2 suspected bombers slain in Maguindanao

Posted to MindaNews (Feb 5, 2021): 2 suspected bombers slain in Maguindanao (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao. Map courtesy of Google

Two alleged members of Dawlah Islamiyah, a group linked to ISIS and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, were killed after they reportedly resisted arrest in Maguindanao.

Colonel Donald Madamba, provincial police commander identified the slain suspects as Rasul Dubpaleg and his cousin Bhadz Dubpaleg.

Madamba said they served an arrest warrant on the duo around 10:45 a.m. Thursday in Barangay Zapakan, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao for their alleged involvement in bombings in Isulan in Sultan Kudarat, Midsayap in North Cotabato and Cotabato City.

The suspects were to be brought to the provincial police headquarters in Shariff Aguak town for booking and interrogation, but attempted to grab the firearms of one of the policemen, according to the report from the Police Regional Office of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BARMM).

The commotion that followed resulted in gunshot wounds on the suspects, the report released by the office of Police BGen Samuel Rodriguez said.

It did not say if the suspects were handcuffed during the arrest.

The National Intelligence Coordinating Agency listed Rasul as number 3 in the so-called Dawlah Islamiyah Hassan Group.

“The arrest of these suspects who were linked to local terrorists group BIFF is a great help in our fight against terrorism. Rest assured that the team of PRO-BARMM, together with the other agencies of the government will do our best to arrest other rebels hiding in Bangsamoro Region,” Rodriguez said.

The arrest was a joint operation of Maguindanao Police, Regional Public Safety Battalion of PRO-BARMM and several intelligence operatives.

Earlier this month, Rajah Buayan town residents declared ISIS-inspired terrorist groups as persona non grata.

In a peace rally led by Mayor Yacob Ampatuan, residents condemned the acts of terrorist groups, saying they are unacceptable to Islam and humanity.

They burned a black flag resembling the one used by groups that align themselves with ISIS.

A few days later, Ampatuan received threats of violent attacks purportedly coming from these groups.

Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion lauded the efforts of the local government of Rajah Buayan which he said signaled to neighboring Sultan sa Barongis town to do the same in the coming days.

“From the barangays they created a resolution to declare these ISIS-inspired terror groups as persona non grata. This was discussed in the Sangguniang Bayan and approved during the previous peace and order council meeting condemning the acts of these violent groups,” Boongaling said.

At the dialogue with internally displaced persons in Shariff Aguak on Wednesday, the Army official challenged them to stand up to the ideas espoused by these groups.

“Kasi ang narrative nila usually ay ang Islam ay (Their usual narrative is that Islam is) under attack which in reality, according to local officials and residents, ay free naman silang magsamba or gawin ang (they’re free to worship or perform) religious peaceful activities nila, wala namang pumipigil (nobody is preventing them),” he added.

Muslim religious leaders, nongovernment organizations, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and other groups in the region have been working together to prevent and counter the phenomenon of violent extremism. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/02/2-suspected-bombers-slain-in-maguindanao/

Security forces praised

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 6, 2021): Security forces praised

MAYOR BENG Climaco praised members of the security forces in Zamboanga City for their hardwork, swift response and steadfast dedication in protecting the public from all kinds of threats – terrorism, violent extremism and even crimes.



Climaco said with the vigilance of the residents and the dedication of the policemen and soldiers, and barangay tanods and government militias, there have been no bombings and kidnappings, and piracy for 5 straight years.

“We are proud to report to the public, together with Task Force Zamboanga and the Zamboanga City Police Office, that we have maintained again zero bombing, zero kidnapping and zero piracy in our seas for five straight years. I take pride of this historic accomplishment as Chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council (appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte).”

“Ta sale lang siempre librao el Ciudad de Zamboanga por cinco años ya na mal actos de terorismo y man junto siempre kita todo dale el deaton esfuerzo para preveni pa maga atrocidad para na seguridad del deaton maga familia y comunidad. Muchas gracias tambien con Consejala Pinpin Pareja, our action officer for peace and order for all the efforts done,” she said.

But the mayor was quick to say that terrorism does not rest, adding “It may have been hampered by Covid-19, but LGUs (local governments) like ours, must remain on their toes for evolving threats.”

Climaco said: “Recently, we had terror threats to Zamboanga City which include potential kidnapping and IED attack by foreign-led bombers. We mobilized the Region and the City with preventive measures of all combined security forces, the LGUs down to the barangays. Zamboanga City Police Office reported that they received more than 200 information reports pertaining to plans, sightings and all forms of illegal activities of threat groups and other criminal elements.”

“While we have to focus on maintaining measures to fight Covid-19, the threat of terrorism, violent extremism and crime remains. Zamboanga City is no stranger to incidents of terror as attested by the 2013 siege of Zamboanga (by members of the Moro National Liberation under Nur Misuari). Thus, we reiterate our stand,” she said.

Even while under the pandemic, Climaco emphasized that the local government continues to maintain efforts in preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism so as not to give terrorists the opportunity to take advantage of the health situation now.

“Our mandate versus violent extremism is to deny terrorists opportunity to conduct terror activities. We deny terrorists by beefing up security and target hardening of key spaces and infrastructure in the City, by building and strengthening community resilience by engaging the local communities as partners in peacekeeping. We fortify our walls but we build bridges,” Climaco said.

“We continue to build community resilience which is key versus terror and violent extremism. We have ongoing community dialogues, a joint undertaking of national and local government with local police, hijab patrollers, and Salam volunteers made possible with support from the US Department of State, Bureau of Counter Terrorism,” she added.

Security forces have neutralized several Abu Sayyaf members in Zamboanga in recent months. (Zamboanga Post)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/02/security-forces-praised.html

China 'threatens war' with Philippines as US pledges support to Manila

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 6, 2021): China 'threatens war' with Philippines as US pledges support to Manila

CHINA IS "threatening war" after it authorised its warships to open fire on fishers plying traditional waters, warns the Philippines. Now Washington says it has Manila's back.

Beijing has passed legislation calling upon its military-controlled coast guard to open fire upon "foreign" vessels and destroy "illegal" structures within the East and South China seas.

Problem is, those territories don't belong to it. Which means the law represents a significant escalation in international tensions. And that has Manila worried the region is about to erupt in violence.

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. says the Chinese move "is a verbal threat of war to any country that defies the law". Any nation not rejecting the law will be signalling its "submission".

Beijing's aggressive new legislation orders its coast guard to "take all necessary measures, including the use of weapons, when national sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction are being illegally infringed upon by foreign organisations or individuals at sea".

Hours after the new law was passed, a flight of H-6K strategic bombers escorted by advanced fighters made a dummy "attack run" on the USS Theodore Roosevelt battle group.

Filipino fishers operating out of Thitu (also known as Pag-asa) island in the Spratly Islands also reported Chinese coast guard and militia vessels forcing them out of traditional waters.

New US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has responded to Beijing's intimidation by contacting Mr Locsin, telling him the longstanding defence agreement between the two nations would be honoured.

"Secretary Blinken pledged to stand with Southeast Asian claimants in the face of PRC pressure," a State Department press release reads. "Secretary Blinken stressed the importance of the Mutual Defence Treaty for the security of both nations, and its clear application to armed attacks against the Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, which includes the South China Sea."

The new Chinese law dramatically raises the stakes of an armed clash in the region. And posturing such as the two dummy air attacks on the US aircraft carrier battlegroup increases the odds of an incident.

Neither side is showing signs of backing down. Earlier this month, the US military warned it planned to be "more assertive" against international law violations in the Pacific Ocean and the East and South China seas.

"Our globally deployed naval forces interact with Chinese and Russian warships and aircraft daily," the statement reads. It highlighted the "growing aggressiveness" of encounters and declared China "the most pressing, long-term strategic threat".

The East China Sea is bracketed by Taiwan, North and South Korea, Japan and China. The South China Sea is bracketed by Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and China.

After World War II, China signed the international law of the sea which allocates specific portions to each nation under clearly defined criteria. Beijing insists these don't apply to it. It says both seas belong to it based on historical ownership.A 2016 ruling by the international court of arbitration judged this assertion to be without merit.

Now, US President Joe Biden has "underscored that the United States rejects China's maritime claims in the South China Sea to the extent they exceed the maritime zones that China is permitted to claim under international law".

Mr Duterte's office issued a statement saying he hoped no country would do anything to increase tensions further. His foreign minister later expressed concerns the Philippines was about to lose access to its western exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The law "is virtually a declaration of war against countries that are legitimate claimants of the Chinese-claimed marine territory," fishing federation chairman Fernando Hicap told the Hong Kong based South China Morning Post.

Concern has been growing at the militarisation of China's civilian coast guard and fishing fleets. The Coast Guard has recently been put under the operational control of the People's Liberation Army Navy. Analysts saw this as a disturbing move as coast guards are supposed to be a civilian policing force.

Beijing has long sent its political commissars to sea with its enormous fishing fleets. But, in recent decades, these fleets have also undergone cooperative naval training.

"The white ships of the coastguard symbolise maximum tolerance at all times to protect civilians and merchants at sea," Philippines defence analyst Chester Cabalza says. Grey warships are "symbols of antagonism and war". "(Now) Chinese coastguard can just shoot anyone, armed or unarmed, in territorial waters that they illegally claim. This is a serious threat to Filipino fishers … in our very own territorial waters."

Meanwhile, resentment among the Filipino community is rising. One fisher told local TV he had been barred from sandbars surrounding Thitu Island by Chinese coast guard and militia. "Of course I'm furious, we used to be able to go there, that's ours," he said. "Why would they forbid us to go there now?"

Another fisher released a short video account: "I have many enemies at sea. Look. Those are Chinese ships in front of me. They're blocking me and I can't get to sandbar two," Larry Hugo states. "I will leave first."

Beijing has again warned that the US's ongoing military presence in the South China Sea is "not conducive to peace". China's foreign ministry stated earlier this week that US freedom-of-navigation operations designed to "flex its muscles" were threatening the region's stability.

Meanwhile, the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier battle group passed China's illegal artificial island fortresses in the Spratly Islands. Satellite imagery reveals ships in the group passed close to Beijing's 12 nautical mile territorial boundary claim. But China continues to ramp up its efforts to enforce its territorial ambitions arbitrarily.

Publication Defence News reports an analysis of satellite imagery has revealed a recent build-up of Chinese surveillance aircraft on Hainan Island at the northern extremity of the South China Sea. Work is well underway on enormous dry docks big enough to support China's future force of aircraft carriers. And Woody Island in the Paracels has been undergoing further land reclamation efforts to protect its military airfield facilities from erosion. (Jamie Seidel, News.com.au)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/02/china-threatens-war-with-philippines-as.html

EO70 info caravan, anti-terror law held in AgNor town

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 3, 2021): EO70 info caravan, anti-terror law held in AgNor town (By 29th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte, Feb. 2 -- The 29th Infantry (Matatag Fighters) Battalion (29IB) together with the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) recently launched the Executive Order (EO) 70 Information Caravan.

NICA 10 and 13 Regional Director Manuel M. Orduña led the information caravan at the Municipal Building of Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte. “Ito na ang pinakamalaking programa ng gobyerno, ang EO 70. Ang Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict. Itong problema natin na ito ang humila sa atin pababa. Ang gusto po ng presidente matapos ang Local Communist Armed Conflict na ito habang siya pa ang presidente,” Orduña said.

The information drive was attended by barangay captains, Sangguniang Kabataan representatives,Sangguniang Bayan members, businessmen and members of the Kitcharao Municipal Police Station.

Mayor Aristotle M. Montante, Kitcharao’s Municipal Mayor, requested to initiate the caravan to support his municipalities’ effort in the information campaign. The goal of the information caravan was not just to orient the public but also to remind the stakeholders and agencies of their respective roles in the said campaign. The main topic covered was the EO 70, although the Anti-Terror Law and Resource Control were also discussed.

“Akong mainiton nga pagwelcome ug pagpasalamat sa inyong pagtambong. Kani nga information caravan mao ning atong pagsupporta sa E.O. 70 kinahanglan sad ni nato kay kita man ang mga frontliners diri sa atong lungsod (I warmly welcome and thank you for attending. This information caravan is what we need in support of E.O. 70 because we are the frontliners here in our town)," said Mayor Montante.

“This is the biggest program of the government, the EO70. Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict. This is the problem that is pulling us down. What the President wants is to end this Local Communist Armed Conflict while he is still the President,” said Orduña.

According to Lt. Col Aristotle Antonio, Acting Commanding Officer of 29IB, they are in the area because they want to let them know what EO 70 NTF-ELCAC is. "Because the public has not been informed. For over 52 years, the Philippine government has been destroyed by Communist ideology. The Communist Terrorists or the CPP-NPA, so it is important that each of us knows about this program. It is important so that we won’t be deceived by the propagandas of this communist-terrorist group," he said.

It can be recalled that EO No. 70, series of 2018, entitled “Institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach in Attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, and Directing the Adoption of a National Peace Framework” was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on December 4, 2018. The order aims to address “the root causes of insurgencies, internal disturbances, tensions and other armed conflicts and threats by prioritizing and harmonizing the delivery of basic services and social development packages, facilitating societal inclusivity, and ensuring active participation of all sectors of the society in the pursuit of the country’s peace agenda.” (1Lt. Edmar C. Colagong, CMO Officer, 29IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065558

Info activities conducted to shield youth from CTG influence in Agnor town

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 3, 2021): Info activities conducted to shield youth from CTG influence in Agnor town (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Feb. 3 -- The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), in partnership with the Youth for Peace (YFP) Las Nieves chapter and the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) members conducted a series of information and education activities to youth groups from the different barangays in Las Nieves town in Agusan del Norte from January 20 to 28, 2021.

The eight-day activity was supported by the local government unit (LGU) of Las Nieves and the council members of every concerned barangays and communities.

The activity aims to educate the youth in countering the propaganda of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorists (CNTS) in their localities and to enlighten them on the different deceptive tactics that the terrorist insurgents use in social media. In the overall perspective, the activity sought to shield the youth in Las Nieves from the recruitment of the CTGs.

The YFP Las Nieves was established last July 15, 2017, through a Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) activity conducted by the 23IB. With the formation of the YFP, the youth members were organized, transformed, and empowered to fulfill their roles as responsible citizens and catalysts in advocating peace and development in their respective communities.

Karen S. Rosales, the president of YFP, expressed gratitude to the YFP members and SK officers for the success of the series of information and education activities.

“The YFP was established with the primary purpose to educate and enlighten the youth of Las Nieves to widen their perspectives on the different issues that hinder peace, progress, and development. Our organization also seeks to uplift the leadership capabilities of our youth, as the future leaders of our communities and municipality, through lectures and a series of education drives. The organization also works with other stakeholders, such as the 23IB, to enlighten our youth on the different schemes that the CNTs exploit, whether through individual recruitment activities in the barangays or through social media. We want our youth to be aware of the different disinformation campaigns that the CNTs and their cohorts employ in different platforms,” Rosales said.

He also asked the youth in Las Nieves to join the cause of the YFP and win over more members of the sector to the organization and transform them as effective agents in peace-building and development works in the municipality.

“Let us all work together and plant the seed of compassion and patriotism among our youths so that together, we can stand as one and help our municipality grow and prosper,” Rosales said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB, commended the YFP and SK leaders and members of Las Nieves for the success of the activity.

“Your readiness and willingness to support the different peace and development initiatives and interventions of the government will save the youth of Las Nieves from the influence and destruction of the CNTs,” Paulo said.

“Your bigger purpose is to become part of the overall peace development campaigns in your municipality. As members of the youth sector, you need to learn more and accept the various challenges you will come across in the future. But I am certain that you will succeed, as long as you are united and believe in the cause that you began to nurture today. Continue your learnings because it is only through education that we become effective leaders in our communities,” added Paulo.

The 23rd IB commander also encouraged the YFP and SK leaders to help the efforts of the LGU and other line agencies of the government to end the local communist armed conflict. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065603

Incoming AFP chief visits 402nd Brigade in Butuan City

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 4, 2021): Incoming AFP chief visits 402nd Brigade in Butuan City (By 402nd Brigade, PA)

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 4 – The incoming Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, visited the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, Home of the Stingers Troopers on February 02, 2021 at Camp Romualdo Rubi, Barangay Bancasi, this city.

A Medal for Valor awardee and the current Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Sobejana’s visit to the 402nd Brigade is his only official visit to an Infantry Brigade as he prioritized major units of the Philippine Army and as a way of looking back to the people he worked with in the past. He was accompanied by Major General Andres Centino, the Commander of the 4th Infantry Division.

“We must know how to look back, even in doing our own job. We should look back and put forward the things that we have done that resulted in a good outcome and learned lessons from our mistakes. As we move forward, we must know how to look at ourselves on how capable we are in doing our job,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana said.

He was warmly welcomed and accorded with Foyer Honors by Brigadier General Maurito Licudine, the 402nd Brigade Commander. Also present to welcome him were the Brigade Commanders of the 401st and 901st Brigade, Brigadier General Allan Hambala and Brigadier General George Banzon, respectively, together with the Battalion Commanders and other AFP units in the Caraga region.

Lt. Gen. Sobejana during his ‘Talk to the Troops’ highlighted the need to capacitate the Army and seek partners from civilian stakeholders as peace and security is a shared responsibility. “If we wanted to get the full support and cooperation in our efforts, we must have PEACE, People Empowerment in Addressing Conflict Environment. We must empower and increase people’s situational awareness and impress upon them that in the name of public service, the soldiers are not above them or below them but instead we are beside them,” he said.

He further stressed the soldiers’ discipline and humility are of utmost importance to win the hearts and minds of the people recognizing that the insurgency problem is a propaganda war. “The more allies we have, the better chance for us to triumph battles to win the peace,” said Sobejana.

Meanwhile, BGen. Licudine also expressed his gratitude on the visit of the incoming Chief of Staff of the AFP. “It is an honor to be visited by one of the most decorated Army Officers, my mentor and a living hero who inspired every one of us here. We are the only Infantry Brigade visited by Lt. Gen. Sobejana reflecting our standard of excellence as a show window of the whole 4ID. His message is clear, we are more motivated to ensure and provide our people a community that is safe and secured. Let us remain humble and continue doing our job well,” he said.

Lt. Gen. Sobejana, a member of PMA “Hinirang” Class of 1987, was announced recently to assume the most coveted position in the military as the 55th AFP Chief of Staff and shall replace General Gilbert Gapay, who will bow out of the military service this week. (Major Francisco Garello, Jr., CMO, 402nd Brigade/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065822

4ID celebrates 51st anniv with community locals in AgSur

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): 4ID celebrates 51st anniv with community locals in AgSur (By 26th Infantry Battalion, PA)

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Feb. 5 -- The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID), Philippine Army under the command of Major General Andres C. Centino, celebrated its 51st founding anniversary in the community through an outreach program held in Barangay Lydia, La Paz, Agusan del Sur on Feb. 1, 2021.

This year's anniversary was anchored on the theme, "Diamond Division: Sustaining Excellence Amidst Challenges." As part of the celebration, the activity intends to touch the lives and provide sociological support to the people who were struggling amidst pandemic as well as to bring happiness to those underprivileged in the far-flung and isolated local communities.

Barangay Lydia is one of the fortunate barangays in Agusan del Sur, which was selected by the 4ID as the beneficiary of the outreach program. Aside from being a geographically isolated barangay, it is also considered as a conflict-affected area because of the presence of the New People's Army (NPA) and their constant threat to the residents. A total of 228 beneficiaries took part in the activity.

The troops of 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB) also facilitated the distribution of food packs and other assistance during the activity and was made possible thru collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of La Paz headed by Mayor Michael V. Lim and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga regional office.

“My gratitude to the Diamond Division for choosing Brgy. Lydia to be one of the beneficiaries in your area of responsibility. Happy 51st Anniversary and I am honored to be part of this momentous celebration. Rest assured that the local government of La Paz will always be grateful in your time and effort in providing sociological needs for our people and we will always be your partner on the implementation of government programs and initiatives for peace and development in our community," said Mayor Lim.

Meanwhile, MGen. Centino, commended all the partner agencies for their benevolent support for the unit. "As our partner in achieving peace and development, I am very grateful to all who are committed in uplifting and empowering the lives of every Filipino especially the less fortunate. We guarantee that we will do our best in all our undertakings to help the people especially those in the remote communities. With all our efforts, no community will be left behind," he said. (2Lt. Cecille Tappa, acting CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065818

5 CPP-NPA terrorists die in Lanao del Sur encounter

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 4, 2021): 5 CPP-NPA terrorists die in Lanao del Sur encounter (By 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army) 

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 3 - Five CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) died in an encounter with government troops in the boundary of Talakag, Bukidnon and Tagoloan II in Lanao del Sur, ‪Tuesday morning, Feb. 2.

The firefight erupted when elements of the 1st Special Forces Battalion (SFBn)were conducting security operation and encountered more or less 30 armed CNTs believed to be members of the Sub-Regional Command (SRC) 5 and Sub-Regional Command (SRC) 4 under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), ‪at around 9:00 a.m. in the vicinity of Barangay Gayakay, Tagoloan II. The exchange of fire lasted for one hour.‬

The encounter happened anew ‪at around 11:00 a.m. of the same day with the same armed group, which lasted for about 30 minutes.‬

Recovered from the encounter site were five (5) cadavers of killed CNTs, six (6) high-powered firearms composed of three (3) M16 rifles, two (2) Garand rifles, and one (1) M14 rifle.

LtCol. Vercisio San Jose Jr, 1st SFBn Commanding Officer, confirmed no casualty on their side.

Pursuit operation is ongoing against the armed group.

BGen. Ferdinand Barandon, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, said in a statement that the incident resulted from the community’s growing support to the army that constantly reports the presence of CNTs in their area.

Moreover, MGen. Andres Centino, commander of the 4th Infantry Division and JTF Diamond, said the security operations would continue against the CNTs until they surrender to the government or abandon the armed struggle.

"Again, we are calling the remaining CNTs to lay down your arms, join the government’s call for peace, and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) so you will have a peaceful and productive life with your family,” Centino said.

He also extended condolences to the families of the killed rebels and assured them that they will be given a decent burial.

The 1st SFBn already coordinated with the Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office for the cadavers' proper disposition and had their identity confirmed. (DPAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065950

Zambo Schools to be wary on terrorist’s recruitment - Former Rebel

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 4, 2021): Zambo Schools to be wary on terrorist’s recruitment - Former Rebel (By Jayson R. Aucensillo) 

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Feb 4 (PIA) - As the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) propaganda still reigns for over five (5) decades now, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 together with the security forces of Zamboanga City unite to counter their ‘hoopla’ by a massive information dissemination drive to avoid undergoing communist recruitments and infiltration of terrorist groups in schools.

Recently, the information volunteers (ivolunteers), who are student leaders of their respective colleges and universities in Zamboanga City converged in the meeting and campaign planning on defying the entry of the lawless groups in their respective schools.

Ka Amihan, a former rebel and currently the media and information officer of Sambayanan National, is continuously appealing the schools to really monitor those organizations who will tend to infiltrate the schools and be aware of those legal front organizations whose aim is to encourage the youth and/or students to be part of terrorism groups.

"They are hypocrites if they say they promote terrorism, rather they will really look for a way just to recruit those potential youth or students that they could easily persuade to engage on their group,” said Ka Amihan during the ivolunteer meeting and campaign planning.



"That’s why I encourage the school managements together with the government agencies to have a massive information dissemination campaign that could deactivate the operations of their recruitment,” Ka Amihan added.

Moreover, there are three (3) reasons why insurgency exists; poverty, social injustice and illiteracy and the government is now doing steps to address these factors by means of “informing the public as well as to let them feel that there is a government that cares,” affirmed by Chairperson of Joint Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC)-9 and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA)-9 Regional Director Ariel T. Perlado.



Undeniably, the students remain to be one of the vulnerable sectors on NPA-CPP recruitment and they are seem to be easily believed with the talks of the terrorists.

"We are here to plan and raise awareness to the student leaders with regards to the CTG’s propaganda and give interventions to prevent the deceitful moves of the lawless groups,” said PIA-9 Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga.

Present on the planning were from the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA)-9, Joint Task Force-Zamboanga (JTFZ), 4th Civil Relations Group (CRG), and Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-9 who shared their agency’s views and counterpart in response to the possible communist terrorist activities.



By means of the massive information dissemination drive against the propaganda of the other side, the government is hopeful to win the trust of the public and put an end on their undergoing recruitments in school and in the city.

As of now, the CPP-NPA-NDF's presence in Zamboanga City is still not very prominent, but still authorities are cautious because anytime, they could resume recruitment. (RVC/JRA/PIA9-Zamboanga City)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065936

NHA-9, Siay LGU inks MOA on P70-M Housing Projects for FRs, IPs

 From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): NHA-9, Siay LGU inks MOA on P70-M Housing Projects for FRs, IPs (By Jocelyn Alvarez)

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay, Feb 5 ( PIA) - The National Housing Authority (NHA)-9 inked recently a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the local government unit of Siay town, this province for the implementation of the Php70 million Housing Projects in the municipality.



NHA-9 Information Officer Hanzel Hoffdahl said identified beneficiaries of the housing projects include 110 former rebels (FRs) from Barangay Mirangan and 100 Alsa Masa Indigenous Peoples (IP) families of Barangay Balagon.

Out of the Php70 million fund, Php50 million is allotted for the construction of 110 house and lot units for FRs while about 100 units worth Php20 Million is allotted for the identified IP families.

“Dapat yung mga FRs natin ay JAPIC certified. Sa ngayon, of the 110 FR-beneficiaries, 15 pa lang sa kanila ang JAPIC certified,” said Hoffdahl.

The Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee (JAPIC) is a body created by virtue of the AFP-PNP Joint Standing Operating Procedures (JSOP) No. 01-2008 that serves as source of the authenticity of FR.

Hoffdahl explained funds for the projects will be released in two tranches, and that LGU Siay should make two separate requests for fund release for each housing project.

“Posible na sabay ma-release ang first tranche nitong dalawang magkahiwalay na housing projects, depende sa request ng LGU,” he said.

However, he informed that the money will be released two to three weeks after request from the LGU beneficiary.

Hoffdahl said the Php70 million fund will come from NHA, and will be downloaded to LGU Siay for project implementation.

“Si LGU Siay na po ang maghahanap ng contractor, etc, for the housing project implementation; si NHA will be on the monitoring side, may project engineer din po from NHA as part of the monitoring.”

Both housing projects are expected to be completed within 245 calendar days from its commencement.

This endeavor is in consonance with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s E.O 70 that seeks to institutionalize the Whole-of-Nation approach in obtaining exclusive and sustainable peace; giving an effective solution against communist-terrorists or end local communist armed conflict in the country. (EDT/JPA/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay) #InformExplainEmpower

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065989

RTF-ELCAC6 reaches out to universities

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): RTF-ELCAC6 reaches out to universities (By Jaime S. Cabag) 

ILOILO CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) – The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict Region (RTF-ELCAC) 6 is reaching out to universities in Western Visayas which have been included in the list of educational institutions in the country which the national task force has named as recruitment grounds of the communist terrorist group (CTG).

So far, the regional task force has engaged three universities in the region in a dialogue on the recruitment activities of the CTG. The dialogue involved members of the task force on one hand and officials of the universities on the other side.

These universities are Aklan State University (ASU) of Aklan, Filamer Christian University (FCU) of Capiz, and Central Philippine University (CPU) of Iloilo.

National Task Force Director for Stakeholder Engagement Fidel Añonuevo, Jr. commended RTF-ELCAC6 “for its efforts in engaging the universities in Western Visayas that were included in the published list of educational institutions that are targeted by the CPP-NPA for its recruitment operations.”

Añonuevo, who joined the RTF-ELCAC6 Technical Working Group meeting on February 5, said that with these efforts the regional task force has set a “great example” for other regional task forces to follow when it comes to addressing the CTG’s exploitation of our youth.

In its official statement, Aklan State University said that it “will not allow communist-terrorist groups to destroy the future of our students; hence, ASU is one with the peace-loving Aklanons in denouncing their (CTG) criminal activities.”

Central Philippine University has also issued an official statement, saying “The university does not and has never condoned activities which promote recruitment for armed resistance to the government. As Christians, we encourage peaceful resolution of conflicts. This is the humane thing to do.”

Añonuevo urged the region’s task force to continue the effort of “protecting our youth from the deceptive recruitment of the CTG.” (JBG/JSC/PIA6)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066057

Tagalog News: Mga tauhan ng PCG-Palawan, sinanay sa 'Tactical Combat Casualty Care'

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): Tagalog News: Mga tauhan ng PCG-Palawan, sinanay sa 'Tactical Combat Casualty Care' (By Leila B. Dagot) 

Dalampu't isang tauhan ng Philippine Coast Guard - Palawan ang sumailalim sa tatlong araw na pagsasanay sa Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) na pinangasiwaan ng U.S. Civilian Military Support Element - Philippines. (Larawan mula sa U.S. Emabassy in the Philippines)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan, Peb. 5 (PIA) -- Sumailalim sa tatlong araw na pagsasanay ang nasa 21 tauhan ng Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) sa Palawan para sa pagtugon sa medical emergencies.

Ang pagsasanay ay tinatawag na Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) bilang bahagi ng ‘Coast Guard’s Surface Support Force (CGSSF)’ boarding officer course na pinangasiwaan ng U.S. Civilian Military Support Element – Philippines (CMSE-Phl).

Kinapapalooban ito ng pagsasanay sa pag-responde sa emergency situation sa panahon ng pagpapatupad ng batas, seguridad pandagat, at maging sa maritime search and rescue operations.

Layon ng gawain na mapalakas ang kakayanang pang-medikal ng mga partisipante na nagtatrabaho sa maritime at land-based operations.

“Ang aming mga personnel, specifically ang gaming boarding team members ay may pagkakataon na iangat at palawakin pa ang kanilang kaalaman at kakayanan sa pagtugon sa mga emergency situations na maaari nilang maranasan habang nagpe-perform ng kanilang tungkulin sa karagatan,” tinuran ni Commodore Erwin Tolentino, commanding officer ng BRP Cabra sa isang pahayag.

Aniya, malaking tulong ang pagsasanay na ipinagkaloob sa kanila ng kanilang katuwang na CMSE-Phl upang makapaghatid ng maayos na serbisyo sa mga mamamayan ng Palawan. (LBD/PIAMIMAROPA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066036

Top NPA killed, firearms seized in Quezon encounter

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): Top NPA killed, firearms seized in Quezon encounter (By PA 2ID DPAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal, Feb. 5 --A notorious NPA mastermind was killed in a 45-minute firefight after his group encountered government forces in Sitio Pung-uy, Brgy Masaya, Buenavista, Quezon on Friday, February 5 at 4:00 in the morning.

The NPA terrorist casualty was identified as Ronnel Batarlo alias Marwin who died during the gunfight while an M16 rifle and an M203 grenade launcher were recovered after the soldiers secured the area.

It can be recalled that said NPA group was responsible for various terroristic activities, including the ambush of the police at Brgy San Juan in San Narciso, Quezon in February last year.

MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of the Army's 2nd Infantry Division, said that one of his troops injured during the encounter is already in stable condition at the hospital.

Almerol admired the bravery of the citizens in being one with their soldiers in this quest to get rid of terrorism and bring back normalcy in this part of the country.

"These recent incidents would not happen if these NPA terrorists heeded the government’s call for peace and given themselves a chance to live away from the horrors of terrorism. So, for those few of you [NPAs], better surrender and return to the folds of the law before it's too late."

All available military assets have been placed on high alert in support of the ongoing pursuit operations against the fleeing terrorists.

Joint AFP-PNP checkpoints also were established on possible exit points in the area.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066050

ELCAC Task Forces in Central Luzon hold levelling meeting

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): ELCAC Task Forces in Central Luzon hold levelling meeting (By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu) 

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Feb.5 (PIA) -- About 600 leaders from national government agencies, local government units and private sector on Thursday attended a virtual levelling meeting organized by the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict 3 (RTF-ELCAC 3).

It aims to provide local task forces with knowledge on the strategy, tactics and programs being utilized by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front and create greater synergy in the efforts being carried out by the national, regional, provincial, city, municipal and barangay task forces.

“There is still much to be done in order to put an end to the communist armed rebellion in the country. But through a Whole-of-Nation Approach, just and lasting peace is within reach,” Peace Adviser and Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Region 3 Carlito G. Galvez Jr. said in his message that was read by Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process consultant Abraham Claro Casis.

“The remaining 18 months of the Duterte administration will be dedicated to implementing inclusive, integrated and multi-sectoral interventions that will enable us to sustain the gains of peace and move forward as one people and one nation,” Galvez furthered.

The cabinet official recognized the hard work and dedication of RTF-ELCAC 3, as evidenced by the collaborative efforts of its different clusters to promote good governance in the area.

Peace Adviser and Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Region 3 Carlito G. Galvez Jr. (OPAPP File Photo)

“I am confident that we will be able to finally put an end to the decades-long communist rebellion, and bring sustainable development and long-lasting peace to our people,” he said.

Executive Order No. 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and subsequently, the RTF ELCACs.

Since its establishment, RTF-ELCAC 3 has helped capacitate various sectors such as the youth, labor, agriculture, and the Indigenous Peoples through the delivery of basic services, provision of livelihood programs, grants of amnesty, and other socio-economic interventions.

“Peace is on the horizon, but it will not come on a silver platter. We must work for it, sustain it, and protect it at all costs. Let us do this for our children and the future generations,” Galvez said.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066073

Caraga cops nab NPA political instructor

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6, 2021): Caraga cops nab NPA political instructor (By Alexander Lopez)

POLITICAL INSTRUCTOR. Authorities arrest communist rebel Jude Laray, 27, on Saturday (Feb. 6, 2021) in a manhunt operation in Barangay San Isidro, Sison, Surigao del Norte. Laray is described as a political instructor of a rebel unit under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People's Army. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

Police arrested a political instructor of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) Saturday in the Surigao del Norte town of Sison.

In a statement, the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) said Jude Laray, 27, was arrested in Barangay San Isidro, Sison.

He is identified as a political instructor of the NPA's Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) Kingdom of Guerrilla Front (GF) 4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) that operates in Agusan del Norte and Butuan.

Laray is facing two counts of murder, attempted murder, and multiple attempted murder, police said.

“He is listed in the Periodic Status Report on Threat Group of the Regional Intelligence Division and was involved in the series of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) harassments and attacks in the area,” Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr., PRO-13 director, said.

He said Laray was involved in the series of NPA harassments and armed attacks in Agusan del Norte in 2018.

“Records also show that Laray is involved in the series of killings, including that of Jhonny T. Villamor in Barangay 4 on August 20, 2018, and of Elim A. Margaret at District Narra, Barangay Talisay on October 17, 2018, all in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte,” he said.

"I commend the continuing efforts of our operatives in bringing to justice these fugitives from the law and we share our commitment to the people of Caraga to affect the arrest of persons with standing warrants of arrest to make them answer for the charges filed against them in court,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129864

Zambo Norte town adopts 2 top Army officials

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6, 2021): Zambo Norte town adopts 2 top Army officials (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ADOPTED SONS. Mayor Abel Matildo and Vice Mayor Ferdinand Caboverde of Godod, Zamboanga del Norte, hand over on Friday (Feb. 5, 2021) to Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, a framed Sangguniang Bayan resolution declaring him and Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, the Army's 44th Infantry Battalion commander (not in photo) as adopted sons. The two Army officials are credited for bringing peace to the municipality. (Photo courtesy of the 102nd Infantry Brigade)

The Zamboanga del Norte town of Godod has declared as "adopted" sons two Army officials for bringing peace in the municipality.

Through Sangguniang Bayan resolutions approved Friday, the local government "adopted" Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, and Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, the Army's 44th Infantry Battalion commander.

In a statement Saturday, Godod Mayor Abel Matildo said Nicolas and Templonuevo "exemplified the true spirit of a Filipino soldier, by generously extending support to the municipality in attaining sustainable peace, thereby reinforcing the success of Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC)."

“Their altruism and dedication to serve our municipality is an act worthy of praise and emulation,” Matildo added.

The Sangguniang Bayan resolutions, placed in a wooden frame, were presented to Nicolas and Templonuevo on Friday.

“It is an honor to be called a 'son of Godod' and we will be forever indebted for it,” Nicolas said. “We will extend any help that we can to contribute to the attainment of peace and development of the municipality as dutiful 'sons of Godod."

The ceremony declaring the two military officials as adopted sons of Godod was witnessed by other town officials.

Godod comprises 17 barangays and is a fourth class municipality with a population of 17,424 as of the 2015 census.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129863

Sandiganbayan orders forfeiture of ex-AFP exec's P102-M assets

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6, 2021): Sandiganbayan orders forfeiture of ex-AFP exec's P102-M assets (By Benjamin Pulta)

File photo

The Sandiganbayan has ordered the forfeiture of properties worth over PHP102 million of former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) comptroller, Lt. Gen. Jacinto Ligot and his family.

In a 70-page decision promulgated on Feb. 3, the anti-graft court’s Fourth Division said the “properties amounting to PHP102.12 million are "declared to have been unlawfully acquired and hence forfeited in favor of the state.”

The properties include a cornland in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, land in Tanay, Rizal, condominium units at Essensa East Forbes, Taguig and Makati, as well as houses in Buena Park and Anaheim, California in the United States.

The petition for forfeiture was filed by the government against Ligot and members of his family -- wife Erlinda and their children Paul, Riza, and Miguel, and sister Miguela.

Meanwhile, the petition against Ligot’s brother-in-law, Edgardo Tecson, was dismissed.

The case was an offshoot of a lifestyle investigation by the Field Investigation Office (FIO) of the Office of the Ombudsman to determine whether the wealth and properties acquired by Ligot while in government service were manifestly out of proportion to his salary and other lawful income.

"Considering Gen. Ligot's failure to justify how they were able to acquire said properties out of their lawful income, the same are therefore considered to have been unlawfully acquired and should be forfeited in favor of the state," the court said.

Ligot retired from military service on Aug. 17, 2004 but for that year, the tribunal said "his cash outflow exceeded his income by PHP34.05 million or by 7,196.48 percent".

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129882

WESTMINCOM: Acknowledges Government Agencies on ELCAC Projects in Zamboanga del Sur

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 6, 2021): 53IB Acknowledges Government Agencies on ELCAC Projects in Zamboanga del Sur

53rd Infantry "Matapat" Battalion

The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) acknowledged the different Government Agencies that initiated End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) projects in the Province of Zamboanga del Sur during the meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council on February 2, 2020 in Pagadian City.

53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera mentioned the Government Agencies’ contributions in collaboration with 53IB including the following:

• Department of Agriculture Livelihood Programs and Capacity-Building

• Department of Interior and Local Government Halfway House and Livelihood Cash Assistance for Former Rebels

• Department of Social Welfare and Development Livelihood and Cash Assistance for Former Rebels

• Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Skills Enhancement Training for Former Rebels

“Our continued partnerships with various Government Agencies has been sustaining our gains in finally ending the local communist armed conflict in the province of Zamboanga del Sur,” Lt. Col. Herrera said.

#ILove53IB
#AFPYouCanTrust
#NoToViolence
#StopNPADeception
#SupportELCAC
#WholeOfNationApproach
#MATAPATSaPaglingkod
#AyawkoSaCPPNPANDF
#GustokoKapayaan
#YesToTruthTagging

https://www.facebook.com/53rdmatapat/photos/pcb.4005352152843556/4005351366176968/

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

WESTMINCOM: Army troopers discovered ASG Enemy Encampments in Sulu

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 6, 2021): Army troopers discovered ASG Enemy Encampments in Sulu

1101 Infantry "Gagandilan" Brigade

The operating troops of 2nd Special Forces Battalion (2SFBn) under 1101st Infantry Brigade of the 11th Infantry Division discovered two (2) abandoned Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) encampments at Brgy Danag, Patikul, Sulu on February 4, 2021 at around one o'clock and three o'clock in the afternoon, respectively.

#Gagandilantroopers
#Supportforpeace











https://www.facebook.com/1101-Infantry-Gagandilan-Brigade-109874414173250/photos/pcb.216877566806267/216877240139633/

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

WESTMINCOM: BREAKING FREE FROM COMMUNIST DECEPTION: Compelling Stories of Youths Recruited and Deceived by CPP-NPA

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 6, 2021): BREAKING FREE FROM COMMUNIST DECEPTION: Compelling Stories of Youths Recruited and Deceived by CPP-NPA

BREAKING FREE FROM COMMUNIST DECEPTION: Compelling Stories of Youths Recruited and Deceived by CPP-NPA

February 5, 2021

53rd Infantry "Matapat" Battalion0

Journey to Freedom: From Recruitment to Surrender

Written by Leah Agonoy, a Pagadian-based journalist, and 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, this book highlights eye-opening narratives of actual accounts of young people’s fateful journeys who were once deceived but were able to break free from the shadows of communist deceptions in the Zamboanga Peninsula. The detailed illustrations of events are compelling to dissuade anyone who would consider membership to the CPP-NPA terrorist organization.

“May this book inspire more young people to rally against the false communist ideological practices and deceptions of the CPP-NPA and its masked legal front organizations. Those who have already been recruited and joined the communists are persuaded to surrender and give up the distressing life with CPP-NPA,” Lt. Col. Herrera said.

https://53ib.army.ph/2021/02/05/breaking-free-from-shadows-of-communist-deception-compelling-stories-of-youths-recruited-and-deceived-by-cpp-npa/?fbclid=IwAR1FXmoauu_aTGPOzWtXEzqKwYloVjaHBgIaGHu4z5cTjjjfyV61rb3r82c

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

Sobejana recalls battle with ASG that earned him Medal of Valor

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 4, 2021): Sobejana recalls battle with ASG that earned him Medal of Valor (By Ben Cal)

Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana (File photo)

Outnumbered, but not outfought.

This was the life-and-death situation then Philippine Army commander and now Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana faced when he led a 16-man Scout Ranger team, including two members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) during a five-hour close-quarter gun battle with some 120 Abu Sayyaf members in the hinterland of Matarling, Basilan on that fateful Friday the 13th of January 1995, killing 42 terrorists.

Forty-two terrorists, five Scout Rangers, and the two CAFGUs were killed during the firefight that uncovered for the first time the existence of the clandestine terrorist group hiding in Basilan since 1989.

In an exclusive interview with this writer on Wednesday, Sobejana said the encounter with the Abu Sayyaf led by Abudarjak Janjalani was completely by chance when a trembling 9-year-old boy went to his unit in Maluso, Basilan to report the presence of over 100 armed men unloading supplies two kilometers away.

Sobejana, who was resting was jolted from his hammock and immediately talked to the boy, who related what he saw.

The location of the Abu Sayyaf was at Sitio Sweet Jackal.

Without wasting time, Sobejana told his men to move quickly towards the area where the gunmen were spotted by the boy, who was tending a carabao of his father at that time.

The boy said he hid behind tall grasses to avoid being seen by the armed men.

Before going to the area, Sobejana made a plan and told his men to prepare for a surprise attack, and quickly withdrew after inflicting heavy casualties.

He radioed the Army’s 101st Infantry Brigade to ask permission to mount an attack. His request was granted as the brigade also positioned two to three tubes of 105mm howitzers ready to fire if needed.

When the Scout Rangers arrived in Sitio Sweet Jackal, they saw the heavily armed men as narrated by the boy.

Occupying a strategic position, Sobejana ordered his men to fire simultaneously, catching the Abu Sayyaf by surprise. It was close-quarter fighting with only two coconut trees dividing between the two forces.

At the start of the firefight, five Rangers were killed, leaving only nine of the soldiers standing their ground.

“At the height of the battle, I was slightly hit in the face. I glanced at my watch it was 2:30 p.m. My men and I continued fighting and firing at the enemy. I was again hit. This time, it was my right arm. The bullet from an M14 assault rifle shattered the bones. It was hit so badly, only the skin prevented it from falling off,” Sobejana recalled. “I stretched my left hand to hold and save my right hand. The pain was excruciating. As I did this, I could hear bullets buzzing just a few inches from where I was lying down. Mortar shells and rockets fell all over.”

Using his left hand, Sobejana applied a tourniquet to stop the bleeding.

“I saw one of my men hit in the abdomen. His intestines came out and we bandaged him,” he added.

As the fighting raged, his machine gunner armed with M60 was wounded, but only slightly.

However, the soldier handling the more powerful 90mm Recoilless Rifle (RR) was fatally hit.

Worse, the 90RR flew overhead and landed on the Abu Sayyaf side.

“The terrorists tried to retrieve the weapon, but we fired at them. But when the Rangers also tried to retrieve it, the Abu Sayyaf opened fire at us, and vice versa for several times,” he said.

After hours of fighting, Sobejana and his men were running low in ammunition. They fired only when necessary.

Sobejana fired using his left arm.

During the fighting, Sobejana put his trust in God to spare them from being killed as he was determined to fight to his last breath as a pledge he made as a soldier to defend freedom and democracy.

His prayers were answered, though he was seriously wounded.

Reinforcement from the Philippine Army’s 1st Armour Battalion under Col. Resty Aguila arrived and brought them to their headquarters before Sobejana and eight of the Scout Rangers were airlifted to the Southern Command in Zamboanga City for treatment.

For his exceptional bravery, Sobejana was awarded the Medal of Valor, the highest award by the AFP for gallantry in combat.

Then-President Fidel V. Ramos handed the medal to Sobejana during the 98th AFP anniversary held in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Dec. 21, 1996.

Left-handed salute

Not many people are aware of it but Sobejana is the only person who does the left-handed salute in the military.

After the 1995 encounter in Basilan, his right hand lost its motor capabilities. He underwent nine surgical procedures in the United States for two years.

Sobejana requested the doctor not to amputate his right arm because he wanted to continue in serving the country.

"We will continue to fight insurgency to win peace for the country. I had several gunshot wounds, and I turned those wounds into wisdom rather than anger,” he said.

Last week, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte appointed Sobejana as the 55th AFP chief, replacing Gen. Gilbert Gapay, who mandatorily retired from the service on Feb. 4.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129499?fbclid=IwAR3qgPostYVrYm1YdpkqwDlnobp-nNqY9dcSflfL8rEIlqOxrcoxwISOajI

WESTMINCOM: 11 BIFF members surrender in Maguindanao

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 6, 2021): 11 BIFF members surrender in Maguindanao

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- February 6, 2021

 
Eleven members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters-Karialan Faction surrendered to the government forces in Datu Piang, Maguindanao on February 6, 2021, the WestMinCom Commander said.

"The eleven BIFF members surrendered to the troops of the 6th Infantry Battalion at Sitio Landing Fish, Barangay Buayan, Datu Piang at around 8 a.m. today,” said Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

Said personalities handed over the following rifles: one M653 A1, two M16 A1s, one M16 A3, one BAR, one Improvised Cal. 50 Sniper, one Improvised Cal. 30 Sniper, one Cal. 30 Garand, two M14s, one Homemade Grenade Launcher, and one 40mm M79.

 
Col. Ferdinand Lacadin, Commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade commended the troops of the 6IB and the intelligence units of the AFP and PNP for facilitating the successful surrender of the 11 BIFF.

According to the surrendered personalities, one of the reasons why they decided to surrender is that they miss their families and they wish to live a peaceful life with them.

“One of the eleven became emotional as he was narrating that he joined the group while his son was still small but now he already has grandchildren,” said Lt. Col. Charlie Banaag, Commanding Officer of the 6IB.

“Now, all he wishes for is to be reunited with his family,” Lt. Col. Banaag added.

The said personalities also revealed that they are tired of hiding and they lack financial support hence their surrender.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central said, “The balanced use of military and non-military efforts is being conducted by our line units and is now proven effective.”

 
Maj. Gen. Uy also said that since his assumption last September 7, 2020, a total of 71 BIFF militants have laid down their arms and returned to the folds of the law.

 
“Our PCVE programs such as the AGILA-HAVEN (Anak na may Ginintuang Layunin upang Hintuan Ang Violent Extremism Ngayon) encouraged the terrorists and violent extremists to abandon their armed struggle and return to the mainstream society,” Maj. Gen. Uy added.

Custodial debriefing of the surrendered personalities is still being conducted.

 
“We would like to thank our stakeholders and the civilians for the positive gesture of support and cooperation in our journey of bringing long and lasting peace in the WestMinCom’s joint area of operations,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

“The eleven are the 1st batch of BIFF members who surrendered to the 6IB this year and we are optimistic that more will come as we continue our peace campaign,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan added.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1981727971969249/1981727045302675/

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

Kalinaw News: Eastern Mindanao Command, provincial govt and LGUs sign an agreement for 18km road opening to empower trade and commerce

From Kalinaw News (Feb 6, 2021): Eastern Mindanao Command, provincial govt and LGUs sign an agreement for 18km road opening to empower trade and commerce



When the Road Begins Insurgency Ends: Ground Breaking and MOA Signing Ceremony for the 18 Km ins Road Opening

The Provincial Goverment of Davao Del Norte in collaboration with the Eastern Mindanao Command and the Local Government Units of Kapalong entered an agreement for the implementaion of the Road Widening and Concreting Project in Brgy Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao Del Norte.

In the Ground Breaking and MOA Signing Ceremony held last February 4, 2021 @ 9 oclock in the morning for the Eighteen (18) Kilometers Road Opening from Sitio Biga to Sitio Kampina Brgy Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao Del Norte was graced by Hon. Edwin Jubahib, Provincial Governor of Davao Del Norte together with Congressman Pantaleon Alvarez represented by Atty Ana Alvarez, Mayor Theresa R Timbol, Municipal Mayor of Kapalong, Liuetenant General Jose C Faustino Jr, Commander Eastern Mindanao Command, Major General Reuben S Basiao, Commander, 10ID, PA represented by Brigadier General Maning S TawanTawan, Assistant Division Commander and Brigadier General Luis Rex D Bergante, 1001st Brigade Commander represented by Col Glenn Jun C Calambuhay, Deputy Bde Commander.

This program is a working arrangement by Provincial Governments Office and the Local Government jointly undertaken the planning, budgeting, advocacy for legislation, identification, evaluation, prioritization, regulation, supervision, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation of industry-developing infrastructure projects in priority economic and manufacturing zones in Davao Del Norte.

These projects are perceived to accelerate growth and development of trade and commerce particularly in remote areas.

[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/eastern-mindanao-command-provincial-govt-and-lgus-sign-an-agreement-for-18km-road-opening-to-empower-trade-and-commerce/

Kalinaw News: Government continues to give assistance; 55 Former Rebels receive E-CLIP benefits in Bukidnon

From Kalinaw News (Feb 6, 2021): Government continues to give assistance; 55 Former Rebels receive E-CLIP benefits in Bukidnon



IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon. February 6 – Due to the relentless effort of the government to provide assistance, a total of 55 Former Rebels (FRs) who surrendered in Bukidnon received PhP 2.1 million worth of Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits on February 3, 2021 at Kaamulan Folk Theater, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

Of the 55 FRs, five (5) voluntarily surrendered to the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB). They were all former members of Milisya ng Bayan and they received immediate cash assistance worth PhP15,000.00 each. The assistance came from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) through its E-CLIP program in support of the FRs reintegration to the mainstream society and in order for them to initially support their families and start anew.

The awarding was graced by Provincial Administrator Atty. Jay Albarece representing the Provincial E-CLIP Chairperson, Gov. Jose Ma Zubiri; Provincial Director Carmelo Libot, E-CLIP Focal Person; PLTC Daryl Aranton; Maj Gen Andres Centino, Commander of 4th Infantry Division; Brigadier Gen Ferdinand Barandon, Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade; Lt Col Edgardo Talaroc Jr, Commanding Officer, 8IB, and other members of the E-CLIP Committee.

The FRs expressed their gratitude as they received the E-CLIP assistance. Alias Chito said, “Mapasalamaton kami sa gobyerno alang sa tabang nga among nadawat. Daku kini nga tabang aron mauswag ang among kahimtang sa pag panginabuhi.” (We are grateful to the government for the assistance we’ve received. This assistance is of great help to uplift our living condition.)

“Ang kwarta nga inyong nadawat usa kini ka regalo sa gobyerno kaninyo alang sa pagbiya ninyo sa daan nga pamaagi ug pagpangita sa bag-o,” said Atty Jay Albarece. (The money you have received symbolizes as gift from the government for leaving the old ways and in finding a new one.)

Lt. Col. Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr., Commanding Officer of the 8IB stressed that the government is doing its best to relentlessly provide assistance to those who decided to go back to the government. He further said, “Kini ang usa ka pamatuod nga ang gobyerno dili gapasagad sa mga kanhing rebelde nga nibalik na sa sabakan sa gobyerno. Gamita ninyo kining tabang nga inyuhang nadawat aron masugdan ang bag-o ug mapauswag ang inyong kahimtang sa pagpamuyo.” (This is one proof that the government never neglects former rebels who returned to the folds of the law. Use the assistance you have received to start anew with your family and to alleviate your living condition.)

“Og sa makausa pa, kami nagahangyo sa mga nahibilin nga mga membro sa Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) nga mu surender na, buhii na ang inyong mga armas ug magpuyo nga malinawon kauban ang inyong pamilya. Ang gobyerno adunay E-CLIP nga maghatag og kumpleto na tabang para sa mga kanhi rebelde ug ilang mga pamilya nga gusto nga mobiya sa armadong pakigbisog ug mobalik na sa sabakan sa balaod,” said Brigadier General Ferdinand T Barandon. (Once again, we urge all remaining CNT members to surrender, lay down your arms, and live peacefully with your families. The government has an E-CLIP program that provides a complete package to the former rebels and their families who decide to abandon the armed struggle and return to the folds of the law.)

[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/government-continues-to-give-assistance-55-former-rebels-receive-e-clip-benefits-in-bukidnon/

Kalinaw News: Surrender of BIFF Reunites with Family

From Kalinaw News (Feb 6, 2021): Surrender of BIFF Reunites with Family



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Eleven more Local Terrorist Group – Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) members have reunited with their families after they decided to abandon extremism and joined the government and live normal lives, after they surrendered this morning February 6, 2021.

The surrender of 11 former extremist combatants was a joint efforts of 1st Mechanized Battalion through the 6th Infantry “Redskin” Battalion, headed by the Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Charlie Banaag and the 90th Infantry “Bigkis-Lahi” Battalion of the 602nd Infantry Brigade.

The surrenderers belonging to the Karialan faction BIFF presented themselves at the Headquarters of 6th Infantry (REDSKIN) Battalion in Sitio Landing Fish, Brgy Buayan, Datu Piang, Maguindanao.

The former BIFF members turned over one M653 A1 rifle, two M16 A1, one M16 A3, one Browning automatic rifle, one Cal 50 Sniper Rifle, one Cal 30 Sniper Rifle, one Cal 30 Garand Rifle, two M14 Rifle and one 40mm M79 grenade launcher.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division and Joint Task Force Central lauded the troops in their continuous efforts of bringing in former violent extremists to the folds of the government. “The balance use of military and non-military efforts is being operationalize by our line units and now proven effective” Maj. Gen Uy added.

One of the surrenderees alias Anito had been emotional upon seeing his son who was still a year old when he left his family; “Ako ay umalis noon para Sumapi sa grupo ng mga armado, maliit pa ang anak ko, ngayon may apo na ako, gusto ko lang mabuhay ng tahimik at makasama ang aking Pamilya” he added.

The remarkable series of surrender was made possible through the PCVE program (Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism) AGILA-HAVEN (Anak na may GInintuang LAyunin upang Hintuan Ang Violent Extremism Ngayon) or the Maguindanao PCVE model, that was initiated last September 2020.

Since the assumption of Maj. Gen. Uy on September 7, 2020 to date a total of seventy one (71) BIFF have been laid down their arms and go back to the folds of law.

“Ang patuloy na pagbalik loob ng mga ekstremistang grupo sa hanay ng gobyerno ay resulta ng pagtugon sa mga pangangailangan ng bawat pamilya ng dating violent extremist, ito ay ating nakamit sa tulong ng lokal na gobyerno ng Maguindanao” Maj. General Uy stated.

[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/surrender-of-biff-reunites-with-family/