Army moves ‘skilled’ battalion to Eastern Visayas in all-out bid to crush insurgency in region

 From the Business Mirror (Feb 1, 2022): Army moves ‘skilled’ battalion to Eastern Visayas in all-out bid to crush insurgency in region (By RENE ACOSTA)

AN Army battalion from Davao has been redeployed in the Visayas region to boost the campaign against New People’s Army rebels in the central part of the country as the military races to end the communist-led insurgency before President Duterte leaves office this year.

The 3rd Infantry Battalion (3rd IB), which operated in the area of the 10th Infantry Division (10th ID) in Davao provinces, is heading to Eastern Visayas, which is under the operational area of the 3rd ID to help end the insurgency in the Visayas region.

“The addition of this unit only manifests the sincerity of our government to eradicate the menace of the communist terrorists in this part of the country and sustain the people’s democratic way of life,” said Armed Forces Visayas Command (Viscom) commander Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz.

The 3rd IB, commanded by Col. Juvenal Mark Tayamen, will be deployed specifically in Samar, a deployment that was made in relation to the order of the Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Andres Centino to end insurgency within Duterte’s term, according to Viscom acting spokesman Major Israel Galorio.

Dauz said while the strength of the rebels is already diminishing in Samar, “there will be no let-up in their operations” and the presence of the 3rd IB will “boost the internal security operation and expedite the dismantling efforts to the remaining guerilla fronts in the province.”

Deployed for six years in Davao’s Paquibato District, the 3rd IB dismantled in 2018 the NPA’s Guerilla Front 54 that operated in Davao City and ended the rebels’ Pulang Bagani Command 2 and 3 a year later. In 2020, it also dismantled the Guerilla Front 56 that operated in the area.

The battalion, according to the 10th ID, also played a big role in the dismantling of the Sub-Regional Committee 5 of the NPA’s Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, which partly came with the surrender of its secretary, Ida Marie Montero, alias Ka Mandy, along with other leaders and members of the group.

Galorio said the 3rd IB has gained vast experienced in guerilla warfare and familiar with the rebels’ tactics.

On Monday, a firefight between elements of the 19th IB and rebels under Front Committee 1 of the Sub-Regional Committee “Emporium” transpired in Barangay Senonogan De Tubang, Silvino Lobos, Northern Samar.

Galero said the soldiers recovered an anti-personnel mine, a .45 caliber pistol and an improvised rifle.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2022/02/01/army-moves-skilled-battalion-to-eastern-visayas-in-all-out-bid-to-crush-insurgency-in-region.

CPP: Codaste abducted, tortured and killed

Posted to the pro-CPP/NPA/NDF online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Feb 1, 2022): CPP: Codaste abducted, tortured and killed (Raymund Villanueva)

Contributed photo

NDFP peace consultant’s death similar to NPA commander Villanueva and spokesperson Madlos.

National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) peace consultant Pedro Codaste was abducted and murdered by government soldiers, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) announced.

Citing initial reports from the New People’s Army (NPA), the CPP said Codaste (Ka Gonyong/Serv) was probably abducted and subsequently summarily executed between January 19 and 25.

The CPP said that Codaste was detached from the NPA since August 2021 to recover from various ailments and was staying in a house somewhere in Bukidnon.

“Communications with Ka Gonyong was cut on January 19 during which he was likely taken by armed enemy agents of the AFP. In all likelihood, Ka Serv was subjected to torture before he was summarily executed by the fascist butchers of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines),” CPP chief information officer Marco Valbuena said.

The 4th Infantry Division of the AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command said Codaste was killed in a clash between its 16th Infantry Battalion and the NPA last January 21 in Barangay Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.

The clash resulted in Codaste’s death, along with his companion identified as Ka Globe/Sandro who the CPP revealed was also recovering from battle wounds.

The CPP however said that the no such incident happened in the area on that day based on the report by the NPA unit in the area.

“The CPP denounces the AFP for the string of murder of revolutionaries who were either captured or were unarmed and in no position to fight. At least 15 revolutionaries have been summarily killed by AFP forces since early 2020,” the group said.

Codaste’s death was similar to the recent killing of NPA spokesperson Jorge Madlos (Ka Oris) who was killed with a medic in Bukidnon after they were abducted last October 29, 2021, and NPA commander Menandro Villanueva, who was captured alive in an armed encounter in Davao de Oro, but was declared killed by the AFP last January 6, 2022, the CPP said.

The CPP said Codaste was in his 70s at the time of his death.

“He served well the revolutionary movement for more than 50 years. He was among the first batches of Red fighters who forged the trail of armed struggle in Northern Mindanao, and was among those who built the first units of the NPA,” the CPP added.

The group described Codaste as an ardent student and untiring teacher of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism.

“Ka Gonyong died a revolutionary hero. His lifelong commitment to serve the workers and peasants will forever inspire the new generation of revolutionary fighters to persevere along the arduous path of resistance to fight for the people’s national and democratic aspirations,” the CPP said.

https://www.bulatlat.com/2022/02/01/cpp-codaste-abducted-tortured-and-killed/

2 ex-NPA supporters surrender

 From the Sun Star-Bacolod (Feb 1, 2022): 2 ex-NPA supporters surrender (By ADRIAN P. NEMES III)

NEGROS. Hardship in the armed struggle pushed "Ka Bantol" and "Ka Kikoy" to return to government fold on Saturday, January 29, 2022. (Contributed Photo)

CITING hardship in the armed struggle, two former supporters of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to the 605th Maneuver Company (MC), Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB)-6 of the Philippine National Police with its Community Support Program (CSP) on Saturday, January 29, 2022.

The police identified those who surrendered as "Ka Bantol," a former chairman of a progressive organization and "Ka Kikoy."

Ka Bantol said he served as lecturer and recruiter of the NPA sympathizers, organizer of rallies and helped in helping wounded armed rebels, while Ka Kikoy is his assistant, police records showed.

Ka Bantol added that he is willing to change his ways to live his life peacefully with his family.

They surrendered to Captain Ivan Villarosa of the 605th MC and company commander Major Gerald Suquib based in Escalante City and RMFB-Western Visayas commander Lieutenant Colonel Joel Garcia.

The duo was turned over to the city's National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict for the livelihood program.

It has been the objective of the program to make all the Filipinos unite and be one to have a safer, peaceful and progressive community that will bring everyone to success, the police said.

The program also aims to encourage the rebels to return to government fold and live a safer, peaceful and happy life with their families.

 
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1919790/bacolod/local-news/2-ex-npa-supporters-surrender

Cop slain in Catanduanes clash

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 1, 2022): Cop slain in Catanduanes clash (By: Ma. April Mier-Manjares)

A police officer was killed in an encounter with suspected members of New People’s Army in San Miguel town in Catanduanes on Tuesday morning.

Police Major Maria Luisa Calubaquib, Bicol police spokesperson, said in a report that the slain cop, Senior Master Sergeant John Teston who was assigned at the San Miguel police station, was part of a team that was tasked to arrest a rape suspect. She did not name the rape suspect in the report.

However, the said suspect, who was considered as rank no. 10 in the most wanted persons list in the said town, was not in the area when the policemen went to serve the arrest warrant, Calubaquib added.

She said when the police officers, on board their motorcycles, were about to leave the Barangay JMA at around 6 a.m. after the failed attempt to arrest the rape suspect, they were ambushed by at least 15 suspected rebels.

Teston was killed while the five other police officers were unharmed.

Calubaquib said the rebels carted away phones, wallet, copy of the arrest warrant and the service firearm of the slain cop.

The police is still investigating the connection of the unnamed rape suspect to the rebels.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1548432/cop-slain-in-catanduanes-clash

Rebel yields after 11 years underground

 From Panay News (Feb 2, 2022): Rebel yields after 11 years underground (By Ruby P. Silubrico)

ILOILO City – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel surrendered to the police of Bingawan town on Monday.

The 27-year-old Leonil Navigar of Barangay Poblacion, Bingawan also surrendered a .357 revolver with two bullets.

Joining the rebel movement at age 16, Navigar had a total of 11 years with the NPA. He led Squad 1 Igabon Platoon based in Tapaz, Capiz.

Mayor Mark Palabrica said Navigar was convinced to leave the NPA after knowing that the municipal government had been helping rebels surrender.

Navigar had other relatives in the underground movement, according to Palabrica, such as a brother-in-law.

The local government of Bingawan gave as assistance to Navigar one sack of rice and P10,000.

More benefits await the former rebel from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP of the national government.

“We are thankful that he finally realized nga wala sia sang maayo nga madangatan,” said Palabrica.

He urged other rebels to surrender, too.

“The government is willing to help them,” Palabrica said.

The NPA has three options – die in an encounter, be captured or surrender voluntarily, according to Major General Benedict Arevalo, commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd infantry (Spearhead) Division based in Tapaz, Capiz.

Surrender is the best option, he stressed.

According to Arevalo, in Panay Island, the 3ID’s biggest accomplishment were the deaths of 16 rebels in an encounter on Dec. 1, 2021 in Barangay Alimodias, Miag-ao, Iloilo.

“Once again, I call the rebels to surrender kasi kahit kami ayaw namin ng away. Kung willing kayo magbalik-loob sa gobyerno, we will help you through the E-CLIP program,” Arevalo said.

https://www.panaynews.net/rebel-yields-after-11-years-underground/

CPP/NDF-LUMABAN-Southern Tagalog: Mga rebolusyunaryong tagapagtaguyod ng karapatang pantao, buong-tapang na isulong ang karapatan ng mamamayan! Ipagwagi ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 1, 2022): Mga rebolusyunaryong tagapagtaguyod ng karapatang pantao, buong-tapang na isulong ang karapatan ng mamamayan! Ipagwagi ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan! (Revolutionary human rights advocates, courageously advance the rights of the people! Win the people's democratic revolution!)

Justiniano Malabanan

Spokesperson

Lupon ng Manananggol para sa Bayan-Southern Tagalog

NDF-Southern Tagalo

 National Democratic Front of the Philippines

February 01, 2022

Pulang saludo at taas-kamaong pagbati para sa 53 anibersaryo ng muling pagkakatatag ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas! Muling pinatunayan ng PKP, ang tanglaw ng masang anakpawis, na mahaba ang buhay ng rebolusyon. Makasaysayan at simboliko ang taong ito sapagkat nananatiling matatag at hindi matinag-tinag ang pakikibaka ng aping mamamayan at ang Partido nito sa kabila ng matinding mga atake ng terorista at kriminal na rehimeng US-Duterte at nalulukob sa pandemya ang ating bansa.

Maituturing na pinakamalagim ang kinahatnan ng rehiyon ng Timog Katagalugan sa kasaysayan ng pananatili ng administrasyong Duterte sa estado-poder ngayong taon dahil sa mga sukdulang paglabag sa karapatang pantao Higit na pinasahol ng kriminal at mamamatay-taong rehimen ang crackdown sa rehiyon sa pamamagitan sa magkakasabay na pagpatay sa siyam na aktibista at iligal na nagdetine naman sa pito sa loob lamang ng isang araw na tinagurian ding ‘Bloody Sunday.’ Desperadong ginamit nito ang hudikaturang sangay katuwang ng mga berdugo nitong huwes upang lalong maghasik ng teror sa hanay ng mga mamamayang bitbit ang mga lehitimo at demokratikong interes ng mamamayan.

Mula sa datos ng Karapatan, umabot na sa 39 ang biktima ng pampulitikang pamamaslang at 22 rito ay pinaslang habang diumano’y hinahainan ng Warrant sa loob ng limang taong panunungkulan ng despotikong pangulo. Nakapagtala rin ang grupo ng 118 iligal na mga pag-aresto habang 65 pa rin ang nananatiling nakapiit. Dagdag pa, apat na matanda at may sakit na bilanggong pulitikal ang namatay sa loob ng kulungan. Habang hikahos at sadlak sa kahirapang ang mga Pilipino bunsod ng kriminal na kapabayaan ng gubyerno sa pandemya, ganito kabagsik ang dinaranas ng mga patuloy na naninindigan para sa mga batayang karapatan kaya naman laging nalalagay sa peligro ang kanilang mga buhay.

Maraming mang nabuwal sa ating hanay ngunit higit naman na marami ang naipunla at bagong sumibol na mga rebolusyunaryong magpapatuloy sa puspusang pagsusulong ng karapatang pantao. Walang tigil ang pagdaloy ng dugo ng mga susunod na salinlahi ng tagapagmana ng pambansa-demokratikong rebolusyon. Kayang patayin ng estado ang mga rebolusyunaryo, ngunit hindi nito kailanman kayang gapiin ang rebolusyon!

Makakaasa ang sambayanan at ang PKP na buong pagpupursige na dadalhin ng mga makabayang abugado at tagapagtaguyod ng karapatang pantao sa Timog Katagalugan ang linya ng pambansang demokrasya. Magpapatuloy na magpupunyagi at makikibaka hanggang sa tagumpay, buhay man ay ialay!

Mabuhay ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan! Mabuhay ang Pambansang Nagkakaisang Prente! Mabuhay ang pakikibaka ng sambayanang Pilipino!

https://cpp.ph/statements/mga-rebolusyunaryong-tagapagtaguyod-ng-karapatang-pantao-buong-tapang-na-isulong-ang-karapatan-ng-mamamayan-ipagwagi-ang-demokratikong-rebolusyong-bayan/

CPP/NDF-Compatriots-Southern Tagalog: Mabuhay ang nakikibakang mangagawang Pilipino sa ibayong dagat! Mabuhay ang PKP!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 1, 2022): Mabuhay ang nakikibakang mangagawang Pilipino sa ibayong dagat! Mabuhay ang PKP! (Long live the struggling Filipino workers overseas! Long live the CPP!)

Compatriots-Southern Tagalog

NDF-Southern Tagalog

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

February 01, 2022

Pulang saludo para sa lahat ng kadre at kasapi ng Partido, mandirigma ng hukbong bayan at sa lahat ng martir ng rebolusyong Pilipino para sa walang-maliw na pagsuporta at pagbubuwis ng buhay para sa pagsusulong ng demokratikong rebolusyong bayan sa gabay ng ating mahal na Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas. Nagpupugay ang Compatriots-NDF-ST para sa ika-53 anibersaryo ng PKP, 53 taong naging gabay para sa buhay at kamatayang pakikibaka ng sambayanang Pilipino para pabagsakin ang imperyalismo, pyudalismo, at burukrata kapitalismo.

Sa 53 taong pag-iral ng Partido, patuloy ang paglakas nito hindi lang dito sa bansa kundi maging sa ibayong dagat na mahigpit na katuwang ang Compatriots sa paghawan ng landas para pagsilibihin sa rebolusyong Pilipino. Ibayong nagpapagal ang mga kasama sa ibayong dagat upang magtipon ng suportang materyal at pisikal na ambag para sa pagsusulong ng ating matagalang digmang bayan. Ang Compatriots sa Timog Katagalugan ay tinatangan ang tungkulin sa pagpapalakas ng gawaing internasyunal na pakikipagkaisa sa mga kapatid na Partido, mga unyon ng manggagawa at mga anti-imperyalistang organisasyon sa ibayong dagat.

Kagyat nating tungkulin ang nabubulok ng rehimeng US-Duterte, ibayong palakasin ang panawagan at pagkilos para patalsikin siya kasama ang kanyang kasapakat at hindi na dapat panalunin ang anak ng diktador, mandarambong at mamamatay-taong si Bongbong Marcos. Dapat silang ibasura dahil hanggang ngayon ay nasa kanilang kontrol pa rin ang mga nakaw na yaman at patuloy na pinakikinabangan. Dapat magkaisa ang mamamayan para itama ang baluktot na pagtalakay ng mga Marcos sa kasaysayan gamit ang mga troll at loyalistang Marcos at mga DDS. Dapat ding magkaisa ang sambayanang Pilipino para pwersahin ang mga Marcos na isauli ang kanilang lahat ng ninakaw at dinambong sa mamamayang Pilipino.

Sa kabila ng milya-milyang distansya mula sa lupang sinilangan ay buong pusong nanunumpa ang mga kasapi ng Compatriots sa rehiyon ng TK na magpatuloy para sa ating pakikibaka at dakilang tungkuling sa rebolusyong Pilipino. Walang pagsidlan ang kagalakan ng mga kasama sa pagdiriwang ng anibersaryo ng PKP, kaya sa ika-53 anibersaryo nito, sumusumpa ang mga kasama sa Compatriots na gagawin ang lahat ng kakayanan nito para sa pag-aambag na magsisilbi sa pagkumpleto ng mga rekisitos ng demokratiko rebolusyong bayan.

Muli, nagpupugay ang Compatriots-NDF-ST para sa ika-53 anibersaryo ng mahal nating Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas!

MABUHAY ANG PARTIDO KOMUNISTA NG PILIPINAS!

MABUHAY ANG BAGONG HUKBONG BAYAN!

MABUHAY ANG NAKIKIBAKANG SAMBAYANANG PILIPINO!

https://cpp.ph/statements/mabuhay-ang-nakikibakang-mangagawang-pilipino-sa-ibayong-dagat-mabuhay-ang-mga-pkp/

CPP/NPA-Surigao del Sur: Pagsaludo kay Ka Gonyong, Rebolusyonaryo, Tigduso sa Makatarunganon ug Malahutayong Kalinaw

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 1, 2022): Pagsaludo kay Ka Gonyong, Rebolusyonaryo, Tigduso sa Makatarunganon ug Malahutayong Kalinaw (Salute to Ka Gonyong, Revolutionary, Promoter of Just and Lasting Peace)

Sandara Sidlakan

Spokesperson

NPA-Surigao del Sur

Northeast Mindanao Regional Operational Command

New People's Army

February 01, 2022

Ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan – Surigao del Sur ug tanang rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa probinsya naghatag sa pinakataas nga pulang pagsaludo ngadto sa rebolusyonaryo ug tigduso sa makatarunganon ug malahutayong kalinaw nga si Pedro “Ka Gonyong” Codaste. Kinasing-kasing kaming nagpadangat sa pahasubo ngadto sa pamilya ug mga suod nga higala ni Ka Gonyong. Sa pikas bahin, hugot nagakondena kami sa pasistang pwersa sa Armed Force of the Philippines (AFP) sa ilang pagdagit ug pagpatay kay Ka Gonyong,uban sa laing usa pa, bisan masakiton kini ug walay ikasukol. Nahasubo man kami sa iyang kamatayon, apan padayon kaming makigbisog alang sa makatarunganon ug malahutayong kalinaw.

Nailang komunistang rebolusyonaryo si Ka Gonyong. Usa siya sa pinakaunang naglihok sa Mindanao aron batukan ang kabangis, pagpahimulos ug pagpangdaug-daog. Isip konsultant sa National Democratic Front of the Philippines(NDFP) atol sa panaghisgot kalinaw tali sa GRP ug NDFP, lakip siya sa nanguna sa pagpaningkamot nga resolbahon ang ugat sa armadong panagbangi sa nasud ug makab-ot ang makatarunganon ug malahutayong kalinaw. Sulod sa kapin lima ka dekada niyang pag-alagad sa katawhan, nahimong tinuod nga komunistang magtutudlo kini sa mga pulang manggugubat ug sa katawhan.

Sukad 2017, nagtago na kini sa mga sonang gerilya human makiusa ka bahing gitapos ni Duterte ang GRP-NDFP nga panaghisgut kalinaw ug gimandong i-manhunt ug patyon ang mga konsultant sa NDFP. Bunga sa iyang pangidaron ug balatian, kinahanglan kining magpatambal. Sa kauhaw sa dugo sa berdugong AFP, bisan paman sa iyang pagka hors de combat uban sa iyang bantay, gidagit sila gikan sa balay nga ilang gipundohan , gitortyor ug gipatay. Tataw nga kalapasan kini sa Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) ug Protocol of War.

Ang pagpatay sa berdugong AFP kang Ka Gonyong ug ubang rebolusyonaryo wala motakdo sa ilang tumong nga tapuson ang rebolusyonaryong kalihukan. Hinuon, dugang nagsugnod kini sa mga rebolusyonaryo nga magpadayon sa kawsa. Alang kay Ka Gonyong ug sa tanang rebolusyonaryo, dili kini gusto og gubat. Apan tungod kay ang reaksyonaryong gobyerno nagpunting sa pusil niini ngadto sa katawhan ug naglunsad og dili makatarunganong gubat aron pahilumon ang katawhan, dili kalikayang lig-ong magpadayon ang mga rebolusyonaryo sa paggunit og pusil sa pagbatok niining dili makatarunganong gubat ug ilogon ang pusil sa kaaway.

Samtang wala pay tinuod nga reporma sa yuta, desenteng suhulan ug libreng katilingbanong serbisyo, walay tinuod nga makatarunganon ug malahutayong kalinaw. Ang pakigbisog ni Ka Gonyong ug ubang rebolusyonaryo alang sa makatarunganon ug malahutayong kalinaw siguradong magpadayon.

Ang ilang mga gitudlo mahimong giya sa tanang rebolusyonaryo diha sa pagsubay sa dalan nga napula sa ilang dugo.
Pulang Pagsaludo ngadto kay Pedro “Ka Gonyong” Codaste!
Martir sa Rebolusyon, Bantayog nga Dili Matarog!

https://cpp.ph/statements/pagsaludo-kay-ka-gonyong-rebolusyonaryo-tigduso-sa-makatarunganon-ug-malahutayong-kalinaw/

CPP/NPS-Surigao del Sur: Tubag sa pasangil ni Rico Maca batok sa NPA//Dili NPA ang nagpusil sa Tina Tribal Chieftain

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 1, 2022): Tubag sa pasangil ni Rico Maca batok sa NPA//Dili NPA ang nagpusil sa Tina Tribal Chieftain (Response to Rico Maca's accusation against the NPA // It was not the NPA who shot Tina Tribal Chieftain)

Sandara Sidlakan

Spokesperson

NPA-Surigao del Sur

Northeast Mindanao Regional Operational Command

New People's Army

February 01, 2022

Walay kamatuoran ang gipagarpar ni Rico Maca- IPMR sa Surigao Del Sur ug ni JC Solomon sa NICA-Caraga kalambigit sa nahitabong insidente sa pagpamusil didto sa Purok 1, Brgy. Tina, San Miguel, Surigao Del Sur kaniadtong Enero 29, 2022 sa may alas 10:00 sa kagabhion. Ang mga biktima mao sila Tribal Chieftain Adonis M. Alimboyong ug Julieta Dumagyo nga gipusil sa wala nailang suspek.

Gitin-aw sa NPA-SDS nga ang mga biktima walay kaso ug limpyo ang rekord niini sa katawhan ug rebolusyonaryong kalihukan busa walay rason nga kini sila pahamtangan og makatarunganong silot sa NPA.

Sumala sa initial nga imbestigasyon, nakig-inom si Adonis M. Alimboyong, 48 anyos, minyo usa ka mag-uuma, furniture maker ug tribal leader kuyog sa iyang mga kauban didto sa balay ni Julieta Dumagyo, 47 anyos, minyo, ug parehong residente sa nahisgutang lugar. Kalit niduol gikan sa ngitngit nga bahin sa lugar ang wala nailhang tawo nga nakasuot og facemask ug kalo; kalit lamang gipusil ang biktima sa wala nga bahin sa iyang hawak lapos sa tiyan ug nilapos usab sa wala nga bahin sa paa ni Julieta Dumagyo. Human sa panghitabo, ang supek kalit nipalayo padulong sa wala nahibal-ang direksyon samtang ang biktima gidala gilayon kini sa San Miguel Community Hospital. Sa kasamtangan, anaa na sa ICU sa Adella Sierra Ty Memorial Hospital sa Tandag City ang Tribal Chieftain.

Kung buot, huna-hunaon 150 meters lang ang gikahitabuan gikan sa pinaka duol nga police station. Angay nga ikonsidera nga adunay mga bangi sa han-ay sa Lumad ilabina nga duol na ang eleksyon ug daghan pang ubang anggulo sa insidente nga angay tan-awon adeser mohimo og konklusyon.

Hugot gikondena sa NPA-SDS ang walay ulaw nga si Rico Maca ug si JC Solomon sa ilang pasumangil batok sa NPA. Kanunay na kini nilang ginahimo aron tabunan ang nagpasiugda sa maong insidente ug iliwag ang pokus sa imbistigasyon.

Walay lain tumong nila kundili dauton ang ngalan sa NPA sa walay konkretong basehanan.

https://cpp.ph/statements/dili-npa-ang-nagpusil-sa-tina-tribal-chieftain/

CPP/NPA-Southern Tagalog: Singilin ang SOLCOM, 2nd ID at 59th IB sa panggagahasa at pagtortyur sa dalagita sa Quezon!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jan 31, 2022): Singilin ang SOLCOM, 2nd ID at 59th IB sa panggagahasa at pagtortyur sa dalagita sa Quezon! (Charge SOLCOM, 2nd ID and 59th IB for raping and torturing a girl in Quezon!)

Armando Cienfuego

Spokesperson

Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)

New People's Army

January 31, 2022

Marapat na hatulan at panagutin ang mga hayop na sundalo ng 59th IBPA at ang mga pinuno ng AFP-PNP na maysala sa pagtortyur at panggagahasa sa isang 17-taong gulang na babae sa Pagbilao, Quezon noong Hulyo 2020. Kasabay nito, dapat ding singilin si Gen. Antonio Parlade na hepe ng SOLCOM sa tinurang panahon, MGen. Arnulfo Burgos na dating kumander ng 2nd ID at Lt. Col. Edward Canlas ng 59th IBPA na pawang may command responsibility sa pangyayari.

Dinukot ng mga elemento ng 59th IBPA ang biktima noong Hulyo 27, 2020. Dinala siya sa bahay ng isang nagpakilalang Leoven Jolita kung saan siya pinahirapan at pilit na pinaaaming kasapi ng NPA Quezon. Mula doo’y dinala siya sa kampo ng 59th IBPA kung saan siya paulit-ulit na ginahasa ng mga CAFGU at muling tinortyur para umaming NPA. Masahol pa, pilit na nirekrut ng mga pasista ang biktima bilang asset laban sa sariling ina at mga kababaryo. Malubhang physical at psychological trauma ang natamo ng dalagita na rumurok sa tangkang pagpapakamatay.

Nakagagalit ang krimeng ito na ibinunga ng marahas at matagalang operasyong militar sa Quezon sa balangkas ng hibang na kontra-rebolusyonaryong gera. Bahagi ito ng maruruming taktika ng rehimeng Duterte laban sa nakikibakang mamamayan. Sadyang tinarget ang biktima upang takutin at i-presyur ang kanyang ina na lider ng nire-redtag na progresibong organisasyon ng mga kababaihan na Gabriela. Malakas din ang loob ng mga sundalo na gawin ang ganitong kahayupan dahil sa inaasahang proteksyon mula sa Anti-Terrorism Law na naging batas ilang linggo lamang bago ang pangyayaring ito.

Sa kabilang panig, nagpupugay ang MGC-NPA-ST sa biktima at kanyang pamilya na matapang na nagsiwalat ng krimen at naghabla sa mga salarin sa kabila ng siguradong pagbabanta sa kanilang buhay. Dapat silang tularan ng napakaraming biktima ng pang-aabuso at kahayupan ng mersenaryong tropa. Ang pagrereklamo at pagsasampa ng kaso sa mga reaksyunaryong korte ay anyo rin ng paglaban sa terorismo ng estado.

Dumadagundong ang sigaw ng bayan para sa hustisya. Nangangako ang MGC na gagawin ang lahat ng makakaya upang panagutin ang mga pasistang napakahaba na ng listahan ng krimen laban sa mamamayan.#

https://cpp.ph/statements/singilin-ang-solcom-2nd-id-at-59th-ib-sa-panggagahasa-at-pagtortyur-sa-dalagita-sa-quezon/

CPP/NPA-Quezon: Sino ang Pinoprotektahan ng 59th IB?

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jan 29, 2022): Sino ang Pinoprotektahan ng 59th IB? (Who is Protected by the 59th IB?)

Cleo del Mundo

Spokesperson

NPA-Quezon (Apolonio Mendoza Command)

Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)

New People's Army

January 29, 2022

Nang buuin at pangalanan na “Protector” ang 59 Infantry Battalion ng Philippine Army, kaagad kang mapapakunot-noo kung nag-iisip ba nang matino ang mga sundalong ito.

Sa pelikulang Pilipino at maging sa tunay-na-buhay man ng mga sindikatong kriminal, ang Protektor sa kanilang lenggwahe ay nakapatungkol sa mga bayarang pulis, sundalong iskalawag at korap na opisyal ng gubyerno na binabayaran para ipagtanggol ang kanilang kabuktutan at kriminalidad.

Noong isang linggo, matapos sampahan ng kasong pagdukot at panggagahasa ang ilang tauhan at opisyal ng 59IBPA, walang kahihiyang ipinakita nila kung sino ang kanilang pinuprotektuhan.

Sa pahayag ng 59IBPA sa kanilang FB page, nagkaletse-letse ang kanilang pagtatakip sa krimen, kaya ibinaling ang kanilang turo sa grupong Gabriela na pawang paninira lamang daw ang mga paratang.

Wala ni katiting, kahit pakitang-tao ang 59IBPA para akuing paiimbestigahan ang mga sangkot nilang opisyal at tauhan. Huli na ay tanggi pa!

Noong December 1, 2021 nagsampa ng kaso sa Department of Justice ang mag-inang magsasaka na taga-Mulanay dahil sa akusasyong dinukot, hinalay at pinaaaming myembro ng NPA ang menor-de-edad na si Belle.

Sa isinagawang pulong balitaan ng grupong Gabriela Southern Tagalog noong January 21, isinalaysay nila ang karanasan ni Belle sa kamay ng mga CAFGU at sundalo ng 59IBPA.

Dinukot si Belle ng 7 armadong tauhan ng 59IBPA sa Barangay Binahaan, Pagbilao noong Hulyo 27, 2020 habang papunta sa tindahan para magpaload. Dinala ang noo’y kinse anyos na si Belle sa kampo ng sundalo sa bayan ng Macalelon at doon siya pinagsamantalahan at pilit na pinaaamin na miyembro ng New People’s Army. Pinipilit rin siyang maging asset ng 59IBPA para maniktik laban sa rebolusyunaryong kilusan kapalit ng buwanang suweldo at pinagbantaan ang buhay at kaligtasan ng kanyang buong pamilya kapag hindi nakipagtulungan.

Katunayan, maging ang kanyang ina ay biktima ng red tagging at arahasan sa kanilang lugar kaya napilitan silang magbakwet noon pang 2019.

Kabilang sa kakaharaping kaso ng mga opisyal at tauhan ng 59IBPA ang kidnapping, Serious Illegal Detention with rape, paglabag sa Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act, Special Protection of Children against Abuse, Anti-Torture Act, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

Nananawagan kami sa mamamayan ng Quezon at sa lahat ng nagmamahal at nagtataguyod sa karapatang tao lalo na ng kababaihan at bata, na suportahan ang laban ni Belle at matamang bantayan ang gagawing maniobra ng 59IBPA para protektahan ang mga sangkot sa krimen.

Sampal sa makapal na mukha ni Digong Duterte ang pangyayaring ito. Ngayon niya ibuladas na sagot niya ang krimen ng mga opisyal at tauhan ng bayaran nyang 59IBPA at siya ang magpapakulong para sa buktot niyang sundalo. Tutal, si Duterte ang tunay na Protektor ng mga Protektor.#

https://cpp.ph/statements/sino-ang-pinoprotektahan-ng-59th-ib/

Kalinaw News: CTG mass base in Cagayan crumbles as 38 terrorist supporters yield

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 1, 2022): CTG mass base in Cagayan crumbles as 38 terrorist supporters yield



Camp Aquino, Tarlac City – February 1, 2022

38 Communist terrorist supporters voluntarily surrendered to the troops of the 17th Infantry Battalion of the Joint Task Force Tala on January 29, 2022, in Sta Teresita, Cagayan.

“In a report submitted by Joint Task Group Valiant which covers the area of Cagayan, 27 of the surrendered personalities are from Brgy. Alucao while 11 are residents of Brgy. Aridowen, who all had the experience of being harassed and blackmailed by Communist terrorists in the area per the revelation of the surrendered personalities,” said Lt. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr, Commander of Northern Luzon Command.

Joint Task Group Valiant Commander Brig. Gen. Steve Crespillo expressed that the localized peace engagements and non-stop community support programs orchestrated by the military, their PNP counterpart, and with the support of the local government units has helped greatly in “making headways in their peacekeeping and counter-insurgency operations in the area just like this mass surrender.”

Moreover, Maj. Gen. Laurence Mina, Commander of the JTF Tala commended the troops of the 17th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Oliver Logan for their accomplishment and instructed all units under JTF Tala to heighten their efforts in engaging the remaining communist terrorists and their supporters to take the arm of peace.

“The notable accomplishments we are achieving manifest the efforts of the Filipinos and their yearning to sustain peace and order in our communities. I am not only thanking our security forces, but I also extend my gratitude to the former members and supporters of the CTG who have chosen the path for peace and return to the fold of the law in order to live their lives in peace, and of course, the citizens who have cooperated and extended their assistance in making this possible,” said Maj. Gen. Mina.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Torres expressed extreme abhorrence to the deceitful and manipulative acts of harassment and blackmail of the Communist terrorist groups to the populace.

“The threats these terrorists have imposed to the communities will no longer happen here in Cagayan, the defenders of the North will ensure that there will be no more members of our peace-loving communities become violent means for the CTG to fight for their false beliefs and ideologies,” added Lt. Gen. Torres.

It can be recalled that 41 members of Kasigudan Aywanan Takderan Binangon di Kabunyan Organization (KATABIKO), a mass base support group for Communist terrorists voluntarily surrendered to the 69th Infantry Battalion of the JTG Defender under JTF Kaugnay, and took their oath of allegiance to the government last January 30, 2022, at Bunga National School, Bunga, Tadian, Mountain Province.

“NOLCOM will continue its thrusts in gaining grounds of the Executive Order 70 to end local communist armed conflict with the support of the community, other government agencies, and partner stakeholders to win the battle against the Communist terrorist groups so that the people in the north and central Luzon may enjoy a life of lasting peace and security,” Lt. Gen. Torres concluded.

[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/ctg-mass-base-in-cagayan-crumbles-as-38-terrorist-supporters-yield/

Kalinaw News: Two Local Terrorists Neutralized, War Materials Seized in South Cotabato Clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 1, 2022): Two Local Terrorists Neutralized, War Materials Seized in South Cotabato Clash (By Eunica Estrobello)



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – February 1, 2022

Two members of the Daulah Islamiyah were killed during an armed confrontation with the troops of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion in Barangay Lapu, Polomolok, South Cotabato on Monday morning, January 31, 2022.

“Based on the report from the ground, troops were conducting clearing operations when they chanced upon heavily armed men believed to be members of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maguid Group (DI-MG) under Zaiden Jade Nilong, a.k.a. Aliboy. A gunfight ensued which lasted for about five minutes. This resulted in the deaths of two enemies and recovery of several war materials. The enemies then withdrew bringing along other casualties with them,” Western Mindanao Command Chief Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. said.

According to Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of Joint Task Force Central, the two were identified as Zypol Nilong and Salahuddin Usman, active members of the DI-Maguid Group under Nilong. Troops continue to scour the area and pursue the fleeing enemies.

Brig. Gen. Pedro Balisi, Jr., Commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade commended the troops of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion under Lt. Col. Raymond Rapi for successfully thwarting the terror plans of the group. He also said that the manpower and capability of the Daulah Islamiyah is continuously dwindling. “The Daulah Islamiyah is nearing to its end,” the Brigade Commander added.

Further, while clearing the encounter site, troops recovered several materials including two M16 rifles, ninety rounds of 5.56mm Ball ammunition, one rifle grenade, IED components, communication equipment, foodstuff, cooking utensils, and personal belongings.

Maj. Gen. Uy reiterated that the military is not pro-battle. “As much as possible, we don’t want to take away the lives of these people for they have families too. That is why we continuously urge them to come out and we will help them start a new life with their loved ones,” the two-star general said.

The recovered remains of the two slain enemies were turned over to the barangay officials of Lapu for proper disposition while the recovered war materials were placed under the custody of the 3rd Scout Ranger Company for safekeeping.

“The Western Mindanao Command, through all the Joint Task Forces, continues to intensify its military operations to preempt the menaces of society from creating havoc in the communities. Rest assured that we will never falter,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. stated.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/two-local-terrorists-neutralized-war-materials-seized-in-south-cotabato-clash/

2 Daulah Islamiyah members killed by military in South Cotabato

From Rappler (Feb 1, 2022): 2 Daulah Islamiyah members killed by military in South Cotabato (By JAIRO BOLLEDO)

AFP Westmincom chief Lieutenant General Alfredo Rosario Jr. says the extremists were killed by military troops in Polomolok town


The Philippine military said two alleged members of the terror group Daulah Islamiyah (DI) were killed during a clash with government forces in Polomolok town in South Cotabato province.

According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), Zypol Nilong and Salahuddin Usman were killed in an armed confrontation with the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion in Barangay Lapu on Monday morning, January 31.

Lieutenant General Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of Westmincom, said the two fatalities were members of the DI-Maguid Group under Zaiden Jade Nilong, also known as (aka) “Aliboy.”

MUST READ: FAST FACTS: What you should know about the Maute Group

“Based on the report from the ground, troops were conducting clearing operations when they chanced upon heavily armed men believed to be members of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maguid Group (DI-MG) under Zaiden Jade Nilong, aka Aliboy,” the general said.

According to Rosario, the gunfight lasted for about five minutes. The terrorists later withdrew, the Westmincom commander added.

The military said they also recovered two M16 rifles, 90 rounds of 5.56 mm ball ammunition, one rifle grenade, and improvised explosive device components. These will be placed under the custody of 3rd Scout Ranger Company. Meanwhile, the soldiers turned over the remains of the two extremists to the barangay officials of Barangay Lapu.

The killing of the two alleged Daulah Islamiyah members was the most recent push back of the military against the rebels in the southern Philippines.

In October last year, troops of the Philippine Army killed Salahuddin Hassan, leader of Daulah Islamiyah-Hassan Group. Three months later, in December 2021, military troops killed Daulah Islamiyah ranking leader Asim Karinda alias Abu Azim and five other terrorists.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/daulah-islamiya-members-killed-by-military-south-cotabato/

BARMM police condemns murder of Lanao Norte police major

From MindaNews (Feb 1, 2022): BARMM police condemns murder of Lanao Norte police major (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

Police authorities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have condemned the murder of a highway patrol group officer in Lanao del Sur Monday.

Major Omar Tago. Photo courtesy of Lanao del Norte PNP

Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, police regional director for BARMM, said Major Omar Tago, of the Lanao del Norte Highway Patrol Group (HPG) unit, was already dead when brought to the Amai Pakpak Regional Medical Center in Marawi City at past 2 p.m.

His companion, Kanor Rascal, was killed on the spot. His other companion, Adam Diringin, was injured.

Tago and his companions were to attend the fourth day death anniversary of a relative in Barangay Pagalungan, Sultan Dumalondong, Lanao del Sur when they were attacked about 9 a.m.

“He [Major Tago] went home to attend a family gathering about the death of relative,” Ugale said.

“We are still establishing the motive. The fact that he went there for family affairs, I believe it was not work related,” he noted, adding that all people there were gathered to mourn the passing of a loved one.

The suspects used caliber .45 pistols based on the empty shells the police scene of the crime operatives have found at the crime scene.

Ugale said the police already have the names of the attackers but withheld them so as not to jeopardize the operation.

Tago had been serving the Lanao del Norte HPG for the past 20 years, according to Lt. Col. Salman Saad.

Investigation continues, Lt. Colonel Christopher Panapan, Lanao del Sur police provincial director, said.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/02/barmm-police-condemns-murder-of-lanao-norte-police-major/

2 dead, 2 wounded in fresh fighting in Sulu

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 1, 2022): 2 dead, 2 wounded in fresh fighting in Sulu

An Abu Sayyaf militant and an army soldier were killed in fierce clashes in the southern province of Sulu, officials said Tuesday, adding two other infantrymen were wounded in the fighting.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the 11th Infantry Division, identified the slain soldier as Pfc. Jay Clint Pasingan and the wounded as Sgt. Michel Bagunu and Pfc. Celestino Tano.

He said the dead militant was only identified by his alias Omar Yakan, a follower of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Ellam Nasirin whose group was behind the January 25 ambush of a military truck in Patikul town that killed a Muslim soldier, Pvt. Joefrazen Tawasil, a member of the 45th Infantry Battalion.

“One terrorist was killed following an all-out offensive operations launched by the Joint Task Force – Sulu against the Abu Sayyaf bandits in the village of Bangkal in Patikul town. One soldier, Private First Class Jay Clint Pasingan was reported killed in the incident, while two more soldiers identified as were wounded, but they are now in stable condition at Camp General Teodulfo Bautista Station hospital in the capital town of Jolo,” Gonzales said.

He said troops tracked down the group of Nasirin and clashed with the militants and killed one of them. Soldiers also recovered the slain militant’s Korean-made K3 light machine gun or squad automatic weapon which is also being used by the army.

It was unknown whether the weapon was taken from a soldier during a previous clash.

Gonzales said the operation against the Abu Sayyaf is continuing. “All troops in Patikul are on high alert as the JTF Sulu ground forces conduct pursuit operations to neutralize the remaining members of the said terrorist group,” he said.

“We will remain relentless in our operations to finish off the Abu Sayyaf group, and we will do our very best to bring peace in the region. Our efforts to pursue peace and development in Sulu will only be possible with the active participation and cooperation of our people, who are the ultimate reason why we are serving in this part of the country,” he added.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/02/2-dead-2-wounded-in-fresh-fighting-in.html

Check bets' stand on NPA peace talks, ex-rebel urges voters

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): Check bets' stand on NPA peace talks, ex-rebel urges voters (By Sarwell Meniano)

'QUESTIONABLE SINCERITY'. Former New People's Army (NPA) education secretary Alma Gabin in an undated photo. Gabin on Tuesday (Feb. 1, 2022) said she is saddened by the pronouncements of some presidential candidates to push for peace negotiations despite the rebels' “questionable sincerity” to attain peace. (Photo from FB page of Alma Gabin)

A former ranking official of the New People’s Army (NPA) is saddened by pronouncements of some presidential candidates to push for peace negotiations despite the communist rebels' “questionable sincerity” to attain peace.

Alma Gabin, former education secretary of the NPA's Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, on Tuesday labeled the peace talks with the communist terrorist group as fake as disclosed by its former members.

"With so many former cadres revealing what the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA - National Democratic Front (NDF) peace talks really is, it is sad that some of our country’s presidentiables still support this bogus peace talks pushed by the rebels," Gabin said in a statement sent to reporters via email.

"To those who do not want the long-standing chaos and terrorism of the CPP-NPA-NDF, think twice. Do not vote for candidates who are treacherous to the peace and development of the people!" added Gabin, who is active on Facebook posting anti-NPA campaign.

Gabin, who used to be the 5th nominee of the NPA-linked Kabataan Party-list, said the government is already addressing the root cause of the armed conflict through the National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“There is genuine and substantive peace talks with the localities. After the discussion, development projects for the communities immediately follows. So, there is no reason for the next President of the Philippines to talk to the communist terrorists…,” she added.

Gabin, 34, and her common-law husband Alden Dagoy, 33, were arrested by police inside their house in Tolosa, Leyte on June 8, 2021 for murder and frustrated murder charges.

Dagohoy was reportedly a squad leader of the NPA operating in different parts of Northern Samar, while Gabin was the secretary-general of the provincial white area committee in Northern Samar.

The couple and their toddler are now living within the compound of the Leyte police provincial office in Tacloban City.

They are running a small community store selling refreshments to policemen with the capital provided by law enforcers.

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 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 separate part” of the CPP-NPA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166784

ASG bandit, soldier killed in Sulu clashes

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): ASG bandit, soldier killed in Sulu clashes (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

A soldier and an Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit have been killed in a series of clashes in the province of Sulu, a top military official disclosed Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, the Army’s 11th Infantry Division commander, said the first clash, which lasted for about 15 minutes, ensued around 9:20 a.m. Monday in Barangay Bangkal, Patikul, Sulu.

Gonzales said the second clash ensued around 9:50 a.m., and the third around 10:40 a.m. as the troops pursued the ASG bandits fleeing from the site of the first clash.

Gonzales, who is also the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu commander, identified the slain ASG bandit as Omar Yakan, a follower of ASG sub-leader Ellam Nasirin.

The troops recovered Yakan’s K3 squad automatic weapon.

He said the slain soldier, meanwhile, was identified as Pfc. Jay Clint Pasingan of the 45th Infantry Battalion (45IB).

Wounded were Sgt. Michel Bagunu and Pfc. Celestino Tano of the same battalion. Both are in stable condition at the Camp General Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu.

Gonzales said the series of clashes came about after the 45IB launched an offensive when the group of Nasirin ambushed the 45IB troops on January 25 that resulted in the death of 25-year-old Pvt. Joefrazen Tawasil.

The troops were on their way to the port of Jolo when the ASG bandits ambushed them in Barangay Tugas, Patikul.

Gonzales expressed his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved relatives and friends of Pasingan.

Gonzales said Pasingan made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of protecting the people of Sulu in the pursuit of peace and development.

He said all troops in Patikul are on high alert as the JTF-Sulu ground forces conduct pursuit operations to neutralize the remaining members of Nasirin’s group.

“We will remain relentless in our operations to finish off the ASG, and we will do our very best to bring peace in the region,” Gonzales said, adding that efforts to bring peace in Sulu will only be possible with the active participation and cooperation of the people.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166793

Army foils terror plot in SoCot, 2 DI members slain

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): Army foils terror plot in SoCot, 2 DI members slain (By Edwin Fernandez)

TERROR FIREARMS. The two M16 rifles recovered from two Dawlah Islamiya (DI) terrorists slain during an encounter with military troops in Polomolok, South Cotabato on Monday (Jan. 31, 2022). The slain terrorists belonged to the DI-Maguid faction operating in Central Mindanao. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Two Dawlah Islamiya (DI) terrorists were killed during an armed encounter with government forces in Polomolok, South Cotabato on Monday.

Major General Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, said the clash occurred in Barangay Lapu, Polomolok between the Army-led Joint Task Force Central (JTFC) operating troops and the terrorists under the DI-Maguid Group.

The five-minute encounter left DI members Zypol Nilong and Salahudin Usman dead. The two belonged to the group of Zaiden Jade Nilong, alias Aliboy of the DI Maguid group.

Lt. Col. Raymond Rapi, commanding officer of 1st Scout Ranger Battalion, said government troops recovered two M16 rifles from the slain gunmen.

Their companions hurriedly fled, leaving behind the slain terrorist group members.

“Through the intensified military operations conducted by the JTFC troops, coupled with the cooperation of the local government units and the community, the series of successes of these operations indicate that the DI is nearing its end,” said Brig. Gen. Pedro Balisi Jr., 1st Mechanized Brigade commander, in a statement.

Despite the military’s advantage over terrorist groups, the Army remains open to the peaceful surrender of DI members.

"As much as possible, we don’t want to take away the lives of these people for they have families as well. Surrender now as the government will help you build and start your lives peacefully,” Uy said.

Private armed groups, the DI, and the communist New People’s Army (NPA) remains to be the leading threat groups in the 6ID’s area of responsibility (AOR).

The 6ID’s AOR covers the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and parts of North Cotabato, Lanao del Sur, and Sarangani.

NPA batch surrender

Meanwhile, Army officials in Sultan Kudarat province are convinced that the communist movement in the province continues to weaken with the surrender of two field commanders and six of their followers in Lebak town recently.

On Monday, Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, said the surrenderers returned to the folds of the law in two batches at the 37th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Barangay Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat on January 24 and 26.

“Their surrender is a huge setback to the mainstream communist terrorist group and is an indication that their group is continuously weakening,” Gubat said.

Lt. Colonel Allen Van Estrera, commander of the 37th Infantry Battalion, said the surrenderers belonged to the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Daguma, Far-South Mindanao Region (FSMR) operating in the tri-boundaries of Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani provinces.

Representatives from the military, police and local government units witnessed the surrender rites, he said.

The former NPAs turned over an M16 rifle, two .45-caliber pistols, and a fragmentation grenade.

Uy said the surrender of the NPA leaders can be attributed to the concerted efforts of the different government agencies under the Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict of Sultan Kudarat.

“Eventually, the communist movement will become irrelevant as their members and the communities they have threatened already came into the realization of the importance of having a peaceful and sustainable community," he said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166810

More troops vs. NPA to be deployed in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): More troops vs. NPA to be deployed in Samar (By John Rey Saavedra)

MORE TROOPS. Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Battalion (3IB) stand in attention in an undisclosed place in this undated photo. The Visayas Command on Tuesday (Feb. 1, 2022) said the 3IB will be deployed in Samar province to end the communist terrorism in the area before the term of President Rodrigo Duterte ends. (Photo courtesy of Viscom PIO)

The Visayas Command (Viscom) on Tuesday said an additional Army battalion will be deployed to Samar as part of the move of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to end local communist terrorism in the province.

In a statement, Viscom said the move was in accordance with the directive of AFP chief of staff, Gen. Andres Centino, to end armed conflict with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) before the term of President Rodrigo Duterte ends.

Viscom commander, Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz, said he welcomed the addition of the new battalion, saying it will play a significant role to further boost the internal security operation and expedite the dismantling efforts against the remaining guerilla fronts in the province.

"The servant in the Visayas welcomes the additional member of our team. The addition of this unit only manifests the sincerity of our government to eradicate the menace of the communist terrorists in this part of the country, and sustain the people's democratic way of life,” he said.

Dauz added that despite the “diminishing strength of the communist terrorists in Samar, there will be no let-up operation in putting an end to the communist terrorists' reign of terror”.

On Monday, an encounter between members of the 19th Infantry Battalion and the communist terrorists under Front Committee 1 of the Sub-Regional Committee ‘Emporium’ transpired at Barangay Senonogan de Tubang of Silvino Lobos town in Northern Samar.

The encounter resulted in the recovery of an anti-personnel mine, a .45-caliber pistol, and an improvised rifle.

No reported casualty on the side of government while it is still determining the casualties and injuries on the side of the communist terrorists.

“Being the servant in the Visayas, Viscom finds no satisfaction in killing the communist terrorists. Our real sense of fulfillment is for them to return to mainstream society and live a peaceful and progressive life with their families,” Dauz said, adding they will “keep on encouraging them to lay down their arms and abandon their armed struggle (and) avail the government's local integration program while they still can.”

Major Israel Galorio, Viscom information officer, told the Philippine News Agency that an advanced party of the 3rd Infantry Battalion (3IB) is now in Samar to prepare for the arrival of the troops.

The 3IB headed by Col. Juvenal Mark Tayamen will be the battalion to be deployed in Samar under the operational control of Joint Task Force (JTF) Storm (8th Infantry Division).

The battalion came from a six-year stint in Paquibato District in the hinterlands of Davao City.

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 separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166812

‘Rido’ eyed as motive in slay of Lanao Norte HPG chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): ‘Rido’ eyed as motive in slay of Lanao Norte HPG chief (By Divina Suson)

Police Major Omar Tago, chief of the Police Highway Patrol Group in Lanao del Norte. (Supplied photo)

Police investigators are looking into family feud or "rido" as a possible motive for the ambush that killed two, including the chief of the Lanao del Norte - Highway Patrol Group (HPG), and wounded another companion in Sultan Dumalondong, Lanao del Sur.

A report from Lanao del Sur police stated that Major Omar Tago, the Lanao del Norte - HPG chief, was on his way to Barangay Pagalungan on Monday to attend the vigil of a family member who died four days before the incident when the suspects fired upon the vehicle of the police official.

In an update Tuesday, Lt. Col. Cristio Lagyop Jr., chief of the Regional Public Information Office of the Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, confirmed that four assailants on motorcycles carried out the attack.

Tago was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead while being revived.

His companion, identified as Kanor Rascal, died on the spot while another companion, identified as Adam Dirindigun, was wounded and is now being treated in a hospital in Marawi City.

Tago, who heads the HPG Lanao del Norte, was on his 20th year in the service this year.

He was previously assigned as chief of police in the municipal police stations of his hometown in Sultan Naga Dimaporo, in Bacolod, and Baloi, all in Lanao del Norte.

A police report said all four suspects are residents of Lumbatan town in Lanao del Sur.

"The suspects immediately fled after shooting the victims," the police report stated.

The suspects were armed with .45-caliber pistols. according to the report.

The Lanao del Sur provincial police office has yet to issue a statement on the incident.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166826

PH supports measures to protect civilians in urban conflicts

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): PH supports measures to protect civilians in urban conflicts (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative Ariel Peñaranda (Photo courtesy of DFA/United Nations Photo Library)

The Philippines fully supports measures that would protect civilians during war or conflicts in urban settings, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday.

The measures include strict adherence to international humanitarian law, adopting responsible military operations, and providing humanitarian assistance based on the principle of impartiality, among others.

The Philippines' support was articulated during the United Nations Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “War in Cities: Protection of Civilians in Urban Settings” last January 26.

Philippine Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ariel Peñaranda said civilians are the most affected when war and conflict are waged in cities, thus the need to pursue "right tactical choices in the context of long-term political solutions."

He emphasized the need to ensure respect for international humanitarian law under all circumstances.

This as he made a reference to Philippine laws demonstrating the country’s strong commitment to the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols.

He added that parties must take a more proactive approach for responsible military operations in urban settings in view of highly volatile and complex urban warfare.

“The decision to employ the kind of weapons to gain military advantage must fully take into account domestic laws and international legal obligations,” he said.

“The use of an advanced weapon system, combined with an acute focus on humanitarian assistance, while taking heed of domestic and international laws, and respect for sovereignty, would allow nations to better protect civilians during armed conflict in urban settings,” he added.

The open debate was convened by the Security Council under the presidency of Norway.


'Strategic priority'

Presiding over the meeting, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre of Norway stated that the “effective protection of civilians and civilian objects must be made a strategic priority in the planning and conduct of military operations in urban areas.”

He added that ensuring the protection of civilians would also lead to more sustainable peace after conflict.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said more than 50 million people are currently impacted by fighting inside towns and cities. In fact, when explosive weapons are used in these areas, around 90 percent of the injured and killed are actually not part of the conflict.

Citing the 2021 fight between Israel and Hamas militants in Gaza, Guterres said nearly 800,000 people were also left without access to piped water.

In Afghanistan, an explosive attack outside a Kabul high school last May, killed 90 students, mainly girls, and left another 240 people injured.

Guterres said this type of conflict goes far beyond its more immediate impact, putting people at risk of sieges and blockades, including starvation. 

“Urban warfare forces millions of people from their homes, contributing to record numbers of refugees and internally displaced people," he said.

The Security Council first took up the protection of civilians in armed conflict as a thematic issue in 1999.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166809

PH, Singapore seek 'enhanced' ties on security, education

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): PH, Singapore seek 'enhanced' ties on security, education (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

COOPERATION. Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. (left) and Singapore Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan during a bilateral meeting in Singapore on Jan. 31, 2022. The two top diplomats discussed several areas of cooperation between the Philippines and Singapore, including on education and security and defense. (Photo courtesy of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore)

The Philippine and Singaporean governments are eager to further enhance bilateral relations in the areas of education and security and defense.

This was among the subjects discussed during a bilateral meeting between Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and his Singaporean counterpart Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan on January 31.

"They noted the flourishing people-to-people ties between the two countries and looked forward to the restoration of travel links once the Covid-19 situation has eased. They also discussed ways to enhance existing bilateral cooperation in the areas of security and defense, and education," the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

To recall, the two nations had agreed last year to intensify cooperation in maritime domain awareness, counterterrorism, defense industry development, intelligence exchange, joint military training, and law enforcement. This, as they recognize that global and regional security issues require a concerted response by partner states.

Meanwhile, on travel and tourism, Singapore is among the 157 countries that enjoy visa-free entry to the Philippines.

Based on recent government pronouncements, fully vaccinated Singaporean tourists would be allowed entry to the country starting February 10, subject to protocols.

The two top diplomats also had a "fruitful exchange of views" on efforts to uphold Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) centrality, unity and credibility, and the situation in Myanmar.

In a tweet on Tuesday, Locsin said: "It was great talking to (Vivian Balakrishnan). I always learn something new and important. I am not comfortable until I see his reaction to what I say. It has been such a privilege to know and work with him."

Locsin last visited Singapore when the repainted Alkaff Bridge at Robertson Quay was reopened in 2019.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166823

Local peace engagements gain ‘immediate results’: AFP official

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): Local peace engagements gain ‘immediate results’: AFP official (By Priam Nepomuceno)

SURRENDERERS. Some 19 CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) surrender with 12 firearms at Sitio Mahayag, Barangay St. Peter in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on Oct. 27, 2021. Maj. Gen. Eduardo De Leon, commander of the Catbalogan, Samar-based 8th Infantry Division on Monday (January 31) said the government is more committed to use local peace engagements (LPEs) as these bring about more positive results. (Contributed photo)

The government is more committed to using local peace engagements (LPEs) as these bring about more positive results, a ranking official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Monday.

"Bakit po localized? Kasi po kapag localized ang peace engagement, immediately po may resulta (Why localized? Because if peace engagements are localized, there are immediate results),” Maj. Gen. Eduardo De Leon, commander of the Catbalogan, Samar-based 8th Infantry Division, said during the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) online press conference.

“Pagkatapos po walang humaharang sa national, walang pong kung anu-anong mga kondisyones na nangyayari, naibibigay po kaagad ng gobyerno at natutugunan kaagad ng gobyerno iyong mga nasabing mga hinaing na naging dahilan ng pagrerebelde o pagkagalit ng ating mamayanan laban sa gobyerno (Then, nobody prevents in national level, there are no many conditions, the government can immediately respond to the demands or complaints that lead countrymen into insurgency or their anger to the government)," he added.

He said the LPEs are ideal for dealing with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) since this terrorist group is organized from national down to regional, sub-regional, provincial, guerilla front, and to barrio levels.

With this kind of structure, De Leon said the LPE could be used to deal with the CPP-NPA-NDF or counter its affiliates in the locality.

"Kasi mayroon pong CPP sa lokal, iyong CPP sa barrio na tinatawag nilang 'Sanga ng Partido sa Lokalidad'. Kaya ng lokal, lokalidad, sa barrio. Mayroong NDF sa barrio, iyong 'Organisadong Masa' o Ganap na Samahang Masa' (There are CPP at the local (setting), the CPP in the barrios are called 'Sanga ng mga Partido sa Lokalidad', that's why they are called local because they are in the barrios. There are also CPP in the barrios and they are called 'Organisadong Masa' or 'Ganap na Samahang Masa')," he added.

In Region 8 (Eastern Visayas), the CPP in the barrios are called "Batakang Organisasyon ng Partido" (BOP) while the NDF in the villages identified as "Hul-os na "Asosasyong ng Masa".

While those in Mindanao are called "Hingpit na Organisadong Masa" and in Luzon they are called "Ganap na Samahang Masa" or also called "Solido Organisasyong Masa".

De Leon, who is also the former Armed Forces of the Philippine deputy chief for operations, said there are also NPA members in the barrios and they are called "Milisyang Bayan" or "Unit Milisya".

He added that many of the CPP organizations in the countryside or local setting are being used to agitate the people living there. De Leon said this is being done by demonizing development works or any positive impact made by the government.

The NPA members, he said, are using the so-called "hate campaign" in its efforts to win the local population to their side.

Through the LPE, De Leon said the complaints of the local communities are aired straight and answered by local chief executives, giving opportunities for the issues to be cleared and exposing the lies made by the NPAs.

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.

While the NDF has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166818

Localized peace process more effective vs. insurgency

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2022): Localized peace process more effective vs. insurgency (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

RETURNEES. Forty-one members of the Kasigudan Aywanan Takderan Binangon di Kabunyan Organization of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front pledge their allegiance to the government at Bunga National School in Tadian, Mountain Province on Sunday (Jan. 30, 2022). The Philippine Army credits localized peace engagement involving government troops and local government units for the surrender. (Photo courtesy of Kalinaw News)

The government has not terminated its peace negotiation process with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

Instead, it shifted to the more effective local peace engagement.

Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Undersecretary Wilben Mayor said the push for a localized peace engagement (LPE), through a whole-of-nation approach, has been efficient in resolving the long-standing armed revolution pushed by communist terrorist groups (CTGs) and their allies.

In the Monday episode of "Debunking Lies by Telling The Truth" of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) streamed live on Facebook, Mayor said the government will honor all signed peace agreements and contribute to the overall socio-economic development, social healing, reconciliation, and unity of all conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable communities.

He emphasized the new approach is way better than the previous framework of peace talks, wherein negotiations between high-ranking communist leaders and the government officials were held outside the country.

"It is important to note that the government did not terminate the peace process. It only shifted its approach to a local peace engagement," Mayor said.

Mayor noted that LPE involving local stakeholders who have witnessed armed conflicts firsthand result in the surrender of members of CTG-linked underground mass organizations.

"OPAPRU believes that LPE is the most effective way of talking peace. Through this approach, local government units and members of the community can directly address the roots of the insurgency thus preventing the communities from being exploited by the insurgents," he said.

Mayor said LPE likewise strengthened the relationship between the national government and local government units (LGUs).

An example is the rise of the Indigenous Peoples peace village in Talaingod, Davao del Norte for 125 Ata-Manobo families who were displaced by NPA-initiated hostilities.

"It is just one of the manifestations why LPE is more effective in achieving peace and social justice and development. It is worth noting that during the time when peace talks were done at the national level, the CTGs did not cease in carrying out attacks against the government which proves their insincerity in coming up with the peace deal," Mayor said.

"This precedence justifies our resolve to take the negotiations at the local level to include more sectors such as the rebels themselves," he added.

Presidential Adviser on Peace Reconciliation and Unity, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., earlier said the LPE is the most effective way to address insurgency problems and armed revolution.

He said it has helped LGUs and affected communities to directly "address the roots of insurgency".

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 separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166834