AMLC freezes accounts of ‘underground’ groups

 From Rappler (Feb 28, 2022): AMLC freezes accounts of ‘underground’ groups (By LIAN BUAN)

The Communist Party of the Philippines says the freeze order can be weaponized against progressive human rights groups

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has frozen the accounts of 16 groups earlier designated as terrorists by the anti-terror council, but the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said there was nothing to freeze for these “underground groups.”

“In the first place, these organizations are underground and operate clandestinely. Their members numbering in the hundreds or thousands are incognito with no public or secret records of their membership,” said Marco Valbuena, who posts on Twitter official statements and responses of the CPP.

This was the same response of the CPP when the feared anti-terror council designated the New Peoples’ Army (NPA) as terrorists.

On print, the arbitrary designation power of the anti-terror law results only in the freezing of assets, but groups have long feared that because of the the vagueness of the language of the law it may later be used to arrest and detain the designees.

Even on the freezing of assets alone, the CPP said it may be weaponized to target legitimately-established human rights groups. “The AMLC declaration is dangerous because it can be used against social activists, progressives and patriotic forces, human rights defenders and critics of the tyrannical regime who have been repeatedly red-tagged by the NTF-ELCAC/ATC,” said Valbuena.

NTF-ELCAC stands for the National Task Force to end local communist armed conflict, and the ATC stands for the anti-terror council.

Valbuena called the 16 groups as allies of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines or NDFP.

The groups are: Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions (RCTU); Katipunan ng mga Samahang Manggagawa (KASAMA) or Federation of Labor Organizations; Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid (PKM) or National Association of Peasants; Malayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan (MAKIBAKA) or Patriotic Movement of New Women; Kabataang Makabayan (KM) or Patriotic Youth; Katipunan ng Gurong Makabayan (KAGUMA) or Association of Patriotic Teachers; Makabayang Samahan Pangkalusugan (MASAPA) or Patriotic Health Association; Liga ng Agham para sa Bayan (LAB) or League of Scientists for the People; Lupon ng Manananggol para sa Bayan (LUMABAN) or Committee of Lawyers for the People; Artista at Manunulat para sa Sambayanan (ARMAS) or Artists and Writers for the People; Makabayang Kawaning Pilipino (MKP) or Patriotic Government Employees; Revolutionary Organization of Overseas Filipinos and their Families (COMPATRIOTS); Christians for National Liberation (CNL); Cordillera People’s Democratic Front (CPDF); Moro Resistance and Liberation Organization (MRLO); and Revolutionary Organization of Lumads (ROL).

AMLC issued the resolution freezing their assets on February 22. The designation resolution was issued by the anti-terror council on January 26.

Dangers

The anti-terror council designated the NDF last year as terrorists, which raised the fears even more that political dissenters could be next.

Designating the CPP-NPA was one thing, but the designation of the NDF opened risks for activists who have openly served as consultants to the group.

The Supreme Court has upheld most of the feared law, but petitioners have vowed to appeal it. They are currently drafting their motions for reconsideration, having received the full text of the decision only last February 15.

The Duterte government has launched an intense offensive against activists, both through legal means and through publicity, using the NTF-ELCAC as a vicious instrument to red-tag everyone with the faintest links to progressive groups, including celebrities and journalists.

Chad Booc, a volunteer teacher to the Lumads, petitioned the Supreme Court to void the anti-terror law and was sued by the government for kidnapping, framing the education of Lumads as radicalizing children without consent of their parents. Booc and others were cleared by prosecutors, but the resolution gave the police an opening to file a new complaint somewhere else, and the NTF-ELCAC said it would refile and pursue the charges.

But on February 24, Booc and other community leaders were killed in what the military said was an encounter with NPA rebels. The Save Our Schools (SOS) network, of which Booc belongs, contradicts the military account of an encounter and said Booc and his companions were unarmed and were on an assessment and research trip in Davao. – With a report from Rhoanne De Guzman/Rappler.com

https://www.rappler.com/nation/anti-money-laundering-council-freezes-accounts-underground-groups/

Alvarez says air force, navy bases in Balabac will boost country’s territorial security

From Palawan News (Feb 28, 2022): Alvarez says air force, navy bases in Balabac will boost country’s territorial security (By Aira Genesa Magdayao)

The establishment of an air force and a naval base in Balabac town will strengthen the territorial security of the province and the country, Governor Jose Chaves Alvarez said.

At the inauguration of the water system projects of the provincial government in Balabac town on February 26, Alvarez said the town will soon have the three different branches of service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that will guard the territory of the country.

In 2018, a Memorandum of Agreement for the construction of a 300-hectare Balabac Air Base (BAB) in Barangay Catagupan was signed by Alvarez for the provincial government and former air force chief Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar Jr. for the Philippine Air Force.

Alvarez said a naval base will also be constructed soon on mainland Balabac. He added that he personally sees Balabac as a progressive town in the next 25 years and that the security forces will be part of this development.

“The West Philippine Sea is just behind it. If there is an air force there that guards our Philippine Sea, then we are secured. There is also a navy base to be built at the south of the Balabac town, that is a nice Subic-like Naval Base,” Alvarez said.

“Kumpleto tayo dito, we have navy, air force and army. Itong Balabac ay very progressive in the future, if I look at it in the next 25 years itong mga tao dito, kayo, ang mage-enjoy ng efforts na nandito,” he added.

In addition to the AFP, the Philippine Coast Guard is stationed in the town.

https://palawan-news.com/alvarez-says-air-force-navy-bases-in-balabac-will-boost-countrys-territorial-security/

Army slams NPA for killing 7 civilians

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 28, 2022): Army slams NPA for killing 7 civilians (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade reported yesterday that seven innocent civilians had been killed by the New People’s Army in the past two months in Negros Island.

From December last year to February this year, the 303IB recorded six incidents of summary execution of seven civilians, perpetrated and even claimed by the NPA, as well as the use of homemade landmines, which it said a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law.

These killings are deliberately undertaken by the NPA terrorist group to intimidate civilians, said 303IB commanderBrig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte.

“It is also their way of coercing their members of not abandoning their ranks,” Pasaporte added.

Among the victims of NPA summary executions were Mariel Encarquez and Ponciano Carbajosa who both died in Brgy. Bandila, Toboso on Dec. 13 and 14 respectively last year; Jimmy dela Cruz on Feb. 4 in Brgy. Cambayobo, Calatrava, all in Negros Occidental; former barangay kagawad Lucio Perater and his son, Fernardo, on Feb. 16 in Brgy. Malangsa, Vallehermoso, Negros Oriental and Haidato Boca in Brgy. Santol, Binalbagan.

The New People’s Army Mt. Cansermon Command also claimed responsibility for the killing of Bertito Roso who they accused as a military asset of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on February 13 in Sitio Nursery, Brgy. Bi-ao, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental.

The killing of Roso also led to the ambush of a team of policemen who responded to incident in the barangay. Two policemen, including the deputy police chief of Binalbagan, were injured in the ambush.

Pasaporte said that the NPA tagged their victims as military informants and fabricated lies to project that their actions are justified, and to cover up the clear violation of human rights and IHL they had committed.

We have seen this tagging of civilians as government agents or informants ever since, and it is high time that they will be held accountable for this cowardly act, Pasaporte said.

https://visayandailystar.com/army-slams-npa-for-killing-7-civilians/

Army chief assures resources for 3ID anti-insurgency drive

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 28, 2022): Army chief assures resources for 3ID anti-insurgency drive (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Army chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. being welcomed by Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 3ID commander, at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz.* PA photo

Army chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. has assured 3rd Infantry Division of its needed resources in the campaign against insurgency in Western and Central Visayas.

The assurance was made by Brawner during his visit on February 25 to the 3ID headquarters at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz, where he was warmly welcomed by Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo and staff.

Brawner disclosed that 3ID is among the Army units that has accomplished so much for the past year.

In Negros Island alone, two guerilla fronts of the Komiteng Rehiyonal- Negros/ Cebu/Siquijor, including Northern Negros Front and South East Front, were reported by the 3ID to have been dismantled, aside from the neutralization of some of its key leaders who died in gun battles, the capture of some, and the surrender of their members.

“Us in the Headquarters Philippine Army will assure this Command that we will push all the needed resources to aide you in our campaign against insurgency in your AOR,” Brawner said.

Arevalo yesterday said the support of the Philippine Army headquarters, in terms of personnel and logistics such as ammunition and fuel, is a boost to their campaign against NPA remnants in Regions 6 and 7.

He added that they were also assured of support on the repair of damages brought about last year by typhoon Odette.

In Panay island, the Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade reported that 1,531 NPA members and supporters surrendered last year.

Of the number, 44 of them are regular NPA members, 159 Militia ng Bayan, 143 of them are members of Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad, and 1,185 Underground Mass Organization.

They are also surrendered 120 assorted firearms.

Arevalo said that the influx of surrenders will not be possible without the intensified convergence of efforts from the various government agencies, in accordance with the whole-of-government approach.

This only proves how effective our collective effort in fighting the insurgency not only in this island, but also in the entire country, he added.

https://visayandailystar.com/army-chief-assures-resources-for-3id-anti-insurgency-drive/

Eastmincom urges anew NPA members to surrender

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2022): Eastmincom urges anew NPA members to surrender (By Che Palicte)

Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol (PNA file photo)

The Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) reiterated on Monday its call to other communist New People’s Army (NPA) members to surrender to avoid bloodshed.

Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, the Eastmincom commander, made the call following the death of five members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in an encounter on February 24.

In a statement, Almerol condoled with the families of the slain NPA members, whom he said were victims of deception and wrong ideology.

The slain NPA members identified as Chad Booc, Jojarain Alce Nguho ll (alias Rain), a certain alias Daday, and two still unidentified men figured in an encounter in Purok-8, Barangay Andap, New Bataan, Davao de Oro.

Booc, 27, graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines-Diliman with a Bachelor of Computer Science degree.

"This would not have happened if they took heed with our offer to abandon the armed struggle. Their only choice was to yield instead of sacrificing their lives for a terroristic cause," Almerol said.

On February 15, 2021, Booc was one of the personalities arrested by authorities at the University of San Carlos – Talamban Campus in Cebu City after some parents from Talaingod, Davao del Norte reported about the alleged kidnapping of their indigenous people (IP) children.

The court in Cebu, later on, released him together with six others.

"After his release, Chad decided to join the armed movement, believing the deception of his superiors that bearing arms is the highest form of struggle," Almerol said.

During a press briefing at the 1001st Infantry Brigade on February 26, Rurelyn Bay-ao, an IP youth leader from Talaingod, Davao del Norte who previously confessed the radicalization in NPA-linked schools to use them in mass protests and eventually join the armed group, revealed that Booc was his teacher in Haran, Manila, and Cebu Bakwit Schools.

"We had a sigh of relief, at least the IP children and youth will now be spared from recruitment," she said.

Almerol said the death of Booc has paved way for the identification of NPA breeding grounds, which are hiding behind the walls of so-called Lumad Schools.

"They are recruiters of the terrorist organization, pretending to be activists and volunteer teachers," he said.

Almerol said all NPA-operated schools in the Eastmincom area were closed down by the Department of Education (DepEd) and communities due to incomplete submissions of documentary requirements and complaints from parents on their ways of teaching.

He also reported that since 2019, Eastmincom's military engineers, in partnership with DepEd and local government units, have built 34 schools in communities formerly influenced by the armed group, while dormitories are also being built to house IP students who choose to study in mainstream communities.

"For those who will choose to surrender, various government services through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) are waiting on your return. For those who will remain, we will relentlessly hunt you down until you will have no other option but to lay down your arms," Almerol said.

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

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168663

Sulu roadside bombing foiled

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2022): Sulu roadside bombing foiled (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

FOILED BOMBING. Troops recover bomb components as they safely defuse an improvised explosive device (IED), preventing a roadside bombing in Barangay Anuling, Patikul, Sulu on Sunday (Feb. 27, 2022). The location of the IED was established through the timely information provided to the military by concerned residents. (Photo courtesy of the Joint Task Force Sulu)

Government troops have prevented a roadside bombing as they safely defused an improvised explosive device (IED) in the province of Sulu, military officials announced Monday.

Lt. Col. Domingo Robles Jr., 35th Infantry Battalion commander, said the IED was disarmed around 1:10 p.m. Sunday in Sitio Daan Putih, Barangay Anuling, Patikul.

Robles said the IED was located through the timely information provided to them by concerned residents, which prompted them to deploy troops backed by K9 teams.

“After cordoning off the area and confirming the presence of the IED, it was then subsequently defused and successfully recovered,” Robles said in a statement.

Col. Giovanni Franza, 1102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the recovered bomb components comprised of three electric blasting caps, a six-meter wire, one-meter detonating cord, one-gallon ammonium nitrate fuel oil, 12 volts motorcycle battery, 128 four-inch common nails, and 37 10 mm two-inch steel bars.

Franza said the IED was aimed to kill government troops and other individuals as collateral casualties.

However, Franza said it was prevented through the cooperation of the residents to the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu.

The IED was turned over to Philippine National Police - Provincial Explosive Canine Unit.

Brig. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, JTF-Sulu commander, commended the efforts of the troops and the concerned residents for their vigilance against terroristic attempts and activities.

Patrimonio said they will continue to hunt down the Abu Sayyaf Group which is believed to be behind the roadside bombing attempt.

"We've been tightening our efforts in suppressing this terrorist group. The JTF-Sulu will continue to put an end to terrorism here in this province in the soonest time possible,” he said.

“We will not stop until we zero in on the enemies and their leadership. We will continue to do our mandate and strengthen our capabilities to perform our duties to protect our fellow Filipinos here in the province of Sulu,” he added.

The last recorded bombing incident in Sulu was on Aug. 24, 2020 that resulted in the death of 14 people and injured 75 others after two bombs exploded one after the other in downtown Jolo.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168651

Davao Oro youth group slams SOS claim of ‘massacre’

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2022): Davao Oro youth group slams SOS claim of ‘massacre’ (By Che Palicte)

The Youth for Peace Movement (YFPM) - New Bataan condemned on Sunday the conflicting statement of Save Our Schools (SOS) Network claiming that the recent death of members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA), including an alleged indigenous peoples (IP) recruiter, in New Bataan, Davao de Oro was a massacre.

On February 24, five NPA members - Chad Booc, Jojarain Alce Nguho ll (alias Rain), a certain alias Daday, and two still unidentified men – were killed in a clash with government forces in Purok-8, Barangay Andap, New Bataan.

Booc was one of those arrested at the University of San Carlos (USC)-Talamban Cebu City in February last year for alleged trafficking of IP members in Talaingod, Davao del Norte but was released upon order of a local court in May of the same year.

The SOS Network claimed the victims were community volunteers and civilians from varying backgrounds, and their murder must merit the strongest condemnation.

The YFPM-New Bataan, however, has debunked the SOS claim.

“The YFPM - New Bataan strongly condemns all armed groups that continually use children and people in their armed activities, thus the spread of wrong accusations on what happened,” YFPM said in a Facebook post.

The group said the Lumad schools have become breeding grounds for communist rebels — a claim that has long been testified by the former rebels.

“It has been confirmed by the authorities and testified by the locals of Barangay Andap, New Bataan, Davao de Oro that there is indeed resistance and encounter between these communist rebels and the 1001st Infantry Brigade troops. (And) coming from the mouths of the locals, It is not a massacre,” the group added.

The SOS Network claimed that the families of the victims learned of the massacre only on February 25, when the 10th Infantry Division posted a press release on its official Facebook page, parading the murders of the five unarmed civilians and claiming they were "killed in an encounter" a day before.

“Ironic to the freedom of speech that their Facebook pages are said to be practicing, some of the New Bataan locals rebuking the page’s narrative were blocked and were disabled in the comment sections," the YFPM statement read.

It also added that "the residents have strongly stood that education in Barangay Andap is well sustained. We call on every armed element to spare the children from armed conflicts. Instead, let us encourage them to get the right education because only then do we achieve genuine peace and development.”

The group also cited that: “It is an insult to the people of the said municipality to be pitied no grounds by those who have not to live in it.”

“We need to be aware and vigilant against any manipulative actions from Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA-National Democratic Front (NDF) rebels who appeals to pity most times. We also ask our partners in peace to ensure that our children will no longer be involved in groups and their activities,” it added.

Meanwhile, Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy vouched for the military’s claim that the NPA members were killed in an encounter.

“What Brig. Gen. Jesus Durante III was saying is all true. It was reported by the people from the ground that there were NPA sightings in the area,” he said in a press briefing Saturday at the 1001st Infantry Brigade Headquarters in Maco, Davao de Oro.

Uy said military and police responded to the area due to the reported presence of NPAs.

“Our people of Davao de Oro deserve peace and order, and I firmly believe that if we can sustain our efforts, it will result in a better future for our youth,” he said.

Recruiter’s death: A sigh of relief

Rurelyn Bay-ao, a former student of Booc said his death has brought a sigh of relief to the IP children who were once deceived by false ideology.

Rurelyn Bay-ao, a former student of Chad Booc, said in a press briefing via Zoom on Feb. 26, 2022, that she felt a sigh of relief upon knowing that Booc was dead and can no longer recruit IP children. (PNA photo by Che Palicte)

“We, who were victimized and were recruited, we are happy because nobody will lure the IPs [again] and even resort to kidnapping to join their [Salugpungan] schools,” she said in the same press briefing.

Bay-ao also denied the claims of the SOS Network that ‘it was a massacre’, saying the NPA members were armed and the government troops only retaliated.

She recounted that as a former student of Booc, she was with him in - Cebu, Manila, during Lakbayan, Bakwit schools, and other areas.

“He [Booc] urged me to continue and when we went home to Talaingod, Davao del Norte he sent me a message that their situation is already in danger [due to intensified focus military operations],” Bay-ao added.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (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 National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168636

'Reds' face raps for burning of trucks in Butuan

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2022): 'Reds' face raps for burning of trucks in Butuan (By Alexander Lopez)

Photo grabbed from PRO-13 Facebook page

(Butuan City) Four New People’s Army (NPA) rebels are now facing criminal charges for the burning of hauler trucks here, the Police Regional Office-Caraga (PRO-13) said Monday.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr., the PRO-13 director, said the Butuan City Police Station 4 (BCPS4) has filed arson charges against the four NPA rebels responsible for the burning of hauler trucks owned by local businessmen.

He identified the NPA rebels in their aliases as “Warren”, “Draks”, “Janice”, and “Abay”.

“Citing the report from BCPS4, the four suspects are NPA rebels under the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 21C and Sub-Region of Sentro De Grabidad of Western Guerilla Front 21,” he said.

The four were charged with the violation of Presidential Decree 1613, Amending the Law on Arson,at the Office of the City Prosecutor, Hall of Justice, Libertad, Butuan City.

The four were responsible for the burning of hauler trucks on two incidents, first on Jan. 31, 2022, in Purok 5A Upper Tagulahi, Barangay Antongalon; and second on Feb. 4, 2022, in Purok 7, Barangay Taligaman.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-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 National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168692

PNP, AFP chiefs headed for Mindanao amid reports of poll violence

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2022): PNP, AFP chiefs headed for Mindanao amid reports of poll violence (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief, Gen. Dionardo Carlos (2nd from left) and AFP chief, Gen. Andres Centino (right) (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos on Monday said he and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff, Gen. Andres Centino will look into apparent cases of escalating election-related violence in Mindanao.

Speaking during the regular flag-raising ceremony in Camp Crame, Carlos said he earlier traveled to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and General Santos City due to reports of an "increase in the intense political rivalry incidents in one week”.

"Babalik po kami ni (AFP) chief of staff Centino sa (We will return to) BARMM, Caraga, in Soccksargen, because these are the areas where we find presence of threat groups and private armed groups. So that's a commitment based on my talks with Gen. Andres Centino, we want to make sure the elections are going to be peaceful," Carlos added.

He also said the PNP and the AFP are set to hold another command conference next week regarding election security plans.

“We want to make sure that we are on our timeline and our actions are all aligned to the plan to keep the peace during the elections. We will help each other. We should always be part of the organizational goal, hindi po yung (not the) personal goal,” the PNP chief added.

Ready for Alert Level 1

With Metro Manila and 38 other areas placed shifting to Alert Level 1 starting Tuesday, Carlos has ordered the National Capital Region Police Office to coordinate with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and the Inter-Agency Council for Traffic to streamline traffic law enforcement and ensure smooth passenger limit regulations in public conveyance by concerned agencies and local government units.

"Even in areas under Alert Level 1, the PNP will continue to ensure observance of minimum public health standards such physical distancing, use of personal protection, and restrictions on crowding in public places," Carlos said.

He said quarantine control points are deactivated in areas under Alert Level 1 as a result of the lifting of restrictions on intra-zonal and inter-zonal travel.

"However, PNP checkpoints co-located with these quarantine control points will remain operational for law enforcement and anti-criminality operations; and implementation of the election gun ban and employment of unauthorized security forces imposed by Comelec (Commission on Elections)," Carlos said.

Aside from NCR, other areas placed under Alert Level 1 include:
• Abra, Apayao, Baguio City and Kalinga in the Cordillera Administrative Region;
• Dagupan City, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan in Region 1 (Ilocos);
• Batanes, Cagayan, City of Santiago, Isabela, and Quirino in Region 2(Cagayan Valley);
• Angeles City, Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Olongapo City, Pampanga, and Tarlac in Region 3 (Central Luzon);
• Cavite and Laguna in Region 4-A (Calabarzon);
• Marinduque, Puerto Princesa City, and Romblon in Region 4-B (Mimaropa); and
• Naga City and Catanduanes in Region 5 (Bicol).

In the Visayas, also under Alert Level 1 are:
• Aklan, Bacolod City, Capiz, and Guimaras in Region 6 (Western Visayas);
• Siquijor in Region 7 (Central Visayas); and
• Biliran in Region 8 (Eastern Visayas).

In Mindanao, the following areas under Alert Level 1 are:
• Zamboanga City in Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula);
• Cagayan de Oro City and Camiguin in Region 10 (Northern Mindanao); and
• Davao City in Region 11 (Davao).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168650

Duterte picks Abu as new PCG chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2022): Duterte picks Abu as new PCG chief (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

Vice Adm. Artemio Abu, the new Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). (Photo courtesy of PCG)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has appointed Vice Adm. Artemio Abu as the new Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Abu's appointment took effect on Monday, the PCG said in a Facebook post.

Abu, it said, is part of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1992 and most recently served as the Commander of the Maritime Safety Services Command (MSSC) and the Task Force Commander of the PCG Task Force Kaligtasan sa Karagatan—a unit that enforces laws and regulations on the safety of life and property at sea within Philippine waters.

“He is a nobleman from Barangay Luta Sur, Malvar, Batangas, and a holder of a Master's Degree in Marine Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada,” the PCG said.

Previously, it said Abu was also assigned as Commander of the PCG District Southern Visayas, PCG District Southern Tagalog, and the Coast Guard Education, Training, and Doctrine Command (CGETDC).

Abu also served as the commanding officer of various PCG vessels where he earned the “Command at Sea” badge.

“All units that CG Vice Admiral Abu commanded, both ashore and afloat, received the distinction as 'Best Unit of the Year' at the national level,” the PCG said.

During the Taal Eruption in 2020, it said Abu was designated Commander of the PCG Task Force Taal where the PCG was showcased as a “uniformed, maritime, and humanitarian service of the country.”

In 2021, it said Abu was recognized by the PMA as a “Distinguished Cavalier Awardee” for 2021 in the field of Coast Guard operation.

“The said award is the highest recognition given to PMA alumni for their outstanding achievements in the field of government service,” the PCG said.

Malacañang confirmed the appointment of Abu, saying President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed his appointment on February 28.

“We are confident that CG Vice Admiral Abu will steer the PCG to greater heights in the performance of its mandate towards maritime law enforcement, maritime search and rescue, marine environmental protection, and maritime safety and security,” Cabinet Secretary and Acting Presidential Spokesperson Karlo Nograles said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168699

‘Booc not just teacher but also NPA recruiter’: ex-student

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28, 2022): ‘Booc not just teacher but also NPA recruiter’: ex-student

NPA RECRUITER. The body of Chad Booc when it was recovered after an encounter with troops of the 1001st Infantry Brigade in New Bataan, Davao de Oro on Feb. 24, 2022. Booc’s former student Rurelyn Bay-ao said Booc was not just a teacher, but a New People’s Army leader and recruiter. (Photo courtesy of 10ID)

Chad Booc was a New People's Army (NPA) leader and recruiter who is responsible for luring children to become warriors, his former student told the media on Monday.

During Monday's edition of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) virtual press briefing, Rurelyn Bay-ao, a former student of Booc in Salungpungan and Bakwit schools, divulged that contrary to what left-leaning groups have claimed, Booc is not just a teacher but a leader in the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

Bay-ao, who is also a member of an indigenous people (IP) tribe in Talaingod, Davao, said she was taught by Booc in Saver's School Network, a community-based learning scheme used by the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to lure IP children and train them to become NPA warriors.

"Naging mag-aaral po ako ni teacher Chad. Si Sir Chad ay di basta-basta aktibista lang, at di basta-bastang guro lang, kung di ay NPA mismo (I was a student of teacher Chad. Sir Chad was not just an activist and teacher, but he is also an NPA member)," Bay-ao said.

She added that in 2020, she was with Booc, including the time when they were at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City as a member of the so-called Bakwit School where Booc taught and indoctrinated them through "PaDaPa" (Pambansang Demokratikong Paaralan) on how to fight and overthrow the government.

Booc was slain with four other NPA fighters after a 15-minute firefight with the 1001st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army in Purok-8, Barangay Andap, New Bataan, Davao de Oro on Feb. 24, 2022.

Capt. Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, said the encounter was part of the military operations launched since last year to track down and finish the CTGs and eventually free communities from their terroristic activities.

Meanwhile, Davao de Oro Governor Tyron Uy also belied claims that Booc and the other slain NPA fighters were ambushed by the military troops.

"I'd like to validate the occurrence of the encounter," Uy said, pointing out that information from civilian witnesses confirmed the presence of armed men in the area before the firefight.

Those information about the encounter came from civilians in the affected hinterland villages, Uy added.

"Wala na kasi silang masa, mahirap na sa kanilang bumaba. Dahil ayaw na ng mga tao sa kanila (They have not support already from the people, it’s difficult for them now to go down because people do not like them anymore). And because of our support through and from the 'whole-of-nation' approach,” Uy said, referring to the initiative of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in creating the NTF-ELCAC.

"This is the result of lies and deception of the (CPP-NPA-NDF) sa ating mega kabataan (to our youth),” he said.

The Youth for Peace Movement in Bataan also attended the press briefing and read their statement confirming their knowledge of the encounter that killed NPA fighters that included Booc.

The group backed the Army's claims as they insisted that the people in the area are law abiding citizens who have already condemned the CTG for operating Lumad Schools to recruit NPAs.

Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy, NTF-ELCAC Spokesperson for Sectoral Concerns, meanwhile, asked who really is Chad Booc, that "in the short life he lived, he really created so much grief to our IP Communities.”

Badoy said, “And now the CPP-NPA-NDF and their legal front organizations once again tried to push their narrative that Chad Booc was ambushed by our government forces. This is because he was said to be ‘red-tagged’—these old lines of the CPP-NPA-NDF that the vast majority of our people no longer believed in. Chad Booc was identified by many of his former students such as Rurelyn."

"And very clearly, it was a legitimate encounter with the government troops with the NPAs wherein he is a combatant as testified by the people in New Bataan and Gov. Tyron Uy,” she added.

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

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168726

Kalinaw News: Army troops, CTG engage in a firefight; several CTG belongings recovered

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 28, 2022): Army troops, CTG engage in a firefight; several CTG belongings recovered



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Troops of 77th Infantry Battalion recovered several war materials of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) after a firefight in Barangay Sta. Margarita, Baggao, Cagayan on February 28, 2022.

The armed encounter between the military troops and the CTGs lasted for 20 minutes wherein the enemy withdrew towards the south direction. “Our troops are conducting Focused Military Operation in the said place to secure the people against the threat of the CTGs when they were fired upon by the undetermined number of members of the East Front Committee, Komiteng Probinsya Cagayan, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley under the command of a certain alias Bon,” LtC Joeboy Kindipan, Battalion Commander of 77IB said.

Upon scouring the encounter site, the troops recovered one M16 rifle, two Cal .45 pistols, two magazines of Cal .45 pistol with ammunition, four long and two short magazines for M16, 52 rounds of ammunition for M16, one grenade MK2, three handheld radios, Anakpawis flag, medical paraphernalia, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

BGen Steve D Crespillo, Brigade Commander of 501st Infantry Brigade said that with the lost materials of the CTGs, their forces will be further weakened. “These CTG are the same group we are hunting since the incident in Gonzaga, Cagayan. With our continuous operations against the terrorist group, they are constantly fleeing away from our forces and are now at the very low state of morale due to pressure. We will always be vigilant. In no time, we will be dismantling the East Front Committee of the KomProb Cagayan.”

“About the recovery of the Anakbayan flag, we are certain that the group is related to the terrorist group. This solidifies the link between the organizations with the CTG,” BGen Crespillo added.

Moreover, MGen Laurene E Mina, Commander of 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, lauded the troops’ accomplishment. “You have shown your gallantry in protecting our people against the atrocities of the CTGs. With that, I commend you all. Let us continue to shield our people against the CTG.”

Meanwhile, the recovered items were brought to 77IB Headquarters for proper disposition.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-troops-ctg-engage-in-a-firefight-several-ctg-belongings-recovered/

Kalinaw News: Commander 7ID reminds 54IB Troops: “End our fight against insurgency within deadline”

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 28, 2022):  Commander 7ID reminds 54IB Troops: “End our fight against insurgency within deadline”



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA reminded the troops of the 54th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army –now under the Operational Control of 7ID– to end the fight against communist insurgency within the deadline given by President Rodrigo Duterte, during his visit at its headquarters at Tiger Hill, Sitio Ibulao, Brgy Banguinge, Kiangan, Ifugao on February 26, 2022.

During his visit, MGen Costelo was accorded with Arrival Honors wherein a Unit Briefing and a short orientation on the history of Ifugao, and Talk to Troops immediately followed.

In his remarks, MGen Costelo urged the troops of 54IB to support the 7ID’s mission objectives, especially in its fight to end the local communist armed conflict.

“We must follow the timeline given to us by our Commander-in-Chief. Kaya naman we must intensify our Focused Military Operations. Every operation must be intelligence-driven. Let us be resourceful, kaya natin ito dahil nasa likod natin ang taumbayan at ang buong gobyerno,” said MGen Costelo.

The 54th Infantry Battalion whose mother unit is the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army is now under the Operational Control of 7ID covering the whole province of Ifugao.

[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/commander-7id-reminds-54ib-troops-end-our-fight-against-insurgency-within-deadline/

Kalinaw News: Army reiterates support, protection on IP’s rights, preservation of Ancestral Domain in Nueva Vizcaya

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 28, 2022):  Army reiterates support, protection on IP’s rights, preservation of Ancestral Domain in Nueva Vizcaya



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA, reiterated their support and protection of the rights of the Indigenous People and the preservation of its Ancestral Domain.

On February 25, Chairperson Allen A. Capuyan of the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) at the same time Executive Secretary of National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) conducted an Inter-Agency Ancestral Domain Visitation and consultation to the Bugkalot and Dumagat Tribe at Brgy Pelaway, Alfonso Castaneda, Nueva Viscaya.

The activity was attended by 703rd Infantry (AGILA) Brigade, Deputy Brigade Commander, Colonel Allan Jose Taguba, and Lieutenant Colonel Enrico Gil C Ileto, Commanding Officer 84th Infantry (VICTORIOUS) Battalion along with other government local and national agencies.

During the consultation, Secretary Capuyan expressed the need for unified action by the community through their customary laws in engaging all kinds of issues affecting their rights. Resolving conflict through restorative justice rather than through legal remedies where penalties are imposed.

The Secretary also urged the Bugkalot & Dumagat ICCs/IPs community to be united and act as one for them to have a formidable foundation in facing the challenges and be resilient against the threats and exploitation. In addition, he also articulated the 11 Building Blocks of a resilient IP community.

Meanwhile, Colonel Taguba, in his remarks, emphasized the Army’s support for the protection of rights of every Indigenous People (IP) and the preservation of Ancestral Domains.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-reiterates-support-protection-on-ips-rights-preservation-of-ancestral-domain-in-nueva-vizcaya/

Kalinaw News: Provincial TF ELCAC resolve issue of Civil Registry in Tulunan Peace Zone

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 27, 2022):  Provincial TF ELCAC resolve issue of Civil Registry in Tulunan Peace Zone



NORTH COTABATO – Provincial Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of North Cotabato led by Hon. Nancy Catamco pioneers the resolution of civil registry issue with the distribution of birth certificates and marriage contracts to communities of Barangay Banayal and Barangay Nabundasan on February 26, 2022.

The said project is promulgated to provide the citizens with their legal identity based on their registration in the Philippine Statistics Authority. The lack of legal documents such as Birth Certificate was one of the secondary issues identified after the conduct of Community Support Program of the 39th Infantry Battalion that was then being exploited by the Communist Terrorist Groups to gain sympathy and establish mass base supporters.

Aside from distribution of birth and marriage certificates in Barangay Nabundasan, a turnover observance has been organized to pave the way on the opening and usage of the provided potable water system in order to give the citizens comfortable and accessible water supply for their daily needs.

The projects are part of the developmental and socio-economic project being undertaken in the formerly Communist Terrorist Group controlled “Peace Zone”.

It can be recalled that the 30-year old Peace Zone declaration was amended this year through a community assembly changing the tenor into an Executive Order 70 or Whole of Nation Approach based peace building declaration.

Hon Nancy A Catamco, Governor of North Cotabato expressed optimism in addressing the issues of communities holistically.

“With this provision, our communities and citizens can obviously enjoy the peace and development initiatives of our government. I am hoping that we will always be working hand-in-hand to make these projects and programs holistic and thriving.” Catamco said

“It is in our information that both barangay Banayal and Nabundasan in Tulunan, North Cotabato are actually considered conflict-affected areas. People from these communities suffered from exploitation, fear, and conflict-related activities, but because of the government intervention brought upon by the NTF-ELCAC, the barangays have been recipient of numerous services and development programs paving its way for lasting peace.” Catamco added.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/provincial-tf-elcac-resolve-issue-of-civil-registry-in-tulunan-peace-zone/

Kalinaw News: Suspected abandoned CTG’s hideout seized in Zambales

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 27, 2022): Suspected abandoned CTG’s hideout seized in Zambales (By Christian Malabanan)



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – A suspected abandoned hideout was seized by the 3rd Combat Troops composed of Modified Community Support Program teams of 3rd Mechanized Battalion and 84th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, believed to be owned by the members of Komiteng Larangang Guerrilla -Tarlac -Zambales (KLG-TarZam) in the hinterlands of Candelaria, Zambales on February 24, 2022.

According to the Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA, the recovery of CTG’s hideout in Zambales was the result of the Army’s Focused Military Operations (FMO) to locate and fix the enemy.

“Our troops found food containers and torn pieces of CTG’s propaganda materials in the area. The place must be the KLG-TarZam’s cooking area or their drop-off point. Nevertheless, its recovery is vital to weaken the operations of the enemy in Zambales,” said MGen Costelo.

The 3rd Combat Troops led by 1Lt Jeffrey C. Mongato, while conducting their regular patrolling discovered a nipa hut (cooking area) wherein they also recovered food containers placed in a sack and torn pieces of CTG’s propaganda materials.

The Commander of the 703rd Infantry (AGILA) Brigade, Colonel Joseph Norwin Pasamonte, said that they believed that the strength of KLG-TarZam in its Areas of Operations has significantly weakened because of its intensive implementation of Focused Military Operations.

Also, the Resolution of all Local Government Units in Zambales, declaring the members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) as Persona Non-Grata (PNG) have a great impact on the presence of the KLG-TarZam in the area as the local officials and its constituents are committed to supporting the declaration for the benefit of their community.

[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/suspected-abandoned-ctgs-hideout-seized-in-zambales/

Kalinaw News: Army’s 7ID welcomes 150 members of Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon’s withdrawal of support to CTG in Bataan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 27, 2022): Army’s 7ID welcomes 150 members of Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon’s withdrawal of support to CTG in Bataan



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA, warmly welcomed the decision of the 150 members of Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon (AMGL) in abandoning their support to the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) during a simple ceremony held at Multi Purpose Hall of Barangay Imelda, Samal, Bataan on February 25, 2022.

MGen Costelo attributed the success of the activity with the intensive implementation of the programs under Executive Order No. 70 wherein the local task force along with the security sector work hand-in-hand to conduct an information awareness drive on the lies and dangers brought by the terrorist organization.

“We are glad that these 150 AMGL members were able to open their eyes with the reality that they’ve been exploited by the CTG to advance their propaganda against the government. They are mere examples of being victims of deceptive schemes of the enemy. That is why the government is doing its best in its information awareness campaign to save these innocent people,” said MGen Costelo.

Also, MGen Costelo reiterates that this mass withdrawal of support of the AMGL members has a huge impact on the White Area operations of the enemy in Central Luzon.

Meanwhile, LTC Eugene F. Garce, Commanding Officer of 70th Infantry (MATAPAT AT MATATAG) Battalion, Philippine Army along with Bataan Provincial Police Office headed by Provincial Director PCol Romell A. Velasco, facilitated the activity.

LTC Julito B. Recto Jr. 703rd Brigade, Executive Officer attended the event and represented the Commander of 703rd Brigade, Colonel Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte.

“Maraming salamat dahil kayo ay bumalik na sa gobyerno, at namulat na ang inyong mga mata sa maling ginagawa ng teroristang grupo. Ngayong araw na to tinutuldukan niyo na ang pag suporta at panlilinlang sa inyo ng NPA, dahil kayo ay nagbalik suporta sa gobyerno,” said LTC Recto Jr.

The activity highlighted with the signing of pledge followed by oath of Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon (AMGL) members.

[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-7id-welcomes-150-members-of-alyansa-ng-mga-magbubukid-sa-gitnang-luzons-withdrawal-of-support-to-ctg-in-bataan/

Kalinaw News: Mangatarem, a PNG-free town of Pangasinan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 27, 2022): Mangatarem, a PNG-free town of Pangasinan



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — Residents of Brgy. Bunagan, Mangatarem, Pangasinan now feel at ease after addressing the issues on the Persona Non-Grata (PNG) resolution during a town meeting held in their community on Feb. 26.

In a bid to sustain the peace and development and to maintain a communist terrorist-free community, the residents of Brgy. Bunagan have expressed their full support to the local government unit’s declaration of PNG against the members of the communist terrorist group during the community consultation.

The activity was facilitated by personnel from the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and the 7th Civil-Military Operations in coordination with the barangay officials.

During the activity, the residents expressed their full support to the resolution and the other programs under Executive Order No. 70.

As PNG-free community, they vowed to report to the authorities any presence of the terrorist group in their community.

[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/mangatarem-a-png-free-town-of-pangasinan/

Kalinaw News: Alleged IP youth trafficker, four others fell during a clash in Davao de Oro

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 27, 2022): Alleged IP youth trafficker, four others fell during a clash in Davao de Oro



NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – A Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) member previously arrested in Cebu City for alleged trafficking of Indigenous Peoples (IP) was killed following a series of armed clashes with the troops of 10th Infantry Division’s 1001st Brigade (1001st Bde) at Purok-8, Barangay Andap, New Bataan, Davao de Oro on February 24, 2022.

The fatality was identified as Chad Errol Booc, and with the elements of Regional Headquarters, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (RHQ, SMRC) led by Eric Jun Casilao alias Wally/Ellan, and the Regional Operations Command, SMRC (ROC, SMRC) led by Leo Lacumbo alias Ole when the troops of 1001st Brigade’s 25th Infantry Battalion engaged them in a series of encounters.

It can be recalled that EastMinCom troops are currently in pursuit operation to track down the elements of RHQ, SMRC after government authorities released wanted posters of Eric Jun Casilao with a bounty of P5.4-Million on his head and who is the possible successor of Menandro Villanueva alias Bok as Commander of the NPA’s National Operations Command.

Another four (4) CTG members slain during the clash identified as Jojarain Alce Nguho II alias Rain, a certain alias Dayday, and two (2) males still unidentified, while an M653 rifle, a caliber .45 pistol, hand grenade, an anti-personnel mine, assorted food supplies, and personal belongings were recovered at the encounter site.

According to the revelation of his former comrades, Chad Booc, who graduated Cum Laude from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman in 2016 with a degree of Bachelor of Computer Science, was a known activist and a youth/student recruiter of the CTG before he joined the armed movement.

He was also involved in various protests using IPs against the government, including the Manilakbayan which was organized by the CTG involving IPs from Mindanao in 2015.

He also volunteered as a Science and Mathematics teacher in the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural Development (ALCADEV), a known recruitment machinery and training hub of the CTG in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, and later on, in the Bakwit School in Cebu.

During the press conference of 1001st Infantry Brigade on February 26, 2022, Rurelyn Bay-ao, an IP youth leader from Talaingod, Davao del Norte who previously confessed the radicalization in CTG-linked schools to use them in mass protests and eventually join the armed group, revealed that Booc was his teacher in Haran, Manila, and Cebu Bakwit Schools.

On February 15, 2021, Chad Booc was one of the personalities arrested by government authorities at the University of San Carlos – Talamban Campus in Cebu City after some parents from Talaingod, Davao del Norte reported about the alleged kidnapping of their IP children. The court in Cebu, later on, released him together with six others.

“After his release, Chad decided to join the armed movement, believing the deception of his superiors that bearing arms is the highest form of struggle,” LtGen. Almerol said.

On the other hand, Jojarain Alce Nguho II was also identified as a former volunteer teacher at the Community Technical College of Southeastern Mindanao, Inc. (CTCSM), allegedly being run by the CTG in Maco, Davao de Oro, before it was shut down in 2020. His brother Geliejorain Nguho was captured during the encounter at Brgy. Mapula, Paquibato District, Davao City last November 14, 2020, he is also a scholar of Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Incorporated (MISFI) and part time teacher in Haran.

“The death of Booc and Nguho allows us to confirm the identity of these breeding grounds of the CTG, which are hiding behind the walls of so-called Lumad Schools. They are recruiters of the terrorist organization, pretending to be activists and volunteer teachers,” LtGen. Almerol said.

The Commander of EastMinCom LtGen. Greg T. Almerol shared that all CTG-operated schools in the EastMinCom area are closed down by the Department of Education and communities due to incomplete submissions of documentary requirements and complaints from parents on their ways of teaching.

He also reported that since 2019, EastMinCom’s military engineers, in partnership with the Department of Education and Local Government Units, have already built 34 schools in communities formerly influenced by the CTG, while dormitories are also being constructed to house IP students who choose to study in mainstream communities.

Meanwhile, LtGen. Almerol expressed his condolences to the bereaved families of the slain CTG members, whom he said were victims of the CTG’s deception and wrong ideology.

“This would not have happened if they took heed with our offer to abandon the armed struggle. Their only choice was to yield instead of sacrificing their lives for a terroristic cause,” he said.

LtGen. Almerol also urged the remaining CTG leaders and members to peacefully surrender to the government before they face the consequences of their atrocities.

“For those who will choose to surrender, various government’s services through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) are waiting on your return. For those who will remain, we will relentlessly hunt you down until you will have no other option but to lay down your arms,” LtGen. Almerol warned.

[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/alleged-ip-youth-trafficker-four-others-fell-during-a-clash-in-davao-de-oro/

Kalinaw News: Army consults San Jose residents on Persona Non-Grata declaration

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 27, 2022): Army consults San Jose residents on Persona Non-Grata declaration



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — Residents of San Jose expressed their appreciation to the military for strengthening their resolve in condemning the NPAs’ presence in their community.

In a bid to spread the awareness campaign on the Resolution passed by the Sangguniang Bayan of San Jose, Tarlac declaring the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) as Persona Non-Grata, the troops from the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion along with personnel from 7th Civil-Military Operations, conducted a community consultation in Brgy. Villa Aglipay, San Jose, Tarlac on February 25, 2022.

Also, the activity aims to inform the community on the implication of the Persona Non-Grata declaration against the CTG and on how can the community support the campaign of the government to end the local communist armed conflict in their municipality.

Local officials of Brgy. Villa Aglipay, on the other hand, expressed their full cooperation and support to the LGU along with the security sector in case there are sightings of CTGs in the area.

Before the community consultation, the Army troops coordinated the activity with Brgy. Villa Aglipay, Chairman, Hon. Amado F. Lasco.

Meanwhile, in Brgy. Caocaoayan, Mayantoc, Tarlac, Brgy. Councilmember, Hon. Evelyn Torres expressed their support to the programs under Executive Order No. 70 through the MTF-ELCAC.

“Kami at and buong barangay ay sumusuporta sa mga programa ng gobyerno upang wakasan ang karahasan na naidudulot ng mga teroristang CPP-NPA-NDF para manatili ang katahimikan ng aming barangay,” Torres 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/army-consults-san-jose-residents-on-persona-non-grata-declaration/

Kalinaw News: Victims, Orphans, Widows stand against CTG atrocities in Cagayan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 27, 2022): Victims, Orphans, Widows stand against CTG atrocities in Cagayan



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- More than 300 Victims, Orphans, and Widows of the Communist Terrorist Group’s (CTG) Atrocities (VOWCA) in Cagayan have stood united to condemn the terroristic acts of the armed group in the Province of Cagayan synchronous to the commemoration of the 35th EDSA People Power Revolution today, February 25, 2022.

According to Cagayan Alliance for Peace and Development (CAPD) organizer and Barangay Captain Mauricio Aguinaldo-a former rebel, their group has initiated the simultaneous conduct of peace rallies in the municipalities of Sta. Teresita, Baggao, Alcala, Amulung, Sto. Niño, Piat, and Rizal. The said towns were already awakened by the deceitful motives of the CTGs and its allied terrorist front organizations that made them take a stand to end local communists in the locality.

After the peace rally, a series of Information Education Campaigns on CTG atrocities were conducted, highlighted by the testimonies of the VOWCA and lectures from the state forces.

“Kasabay ng paggunita ng EDSA Revolution ay ang aming pagsasagawa ng malawakang pagkondena sa karahasan ng teroristang NPA sa probinsya ng Cagayan. Isa ang araw na ito sa mga mahahalagang araw sa mga teroristang grupo lalo na sa mga organisasyong sumusuporta sa teroristang NPA. Kaya sa araw din na ito, ipinapakita at ipinaparinig namin sa lahat ang aming nagkakaisang boses para sa tuligsain ang mga karahasan at panlilinlang ng teroristang NPA. Ang araw na ito ay lipas na! Wala na silang karapatang manatili pa sa ating lalawigan at sa buong bansa!” Mauricio said in an interview of the Division Public Affairs of 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

The CAPD organizer also said that they will help the government forces to give justice to the VOWCA in order for the peace and development reign in the province. “ Ang mga biktima, naulila, at mga naiwang kaanak ng mga napatay ng teroristang NPA ay sanib-pwersa at buong lakas na lalaban sa teroristang NPA na walang ibang ginawa kundi ang maghasik ng karahasan, panlilinlang, at pananabotahe na dahilan ng pagkakasadlak sa kahirapan at pighati ng ilan nating mga kababayan. Kabalikat kami ng pamahalaan sa pagsugpo sa insurhensiya hanggang sa aming makakaya!”

MGen Laurence E Mina, Commander of 5ID thanked the CAPD and the VOWCAs for their effort in helping the government in ending local communist armed conflict in the province of Cagayan. “Ang nagkakaisang mamamayan ay isang matibay na kalasag upang masugpo natin ng tuluyan ang terorismo sa ating lugar. Bagamat lahat tayo ay nakaranas ng panggigipit at karahasan ng teroristang NPA, nagpapasalamat ako dahil matibay pa rin tayong lumalaban sa kanila sa pamamagitan ng legal at demokratikong pamamaraan. Sama-sama nating itaguyod ang kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa ating mga bayan.”

The Commander then urged the remaining CTG members to return to the folds of the law and choose to live with their families rather than killing and hurting innocent civilians. “Nakikiusap ako sa mga natitira pang mga miyembro ng CTG na itigil na ang inyong mga ginagawang karahasan. Marami ng mga inosenteng mamamayan ang nadadamay. Marami na rin sa kanila ang nawalan ng mga mahal sa buhay. Huwag niyo nang hintayin pa na ang inyong mga pamilya rin ang kailangang magluksa dahil sa inyong mga karahasan. Handa kayong tanggapin muli ng ating pamahalaan. Hinihintay na rin kayo ng inyong mga pamilya. Talikuran na ninyo ang armadong pakikibaka alang-alang sa inyong mga mahal sa buhay,” he ended.

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https://www.kalinawnews.com/victims-orphans-widows-stand-against-ctg-atrocities-in-cagayan/