Kalinaw News: ARMY successfully culminated the Peace Building Seminar to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC)

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 18, 2021): ARMY successfully culminated the Peace Building Seminar to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC)



STO TOMAS, Davao Del Norte – The 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion, Philippine Army successfully culminated the Peace Building Seminar to former members of the Underground Mass Organization under the command of Lt. Col. Donald P Gaffud in partnership with the local government of Davao City together with Davao City Police Office, City Agriculture Office in Sitio Kiman-anao, Brgy Salapawan, PD, Davao City on 12-16 May 2021.

The seminar aims to reorient the ideological mind-set of the participants against the beliefs and deception of Communist Terrorists Group (CTG) and to educate them on the programs of the government in order to uplift their economic way of living. They were also shared with infallible words of GOD by the local Ministers.

The activity is divided into two batches in compliance with the COVID19 protocol of the city. The seminar included group activities, discussions, workshops, testimonies from former rebels, and lectures from different agencies such as the Department of Agriculture and Philippine National Police. The participants also conducted a peace rally during the culmination day to denounce the atrocities brought about by the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).

They also pledged allegiance to the government administered by Hon.Tatang Campuan, Barangay Captain of Salapawan, and vowed to become agents of peace in their communities. The distinguished guests of the said event also gave their message of support. Lt. Col. Victorino M Seño, the Commanding Officer of 27IB, who has the operational control of Brgy Salapawan states,

“If the barangay is cleared from Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) affectation, then that’s the only way that the government programs can be delivered and that can be realized if the local official and the community will cooperate to condemn atrocities perpetrated by the enemy and urge them to work hand-in-hand for a sustainable development.’’

Likewise, Lt Col Arvin M Tenorio, Executive Officer of 1003rd Brigade, representing Brig Gen Nolasco A Mempin, 1003rd Brigade Commander, appreciates the participants’ dedication and wholehearted support for the completion of the seminar. He also recognized the other agencies, the DepEd, especially the Integrated School of Kiman-anaw, Salapawan, PDDC which served as the venue of the seminar, and the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) for giving lectures on peace and order.

The Peace Building Seminar is in line with the implementation of Executive Order 70 which aims to End Local Communist Armed Conflict through whole of nation approach. It can be recalled that for a long time, Paquibato District has been the haven of Pulang Bagani Command – Southern Mindanao Regional Command (PBC 1 – SMRC), the guerrilla unit commanded by Mr Leoncio Pitao, alias “Ka Parago” who was killed on June 28, 2015 during a law enforcement operation, and succeeded by Elizalde Cañete alias “Jinggoy’’, who was severely wounded and subsequently arrested on May 12, 2018.

The two guerrilla commanders were the principal actors in terroristic activities in the Paquibato District. They killed innocent civilians, destroyed infrastructures, and equipment. Many military and police lives have been lost in the said areas in pursuit of peace and development. With the recent developmental activities in Brgy Salapawan such as installation of power lines, road widening, delivery of basic services, strengthening of barangay governance, and establishment of Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS), the community is now peaceful, developed and conflict resilient against terrorist groups and other peace spoilers.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-successfully-culminated-the-peace-building-seminar-to-end-local-communist-armed-conflict-elcac/

Kalinaw News: Two BIFF extremists neutralize in Maguindanao clash; raising extremist’s casualties to 6 killed and 2 arrested

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 18, 2021): Two BIFF extremists neutralize in Maguindanao clash; raising extremist’s casualties to 6 killed and 2 arrested

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Two (2) extremists from Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) – Karialan Faction, who reportedly took part in an attempted attack in the public market of Datu Paglas town, were killed in an armed clash with security forces from Joint Task Force Central on May 16, 2021, as government troops continuously hunt down the said group.

According to Brigadier General Roy Galido, Commander 601st Infantry Brigade, JTF Central sustained its efforts against the said extremist group in Barangay Mao, Datu Paglas, Maguindanao which led to a ten-minute armed clash at around 5:50 in the morning on May 16. The extremists withdrew in different directions and left the remains of their comrades. Also seized during the firefight are one (1) M16 rifle, several 5.56mm ammunition and magazines, war materials, and food rations. The JTF Central has been relentless in their pursuit operation to hunt down the said group and prevent them from attacking communities and town centers.

As of this reporting, six (6) extremists have been killed, two (2) were arrested, several were reported to have been wounded, and 10 high powered firearms and 5 IEDs were seized; while no casualties have been reported on the side of the government forces and from the civilian populace. A total of 699 families were affected based on the report provided by the Office of the Civil Defense – BARMM and PDRRMO of Maguindanao Province.

The Bangsamoro Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence (READi) under the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), and the Provincial and Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices of Maguindanao Province provided food assistance to families affected in the Datu Paglas, Maguindanao and other nearby towns.

Major General Juvymax Uy, Commander of JTF Central and 6th Infantry Division expressed that JTF Central forces will continue to conduct sustained military operations against the BIFF to thwart them from conducting atrocities against the civilian populace.

“I call on the remaining BIFF extremists to surrender and lay down their arms. Numbers of former BIFF extremists have already returned to the fold of the law and are now enjoying a peaceful life with their families under the AGILA-HAVEN Program of the Province of Maguindanao.”

President Rodrigo Duterte, during his visit to 6ID, PA Headquarters last May 11, 2021, called for the active role of the local chief executives of BARMM and Maguindanao Province in addressing extremism in Central Mindanao. The Chief Executive appealed to the local officials and to the people of Maguindanao to help him in attaining peace in Central Mindanao.

[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/two-biff-extremists-neutralize-in-maguindanao-clash-raising-extremists-casualties-to-6-killed-and-2-arrested/

Kalinaw News: AFP Chief applauds improved internal security in Northern Luzon

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 17, 2021): AFP Chief applauds improved internal security in Northern Luzon

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana congratulated the troops of Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) for competently addressing terrorism and insurgency problems in the country’s Northern regions.

“The NOLCOM’s accomplishments clearly manifest our troops’ dedication and commitment to continuously pursue their core functions notwithstanding the prevailing health crisis brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Their perseverance and hard work are what made all these successful operations possible,” said General Sobejana.

The Chief of Staff visited the Command’s headquarters on Monday, May 17 in Camp Servillano S. Aquino in Tarlac City where he made the traditional ‘talk to troops’. His party was welcomed by NOLCOM officials led by its Commander, Lieutenant General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. General Sobejana said the attainment of NOLCOM’s mission and strategic objectives remains essential as it continues to face the challenge of eliminating the danger brought about by threat groups in the Ilocos and Cagayan Region.

It also pushes forth the nation’s rightful assertion of Philippine sovereignty over its maritime territories in the West Philippine Sea. One of NOLCOM’s significant achievements was the sustainment of its campaign plan dubbed as “NOLCOM 3K: Kapayapaan, Kaunlaran, Kasaganaan” to better improve Internal Security Campaigns against Communist Terrorist Groups (CTG) in the region.

The Command also dismantled over half of Guerrilla Front Committees in North and Central Luzon while continuously carrying out its Territorial Defense Campaign Plan “North Shield.” The Command’s work however does not end there said General Sobejana, stressing that there is still much to be done in addressing the terrorism and insurgency problems in the North.

“We must continually patrol our maritime territories, closely coordinate with other government agencies, and offer support to the people who are affected. I urge you to continue excellently performing your mandate,” he said.

Regarded as the AFP’s stronghold in the North, the NOLCOM plays a critical role in upholding the AFP’s mandate of protecting the people and securing the land, especially given the pressing issues in its area of operations.

“Our troops have my full confidence that one day, the fruits of their labor in combating threat groups, securing territorial defense, and safeguarding the welfare of the people will reap lasting peace in the areas of Northern and Central Luzon. This peace will consequently result in fostering a conducive environment for sustainable development in the region, which I am certain is our shared aspiration with the local communities,” General Sobejana 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/afp-chief-applauds-improved-internal-security-in-northern-luzon/

Kalinaw News: Army gets all out support from Medina, Misamis Oriental in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 17, 2021): Army gets all out support from Medina, Misamis Oriental in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – Following the recent Inter-Local Agency Partnership Agreement (ILAPA) signing with the Local Government Unit of Medina, the 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion (58IB) together with the Medina Municipal Police Station conducted “Hatid Serbisyo Program” in Brgy. San Jose, Medina, Misamis Oriental on May 13, 2021.

The activity was graced by the municipal government of Medina, the Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office (MORPPO) and the 58IB. Headed by Honorable Donato N. Chan, Medina Municipal Mayor, the key personalities also attended the event were: Dr. Alexander M. Simbulan, Vice President of Mindanao ACCERT; Police Colonel Raniel M. Valones, Provincial Director, MORPPO; and Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L. Canatoy, Commander, 58IB. The activities in the program includes, planting of 100 pine tree seedlings, mobile library, services like free haircut, distribution of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials, presentation of mascot, and a series of information drives on Coronavirus Awareness Response and Empowerment (CARE), Illegal Drugs, and Enhanced Local Integration Program (ELCAC).

Municipal Mayor Hon. Donato N. Chan emphasized the value of the Whole of Nation Approach. This program is contingent on the realization of the Whole of Nation Approach; all are working together and helping each other, giving their best efforts to address the needs of those people in the conflict-affected areas in the country, in order for the armed conflict to be resolved.

“The life of NPA in the hinterlands is very difficult and that suffering will not end if you remain with that terrorist group. I urge you, my brothers, and sisters to surrender now and avail the E-CLIP benefits that were specifically designed and intended for you. My dream for Medina is simple for its entire people to live in peace and harmony”, said Mayor Chan.

Lieutenant Colonel Canatoy, on the other hand, appealed to the citizens of Medina to assist the government in putting an end to insurgency in Medina. “I am pleading with all of you, from local chief executives to residents, to please assist us, especially the government forces, in implementing these projects and programs by the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.”

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-gets-all-out-support-from-medina-misamis-oriental-in-ending-local-communist-armed-conflict/

Kalinaw News: Army’s 3rd Infantry Division takes pride in AFP Chief of Staff Recognition from Negros Oriental LGU

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 17, 2021): Army’s 3rd Infantry Division takes pride in AFP Chief of Staff Recognition from Negros Oriental LGU

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – The Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) took great pride in the recognition of the AFP Chief of Staff from the provincial government of Negros Oriental.

General Cirilito E. Sobejana, Chief of Staff, AFP received a Plaque of Commendation from the provincial government through a ceremony held at Negros Oriental Convention Center on May 14, 2021.

“We are deeply honored for the appreciation given by the local government of Negros Oriental to our Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. His honor is also our reputation, and we take pride in the recognition given to him for he truly deserves it,” said Major General Eric Vinoya, Commander, 3ID.

Prior to the ceremony, the AFP Chief of Staff was given an arrival honors rendered by the 11th Infantry Battalion at the forecourt of the Provincial Capitol. He also paid a courtesy call to Governor Roel Degamo on the same day.

General Sobejana is a native of Zamboanguita town in the said province. He was also awarded with the highest commendation by the said municipality for bringing honor and prestige to his hometown in August 2020. General Sobejana is considered as one of the country’s great living heroes after having been awarded the Medal of Valor, the country’s highest military award for courage.

[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/recognition-of-the-afp-chief-of-staff/

Kalinaw News: 3rd Infantry Division Commander cites LGUs’ support for sustained funding of NTF-ELCAC

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 17, 2021): 3rd Infantry Division Commander cites LGUs’ support for sustained funding of NTF-ELCAC

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – Major General Eric C Vinoya, Commander 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division appreciates the support of various Local Government Officials in Western Visayas for the sustained funding of National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The call for support came after some Senators threatened to defund NTF-ELCAC. The Local Chief Executives (LCEs) in 3ID’s area of responsibilities issued statements in favor of continued funding of Local Government Support (Fund-Support) to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) under NTF-ELCAC. Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo; Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr; Mayor Jerry Treṅas of Iloilo City; Mayor Melecio Yap Jr. of Escalante City; Mayor Ernesto Estrao of Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental; Mayor Vicente Jaen II of Leganes, Iloilo; Barangay Captain Edgar Araṅador of Balabago, Jaro, Iloilo City, and Barangay Captain Ladislao Pontevedra Jr., of Langub, Escalante City, Negros Occidental were among the LCEs who issued the aforementioned statement.

These local officials shared the same sentiments on the importance of development fund with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict affected communities. “We are grateful to your overwhelming support to the anti-insurgency campaign that aims to end the local communist armed conflict. Your people are lucky to have you as their leaders who fight not only for their own welfare, but for the whole community as well.” Maj. Gen. Vinoya said.

Maj. Gen. Vinoya also stressed that the favorable statements of the local officials in Western Visayas is a manifestation of their sincerity to fulfill the people’s dream for a violence and insurgency-free region.



[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/3rd-infantry-division-commander-cites-lgus-support-for-sustained-funding-of-ntf-elcac/

Kalinaw News: Escalante City Task Force-ELCAC, Business Sectors convene in anti-Insurgency Campaign

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 17, 2021): Escalante City Task Force-ELCAC, Business Sectors convene in anti-Insurgency Campaign

Sagay City, Negros Occidental — The 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion in partnership with the 65th Special Action Company (6SAB), PNP-SAF and the Local Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (LTF-ELCAC) of Escalante City conducted a Peace Advocacy Symposium (PAS) to the Business Sectors within the city on May 14, 2021 held at Brgy Alimango, Escalante City, Negros Occidental.

At least 25 business owners attended the peace awareness campaign. The activity aims to give awareness to the business sectors regarding the insurgency and threats, deception, deceptive recruitment strategies and extortion activities of CPP-NPA-NDF specifically in the northern part of Negros Occidental. Salient points of Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, EO-70 (NTF ELCAC), Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunitions and its penalties and violations, and, Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) are some of the subject matters imparted to the participants.

It is also intend to empower the business sectors to be responsible and well-informed members of the society and be partner in ending local communist armed conflict. According to Hon. Melecio J Yap Jr, City Mayor of Escalante City, the business sector is one of vulnerable sectors that are victims of Communist Terrorists from their extortion activities. In order for our province to be free from insurgency, education and empowerment plays a vital role to stop the terroristic activities of CPP-NPA-NDF. “We are positive that the knowledge we gained from this activity will contributive by doing our shares to end the local communist armed conflict,” Mayor Yap added.

Lt. Col. Gerard T. Alvaran, Commander, 79th Infantry Battalion lauded the sincere efforts of Escalante City Task Force-ELCAC for its continuous initiatives for peace and development. “We will continue to do our respective tasks and joint endeavors inspired by the spirit of “Bayanihan” or the Whole-of-Nation approach in ending the local armed conflict.” The activity was culminated with a Pledge of Commitment of the participants not to extend any assistance to Communist Terrorists and reaffirming their full support to the programs of the government for the total eradication of insurgency.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/escalante-city-task-force-elcac-business-sectors-convene-in-anti-insurgency-campaign/

Karapatan chairperson posts bail after arrest over attempted murder charge

From Rappler (May 18, 2021): Karapatan chairperson posts bail after arrest over attempted murder charge (JAIRO BOLLEDO)

Karapatan says the charges have no factual basis and were only meant to harass human rights workers

Human rights worker and Karapatan National Chairperson Elisa Tita Lubi posted bail after her arrest in Marikina City over an attempted murder charge, Karapatan announced on Tuesday, May 18.

"Elisa 'Tita' Lubi, after complying with all the requirements, was allowed to post bail yesterday, May 17, 2021, assisted by counsel, in relation to the bailable trumped up charge of attempted murder against her before a Davao City court," Karapatan said in a statement.

The rights group added Lubi was held under the custody of the police while processing her bail.

Lubi, 78, was arrested around 2:15 pm on May 17 in Barangay Industrial Valley Complex, Marikina City, through a warrant of arrest issued by Judge Ronald Tolentino of Regional Trial Court Branch 52 based in Davao City, according to Marikina City police.

The Karapatan national chairperson, along with Karapatan Southern Mindanao Region Secretary General Jay Apiag, were charged with attempted murder over an alleged armed encounter between elements of the New People’s Army (NPA) and the Philippine Army’s 89th Infantry Battalion and 10th Infantry Division in Davao City on May 20, 2018.

Lubi, a senior citizen with no physical capability to be involved in armed combat, was slapped by charges filed through the sworn affidavit of Corporal Elvin Jay Claud.

According to Karapatan, the case was filed on June 3, 2020 – two years after the alleged encounter. The group added both Lubi and Apiag did not receive subpoenas for the preliminary investigation of their case.

MUST READ

[EDITORIAL] Pagtatanggol sa karapatang pantao: 'No battle more important'

On March 29, Lubi filed a motion before the Davao City court to manifest that she was in Metro Manila when the alleged encounter took place in Davao City. She also stated that it is “physically implausible for [her] to engage in an armed combat for she was 75 turning 76 years old, and suffering from the usual conditions ailing people of such advanced age.”

Lubi is suffering from hypertension and arthritis.

In a statement released on March 29, Karapatan Secretary General Tinay Palabay said the charges have no factual basis and were only meant to harass human rights workers.

“This attempted murder charge filed by the military is bereft of any factual basis... Clearly, these charges are pure hogwash and judicial harassment targeting human rights workers,” Palabay said.

Former political prisoner to rights worker

During the dictatorship of Marcos, Lubi became a political prisoner. That’s why she helped to assure the passage of the Human Rights Victims Indemnification Law and the process of the actual compensation for victims as one of the National Board of the Samahan ng Ex-detainees Laban sa Detensyon at Aresto (SELDA).

She is a former member of Karapatan’s National Executive Committee and former interim Regional Coordinator of the Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development (APWLD).

In 2018, Lubi was among 600 individuals listed in a petition proscribing the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the NPA as terrorist organizations.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/karapatan-chairperson-elisa-lubi-posts-bail-arrest-attempted-murder-charge

LOOK: Andres Centino sworn in as 64th Philippine Army chief

From Rappler (May 18, 2021): LOOK: Andres Centino sworn in as 64th Philippine Army chief (JAIRO BOLLEDO)

Centino says he will focus on recruiting more qualified applicants and modernizing the army

Newly installed Major General Andres Centino formally took over as the 64th commanding general of the 100,000-strong Philippine Army during the change of command ceremony in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, on Tuesday, May 18.

Centino replaced his "mistah" and classmate, Lieutenant General Jose Faustino Jr., whose appointment was questioned by the Commission on Appointments due to "unconstitutionality."

Republic Act No. 8186 or the law that strengthens professionalism in the military states that no military officer shall be promoted to the level of chief or commanding officer if he/she has less than a year to serve. Faustino is set to retire in November.

DEFENSE HEADS. Outgoing Army chief Lieutenant General Jose Faustino (L) and incoming Army chief Major General Andres Centino (R), together with Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana during the change of command ceremony.  DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE

During the ceremony, Centino said that as part of his thrust as the new commanding general, the army would recruit more qualified applicants and strengthen the concept of meritocracy or credential-based promotion among army officers. He added that he would continue modernizing the army by acquiring new military equipment.

ARMY LEADERS. Some heads of different army units attend the ceremony held in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, meanwhile, said that Centino's professionalism and successful fight against insurgency during his stint as the commander of the 4th Infantry Division in Northern Mindanao ensure that the army will perform well under his leadership.

"I'm not really surprised that he is now Army chief," the defense secretary added.



TRANSFER OF SABER. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana officiates the transfer of saber, one of the symbols of the Philippine Army, from Lieutenant General Jose Faustino (L) to Major General Andres Centino (R). PHOTO FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE

Centino is the seventh Army chief since Rodrigo Duterte was elected president in 2016. He is also the second member of the Philippine Military Academy "Maringal" Class of 1988 to be appointed as Army chief after his predecessor Faustino.

If he would not be reassigned to other posts, Centino will serve as Army chief until his retirement in 2023.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/photos-andres-centino-sworn-in-philippine-army-chief-may-2021

Marines find IED component in Rizal town

From Palawan News (May 18, 2021): Marines find IED component in Rizal town (By Aira Genesa Magdayao)

Operatives of Marine Battalion Landing Team-4 (MBLT-4) recovered around 15 kilos of ammonium nitrate, an improvised explosive device (IED) component in Barangay Bunog in Rizal town last weekend.

The IED component was found buried and stored inside 20-gallon containers.

MBLT-4 operations officer Maj. Carl Roy Catalan told Palawan News on Tuesday, May 18, that the recovery was through the cooperation of a concerned citizen who is also formerly connected to the terrorist group New People’s Army (NPA).

“Continuous ang pag-conduct ng mga community engagement sa mga remote areas specifically ‘yong mga dating lugar kung saan naglalagi ang mga NPA. Sa tulong ng mga concern citizen na may connection din sa grupo ay nahukay ang more or less 15 kilos ng Ammonium Nitrate sa liblib na lugar ng Sitio Mantayob,” Catalan said.

Catalan also added that they are continuously conducting community engagement and combat patrol to ensure the safety of the Palaweno in southern Palawan.

In May 2020, a civilian was killed when the NPA attacked the CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) deployed to provide security assistance to provincial government’s Mantayob Water System Project. The NPA claimed responsibility in the attack pointing out that it was targeted at the 18th Special Forces Company of the Philippine Army.

“Confirmed ang presence nila sa lugar na ‘yon, isa ‘yan sa lugar na dinadaanan nila. Noong panahon na ‘yon ay malamang diyan nila tinago ‘yong component ng IED,” Catalan said.

“Tuloy-tuloy din ang combat patrol natin to ensure the security and peaceful environment dito sa southern Palawan,” he added.

https://palawan-news.com/marines-find-ied-component-in-rizal-town/

Captured Sayyaf sub-leader, 4 others turn up dead in Sabah in alleged shootout a week later

From the Mindanao Examiner (May 18, 2021): Captured Sayyaf sub-leader, 4 others turn up dead in Sabah in alleged shootout a week later

'Captured alive on May 8, killed on May 17 in alleged clash with Sabah police'

FIVE ABU Sayyaf terrorists were killed following a gun battle that erupted during a police raid on their hideout near Taman Sri Arjuna in Beaufort, a small town in Sabah, reports said Tuesday, but among those slain was actually captured alive along with 7 other militants a week earlier in the same area.















From Eastern Sabah Security Command



From the Daily Express



From Eastern Sabah Security Command

The official Malaysian news agency Bernama said the fighting occurred Monday at a mangrove area where police commandos and members of the elite Eastern Sabah Security Command also captured 8 Abu Sayyaf terrorists and 29 other Filipinos, including women and children, during a special operation on May 8.

Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hazani Ghazali said among those slain was Mabar Binda, a sub-leader of the pro-ISIS group, who was also wanted by the Philippine authorities. And he also identified the other three killed terrorists as Abhirsham Samsula, Jurakhdam Binda and Alsimar Sukarno. The other slain terrorist remains unidentified.

“With the death of the five members of the group, we believe that we have crippled yet another cell of Abu Sayyaf who have been hiding in Sabah and have pledged allegiance to the Daesh (ISIS) militant group,” Hazani said at a news conference.

“We also suspect that there are remnants of the group still hiding in Malaysia, especially in Sabah. We are investigating it,” he added.

Hazani said the Mabar Binda’s group clashed with policemen, who killed all 5 Abu Sayyaf fighters. He said police recovered two .45-caliber pistols and ammunition, including three machetes.

But Mabar Binda was among those captured alive by the Eastern Sabah Security Command along with another sub-leader Sansibar Bensio and Alim Sukarno, Bonijar Samsula, Lugah Sanchez, Sansis, Firdaus and Muayyar Binda.

It was unclear whether four of those slain were also among the terrorists captured alive in Beaufort. Their capture was even announced by Hazani himself during a news conference on May 10 with the Eastern Sabah Security Command providing photos of the terrorists.

But Hazani claimed Mabar Binda was among the five Abu Sayyaf terrorists who escaped during the May 8 raid in Beaufort even though their photos showed all of them alive and hands tied behind their back.

The Philippine military’s Western Mindanao Command also confirmed the capture of Mabar Binda and the others by the Eastern Sabah Security Command in Beaufort town.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the operation launched by Malaysia was part of bilateral anti-terrorism efforts between the two countries.

“The strengthened collaboration and cooperation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Eastern Sabah Southern Command led to the apprehension of two notorious Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leaders and six of their followers in Sabah,” he said following the capture of Mabar Binda’s group, adding the intelligence that led to the capture of the Abu Sayyaf fighters was provided by the Joint Task Force Sulu to the Eastern Sabah Security Command.

“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 of May 8, Saturday,” Vinluan said.

He also identified some of the arrested Abu Sayyaf terrorists as Sansibar Bensio, 40; Mabar Binda, 25; who are both Abu Sayyaf sub-leaders; and Muayyar Binda, 30; Firdaus; Lugah Sanchez, 45; Bonijar Samsula,

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, also said Bensio and Binda were involved in the series of clashes with the military in Patikul town where they beheaded 2Lt. Michael Baladad, of the Philippine Marines. He said the two sub-leaders were also involved in the kidnappings of at least 10 Filipinos and Indonesian fishermen Samiun Bin Maneu, Maharudin Bin Lunani and Muhammad Farhan; and also Swiss national Lorenzo Vinciguerra, Dutchman Ewold Horn.

Gonzales, citing intelligence report by Col. Hernanie Songano, commander of the 4th Marine Brigade, said: 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 to Sabah and established an Abu Sayyaf cell base thereat, to spot probable kidnap victims and to facilitate (the entry of) foreign terrorist groups operating in the Southeast Asian countries, to conduct terror activities in the Philippines.” (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/05/captured-sayyaf-sub-leader-4-others.html

Army lauds LGUs’ support for villages' sustained dev't. fund

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 18, 2021): Army lauds LGUs’ support for villages' sustained dev't. fund (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, May 18 (PIA) -- Major General Eric C. Vinoya, the Commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, appreciates the support of various Local Government Officials in Western Visayas for the sustained funding of National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The call for support came after some Senators threatened to defund the NTF-ELCAC.



Local Chief Executives (LCEs) in 3ID’s area of responsibilities issued that called for continued funding of the Local Government Support Fund-Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) under NTF-ELCAC, said 3ID Spokesperson Major Cenon Pancito III in a press release.

He said Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., Iloilo City mayor Jerry Treñas; Escalante City, Negros Occidental mayor Melecio Yap Jr.; Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental mayor Ernesto Estrao; Leganes, Iloilo mayor Vicente Jaen II; Balabago, Jaro, Iloilo City Barangay Captain Edgar Arañador; Langub, Escalante City, Negros Occidental Barangay Captain Ladislao Pontevedra, Jr.; and Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo were among the LCEs who issued the statement for sustained program funding.

Said local officials shared the same sentiments on the importance of development fund with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-hit communities, Pancito added.

On the other hand, Vinoya lauded the overwhelming support of the local officials in the fight against local communist armed conflict.

“We are grateful to your overwhelming support to the anti-insurgency campaign that aims to end the local communist armed conflict. Your people are lucky to have you as their leaders who fight not only for their own welfare, but for the whole community as well,” Vinoya said.

He also stressed that the favorable statements of the local officials in Western and Cental Visayas is a manifestation of their sincerity to fulfill the people’s dream for a violence and insurgency-free region. (PIA/DPAO-3ID/Philippine Army)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075482

TESDA rolls out PRLEC project in Negros Occ.

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 18, 2021): TESDA rolls out PRLEC project in Negros Occ. (By Lorenzo O. Lambatin, Jr.)

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 18 (PIA6) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) along with various partner government offices recently launched the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) Project dubbed “Barangayanihan Para sa Kauswagan Sang Barangay Carabalan” in Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City.

TESDA Information Officer Jenie Notchite said around 107 participants including Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel and Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and their families attended the rollout of the training program course on heavy equipment operation.

The conduct of the activity complied with the guidelines and health protocols set by the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, said Information Officer Notchite.

TESDA Negros Occidental Acting Provincial Director Romelia Nuezca said Brgy. Carabalan was identified as the recipient of this training program course due to its status as an insurgency-cleared barangay based on the record of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

For his part, TESDA VI Regional Director Jerry Tizon emphasized that the program is part of their agency's effort as the chair of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) created under Executive Order No. 70

EO 70 primarily seeks to bring government services closer to the people and address problems contributing to insurgency through the whole-of-nation approach.

“This training, as an intervention, is just the beginning and is just one of the programs TESDA offers. We chose Heavy Equipment Operation (Bulldozer) National Competency II course for you because this will be an instrument so that other programs of the government will reach far-flung communities for without roads it will be difficult to bring services to the people,” he added.

Himamaylan City mayor Rogelio Raymund Tongson, Jr. expressed his gratitude to TESDA and its partners for the project. He assured TESDA of his support for whatever development programs that the agency will bring to Himamaylan.

He urged the beneficiaries to finish the training since the National Certificate of TESDA has now become a requirement by the industry.

TESDA beneficiary Mario S. Foldadero lauded the program which he considers a big help not just for himself but also for the community since everyone residing in Sitios Cabalungan, Florete and Canagba-an (project sites) hope to have passable roads. (TESDA/JSC/Lljr/PIA6 Negros Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075480