RCSP immersion conducted in Surigao del Norte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 16, 2021): RCSP immersion conducted in Surigao del Norte (By 29th Infantry Battalion, Phil. Army)

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Mar. 16 -- The provincial government of Surigao del Norte through the local government unit (LGU) of Malimono, in partnership with the 29th Infantry (Matatag Fighters) Battalion (29IB), Philippine Army under the 901st Infantry (Fight'em) Brigade and other agencies, collaborated and led the conduct of Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Immersion held in Brgy. San Isidro, Malimono on Tuesday, March 9, 2021.

It was aimed at addressing governance issues and developmental gaps by providing the community with their needs and ensuring that development is sustained and peace is promoted.

More than 200 beneficiaries have availed of the various services such as free haircut by the Philippine Army and the information awareness drive about the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) recruitment schemes and Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) process.

Free medical checkups, medicines, and hygiene kits were also provided by the Department of Health (DOH). Free circumcision (Tuli) was also offered and assisted by the Philippine Army.

There were free consultation and information drive by the Technical Education and Skills Development Agency (TESDA) regarding free skills training and seminars; the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for the assistance to the rebels who desires to surrender; the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for those individuals who wanted to put up a business; the Department of Agriculture (DA) which provided free seedlings and tips on agriculture; and the Philippine National Police (PNP) on the laws and regulations of peace and security.

Sangguniang Bayan (SB) member of Malimono, Danilo Abraham said, “Magapasalamat kita kay naa sila magserbisyo sa katawhan sa Malimono. Mao dili kita mag away-away kay igsoon ra kitang tanan (We should be thankful that they are here to serve the people of Malimono. That is why we should not contend because we are all brothers and sisters).”

Meanwhile, SB member Wallace Sinaca explained that the said RCSP activity has been made available in the area to make the people in Malimono feel that the government has always been prioritizing the people. "Aside from that, loving one another is the true essence of peace," he said.

According to Surigao del Norte assistant provincial administrator Ramon Gotinga, “Swerte kaayo ang Malimono kay gusto sa atong gobernador nga magpabilin nga mahapsay ug malinawon ang Malimono, Surigao del Norte. Ang 180 million nga kwarta nga proyekto sa nasyunal ihatag sa barangay ug sa luyo sa inyong barangay aron mubalik na sa sabakan sa gobyerno ang kaigsoonan ta aron sila magpuyo na ug malinawon (Malimono is so fortunate because our governor wants that Malimono, Surigao del Norte would remain orderly and peacefully. The 180 million worth of peso for the national project will be given to the barangay, and other far-flung areas of the barangay, so that our fellows might as well return to the folds of the government and live peacefully)."

Provincial director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government John Reyl Mosquito also emphasized by saying, “Ini kami para ipaabot ang mensahe sa atong Presidente. Nga tanan kita mutabang sa katunhay sa kahapsay ug kalinaw sa atong nasod. Mutabang kita sa matag usa kanato kay para ini sa karadyawan kanato tanan, kinsa pama’y magtinabangan kon kita ra (We are here to convey the message of our President. That all of us must help in maintaining peace and order in our country. Let us help each other, for this is for the good of everyone. Who else would help each other, but only us).”

“I hope you were all seeing how serious the government is in ending this insurgency and in helping the people. That despite such pandemic, it doesn’t stop the government from delivering its services to the community. And rest assured, that your Army will never get tired of doing so because this is what the whole-of-nation approach is all about," said Lt. Col. Aristotle F. Antonio, commanding officer of 29IB.

It can be recalled that on March 4, 2021, the province had conducted the same RCSP immersion in the municipality of San Francisco, this province. (1Lt. Edmar Colagong, CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069637

NPA members surrender to Army in AgNor

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 16, 2021): NPA members surrender to Army in AgNor (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, March 16 -- Four regular members of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorist (CNT) and three Milisya ng Bayan (MB) voluntarily surrendered to the 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army during the conduct of Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) immersion activity held in Sitio Bokbokon, Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte on March 9, 2021.

Three of the regular members of CNTs were from Guerrilla Front (GF) 4A, one was from the GF4B. All of the regular members and the MBs who surrendered were under the North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC) of the NPA.

They were identified as Alias Datu Hulas, 57 years old, PG, Squad Uno, GF-4A, bringing along with him one M16 Rifle, one Caliber 9mm Submachine gun and one Caliber .45 Pistol; Alias Hain, 56 years old, Medic of GF-4A; Alias Jaya, 18 years old, Medic of GF-4B; Alias Chodi, 16 years old, Medic of GF-4A; Alias Justine, 21 years old, MB of Sitio Bulak, Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista under GF4A; Alias John, 21 years old from Sitio Bokbokon, Barangay Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte under GF4A; and Alias Jay, 19 years old also from Sitio Bokbokon.

They voluntarily surrendered to Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commanding officer of 23IB. Upon their surrender, they were also presented to Agusan del Norte Gov. Dale B Corvera, Mayor Avelina S Rosales of Las Nieves, Board Member Jun Radaza Escasiñas, P/Col. Martin Gamba, Provincial Director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Agusan del Norte, and Datu Ronald S. Manhumosay during the PPOC Immersion activity.

The surrender of the regular NPA and MB members was facilitated by the different tribal leaders and members of the Higaonon tribe led by Datu Bawang Eddie Ampiyawan, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Agusan del Norte.

Datu Hulas, in a testimony during the activity, thanked the government for opening its doors to those who decided to abandon the decaying armed struggle of the CNTs.

“Today, I am happy that I am now back to the government after my miserable life with the NPAs,” Datu Hulas said.

Lt. Col. Paulo warmly welcomed the group of Datu Hulas, as he emphasized the realization of the IP communities on the terroristic activities of the CNTs.

“The vulnerabilities of the IPs were exploited by the CNTs. They usually recruit IP leaders because they can easily recruit additional members from their tribe,” Paulo said.

He added that the lives of the recruited IP leaders and members are in great risk and the families they left behind suffer from hardships and difficulties.

“It is so sad to note that until now, they are still recruiting and using the IP minors to serve for their group and fight against the government,” Paulo said.

Furthermore, the 23IB commander also thanked the group for finally realizing the evil intents of the CNTs and decided to return to the government and their families.

“We are so glad that these IPs finally decided to go back to the folds of the law by laying down their arms. May every IPs guard and guide each one of them so that they will be spared from the recruitment scheme and manipulation of the CNT group,” Paulo said. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069684

Cebuano News: Pagbansay alang sa panginabuhian himuon alang sa 50 kanhi rebelde

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 16, 2021): Cebuano News: Pagbansay alang sa panginabuhian himuon alang sa 50 kanhi rebelde (By LGU Agusan del Norte)

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Marso 16 -- Mokabat sa 50 ka mga former rebels ang moagi sa 10 ka mga Livelihood Skills Trainings pinaagi sa Department of Education Division Alternative Learning System (DepEd-ALS).

Mismo si Gobernador Dale B. Corvera uban ni Kongresista Angel Amante-Matba ang mi-abi abi sa mga kanhing mga rebelde kabahin sa walay puas nga pagsuporta sa dagkung mga lideres kanila sa nahitabong Opening Ceremony, Martes, Marso 16, sa kampo sa 23rd Infantry Battalion (IB) sa lungsod sa Buenavista.

Sa iyang mensahe, gipadayag ni Gob. Corvera ang daku niyang pasalamat sa mga kanhing mga rebelde tungod sa ilang pagbalik sa sabakan sa gobyerno. Timailhan kini nga magpadayon na ang tinguhang kalinaw sa probinsya.

“Dako akong pasalamat sa inyong pagbalik sa sabakan sa gobyerno. Ako kamong pasalamatan tungod dunay giingon nga wala kunoy kauswagan kung walay kalinaw. Wala poy kalinaw kung walay kauswagan. Ug ang inyong pagbalik sa sabakan sa goberno, timailhan kini nga nagpaingon nata sa kauswagan tungod kay duna nay kalinaw,” matud pa ni Gob. Corvera.

Isip pasiuna nga padayong tabang, nagpadangat si Gob. Corvera ug Kong. Amante-Matba og cash assistance nga Php1,000 matag usa kanila ug laing Php5,000 isip ilang puhonan panahon nga matapos na sila sa ilang training.

Sa iyang bahin, gipasabot ni Kong. Amante-Matba nga ang pagpaangat sa ilang kahimtang mag depende gihapon sa pagpaningkamot sa mga kanhi rebelde.

“Naa rana sa inyoha kung unsaon jud ninyo ang inyong nakat-onan para pag balik ninyo sa komunidad, dili namo mag lisod kay naa ug daghan jud mo pwede mapangitaan og panginabuhian,” pasabot ni Kong. Amante-Matba.

Sugdan ang maong training sa Marso 17 sulod sa tulo ka adlaw. Napulo ka mga skills trainings ang i-bansay mao ang mga mosunod: Basket, Baking, food processing, wellness massage, skirting, beauty care, landscaping, flower arrangement, tshirt printing, welding ug electrical installation. (Karen Kei Decamotan, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069726

OPAPP, UNDP hand over 555 sacks of rice to Camp Jabal Nur

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 17, 2021): OPAPP, UNDP hand over 555 sacks of rice to Camp Jabal Nur (By Lou Ellen L. Antonio)

MADAMBA, Lanao del Sur, Mar. 17 (PIA)-- The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the Support to Peacebuilding and Normalization (SPAN) Programme turned over 555 sacks of rice to Moro National Liberation Front's (MNLF) National Unified Command in Camp Jabal Nur.

James Alih Abdul, OPAPP area manager for Northern Mindanao, cited that the government remains committed to helping the MNLF communities.

"We will continue to hold dialogues and activities with you dito sa community. Meron tayong [We have] programs dedicated to supporting MNLF," said Abdul.

James Alih Abdul, OPAPP area manager for Northern Mindanao, says that the government remains committed in helping the MNLF communities. (PIA ICIC)

OPAPP's Peace Program Officer Magdalena Barrios relayed the message of Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr. In his message, he hoped that the MNLF communities will continue to participate in the peace process.

Meanwhile, Allen Mariano, SPAN officer-in-charge of UNDP Philippines, delivered his message through his representative Jazelle Anne Lim, project associate of UNDP. He emphasized that UNDP and OPAPP aim to provide support to the needs of the MNLF communities.

"Nagagalak kaming maging parte ng oportunidad upang sumuporta sa mga programa ng OPAPP. Maaasahan niyo po na ang UNDP ay kaisa sa hangaring makamtan ang isang mapayapa at progresibong pamayanan," said Mariano.

[We are delighted to be part of the opportunity to support OPAPP's programs. Rest assured that UNDP is one with you in its desire to achieve a peaceful and progressive community.]

Chief of Staff, Zone of Peace III and Commanding General, National Unified Command Alexander Lagawa said that MNLF is ready to provide help for the peace and development of the country.

"We are united in one for peace and development of our country," said Lagawa.

Chief of Staff, Zone of Peace III and Commanding General, National Unified Command Alexander Lagawa says that MNLF is ready to provide help for the peace and development of the country. (PIA ICIC)

Representing 103rd Infantry Brigade commander BGen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, LtCol. John Ferdinand Lazo and Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office director PCol Rex Derilo also witnessed the distribution of rice.

SPAN Programme is a project that aims to accelerate OPAPP initiatives on the ground as well as to equip stakeholders, peace workers and advocates with tools for conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

A total of 1,150 sacks of rice is targeted to be turned over to the MNLF communities in Lanao del Sur. (LELA/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069841

AFP commander for Visayas visits 3ID for soldiers’ jabs rollout

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 17, 2021): AFP commander for Visayas visits 3ID for soldiers’ jabs rollout (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, March 17 (PIA) – Armed Forces of the Philippines Commander for Visayas led, March 15, the vaccination rollout for soldiers in Western and Central Visayas.

Lieutenant General Roberto Ancan graced the vaccination roll out at the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division Headquarters, a press release from the 3ID Public Affairs Office said.

To boost the confidence of the men and women of the Spearhead Division, 3ID Commander Major Gen. Eric Vinoya was the first to be inoculated by the Sinovac vaccine.

Other officers and enlisted personnel of the Division who are assigned at the hospital, control points, and quarantine areas led by Major Alexander Zapanta, the Commanding Officer of Camp Peralta Station Hospital, were also inoculated.

The initial 1,200 doses of Sinovac vaccines intended for the identified frontline workers of the 3ID headquarters arrived at Iloilo International Airport on Monday evening of March 8, 2021.

In his message, Vinoya said “As I look upon in the eyes of each Spearhead Trooper, I can sense a great feeling of victory in your hearts as we are about to experience the privilege of being vaccinated with the first COVID-19 vaccine that is available in our country, the Sinovac vaccine.”

Vinoya also thanked Lt. Gen. Ancan for giving the ultimate assurance to all Spearhead Troopers that the Sinovac vaccine can boost their capability to perform their mandated task.



Likewise, he expressed gratitude to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for giving the 3ID a chance to be forefront once again in the government’s fight against COVID-19 by being one of those who will be vaccinated first.

“Let us all consider this as a privilege, an opportunity and a responsibility. A privilege for being one the first recipients of the vaccine; an opportunity to inspire and to lead the Filipino people in this vaccination campaign of the government, and responsibility to be more effective and productive servants and protector for the people in this time of crisis,” Vinoya stressed.

For his part, Ancan thanked all the medical staff and personnel of Camp Peralta Station Hospital for their significant contribution during this time of pandemic.

Likewise, he advised all the Spearhead troopers to still practice the minimum standard of health protocols after being vaccinated.

“To all healthcare workers, thank you for helping our Spearhead Troopers, same as you help yourself. I shall pass in this world only but once, so whatever goodness and kindness I can show, let me show you now. I shall pass on this world only but once,” said Ancan. (PIA6/Story and photos by DPAO-3ID/PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069822

Gov't Communication Academy to rise before 2022 - Andanar

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 17, 2021): Gov't Communication Academy to rise before 2022 - Andanar (By Jan Karl C. Coballes)

Tuguegarao City, March 17 (PIA) -- The construction of the Government Communication Academy’s (GCA) main campus building is set to be finished before President Rodrigo Duterte’s term ends.

This was according to Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar during a press conference with Cagayan Valley-based media held in Tuguegarao City on Monday, March 15, 2021.

The GCA, of which the construction in Bukidnon province is set to start this year, was conceived as a training ground for government information officers from the baranggay to the national level.

The Academy is envisioned to provide updates on media technology, and conduct media literacy seminars to educate information officers in countering fake news. This will be in partnership with the Development Academy of the Philippines and other academic institutions.

Earlier this year, Secretary Andanar inspected the planned construction site for the GCA in the municipality of Manolo Fortich.

According to Andanar, the establishment of the Academy will be composed of two phases. The first phase will involve the construction of the main campus building and a dormitory, while the second will cover the procurement of communication equipment. (JKC/PIA-2)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069810

5 BIFF members yield in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17, 2021): 5 BIFF members yield in Maguindanao (By Noel Punzalan)

TIRED OF FIGHTING. One of the five BIFF surrenderers hands over his firearm to military officials following their surrender in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Tuesday (March 16, 2021). The surrenderers (inset) have also pledged their allegiance to the government. (Photos courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Five demoralized members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) yielded to authorities in Ampatuan, Maguindanao, the military here reported Wednesday.

Col. Pedro Balisi Jr., chief of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade (MIB), said the five surrenderers belonged to the group of Commander Copra under the BIFF - Karialan faction operating in the peripheries of the province.

“They realized that they were fighting for a futile cause, leading to their surrender,” Balisi said of the BIFF batch that formally yielded at the 1MIB headquarters in Ampatuan town on Tuesday afternoon.

The surrenderers also yielded six firearms – three sniper rifles, an M16 rifle, an M14 rifle, and an M79 grenade launcher – as witnessed by Ampatuan Mayor Bai Leah Sangki.

“We just grew tired of fighting and want to live normal lives. We’d like to see our families and see our children grow without fear from anything,” Khalid, one of the surrenderers, told reporters in an interview here Wednesday.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID), said since he assumed leadership of the 6ID in September last year, some 200 BIFF have surrendered to them through coordinated efforts with local government units.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133856

Masbate villagers denounce terrorism via peace rally

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17, 2021): Masbate villagers denounce terrorism via peace rally (By Connie Calipay)

Map of Milagros, Masbate (Google image)

Residents and village officials of Bonbon and Matanglad in Milagros, Masbate condemned the communist terrorist group's (CTG) terrorism, deception, and lawless activities during a peace rally held over the weekend.

In an interview on Wednesday, Capt. John Paul Belleza, 9th Infantry Division (9ID) spokesperson, said the residents publicly denounced the CTG and vowed to deny the terrorist group any form of support.

“During the activity, protesters brought placards with written condemnations of the CTG's atrocities including their demand to stop recruiting and deceiving the innocent minds of the youth sector,” he added.

Belleza said as a sign of the villagers' refusal to be used by the CTG in its hopeless cause, the rallyists burned replicas of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) flags.

Lt. Col. Siegfried Felipe Awichen, commander of the 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) which assignment covers the province of Masbate, said troops are currently conducting intensified Community Support Program (CSP) operations in the said barangays.

“Through CSP, soldiers identify the issues and concerns of the local populace in a certain area before relaying it to the concerned agencies for immediate solution,” Belleza added.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson, commander of the Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), in a statement, said he is positive that initiatives like these will fuel the government's relentless campaigns towards ending the communist insurgency.

"This is a proof that they can already see with their own eyes that terrorism and insurgency is the main culprit in the snail-paced developments. The CTG can no longer turn the tables and blame the government for being inutile because with our excellent implementation of President Duterte's Whole-of-Nation Approach, quality service is delivered to the public through a more unified effort of every government office," Robinson said.

The military said more peace rallies are expected to be conducted by villagers in Masbate in the coming days as other barangays plan to replicate the activity held in Bonbon and Matanglad.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133871

PNP warns of possible attacks as NPA anniversary nears

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17, 2021): PNP warns of possible attacks as NPA anniversary nears (By Perla Lena)

RECOVERIES. Soldiers of the 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB) of the Philippine Army recover personal belongings and subversive documents with high intelligence value following a clash with the New People's Army (NPA) in Barangay Dabong, Janiuay, Iloilo on Tuesday (March 16, 2021). Alert is on for possible attacks as the NPA is set to celebrate its anniversary on March 29. (Photo courtesy of 12IB)

ILOILO CITY – The Philippine National Police (PNP) here has warned of possible attacks by the New People’s Army as its founding anniversary draws near.

“March 29 is CPP-NPA anniversary. There is a persistent report that their group is launching attacks and fatality among men in uniform, if not burning or destroying heavy equipment or government projects,” Col. Gilbert Gorero, director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a text message on Wednesday.

He said Ilonggo policemen were reminded to be extra cautious and alert in dealing with everyday police work, particularly in high-risk municipal police stations.

“The series of IED (improvised explosive device) explosion in the province although did not cause loss of life is a manifestation of (the) desperate move against the government. However, IPPO personnel should not lower the guard against treacherous action of CPP-NPA,” he added.

Gorero said the IPPO will continue to close ranks “with other security forces in the province to overcome the problem (of) insurgency.”

The series of encounters in the province, particularly in Lambunao and Janiuay, are the results of the strong ties between the police, the Army, and the community, he noted.

“As the police strengthen law enforcement operation and legal offensive, the army intensifies its tactical offensive and the citizens support information regarding the whereabouts of CPP-NPA. These ties bring positive results by arresting the finance/logistic committee of SYP (Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda) Baloy Platoon,” he said.

The latest encounter led to the arrest of alias “Bing” who was arrested while the 12th Infantry Battalion was conducting a hot pursuit operation following a clash with the communist terrorist group (CTG) around 1:20 a.m. on March 16.

The arrested 66-year old, a resident of Barangay Araal, La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, is a member of the SYP Baloy Platoon of the NPA.

The Army recovered from the site of the clash a .45 caliber pistol with two magazines and seven ammunition, components in making anti-personnel landmine, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

Also seized were a hammock, two backpacks, and a sling bag, assorted groceries, 10 meters of electric wire, and personal belongings.

The arrested NPA member and the other items recovered were turned over to the Janiuay Municipal Police Station for inventory, booking, and filing of case.

In a press statement on Tuesday, Brig. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, said the incident is “a big blow to the NPA’s recruitment and extortion activities given that high-intelligence materials were seized”.

The recoveries of items needed for staging attacks like components of anti-personnel landmine and electric wire will prove that the NPAs are out to sow terror, he added.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA), which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133880

Parents claim body of ‘rebel’ killed in NegOr clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17, 2021): Parents claim body of ‘rebel’ killed in NegOr clash (By Mary Judaline Partlow) 

Map of La Libertad, Negros Oriental. (Google image)

The body of a suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebel who was killed in an encounter with government troops in La Libertad, Negros Oriental on Monday has been identified and claimed by his parents.

A police blotter report from the La Libertad police station said the remains had been identified as that of Aldrin Pecore Faburada, described to be in his early 20s, and resident of Sitio Cangsampo, Barangay Bagtic in La Libertad.

S/Sgt. Junrey Bandic, desk officer of the La Libertad police station, told the Philippine News Agency that Bernaldo and Ritchel Faburada, assisted by an official of their village, claimed the body of their son on Tuesday afternoon.

On March 15, soldiers from the 62nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army clashed with armed men believed to be NPA members belonging to the Central Negros 1, Kilusang Rehiyong Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KRNCBS) in Sitio Mabanga, Barangay Bagtic.

The soldiers later discovered the body of Faburada and also recovered various weapons and subversive documents from the clash site.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division of the Philippine Army, said in a media release, “the encounter was a product of the vigilance and support of the local populace to the Army by feeding correct and timely information on the movement of the CTGs (Communist terrorist groups) and the unending efforts and strategies of every Spearhead Trooper in intensifying the government’s campaign against insurgency in the region.”

He said they would mobilize all of their capabilities to make sure that these communist-terrorists will not have the opportunity to unleash violence on the island.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133935

Commissioning of BRP Antonio Luna set March 19

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17, 2021): Commissioning of BRP Antonio Luna set March 19 (By Priam Nepomuceno) 

BRP Antonio Luna (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The country's second missile frigate, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), will be formally commissioned on Friday, the Philippine Navy (PN) said.

In an advisory on Wednesday, PN public affairs office chief Commander Benjo Negranza said the commissioning ceremony would be held at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila at 8:30 a.m. with Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana as guest-of-honor and speaker.

Earlier, PN chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, said the missile frigates BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna would be deployed only to specific missions, as ordered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines' top leadership.

"They will still conduct sovereignty patrols and show-the-flag missions covering the whole archipelago with a focus on external defense. They will participate in naval exercises here and abroad in order to hone the skills of her crew in naval warfighting," Bacordo said.

The frigates are capable of surface, sub-surface, air, and electronic warfare using state-of-the-art electronic sensors, long-range missiles, acoustic guided torpedoes, and an embarked anti-submarine helicopter.

The prospective BRP Antonio Luna left Ulsan, South Korea last February 5 and arrived in the Capones Island in Zambales on February 9.

The contract for the two ships was placed at PHP16 billion, with PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133857

It's DILG's job to identify members of progressive groups

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17, 2021): It's DILG's job to identify members of progressive groups (By Azer Parrocha)

Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo (File photo)

Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo on Wednesday said he saw nothing wrong with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) memorandum that directs its regional directors to identify members of progressive groups in the government.

DILG spokesperson Jonathan Malaya earlier defended the memo, explaining that employees in the department who are members of progressive organizations will only be encouraged to “disaffiliate” themselves from those groups.

In his online commentary show “Counterpoint”, Panelo emphasized that the DILG was simply doing its job by checking government employees’ affiliations.

“Hindi mali o hindi masama ang ginagawa ng DILG. Katunayan ‘yun ang tungkulin niyo, alamin niyo kung sino yung mga manggagawa, empleyado ng gobyerno na lihim na sinisira ang pagtitiwala ng bayan sa pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng pagpasok nila dun sa mga organisasyon na ang layunin lamang ay siraan at pabagsakin ang gobyerno (The DILG is not doing anything wrong or bad. The truth is, it’s their job to find out if employees are secretly destroying public trust in the government by joining organizations to overthrow the government),” he said.

He reminded government workers that they have sworn to uphold the 1987 Constitution in joining the government.

“Yung mga empleyado ng gobyerno, bago kayo pumasok na ipagtatanggol niyo ang Saligang Batas. Eh kung yung mga organisasyon na papasukan niyo e ang layunin ay pabagsakin ang gobyerno ay dapat talaga malaman na kung sino kayo (Employees of government have taken an oath that before you enter government, you will defend the Constitution. If you enter into organizations with the goal of overthrowing the government, then it’s only right that we identify who you are),” he added.

Panelo said government workers should refrain from joining progressive groups if they do not want to be investigated.

“Kung gusto niyo hindi maimbestigahan e huwag kayo sasama dito sa mga organisasyon na ang layunin ay pabagsakin ang gobyerno. Ganun lang naman kasimple ‘yun (If you don’t want to be investigated, don’t join organizations that aim to overthrow the government. It’s that simple),” he said.

He rejected criticism that the DILG’s memo sends a “chilling effect” on freedom of expression, noting that only those with a plot to discredit the administration should be afraid.

“Matatakot lang kayo kung totoo na kayo ay kasama dun sa mga organisasyon na ang layunin ay pabagsakin ang gobyerno (You should only get scared if you are a member of organizations that seek to overthrow the government). Otherwise, there is nothing to fear,” he added.

On March 10, the DILG issued a memorandum directing its regional directors to identify who among its employees are members of two progressive groups--the Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (Courage), a network of workers’ unions in the government; and Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), the union of public school teachers.

Bayan Muna Rep. Ferdinand Gaite denounced the memorandum, describing it as “blatant terrorist-tagging” and “an unwarranted act of harassment and intimidation.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133942

Teacher-member of ‘commie’ underground group falls

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17, 2021): Teacher-member of ‘commie’ underground group falls (By Gigie Arcilla)

WANTED TEACHER. Rosanilla B. Consad alias Lai, a public school assistant principal belonging to an underground group of revolutionary teachers, Katipunan ng Gurong Makabayan (KAGUMA), was arrested for attempted homicide in Butuan City on March 17. (PRO-13 PIO photo)

A public school assistant principal belonging to an underground group of revolutionary teachers, Katipunan ng Gurong Makabayan (KAGUMA), who is wanted for attempted homicide, was arrested in Butuan City on Wednesday.

Brig. Gen Romeo M. Caramat, Jr., Police Regional Office 13 (PRO-13) Director, identified the arrested teacher as Rosanilla B. Consad alias Lai, 54, resident of Diamond St., B6, L22, Rosewood Plains Subd., Phase 2, Brgy. Villa Kananga, Butuan City.

Consad, who is assistant principal of San Vicente National High School in Butuan City, was arrested along Montilla Blvd., Brgy. Rajah Humabon, Butuan City at around 4:30 p.m. based on an arrest warrant issued by the 10th Judicial Region, Municipal Circuit Trial Court, Tubay-Santiago, Agusan del Norte on March 15.

Joint troops from the Regional Intelligence Division 13, Regional Intelligence Unit 13, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) 10, Butuan City Police Station 1, and Armed Forces of the Philippines implemented the arrest of Consad for the shooting of Private First Corporal Junrel Cornelio and CAFGU Active Auxiliary Emiliano Sajol, Jr.

Cornelio and Sajol, both members of the Army’s 29th Infantry Battalion, were shot while conducting combat patrol operation in Sitio Manhupaw, Brgy. Poblacion 2, Santiago, Agusan del Norte on Nov. 21, 2020.

“Ang kanyang pagkahuli ay magbibigay hustisya sa mga kawal ng pamahalaan na patuloy na ibinibuwis ang sariling seguridad at kaligtasan sa ngalan ng kapayapaan (The arrest of Consad gives justice to the two wounded troopers and all soldiers who continue to risk their lives for peace),” Caramat said.

Aside from being a member of Kaguma – a revolutionary group under the Alliance of Concerned Teachers, Consad is reportedly the head of the Regional Urban Committee (RUC), Regional White Area Committee (RWAC), Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

She is listed as top 18 in the Caraga police’ communist terrorist group (CTG) priority targets.

Reports said she is a member of General Assembly Binding Women for Reforms, Integrity, Equality, Leadership, and Action (GABRIELA) and participated in protest actions in Butuan City during the 47th Martial Law commemoration on Sept. 20, 2019, and Labor Day celebration on May 1, 2019.

Allegedly involved in the recruitment of youths and students into the communist group., Consad is said to be an urban party committee member of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) in Caraga Region.

He said the leadership of PRO-13 laments that a teacher who is supposed to mold the strong foundation of students is herself involved in terroristic activities.

“Ito na ang magiging hudyat sa humihinang puwersa ng CPP-NPA-NDF na tigilan na ang panloloko, pang-aabuso sa karapatang pantao, at paggawa ng krimen sapagkat darating ang tamang panahon na mananagot din sila sa kamao ng batas (This signals the weakening force of the CPP-NPA-NDF and end of exploitation, violation of human rights, and criminal activities because the right time will come for them to be held accountable to the law),” he added.

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

With the growing support of the community, Caramat said the days of communists wanted for various crimes in the region are numbered.

The Philippine National Police in Caraga, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, will continue to step-up efforts against insurgency and terrorism in support of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133995

Kalinaw News: Army scores a new in Negros Oriental encounter

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 17, 2021): Army scores a new in Negros Oriental encounter

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan Capiz – An unidentified member of the New People’s Army died in an encounter with the Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion at Sitio Mabanga, Barangay Bagtic, La Libertad, Negros Oriental on Monday, March 15, 2021.

While scouring the encounter site at around 2:30 in the afternoon, the troops of 62IB discovered a cadaver of still unidentified member of CTG and various war materiel that include one 5.56 M16 rifle; one long M16 magazine; one anti-personnel mine; one riffle grenade; three backpacks; four cellphones; one small solar panel, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

Major General Eric Vinoya, Commander, 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division said, the encounter was a product of the vigilance and support of the local populace to the Army by feeding correct and timely information on the movement of the CTGs, and the unending efforts and strategies of every Spearhead Trooper in intensifying the government’s campaign against insurgency in the region.

“We will mobilize all of our capabilities to make sure that these communist-terrorists will not have the opportunity to unleash violence in the Island. The recent encounter should serve as a stern warning to the remaining CTG members in the area to surrender to the folds of the law to avoid misfortune and death,” MGen Vinoya stressed.

[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-scores-a-new-in-negros-oriental-encounter/

Kalinaw News: Five BIFF members surrender in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 17, 2021): Five BIFF members surrender in Maguindanao

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – A new batch of five (5) members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) – Karialan Faction voluntarily surrendered with their firearms to the troops of 1st Mechanized Brigade in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on March 16, 2021.

These former extremists were presented to Col. Pedro Balisi Jr., Commander of 1st Mechanized Brigade, and Hon. Bai Yasmin Mangudadatu, Municipal Vice-Mayor of Ampatuan, Maguindanao through a simple ceremony at Headquarters 1st Mechanized Brigade in Brgy Kamasi of the said town.

The surrenderers brought with them six (6) high-powered firearms comprised of one (1) M16A1, one (1) Cal.30 Garand, one (1) M79 GL, one (1) 7.62mm Sniper Rifle, and two (2) Cal.50 Barret Rifle.

“We are experiencing hardship in the hinterlands of Maguindanao, we do not have peace of mind and we’re always running and hiding” one of the returnees testified.

Col. Pedro Balisi Jr. expressed his gratitude to the Local Government Units of the Municipality of Ampatuan and that of the Province of Maguindanao for their continuous support to the 1st Mechanized Brigade in attaining peace and order in the locality.

“Government forces will always welcome members of the extremist group who decides to come back to the folds of the law, yet we will be relentless to those who plan to sow terror and atrocities in the community”, Col. Balisi added.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, Commander of Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry Division said that the influx of surrender is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the military, local government units, the traditional leaders, and the peace-loving people of Maguindanao.

“Our troops conduct series of intensified stakeholders engagement to encourage the remaining extremists to surrender and cooperate with the government, thus we welcome these former BIFF members as they come back to the mainstream society; our concerted efforts with the Local Government Unit of Maguindanao will pave way for the attainment of the lasting genuine peace in this part of Mindanao” Maj. Gen. Uy further 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/five-biff-members-surrenders-in-maguindanao/

Kalinaw News: Army troops nab NPA rebel in Iloilo clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 17, 2021): Army troops nab NPA rebel in Iloilo clash



CAMP HERNANDEZ, Dingle, Iloilo – The Philippine Army’s 12th Infantry Battalion arrested a New People’s Army member following an armed encounter in Janiuay, Iloilo early morning of March 16, 2021.

Alias Bing, a member of NPA’s SYP Baloy Platoon, was collared following a 2-minute firefight, as soldiers were doing a pursuit operation at Barangay Dabong around 1:20 a.m. of Tuesday. The 66-year old woman rebel is said to be a resident of Barangay Araal, La Carlota City, Negros Occidental.

She was caught seeking refuge from a house in Dabong village, as her other comrades left her and fled the area. Following the clash, the troops also seized a caliber .45 pistol with two magazines and 7 ammunition, components in making anti-personnel landmine and subversive documents with high intelligence value. Soldiers also recovered a hammock, two backpacks and a sling bag, assorted groceries, 10 meters electric wire, and personal belongings.

Bing and the confiscated items are now at the custody of Janiuay Police Station.

Brigadier General Marion Sison, 301st Infantry Brigade Commander believed that the incident would be a big blow to the NPA’s recruitment and extortion activities given that high-intelligence materials were seized.

On top of that, he revealed that the communist-terrorist group is planning to attack patrol bases, security forces and sabotage government projects in the area. He cited that the recoveries of items needed for staging attacks like components of anti-personnel landmine and electric wire would prove that the NPAs are out to sow terror.

“The CPP-NPA’s evil doings of making and using anti-personnel landmine like what they did on March 12 attack in Lambunao,” he said.

Sison was referring to the IED explosion that happened in Barangay Pughanan, Lambunao that wounded a PNP personnel and a village councilman.

He stressed that what the NPAs did was a blatant violation of Republic Act 9851 (Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity), which penalizes as a war crime the employment of means of warfare such as weapons, projectiles and material which are of the nature to cause superfluous injury or unnecessary suffering or which are inherently indiscriminate in violation of the international law of armed conflict.

But amidst this, “what’s new? For more than 5 decades, the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the NPA, have not done anything except to sow terror and instill fear among the people. But more than ever, the government’s resolved is ardent to end the local communist armed conflict,” Sison said. And despite and in spite of everything, he said the government would accept those who are willing to lay down their arms in pursuit of peace.

On March 29, the NPA would be celebrating its 52nd founding anniversary. They also marked their anniversary by conducting attacks on governments troops and installations and other key economic points.

[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-troops-nab-npa-rebel-in-iloilo-clash/

Kalinaw News: Mahigit P5M na ayuda, naipamahagi sa mga dating miyembro ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 16, 2021): Mahigit P5M na ayuda, naipamahagi sa mga dating miyembro ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Umabot sa mahigit limang milyong piso sa ilalim ng Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) ang natanggap na ayuda ng mga dating rebelde na nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan ngayong araw, ika-16 ng Marso taong kasalukuyan sa San Mariano, Isabela.

Ipinamahagi ni Director Jonathan Paul Leusen Jr ng Department of Interior and Local Government Region 02 ang tulong pinansyal ng 77 na mga dating miyembro ng rebeldeng Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) sa pamamagitan ng 95th at 86th Infantry Battalion at iba pang mga ahensya ng pamahalaan. 39 dito ang mga dating regular na miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo habang 38 naman ang mga dating miyembro ng Milisya ng Bayan (MB). Nasa 19 naman na nakapagbaba ng kanilang mga armas ang nabigyan ng karagdagang ayuda.

Ayon kay Director Leusen, ang suportang ibinigay ng pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng ECLIP sa mga dating miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo ay magagamit upang magsimulang muli at magkarron ng panimulang pangkabuhayan. Aniya, ito ay isang paraan upang masugpo ang matagal ng problema sa insurhensiya. “Salamat sa inyong pakikipagtulungan para matapos na natin itong insurhensiya. Kayo na mismo ang nakaranas ng kahirapan sa loob ng NPA at ngayo’y tinatamasa ang suporta at pag-alalay ng pamahalaan. Kasama ninyo kami sa DILG sa inyong pagbabago ng inyong buhay.”

Hindi matawaran ang naging pasasalamat ni Alyas Ramil, dating regular na miyembro ng CPP-NPA sa tulong at pagkalinga ng pamahalaan sa kanilang mga nagbalik-loob sa gobyerno. “Napakalaking bagay po ang natanggap kong suporta upang makagsimula kaming muli ng aming pamilya. Gagawin ko ang lahat upang tahakin ang tamang direksyon sa buhay. Maraming Salamat po!”

Sinabi ni BGen Danilo D Benavides PA, Brigade Commander ng 502nd Infantry Brigade, na ang kanilang natanggap na mga tulong mula sa pamahalaan ay patunay na tama ang kanilang naging desisyon na magbalik-loob sa gobyerno. “Napatunayan na ninyo na handa kayong tulungan ng ating pamahalaan. Umaasa ako na ang ayudang inyong natanggap ngayong araw ay magagamit ninyo sa inyong pang araw-araw na pamumuhay. Nandito kami upang kayo ay alalayan at suportahan sa inyong pagbabagong buhay.”

Nanawagan naman si MGen Laurence E Mina PA, Commander ng 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army sa mga natitira pang mga miyembro ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA na magbalik-loob na sa pamahalaan. “Kinikilala ng pamahalaan na kayo ay mga biktima ng panlilinlang at maling ideyolohiya ng CPP-NPA kung kaya hinihikayat namin kayong bumaba na at magbalik loob. Handa ang ating pamahalaan upang kayo ay matulungang magsimulang muli at makapagbagong buhay.”

Samantala, dinaluhan din ng Isabela Police Provincial Office, Isabela Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Lokal na Pamahalaan ng Benito Soliven at San Mariano ang naturang aktibidad.

[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/mahigit-p5m-na-ayuda-naipamahagi-sa-mga-dating-miyembro-ng-rebeldeng-cpp-npa/

Kalinaw News: Sulu Sultanate revives traditional martial arts “Kuntao and Silat”

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 16, 2021): Sulu Sultanate revives traditional martial arts “Kuntao and Silat”



Kuta Heneral Teodolfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – The Sulu Sultanate, in collaboration with the local government units of Sulu and the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry Division is pushing for the revival of the century-old Kuntao & Silat — a traditional arts practiced by Sulu warriors– through a program specifically targeted towards the youth, March 16, 2020.

“Yesterday afternoon, I was in Bgy Taglibi, Patikul with Sultan of Sulu and North Borneo Muedzul-Lail T Kiram, Patikul Mayor Kabir E Hayudini and Sulu Governor representative Jullkipli Ahijon, where we witnessed the first leg of the demonstration of the historic martial arts Kuntao & Silat led by Grandmaster Said Musa and his students” said MGen William N Gonzales, Commander of Joint Task Force – Sulu.

1102nd Infantry Brigade Commander Col Benjamin G Batara, who was also at the event, explained that Grandmaster Said conducted an orientation and basic training on the historic martial arts among the youth in from different barangays in Patikul. “The representative from the 30 barangays of Patikul (7 students each) will be the core group of their respective Kuntao & Silat organizations on the barangay level. After Patikul, we plan to do the same in the Municipality of Maimbung.”

Meanwhile 1102 Bde Deputy Commander Col Tarahuddin Ampatuan explained the rationale of this project, “The Norweigan embassy is also supporting this endeavor by provision of training fund. What we want is to revive that the identity of Tausug as noble warriors. Warriors who are God-fearing and respectful of the law. Warriors who have discipline and who only uses force to protect the innocent.”

For his part, Grandmaster Said, stressed that the students of Kuntao & Silat are mandated to undergo a review of the Qu’ran and are constantly guided by spiritual advisers such as himself. He shared that Kuntao & Silat training was formalized on 1969.

As part of the program, Sultan Kiram led the oath of discipline and subsequently delivered his speech. “Malaki ang responsibilidad ang kaakibat ng Kuntao at Silat dahil mayroon spiritwal na obligasyon at respeto sa kapwa. Meron din itong mga ipinagbabawal, lalo na Kung ikakapahamak ng indibidwal o nakakarami. Ito rin ay gabay sa mga estudyante upang sila’y magkaroon ng takot sa Diyos , masunurin sa magulang,at respeto sa pamahalaan,” said Sultan Kiram.

MGen Gonzales expressed his gratitude to all commanders and other stakeholders who made the event possible. He shared that he himself is an avid fan of various martial arts and will always have high regard to those who practice it.

“Ang inyong uniporme ay simbolo na kayo ay parte ng isang layunin. Kaisa niyo ako, kaisa niyo ang buong 11th Infantry Division sa muling pagpapalaganap ng Kuntao at Silat. Una dito sa Patikul, tapos isusunod natin ang iba pang munispyo. Kay Sultan Kiram at kay Grandmaster Said, saludo po ako sa inyo sa hangarin niyong ito,” 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/sulu-sultanate-revives-traditional-martial-arts-kuntao-and-silat/

Kalinaw News: CSP teams deploy as support to TF- ELAC

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 16, 2021): CSP teams deploy as support to TF- ELAC



Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Baustista , Jolo, Sulu – A send-off ceremony for Community Support Program (CSP) Teams was held today, March 15, 2020 at Headquarters, 11th Infantry Division, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu. The event was presided by JTF-Sulu and 11ID Commander MGen William N Gonzales, March 15, 2021,

Altogether, CSP Teams are composed of 18 Officers and 218 enlisted personnel. They were from 11ID organic units, Joint Task Force – Sulu OpCon units such as Special Forces and 4th Marines Brigade. Some personnel from 1st Infantry Division and 2nd Infantry Division also participated the said event.

Accordingly, MGen Gonzales, just like the deployment of combat units, the placement of CSP Teams can spell the difference between prolonging the agony of the struggle of the Tausug people and finally end terrorism in the province. “These CSP Teams should immerse on the barangays of Patikul and engage with the residents in the barangay affected by ASG. Their aim is to help the Patikul Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict (TF-ELAC) to uncover the deep-rooted, causes of Abu Sayyaf
Group (ASG)’s existence,” said MGen Gonzales.

“Further, the CSP teams should come up with recommendations on how agencies under the umbrella of ELAC can fast-track the development in the poorest of the poor communities. Places wherein the population is most vulnerable to ASG’s exploitation,” he added.

The CSP Teams underwent a 45-day training covering several subjects that will equip them as to how to connect to the people including public speaking and cultural sensitivity. The Teams are set to pay courtesy to Local Chief Executives (LCE’s) who are also the Chairperson of ELAC’s on their respective 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/csp-teams-deploy-as-support-to-tf-elac/

Kalinaw News: Kampo ng teroristang CPP-NPA nakubkob; bangkay ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA at isang baril nadiskubre

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 16, 2021): Kampo ng teroristang CPP-NPA nakubkob; bangkay ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA at isang baril nadiskubre



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela– Nakubkob ang kampo ng mga teroristang Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) na kung saan natagpuan ang bangkay ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA na iniwan ng kanyang mga kasamahan at isang baril matapos ang nangyaring engkwentro sa pagitan ng nasabing grupo at tropa ng 50th Infantry Battalion sa Sitio Babacong, Barangay Gawa-an, Balbalan, Kalinga ngayong ika-15 ng Marso taong kasalukuyan.

Nagpapatrolya ang mga kasundaluhan ng 50IB sa nasabing lugar upang tiyakin ang kaligtasan ng mga residente nang paputukan sila ng humigit kumulang 20 na mga miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo na pinamumunuan ng isang alyas Mio ng Platoon Guevara, Komiteng Larangan Baggas ng Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee (ICRC). Makalipas ang ilang minuto, nagkawatak-watak ang mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA na nakasagupa ng kasundaluhan at iniwan ang bangkay ng kanilang kasamahan. Patuloy naman ang pagsuyod ng kasundaluhan sa mga posibleng daanan ng mga nagtakbuhang rebeldeng CPP-NPA.

Kinilala ang nasawing rebelde na si Rudy Daguitan alyas Pinpin na may posisyong Political Officer/Political Instructor ng KLG Baggas, ICRC. Namatay siya at iniwan ang kanyang bangkay matapos ang engkwentro na naganap sa pagitan ng rebeldeng grupo at ng 50IB.

Ikinagalak ni Col Santiago I Enginco INF (GSC), Commander ng 503rd Infantry Bde ang naging resulta ng pagpapatrolya ng 50IB. Aniya, isang malaking dagok sa rebeldeng grupo ang pagkamatay ni alyas Pinpin. “Malaking kawalan sa KLG Baggas ang pagkamatay ni alyas Pinpin. Mapipilay ang pag-iindoktrina at pagtuturo ng ideolohiyang komunismo sa kanilang mga kasapi at sa mga sumusuportang masa.”

Nagbigay naman ng babala si MGen Laurence E Mina PA, Commander ng 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army sa mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA sa ginawang pag-abanduna sa bangkay ng kanilang kasapi. “Magsilbi sanang aral ang sinapit ni Rudy Daguitan alyas Pinpin sa mga nalalabi pang kasapi ng teroristang CPP-NPA. Ito ay isa na namang patunay na hindi pinapahalagahan ang mga miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo. Inaanyayahan namin ang natitira pang mga kasapi ng rebeldeng grupo na magbalik loob sa pamahalaan at magsimulang muli bago pa mahuli ang lahat.”

Ang buong hanay ng 5ID ay nagpaabot ng pakikiramay sa pamilya ng nasawing miyembro ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA.

[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/kampo-ng-teroristang-cpp-npa-nakubkob-bangkay-ng-rebeldeng-cpp-npa-at-isang-baril-nadiskubre/

Kalinaw News: NPA’s arms cache seized in North Cotabato

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 15, 2021): NPA’s arms cache seized in North Cotabato

Camp Siongco, Maguindanao – An arms cache belonging to the New People’s Army was discovered by government forces in Sitio Lacube, Barangay Malabuan, Makilala, North Cotabato on March 14, 2021.

Major General Juvymax R. Uy, Commander of JTF Central and 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division stressed that the recovery of the arms cache was realized through the joint efforts of the 90th Infantry Battalion and 602nd Infantry Brigade of 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and 39th Infantry Battalion and 1002nd Infantry Brigade of 10th Infantry (Agila) Division.

The seized firearms and war materials are composed of one (1) M16 Rifle, two (2) barrels of Garand Rifle, two (2) barrels of M1 Carbine Rifle, and one (1) barrel of M14 Rifle. “The said discovery of firearms and war materials came after local residents and former rebels provided information to the members of the Community Support Program (CSP) Team of 90IB who were deployed in the area about the location of the arms cache”, the JTF Central and 6ID Commander disclosed.

Brig. Gen. Roberto Capulong, Brigade Commander of 602nd Infantry (Liberator) Brigade expressed his appreciation to the former Communist Terrorist Group members who cooperated with government forces to locate the arms cache. “It was just recently when the residents of Barangay Luz Village of said municipality declared the Communist Terrorist Group as persona non grata in their community,” said Brig. Gen. Capulong.

While Lt. Col. Rommel Mundala, the Battalion Commander of 90IB also expressed that this event will be the beginning of the real liberation of the said barangay from the influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF, serving as a mark of true development for the said community.

The Commander of JTF Central urged the people of South-Central Mindanao to continue supporting the government’s campaign against lawless elements and communist-terrorist threats. “Rest assured that your Kampilan troopers will continue to perform its mandate of protecting the people and securing our communities. I am calling everyone to remain vigilant and continue to support our security efforts”, Maj. Gen. Uy added.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npas-arms-cache-seized-in-north-cotabato/

Kalinaw News: 23IB joins PRLEC Agusan del Norte in development program launching for IP community

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 15, 2021): 23IB joins PRLEC Agusan del Norte in development program launching for IP community



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB) joined the members of the Provincial Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) and the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of Agusan del Norte during the conduct of the mass graduation and the launching of the Barangay Development Program (BDP) in Sitio Bokbokon, Barangay Lawan-lawan in Las Nieves town last March 10, 2021.

The mass graduation and the launching of the BDP, led by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority of Agusan del Norte (TESDA-ADN) under the leadership of Provincial Director Rey M. Cueva was also in time with the conduct of the two-day immersion activity of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) of the province.

A total of one hundred four (104) Indigenous Peoples (IPs) belonging to the Higaonon tribe received their Certificates of Training during the activity. Of the one hundred four (104) IPs who graduated from the TESDA-ADN training, fifty (50) have completed their Land Preparation for Organic Crop Production Training, twenty-five (25) completed the Fishpond Preparation Training while twenty-nine (29) completed the Basic House Wiring Training.

During the graduation ceremony, Dir. Cueva urged the new graduates to apply what they have learned during the sets of training to help them improve their lives.

“We are now doubling our efforts to reach more communities in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas to ensure and promote sustainable livelihood for the people. May they use the skills taught to them in order for them to pull themselves out from poverty,” Cueva said.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commanding officer of 23IB also witnessed the graduation of the one hindred forty (140) IPs and expressed gladness over the milestone they achieved in their lives.

“Through the implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70) institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach, the PTF-ELCAC and PRLEC in Agusan del Norte have provided different opportunities and the prioritization of the IP communities, especially those that need assistance and help them become productive citizens,” Paulo said.

He added that through the services and projects implemented by the government, residents, especially in remote areas, will have a chance to be given different sustainable livelihood programs to support their daily needs.

“These programs and services are implemented with the aim to end the insurgency. The Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorists (CNTs) are using poverty issues in their propaganda to deceive people,” Paulo said.

He emphasized that by addressing the problems of poverty, the affected residents, particularly those in the countryside will be given the great opportunity to emancipate themselves and eventually defeat the insurgency.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/23ib-joins-prlec-agusan-del-norte-in-development-program-launching-for-ip-community/

Kalinaw News: FRs and mass supporters complete NCII training in Surigao del Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 15, 2021): FRs and mass supporters complete NCII training in Surigao del Sur



Madrid, Surigao del Sur, 13 March 2021 – A total of 47 beneficiaries from Barangay Tigabong and Barangay Buntalid all of Cantilan, Surigao del Sur successfully completed their training on Tailoring NC II facilitated by the Philippine Army’s 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion, 401 st Infantry (UNITE ‘N FIGHT) Brigade under the 4 th Infantry (DIAMOND) Division at Brgy Tigabong, Cantilan, Agusan del Sur today, March 12, 2021, at around 9 o`clock in the morning.

The graduates are composed of 7 former rebels, 5 mass supporters and 35 Local residents who received their respective National Certificate (NC) II after completing the training and passing the Competency Assessment required by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). The activity was in line with the efforts of the Community Support Program (CSP) of 36IB in collaboration with the Lorenz International Skills Training Academy, Inc.; TESDA-CARAGA Region and the Local Government Unit of Brgy Tigabong, Cantilan, SDS.

During the activity, Lt. Col. Jeezrel Diagmel, Commander of 36IB congratulated the newly graduates and expressed his confidence that those who gained the knowledge and skills in tailoring will become more productive in this time of pandemic. He added that the activity is another manifestation that the government is very sincere in helping the community in order to uplift the economic condition of the people in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur.

He further added that the government has offered many trainings which will serve as a means to have better earnings and livelihood opportunities particularly to the former rebels, mass supporters, and their families. The graduates, who are now well equipped with skills on tailoring, have now the ability to address the basic needs of their families. “This training will greatly help individual graduates to have other source of income as they applied their new sets of skills to earn a living,” Ltc Diagmel said.

@Kem, a former rebel, lauded the government for this project intervention. “Ako isip usa ka kanhing myembro sa New People`s Army, getagaan usab og higayun sa gobyerno nga mabuhing normal og higayon nga maka kuhag programa nga akong magamit arun makatabang sa paglambo kauban ang akong pamilya.”

As one of the short courses offered by TESDA, the Tailoring NC II trains the individual in cutting and sewing textiles into presentable and casual attires. According to the graduates of said Tailoring NC II, they also become knowledgeable in maintaining the sewing machines and creative in designing ordinary outfits. The closing ceremony was attended by RD Tarhata S. Mapandi, CESO III, Regional Director, TESDA CARAGA, Hon. Edmund B. Ruaza, Brgy. Councilor, Tigabong, Cantilan, SDS, Lina Theresa Z. Escudero, School Administrator, Lorenz International Skills Training Academy, Dir Romel M. Natad, MIE, Acting Provincial Director, TESDA Sursur, Hon. Mercedes A. Coleto, Brgy Chairman, Tigabong, Cantilan, SDS, Maggie Gudella A. Zapanta-Tse, School President, Lorenz International Skills Training Academy, Roy L. Tse, School Vice President, Lorenz International Skills Training Academy and Ruel M. Magalona, Tailoring NCII Trainer, Lorenz International Skills Training Academy.

[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/frs-and-mass-supporters-complete-ncii-training-in-surigao-del-sur/

Kalinaw News: 300 na katao nabenipisyohan sa Community Outreach Program

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 15, 2021): 300 na katao nabenipisyohan sa Community Outreach Program



Malita, Davao Occidental – Sa ginanap na Community Outreach Program sa Sitio Mainit, Barangay Sibulan, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, nabigyan ng serbisyo ang mahigit 300 na katao ng mga kasundaluhan ng 73rd Infantry Battalion, lokal na pamahalaan ng Sta. Cruz, ibat ibang ahensya ng gobyerno at Youth For Peace Talbos Movement, Sta Cruz Chapter nitong ika-13 ng Marso taong 2021.

Nagkaroon ng libreng rehistro ng birth certificate, baksinasyon ng mga hayop, medical check-up, libreng gupit, distribusyon ng food packs, tsinelas, at mga bola. Isinagawa din ang feeding program at pagpapakita ng mga talento.

Namigay din ng solar light ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Sta. Cruz. “Nawa’y ang ibinigay na pailaw ng munisipyo ang gagabay sa ating mamamayan ng Sitio Mainit sa tamang landas na nais ng gobyerno,” matalinghagang sabi ng alkalde.

Sa katunayan, ikinatuwa ng mga kabataan ang mga natanggap na premyo sa panlarong bata na kanilang ginawa. “Ang mga ngiting ito ay hindi makikita sa mga kabataan kung maling ideolohiya ang itinuturo sa kanila. Winawala lamang ng kilusan ang kapayaan, katahimikan at simpleng pamumuhay ng taong bayan,” pahayag ng Pinuno ng 73IB na si Lt. Col. Ronaldo G Valdez.

“Kaya nagpapasalamat ako sa mga ahensya ng lokal ng pamahalaan sa suportang kanilang ibinahagi sa paghatid ng serbisyo kasama ang mga kasundaluhan” kanyang dagdag.

Ang ganitong programa ng gobyerno ay ang pagtutulungan ng mga ahensya upang ihatid ang mga serbisyo ng gobyerno na kailangan ng mga mamamayan. Nakapaloob ito sa EO 70 sa tinatawag na Whole of Nation Approach.

[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/300-na-katao-nabenipisyohan-sa-community-outreach-program/