CPP/NPA-Bicol: BHB-Bikol’s resounding tactical offensives, proof of PNP-Region V’s delusional declarations of counterinsurgency campaign success

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Dec 21, 2021): BHB-Bikol’s resounding tactical offensives, proof of PNP-Region V’s delusional declarations of counterinsurgency campaign success

RAYMUNDO BUENFUERZA

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-BICOL

December 21, 2021

It is a patent insult to the Bikolano people, especially the victims of the rampant human rights violations and their families, for PNP-Region V to boast of its supposed achievements in its counterinsurgency campaign. It has since been understood in the public eye that any trophy the PNP-Region V brags about stands on top of the mountain of dead civilian bodies who were either branded nanlaban or NPA kaya pinatay. This so-called success is tantamount to hundreds of lives wasted under the killing campaigns and terroristic violence of the US-Duterte regime’s dirty repressive war.

Because of PNP-Region V’s greater role in the counterinsurgency campaign, it became infamous as one of the most notorious criminals in Bikol – together with 9th IDPA. Some of their most ill-famed crimes are that of the killings of activists from Albay and Camarines Sur and the massacres of civilians arbitrarily accused as NPA members through fake encounters and nanlaban-patay modus operandi in Masbate, Camarines Norte and Sorsogon.

In reaity, PNP-Region V and the whole Joint Task Force Bicolandia succeeded in nothing but to further fuel the revolutionary armed struggle of the people. Even in the face of ferocious enemy attacks, all units under the Romulo Jallores Command-NPA Bikol espoused the desire to attain justice for all victims of the nonsensical terrorism and fascism of the murderous army and police. This pushed them to intensify their efforts to launch tactical offensives. These aim to make the most coldblooded elements of the police, who are actively implementing the systematic hunt and kill campaign against civilians, pay for their crimes. Some of such offensives are the successful raid in Brgy. Dumagmang, Labo, Camarines Norte in the name of justice for the victims of Simultaneous Anti-Criminality and Law Enforcement Operations, ambush against the police force responsible for the massacre of civilian farmers in Masbate and the punitive action meted out against the police Intelligence Officer of PNP-Guinobatan who was involved in the killing of activists Jaymar Palero and Marlon Naperi.

The unwavering struggle of the Bikolano people to achieve justice for victims of police and military operations, which are unmatched in sheer number and level of brutality, proves the failure of the whole JTFB to crush the revolutionary resolve of the people. The Bikolano masses can rely on RJC-NPA Bikol to be even more decided in advancing the armed struggle to make all the staunchest reactionaries and its violent armed forces pay for all their crimes entirely.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/12/21/bhb-bikols-resounding-tactical-offensives-proof-of-pnp-region-vs-delusional-declarations-of-counterinsurgency-campaign-success/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Walang napala ang masa sa walang katuturan at pasistang NTF-ELCAC! Pondo para sa nag-uulol na pasismo, ilipat sa serbisyo sa tao!

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Dec 21, 2021): Walang napala ang masa sa walang katuturan at pasistang NTF-ELCAC! Pondo para sa nag-uulol na pasismo, ilipat sa serbisyo sa tao!

MARIA ROJA BANUA

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-BICOL

December 21, 2021

Ang pinakabagong ulat ng Commission on Audit na naglalantad sa anomalyosong paggamit ng National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) sa P16 bilyon pondo nito para ngayong taon ay isa lamang sa napakaraming patunay ng kahungkagan ng task force na ito. Magngangangawa man ang mga tagapagsalita at militaristang tagasuporta nito, hindi nila mapipigilan ang pagsingaw ng katotohanang ang pasistang kapritso ng rehimeng US-Duterte ang tanging dahilan bakit nabuo ang NTF-ELCAC. Laluna ngayong mismong mga ahensya na ng gubyerno ang naglalabas ng kanilang baho.

Nakikiisa ang NDF-Bikol sa panawagang ilipat sa mas makabuluhang mga sosyoekonomikong programa ang pondo ng pasista at walang katuturang NTF-ELCAC. Hindi mauubusan ng mga programang higit na nangangailangan ng pondong ito: benepisyo para sa mga health workers, dagdag sahod ng mga manggagawa, dagdag pondo para sa pagharap sa mga sakuna, ayuda para sa mga magsasaka at maralita at napakarami pang iba.

Habang nagpapakasasa ang NTF-ELCAC sa nakakalulang halagang mula sa pinaghirapang buwis ng taumbayan, hindi naman magkandamayaw ang mga lokal na yunit ng gubyerno at ahensya sa paghahanap ng pondong sasapat sa pangangailangan ng kanilang mga nasasakupan. Laluna sa gitna ng pandemya at sunud-sunod na pananalanta ng mga bagyo at masamang panahon. Sa katatapos pa nga lang na pananalasa ng bagyong Odette, sa pribadong sektor at mga donasyon na lamang umaasa ang mga naapektuhang sektor at komunidad. Samantala, kung tutuusin ay ilang ulit na kayang punuan ng pondo ng NTF-ELCAC ang P537 milyong tinatayang danyos ng naturang bagyo.

Sadya namang walang mahihita ang masa mula sa NTF-ELCAC dahil hindi ito binuo para sa kanilang kapakanan kundi upang maging pangunahing makinarya ng paninira, red-tagging at disimpormasyon. Ito ang nanguna sa mabagsik na panunugis sa mga tinataguriang komunista. Sa pamamagitan ng baha ng black propaganda nito, binubura ang pagkakaiba ng mga sibilyan mula sa kombatant, mga aktibista mula sa terorista at mga progresibo mula sa mga kriminal. Ang lahat ay binabansagang armadong terorista.

Kasabay nito, tiniyak nito ang walang puknat na paglalabas ng mga minanupakturang search at arrest warrant na gagamitin ng mga pulis at militar bilang napakanipis na tabing upang makapaglunsad ng mga brutal na operasyon. Kabisado na ng masa ang kasunod na eksena: nanlaban, patay.

Ang isa sa mga pangunahin nitong proyektong Barangay Development Program (BDP) na tinaguriang General’s Pork Barrel ay nalalantad ngayon sa tunay nitong papel – maging balon ng kurapsyon at kikbak para sa pinakamababangis na berdugong upisyal militar at pulis. Sa Bikol, hindi bababa sa 329 barangay ang makatatanggap umano ng tig-P20 milyon sa ilalim ng Phase 1 at 2 ng naturang programa. Ngunit hindi na kinakailangang maging henyo upang maintindihang sa aktwal, liban sa pasistang panunupil, ay ginagamit ng NTF-ELCAC ang limpak-limpak na pondo para sa pagbili ng suporta ng mga papet na pulitiko para sa paksyong Marcos-Arroyo-Duterte sa parating na halalan.

Dapat lamang na ipanawagan ng mamamayan ang tuluyan nang pagbuwag sa pasistang NTF-ELCAC. Liban sa wala naman itong silbi para sa pagpapaunlad ng kalagayan ng taumbayan, isa itong malaking banta sa seguridad at kaligtasan ng sibilyang populasyon.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/12/21/walang-napala-ang-masa-sa-walang-katuturan-at-pasistang-ntf-elcac-pondo-para-sa-nag-uulol-na-pasismo-ilipat-sa-serbisyo-sa-tao/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: High regards to the victories of the Bikolano mass movement

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Dec 21, 2021): High regards to the victories of the Bikolano mass movement

MARIA ROJA BANUA

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-BICOL

December 21, 2021

The NDF-Bikol recognizes the advancements achieved by the Bikolano mass movement in the face of all adversities brought by the US-Duterte regime’s tyranny. The tyrant is mistaken. The oppressed masses of the region did not bow down to any of all the attacks mounted by the bloodthirsty agents of the ruthless regime. Rather than succumb to fear and indecision, the Bikolano mass movement displayed heightened courage against all attacks – from red-tagging, illegal arrests, manufacture of false charges down to brazen killings.

In the midst of terror, the masses’ yearning to organize and mobilize themselves in defense of their democratic rights quickly grew and flourished. Various progressive organizations were formed, memberships of organizations upholding mass interests expanded and the continuous exploration and maximization of new forms of propaganda and mobilizations prospered. Because of the mass movement’s persistent efforts, illegally arrested mass leaders such as Jen Nagrampa of Bicolana GABRIELA, Pastor Dan Balucio of Bayan-Bikol, Sasah Sta. Rosa of Jovenes Anakbayan Naga City and most recently, Nelsy Rodriguez of Bayan-Camarines Sur were freed. Their liberty prove that the state have failed to silence the voices who advocate the oppressed Bikolanos. Despite the violence they endured from the hands of the murderer police, they continued serving the poor Bikolano masses.

The series of killings perpetrated by the PNP-AFP such as the salvaging of the two activists Jaymar Palero and Marlon Naperi in Guinobatan caused the further resolve of Bikolanos to fight the relentless violence of Duterte’s armed butchers. Families of the human rights violations victims resolutely stood up for justice and inspired the others not to yield. They were successful in unveiling and bringing the crimes that the murderous AFP-PNP-CAFGU so desperately tries to cover up to the public’s attention.

The ever-worsening crisis the Bikolanos experience due to the plummeting economy, liberalization of agriculture, botched-up pandemic and disaster response, further worsened by militarization both in the cities and countryside are circumstances that ensure the sustained growth and strengthening of the mass movement. These are the conditions that push the mass movement to avoid complacency and to pursue greater advances in their tasks of organizing building alliances and mounting of campaigns for the benefit and interests of the Bikolano masses.

They must be vigilant, alert and prepared in any of the final desperate blows sure to be devised by the administration before the end of its term. Success of mass campaigns, that are currently launched and that shall be undertaken, in the region must resound throughout the country and overseas. These victories prove that genuine change is truly in the hands of the people who dare to fight and uprise.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/12/21/high-regards-to-the-victories-of-the-bikolano-mass-movement/

CPP/NPA-Surigao del Sur: Mga tropang espiya sa 36th IB, giambus sa NPA

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Dec 21, 2021): Mga tropang espiya sa 36th IB, giambus sa NPA

SANDARA SIDLAKAN

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SURIGAO DEL SUR

NORTHEAST MINDANAO REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND

December 21, 2021

Pasiunang taho:

Dakung bakak ang gitagawtaw sa 36th IBPA nga gi-ambush sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan-Surigao del Sur (BHB-SDS) ang mga tropa niini nga nagdala og mga relief goods aron ihatag ngadto sa mga biktima sa bagyong Odette sa Barangay San Vicente, Madrid, Surigao del Sur niadtong Disyembre 15.

Sa pagkatinuod, walay sulod nga mga relief goods o ayuda ang “Isuzu pick-up” nga adunay plate number KC303 nga gisakyan sa maong mga sundalo. Busa, makatarunganon lamang ang gihimong ambus sa BHB-SDS batok sa mga lehitimong target niini.

Sa maong panghitabo, nakumpiska sa BHB-SDS ang tulo ka .45 nga pistola, duha ka mga cellular phones ug mga Identification(ID) cards nga nagpamatuod nga sila mga sundalo.

Sa wala damha, duha ka sibilyan ang nasamdan sa maong ambus dihang mi-overtake sila sa target. Gidala dayon sila sa Madrid District Hospital human silang gidapatan og pasiunang tambal sa mga medic sa BHB.

Giako sa hingtungdang yunit sa BHB ang kahuyangan niini sa pagkaangin sa duha ka sibilyan. Mapaubsanon namong ginapangayo ang ilang pasaylo. Andam ang BHB nga makiglambigit sa ilang mga pamilya alang sa angayang danyos perwisyo.

Walay sibilyan nga namatay. Niadtong Disyembre 16, gianunsyo ni Gov. Alexander Pimentel nga anaa na sa maayong kahimtang ang duha ka sibilyan nga napagan sa maong ambus lakip ang tulo ka sundalo sukwahi sa unang pamahayag niining namatay ang maong mga sibilyan.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/12/21/mga-tropang-espiya-sa-36th-ib-giambus-sa-npa/

Army, PNP wary of attacks; Reds mark anniversary on Dec. 2

From Panay News (Dec 23, 2021): Army, PNP wary of attacks; Reds mark anniversary on Dec. 2 (By Ruby P. Silubrico)

The Philippine Army and the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) are on full alert status. The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) is marking its 53rd anniversary on Dec. 26.

The CPP usually celebrates its founding by attacking police and military installations and other vital government facilities.

According to Major General Benedict Arevalo, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), more troops have been deployed to strategic areas, including municipalities deemed vulnerable to the rebels.

“After 53 years of violence and destruction that brought misery to our people and country, they should be ashamed of themselves instead of celebrating,” said Arevalo.

He reminded his troops to be vigilant of rebel attacks while also being busy with disaster relief operations due to the recent super typhoon “Odette”.

“Our operations against the rebels should continue. It is our duty to keep communities safe from the threats of these extortionist rebels,” said Arevalo.

For his part, PRO-6 director Police Brigadier General Flynn Dongbo instructed police units across Western Visayas to intensify intelligence gathering and closely coordinate with the Philippine Army to foil rebel attacks.

Dongbo also appeal to communities to alert the authorities about rebel movements.

The CPP is a far-left revolutionary organization formed by Prof. Jose Maria Sison on Dec. 26, 1968. It is designated as a terrorist group by the United States Department of State together with Sison and the New People’s Army (NPA).

The European Union, on the other hand, renewed the terrorist designation of the CPP-NPA in 2019, though the European Union’s second highest court ruled in September 2009 to delist Sison as a “person supporting terrorism” and reversed a decision by member governments to freeze assets.

According to the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) World Factbook, the CPP and its armed wing, the NPA, aims to destabilize the Philippine economy and overthrow the national government.

President Rodrigo Duterte also declared the group a terrorist organization in December 2017 through Proclamation No. 374, though the CPP-NPA has not yet been legally declared as a terrorist group by Philippine courts.

The CPP has been fighting a guerrilla war against the state since its establishment. Although its ranks initially numbered around 500, the party grew quickly, supposedly due to the declaration and imposition of martial law by former president and dictator Ferdinand Marcos during his 21-year rule.

By the end of Marcos’ rule, the number of combatants had expanded to include more than 10,000 fighters.

In 2019, Sison claimed that the number of its members and supporters is growing, despite claims by the Philippine government that the organization is close to being destroyed.

The organization remains an underground operation, with its primary goals being to overthrow the Philippine government through armed revolution and remove US influence over the Philippines.

https://www.panaynews.net/army-pnp-wary-of-attacks-reds-mark-anniversary-on-dec-26/

Groups condemn acquittal of Reds leaders from murder raps

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2021): Groups condemn acquittal of Reds leaders from murder raps (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

'DON'T RUIN OUR KIDS'. Members of the League of Parents of the Philippines and the Yakap ng Magulang reiterate their call for the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army -National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) to stop the recruitment of minors in a lightning rally in Morayta, Manila on Wednesday (Dec. 22, 2021). They also called for an end to the communist insurgency that has been plaguing the country for more than 50 years. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

Groups of parents and other anti-communist organizations condemned the acquittal of about 15 leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the National Democratic Front (NDF) from their alleged involvement in the "Inopacan Massacre" in Leyte 31 years ago.

Members of League of Parents of the Philippines (LPP) or the Liga ng mga Magulang Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), Sulong Maralita, Hands Off Our Children (HOOC), and Yakap ng Magulang, staged a marching rally along Morayta Street in Manila City on Wednesday to express their disappointment to Manila City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 32 Judge Thelma Bunyi-Medina.

"We, as parents, strongly condemned the decision of Judge Thelma Bunyi-Medina by dismissing it by mere technicality," LPP chair Remy Rosadio said during the protest rally. "With these, the people’s faith on the justice system has eroded and the only way for it to be restored is by giving full justice to the victims of the Inopacan Massacre."

Rosadio said the decision may increase the morale of the New People's Army (NPA), the CPP's armed wing, to continue their atrocities, such as extortion, recruiting more minors, and indigenous people.

She said the CPP-NPA-NDF and its allies might be manipulating the court system that resulted in the acquittal of the communist leaders.

Meanwhile, LIPI President Jose Antonio Goitia described the Manila RTC's decision as "regrettable" and a major setback to the country's fight against communist insurgency.

"The setback does not rule out the possibility that the CPP-NPA-NDF is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt," Goitia said.

He said the court's decision would not stop them from seeking justice for the Inocupan Massacre victims.

During the protest rally, the groups burned the effigy of CPP founder Joma Sison and the symbols of the party-list fronts of the CPP-NPA-NDF, to convey their condemnation of the communist revolution and push for "senseless" insurgency.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the NDF as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163511

Navy landing craft now in Siargao Island for relief ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23, 2021): Navy landing craft now in Siargao Island for relief ops (By Priam Nepomuceno)

RELIEF OPS. The Philippine Navy's landing crafts BRP Iwak and BRP Ivatan arrive at Dapa, Siargao Island on Wednesday (Dec. 22, 2021). The ships carried relief supplies for typhoon-affected communities on the island. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

Philippine Navy (PN) landing craft, BRP Iwak (LC-289), and its sister ship have arrived at Dapa, Siargao Island on Wednesday, carrying more relief supplies for communities severely affected by Typhoon Odette.

"BRP Iwak arrived at Dapa in Siargao Island in the afternoon of December 22. She brought with her assorted relief goods which include 7,800 kilograms of bottled water from the Office of the Vice President, 142 5-gallon water containers and four boxes of bottled water from the Naval Task Group NCR (National Capital Region) 50 sacks of rice from Jam Pinaroc, 130 pieces of bottled water from Maynilad and other various relief goods consolidated from the different units of the Philippine Fleet, NGOs (non-government organizations) and private stakeholders," said PN spokesperson, Commander Benjo Negranza, in a statement Thursday.

Meanwhile, BRP Ivatan (LC-298) arrived on the island earlier on Wednesday.
The ship, which is under Naval Forces Western Mindanao, left Zamboanga City loaded with 7,000 boxes of assorted food packs from DSWD-9 last December 19.

"Both Navy landing craft are being unloaded as of this reporting, working together with partner stakeholders in the area," Negranza said.

BRP Iwak and BRP Ivatan are part of the 19-ship humanitarian aid-focused efforts of the PN that are being deployed to the areas devastated by “Odette.”

Both vessels are sealift-capable and are able to conduct beach landings, an essential capability relevant for an archipelagic nation such as the Philippines.

"This deployment highlights the Navy’s dedicated efforts to ensure the government’s sustained delivery of much needed relief items to alleviate the plight of our fellow Filipinos affected by this calamity," Negranza said.

Meanwhile, Naval Forces West, which is based in Puerto Princesa City, deployed its air assets to conduct maritime air surveillance (MAS) and rapid disaster assessment and needs analysis (RDANA) in the vicinity of Puerto Princesa City, Northern, and Southern Palawan supporting the requirements of Joint Task Force I-CARE, Western Command.

"Said action aims to provide visual information on the current situation on the affected areas and aid in situational needs in order to conduct focused-humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and the government," it added. Also on December 21, one of its aircraft, with tail number NV-312, conducted an emergency reprovisioning mission for the AFP personnel and civilian populace in Pagasa Island, Kalayaan island Group (KIG), West Philippine Sea.

Along with said mission, said asset also conducted RDANA in the other Philippine-held features in the KIG.

"The Naval Forces West will continue to undertake its mission within its area of responsibility in support to the Western Command and the PN. Likewise, the Command will also continuously provide relentless assistance in support of the joint efforts in mitigating the after-effects of Typhoon Odette in the province of Palawan," it said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163526

Military, response teams from Davao Region deployed to Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2021): Military, response teams from Davao Region deployed to Caraga (By Che Palicte)

AUGMENTATION DEPLOYED. Government field workers under the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) in the Davao Region (Region 11) attend a send-off ceremony at the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao headquarters in Davao City on Wednesday (Dec. 22, 2021) before their deployment to Caraga Region. The Region 11 team will attend to the immediate needs of Typhoon Odette victims, including the reconstruction of destroyed shelters, and relief, search and rescue operations. (Photo courtesy of Sheila Lisondra – Radyo Pilipinas Davao)

Military personnel and teams from various government agencies working under the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in the Davao Region (RDRRMC-11) were deployed on Wednesday to augment the workforce in the Caraga Region which was severely hit by Typhoon Odette.

In a send-off ceremony held at the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao headquarters here, the team was composed of troops from the Armed Forces of the Philippines - Eastern Mindanao Command, the Army’s 10th Infantry Division (ID), Coast Guard Southeastern Mindanao, Reserve Officers Legion of the Philippines, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-11), Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Region 11, and the Provincial DRRMOs of Davao de Oro, and Davao del Sur.

In an interview, Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, the Eastmincom commander, said trucks loaded with food items from DSWD and non-food Items (family packs, blankets, and tents) will also be distributed to the affected communities in the Caraga Region.

“This is in coordination with RDRRMC- 11 and the contingents that will help in the relief, search and rescue operations,” he said.

He added that around 10 teams were already deployed on Tuesday to Surigao.

“This is a big group because there are teams already deployed from 4ID and this 10ID is just an augmentation. We have deployed sufficient forces in Siargao Island, Surigao, and Dinagat Islands,” Almerol said.

He said the badly-hit areas needed immediate response especially in conducting search and rescue operations as well as relief operations.

“Everything was destroyed and they need help. Most of the roofs of their houses were ruined and we need to extend help in constructing their shelter,” Almerol said.

Almerol said they remain committed to helping rebuild the houses as well as the lives of those affected.

“That’s why our troops are on this because we need to address their problem. This may take time because there is huge destruction and there is a need for rehabilitation and construction,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163427

4, including 2 cops, slain in NoCot shootout

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2021): 4, including 2 cops, slain in NoCot shootout (By Edwin Fernandez)

SHOOTOUT. Scene of the crime operatives conduct an on-site investigation following a shootout involving two lawmen and two civilians in M’lang, North Cotabato on Wednesday (Dec. 22, 2021). The incident that transpired at an eatery in Barangay Bialong, M’lang left the two cops and two civilians dead. (Photo courtesy of M’lang MPS)

Four persons were killed following a shootout outside a roadside eatery in M’lang, North Cotabato early Wednesday morning.

A report received by Police Regional Office - Soccsksargen (PRO-12) Director Brig. Gen. Alexander Tagum, showed that the shootout occurred around 5:30 a.m. in front of the “Kambingan” roadside eatery along the highway in Barangay Bialong, M’lang town.

The report said two of the fatalities were the sibling-eatery operators while the two others were police officers in civilian clothes assigned in Kidapawan City.

They were identified as Master Sgt. Fletcherlyn Dominic Pido and Staff Sgt. Arman Alquiza Bada. The siblings were John Kevin Papna, 35, and Jerson Rey Papna, 26, the eatery owners.

The policemen were to serve the warrants of arrest against the siblings based on an order issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 23 in Kidapawan City and signed by Judge Jose Tanalgo Tabosares when the shootout erupted.

Neighbors said they heard exchanges of gunfire at the break of dawn sending them to seek cover.

Minutes later, people started to arrive and found four persons lying dead near the eatery.

The M’lang municipal police office and the North Cotabato police office are still conducting a follow-up investigation on the incident.

The cadavers were brought to Wood Haven Funeral Home in Kidapawan City.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163483

3 NPA rebels surrender in Nueva Ecija

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2021): 3 NPA rebels surrender in Nueva Ecija (By Jason De Asis)

GOOD LIFE AHEAD. Three former members of the communist terrorist group voluntarily surrender to authorities in Nueva Ecija on Tuesday (Dec. 21, 2021). The surrenderers said they decided to leave the underground movement because they wanted to live peacefully with their loved ones. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 91IB)

BALER, Aurora – In their desire to continue to live peacefully with their families, three inactive members of the communist group New People’s Army (NPA) have voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Nueva Ecija on Tuesday.

In an interview on Wednesday, Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto, Jr., officer-in-charge of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion (91IB), identified the surrenderers as Ka Ricky, 38, a former member of Sentro de Gabridad-Nueva Ecija; and Ka Lito, 37, and Ka Wilma, both formerly belonging to the NPA's Aurora Provincial Committee.

Recto said elements of the 91IB’s Alpha Company, together with other security forces, facilitated the surrender of the three former rebels, who are all residents of Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija. They are now in the custody of 91IB’s Alpha Company in Dingalan, Aurora for custodial debriefing and proper documentation.

Recto said the surrenderers decided to officially leave the underground movement after being inactive for some time because they wanted to live in peace together with their loved ones.

Likewise, he said the former rebels learned that their comrades who have surrendered to authorities ahead of them are now enjoying the good life with the help of the government.

“I assure the surrendered rebels that the 91IB will help them return to their normal way of life through the delivery of basic social and public safety services. With our collective efforts and whole-of-nation approach, we can make a difference in securing our people from any terroristic acts,” Recto said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163472

Gov't troops seize NPA food cache in Aurora town

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2021): Gov't troops seize NPA food cache in Aurora town (By Jason De Asis)

FOOD CACHE. The site where military troops recovered a food cache believed to be owned by remnants of a dismantled group of the New People’s Army, in Barangay Ditumabo, San Luis, Aurora. Government troops on Wednesday (Dec. 22, 2021) found two containers of rice weighing about 60 kg. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 91IB)

BALER, Aurora – Government troops discovered on Wednesday a food cache owned by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the outskirts of Sitio Katupnan, Barangay Ditumabo, San Luis, this province.

Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto, Jr., officer-in-charge of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, said in an interview the food cache was believed to be owned by remnants of the dismantled Komiteng Larangang Guerrilla - Sierra Madre (KLG-SM) of the NPA.

Recto said the troops recovered two containers of rice weighing about 60 kg. after receiving information from residents in the area.

The recovered items would be brought to the headquarters of the Charlie Company in Barangay Diteki, San Luis, Aurora for proper disposition and documentation, he said.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163495

Kalinaw News: The Collapse of NPA Guerilla Front 55: A Trailblazer to Peace and Development Initiatives

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 22, 2021): The Collapse of NPA Guerilla Front 55: A Trailblazer to Peace and Development Initiatives



The 1003rd Infantry Brigade, 10th Infantry Division, Phil Army along with partner stakeholders has gained headway in sustaining peace and security operations in the area of responsibility which led to the decline of the Guerilla Front 55 (GF55), the only remaining NPA front under the Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC5) of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC). As a stopgap of its dwindling strength, GF55 pushed towards Paquibato District, a futile attempt to recover its former bastion adjacent Davao City’s socio-economic and political hubs.

With this prevailing situation, 1003rd Brigade with 27th Infantry Battalion and 89IB as its forefront units, initiated focused military operations targeting the GF55 to prevent them from recovering Paquibato District while the City Government sustains its local peace initiatives through the Peace 911.

The massive combat operations started in August 2020 tracking down around 40 NPA fighters of GF55 led by Arian Jane Ramos Alias “Marikit,” the front secretary. By the end of 2020, 27IB and 89IB were able to neutralize key personalities of GF55 which include the death of Romel Tausan, the Commander of GF55, the surrender of Daniel Castillo alias “STEVEN”, the Political Officer of GF55, and the surrender of Nelson Hepervis alias “DARUKOY”, the revolutionary tax collector of GF55.

With the series of debacles suffered, more NPAs continue to surrender to the folds of law. With only 19 members remaining, GF55 vacated Paquibato District and sought refuge with the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), an NPA unit operating in Talaingod, Davao del Norte. Meanwhile, the Community Support Program (CSP) teams deployed in Paquibato successfully cleared the NPA recovery Barangays of Mapula, Malabog, Paquibato Proper, and Lumiad this year.

In August 2021, the Brigade culminated GF55’s existence by facilitating the successful surrender of Arian Jane Ramos Alias “Marikit.” The surrender of Ka Marikit finally crumbled the leadership of GF55 leaving it non-operational while its remnant members joined the SRGU. Ka Marikit, a graduate from the University of the Philippines Mindanao and an Indigenous People (IP) rights advocate, is currently helping in the government’s peace initiatives by identifying and resolving local issues particularly in Paquibato, Talaingod and Sto. Tomas.

After the collapse of GF55, the Brigade then gained its momentum in defeating the SRGU before the year ends, to finally prevent them from re-infiltrating Paquibato, Talaingod, and Sto Tomas. As it happens, at least 30 NPA members of the SRGU were already neutralized to include those who joined from GF55 in just five months. At present, only nine NPAs remaining in the SRGU.

In the long run, to protect our gains in the peace and security efforts in the GIDAs, the Brigade through the support of the City Government, have introduced peace initiatives such as the establishment of “Peace Builders” in Paquibato. Peace Builders are city-paid former members of underground mass organizations tasked to proactively monitor and propose solutions to exploitable issues in respective areas.

Likewise, through the efforts of LGUs of Davao City; Sto Tomas, Davao del Norte and Talaingod, Davao del Norte, the Task Force TUGANAY was created that will pave way for long-term solution to the ancestral domain issues in the affected areas particularly in the tri-boundary of Paquibato, Talaingod and Sto. Tomas.

The creation of Peace Builders and TF Tuganay after the dismantling of GF 55 and the reduction of SRGU, Colonel Consolito Yecla, the Commander of 1003rd Infantry Brigade believes that we have initiated pioneering initiatives capable of sustaining the peace and development in the AOR.

The collapse of GF55 marks a significant campaign milestone as a trailblazer to genuine peace and development in the area of responsibility. As the AFP bestows the Streamer Award to 1003Bde during the AFP Day on 21 Dec 2021 for the successful dismantling of the GF5, we are again reminded of the bigger role we play in sustaining our gains.

[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/the-collapse-of-npa-guerilla-front-55-a-trailblazer-to-peace-and-development-initiatives/

Kalinaw News: Army’s 48IB clashes with CPP-NPA Terrorist Group anew; Recovers Firearms, Electronic Devices, Subversive Documents in Mabini Davao de Oro

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 21, 2021): Army’s 48IB clashes with CPP-NPA Terrorist Group anew; Recovers Firearms, Electronic Devices, Subversive Documents in Mabini Davao de Oro



Pantukan, Davao De Oro – The troops of the 48th Infantry Battalion had a 30-minute firefight with members of the Communist Terrorist Group at Vic Sitio Barigyan, Barangay Golden Valley, Mabini, Davao de Oro on December 19, 2021, at around 06:00 in the morning.

According to 48IB Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Enrique Rafael (GSC) INF PA, the armed encounter resulted in the capture of high powered firearms believed to be from the combined elements of Weakened Guerilla Front 2, HQ, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, and Kometing Mindanao with no reported casualty on the government side. One (1) wounded enemy personality identified as Daniel Dellosa alias” Axel”, Political Instructor, WGF2 who was left behind by his fleeing comrades, and two (2) others including a minor female were also captured and saved, respectively following the recent clash between Government troops on 10 December 2021.

“Ka Axel” upon his surrender, was immediately given first aid by the pursuing government troops to save his life and eventually moved to the 10ID Station Hospital, Brgy Tuboran, Mawab Davao de Oro for further medical treatment. On the other hand, the two (2) captured including a minor female were brought to Hqs, 1001st Brigade, Maco, Davao de Oro for a custodial debriefing.

Among the captured items are one (1) M-16 Rifle one (1) M-14 Rifle, and one (1) Caliber. 22 Rifle. Also recovered from the scene are backpacks containing personal belongings, kilos of rice, medicines, medical paraphernalia, numerous subversive documents, electronic devices such as cellular phones, tablets, external drives, and USBs containing high intelligence values.

Said encounter site has been a former mass base of the said terrorist group, but since the people in the area are already aware of the deceptive propaganda of the enemy, they are now on the government side and actually the ones giving information regarding the presence of the terrorists in the area. It was the third armed clash involving his troops since the intensified focused military operation was launched, according to LTC Rafael.

“We will be relentless on our focused–military operations in running after these terrorists until they will fall. However, our door is always open for those who want to return to the folds of the law. Our government is very much willing to help for their mainstreaming through the E-CLIP for their future,” Lt. Col. Rafael, said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/armys-48ib-clashes-with-cpp-npa-terrorist-group-anew-recovers-firearms-electronic-devices-subversive-documents-in-mabini-davao-de-oro/