

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 20, 2021): Civilian tip leads to encounter, yields firearm and war materiel



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental- One firearm was recovered during a clash between the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) and troops under 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion this morning, January 20, 2021.

The said encounter happened at around 7:15 in the morning in the hinterlands of Barangay San Juan in Balingasag, while the troops responded to the information and complaint given by the poor farmers who are concerned about a group of CTGs who are unfairly claiming patches of their root crops and threatening them anew.

The firefight lasted for about 15 minutes and troops recovered one AR18 rifle, one long magazine for M16, four short magazine for M16, 50 rounds ammunition for M16, 15 rounds ammunition for AK47, two cellphones, one flash drive, assorted medical paraphernalia, and subversive documents.

Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of the 58th Infantry Battalion said that, “The encounter is a result of the continuous effort and active steps to thwart enemy activities. We call on the remaining members of CTGs to lay down their arms and live a peaceful and normal life, and to avoid unnecessary waste of life. However, the Army will not hesitate and is always ready to use its force against peace spoilers and other threat groups who will continue to use terrorism.”

Lt. Col. Canatoy also extends his warm gratitude to the residents for cooperating with 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/civilian-tip-leads-to-encounter-yields-firearm-and-war-materiel/

Kalinaw News: 6 CTG Members Surrendered in Sultan Kudarat

 Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 20, 2021): 6 CTG Members Surrendered in Sultan Kudarat



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Six more ‘disgruntled’ communist terrorist group – New People’s Army have surrendered to 37th Infantry Battalion in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat on January 13, 2021.

These former rebels, who voluntarily surrendered, are residents of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato and are members of Platoon West (Samsung), Guerilla Front Musa, Far South Mindanao Region, two of them are supply officer and medic personnel of the group that operates in the hinterlands of Lake Sebu and neighboring towns.

They surrendered one 7.62mm M14 Rifle, two 9mm SMG and two Cal. 357 Revolver to the troops of 37th Infantry Battalion at Brgy. Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat in coordination with 38th Infantry Battalion and 5th Special Forces Battalion.

“The surrender of said personalities was facilitated by a Barangay Tanod who happened to be a relative of one of the rebels while the firearms are now under the custody of 37th IB,” said Col. Eduardo Gubat, Commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade.

“The Executive Order No.70, also known as Task Force – Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) is undoubtedly an effective tool to entice NPA members to go back to the mainstream and live a peaceful life,” Col. Gubat, added.

“While inside the movement, we found out that the promises made by our former leaders were all lies,” said one of the surrenderees in their own dialect.

“Malakas ang pwersa ng mga sundalo kaya napapagod na kami sa pagtakbo dahil patuloy kaming hinahabol,” they added.

Joint Task Force Central Commander Major General Juvymax R. Uy was happy to welcome another batch of rebel returnees who renewed their trust in the government that led them to turn their backs from the communist armed struggle after the JTF Central intensified its focused military operations against CTGs to thwart any hostile activities of the said rebels.

“They are coming back because they trust the program of the government. They are experiencing hardship in the hinterlands of Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato, hence they come back to the folds of the law to live peacefully with their families,” Maj. Gen. Uy 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/6-ctg-members-surrendered-in-sultan-kudarat/

33 NPA rebels surrender

From the Mindanao Times (Jan 20, 2021): 33 NPA rebels surrender (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

THIRTY-THREE members of the New People’s Army (NPA)’s Pulang Bagani Battalion were turned over to the Davao City Police Office on January 17.

The communist guerrillas arrived at Camp Captain Domingo E. Leonor along San Pedro Street at 9:30 p.m.

The surrender of the 33 NPAs was led by Aida Sisa, a former leader of Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad in Sitio Turoyan in Barangay Tamugan, Marilog District

Col. Kirby John Kraft, the city police director, welcomed the 33 rebel returnees.

He also credited the initiatives of the City Intelligence Unit, DCPO- Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay, City Mobile Force Company, and Marilog Police Station.

He said the DCPO supports the EO No.70, which institutionalized the whole-of-nation approach to deal with the communist rebellion and created the National Task Force To End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The returnees will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

PNP chief visits Davao Region HQ

Philippine National Police Director General Debold Sinas and party joined the officers and men of the Police Regional Office XI during his command visit during the traditional Monday flag-raising ceremony held at its grandstand in Buhangin.

The activity was highlighted by a send-off ceremony of 720 personnel who will be deployed as the new batch of the Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay in the 215 geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas in the region.

Sinas expressed his appreciation and support for the PRO XI R-PSB program by allocating P1 million for its projects.

During the said activity, the Department of Education XI awarded to Sinas the Special Order for the Sualon R-PSB Integrated School. The chief PNP then handed the order to the IP teacher as a symbolic gesture that the school is now recognized by the DepEd.

The school was established by the Revitalized- Pulis sa Barangay (R-PSB) assigned in Sitio Sualon, Barangay Tamugan, Marilog District to bring education to the IP children.

Sinas also gave awards to the different police stations for their accomplishment in the campaign against illegal drugs. He also turned over firearms to the different police provincial and city offices.

The CPNP also graced the blessing of the newly renovated Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Eastern Mindanao (DIPO-EM) Office and the PRO XI RT-PCR Molecular Laboratory.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/01/20/33-npa-rebels-surrender/

P2.6-M aid released to ex-NPA rebels in Soccsksargen

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 21, 2021): P2.6-M aid released to ex-NPA rebels in Soccsksargen

THE DEPARTMENT of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 12 (Soccsksargen) released around PHP2.6 million in socio-economic and welfare assistance last year to former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels under a convergence initiative aimed to “end local communist armed conflict.”

Cezario Joel Espejo, DSWD-Region 12 director, said Thursday they served a total of 758 rebel returnees from parts of the region through various assistance programs and services that were also implemented in support of the government’s enhanced reintegration program.

He said the former rebels mainly received financial assistance, food packs and other related interventions.

“These were intended to sustain the basic needs of the former rebels and their families in the wake of the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic,” he said in a report.

Data released by the agency said 466 of the beneficiaries received outright cash allowances, 168 were given family food packs, 83 were included in the social amelioration program and 41 availed of assistance under its crisis intervention unit.

Espejo said they will continue their partnerships this year with local government units, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police and other government agencies to deliver more services to former rebels and their communities.

He cited the rollout of the convergence initiatives in support of the national government’s “whole-of-nation” approach to end the communist insurgency as stated in President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70.

DSWD-12 is among the key government agencies involved in the Region 12 Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The task force is mandated to “prioritize and harmonize the delivery of basic services and social development packages in conflict-affected areas and vulnerable communities, facilitate societal inclusivity and ensure active participation of all sectors of society in the pursuit of the country’s peace agenda.”

Datu Saber, 49, one of the beneficiaries from Arakan town in North Cotabato, said his inclusion into the agency’s assistance programs was a huge help for his family.

The former rebel, who was reportedly with the NPA for 24 years, received cash assistance of PHP2,900 in February last year through the DSWD-12’s cash-for-work program.

He thanked the government for reaching out to them and providing them with basic social services.

“I hope our government will continue to support us in terms of education for our next generation because this is what we need right now,” he added. (By Allen Estabillo)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/01/p26-m-aid-released-to-ex-npa-rebels-in.html

Army initiates forum for business sector vs NPA extortion

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 21, 2021): Army initiates forum for business sector vs NPA extortion (By 23rd Infantry Batallion, Philippine Army)

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Jan. 21 -- 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), Philippine Army 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 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. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064423

We have achieved genuine autonomy- BARMM Chief Minister Ebrahim

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 21, 2021): We have achieved genuine autonomy- BARMM Chief Minister Ebrahim (By PIA Cotabato City)

COTABATO CITY, Jan. 21 (PIA) -- Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim emphasized Monday, during the opening of the week-long Bangsamoro 2nd foundation celebration, that “genuine autonomy” has been achieved in the Bangsamoro region.

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

He further noted that for the past two years, the Bangsamoro had faced challenges and opportunities that define what makes of the new bureaucracy and addressed such concerns that benefited the public.

“In order to make this journey successful, we need everyone’s support and cooperation to make sure that moral governance becomes a practice and not just a tagline,” the chief minister added.

Ebrahim also recalled in his speech the journey towards the monumental occasion that had taken decades in the making.

“We began this struggle when we were just young men who believed that our people deserve better, that our people should not be subjected to systemic oppression and that our people had the right to navigate their future based on their decisions, culture, and tradition,” he said.

During the kick-off ceremony, Ebrahim led the hoisting of the Bangsamoro flag next to the Philippine flag and the banging of gong to signal the opening of the week-long celebration.

It was followed by the symbolic turnover to several schools in the region of 100,000 armchairs designed by the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education. Also, the Bangsamoro government distributed relief goods and wheelchairs and launched the disaster vehicles and equipment.

For the rest of the week-long celebration, BARMM’s different ministries have prepared several activities for the occasion. (LTBolongon-PIA Cotabato City)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064556

28 ex-NPAs receive cash benefits from Guihulngan TF-ELCAC

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 20, 2021): 28 ex-NPAs receive cash benefits from Guihulngan TF-ELCAC (By Jennifer Tilos)

Guihulngan City Mayor Jorge Joan "Guido" Reyes (left) leads the distribution of cash assistance and firearms remuneration to former rebels with Philippine Army officials from the 62nd Infantry Batallion. (Contributed photo)

NEGROS ORIENTAL, Jan. 19 (PIA) -- A total of P168,000 in financial assistance package and P105,000 in remuneration for surrendered firearms have been offered to 28 former rebels (FRs) and militia ng bayan members (MBs) on Jan. 15, 2021 in Guihulngan City.

The Guihulngan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (GCTF-ELCAC) has granted the whole amount of P273,000 based on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

The assistance will help the former rebels to go back to their normal lives and be with their family.

Guhulngan City Mayor Jorge Joan “Guido” Reyes, who sits as chairperson of the task force, has led the ceremonial turnover of financial assistance and firearms remuneration together with other local officials and law enforcement agencies in the area.

The activity was also highlighted by the unveiling of the Guihulngan City Peace Pole 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."

The task force awarded renumeration to the rebels who voluntarily surrendered and turned over their firearms, from high-powered firearms to smaller ones including the M16 rifles to caliber 357 and 38mm and ammunition.

Commanding officer of the 62nd Infantry (Unifier) Battalion Lt. Col. Melvin Flores (2nd from right) and Guilhungan City Mayor Guido Reyes (far right) join the unveiling of the Peace Pole of Guihulngan TF-ELCAC. (Contributed photo)

The cash assistance was distributed to each of the former rebels, militia ng bayan, and Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) members categorization.

In his address to the beneficiaries, 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, and City Government of Guihulngan are always ready to help you. I hope that all of your comrades will be encouraged to surrender.”

For his part, Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, commanding officer of 62nd Infantry (Unifier) Battalion 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.”

Flores expected that the residents in the city as well as the surrenderers will continue to be peace advocates and good citizens as well.

He 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 in Guihulngan City. (jct/PIA Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064348