IPPO cops warned over NPA attacks

From Panay News (Nov 30, 2022): IPPO cops warned over NPA attacks (By Ruby P. Silubrico)

ILOILO City – Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) director, Police Colonel Noel Aliño, warned police chiefs to be wary of possible attacks by the New People’s Army (NPA).

He issued the warning after a recent encounter between the NPA and the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion on Saturday, Nov. 26, in Barangay Tigbanaba, Igbaras, Iloilo.

Domingo Tagapolan Costas, 47, of Barangay Dalije, Miag-ao, Iloilo, died in the clash. He was a member of NPA Team 1, Squad 1 of Suyak Platoon, Southern Front Kometing Rehiyon Panay, led by Jun Capio, authorities said.

Aliño said his men should not be complacent, especially in towns that are considered “high risk”.

“Be alert all the time. Know the persons going in and out of the police station and always carry short and long firearms. Dapat naka-duty sa station ang lahat na available men kasi ang ating kalaban ay anjan lang naghihintay ng opportunity,” Aliño said.

Among the towns considered “high risk” are Alimodian, Balasan, Bingawan, Calinog, Guimbal, Janiuay, Igbaras, Lambunao, Lemery, Leon, Maasin, Miag-ao, San Joaquin, San Rafael, and Tubungan.

On June 18, 2017 rebels attacked the Maasin police station and disarmed and handcuffed nine police officers on duty.

The rebels carted away firearms, radio equipment, laptop computers, cash, and a patrol vehicle.

https://www.panaynews.net/ippo-cops-warned-over-npa-attacks/

Rebels killed in Moises Padilla clash identified

From Panay News (Nov 30, 2022): Rebels killed in Moises Padilla clash identified (By DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA)

BACOLOD City – The two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels killed during Monday’s gun battle with soldiers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) in Barangay Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental have been identified.

Based on information released by the 62IB, the fatalities were Johnhill “Mark” Sarsa and Dalmacio “Delmar” Dela Torre, both residents of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

According to a statement released by the 62IB, Sarsa was a political officer or “commissar” of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda Platoon Lenovo of the NPA’s Central Negros Front 1.

Dalmacio, meanwhile, was also a member of the Central Negros Front 1 of the NPA.

The 62IB responded to the area after receiving information that several armed men were spotted threatening and extorting supplies from the residents.

A gun battle erupted between the 62IB and the 15-man force of the NPA. It lasted for 40 minutes.

Aside from the initial recovered weapons such as the M16, M14, AK-47, and M203 grenade launcher, the Army also recovered a .357 revolver, three AK-47 magazines, seven M16 magazines, two rifle grenades, and 40mm grenade ammunition.

Soldiers also recovered three backpacks, medical equipment, two bandoliers, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

The two rebel casualties were subsequently turned over to the Moises Padilla Police Station.

https://www.panaynews.net/rebels-killed-in-moises-padilla-clash-identified/

Rebel nabbed in Isabela faces murder charges

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 29. 2022): Rebel nabbed in Isabela faces murder charges (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

An alleged member of the Regional Strike Force of the Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor, was captured by police and military personnel during a joint manhunt operation in Brgy. San Agustin, Isabela, Negros Occidental, on November 27.

Nabbed was Robert Ancino, 21, of Sitio Mahopaho, Brgy. San Agustin, Isabela.

The arrest warrant issued against Ancino was issued by Himamaylan Regional Trial Court Judge Walter Sorilla, for the crime of murder.

Ancino was also linked to the ambush and injuries of two policemen in Binalbagan on February 13 this year, according to the police.

On the other hand, a 58-year-old widow identified by the police as Rizaldy Sarraga was also apprehended in Brgy. Tinampaan, Cadiz City, for illegal possession of firearms, also on Nov. 27.

The implementation of a search warrant issued by Cadiz RTC Judge Joanne Francis Nifras led to the arrest of Sarraga and the recovery of a caliber .38 revolver with three live ammunition, police said.

https://visayandailystar.com/rebel-nabbed-in-isabela-faces-murder-charges/

2 rebels killed in Moises Padilla gun battle

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 29, 2022): 2 rebels killed in Moises Padilla gun battle (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Army soldiers retrieve the cadaver of two slain rebels at the encounter site in Brgy. Quinton Remo, Moises Padilla.*PA photo

Two more suspected New People’s Army rebels yesterday died in renewed armed clashes with Army soldiers in Sitio Binataan, Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, disclosed that soldiers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion were responding to complaints of civilians who were intimidated and harassed by a group of armed rebels, who had earlier claimed responsibility for the killing of an alleged military informant in neighboring Brgy. Montilla, also in Moises Padilla. Pasaporte said the gun battle lasted several minutes, after which the undetermined number of rebels scampered in various directions, leaving behind their two slain comrades at the encounter site.

He identified the two slain rebels as John Gil Sarsa, alias Ka Mark, of Brgy Planas, Guihulngan City and Dalmacio dela Torre, alias Ka Delmar.

Sarsa was tagged by the military as a political officer of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda of the Central Negros 1 Lenovo platoon, while de la Torre served as a member of CN1.

The 62IB, in a statement, said it believes that more rebels were either killed or injured in more than 40 minutes of gun battle. On the other hand, no one was hurt among the 62IB soldiers.

Also recovered at the encounter site were an M-16 assault rifle with M-203 grenade launcher, another M-16 assault rifle, AK-47 assault rifle, an M-14 assault rifle, and a .357 Magnum revolver, 10 magazines containing AK-47 and M-16 ammunition, two rifle grenades, 40mm high explosive ammunition, medical equipment and supplies, two CPP NPA flags, three back packs, subversive documents.

On November 21, a suspected NPA leader identified as Victoriano Baldonado, commanding officer of the Central Negros I Section Guerilla Unit, was also killed in an encounter in Sitio Banderahan, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

https://visayandailystar.com/2-rebels-killed-in-moises-padilla-gun-battle/

3 Cafgu members killed, 2 others wounded in Maguindanao attack

 From MindaNews (Nov 28, 2022): 3 Cafgu members killed, 2 others wounded in Maguindanao attack (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

The Cafgu members killed during the attack in Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte on Monday, 28 November 2022. MindaNews contributed photo

Three members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) were killed while two others were wounded after their detachment in Barangay Edcor, Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte was attacked by still unidentified armed men past 1 a.m. Monday, a military official said.

Lt. Colonel Dennis Almorato, spokesperson of the 6th Infantry Division, said the militiamen were manning a detachment established to secure a damaged steel bridge in the area.

He said they are still establishing the group behind and what could be their motive for the attack.

“This is what we wanted to know since there are no terror groups like the BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters) or other organized lawless groups in the area,” Almorato told MindaNews.

He said the gunmen arrived onboard motorcycles and immediately peppered with bullets the Cafgu members.

It was not yet clear how many were the attackers and if there was a firefight.

The killed Cafgu members were identified as Christian Silvestre, Ignacio Lozad and Dondon Ahito while the injured were Arnel Cayanan and Calbertson Baggay.

A report from the Philippine Marine Landing Team-5 (MBLT-5), which has jurisdiction over the area, said the attackers took away the firearms of the victims.

“They were there to guard the bridge, not allowing heavy trucks to pass by since the steel bridge incurred huge damage due to Typhoon Paeng,” 2nd Lieutenant Ar-Gemar Hassan, officer-in-charge of the 5th Marine Company under the MBLT-5, said.

The Marines, together with the Buldon municipal police personnel, launched a manhunt operation against the suspects. (Ferdinandh Cabrera / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/11/3-cafgu-members-killed-2-others-wounded-in-maguindanao-attack/

Pro-ISIS gunmen raid Army post, kill 3 in the Philippines

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 28, 2022): Pro-ISIS gunmen raid Army post, kill 3 in the Philippines

MAGUINDANAO - Two members of the pro-ISIS groups Dawlah Islamiyah and Maute Group attacked a military outpost at dawn Monday in Buldon town in Maguindanao province, leaving three government militias dead, officials said.

Lt. Col. Dennis Almorato, regional military spokesman, said two other militias were injured when the terrorists stormed an outpost of the Army securing the bridge construction in the village of Edcor shortly after 1:00 a.m.

“The suspects were on board a motorbike. When they arrived at site, they opened fire towards the troops manning the post and then left the scene,” he said.

In May 2017, Maute gang members joined local ISIS and Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon when his group captured Marawi City in Lanao del Sur province, destroying a local church, killing Christians and holding dozens of hostages, including women and children. The siege lasted five months.

Hapilon and the top leaders of the Maute gang were eventually killed along with 1,200 people, most of them militants. (Jeoffrey Maitem)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/11/pro-isis-gunmen-raid-army-post-kill-3.html

CPP/NDF-Negros Island: Rejoinder to NSA Carlita Carlos’ “infuriating and saddening” comment

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Nov 29, 2022): Rejoinder to NSA Carlita Carlos’ “infuriating and saddening” comment

 

Bayani Obrero | Spokesperson

NDF-Negros Island

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

November 29, 2022

What can be described as “infuriating and saddening” occurrences in Negros Island are certainly a matter of class perspective.

To National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos, the ambush of two sergeants of the 47th Infantry Battalion last November 24, around noon time, at Sitio Camboguiot, Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental by a unit of the Armando Sumayang Jr Command – New People’s Army Southwest Negros Front (ASJC-NPA) was “infuriating and saddening.”

How then would she describe the relentless military operations of the 47th IB in Cauayan and Sipalay since May 2022 that has perpetrated human rights violations especially among farmer communities? How would she call the harassment of the Calago couple of Sitio Pasto, Barangay Inayawan, Cauayan; the physical assault experienced by Raymund Grande of Sitio Omas, Camindangan, Sipalay City; and the trauma of Alfredo Dantes after an M203 grenade launcher was fired to threaten him—all of these perpetrated recently by fascist soldiers of the 47th IB?

“Infuriating and saddening” could never encapsulate the call for justice by all the victims of state-sponsored violence and abuses in Negros Island.

The masses of Negros are seething at another summary execution of farmer, Victor Baldonado, 34 years old, tagged as an NPA casualty in a fake encounter fabricated by notorious farmer-killer 62nd IB. Baldonado, killed in front of his wife and children, is the 6th farmer murdered by state forces in Negros Oriental, particularly Guihulngan City and Canlaon City, since July 2022. Notably, all these farmer killings were covered up by fake encounter scripts.

This is the 13th fake encounter in Negros touted by fascist Philippine Army mouthpieces since the reign of the US-Marcos II regime. In two separate incidents, five hors de combat NPA members were killed in cold-blood including AGC-NPA spokesperson Ka Juanito Magbanua (Romeo Nanta). Four cases with a total of six victims, as I mentioned earlier, were intended to whitewash peasant killings. Another five fake encounters were actually cases of indiscriminate firing in Calatrava, Himamaylan City and Moises Padilla. Also, there was a strafing incident involving 15 households of Tribu Ituman-Maghat-Bukidnon members in Himamaylan City. And a matter of fake news in Vallehermoso, Negros Oriental, to cover up the 62nd IB’s failure in foiling a sniping operation of the LPC-NPA.

All the more enraging, children in Negros are victimized by state attacks on peasant communities. Under Marcos Jr, there are already seven cases of minors targeted by the counter-insurgency campaign like Everly Kee Jacolbe who was massacred with her mother in July. Countless more are traumatized by bombings and massive militarization.

These atrocities are results of the intensification of the state’s military campaign of suppression against revolutionary forces and the people. It is malicious and unjust for NSA Carlos to claim that insurgency must be solved or else “these tragedies will repeat over and over,” when the people’s resistance is valid consequence to injustice, oppression and exploitation. It is the roots of the on-going armed conflict that must be addressed with basic social, economic and political reforms to establish the basis for a just and lasting peace.

The rotten semicolonial and semifeudal ruling system is very evident in the social conditions of Negros where there is massive monopoly of land by a few rich families imposing their rule on the people through the mercenary AFP in contrast to thousands of landless tillers shackled to a monocrop sugar industry. Negros masses suffer through poverty, hunger, landlessness, joblessness, slave-like conditions in the haciendas, and various forms of semifeudal and feudal exploitation. However, they have the NPA, their genuine people’s army, to champion their democratic aspirations and defend them from state terrorism.

I invite NSA Carlos to advocate for the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations to her pleasure-seeking boss. Otherwise, she should know that the revolutionary forces in Negros, with the NPA, will carry forward the national democratic revolution in step with nationwide efforts led by the Communist Party of the Philippines. Negrosanons shall not rest in demanding and exacting justice for all human rights violations and will continue to resist the bloody counter-insurgency campaign of the US-Marcos II regime. The ruling class of big compradors and landlords will earn the price of fury and sorrow they have inflicted upon the oppressed and exploited in Negros Island. ###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/rejoinder-to-nsa-carlita-carlos-infuriating-and-saddening-comment/

CPP/Southwest Negros: 2 ka combat intel sang 47th IB ginsilutan sa BHB

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Nov 29, 2022): 2 ka combat intel sang 47th IB ginsilutan sa BHB (2 combat intel of the 47th IB were punished in the NPA)

 

Andrea Guerrero

Spokesperson

NPA-Southwest Negros (Armando Sumayang Jr. Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

November 29, 2022

Madinalagon nga ginsilutan sang isa ka team sang ASJC-NPA ang 2 ka combat intel sang 47th IB sang AFP.

Samtang naglabay ang motor nga ginsalakyan nila Staff Sargeant Ken Camelan kag Sargeant Regie Glendro sa Sitio Cambugiot, Brgy. Camindangan, Sipalay City, gin ambush sang isa ka team sang NPA ang ila ginsalakyan sang ligad Nobyembre 24. Dead on the spot ang duha kag nakumpiska ang 2 ka 45-calibre nga armas kag bala, 3 ka magasin, 2 ka android cellphone, kag 1 ka granada.



Ang among intel unit sang 47th IV nagapamahug sang pumuluyo kag nagakadto sa mga panimalay na ila ginpasibangdan nga nagasuporta sa NPA tunga man sa gabi. Ginpamahug man nila ang pamilya sang mga kaupod kag gina psywar agud mamahimong instrumento sang ila kontra insurhensiya nga kampanya.

Sadtong Marso 2019, sila mismo ang responsable sa pagambush kag pagpatay ni Ka Bred sa Sitio Cambaldez, Brgy. Maricalum, Sipalay City.

Bangud sa subsub nga militarisasyon sa kaumhan, walay iban nga dangpanan ang pumuluyo kundi ang iya armado. Singgit ini sang hustisya para sa pumuluyo nga amo ang numero uno nga biktima sa terorismo sang reaksyonaryong estado.

Magsilbi ini nga paandam sa mga espiya sang AFP-PNP kag sa ila mga lokal intel asset. Gikinahanglan nga magbayad ang ila nga mga maduguon nga kamot bangud sa ila pagpanghalit sa kabuhi, panginabuhian, pagpang-into kag pugos na pagpakooperar kag pagpasurender sa pumuluyo, kag ang nagadamo na kaso sang EJK.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/2-ka-combat-intel-sang-47th-ib-ginsilutan-sa-bhb/

Kalinaw News: 2 NPAs Killed, high powered firearms seized as locals report NPA extortion activities in Moises Padilla

From Kalinaw News (Nov 29, 2022):  2 NPAs Killed, high powered firearms seized as locals report NPA extortion activities in Moises Padilla (By 3ID)

CAMP GERONA, MURCIA, Negros Occidental—Two (2) unidentified members of NPA terrorist group were killed and various high-powered firearms were seized after a clash between the Communist NPA terrorist group and troops of 62nd Infantry Battalion, 3ID, Philippine Army in Sitio Upper Binataan, Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental arrived at around 7:00 in the morning today, November 28, 2022 (Monday).

Responding to reports from residents on alleged harassment and extortion activities committed by the NPA Communist Terrorists Group (CNT) in Sitio Upper Binataan, the Battalion immediately conducted a pursuit Combat Operations, which resulted in an armed encounter against fifteen (15) members of NPA Terrorists belonging to Central Negros 1 (CN1) Komiteng Rehiyon- Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (NCBS).

The exchange of fires lasted for about 40 minutes, after which the NPA Terrorists scampered toward Northwest and Northern directions, leaving two of their dead comrades.

Also seized were the following: Two (2) M16, one (1) M203, one (1) AK47, one (1) M14, one (1) Magnum .357 Revolver with three serviceable ammunitions, three (3) Magazines for AK47, seven (7) magazines for M16, two (2) Rifle Grenade, one (1) Serviceable Ammo of 40mm HE, medical equipment and supply, three (3) backpacks, two (2) Bandoliers, NPA terrorist subversive documents, and other personal belongings.

62IB turned over the dead bodies of the NPAs to Moises Padilla-PNP and MDRRMO for proper disposition and further investigation to confirm their identity.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Brigade Commander, expressed his appreciation to the troops of the 62nd Infantry Battalion headed by Lt.Colonel William Pesase Jr., Battalion Commander.

“The dedication to duty you have exhibited during the encounter with the members of the NPA terrorist group is incomparable. I am proud of the efforts and selfless dedication to service that you have rendered. I know that you are always prepared and ready to conduct law enforcement operations through the legitimate use of force against threat groups that endanger the well-being of the people, especially in Moises Padilla. Continue to be the best,” BGen Pasaporte said.

BGen Pasaporte also attributed the successful armed engagement against the NPAs to the vigilance and support of the local populace.

“I am commending the residents of Brgy. Quintin Remo, for the quick information given to the troops. It shows that the NPA terrorists are unwanted in the area. It reflects the locals’ desire for Moises Padilla, who are fed up with the lies and deceptions of the NPA Terrorists. Let us unite and encourage the remaining rebels to return to the folds of the law and avail the government’s E-CLIP program,” BGen Pasaporte 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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/2-npas-killed-high-powered-firearms-seized-as-locals-report-npa-extortion-activities-in-moises-padilla/

2 new Navy missile boats from Israel now ready for active service

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28, 202): 2 new Navy missile boats from Israel now ready for active service (By Priam Nepomuceno)

SERVICE-READY. Israeli-made fast attack interdiction craft BRP Nestor Acero, one of the Philippine Navy's two new missile boats, is docked at the Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila on Monday (Nov. 28, 2022). The BRP Nestor Acero and another missile boat BRP Lolinato To-Ong are the first two out of the nine FAICS-Ms acquired by the Philippines from Israel Shipyards Limited for PHP10 billion. (PNA photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) formally commissioned into service the first two of its fast attack interdiction craft missiles (FAIC-Ms), the BRP Nestor Acero (PG-901) and BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-802).

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin led the commissioning rites for the two missile boats at the Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila on Monday.

The two FAIC-Ms were sent off and deployed to their areas of operation shortly after the commissioning rites.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro and newly appointed Navy chief Rear Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. also witnessed the event.

The two ships were formally christened in rites at the PN headquarters last Sept. 6.

"Their addition to the fleet inventory is a significant step forward in the Navy's ongoing capability upgrade towards achieving a minimum defense posture and asserting greater efficiency in the execution of its mandated task, especially with their deployment to vital choke points, key sea lines of communication, and littoral areas of the country where terrorist groups and other lawless elements are operating," Navy spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza said.

These are the first two out of the nine FAICS-Ms acquired by the Philippines from Israel Shipyards Limited for PHP10 billion.

These vessels are named after two Philippine Marine Corps heroes and Medal of Valor recipients -- the late Private First Class Nestor Acero and the late 1st Lt. Lolinato To-Ong.

These ships have a displacement of 95 tons, a maximum speed of 40 knots, and a range of 1,000 nautical miles.

"This acquisition aims to strengthen the country's naval capability in terms of enhancing littoral defense and maritime interdiction operations as it will complement the previously acquired 12 MPAC (multi-purpose attack craft) of the PN," Negranza said.

These two FAIC-Ms were sponsored by Soledad B. Bacarro, the wife of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff.

The two vessels were loaded aboard a cargo ship and departed Haifa, Israel in late August. These vessels were formally launched last June 26.

Three more vessels are scheduled to be delivered starting this year.

These 32-meter high-speed vessels are equipped with quick intercept ability, remote stabilized weapons, and short-range missiles that are capable of delivering precision strikes against larger hostiles and high-value targets on land and sea.

Four of these FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other five will be armed with Typhoon-mounted 30mm main cannons and .50 caliber heavy machine guns.

The acquisition of these FAIC-Ms are among the 2019 projects approved by former President Rodrigo Duterte under the Horizon 2 List of the AFP Modernization Program.

"This acquisition also represents a major leap in the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Program of the country as the deal involves the transfer of technology that allows the local manufacturing of three platforms at the PN shipyard in Naval Station Pascual Ledesma, Cavite," Negranza said.

The notice of award for the FAIC-M project, worth around PHP10 billion, was issued on Jan. 5 last year.

These are expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium (PKM) or medium-sized patrol craft.

Once deliveries of the FAIC-Ms are completed, these vessels can interdict surface threats and launch non-line-of-sight missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover.

Addressing unique maritime threats

Meanwhile, Adaci said the FAIC-Ms will help the PN address maritime security threats that are unique to the Philippines.

"As you know the Philippines' geographic configuration is unique. It is characterized by complex and contested waters, porous borders and proximity to major regional sealines. This archipelagic nature of our country, therefore, presents both opportunities and challenges to the Philippines' maritime security. The two new fast attack interdiction crafts that we are commissioning today are specially designed to equip the Navy's capability in addressing threats within this complex and unique archipelagic condition in a precise and swift manner," Adaci said in his speech.

Adaci also said the FAIC-Ms approximately conform to the operations in the context of a unique geographic configuration like the Philippines.

"PG-901 and PG-902 have accurate, high performance, and quick intercept capabilities that are adequate for addressing current and emerging security threats," the PN chief said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189569

PH Navy eyes 15 more Israeli-made missile boats

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28, 202): PH Navy eyes 15 more Israeli-made missile boats (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy chief Rear Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. (PNA photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) is planning to acquire at least 15 more Israel-made Shaldag Mark V missile boats, which are the basis of its Acero-class patrol gunboats.

"We are planning to get 15 additional 'Acero'-class gunboats (to augment the) nine (now on the pipeline)," Navy chief Rear Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. told reporters on the sidelines of the commissioning and send-off ceremony for the fast attack interdiction craft missiles (FAIC-Ms) BRP Nestor Acero (PG-901) and BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902) Monday.

Adaci said the additional "Acero"-class gunboats would help them to meet their requirements in "patrolling the seas of the country".

He also said the FAIC-Ms will be assigned to the Littoral Combat Force.

He said four more FAIC-Ms, the other name of the "Acero" class in the PN service, will be delivered sometime in 2023.

"I don't know the exact delivery dates next year but this shall be throughout (next year)," the PN chief added.

The last batch of three, which will be built at the PN shipyard in the Naval Station Pascual Ledesma in Cavite, is scheduled for 2024.

Adaci said Israel Shipyard Limited will help the PN rehabilitate the old shipyard and make it more modern and allow it to build these types of ships.

"In that way, our people can learn how to do it, maintain these ‘Acero’ class boats and that will be the start of the transfer of technology," he said.

These 32-meter high-speed vessels are equipped with quick intercept ability, remote stabilized weapons, and short-range missiles that are capable of delivering precision strikes against larger hostiles and high-value targets on land and sea.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other five will be armed with Typhoon-mounted 30mm main cannons and .50 caliber heavy machine guns.

The acquisition of these FAIC-Ms is among the 2019 projects approved by former President Rodrigo Duterte under the Horizon 2 List of the AFP Modernization Program.

The notice of award for the FAIC-M project, worth around PHP10 billion, was issued on January 5 last year. These are expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium or medium-sized patrol craft.

Once deliveries of the FAIC-Ms are completed, these vessels can interdict surface threats and launch non-line-of-sight missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover.



https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189586

DND chief lauds Army Scout Rangers' contributions to PH security

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28, 202): DND chief lauds Army Scout Rangers' contributions to PH security (By Priam Nepomuceno)

FSRR ANNIVERSARY. DND officer in charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. (right), Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (3rd from left) and First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR) commander Brig. Gen. Freddie dela Cruz (3rd from right) lead the celebration of the FSRR's 72nd founding anniversary celebration at Camp Tecson, San Miguel, Bulacan on Nov. 25, 2022. Faustino lauded the FSSR’s crucial role at the forefront of the military’s internal security operations. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. lauded the First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR) for its outstanding role in preserving the country's internal security.

Faustino made this remark as he joined the 72nd founding anniversary of the FSSR at its headquarters in Camp Tecson, San Miguel, Bulacan on Nov. 25.

In a statement Monday, Philippine Army (PA) spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said Faustino was accompanied by Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. in the event.

"The CGPA (Commanding General Philippine Army) joined Usec. Faustino and FSRR commander Brig. Gen. Freddie dela Cruz in recognizing outstanding officers and men of the regiment who have shown exemplary skill, stamina, and spirit in the performance of their duties," he added.

Faustino, in his speech, lauded the FSSR’s crucial role at the forefront of the military’s internal security operations.

"For the past year alone, you, as a unit, conducted 302 combat operations, including 66 crucial armed engagements that led to the neutralization of several high-value targets and other peace spoilers,” the DND chief added.

Meanwhile, Dela Cruz highlighted the regiment’s collective drive for lasting peace.

“FSRR has shouldered its share of the task towards the accomplishment of the PA's mission, and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines)' mission in general. Our line units have significantly contributed to the different area commands and Joint Task Forces from where they are deployed,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189611

Army non-commissioned officers join academic travel in Malaysia

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): Army non-commissioned officers join academic travel in Malaysia

Philippine Army non-commissioned officer students listen during the information briefing with the Malaysian Army Academy Training and Doctrine Command officers in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – At least 45 non-commissioned officer (NCO) students from the Philippine Army (PA) have joined a four-day foreign academic travel in Malaysia.

The NCO students are members of Sergeant Major Class 09-2022, said Army spokesperson, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement.

"The delegation was headed by Training and Doctrine Command deputy commander Brig. Gen. Alvin Flores together with nine directing staff," he added.

The four-day visit, from Nov. 21 to 24, included an information briefing on the Malaysian Army Academy’s history, structure, roles and functions.

"The SMC students also learned about NCO leadership courses, challenges on morale and welfare, managing personnel who use the latest technology, preparation for occupying junior leadership roles, and gender and equality matters in the military," Trinidad said.

Foreign academic travel is part of the course curriculum which aims to widen the student's understanding and awareness of the socio-economic, political, military, and cultural environment of Malaysia as a fellow ASEAN and regional security partner country.

"The academic travel also discusses existing bilateral agreements, best practices, and innovations that foster goodwill and friendship, and strengthens the ties between the Philippines and Malaysia," Trinidad said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189704

PBBM discusses 10-point defense agenda with DND execs

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): PBBM discusses 10-point defense agenda with DND execs (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

DEFENSE AGENDA. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. meets with the officials of the Department of National Defense (DND) at the State Dining Room of Malacañang Palace on Tuesday (Nov. 29, 2022). During the meeting, DND officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. presented the department's 10-point defense agenda which aims to align its policies with Marcos' promise of a stronger and better Philippines. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the President)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday met with the officials of the Department of National Defense (DND) to discuss the 10-point defense agenda.

The meeting between Marcos and Defense officials led by DND officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. was held at the State Dining Room of Malacañan Palace in Manila, according to a Facebook post by state-run Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM).

Faustino, during the meeting, presented to Marcos the DND's 10-point defense agenda which will help the agency boost its capability to deal with national security issues, the Office of the President (OP) said in another statement posted on its official Facebook page.

"The DND, on the other hand, discussed with the Commander-in-Chief the 10-point defense agenda aimed at improving the agency's capability to respond to various aspects of national security," the OP said.

The RTVM said Faustino also assured Marcos of the DND's commitment to align its policies with the national government's agenda for a "stronger" Philippines and strengthen its efforts in protecting Philippine territory.

"OIC Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. highlights the DND’s 10-point defense agenda covering the following areas: sovereignty and territorial integrity; internal security and stability; disaster resilience and climate change adaptation; cyber defense; modernization, capability and capacity development; security cooperation and engagements; Reserve Force development; welfare of soldiers, veterans and civilian human resource; legal and legislative agenda; and protection of cognitive domain," it said.

The DND also gave an update on its "significant accomplishments," the RTVM said.

The RTVM, however, did not elaborate on the DND's presentation of its accomplishments.

In July, Faustino said the 10-point defense agenda will serve as guidelines to align the DND's policies with Marcos' promise of a stronger and better Philippines through national unity, nation-building and economic recovery.

Faustino said the agenda is envisioned to build a "united DND that is not only formidable but can readily thrive under the direst of circumstances."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189728

Senators favor mandatory ROTC in college, instead of SHS

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): Senators favor mandatory ROTC in college, instead of SHS (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

File photo

MANILA – Senators on Tuesday agreed to pursue reinstitutionalizing the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) in college, instead of proposals to include it in the senior high school (SHS) curriculum.

During the joint hearing of the Committees on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education; National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation; and Finance, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said the Department of Education (DepEd) must focus instead on addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly the decline in the proficiency of SHS students in English, Math, and Science.

Gatchalian, chair of the Committee on Basic Education, said he is alarmed over the DepEd data that 51 percent or about 1.4 million students who enrolled in 2020 dropped out before completing SHS in 2022.

"This is actually a much pressing problem to solve by DepEd and also by our country," Gatchalian said.

He said the ROTC must be reinstated at the college level because students are already being trained through the National Service Training Program (NSTP).

“Those who want to be trained in ROTC are already being trained. So, we just need to expand it. By expanding it, obviously we also need a budget to do that and those are the things that we can discuss here at the committee level," he said.

According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, implementing an ROTC program in SHS would cost PHP9.2 billion.

Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, who presided over the hearing, agreed with a suggestion to amend the Reservist Act, making it mandatory to those unable to go to college.

"It's obvious that malaki pa ang kakailanganin ng project kapag doon natin i-implement sa Grades 11 and 12 dahil (the project will need a large amount if we implement it in Grades 11 and 12 because we will) start from scratch, from zero, walang ROTC program ang DepEd whereas ang CHED may ongoing na silang (DepEd has no ROTC program whereas CHED has an existing) ROTC program, albeit not mandatory, under NSTP,” Dela Rosa said.

He reiterated the need to equip Filipinos with the necessary skills in protecting and preserving the country.

During the hearing, CHED and other government agencies presented a "consensus bill" which will institutionalize a two-year mandatory NSTP and four-year optional ROTC training for college students.

CHED Director Spocky Farolan said it would more or less capture the intent of the Marcos administration in reviving ROTC, which will focus on disaster management and civic duty.

The Senate committees have formed a Technical Working Group that will craft the the measure, which Dela Rosa expects to be passed by the first quarter of 2023.

The 2001 death of University of Santo Tomas cadet Mark Chua, who exposed alleged ROTC corruption, prompted Republic Act 9163 or the NSTP law, signed in 2002.

It allowed college students to choose among ROTC, Literacy Training Service, and Civil Welfare Training Service under the required NSTP.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189731

Tacurong City bus bombing suspect killed after resisting arrest

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28, 202): Tacurong City bus bombing suspect killed after resisting arrest (By Edwin Fernandez)

BOMB-MAKING COMPONENTS. A police investigator accounts for the improvised bomb and bomb-making components seized from a slain couple linked to the Daesh-inspired Dawlah Islamiya Group on Sunday (Nov. 28, 2022) in Cotabato City. One of those slain, Aiman Ali Mandi, is a suspect behind the Nov. 6, 2022 bus bombing incident in Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat province. (Photo courtesy of Sultan Kudarat PPO)

COTABATO CITY – Law enforcement operatives have neutralized one of the suspects in the Yellow Bus Lines (YBL) bombing in Tacurong City earlier this month, an official said Monday.

Lt. Col. Lino Capellan, speaking for Sultan Kudarat police provincial office, said Aiman Mandi Ali resisted arrest and was killed during Sunday’s law enforcement operation here.

“We were to implement an arrest warrant in connection with the November 6 bus bombing in Tacurong City when the suspect opened fire on lawmen,” Capellan told reporters here in an interview Monday.

Also killed was Ali’s wife Hainurisa, who was in the same house during the 8:30 a.m. operation in Barangay Rosary Heights 6 here.

Capellan said the couple belonged to Dawlah Islamiya (DI) terrorist group under Salahuddin Hassan, a known DI leader operating in Maguindanao.

Capellan said Aiman was also linked to the Dec. 31, 2018 bombing of the South Seas Mall in Cotabato City.

Policemen found two .45-caliber pistols from the suspect’s home, fragmentation grenades, improvised bombs and bomb components, motorbike, multicab vehicle, a drone, and various identification cards.

A passenger was killed and 11 others, including the alleged bomb courier, were injured when an improvised bomb went off inside the Yellow Bus Lines unit near the Tacurong City bus terminal.

In the South Seas mall bombing four years ago, two were killed and nearly 30 were injured.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189575

3 CAFGUs slain, 2 hurt in Maguindanao Norte attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28, 202): 3 CAFGUs slain, 2 hurt in Maguindanao Norte attack (By Edwin Fernandez)

ATTACKED DETACHMENT. Members of Philippine Marines inspect the site where three militiamen are killed in a gun attack by suspected terrorists in Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte, on Monday dawn (Nov. 28, 2022). Two militiamen are also wounded. (Photo courtesy of Jojo Gonzales of DXDD FM)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Three militiamen were slain and two others were injured in a gun attack at about 1:20 a.m. Monday in Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte, the Army said.

Lt. Col. Dennis Almorato, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, told reporters that the militiamen were part of the Army unit securing the bridge damaged by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng last month in Barangay Edcor, Buldon town.

Citing field reports, Almorato said the gunmen fled toward the hinterlands of Barangay Nuyo after the attack.

Two armed men, believed to be members of a local terrorist group, arrived on a motorbike and opened fire on members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), he said.

Slain were CAFGU members Christian Silvestre, Ignacio Lozad, and Dondon Ahito. The wounded were identified as militiamen Arnel Cayanan at Calbertson Baggay.

Members of the 5th Marine Battalion Landing Team and Buldon municipal police officer personnel are still conducting pursuit operations as of this posting.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189576

2 ex-rebels yield in N. Ecija; NPA lair found in Zambales

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28, 202): 2 ex-rebels yield in N. Ecija; NPA lair found in Zambales (By Zorayda Tecson)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – Two former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) have voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Nueva Ecija province.

In his report on Monday, Col. Wilson O. delos Santos, commander of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 3 (RMFB 3), identified the surrenderers as "Ka Enteng", a former regular NPA member and "Ka Orling", a former member of the Militia ng Bayan.

He said personnel of the 303rd Maneuver Company of the RMFB 3 and other concerned units facilitated the surrender of the two former rebels last Nov. 25.

Ka Enteng also yielded one improvised M14 rifle and four M14 live ammunition, he added.

Delos Santos assured the former rebels that the government will help them lead peaceful lives together with their respective families.

He urged the remaining rebels to go down from the mountains and return to the fold of the law.

Meanwhile, personnel of the 305th Maneuver Company of the RMFB 3 discovered over the weekend a former NPA hideout in Barangay Loob Bunga in Botolan town, Zambales province following a tip-off by a former rebel.

Brig. Gen. Cesar Pasiwen, regional director of the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3), said one rifle grenade, two pieces of M203 ammunition, food supplies and assorted medicines were found in the burrow.

He said the latest accomplishments resulted from the intensified campaign of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) through the RTF-ELCAC 3.

“These latest accomplishments of the government side strongly showed that the CPP/NPA has been remarkably weakened,” he said in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189605

Unclaimed bodies of 6 slain NPA rebels buried in Northern Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28, 202): Unclaimed bodies of 6 slain NPA rebels buried in Northern Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

FINAL DESTINATION. Six New People’s Army rebels slain in a clash with soldiers are buried at the public cemetery of Las Navas, Northern Samar on Saturday (Nov. 26, 2022). No relatives or friends claimed the bodies. (Courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – Six slain members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were given decent burials by local officials and the military in Las Navas, Northern Samar, days after their comrades abandoned their bodies following a gun battle with government forces.

The six rebels, two of them women, were buried Saturday at the Las Navas public cemetery, Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion spokesperson 2nd Lt. Joyce Ann Bayron said in a phone interview on Monday.

“After the encounter, the NPA members left the dead at the battle scene in Imelda village in Las Navas. When the troops of the 803rd Brigade found them, they were immediately taken to the town center for a thorough examination,” Bayron said.

Las Navas Mayor Arlito Tan held a wake for the rebels at the Las Navas Coliseum but no family members or friends showed up to claim the bodies.

Tan called on the remaining NPA members to surrender and lay down their arms.

"Come down because our government will help you have a happy and peaceful life by extending livelihood assistance,” Tan added.

The encounter happened early morning of Nov. 23.

Government troops recounted strong resistance en route to the heavily fortified hideout which prompted the request for close air support and artillery fires.

Eventually, the major lair occupied by about 60 rebels was destroyed.

The slain rebels belonged to the NPA’s Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, which the military has been hunting down for killing two soldiers during an attack in Barangay Dorillo, Jipapad, Eastern Samar.

The same attack injured a 10-year-old child and two soldiers tasked to monitor government projects.

At least 15 houses, community stage, communal toilet and the newly constructed village hall were also damaged.

Imelda is the most remote village in Las Navas town that can be reached after about two hours of motorboat ride and three hours of hiking.

It is close to the border of Eastern Samar.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189599

Protect youth from communist recruitment: Army commander

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28, 202): Protect youth from communist recruitment: Army commander (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

YOUTH SUMMIT. Brig. Gen. Leonardo Peña (6th from left), commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade, leads Army and civilian officials and the youth during the graduation of the Youth Leadership Summit in Mabinay, Negros Oriental last July. Peña has reiterated the need to protect the youth from the recruitment activities of the CPP-NPA-NDF. (PNA file photo by Judy Flores Partlow)

DUMAGUETE CITY – Government troops must continue their efforts to protect the youth from recruitment of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) as they are vulnerable targets, an Army official here said on Monday.

“My wish and my desire for the youth, actually, is to give them the right inspiration that they may become a better generation than ours,” Brig. Gen. Leonardo Peña, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Negros Oriental, told the Philippine News Agency.

Peña said to achieve this, the older generations must set a good example to them and provide them empowerment venues such as leadership and skills training, “to keep them aware of the situation in our province”.

He said they have initiated campus visits in the different schools but it would be better if the provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) would take the lead.

“That’s why I keep on convincing the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) here and other partner stakeholders that should be given focus, and hopefully, that would happen soon,” he added.

The brigade, through the 11th Infantry Battalion (11IB) led by Lt. Col. Roderick Salayo, is conducting a series of Youth Leadership Summits (YLS) in different towns and cities under its area of responsibility, as part of efforts to empower the youth while helping promote peace and development.

Aided by the Youth for Peace provincial chapter, the Negros Oriental government, and other partner agencies, a provincial YLS Summit is being eyed hopefully before the end of this year, bringing together the youth leaders from across the province.

Meanwhile, Peña said they are strengthening their watch, especially in the southwest borders following the ambush-slay of two intelligence soldiers from the 47th Infantry Battalion in Sipalay last Thursday.

He said the perpetrators are believed to be members of the NPA’s South West Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor.

While they operate mainly in the “CHICKS” (Candoni, Hinoba-an, Ilog, Cauayan, Kabankalan City, and Sipalay City all in Negros Occidental) area, there is always the likelihood that these rebels will cross borders to Negros Oriental as they are highly mobile.

Peña said Hinoba-an was placed under the responsibility of the 11IB to help strengthen security in the south and help the government’s operating troops in the area.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189639

Army saddened by death of 'misguided' NPA member

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): Army saddened by death of 'misguided' NPA member (By Perla Lena)

SLAIN REBEL. A member of the CPP-NPA was killed in a clash between the rebel group and the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army at Barangay Tigbanaba in Igbaras town, Iloilo province on Nov. 26, 2022. Maj. Gen. Benedict M. Arevalo, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, was saddened over the death of a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) who, he said, was deceived to join the armed struggle. (Photo courtesy of 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs Office)

ILOILO CITY – The commander of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army was saddened over the death of a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) who, he said, was deceived to take part in the useless armed struggle.

“As much as possible, we want to make them realize that joining armed struggle is not the answer to attain peace, and we don’t want another victim and lives to be wasted. We are so much concerned for their families suffering their loss,” said Maj. Gen. Benedict M. Arevalo in a press statement on Monday.

The slain NPA member was identified as Domingo Costas alias "Evan/Ivan", Squad Member, Team 1, Squad 1, SDG Suyak, Southern Front, KR-Panay, who figured in an encounter with the 61st Infantry Battalion on Nov. 26 at Sitio Gibasya, Barangay Tigbanaba in Igbaras town, Iloilo province.

The encounter happened after the government troops responded to information from the community on the presence of more or less 10 members of the Suyak (SDG) Platoon, Southern Front-Kometing Rehiyon – Panay led by Jun Capio, alias "RonRon."

The exchange of gunfire led to the death of one rebel while the other members fled, leaving behind their dead comrade.

Government troops recovered from the site of the encounter two M16A1 rifles, one AK47 rifle, one M203 Grenade Launcher, one rifle grenade, improvised explosive device paraphernalia, other war materials, food packs, medical supplies and subversive documents.

Arevalo also reiterated his call for the remaining NPA rebels to lay down their arms, avoid the same fate as their comrade and avail of the government’s programs intended for them.

He also assured security operations have been intensified by the military to maintain peace and security in the province of Iloilo.

National Security Adviser (NSA) Clarita Carlos who is also the vice chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, in an earlier statement, lauded government troops for the successful operation.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189641

Attack on MagNor bridge rehab project leaves 4 militiamen dead

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): Attack on MagNor bridge rehab project leaves 4 militiamen dead (By Edwin Fernandez) 

Google map of Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte.

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – The Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) condemned Tuesday the attack against an outpost of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Buldon town that left four dead and one injured.

The attack perpetrated by a still unidentified armed group occurred around 1 a.m. Monday.

Maj. Gen. Roy Galido, the 6D commander, said the militiamen were part of the security of the bridge undergoing rehabilitation in the village of Edcor.

Heavy trucks and heavy equipment are prevented from passing through the bridge in Barangay Edcor, after Typhoon Paeng in October weakened its foundation.

“This inhumane act of the killing and wounding of our CAFGU personnel must be condemned to the full extent,” Galido, also the commander of Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), said.

“JTF Central calls on the populace to remain vigilant of the atrocities of these culprits behind the attack on our personnel hence, this shooting incident deliberately violates the right to life and cannot be justified under any ideology or circumstance,” he added.

Three militiamen died on the spot while the fourth expired while undergoing medication in a hospital.

They were identified as Christian Silvestre, Ignacio Lozad, Dondon Ahito, and Arnel Cayanan.

Four M14 rifles were taken by the attackers, the Army said.

“We will ensure that justice for the victims will be served,” Galido said.

Police and military authorities believed the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were behind the attack.

Buldon Mayor Pahmia Manalao-Masurong also condemned the attack, even as she assured that financial aid has been provided to the families of slain militiamen.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189665

NPA rebels in E. Visayas in turmoil after top leader’s death

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): NPA rebels in E. Visayas in turmoil after top leader’s death (By Sarwell Meniano)

FATALITIES. Bodies of New People's Army (NPA) rebels lay outside the municipal hall of Las Navas, Northern Samar. Six NPA fighters, including a top leader in the region, were killed in a fierce gun battle with government forces in an upland village in Las Navas town on Nov. 23, 2022. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – The death of the top leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Visayas during a clash in Las Navas, Northern Samar will cause a leadership vacuum among armed rebels in the region, an official of the Philippine Army said on Tuesday.

Philippine Army 20th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Joemar Buban said the communist group in the region is now demoralized by the death of Helenita Pardales alias Ka Elai, the top leader of the NPA Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.

Pardales is one of the six slain rebels when government forces launched an attack in remote Imelda village in Las Navas town on Nov. 23, destroying a major lair of NPA with 30 huts and a big cottage for meetings.

“This is a big blow to their organization since there is a leadership vacuum. The remaining guerrilla fronts operating in Northern Samar will have no guidance. We all know that they don’t have a succession of command,” Buban told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a phone interview.

The recovery of 18 high-powered firearms will likewise weaken the NPA organization in the region and Northern Samar province.

“Abandoning their firearms means they are demoralized and not capable of fighting the government,” Buban added.

Capt. Valben Almirante, spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 803rd Brigade said in a phone interview that aside from Pardales, also killed are two provincial NPA leaders in Northern Samar as identified by former rebels.

Almirante said they have launched a hot pursuit operation to hunt the NPA members that scattered after the fierce gun battle.

“They will surely suffer starvation since we have already cleared neighboring villages. We have also recovered several mobile phones and they will not be able to contact their supporters,” Almirante added.

The incident will affect the plans of the NPA for the upcoming Communist Party of the Philippines anniversary on Dec. 26.

The group belongs to the regional party committee positioned to support the remaining four NPA guerilla fronts operating in Northern Samar.

The Army’s 803rd Infantry Brigade has been monitoring the movement of four remaining guerrilla fronts in Eastern Visayas, all operating in the province.

The military estimated that there are still about 300 NPA fighters belonging to the four fronts and their supporters hiding in the mountains.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189690

NPA rebel killed in clash with cops in remote Masbate village

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): NPA rebel killed in clash with cops in remote Masbate village (By Connie Calipay)

LEGAZPI CITY – An unidentified New People's Army (NPA) member was killed while high-powered firearms were seized when government forces engaged armed rebels in a firefight in a remote village in Placer, Masbate on Monday.

In a report on Tuesday, the Masbate Provincial Police Office said the operating team was conducting combat operations when it came across members of the communist group which led to a 15-minute firefight and killing of one of the insurgents.

"Recovered at the encounter site were one unit M-16 rifle of the slain rebel including one bandolier with eight pieces of a steel magazine, improvised explosive device (IED), one unit caliber .45 pistol, several rounds of ammunitions, two hammocks and assorted terroristic propaganda materials," the report said.

The operating teams were from the Masbate 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, Masbate Provincial Intelligence Unit, 502nd Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion, and Placer Municipal Police Station (MPS).

The report added that no one among the operating troops was hurt, killed or wounded during the encounter.

Meanwhile, a progress report of the Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO-5) said one of the rebels who fled from the clash site was spotted by a concerned citizen.

"The suspect was seen roaming around the said place armed with an unknown caliber of a firearm and reported the same to Placer MPS," Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO-5 spokesperson, said in a statement.

She said government troops immediately conducted a pursuit operation that resulted in the arrest of Rolly Aballe Jr., 23 and resident of Barangay Cabangrayan in Pio. V Corpus, Masbate.

Confiscated from his possession was one unit .38-caliber revolver without trademark and serial number, loaded with five rounds of live ammunition and two cellular phones with conversations with regard to the movement of the government troops.

"The suspect who is now under the custody of Placer police station will be charged for violation of Republic Act 10591 also known as “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act”," Calubaquib said.

PRO-5 regional director Brig. Gen. Rudolph B. Dimas, commended the operating team for their unrelenting dedication and diligence to capture the fleeing NPA member.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189701

Marine, bizman killed, driver hurt in Zambo shootings

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): Marine, bizman killed, driver hurt in Zambo shootings (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

SHOOTINGS. Policemen sift through the crime scene where motorcycle-riding gunmen shot a Marine officer on Monday (Nov. 28, 2022) in Barangay San Jose Cawa-Cawa, Zamboanga City. The incident was one of two separate shooting incidents that transpired Monday in Zamboanga City. (Photo courtesy of Regino Delos Santos)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A Marine officer and a businessman were killed while a driver was wounded in separate shooting incidents in this city, a top police official said Tuesday.

The police identified the fatalities as 36-year-old Marine Sgt. Antonieto Doc-Doc, and 60-year-old businessman Benjamin Usman.

Police withheld the identity of the wounded public utility tricycle driver.

Col. Alexander Lorenzo, city police director, said Doc-Doc was shot by motorcycle-riding in tandem gunmen around 1:40 p.m. Monday along San Jose Road, Barangay San Jose-Cawa-Cawa.

He said investigation showed the victim rode a tricycle from Barangay Canelar going to a food chain branch in Barangay San Jose-Cawa-Cawa when his assailants tailed and shot him.

He said the suspects sped towards the city proper while the victim, who suffered multiple gunshot wounds, was rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Doc-Doc died around 4:10 p.m. on the same day based on the attending doctor’s declaration.

Recovered from the crime scene were four empty shells and three deformed slugs from a .45-caliber pistol.

Also on Monday, Musa was shot dead by assailants onboard a motorbike around 9:45 a.m. in Purok 1, Barangay Talisayan.

Lorenzo said Musa was about to get off the tricycle in front of his home when the attack occurred.

The driver was hit by a stray bullet and was admitted to a hospital.

Recovered from the crime scene were three empty shells and a deformed slug of a .45-caliber pistol.

Lorenzo said they have yet to determine the motive behind the two shooting incidents.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189683

2 ex-NPA fighters surrender in Nueva Ecija

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): 2 ex-NPA fighters surrender in Nueva Ecija (By Jason De Asis)

STARTING NEW LIVES. Two former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) pledge their allegiance to the government as they turn themselves in to the Philippine Army's 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) on Monday (Nov. 28, 2022). The two surrendered rebels -- " Ka Yoga” and “Ka Lando” -- are both members of an indigenous peoples community in Dingalan town, Aurora province. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 91st Infantry Battalion)

BALER, Aurora – Two former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who want to start leading new lives with their respective families this Christmas have surrendered to the 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) of the Philippine Army on Monday.

Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto Jr., 91IB commander, said Tuesday the two former rebels turned themselves in to the Alpha Company of the 91IB based in Gabaldon town, Nueva Ecija province.

He said the rebels, who requested to be identified only as "Ka Yoga” and “Ka Lando,” are both members of an indigenous peoples community in Dingalan, Aurora.

The two, after being recruited into the communist armed movement, operated in Quezon province, Recto added.

“We asked our relatives to have a dialogue with the 91IB to help us to live a new and peaceful life and to be with our loved ones since Christmas is fast approaching. We wanted to be happy this Christmas,” the former rebels were quoted as saying in the vernacular.

Recto also said the Alpha Company troops retrieved one M16 rifle which the surrenderers admitted hiding in Sitio Uyungan, Barangay Umiray, General Nakar town in Quezon province.

“It always brings joy to our hearts to welcome those former NPA rebels who decided to go back to the folds of our laws. They were both tribes and victims of the lies, propaganda and deception of the terrorist organization. We assured them that they can spend and be happy together with their families this Christmas,” Recto said.

He urged the remaining members of the NPA to lay down their arms and avail the benefits of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“Let us embrace peace and celebrate Christmas with your family. Our government is here to assist you in your reintegration into mainstream society. We will help you,” Recto added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189708

2 NPA rebels killed; soldiers recover weapons in NegOcc clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): 2 NPA rebels killed; soldiers recover weapons in NegOcc clash (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

BODIES RECOVERED. The bodies of two CPP-NPA rebels killed in a clash with troops of the Philippine Army's 62nd Infantry Battalion in the far-flung Barangay Quintin Remo in Moises Padilla town, Negros Occidental province on Monday (Nov. 28, 2022). Soldiers also recovered weapons such as M16, M14 and AK 47 rifles, M203 grenade launcher, and .357 Magnum revolver during the clearing operation. (Photos courtesy of 303rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – A 40-minute firefight claimed the lives of two Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) rebels and led government troops to recover several high-powered firearms in the remote village of Quintin Remo in Moises Padilla town, Negros Occidental province on Monday.

In a report on Tuesday, the Philippine Army's 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) identified the fatalities as Johnhill "Mark" Sarsa, a resident of Barangay Planas, and Dalmacio "Delmar" de la Torre, of Barangay Trinidad, both of Guilhulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Sarsa is a political officer while De la Torre is a member of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda Platoon Lenovo of the NPA's Central Negros Front 1.

Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, said in a statement that the 62IB led by Lt. Col. William Pesase Jr. is always ready to conduct law enforcement operations through the legitimate use of force against threat groups that endanger the people's well-being.

"The dedication to duty you have exhibited during the encounter with the members of the NPA is incomparable," Pasaporte told the troops, who engaged about 15 communist terrorists after receiving reports of their harassment and extortion activities in the area.

"I commend the residents of Barangay Quintin Remo for the quick information given to the troops," he added.

During the clearing operation, the soldiers found various weapons, including two M16 rifles with seven magazines; one AK 47 rifle with three magazines; one .357 Magnum revolver with ammunition; one M14 rifle; one M203 grenade launcher; two rifle grenades; and 140mm high explosive ammunition.

Meanwhile, the bodies of two NPA rebels were turned over by the 62IB to the Moises Padilla Municipal Police Station and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

"We call on the retreating NPA rebels to surrender peacefully. Those who are wounded, you will be treated," the 62IB appealed in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189764

Army educates youth vs. NPA recruitment

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 202): Army educates youth vs. NPA recruitment (By Zorayda Tecson)

AWARENESS DRIVE. The Northern Luzon Command launches its national security awareness drive dubbed as 'UniVISITy' at the Jose V. Yap National High School in Tarlac City on Monday (Nov. 28, 2022). The program aims to raise awareness on the communist terrorist group's recruitment among the youth sector and recruit students to become peace and development advocates. (Photo courtesy of the Jose V. Yap National High School)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) has launched its national security awareness drive for senior high school students in the region.

Dubbed as "UniVISITy", the project aims to raise awareness on the communist terrorist group's (CTG) strategies to draw in students and the youth sector, strengthen the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, and recruit students to become peace and development advocates.

Lt. Gen. Ernesto C. Torres Jr., Nolcom commander, said on Tuesday that the launching of the project was held at Jose V. Yap National High School in Tarlac City where some 1,500 students attended the program symposium.

During the event, the Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management Cluster of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) presented the deceptive recruitment of the CTG.

Likewise, former rebels turned Philippine Army soldiers, Private Ivylyn Corpin and Private Lady Desiree Miranda, shared their stories and experiences in the armed struggle and as today's peace advocates.

The Police Community Affairs and Development Unit of the Tarlac Police Provincial Office, on the other hand, educated the students about the anti-illegal drugs campaign.

The program was highlighted by the presence of an Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) recruitment booth and photo gallery where some students showed their interest in joining the soldiery.

School principal Ferdinand Gregorio said their administration appreciated Nolcom’s initiative in protecting the students from the deceptions of communist terrorists.

He said the military officers answered all the students’ queries as they were inspired by their stories and experiences.

“They also promoted programs that support peace and development related to their line of work,” Gregorio said in a social media post.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189727