Volunteer Lumad teacher charged with attempted murder

From MindaNews (Jul 19, 2022): Volunteer Lumad teacher charged with attempted murder (By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN)

The volunteer Lumad teacher is temporarily detained at Station 1 of the Butuan City Police Office after his arrest in Tandag City on Sunday as he is facing attempted murder charges.

Image from Karapatan Caraga Facebook page

Maj. Jennifer Ometer, Public Information Officer of Police Regional Office 13 Caraga, said that based on the case documents, Campos was charged after he was seen joining with alleged New People’s Army rebels in an ambush on November 16, 2016, in Barangay Sto. Niño in Bayugan City.

Ometer said it was unclear what Army unit lodged the complaint against Campos since it was not mentioned in the warrant of arrest.

Campos will be transferred to the detention cell in Bayugan City since the issuing judge of the arrest warrant, Judge Fernando Fudalan of Regional Trial Court Branch 7, is based there.

Campos, who graduated with an education degree at St. Theresa College in Tandag City, was on his way to a review center to prepare for the upcoming licensure examination for teachers when he was arrested at 1 p.m. Sunday, according to the human rights group Karapatan-Caraga.

Karapatan believed this is yet another case of trumped-up charges to harass activists.

In a press statement, Karapatan reported that Campos was still able to contact his friends around 8 p.m. Sunday, where he said he was calling from the police station in Butuan and was arrested earlier that day and presented with a warrant of arrest.

Campos, a Lumad Manobo, graduated from the Lumad school Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) and the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV) for his elementary and secondary years. He finished his education degree with the help of the Indigenous Peoples Apostolate (IPA) scholarship program of the Diocese of Tandag.

He had volunteered as a teacher at TRIFPSS upon graduation with an intent to serve and give back to his community what knowledge he had gained, Karapatan said. He had also volunteered to teach at a local school in Tandag City under the Department of Education, the group added.

Alliance of Concerned Teachers Rep. France Castro condemned the arrest and called for his release.

“Teacher Gary is a teacher-leader who stood up for the rights of the Lumads, their rights to education and their rights to their ancestral lands,” the lawmaker said.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/07/volunteer-lumad-teacher-charged-with-attempted-murder/

76 NPA members neutralized this year

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 18, 2022): 76 NPA members neutralized this year (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division reported to have neutralized 76 members of the New People’s Army in Negros and Panay Islands, who were either killed or captured in gunbattles, or surrendered to the authorities, this year from January up to July 14.

At the same time, the 25 encounters initiated by various infantry units of 3ID also resulted in the seizure of firearms, among other war materials.

The latest encounter was on July 14 where combined units of the 15th and 47th Infantry Battalions figured in a clash with about 10 NPA rebels in Sitio Hanot, Barangay Inayawan, Cauayan, Negros Occidental, that resulted in the recovery of a caliber .45 pistol and an improvised explosive device (IED), among other materials.

A week earlier, four suspected NPA rebels died in an encounter in Brgy. Santol Binalbagan, while a top-ranking female rebel leader was also captured, military records show.

That encounter was preceded by the surrender to the 94th Infantry Battalion of 19 rebel combatants of Central Negros 2, who are comrades of the four rebels slain in Binalbagan.

In a statement, Major Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 3ID commander, lauded the local populace for giving correct and timely information to the operating troops.

“The willingness of the local populace in helping the soldiers by giving noteworthy information on the whereabouts of these NPA terrorists is a great help to our continuous campaign to end local communist armed conflict in Negros Island,” Arevalo said.

In recognition of the bravery and boldness of the operating troops for pressing the fight, to sustain just and lasting peace on the Island of Negros, Arevalo awarded Military Merit Medals to 36 soldiers of the 94IB, and four police personnel, for the neutralization of four rebels during the Binalbagan encounter.

Similar medals were also given to 20 members of the 79th Infantry Battalion for the capture of a second highest leader of the dismantled Northern Negros, and Bronze Cross Medals for six women soldiers of 94IB, for the surrender of rebel combatants.

https://visayandailystar.com/76-npa-members-neutralized-this-year/

Ex-rebel joins soldiers bolstering NegOr's anti-insurgency drive

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): Ex-rebel joins soldiers bolstering NegOr's anti-insurgency drive (By Mary Judaline)

INSURGENCY WAR. A total of 18 new soldiers arrive at the headquarters of the Philippine Army's 11th Infantry Battalion in Negros Oriental to boost the fight against insurgency on Monday (July 18, 2022). One of the soldiers is a former member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army who had previously surrendered and gone through some processes before enlistment. (Photo courtesy of the 11IB, PA)

The 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Siaton, Negros Oriental welcomed the arrival of more troops to fight insurgency and promote peace and development in the province.

A former member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) who has become a full-fledged soldier was among the 18 servicemen that arrived at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Salag, Siaton on Monday afternoon.

Lt. Col. Roderick Salayo, 11IB commanding officer, said on Tuesday the ex-NPA rebel had gone through the right processes before enlistment.

“We gave the new enlisted personnel with the rank of 'private' a welcome ceremony as part of the Philippine Army’s tradition to make them feel that they are now officially a part of our family,” he said in mixed English and Cebuano.

Salayo declined to give details about the former rebel, saying it might compromise their operations and for security reasons.

He, however, said the former rebel will be a big boost to the operations to prevent the NPA’s Southeast Front (SEF) recovery efforts.

The SEF, operating in the south and central Negros Oriental, was declared dismantled by the military with only a handful of its members remaining, but Salayo said efforts to regain their mass base continue in the hinterlands.

One of the newly-assigned soldiers to the 11IB is also from Sta. Catalina town in Negros Oriental, where some of its barangays are still affected by the insurgency, Salayo said.

“The new soldiers will also support our campaign in line with the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict under the whole-of-nation approach to end the insurgency,” he said.

Salayo stressed the need to sustain the collaboration and coordination with the local government officials on the development of their respective areas to improve basic services and improve the economic status of Negros Oriental to prevent the people from joining the underground movement.

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

The 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/1179279

NPA rebel wanted for rape nabbed in Camarines Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): NPA rebel wanted for rape nabbed in Camarines Norte (By Connie Calipay)

Bicol Region's seventh most wanted, an alleged New People's Army (NPA) member who is also wanted for rape charges, was arrested in Camarines Norte over the weekend.

In a statement on Tuesday, Maj. Malu Calubaquib, Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO-5) spokesperson, said that suspect, Arjay Jalandoni, 35, was nabbed by operatives of San Jose Panganiban Police Station during the service of a warrant of arrest at his hideout in the said town.

Jalandoni is listed as the region's seventh most wanted person. His arrest warrant was issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 5 in Daet, Camarines Norte.

"He is also tagged as Rank 8 provincial most wanted person in Camarines Norte and at the same time, Rank 4 municipal most wanted person of Jose Panganiban," Calubaquib said.

She added that based on information gathered, the suspect is an active member of the NPA and is facing two counts of rape charges in violation of Republic Act 7610, the “Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act”, with no bail recommended.

According to the record, Jalandoni molested and sexually abused a minor in Jose Panganiban town in December last year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179249

Former rebels become soldiers

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 19, 2022): Former rebels become soldiers (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Former RPA-ABB members Jogie Siplao and Vincent de la Cruz (right to left) are now regular Army soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Division.* PA photo

Being former enemies of the country, serving in the Philippine Army was a great realization for Private Vincent Dela Cruz of Barangay Daga, Cadiz, City, Negros Occidental and Private Jogie Siplao of Barangay Locotan, Kabankalan, Negros Occidental.

From former members of Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa-Pilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPM-P/RPA-ABB), a breakaway faction of the New People’s Army, the two former rebels are now full-fledged government soldiers.

Pvts. Dela Cruz and Siplao, who recently finished their seven month-long training, were former members of RPM-P/RPA-ABB in the 2nd District of Negros Occidental.

They are among the 181 neophyte soldiers who graduated from a 7-month rigorous basic military training at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz, on July 14.

On September 19, 2019, former President Rodrigo Duterte led the formal demilitarization of the former RPM-P/RPA-ABB combatants in Jamindan, Capiz.

Dela Cruz and Siplao belong to the special quota of Candidate Soldiers ‘MAILAP’ Class 689-2021.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 3rd Infantry Division commander, said that the two former rebels-turned Army soldiers would inspire and motivate other youth inside the NPA to return to the folds of the law and serve the country in a significant way.

“I am happy that these former members of the armed movement finally realized that a brighter future is waiting for (sic) them outside the organization, and it makes a big difference,” Arevalo said.

Meanwhile, Ka Berber, a former squad leader of the New People’s Army, is now a regular member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit, according to Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, 94th Infantry Battalion commander.

Almonte said that Ka Berber, who was recruited to join the NPA at the age of 17, surrendered to the 94IB in August 23 last year after his realization that the ideals taught to them were different to what was happening on the ground.

While he was still a squad leader of an NPA unit in central Negros, Almonte recalled that Ka Berber figured in several armed skirmishes with 94IB and 62IB soldiers.

https://visayandailystar.com/former-rebels-become-soldiers/

Girl slain in NPA-Army clash in Batangas

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 19, 2022): Girl slain in NPA-Army clash in Batangas (By: Delfin T. Mallari Jr.)

A 9-year-old girl died during an encounter Monday between alleged New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and the military in Taysan town in Batangas province, the police reported Tuesday.

The Batangas police said the girl was herding goats when hit “by a bullet from an unknown direction,” as rebels were retreating from Army troops after a three-minute firefight around noon in Barangay Guinhawa.

The victim was taken to the Batangas Medical Center in Batangas City but died on the way.

The police and military forces were pursuing the guerrillas.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1630428/girl-slain-in-npa-army-clash-in-batangas

4 ASG members shun violence, embrace peace, yield to 18th IB in Basilan

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 18, 2022): 4 ASG members shun violence, embrace peace, yield to 18th IB in Basilan (By Bonita Ermac)

Four Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members surrendered to the 18th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Lamitan City, Basilan, Saturday, July 16.

FOUR Abu Sayyaf members embraced peace and surrendered to the government in Lamitan City, Basilan.

They handed over M1 Garand rifles and one Carbine.

The former violent extremists said that they surrendered because they want to live a peaceful life with their families away from danger.

They also said that they were encouraged to lay down their arms after learning that their former colleagues are already undergoing rehabilitation and reintegration programs.

Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan commander Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway attributed their successful surrender to the collaborative efforts of the 18th IB and police units in Al-Barka, Tuburan, and Tipo-Tipo, Basilan where the surrenderers reside.

JTF-Basilan reported that 22 ASG members have surrendered in the province since the year started, bringing the number of surrenderers to 85 in the different JTFs of the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command so far this year.

Western Mindanao Command commander Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr. said they will not rest until the last terrorist will be neutralized either peacefully or forcefully.

“We will also continue to process former rebels and violent extremists (FRs and FVEs), in partnership with other government units, for their rehabilitation and reintegration programs,” he said.

Rosario said that one of the reasons for the continuing surrender of ASG members in Basilan is the massive implementation of projects by the provincial government that brought livelihood opportunities.

https://mb.com.ph/2022/07/18/4-asg-members-shun-violence-embrace-peace-yield-to-18th-ib-in-basilan/

6 Abu Sayyaf bandits surrender

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Jul 16, 2022): 6 Abu Sayyaf bandits surrender

ZAMBOANGA. Six Abu Sayyaf bandits are currently undergoing process to avail of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip) after they surrender amid the military offensive against them in Sulu. A photo handout shows the Abu Sayyaf surrenderers wearing white shirts with marking 'kalis' posed for sourvenir pictorial with military officials. (SunStar Zamboanga).

SIX Abu Sayyaf bandits have surrendered amid the military offensive against them in the province of Sulu, the military reported Saturday, July 16, 2022.

Major General Ignatius Patrimonio, 11th Infantry Division commander, said the six Abu Sayyaf bandits have been undergoing process to avail of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

Patrimonio said they turned over high-powered firearms when they surrendered Monday, July 11, to the 1103rd Infantry Brigade in Bonbong village, Patikul, Sulu.

He said the oldest among the Abu Sayyaf surrenderers is 47 years old and the youngest is aged 25. They belonged to different sub-leaders of the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu.

One of the Abu Sayyaf surrenderers identified as abu Ben decided to surrender because he is “tired of always being on the run” hiding from government forces and longing for his family.

Abu Ben said he had been with the Abu Sayyaf Group for 11 years.

Brigadier General Benjamin Batara, Jr., commander of the 1103rd Infantry Brigade, said that the collaborative efforts of the Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF-Elac) of Patikul with the military and the community had been able to convinced the six Abu Sayyaf bandits to surrender and avail the government’s program.

Since January 2022, a total of 75 Abu Sayyaf members voluntarily surrendered to Joint Task Force-Sulu, bringing along with them 60 firearms.

 
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1935161/zamboanga/local-news/6-abu-sayyaf-bandits-surrender

PH, US Marines hold 5-day specialized helicopter drills

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): PH, US Marines hold 5-day specialized helicopter drills (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of PMC

The Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and the US Marine Corps (USMC) will conduct specialized helicopter drills from July 18 to 22.

PMC spokesperson Maj. Emery Torres, in a statement Sunday night, said these exercises are the second part of the Marine Aviation Support Activity (MASA) 2022.

The first phase of the exercises took place from June 6 to 17.

"The second part of MASA 2022 between the PMC and USMC will be conducted in Zambales and Taguig City from July 18 to 22, 2022. This will include helicopter rope suspension training and aeromedical evacuation training," he added.

The PMC and USMC are expected to execute and refine their tactics, techniques, and procedures for interoperability.

The first part of MASA 2022 took place in Palawan and included a combined joint forward arming and refueling demonstration, and a lecture on unmanned air systems operations.

Four C-17 transport aircraft of the US Air Force arrived in Laoag City on June 6 along with a US C-130 cargo plane that landed on June 7 carrying personnel and equipment for the second leg of the exercise from July 18 to 22.

This series will feature lectures on sensor operations, air surveillance, air defense, and high-mobility artillery rocket system infiltration.

The MASA 22 also includes integrated and joint interoperability activities, such as coastal defense forward arming and refueling and subject matter exchanges for unmanned aviation systems and engineering with participants from the Naval Air Wing of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Air Force.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179140

80 kids benefit from PH Army's Covid-19 vax drive

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): 80 kids benefit from PH Army's Covid-19 vax drive (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Army

The Philippine Army (PA) on Monday announced that some 80 minor dependents of its personnel received coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) jabs during its pediatric vaccination drive last July 14 to 15.

PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the PA's vaccination drive covers children aged 5 to 11 and is in line with government efforts to ramp up Covid-19 vaccination.

He added that the beneficiaries were inoculated at the Army General Hospital (AGH) at the PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Makati City.

"A total of 80 children aged 5 to 11 years old received their primary dose in the two-day pediatric vaccination drive, the third installment of AGH’s inoculation efforts for military dependents," Trinidad said.

Some 1,200 PA dependents were vaccinated during the first two vaccination activities last May.

AGH commanding officer Col. Jonna Dalaguit, a pediatrician, said, in an earlier interview, the vaccination drive will significantly reduce symptomatic and severe Covid-19 infections among the pediatric population aged 5 to 11 years old.

“Vaccines are the best preventive medicine to protect children from possible Covid-19 infection,” she added.

Dalaguit also assured parents of the safety and efficacy of the vaccine.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179141

Danao slams Reds’ peace talks bid amid latest ambush vs. cops

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): Danao slams Reds’ peace talks bid amid latest ambush vs. cops (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP officer-in-charge, Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. (Screengrab from PNP Facebook live video)

Philippine National Police (PNP) officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. slammed the audacity of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to push for the revival of peace talks following an ambush that killed a police officer in Samar.

“You (CPP-NPA) are now talking about peace talks. Anong klaseng peace talks yan? Alam niyo kung puwede lang baligtarin, ako ang a-ambush mismo sa inyo sa totoo lang. Nakakasama ng loob. Alam niyo itong yung mga statement na ayaw ko sana sabihin kasi nakakaiyak (What kind of peace talks is that? If only things can be reversed, I will be the one who will ambush you. It's heartbreaking. These are the statements that I actually don't want to say because these make me cry)," Danao said during Monday's flag-raising rites at Camp Crame, Quezon City.

This came after 10 NPA members opened fire on police officers during a humanitarian activity at the boundary of Barangay San Nicolas in San Jose de Buan town, and Barangay Mabuhay in Gandara town last July 16.

The police retaliated which resulted in a five-minute gunfight until the communist rebels withdrew and fled towards the northeast of the encounter site.

A rookie police officer, Pat. Mark Monge, died in the ensuing encounter.

Danao chided the communist terrorist group for their “senseless and heartless acts’’ that targeted cops holding a community development program.

“Kapag kayo ang gagawa ng kalokohan, walang human rights pero kapag pulis ang pinatay niyo wala rin human rights (When you commit wrongdoings, there are no human rights, but when you kill the police, there are no human rights too). Our people there trying to give assistance to those who are in need, medical assistance in whatever capacity that they can do (but) unfortunately, you ambushed them,” Danao said.

Danao, meanwhile, condoled with the family of the slain police officer.

"May the soul of Pat. Mark Monge rest in peace who offered a supreme sacrifice in maintaining the tranquility of our great nation,” he added.

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

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179148

Decriminalizing libel to result in chaos: NTF ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): Decriminalizing libel to result in chaos: NTF ELCAC (By Marita Moaje)

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) opposed a bill filed before the House of Representatives seeking to decriminalize libel.

"Decriminalizing libel will result in an unbridled exercise of freedom of expression that will no longer allow for any form of legal restraint,” NTF-ELCAC spokesperson for Legal Affairs Prosecutor 2 Flosemer Chris Gonzales said in a statement on Sunday. "Anything in excess will result in chaos."

On Friday, Makabayan Block led by ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro, together with Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas and Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel filed House Bill (HB) 1769 seeking to decriminalize libel through amendments to the Revised Penal Code.

The proponents of the bill seek to repeal Articles 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 360, and 361 of the Revised Penal Code, which, in effect, would lift criminal penalties against persons accused of libel.

Article 353 of the Revised Penal Code defines libel as “a public and malicious imputation of a crime or of a vice or defect, real or imaginary, or any act, omission, condition, status, or circumstance tending to cause the dishonor, discredit or contempt of a natural or juridical person, or to blacken the memory of one who is already dead.”

Castro said penalizing libel and cyber libel “cast a chilling effect over the exercise of free expression online”, citing the recent affirmation by the Court of Appeals of the guilty verdict against Nobel Peace laureate Maria Ressa and former Rappler researcher Rey Santos.

Gonzales said rendering libel ineffective is opening the door to chaos and excesses in the exercise of free speech and press freedom.

"Libel prevents excesses in the exercise of freedom of expression and of freedom of the press,” he said.

He added that the proposed bill "per se, is not beneficial to the Filipino people.

“It may, however, be beneficial to those who have pending petitions before the appellate courts after they have been found guilty for committing the crime of libel. But aside from these people, no one else is bound to benefit from the decriminalization of libel,” Gonzales said.

The country’s penal laws that include libel, Gonzales said, are essential to the preservation of and maintenance of orderly conduct in a democratic society.

He added that libel punishes abuses committed by any citizen and by journalists who go overboard in the discharge of their functions while protecting the innocent from being maligned and vilified by those who have the means to do so.

“We want to have a media that is responsible, decent, and truthful. A media that is not biased, slanted, and works only to promote the interests of a group with ulterior motives,” Gonzales said. “We want accountability for those who purvey fake news and untruthful statements particularly if it is prejudicial to the Filipino people.”

The NTF-ELCAC, Gonzales said, stands for the truth and it will not allow truth to be compromised by allowing the decriminalization of libel.

Gonzales also called on members of the 19th Congress to strike down House Bill No. 1769 that "will not serve the best interests of the Filipino people."

The NTF-ELCAC also called on the Filipino people to continue to stand for the attainment of a just and lasting peace by ending the local communist armed conflict.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179157

PBBM order to secure PH territory trickles down to defense sector

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): PBBM order to secure PH territory trickles down to defense sector (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Like previous commanders-in-chief before him, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr. vowed to "defend every square inch of the country's territory".

In this regard, the Department of National Defense (DND) has a vital role in protecting the country’s territories and upholding its sovereignty.

While going to war is not an option, the Philippines has made significant gains in terms of upgrading its territorial defense capability through the acquisition of military assets and escalation of maritime patrols to combat the threat of terrorism and prevent incursions that may ignite tensions.

The Marcos administration is expected to take over the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program, which is now about to enter its Third Horizon from 2023 to 2028.

The AFP Modernization Program's Horizon Two is scheduled for 2018 to 2022 while Horizon One covered the years 2013 to 2017 and resulted in the acquisition of the three Del Pilar-class frigates, 12 FA-50PH light-lift interim fighters, and two strategic sealift vessels, among others.

Boosting aerial defense

On July 1, Marcos expressed his support for a modernized AFP when he attended the 75th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Clark Air Base in Pampanga.

In his message, the President vowed to continue the ongoing defense initiatives to enable the PAF to keep the country "free, progressive, and secured”.

"The ongoing defense modernization effort is in coordination with the basic prerequisites that would complement this administration's vision for a stronger, bigger, and effective air force, capable of defending and maintaining our sovereign state and of assisting our people in times of dire consequences and today's reality," he said.

The President added that he will seek further improvement of the aerial and surveillance capabilities of the PAF, considering that the Philippines has territorial disputes with other countries.

He vowed to equip the PAF with additional "state-of-the-art" fighter planes and arm it with more firepower.

"The enhancement of the PAF's capabilities is one of the top priorities of this administration. A more modern aerial and surveillance capability is all the more felt, given the territorial disputes that we in the Philippines are involved in," the Chief Executive added.

The Air Force, meanwhile, lauded the President's announcements and vowed to coordinate and work with the new administration to ensure that the service's modernization will continue without fail.

Some of the modern air assets acquired by the Philippine Air Force. (Screengrab from RTVM video)

"We will continue to work, and help the new leadership make the pronouncement a reality, our Technical Working Group is working round the clock to be able to present viable projects and solutions to challenges for the PAF modernization," PAF spokesperson Col. Maynard Mariano said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

He added that these preparations will allow senior military and defense leaders to make a decision on the PAF's modernization requirements.

"(Preparing these viable projects and solutions will) make it ready for senior AFP/DND senior leadership decisions," Mariano said.

Mariano earlier said the PAF is currently in the process of choosing between the latest model of the American-made Lockheed Martin F-16s and the Swedish-made Saab JAS-39 for its multi-role fighter (MRF) project.

While the project has been approved by the past administration, the PAF said funds have yet to be allocated for it.

PAF chief Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony Canlas Sr. said the deal for the MRF project may be signed this year.

The project also requires 12 MRFs at least capable of patrolling the country's protected waters and airspace.

The MRF is part of Horizon Two of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, which aims to acquire more equipment for external defense.

Maritime territorial defense

The Marcos administration will also see the fruition of the Philippines’ offshore patrol vessel (OPV) deal with South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).

The PHP30-billion deal signed by former defense secretary Delfin Lorenzana and HHI vice chairperson and president Sam Hyun Ka last June 28 seeks to provide six OPVs to the Philippine Navy (PN).

OPV DEAL. Former defense secretary Delfin Lorenzana (left) and HHI vice chairperson and president Sam Hyun Ka (right) shake hands following the signing of the contract for the acquisition of six offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) for the Philippine Navy in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on June 27, 2022. The OPVs are expected to replace the World War II surface assets decommissioned by the PN. (Photo courtesy of DND)

The OPV project aims to further enhance the maritime patrol capabilities of the PN and includes technology transfer, particularly human engineering operators and maintenance training of equipment, operations training, technical publications and manuals.

Last June 16, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released initial funding of PHP3 billion for the OPV project under Special Allotment Release Order (SARO)-BMD-D-22-0004970.

Taking cue from Marcos’ marching orders, DND officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. vowed to continue the initiatives started by Lorenzana, who left behind a legacy of jumpstarting the military’s modernization.

Under Lorenzana’s watch, the military has acquired several high-end military equipment like the two Jose Rizal-class guided missile frigates, two AgustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcat" anti-submarine helicopters, 16 S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters, and six A-29B "Super Tucano" attack aircraft.

He also discussed his priorities such as defending the nation’s territorial integrity, protecting the Filipino people and ensuring state sovereignty.

During his first official visit to the Puerto Princesa, Palawan-based Western Command (Wescom) last July 14, Faustino also assured the continuity of all infrastructure projects of the command under the “Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad" (TIKAS) Convergence Program of the DND and the Department of Public Works and Highways.

WESCOM VISIT. Defense department officer in charge, Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr., meets with ranking officials of the Western Command (Wescom) in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on Thursday (July 14, 2022). Faustino assured the continuity of all infrastructure projects of Wescom under the TIKAS Convergence Program of the departments of defense and public works. (Photo courtesy of Wescom)

"We will prioritize mission essential infrastructures in all Philippine-held islands in the Kalayaan Island Group and the West Philippine Sea," he added.

During his visit, Faustino met with Wescom commander Vice Adm. Alberto B. Carlos Jr. and ranking officials and reiterated the guidance of President Marcos.

"We will ensure the smooth implementation of our modernization program in order to strengthen the protection of our sovereignty, defense of our territorial integrity, and ensure the continuity of our peaceful way of life. Indeed, the future will be so bright with us working in unity, manifested by our consistent and synergized actions," he added.

He also called his posting to the DND an honor and expressed his appreciation for the warm response of its officials and employees to his appointment.

Faustino, a retired AFP chief-of-staff, will assume office as defense secretary on Nov. 13, after the one-year appointment ban on retired military officials.

He retired as AFP chief after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 on November 12, 2021.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179138

PH Army to get more disaster relief equipment from Japan

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): PH Army to get more disaster relief equipment from Japan (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MORE AID. Japan's Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense Tsuyohito Iwamoto (center) greets troops of the Philippine Army's 525th Engineer Combat "Mandirigtas” Battalion troops in Fort Bonifacio on Monday (July 18, 2022). Iwamoto reaffirmed the Japanese government’s commitment to helping beef up the PA's disaster response capabilities. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army (PA) is expected to get more humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) equipment from the Japanese government which will beef up its disaster response capabilities.

Japan Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense Tsuyohito Iwamoto made this commitment to the PA during his visit to the 525th Engineer Combat Battalion (525ECB) in Fort Bonifacio on Monday.

"Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense of Japan Vice Minister Tsuyohito Iwamoto reaffirmed the Japanese government’s commitment to helping beef up the PA’s disaster response capabilities during his visit to the 525ECB headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on July 18, 2022," Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Tuesday.

The 525ECB is the Army's premier disaster-response unit.

He added that the Japanese official's visit to the 525ECB and equipment inspection came nine months after Tokyo donated PHP51 million worth of water-search-and-rescue (WASAR) collapsed structure search-and-rescue (CSSR), and crushed vehicle extrication and rescue equipment to the PA.

The donation took place in October of last year.

This was followed by a week-long WASAR and CSSR training drill between 525ECB disaster-response teams and their Japanese counterparts in November 2021.

"The said donation forms part of Japan’s 'Non-Project Grant Aid for Provision of Japanese Disaster Reduction Equipment' to the Philippines which was formalized by both countries in March 2015," Trinidad said.

Meanwhile, 525ECB commander Lt. Col. Carlo Ganancial said the Japanese donation helped his troops enhance their skills that will enable them to save more lives during natural calamities, accidents, or other emergencies.

A capability demonstration showcasing the disaster-response skills of 525ECB personnel capped Iwamoto's visit.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179232

Japan willing to help in AFP capability upgrade program

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): Japan willing to help in AFP capability upgrade program (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Japan Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense Tsuyohito Iwamoto (left) and DND officer-in-charge, Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. (right) (Photo courtesy of DND)

A ranking Japanese defense official has reiterated his country's commitment to helping the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in its ongoing capability upgrade program.

Japan Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense Tsuyohito Iwamoto made this remark in a courtesy call on Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. on Monday.

The two officials discussed overall Philippines-Japan defense relations and regional security concerns.

During their meeting, Faustino recalled the successful conduct of the Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting (2+2) between the Philippines and Japan last April.

"In relation to this, both officials reaffirmed the outcomes of the 2+2 meeting, such as the further development of humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) cooperation and collaboration on transfer of defense equipment. Japan also expressed willingness to contribute and assist the AFP in its capability-upgrade program," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

The two officials also reaffirmed that respect for international law and rules-based order are essential in maintaining peace and stability in the region, particularly in the South China Sea (SCS) and East China Sea (ECS).

Meanwhile, Iwamoto noted that the meeting is a manifestation of the two countries’ growing bilateral strategic partnership. Iwamoto visited the Philippines last July 17 to 18 and his itinerary includes courtesy calls on key Philippine defense and military officials.

"As to multilateral cooperation, both sides look forward to dialogue among the Philippines, Japan, and other partners, as well as a continuous collaboration under the auspices of the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)-Plus," Andolong said.

Iwamoto also congratulated Faustino and mentioned that he looks forward to his appointment as DND chief this November.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179233

US lawmaker's measure limiting aid for PNP baseless

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): US lawmaker's measure limiting aid for PNP baseless (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

File photo courtesy of PNP

Senator Robinhood Padilla said Tuesday the United States House of Representatives' move to limit American assistance to the Philippine National Police (PNP) due to alleged human rights violations has no basis.

Padilla said as a reservist, he had personally witnessed how the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have upheld human rights in their activities and operations.

Holding the rank of captain, he quit his post as head of the communications panel of the Philippine Army's Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board in December last year after filing his Certificate of Candidacy to ensure that the AFP remained non-partisan.

"Witness ako nito sa pagiging makatao ng AFP at ng PNP. Kung meron akong nakikitang mali na ginagawa ng PNP o AFP, o anumang sangay sa gobyerno na may kinalaman sa human rights, ako po ang unang unang magsasalita at magsasabi sa inyo (I have witnessed how the AFP and PNP respect human rights. If I see human rights violations by the PNP or AFP or any branch of government, I will call them out)," he said in an interview on news portal SMNI.

"Pero sa mahigit isang taon sa AFP, kitang kita ko ang paggalang ng naka-uniporme sa sibilyan. Hindi ko maintindihan kung saan nanggaling ito, kung saan humuhugot ang oposisyon sa banat banat na puro human rights violations (I have worked for more than a year in the AFP. I have seen for myself how our men and women in uniform respect human rights. I don't know where the reports of violations are coming from)," he added.

Pennsylvania Rep. Susan Wild has pushed for an amendment to the US National Defense Authorization Act for 2023 which will limit the aid that is being given to PNP until it complies with "human rights requirements."

Padilla said he witnessed how the US expressed its support for the Philippines after attending the US Embassy's recent celebration of its Independence Day.

"Ang hinihiling lang namin sa inyo, hindi ito ang oras na maging masyado tayong mapulitika. Wala nang sinisigaw ang ating bagong Pangulo kundi unity tayo, magkaisa na tayo. Ito dinadamay na naman ninyo ang US, dinadamay na naman ninyo ang Europe (My appeal to you is that now is not the time for politicking. Our new President has called for unity, let us unite. And do not drag the United States and Europe into your politicking)," he said.

The senator called for unity anew, citing the overwhelming support of Filipinos for former President Rodrigo Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

"Ang ating mundo ngayon talagang kung di tayo magkaka-isa, malulugi po tayong mga Pilipino. Ito ang oras na tayo kahit magkaka-iba tayo ng ating mga adhikain pero pagdating sa kapakanan ng bayang Pilipinas at kapwa nating Pilipino parang awa nyo na po, magkaisa na po tayo (If we don't unite now, we will end up the losers. This is the time to unite despite differences in our beliefs, for the sake of our country and our people)," Padilla said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179262

PH Army ramps up hunt vs. NPA rebels in Northern Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): PH Army ramps up hunt vs. NPA rebels in Northern Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

PURSUIT. A Black Hawk helicopter sent to the mountains of San Jorge, Samar on July 12 to pick up cadavers of three dead New People's Army members killed in pursuit operations. The Philippine Army has been stepping up its fight against the communist terrorist group in the mountains of Northern Samar. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army (PA) is stepping up its fight against the communist movement in the mountains of Northern Samar as they hunt culprits behind the recent detonation of anti-personnel mines.

The recovery of three bodies of members of the New People’s Army (NPA) last week was a result of the use of air assets in their pursuit operations, said Maj. Gen. Edgardo de Leon, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division.

The three unidentified terrorists - two males and a female - were killed during the government troops' pursuit operation near the borders of Northern Samar and Samar provinces.

The military launched pursuit operations following the detonation of banned explosives by NPA that injured seven soldiers on July 5 in Magsasay village, Mapanas, Northern Samar.

“We sent additional troops and air assets to Northern Samar to track down the NPA bombers. Expect armed encounters in the mountains since rebels couldn’t hide in communities anymore. They are rejected by villagers of Northern Samar,” de Leon said in a statement on Monday.

De Leon said the military used drones to track down the terrorists leading them to some NPA lairs until an encounter occurred in the upland area of San Jorge, Samar on July 8. Another encounter happened in the forest of San Jorge town on July 13.

The troops of the 801st Infantry Brigade captured from the encounter site three M16 rifles, an AK47, and a shotgun. Also seized were anti-personnel mines, election campaign materials, and notes seized beside the dead NPAs.

PA 8th Infantry Division spokesperson Capt. Ryan Layug said the dead NPA members belonged to Platoon Yakal of the NPA sub-regional committee browser, which the troops had been tracking from Northern Samar moving to Samar province.

Soldiers recovered the cadavers on July 12 in the mountains of San Jorge, Samar.

“Due to the difficulties in the terrain and the poor weather conditions, the cadavers were already in the stage of decomposition when airlifted and brought to the police for examination by the Scene of the Crime Operatives. The cadavers were then buried as advised by the local health office,” Layug added.

Earlier, the military deployed more troops to some towns in Northern Samar following the recent detonation of anti-personnel land mines. The presence of this additional battalion in the towns of Palapag, Mapanas, Gamay, and Lapinig forced the NPA fighters to run to the border of Samar province

The unit was also instrumental in dismantling the NPA sub-regional committee 5 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.

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

Exercise caution

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) cautioned commanders to exercise extreme caution when carrying out operations, particularly in communist hotbeds.

"The CTG (communist terrorist group) has a long history of treacherous attacks against government troops, including the PNP. We must take extra precautions to protect our personnel, especially when they visit remote areas," PNP director for operations, Maj. Gen. Valeriano de Leon said in a statement.

Aside from targeting security officers on humanitarian missions, de Leon said communist rebels often lure government forces by fraudulently reporting a crime in an area and then attacking responding police officers along the route.

Last July 16, around 10 NPA members opened fire on police officers during a humanitarian activity at the boundary of Barangay San Nicolas in San Jose de Buan town and Barangay Mabuhay in Gandara town in Samar.

A rookie police officer, Pat. Mark Monge, died in the ensuing encounter. (with Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179146

Websites blocked, NPA turns to Spotify to 'recruit' members

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): Websites blocked, NPA turns to Spotify to 'recruit' members (By Che Palicte)

Arian Jane Ramos, then known as Marikit when she was secretary of the New People's Army Guerrilla Front 55 in Southern Mindanao. (Screengrab)

Communist rebel recruiters have turned to other online platforms such as the popular digital music and podcast service Spotify after their websites were blocked by the National Telecommunications Commission.

Joy James Saguino, a former high-ranking leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) turned anti-rebel advocate, said the group is being actively assisted by its umbrella organization, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), to explore and use online platforms to “dupe” potential recruits.

“They are exploiting all information platforms to expand their machinery of indoctrination and radicalization, especially that Spotify is widely used by the youth,” Saguino, a former secretary of the New People's Army (NPA) Guerrilla Front 20, said in a phone interview Monday.

Saguino said CPP-NPA-linked organizations are using Spotify to create podcasts to disseminate propaganda and recruit young people into Asia's longest-running insurgency.

The government, she said, must take action “on removing such content on social media platforms. This is plain rebellion taught in online platforms and must be dealt with seriously by the government.”

Saguino’s observations were supported by Arian Jane Ramos, known as Marikit when she was still a rebel and a youth recruiter for the NPA.

'Save next generation'

Ramos said urged the public to “save the next generation from the deception of the CPP-NPA” and the National Democratic Front (NDF), which she described as a coalition of revolutionary social and economic unions and leftist political parties in the Philippines.

Ramos was the former secretary of the NPA Guerrilla Front 55 in Southern Mindanao, and a former chairperson of Gabriela Youth at the University of the Philippines (UP) Mindanao.

She noted that the recent passing of Nikka Ledesma Dela Cruz, which she said “serves as a grim reminder of what frequently happens to young people who take up arms and valiantly rebel against the government.”

On July 6, Dela Cruz, a journalism graduate of the University of San Jose Recoletos Cebu who previously worked in local media, was killed in an encounter in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental.

Dela Cruz was allegedly recruited into the NPA by Anakbayan and Kadamay in her college days.

“Another youth we failed to save. Unfortunately, only those high-ranking cadres receive a dignified burial and an expensive memorial service to defend their heinous deeds and elevate their names,” Ramos said.

To avoid recruitment, she urged the youth to participate in a systematic education and thorough awareness of communism and how it can significantly affect national security as well as the future of the children.

“We must expose the truth, if doing it means rescuing the deceived and exploited youth, then we must unquestionably do it, even if others try to silence us for doing so,” she said.

She also urged the youth to “steadfastly uphold the current administration's push for good governance. The real driving force behind achieving social justice is a well-functioning government.”

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 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/1179144

4 ASG bandits surrender amid sustained Basilan offensives

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): 4 ASG bandits surrender amid sustained Basilan offensives (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Basilan Island province

Four Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits have surrendered amid the continuing offensive against them in the province of Basilan, police and military officials said Monday.

In a statement, the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao (APC-WM) identified the ASG surrenderers as Muhammad Salihm, 23; Bong Majinti, 23; Ardin Moreno, 27; and Hadjibun Hambali, 27.

The four were followers of Basilan-based ASG leader Furuji Indama, who was killed in a clash with military forces in September 2020 in the coastal town of R.T Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay.

In a separate statement, Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of the Army-led Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan, said the bandits surrendered to the soldiers of the Army’s 18th Infantry Battalion (18IB) on Saturday in Barangay Campo Uno, Lamitan City, Basilan.

Gobway said the four ASG rebels surrendered because they wanted to "live a peaceful life together with their families. They also said they were encouraged to lay down their arms after learning that their former companions are undergoing the reintegration program."

He attributed the successful surrender of the four ASG members to the collaborative efforts of the 18IB and the police forces of Al-Barka, Tuburan and Tipo-Tipo municipalities.

Gobway said the surrender of the four brought the number of ASG surrenderers in Basilan to 22 since January this year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179142

NPA rebel surrenders in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): NPA rebel surrenders in Masbate (By Connie Calipay)

Google map of Placer, Masbate

A member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) surrendered to police in Placer, Masbate over the weekend.

Maj. Malu Calubaquib, Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) spokesperson, on Monday identified the surrenderer as "Ka Kris", 29, of Placer town.

"He is an active member of Sparu Unit, Platoon 2, Larangan 1, Komiteng Probinsya 4 (KP4), Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC) under the Jose Rapsing Command (JRC) in Masbate," she said in an interview.

Calubaquib said Ka Kris admitted involvement in some operations against the government, businessmen, and other personalities with high positions in the community.

"At the age of 17, the year 2009 when he joined the NPA and become the vice trigger of Sparu Unit of 'Ka Dads' or 'Ka Pinoy' command," she said.

She added that the surrendered rebel now sees the reality of life after having the courage to return to the fold of the government.

"Ka Kris is undergoing debriefing and profiling to be enrolled in the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Integrated Livelihood Program," Calubaquib said.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization 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/1179165

Exploited Aurora villagers sever ties with CPP-NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2022): Exploited Aurora villagers sever ties with CPP-NPA (By Jason De Asis)

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. Thirty-one supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) from Baler, Aurora denounce their support for the terrorist group and pledged their allegiance to the government on Sunday (July 17, 2022). The withdrawal of support was a result of a series of dialogues and symposiums facilitated by the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion. (Photo by Jason de Asis)

BALER, Aurora – At least 31 residents here, who had been exploited by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), formally withdrew their support for the communist terrorist group (CTG) on Sunday.

In an interview on Monday, Lt. Col. Julito Recto Jr., commanding officer of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion, said the withdrawal of support by 31 residents of Sitio Dicaloyungan was a result of the series of dialogues and symposiums facilitated by the unit.

“This group mass-based of the CTG swore allegiance to the government after withdrawing their support to the CPP-NPA. I am very thankful for this development and hopefully, more supporters will do the same,” Recto said.

He said the group members realized that they fell victim to the deceptive strategy of the CPP-NPA-NDF through its agitate-organize-mobilize tactics that prompted them to join its sectoral front organizations.

“Their commitment to withdraw support from the armed group is a bold step towards total eradication of insurgency in the province,” he said.

Recto urged the group not to allow communist-terrorist groups to manipulate and deceive them again.

“We will ensure to bring services and programs for the people like you. Let us unite and encourage the remaining rebels to return to the fold of law and avail of the government’s reintegration program,” he added.

One of the group members, Juanito Munar, 60, said: “Now is the time to show our full support to the government. Our military and other government agencies will help us to attain lasting peace. Let us denounce the CTG to the fullest level.”

Munar also thanked the 91st IB and other partner agencies for helping bring peace to the province.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization 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/1179207

BIFF sub leader killed in Maguindanao clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): BIFF sub leader killed in Maguindanao clash (By Edwin Fernandez)

BIFF FIREARMS. The high-powered firearms recovered from slain Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters sub-leader Ramos Amilil following an encounter in Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao Monday (July 18, 2022). Recovered near the rebel’s body were two rifles and ammunition, among others. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

A sub leader of the extremist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was killed in an encounter with government forces in Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao, the military said Tuesday.

Col. Oriel Pangcog, the Army’s 601st Brigade commander, identified the fatality as Ramos Amilil, the leader of the BIFF group operating in the peripheries of the town.

“Ramos who led the fully-armed BIFF under Muslimin Amilil of the 2nd Division of BIFF-Karialan faction died during the encounter in Barangay Duguengen that occurred on Monday morning,” Cadiente said, quoting a report from the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB)

He said 33IB troopers were conducting military operations at the outskirts of the village when they chanced upon Ramos’ group.

“A 10-minute firefight erupted, after which the BIFF members scampered towards different directions leaving behind their slain comrade,” Pangcog said, adding that no one was reported hurt on the government side.

Recovered near Amilil’s body were an M16 rifle, an M14 rifle, a bandolier, and several pieces of ammunition.

Maj. Gen. Roberto Capulong, acting commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division and concurrent Joint Task Force Central chief, lauded the 33IB troops for their unwavering commitment to curb lawlessness.

“The death of Amilil is a big loss to the BIFF, a local terrorist group. Members of the weakened BIFF-Karialan faction who remain entangled in their twisted violent ideology and terroristic ways must surrender now, so no more blood will be shed in the futile struggle,” Capulong said.

Since January, three BIFF members have been killed,133 surrendered, and some 105 high-powered firearms recovered from the group.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179247

Soldier dead, 5 others hurt in N. Samar mine blast

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): Soldier dead, 5 others hurt in N. Samar mine blast (By Sarwell Meniano)

BANNED. Bomb-making components recovered by government troops in Northern Samar on Feb. 10, 2022. A soldier died while five others were wounded when the New People’s Army detonated on Tuesday (July 19) internationally-banned anti-personnel mines in the remote Osang village in Catubig, Northern Samar. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

A soldier died while five others were wounded on Tuesday when the New People’s Army (NPA) detonated anti-personnel mines in the remote Osang village in Catubig, Northern Samar.

Lt. Col. Joemar Buban, commander of the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion, said the incident occurred 9:25 a.m. within a coconut farm just a kilometer away from a nearby community.

“There was a 15-minute clash after the explosion, and our troops are still finding out the number of casualties from the enemy side. We are sending our air assets to evacuate the blast victims,” Buban said in a phone interview.

The fatality and injured soldiers were among the 24 troopers patrolling the vicinity belonging to the Community Support Program team assigned in Osang and Nagoocan villages.

CSP is a flagship program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines used to clear communities of NPA infestation and to bring the government closer to the people through faster delivery of basic services.

“The said terrorist attack is a clear violation of the Ottawa Convention (Mine Ban Treaty) that prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel landmines. Planting mines in a coconut is not dangerous to our soldiers, but to locals as well since it was planted near a community,” Buban added.

The attack occurred just two weeks after the July 5 explosion that injured seven soldiers in Magsaysay village in Mapanas, Northern Samar.

Earlier, Maj. Gen. Edgardo De Leon, commander of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division said they are stepping up their fight against the communist movement in the mountains of Northern Samar as they hunt culprits behind the recent detonation of anti-personnel mines.

The recovery of three bodies of members of the NPA last week was the result of the use of air assets in their pursuit operations.

The three unidentified terrorists - two males and a female - were killed during the government troops' pursuit operation near the borders of Northern Samar and Samar provinces.

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.

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 created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1179241

NPA rebel facing murder raps nabbed in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2022): NPA rebel facing murder raps nabbed in Masbate (By Connie Calipay)

A New People's Army (NPA) combatant was collared by police operatives in Placer, Masbate on Monday.

In a report released on Tuesday, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 5 (Bicol) identified the suspect as Jose Martin Hicalo, alias "Reymart Calo", an active member of Platoon 2, Larangan 2, Komite ng Probinsiya 4 under the command of Reynaldo "Ka RM" Mollejon since 2018.

Hicalo was nabbed at his residence in Placer town, the PRO-5 report stated.

He is facing a murder case lodged at the Regional Trial Court Branch 49 in Cataingan, Masbate with no bail recommended.

The report did not provide other details.

“Our force shall remain strong and committed to putting behind bars those who have done wrong and bring justice to the victims," Brig. Gen. Mario Reyes, PRO-5 director, said in a statement.

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 National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization 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/1179252

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Pagpaslang ng militar sa batang Mangyan-Buhid, kinundena ng NDFP

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis propaganda articles posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 17, 2022): Pagpaslang ng militar sa batang Mangyan-Buhid, kinundena ng NDFP (Military killing of young Mangyan-Buhid, condemned by the NDFP)

Kinundena ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) ang kasuklam-suklam na pagpatay ng 4th IB at 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company ng Philippine National Police sa isang batang Mangyan-Buhid sa Sityo Tauga Daka, Barangay San Vicente, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro noong Hulyo 3.

Nasawi ang bata matapos paulanan ng bala ng mga sundalo at pulis ang bahay ni G. Inyab, isang katutubong Mangyan-Buhid sa naturang sityo. Niratrat ng mga ito ang bahay matapos aksidenteng makatapak sa mga patibong para sa baboy-ramo ang tropa nila habang naglalakad sa lupain ni G. Inyab. Para pagtakpan ang krimen, pinalalabas ng mga sundalo na ang bata ay napaslang sa isang armadong engkwentro.

Nanawagan ng hustisya si Ka Coni Ledesma, pinuno ng Special Office for the Protection of Children ng NDFP, para sa batang biktima at kanyang pamilya, gayundin ang mahigpit na pagsunod ng mga pasistang sundalo ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at pulis sa internasyunal na makataong batas. Ayon pa sa kanya, dapat bigyan ng indemnipikasyon ng mga sundalo ang pamilya ng biktima bilang kabayaran sa pinsalang idinulot nila.

Iginiit din ni Ledesma at ng NDFP na dapat kagyat na palayain sina G. Inyab, isang matandang babae at bata na dinukot at ikinulong ng mga sundalo matapos ang insidente.

Hindi na bago ang paglabag sa karapatan ng bata ng armadong pwersa ng estado.

Noong Pebrero 8, dalawang batang, edad 9-anyos at 12-anyos, ang napaslang sa pamamaril ng 20th IB sa Barangay Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar. Nasugatan din sa insidente ang isa pang bata.

Noong Abril, tinugis ng mahigit 100 elemento ng AFP ang 2-buwang sanggol at 2-taong gulang na bata na pinaratangan nilang mga anak ng mga Pulang mandirigma sa mga sityo ng Malikoliko at Cunalom sa Barangay Carabalan at sa Sityo Tigbao sa Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/pagpaslang-ng-militar-sa-batang-mangyan-buhid-kinundena-ng-ndfp/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: 9-puntong adyenda, binuo sa People’s Summit

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis propaganda articles posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 17, 2022): 9-puntong adyenda, binuo sa People’s Summit (9-point agenda, developed at the People’s Summit)

Ilandaang kinatawan ng mga progresibo at demokratikong organisasyon ang nagtipon sa isang bulwagan sa Quezon City Memorial Circle kahapon, Hulyo 16, para talakayin at pagtibayin ang 9-puntong adyendang binuo ng People’s Summit para magsulong ng tunay na pagbabago sa bansa.

Ito rin ang magiging listahan ng kanilang kahingian itutulak sa isasagawang kilos protesta sa araw ng state of the nation address ni Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Ang People’s Summit ay inorganisa ng grupong Ibon, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), Koalisyong Makabayan at Movement for Good Governance and Genuine Democracy, sa pakikipagtulungan sa iba pang mga organisasyon. Bago ang naturang aktibidad, nagkaroon ng kani-kanyang pagtitipon ang iba’t ibang sektor upang lagumin ang kanilang mga kahingian.

Ayon sa mga organisasyon, ang People’s Agenda ay gagamitin para pagkaisahin ang mamamayan at isulong ang kanilang karapatan at kagalingan. Sinaklaw ng 9-puntong adyenda ang kagyat na mga usapin sa sektor ng agrikultura, kalusugan at karapatang-tao.

Kabilang sa kanilang mga kahingian ang pagtugon sa sumisirit na presyo ng langis at mga bilihin, pagsusulong ng tunay na reporma sa lupa, pagwawakas sa kontraktwalisasyon at pagsasabatas ng pambansang minimum na sahod, suporta, ayuda at subsidyo sa mga magsasaka, libreng serbisyong sosyal at pambulikong kalusugan, pagtataguyod sa karapatang-tao, pagtatanggol sa pambansang soberanya at iba pa.

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/9-puntong-adyenda-binuo-sa-peoples-summit/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: After stepping on pig trap, Mangyan family in Mindoro, photographed by 4th IB and SAF, child dead

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis propaganda articles posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 15, 2022): Matapos makaapak sa patibong ng baboyPamilyang Mangyan sa Mindoro, niratrat ng 4th IB at SAF, bata patay (After stepping on pig trap, Mangyan family in Mindoro, photographed by 4th IB and SAF, child dead)

Pinaulanan ng bala ng mga elemento ng 4th IB at Special Action Force ng PNP ang isang bahay ng katutubong Mangyan Buhid na si Ginoong Inyab sa Sityo Tauga Daka, Barangay San Vicente, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro noong Hulyo 3 matapos silang nakaapak sa patibong para sa baboy. Napatay sa pamamaril ang isang bata.

Nagalit ang mga sundalo at pulis nang aksidenteng matapakan nila ang patibong o balatik na inilagay ni Inyab sa kanyang lupain. Ang mga balatik ay para sa panghuhuli ng baboy damo. Nasugatan ang mga sundalo at pulis na nakaapak sa mga patibong at nagwala.

Matapos ang insidente, pinalabas ng mga sundalo na naka-engkwentro nila ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa naturang barangay. Nakakuha pa diumano sila ng armalayt, mga bala at magasin sa gawa-gawang sagupaan. Ipinakakalat pa nito sa social media ang larawan ng bangkay ng pinaslang na menor de edad at pinalabas na Pulang mandirigma para itago ang kanilang krimen.

Dagdag dito, iligal na inaresto at dinala ng mga sundalo sa Sityo Hingin, Barangay Lisap, Bongabong si Inyab, kasama ang isang matandang babae at isang bata.

Kinundena ni Ka Madaay Gasic, tagapagsalita ng BHB-Mindoro, ang walang pakundangang pamamaril at pagpatay ng mga sundalo sa isang bata. Aniya, itutulak ng katulad na mga insidente ang mamamayang Mindoreño na lumaban at mag-armas para depensahan ang kanilang mga karapatan.

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/pamilyang-mangyan-sa-mindoro-niratrat-ng-4th-ib-at-saf-bata-patay/

CPP/NPA-Northern Negros: 79th IB-PA Plans to Bomb Northern Negros Natural Park

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 19, 2022): 79th IB-PA Plans to Bomb Northern Negros Natural Park

Cecil Estrella

Spokesperson

NPA-Northern Negros (Roselyn Pelle Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

July 19, 2022

Roselyn Jean Pelle Command – Northern Negros Guerilla Front of the New People’s Army (RJPC-NPA) condemns 79th IB-PA’s plan to conduct aerial strike at Mandalagan Mountain Range, part of the Northern Negros Natural Park (NNNP), in Barangay Minapasuk Calatrava town. The news came out days after the staged fake encounter on June 22 at the said barangay.

RJPC-NPA is alarmed over residents’ reports that they are forced to evacuate the forested area for the planned aerial bombardment by the fascist 79th IB-PA troops. Just recently, a concerned citizen sent an e-mail to RJPC-NPA that 79th IB-PA is targeting Sitios Tinibiangan, Ekogan, Nabaisan, Calanugan, Victory and Yamingon all under the said barangay.

Since May 26, 2022 up to this writing, enemy troops, together with surrenderees and traitors, like Ka Joross and Ka Deso/Omalie/Jobert, have conducted military operations in the forested area of Barangay Minapasuk, aiming to have an armed engagement with the elements of RJPC-NPA. Since then, incidents of grave threat and intimidation, psychological warfare, physical assault, theft, and repeated interrogation perpetrated by 79th IB-PA against civilians have been reported

The masses are more terrorized with the news of bombing, fearing for loss of lives and livelihood. The elderly are wearisome of their future, recalling their sorry state during 1990’s Oplan Thuderbolt aerial bombing in the same area. Displacement of households is an additional burden in these times of economic crises due to pandemic, inflation and calamities.

Mandalagan Mountain Range is part of the NNNP, the largest protected area in the Northern Negros. Wild boars and deer are among the resident animals of the mountain range. Mountaineering groups and residents held mobilizations to oppose the New Victorias-Silay Road that would destroy the natural park. Air strike will surely displace wild animals and destroy the environment.

RJPC-NPA is appealing to the elected officials of the local government units of Barangay Minapasuk and Calatrava town to take proper action on the said bombing plan which will greatly affect the lives and livelihood of the masses, as well as, the natural resources.

RJPC-NPA calls on all environment-loving individual, backpackers and hiking groups, the Department of Natural Resource to condemn the planned bombing and take actions to defend Northern Negros Natural Park and the environment.

RJPC-NPA challenges the Commission on Human Rights and other rights group to conduct independent investigations on the human rights violations and the possible implications of air strike.

https://cpp.ph/statements/79th-ib-pa-plans-to-bomb-northern-negros-natural-park/

CPP/NPA-South Central Negros: 2 sibilyan gin-abduct sang tropa militar

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 18, 2022):2 sibilyan gin-abduct sang tropa militar (2 civilians abducted by military troops)

Dionesio Magbuelas

Spokesperson

NPA-South Central Negros (Mt. Cansermon Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

July 18, 2022

Duha ka miyembro sang Mahalang Farmer’s Association (MAFA) ang gin-abduct sang mga katapo sang 94th IBPA sa Sitio Mambalayong, Barangay Mahalang, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental sadtong Hulyo 15. Nakilala ang mga biktima nga sila Gerald Ganti kag Dalen Alipo-on, mag-asawa kag may duha ka kabataan.

Pasado alas 11:30 sang gab-i sang ginsulod ang ila panimalay sang indi magnubo 20 ka tropa sang 94th IB upod ang apat nga nakilal-an nga sanday Gary “Dodong” Mahinay, Jose “Soli” Mahinay, Johnrey “James” Hilado kag isa ka alyas Miguel. Ginpangwas-ag ang kagamitan sa balay kag pilit nga ginpaguwa ang duha. Ginbutong pa ang iloy nga si Dalen bisan naga-uyat ini sa iya isa ka tuig nga bata.

Sa pihak sang pagpanikasog sang ginikanan nila Gerald kag Dalen, wala ini sang nahimo para punggan ang mga armadong pwersa sang militar kag pilit nga ginsakay sila sa salakyan. Gilayon nga nagpa-blotter ang ila pamilya sa police station pero tubtob subong wala pa gihapon nakita ang mag-asawa kag wala pa man nahibaloan sang pamilya kon diin gindala sang mga militar ang ila himata.

Ang duha ka biktima mga aktibong miyembro sa lokal nga asosasyon sang mga mangunguma sa ila lugar. Makapila ka beses na ini nga ginred-tag, ginharas, ginapahug kag ginakadtu-an ang ila balay para pasurenderon sila bilang mga NPA.

Upod sa ila pamilya, ginapanawagan sang bilog rebolusyonaryong pwersa nga untaton ang sunod-sunod nga pagpang-ipit kag pagpangdakop sang mga sibilyan kag sa mga ginadudahan nila nga mga suporter sang NPA. Dapat sabton man sang lokal nga gobyerno ang mga kaso sang mga pagpanglapas sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung nga ginakomiter sang mga AFP-PNP sa ila erya nga nasakupan.

Untaton ang militarisasyon sa kabukiran!
Bungkagon ang NTF-ELCAC!
Ipadayon ang Peace Talk!

https://cpp.ph/statements/2-sibilyan-gin-abduct-sang-tropa-militar/

CPP/CIO: Gen. Danao is obscuring fact that police officer killed in N. Samar was a combatant

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 18, 2022): Gen. Danao is obscuring fact that police officer killed in N. Samar was a combatant

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

July 18, 2022

This article is available in Pilipino

Gen. Vicente Danao, police chief, is deceiving the Filipino people when he falsely and melodramatically described the police officer who was killed last Saturday in a gunbattle with the New People’s Army in Northern Samar like a social worker delivering aid and medical service.

Gen. Danao’s description contradicts the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s own report which described the patrolman as a member of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB), a counterinsurgency combat unit of the PNP.

The RMFB forces are armed and trained to carry out search operations and engage in combat with guerrilla fighters of the NPA. Together with other military and police units, the PNP-RMFB forces are notorious for human rights abuses against the peasant masses in the Samar provinces, including illegal arrests, indiscriminate firing of weapons, stealing of fruits and crops, and chickens and other farm animals.

The NPA firmly adheres to the principles of international humanitarian law which gives primordial importance to the protection of civilians at all times.

https://cpp.ph/statements/gen-danao-is-obscuring-fact-that-police-officer-killed-in-n-samar-was-a-combatant/