9 suspects arrested but Maute Group leader eludes arrest

From MindaNews (May 30, 2021): 9 suspects arrested but Maute Group leader eludes arrest (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

CAGAYAN DE ORO (MindaNews / 30 May) — The leader of Dawlah Islamiya-Maute group in Lanao del Sur eluded arrest when he received a tip of an impending raid by soldiers on Saturday but nine persons believed to have helped him escape were arrested.

Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo, commanding general of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade said Faharudin Hadji Satar (also known as Abu Bakar or Abu Zacaria), leader of Dawlah Islamiya-Maute group, and a small group of followers managed to get away when the raiders arrived in Barangay Paigoay, Tubaran town, a farming community some 58 kilometers south of Marawi City at about 1 p.m. Saturday.

Map courtesy of Google Maps

“Somebody sent a text message to Zacaria that the team of soldiers and policemen was crossing the rice paddies to the house where he was hiding,” Cuerpo said.

He said Zacaria was hiding in a small concrete house in the farming community.

Cuerpo said they arrested nine suspects who they believed assisted in the escape of Zacaria.

They were identified as Camaroden Tindug, 52; Sabdullah Sarip, 36; Oter Macaungun, 35; Alisood Dima, 52; Sowaib Abdullah, 18; Saaduden Adapun, 30; Zaenal Abdulatip, 33; and Aleem Salih Pitiilan, 45 – all of them male and married – and Asnare Alisood, 20, male, single. All are residents of Barangay Paigoay.

Cuerpo said two M-16 rifles, three M16 magazines with live ammunition, one carbine, two cal. 45 pistols, two base radio, six portable radio, six touch screen cellphones, seven keypad cellphones, one laptop, two USBs, one improvised explosive device, one cal. 45 fired cartridge, one cal. 45 slug, wallets and money amounting to 1,900 pesos and propaganda materials of Dawlah Islamiyah were recovered in the house where Zacaria was hiding.

“These are the people who fired at the troops and policemen as they crossed the paddies, giving time for Zacaria to escape,” Cuerpo said.

He said the raid was planned to serve a warrant of arrest against Zacaria and one of his followers, Muna Kali alias Abu Dimam.

The 43-year-old Zacaria hails from Barangay Paigoay. He became the leader of the militant group after the death of Obwaydah Marohombsar alias Abu Dar who was killed by government troops in March 14, 2019.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/05/9-suspects-arrested-but-maute-group-leader-eludes-arrest/

Olutanga police seize nearly 3,000 pounds of high explosive chemical

From the Mindanao Examiner (May 30, 2021): Olutanga police seize nearly 3,000 pounds of high explosive chemical

Policemen seized 53 bags of ammonium nitrate weighing nearly 3,000 pounds - which is widely used by rebels and terrorists in the manufacture of explosives - following the arrest of a man in the southern province of Zamboanga Sibugay, a regional police spokeswoman said.

Major Shellamie Chang said policemen, armed with a warrant, had arrested Buddy Asamuddin in the village of Pulo Mabao in Olutanga town on May 29. Chang said the warrant of arrest was issued by Judge Anthony Isaw, of the Regional Trial Court Branch 29 in Ipil town.

“Confiscated during the operation were 53 sacks of ammonium nitrate, four blasting caps and one detonating cord (which measures) 25 inches and one detonating cord (which is) 26 inches," she said.

The man, who works as a carpenter and a fisherman, is currently being investigated and it is unknown whether the suspect is a member of a rebel group or not, or engages in blast fishing which is also illegal in the country.

Corporal Davy Sanchez, who is investigating Asamuddin, said each bag of ammonium nitrate weighs about 25 kilos. “The ammonium nitrate was repacked in a 25-kilo sack, all 53 bags, and we are still investigating the suspect, who is also a fisherman,” he told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner by phone from his office in Olutanga town, some 289 kilometers from here.

In February 23, 2019, maritime police also seized 1,100 pounds of ammonium nitrate after a sea chase that led to the capture of 5 men - Ismol Malsani, Kadoh Kahamkam, Jinali Marosali, Makamil Malan and Mastal Malsani in Zamboanga City.

The patrol spotted the suspicious boat off Taluksangay village and gave chase after the vessel did not stop for security inspection. The boat was eventually apprehended and its passengers arrested for transporting 20 (25 kilos) bags of ammonium nitrate which was made in South Korea by Huchems Fine Chemical Corporation.

In August 2017, police here also confiscated 660 pounds of ammonium nitrate and dozens of blasting caps in a raid on a house in the coastal village of Arena Blanco. The house owner, Pagal Aliasan, 25, admitted purchasing the chemical from the black market in Tawi-Tawi, one of 5 provinces under the Muslim autonomous region, and sold homemade explosives to fishermen. (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/05/olutanga-police-seize-nearly-3000.html

PRO6: Death of high-ranking NPA member, a big blow to CPP-NPA in Panay

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 30, 2021): PRO6: Death of high-ranking NPA member, a big blow to CPP-NPA in Panay (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, May 29 (PIA) – The death of a high-ranking Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) member and his aide will greatly affect the operation of the CPP-NPA in Panay, said Western Visayas top police official.

Police Regional Office 6 director Brigadier General Rolando F. Miranda said that the death of the high-ranking CPP-NPA member and his aide, after putting up a gun-fight against police operatives while serving warrants of arrest, will be a big blow to the operation of the CPP-NPA in Panay.

“Malaking kawalan sa kilusan ang pagkawala ni Bocala. It will impede their operations because he is the one managing the finances of KR-Panay,” Miranda said in a press release issued by the PRO 6 Regional Public Information Office.

Reynaldo Bocala alias Bading, a communist terrorist group member, was the subject of the arrest warrants served at about 8:20 P.M. of May 28, 2021 at Block 71, Village 3, Providence Subdivision, Brgy. Balabag, Pavia, Iloilo, by the combined elements of the Regional Intelligence Division PRO-6, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-Regional Field Unit 6, Iloilo Police Provincial Office and Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel, the media release said.

Photo of Reynaldo Bocala alias “Bading” (Left), the subject of the warrants of arrest, and Bocala’s aide Willy Epago alias “Ramon” (Right)

Bocala is a wanted person with reward of P4.8 million and has a standing warrant of arrest for the following cases:

1. Robbery in Band with Frustrated Homicide and Damage to Property with the use of Motor Vehicle and Unlicensed Firearms, docketed under Crim. Case No. 2627-Tu, issued by Hon. Susan Medina-Alcantara, Presiding Judge, 15th MCTC, Guimbal, Iloilo dated July 12, 2004 with bail bond fixed at P200,000.00;

2. Robbery with Serious Physical Injuries, docketed under Crim. Case No. 1337, issued by Hon. Teodulo A. Colada, Executive/Presiding Judge, RTC Br 67, Guimbal, Iloilo dated Feb 4, 2005 with bail bond fixed at P180,000.00;

3. Viol of PD 1744 (Destructive Arson) as amended by RA 7659, docketed under CC no. 1373, issued by Hon. Teodulo A. Colada, Executive/Presiding Judge, RTC Br 67, Guimbal, Iloilo dated February 21, 2005 with no bail recommended;

4. Murder docketed under CC no. 1238-H, issued by Hon. Ma. Monina S. Misajon, MCTC Judge, Province of Antique, dated April 16, 1990 with no bail recommended.

According to the reports from the Regional Intelligence Division of Police Regional Office 6, Bocala was very elusive. Various intelligence units have been monitoring and are after him for more than three years.

As to RID- PRO 6, they have launched five operations in the past but all these failed not until this operation in Pavia, Iloilo where he was monitored to be in the place for almost three days prior the actual serving of the warrant.

According to the accounts of the CIDG Regional Field Unit 6, when they served the warrant of arrest, Bocala’s aide Willy Epago alias “Ramon” ran inside the house, and afterwards, they fired upon the operatives.

One of the operatives was hit but was not gravely injured because he was wearing a bullet proof vest. This prompted the operatives to return fire which resulted in neutralization of Bocala and Epago.

Both subjects were declared dead on the spot by Dra. Mia Mae Apostol, responding doctor from the Rural Health Unit of Pavia, Iloilo.

Immediately, investigation was conducted and the area was turned over to the Scene of the Crime Operatives of the Regional Crime Laboratory Office 6 for crime scene processing.

Recovered at the crime scene are two caliber .45 pistols, subversive documents, empty shells, identification cards of the subjects and cellular phones.

Bocala was reported to have occupied several positions in the CPP-NPA, the press release noted.

He was the former Deputy Secretary, Southern Front Committee (SFC), Panay Regional Party Committee (PRPC); Former Secretary, SFC, PRPC; former head, Regional Operational Department, PRPC; and was the former secretary of PRPC in 2001.

Currently, he heads the Regional Taxation Implementing Group (RTIG)/Finance Officer of KR-Panay and one of the identification cards recovered revealed that he is a consultant of the National Democratic Front (NDF).

Bocala is the husband of Maria Concepcion “Concha” Araneta, Deputy Secretary of KR- Panay.

As of this reporting, the families of the subjects are processing the release of their bodies after the examination and paraffin test.

The successful operation against wanted high-ranking CPP-NPA members is a collaborative effort of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict spearheaded by the PNP and the AFP.

Meanwhile, Miranda appealed to the active CPP-NPA members to surrender to the government.

“Again, I am telling you, wala kayong mapapala diyan sa CPP-NPA. Mas nanaisin pa namin na sumurender na lang kayo at magbagong buhay,” Miranda added. (PIA6/Story and photos from PRO6-RPIO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1076632

Panay CPP-NPA top leader, aide die in Iloilo

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 30, 2021): Panay CPP-NPA top leader, aide die in Iloilo (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, May 30 (PIA) – The death of a top Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) leader is a giant leap in the government’s anti-insurgency campaign.

Major General Eric C. Vinoya, the Commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division, said the death of Reynaldo Bocala alias “Bading,” who heads the Regional Finance Bureau, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KR-P), will further crack the CPP NPA in Panay after the continuous dwindling of leaders.

Vinoya said “Bocala’s death only manifested that the long arms of the law will always prevail in bringing to justice those that have violated it.”

Bocala is the husband of Maria Concepcion "Concha" Araneta, who is the Deputy Secretary of CPP NPA's KR-P.

"Bocala is a notorious terrorist, thus, his death is a victory not only for the government's law enforcement operation but also for the people of Panay who suffered much from the cruelty of the communist terrorists,” Vinoya said, in a press release from the 3ID’s Public Affairs Office.

He added “This is also justice for all the victims of their atrocities and criminal activities."

"Together with our counterparts from the PNP, your Army will fight against the insurgents more aggressively until the last terrorist is brought to justice,” he stressed.

Vinoya noted that the Panayanons deserve to live peacefully, away from the extortion, intimidation, and the terroristic activities of the CPP NPAs.

On May 28, Bocala, a regional leader of the Communist Terrorist Group operating in Panay island, together with his comrade Welly Epago Arguelles, died in a gun fight with AFP-PNP elements at Providence Subdivision, Brgy. Balabag, Pavia, Iloilo.

Bocala and his aide were killed while rebelliously fighting back with the authorities serving four warrants of arrest against him (Bocala).

Recovered from the said area were two Cal.45 Pistols, subversive documents and assorted cellular phones.

Bocala was accused of Robbery in Band with Frustrated Homicide and Damage to Property using motor vehicle and unlicensed firearms issued by Judge Susan Medina-Alcantara of 15th Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC) in Guimbal, Iloilo on July 12, 2004, with bail bond fixed at P200,000.00.

He was also the subject of an arrest warrant for Robbery with Serious Physical Injuries issued by Judge Teodulo A. Colada of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 67, Guimbal, Iloilo on February 4, 2005, with bail bond fixed at P180,000.00.

Bocala was also accused of violating PD 1744 (Destructive Arson) as amended by RA 7659 issued by Hon. Teodulo A. Colada, of RTC Br 67, Guimbal, Iloilo on February 21, 2005, with no bail recommended.

He was also indicted of murder issued by Judge Ma. Monina Misajon of MCTC Judge, Province of Antique, dated April 16, 1990, with no bail recommended.

Some positions held by Bocala in CPP-NPA were the former Finance Officer of Kilusang Rehiyon Panay; Former Deputy Secretary of the Southern Front Committee (SFC), Panay Regional Party Committee (PRPC); Former Secretary, SFC, PRPC; Former Head, Regional Operational Department, PRPC, and Former Secretary of PRPC in 2001. (PIA6/Story from DPAO-3ID/Philippine Army)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1076639

Anti-insurgency forum rolls in Pangasinan barangays

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 29, 2021): Anti-insurgency forum rolls in Pangasinan barangays (By Venus May H. Sarmiento)

DAGUPAN CITY, May 29 (PIA) - The Joint Regional and Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (R/PTF-ELCAC) rolled its Barangay Levelling Session in Pangasinan on Friday, May 28.

Regional Director James Fadrilan of the Department of the Interior and Local Government said the session aims to advocate the fight against insurgency groups through proper understanding of Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach, as well as showcase the efforts of the various government agencies and local government units in this endeavor.

“Anchored on President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s will and commitment to fully address the communist insurgency in the country, this barangay levelling session will enable the participants to be more aware of the CPP-NPA-NDF’s framework,structures, strategies and tactics, thus create support and engagement to the government’s programs to counter the communist propaganda,” Fadrilan said.

In his message, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. said Region I is already free of insurgents which happened when the only guerrilla group was dismantled by authorities.

“Our duty is to see to it that they will not come back so we could benefit from the dividends of peace. I am confident that our leaders in the provinces are dynamic and under them, the communist-terrorist groups cannot come back,” said Sec. Esperon who is also the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) in Region I

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. said during the Barangay Levelling Session in Pangasinan that to ensure lasting peace, leaders must adopt the three antidotes to insurgency - good governance, good economics and good citizenship. (VHS)

To ensure lasting peace, he said leaders must adopt the three antidotes to insurgency - good governance, good economics and good citizenship.

“There must be a high sense of good governance in all levels. Good economics is needed so we can attain the dividends of peace. Good citizenship is the best asset of Pangasinenses because they are hardworking and law-abiding people,” Esperon explained.

Governor Amado Espino III, represented by Col. Rhodyn Luchinvar Oro, said the joint efforts of the various government agencies and LGUs have led to the insurgency-free status of the province of Pangasinan.

“Dahil sa sama-samang pagsisikap ng iba’t ibang ahensya ng gobyerno at organisasyon, nananatiling insurgency-free ang ating probinsya ng Pangasinan. Nawa’y maging hamon sa bawat isa na mapanatili ito. Bilang pagtugon sa NTF-ELCAC at peace agenda, patuloy ang paglunsad natin ng mga development projects upang mapaigting ang layunin at mas mapalapit sa paghahatid ng tulong sa ating mga kabaleyan.” Gov Espino said in his message.

Part of the Barangay Levelling Sessions are presentations from the National Intelligence CoordInating Agency (NICA), 702nd Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA), Philippine National Police (PNP), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) and the provincial government of Pangasinan.

 

The Joint Regional and Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (R/PTF-ELCAC) rolled its Barangay Levelling Session in Pangasinan on Friday, May 28. Regional Director James Fadrilan of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, said the session aims to advocate the fight against insurgency groups through proper understanding of Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach as well as showcase the efforts of the various government agencies and local government units in this endeavor. (VHS/PIA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1076519

DOST ties partnership with Army, LGUs, SUCs to empower PRLEC beneficiaries

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 30, 2021): DOST ties partnership with Army, LGUs, SUCs to empower PRLEC beneficiaries (By Joyah Mae C. Quimoyog)

ILOCOS SUR, May 30 (PIA) - - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Ilocos expands its community empowerment initiative this year through its Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program.

The CEST program entitled "Engaging Local Communities with Science, Technology and Innovation for Development in conflict-affected, geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas in Ilocos Sur" aims to bring more projects to remote and poor communities in the province.

As a member of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC), the DOST implements CEST and innovation to effect poverty reduction, livelihood, and employment generation in the communities affected by communist-armed conflict with Php10.5 million budget allotment for the second district of the province.

Endorsed by the Regional TF-ELCAC, these projects are implemented to 39 barangay-beneficiaries from Candon City and the municipalities of Burgos, Narvacan, Cervantes, Galimuyod, Nagbukel, Sta. Cruz, Sta. Lucia, Sta. Maria, Salcedo, Quirino, and Suyo.

CEST PROGRAM. The DOST, through its Provincial Science and Technology Center-Ilocos Sur (PSTC-IS), formally sealed its partnership with the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office of the Philippine National Police, as well as with the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC), North Luzon Philippines State College (NLPSC), and 12 identified local government units in a virtual ceremony held on May 25. (photo by Joyah Mae C. Quimoyog/PIA Ilocos Sur)

The DOST, through its Provincial Science and Technology Center-Ilocos Sur (PSTC-IS), formally sealed its partnership with the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion of the Philippine Army and the Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office of the Philippine National Police (PNP), as well as with the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC), North Luzon Philippines State College (NLPSC), and 12 identified local government units (LGUs) in a virtual ceremony held on May 25.

According to Regional Director Armando Ganal, with the help of the ISPSC and the NLPSC, the DOST started last February the program’s pre-implementation process through community assessment or the Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA).

“Productivity ng mga kababayan natin ang importante rito. Kagaya ng sa larangan ng livelihood, tiningnan natin ang mga resources na available sa ating lugar upang sa gayon ay i-harness natin ang mga ito. Isa lamang ito at marami pang ibang pangangailangan ang nakita natin kasama ang grupo ng ISPSC at NLPSC. Ngayon, ipatutupad na natin ang mga proyektong ito sa tulong ng mga LGU, at ang Army at PNP na magbibigay proteksyon sa komunidad where the program is implemented,” he added.

ISPSC President Gilbert Arce expressed his gratitude to the DOST for this partnership as it gives the college the opportunity to prove its worth not only as a purveyor of quality education but as a partner in the development of communities particularly those that are covered in the agreement.

“This project will not only resolve, I’m quite certain of it, to the eradication of insurgency problems but most importantly it will yield to the economic benefits to the different communities covered by this agreement and I assure the DOST that we commit our support for the success of this undertaking,” he said.

ISPSC has been one of the partners of the DOST in the implementation of the CEST program last year with the conduct of livelihood training in the municipalities of Sugpon and Alilem.

Moreover, PSTC-IS Provincial Director Ramon Sumabat clarified that prior to the formal signing of the agreement, various activities in the barangay-beneficiaries under the CEST program such as livelihood training and water sampling in some communities covered by the program have already started as early as February this year. (JCR/AMB/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1076635

Tagalog News: 16 na dating miyembro ng Communist Terrorist Group, sumuporta na sa ELCAC

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 29, 2021): Tagalog News: 16 na dating miyembro ng Communist Terrorist Group, sumuporta na sa ELCAC (By Alehia Therese V. Abuan)

Personal na inabot ni Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez ang financial assistance at iba pang ayuda sa isang sumukong miyembro ng Communist Party New People's Army sa isang simpleng ceremonya na ginanap sa City Hall nitong Biyernes, ika-29 ng Mayo, 2021. (Mayor Edwin Olivarez Facebook Page)

LUNGSOD PARAÑAQUE, Mayo 29 (PIA) -- Matagumpay na nagkaroon ng Signing of Pledge of Commitment to Support ELCAC [End Local Communist Armed Conflict] at Awarding of Cash Assistance para sa 16 na kataong miyembro ng Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) at CTG Front Organizations na nagpasya nang sumurender at magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan at sa pamayanan.

Ang simpleng seremonya, na ginanap sa Parañaque City Hall, Mayor's Hall, Lungsod ng Parañaque nitong Biyernes, ay pinangunahan ng National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) at Parañaque City Peace and Order Council sa programang "ELCAC Convergence and Awarding of Cash Assistance to CTG and CTGFO Members under the ECLIP [Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program] and PRLE [Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment] Cluster.

"Ngayong araw ng Biyernes ay ikinagagalak po nating ibalita sa bawat isa na ang Lungsod ng Parañaque katuwang ang ating Regional Peace and Order Council-NCR (RPOC-NCR)," ayon kay Parañaque City Mayor at RPOC-NCR Chairman Edwin L. Olivarez.

Kasama ni Olivarez na nanguna sa naturang programa sina NCRPO Regional Director PMGen. Vicente D. Danao, Jr., PBGen. Southern Police District, District Director Jimili L. Macaraeg at Parañaque Chief of Police Maximo Frial Sebastian Jr.

Kasama rin sina Parañaque City Vice Mayor Rico Golez, Parañaque City Councilor Toki Baes, Parañaque DILG-Director John Visca, Parañaque City Administrator Fernando Soriano, SSO and PIO Chief, Mr. Mario L. Jimenez, Association of Barangay Chairman President, Christopher Aguilar, SK Federation President Hannah Florencondia at Parañaque-BFP City Director FSUPT. Edgar W. Tanawan.

"Pinapasalamatan naman natin ang hanay ng Philippine National Police (PNP) at mga tagapagpatupad ng batas katuwang ang bawat Lokal na Pamahalaang Lungsod hindi lang sa Parañaque ngunit maging sa buong Metro Manila at buong Pilipinas sa tagubilin at direktiba ng ating mahal na Presidente, Rodrigo Roa Duterte," dagdag pa ng alkalde.

"Maraming maraming salamat po! Sama-sama, maiibsan at malulunasan po natin ang problema sa terorismo, at mapapanatili ang kapayapaan at kaayusan lalong lalo na sa Metro Manila at sa buong bansang Pilipinas," aniya. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1076583

More Russian-made Army transport trucks expected in 2021

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 30, 2021): More Russian-made Army transport trucks expected in 2021 (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

PASIG CITY, May 30 (PIA) -- The Department of National Defence (DND) on Sunday announced that 90 more military transport vehicles will be acquired by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for use by its troops.

"More good news from our One Defense Team: additional troop carriers for the Philippine Army are expected to be delivered within the year," the DND told the PIA-NCR.

The Truck Troop Carrier Light project was approved by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana late last year, with the Defense chief issuing an Acquisition Decision Memorandum and Special Authority for the Philippine Army Bids and Awards Committee in December 2020 for the procurement of ninety (90) units of trucks.

The project has an approved budget for contract of P324 million and was procured through public bidding under RA 9184.

“These trucks will surely boost the Army’s capability to transport personnel and materiel wherever they are needed, whether it be in combat or humanitarian assistance and disaster response,” DND Spokesperson Dir. Arsenio Andolong said.

A notice of award was issued in favor of ConEquip Philippines Inc., which will deliver trucks made by URAL of the Russian Federation, on 11 February 2021 after passing the requirements set under RA 9184 and its revised IRR.

The trucks are expected to be delivered within 180 calendar days or six months upon receipt of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) or opening of Letter of Credit. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1076653

AFP chief lauds 5th Infantry Division's anti-terrorism campaigns

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 30, 2021): AFP chief lauds 5th Infantry Division's anti-terrorism campaigns (By Merlito G. Edale, Jr.)

CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela, May 28 (PIA) - Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Cirilito Sobejana has lauded the relentless anti-terrorism and internal security campaigns and operations of the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in their area of operations.

Sobejana recently visited Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu town where he personally led the awarding ceremony for the soldiers in the wake of the recent killing of high ranking Communist Terrorist Group leader in Northern Luzon.

“I am very delighted with the performance of 5th Infantry Division. You were able to continue your mission and doing your mandate as the protector of the people and defender of our territory,” Sobejana said.

Sobejana who also handed P2 million reward from the Office of the President to the soldiers of 86th Infantry Battalion commended the full efforts of the army division led by Maj. Gen. Laurence Mina in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) as it successfully paralyzed the terrorist Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) organization in Cagayan Valley Region through the death of Alyas Yuni, commander of the said terrorist organization.

“I commend your division for the strings of accomplishments you have achieved. You have proven that your competence in Internal Security Operations complemented with a very effective Civil Military Operations, is something our countrymen can certainly depend on and for the enemy to be afraid of,” Sobejana said. (BME/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)

 
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1076433

Soldier hurt as NPA rebels ambush military truck in Mati

From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2021): Soldier hurt as NPA rebels ambush military truck in Mati (By Che Palicte)

AMBUSH. The military truck carrying members of the 66th Infantry Battalion that was ambushed by an estimated 10 members of the New People's Army in Barangay Badas, Mati City, Davao Oriental on Sunday morning (May 30, 2021). One soldier was wounded but is already in stable condition. (Photo courtesy of Mati-CIO)

A soldier was wounded in a 10-minute firefight between government troops and New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Barangay Badas, Mati City, Davao Oriental on Sunday morning.

Based on the report of the 10th Infantry Division (10ID), the Alpha Company of the 66th Infantry Battalion (66IB) was on board a military truck bound for Banaybanay town from Barangay Taguibo when more or less 10 NPA Guerrilla Front 18 rebels ambushed them near Punta Tagawisan.

In an interview, Maj. Jerry Lamosao, spokesperson of 10ID, said the wounded soldier was hit at the back and taken to Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC) in Barangay Dahican.

“He is now in stable condition,” he told the Philippine News Agency.

Lamosao said the 66IB immediately deployed more troops to hunt down the communist terrorist group.

Traffic was halted along the main thoroughfare, which serves as the only farm-to-market road, for about two hours, according to Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat who condemned the “atrocious act”.

“Today’s incident along the national highway in Sitio Tagawisan, Barangay Badas is unfortunate and we condemn such atrocious act by a lawless armed group. For two hours, many livelihoods were affected,” she said in a statement.

Rabat added that the incident underscored the fact that armed struggle is not the way to bring peace and development.

“For now, I want to assure all Matinians that the City of Mati is doing its best to counter the possible adverse effects this incident may bring to our city’s economy. Rest assured that the police and the military, with the support of the local government, are doing their best to prevent a similar incident from happening again,” she added.

Rabat also appealed to the public to remain calm and vigilant as authorities are already investigating the incident.

“We will wait for the official result of their probe. This is an isolated incident brought about by some circumstances beyond our control,” she stated.

Maj. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr., commander of the 10ID, downplayed the terroristic act as a show of force tactic to recruit new members and recover their losses brought about by peace and development gains.

“The few remaining terrorist rebels just wanted to project strength by conducting terrorist acts even with their already weak force to show that they are still a force to reckon with. They resort to this cowardly act to recruit new members and generate resources from their loss as their number continues to drop due to the convergence of the community, local government units, and the Army in Davao Oriental against insurgency,” he said in a statement.

He assured the public to remain calm as the situation is under control while urging everyone to be vigilant in reporting suspicious movements and activities of individuals to the army and the police.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1141985

PNP open to any probe on death of NPA finance officer: Eleazar

From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2021): PNP open to any probe on death of NPA finance officer: Eleazar (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, said the PNP is open to any investigation into the death of a top Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) official during a gunfight with police operatives serving warrants of arrest in Barangay Balabag, Pavia, Iloilo on Friday.

In a press statement on Sunday, Eleazar said it is within the rights of the relatives and colleagues of Reynaldo Bocala, finance officer of the Kilusang Rehiyon (KR)-Panay, to seek an independent investigation.

Rights group Karapatan has called for an independent probe on the incident, claiming that Bocala should still be under the protection of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG).

“If they want an independent probe, so be it. Bukas po ang PNP doon. Pero gaya ng sa ibang kaso, papasok ang Internal Affairs Service dito para magsagawa ng motu proprio investigation upang alamin kung may pagkukulang ang mga operatiba kaya humantong sa pagkamatay ng suspek (PNP is open to it. But like other cases, the Internal Affairs Service would conduct motu proprio investigation if the operatives committed lapses that led to the death of the suspect),” Eleazar said.

He said part of the PNP Internal Affair Service’s (IAS) duty is to look into the complaints of Bocala’s relatives and companions.

“Kung ano man ang magiging findings at rekomendasyon ng IAS ay base sa mga pahayag at ebidensyang makakalap nito (Whatever the findings and recommendation of the IAS, these would be based on the statement and gathered evidence),” Eleazar said.

Eleazar said Bacola, alias Bading, was killed in a "legitimate" operation covered by warrants of arrest.

He took exception to the allegations that police operatives planted evidence on Bocala, emphasizing that the law enforcers were there to arrest the NPA official based on court-issued warrants.

"Ang pagtatanim ng ebidensya ay lagi nang paratang sa ating kapulisan kahit gaano pa ka-lehitimo ang mga operasyon (Planting of evidence has been the constant accusations even if our police have legitimate operations). In this case, our policemen served arrest warrants against Bocala but Bocala and his companion resisted,” Eleazar said.

Right to protect themselves

He said the police operatives also have the right to protect themselves.

“Hindi naman pwedeng tumayo lang doon ang mga operatiba at hindi man lang proteksyunan ang kanilang mga sarili kung ganoong, ayon sa inisyal na report, ay naging agresibo ang suspek (The operatives cannot just stand there and not even protect themselves if, according to the initial report, the suspect acted aggressively),” he added.

Police operatives of the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6), backed by military personnel, served arrest warrants issued by different courts against Bocala at his known location in Iloilo.

According to police reports, Bocala resisted arrest and fired at the policemen, triggering a shootout with the suspect and his companion. Both died in the encounter.

“With the termination of peace negotiations with the CPP/NPA/NDF (National Democratic Front), this JASIG can no longer be invoked. This guarantee of immunity from arrest is an act of good faith and confidence-building measure in the peace negotiations between the government and the CPP/NPA/NDF,” he said.

Eleazar said the NDF negotiators and consultants went into hiding after President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the JASIG in February 2017.

Bocala carried a PHP4.8 million bounty for cases of robbery in band with frustrated homicide and damage to property with the use of motor vehicle and unlicensed firearms; robbery with serious physical injuries; violation of Presidential Decree 1744 (Destructive Arson); and murder.

He was the husband of Maria Concepcion “Concha” Araneta, who is the deputy secretary of KR-Panay.

Before being head of the Regional Taxation Implementing Group, Bocala, according to the PRO-6, was also secretary and deputy secretary of the Southern Front Committee of the Panay Regional Party Committee.

Also killed during the operation was Bocala’s alleged aide, Willy Epago (alias Ramon). Both were declared dead on the spot.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1141969