NPAs admit burning of equipment

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 17, 2021): NPAs admit burning of equipment (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The New People’s Army Roselyn Jean Pelle Command has claimed responsibility for the burning and destruction of three heavy equipment on April 12 in Brgy. Consing, EB Magalona, Negros Occidental, saying the quarry operations in Malogo River caused damage to the environment.

The rebel group also claimed it was behind the ambush of barangay tanod Elmer Ortencio on April 13 in Hacienda Margarita, also in Brgy. Consing, EB Magalona, saying the latter was an active agent of the 7th Intelligence Security Unit.

Rebel group spokesperson, Ka Cecil Estrella, justified the destruction of the heavy equipment and claimed that it was successfully carried out, in response to the clamor of the people to punish large-scale quarrying operations that were blamed for the flooding in the 3rd district of Negros Occidental in January.

Estrella said in a statement she issued that the destruction brought about by the excavation of rocks, gravel, and sand from the Malogo River has altered the natural terrain and made the area vulnerable to natural calamities and the inundation of residential areas and farmlands.

MAYOR’S DENIAL

Silay City Mayor Mark Golez said yesterday there is no quarry operation registered in his name, and that he is not the owner of the heavy equipment burned in EB Magalona.

Golez, who condemned the arson incident, said that the claim of the rebel group that they were just responding to people’s clamor to punish big time quarry operators being blamed for the recent flashfloods is not a justifiable reason to create destruction and terrorize the community.

The Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade slammed the NPA for the destruction of the heavy equipment, with damage estimated at P16.6 million, and described it as a desperate attempt of the local terrorist group to get the support of the masses.

DEATH PENALTY?

Meanwhile, Estrella justified the imposition of the death penalty on Ortencio, claiming he was a legitimate target as affirmed by identification cards and an ISU mission order seized from him, along with a .38 caliber revolver with ammunition, a cellular phone, and a handheld radio. Col. Michael Samson, 303IB acting commander, denounced the rebel group for the abduction and killing of Ortencio, adding that residents of Hacienda Margarita in the barangay, where the victim lived, condemned his senseless killing and are calling for justice.

https://news.visayandailystar.com/npas-admit-burning-of-equipment/

CPP/NPA-Sorsogon: Bukas na mensahe kay Mayor Romeo Gordola ng Bulan

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 17, 2021): Bukas na mensahe kay Mayor Romeo Gordola ng Bulan

SAMUEL GUERRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SORSOGON (CELSO MINGUEZ COMMAND)

BICOL REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (ROMULO JALLORES COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

APRIL 17, 2021

Hindi katanggap-tanggap ang iyong mga aksyon o kawalan ng aksyon sa harap ng walang pakundangang pandarahas at panggigipit ng 22nd IBPA at iba pang pwersang militar at pulis sa mga taga-Bulan.

Makalipas ang halos isang taon, ni ha, ni ho ay wala kang itinugon sa daing ng mga naulila ng limang magsasakang minasaker ng mga buhong na sundalo at pulis sa Barangay Dolos noong Mayo 8, 2020. Nagbingi-bingihan ka sa mga reklamo ng mga residente ng iba’t ibang barangay na hinalughugan ng bahay, sinaktan at pinagbantaan ng mga pasista laluna mula nang pumakat ang mga CSP team ng 22nd IB noong Hulyo 2020. Nagbulag-bulagan ka lang nang patayin ng death squad ng 2nd PMFC ang sibilyang si Felix Chico, na empleyado pa man din ng munisipyo ng Bulan, noong Marso 3, 2020. Napakarami pang krimen ng mga armadong pwersa ng estado laban sa mga taga-Bulan ang tila hindi mo man lamang napapansin.

Habang manhid ka sa mga hinaing ng mga tao, tila ganadung-ganado ka naman sa pagiging facilitator ng sapilitang “pagpapasurender” na ginagawa ng AFP at PNP laban sa mga sibilyang pinagbibintangang kaanib ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Hindi na kukulangin sa dalawampung sibilyan ang ipinasubo mo sa pasistang programang E-CLIP ng NTF-ELCAC. Ngayong araw lang, isa na namang batch ng mga sibilyang walang kalaban-laban ang pinupwersa ng 22nd IB, sa tulong mo, na “makipag-usap” sa kanila. Alam na alam na ng maraming taga-Bulan ang pinatutunguhan ng gayong mga “pakikipag-usap” sa militar: pipilitin silang ituro ang mga kaanak nilang pinagbibintangang NPA, pasusumpain sila sa kung anu-anong kalokohang walang ligal na batayan, at idaragdag ang pangalan nila sa listahan ng mga umano’y rebel returnee.

Ano ba talaga ang plano mo, Mayor? Naghahanap ng masusulingan ang mga nasasakupan mo pero bakit lalo mo pa yata silang isinusubo sa bunganga ng buwaya? Hindi ganito ang natatandaan nilang ipinangako mo noong kumakandidato ka pa lamang sa pagkaalkalde. Ikaw naman ay parang walang anumang natatandaan.

Naghihintay ng sagot ang mga taga-Bulan, Mayor Gordola. Sa malao’t sa madali, magpapasya silang singilin ka. Oras na magkagayon, makakaasa ang lahat na titindig kami sa panig nila.

https://cpp.ph/statements/bukas-na-mensahe-kay-mayor-romeo-gordola-ng-bulan/

CPP: Declare April 27, 2021 as National Day of Armed Valor

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 17, 2021): Declare April 27, 2021 as National Day of Armed Valor

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
APRIL 17, 2021

In line with the message of the Central Committee, we declare April 27, 2021 as National Day of Armed Valor. On the morning of that day, all units of the New People’s Army (NPA) are called upon to stand in formation and raise their weapons as a way of recalling the Battle of Mactan, exactly 500 years ago, and honoring Datu Lapulapu and the thousands of native Filipinos who fought and vanquished the armed contingent of Spanish colonizers led by Ferdinand Magellan.

The Battle of Mactan must be recalled as the day that the yet inceptive Filipinos stood valiantly and resisted the colonizers who sought to make them bow to their armed might and pay tribute to the Spanish king. Taking advantage of their numbers and mastery of the sea and land, Lapulapu along with more than a thousand armed fighters, rendered the enemy’s superior weapons and armor ineffective. Magellan’s cannons, muskets, crossbows and swords were no match to the arrows, wooden iron-tipped spears and krises of Lapulapu and his people. They fought with genius and valor, killed Magellan and drove the Spanish fleet away.

Through armed resistance, Lapulapu defended their land against the Spanish forces and traitors such as Humabon and Zula who bowed and served the colonizers. Although the Spanish aggressors eventually colonized, imposed an oppressive feudal order, and ruled the entire country for more than 300 years, Lapulapu’s valor inspired successive generations of Filipinos from the 16th to the 19th centuries to fight back with arms to resist colonial oppression and struggle for national freedom. Numerous armed revolts erupted across the entire archipelago.

At different times during the colonial period, Filipinos rose up in arms against the colonizers who grabbed their lands, demanded tribute, imposed high land rent and heavy taxes, exacted unpaid labor, seized crops and subjected the masses to cruel punishment. These revolts were invariably labeled as banditry and quelled brutally but would produce heroes of the Philippine revolution such as Lakandula, Rajah Sulayman, Palaris, Diego and Gabriela Silang, Francisco Dagohoy and tens of thousands of nameless others. They all were filled with the indomitable spirit of Lapulapu and his ardent desire to be free from foreign invaders.

From the scattered revolts of centuries, Filipinos ultimately raised their weapons and fought as one under the red flag of the Katipunan and the leadership of Andres Bonifacio. Rising as one nation, the Filipino people waged widespread guerrilla warfare against the Spanish colonial forces and liberated large parts of the country from foreign control. As the traitor Humabon bowed to Magellan, so did Aguinaldo and his band of rich illustrados who betrayed the Filipino people and surrendered to the American colonial forces, which in turn bought the Philippines as a colonial possession from Spain, and took away the nation’s freedom by force.

Driven by their desire for a free nation, Filipinos rose up against the American colonial regime. From Batangas to Balangiga (in Samar) and across the country, the Filipino people fought valiantly, even as they were brutally suppressed as “bandits” by the American forces armed with superior weapons. More than a million Filipinos died in the course of the armed resistance against the US colonial invaders, and as a result of disease and hunger during the war of suppression until the early 1900s.

The Filipino people’s valiant armed resistance would again surge forward under the leadership of the old Communist Party of the Philippines, established in 1930. The Party established the Hukbong Bayan Laban sa Hapon (Hukbalahap or the Anti-Japanese People’s Army) in 1942 to wage guerrilla warfare against the Japanese colonial forces in line with the anti-fascist united front policy promoted by the Third International. As in previous armed revolts, the Hukbalahap was mainly a peasant army that spread in the Philippine countryside and established organs of governance across Central Luzon and dispatched units in Manila, Southern Luzon, as far as Panay and other areas.

The old CPP and the Hukbalahap persevered in fighting the fascist Japanese forces even after the surrender of the US-led forces and withdrawal of American troops in 1942. American military forces returned in 1945 to reestablish their colonial power, staging bombing raids and treacherously attacking the Huk and mounting relentless counterguerrilla operations. Despite the determination and demand of the peasant masses to continue to wage armed resistance, the class collaborationist leaders of the old Party led the Huk (later the Hukbong Mapagpalaya ng Bayan or People’s Liberation Army) to the path of defeat and surrender to the US puppet regime, through outright surrender or military
adventurism.

It would take the establishment of the New People’s Army in 1969 to pick up the cudgels of Lapulapu and resume the Filipino people’s armed resistance for national and social liberation. Led by the CPP, reestablished in 1968 under the guidance of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism, the NPA brought the Filipino people’s armed resistance to levels and reach unprecedented in the country’s history. It aims to carry forward the new democratic revolution, under proletarian leadership, which is a continuation of the old type democratic revolution of the Katipunan imbued by the ideals of the bourgeois democracy.

For the first time, the Filipino people’s armed resistance spread throughout the entire archipelago. It adapted a clear strategic line of protracted people’s war to systematically build the people’s army, overcome in time the numerically and militarily more superior forces of the US-supported Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and overthrow the class rule of the imperialists, big bourgeois compradors and big landlords.

Over the past fifty years, the New People’s Army raised the Filipino people’s banner of revolutionary armed resistance. Like the armed revolts of the past, the current revolutionary armed struggle takes the form of a war of the peasant masses against feudal exploitation and other forms of oppression. Organs of political power are being established across the country, serving as scaffolding for the democratic people’s government that will be established upon nationwide victory. The NPA has overcome the most brutal campaigns of counterrevolution and is determined to frustrate the current offensive under the tyrannical regime.

All the Filipino armed revolutionaries of the past, like the NPA, have been vilified by the ruling oppressors. They have been condemned as “insurectos” and “bandidos,” just as today they are reviled by those who exploit and feed on the
people’s miseries. Indeed, if Lapulapu or any one of those who rose up in arms to defend the people’s dignity and the nation’s freedom were alive today, they too would be reviled as “terrorists” by those who fear and despise the armed masses.

The Filipino people’s aspiration for national liberation that drove generations upon generations over centuries to take up arms remains the key aspiration that rouses them to continue marching along the path of armed resistance. In fighting the imperialist giant and its armed tentacles, the Filipino people and their Red fighters draw inspiration from the armed valor of Lapulapu and their victory in the Battle of Mactan five hundred years ago. Imbued with the heroic spirit of all armed heroes of the past, the NPA and all the forces of the people’s democratic revolution are determined to carry forward the struggle to attain genuine and complete national freedom and democracy.

https://cpp.ph/statements/declare-april-27-2021-as-national-day-of-armed-valor/

Kalinaw News: 2 NPA rebels killed in Negros Occidental clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 18, 2021): 2 NPA rebels killed in Negros Occidental clash



CAUAYAN, Negros Occidental – Two communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels died in an encounter with government forces on April 17, 2021, (Saturday) at Purok Yuring, Sitio Dash 7, Brgy Bulwangan, Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental.

The 40-minute firefight ensued between the Army’s 15th Infantry Batallion and believed to be members of Platoon 3, Southwest Front of KR-NCBS. The relentless efforts of the soldiers forced the enemies to scamper in different directions, leaving their dead comrades behind, and the troop’s recovery of Two (2) Caliber 45 pistols with magazines and ammunition, one (1) hand grenade, extortion letters, subversive documents, cellphones, and personal belongings. No casualties were recorded on the part of the government forces.

15IB were conducting CSP sustainment operations in Hinoba-an Municipality and acted on the report of NPA presence in the area. Accordingly, the NPA terrorists were on their recovery and extortion activities and are sowing fear in the previously cleared areas of Hinoba-an, which prompted the local populace to immediately report their presence in the community.

The two (2) fatalities were brought to Porras Funeral Homes at Purok IV, Brgy 1, Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental. They were identified as alias Micheal/ Nonoy, and alias Ken-ken of Platoon 3, SWF, KR-NCBS.

15IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col Erwin Cariño expressed his gratitude to the residents of Sitio Yuring, Brgy Bulwangan, for giving timely and accurate information on the presence and plans of the NPA terrorist in their locality.

“The encounter is a clear result of the collaborative efforts made by the government and the community. It manifested the success and gains of our Community Support Programs and expressed the desire of the community to be free from CTG terroristic infiltration and influence in their locality. They truly understood and embraced the realms of true progress and development casting away the menace brought by the NPA terrorist.” Cariño said.

“We extend our condolences to the bereaved family of the two NPA terrorist who lost their life in fighting for a lost cost. With the help of the local government of Hinoba-an, we can assure the assistance and decent burial of the deceased.” Cariño added.

Col Leonardo I Peña, 302nd Brigade Commander commends the troops under the 15th Infantry Battalion for the sacrifices and dedication that they have demonstrated and lauds for the participation of the community from Barangay Bulwangan of Hinobaan, Negros Occidental for the information that they provided to our soldiers. With the community support program that we do in their barangay, they now know their role in the Whole of the Nation Approach and they objectively participate in the government’s campaign to end the Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“Our government is always open to help and assist the remaining Communist NPA Terrorists to a peaceful surrender. It is better for them to embrace peace as they are no longer welcome in the community. The people of Negros have been longing for peace and progress for a better and brighter future of their children,” Col Peña 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/2-npa-rebels-killed-in-negros-occidental-clash/

Kalinaw News: BIFF division commander, followers yield to the military in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 17, 2021): BIFF division commander, followers yield to the military in Maguindanao



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – April 17, 2021

A Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters division commander and five of his followers surrendered to the military in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Saturday morning, April 17, 2021

“Based on the report from the ground, Abunawas Ibad Damiog, a.k.a. Bayawak, 4th Division Commander/Deputy for Military of BIFF-Bungos Faction and five of his followers identified as Yasser Bago Abunawas, Anwar Alim Sangki, Olon Bago Abunawas, Mohammad Kanakan Ibad, and Dihan Abdul Ali submitted themselves to 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Pedro Balisi, Jr. at the 1MechBde headquarters in Barangay Kamasi, Ampatuan around eight in the morning today,” said WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr.,

The six handed over two 5.56 M16 rifles with two magazines; one 7.62 M14 rifle with one magazine; one M653 5.56 rifle with one magazine; one caliber 30 Garand rifle; and one locally made 50 caliber barret with three ammunitions.

“This feat is a result of the joint effort of the CIDG Maguindanao-BARMM, Local Government Unit of Datu Piang headed by Mayor Victor Samama, the 6th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Charlie Banaag, and the intelligence units,” said Col. Balisi.

During the initial debriefing, Damiog said that he wants to live a peaceful life with his family and he got tired of following the orders of the top leaders without getting anything in return.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central said, “May the surrender of Damiog be an eye-opener to his followers.”

“Rest assured that we will help them to go back to their normal lives by providing them with livelihood opportunities,” Maj. Gen. Uy added.

As of this date, a total of 42 BIFF personalities surrendered to the Joint Task Force Central.

“Team WestMinCom continues to bolster its operations to end terrorism and win peace in its area of operation hence we encourage the remaining members of the outlawed groups to end their armed struggle peacefully,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

“Those who desire to return to the folds of the law are very much welcome and we ensure their safety and security during their reintegration into mainstream society,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. 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/biff-division-commander-followers-yield-to-the-military-in-maguindanao/

Kalinaw News: 2nd Municipal Youth Leadership Summit 2021 Culminates in Malitbog, Bukidnon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 17, 2021): 2nd Municipal Youth Leadership Summit 2021 Culminates in Malitbog, Bukidnon



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – The Army’s 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion, in partnership with the Malitbog Local Government Unit, held its 2nd Municipal Youth Leadership Summit 2021 (YLS) from April 9-11 at Monte Shannah’s Farm, Sitio Lake, Barangay San Luis, Malitbog, Bukidnon.

The Malitbog and Misamis Oriental Chapter of Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through Our Youth (POINTY), in collaboration with the 58IB, organized the three-day Municipal Youth Leadership Summit 2021 with the theme “”Youth: Hope and Aspiration for a Peaceful Municipality and Community.”

A total of 100 young people from various barangays in Malitbog, Bukidnon, participated in the YLS, which aims to build youth leaders and inspire them to become responsible citizens and catalysts for peace and growth in their communities.

Aside from the discussion of youth in peacebuilding, the participants were also given a series of lectures on COVID-19 related health protocols, disaster risk reduction management, and basic life support and first aid, IPRA Law’s 4 Bundles of Rights, 6 Programs for Indigenous People under EO No. 70, Anti-criminal Act, and Livelihood Opportunities for Indigenous People, and CPP-Youth NPA’s Exploitation.

As a result, the participants realized that as motivated youth, they must take a stand in every aspect of their lives because they are tomorrow’s leaders.

They have been made aware of the pressing problems that affect them and how they can contribute to the resolution of social conflict in the municipality. They also realized that joining the NPA and overthrowing the government was unnecessary because they respected and appreciated what the government was doing for them.

In addition, team building activities, healthy competitions, small group discussions, community development programs, and socio-cultural activities were also supplemented to complete the package that has prepared the participants on becoming an equipped peace advocate.

One participant shared his experience and reflection during the conduct of YLS. “YLS is really for creating leaders that will change the nation for the better. We can make a better world, as a youth, we can make a difference. We can mold our future starting with this one. As the leaders of tomorrow. The purpose of the activity is to build us, to build a better world for us.

Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L Canatoy, Commander of 58IB, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all government agencies and partner units for their collaborative effort toward the success of the activity to develop the youth’s knowledge of their integral role in nation-building by instilling the spirit of nationalism in them and empower them to take a step in encouraging the remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group.

“The youth are the motherland’s hope; as the next generation’s leaders, we must protect them from the CTG’s manipulation and deceit. As we continue our efforts to end local communist armed conflict, I call on our partners from various agencies to join hands. And to the remnants of the NPA, stop recruiting these youths, instead lay down your weapons, return to the folds of the law, and live a peaceful life with your families,” he ended.

Meanwhile, Hon. Osmundo Dela Rosa, Municipal Mayor of Malitbog left a remarkable message to the participants.

“All the lessons you’ve learned, and friendships you’ve gained, savor them, cherish them all the days of your lives for the betterment of the country. I challenge you that what you have learned today, share it in your area. Let everyone know what the government is doing to improve our community.”

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/2nd-municipal-youth-leadership-summit-2021-culminates-in-malitbog-bukidnon/

Kalinaw News: LGU Partners 48th Infantry Battalion in the Outreach Program in Rosario, Agusan del Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 17, 2021): LGU Partners 48th Infantry Battalion in the Outreach Program in Rosario, Agusan del Sur

Bislig City, Surigao del Sur – The Local Government Unit of Rosario, Agusan del Sur, in partnership with the 48th Infantry (Guardians) Battalion conducted an outreach program at Sitio Cosep and Masabong both of Brgy Bayugan 3 and Brgy Wasian in the Municipality of Rosario, Agusan del Sur on April 15.

The activity aims to deliver basic needs and to assess the condition of the people in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAS).

220 families benefited from Sitio Cosep, 175 families in Sitio Masabong and 420 families in Barangay Wasian.

The relief items coming from the LGU of Rosario were delivered through the efforts of their Municipal Social Welfare Development Officer Ms Jeanette G. Celedio together with the Sangganiang Bayan members, SK Federation, Indigenous Peoples Representatives and Lieutenant Colonel Enrique G. Rafael Acting Commanding Officer of 48IB.

Lieutenant Colonel Rafael also said that the 48IB is always ready to help the people and expressed his gratitude to Rosario LGU, the residents and other stakeholders for their cooperation in the said activity.

He then re-assured the public that the 48IB is open for partnership in pursuing peace and development in the area.

[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/lgu-partners-48ib-in-the-outreach-program-in-rosario-agusan-del-sur/

Kalinaw New: Foreign terrorist, 2 ASG members neutralized; high-powered firearms seized in Sulu clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 17, 2021): Foreign terrorist, 2 ASG members neutralized; high-powered firearms seized in Sulu clash

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – A foreign terrorist and two Abu Sayyaf Group members were neutralized by the troops in Sulu on Friday evening on April 16.

According to Western Mindanao Commmand Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., the neutralized foreign terrorist was identified as a certain Yusop, one of the five remaining foreign terrorists monitored in Sulu.

He is the stepson of Abduramil, an Egyptian national who was neutralized by the military in Indanan, Sulu last November 2019, and son of Reda Mohammad Mahmud, a.k.a. Sitti Aiza, an Egyptian national who perpetrated a suicide bombing attack at the KM3 Detachment still in Indanan on September 2019.

Meanwhile, the two slain Abu Sayyaf Group members were identified as Abu Khattab Jundullah, a.k.a. Saddam, brother of the late Daulah Islamiyah/Abu Sayyaf Group member Midi Alih who was killed in Sulare Island; and a.k.a. Akram, one of the trusted followers of Mundi. Saddam was also known as one of the trained bomb-makers in Sulu and Basilan along with Mundi Sawadjaan

Based on the report from the ground, troops of the 4th Light Reaction Company were conducting focused military operations when they encountered an undetermined number of Abu Sayyaf Group members under Mundi Sawadjaan in Barangay Igasan, municipality of Patikul at around 10:45 in the evening, April 16.

A firefight ensued about ten minutes after which the enemies scampered in different directions. Reinforcements were immediately deployed to conduct blocking and pursuit operations in the possible enemy withdrawal routes While scouring the encounter site, operating troops recovered dead bodies of three slain terrorists.

The cadavers were brought to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista in Barangay Busbus, Jolo, Sulu for proper disposition.

Also recovered were three high-powered firearms with scope (one M653, one M203, and one R4), eight long and one short steel magazine, 85 rounds of M16 ammunition, one round of M203 ammunition, two bandoliers, and enemy personal belongings.

According to Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, the Joint Task Force-Sulu is utilizing all the air, naval, and ground assets to conduct all-out offensives against the remaining foreign terrorists and Abu Sayyaf Group members in our area of operation and coordinated with the local leaders to ensure the safety of the people.

Overall, from January 2021 to date, Joint Task Force-Sulu has neutralized a total of 70 ASG members 7 of which were apprehended, 60 surrendered, and 3 were killed.

The successes are attributable to the intensified conduct of intelligence operations, quick action of our ground troops, cooperation of the local government and the people.

[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/foreign-terrorist-2-asg-members-neutralized-high-powered-firearms-seized-in-sulu-clash/

Kalinaw News: 86 former rebels in Agusan del Norte receive government aid through E-CLIP

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 16, 2021): 86 former rebels in Agusan del Norte receive government aid through E-CLIP



KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte- 86 former rebels (FRs) received aid under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) held at PRO 13, Butuan City on April 14, 2021. At least 28 out of the 86 FRs were under the supervision of the 29th Infantry (Matatag Fighters) Battalion (29IB).

Each former rebels received crisis intervention assistance worth ₱10, 000 and livelihood settlement grant worth ₱20,000 administered by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Healthcare Benefits Package from the Department of Health (DOH), Livelihood Training Package from Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), seedlings from Department of Agriculture, Scholarship Programs and Trainings from the Technical Education Skills and Development Agency (TESDA), jerrycans, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, mosquito nets, medicines, basic necessities, and groceries.

Reintegration Assistance worth ₱525,000 was also handed to 29IB as reimbursement for the unit’s expenses while processing the other benefits under the E-CLIP since the former rebels were placed under the protection of government troops.

Another highlight of the event is the demilitarization of the surrendered firearms. The heads of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) spearheaded the destruction of 220 loose firearms surrendered by the FRs.

Brigadier General Maurito L Licudine represented the 4th Infantry Division’s Commander Major General Andres C Centino. “This ceremony symbolizes our common goal, to live in peace,in harmony and a prosperous society. This is an evidence that it’s not yet too late for our fellows who have strayed in the wrong path. The Demilitarization symbolizes the government’s resolve of destroying the very object of violence”.

Hon. Maria Angelica Rosedell M Amante-Matba, 2nd District Representative of Agusan del Norte also expressed her sentiment, “Do not waste this chance to change your life that you don’t have to be scared that you will be caught because even if we are experiencing difficulty; we cannot buy the peace of mind because a peaceful life is the peace that we want you to receive since you came back to the folds of the government. We will work together to make those who were still wandering in the dark, to return and we will help one another for our country”.

Dir. Lilibeth A Famacion, Regional Director, DILG Region XIII, also said that the government is supporting the former rebels to live in peace and harmony. “I am telling you how true the government is, not like those who made you believe the lies that were imparted by the leftists. This is an evidence that the government is providing services for its community and even to the far-flung barangays.”

[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/86-former-rebels-in-agusan-del-norte-receive-government-aid-through-e-clip/

Kalinaw News: Conflict Affected Areas in Surigao del Norte Receives livelihood Assistance from Inter-Agencies

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 16, 2021): Conflict Affected Areas in Surigao del Norte Receives livelihood Assistance from Inter-Agencies



Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte- Over a hundred individuals from the different people’s organizations within the Conflict Affected Areas in Surigao del Norte received livelihood assistance from Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) and Provincial Task Force Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) spearheaded by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on April 15, 2021 at Brgy Camam-onan, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte.

The beneficiaries are from the Brgys of Lahi, Sico-Sico, Camam-onan were among the barangays declared as Conflict Affected Areas in the Province of Surigao del Norte and strong-holds of the CPP-NPA Terrorists for the past decades.

Through the Army’s Community Support Program (CSP), 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion identified the primary and secondary issues that were exploited by the CPP-NPA Terrorists and subsequently recommended appropriate actions thru convergence by the different line agencies in Surigao del Norte specifically under the PRLEC of the NTF-ELCAC.

One of the highlights of the activity is the Awarding of Inter-Agency Livelihood Assistance to the different People’s Organization such as Hog Raising Livelihood Starter Kit for 52 individuals of Brgy Lahi and Camam-onan from DOLE, 28 Hectares Coconut Fertilization Project, Cassava Tubers Processing Equipment, Participatory Coconut Planting Project with provisions of 3,500 seedlings to members of the Indigenous People, Coconut Intercropping, Livestock Integration with 55 heads chicken, Feeds and incubator from Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA).

Moreover, Livelihood Settlement Grant was given to 23 Former Rebels of the Kapit Kamay People’ Organization from DSWD, Agri-Credit-Expanded Sure Aid for 22 beneficiaries from Department of Agriculture.

Furthermore, the activity continues with the awarding of certificate of completion for their completed Skills Training on Agricultural Crop Production NC-I – 15 graduates, Meat Processing- 26 graduates, Table Skirting – 16 graduates and Tilapia Culture – 10 graduates.

The said activity was graced by Secretary Isidro S Lapeña, Director General of TESDA, who personally awarded the certificates and livelihood projects to the beneficiaries, other attendees were Vice Governor Geed Gokiangkee, Hon Chandru T Bonite, Municipal Mayor of Gigaquit together with Vice Mayor Jennifer Barbers Bonite, Brigadier General George L Banzon, 901st Brigade Commander, Lt Col Ryan Charles G Callanta, Commander 30th Infantry Battalion, PLt Col Diomedes B Cuadra Jr, Deputy Provincial Police Director-SDN, Ms May Velonta, Provincial Head of DOLE, Ms Mariel Makiano, Provincial Head of DOST, RM Joel B Oclarit, PCA Head, Ms Catalina O Tacubao, Acting Provincial Director of TESDA-SDN and Provincial Director of DTI, Mr Arnold D Faelnor.

In the statement of Secretary Isidro S Lapeña, he said that “these programs and activities by the different agencies of our government will surely help these communities to address the prevailing issues being exploited by the CPP-NPA Terrorists and eventually end the insurgency problems in this area. So, I encourage everyone, together let us make good for the well-being of those who are in need”.

Brigadier General George L Banzon also said that this awarding of livelihood assistance by PRLEC is a proof of the government’s efforts towards attainment of sustainable peace in all barangays in the province of Surigao del Norte. “Let us continue to work together in pursuit for economic upliftment of the people from this far flung areas who are the primary targets of CPP-NPA Terrorists deceptive propaganda and intimidations”.

[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/conflict-affected-areas-in-surigao-del-norte-receives-livelihood-assistance-from-inter-agencies/

Kalinaw News: 36 Former Rebels from 23rd Infantry Battalion get ECLIP financial aid

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 16, 2021): 36 Former Rebels from 23rd Infantry Battalion get ECLIP financial aid



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Thirty-six former rebels (FRs) from the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB) together with fifty-two (52) other FRs received financial assistance through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government last April 14, 2021 at the headquarters of the Police Regional Office in Caraga Region in Barangay Libertad, Butuan City in time with the demilitarization of firearms previously surrendered by the FRs.

Most of the thirty-six (36) FRs from the 23IB are former combatants of Guerrilla Front (GF) 4A of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) of the New People’s Army (NPA).

The thirty-six (36) FRs received a total amount of PHP3,566,800.00 as ECLIP assistance from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). They were also provided with hygiene kits, jerry cans, mosquito nets, and pouches with assorted drugs and medicine by the Department of Health in Caraga (DOH Caraga). The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also provided them with rice, assorted canned goods, coffee, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, and PHP10,000.00 each.

The highlight of the activity was the demilitarization of the two hundred twenty (220) surrendered firearms of the FRs that include twenty-nine (29) M16 rifles, fourteen (14) M14 rifles, seventeen (17) AK47 rifles, twenty-five (25) Garand rifles, fifteen (15) carbine rifles, fifty (50) shotguns, eight (8) Cal. 22 rifles, two (2) M79 rifles, five (5) M2O3 rifles, twenty (20) Cal. 45 pistols, three (3) 9mm pistols, seven (7) Cal. 357 pistols, nineteen (19) .38 revolvers, five (5) KG9MM, and one (1) UZI.

Alias Dansoy was among the FRs from 23IB who received his benefits during the activity. He thanked the government for the opportunity given to him to change his life and return to his family peacefully.

“Nagpasalamat ako ug dako sa atong gobyerno ug sa tanan nga agency hilabi na ang 23rd Infantry Battalion nga naningkamot aron mahan-ay ang among kinabuhi. Sa sulod sa lima ka tuig nga naa ako sa sulod sa NPA wala gyud ko nakadawat og ingon ani nga benipisyo ug wala pod ko nakagunit og ingon ani ka daku nga kwarta,” Dansoy said.
He added, “Ang 23IB nga kanunay nagtabang kanamo wala gayud nagpasagad sa amoa gikan sa panahon nga kami mi surrender. Layo ra kaayo ang trato sa CPP-NPA sa amoa kung itandi nako sa pag trato sa kasundaluhan ug sa gobyerno.”

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Commanding Officer of 23IB expressed his gratitude to the province of Agusan del Norte for the invaluable support to the Philippine Army. He said that the support of the local government units (LGUs) is a big help for the unit to accomplish its mission.

“I am glad that more and more members of CNTs (Communist NPA Terrorists) are now coming back to the folds of the law and decide to embrace a peaceful life and reintegrate into mainstream society. We urge the remaining members of the CNTS to go back to mainstream society while you still have the chance. We are always willing to help you to live a normal life and we will never hesitate to assist you in availing the programs and services of the government through the ECLIP,” Paulo said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/36-former-rebels-from-23rd-infantry-battalion-get-eclip-financial-aid/

Kalinaw News: 23IB helps launch Barangay Development Program in IP community in Agusan del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 16, 2021): 23IB helps launch Barangay Development Program in IP community in Agusan del Norte



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte –The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion, in partnership with the Provincial Task Force Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) in Agusan del Norte, the NTF-ELCAC and the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) in the provinces launched the Barangay Development Program (BDP) in Sitio Minbahandi, Barangay Camagong, Nasipit town on April 13.

The launching of the BDP, dubbed as “Busilak Enterprise Village”, was conducted in time with the conduct of the two-day Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) immersion held in the same sitio last April 12 to 13.

During the activity, the “CADT OG-KAAGPAS” or CADT Express was also launched within the BUSILAK Enterprise Village.

Minbahandi is an Indigenous People community inhabited by the Higaonon tribe. It is situated within the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) No. 252.

Sitio MInbahandi is also considered a priority area in Nasipit as the place is a soft target of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorist (CNT) and the IP residents in the area have suffered from armed conflicts in the last five (5) decades.

The launching of the BDP in Minbahandi was started with a Bigula Ritual conducted by the tribal leaders of Higaonon tribe. It was then followed by the cutting of the ribbon led by Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) who also chairs the PRLEC at the national level.

Sec. Lapeña was joined during the activity by Agusan del Norte Gov. Dale B. Corvera, Nasipit Mayor Enrico R. Corvera, TESDA Agusan del Norte Director Rey M. Cueva, TESDA Caraga Regional Director Tarhata S. Mapandi, Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, the Commander, 402nd Infantry Brigade, Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office (ADNPPO) director Col. Martin M. Gamba, and 23IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo.

The activity was also graced by the tribal leaders in Agusan del Norte and the other line agencies of the government.

The establishment of the Busilak Enterprise Village aims to provide concrete and sustainable jobs and enterprise opportunities for the IPs in the three (3) priority sitios in Barangay Camagong, identified as Sitios Hinandayan, Minbahandi, and Salaysayon.

During the activity, Datu Talagsaon Jimbo Mansiguinda, the tribal leader of Sitio Minbahandi thanked the government for addressing the socio-economic condition of the Higaonon communities in the area.

“Kinasingkasing ang akong pagpasalamat sa gobyerno tungod kay aduna silay dakong tabang alang sa among tribu. Naa ang tanan ahensya sa gobyerno nitabang sa katawhan og buhong na kami sa tabang sa gobyerno. Nanghinaut usab kami nga duna pay dugang nga mga tabang ilabina sa mga kasikbit namo nga mga sitio,” Datu Talagsaon said.

Dir. Cueva encouraged the residents of Sitio Minbahandi to do their best to improve their livelihood.

“We have properly chosen the programs that are suitable in your community. You are now equipped with skills that can possibly change your lives forever. Make use of it and utilize it for the improvement of your livelihood. This is a great opportunity given to you by our government because a person can be employed and can build their own business even without undergoing or graduating in the formal education as long as they were equipped with the skills that are in-demand,” Dir. Cueva said.

Sec. Lapeña urged the residents to cooperate and use the skills they acquired through the different skills training provided by TESDA.

“We in TESDA initiated programs that will be benefited by the people especially the IPs living in hinter areas to improve their livelihood. We will deliver free skills training and provide great opportunities to the less fortunate individuals to help them get away from poverty. I hope that you will use the skills you have acquired and manage the Busilak Enterprise Village properly in order for you to have a sustainable livelihood,” Sec Lapeña said.

Lt. Col. Paulo expressed optimism the insurgency will end very soon as the residents of Sitio Minbahandi already felt the presence of the government.

“We’ve been facing insurgency for over fifty-two (52) years and the government have discovered the root causes and has provided a solution to it. It is only when all the families in the hinter areas have something to eat at their tables daily that the insurgency will end. The CNTs can no longer use poverty issues and absence of government services in their propagandas because all the government agencies are now doing their part to help the less fortunate ones,” Paulo said.

He also hoped that residents in Sitio Minbahandi and the nearby IP communities will no longer be deceived and recruited by the CNTs.

“Let us reject the CNT and their false ideology so that from now on, this community and the residents will live peacefully,” Paulo said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/23ib-helps-launch-barangay-development-program-in-ip-community-in-agnor/

Egyptian terrorist, 2 Sayyaf bombers killed in Sulu (WARNING: Contains graphic image)

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 17, 2021): Egyptian terrorist, 2 Sayyaf bombers killed in Sulu (WARNING: Contains graphic image)

SULU - The Philippine military announced Saturday the killing of an Egyptian terrorist - who was believed to be an ISIS soldier - and two Filipino Abu Sayyaf bombers in a brief, but fierce firefight in Sulu, but security officials claimed four other foreign terrorists are embedded with the pro-ISIS group in the province.

Military photos show the bodies of the Egyptian terrorist Yusop (left) and Abu Sayyaf fighters Abu Khattab Jundullah and Akram.

Army Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command, identified the slain Egyptian only by his first name Yusop, whose mother - Reda Mohammad Mahmud - was behind the suicide attack at an a military post in Sulu’s Indanan town on September 2019.

Vinluan said Yusop’s grandfather, Abduramil, was also slain by the army in a clash in November 2019. “The neutralized foreign terrorist was identified as a certain Yusop, one of the five remaining foreign terrorists monitored in Sulu,” he said.

The slain Abu Sayyaf fighters have been identified as Abu Khattab Jundullah and Akram, one of the trusted followers of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader and bomb expert Mudzrimar Sawadjaan, who coordinated ISIS suicide attacks in Sulu. The fighting erupted before midnight Friday after members of the elite and U.S.-trained 4th Light Reaction Company assaulted an Abu Sayyaf hideout in the village of Igasan in Patikul, a known stronghold of the terrorist group.

Vinluan, citing military reports, said the fighting only lasted 10 minutes with troops killing three of the most notorious terrorists in the South. “These successes (against the terrorists) are attributable to the intensified conduct of intelligence operations, the quick action of our ground troops, and the cooperation of the local governments and the people,” he said, adding, troops were sent to the town’s hinterlands on Saturday to pursue other terrorists who managed to escape under cover of darkness.

This was also confirmed by Col. Benjamin Batara, commander of the 1102ng Infantry Brigade. “Reinforcements were immediately deployed to conduct blocking and pursuit operations in the possible enemy withdrawal routes,” he said.

Batara said troops recovered the bodies of the terrorists and their weapons - one R4 assault rifle, one M203 grenade launcher and an M653 rifle, including dozens of rounds of ammunition. “While scouring the encounter site, operating troops recovered the dead bodies of three slain terrorists. The cadavers were brought to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo town,” he said.

Army Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the 11th Infantry Division and the anti-terror Joint Task Force Sulu, has ordered an all-out offensive against the remaining foreign terrorists and Abu Sayyaf members following the slaying of the Egyptian.

“We are utilizing all our air, naval, and ground assets to conduct all-out offensives against the remaining foreign terrorists and Abu Sayyaf group members in our area of operation,” he said, the operations have been coordinated with local government leaders to ensure the safety of civilians.

On August 24 last year, a pair of suicide bombers struck in the capital town of Jolo and killed and wounded dozens of soldiers and civilians. One of the bombers was the Indonesian widow of Abu Sayyaf suicide bomber Norman Lasuca, who blew himself up outside a military base and killed eight people in Indanan town in 2019. The other bomber was the wife of Talha Jumsa, an Abu Sayyaf explosives expert and trained by ISIS, who was also slain in the 2019 clash with soldiers in Patikul town.

In January 2019, a twin suicide attacks carried out by Indonesian couple Rullie Rian Zeke and Ulfah Handayani Saleh at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in downtown Jolo also killed and injured dozens of soldiers and civilians. The first bomb went off inside the church and the second blast occurred outside just as people were rushing out of the building. (Mindanao Examiner, Zamboanga Post)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/04/egyptian-terrorist-2-sayyaf-bombers.html

Matatag fighters, NPAs clash in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 16, 2021): Matatag fighters, NPAs clash in Agusan Norte (By 29th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte, Apr. 16 -- The 29th Infantry "Matatag Fighters" Battalion (29IB), Philippine Army while on security patrol on April 12 encountered more or less five Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) believed to be members of Sandatahang Yunit Pangpropaganda, Guerilla Front 16A of Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (SYP16A, GF16, NEMRC) at Sitio Madbad, Brgy. Bangonay, Agusan del Norte.

The exchange of fire lasted for about five minutes afterward, the enemy withdrew towards the northeast direction.

The troops have recovered one AK47, one long AK47 magazine loaded with 20 rounds, two backpacks, two hammocks, one flashlight, one poncho tent, 15 kilos of rice with canned goods, other personal belongings and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

Lt. Col. Aristotle Antonio, Acting Commanding Officer of 29IB, said the CNTs number is already weakening. "We assure that we will continue to hunt those remaining members of the group until there is no one left," he said.

"You still have time to heed our calls to surrender and go back to the mainstream. Do not waste your precious life moving in the mountains and enduring ceaseless pain. The government is ever willing to help you find your ways. So, come now, surrender, and be reunited with your family once again," Antonio added. (1Lt. Edmar C. Colagong, CMO Officer, 29IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1072470

10th ID notices insurgency downtrend in AOR

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 16, 2021): 10th ID notices insurgency downtrend in AOR (By Joey Dalumpines)

DAVAO CITY, April 19 (PIA) - The Philippine Army Division which covers the whole of Davao Region, part of Sarangani, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Bukidnon, Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur noticed a downtrend in rebel activities on the first quarter of 2021.

Major Jerry Lamosao, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Brigade bared that since January this year, they have accounted five encounters with the rebels with the recovery of several high powered firearms and improvised explosive device.

He said the number of New People’s Army rebels, and sympathizers has dwindled since the Executive Order No. 70 was operationalized with the assistance of line-government agencies through a whole-of-nation-approach.

Lamosao revealed that from 2016 up to the present, the Army recorded the unprecedented surrender of regular rebel forces and sympathizers at 2,000 in 2018, and more than a thousand in 2021.

“We see a downtrend in the number of surrenders, and it was revealed by former rebels that they could no longer withstand their difficult situation, internal stripes like corruption in the organization and the concern of their leaders in their financial status in terms of proceeds from extortion activities, broken promises like familial support,” he said.

Lamosao said former rebels saw the sincerity of the Duterte Administration in helping them get out of the sad situation of being duped by the communist movement.

He said that from 12 guerrilla fronts in Davao Region, the rebel organization is now down to three weakened guerrilla fronts, a platoon size of fighters moving in the boundaries while more or less 20 pulang bagani companies are still active.

Lamosao said their total strength is two hundred but dispersed in Davao Region.

  

Surrendered rebel firearms

He maintained this group could hardly withstand the military combat operation from time to time, since the military forces can easily be deployed once there are complaints on rebel presence like recruitment and teach-ins.

Lamosao said there is really an effort by the rebels to discredit anew the government.

In reality, he said the rebel forces within the areas of the 10th Infantry Division are waning with all agencies helping the military in implementing the EO 70 side by side with the people, government and nongovernment organizations.

Captain Rose Aguilar, spokesperson of the Davao City Police Office bared that the police show support to the efforts of the Army in responding to the insurgency problem through the enhanced pulis sa barangay program.

She said the police also maintain their presence both in geographically isolated and depressed areas and the urban centers, to help them communicate their basic problems to concerned line-agencies and to maintain police visibility in the urban center to deter crime. (PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1072289

Tapaz women village officials condemn NPA’s terror act

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 16, 2021): Tapaz women village officials condemn NPA’s terror act (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, April 16 (PIA) -- Three village officials of Tapaz town in Capiz have joined in condemning the atrocities and false ideologies of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) Terrorist.

Lahug Barangay Chairperson Jobelyn Giganto and Barangay Kagawad Rowela Sumaria and Rosel Olido strongly condemned the inhuman activities of the communist-terrorist group in their barangay, said 301st Brigade Civil Military Operations Officer Capt. Hazel Joy Durotan.

The three women barangay officials are all members of their Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (BTF-ELCAC), Durotan said.

Giganto said the brutal activities of the terrorist organization in their barangay have brought fears and chaos to the residents. She called on the NPAs to stop making their lives miserable.



“Ang pumoluyo nakulba-an kung ano na ang himuon nila. Sa mga NPA, kung ginhimo naman ninyo daya, ginapaabot ko kaninyo nga tama dun nga pag-paantus kanamon nga daw mabuang na kami. Gusto na namon nga mag linong kag magtawhay ya amon nga barangay (The people here are nervous of what they will do. To the NPA, if you are again doing this, we are informing you to stop this suffering for us that would make us go crazy. We want our barangay to be orderly and peaceful),” Giganto said..

On the other hand, Sumaria stressed that the Army helped and supported the people in their barangay in many ways, which was opposite to what the NPAs told them.

She said what they want in their area is peace.

“Mayad tana ang Army nagabulig; tanan nga bagay, support sanda. Kanugon lang sang pagpakaon namon sa inyo kung mag araragi kamo tungod nga nahadlok man kami ka ninyo. Napakaon namon kamo tapos kung hindi kami kakaon gina tao namon karan on namon; tapos amo na ibalos niyo sa tawo di gali (The Army are good because they help; they support in all undertakings. It’s useless that we fed you every time you pass by our house because we are afraid of you. We feed you and we also give you the food that is really for us, and this is what you give in return to the people here),” said Sumaria.

Meanwhile, Olido pleaded for a peaceful community and called on the communist-terrorists to stop their false ideologies and inhuman activities in the barangay.

She said the Army secured their barangay and helped them to have a peaceful community.

“Ginapangabay ko sa mga NPA nga daad untatatan run nanda di a ang inaway kay bukot amo daya ang panan-aw sang military kanamon, kundi kalinungan kag pagbulig sang katawhayan (I am appealing to the NPA to stop the war because what the military want is to help ensure that there is peace),” said Olido.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Marion R Sison, the Commander of the Army’s 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade, lauded the village officials of Barangay Lahug, Tapaz for condemning the deceptions and atrocities of the NPAs.

He likewise assured the people of Lahug and the peace –loving residents of Tapaz that the Army will not stop helping them achieve a CPP-NPA-NDF free barangay.

“The strong and bold principle of these village officials will be our motivation and inspiration in performing our mandate and duties to protect the communities not only in the municipality of Tapaz but in the whole Panay and Guimaras Islands,” Sison said. (PIA6/Capt. HJDurotan/CMO-301Bde, Philippine Army)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1072463

PVAO leads webinar series depicting veterans’ heroism

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 15, 2021): PVAO leads webinar series depicting veterans’ heroism (By Venus May H. Sarmiento)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 15 (PIA) - - The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) has lined up a series of historical web-seminars that depict and showcase the heroism and gallantry of war veterans.

Sheryl Simeon, head of PVAO-field service extension office in Pangasinan, said

her office aims to ensure the welfare and well-being of veterans and perpetuate the memory of their heroic deeds.

“The Kagitingan Webinar Series aim to propagate historical awareness among the Filipino youth and other viewers regardless of age. Hindi natin mae-enjoy ang ine-enjoy natin ngayong freedom kung hindi dahil sa ating mga veterans,” Simeon said during the Kapihan sa PIA -Pangasinan forum on Thursday.



Sheryl Simeon, head of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) in Pangasinan bared during the Kapihan sa PIA that as of March 2021, PVAO -Pangasinan has been catering to 8,140 veterans with their families and dependents. However, as of the November 2020 data, there are only 127 living World War II veterans with the following distribution per congressional district - District 1- 20; District 2-18; District 3-23, District 4-10, District 5 -32 and District 6 - 24. (VHS)

She said Part 1 of the series has started last February 26 to May of this year. These webinars include: Bridging the Past and Present (April 15); Negros During the War (April 22); Battle of Ising Monument (May 6); The Makapili (May 12); The Collaboration Issue (May 21) and Series Finale: War in Cebu (May 27)

The second part of the activity, on the other hand, is set in August to September.

The Philippine Veterans Week, a commemorative event celebrated from April 5 to 11 of every year in remembrance of the valor of our Filipino freedom fighters also showcased activities such as the Sunrise wreath laying ceremony (April 5); Tribute to all Filipino Heroes (April 7); virtual gathering through Facebook at the Dambana ng Kagitingan in celebration of the 79th Araw ng Kagitingan ( April 9); Paggunita sa Capas (April 10) and Sunset Ceremony (April 11).

Simeon said more activities are laid down to constantly remind the young generation of the heroism and bravery of the forefathers and veterans.

PIA's social media card in commemmoration of the 79th Araw ng Kagitingan (RPM)

“Let the kagitingan and love for country inflame in our hearts. Maging Pilipino tayo sa puso at sa gawa. Ipakita natin ito sa pamamagitan ng respeto at paggalang hindi lang sa mga veterans kundi sa lahat ng nakakatanda,” Simeon said in the zoom interview.

Simeon also bared that as of March 2021, PVAO -Pangasinan has been catering to 8,140 veterans with their families and dependents.

However, as of the November 2020 data, there are only 127 living World War II veterans with the following distribution per congressional district - District 1- 20; District 2-18; District 3-23, District 4-10, District 5 -32 and District 6 - 24.

PVAO, as derived from the 1987 Philippine Constitution, guarantees that the State shall provide immediate and adequate care, benefits, and other forms of assistance to war veterans and veterans of military campaigns, their surviving spouses and orphans. (JCR/VHS/PIA-Pangasinan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1072419

PH, US troops prepare for defense treaty activation

From the Philippine Star (Apr 16, 2021):  PH, US troops prepare for defense treaty activation (By Victor Reyes)

FILIPINO and American forces participating in the annual “Balikatan” exercise are being trained on how to act in case the Mutual Defense Treaty between US and Philippines is triggered.

This year’s exercise is being conducted amid the massing of Chinese maritime militia vessels in the West Philippine Sea.

Under the 1951 MDT, the two countries recognize that an armed attack in the Pacific area on either side “would be dangerous to its own peace and safety,” thus they would act to meet common dangers in accordance with constitutional processes.

An attack “is deemed to include an armed attack on the metropolitan territory of either of the parties, or on the Island territories under its jurisdiction in the Pacific Ocean, its armed forces, public vessels or aircraft in the Pacific.”

“The intent of every iteration of Balikatan is for both armed forces to train together on defense and security leveraging on the capability, experience, and strength of their friendship,” said Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, Balikatan director on the Philippine side.

He also said the two-week exercise which opened last Monday will focus on tabletop or simulation exercises which include subject matter exchanges dealing on air interdiction, maritime interdiction, and even pandemic response operations.

“Balikatan is done annually to ensure interoperability in terms of command, control, computers , communications, intelligence, surveillance reconnaissance (C4ISR) and subject matter expert exchanges (SMEEs),” said Arevalo.

Arevalo said the only field training or kinetic exercise that will be conducted under this year’s Balikatan, which had been toned down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will be done at the Col. Ernesto Ravina Air Base (CERAB) in Pampanga on Tuesday next week.

“The exact term of the activity at CERAB is simulated close air support and live fire exercise,” said Arevalo.

The exercise comes continued massing of Chinese maritime militia vessels in Philippine waters.

The presence of Chinese militia vessels in Philippine waters was first reported on March 7 by the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea. It said some 220 Chinese vessels were sighted at the Julian Felipe Reef in Palawan.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana demanded the withdrawal of these vessels, expressing fears this is preparatory to the occupation of the reef.

Most of these vessels later dispersed to other areas in the West Philippine Sea, the Philippine-claimed area of the South China Sea which China claims wholly.

On April 13, the task force said there were 240 Chinese maritime militia vessels in various areas in the WPS but nine of them remaining at Julian Felipe, based on an April 11 maritime patrol conducted by the Armed Forces.

On Wednesday night, AFP Western Command chief Vice Adm. Ramil Enriquez said only six Chinese vessels are at the Julian Felipe Reef based on a report shared by the Philippine Coast Guard on the afternoon of April 11.

https://malaya.com.ph/index.php/news_news/ph-us-troops-prepare-for-defense-treaty-activation/#

Filipino, American forces hold virtual Global Health Engagement

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 17, 2021): Filipino, American forces hold virtual Global Health Engagement (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

Screengrab of the virtual 'Balikatan' between Filipinos and American military officials (Courtesy of PIO Balikatan)

PASIG CITY, April 17 (PIA) -- Medical experts from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) concluded a three-day virtual Global Health Engagement this week that culminated on Friday, April 16, as part of the ongoing Balikatan Exercise.

The knowledge exchange and key leader engagement was held virtually for the first time due to conditions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The global pandemic may have limited some aspects of the Balikatan Exercise but it will never dampen the spirit of friendship, partnership, and shared aspirations of both Philippines and United States armed forces,” said Major General Edgard Arevalo, Commander of AFP Education Training and Doctrine Command and Exercise Director of Balikatan 2021.

The Chief Surgeon of PAF, Colonel Maria Socorro Posadas spearheaded topics in aviation medicine. Among which were The Role of AFP in Pandemic Management; Philippines’ COVID-19 Vaccination Plan; and Aerospace Medicine Guidelines, Aeromedical Evacuation Medical Equipment and Facility Modification, and Mass Casualty Response during pandemic.

“Engagement such as this had been carried out regularly between the Office of the Chief Surgeon Air Force and PACAF to produce meaningful exchanges of medical knowledge and practices in the field of Aerospace Medicine. In this Balikatan 2021 virtual teleconference, both parties were able to showcase their experience and expertise in their respective fields as well as to highlight the improvements and innovations they instituted to fulfil their mission through this pandemic,” Colonel Posadas said.

The PACAF Command Surgeon, Colonel Rudy Cachuela and international health specialist Lieutenant Colonel Cherielynne Gabriel joined the virtual activity from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii.

Lieutenant Colonel Gabriel said the main objective of the exchange is to provide an overview of the present pandemic situation from surveillance, on-scene response, testing and monitoring to patient treatment and modifications to patient movement.

“It aims to share best practices, enhance knowledge of participants, and maintain relationships until we can practice medical interoperability in-person again when global health conditions improve,” she said.

The 36th iteration of the Balikatan Exercise kicked off April 12 and will conclude on April 23. It is an annual military training event which highlights the Philippines and United States militaries’ continued commitment to train and share information to improve their ability to coordinate a multilateral response to crisis.

“The longstanding exercise continues amidst the global pandemic to manifest our unequivocal commitment to maintain national and regional peace and security, and preparedness to respond to health emergencies,” said Major General Arevalo. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1072550

AFP, PNP strengthen joint efforts to address Communist, Local Terrorists

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 17, 2021): AFP, PNP strengthen joint efforts to address Communist, Local Terrorists (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

Photos courtesy of SN1 Donald Viluan PN/PAOAFP

PASIG CITY, April 17 (PIA) -- Top military and law enforcement officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday covened to affirm and strengthen joint efforts against security threats.

The AFP Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana and PNP Chief Police General Debold Sinas led the National Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) meeting held in Camp Aguinaldo.

“The intensified conduct of our joint operations successfully resulted to the neutralization of a considerable number of enemies of the state. The increasing number of threat personalities killed, surrendered or apprehended demonstrates that we have certainly gained substantial grounds in our efforts against the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs),” said General Sobejana.

Police General Sinas on the other hand said the JPSCC meeting is very useful in strengthening the AFP-PNP interoperability to address the country’s internal security.

“Through this fruitful undertaking we are ready to look forward with optimism as we assure the Filipino people that the PNP and AFP are now better prepared, more equipped and more confident to address the challenges ahead of us,” said Police General Sinas.

PNP Chief Police General Debold Sinas and AFP Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana sign an agreement to beef up peace, order, and security in the country.

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. joined the meeting as the keynote speaker via virtual teleconferencing. Also present virtually were Undersecretary Allen of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), Unified Commanders of the AFP, and their PNP counterparts.

Secretary Esperon congratulated “the coordinated effort of the PNP and the AFP for the increased operational tempo for the NTF-ELCAC, against the CPP-NPA-NDF and local terrorist groups in BARMM.”

During the meeting, the JPSCC Joint Cells on operations, intelligence, legal, trainings and Civil-Military Operations/Police Community Relations discussed substantial accomplishments in their respective operations.

The AFP Chief of Staff and Chief PNP moreover signed joint resolutions to fortify both forces’ efforts on internal peace and security. The leaders also affirmed the dismantling of two so-called guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army in Palawan and Bicol Region.

“We are very confident that with the signing of the AFP-PNP Joint Resolutions, this ever-growing partnership will continue to contribute to the peace and development in the countryside,” General Sobejana said.

The JPSCC was purposely created to serve as the hub for coordination and collaborative action between the AFP and PNP. It seeks to enhance military and police cooperation in order to effectively address the country’s insurgency problem and the other peace and security concerns prevailing across the archipelago. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1072552

Foreign terrorist, 2 Abu Sayyaf killed in Sulu clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 17, 2021): Foreign terrorist, 2 Abu Sayyaf killed in Sulu clash (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Barangay Igasan, Patikul, Sulu.

A foreign terrorist and two Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits were killed in a clash with government forces in the province of Sulu, military officials said Saturday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said the firefight broke out around 10:45 p.m. Friday in Barangay Igasan, Patikul, Sulu.

He said the clash ensued after the Army's 4th Light Reaction Company chanced upon a group of ASG bandits under Mudzrimar “Mundi” Sawadjaan while conducting focused military operations in the area.

The 10-minute firefight resulted in the death of a foreign terrorist and two ASG bandits. The rest of the ASG bandits scampered in different directions, Vinluan said.

He identified the foreign terrorist as a certain Yusop, an Egyptian, and one of the five remaining foreign terrorists--all Egyptians--monitored in Sulu.

“He is the stepson of Abduramil, an Egyptian national who was neutralized by the military in Indanan, Sulu last November 2019, and son of Reda Mohammad Mahmud, alias Sitti Aiza, an Egyptian national who perpetrated a suicide bombing attack at the KM 3 (Kilometer 3) Detachment still in Indanan on September 2019,” Vinluan said.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, 11th Infantry Division commander, said Mahmud failed in her bombing mission in September 2019 after she died in a shootout with government troops in Barangay Tagbak, Indanan, Sulu.

Vinluan identified the two slain ASG bandits as Abu Khattab Jundullah and a certain Akram.

Gonzales said Jundullah was one of the trained bombmakers while Akram is one of the trusted of Sawadjaan, who was behind the twin suicide bombings in Jolo in August last year, as well as the Jolo Cathedral bombing in January 2019.

Jundullah is the brother of late Midi Alih, one of the seven ASG bandits killed in a clash with government troops in November last year in Sulare Island, Parang, Sulu.

Gonzales said the troops recovered three high-power firearms, ammunition, two bandoliers, and personal belongings at the encounter site.

“We are utilizing all our air, naval, and ground assets to conduct all-out offensives against the remaining foreign terrorists and Abu Sayyaf Group members in our area of operation,” Gonzales said.

“This is one less suicide bomber. I commend our ground forces for this monumental accomplishment. These neutralized terrorists are the cohorts of Mundi in executing atrocities. Without them, the possibility of another attack is slimmer. Moreover, financial support sent to ASG in Sulu from these foreign terrorist affiliates is cut off. All things considered, we are optimistic that Mundi will soon meet his end,” Gonzales added.

Since January, the Joint Task Force Sulu has neutralized 70 ASG members, seven of which were apprehended, 60 surrendered, and three were killed.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137109