EASTMINCOM: 1 NPA terrorist killed in Bukidnon encounter

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Apr 12, 2022): 1 NPA terrorist killed in Bukidnon encounter

AFP Radio DWDD

1 NPA terrorist killed in Bukidnon encounter

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City - One communist NPA terrorist (CNT) killed in an encounter with AFP troops in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on April 8.

According to Lt. Col. Anthony Bacus, Commanding Officer of the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Battalion under 403rd Infantry Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division, his troops responded to a report that an armed men were extorting money and farm produce from farmers when they encountered about 20 CNTs at Sitio Bendum, Brgy Busdi, Malaybalay City Bukidnon on Friday morning.

 
"A fierce firefight ensued between our troops and the CNTs that lasted for about 30 minutes, after which the enemy scampered in different directions leaving behind their dead comrade. Our soldiers also seized the fatality's M16 rifle," Lt. Col. Bacus said.

 
"Unfortunately, one of our soldiers was slightly wounded and brought to the nearest medical facility for treatment," Lt. Col. Bacus added.

The armed group belongs to the Headquarters Force Neo and Regional Sentro de Gravidad Compaq of the Communist Terrorist Group's (CTG's) North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

 
It can be recalled that Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Andres C Centino reminded all AFP units nationwide to step-up focused military operations against the CTG and other threat groups to minimize if not to eliminate all threats that may sabotage the incoming election in May.

"It is our duty to protect our people from all threats so that they will be able to live peacefully and exercise their rights, especially the right to elect their leaders on election day," Gen. Centino said.

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EASTMINCOM: Ex-Rebel points largest arms cache in Eastern Mindanao this year

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Apr 12, 2022): Ex-Rebel points largest arms cache in Eastern Mindanao this year

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - A full cooperation of former Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) member who recently surrendered to the troops of Eastern Mindanao Command, under the supervision of LtGen. Greg T. Almerol led to the discovery of the largest arms cache in Agusan del Sur this year at the Bagul River, Brgy, Kasapa 2, La Paz on April 11.

The said personality identified as alias Bolo was a member of the Guerilla Front 3 (GF3), Sub-Regional Committee 4 (SRC4), Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SRMC), which was recently dismantled following the total surrender of its leadership to the 1001st Brigade's 60th Infantry Battalion (IB).

The recovered high-powered firearms were composed of 10 AK47 Rifles, seven M16 rifles, a Ultimax Light Machine Gun (LMG), an M14 rifle, an M79 Grenade Launcher, a Garand rifle, an M16 rifle with incomplete parts, including one drum magazine for Ultimax LMG, and five magazines of thr AK47 rifle.

It can be recalled on April 7-8, two CTG arms caches were also discovered by EastMinCom troops in Davao de Oro, which led to the recovery of nine high-powered firearms through the aid of former rebels and the synergy of the government’s security forces.

LtGen. Almerol said that the series of arms cache discoveries is a clear manifestation of CTG's ultimate loss of members due to fear of continuous military operations conducted by government troops.
"They are now hiding their firearms since they no longer have members who would bear them. Their recruitment was also ceased when their former mass bases rejected the terrorist group and pledged their support to the government," he said.

"With this recent accomplishment, we could say that the GF3 will have no chance of recuperating. They are inutile without firearms to wield against their former mass bases," LtGen. Almerol added.

Meanwhile, the EastMinCom Commander lauded the troops of 10th Infantry Division’s 1001st Brigade, 60IB, and the support of local leaders and former rebels who have shared a bulk of information that is crucial to the success of their series of accomplishments, including the total dissolution of the GF3.

"We have once again proven that the collaboration of all agencies of government is the best way to end the local communist armed conflict. Let us continue this fight to achieve utmost peace and development in this part of our country," he expressed.###

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AFP-CRS: Seven NPAs with 3 high-powered firearms surrender in Davao del Norte

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Apr 12, 2022): Seven NPAs with 3 high-powered firearms surrender in Davao del Norte

NEWS BREAK | Troops under the 56th Infantry Battalion of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade facilitated the surrender of seven (7) Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) with three (3) high-powered firearms in Talaingod, Davao Del Norte on April 8, 2022.

56IB Commander Lieutenant Colonel Osmalik Tayaban identified the surrenderors namely; alias “Mamiloy”, alias “Onyok/Thor”, alias “Trisha”, alias “Toryo/Dayan”, alias “Mars”, alias “Marvin” and alias “Dante”. They brought along with them two (2) AK47 Rifles and one (1) IMI Israel AR Galil Rifle.

 
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AFP-CRS: Four Communist Terrorists Killed; Extortion Averted

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Apr 12, 2022): Four Communist Terrorists Killed; Extortion Averted

NEUTRALIZED| Four (4) alleged members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) were killed during a law enforcement operation orchestrated by the 5th Special Forces Battalion and local police forces at Sitio Limite, Upper Maculan, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato on April 8, 2022.

 
Major General Juvymax Uy, JTF Central and 6ID Commander, disclosed that the 4 CTs were conducting extortion activities in the community and has been the target for monitoring by security forces.

 
The suspects were onboard two motorcycles when they were flagged-down by security forces from the 5th Special Forces Battalion while conducting a checkpoint. The suspects however fired their firearms towards the security forces which led to a 10-minute firefight that resulted to the death of the 4 suspects identified as Ariel Moca Lasib alias Jenrose; a certain alias Hadi, the second Deputy Secretary of Guerilla Front MUSA, FSMR; Johndel Limosnero alias Butod, supply officer; and alias Rex and alias Nomer, members of Yunit Militia.

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Kalinaw News: Joint Army-PNP Law Enforcement Operations arrest CTG Leader in CDO

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2022): Joint Army-PNP Law Enforcement Operations arrest CTG Leader in CDO



CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Joint operations by the Regional Special Operations Team (RSOT) of PRO -10, CIDG Regional Field Unit -10 and the Task Force Oro, 403Bde of the 4th Infantry Division, led to the arrest of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leader, Aldeem A. Yañez, at the Urban Poor Village, Brgy Iponan, this city on Sunday, April 10, 2022.

Yañez was arrested for violation of the Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, on the strength of a Search Warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court, Misamis Oriental 10th Judicial Court on April 6, 2022. Recovered from Yañez’s possession were one (1) cal.45 Pistol, two (2) fragmentation hand grenades, two (2) 40mm ammunitions, fake IDs (voter’s and vaccine card) and subversive documents.

In the underground movement, Yañez conducts ideological, political and organizational (IPO) works in Saldav and Pantaron Range Complex in Bukidnon while also facilitating the CTG’s extortion activities in the urban areas of Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon provinces.

In a statement, MGen. Wilbur C Mamawag, 4ID Commander, lauded the joint elements of 4ID and PNP for this accomplishment. The long arm of the government, thru the NTF-ELCAC mechanism, will catch up on CTG leaders even if they fled the countryside to seek refuge in urban centers. “We thank the communities for their continued vigilance and for not allowing these CTGs-in-hiding to infiltrate their ranks un-reported. Again, we call on the remaining CTG leaders to better lay down their arms and turn themselves in peacefully. Various social benefit programs await those who want to lead normal lives anew, MGen Mamawag added.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/joint-army-pnp-law-enforcement-operations-arrest-ctg-leader-in-cdo/

Kalinaw News: US Congressional Delegation reinforces US support for AFP

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2022): US Congressional Delegation reinforces US support for AFP



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – April 12, 2022

The United States Congressional Delegation headed by Representative Ruben Gallego from the District of Arizona visited the Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City on April 11, 2022. Representative Gallego said, “we are here to reinforce our country’s support to the counter-terrorism operations in the Philippines”.

Representative Gallego who is a member of the House Armed Services Committee together with four other members and the officers and staff of the Special Operations Task Force 511.2 met with the military officials of WestMinCom at the Laong Laan Hall at Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city at 10 in the morning.

Rear Admiral Toribio Adaci, Jr., Commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao who represented WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., expressed his gratitude to the United States of America through the delegation for all the support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The congressional delegation commended the Philippine military’s resolve to end terrorism and violent extremism which create worldwide peace crises. They also assured that the USA’s commitment to supporting the AFP is rock solid because according to them, the Philippines is a reliable partner.

Through the years, the USA and the Philippines remained good allies and leaders continue to establish stronger ties which led to numerous mission accomplishments.

Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. extended his appreciation to the US Congressional Delegation for their effort to come over the Philippines and strengthen their relationship with the armed forces. “We are deeply honored to have such supportive ally with us as we continue to journey toward peace and progress here in Mindanao,” the WestMinCom Commander said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/us-congressional-delegation-reinforces-us-support-for-afp/

Kalinaw News: Daulah Islamiyah members, supporters receive immediate gov’t support

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2022): Daulah Islamiyah members, supporters receive immediate gov’t support



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – April 12, 2022

Two young combatants and 49 supporters and couriers of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) received immediate support following their surrender to the government forces in Lanao del Sur at about 11:30 in the morning Monday, April 11, 2022.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command said that the Daulah Islamiyah personalities submitted themselves to Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, Commander of 103rd Infantry Brigade at Headquarters, Charlie Company, 51st Infantry Battalion in Barangay Gacap, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

Brig. Gen. Cuerpo revealed that the two former violent extremists, known as Paris and Akmad, are minors. “They are both 17 years of age and residents of Piagapo,” the Brigade Commander stated.

“The mass surrender of DI members, supporters, and couriers is a result of the military’s intensified operations and the unwavering support from the local government unit and the populace,” the one-star general further stated.

A.k.a. Paris and a.k.a. Akmad handed over one M1 Garand rifle and one cal. 45 pistol while two of the supporters also handed over two M1 Garand rifles to the military. Food packs were then distributed to the former members and supporters of the DI-MG.

“I am personally grateful for the decision of the two young men to abandon the group that lured them with false ideologies and almost destroyed their future. This is their chance to renew their lives and reshape their future. Rest assured that we will watch their back and guide them as they reintegrate into mainstream society,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. expressed.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/daulah-islamiyah-members-supporters-receive-immediate-govt-support/

Kalinaw News: Philippine Army conducts Search, Rescue and Retrieval Operations in response to onslaught of Tropical Storm “AGATON” in Leyte and Southern Leyte Provinces

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 12, 2022): Philippine Army conducts Search, Rescue and Retrieval Operations in response to onslaught of Tropical Storm “AGATON” in Leyte and Southern Leyte Provinces



Camp Jorge Downes, Ormoc City, March 12, 2022 – Interminable rain showers prior and during the landfall of Tropical Storm “Agaton” on April 10, 2022 caused flooding to low-lying areas and landslides in several mountainous communities in the provinces of Leyte, Southern Leyte and Biliran. The Maharlika Highway from Mahaplag, Leyte going to Sogod, Southern Leyte was rendered unpassable due to a damaged bridge in Barangay Polahongon of said municipality. Also, the route from Abuyog, Leyte going to Silago, Southern Leyte was also not passable due to landslides. These incidents closed the shortest route to the Pacific towns and gateway to Mindanao and Panaon Island in Southern Leyte. With this, 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division HADR units were activated to conduct Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) specifically to conduct Search, Rescue and Retrieval (SRR) operations and conducted support to DRRMMOs preventive evacuations. Based on the reports of SRR units of 14th Infantry Battalion, with their close partnership with CDRMMO Baybay City, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), they were able to retrieve fourteen (14) cadavers in Brgy Mailhi, five (5) in Brgy Kantagnos, two (2) in Brgy Maypatag, one (1) in Brgy Candadam, one (1) in Brgy Pangasugan and one (1) in Brgy Bunga, with a total of 25 mortalities/casualties, 28 missing and 105 injured in Baybay City. On the other hand, the 546th Engineer Construction Battalion (546ECB) conducted road clearing operations in landslide areas of Brgy Cuatro de Agosto, Mahaplag; and main roads in Hilongos, Leyte, Liloan and Maasin City both of Southern Leyte, in order to speed up the SRR operations of the responders.

In the afternoon of same day, there was a reported missing person, Adrian Paulo B Tulin who was surfing in Brgy Pangasungan in Baybay City, Leyte. Moreover, late in the evening of same day, simultaneous flooding and landslides happened in barangays of Mailhi, Maypatag, Kan-ipa, Pangasugan, Bunga and Brgy Kantagnos of same city. These incidents closed the nearest diversion route to Pacific towns and Panaon Island.

The SRR Teams from 802nd Brigade and 14IB composed of CAFGUs and reservists from 8RCDG together with CDRRMO Baybay City, PNP, BFP, PCG and other local rescuers immediately conducted search and rescue operations and still in the area as of this report. Others are on road clearing operations with 546ECB and DPWH, and HADR operations in collaborations with CDRMMO Baybay City with other socio-civic groups and private sectors conducting relief distributions.

“We are saddened of this dreadful incident that caused unfortunate loss of lives and destruction of properties” Colonel Noel A Vestuir, Brigade Commander, 802nd Infantry Brigade, said during his area survey and inspection in Baybay City, yesterday, April 11, 2022.

“I commend the rescuers for their selfless devotion to their duties despite of the difficult and dangerous situation due to continuous rains and threat of landslide as they attempt to save more lives” Vestuir added, as he personally witnessed and supervised the ongoing rescue operation in Brgy Bobon, Baybay City.

“We are closely monitoring the situation and supervising the SSR and HADR operations in coordination with CDRRMC of Baybay City as we race against time to rescue those who are hit by landslide, save lives, give hope and ease the sufferings of our fellowmen in the area” Vestuir ended.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/philippine-army-conducts-search-rescue-and-retrieval-operations-in-response-to-onslaught-of-tropical-storm-agaton-in-leyte-and-southern-leyte-provinces/

Japanese destroyer JS Suzutsuki makes port call in Subic Bay

Posted to Panay News (Apr 12, 2022): Japanese destroyer JS Suzutsuki makes port call in Subic Bay

A JAPANESE destroyer, the JS Suzutsuki (DD-117), is now docked at Subic Bay, Zambales for an official port call and overseas training of its crew, the Philippine Navy (PN) said Sunday.

“The visit to the country of JS Suzutsuki is intended for routine port replenishment and rest for the crew who are having their overseas training cruise,” PN spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza said.

The JS Suzutsuki was escorted by missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) which earlier conducted passing exercises (PASSEX) with the Japanese warship prior to its arrival and docking at Subic Bay on April 10.

The PASSEX includes communications exercises between the two ships.

JS Suzutsuki is one of the Akizuki-class destroyers of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force which was designed to escort its helicopter-class destroyers and other larger surface combatants.

The class provides defense against surface, airborne and undersea threats. The Philippine Navy did not give any official announcement on how long the ship and its crew will be staying in the country.

Earlier, the foreign and defense ministers of Japan and the Philippines aired “serious concern” over the situation in the East and the South China Sea, where China and other littoral states have an ongoing maritime dispute.

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, and Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi “strongly opposed” actions that may increase tensions in the area and agreed on ensuring the observance of the 2016 Arbitral Award and international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The Philippines emphasized that the arbitral award on the South China Sea is final and legally binding. China, the Philippines, and other littoral states are locked in a dispute over the South China Sea, where Beijing claims about 80 percent of the strategic water based on what it calls “historic rights”.

Japan, meanwhile, is involved in a territorial row with China over Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea.

https://www.panaynews.net/japanese-destroyer-js-suzutsuki-makes-port-call-in-subic-bay/

7 NPA rebels surrender

From the Mindanao Times (Apr 12, 2022): 7 NPA rebels surrender (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

Photo courtesy of 10th Infantry Division

SEVEN members of the New People’s Army (NPA) brought along three high-powered firearms when they surrendered to soldiers of the 56th Infantry Battalion in Talaingod, Davao Del Norte, April 8.

56IB commander, Lt. Col. Osmalik Tayaban, identified the rebel returnees by their aliases Mamiloy, Onyok/Thor,Trisha, Toryo/Dayan, Mars, Marvin and Dante.

They brought along with them two AK-47 rifles and an IMI Israel AR Galil rifle.

Brig. Gen. Consolito Yecla, 1003rd Infantry Brigade commander, attributed the surrenders to Project Boss, which stands for Bugas, Odong, Sardinas, and Sigarilyo.

Project Boss is the local peace engagement undertaken by the 1003rd Brigade to finally encourage a snowball of surrenders by connecting with the family members of the active rebels.

Meanwhile, 10ID commander, Maj. Gen. Nolasco Mempin, welcomed the new surrenderers and congratulated the efforts of the 56IB and 1003rd Brigade for their relentless push to completely clear their area of operations from the influence of the CPP-NPA.

“The snowball of surrenders in Southern Mindanao is a clear manifestation that we are close to ending this five-decade long insurgency,” Mempin added.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2022/04/12/7-npa-rebels-surrender/

Ex-rebel leads troops to arms cache in Agusan Sur

From the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 12, 2022): Ex-rebel leads troops to arms cache in Agusan Sur

A communist rebel who surrendered to the military has led soldiers to a huge arms cache hidden in a remote village in La Paz town in the southern Philippine province of Agusan del Sur, officials said Tuesday night.

Photos of recovered New People's Army weapons were released by the Eastern Mindanao Command to the Mindanao Examiner regional newspaper, saying a former rebel led troops to the huge arms cache in Agusan del Sur's La Paz town.

Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, chief of the Eastern Mindanao Command based in Davao City, said the weapons were recovered Monday after the former New People’s Army rebel pointed the location and led troops to the arsenal.

Almerol did not reveal the name of the rebel, but said soldiers managed to recover in the village of Kasapa 2 the following weapons - 10 Kalashnikov assault rifles with five magazines, seven M16 rifles, one Ultimax light machine gun with one drum magazine, one M14 rifle, one M79 grenade launcher, and one M1 rifle.

He said two other rebels who surrendered recently also led soldiers to separate hideouts in Davao de Oro province where they hid nine high-powered weapons.

“The series of arms cache discoveries is a clear manifestation of CTG's ultimate loss of members due to fear of continuous military operations conducted by government troops,” he said, referring to the NPA which the military now branded as communist terrorist group.

“They are now hiding their firearms since they no longer have members who would bear them. Their recruitment was also ceased when their former mass bases rejected the terrorist group and pledged their support to the government. With this recent accomplishment, we could say that the Guerrilla Front 3 will have no chance of recuperating. They are incapable without firearms to wield against their former mass bases," Almerol said.

The NPA’s Guerrilla Front 3 operates in the region.

Almerol lauded the soldiers under the 10th Infantry Division which has operational control in eastern Mindanao for their accomplishments against the NPA and also the local government leaders and former rebels.

“The support of local leaders and former rebels who have shared a bulk of information is crucial to the success of the series of accomplishments, including the total dissolution of the GF3. We have once again proven that the collaboration of all agencies of government is the best way to end the local communist armed conflict. Let us continue this fight to achieve utmost peace and development in this part of our country,” he said.

The rebels have been fighting for many decades now to overthrow the democratic government and install a Maoist state in the country.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/04/ex-rebel-leads-troops-to-arms-cache-in.html

NPA continues to lose ‘footholds’ in southern Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2022): NPA continues to lose ‘footholds’ in southern Mindanao (By Che Palicte)

Eastern Mindanao Command chief, Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol. (PNA file photo)

The series of surrenders of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) fighters last week indicates that the rebels' Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) are “on the losing end.”

In a statement Tuesday, Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) commander, also said the series of discoveries of arms caches was a clear manifestation that SMRC continues to lose footholds in areas under its influence.

“This is due to the relentless focused military operations (FMO) of Eastmincom to fully curb the remaining NPA strongholds before June 2022,” Almerol said.

Almerol also pointed to the growing number of NPA casualties as was an indication of the populace's desire to end the local communist armed conflict.

Recently, he said 15 NPA fighters and supporters, including four Milisya ng Bayan members, surrendered to Eastmincom troops following the series of setbacks of several NPA units.

In addition, soldiers discovered last week various arms caches composed of high-powered firearms and other war matériel in various areas in Davao de Oro.

“Their days are counted. We are optimistic that we can achieve our goal to put an end to the communist armed conflict in Eastern Mindanao before our deadline,” Almerol said.

Almerol reiterated his call to the NPA remnants to surrender and avail the benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“More of your former comrades are now surrendering to live peaceful lives. We assure you that you will be well-provided with unwavering assistance through the E-CLIP,” the Eastmincom commander said.

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

The 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/1172035

'We were duped about good life, education': ex-NPA rebel

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2022): 'We were duped about good life, education': ex-NPA rebel (By Che Palicte)

FALSE PROMISES. Mars (not his real name) says he joined the communist New People's Army (NPA) under false promises and lies. He decided it was time to surrender on April 8, 2022 in Davao del Norte.

Mars and Diane were promised a good life and college education by their New People's Army (NPA) recruiters—what they found inside the communist rebel organization, instead, are false promises and starvation.

Mars, 24, and the 18-year-old Diane are two of the seven NPA guerrillas who surrendered in Davao del Norte last Friday. Except for Diane, the surrenderers are all in their 20s.

In an interview on Tuesday, Mars and Diane (not their real names) acknowledged that they had been "deceived" with rebel propaganda depicting the NPA as the defender of the poor.

The government, in the NPA's recruitment narrative, was the villain that killed and neglected the poor in the countryside and shouldn't be trusted, they said.

“I was once a normal student when they recruited me and told me to join because they will help me to continue my studies,” Mars said in vernacular. "They told me the government would not help somebody like me."

Mars said NPA recruits like him were brainwashed with an ideology that convinced him to believe the government was not pro-poor, while the NPA was the "real government."

Diane, a former student at Salugpongan tribal school, which the military has long associated with the rebels, shared the same experience, saying she also was promised "good education."

"I was expecting to succeed in the future. Instead, I was taught how to hold guns and other revolutionary tactics," she said.

Mars and Diane said they began to realize the promises were false when they were forced to walk into the mountainous areas at midnight to get supplies. They constantly suffered hunger, they said, while enduring many of the hardships and dangers in the mountains.

“I decided to surrender because I can no longer bear the hardship. If we continue, there is no future for us. We now realized that they only fooled us,” Diane said.

Mars said the rebels "did not take care of us, they starved us, and we felt we would eventually die due to hunger."

They said they were surprised when the military treated them with dignity and respect upon their surrender. This was contrary, they said, to the repeated warning by the NPA leadership that surrendering to the military means torture, or worse, death.

“I will try my very best to help the government by encouraging my comrades who are still in the armed struggle to go down and end their suffering,” Mars said.

“They indoctrinated us that the military is barbaric and brutal. It is not true. They took care of us. We have a good life here,” he added.

Mars, Diane, and the five others during their April 8 surrender yielded two AK47 rifles and an IMI Israel AR Galil rifle.

Brig. Gen. Consolito Yecla, commander of the Army's 1003rd Brigade commander, said the surrenderers are in the custody of the battalion to undergo psychological debriefing.

"They will be guided to rebuild their lives back to the mainstream of society," Yecla said.

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

The 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/1172045

1ID deploys new soldiers for poll duties in western Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2022): 1ID deploys new soldiers for poll duties in western Mindanao (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

NEW SOLDIERS. The Army's 1st Infantry Division (1ID) is deploying additional 176 new soldiers to help secure the conduct of the May 9 national and local elections. The new soldiers completed an eight-week infantry training Monday (April 11, 2022) at the 1st Division Training School. (Photo courtesy of 1ID public Affairs Office)

The 1st Infantry Division (1ID) is deploying an additional 176 new soldiers to help secure the May 9 national and local elections in its area of operations.

The area of operations of 1ID consists of the Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and parts of Lanao del Sur.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, 1ID commander, said Tuesday the 176 new soldiers completed an eight-week infantry training Monday at the 1st Division Training School (1DTS).

Ponio assured the 1ID fully supports the peaceful and orderly local and national election.

He also reminded the new soldiers to continue their personal development as they go on with their military careers.

“Put your best effort in everything you do. Remember, service comes first before family, but never abandon or take your family for granted,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, three of the 176 news soldiers received academic and special awards for their excellent performance in the infantry training.

The Certificates of Merit were awarded to Pvt. Ronne Fe Artiaga, Top 1; Pvt. Ronil Tepanero, Top 2; Pvt. Jelly Sacote, Top 3.

Tepanero also received the Physical Proficiency Award for obtaining the highest rating in the Physical Fitness Test with an average of 96 percent, and the Leadership Award for his abilities displayed as class president.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172060

2 minor Dawlah Islamiya combatants, 49 others yield in Lanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2022): 2 minor Dawlah Islamiya combatants, 49 others yield in Lanao Sur (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

YOUNG COMBATANTS. Two minor combatants (3rd and 4th from left) and 49 supporters and couriers of the Dawlah Islamiya surrender to military authorities Monday (April 11, 2022) in the Lanao del Sur town of Piagapo. Each of them received food packs as initial assistance from the government. (Photo courtesy of Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

Two minor combatants and 49 supporters and couriers of the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG) surrendered to government troops in Lanao del Sur, military officials said Tuesday.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the surrenderers gave themselves up Monday at the headquarters of the Army's 51st Infantry Battalion in the Lanao del Sur town of Piagapo.

Rosario said the two Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired DI-MG combatants who surrendered are minors. They were only identified as a certain Paris and Akmad, both 17-years-old and residents of Piagapo.

In a statement Tuesday, Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, the Army's 103rd Infantry Brigade commander, attributed the DI-MG's mass surrender to the "intensified combat operations and the unwavering support from the local government unit and the populace."

Last month, troops under the Army's 103rd Infantry Brigade overran the camp of Faharudin Hadji Satar alias Abu Zakaria in Barangay Ilalag, Maguing, Lanao del Sur. Satar is the new self-declared emir of the ISIS in Southeast Asia.

Cuerpo said Paris and Akmad yielded a Garand rifle and a caliber .45 pistol, while two of the 49 supporters also handed over two Garand rifles.

“This is their chance to renew their lives and reshape their future. Rest assured that we will watch their back and guide them as they reintegrate into mainstream society,” Rosario said of the surrenderers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172036

NPA finance officer falls in Agusan Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2022): NPA finance officer falls in Agusan Sur (By Alexander Lopez)

Graphics courtesy of Police Regional Office-Caraga.

The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) reported Tuesday the arrest of a top New People’s Army (NPA) official in the province.

Police served a warrant of arrest for multiple criminal charges on Julita Galario Domingo, 47, in Barangay Langkian, Trento, Agusan del Sur, on Monday.

“Domingo is classified as a Top 6 Communist Terrorist Group priority target at the regional level and wanted for the crimes of murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder,” Col. Jovito Canlapan, ADSPPO OIC director, said in a statement.

Canlapan said Domingo has 10 arrest warrants for murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder issued in July last year by a regional court in Bayugan City.

Police and military authorities described her as the finance officer and secretary of the NPA's Sub-Regional Committee 3 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

Domingo was among the NPA rebels encountered by the troops of the Army's 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB) in August 2020 in Barangay San Vicente, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

The clash resulted in the death of an army officer and the wounding of some soldiers.

Domingo was also tagged in another encounter incident between the NPA rebels and 26IB troopers on October 1, 2020, in the same barangay.

Domingo's arrest was another major setback for the NPA rebels, increasing the list of rebel officials, members, and supporters neutralized by the government troops.

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

The National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172084

AFP headquarters service command gets new chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2022): AFP headquarters service command gets new chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Brig. Gen Ferdinand S. Razalan assumes the helm of AFP General Headquarters and Headquarters Service Command. (Photo courtesy of the AFP)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday announced the appointment of Brig. Gen. Ferdinand S. Razalan, the new General Headquarters and Headquarters Service Command (GHQ&HSC) chief.

Col. Jorry Baclor, AFP public affairs office chief, said Razalan officially replaced Brig. Gen. George Joel N. Lalaquil effective April 11.

Lalanquil is set to head the Philippine Army (PA)'s Installation Management Command in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig.

"The acting AFP Vice Chief-of-Staff, Vice Admiral Rommel Anthony SD Reyes, presided over the change-of-command ceremony held at the Tejeros Hall, AFP Commissioned Officers Club in Camp Aguinaldo," he said.

Prior to his appointment as GHQ&HSC chief, Razalan gained extensive knowledge and experience from 11 years of service in the Nueva Ecija-based 7th Infantry Division.

He was adjudged as the best company commander and battalion intelligence officer on separate occasions.

Razalan was also assigned to Northern Luzon Command, spearheading the surrender of a New People’s Army (NPA) guerrilla unit commander in Tarlac and the capture of an NPA regional secretary in Baguio City in 2003.

“I am truly confident in Brig. Gen. Razalan’s potential to bring more accomplishments to the GHQ&HSC as he had done in his former designations. I implore the officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resources of this Command to remain committed to supporting your Commander and not lose sight of your mission and vision,” Reyes said.

On the other hand, Lalaquil was recognized for his accomplishments in leading the command at the height of the AFP’s efforts to curb the consequences of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“Brig. Gen. Lalaquil led his men and women towards dutifully ensuring the uninterrupted operations within Camp Aguinaldo, and fostering an environment conducive to the mission accomplishment of the AFP while taking the health and safety of his personnel into consideration," Reyes said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172039

AFP earns highest approval, trust rating among gov’t agencies

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2022): AFP earns highest approval, trust rating among gov’t agencies (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said it welcomes the continued appreciation of the Filipino people after a survey group said the military garnered the highest approval and trust ratings of all government agencies in its first-quarter survey.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines welcome the Filipino people's continuous trust and confidence, as shown in the 2022 Pahayag First Quarter Survey by Publicus Asia," AFP spokesperson Army Col. Ramon Zagala said in a statement forwarded to reporters.

In the survey involving 1,500 respondents, the AFP garnered the highest approval and trust ratings among government agencies, scoring 67.4 percent and 53.4 percent, respectively.

Zagala said the survey result manifests the people's optimism with the AFP's unremitting efforts to secure peace and security, paving the way for the country's continuous development.

"The men and women of the AFP shall reciprocate this encouraging result with renewed dedication to perform our mandate of protecting the people and securing the state," he said.

AFP chief Gen. Andres Centino, for his part, thanked the soldiers for getting the military's highest approval and trust ratings that it garnered in the latest Publicus Asia survey.

"I am thankful for what the Philippine Army has contributed in the accomplishment of the AFP's internal security campaigns and in providing needed services to our people during emergencies and natural calamities," Centino said during his visit to Philippine Army (PA) headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig on Tuesday.

In his visit to PA headquarters, the AFP chief was welcomed by Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.

Centino was rendered with military honors and was conferred the Combat Kagitingan Badge at the HPA Grandstand.

During his talk to the troops, the AFP chief reassured members in the field that their needs will be well taken care of as they carry out the task of combatting armed threats.

"We have already built competence and mastery of what we are doing. We also have the right mix of tactics and strategies to remove the armed threats' capabilities to intimidate and extort from the people and weaken their ability to generate resources," he said.

He also imparted that President Rodrigo Duterte salutes the men and women of the AFP for their continuing dedication and service to the country and people.

"The President expressed his gratitude for the AFP's multi-faceted role in nation-building -- as protector of the people and the state against all threats and helping our people during calamities. He said he is happy to leave his position soon, knowing that he is leaving behind a strong Armed Forces. I thank the PA for your contributions to making the AFP stronger than before," Centino said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172041

'Dangerous' if 2022 bets allied with CPP win: Duterte

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12, 2022): 'Dangerous' if 2022 bets allied with CPP win: Duterte (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (File photo)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte warned Tuesday that it would be “dangerous” if the candidates for the May 9, 2022 elections who are in alliance with the communist movement get elected to public office.

“Delikado iyan kasi pag nandiyan na, kung manalo man sila (It’s dangerous if they win the elections),” Duterte said during the joint meeting of the National Task Force (NTF) and the Regional Task Force (RTF) to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) in Butuan City.

Duterte issued the statement, as he reiterated that there are party-list groups that are conniving with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

“Itong party-lists, unahin ko lang (These party-lists) paved the way for the communists,” he said. “Komunista ‘yan – entered sa backdoor, sa portals of government (They are communists who entered the backdoor, the portals of government), then to win a few seats there. And ‘pag nandiyan na sila, walang ginawa ‘yan (while in public office, they do nothing) except to criticize government.”

Duterte earlier revealed that the communist movement had been able to infiltrate various political parties.

In his previous speeches, Duterte also repeated his warning to Filipino voters against the Kabataan, Anakpawis, Bayan Muna, Alliance of Concerned Teachers, and Gabriela party-list groups, or the so-called “KABAG” serving as legal fronts of the CPP.

Malacañang earlier said Duterte’s claim against the KABAG party-lists was based on an intelligence report.

Duterte, during the joint NTF-RTF ELCAC meeting, said the communist group has “no valid reason” to sow hatred against the government.

He said he is still not keen to endorse a presidential candidate, unless he sees a “compelling reason” to do so.

Duterte raised the possibility that the supposed coalition between the 2022 election hopefuls and the CPP might compel him to support a presidential aspirant.

“‘Yung iba, nakapasok na rin ang mga komunista (The communists have already infiltrated [the government]). Sabi ko noon (I said before) I will not support any presidential candidate. But if there is a compelling reason to campaign or to endorse a particular candidate kasi ayaw ko ‘yung — not because of personal, wala ‘yung mga ano except that ayaw ko yung mga komunista maghalo sa kanila ngayon (because I don’t want the communists to infiltrate the government),” he said.

Duterte also vowed to use his remaining days in office to address the insurgency problems to bring peace and development to the country.

“The three remaining months of my administration are very crucial as we continue to address the country’s problems that have long been affecting the lives of our citizens. The completion of my commitments towards achieving peace, progress, and prosperity remains critical as my term comes to a close,” he said.

Duterte lauded the relentless efforts of the NTF and RTF ELCAC to pursue a holistic and whole-of-nation approach to resolving communist insurgency.

“Accessibility to reform and welfare programs is imperative – it should be our imperative – to help end the decades-long insurgency problem that has curtailed development in the countryside,” he said.

Duterte likewise renewed his call on the local government units to synergize their efforts to make the Philippines a “stronger and more peaceful nation.”

The CPP-New People’s Army (NPA) is listed as a terrorist group by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172126