Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 03/07/22

Monday, March 7, 2022

PH, US troops start 20-day annual ‘Salaknib’ exercise

From the Manila Standard (Mar 7, 2022): PH, US troops start 20-day annual ‘Salaknib’ exercise

The Philippine Army (PA) and the US Army Pacific (USARPAC) formally started the 20-day “Salaknib” Exercise that aims to deepen interoperability between the two armies at the 1st Brigade Combat Team (BCT) headquarters in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on March 5.

“Salaknib demonstrates the long-standing partnership between PA and USARPAC,” USARPAC deputy chief Maj. Gen. Matthew McFarlane, the guest of honor and speaker said in his speech, which was sent to reporters on Sunday.

“Salaknib,” which means “shield” in Ilocano, is an annual bilateral combined exercise that aims to enhance the defense readiness of Filipino and American troops by developing tactical interoperability.

The 2022 edition of “Salaknib” focuses on the capability development of the 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT), the PA’s primary combined arms, and rapid deployment unit.

US soldiers and Philippine Army troops from 1BCT, Training and Doctrine Command, Army Support Command, 51st Engineering Brigade, Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Army Artillery Regiment, Army Aviation Regiment, Armor Division, Light Reaction Regiment, Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), and First Scout Ranger Regiment, will be participating in the 20-day exercise.

“Salaknib” also showcases the US government’s resolve to fulfill its alliance obligations in the region.

Last January 21, the PA and USARPAC teams completed the three-day inspection of the proposed training sites in Central Luzon to ensure availability, suitability, and training-worthiness.

PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. earlier commended the “Salaknib” planning team for carrying out a thorough planning process aimed at ensuring the success of the bilateral exercise even amidst the pandemic.

“The conduct of combined training exercises between the Philippine and US armies will capacitate us in effectively dealing with the fast-changing security landscape of the Indo-Pacific region,” he said.

https://manilastandard.net/news/314212617/ph-us-troops-start-20-day-annual-salaknib-exercise.html

Pilipinas at US Balikatan ground breaking ceremony, matagumpay na naisagawa

From the Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) Website (Mar 7, 2022): Pilipinas at US Balikatan ground breaking ceremony, matagumpay na naisagawa (Philippines and US Balikatan ground breaking ceremony, held successfully) (By IFM Cauayan)

Cauayan City, Isabela-Matagumpay na naisagawa ang Balikatan ground breaking Ceremony ngayong araw sa San Francisco Elementary School, San Francisco Alicia, Isabela na pinangunahan ng Philippine Army at ng US military .

Sanaturang programa ay nagbigay ng kanyang mensahe si Barangay Roberto Masi, at ang pinuno ng paaralan na si Binibining Jessica Dela Cruz, at kanilang pinasalamatan ang mga matataas na pinuno ng kasundaluhan ng Pilipinas at ang bansang Amerika.

Dumalo din ang mga Pinunong lokal na pinamunuan ni Mayor Joel Amos Alejandro.

Masaya naman ang mga magulang ng mga batang mag-aaral, dahil sa kanilang lugar napili na pinagtayuan ng bagong silid aralan na itoy laking tulong sa kanila dahil karamihan sa kanilang mga school building ay luma na.

https://rmn.ph/pilipinas-at-us-balikatan-ground-breaking-ceremony-matagumpay-na-naisagawa/

PH, US troops build schools ahead of 'Balikatan'

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 8, 2022): PH, US troops build schools ahead of 'Balikatan' (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of AFP

Filipino and American soldiers started the construction of buildings in four schools in Luzon as part of this year’s "Balikatan" exercises.

In a statement Tuesday, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, Col. Jorry Baclor, said groundbreaking ceremonies were held on Monday at Masi Elementary School in Rizal, Cagayan; Taggat Sur Elementary School and Pinas Elementary School, both in Claveria, Cagayan; and San Francisco Elementary School in Alicia, Isabela.

"The activity is undertaken by engineering units and personnel from both the AFP and US Armed Forces to improve the infrastructure of local communities," Baclor said.

He added that the construction of buildings in these schools is part of the Engineering Civic Action Program (ENCAP) which is being conducted before the official opening of the "Balikatan" exercises on March 28.

"Balikatan" is an annual military exercise between the AFP and the US Armed Forces that is focused on strengthening the interoperability of both forces for mutual defense, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response.

Aside from the ENCAP, both forces will also participate in the joint training, live-fire exercise, information exchange, and other exercises from March 28 to April 8.

Centino visits PAF HQ

As this developed, AFP chief Gen. Andres C. Centino on Tuesday made his first official visit to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) headquarters in Pasay City.

Centino was rendered military honors at the Villamor Air Base, where he was received by PAF chief Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony Canlas. He was also conferred with the Honorary Expert Missile System Officer Badge.

During his visit, Centino met with other PAF general officers in a command briefing where he was presented with modernization updates and priority projects of the Air Force.

These include the acquisition of mobility support, integrated air defense, integrated command and control, communications, and computer systems.

“We are improving as an Air Force and as an Armed Forces. I am very much optimistic and upbeat on how the future looks. It is really jointness that is the key to becoming a stronger military force,” said Centino.

On the same day, Centino officially opened the PAF-Philippine Army Interoperability Exercise 01-2022 at the PAF Gymnasium.

“It is a must for us to ensure jointness and interoperability within our Major Services. We can always have a strong Army, Air Force, and Navy, but we can have a stronger Armed Forces if we have jointness in our operations. We just need to coordinate, cooperate and plan together to better perform our mission as one Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said.

The exercise is the first in its kind that seeks to improve the Air Force and Army’s interoperability during joint operations through a series of drills and subject matter expert exchanges.

Centino also met with PAF personnel in a traditional talk to troops.

He took the opportunity to appreciate their humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts (HADR) after the devastation of Typhoon Odette.

He reminded the troops to remain professional and nonpartisan as the national and local elections approach.

“Whether you like it or not, there will be a new administration, but this is no cause for worry. What matters most is we have very professional armed forces; a professional group of soldiers, airmen, sailors, and marines who continue to work in a disciplined and professional manner whoever is leading our country,” Centino said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169268

EASTMINCOM: Army Seizes Firearms in Clash with CTGs in Bukidnon

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 7, 2022): Army Seizes Firearms in Clash with CTGs in Bukidnon

8th Infantry "Dependable" Battalion, Philippine Army

Army Seizes Firearms in Clash with CTGs in Bukidnon

IMPASUGONG, BUKIDNON – Government troops have seized firearms and personal belongings of the CTGs following an encounter on Thursday 03 March 2022 in the hinterlands of Sitio Kilap-agan, Barangay Can-ayan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

The troops from 8th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army captured one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) magazine, one (1) ASUS laptop, live ammunitions of M16 rifles, three (3) anti-personnel landmines which are prohibited under the Mine Ban Convention, and subversive documents among other war paraphernalia. Moreover, the troops apprehended a number of personalities at the encounter site found to be aiding the terrorist group and who are currently detained at Malaybalay City Police Station.

The captured personalities to include Ellorin Goaynon, a well-known local CTG supporter who surrendered in 2020 but was reported recently to have been aiding again the NPAs and even allowing his farm land to be used by the CTGs as staging area prior conducting extortion activities in the community, four (4) other personalities were also captured, namely; Reyboy Goaynon, Andrew Mohol, Jovani Likayan, and Michael Siraga.

Based on the official report, concerned citizens informed the soldiers of sightings of the CTGs roaming around the village asking for food and extorting money, prompting them to respond and resulting to an encounter that lasted for about 30 minutes.

Both sides reported no casualties; however, bloodstains were found at the enemy withdrawal route as the government troops conducted pursuit operations.

8IB Commander Lt. Col. Anthony A Bacus thanked the residents and the local officials for trusting the government soldiers by reporting sightings of the terrorists who have sown nothing but fear in the hearts of the citizens.

“Kami ay nagpasalamat sa nagpakabanang katawhan ug local na opisyales tungod ang ilang gihatag na taho miresulta sa malampuson natong pagpakgang sa daotang gimbuhaton sa mga terroristang NPA”, he said. (We are thankful to the concerned citizens and local officials because, through their reports, we were able to prevent the atrocities and potential harm the CNTs might inflict on our people).

On the other hand, he appealed to some citizens who are still helping the movement of these terrorist group by serving as couriers, advance post, and search elements among other activities in their aid.
“Ayaw ninyo tugoti nga magamit ug mailad pa kamo niining grupoha nga terorista nga walay laing gidala gawas sa walay pulos nga gubat ug pagpamatay nga padayong nakabalda sa mga paningkamot sa katawhan ug gobyerno aron madala ang tinuod nga kalinaw ug kalamboan sa probinsya sa Bukidnon”, he further said. (Do not allow yourselves to be used and fooled by this terrorist group who has brought nothing but a senseless war and killings that is continuously disrupting the efforts of the people and government to bring genuine peace and development in the province of Bukidnon).

Brigadier General Ferdinand T. Barandaon, Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade called on the remaining members of the CPP-NPA-NDF to surrender to the government and start a new life.
“Mga kaigsoonan nga naglihok ug nagpabilin sa armadong pakigbisog kontra sa gobyerno, musamot ang inyo kalisod ug kagutom kong magpabilin ang inyong mali nga pakigbisog, mao nga ang nagkahiusang ahensya sa gobyerno ginabuhat ang tanan aron maundang na ang insurhensiya. Busa nanawagan ko isip inyong higala nga kanaog namo samtang naa pay igong panahon aron magbag-o ug mubalik nganhi sa sabakan sa gobyerno. Duol na kamo aron matabangan mo sa labing daling panahon,” Brig. Gen. Barandon added.” (My brothers and sisters who are still in the armed struggle against the government, you will continue to suffer hardship and hunger while you remain in the wrong ideology of armed struggle, that is why the government agencies are doing their best to stop the insurgency. Do not miss the opportunity while you have the chance to change and surrender. Do not hesitate to approach our government so that you will get aid as soon as possible).

On the other point of view, Lt. Col. Bacus urged the remaining NPA members to take advantage of the government programs, particularly the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
“Kami magpadayun nga magpahigayon sa among operasyon alang sa kalinaw ug kalambuan sa nasud maong ang panawagan namo sa nahibilin pang mga CNT nga mu-surrender na ug pahimuslan ang Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) alang sa ilang kinabuhing malinawon,” Bacus ended. (We will continue conducting our operations in our bid to attain lasting peace and sustainable development here in our area of responsibility, which is why we urge the remaining CNTs to surrender and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for a peaceful life).

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EASTMINCOM: Salugpungan students-turned-NPA, other personalities yield as EastMinCom pursue CTG remnants

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 7, 2022): Salugpungan students-turned-NPA, other personalities yield as EastMinCom pursue CTG remnants

AFP Radio DWDD

Salugpungan students-turned-NPA, other personalities yield as EastMinCom pursue CTG remnants

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – More Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members who are former students of the so-called “lumad schools” and its Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) members continue to surface as the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), under the supervision of LtGen. Greg T. Almerol, intensifies its campaign to pursue the remnants of dismantled CTG units in Eastern Mindanao and finally end the local communist armed conflict.

This came after more than 200 remaining members and followers of the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC5), Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) surrendered en masse to the combined troops of 1003rd Brigade and Davao del Norte Provincial Police Office during the conduct of “Community Surrender and Declaration of Pasalikway Ceremony against the CTG" held at the Balimba Hills, Sitio JBL, Brgy. Sto Niño, Talaingod, Davao del Norte on February 28, 2022.

The surrenderees are composed of the 13 former students of Salugpungan Ta'Tatanu Igkanugon Learning Center Inc. (STTILCI) who became CTG members, two former teachers of the same school, eight regular members of SRGU, SRC5, SMRC, six Milisyang Bayan members, four Komiteng Rebolusyunaryo sa Munisipalidad (KRM) personalities, 168 Komiteng Rebolusyunaryo sa Barangay (KRB), and seven UCCP Haran "bakwit."

They also brought various high-powered firearms and war material composed of an RPG Rocket Launcher, a Caliber .50 Barret Sniper, two M653 Rifles, four M16 Rifles, a Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR), a Carbine Rifle, two Anti-Personnel Mines (APM), assorted magazines, various ammunitions, two Bandoliers, four containers of rice, and Medical paraphernalia, during the ceremony.

The yielders revealed that the sustained focus military operations that led to the collapse of the SRC5, added by the lost support of the masses to the armed movement because of the series of developments made by the government in their former mass bases, convinced them to reject the failed rebellion.

Prior to the mass surrender, it can be recalled that former high-ranking members of the SRC5, SMRC led by Ida Marie Montero alias Mandy who yielded to the 1003rd Brigade on January 13 this year, encouraged her former comrades to return to the folds of the law and support the government.

"The cooperation of alias Mandy and other former rebels who previously encouraged their comrades to turn in, as well as provided our troops with valuable information on their whereabouts, allowed us to locate all remnants of SCR5 and finally convinced them to surrender," LtGen. Almerol said.

"Most significant of this is the surrender of former Salugpungan students and teachers, which gave us another proof that, indeed, there is an underground activity in these fake "lumad schools." The CTG lured our IP children to the terrorist movement, whose only desire is to be educated but were instead radicalized by their teachers," LtGen. Almerol added.

It can be recalled that EastMinCom troops neutralized Chad Errol Booc alias Chad and Jojarain Alce Nguho II alias Rain, together with three other CTG personalities during the series of armed encounters in Brgy. Andap, New Bataan, Davao de Oro on February 24, 2022.

Both personalities were also pointed out by their former students and comrades as volunteer teachers and recruiters of CTG-linked schools such as Salugpungan, Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural Development (ALCADEV), and Community Technical College of Southern Mindanao (CTCSM), who eventually joined the armed struggle as part of their "revolutionary integration."

Meanwhile, LtGen. Almerol lauded the combined efforts of the troops, PNP, former rebels, and the Local Government Units for the successful clearing of the remnants of SRC5.

"This is yet another testament of the effectiveness of President Rodrigo Duterte's Executive Order 70 which institutionalized the Whole-of-Nation Approach. The SRC5, which is considered the most active SRC unit of the CTG in the country, is now demolished. We owe this not only to our security forces but also to our civilian counterparts and local leaders who equally contributed finally ending the local communist armed conflict," the EastMinCom Commander said.

He also called upon the remaining members of the terrorist groups in Eastern Mindanao who are still hesitant to surrender "due to fears ingrained by their leaders."

"Your former comrades who are now at the side of our government are proof that they are now living with freedom after they chose to yield. It is high time for you to follow in their footsteps, and not those who chose to die for a failed cause. The benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and your families are waiting on your return," LtGen. Almerol emphasized.

(Source: EASTERN MINDANAO COMMAND, AFP )

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EASTMINCOM: What was Chad Booc doing in New Bataan?

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 7, 2022): What was Chad Booc doing in New Bataan?

Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines

UNMASKING | Joy James 'Ka Amihan' Saguino's notes on the death of Chad Booc, who allegedly conducting research work in Davao de Oro when an encounter between the NPA rebels and military troops occured.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

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WESTMINCOM: Exchanging Rifles for Pencils: Former combatants to undergo literacy training through GPH-MILF partnership

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 7, 2022): Exchanging Rifles for Pencils: Former combatants to undergo literacy training through GPH-MILF partnership

4th Civil Relations Group

Exchanging Rifles for Pencils: Former combatants to undergo literacy training through GPH-MILF partnership

After carrying rifles for decades, thousands of grizzled combatants will soon be channeling their energies in crafting essays and learning multiplication tables.

This, after the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity and Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) launched the Alternative Learning System (ALS) Program dubbed as “Functional Literacy for the Decommissioned Combatants in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao” on Thursday, February 24, in this city.

The program, which aims to provide functional literacy training to 5,512 former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants, will cover reading, writing, and numeracy skills,
In his remarks during the program’s launch, MBHTE Director-General Abdullah Salik Jr. said the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the MILF leadership are working closely to implement programs that seek to uplift the lives of the former combatants and their families.

Salik stressed that no one should be left behind in the Bangsamoro people’s quest in achieving long-lasting peace and sustainable development.

“Ang tamis ng tagumpay ay walang saysay kung may mga taong mapag-iiwanan, lalo na ang mga taong naging bahagi ng mapait na nakaraan. At kayo ‘yon, mga kapatid naming Mujahidin,” he said.

“Kayo ang nagbibigay inspirasyon sa ating mga lider na isulong kung ano ang nararapat. Maging ito man ay programang pangkaunlaran o programang panlipunan,” Salik added.

Government of the Philippines Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities (TFDCC) chairperson Atty. Laisah Masuhud-Alamia, in her message read by Sanabila Sabil, underscored that the OPAPRU and TFDCC shall help not just the decommissioned combatants in acquiring basic literacy skills, but also those who were forced to stop studying due to poverty and the decades-long armed conflict.

“Kami ay natutuwa na magsisimula na ang programa sapagkat ito ay napakalaking tulong hindi lamang para sa mga DCs (decommissioned combatants) nating nagnanais matutong magbasa, magsulat, at magbilang kundi maging sa mga nahinto ng pag-aaral dulot ng kahirapan o di kaya sa mga nagdaang digmaan,” Masuhud-Alamia explained.

She noted that the rollout of ALS literacy program, along with other socioeconomic interventions in the region, is a testament of the national government’s commitment to fulfill the agreements made under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

“Bilang patunay ng pagnanais ng kapayapaan at pagpapatupad ng napagkasunduan ng GPH at MILF, inihahandog namin ang programang ito para maipagpatuloy ninyo ang pangarap niyong makapag-aral muli,” Masuhud-Alamia said.

For his part, member of the MILF TFDCC Engr. Abdulmaomit Tomawis encouraged the beneficiaries to own the program because all interventions under the Bangsamoro peace process are the result of the struggle of those who painstakingly fought for the Bangsamoro people’s right to self-determination.
“Atin pong bigyang halaga ang programang ito. Bigyan natin ng sapat na oras. Ito po ay bunga ng pawis, dugo at buhay ng ating mga kasamahan at dapat lang na ating bigyang pansin at halaga,” Tomawis emphasized.

Johnson Baluno, who has been a member of the MILF Central Mindanao Front for decades, shared that he had experienced the hardships of war.

But with the signing of the peace agreement between the GPH and the MILF, Baluno and his comrades have found hope for a better future.

And now that they are walking the path of peace, they are pursuing their life-long dream to have an education through the ALS Program.

Baluno thanked the GPH and MILF for carrying out interventions that are improving the lives of the former combatants.

“Maraming salamat dahil kami sa side ng combatants, nagkatotoo ang pag-uusap ng gobyerno at MILF. ‘Yung mga combatants namin na no read no write, merong hakbang na ginawa para sa kanila para magkaroon sila ng kaalaman,” he said.

As part of the socioeconomic interventions for the DCs and their families under the normalization track of the CAB, the national and Bangsamoro governments forged a memorandum of agreement to implement PhP146.8M worth of education programs in the region.

Aside from the ALS program, the MOA also includes the implementation of the Educational Grant Assistance for College students. | @Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process

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WESTMINCOM: Tatlong Miyembro ng Communist-Terrorist Group ang Nagbalik-Loob sa Pamahalaan sa Bayan ng Matalam

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 7, 2022): Tatlong Miyembro ng Communist-Terrorist Group ang Nagbalik-Loob sa Pamahalaan sa Bayan ng Matalam (Three Members of the Communist-Terrorist Group Returned to the Government in the Town of Matalam)

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4th Civil Relations Group

Tatlong Miyembro ng Communist-Terrorist Group ang Nagbalik-Loob sa Pamahalaan sa Bayan ng Matalam

Tatlong miyembro ng Communist Terrorist Group ang nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan sa bayan ng Matalam noong ika-2 ng Marso 2022.

Dalawa (2) sa kanila ang aktibong miyembro ng Militiang Bayan, at isa (1) naman ang regular na miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA).

Ang kahirapan sa buhay at labis na pangamba sa kanilang kaligtasan sa gitna ng pandemya ang nagtulak sa tatlong nagbalik-loob upang iwan ang kanilang grupo at mamuhay ng tahimik. Kasabay ng kanilang pagbabalik-loob ay ang pagsuko ng isang (1) Garand Rifle na may na may kasamang apat (4) na bala, at dalawang (2) Shotgun Rifles.

Ang mga nagbalik-loob ay pormal na iprinisenta ni LTC ROMMEL T MUNDALA INF (GSC) PA, ang Commanding Officer ng 90IB; at 1LT RONALDO G DISO (INF) PA, Commanding Officer ng Charlie Company kay Hon. Oscar M Valdevieso, ang Alkalde ng bayan ng Matalam. Nag-abot naman ng inisyal na cash assistance ang alkalde sa tatlong nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan.

Ang pormal nilang pagbabalik-loob ay bunga ng pagsisikap ng pamahalaan katuwang ang kasundaluhan at kapulisan na mabigyan ng pangalawang pagkakataon ang tulad nilang nagkamali ng paniniwala na ipinaglaban.

Ang himpilan ng kasundaluhan at kapulisan ay bukas para sa mga kapatid natin na nais magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan. Sa pamamagitan ng patuloy na pagtutulungan ng kasundaluhan, lokal na pamahalaan, at taong bayan ay mapapanatili ang kapayapaan at maitataguyod ang matagal nang minimithing kaunlaran. | @90th Infantry Bigkis Lahi Battalion

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Army recovers firearms from NPA storage

From the Manila Times (Mar 8, 2022): Army recovers firearms from NPA storage (By Leander C. Domingo)

NPA WEAPONS SEIZED Former New People’s Army rebels led the 77th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army in the recovery of the firearms storage in Santa Teresita, Cagayan, on Sunday, March 6, 2022. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

A STORAGE of weapons in Santa Teresita, Cagayan believed to be owned by the New People's Army (NPA) has been raided by the Philippine Army's 77th Infantry Battalion (77IB) with the help of two former rebels.

The Cagayan Provincial Information Office (CPIO) said it received the report on Sunday that the 77IB has recovered several high-caliber firearms from the NPA's stockpile in Sitio Aboli in Barangay Aridawen in Santa Teresita town.

The CPIO said former rebels identified only as Alias Lawin and Alias Leen revealed the whereabouts of the firearms cache.

The 77IB immediately dispatched its troops to the area and recovered an M16 A1 rifle, an M14 rifle, an M653 rifle, two AK47 rifles, a FAL 4.62mm rifle, a.38 caliber revolver and.45 caliber pistol, two magazines for M14 rifle, tow magazines for AK47, an M16 rifle with a magazine, a.45 caliber with magazine, 34 pieces of ammunition for M14 rifle, ammunition for.45 caliber, M16 rifle, an AK47, and subversive documents.

In the report, Lt. Col. Joeboy Kindipan, 77IB commander, thanked the former rebels and the people of Aridawen village for their help and cooperation to recover the firearms.

"This is a big step to paralyze the possible staging of attacks by the NPA during their upcoming anniversary," Kindipan said.

Maj. Gen Laurence Mina, Army's 5th Infantry Division commander, said this only proves that President Rodrigo Duterte's whole-of-nation approach in fighting the insurgency is successful.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/03/08/news/regions/army-recovers-firearms-from-npa-storage/1835452

CPP hits CHR for condemning (NPA) military action: It was in line with rules of war

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 7, 2022): CPP hits CHR for condemning (NPA) military action: It was in line with rules of war (By: Gabriel Pabico Lalu)

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has hit back at the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) after the latter condemned the New People’s Army (NPA) military action in Sorsogon, saying that the attack was under the rules of war.

On Monday, CPP information officer Marco Valbuena said that the NPA ensured that no civilian was hurt when they attacked a police unit in Pilar town of Sorsogon, as the only casualties were two police officers, including one who died in the line of duty.

CHR last Thursday condemned the NPA attack on the 504th Police Maneuver Company last February 28, which claimed the life of Police Cpl. Ryan Atos, according to Police Regional Office 5 (PRO-5) spokesperson Maj. Maria Luisa Calubaquib.

“The death of a police officer belonging to the 504th Maneuver Company of the PNP Regional Mobile Force Battalion last February 28 in Pilar, Sorsogon, is a result of a legitimate military operation of the New People’s Army against a counterinsurgency police unit,” Valbuena said.

“The operation, in line with rules of war and international humanitarian law, targeted a military detachment and ensured that no civilian was hurt,” he added.

READ: CHR calls out NPA; condemns killing of cop during attack in Sorsogon

The CPP spokesperson also faulted the CHR for not making any statement or investigation against supposed counterinsurgency operations that have targeted red-tagged civilians instead of actual communist rebels.

“The CHR, tasked primarily to serve as human rights ombudsman, has not made any statement or investigation into rampant cases of human rights violations perpetrated by AFP and PNP forces in Sorsogon,” Valbuena claimed.

“Since 2020, there have been at least 12 cases of extrajudicial killings against unarmed civilians. At least 24 civilians have been red-tagged, arbitrarily arrested and charged with unbailable crimes to prolong their unjust detention,” he added.

INQUIRER.net has asked the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to get their side of the story regarding the CPP’s allegations. They have not issued a statement as of posting time.

This is not the first time that CHR has called the attention of the NPA after an attack: last March 2021, after five police officers were killed in an attack on a police unit at Labo, Camarines Norte, CHR told NPA that no amount of ideology can justify the killings.

The same reminder was reiterated when an NPA-planted anti-personnel landmine exploded in Masbate last June 2021, claiming the life of collegiate footballer Kieth Absalon and his cousin.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1564624/cpp-hits-chr-for-condemning-military-action-it-was-in-line-with-rules-of-war

Soldier hurt in attack by armed men in Northern Samar

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 7, 2022): Soldier hurt in attack by armed men in Northern Samar (By: Joey Gabieta)

A soldier got wounded after armed men believed to be New People’s Army (NPA) rebels attacked his group in Catubig town, Northern Samar.

Sgt. Gleen Amado, 35, was wounded on his neck and recuperating at the Northern Samar Provincial Hospital in Catarman.

A report from the 20th Infantry Battalion in Las Navas town said the attack happened around 9:30 p.m. while the soldiers were conducting a dialogue with residents of Barangay CM Recto.

As villagers scampered for safety, the soldiers engaged the undetermined number of rebels in a firefight.

No one was hurt among the civilians.

Lt. Col. Joemar Buban, the battalion commander of the 20th Infantry Battalion, condemned the attack.

The rebels were reportedly led by “Ka Estela.”

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1564627/soldier-hurt-in-attack-by-armed-men-in-northern-samar

Opinion: Terrorists in their midst?

Opinion piece in the Philippine Star (Mar 8, 2022): Terrorists in their midst? (By Ramon T. Tulfo)

SENTINEL - Ramon T. Tulfo

It seems the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is trying to appease the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) after government troops killed three suspected terrorists in the rebel group’s area of responsibility.

MILF chief and Bangsamoro region interim Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ibrahim has claimed that government soldiers engaged MILF rebels, not terrorists.

But the AFP insists that the armed men that its soldiers killed were remnants of the Maute group, which is espousing an Islamic State (IS).

The Maute group held Marawi City for several months before the city was recaptured by the government after a five-month-long fighting in 2017.

But should the government adopt a servile attitude towards the MILF, which apparently was coddling the suspected terrorists in the first place?

It was impossible for the MILF to not know that there were terrorists in its midst.

Just because the government is having peace talks with the MILF, does it have to be submissive to the rebel group?

“Our dear constituents in Maguing, Lanao del Sur have been troubled from military airstrikes and most recently firefight incidents that involved the military and forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front,” a statement from Ibrahim read.

AFP spokesman Col. Ramon Zagala gave a conciliatory reply: “The MILF is our partner in peace. They will never be our target. I would like to assure [Ibrahim] that our target was the Daulah Islamiyah.”

Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo, commander of the Army’s 103rd Brigade, chimed in: What was raided by government troops was an IS camp near an MILF community in Ilalag.

If the IS camp was “near” the MILF territory, why didn’t the rebel group report the presence of terrorists to the government as a sign of good faith?

It’s very clear the MILF is coddling the Maute terrorists.

* * *

Let’s face it: MILF rebels butchered the 44 members of the Special Action Force (SAF) on Jan. 25, 2016, after the hapless government troops raided a rebel territory to capture Zulkifli Abdhir, a Malaysian terrorist and bomb-maker in Mamasapano in 2016, dead or alive.

The SAF troopers killed Abdhir.

Obviously, the MILF was coddling Abdhir and the reason they made mincemeat of the police commandos was they wandered into their territory.

The government, which was then under Noynoy Aquino, didn’t blame the MILF for the massacre, careful not to upset the peace process.

Although the government would not admit it, the country is in a state of belligerency where places held by rebels are off-limits to government troops....

https://www.philstar.com/opinion/2022/03/08/2165668/terrorists-their-midst

Security tightened vs. bus bomb attacks in Cotabato, Kidapawan

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 8, 2022): Security tightened vs. bus bomb attacks in Cotabato, Kidapawan (By Edwin Fernandez)

DEACTIVATED BOMB. The integrated terminal in Kidapawan City is deserted by residents while bomb experts deactivate an explosive device inside a box found over the weekend in the area. Bomb experts confirmed on Tuesday (March 8, 2022) that the unattended package contained a homemade bomb. (Photo from DXND - Kidapawan)

Police authorities here and in North Cotabato have taken extra steps to ensure the safety of the commuters against terrorism and bombings.

The stricter safety measures came about after authorities recently foiled a bombing attempt at a bus terminal in Kidapawan City, and the explosion that took place inside another passenger bus while parked in Cotabato City last week.

On Tuesday, Lt. Col. Peter Pinalgan, Kidapawan police director, said a box found unclaimed for three days inside the city integrated public terminal that bomb experts intentionally set off was an improvised explosive device.

Pinalgan said the improvised bomb was mixed with dried fish so that the bomb-sniffing dog would not be able to detect it.

“The scent of dried fish covered the smell of explosive powder that K-9 dogs are trained to identify,” he said in the vernacular.

Bomb experts defused the IED by setting it off.

Pinalgan said public awareness and vigilance to immediately report dubious-looking boxes and other wrapped containers to the police helped prevent the bombing.

“We are also reviewing our security measures to determine how the IED was sneaked into the terminal compound,” he said.

In Cotabato City, a bomb was set off inside a Mindanao Star Bus while parked inside the bus terminal here last week.

The bus had just arrived from Davao City and all the passengers have disembarked when the bomb, a cellphone triggered explosive device, was set off.

Police believed the bomb was meant to scare the bus firm.

An inquiry from the bus firm if it has extortion demands from armed groups remained unanswered.

The extremist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) has been blamed for the series of bus bombings in Central Mindanao last year.

Authorities said extortion could be behind the bombings of several buses plying major routes in Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and South Cotabato last year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169252

Kalinaw News: ENCAP under BALIKATAN 37-2022 kicks off

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 8, 2022): ENCAP under BALIKATAN 37-2022 kicks off

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- The Philippine and US armed forces kicked off the 37th BALIKATAN Exercises 2022 through the simultaneous groundbreaking ceremony of four school buildings in different locations in Cagayan and Isabela under the Engineering Civic Action Program (ENCAP) on March 07, 2022.

Four school buildings will be built in Taggat Sur and Pinas Elementary Schools both in Claveria, Cagayan, Masi Elementary School in Rizal, Cagayan, and San Francisco Elementary School in Alicia, Isabela with $100,000 budget each from the US government for the construction of their school building. The completion of the said infrastructure that has a size of 18×17 square meters is expected within 40 working days.

Lt Austin Koch, USAF, US Site OIC in Masi Rizal, said that the ENCAP will serve as a teaching tool both for the US and Philippine armed forces with regards to how both parties do their construction of infrastructures. “We will be providing materials and other heavy equipment for the duration of construction of the classrooms. And we are very willing to teach Filipino forces on using these advanced technologies as they will be teaching us how to build buildings in their own way. We will work side by side. We will be understanding the ways of each other. As of now I am pretty excited to learn the innovative process from Filipino counterparts.”

On the other hand, Dr. Erna Angeles, the DEPED District Supervisor in Rizal, Cagayan lauded and commended the ENCAP as part of the BALIKATAN Exercises. “We are thankful that you have chosen Masi Elementary School as one of your beneficiaries. This school serves learners from kindergarten to grade six with just four classrooms. To cater all our learners, we need to divide the existing classrooms into two to accommodate the students. But with the construction of additional school building, our learners will really get the quality education they must have and deserved.

Further, MGen Laurence E Mina, Commander of 5th Infantry Division said that joint exercises like BALIKATAN demonstrate the commitment to peace, stability, and adaptability of the US and the Philippine armed forces. “Since the launching of BALIKATAIN in the year 1991, it has been a give and take learning opportunity for both Filipino and American soldiers and sometimes with our other allies in the Indo-Pacific region. This is a bilateral relationship that is founded on our shared history of promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations. For this year, with the kick-off of BALIKATAN in Cagayan and Isabela provinces, we will again reinvigorate the strong friendship, partnership, and alliances.”

Meanwhile, the residents showed their appreciation to the US forces by giving them warm welcome despite the language and cultural differences.

[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/encap-under-balikatan-37-2022-kicks-off/

Kalinaw News: Former CTG Supporters Receive 3k Tilapia Fingerlings in Tarlac

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 7, 2022): Former CTG Supporters Receive 3k Tilapia Fingerlings in Tarlac

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA said that the Lubigan Farmers Association (LFA), a former Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) supporters, received 3K Tilapia fingerlings from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) of Region 3 during the turn-over ceremony held in Barangay Lubigan, San Jose, Tarlac on March 4, 2022.

According to MGen Costelo, the livelihood project led by the MTF-ELCAC of San Jose aims to create an additional source of income for the members of the LFA.

“Naging matagumpay itong proyektong pangkabuhayan para sa mga dating taga suporta ng CTG dahil sa ating pagkakaisa at pagtutulongan. Nawa’y palaguin ninyo ang pangkabuhayang ito na ibinigay ng ating pamahalaan. Layunin nitong matulongan ang inyong pang-araw araw na pamumuhay,” said MGen Costelo.

It can be recalled that the Community Support Program (CSP) team of the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, Armor Division, Philippine Army have organized the members of the LFA following their withdrawal of support to CTGs last year.

Earlier, LFA’s members underwent livelihood training and seminar on fish raising in order for them to properly handle and sustain the said project.

The 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, after clearing the CTG influenced barangays of Tarlac and Zambales from CTG influence, has been resolute in its efforts to sustain the livelihood programs and projects for the CSP-organized peoples’ organization.

“Sa pamamagitan ng pagtataguyod ng kapakanan at kabuhayan ng mga dating biktima ng terorista ay atin silang mapoprotektahan at masisigurong hindi na mababalikan ng mga rebelde,” said Lieutenant Colonel Eugene Henry Z Cabusao, the Commanding Officer of the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion.

Kalinaw News: BCDA formally turns over military facilities to AFP, SND visits the home of the defenders of the North

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 7, 2022): BCDA formally turns over military facilities to AFP, SND visits the home of the defenders of the North

Camp Aquino, Tarlac City – The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) formally turns over the newly-constructed Army Support Command (ASCom) facilities to the Philippine Army during a short program held at Camp Aquino in Tarlac City on March 7, 2022.

Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, alongside Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr, and ASCOM Commander Maj. Gen. Glenn Cruz received the symbolic key of the replicated facilities from BCDA as represented by their Officer in Charge Atty. Aristotle Batuhan. Twenty-one completed buildings out of the total forty-four facilities were turned-over to ASCOM during the ceremony. Construction is expected to be completed by August 2022.

Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Andres C Centino, and Northern Luzon Command Commander Lt. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr were also present to witness the event.

Upon their acceptance, Secretary of National Defense
Lorenzana said that the undertaking is “another milestone in upgrading our military facilities” which is a thrust towards the “AFP Modernization Program.”

“This will have a positive impact on the readiness of our combat support and service battalions in providing firepower, transportation, as well as organizational and maintenance equipment to army units on the ground,” added the Defense Secretary.

Sec Lorenzana also expressed his gratitude to the BCDA, describing them as “one of the AFP’s strongest pillars of support” in attaining the AFP’s vision into becoming “A world-class Armed Forces, a source of national pride”.

Multiple headquarters facilities, officers’ quarters, barracks, a warehouse, student classrooms, and transportation and maintenance battalion areas were among the completed and turned-over facilities of the BCDA, which had an estimated cost of 1.5 billion pesos.

The new ASCom area in Camp Aquino provides easier and more efficient logistics operations due to its strategic location that lays out ease of movement and security of access from one place to another for the deployment of support services.

Subsequently, SND together with the visiting generals had a dialogue with the NoLCom senior officers led by Lt. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr, and a “Talk to Troops” where he addressed the officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resources and other units under NoLCom via video teleconferencing.

In his message, Sec Lorenzana conveyed his appreciation for the contributions of the men and women of NoLCom, and for being “one of the most dependable commands of the AFP”

The Defense secretary hailed the NoLCom troopers as “peacekeepers of the north” for their continuous gains in their territorial defense operations, internal security operations, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.

“Given all these, you aptly embody the desired image of the AFP that is feared by the enemy but loved by the people. You have created an environment that is conducive to the progress and development not only of north and central Luzon but also for the entire nation,” said Sec Lorenzana.

The Northern Luzon Command is the AFP’s stronghold in the North in charge of guarding the country’s northern frontier against threats to peace, security, and development.

Kalinaw News: Lawless element nabbed, explosive components seized in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 7, 2022): Lawless element nabbed, explosive components seized in Sulu

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – A lawless element was arrested and several explosive components were seized in a joint law enforcement operation conducted at Zone 3, Barangay Tulay, Jolo, Sulu Saturday evening, March 5, 2022.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command said combined elements from the 35th Infantry Battalion, 37th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team, K9 Team, 7th Special Action Battalion, 9th Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, and Jolo Municipal Police Station conducted a joint operation to implement Search Warrant Nr. 2022-08-03 for violation of RA 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosives) against Nursitta Mahalli Malud.

According to Lt. Col. Domingo Robles, Jr., Commanding Officer of 35IB, operating troops successfully apprehended the target and seized explosive components including one 81mm Cartridge, nine inches detonating cord, one blasting cap, 23 inches #16 stranded wire attached to the blasting cap, one 9-volt battery with snap connector, one plastic container with arming switch (15 inches #16 stranded wire loop type switch), one roll electric tape, one lighter, 15 meters nylon string, and one shoulder bag.

Also seized were assorted identification cards, green notebook, one black analog Samsung phone, two android Samsung phones, four sim cards, three SD cards, and assorted money remittance receipts.

“This exemplifies that if an operation is well-coordinated, it will definitely be successful. My commendations to the members of the operating teams for this laudable accomplishment,” Brig. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu expressed.

The arrested person was placed under the custody of Jolo MPS while the seized pieces of evidence were turned over to CIDG PFU9 and PECU Sulu for proper documentation and disposition.

“Law enforcement support operations, in collaboration with the police, will continuously be conducted by the Joint Task Force Sulu to contain lawless elements operating in the area. This significant accomplishment is a testament to the strengthened relationship we have established with our partners. It is with pride that I congratulate the soldiers of the Joint Task Force Sulu headed by Brig. Gen. Patrimonio and the policemen of the different police units in Sulu.

Kalinaw News: Abu Sayyaf Group Supporter neutralized in Basilan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 7, 2022): Abu Sayyaf Group Supporter neutralized in Basilan

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – A supporter of the Abu Sayyaf Group was killed in a short encounter in Basilan at noon Friday, March 4, 2022.

According to Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, Commander of Joint Task Force Basilan, troops were conducting combat operation when they received information of the presence of alias Buloy Parang in the vicinity of Barangay Mangal, Sumisip, Basilan. “Alias Buloy Parang served as a courier and planter of anti-personnel mine (APM) used for extortion by the ASG under Pasil Bayali in Sumisip area,” Brig. Gen. Gobway said.

While operating troops were approaching the reported location, the target opened fire which prompted the government forces to return fire. Short exchange of fires ensued which resulted in the death of Alias Buloy and the recovery of one cal. 45 pistol and one anti-personnel mine.

Brig. Gen. Gobway stated that the slain ASG supporter together with Pasil Bayali and Tawakal Bayali were involved in the serries of APM bombings targeting a batching plant and the road construction projects in Barangays Limbo Candis, Central Sumisip, Lower Benembengan, and Mangal, all of Sumisip that killed two innocent civilians and one Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) member.

“We remain steadfast in fighting against terrorism and neutralizing not only terror group members but even their supporters with the hopes of achieving our ultimate goal. All our achievements are attributed to our dedicated soldiers, our partners, stakeholders, and the populace,” Brig. Gen. Gobway emphasized.

[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/abu-sayyaf-group-supporter-neutralized-in-basilan/

Kalinaw News: AFP Chief inspects military facilities in Palawan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 7, 2022): AFP Chief inspects military facilities in Palawan

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Andres C Centino PA inspected
vital military and government facilities in Palawan on March 3, 2022.

General Centino visited the Headquarters of Joint Task Force
Malampaya in El Nido, Palawan, responsible for safeguarding the
Malampaya gas field. He also inspected the former Matinloc and Nido
gas platforms also in Palawan, which is now manned by JTF
Malampaya.

The Chief of Staff also inspected the Philippine Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal
(FF150), which conducts routine patrols in the West Philippine Sea.
In his Talk to Troops, Gen. Centino reminded the troops of the
importance of their responsibility of securing the area and guarding the
facilities that provide energy in the Philippines. He also assured the
troops that the AFP would support the continuing modernization of the
Philippine Navy.

“The AFP recognizes your sacrifices and contributions in safeguarding
our territory and people in this part of the country. Rest assured that as
your Chief of Staff, I will leave the AFP and the Philippine Navy
modernized and very different from its state when I entered the military
service,” the Chief of Staff emphasized.

Gen. Centino’s visit and inspection is part of his regular troops and unit
visitation to ensure soldiers’ morale and welfare. It also aims to ensure
that appropriate support reaches all soldiers and units in the field to be
operationally ready in accomplishing their missions.

Kalinaw News: AFP Chief of Staff visits troops in Pag-asa Island

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 7, 2022): AFP Chief of Staff visits troops in Pag-asa Island

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino visited the troops in Pag-asa Island in the municipality of Kalayaan on Friday, March 4, 2022.

The Chief of Staff’s visit aims to inspect military facilities, check troops’ morale, and ensure unit operational readiness to accomplish the AFP mission.
Gen. Centino assured the troops of support from the AFP general headquarters. He conveyed that the AFP and the Filipino people are grateful for the soldiers’ services and sacrifices as defenders of the country’s western frontier.

In a simple yet meaningful donning of rank ceremony witnessed by the troops in Pag-asa island, the Chief of Staff donned the third-star rank to the newly-promoted Commander of Western Command Vice Admiral Alberto B Carlos PN.

Vice Admiral Carlos assumed as commander of Western Command after the retirement of Vice Admiral Ramil Roberto Enriquez last January 21.

“Today, we are veering away from the usual elaborate and formal donning ceremony as the event all the more highlights or gives more meaning to awarding the rank to Vice Admiral Carlos. This is very significant because we are all here in the most remote deployment of our troops, the valiant defenders of the Philippines’ first frontier,” says General Centino.

Kalinaw News: CGPA lauds 53EBde’s HADR efforts in Cebu City visit

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 7, 2022): CGPA lauds 53EBde’s HADR efforts in Cebu City visit

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., lauded the 53rd Engineer “Visayas Builders” Brigade led by Col. Proceso S. Rebancos, for its contribution to the nation-building particularly its humanitarian assistance and disaster-response (HADR) efforts for Typhoon “Odette” victims in his visit to Camp Lapulapu, Cebu City on March 5, 2022.

In his “Talk to Troops,” CGPA commended the Visayas Buiders for building key road projects in far-flung upland communities and for launching HADR efforts in the aftermath of Typhoon “Odette.” Lt. Gen. Brawner enjoined the brigade to continue its community-support programs and other nation-building efforts.

“Our purpose at the Headquarters is to serve and support you—our operating units on the ground. Looking at the accomplishments that you have achieved in the recent months, you have done a lot to serve the people and secure the land,” the CGPA remarked.

The CGPA also reiterated to the Visayas Builders his three thrusts and two tasks encapsulated in the command guidance “SERVE”.

Lt. Gen. Brawner has vowed to take care of the soldiers’ physical and mental health; enhance soldiers’ skills and unit capabilities; and push down resources to all units. He underscored that the three thrusts will fully capacitate the Army to achieve victory against threat groups before the June 2022 set by the president and ensure a safe and orderly national and local polls on May 2022.

Remains of ex-rebel exhumed

From the Mindanao Times (Mar 8, 2022): Remains of ex-rebel exhumed (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

THE military reported that remains of a former member of the New People’s Army were exhumed Friday in a forested area of Pintoy Hill, Purok Banban, Barangay Lumiad, Paquibato District.

Based on the report, soldiers and members of the police exhumed the remains of Ritchel Daydayan, a former rebel living in Purok 11, Sitio Kibalatong, Brgy Paňalum.

The report added that Daydayan, 35 when he was executed, was a victim of the NPA’s “kangaroo court under the late Leoncio Pitao, commanding officer of Pulang Bagani Command (PBC1) operating in Paquibato,

The community where he a resident informed the law enforcers about his remains, the report added as he was executed nine years ago.

The victim’s wife, Analyn condemned the armed group for his fate.
https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2022/03/08/remains-of-ex-rebel-exhumed/

Sayyaf bomber captured in Sulu

From the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 7, 2022): Sayyaf bomber captured in Sulu

Security forces captured a suspected Abu Sayyaf bomber who is also the wife of a notorious terror leader and bomb expert Mundi Sawadaan in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, officials said Monday.

Officials said the woman, Nursitta Malud alias Kirsita Ismael, was captured over the weekend after soldiers and policemen swooped down on her house in the village of Tulay in the capital town of Jolo.

The 34-year old woman is the second wife of Abu Sayyaf terror leader Mundi Sawadjaan, said Brig. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, commander of the 11th Infantry Division and the Joint Task Force Sulu.

He said troops recovered an 81mm mortar bomb, detonation cord, one detonator, a blasting cap, electric wire, and a nine volt battery, among others.

The arrest of the woman came barely a week after soldiers diffused an improvised explosive planted on a roadside in Patikul town’s Anuling village following a tip off from civilians.

“Bombing has no place in Sulu. We need to zero in on the leadership of the local terrorist group and its members as soon as possible to prevent any atrocities to happen. We cannot allow any bombing attack, because it will only hamper the furtherance of the relative peace Sulu has today,” Patrimonio said.

“As the group of Mundi Sawadjaan dwindled, they were becoming desperate at the same time reckless. Now that all his companions were arrested one after another, his capability to conduct a possible attack has weakened. The continuous effort of our troops and other law enforcement agencies after the recovery of IED last week has indeed save innocent lives as we pre-empted possible bombing attack,” he added.

Patrimonio called on civilians to stay vigilant as security forces continue the hunt against Abu Sayyaf terrorists. “I am asking our local community to be more vigilant and let’s sustain our cooperation for us to achieve our long aspiration for just and lasting peace here in Sulu,” he said.

He said there had been no bombing since August 2020 after the task force pre-empted previous bombing attempts in the province.

“To recall, the last twin bombings attack was on 24 August 2020 dubbed as twin bombing. Since then, the JTFS had pre-empted bombing attempts and will continue to do so even today. We will not stop until we zero-in the enemy and their leadership. We will continue to do our mandate and strengthen our capabilities to perform our duties to protect our fellow Filipino here in the province of Sulu,” he said, referring to the twin suicide bombings in the capital town of Jolo.

Two Indonesian female bombers carried out the daring attacks that left dozens of casualties, mostly civilians.

One of the bombers was an Indonesian widow of Abu Sayyaf suicide bomber Norman Lasuca, who blew himself up outside a military base and killed 8 people in Sulu’s Indanan town 2019. The other bomber was the wife of an Abu Sayyaf explosives expert Talha Jumsa, who was also slain in a clash with soldiers in Patikul town.

A parked motorcycle rigged with explosives was detonated near two military trucks and the second bomber detonated her explosives while soldiers and policemen were rushing to the scene to aid the victims.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/03/sayyaf-bomber-captured-in-sulu.html

Sermonia gets PNP's No. 2 post as more officials retire

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 7, 2022): Sermonia gets PNP's No. 2 post as more officials retire (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP deputy chief for administration, Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia (File photo)

Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia is now the second-highest official of the Philippine National Police (PNP) after being named as the deputy chief for administration effective Monday.

In an order, PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos named Sermonia as the replacement of Lt. Gen. Israel Ephraim Dickson, who is now on non-duty status ahead of his mandatory retirement on March 27.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Divina replaced Sermonia as the deputy chief for operations, the PNP's third in command.

As deputy chief for operations, Divina will also serve as the new commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Covid-19 Shield, the enforcement arm of the national government in the implementation of quarantine rules and health protocols.

Divina is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1988.

Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año said only President Rodrigo R. Duterte has the authority to appoint the replacement of Carlos, who is scheduled to retire on May 8, the eve of this year's national local and elections.

"(Only) the President will decide on that but it's still too early to discuss that," he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

Article VII, Section 15 of the 1987 Constitution states that "two months immediately before the next presidential elections and up to the end of his term, a President or Acting President shall not make appointments, except temporary appointments to executive positions when continued vacancies therein will prejudice public service or endanger public safety."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169142

PH, US troops start annual 'Salaknib' exercise

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 7, 2022): PH, US troops start annual 'Salaknib' exercise (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Army

The Philippine Army (PA) and the US Army Pacific (USARPAC) formally started the 20-day "Salaknib" Exercise that aims to deepen interoperability between the two armies at the 1st Brigade Combat Team (BCT) headquarters in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija last March 5.

“Salaknib demonstrates the long-standing partnership between PA and USARPAC,” USARPAC deputy chief Maj. Gen. Matthew McFarlane, the guest of honor and speaker said in his speech, which was sent to reporters on Sunday.

"Salaknib", which means shield in Ilocano, is an annual bilateral combined exercise that aims to enhance the defense readiness of Filipino and American troops by developing tactical interoperability.

The 2022 edition of "Salaknib" focuses on the capability development of the 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT), the PA's primary combined arms, and rapid deployment unit.

US soldiers and Philippine Army troops from 1BCT, Training and Doctrine Command, Army Support Command, 51st Engineering Brigade, Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Army Artillery Regiment, Army Aviation Regiment, Armor Division, Light Reaction Regiment, Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), and First Scout Ranger Regiment, will be participating in the 20-day exercise.

"Salaknib" also showcases the US government’s resolve to fulfill its alliance obligations in the region.

Last January 21, the PA and USARPAC teams completed the three-day inspection of the proposed training sites in Central Luzon to ensure availability, suitability, and training-worthiness.

PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. earlier commended the "Salaknib" planning team for carrying out a thorough planning process aimed at ensuring the success of the bilateral exercise even amidst the pandemic.

"The conduct of combined training exercises between the Philippine and US armies will capacitate us in effectively dealing with the fast-changing security landscape of the Indo-Pacific region," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169145

Close to 2K MILF combatants decommissioned in Q1 2022

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 7, 2022): Close to 2K MILF combatants decommissioned in Q1 2022 (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

NORMALIZATION PROCESS. Rowaida Taha, a former member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Women's Auxiliary Brigade (BIWAB) in Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao, receives PHP100,000 worth of transitional cash assistance. Taha said she will use the money for her grandchildren's education and starting a business. (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU)

Some 1,950 members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have successfully participated in the third phase of decommissioning process for the first quarter this year under the normalization track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

In a social media post on Monday, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) said the decommissioned combatants from February 15 to March 1 have each received PHP100,000 worth of transitional cash assistance, through the Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities (TFDCC).

Part of the socioeconomic package is the PHP80,000 worth of Bangsamoro Transitory Family Support (BTFS) Package they can use for their basic needs such as food, hygiene kits, sleeping materials, kitchen and shelter kits, as well as medical, educational, and transportation allowances.

They also get PHP20,000 worth of Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) for seed capital to start up a micro-enterprise or to purchase starter kits for their future businesses.

The data from the OPAPRU showed 5,250 MILF combatants already underwent the third phase of the decommissioning process from November to December last year.

Some 19,345 former combatants have already been through the three phases of decommissioning process since 2015 as to date.

Another 14,000 MILF members are scheduled to be decommissioned under the third phase process this year.

Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, all MILF combatants scheduled for decommissioning were subjected to pre-health screening and antigen Covid-19 testing, before proceeding to the assembly and processing area site for decommissioning, followed by a needs assessment of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the TFDCC.

After the on-site validation process, former combatants will be referred to the concerned government agencies for appropriate interventions and services.

The decommissioning process is one of the key provisions of the Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the peace agreement forged between the government and MILF in 2014 that aims to empower former MILF combatants in their transitioning as "peaceful and productive civilians," including the provision of health, technical and livelihood services.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169144

French Navy eyes stronger cooperation with PH counterparts

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 8, 2022): French Navy eyes stronger cooperation with PH counterparts (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy

The French Navy has expressed willingness to work with its Philippine counterparts at sea.

"We are ready to work with your forces at sea. We need to protect, we need to defend the freedom of navigation including (on) the West Philippine Sea,” said Rear Adm. Jean-Mathieu Rey, Joint Commander of the French Armed Forces in the Asia-Pacific (ALPACI), during his courtesy call on Philippine Navy (PN) chief, Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado, on Monday.

PN spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza, in a statement, said Rey's visit is in line with the scheduled March 8 to 11 port call of French surveillance frigate Vendémiaire (F-734) to the country.

"Rear Admiral Rey was accorded with arrival honors as he paid a courtesy call on the Flag-Officer-In-Command, PN, Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado. The French Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. (Her Excellency) Michele Boccoz was present during the event together with the Non-Resident Defense Attaché of France to the Philippines, Col. Emmanuel Peltriaux; and military assistant, Lt. Eric Grauliere," he added.

The port call is part of the French Navy's deployment in Asia to contribute to regional stability, promote international rule of law, and develop cooperation among Asian countries.

Among the highlights of the visit were talks on maritime security, protection of natural resources at sea, and possible future exercise engagements, which Rey believes to be "good opportunities to improve the Philippine and French navies’ knowledge and interoperability."

Rey also expressed the French Navy’s intention to increase the level of cooperation with the PN, particularly with the scheduled deployment of their amphibious and training task force in 2023.

He even cited possible conduct of command patrols with partner navies in the region.

Meanwhile, Bordado thanked the French Navy for their continuing support to the PN.

"He agreed to explore talks on future participation of the two navies in bilateral and multilateral exercises and other possible areas of collaboration," Negranza added.

The French delegation also paid a courtesy call on the Commander Philippine Fleet, Rear Admiral Nichols Driz Monday afternoon, at Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City.

As this developed, Rear Admiral Antonio Palces, the Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Education, Training, and Doctrine (J-8) assumed his post as PN second-in-command during short ceremonies that took place last March 7 at PN headquarters in Roxas Boulevard, Manila last March 7.

Bordado also presided over the turnover ceremony that ushered in Palces who succeeded Major Gen. Nestor Herico who earlier assumed as the Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169235