Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 03/23/22

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Rebels set on fire 13 motorcycles in Igbaras

Posted to Panay News (Mar 24, 2022): Rebels set on fire 13 motorcycles in Igbaras

The New People’s Army burned 13 motorcycles in Barangay Igcabugao, Igbaras, Iloilo on March 21, 2022. But why? PHOTO COURTESY OF 3RD DIVISION PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE

ILOILO – Thirteen motorcycles parked a kilometer away from the patrol base of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Igbaras town were burned by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Monday night.

The motorcycles were parked in front of a house of a civilian in Barangay Igcabugao, Igbaras, according to the Philippine Army’s Infantry Division (3ID) Public Affairs Office.

Captain Kim Apitong, officer-in-charge of the 3ID Public Affairs Office, said the rebels held the owner of the house at gunpoint while they burned the motorcycles.

The owners of the motorcycles are still unidentified.

“Units on the ground are now conducting pursuit operation, coordinated with PNP (Philippine National Police) and alerted adjacent Army patrol bases,” Apitong said.

“As per information those innocent civilians used their motorcycles to transport goods,” he added.

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

Meanwhile, election candidates running for various posts in Western Visayas were warned not to enter into an alliance, provide economic or financial support or use the NPA.

“We campaign to stop extortion activities during election. We are encouraging incumbent officials seeking re-election and political aspirants to sign covenants not to provide material and financial support to the NPA, particularly in their permit to campaign and permit to win extortion activities,” said RTF6 ELCAC spokesperson, Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales.

https://www.panaynews.net/rebels-set-on-fire-13-motorcycles-in-igbaras/

Grounds to probe Reds' acts more than enough, NTF-ELCAC tells DOJ

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 24, 2022): Grounds to probe Reds' acts more than enough, NTF-ELCAC tells DOJ (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Security Adviser and NTF ELCAC vice chair Hermogenes Esperon Jr. (File photo)

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said it has more than sufficient grounds to show that the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) and groups associated with it are behind crimes and atrocities committed against the Filipino people.

In a statement, NTF ELCAC vice chair Hermogenes Esperon Jr. also requested the Department of Justice (DOJ) to immediately conduct an investigation following pronouncements of Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra that action will be taken against these groups.

"In the words of the Justice Secretary himself, action will be taken if the groups associated with the CPP-NPA commit acts of violence, sow terror, and commit acts that will destabilize the public order. Hence, the NTF-ELCAC calls on the DOJ to immediately conduct an investigation on the groups associated with the CPP-NPA because we believe that we have more than sufficient bases to cause the conduct of an investigation of the crimes committed by the CPP-NPA and the groups associated with them," Esperon said.

Esperon, who is also National Security Adviser, said the NTF-ELCAC is well aware of the crimes and atrocities committed by the communist terrorist and their allies through statements provided by CPP-NPA-National Democratic Front (NDF) cadres who have voluntarily surrendered to the government through its "Balik Loob" initiatives.

"The NTF-ELCAC through the whole-of-nation approach anchored on good governance has successfully caused the 'Balik-Loob' of CPP-NPA-NDF cadres and front organization leaders, members, and mass base supporters. These cadres (former CPP-NPA-NDF) speak of the atrocities and the abuses committed by the CPP-NPA-NDF based on their personal knowledge," he added.

Esperon said that many of these former cadres are also victims of CPP-NPA-NDF abuses and have vowed to speak the truth and to work for a just and lasting peace for the Filipino people by ending the local communist armed conflict.

"Their ordeals literally translate to the undeniable fact that the CPP-NPA-NDF has committed a series and a multitude of crimes, such as, but not limited to, qualified human trafficking, rape, child abuse, murder, coercion, widespread use of anti-personnel mines, the International Humanitarian Law, desecration of IP (Indigenous Peoples) ancestral domains, forced recruitment of IP children, violation of Republic Act 11188, Republic Act 9853, extortion, arson, terrorism financing, election-related acts of violence and extortion through their permit-to-campaign and permit-to-win schemes," he added.

Esperon also said that it is their collective stand the "opinion of the Secretary of Justice does not, and will not mean as an encouragement to those who intend or has already commenced any form of alliance building with the CPP-NPA-NDF and the groups associated with them in relation to the forthcoming elections."

"Let it be known that while it is the Justice Secretary’s opinion that showing support by any groups associated with CPP-NPA is not 'illegal', it does not mean that it is morally right for any political party or candidate to accept, or solicit such support from an organization associated with the CPP-NPA terrorist organization. Such an unfortunate alliance, should a political party or candidate subscribe to it; is the highest form of betrayal an aspiring elective public official can commit," he added.

The NTF-ELCAC vice chair also said communist terrorists have no place in the hearts and minds and the communities of the God-fearing Filipino people.

"We, the NTF-ELCAC, stand united with the Filipino people in our common aspiration to win the peace by ending the local communist armed conflict," Esperon said.

Esperon also said he strongly condemns and opposes any form of alliance-building, collaboration, and cooperation between and among the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorist organization and their front organizations and any political party and/or political aspirant in the May 9, 2022 elections.

"Any form of alliance between groups associated with the CPP-NPA-NDF and any political party or candidate is still an alliance with the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorist organization because their front organizations form part and parcel of the so-called 'revolutionary dual tactics' by the CPP-NPA-NDF which is composed of a so-called ‘protracted armed struggle’ manifested in the acts of terrorism and atrocities against the Filipino people and a political struggle undertaken by the CPP-NPA-NDF through their front organizations referred to by the Justice Secretary as groups associated with the CPP-NPA," he added.

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

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1170534

Armed group leader, men yield in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 24, 2022): Armed group leader, men yield in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

ARMED GROUP SURRENDERS. Colonel Jeffrey Fernandez, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao deputy police regional director for operations, receives a rifle from members of the Ameril private armed group during their surrender in Talitay, Maguindanao, on Wednesday (March 23, 2022). The group yielded five high-powered firearms. (Photo from PRO-BARMM)

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao – A leader of a private armed group (PAG) in Maguindanao and four of his men have voluntarily surrendered to authorities ahead of the start of the campaign period for local candidates, police said Thursday.

Colonel Jeffrey Fernandez, deputy director for operations of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) police office, welcomed the surrender of Sidik Ameril and four of his men during Wednesday's surrender rite in Talitay town.

"This is a long-awaited development,” Fernandez told reporters here in an interview, noting that Ameril is a former assemblyman in Maguindanao.

Ameril’s group turned over an M14 rifle, Ultimax rifle, M16 rifle, Carbine rifle, and a homemade grenade launcher.

Ameril said he and his men decided to surrender to clear their names from the police list of active PAGs and help in the government’s efforts to come up with a secure, accurate, fair, and free 2022 national and local polls.

The campaign period for local candidates is set for Friday, March 25.

In December last year, six-armed followers of Ameril also surrendered to police authorities in Camp Gen. S.K. Pendatun, the BARMM police regional headquarters, and handed over six assorted high-powered firearms.

“Our intention is honest. We want to live peacefully in our communities, we are ready to work with the government to help convince other PAGs to also surrender, so we can come up with a peaceful and credible election,” Ameril said.

Fernandez said the Police Regional Office in BARMM is committed to dissolving PAGs in the region.

“Come down, return to the fold of the law and live peacefully,” Fernandez told other PAGs and armed lawless groups that are still in hiding.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1170535

BIFF fighter surrenders sniper rifle in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 24, 2022): BIFF fighter surrenders sniper rifle in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)

RIGHT DECISION. A member of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters shows up and surrenders to local police and officials in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao on Wednesday (March 23, 2022), bringing with him his M14 sniper rifle. The surrenderer was immediately provided with an initial economic package by the municipal government. (Photo courtesy of Shariff Aguak MPS)

Saying he desires to live a normal life and ensure that his rifle will not go to the wrong hands, a Moro rebel decided to surrender to the police in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao.

Lt. Lucky Seigred Sibayan, Shariff Aguak municipal police chief, identified Thursday the surrenderer as Badieuzaman Solaiman, 49, a member of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), who presented himself at the police station at around 9 a.m. Wednesday.

Solaiman brought with him his homemade M14 sniper rifle loaded with bullets.

Shariff Aguak Mayor Marop Ampatuan lauded Solaiman's decision to yield during the surrender rite held inside the town's Sangguniang Bayan session hall.

Municipal Administrator Anwar Emblawa hopes Solaiman's decision would convince other BIFF rebels to also reject armed struggle and live a normal life with their family.

Sibayan echoed the same sentiment, appealing to other BIFF fighters who are "still out in the mountains to come forward...and help build peace in our community".

He assured that an economic package awaits those who would avail of the government’s reconciliation program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1170523

WESTMINCOM: TF Balik-Loob Chair visits WestMinCom

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 23, 2022): TF Balik-Loob Chair visits WestMinCom

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – March 23, 2022

Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu, Chairperson of the Task Force Balik-Loob and Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans, and Retiree Affairs visited the Western Mindanao Command on March 22, 2022, to pay a courtesy call on Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., the unit commander, and to conduct Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) implementation assessment and updating on the status of DND-DPWH Tatag ng Inprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad (TIKAS) project within the WestMinCom’s joint area of operation.

USec Mapagu and his staff were received by Lt. Gen Rosario, Jr. at the Laong Laan of the Command located at Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city. They then proceeded to the conference room of the command where updates on the status of the former rebels and their surrendered firearms were presented to USec Mapagu. Updates on the ongoing construction projects within the AOR were also presented to the distinguished visitor.

In his message, USec Mapagu expressed his appreciation for the unwavering support of the Western Mindanao Command to the projects and programs of the Task Force Balik-Loob. He also vowed to continuously implement projects that will aid in the development of the region.

Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. thanked the DND official for visiting the command to personally assess the implementation of the DND-DPWH projects in the area.

Brig. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Deputy Commander for Admin, WestMinCom; Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, Deputy Commander for Operations, WestMinCom; Col. Elmer Suderio, Chief of Unified Command Staff, WestMinCom; and the Command Staff joined the WestMinCom Commander in welcoming the distinguished visitor.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Michael Lorenzo, Commander of Air Installation and Base Development Command (AIBDC) visited the command in the afternoon of the same day. The Command accorded him with foyer honors as the officers and personnel of the command warmly welcome the distinguished Visitor from the Philippine Air Force. He then paid a courtesy call on WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. at the Laong Laan Hall at Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city. Brig. Gen. Lorenzo thanked the WestMinCom Family for the warm welcome.

The Philippine Air Force activated the AIBDC last February 22 to streamline the management and development of its airbases nationwide. Brig. Gen. Lorenzo is the first commander of the AIBDC. He is currently performing his duty of visiting the airbases in the entire country.

#SupportOurTroops
#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/photos/pcb.263921509276070/263921055942782/

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/?ref=page_internal

WESTMINCOM: Community Support Program resulted to the surrender of Former Violent Extremist

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Mar 23, 2022): Community Support Program resulted to the surrender of Former Violent Extremist

#SupportOurTroops
#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach

4th Civil Relations Group

Community Support Program resulted to the surrender of Former Violent Extremist

Isabela City, Basilan – Through the continuous effort and coordination of the AFP and LGUs, the Community Support Program of 18th Infantry (DEO et PATRIA) Battalion, 1ID, PA in the Municipality of Al-Barka, Basilan, resulted to the surrender of Former Violent Extremist during the Barangay Grand Assembly at the Covered Court of Brgy. Danapah, Al-Barka, Basilan Province on 17 March 2022.

With the aim of the JTF-Basilan to promote peace, security, and development in the Province of Basilan, the Charlie Company of 18th Infantry (DEO et PATRIA) Battalion, 1ID, PA, conducted simultaneous Community Support Programs at Brgy. Cambug, Brgy. Macalang, and Brgy. Danapah, Al-Barka, Basilan. Said CSP resulted to the surrender of Former Violent Extremist, a.k.a OMZ, together with a (1) One M16 assault rifle, a resident of Brgy. Danapah, and (2) two M1 Garand rifles from Brgy. Cambug and Brgy. Macalang, Al-Barka. Basilan Province which were highlighted during the Grand Assembly at the Covered Court of Brgy. Danapah.

The Community Support Program of the AFP plays a vital role in linking the LGUs and LGAs to the people. This allows the government to effectively address the primary concerns in a local community, including the need for basic services. As a result, the people becomes more aware of the government assistance, which later encourage Violent Extremists to surrender.

#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#SupportOurTroops
#TeamWestMinCom
#TeamCRSAFP

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=335557848598979&set=a.226169562871142

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/?ref=page_internal

AFP-CRS: Monzon: IP Communities ginagamit ng CPP sa 'Finance Work' para suportahan ang mga NPA

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Mar 23, 2022): Monzon: IP Communities ginagamit ng CPP sa 'Finance Work' para suportahan ang mga NPA (Monzon: IP Communities are used by the CPP in ‘Finance Work’ to support NPAs)

NEWS BREAK | Cristony "Jong" Monzon reveals at a press conference in Davao Oriental that is only used by the Communist Party of the philippines (CPP) IP communities as "finance work" to raise funds to support the NPA and senior members of CPP.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=341545324682488&set=a.228486002655088

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Monzon: Ang Makabayan Bloc ay Miyembro ng CPP-NPA-NDF

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Mar 23, 2022): Monzon: Ang Makabayan Bloc ay Miyembro ng CPP-NPA-NDF

PATUTUO| Si Cristony Jun Latiban Monzon @Franco Political Instructor ng Regional Operation Command, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC), at dating Secretary-General of Pasakaday Salugpongan Kalimudan (PASAKA). Sa panayam nabanggit din ni Jong na pumupunta sila sa kongreso para kumatawan sa mga katutubo.

#AFPyoucanTRUST #SalamatSundaloSaSerbisyo | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=342069134630107&set=a.228486002655088

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

NPA terrorist killed, firearms seized by AFP in Surigao del Sur

Posted to Philippine Defense News (Mar 24, 2022): NPA terrorist killed, firearms seized by AFP in Surigao del Sur (By: Ryan Warren)

A member of the communist terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in Marihatag, Surigao del Sur, after a fierce firefight with soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday, March 21.

The killed NPA member was among the more or less 20 communist terrorists encountered by troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion in an uninhabited area of Sitio Montenegren, Brgy San Isidro in Marihatag.

Government forces tracked down the armed group based on information from concerned citizens. This subsequently resulted in an armed encounter that lasted for about ten minutes.

“We are thankful for the populace’s support for their courage in reporting the presence of the NPAs in the area. Rest assured that we will not allow these terrorists to continue their nefarious activities that disrupt the peaceful lives of our people,” said Colonel Rommel Almaria, 401st Brigade Commander.

The NPAs fled after the firefight leaving behind their dead comrade, who is still for identification. The soldiers also seized six high-powered firearms, including M16 rifles, AK 47 rifles, M653 rifle, and M203 grenade launcher.

They also confiscated other war materiel such as improvised explosive device paraphernalia and documents with high intelligence value.

“The AFP calls on the communist terrorist group to stop further bloodshed, surrender peacefully, and let the government help them become productive members of society. Through this, we can achieve genuine peace and development for our country,” said Colonel Jorry L. Baclor, AFP Public Affairs Chief.

https://defense.ph/2022/03/24/npa-terrorist-killed-firearms-seized-by-afp-in-surigao-sur/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Lider-Lumad sa North Cotabato, iligal na inaresto

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda posted to the PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 22, 2022): Lider-Lumad sa North Cotabato, iligal na inaresto (Lumad Leader in North Cotabato, illegally arrested)

March 22, 2022

Iligal na naresto ng magkasanib na pwersa ng Philippine National Police (PNP) at 72nd IB si Edwin Oribawan Sr., lider-Lumad sa Sityo Aguila, Kabalantian, Arakan, North Cotabato noong Marso 18. Alas-kwatro ng madaling-araw nang sinalakay ng mga sundalo at pulis ang kanyang tahanan. Tinutukan ng baril ang kanyang dalawang anak.

Ayon sa ulat ng Save Our Schools Network, alas-5 ng madaling araw nang pinasok ang bahay ng mga Oribawan para magtanim ng bala at bigyang-katwiran ang iligal na pag-aresto sa kanya. Kinasuhan na siya ng gawa-gawang kaso ng pagpaslang, rebelyon at paggamit ng droga.

Si Oribawan Sr. ay isa sa lider ng konseho ng mga Lumad na Tinananon Kulamanon Lumadnon Panaghiusa. Isa rin siya sa mga nagtatag ng Mindanao Interfaith School Foundation, Inc. sa Arakan, North Cotabato. Myembro siya ng Parents, Teachers and Community Association. Noong 2017, malisyoso siyang idinawit ng AFP sa isinagawang ambus ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan sa Sityo Gambodes sa parehong bayan.

Ang MISFI ay nagtatag ng mga paaralang pang-elementarya sa mga komunidad ng Lumad na ipinasara ng NTF-Elcac. Noong Hunyo 2021, sapilitang pinadinemolis ng AFP ang paaralan sa mga residente dito.

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/lider-lumad-sa-north-cotabato-iligal-na-inaresto/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis : Sa North Central Mindanao//Napakainit ang pagtanggap ng masa sa kanilang hukbo

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda posted to the PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 22, 2022): Sa North Central Mindanao//Napakainit ang pagtanggap ng masa sa kanilang hukbo (In North Central Mindanao//The masses received their army very warmly)

Ang artikulong ito ay may salin sa Bisaya

March 22, 2022

“MGA KAPATID AT KASAMA, KAIN LANG KAYO NG MAKITA NINYO DIYAN.” Ito ang paskil na tumambad sa mga Pulang mandirigma nang naghahanap sila ng masa na pwedeng makausap. Nakasulat ito sa isang tablang kahoy gamit ang uling at makikita ito na nakasabit sa labas ng kubong napapaligiran ng maraming saging.

Bago nito ay dinanas ng nasabing yunit ng Pulang hukbo ang matinding kasalatan sa pagkain. Dahil sa pagsisikap na mapanatili ang pagiging sikreto ng pagkilos, isinagawa ng mga kasama ang palagiang paglipat at pag-iwas sa mga palatandaan upang magiging bulag at bingi ang kaaway sa kanilang kinalalagyan. Para rito, dinanas ng mga kasama ang iba’t ibang uri ng sakripisyo, isa na ang matinding gutom.

Nang humupa na ang operasyon ng kaaway, nagpalabas kaagad ng isang tim ng hukbo upang maghanap ng masa na pwedeng makatulong at mapakilos para sa pagpapabili ng pagkain. Nahirapan pa ang mga kasama sa paghahanap ng masa sa mga sakahan dahil walang tao ang mga kubo na kanilang napuntahan.

Kadalasan, sa panahon ng paglulunsad ng operasyong militar ng kaaway, umaabot ng ilang araw bago makabalik ang masa sa kanilang mga sakahan. Isang paraan ng kaaway upang pagkaitan ng suportang masa ang Pulang hukbo ay ang hamletting, o ang sapilitang pagpapabakwit sa masa mula sa mga liblib na lugar at magsiksikan sa mga sentrong bahagi ng kanilang lugar. Pinagbabawalan din ng kaaway ang masa na pumunta sa kanilang sakahan. Higit sa lahat ay ramdam din ng mga residente ang matinding takot dahil marami na silang karanasan na kadalasan ay dinakip, dinahas, pinatay at inaakusahang membro ng BHB kung makita sila ng kaaway. Kung kaya’t maraming kubo na napuntahan ng mga kasama ay may maraming gamit na naiwan. Kita na may hindi natapos na trabaho kagaya ng pag-uuway at pagtatanim at may naiwang mga alagang hayop.

Pagkatapos mabasa ng mga kasama ang nakasulat sa kahoy, kumuha kaagad sila ng saging. Hinawan ng mga kasama ang mga damo sa sakahan at dinagdagan ang pananim sa paligid ng kubo. Hindi pa rin sila huminto sa paghahanap ng masa na pwedeng makausap. Lumipas ang ilang araw, nakita na nila ang masa na may-ari ng kubo. Ayon pa sa kanya ay anim na taon na siyang naghihintay sa mga kasama at hinanda niya ang kanyang mga pananim upang itulong kung may mga kasamang dumating. Nalaman na lamang niyang may mga kasamang pumunta sa kanyang kubo dahil hindi nawala ang kanyang mga kagamitan at nilinisan pa ang kanyang sakahan. Dahil sa matinding operasyon ng kaaway, nag-iwan na lamang siya ng paskil sa kanyang kubo.

Noong 2021 ay lalo pang pinatindi ng kaaway ang dati nang pinapatupad nitong pokus at sustenidong operasyong militar sa rehiyon. Ginamit ng kaaway ang iba’t ibang rekurso at paraan upang ipatupad ang hangal na layunin na umano’y durugin ang BHB sa rehiyon at pagkaitan ito ng suportang masa. Malayong mali at hindi nagtagumpay ang kaaway.

Habang nagsasagawa ng gawaing masa ang ibang yunit ng BHB, naabutan nila ang isang lumang kubo. Matapos nilang katukin ang pinto ay lumabas ang isang matandang lalaki. Bakas sa kanyang mukha ang pagkasabik sa mga kasama at agad na nangamusta. Parang isang ama na pinagalitan ang kanyang anak. Tanong ni tatay, “bakit matagal kayong nakapunta dito? Kumain na ba kayo? Sigurado akong nagugutom na kayo dahil ang papayat nyo na. Iyang tanim kong gabi, hanggang sa makaya ninyo, kunin niyo na.”

Sa patuloy na paglalakad ng naturang yunit ng hukbo, muli silang nakatagpo ng masa sa isang kubo. Umiiyak si Tatay. Ayon sa kanya ay matindi ang kanyang takot dahil akala niya’y totoo ang ipinagmamayabang ng kaaway na naubos na ang BHB sa inilunsad nitong pamomomba. Isang linggo raw matapos ang isang serye ng pamomomba ng FA-50 fighter jets ay sinuri ni tatay ang bundok na tantya niya’y tinamaan ng bomba. Nangangamba siyang baka kinain na ng aso o baboy ramo ang buto ng mga kasama at nagbaka-sakali siyang may makita upang mailibing ng maayos. Ngumiti na lamang ang mga kasama at pinaliwanag kay tatay na kasinungalingan ang pinakalat ng kaaway at walang kasamang napatay sa nasabing serye ng pambobomba.

Sa kabilang baryo, may isang tim na pinalabas upang makipagkita sa isang kontak. Dahil sikreto ang pagkilos ay hinintay ng mga kasama na dumilim bago umalis. Baguhan ang mga kasama sa erya at hindi nila kabisado ang mga daanan. Nawala sila sa daan at doon sila napunta sa isang kubo na hindi nila kilala ang may-ari. Kahit ang mga may-ari mismo, na dalawang magkapatid na lalaki, ay nagulat na may nakarating sa kanilang kubo dis-oras ng gabi. Nagpakilala at nagpaliwanag ang mga kasama sa kanila dahil simula’t sapul ay hindi pa nakakilala ang mga ito ng Pulang hukbo. Madaling nagkaintindihan ang mga kasama at dalawang may-ari ng bahay. Nagkatay pa sila ng manok para sa mga kasama. Kinabukasan ay kumilos kaagad ang dalawa upang makabili ng pagkain para sa mga kasama. Matapos ang ilang linggo ay sumama na ang nakababatang kapatid at sumapi siya sa hukbo.

Sa pakikipaggitgitan ng mga Pulang hukbo sa iba’t ibang atake ng kaaway, palaging mataas ang kanilang rebolusyonaryong moral at sigasig dahil sa napakainit na pagtanggap ng masa sa kanila. Sa gitna ng mas brutal na pag-atake ng kaaway sa mamamayan, patuloy ang pagrerebolusyon ng masa. Walang-tigil ang mamamayan sa muling pagpapalawak at pagpapalakas ng kanilang kinalalagyang organisasyong masa. Araw-araw na inspirasyon ng mga kasama ang kakayahan ng masa na itaguyod ang digmang bayan.

May mga pagkakataong nagdadalawang-isip pa ang masa na makipagkita sa kasama o di kaya’y ipatupad ang kanilang mga tungkulin dahil minsan mas nangingibabaw ang kanilang takot. Ngunit, dahil sa kanilang malalim na pag-unawa sa rebolusyon, sila na mismo ang naghahanap na inisyatiba at alternatibo.

Masinsin ang pagtitiyak ng masa para maka-iwas ang kanilang hukbo sa atake ng kaaway. Kung kaya’t kaagad silang tumitimbre kung may namataan silang kaaway. Sa maraming pagkakataon ay binabalikat na ng masa ang seguridad ng hukbo sa pamamagitan ng pagpa-patrol sa paligid.

Mainit ang pag-aalaga ng masa sa kanilang hukbo na manatiling malusog at may kakayahang makipagsagupaan. Inilalaan ng masa ang kanilang mga pananim at iba pang pagkain bilang suporta. Tumutulong din sila upang makapag-imbak ng pagkain bilang paghahanda sa paparating na krisis sa pagkain.

Mainit ang pagsuporta ng masa habang mas lumakas at lumawak ang kanilang hukbo. Taus-puso nilang pinapayagan at sinusuportahan ang kanilang mga anak na sumapi at manatili sa BHB.

Mainit ang pagpreserba ng masa sa prestihiyo ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Iniiwasan nila ang sapilitan at walang-piling pagpapasuko ng kaaway. Kung napilitan mang sumurender ay nagtatago sila sa mga sikretong lugar upang hindi magamit ng kaaway at maingat nilang kinukubli ang mga gamit ng hukbo na iniwan sa kanila.

Higit sa lahat ay mainit ang pagpapalakas ng masa sa demokratikong rebolusyon ng bayan. Araw-araw nilang pinapatunayan na sila ang tunay na bayani at sila ang tagapaglikha ng kasaysayan. # (Ang Kalihukan)

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/napakainit-ang-pagtanggap-ng-masa-sa-kanilang-hukbo/

CPP: Denounce enactment of Duterte’s US-imposed neoliberal laws

Propaganda statement posted to PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 23, 2022): Denounce enactment of Duterte’s US-imposed neoliberal laws

Communist Party of the Philippines
March 23, 2022

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) condemns the Duterte regime for its triple act of national treachery and gross subservience to the US imperialists with the recent successive signing of amendments to Public Service Act, amendments to the Foreign Investments Act, and the Retail Trade Liberalization Act. These neoliberal laws further entrenches imperialist economic interests in the country and condemns the country to a state of economic dependence.

The amendment to the Public Service Act (Republic Act 11659) signed by Duterte last Monday will allow foreign capitalists to fully own and operate telecommunication, domestic shipping, railways and subways, airlines, expressways and tollways and airports paving the way for foreign capitalists to completely control the country’s critical infrastructure. Reasons of national sovereignty and security make self-respecting countries such as the US and China prohibit foreign capitalists to control these fields of investments. Based on the country’s experience under all-out privatization, this new law will lead to higher costs of transportation and communication.

The Foreign Investments Act (RA 11647), enacted by Duterte last February, reduced the amount of paid up capital to $100,000 or ₱5,000,000, and the required workforce to 15 (from 50) to fully own and operate a local enterprise. The related updated “foreign investment negative list” will now also open up more economic fields for foreign capitalists including tourism and agriculture which will pave the way for expansion of plantations and ecotourism projects which have displaced peasants from their land.

The Retail Trade Liberalization Act (RA 11595), signed by Duterte last December 2021, will now allow foreign capitalists to invest as low as ₱10 million (from ₱127 million under the original law in 2000) to set up a retail store in the Philippines, which will for certain result in undue competition to mid-sized and small Filipino retailers, and the further promotion of foreign goods instead of locally produced commodities.

The US embassy, the American Chamber of Commerce and other foreign chambers in the Philippines, together with their local agents in the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (Ecop) and other local big business groups are most gratified by these laws. They have long called for these measures along with their demand for the amending the 1987 constitution that limit foreign capitalists to 60% ownership of local enterprises.

With these neoliberal amendments, foreign big capitalists are now allowed to own 100% equity of local enterprises in practically all aspects of the economy, except for the almost non-existent “defense industry.” These follow successive policies over the past decades which have given foreign capitalists more and more economic rights in the country and control of the economy.

This triple measure brings the country back to the era of the Parity Rights Amendment under the Bell Trade Act of 1946 which allowed US citizens equal rights to exploit the country’s economic resources, among other policies which tied and subsumed the country’s economy to the US.

These neoliberal measures are the latest of US-dictated agreements and economic laws over the past 75 years which paved the way for the American companies and allied imperialists to shape, dominate the country as a source of cheap raw materials (timber, minerals, sugarcane, bananas, coconut, pineapples) and permanently lock the country in its current non-industrial, backward and agrarian state.

The reactionary 1987 constitution contained “protectionist” provisions as a response to the strong demand to develop a nationalist economy following the rapid deterioration of the economy due to dictates of the IMF and World Bank during the US-Marcos dictatorship. These, however, have been brazenly trampled since the late 1980s by the successive puppet regimes through such laws and measures as the law on automatic debt appropriation, the series of IMF “debt restructuring” which resulted in spending cuts for social services, the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, the ever-shortening “Negative List” of areas of investment reserved for Filipino nationals, the country’s accession into the GATT and World Trade Organization (GATT/WTO), the Oil Deregulation Law and the slew of policies for import liberalization, including the most recent law on rice import liberalization, which all have resulted in the flooding of surplus imported commodities to the detriment of local small manufacturers and agricultural producers.

By removing all protection of local and independent small capitalists, the Duterte regime’s neoliberal amendments will practically spell the extinction of the national bourgeoisie, the death of economic independence and further deterioration of the socioeconomic conditions of the people.

These neoliberal measures will further exacerbate the country’s dependence on foreign capital and foreign debt and its orientation towards export of low value-added semi-manufactures linked to the global assembly line controlled by multinational corporations. It will worsen the country’s inability to stand on its own two feet.

The advocates of these neoliberal measures make false promises that the entry of more foreign capitalists will bring jobs and give the people greater accessibility to transportation and telecommunication services. This is easily disproved by the people’s concrete experience under all-out liberalization of of such public utilities as water and electricity distribution over the past few decades, where local subsidiaries and partners of foreign companies are making huge amounts of money by making millions of consumers pay for rising costs.

These neoliberal measures are being pushed by foreign monopoly capitalists in their desperate aim to open all possible fields of investment amid the prolonged crisis of the global capitalist system where there is an oversupply and commodities, an over-accumulation of uninvestible capital and falling rates of profits. These Duterte neoliberal laws are a desperate call for profit-hungry foreign capitalists to invest in the Philippines to scrape the bottom of the semicolonial and semifeudal system.

The Filipino people must continue to raise their national democratic demands and press with their call for national industrialization and land reform as key policies to develop the economy, create jobs, lessen dependence on foreign capital, and raise the country’s capacity to manufacture basic necessities as well as new types of commodities.

The Filipino people must denounce the Duterte regime’s national treachery with the triple neoliberal measures that will further foreign monopoly capitalist economic domination and imperialist control of the economy, and continue to wage all forms of struggles and revolutionary resistance for national and social liberation.

https://cpp.ph/statements/denounce-enactment-of-dutertes-us-imposed-neoliberal-laws/

CPP/NDF-CPDF: Revolution is the only way out of poverty towards systemic change//Marcos Sr greed is catalyst to vegetable smuggling

Propaganda statement posted to PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Mar 23, 2022): Revolution is the only way out of poverty towards systemic changeMarcos Sr greed is catalyst to vegetable smuggling

Cordillera People's Democratic Front

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

March 23, 2022

One thing that proves the need for an armed revolution is when the unapologetic heir of the person that caused the impoverishment of millions of Filipinos can still run for the same office that helped perpetuate that poverty. Especially when that predecessor refuses to return the stolen wealth or compensate the victims of his father. In short, the economic system is rotten and the political process is rigged. To take up arms is the only true option towards societal and systemic change.

Vegetable producers of the Cordilleras are reaffirming this lesson. In their frustration over government inaction, they have issued a unity statement to cry foul over brazen smuggling of vegetables from China and South Korea. The Senate hearing late last year yielded nothing significant for the campaign. The influx of smuggled produce already amounted to roughly a billion pesos from May to November just last year. Now, economic conditions aggravate the already dire situation. Higher production costs ensued from the consecutive oil price hikes. A kilo of chicken dung went up from Php105 to Php150. Moving harvest from farm to trading post can now cost Php4 per kilo from its previous Php3. The Duterte administration did not even think to include vegetable producers and truckers in the promised fuel subsidy program.

What is yet unsaid though is that vegetable smuggling is merely an offshoot of neoliberal policies that emerged after the Marcoses’ greed and plunder caused unprecedented economic decline. Ferdinand Marcos’ regime is also notoriously known as a kleptocracy or rule by thieves. Unsurprising, because not only did the Marcoses live off lavishly from everything they could put their hands on, their patriarch even took out huge foreign loans for themselves. The debts set in motion neoliberal policies of privatization, deregulation and liberalization as dictated by the WB and the IMF, creditors to Marcos’ binge loaning.

Liberalization in agriculture, or when trade agreements allowed for the dumping of agricultural products from one country to another, is an example. Such agreements hurt the Philippines whose own agriculture is underdeveloped and thus incapable of exporting as much as it is expected to import. To protect local producers against importation, GATT-WTO exempted some items from entering Philippine markets. Yet, in the anarchy that is monopoly capitalism and its hallmark surplus production, enforcing these exemptions seems too much of an effort. More accurately, enforcing market controls goes against the very soul of capitalism: exploitation and profit.

To wage a revolution requires immense effort as well, but one that the people can readily accept because of the validity of its principles. Much like capitalism, the Marcoses cannot stay on top for too long because the people and their armed revolution are here, roaring to knock them off their pedestals and put them in their proper place in history. Capitalism and the Marcoses must know by now that a national democratic victory is upon their doorstep. ###

End all unfair trade agreements! End all neoliberal policies!

Protect farmers’ rights and the interest of national minorities!

Advance the People’s War!

https://cpp.ph/statements/marcos-sr-greed-is-catalyst-to-vegetable-smuggling/

Kalinaw News: 62IB lends hands to save the life of a wounded NPA

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 24, 2022): 62IB lends hands to save the life of a wounded NPA

ISABELA, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL – A member of the NPA was wounded and surrendered to 62nd Infantry “Unifier” Battalion, after the firefight between the members of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and the Local Peace Engagement (LPE) conducted by this unit at Brgy Amin, Isabela Negros Occidental last March 09, 2022.

The encounter led to the surrender of Robert Carillo Anceno, single, 23 and a resident of Sitio Maho-Paho Brgy San Agustin, Isabela, Negros Occidental who was also with Virgilio Tamban aka “Kumander Bedam”, on the same day.

The 62IB evacuated Robert Anceno from the encounter site at Brgy Amin and transported him to the nearest hospital for medical treatment.

As of March 20, 2022, Robert Anceno is still confined and recovering from his injuries. With this, necessary assistance was provided and four (4) bags of blood were donated to save his life through the initiation led by the 62IB and PNP Isabela. The Anceno family appreciated the efforts of the PNP and the Philippine Army in assisting and extending their hands to the said CNT personality.

“We will extend whatever assistance this personality needed. We in the Philippine Army, will help the armed group member who wants to surrender. Again, we are calling the remaining CTG members to lay down their arms before it’s too late”, said LTC WILLIAM C PESASE JR INF (GSC) PA, 62IB Commanding Officer.

Truly, the troops leave no man behind, whether you’re a comrade or an adversary. Peace is for the country and for the Filipino people.

[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/62ib-lends-hands-to-save-the-life-a-wounded-npa/

Kalinaw News: Multi-Sector Advisory and Action Group (MSAAG) Members overwhelmed by 10ID Gains

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 24, 2022): Multi-Sector Advisory and Action Group (MSAAG) Members overwhelmed by 10ID Gains

MAWAB, Davao De Oro – The Multi-Sector Advisory and Action Group (MSAAG) of the 10th Infantry “Agila” Division, Philippine Army convened its 1st Quarter Regular Meeting at Bayanihan Hall, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City via video-teleconferencing and face-to-face platform spearheaded by its chairperson, Mr. Ednar Dayanghirang and Agila Division Commander MGen Nolasco A Mempin on Wednesday, March 23, 2022.

During the meeting, a conferral of Army Governance Pathway(AGP) was given to the nine (9) subordinate units of the Agila Divison. 60th Infantry Battalion (IB) and the 25IB were awarded Institutionalized Status while 89IB, 39IB, 10th Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Battalion, 10th Military Intelligence Battalion (MIB), Service Support Battalion (SSBn), Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion (HHSBn) and 10th Division Training School (10DTS) were awarded the Proficient Status.

Significant accomplishments of 10ID including effective implementation of Executive Order Number 70 (EO 70) and updates on the Army Transformation Roadmap were also presented to MSAAG members.

Moreover, Mr. Ednar Dayanghirang emphasized during the discussion that members of MSAAG should agree on a common platform to help sustain the gains of the Agila Division. “Mapagpatuloy man o hindi ang Executive Order 70, dapat ma continue ang programs na tulad nito,” Dayanghirang said.” On behalf of the members of the MSAAG, I wish to congratulate the 10ID, may we be able to also address other issues and finally end local communist armed conflict,” he added.

Meanwhile, MGen Mempin also extends his sincere appreciation to the members of MSAAG for the invaluable support they provided to the Agila Division. “As we continue to pursue our quest in attaining our vision of becoming a world-class army that is a source of national pride in 2028, we hope that you extend the same support and guidance that you have so generously shared as we also pursue our mission of ending the local communist insurgency in Southern Mindanao before the term of President Duterte ends,” MGen Mempin added.

The 10ID Multi-sector Advisory and Action Group is the third-party advisory committee that oversees the continuity, sustainability, and shared responsibility in pursuing the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) as translated into the 10ID Performance Governance Scorecard and its subsidiary units.

Kalinaw News: NPA terrorist killed; six high-powered firearms captured; and NPA harbour area overran by 4ID troops

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 23, 2022): NPA terrorist killed; six high-powered firearms captured; and NPA harbour area overran by 4ID troops

Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur – A CPP-NPA terrorist (CNT) was killed by the troops of 75th Infantry Battalion which is under the operational control of the 401st Brigade during an encounter at an uninhabited area in Sitio Montenegren, Brgy San Isidro, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur at around 11:35 am on March 21, 2022.

The troops of 75th IB encountered more or less twenty (20) CNTs who have been conducting atrocities and extortion in Surigao del Sur area. Based on information from concerned citizens, the troops tracked down the armed group that subsequently resulted in an armed encounter that lasted for about ten (10) minutes until the CNTs fled leaving behind their dead comrade who is still for identification. The soldiers also seized six (6) high powered firearms, as follows: two (2) M16 rifles, two (2) AK 47 rifles, one (1) M653 rifle, and one (1) M203 grenade launcher. Other war materiel seized are sixteen (16) tents, seven (7) backpacks, three (3) commercial radios, one (1) GPS, Improvised Explosive Device Paraphernalia and documents with high intelligence value.

“Another unfortunate incident transpired wherein a CNT was killed and several others wounded. Hence, we are calling on the CNTs to surrender and allow us to help them treat their wounded comrades”, Col Rommel Almaria, 401st Brigade Commander stated.

He further said that “We are thankful for the support of the populace for their courage in reporting the presence of the CNTs at said area. Rest assured that we will not allow these terrorists to continue their nefarious activities that disrupt the peaceful lives of our people.”

“Again, we are appealing on the remaining Communist Terror Group members to surrender peacefully, we will accept you with open arms. Avail of the E-CLIP of the government and start new lives with your families. Together, we will end this conflict and achieve a lasting peace”, Col Almaria added.

Kalinaw News: PH Army celebrates 125th founding anniversary

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 23, 2022): PH Army celebrates 125th founding anniversary

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army commemorated its 125th founding anniversary in a ceremony at the Headquarters Philippine Army Grandstand, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on March 22, 2022.

Commanding General Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., received guest of honor and speaker Defense Sec. Delfin N. Lorenzana who was accorded foyer honors upon his arrival at the Headquarters Philippine Army Grandstand. The ceremony marked the culmination of the month-long series of events in line with the Army’s quasquicentennial founding anniversary.

Secretary of Interior and Local Government Eduardo M. Año, National Security Adviser Sec. Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr., AFP Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Erickson R. Gloria, generals from other AFP service branches, commanders of Philippine Army Major Units, foreign armed forces and defense attaches, Army stakeholders, and former Army chiefs attended the anniversary event which was livestreamed to Army units nationwide.

The CGPA assisted Sec. Lorenzana in presenting the Army command plaque and “Kapayapaan Para Sa Lahat” statuettes for Army stakeholders who made vital contributions to the Army’s transformation journey. The statuettes were handcrafted by Camarines Norte-based artist Paolo Gerero.

Outstanding Army divisions, brigade, battalions and officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resource likewise received awards for their exemplary and dedicated service.

“On behalf of the more than 100,000-strong officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resource of the Philippine Army, my wholehearted appreciation to all Filipinos for your faith and trust in your Philippine Army. Please know that you—our kababayans, are the main priority in our service. We will always strive to live up to your expectations with loyalty and integrity,” the CGPA remarked.

Meanwhile, Sec. Lorenzana lauded the Army for its vital role in attaining lasting peace and for its nation-building efforts. “Indeed the Army is more than just a military institution. It has become a reliable and responsive partner of the Filipino people during calamities and national emergencies,” Sec. Lorenzana said in his remarks.

“Sustain your fervour in serving the Filipino people with passion and dedication. Continue building your capacities and learn from your experiences. Cultivate your harmonious working relationship with our stakeholders because convergence with them is the key to keeping the trust of the Filipino people,” the Defense chief said.

Kalinaw News: CGPA delivers first 100-day report to troops

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 23, 2022): CGPA delivers first 100-day report to troops

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Commanding General Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., expressed optimism that the Army is on track to meet its goal of becoming a world-class military force by 2028 during his first 100-day report to troops which he delivered at the Philippine Army Officers Clubhouse, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on March 21, 2022.

“We are guided by the Army Transformation Roadmap which embodies the constitution of good governance and excellence. By 2028, I firmly believe that we are already a world-class Army that is a source of national pride,” the Army Chief said in his report that was streamed to all Army units nationwide.

The CGPA reported the organization’s accomplishments in line with his command guidance “SERVE.” Lt. Gen. Brawner also shared updates on the Philippine Army’s mission as force provider. “Throughout the years, the Philippine Army has remained steadfast in pursuing its mandate to develop, organize, train, equip, support, and sustain land forces for the conduct of prompt and sustained ground operations in accomplishing the AFP’s mission,” Lt. Gen. Brawner remarked.

Lt. Gen. Brawner discussed programs aimed at ensuring the physical and mental health of soldiers, the Army’s most vital resource; enhancing the soldiers’ skills and unit capabilities; and providing resources to capacitate Army units nationwide. The Army Chief also gave updates on the campaign to eradicate threat groups and efforts to ensure orderly and peaceful national and local elections on May 2022.

Lt. Gen. Brawner relayed updates on the Army’s modernization program which will bolster its territorial defense capabilities. The Army Chief highlighted the activation of new infantry rocket-system, and short range air defense battalions as well as the ground-based air defense battery. “We will also activate the 1st Electronic Warfare Company to capacitate the command with cyber defense capabilities and the mechanized-centric Brigade Combat Team to further enhance the combined arms capability of the Army,” he said.

“This 100 day-report is not a manifestation of what I have accomplished. It is an embodiment of our collective efforts and teamwork in the Philippine Army,” Lt. Gen. Brawner said.

“These past 125 years, we have seen the Philippine Army grow into a professional and capable Army for our country. And as we saw our short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans, we are looking at a very bright future for the Philippine Army,” the Army Chief concluded.

Kalinaw News: Army showcases mobile surgical care unit, latest medical assets

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 23, 2022): Army showcases mobile surgical care unit, latest medical assets

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army showcased its surgery truck and other latest medical assets in a static display held at the Hunters ROTC Parade Grounds, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on March 21, 2022.

Army Chief Nurse Col. Maria Victoria Juan said the highly deployable surgery trucks were conceptualized after a review of operational gaps in the Marawi Siege. “These trucks and assigned medical teams can perform resuscitation care, patient stabilization, package casualty for evacuation, and damage control surgery,” Col. Juan said. The surgical trucks, which are modified KM250, will be operated by the forward medical companies of Army Divisions, she added.

The Office of the Army Chief Surgeon, Office of the Army Chief Nurse, and the Office of the Army Chief Dental Surgeon showcased the latest medical and dental equipment and capabilities of the Army during the event.

Commanding General, Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., in his command guidance, has vowed to prioritize the physical and mental health of soldiers, the Army’s most important resource.

Kalinaw News: Caraga RTF-ELCAC launches a PhP 20M BDP project in Agusan del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 23, 2022): Caraga RTF-ELCAC launches a PhP 20M BDP project in Agusan del Norte

Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur (ADS) – A ground breaking ceremony of a PhP 20 Million Farm-to-Market Road project by the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) under the Local Government Support Fund – Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) that will help farmers access their farms and transport farm goods was conducted in Brgy Mahaba, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte-a former Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area and an insurgency-cleared barangay.

The 1.333 kms two-lane concrete pavement with 5m width, 0.20m thick and 1.5m shoulder width on both sides FMR will be constructed for the benefit of 290 households of Sitio Sumobay and Sitio Lubo all of Brgy Mahaba, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

With the construction of FMR, Brgy Captain Delino S Delabahan of Brgy Mahaba expressed his utmost appreciation to the provincial and city governments of Agusan del Norte, ELCAC Officials, PNP and the military units particularly 29IB under 901Bde and 65IB under 401Bde-for the initiatives and efforts for his barangay that was once influenced by the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG). “Sa atong mga bisita, ang Brgy Mahaba nalipay ug dako nga ang kalsada nga dugay na namong gipangandoy, karon niabot na. Kani nahitungod sa pagbalik namo sa sabakan sa gobyerno ug pag undang sa pag suporta ngadto sa pikas nga grupo. Sa akong kabarangay, akong gihangyo nga unta magpadayon ta sa pag undang ug suporta sa NPA, aron ang suporta sa gobyerno sa pagbuhat ug dugang pa nga kalsada ning atong mga kabukiran, mas daghan pa. Ug tungod niini, ang mga lumulupyo diri magpadayon pag benipisyo labi na kadtong nay mga abakahan ug sagingan sa ibabaw,” he added.

Present during the ground breaking were Provincial Governor Dale V Corvera; City Mayor Judy Chin Amante; Assistant Director Rene V Valera and Concurrent Director of EO70 Project Management Office; Brigadier General Allan D Hambala, 401st Brigade Commander; officials of PLGU, and the DILG provincial and regional offices.

Prior to the culmination of the ceremony, a special IP dance was performed by the Mamanwa Tribe. Also, Mayor Judy Chin Amante, together with the residents of Mahaba, invited everyone to join them in the “Cabadbaran Dance”, thus leaving smiles in everyone’s face and making everyone happy and grateful as the ground breaking ceremony ended.

Prior to the ground breaking ceremony, the Department of Interior and Local Government Caraga initiated a Leveling Session dubbed as Harmonization of CSP and RCSP Process and Its Implementation hosted by Cabadbaran City at E&G Convention Center Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte to ensure the smooth implementation of RCSP and the process in identifying and clearing of insurgency-affected barangays.