Sobejana calls for vigilance following Datu Paglas incident

From the Philippine News Agency (May 9, 2021): Sobejana calls for vigilance following Datu Paglas incident (By Priam Nepomuceno)

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

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana urged residents and local government officials in Maguindanao to be more vigilant following the botched attack of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Datu Paglas town on Saturday.

“I enjoin the populace of and local leaders in Maguindanao to remain vigilant as we continue our watch until peace is stabilized,” he said in a statement on Sunday.

While the situation has already stabilized, Sobejana said the AFP will not stop until the threat posed by the BIFF terrorists is neutralized.

“Let us continue to engage local government authorities, stakeholders, and civilians to ensure that peace and security in Datu Paglas and its neighboring towns are preserved,” he added.

Military personnel of Joint Task Force (JTF) Central earlier reported that it had successfully prevented armed BIFF extremists led by Mohiden Animbang alias Karialan from launching offensives against civilian residents in Datu Paglas town last May 8.

It added that the 601st Infantry Brigade troops intercepted around 20 BIFF members who have been the subject of intense military operations for the past days.

“The extremist groups were forced to withdraw in the same morning after security forces were able to isolate the area. The national highway was again open for public commuters at around 10:30 a.m. of the same day after the clearing of the area was confirmed by security forces,” JTF Central spokesperson Lt. Col. John Baldomar said.

The security forces safely deactivated four improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found around the market site and beside the national highway. No civilian or military casualties were reported.

Karialan and his group had been involved in the IED explosions in Datu Saudi Ampatuan since last March, killing two civilians and wounding two others.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139637

Eleazar orders another reshuffle

From the Philippine News Agency (May 9, 2021): Eleazar orders another reshuffle (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Three days after he assumed as new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Gen. Guillermo Eleazar reshuffled more police officials.

In an order that will take effect on Monday, Eleazar reassigned Maj. Gen. Bernabe Balba as new chief of the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations (DIPO) in the Visayas from Special Action Force (SAF).

Balba will replace Lt. Gen. Dionardo Carlos who was earlier assigned as chief of the directorial staff of the PNP.

Brig. Gen. Nelson Bondoc will be transferred from National Capital Region Police (NCRPO) to take the helm of the Police Regional Office (PRO) of Mimaropa (Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan).

From Southern Police District (SPD) under the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), Brig. Gen. Eliseo Cruz will be designated as new director of Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon). He will replace Brig. Gen. Felipe Natividad who was named as new SAF director.

Col. Randy Peralta will be transferred from Office of Chief PNP to take leadership of DIPO Western Mindanao, replacing Brig. Gen. Jose Hidalgo who will get new post at NCRPO.

Last Friday, Eleazar revamped the top posts of the Command Group, naming Lt. Gen. Joselito Vera Cruz as the new deputy chief for administration, the PNP's second-highest official.

Lt. Gen. Ephraim Dickson, the chief of the directorial staff, replaced Vera Cruz as deputy chief for operations, making him the police force's third-ranking official.

Carlos, also former PNP spokesperson, will take the place of Dickson.

Eleazar also ordered the reshuffle of Maj. Gen. Rolando Hinanay from the Civil Security Group (CSG) to Directorate for Personnel and Records Management (DPRM).

Eleazar officially became the 26th police chief on Friday, taking over the post from former PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas, after the latter's mandatory retirement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139644

PN prefers US Cyclone patrol boats over Hamilton-class cutter

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2021): PN prefers US Cyclone patrol boats over Hamilton-class cutter (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo (File photo)

The Philippine Navy (PN) would rather acquire the newly-decommissioned Cyclone-class patrol vessels than obtain another Hamilton-class cutter from the United States, its chief said Monday.

"On our naval operating concept, having three Hamilton-class cutters (in service) is okay. But what we need is the Cyclone-class, between the (USCGC) Mellon and several Cyclone-class, we will go for the Cyclone-class, as it is needed more right now," Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said in an interview.

Bacordo made this remark when asked if the PN is looking to acquire the United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Mellon that was decommissioned by the USCG in August last year.

The three Hamilton-class cutters operated by the PN are now called the Del Pilar-class offshore patrol vessels.

These ships are the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS-15) which was acquired in 2011, BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16) in 2013; and BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17) in 2017.

He said the need to acquire Cyclone-class patrol vessels was due to the decommissioning of the PN's World War II legacy ships.

"We decommissioned several World War II vessels, that is part of Secretary of National Defense's (Delfin Lorenzana) guidance, that is also part of my guidance in order to modernize the mindset of the Navy, So we need platforms like the Cyclone-class patrol vessels (to replace them)," he added.

He said it is likely that the US Navy will give a positive response to the PN's request to acquire the newly-retired Cyclone-class patrol vessels.

"Yes, because we have monitored that several of the Cyclone-class patrol vessels (they have retired) are just mothballed," he added.

The acquisition of additional Cyclone units, which the PN initially requested five, is dependent on the assessment of the Joint Visual Inspection (JVI) team that will be checking the vessels, Bacordo said.

"It also depends on the JVI. Even if, let's say that there are 10 ships available, if our team would assess that some of the vessels would be too expensive to maintain, we will only get the best available units," he added.

Also, the PN chief said they will request their US counterpart to retain the armaments of these ships if possible.

Once acquired, these vessels will be used to beef up the PN's Littoral Combat Force.

"We have manifested our interest with JUSMAG (Joint US Military Assistance Group) and US INDOPACOM (Indo-Pacific Command)," Bacordo earlier said.

At present, the PN has one Cyclone-class patrol vessel in its service. This is the BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS-38), formerly the USS Cyclone, which was transferred to the PN in 2004.

The Cyclone-class patrol ships are a class of US Navy coastal patrol boats consisting of some 14 ships.

These vessels weigh around 328.5 long tons and have a length of 179 feet, a beam of 25 feet, and a draft of 7.5 feet. Their maximum speed is placed at 35 knots and they have a range of between 2,000 to 2,500 nautical miles.

Cyclone-class patrol vessels are armed with two 25mm autocannons and several high-powered machine guns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139672

Joma perennial ‘red-tagger’ of CPP-NPA allies: Esperon

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2021): Joma perennial ‘red-tagger’ of CPP-NPA allies: Esperon (By Priam Nepomuceno)\

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. (PNA File photo)

Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) founding chair Jose Maria "Joma" Sison is the one with the habit of “red-tagging allies and affiliates of the communist terrorist groups.

National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) vice-chair and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. made this comment after noting Sison in his message during the 48th founding anniversary of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NFFP) last April 24 hailed anew the role of its 18 allied organization

"The organization Sison identified are those which comprises the underground movement that lead, operationalize and infiltrate the front and open organizations that are set up or otherwise infiltrated," Esperon said in an online briefing Monday.

In his online speech during the NDFP anniversary, Sison identified the NDFP allied organizations the CPP, NPA, Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions, Katipunan ng mga Samahang Manggagawa, Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid, Malayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan, Kabataang Makabayan, Katipunan ng Gurong Makabayan, Makabayang Samahang Pangkalusugan, Liga ng Agham para sa Bayan, Lupon ng Manananggol para sa Bayan, Artista at Manunulat para sa Sambayanan, Makabayang Kawaning Pilipino, Revolutionary Organization of Overseas Filipinos and their Families, Christians for National Liberation, Cordillera People’s Democratic Front, Moro Resistance and Liberation Organization and Revolutionary Organization of Lumads.

"The NDFP’s most important role in the democratic revolution is to arouse, organize, and mobilize the broad masses of Filipino people in the tens of millions and to seek international solidarity, support, and cooperation," Sison was quoted as saying.

Through their recruitment efforts, Esperon said it is the NDFP that provides radicalized combatants and logistics for the CPP-NPA in its pursuit of armed rebellion against the government.

Confirmation

The April 24 speech of Sison, he added, confirmed that their so-called democratic revolution is an armed struggle with the goal of violently overthrowing the country's democratic and duly-elected government.

"This is also a blatant admission from the founder and chairman emeritus himself that the CPP-NPA-NDF and its affiliate groups have long conspired to topple the Philippine government and its democratic institutions in an attempt to seize power," he added.

It can be recalled that during last year’s Senate hearings on red-tagging, it was conclusively proven that it was Sison who has been red-tagging these organizations all along and not the government.

"We recall that the separate Senate hearings on red-tagging last year were especially significant in corroborating our claim that it is Sison himself who has been red-tagging these organizations all along. These hearings exposed the front organizations and so-called 'progressive organizations'," Esperon said.

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.

Truth tagging

"Joma Sison had just red-tagged his own cohorts through his admission and the statement in the video just shown. In turn, we shall truth-tag them so that the public will be informed," Esperon said.

It is not the first time that Sison has willingly identified the affiliates and allies of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

During an international conference in Belgium in 1987, Sison identified the Kilusang Mayo Uno, Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, Gabriela, Alliance of Concerned Teachers, League of Filipino Students, and KADENA as part of the CPP-NPA’s democratic forces in advancing their Philippine revolution.

BDP funds being released to LGUs

Meanwhile, Esperon said funds for the development of 822 barangays cleared of CPP-NPA influence are now being released.

"To date, the PHP16.44 billion (Barangay Development Fund) allocated for the 822 barangays is now being released to local chief executives in provinces and cities where the barangays cleared of the NPA are located in accordance with DBM (Department of Budget Management) Local Circular 135 and 135-A," he added.

The BDP’s core programs and projects for each recipient barangay, which would receive PHP20 million, include a one-kilometer farm-to-market road worth PHP12 million, classrooms (PHP3 million), water and sanitation systems (PHP2 million), a health station (PHP1.5 million), and livelihood projects (PHP1.5 million).

"From 2016 to 2019, we have cleared 822 former rebel communities by dismantling the Guerilla Fronts that have exerted control over them. These communities are now in the process of transforming their formerly conflict-vulnerable barangays into areas of peace and empowerment," Esperon said.

He added that as of May 4 this year, PHP10.68 billion or 65 percent of the BDP has been released to 712 barangays out of the 822 earlier reported cleared of CPP-NPA influence.

"110 are in the process of endorsing their projects to the DBM," he said.

He called the fast release of the BDP funds is a testament to the sense of urgency of local government units that have complied with the requirements of the fund.

"Indeed the immediate compliance of the LGUs (local government units) are hallmarks of good governance and efficiency," Esperon added.

He said they hope to improve their processes with the recommendation of 1,406 CPP-NPA cleared barangays for the BDP for the 2022 budget.

These barangays were cleared of communist influence from 2020 to 2021.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139787

Army retakes Maguindanao town market seized by BIFF

From the Philippine News Agency (May 8, 2021): Army retakes Maguindanao town market seized by BIFF (By Edwin Fernandez)

RETAKEN. Soldiers on board military trucks arrive in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao, after the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters seized the town public market on Saturday (May 8, 2021) morning. Gunmen of the Islamic State-inspired group later abandoned the market after the Army launched air and ground assaults. (Photo from Ali BARMM - BTA Member Ali Sangki)

Government forces have regained control of the Datu Paglas town market center in Maguindanao that the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) seized at dawn on Saturday.

Lt. Col. John Paul Baldomar, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the BIFF gunmen, numbering about 200, withdrew and splintered into small groups after a brief military air and ground assault.

“At 10 a.m., we are now in control of the public market in Datu Paglas; clearing operations were still going on,” Baldomar said.

He said no casualty was reported on the government side, and could not say if the BIFF extremists had casualties.

The military launched air and ground assaults on the rebels’ position at about 9 a.m. until the latter withdrew toward the mountainous area of Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat.

Baldomar said four improvised bombs found around the market site and beside the national highway were safely deactivated by the military’s bomb disposal experts.

In a phone interview after the incident, Abu Jihad, speaking for the BIFF, said the 200 gunmen belonging to the BIFF Kagui Karialan faction, had no plan to seize Datu Paglas town.

“Our men were there to rest and were about to return to our camps when soldiers arrived and started firing at us,” Jihad said in the vernacular.

The BIFF armed group was led by a certain Undo Sulayman, son-in-law of Kagui Karialan.

Sulayman, a resident of Datu Paglas, was reported to be at odds with local leaders.

However, Datu Paglas Vice Mayor Mohammad Paglas denied his family was not on good terms with Sulayman.

“They came on board five big trucks and told the village officials they just wanted to rest, so we allowed them because this is the fasting month of Ramadan,” he said.

Paglas described some of the BIFF rebels as “young”, about 15 years to 25 years.

At least 5,000 individuals have been displaced by the conflict and were staying at nearby public schools as military clearing operations continued at the town center.

“We are awaiting go signal from the Army before we will allow the families to return home,” he said.

Traffic along the national highway linking Maguindanao and North Cotabato reopened at 12 noon.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139597

NPA rebel yields due to hardship, meaningless revolution

From the Philippine News Agency (May 9, 2021): NPA rebel yields due to hardship, meaningless revolution (By Perla Lena)

SURRENDERED GUNS, AMMO. A New People's Army regular and nine members of the Milisyang Bayan surrender to the community support program team under the 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) based in Miagao, Iloilo on May 6, 2021. Photo shows the assorted firearms and ammunition turned over by the surrenderers. (PNA photo courtesy of 301st Infantry Brigade)

A regular member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and nine Milisya ng Bayan (MB) members surrendered to the government last May 6.

"Agot" (not his real name), 24, married, resident of Barangay Molina, Tubungan, Iloilo, gave up to the community support program (CSP) team under the Army's 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) based in the municipality of Miagao.

“Hardship and the realization of this meaningless revolution pushed alias 'Agot' to yield,” a statement of the 301st Infantry Brigade said on Saturday.

"Agot" was assigned under the Sibat platoon of the Southern Front (SF) of the Kilusang Rehiyon–Panay (KR-P).

Meanwhile, the MBs, supporters of the SF of KR-P, were from Tubungan and Miagao.

“Aside from being a force multiplier, these individuals act as the eyes and ears of the enemy in their barangays to report on presence and movement of government security forces; and offer logistical support to the NPA,” the statement added.

With their surrender, they also gave up seven homemade shotguns with ammunition and magazine, a homemade caliber 45 pistol, and a homemade caliber 38 with ammunition.

Brig. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade, directed the 61IB to facilitate the surrenderers' transition back to mainstream society through the provision of livelihood benefits and other government assistance.

“The continuous surrender of members of the NPA and their supporters shows the impact of the government’s campaign in ending local communist armed conflict. Through the united effort of the people of Panay and the local government units, we see that indeed the end of communist terrorism is inevitable,” he said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139601

2 Abu Sayyaf leaders, 6 followers nabbed in Sabah

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2021): 2 Abu Sayyaf leaders, 6 followers nabbed in Sabah (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ARRESTED. Authorities in Sabah arrest two Abu Sayyaf Group leaders and six followers Saturday (May 8, 2021) as a result of the strengthened collaboration and cooperation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Easter Sabah Southern Command. In photo are the arrested ASG leaders and followers. (Photo courtesy of Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

Two Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) mid-level leaders and six followers were arrested in Sabah over the weekend, an Army official said.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said Monday the arrest was the result of the strengthened collaboration between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Eastern Sabah Southern Command (ESSCOM).

The ESSCOM is a Malaysian security area that covers 1,400 kilometers of the east coast of Sabah from Kudat to Tawau. Its headquarters are in Lahad Datu.

Vinluan said the ASG bandits were arrested after the ESSCOM launched a police operation around 3 a.m. Saturday in Jalan Taman Sri Arjuna, Beaufort, Sabah in response to information provided by the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu.

Vinluan said the arrested mid-level ASG leaders are Sansibar Bensio, around 40-45 years old, and Mabar Binda, believed to be 25-30 years old, both of the Eastern Sulu-based ASG.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, JTF-Sulu commander, said Binda succeeded his father, Hatib Munap, who was killed in a clash with Marine troops in November last year in Bud Bawis, Barangay Kawasan, Panamao, Sulu.

The arrested ASG followers are Muayyar Binda, around 30-35 years old; Lugah Sanchez, 45-50 years old, Bonijar Samsula, Alim Sukarno, a certain Sansis, and a certain Firdaus.

“Due to the sustained intelligence, focused military operations, and civil-military cooperation in the province of Sulu particularly in the second district, the now-apprehended personalities escaped and transferred to Sabah and established an ASG cell based thereat to conduct spotting and casing of probable kidnap victims and facilitate the Foreign Terrorist Groups operating in the Southeast Asian countries conducting terror activities in the Philippines,” Col. Hernanie Songano, commander of the Army's 4th Marine Brigade, said.

Gonzales said the arrested ASG bandits were involved in series of armed confrontations with the military, including the encounter in July 2011 in Sitio Tubig Magtuh, Barangay Panglayahan, Patikul, Sulu, during which the late Marine 2nd Lt. Michael Baladad was beheaded.

Gonzales said Bensio was also involved in the kidnapping of the foreign nationals identified as Lorenzo Vinciguerra (Swiss), and Ewold Horn (Dutch).

He said both Bensio and Binda were involved in the kidnapping of three Indonesians -- Samiun Bin Maneu, Maharudin Bin Lunani, and Muhammad Farhan.

Among their Filipino victims were Ronnie Sandagon, Jerel Pepito, Eddie Reubal, Marcial España, Arvin Sabaduquia, Rufino Bustillo, Joseph Bani, Hajan Terong, Joshua Bani, and Michelle Tolentino Panes.

“The arrest of these terrorists is a big blow to the ASG,” Vinluan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139714

Bohol villagers declare NPA as 'persona non grata'

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2021): Bohol villagers declare NPA as 'persona non grata' (By John Rey Saavedra)  May 10, 2021, 5:12 pm

PERSONA NON GRATA. Left photo shows residents of Barangay Dagohoy in Bilar, Bohol burn flags of communist terrorist groups in a covered court on Sunday (May 9, 2021). Right photo shows the village folks as they pledge allegiance to the government after passing a barangay resolution declaring the NPA as persona non grata. (Contributed photo)

Residents in a village of Bilar town in Bohol have declared the atrocities of the New People’s Army (NPA) as unacceptable and asserted their unified efforts to drive away any terrorist group which may disturb their peace.

Mayor Manuel Jayectin of Bilar, a 4th class municipality in Bohol’s 3rd District, on Sunday commended the residents of Barangay Dagohoy for their commitment to isolate their village from the NPA by issuing a resolution declaring communist terrorist groups (CTGs) as "persona non grata".

The initiative came about after the Barangay Peace Council, as witnessed by the municipal government of Bilar, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the 47th Infantry “Katapatan” Battalion (47IB) of the Philippine Army, voiced their support to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The council had earlier passed Barangay Resolution No. 14 series of 2021, describing the NPA as threat to the village’s peace and progress.

1st Lt. Elma Grace Abulencia, civil-military operations officer of 47IB, told the Philippine News Agency on Monday that the council members expressed fears that if they will allow the NPA in their area, it would result in extreme poverty and misery to the people.

The village officials, she said, have been awakened by the undesirable impact of NPA’s illegal and unlawful activities that have hindered the continuing production and development of Bohol province.

Spearheaded by the barangay officials, the village folks of Dagohoy took their oath of allegiance to the government to seal their public renunciation of NPA atrocities.

"The government has no other purpose and goal but to establish a more progressive and well developed barangay and that development will only commence through building peace within ourselves and taking it to the community,” a statement from 47IB quoted Jayectin as saying.

The mayor, in his message read by a representative during the activity, vowed to support the villagers’ efforts to sustain peace that would allow progress to reign in the agricultural town with a 17,590 population.

Abulencia said Barangay Dagohoy was previously known as the “advantage areas” of the CTGs that used the village as hub for their recruitment activities and mass organizing.

She said the 47IB deployed its Community Support Program (CSP) Team together with the PNP and the provincial community organizers to ascertain issues and concerns exploited by Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in agitating the people, inciting the village folks to rise up in arms against the government and inducing them to join the terrorist insurgents.

With the “deepened peace campaign” of the Katapatan Battalion in Bohol, Abulencia said more and more local government units have put their trust in the Army and have been fully supporting efforts to sustain peace and order in the province.

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/1139702

Cop killed in Lanao encounter to be given hero’s burial

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2021): Cop killed in Lanao encounter to be given hero’s burial (By Jerick James Pasiliao)

HERO'S BURIAL. Corporal Jan Oliver Rodriguez, a member of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) who was killed during an encounter in Lanao Del Norte, will be given a hero’s burial by the municipal government of Lingayen in Pangasinan. Rodriguez's remains arrived in his hometown of Barangay Quibaol on Sunday (May 9, 2021). (Photo courtesy of Jac Rodriguez's Facebook Account)

Corporal Jan Oliver Rodriguez, a member of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) who was killed during an encounter in Lanao Del Norte, will be given a hero’s burial by the municipal government of Lingayen, his hometown.

His remains arrived at his home in Barangay Quibaol here on Sunday.

Rodriguez died during the implementation of the arrest warrant against a certain Naen Ampatua Tumog for violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition at dawn on Saturday.

In a text message, Lingayen Mayor Leopoldo Bataoil, a former police official, said he will give a hero's burial to Rodriguez to honor his heroism and bravery.

In an interview on Monday, Pangasinan Police Provincial Office information officer Maj. Arturo Melchor II said a hero’s burial is deserved by police who died in the line of his duty.

“Rodriguez, like other policemen who stood by their duties to serve and to protect the Filipino citizens, deserves to be given a hero’s burial,” he said. “Among those given a hero’s burial in the past are police (officers) from the province who were part of the fallen Special Action Force 44.”

The bereaved family is yet to decide when and where Rodriguez will be laid to rest.

President Rodrigo Duterte, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, and Maj. Gen. Bernabe Balba, former Special Action Force (SAF) director and now the new chief of the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations (DIPO) in the Visayas, sent condolences with flowers.

Rodriguez, 25, the third and only son among five siblings, joined the PNP-SAF service in 2018.

His mother, Erlinda, described Rodriguez as a "humble, silent person" but a responsible son, sibling, cousin, and friend.

"Napakabuti niya. Mapagmahal siya sa ibang mga tao lalo na sa mga bata. Nabibigla na lang kami, nalalaman namin sa iba na may mga tinutulungan siya. Pero di niya sinasabi sa amin (He was a good person. He was loving even to other people, especially children. We were surprised to learn from other people that he was helping some people. But he never told us about it)," she said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Sunday.

Erlinda said his son was planning to have their home renovated.

"Dahil sobrang tahimik siya, hindi rin namin alam na may girlfriend siya. Plano rin daw niyang ipakilala sana sa amin kapag dumating siya (Because he was so reserved, we didn’t know that he has a girlfriend. He was planning to introduce her girlfriend to us when he arrives)," she added.

Days before the police operation, Rodriguez contacted his cousins and one of his sisters based abroad telling them that he was planning to surprise his family about his scheduled home vacation starting on May 15.

"Mahilig siya mag-surprise. Sinabi niya sa iba na uuwi sana siya this Friday, pero hindi namin alam. Kapag umuuwi siya, magugulat na lang kami na may kumakatok sa pinto ng mga kwarto namin, siya na pala yung dumating (He liked surprises. He told others that he would be going home this Friday but we don’t know. Every time he came home, we would just be surprised to find somebody knocking at our doors, and it was already him)," his younger sister Jacqueline recalled in a separate interview.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139679

Army cites bravery of Caraga teachers who cut ties with ACT

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2021): Army cites bravery of Caraga teachers who cut ties with ACT (By Alexander Lopez)

Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of the Army's 402nd Infantry Brigade. (PNA file photo)

An official of the Philippine Army cited on Monday the bravery of teachers from the different schools in the Caraga Region who decided to disaffiliate themselves from the leftist group Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT).

In a statement Monday (May 10), Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of the Army's 402nd Infantry Brigade (402Bde), said teachers who renounce their membership from ACT need to be emulated by other sectors that are still being "deceived" by front organizations of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), its armed wing the New People’s Army (NPA), and its political arm the National Democratic Front (NDF).

“We are hoping that there are still other sectors who will emulate what the teachers have done in disaffiliating themselves with the CTG (Communist Terrorist Group) legal front organizations because it is only when we are unified thru the whole of nation approach, that we can easily defeat the CTG and end the insurgency problem,” Licudine said.

Last Thursday, at least 604 elementary and secondary teachers from Butuan City disaffiliated and withdrew their support from ACT during the one-day seminar on Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management (SAKM) and on National Security Concerns conducted by the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency in Region 10 (NICA-10) at the Agusan National High School here.

The activity was conducted in coordination with the Department of Education in Caraga (DepEd-13), the 402Bde, and the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13).

The activity was also joined by Rey Collado, the District Supervisor of South West District of DepEd-Butuan, who once served as the designated ACT chairperson in the area.

Collado led the disaffiliation of the 604 teachers from ACT through the pledge and signing of commitment conducted during the activity.

“I am very thankful for the information because we can’t afford to be with an organization that goes against our government. Never, never, never in my wildest dream that I will rebel against my beloved country. Today, with the teachers of Central Butuan District 1, we will denounce any affiliation, connection, association with the ACT. That we are sincere and true to our oath of allegiance to our government as civil servants,” Collado was quoted by 402Bde as saying.

Meanwhile, Licudine acknowledged the efforts of NICA-10 and other government agencies for helping the teachers "realize the true character of ACT as an organization."

He also called on the other local sectors "to be wary about the organizations linked with the CPP-NPA-NDF."

“This activity is another proof that we, the government and the TF-ELCAC (Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict) need to step up the information campaign to all sectors so that we could reach those who are unaware that they’ve been used already or deceived out of issues related to them,” Licudine said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1139703

Kalinaw News: 2 Abu Sayaff group sub-leaders and 6 Followers arrest in a Joint effort of AFP and ESSCOM in Zamboanga City

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 10, 2021): 2 Abu Sayaff group sub-leaders and 6 Followers arrest in a Joint effort of AFP and ESSCOM in Zamboanga City (By WESTERN MINDANAO COMMAND)

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – May 10, 2021, The strengthened collaboration and cooperation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Eastern Sabah Southern Command (ESSCOM) led to the apprehension of two notorious Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leaders and six of their followers in Sabah on May 8, 2021.

“Based on the report from the ground, the ESSCOM responded to the information provided by the Joint Task Force Sulu and launched a police special operation in Jalan Taman Sri Arjuna, Beaufort, Sabah around 3:00 o’clock in the morning., May 8, 2021, Saturday,” said Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan, Jr., WestMinCom Commander.

The anti-terror operation resulted in the apprehension of Sansibar Bensio, 40-45 years old; and Mabar Binda, 25-30 years old, both sub-leaders of the Eastern Sulu-based Abu Sayyaf Group.

Also apprehended were the following ASG members: Muayyar Binda, 30-35 years old; a.k.a. Sansis; and a.k.a. Firdaus, all members under ASGSL Mabar Binda; Lugah Sanchez, 45-50 years old and Bonijar Samsula, both members under the late ASGSL Juhurim Hussein (Patikul Based; and Alim Sukarno, member under ASGSL Sansibar Bensio.

According to Major General William Gonzales, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, ASGSL Sansibar Bensio, and ASGSL Mabar Binda (the known successor of his father Hatib Munap Binda) are both sub-leaders of the Abu Sayyaf Group/Kidnap-for-Ransom Group based on the eastern/second district of Sulu.

“They are involved in the series of armed confrontations with the military including the encounter on July 2011 at Sitio Tubig Magtuh, Barangay Panglayahan, Patikul, Sulu wherein the late 2nd Lieutenant Michael Baladad of the Philippine Marines was beheaded,” said Major General Gonzales.

Their other involvements include the encounters on the following dates: February 2018 at Bay Sunog, Bud Bawis Complex that resulted in the deaths of five Abusayaff Group members; December 2019 at Sitio Jatih, Bud Bawis Complex that resulted in the successful rescue of two Indonesian nationals and the death of the late ASGSL/KFRGL Hairulla Abduraja at Bud Bawis Complex; November 2020 at Bay Takas, Bud Bawis Complex that resulted in the deaths of Abusayaff Group member Bensio Barahama and ASGSL Hatib Munap Binda.

Bensio was also involved in the kidnapping of the foreign nationals identified as Lorenzo Vinciguerra (Swiss National), Ewold Horn (Dutch National), Samiun Bin Maneu (Indonesian National), Maharudin Bin Lunani (Indonesian National), and Muhammad Farhan (Indonesian National).

Among their Filipino victims were Ronnie Sandagon, Jerel Pepito, Eddie Reubal, Marcial España, Arvin Sabaduquia, Rufino Bustillo, Joseph Bani, Hajan Terong, Joshua Bani, and Michelle Tolentino Panes.

Binda, on the other hand, was also involved in the kidnapping of the Indonesian Nationals mentioned above.

According to 4th Marine Brigade Commander Colonel Hernanie Songano, “due to the sustained intelligence, focused military operations, and civil-military cooperation in the province of Sulu particularly in the second district, the now-apprehended personalities escaped and transferred to Sabah and established an Abusayaff Group cell-based thereat to conduct spotting and casing of probable kidnap victims and facilitate the Foreign Terrorist Groups operating in the Southeast Asian countries conducting terror activities in the Philippines.”

Meanwhile, “the intensified intelligence operations and the support of the community coupled with the constant coordination between the AFP and the ESSCOM contributed to the successful neutralization of the Abusayaff Group sub-leaders and their cohorts. The arrest of these terrorists is a big blow to the ASG” said Lieutenant General Vinluan, Jr.

“My congratulations to the troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu and the ESSCOM for the aggressive measures taken to ensure that these terrorists will not be able to conduct horrendous activities anymore particularly off waters of Sabah” Lieutenant General 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/bilateral-anti-terrorism-efforts-led-to-the-arrest-of-2-notorious-abusayaff-group-sub-leaders-and-6-followers-in-sabah/

Kalinaw News: Dagohoy declared NPA rebels as persona-non-grata

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 10, 2021): Dagohoy declared NPA rebels as persona-non-grata

CARMEN, Bohol – Barangay Dagohoy of Bilar town in Bohol Province denounced the terroristic activities committed by the NPA’s and passed a resolution declaring the NPA rebels persona non grata. The initiative was spearheaded by the Barangay Peace Council and witnessed by the LGU-Bilar, PNP, and 47IB in support of the National Task Force in Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The barangay resolution No. 14 Series of 2021 emphasized that the NPA will only bring extreme poverty and misery to the people with their illegal and unlawful activities that could hinder the continuing production and development of Bohol Province. Moreover, to brace the tenacity an Oath Taking of Allegiance to the Government was conducted and spearheaded by the barangay officials together with their constituents.

The barangay was previously known as the advantage areas for the NPA’s for recruitment and mass organizing. Thus, the 47IB deployed its Community Support Program (CSP) Team together with the PNP and Provincial Community Organizers to ascertain issues and concerns being oppressed by the terrorist insurgents.

“The government has no other purpose and goal but to establish a more progressive and well-developed barangay and that development will only commence through building peace within ourselves and taking it to the community”, Mr. Arnel Tañedo of LGU-Bilar in his message as he represents Mayor Jayectin. He also stressed that Mayor Manuel Jayectin commends the populace for initiating an activity that contributes to the government’s efforts to sustain peace and order.

The deepened peace campaign of the 47th Infantry Battalion in the province shows that more Local Government Units are trusting the army and willing to provide full support to sustain the peace and order of Bohol.

[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/dagohoy-declared-npa-rebels-as-persona-non-grata/

Kalinaw News: Joint Task Force Central continues to pursue extremist groups as the situation goes back to normal in Datu Paglas

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 9, 2021): Joint Task Force Central continues to pursue extremist groups as the situation goes back to normal in Datu Paglas

Camp Siongco, Maguindanao – The situation is back to normal hours after government forces thwarted the possible atrocities of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters under @Karialan in the town of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao on May 8, 2021. Major General Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry Division, is calling on the public to remain vigilant around their community and report any presence of suspicious individuals to preempt any extremist groups from conducting atrocities against the civilian populace.

Likewise, Major General Uy thanked the residents and local government unit of Datu Paglas for their swift action to inform government security forces about the presence of the extremist groups in their town as early as Friday evening. “The cooperation of the civilian populace and the LGU paved the way for security forces to be proactive in fulfilling their duty and immediately take necessary action against the threat group,” Major General Uy stated.

As early as 10:30 in the morning yesterday, the national highway connecting Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat, and Makilala, North Cotabato were re-opened for public commuters to pass. Likewise, residents who were displaced in the armed clash started to return to their communities on the afternoon of May 8 while the public market and other establishments resumed operation on the same day, to allow Muslim residents in the said town to prepare for their observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The leadership of the JTF Central and LGU Datu Paglas reiterated that no hostage-taking happened and no infrastructure and establishments in the town proper were damaged, contrary to the earlier information being circulated. Further, the JTF Central also clarifies that the video of a wounded soldier being shared on social media did not happen in Datu Paglas. “Sa awa ng Dyos, wala namang sibilyan sa lugar at mga tropa ng gobyerno ang nasaktan sa pangyayari,” Major General Uy added.

Reports from the civilian populace also state that BIFF suffered several casualties on the exchange of fires after sighting several extremists being carried away as they withdraw in the area. Numerous improvised explosive devices were also recovered in the area as extremist groups try to delay pursuing forces by laying IEDs along the road.

As of this report, the government forces continue to conduct pursuit operations against the said group to preempt them from threatening other towns in Maguindanao Province.

[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/joint-task-force-central-continues-to-pursue-extremist-groups-as-the-situation-goes-back-to-normal-in-datu-paglas/

Kalinaw News: 604 Teachers in Butuan City Disaffiliate, Withdraw Support from ACT; Commit to Prevent NPA Youth Recruitment

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 9, 2021): 604 Teachers in Butuan City Disaffiliate, Withdraw Support from ACT; Commit to Prevent NPA Youth Recruitment

BANCASI, Butuan City – A total of 604 elementary and secondary teachers had disaffiliated and withdrew their support from the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) and committed to preventing the NPA youth recruitment during the seminar on National Security Concerns and Disaffiliation from ACT held at Agusan National High School, Butuan City on May 06, 2021.

Said seminar was spearheaded by NICA 10 thru the Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management (SAKM) Cluster in partnership with the DepEd Caraga, PRO13, and 402nd Brigade. It was conducted in two (2) batches composed of 254 and 350 teachers for the morning and afternoon sessions, respectively, belonging to the Central Butuan District of Butuan City Division of the Department of Education (DepEd). The activity aimed to enlighten the teachers on the deceptive nature and strategy of NPA and exposed the NPA Legal Front Organizations particularly the ACT that infiltrates the academe sector. In attendance during the activity were Director Manuel M Orduna, Regional Director of NICA10; Director Evelyn R Fetalvero, Regional Director of DepEd 13; PCol Canilo A Fuentes, City Director of Butuan City Police Office; PCol Ruben Delos Santos, Chief Regional Community Affairs and Development Division of PRO13; and Brigadier General Maurito L Licudine, Commander of the 402nd Brigade.

Director Orduna discussed the salient points of EO70 to provide a background of the efforts of Task Force ELCAC particularly the SAKM Cluster in implementing the Whole of Nation Approach (WNA) to address the insurgency problem. After which, NICA Deputy Regional Director Virginita Zamoro provided a lecture entitled: Orientation for Parents and Teachers on How the NPA Recruit the Youths to enable the teachers to understand how NPA infiltrates the different sectors particularly in the academe and among the youths in schools, colleges, and universities.

After the lecture, Louie Fuentes alias Marmar, a former Political Officer, of GF88 operating in Agusan del Sur, delivered his testimony and confirmed the NPA infiltration in the different sectors to include the teachers by the ACT Party-List organization. Marmar cited his experience when leaders of the Legal Front Organizations went to their hideouts during meetings.

No less than the designated/appointed ACT Chairman of Butuan City, Mr. Rey Collado, the public school District Supervisor of South West District of Butuan City Division of DepEd, led the disaffiliation from the ACT and in the Pledge and Signing of Commitment ceremony during the said seminar. Mr. Collado declared that the ACT is directly connected with the CPP-NPA-NDF based on the validated and affirmed information. “I am very thankful for the information because we can’t afford to be with an organization that goes against our government. Never, never, never in my wildest dream that I will rebel against my beloved country. Today, with the teachers of Central Butuan District 1, I/we will denounce any affiliation, connection, association with the ACT. That we are sincere and true to our oath of allegiance to our government as civil servants”, Mr. Collado emotionally said.

After which, Mr. Collado led all teachers in pledging disaffiliation and condemnation to NPA rebels and the ACT. “I condemn the NPA rebels for their acts of terrorism. I also condemn all its aboveground or front organizations like the Alliance of Concerned Teachers or ACT. I will not join or if I had been a member of ACT on my own volition or have become a member thereof without my knowledge of its true hideous nature, I will disaffiliate myself therefrom”.

Meanwhile, during the question and answer portion, Mr. Joseph Maestrado, Master Teacher III of Butuan Elementary School, openly confessed that he even briefly joined a rally when he went to Manila with the ACT but later recognized that it was not a DepEd- sanctioned activity. Same sentiments were also expressed by other teachers citing that they were lured and deceived into joining the ACT through the supposed benefits they were supporting for the teachers. “We don’t know about the ACT being connected with the CPP-NPA-NDF. We were deceived”, said Ms. Hazel T Bayados of Agusan National High School. In his statement, Brigadier General Licudine congratulated the SAKM cluster led by NICA10 and PRO13 in facilitating the said seminar and exposing the truth about the NPA and their sectoral front organizations, “This activity is another proof that we, the government and the TF-ELCAC, need to step up the information campaign to all sectors so that we could reach those who are unaware that they’ve been used already or deceived out of issues related to them. Because we worry that teachers or even other professions could be recruited and be the ones facilitating the NPA recruitment in their schools or their workplaces”.

“We call to all sectors to be wary about these organizations linked with the NPA. Connect with us, the PNP or NICA, and we shall provide you the correct information. We are hoping that there are still other sectors who will emulate what the teachers have done in disaffiliating themselves with the CTG legal front organizations because it is only when we are unified thru the whole of nation approach, that we can easily defeat the NPA and end the insurgency problem”, Brigadier General Licudine stressed.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/604-teachers-in-butuan-city-disaffiliate-withdraw-support-from-act-commit-to-prevent-npa-youth-recruitment/

Kalinaw News: 25IB conducts “Tulong Bayanihan para sa Sambayanan” in New Corella, Davao del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 9, 2021): 25IB conducts “Tulong Bayanihan para sa Sambayanan” in New Corella, Davao del Norte



New Corella, Davao del Norte- Charlie Company of 25th Infantry Battalion led by 1st Lieutenant Marlo D Bastasa, Company Commander, conducts “Tulong Bayanihan Para sa Sambayanan” with the theme “Kayang kaya at may Pag-asa basta’t Magkakaisa” to the residents of Sitio Ladeca, Barangay Sta. Fe, New Corella, Davao del Norte yesterday, 08 May 2021.

The said activity became successful through the collaboration and support of the Local Government Unit of New Corella, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), Barangay Officials, Peace and Order Council of the said Municipality who donated vegetables, rice, canned goods, noodles, etc. and also the troops of 25th Infantry Battalion. The activity prioritizes the residents of the said Sitio for it is considered as Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA) and is greatly affected by COVID 19 pandemic.

“In these hard times, there is a need for us to be united as one and help those who are in need and greatly affected by this pandemic. A little amount of food will already save one’s life and generosity is the only key for us to survive this COVID 19 pandemic.” Colonel Asnawi P Muti, Battalion Commander of this unit 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/25ib-conducts-tulong-bayanihan-para-sa-sambayanan-in-new-corella-davao-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: LGU Loreto in Agusan del Sur and AFP collaborate to deliver services in remote IP community

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 9, 2021): LGU Loreto in Agusan del Sur and AFP collaborate to deliver services in remote IP community



Agusan del Sur – More than 200 Indigenous Peoples from the Ata Manobo and Dibabawon tribe benefited from the “Tulong Bayanihan para sa Sambayanan” organized by the Municipal Government of Loreto, DILG-Loreto, and the 60th Infantry (Mediator) Battalion (60IB) at Sitio Nursery, Barangay Kasapa 1, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.

The activity is part of 60IB’s Community Support Program and LGU’s initiative in diminishing the effects of COVID-19 pandemic. This is also a collaborative effort of the LGU and the Armed Forces of the Philippines which aims to end the local
communist armed conflict in the area.

The activity was facilitated by LGU Loreto headed by Municipal Mayor, Hon. Lorife Otaza and Army’s 60IB headed by Lt. Col. Ronaldo Sarmiento. It was attended by representatives from Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), Department of Health (DOH) and Rural Health Unit of Loreto (RHU), Municipal Engineers Office (MEO), Local Civil Registrar (LCR), Municipal Agriculture Office (MAGRO), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), Department of Labor and Employment Region XIII (DOLE), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP).

The “Tulong Bayanihan para aa Sambayanan” paved the way to the delivery of 62 solar-powered lights, 52 hygiene kits, Php15,000.00 cash for the repair of the Sitio’s school roof, Php1,000.00 cash each for the 71 households of Sitio Nursery, free haircut, free medical consultation, food and grocery items. The DOH also conducted a lecture on the COVID-19 vaccine in preparation for the upcoming vaccination of the members of the tribe the following week. The DOH also distributed water containers and water purifiers as a temporary purifying tool for their drinking water to prevent them from acquiring diseases. The municipal engineer also inspected for the possible water source for the construction of the Sitio’s potable water system.

Furthermore, the LCR conducted civil registration of the IPs therein for their birth certificates and marriage certificates. Pre-registration for the Loreto’s Real Initiative for Education training program of TESDA.

Finally, the DOLE awarded the Certificate of Registration for the People’s Organization of Sitio Nursery.

[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-loreto-in-agusan-del-sur-and-afp-collaborate-to-deliver-services-in-remote-ip-community/