Govt forces recover NPA firearms in Cagayan

From the Manila Times (Mar 3, 2022): Govt forces recover NPA firearms in Cagayan (By Leander C. Domingo)

CAMP MELCHOR F. DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela: Soldiers from the 77th Infantry Battalion (77IB) recovered several war materials from the New People's Army (NPA) after a firefight in Cagayan province, a military report released on Wednesday said.

Firearms recovered include an M16 rifle, two cal.45 pistols, two magazines of cal.45 pistol with ammunition, four long and two short magazines for M16, 52 rounds of ammunition for M16, one grenade MK2, three handheld radios, an Anakbayan flag, medical paraphernalia, personal belongings and subversive documents.

Recovered items were brought to the 77IB Headquarters for proper disposition.

The encounter between the military troops and the communust terrorist group (CTG) in Barangay Santa Margarita in Baggao town, Cagayan on Monday lasted for 20 minutes, where the enemy withdrew towards the south direction.

"Our troops are conducting focused military operations in the said place to secure the people against the threat of the CTGs when they were fired upon by an undetermined number of New People's Army," Lt. Col. Joeboy Kindipan, 77IB commander, said.

Kindipan identified Alias Bon as the leader of the NPA's East Front Committee, Komiteng Probinsya (KomProb) Cagayan, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley.

Brig. Gen. Steve Crespillo, 501st Infantry Brigade commander, said the CTG's loss of materials will weaken their forces.

"The CTGs are the same group we have been hunting since the incident in Gonzaga, Cagayan earlier this year," Crespillo said.

He said the military's continuous operations have forced the CTGs to be on the run and are now at a very low state of morale.

"We will always be vigilant. In no time, we will be dismantling the East Front Committee of the KomProb Cagayan," Crespillo added.

He said with the recovery of the Anakbayan flag shows that the group is related to the terrorist group.

"This solidifies the link between the Anakbayan organization with the CTG," Crespillo said.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/03/03/news/regions/govt-forces-recover-npa-firearms-in-cagayan/1834868

Gov’t urged to suspend military operations near MILF camp in Lanao

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 2, 2022): Gov’t urged to suspend military operations near MILF camp in Lanao (By: Cathrine Gonzales)

MANILA, Philippines — Presidential candidate Faisal Mangondato and his political party on Wednesday called on the government to suspend military operations near and within the 103rd camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Lanao.

Mangondato said in a statement released by Katipunan Party that his supporters from the area reported that bombings and cannon fire hit the 103rd MILF camp and caused casualties.

“MILF is now securing the camp and has warned that if [there will be] further breach of the agreement between the GRP (Government of the Republic of the Philippines)-MILF panel of mutual assurance of maintaining the peace, it will be forced to defend themselves,” Mangondato said.

Faisal Mangondato /Facebook

“To avoid armed hostilities from breaking out between the military and the MILF,” Mangondato recommended “the suspension of military operations and the conduct of talks on how the MILF and military can cooperate with each other in apprehending the destabilizers of the situation and disruptors of the peace in Lanao.”

The military earlier confirmed airstrike operations in Lanao del Sur against members of the Daulah Islamiyah and remnants of the Maute Group.

READ: 3 dead in Lanao del Sur military operations

“We are totally in control of the situation. We are doing this to preempt the Daulah Islamiyah from creating havoc in the communities and victimizing innocent civilians,” said Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., chief of the military’s Western Mindanao Command.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1562305/govt-urged-to-suspend-military-operations-near-milf-lanao-camp

Bangsamoro chief to military: It’s not terrorists’ haven but MILF territory

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 2, 2022): Bangsamoro chief to military: It’s not terrorists’ haven but MILF territory (By: Jeoffrey Maitem)

The head of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said Wednesday that the area being targeted by the military in their air assault in Maguing, Lanao del Sur, is not a “haven of terrorists” but a territory of the MILF.

Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Ahod “Murad” Ebrahim, chair of the MILF who signed a peace deal with the government that eventually led to the setting up of the expanded autonomous region in Mindanao, issued a statement saying that the position targeted by the government for aerial bombardment that started at 2 a.m. on Tuesday, March 2, was MILF territory, hence covered by the agreement between the government and the former rebel group.

Ebrahim, however, did not specify whether the three alleged members of the Islamic State-linked Daulah Islamiyah killed during the assault were MILF members.

“Our dear constituents in Maguing, Lanao del Sur have been troubled (by the) military airstrikes and most recently, the firefight that involved members of the military and forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front,” said Ebrahim in a statement. “As of this writing, the incident has claimed lives and has forced some of our constituents to flee their homes and find shelters in nearby areas,” he added.


Lanao del Sur map

Ebrahim’s statement came after the military launched bomb runs on Tuesday to support the ground infantry offensive against what the military claimed were 60 Daulah Islamiyah members under Abu Zacharia in the village of Ilalag, Maguing town. Military officials have accused the local IS leader, also known as Jer Mimbantas, of leading attacks against government positions in Lanao towns.

The Daulah Islamiyah is the local name of the Islamic State, whose membership comprises fighters from several Filipino militant factions, including the Maute Group fighting out of Lanao.

But Ebrahim said the encounter that happened was between their forces and the military.

“We are now closely working with our partners from the local government, the security forces, and ministers on the ground to assist our internally displaced communities and assure that they get home safely as soon as possible,” Ebrahim said.

“The Bangsamoro government is also making sure that the ongoing ceasefire between the MILF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will produce positive outcomes and provide permanent resolution to the conflict,” he added.

He did not say whether or not the MILF would file a protest over the military’s action and violations of ceasefire protocols but he said they were optimistic that there would no longer be any confrontation on the ground even as he urged to fully operationalize existing security mechanisms.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1562508/bangsamoro-chief-to-military-its-not-terrorists-haven-but-milf-territory

Troops hunt terrorists; MILF denounce 'attack' by AFP

From the Manila Times (Mar 3, 2022): Troops hunt terrorists; MILF denounce 'attack' by AFP (By Al Jacinto)

As military forces continue its offensive against pro-ISIS group Dawlah Islamiya (DI) and Maute Group (MG) in the town of Maguing in Lanao del Sur province, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said government troops were attacking its forces.

Lt. Col. Palawan Miondas, spokesman for the 103rd Infantry Brigade based in Marawi City, said soldiers were fighting terrorists blamed for the spate of bombings and attacks on innocent civilians in the region.

Miondas said three terrorists and a soldier were killed in the fighting that also wounded three infantrymen since Tuesday.

"At least three enemies were killed, but one of our brave soldiers also perished in the fighting and three more are wounded," Miondas told The Manila Times by phone from his headquarters.

He said the two groups of terrorists — one under Abu Zacharia of MG and the other from the Hassan Group — were behind the bombings of steel pylons of the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines on September 28 and November 30 last year and on February 15 which also wounded seven soldiers and two civilians.

"Likewise, they were also responsible in plotting IEDs in different areas in Lanao del Sur which resulted in consecutive deaths and injuries both from the government troops," Miondas said.

He said troops recovered dozens of weapons including three machine guns and improvised explosives from the fighting in the village of Ilalag.

"The operations are continuing in other villages where the terrorists have fled and our troops have just returned tonight from the clearing operation," he said. "We recovered at least 34 firearms, IEDs and ISIS flags and various documents."

Miondas said the military's Joint Task Group Haribon has given countless chances to the extremist groups to abandon their violent campaign and to surrender peacefully and "set aside their dreadful ideology and refrain from harming the Maranaos physically and mentally through spreading false religious doctrines that promote violence. These groups have merged forces and were planning to conduct training and plotting aggression activities during the month of Ramadan and the forthcoming elections."

But MILF chieftain Murad Ebrahim, who is also the governor of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, issued a statement late Wednesday and said the military clashed with his group.

"Over the past 24 hours, our dear constituents in Maguing, Lanao del Sur have been troubled from military airstrikes and most recently, a firefight incident that involved members of the military force and forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. As of writing, the incident has claimed several lives and has forced some of our constituents to flee their homes and find shelter in nearby areas," he said.

"We are closely working with our partners from the municipal government of Maguing. Security forces and ministries are already on the ground to assist our internally displaced communities and assure that they get home safely as soon as possible."

Ebrahim said the regional government is making sure that the ongoing ceasefire between the MILF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines will produce positive outcomes and provide permanent resolution to the conflict.

"We are optimistic that no further confrontation will take place," he said.

Miondas said that those killed in the fighting were members of the DI and the MG who were also involved in the deadly siege of Marawi in 2017 that lasted five months.

However, Miondas said terrorist lairs were also near an illegal camp of the MILF.

"We are sure that those terrorists are members of the Dawlah Islamiya," Miondas said.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/03/03/news/regions/troops-hunt-terrorists-milf-denounce-attack-by-afp/1834870

Dawlah Islamiyah death toll in Lanao operation rises to 3; slain soldier identified – military

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 2, 2022): Dawlah Islamiyah death toll in Lanao operation rises to 3; slain soldier identified – military (By Martin Sadongdong)

Another suspected terrorist has been killed in the continuing pursuit operation of the military against the Islamic State (IS)-inspired Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) in Maguing, Lanao del Sur on Wednesday, March 2.

Courtesy of Western Mindanao Command

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), said this brought the number of slain DI suspects to three, as two enemies were killed in the initial operation.

The troops scoured the clash site and recovered the bodies of the three suspects along with two caliber 50 machine guns; one caliber 30 machine gun; one M16 rifle, one AK47 rifle, one M14 rifle, and one Garand rifle.

They also found three rocket-propelled grenade launchers; 22 improvised explosive devices (IEDs); various ammunition and magazine clips; anti-personnel mines and other components; and enemy personal belongings.

Meanwhile, on the part of the troops, the death count remained one but the number of wounded personnel rose to four.

The lone fatality on the part of the government forces was identified as Private Clint Rey Armada, a member of the 55th Infantry Battalion.

Private Clint Rey Armada (Courtesy of 55th Infantry Battalion)

The 55th IB described Armada as the breadwinner of his family, and “known for his subtle personality.” He graduated Top 2 at the Candidate Soldier Course (CSC) Class 651-2020.

The identities of the casualties on the side of the enemy were not yet released by the military.

However, Rosario revealed that the target of the operation was one Hadji Satar with multiple aliases including Zakaria, Abu Zacariah, Omar, and Jer Mimbantas.

‘DI commander’

According to the military, Satar is the “leader” of all DI units operating in Lanao del Sur.

“He was involved in several encounters against the government forces in the municipalities of Sultan Dumalondong, Pagayawan, Madalum, Piagapo, and Balindong (all in Lanao del Sur),” Rosario said.

He said the military has been monitoring the activities of Satar’s unit and they found out that he actively operates in the tri-boundaries of Piagapo, Madalum, and Balindong.

Aside from this, Satar allegedly has multiple standing warrants of arrest for kidnapping, serious illegal detention, murder, and frustrated member although Rosario did not elaborate on the DI commander’s cases.

Intelligence information from the military revealed that Satar’s group was holed up in Brgy. Ilalag with some leaders of the Maute Group to “train new recruits and plan sabotage operations.”

Planned retaliatory attacks of the Dawlah Islamiyah have long been anticipated by the military especially after the killing of its “emir” or overall commander, Salahuddin Hassan, in an encounter in Talayan, Maguindanao on Oct. 29, 2021.


Not long later, the military found out that the group had a new emir who was identified as Asim Karimda alias Abu Azim, a trained fabricator of improvised explosive device (IED) and bomb maker. The military wasted no time in tracking Karimda until they killed him in an encounter in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Dec. 2, 2021.

After that, dozens of Dawlah Islamiyah members surrendered to government forces, an indicator that the group’s force has already been weakened, according to the military. In 2021, a total of 41 members of Dawlah Islamiyah yielded to the government.

Displaced

Meanwhile, the municipal government of Maguing in Lanao del Sur has set up evacuation centers in Barangay Madaya Poblacion for the displaced residents in Barangay Ilalag and in nearby Barangay Runggayan.

“Those who will be needing transportation during an evacuation may contact the MDRRMO [municipal disaster risk reduction and management office] at hotline 0909-726-3450,” the MDRRMO Maguing announced.

On social media, Bayan Muna partylist third nominee Amirah Lidasan condemned the military’s use of aerial bombs in their combat operation.

“Indiscriminate attacks in communities always affect civilians, in the form of forced displacement and being the casualties,” said Lidasan, who identifies herself as a Moro rights and peace advocate.

But the WestMinCom commander maintained that it was necessary for the military to use airstrikes since the alleged lair of the terrorist groups were filled with anti-personnel landmines that could kill the soldiers.

“To all the peace-loving citizens of Lanao del Sur, just remain calm and allow us to do our job. Your armed forces will not allow these terrorists to inflict harm on your respective communities. We will not stop until these lawless elements are completely crushed,” Rosario said.

“While we continue to operate, we call for prayers for the eternal repose of the soul of our fallen soldier and the speedy recovery of our wounded comrades,” he added.

https://mb.com.ph/2022/03/02/dawlah-islamiyah-death-toll-in-lanao-operation-rises-to-3-slain-soldier-identified-military/

Kalinaw News: Military Foils Terror Ploys of Daulah Islamiyah

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 2, 2022): Military Foils Terror Ploys of Daulah Islamiyah



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – March 2, 2022

Western Mindanao Command Chief Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. said operating troops recovered a total of 22 Improvised Explosive Devices during the pursuit operations following the close air support and combat operations conducted in Barangay Ilalag, Maguing, Lanao del Sur Tuesday morning, March 1, 2022. “Our troops averted and countered possible desperate attacks of Daulah Islamiyah not only to the Armed Forces but also to the innocent civilians,” the WestMinCom Commander said.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, Commander of Joint Task Force ZamPeLan commended the troops of the 51st Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Payapaya, 55th Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Villanueva, and other supporting units for this laudable accomplishment. “We dedicate this success to our brother-in-arm, Private Clint Rey Armada, who paid the ultimate sacrifice during the encounter yesterday morning,” Maj. Gen. Ponio, Jr. added.

Based on the latest report from the ground, the armed forces have successfully overrun the enemy stronghold which can accommodate more or less 100 individuals. Additional recoveries include ISIS flags and enemy personal belongings.

According to 103rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, the operation began in January when enemies were monitored to have relocated from the west side to the east side of Lake Lanao. “They perpetrated a number of bomb attacks in cellular sites here in Lanao in the latter part of 2021 and early this year. We received a report that the remaining members of Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group in Lanao provinces and Daulah Islamiyah-Hassan Group from Maguindanao are reorganizing in the target area hence the conduct of close air support followed by the combat operations,” Brig. Gen. Cuerpo II stated.

Brig. Gen. Cuerpo II further stated that the terror group led by Abu Zacariah, the new emir of ISIS in Southeast Asia, is planning to create havoc during the observance of Ramadan and the upcoming National and Local Elections. “Your Armed Forces here in Lanao del Sur continue to intensify our operations to eliminate the threats and achieve our ultimate goal of establishing lasting peace and progress for the people of Mindanao. Our operations are very specific and surgical,” the Brigade Commander emphasized.

Meanwhile, on the update regarding the status of the four wounded soldiers, they are all in stable condition and are currently recuperating at the 103rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters in Kampo Ranao, Marawi City.

“I truly commend and salute the diligence and commitment of our troops who are at the frontline risking their lives to prevent the terrorists from sowing terror,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. expressed.

[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/military-foils-terror-ploys-of-daulah-islamiyah/

Kalinaw News: Philippine Army kicks-off month-long 125th founding anniversary celebrations

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 2, 2022): Philippine Army kicks-off month-long 125th founding anniversary celebrations



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army will hold a month-long celebration of its 125th Founding Anniversary anchored on the theme “Philippine Army @ 125: Kapayapaan Para Sa Lahat” with events lined up from March 1 to March 22, 2022 at its headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila.

The command has planned anniversary activities that will highlight the accomplishments of the Army in the fulfillment of its mandate to serve the people and secure the land, showcase its capabilities and transformation efforts, and recognize the contributions of stakeholders in the attainment of the Army’s mission and vision.

Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., will have a meet-and-greet with local and foreign press today, March 2, 2022, to kick off the Army’s month-long celebration. While, other Army anniversary activities lined up with the Wreath-Laying Ceremony and Thanksgiving Mass, a bloodletting activity, a License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF) Caravan, a virtual PA-wide Updates and Technical Inspection & Education (TI&E) to Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) Corps, a Physical Mental Health Hygiene Awareness, a housing caravan, Army Recruitment and Reserve Component Caravan, a two-day PA Senior Leaders’ Conference, awarding of Multi-Sector Advisory Board and Army Governance Pathway, a Covid-19 Integrated Information System, and an Army 125th Novelty Shoot.

The Army will also conduct a Ceremonial Handover of Anniversary packages during the CGPA, VCPA, and CSPA’s simultaneous visits to 11th Infantry Division (ID), 8ID, and 5ID respectively on March 14.

Also, will launch its 125th Founding Anniversary “Coffee Table” book showcasing and depicting the historical narrative of the PA in the last 125 years with the working title: “Your Philippine Army: 125 Years of Selfless Service to the Motherland,” as well as, of its “Lessons Learned” book on March 15.

The Army will also hold a Peace Concert with the theme “United in Music. One for Peace.” to amplify a unifying voice for a national condemnation to ending the local communist armed conflict on March 18 at the Headquarters Philippine Army Grandstand, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila.

A Heritage Walk will also be conducted on March 21, wherein the CGPA’s First 100 Days of Servant Leadership will be reported as the Army Chief. A demonstration of the first PA Flight Medic Training Proficiency Demonstration, Static Capability Display of the Army Health Service Enhancement, and an Open House of the PA Museum are all slated on the said date.

The month-long celebration will be capped by three events on March 22, namely: PA-wide simultaneous flag-raising rite; PA Day Program Proper- awarding of the excellent personnel of the PA for the calendar year 2022, and awarding of Army’s Stakeholders in recognition of their exemplary contributions to the attainment of PA’s missions and thrusts.

“As we mark our esteemed organization’s 125th founding anniversary, I enjoin every Philippine Army officer, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resource to remain steadfast and committed in our mandate to secure lasting and inclusive peace for all,” Lt. Gen. Brawner said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/philippine-army-kicks-off-month-long-125th-founding-anniversary-celebrations/

Kalinaw News: Talaingod Rejects CPP-NPA-NDF

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 2, 2022): Talaingod Rejects CPP-NPA-NDF

MAWAB, DAVAO DE ORO – One of the most advanced Sub-Regional Committee of the New People’s Army in Southern Mindanao region now officially loses its entire mass bases as hundreds of its former underground mass organization (UGMO) members conducted the “Pagsalikway” or “Rejection” of the CPP-NPA-NDF during a ceremony held at the Balimba Hills Activity Center, Sitio JBL, Barangay Sto. Niño, Talaingod, Davao del Norte on Monday, February 28, 2022.

14 Communist NPA Terrorists (8 regulars and 6 MBs), four (4) Kilusang Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad (KRM), 168 Kilusang Rebolusyonaryo sa Barrio (KRB) members, two (2) former teachers, 13 students of the Salugpungan School, and seven (7) former Haran Bakwits declared “Pagsalikway” to the CPP-NPA-NDF.

The ceremony took place after the surrender of eight (8) Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU) remnants and two (2) NPA to the barrios, and recovery of ten (10) high-powered firearms.

With this, the 1003rd Infantry “Raptor” Brigade with its Operational Control (OPCON) units delivered the decisive finishing blow or “coup de grâce” to Communist Terrorist Group in its area of responsibility following the collapse of Sub-Regional Committee 5, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee last month.

It can be recalled that the Sub-Regional Committee 5 was the first to establish a Kilusang Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad (KRM) in the Philippines way back in 2004.

The military arm was previously composed of three (3) Guerilla Fronts (GFs) and one (1) Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU) supported by three (3) Pulang Bagani Commands (PBC).

Also, SRC 5 was able to create recruitment schools such as Salupongan Ta Tanu Igkanugon Learning Center (STTILC) and Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation, Inc. (MISFI). These schools were able to contribute to the national and international urban mass movement campaigns against the government.

However, on January 13, 2022, after the series of encounters in Talaingod and Kitao-tao, Bukidnon the SRC5 leadership with a total of 12 top personalities and 77 members neutralized with 51 firearms recovered, finally surrendered.

During the ceremony, Consolito P Yecla, Commander of 1003rd Infantry Brigade said, “You don’t have to worry, we will defend you and your ancestral domains. All we are asking is your cooperation and total rejection of the communist group.”

Meanwhile, Agila Division Commander MGen Nolasco A Mempin lauded the outstanding accomplishment of the 1003rd Brigade. He also expresses his gratitude to the former UGMO members who vowed to empower their communities and reject the ideology of the CPP-NPA-NDF and never again be exploited by the Communist Terrorist Group.

“I enjoin everyone to continuously support our effort in ending this five-decade-long insurgency. With the masses now awakened and enlightened by the truth, let us protect our children from being lured again into the evil plague of terrorism brought by the CPP-NPA-NDF.” MGen Mempin added.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/talaingod-rejects-cpp-npa-ndf/

Kalinaw News: Serbisyo Caravan delivers gov’t services to Aurora town

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 2, 2022): Serbisyo Caravan delivers gov’t services to Aurora town



BALER, Aurora-In pursuant to the goal of bringing government services closer to the people, the Serbisyo Caravan of the LGU is part of the whole-of-nation approach of the government has reached Barangay Matawe, Dingalan, Aurora on Monday, February 28, 2022.

The 91st IB under the leadership of Ltc Reandrew P Rubio provided area security and man-power assistance during the conduct of Serbisyo Caravan, Ground Breaking Ceremony and Signing of Memorandum of Agreement for the implementation of Housing project for IP community.

The activity was participated by 7th Signal Battalion Philippine Army, national government agencies (NGAs), non-government organizations (NGOs), and different head offices of local government unit (LGU) headed by Dingalan Mayor Shiewin H. Taay together with Aurora Representative Rommel Rico T. Angara, Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario, Colonel Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte-commander of 703rd Agila Brigade, Matawe Barangay Captan Danilo V. Buenaflor.

The army troopers offered services through free blood pressure test to 15 residents, haircut to 20 individuals while the 7th Signal Battalion, Army Signal Regiment offered free repair of appliances

He added that the troops conducted manpower assistance during the conduct of LGU’s “Tulong Lilong Project” that catered tree (3) households belonging to less-privileged families for the repair of their respective houses in the area of Barangay Matawe, Dingalan, Aurora.

During the activity, Rubio expressed his gratitude for the participation and support of the residents and gave assurance that the government is doing its utmost effort to be of service to the people.

DHSUD secretary Del Rosario sad that shelter is the basic needs and rights of every Filipino family.

“It is our mandate task to capacitate the poorest of the poor to be able to own a house of their own. No one should be left behind in our efforts to ensure that underprivileged and homeless citizens have an access to adequate, safe, secure, habitable, sustainable, resilient, and affordable home,” he said.

On the other hand, Dingalan Mayor Shierwin Taay lauded the efforts of the concerned agencies for the successful of the event.

Taay said that the MOA between LGU Dingalan, DSHUD Dept. Secretary Del Rosario and Cong Rommel Rico T. Angara was signed for the Implementation of Projects.

[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/serbisyo-caravan-delivers-govt-services-to-aurora-town/

Kalinaw News: Mga IED at mga baril natagpuan ng kasundaluhan ng 73IB, katulong ang mga former rebels

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 2, 2022): Mga IED at mga baril natagpuan ng kasundaluhan ng 73IB, katulong ang mga former rebels

Malita, Davao Occidental – Natagpuan ng kasundaluhan ng 73rd Infantry Battalion ang mga Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), dalawang baril ng Carbine at isang baril ng M16 sa So. Bagyang, Brgy Upper Suyan, Malapatan, Sarangani Province nitong ika-28 ng Pebrero 2022.

Nagkaroon ng rebelasyon ang mga dating rebelde na sina Marlyn Bago aka Che-Che at Remydio Sambilad aka Yoyong/Boyaks. Kasama ang kasundaluhan, natagpuan nila ang dalawang IED na may bigat na 60kls, dalawang Carbine at M16 na baril. Napag-alaman na ang 2 rebelde ay sumuko noong buwan ng Disyembre 2021.

Sa pahayag ni Lieutenant Colonel ANTONIO F QUIMADO JR INF (GSC) PA, kanyang ipinarating ang pasasalamat sa pagtulong ng dalawa sa mga kasundaluhan. “Hindi magiging posible ang tagumpay na aming nakamit kung hindi dahil sa tulong ng ating mga former rebels. Kanilang naramdaman ang pagmamalasakit ng gobyerno sa kanilang pagbabagong buhay kung kaya’t, naibahagi nila ang ganitong mga impormasyon”.

Kamakailan ay nagbahagi ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Davao Occidental ng tulong pinansyal bilang panimula sa kanilang ninanais na kabuhayan.

[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/mga-ied-at-mga-baril-natagpuan-ng-kasundaluhan-ng-73ib-katulong-ang-mga-former-rebels/

Kalinaw News: VCPA welcomes US Army Pacific Vice Commander

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 2, 2022): VCPA welcomes US Army Pacific Vice Commander



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army Vice Commander Maj. Gen. Henry M. Doyaoen welcomed US Army Pacific Deputy Commander Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane who rendered an office call at the Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on March 1, 2022.

Maj. Gen. Doyaoen and Maj. Gen McFarlane discussed the 10th Executive Steering Group Meeting slated on March 3, 2022. The two generals also tackled cooperation on capability development and training, particularly the upcoming Salaknib and Balikatan Exercises.

Salaknib, which means “shield” in Ilocano, is a yearly bilateral combined exercise that aims to enhance the defense readiness of Filipino and American troops by developing tactical interoperability and at the same time, showcase the US government’s resolve to fulfill its alliance obligations in the Indo-Pacific Region. Meanwhile, Balikatan (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) Exercise is a yearly combined and joint exercise between the Philippine and US militaries.

Maj. Gen. McFarlane is scheduled to visit the Army’s 7th Infantry Division, Artillery Regiment, and the 1st Brigade Combat Team. He is also set to grace the opening ceremony of Salaknib on March 5, 2022.

[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/vcpa-welcomes-us-army-pacific-vice-commander/

Kalinaw News: Army warns Business Sector on CTG’s extortion activities in Nueva Ecija

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 2, 2022): Army warns Business Sector on CTG’s extortion activities in Nueva Ecija



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA said that the 84th Infantry Battalion and Philippine National Police have warned the Business Sector in Nueva Ecija on the extortion activities of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) during the conduct of localized peace engagement at Science City of Muñoz on March 01, 2022.

According to MGen Costelo, the activity aims to make the Business Sector aware of the resource generation and extortion activities of the terrorist group and also to encourage them to report to the authorities the latter’s criminal activities.

“The security sector in Nueva Ecija is intensifying its information campaign on the evils brought by the CTG to all sectors. The Business Sector must be aware of this scheme of the CTG so we can put an end to it. The CTG had already a major setback in terms of people’s support, manpower, and resources. And by informing the vulnerable sector on CTG’s extortion, they will be more vigilant and will not tolerate this criminal activity,” said MGen Costelo.

During the activity, 1st Lieutenant Arnold A Quiñon, CMO Officer of 84IB presented the current security situation of the province.

“Aka May” a former rebel as the guest lecturer, discuss the CTGs Resource Generation Framework that emphasizes the extortion scheme of the Communist Terrorist Group in the province of Nueva Ecija.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Enrico Gil C Ileto, the Commanding Officer of the 84th Infantry (Victorious) Battalion, reiterated his call for the whole-of-nation approach in ending the insurgency.

He also emphasized the importance of information dissemination to all sectors of society on the lies, deception, and resource generation of the CTGs.

Part of the activity is the distribution of handbills and leaflets to the participants on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and AFP-PNP Recruitment Process.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-warns-business-sector-on-ctgs-extortion-activities-in-nueva-ecija/

Kalinaw News: Commander 7ID installs new 3IB Commanding Officer; Urges to work closely with Stormtroopers Division

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 2, 2022): Commander 7ID installs new 3IB Commanding Officer; Urges to work closely with Stormtroopers Division



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA, installed the new Commanding Officer of 3rd Infantry (REGARDLESS OF WHAT) Battalion, Philippine Army during a simple Change of Command Ceremony held at Headquarters 3IB, Brgy. Erenas, San Jorge, Western Samar on March 01, 2022.

Colonel Juvenal Mark Tayamen relinquishes his post to Lieutenant Colonel Isidro Vicente, the former Commanding Officer of 7th Civil-Military Operations, 7ID, PA.

The troops of the 3IB have been relocated to Eastern Visayas under the Operational Control of 8th Infantry Division to serve as a maneuver unit in the region to work with the Philippine National Police in ensuring peaceful and orderly polls, especially in hot spot areas.

MGen Costelo commended the accomplishments of ROW Troopers in the Davao Region for five years wherein they diligently worked to contain the communist terrorist threat and has sustained its momentum in its internal security operations to protect the peace.

“Napakaraming pagsubok ang inyong hinarap upang pangalagaan at mapanatili ang kapayapaan sa inyong Area of Operation. Ang mga pagsubok na naging gabay ninyo upang pagbutihan pa ang inyong pagsisilbi sa bayan,” said MGen Costelo.

He likewise reminded the newly installed Commanding Officer of 3IB the urgency of the task on hand and to work closely with the Stormtroopers; maximize the full support of the national and local government units, as well as the stakeholders and the community in its AO in the government’s campaign in putting an end to the communist insurgency.

“Your accomplishments on the peace and security that aims to establish a conflict-resilient community have put a mark on the minds and hearts of the people in every area of operation of the battalion. Now, you are facing a new challenge: the peace and order in the communities of your new AO here in Samar,” added MGen Costelo.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/commander-7id-installs-new-3ib-commanding-officer-urges-to-work-closely-with-stormtroopers-division/

Kalinaw News: 3 Local Terrorists Neutralized, Firearms Seized in Lanao del Sur Clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 1, 2022): 3 Local Terrorists Neutralized, Firearms Seized in Lanao del Sur Clash

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

Three local terrorist group members were killed in an encounter with the government forces in Maguing, Lanao del Sur Tuesday, March 1, 2022.

While conducting combat operation in Barangay Ilalag, Municipality of Maguing, at about 7:25 a.m., troops of the 51st and 55th Infantry Battalions encountered more or less 40 armed terrorists believed to be members of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group under Abu Zacariah. Firefight ensued which lasted for three hours after which enemies scampered in different directions, Western Mindanao Command Chief Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. said.

The heavy gunfight resulted in the deaths of three Daulah Islamiyah members and one soldier. Four other soldiers incurred wounds during the clash. The battle casualties were immediately extricated from the area for medical attention. Their identities are withheld pending notifications to their next of kin.

Troops then scoured the clash site and recovered three enemy cadavers; two cal. 50 machine guns; one cal. 30 machine gun; one M16, one AK47, one M14, and one Garand rifles; 3 rocket-propelled grenade launchers; 22 improvised explosive devices; 100 rounds of cal. 50 ammunition; one link for cal. 30; 150 rounds 7.62mm cartridge; 50 rounds of cal. 40 ammunition; one cal. 40 magazine; four M14 magazines; several anti-personnel mines and other components; and enemy personal belongings.

It can be recalled that around 2 a.m., same day, close air support was conducted targeting the stronghold of the Daulah Islamiyah under Abu Zacariah. This was followed by the combat operation which resulted in a bloody encounter.

Hadji Satar, a.k.a. Zakaria/Abu Zacariah/Omar/Jer Mimbantas is the top leader of the Daulah Islamiyah operating in Lanao del Sur. He was involved in several encounters against the government forces in the municipalities of Sultan Dumalondong, Pagayawan, Madalum, Piagapo, and Balindong, all of the mentioned province. He has a standing warrant of arrest for kidnapping, serious illegal detention, murder, and frustrated member. He actively operates in the tri-boundaries of Piagapo, Madalum, and Balindong.

“To all the peace-loving citizens of Lanao del Sur, just remain calm and allow us to do our job. Your armed forces will not allow these terrorists to inflict harm on your respective communities. We will not stop until these lawless elements are completely crushed,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. stated. “While we continue to operate, we call for prayers for the eternal repose of the soul of our fallen soldier and the speedy recovery of our wounded comrades”.

Hot pursuit operations are still being conducted as of press time.

[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/3-local-terrorists-neutralized-firearms-seized-in-lanao-del-sur-clash/

Kalinaw News: Leadership Fallout: The collapse of Guerrilla Front 3

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 1, 2022): Leadership Fallout: The collapse of Guerrilla Front 3



Maco, Davao de Oro – Guerrilla Front 3, Sub-Regional Committee 4, Southern Minadanao Regional Committee (GF3, SRC4, SMRC) collapsed as thirteen (13) personalities surrender to the authorities on February 26, 2022 at Purok 4, Brgy Kidawa, Laak, Davao de Oro.

Series of negotiations were conducted by combined elements of 60IB and 25IB under 1001st Infantry Brigade which led to the surrender of Renard Galos Catarata alias SM/Tata/Ariel/Serman, CO of Guerrilla Front 3 together with 12 others bringing along with them 12 assorted High-powered and 1 low-powered firearms, thousands of ammunitions of different caliber and subversive documents.

Relentless focused military operations were conducted within the boundaries of Laak Davao de Oro and Loreto, Agusan del Sur since October last year resulted to series of armed engagement against the CTGs which eventually cause their surrender.

According to alias SM, their food supplies and physical strength were exhausted due to the relentless military operations in the area. “Wala na mi padulngan, wala nay pagkaon. Wala napud masa nga muhatag” (We have nowhere to go, no food supplies coming in. The masses also refused to help us), said alias SM. He further said that their membership is experiencing low morale due to series of setbacks suffered by SMRC. “Low moral na akong mga tao kay bisan asa nga prente, puro kapildihan ang naangkon. Sige lang hilak akong mga sakop. Wala napud insakto nga lider nga nagdala sa SMRC, mao nagdesisyon mi nga mo-surrender nalang – kaysa mahurot mi kamatay” (The state of morale of our troops is very low due to setbacks suffered by the movement in every front. SMRC further experienced a leadership vacuum, and we have no one to seek guidance to, that’s why, we decided to surrender to avoid certain death), SM added.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Jesus P Durante III, Commander 1001st Brigade lauded the troops accomplishment. He is delighted that the government is gaining more grounds against the CTGs. “This is yet another milestone to our campaign in ridding of the 5-decade long deceptive and terroristic acts of the CTGs. I congratulate all the members of Team Pag-asa Brigade for painstakingly accomplishing the missions given to us. Afterall, this is not just our accomplishment but also of the Government and the peace-loving people we ought to serve”, Durante said in his address to the troops. He further welcomed the “rescued” personalities of Guerrilla Front 3. “We welcome you all as you decided to return to the folds of the law. You’ve made the best decision. As promised, you will be taken cared off. Moreover, your Army is always willing to help you as you start new lives together with your respective families.” Durante added.

Moreover, Commander 1001st Brigade renewed his call to the remaining CTGs. “We encourage again the remaining CTGs to replicate what Guerrilla Front 3 has done. Surrender now to avoid certain death like what happened to alias Kaye, Bok, Chad and others”, Durante said.

The rescued personnel immediately undergone medical check-up and swab test to ensure good condition of their physical health. Currently, they are still undergoing custodial debriefing and will be enrolled to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) – a government intervention to aid them as they reintegrate to the mainstream society.

[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/leadership-fallout-the-collapse-of-guerrilla-front-3/

Military stops offensives to allow Lanao del Sur evacuation

From Rappler (Mar 2, 2022): Military stops offensives to allow Lanao del Sur evacuation (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

Maguing Mayor Fahad Molok says 1,217 families evacuated to safer grounds in the town center, other villages, and municipalities as soon as the fighting stopped

The military momentarily stopped launching more offensives against the Maute-ISIS group in Lanao del Sur to allow trapped villagers to evacuate to safety.

Brigadier General Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commander of the Army 103rd Infantry Brigade, said the military ceasefire was implemented on Tuesday night, March 1, to allow around 100 families trapped in the fighting to evacuate to Barangay Madaya-Poblacion in Maguing town.

But Maguing’s mayor, Fahad Molok, said there were more evacuees than what the military had expected.

Molok said the town government logged 1,217 families who fled their homes and sought refuge in the town center, other villages, and towns as of Wednesday morning, March 2, as soon as the fighting stopped.

He said the local government has been taking care of some 50 people.

“We are expecting helping hands from the province and BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) today,” Molok told Rappler.

With Air Force FA-50 jets and the newly acquired A-29 Super Tucano planes providing air support, government troops launched fresh offensives against suspected Maute-ISIS militants in Maguing hours earlier on Tuesday.

But the municipal government of Maguing asked the Army for a unilateral ceasefire to allow its responders to evacuate residents trapped in Barangay Runggayan to the town center.

Cuerpo said three militants were killed as soldiers attacked the Maute-ISIS camp in the hinterland village of Ilalag in Maguing.

At least one soldier was killed while four others were wounded in the ensuing exchange of firepower.

Cuerpo said soldiers have so far found six firearms, including two caliber .50 machine guns, several hundred rounds of ammunition, and ISIS black flags.

He said they also found evidence that the Maute-ISIS militants led by Farahuding Hadji Satar alias Abu Bakar or Abu Zacaria have merged with remnants of a Dawlah Islamiya group from Maguindanao.

“We have pictures and documents to prove that they have merged into one group and came to this place to train,” Cuerpo said.

Dawlah Islamiya is the local name of the Islamic State (IS) whose membership comprises fighters from several Filipino militant factions, including the Maute Group fighting in Lanao del Sur.

In May 2017, Maute Group members and other pro-ISIS militants engaged government forces in a battle that lasted five months in predominantly Muslim Marawi City.

As many as 1,200 militants, troops, and civilians were killed before the military regained control of Marawi City. The battle also destroyed several villages in the city. –

https://www.rappler.com/nation/military-stops-offensives-allow-evacuation-lanao-del-sur-march-2022/

Air Force bombs suspected Maute-ISIS camps in Lanao Sur

From MindaNews (Mar 1, 2022): Air Force bombs suspected Maute-ISIS camps in Lanao Sur (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

Air Force FA50 fighter jets bombed suspected camps of the Maute-ISIS group as the military launched a brigade-sized operation in Maguing, Lanao del Sur before dawn Tuesday.

Maguing, Lanao del Sur. Map courtesy of Google

Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commanding general of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade based in Marawi City, said two Dawlah Islamiya members were killed while three soldiers were wounded in the initial fighting in the hinterlands of Maguing town Tuesday.

Cuerpo said soldiers have recovered two assault rifles and a caliber .30 machine gun from the militants.

The air raids, which took place between 2 and 3 a.m., woke up Marawi and Iligan City residents, who said they were surprised of the jets circling in the sky above them, reminiscent of the air raids during the Marawi siege in 2017.

A file photo of the PAF’s FA50 on a bombing sortie during the Marawi siege in June 2017. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

Meranaw civic leader Drieza Lindinding, convenor of the Moro Consensus Group, said many Marawi residents were worried because even though Maguing is almost 30 kilometers away, they felt the explosions in the wee hours of the morning.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/03/air-force-bombs-suspected-maute-isis-camps-in-lanao-sur/

Military temporarily stops operations vs Maute Group so trapped residents can flee

From MindaNews (Mar 2, 2022): Military temporarily stops operations vs Maute Group so trapped residents can flee (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

The military has momentarily stopped operations against the Maute-ISIS group in the municipality of Maguing in Lanao del Sur Tuesday night to allow trapped residents to evacuate to safety.

Army soldiers hunt for Maute-ISIS militants in Butig, Lanao del Sur in 2016. MindaNews file photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commander of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade based in Marawi City, said the ceasefire was implemented Tuesday night to allow 100 families trapped in the fighting to be evacuated to Barangay Madaya Poblacion in Maguing.

But Maguing Mayor Mahad Molok said there were more evacuees than they have expected.

He said the local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office registered 1,217 families who fled their homes and sought refuge in the town centers and houses of relatives as of Wednesday morning as soon as the fighting stopped.

Molok said the local government is taking care of 50 families who have taken shelter in the town center.

“We are expecting helping hands from the province and BARMM [Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao] today,” the mayor said Wednesday.

Supported by Air Force FA50 jets and the newly acquired A-29 Super Tucano planes, the Army launched operations against suspected Maute-ISIS militants in Maguing Tuesday.

The local government of Maguing asked the Army on Tuesday for a ceasefire to allow its responders to evacuate the residents trapped in Barangay Rungayan to the town poblacion.

Cuerpo said three militants were killed as Army troops attacked the suspected Maute-ISIS camp in hinterland Barangay Ilalag.

The government suffered one soldier killed in action while four others were wounded, he said.

Cuerpo said they have seized six firearms, including two crew-served caliber .50 machine guns, several hundred rounds of ammunition and several ISIS black flags.

He said they also found evidence that the Maute-ISIS militants led by Farahuding Hadji Satar alias Abu Bakar or Abu Zacaria have merged with the remnants of the Dawlah Islamiya group from Maguindanao.

“We have pictures and documents to prove that they have merged into one group and came to this place to train,” Cuerpo said.

Daulah Islamiyah is the local name of the Islamic State (IS), whose membership comprises fighters from several Filipino militant factions, including the Maute Group fighting out in Lanao del Sur.

In May 2017, Maute Group members and other pro-IS militants launched a siege of Marawi, triggering a battle with government forces that lasted five months.

As many as 1,200 militants, troops and civilians were killed before the military regained control of Marawi City.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/03/military-temporarily-stops-operations-vs-maute-group-so-trapped-residents-can-flee/

‘Booc not just teacher but also NPA recruiter’

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 1, 2022): ‘Booc not just teacher but also NPA recruiter’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the NDF as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.
http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/03/booc-not-just-teacher-but-also-npa.html

French court tells Malaysia to pay heirs of Sulu sultan $14bil

 From the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 2, 2022): French court tells Malaysia to pay heirs of Sulu sultan $14bil

Sultan Jamalul Kiram III reads the Mindanao Examiner regional newspaper in this file photo by Mark Navales, the paper's bureau chief in southern Philippines.

Descendants of the Sultan of Sulu have filed a case against Malaysia in a French court to claim over $32 billion in unpaid cession money as well as how much they believe they are owed for the oil and gas found in Sabah.

Members of the Royal Council of the Sulu Sultanate composed of Sultans Ibrahim Bahjin, Muedzul-Lail Tan Kiram, Mohammad Venizar Julkarnain Jainal Abirin, Muizuddin Jainal Abirin Bahjin and Phugdalun Kiram II, and Sulu Governor Dr Sakur Tan. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

The Sultanate of Sulu, founded in 1457, continues to lay claim to Sabah which it obtained from Brunei as a gift for helping put down a rebellion on Borneo Island. The British leased Sabah and transferred control over the territory to Malaysia after the end of World War II.

The Sulu Sultanate said it had merely leased North Borneo in 1878 to the British North Borneo Company for an annual payment of 5,000 Malayan dollars then, which was increased to 5,300 Malayan dollars in 1903. The Sultanate of Sulu is believed to exist as a sovereign nation for at least 442 years. It stretches from a part of the island of Mindanao in the east, to Sabah, in the west and south, and to Palawan, in the north. But North Borneo was annexed by Malaysia in 1963 following a referendum organised by the Cobbold Commission in 1962, the people of Sabah voted overwhelmingly to join Malaysia.

According to the Malaysian newspaper The Star, a French arbitration court has “instructed” the Malaysian government to pay $14.92bil (RM62.6bil) to the descendants of the last Sulu sultan. It reported that Arbitrator Gonzalo Stampa, who is from Spain, issued the award in a Paris court. The decision was based on the alleged violation of payments of RM5,300 cession money under the 1878 agreement signed by Sultan Jamal Al Alam, Baron de Overbeck and the British North Borneo Company’s Alfred Dent.

Malaysia stopped paying the Sultan Sulu’s heirs their annual RM5,300 cession money after over 200 armed followers of the Sultan of Sulu, Jamalul Kiram III led by his younger brother Agbimuddin Kiram landed in Lahad Datu town in Sabah in 2013 to press the ancestral claim on the oil-rich territory. Malaysia responded by sending troops and launching airstrikes before the stand-off ended. The conflict, which lasted more than a month, resulted in the deaths of 68 men from the Sulu sultanate, nine Malaysian armed services personnel and six civilians.

The Star also quoted a report by the Spanish news website La Información which said that Stampa had issued the award, ruling that the 1878 treaty was a commercial “international private lease agreement.” By not paying the cession money since 2013, Stampa said Malaysia had breached the agreement and would have three months to pay up failing which interest would be charged if the decision was not accepted.

On March 17, 2020, Kota Kinabalu High Court judge Datuk Martin Indang ruled that Malaysia was the proper venue to resolve disputes arising from the 1878 Deed of Cession and not the Spanish courts, which do not have authority nor jurisdiction over Malaysia. Justice Idang said this when deciding in favour of the Malaysian government in its suit against eight of the supposed descendants of the sultan of Sulu at the Kota Kinabalu High Court on March 17.

He said there was no binding agreement between the Government and the sultan’s heirs that compelled either party to also submit to arbitration in the event of a dispute.

The heirs’ claims were originally heard in Madrid until the Madrid High Court annulled Stampa’s appointment on grounds that Malaysia was not properly informed about the case and was thus “defenceless”. The case was later moved to the French capital.

Sultan Esmail Kiram III died in 2015 from renal failure at a hospital in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines. His body was brought to his hometown in Sulu’s Maimbung town and buried beside the tomb of his elder brother, Jamalul, whom he succeeded in 2013. The 75-year old sultan was one of the most influential members of the Royal Sultanate. And Agbimuddin also died early of cardiac arrest the same year in Tawi-Tawi province after escaping from Lahad Datu at the height of the Malaysian assault on his group.

Datu Phugdal Kiram, another brother, has reportedly assumed the throne, but the sultanate does not hold any power anymore in the modern-day Philippines, and is more of a title although Malaysia previously paid an annual rental for the island to whoever sits as the head of the Royal Sultanate. But there are dozens of sultans claiming to be the legitimate heir to the throne.

Two years ago, the Philippines said it would revive the “North Borneo Bureau” to exert its claim to the mineral-rich Sabah even if Malaysia insisted it was theirs. Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. told lawmakers that he has decided to revive the North Borneo Bureau to uphold the country's claim to Sabah.

Sulu Governor Sakur Tan previously said the cession money that Malaysia paid annually to the heirs of the Sultan of Sulu was insulting. “The amount is insulting anyway, you can never change history,” he told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.


A report by ABS-CBN also quoted Locsin as telling members of the House Appropriations Committee that: “While we fiercely guard our waters, we are not forgetting our terrestrial domain. In pursuit of securing what is ours, I have decided to reactivate the North Borneo Bureau.”

“After realizing that the rest of us have almost forgotten our Sabah claim, casually designating it as another country’s territory, well we have not forgotten. This is one of several international disagreements we can afford to conduct in our best interest without any risk of loss of any kind for our country,” he said, adding, “Our honor is involved here.”

Even Nur Misuari, chieftain of the Moro National Liberation Front, said that what Malaysia pays to the Sultanate of Sulu (and North Borneo), was but a pittance.


President Rodrigo Duterte’s former Spokesman and now Chief Legal Counsel, Salvador Panelo, said the government has not abandoned its claim on Sabah. Panelo reiterated Duterte’s position that he would pursue the Philippines’ claim to Sabah. “The position of the President, meron tayong claims. Eh totoo namang may claim tayo di ba? That has been a bone of contention ever since,” he said.

Sultan Ibrahim Bahjin-Shakirullah II said North Borneo is an inextricable part and parcel of the Sultanate of Sulu.

He said the Sultanate of Sulu asserts its position on the following: 1.) The Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo was never lawfully ceded to the Republic of the Philippines, and therefore remains a sovereign and independent state; 2.) The stipulation in the Deed of 1878 that the lessees of North Borneo shall administer the territory for “as long as they choose or desire to use them” places it in the category of a “perpetual lease”, effective for 100 years under international law. The contract of lease has therefore expired and possession over North Borneo should now be exercised by the Sultanate of Sulu, its rightful owner. And 3.) The heirs of Jamalul Kiram III do not have private ownership of Sabah. The territory continues to be owned by the Sultanate of Sulu, and not any private person.

In view of the history of the Sultanate and the circumstances surrounding the lease of Sabah, he said: “We desire the recognition of the independent statehood and sovereignty of the Islamic Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo.”

But Sultan Muedzul-Lail Tan Kiram, who claims to be the 35th Sultan of Sulu and North Borneo, said his grandfather, Sultan Mohammad Esmail Enang Kiram, who was recognized by the Philippine government in 1957, “transferred the rights of North Borneo under the government of President Diosdado Macapagal in 1962.”

Kiram said his father, Sultan Mohammad Mahakuttah Abdulla Kiram, and he, being the Crown Prince of Sulu, confirmed the transfer of the rights of North Borneo to the Philippine government and this was made official through Memorandum Order No. 427 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1974. “We aspire for an amicable solution to the predicament that affects us all in this region,” Kiram said, adding, “The Royal House of Sulu firmly believes that diplomacy will allow us to move forward as governments and other parties involved play a crucial role from alleviating our people from poverty.”

The two are only among the 5 recognized sultans in Sulu. The others are Sultans Mohammad Venizar Julkarnain Jainal Abirin, Muizuddin Jainal Abirin Bahjin and Phugdalun Kiram II. 

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/03/french-court-tells-malaysia-to-pay.html

Troops clash with terrorists, MILF says it was them

From the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 2, 2022): Troops clash with terrorists, MILF says it was them

As military forces continue its offensive against the pro-ISIS group Dawlah Islamiya and Maute Group in the town of Maguind in Lanao del Sur province, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front said the fighting was between government troops and its forces.

Acronym of the group’ full Arabic name is al-Dawla al-Islamiya fi al-Iraq wa al-Sham, translated as “Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (or the Levant).”

Army Lt. Col. Palawan Miondas, a spokesman for the 103rd Infantry Brigade based in Marawi City, said soldiers were fighting terrorists, blamed for the spate of bombings and attacks on innocent civilians.

Miondas said three terrorists and a soldier were killed in the fighting that also wounded three infantrymen since Tuesday. “At least three enemies were killed, but one of our brave soldiers also perished in the fighting and three more are wounded,” he told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner by phone from his headquarters.

He said the two groups of terrorists - one under Abu Zacharia of Maute Group and the other from the Hassan Group – were behind the bombings of steel pylons of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines in September 28 and November 30 last year, and the latest was in February 15 which also wounded seven soldiers and two civilians.

“Likewise, they were also responsible in plotting IEDs in different areas in Lanao del Sur which resulted in consecutive deaths and injuries both from the government troops,” Miondas said.

He said troops recovered dozens of terrorist weapons, including three machine guns, and improvised explosives from the fighting in the village of Ilalag. “The operations are continuing in other villages where the terrorists have fled, and our troops have just returned tonight from the clearing operation,” he said. “We recovered at least 34 firearms, IEDs and ISIS flags, and various documents.”

Miondas said the military’s Joint Task Group Haribon has given countless chances to the extremist groups to abandon their violent campaign and to surrender peacefully and “set aside their dreadful ideology and refrain from harming the Meranaos physically and mentally through spreading false religious doctrines that forwards violence. These groups have merged forces and were planning to conduct trainings and plotting aggression activities during the month of Ramadhan and the forthcoming elections.”

But MILF chieftain Murad Ebrahim, who is also the governor of the Bangsamoro autonomous region, issued a statement late Wednesday and said the military clashed with his group.

“Over the past 24 hours. Our dear constituents in Maguing, Lanao del Sur have been troubled, from military airstrikes, and most recently, firefight incident that involved members of the military force and forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. As of writing, the incident has claimed several lives. And has forced some of our constituents to flee their homes and find shelter, and nearby areas.”

“We are not closely working with our partners from the municipal government of Maguing, security forces and ministries are already on the ground to assist our internally displaced communities and assure that they get home safely as soon as possible,” he said.

Ebrahim said the regional government is making sure that the ongoing ceasefire between the MILF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines will produce positive outcomes and provide permanent resolution to the conflict. “We are optimistic that no further confrontation will take place,” he said.

Miondas maintained that those killed in the fighting were terrorists who were members of the Dawlah Islamya and the Maute Group which were also involved in the deadly siege of Marawi in May 23, 2017 that lasted five months.

He said the terrorist lairs were also near an illegal camp of the MILF. “We are sure that those terrorists are members of the Dawlah Islamiya,” Miondas said.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/03/troops-clash-with-terrorists-milf-says.html

Rebel-infested N. Samar village formally rejects NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2022): Rebel-infested N. Samar village formally rejects NPA (By Sarwell Meniano)

NO TO NPA. Residents in Northern Samar join a peace rally in Catubig town denouncing the New People's Army (NPA) in this Feb. 25, 2022 event. Residents of Roxas village in Catubig town, whose officials declared the communist terrorist group as persona non grata, joined the rally. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 20th Infantry Battalion)

An upland village in Catubig, Northern Samar affected by the New People’s Army's (NPA) five decades of armed struggle has declared the communist terrorist group persona non grata.

The remote Roxas village issued the declaration three weeks after two minors died and two others were wounded when the NPA ambushed patrolling soldiers in their area.

The children identified as Andre Mercado, 12, and Leandro Alivio, 13, were in the area to gather coconuts and were talking to government troops before the NPA’s indiscriminately fired on them.

The Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion (20th IB) on Tuesday said the village formally rejected the NPA through a resolution by village officials on February 28.

“For the past 53 years of fighting against the government, the Communist Party of the Philippine (CPP)-NPA- National Democratic Front (NDF) proved nothing but their true color along with their lies and deceptions; brought nothing but atrocities which for so long only threatens the security and development of Barangay Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar,” the 20th IB said in a statement.

The army said the communist terrorist group only sow fear and hatred in the remote community, capitalizing on the members of the local populace to support their underground activities such as extortion, killing of civilians, burning of properties, and recruitment of child warriors.

Roxas villagers were among the 700 protesters who joined the peace rally on Feb. 25, denouncing the NPA at the Catubig municipal auditorium.

Also present were residents of the towns of Catubig, Las Navas, Lope de Vega, San Isidro, and Mondragon in Northern Samar.

The event highlighted the condemnation of various International Humanitarian Law (IHL) violations of the CPP-NPA-NDF such as burning of civilian properties, willful killing, and intentionally directing attacks against civilians, among others.

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 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/1168762

Military airstrike hits lair of DI terrorists in Lanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2022): Military airstrike hits lair of DI terrorists in Lanao Sur (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Military officials said Tuesday their troops are relentlessly pursuing members of the Dawlah Islamiya - Maute Group (DI-MG) in the periphery of Maguing, Lanao del Sur after the reported massing up of extremists in the area.

The pursuit operation came after combat aircraft bombarded a lair of the Islamic State-inspired DI-MG terrorists led by Abu Zacharia, in Barangay Ilalag of Maguing town at about 2 a.m. on Tuesday.

Maj. Andrew Linao, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, disclosed that the combat aircraft unleashed a dozen bombs, sending the terrorists scampering in various directions as state ground forces pursued them.

“The offensive was launched after it was confirmed that Abu Zacharia’s group is massing up forces in Barangay Ilalag,” Linao said.

The 103rd Infantry Brigade (103IBde), headed by Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, said in a statement that the joint military and police law enforcement operation was against the DI-MG in the hinterlands of Maguing.

“Upon reaching on site of the target, close air support was given to protect troops from enemy anti-personnel mines. Troops are still in the area engaging the terrorists in running gun battles,” the 103IBde said in a statement posted on its Facebook page on Tuesday.

It assured locals who were alarmed by the close air support early this morning that the operation was necessary to keep the municipality and the rest of Lanao del Sur safe and free from the threat of terrorism.

This came about as Capt. Mary Jephte Mañebog, 1st Infantry Division information officer, said two DI-MG members were killed in a gun battle that broke out in Barangay Ilalag, Maguing at about 7:50 a.m. on Tuesday.

Mañebog disclosed that a soldier was also killed while another was wounded, based on the report from the 103IBde.

She said the gun battle ensued as the advancing ground troops caught up with about 40 fleeing DI-MG terrorists in Barangay Ilalag.

Meanwhile, Linao allayed the fears of residents of Barangay Ilalag, saying the offensive has an identified target.

“There is a specified target and it is far from the community,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168756

Rebel wanted for attempted murder falls in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2022): Rebel wanted for attempted murder falls in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)

Photo grabbed from PRO-13 Facebook Page

The Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) on Tuesday said it has arrested a New People’s Army (NPA) rebel with a standing arrest warrant for two counts of attempted murder.

In a statement, PRO-13 Director, Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr., identified the arrested suspect as Roel Villatora Mangadlao, alias Ruel, 48, a member of the NPA Guerrilla Front 19 (GF-19), North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

“Mangadlao was arrested by the joint personnel of Lianga police station and 1303rd Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion - 13 on Monday in Purok 6, Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur,” Caramat said.

The suspect has arrest warrants issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 28 in Lianga town in February 2020.

“(The) investigation disclosed that on February 19, 2020, Philippine Army troopers who were conducting main security route clearing along the Simowao-Neptune Barangay road in Lianga town were fired upon by suspect Mangadlao and his group under GF-19, NEMRC. Two Army personnel were wounded during the attack,” Caramat said.

He lauded the personnel of Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office for the apprehension of Mangadlao.

Based on records from the Regional Operations Division of PRO-13, a total of 17 NPA rebels have been arrested in February this year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1168784

Viscom backs designation of 16 CPP-link groups as ‘terrorists’

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1, 2022): Viscom backs designation of 16 CPP-link groups as ‘terrorists’ (By John Rey Saavedra)

Visayas Command commander Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz. (Photo courtesy of ThePhilippine Army Transformation Roadmap FB)

The Visayas Command (Viscom) on Tuesday said it strongly supports the resolution of the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) designating 16 organizations with links to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) as “terrorists”.

Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz, Viscom commander, said the military in the Visayas welcomes ATC Resolution No. 28 which was issued on January 26 but made public on February 22, identifying the groups allied with the CPP’s New People’s Army-National Democratic Front.

The resolution was signed by the National Security Adviser and ATC vice chair, Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr.

“This development is a major step towards the elimination of communist terrorist groups, as it will empower the government force to take steps under the rule of law, which will best enhance our efforts to protect benefit our people here in the region,” Dauz said in a statement written in Cebuano.

The resolution declared as terrorist groups the 16 underground organizations of the CPP-NPA-NDF identified by its founding chair, Jose Maria ”Joma” Sison, as their allies in an April 24, 2021 video released on the occasion of NDF’s 48th anniversary.

The ATC identified these groups as Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions (RCTU), Katipunan ng mga Samahang Manggagawa (KASAMA) o Federation of Labor Organizations, and Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (PKM) or National Association of Peasants.

Included in the said resolution are Independent Movement of New Women (MAKIBAKA) or Patriotic Movement of New Women, Kabataang Makabayan (KM) or Patriotic Youth, Katipunan ng Gurong Makabayan (KAGUMA) or Association of Patriotic Teachers, Makabayang Samahang Pangkalusugan (MASAPA) or Patriotic Health Association, League of Science for the People (LAB) or League of Scientists for the People, and Lupon ng mga Manananggol para sa Bayan (LUMABAN) or Committee of Lawyers for the People.

The other groups designated as “terrorists” are Artista at Manunulat ng Sambayanan (ARMAS) or Artista and Writers for the People, Makabayang Kawaning Pilipino (MKP) or Patriotic Government Employees, Revolutionary Organization of Overseas Filipinos and their Families (COMPATRIOTS), Christians for National Liberation (CNL), Cordillera People's Democratic Front (CPDF), Moro Resistance Liberation Organization (MRLO), and the Revolutionary Organization of Lumads (ROL).

In addition to Sison’s video message, the documented evidence and testimonies of former rebels provided the ATC with sufficient basis in passing the resolution.

Likewise, the former members of these organizations, particularly the RCTU, KM, and the MAKIBAKA allegedly expressed knowledge of and direct involvement in the illegal activities of the said organizations.

The Viscom statement said illegal activities include inciting, organizing, mobilizing the masses, creating financial, material, and technical support for the armed operations of the communist terrorist group, as well as recruitment and training for cadres and sectoral mass organizations under the umbrella of the NDF.

Under the Anti-Terrorism Law, the ATC has the authority to classify individuals or groups of individuals, organizations, and associations as terrorists even without a court hearing.

With the declaration as the basis, the Anti-Money Laundering Council may take measures to prevent the misappropriation of the finances and other assets of these individuals, organizations, and associations classified as terrorists.

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 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/1168799