225 cadets graduate from PNPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 22, 2021): 225 cadets graduate from PNPA (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

GRADUATION. PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas leads the graduation rites of the PNPA Hinirang Class of 2021 at the PNPA campus in Silang, Cavite on Wednesday (April 21, 2021). Out of the 225 graduates, 193 joined the PNP, 14 joined the BJMP and 18 joined the BFP. (Photo courtesy of PNP)

A total of 225 cadets comprising the Hinirang Class of 2021 have graduated from the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) on Wednesday through a virtual ceremony.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año officially announced the appointment of the members of the graduating class as new police lieutenants, jail inspectors, or fire inspectors in their chosen services.

The new lieutenants and inspectors, who hurdled hardships in their four-year cadetship training program, will form part of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas, BJMP chief Allan Iral, and BFP chief Jose Embang administered the oath of office of the 193 new police lieutenants, 14 new jail inspectors, and 18 new fire inspectors.

President Rodrigo Duterte, who virtually joined the rites, congratulated the families, friends, and loved ones of the Hinirang Class of 2021, reminding in the minds and hearts of the Graduates the values instilled by their Alma Mater.

He also pointed out that the new Lieutenants and Inspectors of the Tri-Bureau service should go beyond their call of duty, always taking care of themselves while maintaining utmost vigilance amidst terrorism across the nation.

Duterte ended his speech with congratulatory remarks for all the members of the Long Maroon Line further extending his signature to officially grant “Pardon” for all confinement and punishment hours for the Cadet Corps.

Cadet 1st Class Kenneth John Etucas, the reigning baron of Hinirang class of 2021, received the Presidential Kampilan Award and Chief Bureau of Fire Protection Kampilan Award; Cadet 1st Class Carl Jobell Perez Lofranco of Inabanga, Bohol, who ranked second and received the Vice Presidential Kampilan and Chief PNP Kampilan Award.

In third place is Cadet 1st Class Joel James dela Cruz De Guzman of Malubibit, Norte Flora Apayao, who received the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Kampilan Award; (4) Cadet 1st Class Van Alegasin Encabo of Davao; (5) Cadet 1st Class John Kenneth Tipanoy Florentino of Iligan City; (6) Cadet 1st Class Jay Neri Sergio Osmena Cornelio of Zamboanga del Norte.

Rounding up the top 10 are Cadet 1st Class Gerald Arquillano Lopez of Samal Island, Davao del Norte; Cadet 1st Class Ian Payaoan Limbawan of San Carlos Pangasinan; Cadet 1st Class Chervil Lerios Calabagan Ferenal of Lanao Del Sur; and Cadet 1st Class, Michael Allen Pabustan Lenon of Capas, Tarlac.

Etucas, in his speech, challenged his fellow graduates to always stand firm for what is right.

He reiterated that they should not let corruption and immoral acts destroy the image of their respective organizations, keeping always on the right track.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137628

NBI assists in hunting NPA rebels who killed 5 cops in ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 22, 2021): NBI assists in hunting NPA rebels who killed 5 cops in ambush (By Benjamin Pulta)

COMMUNITY SERVICE. Members of the Camarines Norte Police Provincial Office provide various services in Barangay Dumagmang in Labo town on April 13, 2021. Five police officers died in an ambush in the area on March 19, reportedly carried out by members of the New People’s Army. (Photo courtesy of Camarines Norte PPO)

The Department of Justice (DOJ) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will assist in going after the suspected New People's Army rebels who ambushed a police vehicle in Camarines Norte last month that killed five police officers.

DOJ Secretary Menardo Guevarra said on Thursday that the NBI “is ready to provide assistance”.

“The NBI will provide assistance unless fraud was employed and liability is civil in character,” Guevarra told the Philippine News Agency in a text message.

Earlier, the construction firm of the Tagkawayan (Quezon)-Labo Road Project reported the demand of the New People’s Army to pay three percent to five percent of the entire cost in exchange for the safety of their workers and equipment.

On March 19, personnel from the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (2PMFC) were sent to Labo, Camarines Norte to oversee the road construction project which will connect a portion of Quezon province.

The seven members of the 2PFMC were ambushed in the vicinity of Purok 6 in Barangay Dumagmang. A three-hour encounter ensued and ended with five officers dead and two others wounded.

Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, who was Philippine National Police Officer-in-Charge then, ordered the Police Regional Office-4A (Calabarzon) and 5 (Bicol) to go after the suspects and coordinate with the military.

“The CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front) has been given all the opportunity to sit down in order to give peace and development a chance for the Filipino people. Yet over the years, they repeatedly turned down peace negotiations and instead resort to cowardly attacks even in the time of the pandemic," Eleazar was quoted as saying.

“Clearly, these people do not understand the language of peace so we will deal with them in a manner that they fully understand our message that we shall never tolerate this kind of terrorism activity,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137626

Defunding NTF-ELCAC ‘unjustified’: Palace

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 22, 2021): Defunding NTF-ELCAC ‘unjustified’: Palace (By Azer Parrocha)

Malacañang on Thursday thumbed down some senators’ push to defund the government’s anti-insurgency task force over alleged red-tagging issue amid the rise of community pantries.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said defunding the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is “unjustified” since its funds are currently being used to free villages from threats to security and development.

“Ang pagkakaalam ko po iyong pondo ng ELCAC ay para po sa mga proyekto na magbibigay ng asenso at progreso sa mga lugar na mayroon pang mga rebelde. So, sa akin po hindi naman po justified (What I know is the funds of the ELCAC are for projects that will give progress to areas with rebels. So, for me it’s not justified),” he said in a Palace press briefing.

Roque said Palace would leave it to NTF-ELCAC officials to perform their duties, but reiterated support for community pantries across the country.

“Malinaw po ang posisyon ng Presidente diyan, malinaw ang posisyon ng [Department of the Interior and Local Government], malinaw ang posisyon ng PNP [Philippine National Police] (The position of the President is clear, the position of the DILG and the PNP is clear)– let a thousand community pantries bloom,” he said.

Asked if Palace would reprimand NTF ELCAC spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade over his remark against an organizer of a community pantry in Quezon City, Roque said he may arrange for a meeting with Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to discuss the issue.

“Siguro po kakausapin namin ni Secretary [Eduardo] Año, si Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (Perhaps Secretary Año and I will speak to Secretary Delfin Lorenzana), because that’s the proper chain of command po ‘no,” he said.

He noted that Lorenzana has previously warned Parlade, who is Southern Luzon Command chief, to be more cautious in making statements.

“I think General Parlade reports to Secretary Lorenzana and hindi naman po sikreto na may mga pagkakataon na pinagsabihan na ni Secretary Lorenzana na mag-ingat-ingat nang kaunti si General Parlade sa kaniyang mga deklarasyon (it’s not a secret that there are times Secretary Lorenzana reprimands General Parlade and tells him to be careful in his declarations),” he added.

At least six senators want to withdraw funding for the NTF-ELCAC and reallocate its current PHP19 billion budget to fund assistance to people affected by the pandemic.

Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, however, said it is better to replace “irresponsible” NTF-ELCAC officials instead.

“We should not be hasty in blaming a good program because of irresponsible statements from some officials. Replace the officials instead,” he said, but did not mention any names.

Of the PHP19 billion total budget of the NTF-ELCAC, more than PHP16 billion is allotted to over 800 barangays cleared of insurgency.

The NTF-ELCAC was created by virtue of Executive Order 70 issued on Dec. 4, 2018 “to provide an efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of the Whole-of-Nation Approach to aid in the realization of the collective aspirations for inclusive and sustainable peace.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137702

Ex-rebel bares pantry organizer’s link to commies

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 22, 2021): Ex-rebel bares pantry organizer’s link to commies (By Marita Moaje)

REVEALED. Former communist cadre Shane Valdez tells the Philippine News Agency on Thursday (April 22, 2021) that Maginahawa community pantry organizer Ana Patricia Non was a former communist terrorist group member. Valdez said she expected Non’s denial about her underground movement connections. (Photo grabbed from D Express Facebook)

A former rebel bared the links of a community pantry organizer to communist terrorist groups (CTGs).

Shane Valdez, in a phone interview Thursday, told the Philippine News Agency that Maginhawa, Quezon City community pantry organizer Ana Patricia Non was affiliated with Kabataang Artista Para sa Tunay na Kalayaan (Karatula).

“Yung nag-umpisa nung community pantry na yan, ‘yung si AP Non kung tawagin nila, dati siyang miyembro ng Karatula (This AP Non who started the community pantry, she was a former member of Karatula),” said Valdez, who is a former cadre of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) for more than seven years.

Valdez, who admitted she was recruited into joining the Youth Communist League in Angeles City, Pampanga in 2011 when she was only 14 years old and later became the spokesperson of Anakbayan Central Luzon before becoming a full-pledged CPP-NPA member, said Non’s father was also a supporter of the movement.

When she heard about Non, her name sounded familiar.

Family ties

“Ni-research ko ngayon. Tumugma nga. Sabi ko ito nga ‘yung anak nung kaalyado namin sa Angeles City. Tatay pala nya yan. Alam ko nga kasi na ‘yung tao na ‘yun may anak na tibak. Party member pa nga kung tutuusin (I did my research and then I confirmed that she was the daughter of our supporter in Angeles City. He’s her father. I already knew back then that he has an activist daughter, a party member after all),” Valdez said in a Facebook video.

She added that when she heard of Non and the community pantry, she already knew it has a hidden agenda.

“Galawang komunista ‘to. Ganun yan. Meron silang hidden agenda. Bakit nila ‘to ginawa? Binababoy nila yung diwa ng bayanihan, eh kasi imbes na tumulong ka, tumulong ka lang. ‘Wag mo ng bigyan pa ng politika, ‘wag mo na bigyan pa ng hidden agenda. Ginagawa mo pang dahilan ‘yan para mang-recruit eh, para sirain ‘yung gobyerno (These are confirmed communist moves. They have a hidden agenda on why they are doing this. They change the meaning of bayanihan because if you really want to help then just help, don’t politicize it, don’t make hidden agenda. You’re using it to recruit and destroy the government),” said Valdez, who denounced her CPP-NPA membership in 2018.

Non earlier denied involvement with communist groups, even branding a reporter’s question about it as inappropriate.

“Sa totoo lang po, wala akong link sa Communist Party. And pasensya na po, napakadumi po ng question na ‘yan (I have no links with the Communist Party. I’m sorry but that’s really an inappropriate question),” Non said during an online press conference on Tuesday.

“Gusto ko lang po may ma-i-set up na community pantry and makakain ang mga tao (I just want to set up a pantry to help feed the people),” she added.

Protecting CTGs at all cost

Valdez said she already expected Non would deny her affiliations as it is the first thing the communist movement teaches its members.

“Dahil nga underground organization siya, iligal at lihim kaya ino-orient ang bawat kasapi na i-deny mo, itanggi mo, ‘wag kang aamin, sukdulang ikamatay mo, ‘wag mo lang aaminin para hindi mapahamak ang organisasyon. So expected na namin ‘yan na itatanggi talaga niya (Because these are underground organizations, meaning they are illegal, members are oriented to deny, to not admit anything, even if it may cost your life so as not to endanger the whole organization. That is why we already expected that she will deny that),” Valdez said.

Valdez clarified that she is not against community pantries as long as they are not tainted with ideological and political agenda.

She called on the public to be vigilant and to differentiate those who really want to help from those who have other agenda.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137726

US works with PH to improve maritime awareness, security

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): US works with PH to improve maritime awareness, security (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

PROTECTING THE SEAS. Following reports of prohibited fishing activities in the eastern coastal waters of Zamboanga City, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and law enforcement groups conduct an operation on Saturday (April 17, 2021). The Philippines is coordinating with the US Embassy in Manila to strengthen its maritime awareness and improve its ability to secure its territories. (Photo courtesy of BFAR)

The United States Embassy in Manila said Washington is working with the Philippines to strengthen its maritime domain awareness and ability to secure its territory amid reports of illegal fishing in the West Philippines Sea.

Embassy Chargé d'Affaires John Law said the US government shares the country’s concerns over environmental destruction as well as the illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in its waters.

"Encountering illegal and unreported or IUU fishing remains a top priority for the US and through USAID (United States Agency for International Development), we are stepping up our partnership with the Philippines to promote sustainable fishing practices and enhance the well-being of Filipinos dependent on this critical resource," he said in a virtual media roundtable Thursday.

"There's no greater existential threat to the environment and livelihood of fisherfolk than the destruction of rich marine ecosystem in the West Philippine Sea," he added.

Law cited a report that illegally caught fish in Philippine waters is estimated to be worth PHP63 billion a year and that about 40 percent of the fish caught in 2019 "may well have been illegally fished".

"That why in addition to supporting environmental initiatives, the US is also working with the Philippines to strengthen the country's maritime domain awareness and ability to secure its territory," he said.

Meanwhile, he echoed the statement of State Secretary Antony Blinken that a "strong Philippine-US alliance is vital to a free and open Indo-Pacific region."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137722

Tired of life on the run, Karapatan leader quits armed struggle

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): Tired of life on the run, Karapatan leader quits armed struggle (By Christine Cudis)

NO MORE GUNS. The Philippine Army and the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict welcomed 52-year-old Genelyn Dichoso back to civil society on April 5, 2021. The former officer of leftist-group Karapatan in Quezon Province said she just wants to be with her family again. (Contributed photo)

Tired of making things happen for her so-called comrades and wanting to start a new life, a high-ranking officer of a communist terrorist group (CTG) based in Quezon province recently returned to government fold.

Genelyn Dichoso alias Gemma, the 52-year-old secretary general of leftist group Karapatan Quezon, surrendered to the Philippine Army 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) in Tanay, Rizal.

She was welcomed back in Barangay 10 Poblacion, Catanauan, Quezon on April 5, 2021.

"Dahil ilang taon po akong kumilos para sa kanila. Puro na lamang po problema. Puro na lang ang mahihirap (I worked for them [CTG] for several years. It was a life full of problems)," she told the military and National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade in an interview on April 15.

The NTF-ELCAC identified Karapatan as among the legal fronts established by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) to spread lies and deceive people into turning against the government.

"Nakokonsensya din po ako na napapahamak lamang po yung mga na-o-organize ko. Ang totoo po, Sir, hindi po ako makatulog. Hindi po ako makakain. Noon ko pa po sana yun ginawa kaya lang nabulag po ako sa katotohan. Ipinalaladlad nila na kapag nahawakan ka na ng sundalo, kahit sumuko ka ay ikukulong at ikukulong pa rin dahil pag lumaban daw po sa gobyerno (I feel guilty that those who I recruited were led to danger. I cannot sleep and eat. I wished that I surrendered earlier but I was blinded from the truth. They would tell us the military will put us in jail if we surrender, no matter our negotiations)," she continued.

Doesn’t want to kill

In her recorded confession to the authorities, Dichoso said she left the armed movement because she "does not want to kill".

"Ako naman po ay 52 na rin. Ilan na lamang po ang itatagal ng buhay ko sa ibabaw ng mundo para maiharap ko naman po sa aking mga anak at apo na ako na lang din po ang inaaasahan (I am already 52 years old. I only have a few years left in me. I should spend time with my family)," she added.

New life

Parlade, who facilitated the interview, said surrendering is the start of Dichoso’s new life.

"Ang gobyerno ay handa para tulungan sya upang makapiling ang kanyang pamilya. Bigyan natin sya ng pagkakataon na mamuhay ng tahimik. Habang iniwan na nya ang kilusan para tumulong sa atin (The government is prepared to lend a hand for her to be with her family. Let us give her a chance to live peacefully as she left the armed movement to help us)," he said.

Brig. Gen Rommel Tello, Acting Commander of the Army’s 2ID, said Karapatan Southern Tagalog should be wary that their members have realized the lies fed them.

"The surrender further solidifies the CPP-NPA's defeat. Not only are its ordinary fighters disillusioned. There are also indications of discontent among their top leaders. As such, the Philippine Army will never falter until all your deceptive tactics will be completely exposed," he said.

Tello said Dichoso will undergo social reintegration process, medical checkup, and debriefing while the Army will ensure her safety from the NPA retaliation.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137511

AFP brings aid to over 653K NCR families displaced by Covid-19

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): AFP brings aid to over 653K NCR families displaced by Covid-19 (By Priam Nepomuceno)

LENDING A HAND. A soldier gives a food pack to a homeless woman in this undated photo. The AFP, through its Civil Relations Service, has extended assistance to over 653,000 households through various humanitarian efforts since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana on Friday commended efforts of military units in helping communities severely impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“The AFP through its civil-military operators has been conducting various programs and campaigns since last year to help alleviate the plight of poor communities greatly affected by the pandemic,” he said in a statement.

Sobejana said in the National Capital Region (NCR) alone, a total of 653,933 households or 2,581,852 individuals were aided by different humanitarian efforts led by the 7th Civil Relations Group (7CRG) of the Civil Relations Service AFP.

Since March 2020, the unit carried out programs under the Kapwa Ko Sagot Ko Campaign --Community Owned Feeding Program, Tulong Uwi – Balik Probinsya, Pagkain sa Walang Bahay, Ayuda Mag Aaral at Paaralan, Katuwang Para sa Kapwa, and Sagip Kapwa.

Well-meaning individuals and groups have also tapped the AFP through the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations’ (OJ7) Civil Military Coordinating Center (CMCC), to provide and deliver goods and assistance to distressed Filipinos.

"Donations coursed through the CMCC last December 2020 reached a total of 251,443 boxes of assorted items. These were delivered to affected communities and frontline workers nationwide," Sobejana said.

The unit also partnered with the Department of Agriculture for the urban agricultural program, “Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat Kontra Covid-19 Program (ALPAS SA Covid-19)”, to support food production in urban areas during the health crisis.

The 7CRG has also been converting community dumpsites and abandoned areas to productive communal gardens to promote sustainability in every household.

The Raise to 1 Million Gardens in NCR campaign has since produced 780,000 starter kits and 460,000 household gardens; organized 20 community gardens throughout NCR, and recruited 76 volunteer individuals.

The AFP also provided transportation and manpower assistance to individuals exempted from quarantine and stranded health workers.

It also provided accommodations to locally stranded individuals at the Philippine Army and Philippine Air Force transient facilities.

Another significant achievement is the Information and Education Campaign in partnership with the Youth for Peace and Development Movement-Philippines.

The activity promotes the government’s Stay Home Campaign through social media engagements and other creative platforms.

“The AFP’s community-based efforts promote compassion, harmony, and bayanihan which continue to inspire and help motivate our people even in the most dark and challenging times. Through these projects, our soldiers served as vessels of blessings and catalysts to empower our communities to be more resilient and prepared in times of crisis,” Sobejana said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137734

Chinese ships in WPS 'blatant disregard' for reg'l peace: DFA

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): Chinese ships in WPS 'blatant disregard' for reg'l peace: DFA (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Photo courtesy of NTF-WPS

The continued swarming of Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea is a "blatant disregard" of China's commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Friday.

The Philippine government, through the DFA, protested anew the lingering presence of militia vessels and the deployment of Chinese Coast Guard within the vicinities of the Pag-asa Island, Bajo de Masinloc and Ayungin Shoal.

"The continued swarming and threatening presence of the Chinese vessels creates an atmosphere of instability and is a blatant disregard of the commitments by China to promote peace and stability in the region," the DFA said.

Some 160 Chinese fishing and Chinese maritime militia vessels were sighted in the territorial sea of high tide features in the Kalayaan Island Group, in the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and in and around the territorial waters of Bajo de Masinloc as of April 20.

Five Chinese Coast Guard vessels with bow numbers 3103, 3301, 3305, 5101, and 5203 were also seen deployed within the vicinities of the Pag-asa Island, Bajo de Masinloc and Ayungin Shoal, the DFA said.

In response, the DFA lodged two diplomatic protests on April 21, blasting Chinese activities as a "blatant" infringement upon Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction.

The new diplomatic notes were in addition to the daily protests being filed by the DFA against the continuing presence of Chinese vessels in Julian Felipe Reef.

"Through these protests, the DFA reminded China that Bajo de Masinloc, Pag-asa Islands, Panata, Parola, Kota Islands, Chigua and Burgos Reefs are integral parts of the Philippines over which it has sovereignty and jurisdiction," it said.

Meantime, it said the Philippines exercises sovereign rights and jurisdiction over Julian Felipe Reef and Ayungin Shoal.

The DFA has been demanding that China adhere to international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the final and binding Arbitral Award of the July 2016 South China Sea Arbitration.

It also reminded China of its commitments under the 2002 Asean-China Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, in particular the exercise of self-restraint pursuant to Paragraph 5, in order to maintain an atmosphere conducive to the ongoing negotiations for a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137761

84 NPA supporters surrender in Rizal

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): 84 NPA supporters surrender in Rizal (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

STARTING A NEW LIFE. At least 84 underground supporters of the communist movement pledge their allegiance to the government in a ceremony in Antipolo City, Rizal on Friday (April 23, 2021). PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas, said this is another victory of the government against the communist terrorist groups. (Photo courtesy of PNP-PIO)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday declared another victory against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) with the surrender of 84 underground supporters in Antipolo City, Rizal province.

PNP deputy chief for operations, Lt. Gen. Joselito Vera Cruz; 2nd Infantry Division commander, Maj. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Q. Bacarro; and Rizal Governor Casimiro Ynares, led the ceremony for the surrender and declaration of allegiance of the surrenderers who all came from Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) at the Antipolo Institute of Technology in Barangay San Jose.

During the rites, the former supporters of the CPP-NPA-NDF publicly burned the communist terrorists' flags as a sign of their disgust.

In his message read by Vera Cruz, PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas, thanked the former rebel supporters for their renewed trust in the government.

Meanwhile, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) director Maj. Gen. Albert Ignatius D. Ferro said the activity is an initiative of CIDG that aims at establishing the direct links of the armed operations of the CPP-NPA-NDF to their urban–based and legal front organizations.

This undertaking served as a proof of convergence of the government’s efforts or the impact of its approach combined with local peace initiatives evidenced by the nationwide influx of surrenderers as well as a message of hope that there is life outside the communist terrorists for the government will always welcome with open arms those returnees to the folds of the law.

The activity ended with a Serbisyo Caravan and Mobile Kitchen as part of the “Victory Day Activities”.

This joint effort of the PNP and AFP in achieving peace and establishing community partnership for security and development made this event possible, making this day a victorious one for the nation and the government.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137797

Soldiers seize NPA extortion letters in southern Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 22, 2021): Soldiers seize NPA extortion letters in southern Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

REDS’ LETTERS. Copies of two separate extortion letters of the New People’s Army in Negros Island seized by troops of the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion (IB), following an encounter with communist-terrorists in Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental on April 17, 2021. The letter from Apolinario Gatmaitan Command contains a threat on recipients if they fail to comply with their “tax obligations” and also a reminder “not to leak” the matter to state agents. (Images courtesy of 15th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

Copies of extortion letters of the New People’s Army (NPA) to business establishments were among the items seized by troops of the Philippine Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion (15IB), following a clash with communist-terrorists in Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental on April 17.

A report of the 15IB on Thursday said recovered were 44 copies, including 30 whose content is written in English, with the letterhead of the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command based in Negros Island signed by Armando Magbanua of the Regional Taxation Group.

The letter contains a threat of sanction to recipients if they fail to comply with their “tax obligations” and also a reminder “not to leak” the matter to state agents.

Some 14 other letters in Hiligaynon, with different content but still asking for support, had the signature of Andrea Guerrero of the Armando Sumayang Jr. Command.

“The recovered extortion letters clearly show the criminal thinking and terroristic goal of the communist-terrorist groups,” Lt. Col Erwin Cariño, commander of 15IB based in Barangay Tiling, Cauayan, said in a statement.

He said apparently, the NPA relies on extortion under the guise of “mandatory and coercive taxation” imposed on communities and businesses to finance their activities.

“These terrorist groups will continue to sow fear if we allow them to circumvent and destroy the peaceful system established in our society. Insurgency is a menace. I urge everyone to take courage and never permit this terroristic scheme to conquer us,” Cariño added.

During the said encounter in the southern Negros town’s Purok Yuring, Sitio Dash 7 in Barangay Bulwangan, two NPA rebels were killed, but none of their families claimed the bodies.

The cadavers were buried by the municipal government in the afternoon of April 20.

Photographs showed that the extortion letters of the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command contain the names of the addressees, but the 15IB covered the details as well as the contact number of Magbanua himself.

According to the letter, the so-called People’s Democratic Government, which consists of the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed unit, the NPA, “looks after the social needs of the people” and “uses, for the benefit of the people, whatever resources it can raise”.

Based on the tone of the letter, it is a follow-up of the communication previously sent, which did not get a response from the recipient.

“An invitation to discuss your business and corresponding tax obligations was sent to you earlier. However, you have not responded to this. We would like to impress on you the seriousness of our invitation,” Magbanua said.

He gave the recipient “one month to respond” otherwise, the NPA will “implement sanctions consequent to your failure to comply”.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137644

Army troops recover arms cache in Albay town

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 22, 2021): Army troops recover arms cache in Albay town (By Connie Calipay)

RECOVERED. Some of the items belonging to the New People's Army that were found and recovered by government troops in the hinterlands of Barangay San Antonio, Oas, Albay on Wednesday (April 21, 2021). Lt. Col. Benjamin Tapnio, commanding officer of 49IB, said with the discovery and capture of the materials along with some firearms, violence and recruitment schemes of the communist terrorist group will be prevented. (Photo courtesy of 9ID)

Soldiers in Bicol recovered an arms cache belonging to the communist terrorist group (CTG) in the hinterlands of Barangay San Antonio, Oas, Albay on Wednesday.

Capt. John Paul Belleza, 9th Infantry Division (9ID) spokesperson, in a statement on Thursday said included in the cache are a 5.56 caliber Bushmaster rifle, 5.56 caliber Colt AR-15 rifle, eight magazines, 187 rounds of ammunition, bandolier, and terrorist propaganda materials.

“Prior to this, elements of the 9th Infantry Division's 49th Infantry Battalion (49IB) were conducting security operations after some concerned citizens reported about the suspicious things left by the CTG members in Sitio Tinahuban when they chanced upon the said war materials,” he said.

Lt. Col. Benjamin Tapnio, commanding officer of 49IB, said with the discovery and capture of the said firearms and propaganda materials, violence and recruitment schemes of the CTG will be prevented.

"Nagpapasalamat kami sa mga residenteng tumulong at nakipag-ugnayan sa atin. Kung hindi natin ito nakuha, gagamitin na naman ito ng mga komunistang terorista laban sa tropa ng gobyerno at sa mga inosenteng sibilyan (We are thankful for the residents who helped and coordinated with us. If we we’re not able to get it, the communist group will use it again on our government troops and innocent civilian),” Tapnio said.

Col. Jaime Abawag Jr., commander of the 902nd Infantry Brigade, directed the troops to continue scouring the area as the presence of the arms cache is an indication that the New People's Army (NPA) is up to something.

"The CTG doesn't go to an area without an ill motive. Keeping their firearms in the said place means that they are just around the corner, lying in wait to launch their lawless acts. Pero hindi natin hahayaan mangyari ‘yan. Sa patuloy na pakikipagtulungan ng mga Bicolano, hindi mangyayari ‘yan (But we will not allow it to happen, with the continuous cooperation of BIcolanos, it will not happen),” Abawag said.

The NPA, along with the Communist Party of the Philippines, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137620

2 NPA rebels killed, another captured in Zambo Sur clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 22, 2021): 2 NPA rebels killed, another captured in Zambo Sur clash (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr. and Leah Agonoy)

RECOVERED. Government troops recover war materiel following a clash with rebels in Barangay Guinlin, Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur on Thursday (April 22, 2021). Two communist New People's Army (NPA) terrorists died while another was captured in the firefight that ensued while the troops were about to serve warrants of arrest against six NPA members. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion)

Two communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists were killed while another was wounded and captured following a clash with government forces in Zamboanga del Sur, military officials announced Thursday.

Two civilians, who were hit by stray bullets, were hospitalized in Pagadian City, the capital of Zamboanga del Sur.

Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the clash took place around 5 a.m. Thursday in Barangay Guinlin, Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur.

Nicolas said the firefight ensued as the NPA rebels opened fire, prompting the joint military and police operatives to retaliate, while they were about to serve warrants of arrest against six rebels belonging to the Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU) of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC).

The firefight resulted in the death of Felimon Suazo who carries the aliases Jonathan Cruz and Ka Nathan, and James Cordero, whose aliases are Ka James and Ka Tito.

Suazo is an executive committee (Execom) member of the WMRPC, a political instructor and finance officer, as well as a member of the Squad 1 of the MRGU. Cordero is a member of MRGU’s Squad 1.

Nicolas said Suazo has standing warrants of arrest for violation of Republic Act 11479 otherwise known as The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, and for the crimes of attempted murder and arson.

Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, 53rd Infantry Battalion commander, said captured during the firefight was Elvie Doctor, who carries the aliases of Ka Bangkat and Ka Nanang, a member of the WMRPC’s Execom and a political instructor of MRGU.

Doctor, who also served as a propagandist of the WMRPC, has standing warrants of arrest for the crimes of murder and direct assault.

The troops recovered from the clash site several weapons including an M16 Armalite rifle attached with M-203 grenade launcher, a 9-mm pistol, two .45 caliber pistols, and ammunition for 40-mm grenade launcher as well as propaganda materials.

Herrera, without identifying the two injured civilians, a male and a female, said they are in stable condition at a hospital in Pagadian City.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, 1st Infantry Division commander, said troops were deployed to track down the other fleeing members of the NPA.

“Our message to the remnants of WMRPC remains the same, return to the folds of law and have a chance to be with your families, or face the full force of the law,” he said.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), commended the troops for their accomplishment.

“I also urge everyone to continuously help and support your armed forces in the fight against terrorism here in Mindanao,” he said.

The 1st Infantry Division has neutralized a total of 51 communist NPA terrorists since January. Four of them were killed, 42 surrendered and five were apprehended.

The Philippine government has officially designated the NPA as a terrorist group, along with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

The United States and the European Union also named the CPP–NPA as “foreign terrorist organizations” in 2002 and 2005, respectively.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137658

Ranking ‘NPA couple’ yields in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 22, 2021): Ranking ‘NPA couple’ yields in Agusan Norte (By Alexander Lopez)

A couple who held ranking positions with the communist New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the government in Agusan del Norte, the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) said on Thursday.

In a statement, PRO-13 director, Brig. Gen. Romeo M. Caragamat Jr., identified the couple as alias Kiro, 32, and alias Kiara, 29, both of Jabonga town, Agusan del Norte.

“Kiro is the vice commanding officer of Regional Sentro de Grabidad (RSDG) under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) of the NPA,” Caramat said.

Kiara also served as a medic of the same guerilla unit, he added.

The couple, who surrendered to Tubay Municipal Police Station (TMPS) on April 20, also handed over two M-14 rifles and ammunition.

“Kiro and Kiara surrendered to unite with their families and live a normal life which might be impossible if they remain in the movement,” Caramat said.

The couple will be enrolled in the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), the police official said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137667

Army launches preemptive strikes anew vs. BIFF

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): Army launches preemptive strikes anew vs. BIFF (By Edwin Fernandez)

Map of the SPMS box in Maguindanao. (Map courtesy of 6ID)

The military again launched preemptive artillery attacks to prevent the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters from harassing communities after they were sighted in the so-called “SPMS-box” in the province on Friday morning.

The SPMS-box is a military term referring to the contiguous towns of Shariff Aguak, Pagatin (Datu Saudi Ampatuan town), Mamasapano, and Shariff Saydona, where the BIFF operates.

Lt. Col. John Paul Baldomar, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the Army-led Joint Task Force Central in Central Mindanao conducted the “surgical” pre-emptive offensive.

“This is to prevent a similar incident last month In Barangay Kitango in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town where a big BIFF group had converged and launched attacks against non-combatants,” he said.

Local officials and residents within the SPMS box have alerted the military about the ongoing consolidation of BIFF combatants in the area, he added.

“The locals wanted peaceful observance of their fasting month of Ramadan, so they reported to us about the presence of armed men,” he added.

Baldomar said local officials were informed of the artillery strikes and combat operations.

“In fact, we made sure the artillery will land not in civilian areas,” he said.

On March 18, skirmishes erupted in Barangay Kitango after some 30 BIFF gunmen tried but failed to overrun a new Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) outpost in the village.

JPST is a composite peacekeeping unit of the Philippine Army, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the Philippine National Police.

Akas Mustapha of Datu Saudi Ampatuan town said the military artillery fire began at about 3 a.m. with cannon blasts reverberating from the secluded areas of the adjoining towns.

“It scared us, but we know the military is in control,” Mustapha said in the vernacular.

Baldomar said military clearing operations are ongoing and could not yet determine whether the surgical offensive has resulted in casualties on the enemy side.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137753

PNP, Army send teams to CTG-affected villages in Iloilo City

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): PNP, Army send teams to CTG-affected villages in Iloilo City (By Perla Lena)

CSP DEPLOYMENT. Thirty personnel from the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP) were deployed to seven barangays of Iloilo City on Friday (April 23, 2021). Lt Col Rommil R. Abayon, commanding officer of the 3rd Civil Military Operation Battalion, said that at the end of three months, they wanted to clear these barangays from the presence of communist terrorist group-front organizations. (Photo courtesy of Jerry P. Treñas FB page)

ILOILO CITY – Community Support Program (CSP) teams were deployed on Friday to seven villages here affected by the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) to make them aware of the services provided by the government.

Thirty personnel from the Philippine Army (PA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) will handle the CSPs for three months in Barangays West Timawa, North Fundidor, and South Fundidor in Molo District; Nava-is, Mandurriao; Sinikway, Lapuz; Baldoza, La Paz; and Hechanova in Jaro District.

Col. Uldarico Garbanzos, director of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), said in an interview the villages are considered "affected" because of the presence of the legal fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines –New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) who organized and mobilized people in the area through their deceptive propaganda against the government.

“We will be engaging people and the legal fronts,” he said.

Lt. Col. Rommil R. Abayon, commanding officer of the 3rd Civil Military Operation Battalion (3CMO Bn) of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), in a separate interview, said the "white area" CSP operation is being conducted in response to the Whole-of-Nation Approach to end local insurgency.

"The white area operation is carried out in urban areas where CTGs are doing deceptive propaganda activities through their front organizations," he said.

The white area CSP operation has six phases to include identifying and addressing issues and concerns, reorganizing/reorienting, facilitating the delivery of basic services, and implementation of programs of concerned government agencies and local government unit, education and awareness, mobilization, and operations activities and maintenance.

Abayon said while these barangays are situated in the urban area yet the indigent residents are being encouraged to join CTG-legal front organizations.

“One objective is to clear barangays from the presence of leftist organizations that are engaged in deceptive activities and let the residents become aware that these organizations will not bring them good,” he said.

During the three months duration of the program, he added that they hoped to identify and address their problems through the convergence of government services.

Before their deployment to seven barangays, the CSP was also deployed in three barangays in Jaro District.

Abayon added that they only have specific barangays out of the city's 180 identified for the program.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137788

Troops recover improvised bombs, foil ASG bomb plot

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): Troops recover improvised bombs, foil ASG bomb plot (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Barangay Cambug, Al-Barka, Basilan.

Government troops thwarted an attempt by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits to detonate bombs in the province of Basilan, military officials said Friday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said this came after composite troops recovered four improvised explosive devices (IEDs) while on a special operation in Barangay Cambug, Al-Barka, Basilan at about 10 a.m. on Thursday.

“This (recovery) is attributed to our intensified offensives and intelligence monitoring, and the strengthened collaboration with our partner agencies and stakeholders,” Vinluan said.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, 101st Infantry Brigade commander, said the recovered items included bomb-making materials, such as ammonium nitrate fuel oil.

Gobway said the IEDs were assembled by followers of slain Basilan-based ASG leader Furuji Indama.

The recovered IEDs were transported to Barangay Calugusan, Lamitan City and placed under the custody of the 39th Explosive Ordnance Demolition Team for proper disposition.

Meanwhile, Vinluan urged Basilan residents to remain vigilant and “immediately report any suspicious person or things in your locality.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137771

Bayan Muna organizer linked to ambush of soldiers arrested

 From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 23, 2021): Bayan Muna organizer linked to ambush of soldiers arrested (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

An organizer of the Bayan Muna party-list group, who was linked to the ambush-slay of three Army soldiers last year, was apprehended by the police and military in Sitio Mambalayong, Brgy. Mahalang, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental Wednesday.

Nabbed by virtue of arrest warrants issued by Himamaylan Regional Trial Court Branch 56 Judge Walter Zorilla for three counts of homicide was Mario Palermo, 62, a widower, who was also linked by authorities to the New People’s Army.

Palermo was alleged by the police to have been involved in the ambush and killing of 2nd Lieutenant Ralf Amante Abibico, Private First Class Carl Venice Bustamante, and Corporal Joel Nobleza, all members of the 94th Infantry Battalion, in Sitio Tugas, Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City, on April 19, 2020.

Lt. Col. Joem Malong, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office 6, said that Zorilla recommended bail of P120,000 for each count for the temporary liberty of the suspect.

Palermo was also alleged to be a member of the Sentro de Grabidad Platoon, Central Negros Front 2, Malong said. Lt. Col. Romeo Vargas, Himamaylan City police chief, said that Palermo is an organizer of the Bayan Muna partylist group.

https://news.visayandailystar.com/bayan-muna-organizer-linked-to-ambush-of-soldiers-arrested/

NPA condemned for killing cop in Surigao Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): NPA condemned for killing cop in Surigao Norte (By Alexander Lopez)

The Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) condemned Friday the communist New People’s Army (NPA) for the killing of a police personnel in Bacuag town on April 20.

“We condemn this inhumane act of the NPA rebels, they can run, but they can’t hide from the law,” SDNPPO director, Col. Noel C. Espinosa, said in a statement.

Patrolman Bryan Calo Gregorio, assigned at the 2nd Surigao del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company, was shot dead by NPA rebels in Barangay Poblacion, Bacuag town.

“The victim was having his personal necessity at the back portion of the camp when a burst of gunfire was heard by the personnel. Upon verification, the victim was found lying on the ground with gunshot wounds on his stomach,” Espinosa said.

He said the assailants are members of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) 16 C2 of Guerrilla Front (GF) 16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) of the NPA.

The group is led by a certain Alberto Castañeda, Espinosa said.

After killing the cop, the NPA rebels withdrew towards the area of Barangay Sto. Rosario, also in Bacuag, a police report said.

Investigators also recovered from the position area of the NPA two jacket fragments and six fired cartridge cases.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family of Pat. Gregorio. Rest assured that they will be given all available assistance from the government if only to ease their suffering over this tragic loss,” Espinosa said.

He said the Bacuag municipal police is now preparing criminal complaints against NPA leader Alberto Castañeda and his group.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137764

Health workers’ group seeks CHR intervention over NTF-ELCAC exec’s alleged red-tagging

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 23, 2021): Health workers’ group seeks CHR intervention over NTF-ELCAC exec’s alleged red-tagging (By: Gabriel Pabico Lalu)

REUTERS

A group of healthcare workers filed a complaint before the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), against anofficial of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), for alleged red-tagging.

The Alliance of Health Workers filed a complaint against NTF-ELCAC spokesperson and Presidential Communications Operations Office Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy, who allegedly linked the health workers to the communist armed movement.

“We are saddened by this red-tagging issue, that in the midst of pandemic wherein we risk our lives and health in fighting the deadly virus, some of our fellow health workers have already died just to combat the COVID-19 and yet we are being maliciously attacked and accused of being terrorists by Ms. Badoy and the entire NTF-ELCAC,” AHW secretary general Benjamin Santos said.

AHW National Treasurer Myleen Tiangco urged Badoy — a medicine graduate herself — to instead help combat COVID-19 amid a surge in the number of infectioms.

“We call on the attention of Usec Badoy as a medical doctor, stop red-tagging us your fellow health workers. Instead, join us in battling the COVID-19 to speed up its suppression,” Tiangco said.

“Your malicious statement against our organization and your fellow health workers will cause our lives in danger and peril. We are just happily and faithfully serving the people here and no malicious intention of terrorizing our government,” Tiangco added.

Last April 10, AHW also urged the Civil Service Commission and the Office of the Ombudsman to probe Badoy for red-tagging health workers.

The group was referring to an April 7 column by Badoy for the Philippine News Agency, wherein she said that the AHW is among the organizations or supposed legal fronts created by the Communist Party of the Philippines, thereby having links to the New People’s Army and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP).

AHW urged CHR to issue a statement of support while clearing the names of the organizations tagged by Badoy as communist fronts.

According to the group, it is a legitimate organization, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and consulted by various government agencies like the Department of Health.

“We vehemently deny these allegations against us by Usec. Badoy and the NTF-ELCAC […] We cannot allow Usec. Badoy to malign, insult and demean our leaders and our organization,” AHW national president Robert Mendoza said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1423117/health-workers-seek-chr-intervention-over-ntf-elcac-execs-alleged-red-tagging-spree

Ghostrider gunship live-fire drills to cap off extended Balikatan exercise in the Philippines

From the Stars & Stripes (Apr 22, 2021): Ghostrider gunship live-fire drills to cap off extended Balikatan exercise in the Philippines

U.S. and Philippine airmen prepare for close air support training at Crow Valley Military Reservation, Philippines, during the annual Balikatan exercise, April 16, 2021. KAYLEA BERRY/U.S. AIR FORCE

An Air Force Special Operations AC-130J Ghostrider gunship is set to end this month’s Balikatan drills in the Philippines with a bang.

In a first, the gunship will participate in close air support training at Crow Valley Military Reservation, a live-fire range north of Clark Air Base on the island of Luzon, Maj. Ken Kunze, a spokesman for the Okinawa-based 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, said in an email Thursday.

The training will take place during a five-day window starting Saturday, he said.

It will involve a gunship from the 73rd Special Operations Squadron out of Hurlburt Field, Fla., airmen from the 353rd Special Operations Group from Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, and Philippine joint terminal attack controllers from 710th Special Operations Wing, Kunze said.

The Special Operations airmen are among 225 U.S. service members who have been training with 736 Philippine troops during the annual Balikatan exercise, which kicked off April 12.

The airmen and their Philippine counterparts have been at Crow Valley practicing procedures to call for close air support but will advance to live-fire training with the gunship, Kunze said.



An Air Force Special Operations AC-130J Ghostrider gunship, like the one seen here, will participate in close air support training during the annual Balikatan exercise underway in the Philippines.
ANNELIESE KAISER/US AIR FORCE

Air power, coordinated by ground observers, has been important for troops battling insurgents in Iraq and Afghanistan.

It was a key to dislodging Islamic extremists from the southern Philippine city of Marawi in 2017 and it would also likely be needed in the sort of high-end conflict with a conventional army that the U.S. military has turned its focus to in recent years.

Balikatan officially wraps up Friday but the live-fire close air support training was delayed due to a mechanical issue, Kunze said.

AC-130 gunships — heavily armed versions of the C-130 Hercules tactical airlifter - first saw combat during the Vietnam War and have participated in numerous conflicts and covert operations since.

The $115 million Ghostrider is the latest version of the gunship and replaced the AC-130U, known as “Spooky.” Air Force officials have called it “the ultimate battle plane” due to its arsenal that includes a 105 mm howitzer, 30 mm autocannon, missiles and laser-guided bombs.

One Marine in the Philippines for Balikatan, Col. Bryan Horvath, 48, of Mission Viejo, Calif., served as chief of staff during a drill that honed skills troops need to coordinate a military response with their Philippine counterparts in an emergency,

Forty-nine personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines, working out of Clark Air Base, Hawaii, California and Japan, cooperated with 50 Philippines troops during the training, he said.

The staff exercise was mostly about “building relationships,” said Horvath, who wouldn’t comment on exactly what scenario the training involved.

The coronavirus pandemic, which forced the cancellation of last year’s event, means the training is scaled back significantly from what went on in 2019, when the Navy sent the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp and F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters to the Philippines for the first time.

U.S. personnel quarantined for two weeks after arriving in the Philippines and have had their liberty restricted, Kunze said.

“They are not able to go out and see a lot of the sights this year,” he said.

robson.seth@stripes.com
Twitter: @SethRobson1

https://www.stripes.com/news/pacific/ghostrider-gunship-live-fire-drills-to-cap-off-extended-balikatan-exercise-in-the-philippines-1.670847

US, Philippines to continue talks on fixing VFA terms —Lorenzana

From GMA News Online (Apr 23, 2021): US, Philippines to continue talks on fixing VFA terms —Lorenzana (By JOVILAND RITA)

The United States and the Philippines will continue to talk abut tweaking the terms in the Visiting Forces Agreement, whose abrogation has been suspended for six months by President Rodrigo Duterte, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Friday.

On the sidelines of the closing ceremony of the 36th Balikatan Exercise, Lorenzana said he cannot predict President Duterte's decision on the VFA's fate after the suspension of the military pact's termination ends in August.

“Nevertheless the US and the Philippine militaries will continue talks on how we can improve the terms of the Visiting Forces Agreement,” he said.

Chargé d'Affaires John Law of the US Embassy in Manila expressed optimism on the matter citing the importance of the agreement for the military partnership of the two countries.

“I would not want to get ahead of the two sides as they are talking. I’m always optimistic that we are going to see positive results from that,” Law said.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/784893/us-philippines-to-continue-talks-on-fixing-vfa-terms-lorenzana/story/

Working together is Balikatan's most important lesson: Lorenzana

 From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23, 2021): Working together is Balikatan's most important lesson: Lorenzana (By Priam Nepomuceno)

STANDING TOGETHER. Philippine and US military and government officials stand shoulder-to-shoulder at the closing ceremony of the 2021 Balikatan exercises in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Friday (April 23, 2021). Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said learning to work together in times of disaster and crisis is the most significant lesson American and Filipino troops can learn from the annual drills. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

Learning to work together in difficult times is the most significant lesson American and Filipino troops can learn from the annual Balikatan exercise, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Friday.

"What is the most significant lesson we get from these exercises is that we learned to work and cooperate with our friends, specifically military-to-military because whenever there is a disaster or any crisis it is the military who is always called upon to address them, typhoon, earthquake whatever you call it and now because the Americans have the same disaster and calamities in their own area so exchange, (we) exchange knowledge and expertise," Lorenzana said in an interview shortly after the closing ceremony of this year's Balikatan exercises at Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters (AFP) at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Lorenzana also stressed that the Balikatan has become one of the premier military exercises in the region.

The knowledge gained, however, has been mainly used for humanitarian assistance and disaster response, which Lorenzana said is indicative of how the Philippines intends to contribute to preserving international order.

"We have been doing this for the past 36 years, these military exercises. But we never had, even once, used our acquired knowledge to fight another country. But for disaster and humanitarian purposes, we have done this many, many times," he added.

Lorenzana's views were shared by US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law who said that regardless of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"I agree with the Secretary (Lorenzana) and I would also point out that, I think it's extraordinarily significant that despite all of the immense disruptions over the past year, despite the extraordinary challenges that the pandemic poses to having people come together and work together, we did it, they did it, they did it extraordinarily well," he added in the same interview.

The 36th iteration of the Balikatan Exercise kicked off on April 12.

"And I think the lesson to draw from that is regardless of the difficulty of the crisis, US and Filipinos (troops) are going to work extremely well together," Law said.

He added that every American soldier he had talked with is always happy to come to the Philippines and work with their counterparts.

"I have never heard anyone and anything except highest, most positive possible experience when they are able to train together with their Filipino counterparts so we are always extraordinarily happy at that opportunity and I think the success of this year's Balikatan is simply one more indication, one more example of that," Law said.

Due to the global health crisis Covid-19, Balikatan 2021 was scaled down both in numbers of events and participants.

Around 225 US military personnel and 415 AFP personnel participated; all of whom strictly followed health and safety protocols.

“The successful conduct of this year’s Balikatan Exercise 36-2021 has definitely brought us a step closer towards our goal of capacitating our forces, and as such, will consequently contribute to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region,” AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said in a statement.

Meanwhile, AFP spokesperson and Balikatan exercise director Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said American and Filipino troops were able to achieve their objectives which is to train together on defense and security efforts, leveraging on the capability, experience, and strength of both militaries’ long-standing friendship. Also, Law said Balikatan showcases the strength and resolve of the Philippine-US alliance.

“These exercises demonstrate and improve our ability to jointly respond to crises. But training is never over. We will continue to advance our military-to-military partnership in pursuit of our shared commitment to mutual defense in a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he added in the same statement.

Major Balikatan 2021 events were held in Colonel Ernesto Ravina Airbase in Tarlac, where combined Air Force and Special Operations forces conducted close air support training, increasing interoperability across the joint forces.

AFP Northern Luzon Command Battle Staff and US Indo-Pacific Command representatives conducted a bilateral staff exercise in Clark, Pampanga.

Philippine and US Special Operations forces also conducted a Bilateral Staff Academic Seminar in Taguig City.

Academic discussions and subject matter expert exchanges were held virtually to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.

The Philippine Air Force and US Pacific Air Forces conducted a virtual Global Health Engagement and other virtual training on various air operations and capabilities.

The year's exercises also included Humanitarian and Civic Assistance activities, which began on March 26, prior to the opening of the exercises. Philippine and US service members completed the construction of two classrooms and a daycare center in Plaridel, a classroom in Atimonan, and a health clinic in Mauban, all in Quezon.

Lorenzana, on the other hand, recognized the continuous commitment to the longstanding alliance of the Philippines and the U S Government.

“Allow me to convey my gratitude to the US Government, represented here by Mr. John Law, for its unwavering support to this annual exercise. I am likewise grateful for your constant and continued assurance of the ironclad commitment to our Mutual Defense Treaty,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1137792

AFP chief: Joint drill with US troops helps build peace in region

From Rappler (Apr 23, 2021): AFP chief: Joint drill with US troops helps build peace in region (By JAIRO BOLLEDO)

Filipino and American soldiers end their two-week military exercises in the Philippines

Philippine and United States military troops ended their two-week joint exercises on Friday, April 23, that highlighted what an American diplomat described as the "strength and resolve" of the military alliance.

“Balikatan showcases the strength and resolve of the Philippine-US alliance,” US embassy chargé d’affaires John Law said during the closing ceremony of the 36th Balikatan Exercise in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Armed Forces chief of staff General Cirilito Sobejana agreed, saying: “The successful conduct of this year’s Balikatan Exercise 36-2021 has definitely brought us a step closer towards our goal of capacitating our forces, and as such, will consequently contribute to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region."

This year's exercises happened against the backdrop of China's incursions into the West Philippine Sea and amid a pandemic.

They are meant to improve the capability of both militaries to respond to crises. "But training is never over," Law said. "We will continue to advance our military-to-military partnership in pursuit of our shared commitment to mutual defense in a free and open Indo-Pacific."

This is the fourth time the exercises were held since President Rodrigo Duterte became commander-in-chief in 2016. Last year's was canceled due to the pandemic.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana gave assurances that the Philippines will keep its alliance with the superpower through the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT).

“I am likewise grateful for your constant and continued assurance of the ironclad commitment to our Mutual Defense Treaty,” said Lorenzana.

The 2021 exercises were conducted under strict health protocols and joined by 225 American soldiers and 415 from the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The drill included a bilateral staff exercise, close air support training, maritime security training, and humanitarian and civic assistance activities.

In 2020, Duterte ordered the cancellation of the PH-US Visiting Forces Agreement after his ally was denied a US Visa over issues of human rights violation. But the government changed its mind later and the pact, which allows US military and civilian personnel temporary stay here, remains in effect.

Tension at sea

Amid the tension in the West Philippine Sea, the United States has been showing its support to the Philippines.

On April 12, the United States backed the Philippines as it voiced concern over the presence of over 220 ships believed to be manned by Chinese maritime militia spotted near a reef in the West Philippine Sea.

The White House even called the Philippine government to discuss matters in the disputed waters. During the call, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan reiterated to his Philippine counterpart, Hermogenes Esperon Jr, that the two countries' Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) – which commits both sides to defend one another in case of an attack – covered the West Philippine Sea. – With reports from Sofia Tomacruz/ Rappler.com

https://www.rappler.com/nation/philippines-united-states-balikatan-helps-build-regional-peace

PH, US forces conclude 36th Balikatan exercise

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 23, 2021): PH, US forces conclude 36th Balikatan exercise (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

Photo courtesy of SN1 Donald Viluan (PN/PAOAFP)

PASIG CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- Service members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and United States Armed Forces concluded the 36th iteration of Balikatan Exercise on today with a simple ceremony held at the General Headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

“The successful conduct of this year’s Balikatan Exercise 36-2021 has definitely brought us a step closer towards our goal of capacitating our forces, and as such, will consequently contribute to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region,” said AFP Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana.

The Chief of Staff was joined by the Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana; U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d'Affaires John Law; Major General Edgard Arevalo, the Commander of the AFP Education Training and Doctrine Command and this year’s Exercise Director; Brigadier General Fernando Reyeg, Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Training and Education and Assistant Exercise Director of BK36-2021; and Colonel Aaron Brunk of the U.S. III Marine Expeditionary Force, Officer in Charge for Exercise Support Group.

“Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, both Filipino and American forces were able to achieve the objectives of this year’s Balikatan Exercise – to train together on defense and security efforts, leveraging on the capability, experience, and strength of both militaries’ longstanding friendship,” Major General Arevalo said.

Due to the global health crisis, the magnitude of Balikatan 2021 was scaled down both in numbers of events and participants. Approximately 225 U.S. military personnel and 415 AFP personnel participated; all of whom strictly followed health and safety protocols.

“Balikatan showcases the strength and resolve of the Philippine-U.S. alliance,” said U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law. “These exercises demonstrate and improve our ability to jointly respond to crises. But training is never over. We will continue to advance our military-to-military partnership in pursuit of our shared commitment to mutual defense in a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

Major Balikatan 2021 events were held in Colonel Ernesto Ravina Airbase in Tarlac, where combined Air Force and Special Operations forces conducted close air support training, increasing interoperability across the joint forces.

AFP Northern Luzon Command Battle Staff and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command representatives conducted a bilateral staff exercise in Clark, Pampanga, while Philippine and U.S. Special Operations forces conducted a Bilateral Staff Academic Seminar in Taguig City.

Academic discussions and subject matter expert exchanges were held virtually to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The Philippine Air Force and U.S. Pacific Air Forces conducted a virtual Global Health Engagement and other virtual training on various air operations and capabilities.

The Exercise also included Humanitarian and Civic Assistance activities, which began on March 26, prior to the opening of the exercises. Philippine and U.S. service members completed the constructions of two classrooms and a daycare center in Plaridel, a classroom in Atimonan, and a health clinic in Mauban, all of Quezon Province.

“The 36th Balikatan Exercise brought together AFP and U.S. Armed Forces amidst the challenge of a never-before-experienced health emergency. Our participants greatly benefitted from trainings, exchange of knowledge, and cooperative activities aimed at better enhancing our capabilities,” Major General Arevalo said.

Secretary Lorenzana on the other hand recognized the continuous commitment to the longstanding alliance of the Philippines and the U. S. Government.

“Allow me to convey my gratitude to the U.S. Government, represented here by Mr. John Law, for its unwavering support to this annual exercise. I am likewise grateful for your constant and continued assurance of the ironclad commitment to our Mutual Defense Treaty,” said the Defense Secretary.

Balikatan, which means “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Filipino, embodies the alliance and friendship between the Philippines and United States. The exercise officially opened on April 12 and was conducted in Northern and Southern Luzon for two weeks. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1073233

Lesson from Balikatan 2021: Lorenzana welcomes teamwork between US, PH troops

Posted to Politiko (Apr 23, 2021): Lesson from Balikatan 2021: Lorenzana welcomes teamwork between US, PH troops

Learning to work together in difficult times is the most significant lesson American and Filipino troops can learn from the annual Balikatan exercise, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Friday.

Learning to work together in difficult times is the most significant lesson American and Filipino troops can learn from the annual Balikatan exercise, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Friday.

“What is the most significant lesson we get from these exercises is that we learned to work and cooperate with our friends, specifically military-to-military because whenever there is a disaster or any crisis it is the military who is always called upon to address them, typhoon, earthquake whatever you call it and now because the Americans have the same disaster and calamities in their own area so exchange, (we) exchange knowledge and expertise,” Lorenzana said in an interview shortly after the closing ceremony of this year’s Balikatan exercises at Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters (AFP) at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Lorenzana also stressed that the Balikatan has become one of the premier military exercises in the region.

The knowledge gained, however, has been mainly used for humanitarian assistance and disaster response, which Lorenzana said is indicative of how the Philippines intends to contribute to preserving international order.

“We have been doing this for the past 36 years, these military exercises. But we never had, even once, used our acquired knowledge to fight another country. But for disaster and humanitarian purposes, we have done this many, many times,” he added.

Lorenzana’s views were shared by US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law who said that regardless of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“I agree with the Secretary (Lorenzana) and I would also point out that, I think it’s extraordinarily significant that despite all of the immense disruptions over the past year, despite the extraordinary challenges that the pandemic poses to having people come together and work together, we did it, they did it, they did it extraordinarily well,” he added in the same interview.

The 36th iteration of the Balikatan Exercise kicked off on April 12.

“And I think the lesson to draw from that is regardless of the difficulty of the crisis, US and Filipinos (troops) are going to work extremely well together,” Law said.

He added that every American soldier he had talked with is always happy to come to the Philippines and work with their counterparts.

“I have never heard anyone and anything except highest, most positive possible experience when they are able to train together with their Filipino counterparts so we are always extraordinarily happy at that opportunity and I think the success of this year’s Balikatan is simply one more indication, one more example of that,” Law said.

Due to the global health crisis Covid-19, Balikatan 2021 was scaled down both in numbers of events and participants.

Around 225 US military personnel and 415 AFP personnel participated; all of whom strictly followed health and safety protocols.

“The successful conduct of this year’s Balikatan Exercise 36-2021 has definitely brought us a step closer towards our goal of capacitating our forces, and as such, will consequently contribute to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region,” AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said in a statement.

Meanwhile, AFP spokesperson and Balikatan exercise director Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said American and Filipino troops were able to achieve their objectives which is to train together on defense and security efforts, leveraging on the capability, experience, and strength of both militaries’ long-standing friendship. Also, Law said Balikatan showcases the strength and resolve of the Philippine-US alliance.

“These exercises demonstrate and improve our ability to jointly respond to crises. But training is never over. We will continue to advance our military-to-military partnership in pursuit of our shared commitment to mutual defense in a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he added in the same statement.

Major Balikatan 2021 events were held in Colonel Ernesto Ravina Airbase in Tarlac, where combined Air Force and Special Operations forces conducted close air support training, increasing interoperability across the joint forces.

AFP Northern Luzon Command Battle Staff and US Indo-Pacific Command representatives conducted a bilateral staff exercise in Clark, Pampanga.

Philippine and US Special Operations forces also conducted a Bilateral Staff Academic Seminar in Taguig City.

Academic discussions and subject matter expert exchanges were held virtually to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.

The Philippine Air Force and US Pacific Air Forces conducted a virtual Global Health Engagement and other virtual training on various air operations and capabilities.

The year’s exercises also included Humanitarian and Civic Assistance activities, which began on March 26, prior to the opening of the exercises. Philippine and US service members completed the construction of two classrooms and a daycare center in Plaridel, a classroom in Atimonan, and a health clinic in Mauban, all in Quezon.

Lorenzana, on the other hand, recognized the continuous commitment to the longstanding alliance of the Philippines and the U.S. Government.

“Allow me to convey my gratitude to the US Government, represented here by Mr. John Law, for its unwavering support to this annual exercise. I am likewise grateful for your constant and continued assurance of the ironclad commitment to our Mutual Defense Treaty,” he added. (PNA)

https://politics.com.ph/lesson-from-balikatan-2021-lorenzana-welcomes-teamwork-between-us-ph-troops/

‘Balikatan’ exercises not aiming to use force against other countries

From the Philippine Star (Apr 24, 2021): ‘Balikatan’ exercises not aiming to use force against other countries (By Romina Cabrera)

MANILA, Philippines — Joint military exercises between the Philippines and the United States, which concluded yesterday, are not aimed at using force against other countries, said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

“We have been doing this for the past 36 years. These military exercises... we’ve never used even once, our knowledge to fight another country. But for disaster and humanitarian purposes we have done this many, many times,” he said at the concluding ceremony of Balikatan 2021 which had been scaled down due to the pandemic.

What the Balikatan shows, Lorenzana said, is the strong alliance between the two military allies and the resolve of both nations to preserve international order amid emerging security challenges in the region.

“Our success brings forth two important messages to the world: first, that nations become stronger if we work together. Second, there is no threat too daunting if the burden is shared and shouldered together,” he said.

Lorenzana and US embassy in the Philippines Charge d’Affaires John Law led the simple closing ceremonies for the Balikatan at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo.

The defense chief stressed the value of military cooperation between the US and the country, especially during times of disaster and crisis.

After being cancelled last year due to the pandemic, the 11-day Balikatan exercises opened last April 12, but was scaled down with only about 225 military personnel from the US and 415 from the AFP participating. – Michael Punongbayan

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/04/24/2093391/balikatan-exercises-not-aiming-use-force-against-other-countries

Editorial: PH-US ‘Balikatan’ boosts alliance in ‘free, open’ seas

Editorial posted to the Manila Times (Apr 24, 2021): PH-US ‘Balikatan’ boosts alliance in ‘free, open’ seas

THE Philippines and the United States ended its 36th Balikatan Exercise (shoulder-to-shoulder) on Friday amid the coronavirus pandemic with the promise of advancing the two countries’ “military-to-military partnership in pursuit of a shared commitment to mutual defense in a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

“The successful conduct of this year’s Balikatan Exercise 36-2021 has definitely brought us a step closer toward our goal of capacitating our forces and, as such, will consequently contribute to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region,” said AFP Chief of Staff Cirilito Sobejana at the closing ceremonies at the Camp Aguinaldo General Headquarters in Quezon City.

“Despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, both Filipino and American forces were able to achieve the objectives of this year’s Balikatan Exercise — to train together on defense and security efforts, leveraging on the capability, experience and strength of both militaries’ long standing friendship,” said Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Education Training and Doctrine Command.

“Balikatan showcases the strength and resolve of the Philippine-US alliance,” said US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law. “These exercises demonstrate and improve our ability to jointly respond to crises. But training is never over. We will continue to advance our military-to-military partnership in pursuit of our shared commitment to mutual defense in a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana expressed his gratitude to the US for its “unwavering support to this annual exercise and constant and continued assurance of the iron-clad commitment to our Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT).”

Due to the global health crisis, Balikatan 2021 activities and participants were scaled down by both countries.

About 225 US military personnel and 415 AFP personnel participated in the exercises following health and safety protocols.

Major Balikatan 2021 events were held in Colonel Ernesto Ravina Airbase in Tarlac, where combined Air Force and Special Operations forces conducted close air support training.

The AFP Northern Luzon Command Battle Staff and US Indo-Pacific Command participants conducted staff exercise in Clark, Pampanga while Philippine and US Special Operations forces conducted a staff academic seminar in Taguig City.

Academic discussions were held virtually to curb the spread of Covid-19.

The Philippine Air Force and US Pacific Air Forces conducted a virtual global health engagement and other virtual training on various air operations and capabilities.

Humanitarian and civic assistance activities began on March 26, prior to the opening of the exercises.

Philippine and US service members completed the construction of two classrooms and a daycare center in Plaridel, a classroom in Atimonan, and a health clinic in Mauban — all in Quezon Province.

Also present in the closing ceremony was Brig. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, assistant deputy chief of staff for Training and Education of AFP and assistant exercise director of BK36-2021, and Col. Aaron Brunk of the US 3 Marine Expeditionary Force, officer in charge for the Exercise Support Group.

Balikatan, which means “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Filipino, embodies the alliance and friendship between the Philippines and US. This year’s exercises officially opened on April 12 and were conducted in Northern and Southern Luzon for two weeks.

The MDT between the Philippines and the US was signed on Aug. 30, 1951, in Washington, D.C. (District of Columbia) and calls on both countries to defend each other in the event of an attack by another country.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/04/24/news/national/ph-us-balikatan-boosts-alliance-in-free-open-seas/867019/