Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 04/12/21

Monday, April 12, 2021

Kalinaw News: 2 wounded in an IED explosion in Basilan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2021): 2 wounded in an IED explosion in Basilan

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- April 12, 2021

An improvised explosive device (IED) blast transpired in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan on Monday morning, April 12, 2021.

“While our troops from the 12th Division Reconnaissance Company were conducting mobile patrol at Sitio Bohe Bekew, Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo around 6:25 in the morning, today, a roadside IED exploded which resulted in the wounding of one of our valiant soldiers and one civilian,” said Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

The two were immediately given first aid and evacuated to a hospital in Lamitan for further medical treatment.

“The victims are now in stable condition,” said Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, Commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.

Reinforcing troops are currently conducting clearing and pursuit operations to possibly locate the perpetrators.

“We continue to exhaust all efforts to assist the police in the conduct of the investigation to identify the perpetrators of the incident,” Brig. Gen. Gobway added.

Intelligence monitoring is bolstered to avert the recurrence of such a tragic event.

Western Mindanao Command Chief Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr. expressed his condemnation of the horrendous act of the malefactors.

“We are utilizing all available resources to prevent the lawless elements from wreaking havoc in the peaceful communities and victimizing our soldiers and the innocent civilians,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

“The Abu Sayyaf Group tends to conduct desperate attacks since their weakened manpower and capability can no longer withstand the military’s all-out offensives. They engage in inhumane attacks to gain popularity and to show off their potentials. So, I urge the peace-loving people of Basilan to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious person or object in their vicinity. Do not allow the evil-doers to destroy the peace and tranquility in your respective community. Rest assured that your armed forces will persistently work toward for everyone to enjoy the lasting peace and sustainable development,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. further 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/2-wounded-in-an-ied-explosion-in-basilan/

Kalinaw New: Military, PNP, and LGU officials convene to resolve security concerns in Sibugay province

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2021): Military, PNP, and LGU officials convene to resolve security concerns in Sibugay province

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – April 12, 2021

Western Mindanao Command Chief Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr. spearheaded a consultative meeting held in Zamboanga Sibugay Province on Monday morning, April 12, 2021.

The said meeting was conducted purposely to integrate efforts among security forces and local government units and to come up with feasible solutions to address the security concerns of the municipalities of Mabuhay, Olutanga, and Talusan, all of Zamboanga Sibugay.

It can be recalled that Mabuhay Vice Mayor Restituto Calonge and his companion were killed by an alleged member of the notorious Anwar Ansang Group on February 26, 2021.

Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. said the military will assess the current security situation of the municipalities and will address the concerns of the local government officials and the communities.

“Speak out your concerns and we will see how we can help you,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

The meeting was held at Mabuhay Municipal Hall and was attended by Joint Task Force ZamPeLan Commander Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, 102nd Infantry Brigade Commander Leonel Nicolas, 102nd Infantry Brigade Deputy Commander Col. Antonio John Divinagracia, 44th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Filven Noche, Mabuhay Mayor Edreluisa Calonge, Olutanga Mayor Arthur Ruste, and Talusan Mayor Orlando Ramiso.

Maj. Gen. Ponio assured that though the recent incident is a police matter, the military will closely coordinate with the PNP to ensure that justice will be served.

“We are always here to protect the people and to go after the enemies of the state,” Maj. Gen. Ponio stated.

Likewise, Mayor Calonge expressed her gratitude to the armed forces for always making the people of Zamboanga Sibugay feel that they are safe and secured.

Also present during the meeting were WestMinCom Chief of Unified Command Staff Col. Elmer Suderio, Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Operations Col. Jessie Montoya, Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Civil-Military Operations Col. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, Command Sergeant Major Chief Master Sergeant Felix Sedano, and the local government officials of the abovementioned municipalities.

Kalinaw News: AFP, U.S. Military hold balikatan exercise under strict health protocol

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2021): AFP, U.S. Military hold balikatan exercise under strict health protocol

CAMP AGUINALDO, QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and United States Military opened the 36th Balikatan Exercise (BK36-21) in a ceremony held Monday, April 12.

“The Balikatan Exercise, since its launching in 1991, has been a treasure trove of learning opportunities for both Filipino and American soldiers and in recent years would also include our other allies here in the Indo-Pacific region,” said AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, who declared the start of the BK36-2021 at the GHQ Canopy in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Also present were U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires John Law; Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, the Commander of the AFP Education Training and Doctrine Command and this year’s Exercise Director; Col. Stephen Ma, Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group Chief and U.S. Defense Attaché, and Col. Aaron Brunk of the U.S. III Marine Expeditionary Force, Officer in Charge for Exercise Support Group.

“The United States is proud to participate in the Balikatan Exercise, and we thank the Armed Forces of the Philippines for hosting U.S. troops in ways that maintain the health and safety of both our militaries,” said Charge d’Affaires Law. “Joint exercises like Balikatan demonstrate our shared commitment to peace and stability and the adaptability of U.S. and Philippine forces. The United States will continue to seek ways, even during the pandemic, to strengthen our security cooperation.”

Department of National Defense Undersecretary Cesar Yano presided over the opening ceremony.

“With this year’s 36th Balikatan Exercise, we reinvigorate the friendship, partnership and alliance between the Philippines and the United States; a bilateral relationship that is founded on our shared history of espousing peace, security, and cooperation among nations,” said Undersecretary Yano.

This year’s Balikatan Exercise is being conducted with strict observance to health protocol due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the adjustments made was the decrease of participants from both militaries. The AFP will have 736 personnel participate while the U.S. Armed Forces will have approximately 225 participants.

“Against this backdrop and these challenges notwithstanding, the decrease is only in terms of number and never in the participating nations’ passion and desire to meet the steep objectives set forth in every exercise,” said Major General Arevalo.

His U.S. counterpart Colonel Brunk reiterated the importance of the bilateral exercise.

“I am greatly honored to be here today and to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Philippine allies and friends. By training together, our militaries build upon each other and strengthen each other. May this exercise and this experience in the next couple of weeks add value to our partnership and our friendship,” said Col. Brunk.

This year’s Balikatan will include a bilateral staff exercise, close air support training, subject matter exchanges, maritime security training, and humanitarian and civic assistance activities. These events will be conducted in areas within the Northern Luzon Command and Southern Luzon Command.

As part of the humanitarian and civic assistance activities, Filipino and American service members are building two classrooms and a daycare center in Plaridel, Bulacan Province, as well as a classroom in Atimonan and health center in Mauban, both in Quezon Province.

The projects began on March 26 and have planned completion dates of April 23, at which point they will be handed over to the Philippine beneficiaries.

BK36-21 will conclude on April 23. Activities will be conducted with utmost consideration and compliance to guidelines set by the National Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (NITF-EID) to ensure the safety of both participants and the community.

“Though this year’s exercises are toned down because of the prevailing health crisis, which has affected not only the Philippines, but similarly the entire world – these circumstances, will however, not diminish nor hamper the real intent of the Balikatan Exercises – that is to foster a stronger and more robust military relationship, and interoperability between our two Armed Forces,” said General Sobejana.

Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States. Balikatan is a Tagalog phrase for “shoulder-to-shoulder,” which characterizes the spirit of the exercise and represents the partnership between the U.S. and the Philippines.

Kalinaw News: NPA rebels continue to surrender in Sarangani Province

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2021): NPA rebels continue to surrender in Sarangani Province

Camp Siongco, Maguindanao – The Communist Terrorist NPA continues to dwindle as another two (2) NPA rebels surrenders to the joint elements of 38th Infantry Battalion, 6ID, PA and composite teams of the PNP’s Maasim Municipal Police Station and 1204th Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12 at Sitio Kolambog, Brgy. Nomoh, Maasim, Sarangani Province on April 9, 2021.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Anhouvic Atilano, Commanding Officer of 38IB, the two (2) former NPA rebels are members of GF73 of Sub-Regional Committee Musa. “The duo also surrendered one (1) KG 9 Sub Machine Gun, one (1) UZI, one (1) hand grenade, and several live ammunitions,” Lt. Col. Atilano added.

Colonel Eduardo Gubat, the Commander of 603rd Infantry Brigade recognized the help of the Local Government and the residents of Maasim, Sarangani Province in reaching out to the former rebels and stressed that the synergy between security forces, local government units, and the residents made this effort possible. “Definitely the two (2) former NPA rebels will be among those who will benefit from the assistance offered under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government, as thousands of former rebels already enjoyed this assistance in the past,” Col. Gubat further explained.

Meanwhile, Major General Juvymax Uy, Commander of JTF Central and 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division lauded the continuous efforts of security forces and local government counterparts to achieve peace in the Municipality of Maasim, Sarangani Province. “The series of surrender of NPA rebels are clear indication that their propaganda is no longer working among the communities. The people of Maasim desire peace and development in their respective communities and JTF Central is committed to achieve this with the help of our PNP and local government unit counterparts,” Maj. Gen. Uy said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-rebels-continue-to-surrender-in-sarangani-province/

Kalinaw News: Murder suspect neutralized through a joint JTF Central and PNP operation in Alamada, North Cotabato

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2021): Murder suspect neutralized through a joint JTF Central and PNP operation in Alamada, North Cotabato

Camp Siongco, Maguindanao – A wanted person facing three warrants of arrest for the case of murder was neutralized in a joint law enforcement operation undertaken by Joint Task Force Central and the Philippine National Police in Sitio Kabugan, Barangay Guiling, Alamada town of Cotabato on April 10, 2021.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Edgardo L. Vilchez Jr., the Commanding Officer of 34th Infantry “Reliable” Battalion, the elements of 34IB and composite teams from Alamada and Banisilan Municipal Police Stations (MPS) jointly implemented the serving of three arrest warrants for murder against Bayan Guila Dumila alias Boy Army. “While our security forces served the arrest warrants, they were fired upon by the suspect that prompted the arresting elements to return fire. Firefight ensued for about two minutes that resulted to the neutralization of the target personality and recovery of two high powered firearms and other items”, Lt. Col. Vilchez Jr. said.

Brigadier General Roberto S. Capulong, the 602nd Infantry “Liberator” Brigade Commander disclosed that two (2) M14 rifles, four (4) Magazines for M14, 116 rounds 7.62mm ammunition, and one (1) barrel of Cal .50 Barret Rifle were recovered by the troops in the said law enforcement operation. “The seized rifles are now under the safekeeping of Alamada MPS while the remains of the suspect was turned-over to the bereaved family”, BGen. Capulong stressed.

Meanwhile, Major General Juvymax R. Uy PA, Commander of JTF Central and 6th Infantry Division commended the joint efforts the PNP and JTF Central personnel. “The JTF Central is committed to assist our counterparts from the PNP in the conduct of law enforcement operations within our Joint Area of Operation. This is a vivid example of an effective teamwork of all security forces through close coordination and constant collaboration”, MGen. Uy added.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/murder-suspect-neutralized-through-a-joint-jtf-central-and-pnp-operation-in-alamada-north-cotabato/

Kalinaw News: Government rolls again in serving Surigaonons

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2021): Government rolls again in serving Surigaonons

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte- The Provincial Local Government of Surigao del Norte through the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Local Government of Mainit, in collaboration with the 29th Infantry “Matatag Fighters” Battalion and other line government agencies have successfully launched Serbisyo cum Information Caravan on April 8, 2021, Thursday at the Mainit Municipal Gym.

DILG headed by its Regional Director John Reyl L. Mosquito complimented the line government agencies in giving free circumcision (Tuli), goods, necessities, and paraphernalia for Brgy. Tanods such as caps, bats, and uniforms. The concerned agencies also launched an information drive about various services offered by each department that can be availed by the residents of Brgy.

Antolingon and Brgy. San Francisco of Mainit, Surigao del Norte. Similarly, the 29IB have taken the opportunity to aware and educate the people through an information caravan revealing the lies and deceptions of the CTGs by playing some video clips about CTGs wickedness and recruitment process. Also, the unit has distributed various leaflets on E-CLIP so people might be aware of the government’s help and intervention for those who wish to surrender and change for the better. There were more or less 200 beneficiaries who have availed of the offered services.

According to Mr. Baltasar B. Cusido, Punong Barangay of Brgy. San Francisco “Ang atong gobyerno maghatag ug mga kaayohan para sa atong mga katawhan. Ang programa sa atong nasodnon ilabi na sa atong pagyukbo nga maghatag ug serbisyo para sa atong mga katawhan nga nahusuli sa dili maayong dalan. Boot huna-hunaon, mas maayo pa nga musulod kita sa pagsundalo, musulod kita pagka-CAFGU kaysa musulod kita anang pagka-NPA, ngadto sa mangitngit nga kaugmaon. Kita mga ginikanan, agniha ninyo inyong mga anak, mga katawhan nga magsundalo kaysa musulod anang pagka-NPA. Kay ang NPA grabe magkumbinsi, mangilad.

Ilabi na atong mga kabataan, ang mga millenials kay huyang kaayo ilang mga huna-huna dali ra sila mailad.” (Our government gives services for our people. The national program especially our local government gives services to the people who have taken the wrong path. To think that, it is more beneficial to enter the military and become a CAFGU rather than to join and be an NPA, and have a gloomy future. We, parents, need to convince our children, our people to enter the military rather than being an NPA. Because, the NPA only agitates and deceives especially our youth, the Millenials. They have frail minds and can easily be deceived.”

According to the Assistant Provincial Administrator, Mr. Simeon Castrence “Kita nagsige ug hulat sa serbisyo caravan karon ania na ni. Imagina, dili lang kay isa ka ahensya sa gobyerno ang nia diri kung tibook ahensya sa nasyonal nga gobyerno nia diri aron makigtimbayayong ug maghatag ug serbisyo mao magpasalamat gayud kita.” (We always wait for the serbisyo caravan to happen and now it is here. Imagine, not only one agency of the government is here but the whole agency of the national government is here to join and give us services, that’s why we have to be thankful.)

Kalinaw News: Notorious Dawlah Islamiya sub-leader killed in Marawi city

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2021): Notorious Dawlah Islamiya sub-leader killed in Marawi city

CAMP SANG-AN, Zambo Sur | Notorious Sub Leader of Dawlah Islamiya Local Terrorist group was killed in a joint law enforcement operation by PNP and Army troops in Guimba, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, 3:45 a.m. Monday, April 12, 2021.

The local terrorist was identified as Usop Nasif also known as Abu Asraf, the next in line of Abu Zacaria, the current Dawlah Islamiya terrorist leader in Lanao del Sur.

Nasif was declared dead on arrival at Amai Pakpak Medical Center when he was injured in a 30-minute firefight.

Seven personnel of PNP and one Army personnel were wounded in the firefight.

The wife of Nasif was also injured and was immediately brought to the same hospital for medical treatment.

According to Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, 103rd Infantry Brigade Commander, the neutralized local terrorist was the primary suspect in the killing of three PNP and three Army personnel early this year. He was also implicated in the killing of civilians who failed to give in to their extortion demands.

“The hideout was pointed out by Guimba residents fearing that he will put to danger their lives and properties”, said Brig Gen Cuerpo.

“Troops are on pursuit against the cohorts of Nasif and we encourage the locals to report their presence so that we could stop their terrorist activities in the province”, added Brig Gen Cuerpo.

Maj.Gen. Gene Ponio, Commander of 1st Infantry Division, commended the PNP and Army troops for the succesful neutralization of the terrorist sub leader.

“We vowed to remain relentless against these terrorist group to sustain the peace and progress that we have attained in our area of responsibility”, said Maj Gen Ponio.

“We also urge the public to continue to cooperate and report any threats in their locality for us to effectively perform our mandate”, ended Maj Gen Ponio.

[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/notorious-dawlah-islamiya-sub-leader-killed-in-marawi-city/

10 Abu Sayyaf members surrender in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2021): 10 Abu Sayyaf members surrender in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

SURRENDERERS. Ten members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) peacefully surrender on Saturday afternoon (April 10, 2021) in the province of Sulu at the headquarters of the 1101st Infantry Brigade in Barangay Samal, Talipao, Sulu. The surrenderers wish to reunite with their families and start a new life. (Photo courtesy of the 11th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office)

Ten members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) have peacefully surrendered to government authorities in the province of Sulu, military officials announced Monday.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, 11th Infantry Division commander, said they surrendered Saturday afternoon to the headquarters of the 1101st Infantry Brigade headed by Brig. Gen. Antonio Bautista in Barangay Samak, Talipao, Sulu.

The surrenderers were identified as Mis-al Sabtula under ASG leader Alden Bagadi; Marlon Aksan under sub-leader Raden Abu; Hasbi Mustamir, under the late ASG sub-leader Majan Sahidjuan alias Apo Mike; Alih Salim, Alwa Aidar, Faisal Amisar, Gager Ganih, Jamil Ganih, Hajul Arip and Musar Sakib Jumli, all under the late ASG leader Mohammad Said.

Bautista, who facilitated their surrender, said the 10 ASG surrenderers are from the municipality of Indanan, except Ganih, who is from Patikul.

Bautista said they turned over an M-16 Armalite rifle, one M1 Garand rifle, a cal. 30 Carbine and two .45 caliber pistols.

“I commend our 100th Infantry Battalion and 15th Civil Military Operations Battalion for actively reaching out to our brothers who now want to start anew. This is very timely as we approaching Ramadan," Bautista said.

Bautista presented them to Gonzales in a ceremony for their formal local integration held at the 1101st Infantry Brigade headquarters.

He said they decided to surrender to be reunited with their families and to start a new life.

Salim, 20, and Jumli, 21, who are siblings, revealed they joined the ASG sometime in 2016 when they were still teenagers upon invitation of a friend, according to Gonzales.

Gonzales said the two were just able to reach third grade as they have lost interest in education especially after their father left for Sabah.

He said that with pressure from their peers and the promise of instant cash, they ventured to go in and out the hinterlands of Sulu. The friend who recruited them has died with Mohammad Said during a clash with government forces in 2016.

“I hope that other members, either they be active ASG or lie-low, would also come forward. Admit they were ones lost and free themselves of fear that they may be reported to government forces or they might be tracked down by their former comrades. We will assure that these former members (of the ASG) will be assisted accordingly for they all pledged to actively help deny the ASG from taking refuge at their municipality,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136427

Wanted man slain in NoCot joint military, police operation

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2021): Wanted man slain in NoCot joint military, police operation (By Edwin Fernandez )

WAR MATERIEL. The firearms and ammunition seized from slain murder suspect Bayan Guila Dumila during Monday dawn's (April 12, 2021) law enforcement operation in Barangay Guiling, Alamada, North Cotabato. Recovered were two M-14 rifles, ammunition, and one barrel for a .50 caliber Barrett sniper rifle. (Photo courtesy of 34IB)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Joint police and military authorities neutralized Monday dawn a wanted person who resisted arrest by trading shots with lawmen in North Cotabato.

Lt. Col. Edgardo L. Vilchez Jr., commander of the 34th Infantry Battalion, said the joint team was to serve three warrants of arrest for murder charges against Bayan Guila Dumila alias “Boy Army” in Sitio Kabugan, Barangay Guiling in Alamada, North Cotabato when he opened fire on approaching security forces.

“They were fired upon by the suspect, prompting state forces to return fire,” Vilchez said, adding that two guns and ammunition were later found inside the suspect’s house.

Seized from the suspect’s house were two M-14 rifles, ammunition, and one barrel for a .50 caliber Barrett sniper rifle.

In a separate interview, Brig. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong, the 602nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the seized war materiel are now under the safekeeping of the Alamada police.

The remains of the suspect were turned over to the bereaved family, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136470

Exhumed remains of NPA leader in Leyte get decent burial

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2021): Exhumed remains of NPA leader in Leyte get decent burial (By Sarwell Meniano)

DECENT BURIAL. The remains of a New People's Army commander exhumed on April 3 got a decent burial on Sunday (April 11, 2021) in Ormoc City. Authorities retrieved the body from a shallow grave in an upland village in Carigara, Leyte where it was buried by the slain rebel's comrades six years ago. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The cadaver of a New People’s Army (NPA) commander exhumed early this month was given a decent burial on Sunday, six years after rebels buried him in a shallow grave in Carigara, Leyte.

Brig. Gen. Zosimo Oliveros, commander of the Philippine Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade, said Eleazar Sabidalas was buried around 3 p.m. at the Ormoc City public cemetery.

"As a Filipino, it is natural for us to give respect to those who departed even if they are against the government," Oliveros said in a statement on Monday.

Prior to the burial, a funeral service was held for the slain rebel attended by his family members, relatives, former rebels, and soldiers.

On April 3, government forces exhumed Sabidalas' body in the upland village of Libo in Carigara town after receiving reliable information. Operatives from the Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operation, local police, and soldiers unearthed the cadaver as positively identified by former comrades.

Sabidalas, a former commander of NPA Leyte front committee, was seriously wounded in a clash with the military on July 18, 2015.

Instead of ensuring that he got proper medical care, he was left to die and buried in a shallow grave, according to Oliveros.

He said former NPA members told the military that the organization’s lack of respect for human life led to the untimely demise of Sabidalas.

He said the terrorist communist group deliberately conceals the experiences of its members to their families to prevent demoralization in its ranks and government forces from knowing the identity of the slain NPA members.

The NPA, which has been waging a more than five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136442

Ramadan starts April 13: Commission on Muslim Filipinos

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2021): Ramadan starts April 13: Commission on Muslim Filipinos (By Carlo Lorenciana)

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) has announced that the start of Ramadan will be on Tuesday, April 13.

“The entire NCMF and Secretary Saidamen B. Pangarungan is one with the Muslim ummah in celebrating this joyous event. Let us all welcome the Holy Month with hope in our hearts and faith in Allah with every word and action,” NCMF-Visayas Region said in a statement on Monday.

NCMF’s Bureau of Muslim Cultural Affairs said the group held a moonsighting activity on Sunday in multiple locations nationwide.

All the moonsighting teams, which consisted of NCMF officials, employees, volunteers, and Muslim leaders, reported that no moon was sighted. This prompted NCMF to declare the start of Ramadan on Tuesday.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and the holy month of fasting. It begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon.

Devout Muslims fast every day from dawn to sunset during the entire Ramadan, which they consider a period of introspection, communal prayer in the mosque, and reading of the Qur’an.

They also give alms to the poor and abstain from vices.

The Eid al-Fitr or the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast marks the end of Ramadan.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136488

AFP, JUSMAG PH tackle EEZ response in talks

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2021): AFP, JUSMAG PH tackle EEZ response in talks (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The talks between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Joint US Military Advisory Group (JUSMAG)-Philippines on Monday focused on how the two militaries can respond to situations or events in the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

"The discussions centered on how the Philippine and the United States armed forces can manage and respond to the situation in the Philippine EEZ," said AFP spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, in a statement sent to reporters.

Arevalo was responding to questions regarding updates on the meeting of AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, and JUSMAG-Philippines chief, Col. Stephen Ma.

Arevalo said the meeting between the two officials was "a fruitful engagement".

He added that both parties agreed to have subsequent meetings, he added.

On Sunday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III held a telephone conversation where they discussed the situation in the West Philippine Sea and recent developments in regional security.

Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said Lorenzana and Austin are looking forward to the conduct of Exercise "Balikatan" which was canceled last year due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Austin reiterated the importance of the Visiting Forces Agreement and hopes that it would be continued.

"Secretary Lorenzana committed to discussing the matter with the President as the final approval lies with him," Andolong said in a statement.

Lorenzana likewise sought Austin's assistance to expedite the delivery of the Moderna vaccines the country has ordered.

"To which, Secretary Austin replied that he would look into the issue and bring it to the attention of the office concerned," Andolong added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136468

PH, US start 36th 'Balikatan' exercises

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2021): PH, US start 36th 'Balikatan' exercises (By Priam Nepomuceno)

'BALIKATAN' BEGINS. Philippine and US officials lead the opening ceremony of the 36th 'Balikatan' exercises at the AFP General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday (April 12, 2021). (From L-R) AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Department of National Defense Undersecretary Cesar B. Yano, US Chargé d'Affaires John Law and Col. Aaron Brunk. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The 36th iteration of the annual "Balikatan" exercises between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the US military formally started on Monday.

"The 36th iteration of Balikatan (BK 36-2021) kicks off today 12 April, to last until 23 April 2021," AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

Arevalo, also commander of the AFP Education Training and Doctrine Command and this year’s exercise director, said last year's "Balikatan" exercises were canceled due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

He added that this year's "Balikatan" will be conducted with stringent health protocols in place and a reduced number of participants.

"This erstwhile annual event pushes through with fewer training events that will not entail face-to-face engagement. Further details to follow," Arevalo said.

The participants to the two-week maneuvers include 736 Filipino troops and 225 American forces.

“Against this backdrop and these challenges notwithstanding, the decrease is only in terms of number and never in the participating nations’ passion and desire to meet the steep objectives set forth in every exercise,” Arevalo said.

Meanwhile, Arevalo's US counterpart Col. Aaron Brunk reiterated the importance of the bilateral exercises.

“I am greatly honored to be here today and to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Philippine allies and friends. By training together, our militaries build upon each other and strengthen each other. May this exercise and this experience in the next couple of weeks add value to our partnership and our friendship,” he said.

AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana added that the two-week maneuvers will consist of "virtual and physical" exercises while minimal contact will be observed in physical exercises.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136472

CPP/News: 5 AFP elements severely injured in misencounter among 19th IB forces

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 10, 2021): 5 AFP elements severely injured in misencounter among 19th IB forces

Different units of the 19th IB suffered a misencounter last March 3 in Barangay Deit de Suba, Silvino Lobos, Northern Samar. According to NPA-Northern Samar (Rodante Urtal Command) AFP troopers fired upon their colleagues who were trying to disguise themselves as NPA fighters by wearing kamisa tsino and boots while on patrol. Five were reported injured during the exchange.

The misencounter occurred amid the five-month relentless military operations of the 19th IB in the said town and in the towns of Las Navas, Pambujan, San Roque and Catubig.

Tagged by the masses as “massacre battalion”, the 19th IB has been conducting late night interrogation of barangay council members in Brgy. Geparayan de Turag, Silvino Lobos. They also assembled residents and forced them to surrender as NPA supporters.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/10/5-afp-elements-severely-injured-in-misencounter-among-19th-ib-forces/

CPP/News: NPA forces continue trainings amid focused military operations

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 11, 2021): NPA forces continue trainings amid focused military operations

NEWS STORIES
APRIL 12, 2021

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Red fighters in a guerilla front in Samar continue to perform revolutionary work despite relentless military operation in their area. In the April 3 issue of Larab, revolutionary publication in Eastern Visayas, it featured the recent successful level 2 medical training among NPA members and Basic Party Course discussion conducted with farmers in a barrio.

About 10 medical staff of the NPA completed the training while 28 barrio residents attended the discussion, helping further consolidate the revolutionary forces in Samar.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/12/npa-forces-continue-trainings-amid-focused-military-operations/

CPP/News: Revolutionary forces in Eastern Visayas honors Antonio “Ka Manlimbasog” Cabanatan and wife

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 11, 2021): Revolutionary forces in Eastern Visayas honors Antonio “Ka Manlimbasog” Cabanatan and wife

NEWS STORIES
APRIL 11, 2021

The National Democratic Front in Eastern Visayas gave the highest honors to Ka Antonio “Manlimbasog” Cabanatan and his wife Florenda “Osang” Yap in a statement last April 11. Manlimbasog and Yap were abducted, secretly detained, physically and psychologically tortured for month until fascist forces murdered them on December 26, 2020. The NDF-EV said that both the Party leaders have retired from revolutionary work since 2017.

Furthermore, the NDF recognized Manlimbasog as one of the pioneers of the national democratic revolution in the region who began his active revolutionary work in the 1960s. Manlimbasog led the spread of revolutionary propaganda and established progressive mass organizations in the Visayas up to Northern Mindanao. Along with fellow students, he heeded the call to go to the countryside and sow the seeds of armed revolution along with the peasant masses.

“He became a member of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, its executive committee and secretariat, and led Samar-Leyte subregional party committee.” said the NDF. Together with Ka Prudencio Calubid, they led the expansion of guerilla warfare in north-eastern Samar, Northern Samar and north-western Samar. In the 1980s, he played an active role in the Visayas and Mindanao Commission. He was also a member of the Central Committee of the Party, the Political Bureau and the Executive Committee. He stood for the 2nd Great Rectification and struggled against the opportunists in Visayas and Mindanao. He then led the Mindanao Commission which mounted great advances.

“Ka Manlimbasog was never hindered by his physical ability. He was a hunchback who stood tall among giants. Ka Manlimbasog served the revolution until his death. His determination and selflessness serves as inspiration among younger revolutionaries,” the NDF said.

The NDF-EV holds the Duterte regime, his AFP-PNP butchers and National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict accountable for the couple’s brutal murder and vowed to exact revolutionary justice.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/11/revolutionary-forces-in-eastern-visayas-honors-antonio-ka-manlimbasog-cabanatan-and-wife/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Union leader, peasant father and son killed

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): Union leader, peasant father and son killed

Dandy Miguel, worker of Fuji Electric Philippines and union president of the Lakas ng Nagkakaisang Manggagawa sa Fuji Electric Philippines, was gunned down at the gate of the enclave in Barangay Canlubang, Calamba, Laguna on March 28. He was also the vice chairperson of the Pagkakaisa ng Manggagawa sa Timog Katagalugan.

Miguel spearheaded the fight of their union for an annual wage increase which will be be implemented in the next three years, as well as the implementation of health measures against Covid-19. He was the 10th activist killed in the region in March.

In Camarines Norte, the 96th IB killed father and son Louis Buenavente and Jetly Buenavente on March 19. The soldiers were pursuing a unit of the New People’s Army (NPA) which raided police troops at Purok 6, Barangay Dumagmang, Labo in Camarines Norte when they chanced upon the victims. They were later presented as Red fighters. The faces of the victims were broken and they also sustained gunshot wounds in the chest.

Bombing. More than 15,000 residents of 15 Mangyan communities were forced to evacuate due to the 203rd IBde’s artillery shelling of barangays along the boundary of Mansalay and Roxas, Oriental Mindoro from March 25 to 26. Most affected by the shelling are the residents of Panaytayan, in Mansalay, and San Vicente in Roxas.

Abduction. Soldiers of the 203rd IBde abducted siblings Kadlos and Jeremy Lukmay, residents of Sitio Kilapnit, Barangay Panaytayan, in the morning of March 25. Kadlos is pregnant and a teacher, while his younger sibling is a student. They are yet to be surfaced by the military.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/07/union-leader-peasant-father-and-son-killed/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Week of arrests

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): Week of arrests

Four mass leaders leaders and activists who have been red-tagged were arrested in Central Luzon (CL), and another in Cagayan Valley, and were slapped with trumped-up charges during the Holy Week. Three were arrested in CL on March 30.

Joseph Canlas, chairperson of the Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon, was arrested in Mexico, Pampanga. He spearheaded the farmers’ campaigns against landgrabbing and land-use conversion in the region.

Florente Viuya Sr., labor leader and chairperson of Bayan-CL, was arrested in sa Bamban, Tarlac. He was arrested along with May Arcilla, paralegal of Karapatan-CL.

In Bulacan, the police arrested Concepcion Opalla on on March 26. She was the a former leader of Kadamay and among those who led the occumpation of idle housing units in Pandi in 2017. It took two days before she was surfaced by the arresting officers.

In Southern Tagalog, state forces arrested Genelyn Dichoso, official of Karapatan, and her daughter Jennifer in Calauag, Quezon last April 5. On March 30, the police raided the headquarters of the Alyansa ng Manggagawa sa Engklabo in Santa Rosa, Laguna and planted evidences of firearms and explosives.

In Manalo, Amuling, Cagayan, state forces arrested Calixto Cabildo, chairperson of Anakpawis-Cagayan, last March 26.

Meanwhile in Sorsogon, political detainee Elizabeth Estilon was unjustly separated from her infant Prince Joel on March 27.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/07/week-of-arrests/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Roads for corruption and war in Northern Mindanao

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): Roads for corruption and war in Northern Mindanao

The reactionary government touts about its plan to railroad the construction of farm-to-market roads (FMRs) or road networks which will link farms to markets purportedly to facilitate faster transportation of farm produce and raise farmgate prices. However, these roads have actually no impact on farmgate prices as these are often arbtitrarily set by big traders.

In the case of commercial products such as rice, cacao, coffee, sugar and others, prices are set based on the movement of prices in the global market. In truth, these roads have only hastened the procurement of farm produce by traders at lower rates. These have also hastened the encroachment of landgrabbers in lands owned by small peasants.

The said road construction program has also been implemented by previous regimes. As before, contracts for these projects are riddled with corruption and serve commerical plantation and mining interests, as well as the reactionary state’s counterinsurgency aims.

Roads that link war to corruption

The Northern Mindanao Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) earlier announced that 142 road projects worth ₱17.6 billion are set to be constructed in the area this year. This is more than twice of the 68 road projects in the area in 2020. Twenty of these road projects will cover barangays with existing military camps.

Over 68 of the 142 road projects in 2021 are in Bukidnon. Most of these are in Impasug-ong where the 8th IB headquarters is located. Not less than 13 barangays covered by these roads have camps, detachments, or are currently occupied by AFP troops in the name of Retooled Community Support Program operations.

Based on data from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in 2020, every kilometer of road costs ₱13 million to construct.. But in Baungon, Bukidnon, the 8-kilometer road which will link the barangays of Mabuhay at Imbatug is worth ₱67.5 milyon per kilometer—five times higher than the average. Meanwhile, the planned 8-kilometer road project in Barangay Concepcion, Valencia City costs ₱30 million per kilometer or more than twice the average.

There were duplicated listings of road projects including the road project in Barangay Kibalabag, Malaybalay City, that was listed thrice and alloted a budget of ₱300 million to ₱360 million per listing. The road in Kisolon, Sumilao was also listed twice and allotted a budget of ₱600 million per listing. Three other programs in the province will receive double allocations under the Barangay Development Program.

Aside from these, the DPWH relisted and will fund road projects already constructed in 2020 or even earlier. Some of which will receive triple allocations under the DPWH budget.

Who will benefit?

With these projects alone, generals of the RTF-ELCAC, local government officials and the DPWH, notorious for being the most corrupt agency of the reactionary state, will be able to pocket huge amounts of public funds. Construction companies which are close to the Duterte family will also benefit from this, including the Ulticon Builders Incorporated, who bagged the contracts for the biggest road projects in Mindanao. Cement-manufacturing companies owned by big bourgeois compradors Ramon Ang (First Stronghold Cement Industries, Inc.) and Tomas Alcantara (Holcim Philippines) will also benefit from this as the biggest competing cement manufactures.

These roads will also benefit the powerplants and commercial plantations which are ubiquitous in Bukidnon. The biggest commercial plantations, covering 127,000 hectares of agricultural land, are located in the region. Dole, Davco and Del Monte which cover entire communities and ancestral lands in seven towns across Bukidnon target to expand their operations by approximately 80,000 hectares within the province and the neighboring towns of Misamis Oriental. The 30 FMRs in these towns will further hasten the transportation of the products of these plantation companies.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/07/roads-for-corruption-and-war-in-northern-mindanao/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Tribute to Comrade Rosalino Canubas

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): Tribute to Comrade Rosalino Canubas

The Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the Regional Party Committee in Cagayan Valley paid tribute to Comrade Rosalino Canubas (Ka Yuni), regional commander of the NPA in Cagayan Valley who was killed in an encounter in Barangay San Mariano Sur, San Guillermo, Isabela on March 15.

The Central Committe’s tribute was contained in its message on March 29. It said that Ka Yuni was among the young cadres elected to the Second Central Committee for his brilliant contributions in waging armed struggle in Southern and Western Mindanao.

In Cagayan Valley where he was last deployed, Ka Yuni was known for his daringness even in the face of challenges and difficulties. Ka Yuni served as the first deputy secretary general of the Regional Party Committee in Cagayan Valley.

Read the full tribute of the Regional Party Committee in Cagayan Valley at cpp.ph.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/07/tribute-to-comrade-rosalino-canubas/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Mass base expands in Cagayan Valley

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): Mass base expands in Cagayan Valley

The support of the masses for the people’s war continues to expand and deepen. This was the statement Elias Almazan, political officer of the New People’s Army (NPA)-Cagayan Valley (Fortunato Camus Command). In an interview with Baringkuas (the regional revolutionary publication), he stressed that the intense and large-scale military operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) have failed to foil the expansion and consolidation of the revolutionary mass base in the region.

Ka Elias said that while the AFP and PNP are busy with conducting battalion- and brigade-sized operations as well as sustained Retooled Community Support Program (RSCP) operations in the barrios, the NPA was able to expand and recover territories in more barrios and towns that are not covered by focused military operations. Members of the revolutionary mass base of guerrilla fronts increased by several thousands from 2020.

The NPA platoon has not only been able to reach neighboring villages and communities in interior areas and the hinterlands but also those located in the plains and near highways and in coastal areas.

He said that all of the masses in recovery areas warmly welcomed them, especially those who are suffering from poverty and exploitation.

The coercion of local government units by the military to declare the NPA as “persona non grata” is futile and empty propaganda. This is because the villagefolk themselves desire that their communities be covered by NPA operations for them to be able to report their concerns.

Among the problems facing the masses are the widespread and various forms of landgrabbing. These are primarily perpetrated by big landlords, private companies and government agencies in connivance with their favored contractors.

This is on top of various types of semifeudal explotation such as the imposition of high loan interest rates and other forms of usury, low farmgate prices, and price manipulation schemes employed by traders who buy their produce. “The masses see that only the NPA is fair and eager in finding solutions to their problems,” said Ka Elias.

The NPA continues to operate in these barrios and towns covered by sustained RCSP operations and sees to it that these are not left behind. Platoons clandestinely deploy smaller NPA units to reach the masses in these areas and conduct activities that they could hold.

“The enemy’s operations and psywar are futile because the masses easily understand that the AFP is only pretending to have changed its “anti-people” nature.”

It is to the advantage of the people’s army that revolutionary ideas have for decades been sown and taken root among the masses. Its territories are expanding and more and more revolutionary mass organizations and organs of political power are established in villages and clusters of barrios.

“Even in prioritizing expansion work, we also have to combine this effort with the strengthening of the mass base,” he ended.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/07/mass-base-expands-in-cagayan-valley/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Solidarity between the masses and people’s army in Ilocos-Cordillera

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): Solidarity between the masses and people’s army in Ilocos-Cordillera

Like in other places in the country, the Covid-19 pandemic and intensifying state fascism poses a huge challenges to the people’s army and the revolutionary people in the Ilocos-Cordillera region. Units of the people’s army in the region faced these with determination.

In its ranks is Ka Emil, a young revolutionary who serves as their platoon’s economic officer (oversees logistics and supplies). Because of the lockdown, the supply of medicines, food and other essential needs of the the masses and people’s army was hampered. To address this, they were compelled to become creative, think of and adopt new modes of mobilization, and strictly uphold military discipline.

“As an economic officer, it was a huge challenge for me to think of ways on how to help the masses get by and improve their livelihood during the pandemic,” said Ka Emil. They conducted health and education campaigns on Covid-19 to allay the fears of villagefolks and make them understand the importance of complying with health protocols while carrying on with their production.

Afterwards, the unit conducted a campaign to improve the level of production of the people’s army and the masses. “The participation of the people’s army in production activities is now more frequent compared before,” said Ka Emil. “Through this, I and my comradres were able to appreciate the importance of collective work and the agrarian revolution,” he explained.

In a barrio, the people’s army and masses were able to harvest sacks of squash, sweet potatoes, taro and chayote, products which they did not used to be interested in as they could just buy food. They promoted the planting of sugarcane and coffee to replace commercial sugar and coffee. They also improved and benefitted from the planting of pomelo, “perres” (local lemon) and lagundi. The capacity of the masses to support the people’s army improved simultaneous with their capacity for food production.

When the unit became very mobile, Red fighters had to maneuver in a nearby forest. “It was a huge advantage for us to be knowledgeable about wild plants and skillful in hunting,” he said. When they could not go near the barrios, they relied on the natural resources of the forest such as wild fruits and vegetables, eels and wild pigs. This experience has further improved his understanding of the significance of protecting the environment.

The difficult situation which they faced also posed a huge challenge to Ka Emil’s personal remolding. “During the first few months of the pandemic, I asked myself: Will I survive?” His answer to his own question was: “I will not know unless I experience it.” With revolutionary determination, he further perserved in performing his tasks.

“Militarization entails more difficult walks, sleepless nights and fatigue,” he said. He was raised in the city and lived a comfortable life. “I needed to exert extra effort to adjust. At first, it was difficult for me to move around and sometimes suffered from low morale, but I was able to gradually adjust.” He said that he opened up to comrades his thoughts and feelings. “I learned how to rely on comrades and the masses,” he said.

He was able to prove to himself that he can endure the difficulties and sacrifices of being a Red fighter. “I discovered that I can actually practice the principle of simple living and arduous struggle. I and our unit are ready to face the difficult situation and even bigger challenges.”

“As the Committee Central said in its statement for the 52nd anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines: Led by the Party, the broad masses are determined to resist the fascist onslaught, overthrow the US-Duterte regime and advance the people’s war,” he concluded.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/07/solidarity-between-the-masses-and-peoples-army-in-ilocos-cordillera/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Revolutionary forces commemorate #NPA52

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): Revolutionary forces commemorate #NPA52

Revolutionary forces celebrated the 52nd founding anniversary of the New People’s Army (NPA) on March 29 amid the relentless operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Celebrations were conducted in the countryside and urban areas in Southern Tagalog in the face of the worsening fascist attacks of the Duterte regime in the region. Participants braved the heavy troops deployed in the area to reach the NPA headquarters in the region. In urban areas, revolutionary forces echoed calls on the NPA to serve revolutionary justice for the victims of the regime’s terorrism.

The NPA-Negros paid tribute to all Red fighters and commanders for their victories and perservering in the path of the armed struggle. From only 60 forces that were left at the outset of the Second Great Rectification Movement, the NPA now has five guerrilla fronts deployed across the region, from northern to southern Negros.

“Pakyas ang US-Duterte!” (The US-Duterte regime failed!) was the introductory message of the NDF-Northeastern Mindanao Region in its celebration. The Regional Operations Command called on the NPA to overcome their weaknesses including military conservatism. It reported about four big tactical offensives in Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur wherein high powered rifles were seized.

A program was also held by Red fighters in the Southern Mindanao Region.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/07/revolutionary-forces-commemorate-npa52/

CPP/Ang Bayan: 16 NPA attacks in 9 provinces

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): 16 NPA attacks in 9 provinces

The New People’s Army mounted at least 16 attacks in the past two weeks. This shows the determination of the NPA to foil the ambition of the fascist regime to defeat the armed revolution.

Albay. An NPA unit ambused a mobile of the 93rd Special Action Company-PNP last April 3 in Barangay Aliang, Ligao City. Two policemen were killed and two others were wounded. No civilians were hurt during the operation, contrary to lies peddled by the military.

Lanao del Norte. Red fighters blasted operating soldiers at the mountainous area of Sitio Salingsing, Barangay Rogongon, Iligan City on March 30 at 11 a.m. Nine soldiers were reportedly killed and four others were wounded. In the afternoon, an NPA unit fired at a CAFGU detachment at Sitio Binasan in the same barangay. A CAFGU element was killed and two soldiers were wounded. The area is covered by the operations of the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion of the 1st ID.

Bukidnon. Five soldiers were killed in a series of attacks and counter-attacks mounted by the NPA-Bukidnon against the 1st Special Forces Battalion (SFB) on March 20 in San Rafael, Talakag. Four elements were killed in an NPA ambush against a column of the 1st SFB which scoured the forests at around 3 p.m. Earlier at 10 a.m., the 1st SFB attacked an NPA camp wherein two Red fighters and a soldier were killed.

Agusan del Sur. The NPA ambushed and killed a CAFGU element in Barangay Sto. Niño, Bayugan City on March 28.

Oriental Mindoro. The NPA fired at the camp of the 203rd IBde in Barangay Malo, Bansud on March 28 resulting in one killed among the soldiers. The attack was launched 10 meters away from the camp. Terrified, the soldiers fired their weapons in all directions..

Sorsogon. An intelligence agent of the 31st IB and element of the the 31st IB was killed in a partisan operation in Barangay San Antonio, Barcelona on March 28.

Panay. Seven attacks were conducted by NPA forces against the military and police across the region. On March 30, the NPA thrice fired at troops of the 12th IB conducting Retooled Community Support Program operations in the barangays of Siya and Lahug in Tapaz, Capiz. On the evening of March 23, they attacked a CAFGU detachment in Bagacay, Igbaras, Iloilo. On March 21, they fired at operating police forces in Grasparil, Sibalom, Antique. On the next day, three soldiers were killed during an NPA ambush in Onop, Miag-ao, Iloilo.

Samar. A soldier was wounded in an NPA ambush in Barangay Poponton, Las Navas on March 6. Meanwhile, the NPA in the province also reported a series of harassment operations from February 16 to 19 which killed a police and wounded another.

A soldier was also killed in an NPA sniping operation in Barangay Tarabucan, Matuguinao, Western Samar on February 4.

Meanwhile on March 29, the NPA-Bicol reported about its armed actions in Masbate and Albay. Its unit ambushed and blasted operating soldiers in Masbate City. Two soldiers were killed and another was wounded. In Albay, it paralyzed the equipment of the Ibalong Resource Development Company in Barangay Miiti, Camalig. The company is notorious for destroying the environment and grabbing the land of farmers.

https://cpp.ph/2021/04/07/16-npa-attacks-in-9-provinces/