Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 02/11/22

Friday, February 11, 2022

WESTMINCOM: Comaraderie and teamwork among soldiers, police, Coast Guard, CAFGU, MILF, MNLF, and former Abu Sayyaf

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 11, 2022): Comaraderie and teamwork among soldiers, police, Coast Guard, CAFGU, MILF, MNLF, and former Abu Sayyaf

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4th Civil Relations Group

TAGISAN NG GALING SA IISANG LAYUNIN TULAD NG CAMARADERIE AT TEAMWORK SA BASILAN NA DINALUHAN NG SUNDALO, PULIS, COAST GUARD, CAFGU, MILF, MNLF AT MGA DATING ABU SAYYAF

Kamakaylan lang ay formal na nagsimula ang isa na namang labanan sa Munisipyo ng Hadji Mohammad Ajul. Ito ay hindi madugong labanan kundi matinding pagpapawis at teamwork. Pinangunahan ang kaganapang eto ng 15th Special Forces Company kasama ang Kapulisan sa HMA. Layunin ng programa na ipagpatuloy ang nasimulan ng unit na eto sa magandang samahan ng mga Law enforcement agency at mga kaibigang armadong grupo. Kung inyong naaalala, dito din nagsimula ang kauna unahang larong pangkapayapaan sa isla ng Basilan sa kasaysayan.

Tunay na ang sports ay hindi lamang tagisan ng galing, ngunit ang pinakamahalagang panalo nito ay ang pagkakaibigan(Sadaqa), RESPETO(Aihtiram) at PAGPAPAKUMBABA(Sabar).

ABANGAN ang mga update sa susunod na mga araw. Maraming salamat sa Supporta ng LGU-Hadji Mohammad Ajul.

MABUHAY ang BANSANG PILIPINAS, Mabuhay Tayong Lahat

Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh

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TRANSLATION:

TRAVELING FROM ONE-MILF LIKE CAMARADERIE AND TEAMWORK IN THE BASILAN NA DINALUHAN WHICH WAS RIDED BY SOLDIERS, POLICE, COAST GUARD, CAFGU, MILF, MNLF AND VARIES ABU SAYYAF

Just now it is formal that another battle has started in the Municipality of Hadji Mohammad Ajul. It's not a bloody battle but a lot of sweat and teamwork. The event was led by the 15th Special Forces Company with the Police in HMA. The aim of the program is to continue what the unit has started in the good association of Law enforcement agencies and fellow armed groups. If you remember, this is where the first Basilan island peace game in history started.

It is true that sports is not only a match of excellence, but the most important victory of it is friendship(Sadaqa), RESPECT(Aihtiram) and HUMBLENESS(Sabar).

STAY TUNED for updates in the next few days. Thank you so much for Support LGU-Hadji Mohammad Ajul.

LONG LIVE THE PHILIPPINES, Long Live All of Us

Peace be upon you, mercy and blessings of Allah be upon you

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WESTMINCOM: Sayyafs’ War Materiel Seized in Sulu

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 11, 2022): Sayyafs’ War Materiel Seized in Sulu

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4th Civil Relations Group

Sayyafs’ War Materiel Seized in Sulu
Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – February 7, 2022

Two high-powered firearms, other war materiel, and personal belongings of the Abu Sayyaf Group were seized by the military in Sulu on February 6, 2022. Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command said army soldiers from the 6th Special Forces Battalion acted on a report of the presence of ASG personalities in Barangay Tanum, Patikul, Sulu. While operating troops were approaching, the ASG members hurriedly fled.

“I directed all military units in the area to intensify further their monitoring on the direction of the fleeing enemies and establish blockade on their possible withdrawal routes,” Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu stated.

While scouring the area, troops recovered one M14 rifle with two steel magazines, one M16 rifle with two steel magazines, 27 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, 29 rounds of 7.62 ammunition, one bandolier, one solar panel, seven assorted sim card cases, one jungle hammock, one civilian backpack, one combat shirt (Phil. Marines), one poncho, one Qur’an, denatured alcohol, two combs, two scissors, nail cutter, and one face mask.

Operating troops brought the recovered items to the headquarters of the 6th SF Battalion for proper disposition.

“I commend the troops of the 6th SF Battalion for thwarting the possible terror attack of the group in the peaceful communities. I congratulate you all for this laudable accomplishment,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. said.

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WESTMINCOM: Daulah Islamiyah members neutralized; terror plot preempted in Lanao del S

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 11, 2022): Daulah Islamiyah members neutralized; terror plot preempted in Lanao del Sur

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May be an image of 2 people and text that says 'AORTTIHECOOM ADOENN ARADEFEDAE FORCESOFTHEPHI DAULAH ISLAMIYAH MEMBERS NEUTRALIZED; TERROR PLOT PREEMPTED IN LANAO DEL SUR "The Western Mindanao Command, through all of its Joint Task Forces, will not stop until Mindanao is freed from adversities" LTGEN ALFREDO Commander, ROSARIO JR PA Command #SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo tsaSerbisyo FPyoucanTRUST CIVIL RELATIONS GROUP, CRSAFP'

4th Civil Relations Group

Daulah Islamiyah members neutralized; terror plot preempted in Lanao del Sur
Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – February 7, 2022

As forces continue to conduct military operations in Lanao del Sur, troops of the 51st Infantry Battalion encountered Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group members at Sitio Kangkong, Barangay Palacat, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur on February 5, 2022. A short firefight ensued which lasted for three minutes.

According to WestMinCom Commander, Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario. Jr., the gunfight resulted in the deaths of two DI-Maute Group members identified as Arafat Amino, a.k.a. Salama, and a certain a.k.a. Gazali. Recovered in the encounter site were an M16 rifle and a cal. 45 pistol.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, Commander of Joint Task Force ZamPeLan said the two are responsible for the shooting incidents victimizing innocent civilians including laborers of government developmental projects in Piagapo. They were on their way to a construction site of a government project when they were intercepted by the army troops thus the encounter and their neutralization.

Meanwhile, during the conduct of pursuit operation to neutralize the remaining local terrorists in the area, operating troops of the 51IB together with personnel from Piagapo Municipal Police Station apprehended two members of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group in Barangay Talao, same municipality on February 5.

Apprehended personalities were identified as Tañan Datu Dansal and Kassan Madatul. Recovered in their possession were two anti-personnel mines’ main charge, two improvised blasting caps, one cal. 45 pistol, propaganda materials, and personal belongings.

The two were turned over to Piagapo MPS for filing of appropriate charges.

“The Western Mindanao Command, through all of its Joint Task Forces, will not stop until Mindanao is freed from adversities,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. stressed.

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CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: 2-dekadang desaparasidong mga organisador, patuloy na hinahanap

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Web Page (Feb 11, 2022): 2-dekadang desaparasidong mga organisador, patuloy na hinahanap (For 2-decades former political prisoners and organizers, constantly sought)

February 11, 2022

Patuloy ang paghahanap ng mga kamag-anak, mga kapwa organisador, aktibista at tagasuporta kina Honor Ayroso at Johnny Orcino, mga aktibista at dating bilanggong pulitikal na dinukot ng mga militar noong Pebrero 9, 2002.

Dinukot sina Ayroso at Orcino sa Encarnacion Subdivision, Barangay Sto. Niño 1st, San Jose City, Nueva Ecija ng mga armadong lalaki na hinihinalang elemento
ng 71st IB.

Ayon kay Aleli Dee Ayroso, asawa ni Honor, “ang mga pwersa sa seguridad ng estado lamang ang may motibo, pamamaraan at kakayahan na dukutin ang dalawa. Ginawa nila ito noong panahon ng batas militar ni Marcos, at nakita natin kung ilan pang aktibista ang iwinala sa panahon ni Gloria Arroyo, at maging ngayon sa panahon ni Duterte.”

Sina Ayroso at Orcino ay dating mga aktibistang estudyante. Naging kasapi ng League of Filipino Students si Ayroso sa Wesleyan University-Philippines sa Cabanatuan City noong dekada 1980. Si Orcino ay naorganisa noong dekada 1970 habang isang mag-aaral sa Central Luzon State University.

Nagpahayag ang Anakbayan-Nueva Ecija at iba pang mga organisasyon na patuloy nilang igigiit ang paglitaw sa dalawa at hustisya para sa sa kanila.

“Wala mang katiyakan kung nasaan sila at sila man ay nawawala, nananatili silang buhay at ang kanilang iniwang punla ng puspusang pakikibaka ay patuloy na pasisibulin sa prubsinya,” pangako ng grupo.

Sa ilalim ng rehimeng Duterte, hindi bababa sa 19 ang dinukot ng estado at nananatiling nawawala hanggang sa ngayon.

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/2-dekadang-desaparasidong-mga-organisador-patuloy-na-hinahanap/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Pagbabanta ng NTF-Elcac at ni Lorraine Badoy sa mga mamamahayag, kinundena

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Web Page (Feb 8, 2022): Pagbabanta ng NTF-Elcac at ni Lorraine Badoy sa mga mamamahayag, kinundena (NTF-Elcac and Lorraine Badoy's threats against journalists, condemned)

February 08, 2022

Binatikos ng National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) ang pagbabanta ni Lorraine Badoy ng NTF-Elcac sa Rappler at Vera Files matapos naglabas ang mga ito ng “fact check” na nagpasubali sa sa pahayag niyang mga “operatiba” ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa kalunsuran ang mga kinatawan sa blokeng Makabayan sa Kongreso. Ang “fact-check” ay ginagawa ng ilang mamamahayag para imbestigahan ang mga pahayag o balita para tiyakin kung ito’y totoo o hindi. Inilabas ng Rappler ang “fact-check” na naglantad sa kasinungalingan ni Badoy noong Enero 31.

Noong Pebrero 5, tinawag ni Badoy na “dis-impormasyon” ang ginawang pagtutuwid ng Rappler at nagbanta siya ng maghapag ng ligal na aksyon laban dito. Dati nang niredtag ni Badoy at ng NTF-Elcac ang Rappler.

Inatake ni Badoy ang blokeng Makabayan matapos pumasa sa pangatlong pagdinig ang isinusulong nitong ang House Bill No. 10576 (Human Rights Defenders Protection Act), ang panukala na magbibigay ng proteksyon sa mga tagapagtanggol sa karapatang-tao, .

Sa “fact-check” ng Rappler, sinabi nitong ang mga partido sa blokeng Makabayan ay isang koalisyon sa pulitika na kinikilala ng Commission on Elections. Ang mga partidong ito ay dati nang lumalahok sa eleksyong party-list.

Kinundena rin ng Movement Against Disinformation (MAD), isang koalisyon ng mga oragnisasyon at indibidwal, ang bantang ligal na aksyon ni Badoy at ng NTF-Elcac. Anito, layunin ng pagbabanta na pigilan at ihinto ang sistematiko at hindi nakokontrol na pagkalat ng maling impormasyon. Binatikos rin ng koalisyon ang lahat ng porma ng intimidasyon at panghaharas laban sa mga independent na midya at mga fact-checker.

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/pagbabanta-ng-ntf-elcac-at-ni-lorraine-badoy-sa-mga-mamamahayag-kinundena/

CPP/NPA-Surigao del Sur: Resigned AFP Captain Rivera, Sitoy ug Rivera, mga lehitimong target sa aksyong militar sa NPA-Surigao del Sur

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 12, 2022):

Resigned AFP Captain Rivera, Sitoy ug Rivera, mga lehitimong target sa aksyong militar sa NPA-Surigao del Sur (Resigned AFP Captain Rivera, Sitoy and Rivera, legitimate targets of NPA-Surigao del Sur military action)

Sandara Sidlakan

Spokesperson

NPA-Surigao del Sur

Northeast Mindanao Regional Operational Command

New People's Army

February 12, 2022

Malampusong na-reyd sa NPA-SDS ang balay sa resigned AFP Captain nga si Joven Rivera, ug laing duha nga sila Ronie Sitoy ug Jade Rivera kaniadtong Pebrero 10, 2022 bandang alas 7:00 sa buntag didto sa sityo Lubcon, Mabahin, Cortes, Surigao del Sur. Kini sila tulo adunay kalambigitan sa AFP ug PNP, maong mga lehitimong target sila sa aksyong militar sa New Peoples Army- Surigao del Sur.

Nasakmit sa NPA-SDS ang mga mosunod:

•tulo ka .45 kalibreng pistola
•usa ka ingram
•usa ka 357
•ubay-ubay nga mga buhing bala sa nagkalain-laing mga klase sa kalibreng armas
•mga magasin ug ban pang kagamitang militar.

Kalambigit niini gipahigayon sa NPA-SDS ang duha ka oras nga tsekpoint sa nasyunal hayway aron mapasiguro ang kaluwasan sa mga sibilyan tungod kay duol ang mga balay sa mga target sa dalan.

Dili tinuod ang alegasyon sa 901st brigade nga nakalapas ang NPA sa Internasyonal nga Balaod sa Katungod tawo pinaagi sa pagpahigayon niini og tsekpoynts. Wala nangapkap, wala nangharas ug wala nanghadlok ang NPA-SDS sa mga sibilyan. Nagpatin-aw lamang kini sa mga masa sa rason nganong gilunsad ang reyd? Nganong adunay rebolusyonaryong kalihukan? ug para kang kinsa ang rebolusyon?

Sa pikas bahin ginalunsad usab sa NPA ang mga tsekpoynts isip lakang aron mapasigurong nga ang mga kandidato mosubay sa palisiya sa gobyerno sa katawhan kalambigit sa pagpangampanya. Pagpaseguro nga dili sila magdala og mga goons, pulis ug militar isip eskort aron mangharas ug manghadlok sa katawhan.

Walay kamatuoran usab ang gitagawtaw sa AFP/PNP nga nangilkil, nangawat ug nangransak ang NPA-SDS sa balay ug tindahan sa mga target. Gipalit sa mga kaubanan ang mga baligya sa tindahan ni Joven Rivera. Dili tinuod nga ninglugsong ang NPA sa patag tungod kay wala na kini makaon. Sa padayong pagsalig ug pagsandig niini sa masa, kanunay ang paghatag niini og mga suportang materyal, pinansyal ug pagkaon.

Dili usab tinuod nga nag-usa ang NPA-Surigao del Sur ug NPA-Surigao del Norte aron magpakita og pwersa sa publiko tungod sa eleksyon aron hulgaon ug hadlokon ang mga kandidato. Sa maong panghitabo naulaw nga gipamahayag ni Major Francisco Garillo ang tigpamaba sa 4th ID nga 20 ra kuno ka Pulang manggugubat ang nagpahigayon og pag-atang.

Pinaagi sa hugot nga pagsuporta sa katawhan sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan padayong nakalunsad ang NPA og mga taktikal nga opensiba aron pakyason ang mga atake sa AFP, PNP ug rehimeng Duterte. Nalipay kaayo ang katawhan sa kadaugang nalunsad sa NPA-SDS tungod kay nasayod sila sa ilang mahinungdanong papel sa gilunsad nga malungtarong gubat sa katawhan.

Mabuhi ang katawhang nakigbisog!

Mabuhi ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan!

Mabuhi ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas!

https://cpp.ph/statements/resigned-afp-captain-rivera-sitoy-ug-rivera-mga-lehitimong-target-sa-aksyong-militar-sa-npa-surigao-del-sur/

CPP/NDF-CPDF: The people must guard against electoral fraud//Marcos is without platform, just desperation

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 11, 2022): The people must guard against electoral fraud//Marcos is without platform, just desperation

Cordillera People's Democratic Front

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

February 11, 2022

It appears that his family’s history is not the only thing Bongbong Marcos Jr. cannot and will not talk about during substantial interviews with respected journalists. He also cannot discuss his own platform because he has none.

The Marcos Way

Bongbong should take a leaf out of the Red fighters’ book. The New People’s Army gets things done driven by a clear program of action within a timeline and based on basic principles such as class line (starting with the basic alliance of peasants and laborers), mass line (synthesizing ideas from the masses and returning it to them), primacy of armed struggle (protracted and originating from the countryside), among others. And the people’s army all but operates in the interior parts of the provinces. Marcos Jr. wants to become president of this country but all he ever says is ‘unity.’ In fact, in his roughly 15-minute speech, he uttered the word more than 20 times. How well he understands it is anyone’s guess.

The truly revolutionary way subjects unity to class line, as well as to mass line. Was Marcos Jr. referring to unity among the ruling class? But other cliques of traditional politicians, especially the Liberals, would fight it out with him this season of power-grabbing and division of power and influence. Or was he talking about uniting his plundering and murderous family with the basic masses? The ruling class in which his family belongs to only remembers the majority during elections. No time like the present to prove that.

Then there’s the mass line. What majority of a nation can forget a dictator’s rule that summarily executed no less than 3,200 individuals, tortured 34,000 and illegally imprisoned 70,000? Their regime plundered an estimated Php530 billion. No matter how hard the Marcoses work their dark magic to erase these numbers and the corresponding stories of the victims, the facts remain. Dismissing the people’s collective trauma, refusing to apologize, evading legal rulings that found them guilty and just barefacedly denying the truth—these only further distills the Marcos legacy in the collective memory of the Filipino people. Unity cannot happen without accountability. And with their family’s history of looting the public coffers for their immorally extravagant lifestyles and their kneejerk reaction to repress opposition through state violence, the untold campaign promise of Marcos Jr. becomes clear: further impoverishment and fascism.

The Marcos Deception

Unity is not even a real platform. This presidentiable utters the concept thoughtlessly and frantically in lieu of one. Instead, what he has is his memories of heyday during the senior Marcos’ dictatorial regime. The family is desperate to score a victory now because only he can carry the surname and another six years of waiting for a chance could render Junior much too old to mount any presidential campaign.

But then again, perhaps Marcos Jr. does not even need to bother with a platform if there is an electoral commission already protecting him. Despite the guilty conviction regarding his tax evasion case (a 1995 ruling upheld in 1997), the Commission on Elections dismissed the petition to disqualify his candidacy. Commissioners Aimee Ferolino and Marlon Casquejano decided that it is not a case of moral turpitude because failure to file tax returns is not ‘inherently wrong in the absence of law that punishes it.’ If there is nothing wrong with a presidential candidate not filing his tax returns, then income tax should be matter of individual preference. Also, legislators can now abolish consumer tax and all other tax levied on the masses. In the first place, even before Marcos Jr.’s tax violations, big corporations already enjoy various forms of tax incentives. The same favor should be extended towards the majority of taxpayers.

The dismissal and the basis for it is so absurd that it begs the question: How impartial will the Commission be come elections and tallying? Bourgeoisie elections is fraught with fraud and is hardly truly democratic. The national democratic movement has had a long experience with vote-shaving regarding progressive partylists. Computerization of ballot-casting and counting only further eased vote manipulation. Dennis Uy, known ally of Rodrigo Duterte, will provide logistical support in May. The numbers seem to add up now but it is doubtful that they will still be come tallying.

Another basic principle of the revolutionary movement: armed struggle is the only way towards genuine systemic change. The proletariat must grab and wield political power through protracted people’s war. While parliamentary struggle does have its advantages, any victory will be harder to score and defend against reactionary forces. To counter this, the legal mass movement must show its strength in numbers while producing timely propaganda. The Marcos-Duterte tandem is still a formidable foe because of its incumbent position but this position is also what exposed its rottenness. And despite its underdog status, the Filipino people has the unwavering spirit to ensure that this dynastic partnership should eventually pay for its crimes. ###

Arouse, organize and mobilize against the Marcos-Duterte tandem!

Expose the crimes of the Marcos family and demand accountability

Advance the people’s war and reaffirm its superiority over the parliamentary struggle!

https://cpp.ph/statements/marcos-is-without-platform-just-desperation/

Kalinaw News: Relentless Military Ops and Growing Anti-NPA Communities in Sorsogon Yield High-powered Firearms

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 12, 2022): Relentless Military Ops and Growing Anti-NPA Communities in Sorsogon Yield High-powered Firearms

Camp Elias Angeles,Pili, Camarines Sur- Six high-powered firearms and other war materials were seized in intensified military operations initiated by government troops due to the enraged populace against NPA in Sorsogon, Friday, February 11.

The first successful military operation took place in Brgy Calpi, Bulan, Sorsogon at around 5:10 in the morning where elements of 22nd Infantry Battalion (22IB) under Lt. Col. Nelson Mico while conducting combat operation received information about an arms cache of the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) which led to the discovery and seizure of three M16 A1 rifles, one caliber .38, two anti-personnel mines, blasting caps, five M16 magazines, 20-meter electrical wires, 73 rounds of M16 ammo, terroristic propaganda materials, and CNT’s personal belongings.

Meanwhile, at around 8:10 o’clock in the morning, another tip-off of CNT’s extortion activity resulted to an encounter at Sitio Man-ao, Brgy San Fernando, Prieto Diaz, Sorsogon between the elements of 31st Infantry Battalion (31IB) under Lt. Col Marlon Mojica and a group of CNT.

Said encounter resulted in the capture of three M16 rifles and terrorist propaganda materials.

None of the government troops under the Philippine Army’s 903rd Infantry Brigade, 9ID, and PRO5, PNP were harmed or injured on these two military operations.

Lt. Col. Mico, Battalion Commander of 22IB and Lt. Col. Mojica, Battalion Commander of 31IB acknowledged the support extended by their PNP counterparts in the area. They are also grateful and proud of the brave locals in the area who gave information about the presence of the armed rebels.

BGen. Aldwine Almase, Brigade Commander of 903rd Infantry Brigade, underscored the role of the residents and their contribution in ending local communist armed conflict in the region.

“Noon pa lamang po ay paulit-ulit na natin binibigyan ng diin kung gaano kahalaga ang pakikipagtulungan ng mga tao at mga opisyal ng isang komunidad. Dapat kayo ang matapang sa lugar ‘nyo kasi kayo ang taga riyan; kayo ang may karapatan hindi itong mga teroristang grupong ito. Kaya totoong kahangahanga ang mga residente sa lugar ng Barangay Calpi, Bulan at San Fernando, Prieto Diaz ng Sorsogon sa tapang at malasakit na ipinakita nila.Isang malaking dagok ito sa mga teroristang NPA, sapagkat patuloy na natin silang natutunton at nababawasan, hindi lang ang kanilang mga armas kundi na rin ang kanilang mga miyembro. Tunay nga na napakalaki ng tulong ng taong bayan upang tuluyan ng tuldukan ang karahasan ng terorismo sa Kabikolan.” BGen. Almase said.

PBGen. Jonnel Estomo, Regional Director, PRO5,PNP lauded the interoperability operations of the PNP and the Army and recognized as well the cooperation of the populace in the area.

“Kami po sa PNP at sa Army ay patuloy na magsusumikap upang tuluyan ng matuldukan ang problema natin sa insurhensya dito sa Bicol. Itong hangarin pong ito ay hindi mangyayari kung wala po ang tulong ‘nyong mga Bicolano. Kaya salamat po sa mga nagsumbong upang matunton namin ang mga armadong ito. Pinagmamalaki po namin kayo.” PBGen. Estomo said.

On the other hand, MGen. Alex Luna, Commander of 9th Infantry (Spear) Division and Joint Task Force Bicolandia, called on the remaining CTG members to withdraw their membership and just go home to their families for good.

“Sa galit ng mga tao, sila na mismo ang nagtuturo sa inyo. Maliit na espasyo na lamang ang inyong mapagtataguan, kaya’t siguradong madadakip at masasayang lamang ang buhay niyo. May oras pa, may panahon pa, walang saysay ang pagtatago, pakikipaglaban at pagsira ninyo sa ating bayan, sumuko na lamang kayo upang makasama nyo na ang inyong mga pamilya.” MGen. Luna said.

In just one day, two (2) successful operations transpired in the same province. This is a clear manifestation that people are already exasperated and tired of this terrorist group that are trying to destroy our youth, families, and communities.

[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/relentless-military-ops-and-growing-anti-npa-communities-in-sorsogon-yield-high-powered-firearms/

NPA combatant ‘Ka Talahib’ surrenders to authorities in Occidental Mindoro

From Palawan News (Feb 10, 2022): NPA combatant ‘Ka Talahib’ surrenders to authorities in Occidental Mindoro (By Arphil Ballarta)

Ka Talahin (left) voluntarily surrenders to P/Col. Simeon Gane Jr., the provincial director of the Occidental Mindoro Police Provincial Office on February 8, 2022. (Photo from PRO MIMAROPA Information Office)

Ka Talahib, a regular member of the New People’s Army’s (NPA), voluntarily surrendered Tuesday to police authorities in Occidental Mindoro following “intensive negotiation” for him and his comrades to return to the folds of the law.

The information office of the Police Regional Office (PRO) in MIMAROPA said in a statement Thursday that Ka Talahib of the NPA’s Kilusang Larangang Girelya MAV, Sub-Regional Military Area-4D, Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC) surrendered on February 8 to P/Col. Simeon Gane Jr., the provincial director of the Occidental Mindoro Police Provincial Office (OMPPO) at Camp Winston S. Ebersole in Barangay Roque 1, San Jose municipality.

PRO MIMAROPA said the Kilusan where he used to be a member operates in the municipalities of Calintaan, Rizal, San Jose and Magsaysay in the Province of Occidental Mindoro, and of Bulalacao, Mansalay, Roxas and Bongabong River in Oriental Mindoro.

Ka Talahib’s surrender was negotiated by the Provincial Intelligence Unit and other units of OMPPO, PNP SAF, and 4th Infantry Battalion of the 23rd Brigade, Philippine Army.

“He surrendered one caliber .38 with ammunition, which signifies his sincere conversion to folds of the law and allegiance to the government,” the statement said.

Ka Talahib is now under police custody in Camp Winston S. Ebersole for debriefing and assessment if he is qualified to the

As of press time, records showed that since January 1, 2021, the Police Regional Office MIMAROPA had documented a total Enhanced Comprehensive Integration Program (ECLIP).of 298 surrendered NPA members.

“I commend Occidental Mindoro PPO for another great accomplishment, the surrender of another CTG member”, PRO MIMAROPA regional director P/Brig. Gen. Sidney Hernia said.

“The said surrender paves the way to the continuing fall of CTG in the Mindoro Island”, he added.

https://palawan-news.com/npa-combatant-ka-talahib-surrenders-to-authorities-in-occidental-mindoro/

2 Negros mayors get awards from AFP

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 12, 2022): 2 Negros mayors get awards from AFP (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Two Negros Island mayors were honored and recognized by the Armed Forces of the Philippines Visayas Command on February 9 at Camp Lapu-Lapu in Cebu City, in recognition of their effort in assisting state security forces for the preservation of peace and order, in the respective areas.

La Castellana Mayor Alme Rhumyla Nicor-Mangilimutan and Guihulngan City Mayor Carlo Jorge Joan Reyes were conferred with “Stakeholder’s Recognition” plaques by Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz during 88th founding anniversary of the AFP Visayas Command.

Mangilimutan was cited by the AFP for her unrelenting support and commitment to the Medal of Valor Recognition Project that gave timeless recognition to the heroism of Filipino soldiers and promote patriotism which were instrumental to the successful attainment of the Visayas Command’s mission of sustaining peace, security and development in the Visayas.

On the other hand, Reyes was recognized for his unrelenting support and commitment to the implementation of Whole-of-Nation Initiatives to End Local Communists Armed Conflict in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Before she became a mayor of La Castellana, Mangilimutan used to be a member of the Philippine National Police.

On the other hand, the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division headed by Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo also received a plaque of recognition from the Department of Social Welfare and Development on Feb. 10, in recognition of its outstanding contribution to the pursuance of DWSD mission in Western and Central Visayas.

https://visayandailystar.com/2-negros-mayors-get-awards-from-afp/

NPA leader, brother surrender in Davao

From the Manila Times (Feb 12, 2022): NPA leader, brother surrender in Davao (By Ruth Palo)

A leader of the New People's Army (NPA) and his brother surrendered to the members of the Revitalized-Pulis Sa Barangay in Barangay Manuel Peralta, Malita, Davao Occidental on Wednesday, February 9.

BGen. Edgar Alan Okubo, deputy regional director for administration of the Police Regional Office 11, identified the NPA leader as Ka Bagwis, 38, and a resident of Barangay Pinalpalan, Malita, Davao Occidental. His brother was identified only as alias Bruno Dos, 32.

Okubo said the brothers were members of the dismantled Guerilla Front (GF) 75 operating in the areas of Davao Occidental and nearby provinces.

He said Bagwis was recruited by the NPA some 15 years ago and was a former commander of GF75 of Davao Occidental, a medic, and a political instructor of Daguma Far South Mindanao Region.

The former NPA rebels also yielded two Garand rifles, magazines, various ammunition, a.45 caliber pistol, a secure digital (SD) card containing subversive documents, and a hand grenade.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/02/12/news/regions/npa-leader-brother-surrender-in-davao/1832601

Rebel couple, comrade surrender to SAF

From the Visayan Daily News (Feb 12, 2022): Rebel couple, comrade surrender to SAF (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

PLt. Col Ryan Manongdo, 6SAB commander, and PLt. Col. Jonel Guadalope, Sagay City police chief, discussed with three former rebels who surrendered, the procedures on how to avail of the E-CLIP benefits from the DILG.* SAF photo

A New People’s Army couple and their comrade have surrendered to the PNP Special Action Force on February 10 in Sagay City, Negros Occidental, bringing along their firearms.

The rebel couple, identified only through their aliases as Ka Nike and Ka Aiza, who also brought along their two-year-old son, and Ka Allan; assisted by PLt. Col. Jonel Guadalope, Sagay City police chief, gave themselves up to PLt. Col. Ryan Manongdo, commander of the 6th Special Action Battalion.

They surrendered two .45 caliber pistols with magazines containing ammunition.

Manongdo said that Ka Nike, who used to be a squad leader of the dismantled Northern Negros Front, and his live-in partner, Ka Aiza, were active members of the South West Front (SWF), under the Komiteng Rehiyonal- Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor, operating in the hinterlands of Cauayan, Hinobaan, Ilog, Candoni, Kabankalan (CHICKS) area.

Ka Nike met his partner, Ka Aiza, who served as an assistant medical officer of SWF, while he was conducting recruitment activities in Ilog, Hinobaan, Candoni and Kabankalan City hinterlands, the 6SAB commander said.

Manongdo added that the rebel couple decided to abandon the armed struggle, as they want to live a normal life with their child.

Ka Allan, on the other hand, confessed to be a member of the Northern Negros Front and engaged in mass work activities in the hinterlands of Calatrava, Toboso, Don Salvador Benedicto, Manapla, Escalante City, Sagay City, San Carlos City and Silay City, he said.

https://visayandailystar.com/rebel-couple-comrade-surrender-to-saf/

At least 9 dead, 3 injured in Magundanao ambush

From ABS-CBN (Feb 12, 2022): At least 9 dead, 3 injured in Magundanao ambush

At least 9 people were killed Saturday morning after they were ambushed at Kalumamis Village in Guindulugan town, Maguindanao.

The Maguindanao PNP said the group, led by a certain Peges Mamasainged, a.k.a. Commander Black Magic, was headed to Kitapok Village in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town when gunmen attacked them around 8:30 a.m.

They were headed to the village to allegedly settle a "rido" or clan war and celebrate a "kanduli" or thanksgiving.

Black Magic was among those killed, according to PNP Maguindanao spokesperson Police Capt. Fhaeyd Cana, while 3 others were injured.

Cana said authorities have an idea who the perpetrators were.

"Ang suspect, a group of certain a.k.a. Jordan pati ’yong anak niya na si a.k.a Nilong. One of the allegations is that itong grupo at grupo nitong victim ay mayroon na silang previous rido," Cana said.

Meanwhile, Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces spokesperson Von Alhaq said Black Magic was a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/12/22/at-least-9-dead-in-magundanao-ambush

9 dead in ambush in Maguindanao

From GMA News Online (Feb 12, 2022): 9 dead in ambush in Maguindanao (By FERDINANDH CABRERA

Personnel from the Philippine National Police SOCO team inspect the site of an ambush conducted by unidentified armed men in Guindulungan, Maguindanao on Saturday morning, February 12, 2022. Nine people died in the incident. Ferdinandh Cabrera

Nine people were killed and died on the spot when unidentified armed men staged an ambush on a convoy of maroon and black pick-up trucks in Guindulungan, Maguindanao on Saturday morning.

The news was confirmed by Guindulungan Mayor Midpantao Midtimbang Jr.

Initial reports said a Kumander Pags Mamasainged alias "Black Magic" was allegedly the target of the ambush.

Maguindanao Police spokesperson Police Lieutenant Fayeed Cana said Mamasainged's group aboard three SUVs was on the way to Barangay Kitapok in Datu Saudi Ampatuan for a "rido" settlement with the family of a Jordan Mamalintang when the incident occurred in Barangay Kalumamis.

The Philippine National Police is conducting an investigation to determine the identity of the persons behind the incident and their motive.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/821642/9-dead-in-ambush-in-maguindanao/story/

Seizure of high-powered firearms further weakens NPA in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Seizure of high-powered firearms further weakens NPA in Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

SEIZED FROM REBELS. Some of the 34 high-powered firearms recovered by soldiers in a remote village in Pinabacdao, Samar on Wednesday (Feb. 9, 2022). This is the biggest seizure of firearms in Eastern Visayas, the Philippine Army said. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

The recent recovery of 34 high-powered firearms from the New People’s Army (NPA) in Pinabacdao, Samar on February 9 will further cripple the communist terrorist group, a military official said on Friday.

Capt. Ryan Layug, the spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said the recovered firearms in remote Bugho village Wednesday was the biggest seizure of firearms in Eastern Visayas.

“In the entire country, we have not heard bigger than this. This will reduce their capability to do terroristic acts like extortion and attack on government troops and civilians,” Layug said in a phone interview.

The firearms recovered were 24 M16 rifles, two M4 carbine assault rifles, seven China-made AK47 variant rifles, and an M14 rifle.

Layug said the rebels buried the assault rifles since they do not have enough manpower to carry them.

“This a result of reduction of manpower since many of their members have already surrendered to the government,” he told the Philippine News Agency.

Troops from the Army’s 801st Infantry Brigade scoured the area, acting on tips from residents on the presence of armed men.

The town of Pinabacdao, around 46 kilometers away from Tacloban City, is known for frequent sightings of NPA members.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (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 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/1167554

Bombing attempt at Maguindanao power firm compound foiled

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Bombing attempt at Maguindanao power firm compound foiled (By Edwin Fernandez)

FOILED BOMBING ATTEMPT. A powerful improvised bomb left inside the compound of the Maguindanao Electric Cooperative is safely deactivated by bomb experts after it was found by a utility worker in Datu Odin Sinsuat on Thursday afternoon (Feb. 10, 2022). The bomb was rigged from a 60mm mortar round with a mobile phone as a triggering device. (Photo courtesy of Maguindanao PPO)

An alert utility worker of the Maguindanao Electric Cooperative (Magelco) here prevented what could have been a bloody Thursday afternoon at work after he found a bomb and alerted authorities about it, police said.

In an interview Friday, Capt. Fahyed Cana, the spokesperson of the Maguindanao provincial police, said the improvised explosive device (IED) bomb was found by a janitor near the Magelco’s main office at past 2 p.m.

“He noticed electrical wiring and a mobile phone attached to a box and suspected it was a bomb,” Cana said.

Members of the Army’s bomb disposal unit safely defused the IED using a water disruptor.

Cana said the explosive was fashioned from a 60mm mortar round with a mobile phone as a triggering mechanism.

Police probers are digging deeper into the matter since the Magelco compound, being a vital utility, is supposedly well secured.

Cana said investigators are looking into other possible motives for the attempt.

The component and power of the explosive clearly showed that it was meant to kill or harm people, he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167566

Another NPA rebel killed in Surigao Norte clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Another NPA rebel killed in Surigao Norte clash (By Alexander Lopez)

LOST LIFE. An NPA rebel, identified as Ricky Vocales Rosaldo alias Kenz, is killed during an encounter with the troops of 30IB on Thursday (Feb. 10, 2022) in the hinterlands of Barangay Budlingin, Alegria, Surigao del Norte. The government troops also recovered from the site an anti-personnel mine, subversive documents, and other war materiel. (Photo courtesy of 30IB)

A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed Thursday, the second this week, in a series of encounters with troopers of the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Alegria, Surigao del Norte.

In a statement Friday, the 30IB said the latest skirmish in Barangay Budlingin occurred as the troops continued their military operations after the February 8 encounter in Barangay Alipao that also resulted in the death of an NPA leader-cum-bomb expert.

“The 30IB troopers encountered on Thursday an undetermined number of the combined forces of Guerrilla Front (GF) 16C1 led by Roel Neniel, alias Jacob and GF 16C2 headed by Alberto Castañeda, alias JD of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA,” the 30IB said.

The 30IB identified the slain NPA rebel in Thursday’s encounter as Ricky Vocales Rosaldo alias Kenz, a member of GF-16C1.

“The remains of the slain NPA rebel were brought by our troopers to a funeral parlor in Barangay Pongtud in Alegria for proper disposition,” the military said.

Soldiers also recovered from the site an anti-personnel mine, a detonating device, a blasting cap, M16 rifle magazines, ammunition for M16 and AK-47 rifles, assorted medicine, food, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

Lt. Col. Ryan Charles Callanta, the 30 IB commander, ordered his troops to continue the military operation and hunt down the remaining NPA rebels in the area.

“I commend the bravery and dedication of 30IB troopers in the performance of their duties and responsibilities,” Callanta said.

He also assured the residents of Alegria and Surigao del Norte of the 30IB’s continued services by providing security in communities for the attainment of genuine peace and development.

“For the remaining NPA rebels in the area, you still have the chance to change your lives. Return to the government and your families,” Callanta said.

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/1167561

‘Show of force’ an NPA extortion ploy as 2022 polls near: IPMR

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): ‘Show of force’ an NPA extortion ploy as 2022 polls near: IPMR (By Alexander Lopez)

EXTORTION PLOY. Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, believes that the New People's Army's “show of force” staged on Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022 in Cortes town was a reminder to politicians to pay their “permit to campaign and permit to win” to the rebels. Maca urged politicians, political parties, and businesses in Surigao del Sur not to give in to the extortion demands of the rebels. (Photo grabbed from Rico Hayahay Maca FB Page)

The New People’s Army’s (NPA) blocking off a section of the highway in Cortes, Surigao del Sur was an extortion ploy to remind candidates running in the upcoming polls of their presence in the area, an indigenous community leader said Friday.

Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, said Thursday’s “show of force” staged by the NPA in Cortes town was aimed to prompt local politicians to pay the “permit to campaign and permit to win.”

“Extortion is the primary reason for that show staged by the NPA rebels. They are reminding the politicians that they are still around and that they will pursue with their extortion activities as the campaign starts and the election is nearing,” Maca told Philippine News Agency on Friday.

An undetermined number of NPA rebels blocked a portion of the national highway Thursday morning in Sitio Lucbon, Barangay Mabahin of Cortes town where they flagged down and threatened motorists.

A residence of a retired Army officer in the area was also ransacked by the rebels.

“The ransacking of houses was only secondary. The NPA rebels were really reminding the politicians, and even threatening them, to pay permits for campaigns,” Maca said.

The IP leader urged the candidates and political parties not to give in to the threats and demands of the rebels.

“If you will pay, then you are contributing to the useless cause of these bandits. You are, in a way, taking part to strengthen the terroristic activities of these insurgents. Your payment will further escalate the killings, lootings, human rights violations, and other terroristic activities that the NPA rebels are known for,” Maca said.

The “show of force,” he added, was also directed at companies and business groups in the province.

“They also targeted the businesses here in Surigao del Sur. The show was a direct reminder for them to pay revolutionary taxes,” Maca said.

He also advised the businesses in the area to refrain from giving extortion dues to the rebels.

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/1167567

Death of minors due to NPA ambush in N. Samar 'unjustifiable'

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Death of minors due to NPA ambush in N. Samar 'unjustifiable' (By Perla Lena)

CALL FOR JUSTICE. Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC) spokesperson, Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales said on Friday (Feb. 11, 2022) that the death of two children in Barangay Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar on February 8 during an ambush by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) has no justification. Gonzales called on the people of Northern Samar to unite in a common goal of putting an end to the local communist armed conflict. (PNA file photo)

The Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC) has chided the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and demanded to take responsibility for the death of two children in Barangay Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar on February 8.

In a statement on Friday, task force spokesperson, Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, said there is no justification for what the communist terrorists have done.

The children were in the vicinity gathering coconuts when the communist terrorists ambushed the government troops.

“Innocent lives were lost. Two families lost their sons on that day. We do not take such things lightly. We demand accountability and responsibility. We demand that justice be served to the heartless CPP-NPA terrorists who killed the two children,” he said.

The task force also called on the people of Northern Samar to unite in a common goal of putting an end to the local communist armed conflict and no longer wait for their children to fall victim to the hands of the terrorists.

“It is our aspiration and our prayer, that our people come to realize that a just and lasting peace can only be achieved if we put an end to the communist insurgency for good at the soonest possible time,” he added.

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 NDF has also 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/1167577

Davao Oro town 2 remote villages receive BDP projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Davao Oro town 2 remote villages receive BDP projects (By Che Palicte)

BDP PROJECT. Barangay Magangit in Maco town, Davao de Oro receives a newly constructed health center from the government's Barangay Development Program (BDP) under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, on Feb. 8, 2022. The program aims to eradicate the root causes of the insurgency, poverty, disease, lack of education and opportunities, and social injustice in remote communities across the country identified to have been influenced by the communist ideology. (Photo courtesy of Davao de Oro PIO)

Two remote barangays in Maco, Davao de Oro received new health centers worth PHP5.6 million from the government’s Barangay Development Program (BDP) this week, the provincial government said Friday.

Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy said barangays Magangit and Sangab in Maco town acquired the health centers on February 8 and 9, respectively, with the hope of providing residents with their health care needs.

Uy said the villages were former strongholds of armed rebels, but with the help of the “whole-of-nation approach” or the convergence of national and local government agencies and the security sector, they are insurgency-free.

In 2021, the province received an allocation of PHP1.3 billion from the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) intended for the BDP, of which PHP20 million has been earmarked for each of the 65 barangays that were cleared of communist insurgency.

A hallmark program of the NTF-ELCAC with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities, the BDP forms part of the government’s whole-of-nation approach in fighting the rebellion waged by the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) in the countryside.

The program aims to eradicate the root causes of the insurgency, poverty, disease, lack of education and opportunities, and social injustice in remote communities across the country identified to have been influenced by the communist ideology.

In 2021 the BDP targeted to rehabilitate and develop 822 Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas formerly established influenced by the CPP-NPA-NDF in many parts of the country. This year, 1,406 barangays have been identified to benefit from the BDP.

“The provincial government puts emphasis on the importance of the establishment of health care facilities, especially in far-flung areas, to easily access basic health services for all the constituents of the barangay,” Uy said.

Barangay Magangit chief Veneranda Benaning expressed appreciation to the government for finally seeing their village with a new health center through the BDP.

“We thank the government for this big project, especially since we dreamed of having a health center here in our barangay,” she said. “Through the NTF-ELCAC, they made our dream come true.”

Magangit also received a daycare center worth PHP1.5 million that was funded through the province’s 20 percent development fund.

Barangay Sangab chief Delbert Canedo likewise expressed gratitude for the newly constructed health center in their area where residents could benefit from efficient and quality health services from the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167592

JTF Bicolandia condemns NPA over CamSur explosion

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): JTF Bicolandia condemns NPA over CamSur explosion (By Connie Calipay)

EXPLOSION SITE. The area where the New People's Army (NPA) detonated an anti-personnel mine in Libmanan, Camarines Sur on Thursday (Feb. 10, 2022). Four civilians, including a minor, and a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) were wounded in the incident. (Photo courtesy of PRO-5)

The Joint Task Force Bicolandia has condemned the New People's Army (NPA) for detonating an anti-personnel mine (APM) that wounded four civilians, including a minor, and a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) in Libmanan, Camarines Sur on Thursday morning.

Maj. Gen. Alex Luna, commander of JTF Bicolandia, said in a statement on Friday the incident is a clear violation of the Anti-Terrorism Law and International Humanitarian Law.

"Gayunpaman, pinapaalalahanan po natin ang ating mga kababayan na maging mapagmatyag sa kanilang mga komunidad upang maiwasan natin ang anumang mapagpinsalang gawain ng teroristang NPA (Nevertheless, we are reminding the public to be vigilant in their communities to ensure that any destructive move by the NPA could be avoided)," Luna said.

Meanwhile, Police Regional Office 5 (Bicol) Director, Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, has ordered the Libmanan municipal police to conduct a thorough investigation of the explosion.

A police report identified the wounded victims as “Jeffrey”, a minor; Melvin Acabado, 57, a resident of Barangay Mambulo Nuevo, Libmanan; Ria Ables, 19, of Barangay Gugon, Camaligan; Joseph de Lima, 28, of Barangay Sagrada, Minalabac; and John Lee Basangit, 26, a Cafgu member from Barangay Paolbo, Canaman.

Estomo assured the public that they would monitor any suspicious activity in the nearby villages and conduct an in-depth investigation into the incident.

“Tayo po ay naglalatag na ng karagdagang pulis sa lugar para subaybayan ang mga kahinahinalang pagkilos sa lugar at para na rin maiwasan ang takot ng mga residente. Wala po kayong dapat ipag-alala sapagkat nakahanda ang pulisya upang kayo ay dipensahan (We have assigned additional police personnel in the area to monitor suspicious and unusual activities and allay the fears of the residents. You don't have to worry because our police force is ready to defend you)," he said.

Estomo also appealed to the public to give any information that could speed up their investigation.

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.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167620

NPA rebels ‘cowards’ for killing even children: NTF-ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): NPA rebels ‘cowards’ for killing even children: NTF-ELCAC (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

Catubig, Northern Samar (Google map)

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Friday condemned the recent "purposive" attack of the New People's Army (NPA) that killed two children in Barangay Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar on February 8.

In a statement, NTF-ELCAC spokesperson for Social Media Affairs and Sectoral Concerns, Presidential Communications Operations Office Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy, also extended her condolences to the families of Andre Mercado, 12, and Leandro Alivio, 13, who were killed when rebels belonging to the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), ambushed government troops.

She said the insurgents are “cowards who could only take on children” and deprive them of a safe place “where they can grow up, fulfill their destinies and be the strong pillars of our democracy”.

"Our hearts lie broken and we are awash in rage at the murder by the terrorist CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front). Terrorists opened fire and purposely targeted the children who were in the vicinity of a firefight with government troops who were in hot pursuit of them," Badoy said.

She narrated that instead of pointing their guns at the soldiers, "these violent extremists pointed their guns at the two boys and their other companions -- two of them minors as well -- and opened fire”.

Badoy said the violent attacks of communist groups "are not anymore about pure political differences, but simple terrorism."

"Our children have long been sacrificed at the altar of this inhumane and brutal ideology, communism, that has targeted the most helpless among us: the poorest of the poor, our children, our indigenous peoples. And they have held our country hostage," she added.

Badoy called on the public to stand and unite with the NTF-ELCAC in putting an end to communist insurgency.

She said children deserve to play in a safe and peaceful place.

"We, therefore, enjoin our people to stand united with the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and bring to an even fuller vigor the whole of nation approach that will put behind bars the leaders of this terrorist organization and finally put an end to this bloody and tragic chapter in our country’s history," Badoy said.

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 NDF has also 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/1167603

CPP/Ang Bayan: Makabayan Coalition declares support for Leni-Kiko tandem

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): Makabayan Coalition declares support for Leni-Kiko tandem

This article is available in Pilipino Bisaya

February 07, 2022

The Makabayan Coalition declared its support for the Leni Robredo-Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan presidential and vice-presidential tandem in the upcoming May 2022 elections. This was after the formal endorsement by 1Sambayan on January 28 of the senatorial run of Atty. Neri Colmenares of Makabayan.

1Sambayan was formed in March 2021 as a coalition of organizations and individuals opposing Rodrigo Duterte’s rule, and united with the aim of defeating the Duterte clique in the 2022 elections. The 1Sambayan supports the presidential candidacy of Vice Pres. Robredo.

The Makabayan’s endorsement of the Leni-Kiko tandem is an “important development in unifying all democratic forces to defeat Marcos and Duterte,” said Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes.

This symbolizes the united struggle of various groups and sectors to oppose attempts of the Marcoses and Duterte to return to Malacañang. Makabayan sees that Robredo has the highest chance to defeat the Marcos-Duterte tandem.
Common stand on issues

In a press release on January 29, the Makabayan Coalitions stated the grounds and conditions for endorsing the Leni-Kiko tandem. It said these include, “common stand on issues, track record of candidates, and the very important struggle to oppose defeat the Marcos-Duterte tandem.”

Among the common points is the plan to implement a scientific and humanitarian pandemic response, promotion of the rights of workers and fighting contractualization, and upholding the rights of farmers to land. Both parties have the same stand with regards to opposing human rights violations, and upholding the sovereignty of the country and its rights in West Philippine Sea.

It supports the plan of the tandem to review the cases of elderly and sick political prisoners and consider their release based on humanitarian grounds. Both parties support the call to renew the franchise of ABS-CBN. They have the same stand on defending the environment, national minorities, Filipino farmers and fisherfolk by reviewing and revising laws and policies on mining. There are similarities on their stand to review the closure and re-accredit Lumad schools. Robredo pledged to review the structure and practices of the NTF-Elcac in the face of Makabayan’s stance for its abolition.

Both parties agree to continue peace negotiations and hold accountable government officials involved in human rights violations, and allow the International Criminal Court to subject Duterte and his cohorts to trial. Robredo is pushing for electoral and political reforms to oppose abuse of power, promote people’s participation, and give them a voice.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2022/02/07/makabayan-coalition-declares-support-for-leni-kiko-tandem/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Justice for murdered revolutionaries

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): Justice for murdered revolutionaries

This article is available in Pilipino Bisaya

February 07, 2022

Pedro Codaste (Ka Gonyong), 72, was convalescing when he was abducted, tortured and killed by 4th ID soldiers. Since August 2021, he has been detached from a unit of the New People’s Army (NPA) and has been living in a house in Bukidnon to recover. He was abducted along with Ka Sandro between January 19 and January 21. The military made it appear that the two were killed during an encounter on January 21 in Barangay Halagay, Impasug-Ong, Bukidnon. No such encounter took place in the area on that day.

The killing of Ka Gonyong is the latest incident in the Duterte regime’s long list of crimes of murdering peace consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and revolutionary leaders.
Liquidation operation

Duterte ordered the military and police to carry out liquidation operations and “take no prisoners” against peace consultants and revolutionary leaders, starting 2020.

From 2019, at least 20 were brutallly killed by armed elements of the fascist regime. Victims include Julius Giron (Ka Nars), Jorge Madlos (Ka Oris), Menandro Villaneuva (Ka Bok), Antonio Cabanatan (Ka Manlimbasog), Randall Echanis, Eugenia Magpantay (Ka Fiel) and Agaton Topacio (Ka Boy), Florenda Yap (Ka Osang). Mario Caraig (Ka Jethro), Dennis Rodinas (Ka Mayen), Leonido Nabong (Ka Charo), Randy Malayao, Alvin Luque (Ka Joaquin), Reynaldo Bocala (Ka Minoy), Fr. Rustico Tan, Kerima Tariman (Ka Ella), Sandra Reyes (Ka Kaye) and Jhon Niebres Peñaranda (Ka Parts Bagani). Majority of these killings were perpetrated in 2020 and 2021.

All of the victims were killed in cold-blood. Many were abducted or illegally arrested and tortured before being killed. Others were shot during “raid operations” in houses where they were staying. Other victims of liquidation were captured in battle and rendered hors de combat before being executed.

Most of these crimes were brazenly carried out by uniform soldiers and policemen. To cover up the crime, state forces make it appear that the victims were killed in encounters. Military and police officers peddle lies that the victims fought back and died in battle. Some of the victims were killed by state agents. There has been no thorough investigation into any of these cases and cadavers have not been autopsied to determine the actual circumstances of the victims’ death. In many cases, the AFP and PNP deliberately denied family access to lawyers and information.

Among the 20 victims recorded by Ang Bayan, 12 were aged 60 years old and had no capacity to fight back. Others were recovering from illnesses.
Violation of CARHRIHL, JASIG and laws of war

The killing of NDFP peace consultants violates the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) which guarantees the rights and safety of individuals involved in peace negotiations. It also violates the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which ensures the rights and humane treatment of those not taking part in the armed conflict.

This includes protection of their “life, dignity, human rights, political beliefs and their moral and physical integrity.” Likewise, “all persons deprived of their liberty for reasons related to the armed conflict shall be treated humanely,” and “should be considered for safe release on humanitarian or other reasonable grounds.”

Laws on the armed conflict also uphold the rights of persons hors de combat. The Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols strictly prohibit “torture, assaults upon personal dignity” of persons hors de combat. In combat situations, the injured or sick should be spared and given medical aid by enemy forces who take custody of them.

The US-Duterte’s relentless campaign of killing revolutionaries is part of its perverted belief that it could crush the revolution by killing revolutionaries. Contrary to this aim, the spilling of blood of revolutionaries only strengthens the people’s determination to advance the struggle for justice and social change.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2022/02/07/justice-for-murdered-revolutionaries/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA mounts 23 offensives in 2 months

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): NPA mounts 23 offensives in 2 months

This article is available in Pilipino Bisaya

February 07, 2022

The New People’s Army (BHB) mounted a series of armed actions in Bicol, Samar and Northeastern Mindanao from December 2021 until the first week of February.

On February 1, the NPA-Catanduanes (Nerissa San Juan Command) ambushed an operating police unit at Sitio Tucao, Barangay J.M. Alberto, San Miguel. Three pistols and other military equipment were seized during the operation. Team leader Police Sr. MSgt. Johnny Tiston was killed in the ambush.

Three were killed and five were wounded in an ambush by the NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command) against AFP troops operating in Barangay Recodo, Cawayan on January 28. On January 23, two soldiers were wounded in an ambush by the NPA-East Camarines Sur (Tomas Pilapil Command) against a unit of the 83rd IB in Barangay Pinamihagan, Lagonoy.

Eight other offensives were mounted by the NPA in Pilar in Sorsogon, Esperanza in Masbate, and Daraga, Camalig and Legazpi City in Albay in December 2021.

In Agusan Del Norte, a soldier was wounded in a sniping operation mounted by the NPA against a detachment of the 65th IB in P-5, Barangay Tagungabangan, Remedios T. Romualdez on February 1. Another soldier was wounded in an NPA ambush against a unit of the 29th IB on January 25 at Sitio Maranahao, Barangay Puting Bato, Cabadbaran City. On January 15, the NPA-Agusan del Sur ambushed a CAFGU element in Barangay San Isidro, Sibagat.

In December 2021, units of the NPA-Agusan del Norte mounted five harassment operations against AFP elements operating in Barangay Puting Bato, Cabadbaran City. This was after the deployment of 29th IB and 65th IB soldiers aboard 23 vehicles in the barangay, from December 12 to December 23, 2021. A soldier was killed during one of the offensives.

In Northern Samar, three 20th IB and police elements were killed, and another was wounded during an NPA offensive in Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas on January 4. In Western Samar, two 46th IB elements were killed and another was wounded in an NPA offensive at Sitio Guinpondoan, Basey on January 12. The NPA also conducted harassment operations in Barangay Pelaon, Pinabacdao, Western Samar on January 25. Three 46th IB and CAFGU elements were killed.

Meanwhile, the people’s army meted revolutionary justice against Police Staff Sergeant Jorel D. Pajac in Barangay Calingnan, Catubig, Northern Samar on January 10. Pajac was a police intelligence officer involved in the establishment of intelligence networks in the barrios of Catubig and Las Navas.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2022/02/07/npa-mounts-23-offensives-in-2-months/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Military bombs community in Cagayan

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): Military bombs community in Cagayan

This article is available in Pilipino Bisaya

February 07, 2022

A bombing incident near a civilian community in Cagayan, as well as cases of illegal arrests and harassment against farmers and other civilians are among Ang Bayan’s reports in the past two weeks.

The AFP dropped 30 bombs in four rounds from 3 a.m. on January 29 in Barangay Sta. Clara, Gonzaga, Cagayan, even though there was no NPA unit in the area. Several hours of strafing followed. As a result, 66 families, majority of whom are Agta families, were forced to evacuate.

In Sorsogon, the 31st IB and police arrested Ruben Estremadura in Barangay Sta. Barbara, Bulusan on January 12. State forces also arrested Renaldo Gaan on January 28 in P4, Barangay Mahaba, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte. Both were accused of being members of the people’s army.

In Quezon, Gabriela-Southern Tagalog disclosed on January 21 information about “Belle,” a 15-year old girl raped by a soldier. Belle was abducted by soldiers of the 59th IB and was detained from June 27 to August 13, 2020. She was forced to admit that her mother, who is an activist fighting for the return of the coco levy funds to farmers, is a member of the NPA. The family of the victim decided to report the case to Gabriela due to relentless attacks by the AFP against them.

On January 28, armed goons of Gregorio Araneta III, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s brother-in-law, fired at members of peasant organizations conducting a fact-finding mission on the illegal demolition in Lupang Teresa, Barangay San Roque, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. The goons also seized the belongings and relief goods brought by the fact-finding team. Four houses and farmlands were demolished in the area on January 26.