2 NPA rebels surrender in Zambales

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 15, 2021): 2 NPA rebels surrender in Zambales (By: Joanna Rose Aglibot)

Image from Google Maps

SAN ANTONIO, Zambales—Two members of rebel groups in this province have voluntarily turned themselves in to authorities on Friday (Oct. 15) as the government troops continued to intensify their campaign against communism.

In a report, Col. Romano Cardiño, Zambales police director, identified the two as alias “Michael” and alias “Sherly.”

Cardiño said Michael, a 22-year-old farmer in San Marcelino town, is an active New People’s Army member. His surrender was facilitated by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.

Michael also surrendered his .30-caliber M1 carbine rifle.

On the other hand, Sherly is a fisherman in Masinloc town and a former member of the rebel group Rebolusyunaryong Hukbong Bayan.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1502454/2-npa-rebels-surrender-in-zambales

Improvised bomb found in Lamitan City, Basilan

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 15, 2021): Improvised bomb found in Lamitan City, Basilan (By: Julie S. Alipala)

An improvised bomb was recovered by soldiers in Lamitan City, Basilan on Friday (Oct. 15), the Army said.

It was the third explosive device recovered by soldiers in Basilan within the week.

Brigadier General Domingo Gobway, commander of Joint Task Force Basilan, said the bomb was found near the road in Sitio Panansangan, Barangay Sengal in Lamitan City.

The municipal police office first received information about the bomb then the Army’s explosives and ordnance unit went to the area to dispose of it.

The devise was loaded with concrete nails.

Five days ago, two improvised bombs were discovered in Barangay Manggal, Sumisip town; one in a grassy area outside a construction site and another near a pineapple farm.

One was made out of an 81-mm mortar, while the other a milk can.

Gobway said the bombs were intended for extortion allegedly by an Abu Sayyaf subgroup led by a certain Pasip Bayali.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1502475/improvised-bomb-found-in-lamitan-city-basilan

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Pilipinas, #1 mangungutang sa World Bank

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 15, 2021): Pilipinas, #1 mangungutang sa World Bank

Nangunguna ang Pilipinas sa pinakamalaking mangungutang sa World Bank nitong taon. Umabot na sa $3.07 bilyon o ₱153.5 bilyon ang inutang ng rehimeng Duterte mula sa institusyon sa ngalan ng paglaban sa pandemyang Covid-19. Halos doble ang itinaas nito mula sa $1.87 bilyon noong 2020. Sa kabuuan mayroon nang $6.21 bilyon na utang ang bansa sa World Bank. Kasunod sa Pilipinas ang India, Indonesia, Morocco, Mexico, Turkey, Colombia, Brazil, Argentina at China.

Sa taya na rin ng World Bank, tumaas nang 12% o $860 bilyon ang utang ng mahihirap na bansa noong 2020. Lampas-lampas na sa tantos ng produksyon at eksport ang tantos ng pangungutang sa mga bansang ito.

Nanawagan ang institusyon sa mga bansang ito na agad na bawasan ang pangungutang. Nagbabala itong daranas ang naturang mga bansa ng “debt shock” o hambalos sa ekonomya dulot dulot ng biglang pagtaas ng kailangan nilang bayaran. Nangangamba itong hindi mabayaran ng mga bansa ang kanilang inutang (kabilang ang Pilipinas) dahil sa dinaranas na krisis sa ekonomya at pandemya.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/pilipinas-1-mangungutang-sa-world-bank/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Lupa ng mga magsasaka sa Cebu, 30 taong hinintay

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 15, 2021): Lupa ng mga magsasaka sa Cebu, 30 taong hinintay

Matapos ang higit 30 taong pakikibaka para igiit ang kanilanng karapatan sa lupa, nakamit rin ng 60 magsasaka sa Cebu ang kanilang titulo sa lupa. Ang mga magsasaka ay kasapi ng Nagkahiusang Mag-uuma sa Cadulawan Vito Camarin (NAMACAVIC) sa Minglanilla, Cebu. Ibinigay ang kani-kanilang mga Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) noong Oktubre 14. Katuwang ng mga magsasaka ang Farmers Development Center (Fardec) sa kanilang ilang taong pakikipaglaban.

Unang nakakuha ng CLOA ang 24 pamilya sa lugar noong 2000. Katuwang ang Fardec, naghain ng petisyon ang dagdag na 60 magsasaka para isama sa pamamahagi ng lupa. Inaprubahan ang kanilang petisyon noon pang 2001.

Kabilang sa mga magsasakang nakatanggap ng titulo si Tranguilino Sanchez, 78 taong gulang, dating lider ng NAMACAVIC at namuno sa kanilang kampanya noong dekada 1990. “Sobrang saya ko dahil nakatanggap ako ng titulo na matagal nang inilaban,” pahayag niya.

Nagpahayag ng pakikiisa at pagpupugay ang Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas-Cebu sa grupo ng mga magsasaka sa kanilang naging tagumpay. Hinimok ng grupo ang mga magsasakang Cebuano na patuloy na lumaban para tunay na repormang agraryo.

Ang CLOA ang titulo sa lupa na ibinibigay sa mga magsasaka sa ilalim ng Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) na sinimulang ipatupad noong 1987. Ang CARP ang pinakahuli lamang sa serye ng mga huwad at bigong programa sa reporma sa lupa sa nagdaang siglo sa ilalim ng reaksyunaryong estado. Sa halip na ipamahagi nang libre, inoobliga nito mga magsasaka na bayaran ang lupang dapat ay kanila na nagresulta sa daan-daang libong titulong nailit. Sinaklaw lamang nito ang 5.43 milyon ektarya o 44% lamang ng kabuuang 12.4 milyong ektaryang lupaing pang-agrikultura. Matapos ang mahigit 30 taon, ang malalawak na lupain ay nananatiling monopolyong pag-aari ng malalaking panginoong maylupa at dambuhalang korporasyon sa agribisnes.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/lupa-ng-mga-magsasaka-sa-cebu-30-taong-hinintay/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Mga magsasakang dinukot ng AFP sa Negros, di pa nakikita

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 15, 2021): Mga magsasakang dinukot ng AFP sa Negros, di pa nakikita

October 15, 2021

Nanawagan ang mga kapamilya ng mga magsasaka sa Negros na dinukot ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) na ilitaw na ang kanilang mga kaanak. Ang panawagang ito ay inihayag ng mga kamag-anak nila Hector Maquiling at Ernesto Baynes na kapwa dinukot ng mga sundalo ng 79th IB noong Setyembre 30 sa Barangay San Pablo, Manapla, Negros Occidental. Nag-ooperasyon noon ang mga sundalo, kasama ang pulis, sa naturang barangay.

Nagsagawa ng press conference ang mga pamilya noong Oktubre 8 kung saan humarap ang mga anak na nanawagang ilitaw ang kanilang mga magulang.

“Kung may nagawang mali ang tatay ko, magsampa kayo ng kaso sa korte. Pero ipaalam niyo sa amin kung nasaan sila,” apela ng anak ni Baynes.

Nasaksihan ng barangay tanod na si Gaspar David ang naging pagdukot sa dalawa. Aniya, nakarinig siya ng dalawang putok bandang alas-dos ng madaling araw ng Setyembre 30 sa direksyon ng bahay ng dalawang magsasaka. Nakita niyang napalibutan ang mga bahay ng mga sasakyang ng sundalo at pulis. Makalipas ang ilang minuto nakita niyang “ini-escort” palabas ng mga upisyal na sundalo ang dalawa.

Bago siya umalis, narinig niyang pinadapa ang dalawa at dumaing si Hector sa sakit. Alas-singko ng umaga nang balikan niya ang bahay pero wala na sina Baynes at Maguiling.

“Payapa ang buhay ko at wala akong planong guluhin ito dahil lamang sa pagpapahayag ng kasinungalingan. Sinasabi ko lang ang nakita ko,” paghayag ni David sa midya.

Samantala, ibinasura ng Regional Trial Court Branch 69 sa Silay City, Bacolod, ang petisyon ng mga pamilya para sa writ of habeas corpus para ilitaw at iharap sa korte ang ang dalawang biktima. Katwiran ng huwes na si Judge Leonardo Facultad na hindi niya saklaw ang hedkwarters kung saan naka-base ang 79th IB, kahit sakop niya ang Manapla.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/mga-magsasakang-dinukot-ng-afp-sa-negros-di-pa-nakikita/

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Kalinaw News: 12 Former Rebels receive initial reintegration assistance from the government in Bukidnon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 15, 2021): 12 Former Rebels receive initial reintegration assistance from the government in Bukidnon



IMPASUGONG, BUKIDNON – To welcome their return to the government, 12 Former Rebels (FRs) under the care of the 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion were given assistance by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of the province of Bukidnon at the covered court of the Headquarters 403rd Infantry Brigade, Brgy. Impalambong, Malaybalay City last October 12, 2021.

The said FRs were among the 30 former CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) presented to Hon. Jose Maria R. Zubiri Jr., the Provincial Governor of Bukidnon during the “Presentation of Former Rebels (FRs) and Surrendered Firearms” activity.

The activity was also attended by Major General Romeo S Brawner Jr, Commander of 4ID, Brigadier General Ferdinand T. Barandon, Commander of 403rd Brigade, Mr. Raymund D. Lopez, Asst. Regional Director of National Intelligence Coordinating Agency 10 (NICA10), Police Lt Col Daryl Aramton, Police Provincial Office of Bukidnon, Ms. Charmaigne Tadlas, Capability and Development Officer of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 10, Col Jose Arn M Real, Deputy Brigade Commander, 403rd Bde together with the Commanders of 8IB, 88IB, and 1st Special Forces Battalion.

The FRs received PhP 25,000.00 each from the Bukidnon LGU, PhP 10,000.00 each from the DSWD-10 as well as hygiene kits, sacks of rice, food packs, kitchen utensils, and sleeping kits. Further, Governor Zubiri during his speech pledged additional PhP 25,000.00 financial assistance for each of the FR.

To further show his commitment to end the local insurgency, Governor Zubiri Jr. vowed to build 200 houses for the FRs in Bukidnon, wherein the 30 FRs were included among the beneficiaries.

Diden Ampeldon Landasan Alias Ana/Sun, former Finance Officer of Guerrilla Front 89, Sub-Regional Committee 2, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee expressed her gratitude and said, “Nagpasalamat ako sa atong gobyerno sa mga tabang nga gihatag kanamo sa among pagbalik sa sabakan sa gobyerno, ilabi na sa mga kasundalohan nga wala kami pasagdi sukad pagnaog namo. Sigurado ako nga matinuod na ang akong pangandoy nga mamuyo og malinawon kauban akong pamilya.” (I am thankful to our government because of the assistance they have given us as we return to the folds of the law, especially to our soldiers for taking care of us since our surrender. We are now sure that our dream of living a better and peaceful life with our family will come true.)

LTC Edgardo Talaroc Jr, Commander 8IB, said, “Among hugot nga ginapasalamatan ang atong mga kauban alang sa kalinaw ug kalambuan ilabi na ang lokal nga panggamhanan sa Bukidnon, DSWD-10, NICA-10, TESDA-10, Bukidnon Provincial Police Office (BukPPO) ug daghang uban pa nga naningkamot aron mahuman na ang insurhensya. Daghan pa ang tabang nga moabot alang sa mga kanhing rebelde maong padayun namong panawagan sa mga CNT nga inyong dawaton ug gakson ang tabang sa gobyerno tungod ang armadong pakigbisog ang walay kadaugan nga makab-ot.” (We thank our peace and development partners, the LGU of Bukidnon, the DSWD-10, NICA-10, TESDA-10, BukPPO and many other agencies who work hard in order to finally end our insurgency problem. More assistance will be given to the FRs which is why we continue to urge the remaining CNTs to embrace the assistance of the government because there’s no future in continuing the armed struggle.)

It can be noted that among the 12 surrenderees, two (2) are High-Value Individuals and one (1) is a minor. They brought with them 11 firearms which include nine (9) High-powered and two (2) low-powered firearms.

[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/12-former-rebels-receive-initial-reintegration-assistance-from-the-government-in-bukidnon/

Kalinaw News: Whole of Nation Approach causing NPA in Davao Cotabato boundary to collapse

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 15, 2021): Whole of Nation Approach causing NPA in Davao Cotabato boundary to collapse

“The robust and proactive program implementation of different agencies under Task Force ELCAC of the different municipalities employing the Whole of Nation Approach (WoN) to resolve issues and address concerns of communities is rendering the NPAs propaganda ineffective causing their mass base to collapse. With this we are optimistic that the CTG in the Regional boundary will collapse leading to a sustainable and durable peace in the area,”

This was the statement of Ltc. Ezra L Balagtey, Commander of 39th Infantry Battalion based in Makilala, North Cotabato and operating in the Regional Boundary of Davao and SOCKSARGEN Regions after the nine NPA members in the area return to the folds of the law in the last two months citing WoN as the primary reason for the collapse of mass base and leadership crisis in the NPA organization.

In the afternoon of October 14, 2021, an NPA cadre return to the folds of the law after experiencing hardship brought about by the loss of mass base and leadership crisis in the organization brought about by aggressive government interventions in the communities they are previously roaming at.

The surrenderee was identified as alias Gawits, 49 years old resident of Sitio Bulwan, Brgy San Melilia, Sta Cruz, Davao del Sur and member of Bagobo Tagabawa tribe and was the former vice commander and demolitionist of Guerilla Front ALIP, FSMR.

He brought with him an M16 rifle and now presently undergoing custodial debriefing and needs assessment for government intervention.

Unclear and inconsistent leadership direction also brought an NPA couple to surrender on October 6, 2021, to Congressman Rudy Caoagdan of the 2nd District of North Cotabato.

The two were identified as AKA Pie/ Paypay 21 years old and AKA Tanya 24 years old an 8-month pregnant both locals of Makilala Municipality and members of the B’laan tribe.

In their revelation, the couple was integrated into the Regional Medical Staff (RMS) of Far South Mindanao Regional Committee (FSMRC) after members of Guerilla Front ALIP were distributed to other CTG formations as a result of leadership crisis in the CTG organization.

It can be recalled that the same reasons caused the surrender of @BONGCAYAW, Courier, @BOYET, Organizer, and @SONNYBOY, Partisan operator all members of GF ALIP, FSMR on October 16, 2021, to LGU Magsaysay, Davao del Sur.

On August 15, 2021, a certain @KADZ, VCO FGU, @SAM, Medic FGU, and @MAICA, member FGU of GF ALIP, FSMR also left the CTG organization when their group is at the boundary of Brgy Luma, Kiamba, and Maitum both of Sarangani Province and surrendered to Columbio, Sultan Kudarat Local Government Unit. They too left due to misunderstanding in leadership and loss of mass base.

[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/whole-of-nation-approach-causing-npa-in-davao-cotabato-boundary-to-collapse/

Kalinaw News: Coast Guard General visits WestMinCom

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 15, 2021): Coast Guard General visits WestMinCom



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 15, 2021, Coast Guard Commodore Luisito Sibayan, Commander of Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao, visited the Western Mindanao Command on Tuesday morning, October 12, 2021.

He was received by WestMinCom Commander, Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., at the Laong Laan Hall located at Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city. The Command Staff led by Col. Elmer Suderio, the Chief of Unified Command Staff joined in welcoming the coast guard general.

Commodore Sibayan vowed to continuously support the WestMinCom in all its endeavors particularly in the conduct of law enforcement operations at sea. Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr. said the good interagency collaboration between the coast guard and AFP bears substantial gains in the campaign against smuggling and other illegal activities. “Together, let us keep western Mindanao safe and secured, and curb lawlessness in our area of operation,” the WestMinCom Commander added.

Commodore Sibayan is a proud member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maalab” Class of 1993.

[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/coast-guard-general-visits-westmincom/

Kalinaw News: Mangyan Reported NPA’s Presence, Firefight Ensued

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 15, 2021): Mangyan Reported NPA’s Presence, Firefight Ensued



CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – The NPAs in Mindoro experienced another upset when an Indigenous People member of the community reported their presence that resulted in a clash with government forces early morning yesterday.

According to sources, combined military and police forces were able to catch up with nine NPA rebels at 8:30 a.m. yesterday October 13, 2021, believed to be members of Komite Larangang Gerilya ICM of Sub-Regional Military Area-4D of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee in Sitio Kipot Ilog of Barangay Manguyang in the municipality of Gloria, province of Oriental Mindoro due to information divulged by an IP member to the Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

After receiving information about the rebel’s presence, the government security forces deliberately planned and launched an operation to pursue the rebels.

It also was reported that the IPs of Barangay Manguyang were rounded up by the communist rebels sometime in August of this year, in the hopes of regaining their lost supporters from the said barangay.

Accordingly, the communists demanded that there must be three IPs for every Sitio to join their ranks and must attend the next rebel’s call for a meeting. However, the leadership of the BTF-ELCAC also chaired by Honorable Remson C Jamilla the chairman of the said barangay having concern for his constituents and aware of his mandate, reported the same to the government forces in the area.

The scampering communist rebels left various war materials during the firefight that included Five Magazines for 5.56mm rifle; One IED; One Rifle Grenade; One Blasting Cap; personal belongings and subversive documents. Also found on the place of the encounter were bloodstains indicative of possible fatality on the side of the rebels, which is yet to be confirmed as of this report.Honorable German Rodegerio the municipal mayor of the said town in support to the efforts of the BTF-ELCAC of Barangay Manguyang expressed condemnation for the NPA rebel’s activities of recruiting IPs to their ranks and was caught saying “The Local Government Unit of Gloria is one with the people in condemning the atrocious and terroristic acts being committed by the NPAs against our peace-loving people.

We are condemning in the highest possible term this act as it is grossly inimical and prejudicial to the best effort of our national and local government. We urge our people to once again actively support and participate in our Whole of Nation Approach efforts towards ending the grand design of deception by the CPP/NPA/NDF”.

The actions of the local chief executive of Barangay Manguyang and the municipality of Gloria were truly commendable and bespeaks of their commitment to their constituents which is worthy of emulation. With the current direction, the communist influence in the Municipality of Gloria may soon be eradicated.

[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/mangyan-reported-npas-presence-firefight-ensued-2/

Kalinaw News: 2 NPA Commanders, 4 members captured, high-powered firearms seized in Misamis Oriental

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 15, 2021): 2 NPA Commanders, 4 members captured, high-powered firearms seized in Misamis Oriental



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – Troops of the 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion conducted intelligence operations and captured two high-ranking Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leaders and four members; and recovered firearms and ammunition at Barangay Umagos, Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental, October 14, 2021.

This joint law enforcement operation with PRO10, PNP is in relation to the encounter that transpired between the troops of 58IB and CTGs yesterday, October 13 as the troops simultaneously conducted several operations in pursuit to the fleeing Communist NPA Terrorists.

Authorities from the troops of 58IB and PNP acted quickly upon the verified information which resulted to the apprehension of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leaders and its members, two of whom are considered high-value targets of Sub-Regional Committee 1 (SRC1), North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC); also belonging to the Most Wanted Persons, with standing cases of Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention.

The leaders apprehended were Jemar C Hilogon, alias Ivan/Siatam, Commander of Platoon Cherry Mobile, GF HUAWEI, Sub-Regional Committee 1 (SRC1), North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC), 28 years old and a resident of Sitio Camanse, Brgy. Banglay, Lagonglong; Rubensito M Hilogon, alias Mikot/ Saluyan, Commander, Militia ng Bayan at Brgy Talusan, Balingasag, 50 years old, and a resident of Cornao, Lagonglong; Jobert C Hilogon, alias Janggo, member of Militia ng Bayan.

Other apprehended personalities were Alice Calimhay Hilogon, alias Amy, 31 yrs old, from Sitio Camanse, Brgy. Banglay, Lagonglong; Jocelyn Hilogon Cabusog, alias Ela, 50 yrs old, from Cornao, Lagonglong; and Reve Padla Cablas, 17 yrs old, a resident of Sitio Roa-roa, Brgy Umagos, Lagonglong, who is also a minor, a clear violation on International Humanitarian Law in utilizing minors as child soldiers.

Upon the conduct of tactical interview to Ivan, the Commander of Pltn Cherry Mobile, he revealed the location of their firearms at Sitio Roa-roa, Brgy Umagos, Lagonglong. Soon after this revelation, the troops immediately proceeded at the aforementioned location and captured the following high-powered firearms and items: one M14 rifle, one Garand rifle, one AK47 rifle, two rifle grenades, ten rounds of ammunition for AK45, ten rounds of 5.56MM, six rounds ammunition for M14, and three cellphones.

Meanwhile, 58IB Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L Canatoy stated, “This is what I was talking about in the previous month that the capture of their top leaders will be a major setback for the armed group. SRC 1 is on the verge of collapsing, and we’re looking at completely penetrating all the surviving commanders and destroying their forces. So, to the remaining members, I implore you to return to the folds of the law right now. We guarantee your safety and that you will receive all benefits due to you under the government’s flagship program for rebel returnees. Now is the best time to come down while there is still time and opportunity. It’s simply a matter of time, especially now that we’re doubling down on our efforts to chase down peace breakers through focused military operations.”

The said captured NPA members were then brought to CMFC, Maharlika, Cagayan de Oro City for proper disposition and filing of cases.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/2-npa-commanders-4-members-captured-high-powered-firearms-seized-in-misamis-oriental/

Kalinaw News: Domino Effect of IPDWA efforts continues

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 15, 2021): Domino Effect of IPDWA efforts continues



CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – Another 15 lie-low members of the CPP-NPA-NDF in this city voluntarily surfaced and formally surrendered today to the 93rd Infantry (Bantay Kapayapaan) Battalion, 8th Infantry (Stormtrooper) Division, Philippine Army, bringing to 32 the total number of local communist terrorists who returned to the folds of the law from the villages of this city in less than two months.

These lie-low cpp-npa-ndf local members include four former full time npa fighters; five members of the Underground Mass Organization (UGMO); three members of Yunit Milisya (YM); a former chairman of the Batakang Organisasyon sa Partido (BOP) in Barangay Quezon Jr.; a former para-legal officer; and, a former officer of a District Committee of the dismantled North Leyte Front.

Of the 15, eight are currently residing in barangay Lake Danao and seven are from barangay Quezon Jr. They are scheduled to take their oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines, together with 17 other former communist terrorist group (CTG) members who have already surrendered last month, during the Serbisyo Caravan that will be launched by the Regional Task Force (RTF) 8 – ELCAC, Leyte Provincial TF – ELCAC and Ormoc City TF-ELCAC on Saturday.

During interviews, the former cpp-npa members bared that sometime in 2016, they started slowing down their participation in CTG activities because of frustration over unfulfilled promises and rampant corruption among their cadres.

“Di na mi gusto masumpayan pa sa kalihokan maong mihukom kami nga mogawas ug mobalik na sa sabakan sa gobyerno. Pait kaayo ang kinabuhi sa armadong kalihokan pero maayo ang kinabuhi sa mga lider nga tua sa ubos kay hayahay apan kami kanhi sa bukid halos di makakaon ug way katulog,” said one of the former CTG members.
(We do not want to be reconnected with the movement anymore, that’s why we decided to surface and to return to the folds of the law. Life in the armed struggle is very hard, but our leaders enjoy a good life in the lowlands while we in the mountains could hardly sleep and eat).

Members of the Ormoc Integrated Peace and Development Workers Association (OIPDWA) took the initiative to help the government to convince their former comrades to come out and formally surrender in order to begin a new life free of guilt from their previous misgivings against our fellow Filipinos.

“We will continue to extend our sincere efforts to help those remaining members and supporters of the CTG in the island of Leyte who wish to return to the mainstream of our society and be a part of the whole of nation approach in ending the local communist armed conflict,” said Lt. Col. Arnold Lozada, commanding officer of 93IB.

“We are expecting more lie-low and active CTG members in the Brigade’s area of operation to voluntarily turn themselves in the coming weeks since those who yielded today have openly expressed their commitment to help convince their former comrades to return to the folds of the law as well. This expectation is bolstered by the fact that for the third quarter of this year, 33 former CTG members have likewise yielded to 14IB in the 5th district of Leyte,” stressed Brig. Gen. Zosimo A. Oliveros, commander of the 802nd Brigade.

[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/domino-effect-of-ipdwa-efforts-continue/

Kalinaw News: Influx of BIFF surrenders in Maguindanao continue

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 15, 2021): Influx of BIFF surrenders in Maguindanao continue



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 14, 2021

Eight more members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) laid down their arms and returned to the folds of the law on Wednesday morning, the WestMinCom Commander said. “Based on the report from the ground, eight BIFF personalities handed over to Lieutenant Colonel Nathaniel Balintong, Battalion Commander of the 92nd Infantry Battalion their firearms and crew-served weapons including one 60mm Mortar with ammunition, two 7.62mm Sniper rifles, one M14 rifle, one M16 rifle, one M14 Barret, one Ultimax rifle, and one Rocket-Propelled Grenade,” Western Mindanao Command Chief, Major General Alfredo Rosario, Jr. stated.

Lieutenant Colonel Balintong disclosed that the latest batch of surrendered personalities includes the sub-group leader identified as Johar Inday Palaguyan, a.k.a. DARAN, and seven of his cohorts. The eight were subsequently presented to Brigadier General Ignatius Patrimonio, Commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team at the Multi-purpose hall, BSA, 1BCT Old Capitol, Barangay Satan, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao, on the same day. The activity was witnessed by Datu Hoffer Mayor Bai Bongbong Ampatuan; Datu Salibo Mayor Solaiman Sandigan; The Peace & Order Focal Person of Datu Unsay, Mr. Carlo Bon Perjes; Shariff Aguak Mayor Marop Ampatuan; and Police Lt. Col. Lendsy Sinsuat, Chief Intelligence Officer of the Maguindanao Provincial Police Office.

The group is now under the custody of 92IB for JAPIC certification prior to their endorsement for livelihood assistance and social packages under the AGILA-HAVEN Program of the Province of Maguindanao. Initially, the local government of Shariff Aguak handed over financial assistance and a sack of rice to each of them.

“The influx of surrenders of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) combatants in Maguindanao is a manifestation of the effective implementation of the whole-of-nation approach in addressing terrorism and insurgency in the area,” said Major General Rosario, Jr.

Meanwhile, Major General Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry Division, expressed his appreciation to the local chief executives of Maguindanao for their continued support by helping former BIFF and Daulah Islamiya combatants return to the folds of the law and live a peaceful and sustainable life with their families. “Our partnership has proven that peace is possible in central Mindanao, if we work together,” Major General Uy further stated. He also called on other BIFF and DI members to return to the folds of the law and cooperate with the government.

The snowball of BIFF surrenders in Maguindanao started when the AGILA-HAVEN Program of the Province of Maguindanao was launched sometime in 2019. For this year alone, 134 BIFF personalities have surrendered to the military 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/influx-of-biff-surrenders-in-maguindanao-continue/

Kalinaw News: Philippines, U.S. Host Annual Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): Philippines, U.S. Host Annual Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board



CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – General Jose Faustino Jr, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Admiral John Aquilino, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command led the 2021 Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, October 14.

General Faustino and Admiral Aquilino’s meeting resulted in the successful completion of the MDB-SEB, ensuring continued, robust relations between the U.S. and Philippine military. The U.S. and Philippines agreed over 300 activities for 2021, an increase over 2020.

“We were privileged to witness the advancing level of cooperation, and communication that both the Philippines and United States impart through the successful MDB-SEB meeting. I am optimistic that our alliance will continue to be robust in view of new and emerging security challenges that confront our nations. After all, we share the same goal of keeping peace and stability in this region,” said General Faustino.

Both the Philippines and the U.S. look forward to ongoing, close cooperation in areas central to our national and security interests, including counter-terrorism, maritime security, cyber-security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and many others.

“For more than 100 years, the people of our two countries have shared a deep friendship. This friendship is based on values, to include upholding freedom for all people,” said Admiral Aquilino. “The sanctity of freedom was the foundation of our alliance … and is still applicable today”.

The MDB was established in 1958 and the SEB was established in 2006. The two boards together form the annual MDB-SEB, which coordinates a framework for defense and security cooperation between the U.S. and Philippine military.

[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/philippines-u-s-host-annual-mutual-defense-board-and-security-engagement-board/

Kalinaw News: IP Community Receives Livestock, Farm Equipment in Tarlac

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): IP Community Receives Livestock, Farm Equipment in Tarlac



Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija – In a bid to assist the Indigenous People’s families in Sitio Manibukyot, Barangay Bueno, Capas and Sitio Baag, Brgy Iba, San Jose both of Tarlac Province in its livelihood, the Members Church of God International (MCGI), in coordination with the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion distributed live goats and farm equipment in a simple turn-over ceremony on October 07, 2021.

Lieutenant Colonel Eugene Henry Z Cabusao, Commanding Officer of 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion said that instead of giving traditional food packs, the MCGI and his unit gave livelihood assistance to the IP families to help their farming activities and to add additional sources of income.

Said IP community has been a victim of Communist Terrorist Group’s exploitation using the issues of poverty, social injustice, and ancestral domain.

Yet, with the intensive implementation of the Community Support Program of the Army in the Barangays, they became awakened with the fact of the dangers brought by the CTG and now resist the latter’s presence in their community.

“There are so many generous stakeholders who wish to share their blessings in Tarlac and Zambales, and we are trying our best to influence them to give something to the IP community which will last and will help alleviate their living conditions. With this, we can protect the IPs from CTG exploitation while helping them in their day-to-day lives. We are very fortunate that MCGI truly cares and they sincerely want to help,” said Lieutenant Colonel Cabusao.

Meanwhile, the Acting Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army Brigadier General Luis Rex D Bergante PA extended his gratitude to MCGI for their partnership with the Army in assisting our IP families in their livelihood citing that strong collaboration with stakeholders can reach more people in need.

“We value the role of our IP community in our society that is why we support endeavors that would uplift their way of living. In partnership with our private stakeholders, we can help more IP community. Kaya nagpapasalamat po ang inyong kasundaluhan sa MCGI sa kanilang mabubuting puso na patuloy na nag-aabot ng tulong sa ating mga kababayan,” said Brigadier General Bergante.

[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/ip-community-receives-livestock-farm-equipment-in-tarlac/

LOOK: PH military receives last batch of Black Hawk helicopters

From Rappler (Oct 15, 2021): LOOK: PH military receives last batch of Black Hawk helicopters (By JAIRO BOLLEDO)

A chopper, which crashed in Tarlac in June, is among the Black Hawk choppers procured by the military

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday, October 14, announced that it already received the last batch of S-70i Black Hawk helicopters for the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

“With five more Black Hawks, the Philippine Air Force can now better provide prompt and sustained day and night tactical heli-lift and combat and non-combat search and rescue operations,” DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said.

 


NEW ASSETS. Defense chief Delfin Lorenzana poses for a picture in front of the newly arrived choppers. DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE

According to the defense department, Lorenzana led the acceptance and blessing ceremony of the aircraft at Clark Air Base in Mabalacat, Pampanga on Wednesday. The same day, the Philippine military also received four ScanEagle aerial devices amounting to P200 million ($4 million).

A Black Hawk chopper, which was among the recently procured units by the military, crashed on June 23 and killed at least six people. Shortly after the fatal accident, Senator Richard Gordon, chairperson of the Senate blue ribbon committee, called for a Senate probe into the crash.

 


FOR GOOD LUCK. Lorenzana leads the blessing of the choppers. DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE

Following the incident, the PAF grounded all of its Black Hawk choppers.

The Philippines purchased the helicopters amounting to $241.46 million (P11 billion) from Polish company Polskie Zaklady Lotnicze. The 16 Black Hawk choppers came in three batches.

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LOOK: Second batch of Black Hawk choppers arrive in PH

The first batch of five helicopters arrived in November 2020, succeeded by one chopper in December the same year. In June this year, the Philippine military received the second batch of another five choppers.

The Black Hawk helicopters are important air assets of the military because they function for multi-mission workhorses, which are used for border patrol, search and rescue operations, and cargo lifts.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/photos-philippine-military-receives-last-batch-black-hawk-helicopters-october-2021

PH Air Force retires 10 UH-1D ‘Huey’ helicopters

From Rappler (Oct 15, 2021): PH Air Force retires 10 UH-1D ‘Huey’ helicopters (By JAIRO BOLLEDO)

President Duterte first mentions his desire to decommission the Huey choppers after the deadly crash of a UH-1D in Bukidnon

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Friday, October 15, announced that it had already retired ten of its “Huey” helicopters.

In a Friday statement, the PAF said Air Force chief Lieutenant General Allen Paredes led the decommissioning and non-utilization ceremony of the 10 UH-1D “Huey” Helicopters at Haribon Hangar in Clark Air Base in Mabalacat, Pampanga. During the ceremony, two fire trucks gave traditional water cannon Salutes to the newly decommissioned choppers.

Decommissioning means that a certain military asset or equipment has already finished its time of service and will no longer be used for military operations. According to the PAF, the choppers were used by the Armed Forces of the Philippines for heli-lift operations.

The arrival of Black Hawk choppers also contributed to the retirement of the UH-1D, according to an Air Force officer. The last batch of Black Hawk choppers arrived earlier this week.

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LOOK: PH military receives last batch of Black Hawk helicopters

“[They] were aircraft na who have served its purpose and dumating na po 'yung ating mga bagong aircraft, the Bell 412, then ang ating mga Black Hawk. The purpose really of the delta (UH-1D) was more an interim solution for our mga challenges before on relief transport. So it's about time that we decommission the delta,” PAF spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Maynard Mariano told reporters in a pooled interview. (They were the aircraft that already served its purpose and our new aircraft already arrived, the Bell 412, then the Black Hawk. The purpose really of the delta was more an interim solution for our challenges before on relief support. So it’s about time we decommission the delta.)

Lieutenant Colonel Mariano said that the UH-1D choppers would be stored by the PAF: “They will be in storage. That’s why it happened in Clark because the 410th Maintenance Wing will be putting them in storage.”

The Air Force spokesperson added that the retired Hueys will not be sold since they were donated to the military.

Earlier this year, President Rodrigo Duterte expressed his desire to decommission the Huey choppers of the PAF after the deadly January crash of a UH-1D in Bukidnon. The crash killed 7 passengers, including PAF, Army, and Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit personnel.

Following Duterte’s remarks, the Department of National Defense said they would need more time to find replacement choppers. In February, Duterte approved the acquisition of 15 Black Hawk Helicopters.

However, in June this year, one of the newly acquired Black Hawk helicopters crashed in Tarlac and killed at least six people.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/philippine-air-force-retires-uh-1d-huey-helicopters