EDCA site Basa air base to get $24-M airstrip extension, rehab —Carlson

From GMA News Online (Mar 10, 2023): EDCA site Basa air base to get $24-M airstrip extension, rehab —Carlson (By GMA Integrated News)

A $24-million airstrip extension and rehabilitation project will break ground at the Basa Air Base in Pampanga—one of the existing Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites in the country—on March 20, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson has said.
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In an interview with GMA Integrated News anchor Vicky Morales, Carlson said the airstrip extension is one of the biggest among the projects worth over $80 million at the Philippine military facilities which US forces may access under the defense agreement.

"I can announce today that we are going to do a groundbreaking this month. On March 20th, we’re going to invite our US Secretary of the Air Force to do a groundbreaking on a $24-million project that will extend the Basa airstrip and rehabilitate that," Carlson said.

She said the project was to make sure that the airstrip would be "useful so that when planes land they’re not negatively affected."

"Right now a part of that airstrip is not usable because of the state of disrepair," Carlson said.

Aside from the Basa Air Base in Pampanga, the other original EDCA sites are the Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, the Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro, and the Beniro Ebuen Air Base in Mactan.

Signed in 2014, EDCA grants US forces access to designated Philippine military facilities, the right to construct facilities, and preposition equipment, aircraft, and vessels.

There is no permanent basing because the Constitution prohibits foreign military bases in the country.

In February, the Department of National Defense announced the Philippines and the US are eyeing four additional sites which will allow more rapid support for humanitarian and climate-related disasters in Manila and respond to other shared challenges.

Asked where the new sites will be located, Carlson said: "I don’t want to get ahead of the Philippine government on what our militaries have come up with."

"But I could say we should be able to announce the next EDCA sites within the next several months and then getting the US congress to appropriate the funds once there is an agreement on where they will go," Carlson said.

She said the additional EDCA sites had been chosen for “a number of reasons” and sought to allay fears from local officials that these will pose risks to residents.

“It’s 365 days a year that the militaries are coordinating and they choose sites for any number of reasons and that’s to primarily ensure the lives and the livelihoods of Filipinos are protected and that US security interests are all so enhanced,” Carlson said. —Sundy Locus/NB, GMA Integrated News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/863490/basa-airstrip-extension-worth-24-million-to-break-ground-in-march-us-ambassador-carlson/story/

‘Stop indiscriminate bombings in Kalinga’- peace advocates

Posted to the pro-CPP/NDF/NPA online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Mar 10, 2023): ‘Stop indiscriminate bombings in Kalinga’- peace advocates (Anne Marxze Umil)

Screengrab from the Northern Dispatch

MANILA – Peace advocates condemned the indiscriminate bombings and shellings in the communities of Balbalan, Kalinga.

Justice and Peace Advocates of Kalinga (JPAK) said that on March 9, bombings and gunshots were heard in Balbalan.

Northern Dispatch also reported the bombing after a concerned resident from Balbalan sent a video of the incident.

“We condemn the indiscriminate bombings and shellings and the atmosphere of terror brought about by the continuing military combat operations,” the JPAK said in a statement.

They appealed for the military operations and indiscriminate bombings be stopped because the lives of the civilians, especially children, are put in danger.

“We call on the local government to ensure the safety of the affected residents and provide the necessary assistance,” the group said.

They also call for the Commission on Human Rights, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) peace advocates and government agencies to conduct independent and impartial investigations of the incidents, and to provide immediate assistance to the affected communities.

This is the second reported bombing in the area, said JPAK. On March 5, the group said they also received reports that jet fighters and drones were seen and heard in the mountains of Balbalan at 2:00 a.m. within and around barangay Gawaan.

“Residents woke up to the sound of aircrafts and indiscriminate bombing from operating troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The military aircrafts were also seen and heard by residents of Upper Tabuk and of Limos, Pinukpuk,” the group said.

Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA) also reported that nine civilians – two were supposed to check on their carabaos, and seven who were supposed to rescue the first two – were held by the military “for clearing purposes.” They were released after seven hours, the group said.

“We raise alarm and concern over the safety and security of civilians in the communities, and the long-term socio-economic impacts of military operations in Balbalan and neighboring municipalities. The gunfires and bombings are reported too close to the civilians and residences. The International Humanitarian Law that guarantees the safety and security of civilians should be ensured,” the CHRA said in a statement.

Meanwhile, JPAK calls on the concerned local government, peace-loving advocates and the general public to “help them campaign and urge the government to return to the table of peace talks and seriously craft resolutions that may help lead to the resolution of the root causes of the ongoing civil war.”

https://www.bulatlat.com/2023/03/10/stop-indiscriminate-bombings-in-kalinga-peace-advocates/

NPA rebel, supporter surrender in Iloilo

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 10, 2023): NPA rebel, supporter surrender in Iloilo (By TARA YAP)

ILOILO CITY – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel and supporter surrendered to the police in Calinog town, Iloilo province.

The Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 (Western Visayas) identified the surrenderers as NPA rebel Ronnel Jimenez Camarig and NPA supporter Dionisio Lorca Leysa.

They heeded the call of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) to return to the fold of the law.

"PRO-6, together with RTF-ELCAC and other concerned authorities, have continuously encouraged remaining supporters of the communist terrorists and contribute in securing and ensuring lasting peace and order to the communities,” said Brig. Gen. Leo Francisco, PRO-6 director.

The 25-year-old Camarig turned over two homemade 12-gauge shotguns, a homemade single shotgun without ammunition, and an improvised explosive device (IED).

Farmer Leysa had been providing support to NPA rebels in the area.

They are now enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

https://mb.com.ph/2023/03/10/npa-rebel-supporter-surrender-in-iloilo/

Member of terror group in Surigao del Sur faces 9 arrest warrants; total bail at P460,000

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 10, 2023): Member of terror group in Surigao del Sur faces 9 arrest warrants; total bail at P460,000 (By: Faith Argosino)

MANILA, Philippines — A total of nine arrest warrants were issued against a wanted member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army tagged as Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) listed as the priority target of the police force in Marihatag, Surigao del Sur, the police said.

According to PRO 13 director Police Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, the manhunt operation last March 8 resulted in the arrest of Dante C. Sanchez, 46.

Sanchez is a Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU) member under Guerilla Front 19, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), the PRO 13 said in a statement issued Thursday.

The Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Lianga, Surigao del Sur, filed warrants after charging Sanchez with four counts of murder with no bail; frustrated murder (no bail); and two counts of attempted murder.

Aside from these, the RTC of Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, also filed warrants after charging him with theft and attempted murder.

Total bail for all the other bailable cases was set at P460,000.

Based on Lianga Municipal Police Station’s records, Sanchez was one of the CTG members who ambushed and killed Datu Jomar Bucales, 47, an Indigenous People Mandatory Representative.

Other victims were Alberto Belonio Dela Peña, 59, and Artemio Suazo Muldez, 53 — both members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) on October 4, 2020, in Sitio Mamparasanon, Barangay Banahao.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1740917/member-of-terror-group-in-surigao-del-sur-faces-9-arrest-warrants-total-bail-at-p460000

Basilan unveils Kasanyangan (Peace) Monument

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 7, 2023): Basilan unveils Kasanyangan (Peace) Monument (By Rene Carbayas)

SUMISIP, Basilan, 6 Mar (PIA) – Basilan, recently, unveils the Kasanyangan (Peace) Monument that symbolizes the victory of the people of Basilan in fighting lawlessness, extremism, and terrorism.

For its leaders, this monument is a testament of the peoples struggles and aspirations for genuine peace and will continue to be a reminder for the people to keep this aspiration as the province continues to face challenges in achieving genuine peace and development.

"The prospect of peace in Basilan was difficult to imagine decades ago due to the proliferation of illegal firearms and the presence of several armed groups," Governor Jim Salliman-Hataman said as he and National Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez unveiled the Kasanyangan (Peace) Monument at the Rotonda in Barangay Mahatallang, Sumisip last March 4.

Salliman described the peace monument as the symbol of Basileños' struggle for peace and the "apex of our cooperation, solidarity and determination to succeed."

"Only few believed that we can achieve peace. We took action and trusted the process. We have achieved our dreams of a peaceful and progressive Basilan," he said.

Governor Salliman recalled that he made an unflinching move in 2016 during his first year in office as governor, and that his administration has acknowledged the problem on lawless elements and violent extremism.

"We owned the problem, and we confronted it," the governor stressed even as he added that his efforts had been criticized by detractors, but the inflow of support from the local government units of Basilan, the AFP, PNP, religious sectors and the general constituencies of the province far outweighed the criticisms.

The governor revealed that the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has been a major partner of the PLGU Basilan in the SALW Program as a component of the peace monument.

Sec. Galvez described Basilan as the foundation of his life, having served the province during the early stage of his military career

“Basilan has transformed into a progressive and peaceful province under the leadership of Gov. Salliman. Genuine peace now reigns in Basilan…We will never forget Basilan," Galvez said.

The monument stands in a former conflict area, near Punoh Mahadji where, according to Galvez, deadly armed confrontations have resulted to the death of over seven hundred soldiers and countless civilians and bandits at the height of the Abu Sayyaf reign in the hinterlands of Basilan. (NBE/RVC/PIA9 with reports from Basilan PIO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/2023/03/07/basilan-unveils-kasanyangan-peace-monument

CPP/NDF-Kaguma: Tagumpay ng militanteng sama-samang pagkilos! Pagpupugay ng KAGUMA sa matagumpay na tigil-pasada!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 10, 2023): Tagumpay ng militanteng sama-samang pagkilos! Pagpupugay ng KAGUMA sa matagumpay na tigil-pasada! (Victory of militant collective action! KAGUMA's tribute to the successful traffic stop!)

 


Katipunan ng mga Gurong Makabayan (Kaguma)

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

March 09, 2023

Nakikiisa ang mga rebolusyonaryong guro at kawaning akademiko sa ilalim ng Katipunan ng mga Gurong Makabayan (KAGUMA) sa paglaban ng mga tsuper at buong sambayanan laban sa kontra-mahirap at kontra-mamamayang Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program na sinusulong ng pangkating Marcos-Duterte. Ipinapaabot ng KAGUMA ang taas-kamaong pagpupugay sa matagumpay na tigil-pasada na ikinasa nitong Marso 6, 2023 na muling nagpatunay sa lakas ng sama-samang pagkilos ng mamamayan.

Mula sa pagbibingi-bingihan, naitulak ng militanteng pagkilos ng mga tsuper at mainit na suporta ng mamamayan ang rehimeng Marcos na harapin ang mga makatarungang panawagan ng sektor ng transportasyon. Habang kinakailangan ang patuloy na pagbabantay at paggigiit upang tuluyang maibasura ang programang i-phase out ang mga jeepney, naitulak ng mga tsuper at mamamayan ang rehimeng Marcos na isama ang mga tsuper, opereytor, komyuter, at iba pang apektadong sektor sa pag-rebyu ng naturang patakaran.

Isa itong malaking sampal sa makapal na mukha ng nag-aastang diktador na si Bise-Presidente Sara Duterte na gamit ang tsapa bilang kalihim ng Department of Education (DepEd) ay walang habas at paulit-ulit na nang-redtag at nanakot sa mga tsuper na lumahok sa tigil pasada at sa mga makabayan at progresibong guro na nagpahayag ng suporta sa pagkilos. Sa kanyang mga wala-sa-hulog na pagpahayag na “walang saysay” at “mala-komunista” ang tigil-pasada, muling pinapakita ni Sara ang kanyang tunay na kulay. Pasistang tapang-tapangan lang laban sa mahihirap ang alam ng utak-pulburang Duterte: Walang malasakit sa mga suliranin ng masang Pilipino. Walang pinagkaiba sa kanyang tatay na dati nang nagpahayag sa mga tsuper na “wala akong paikalam kung magutom kayo.”

Ginawa pang palusot ni Sara Duterte ang diumano’y epekto ng tigil-pasada sa pag-aaral ng kabataan. Ngunit sa katunayan, alam ng mga guro at taumbayan na ang kanyang mga pasistang hakbangin sa DepEd ang tunay na humahadlang sa pagtamasa ng kabataang Pilipino ng dekalidad at makabuluhang edukasyon. Payo namin sa KAGUMA kay Sara: sa halip na sisihin pa ang tigil-pasada, tingnan niya muna ang sarili sa salamin. Tigilan ang mga walang katuturang pagwawaldas ng intel funds para sa DepEd at pagpupumilit sa mandatory ROTC at sa halip ay unahing bigyang-pansin ang hikahos na kalagayan ng mga guro at ng sektor ng edukasyon.

Sa huli, sa bawat kaso ng pananakot at panunupil ng mga tulad ni Duterte ay higit na naipapamalas sa taumbayan ang pagiging makatarungan ng paghihimagsik laban sa isang bulok na sistemang mga naghaharing uri lamang tulad ni Duterte ang nakikinabang. At sa bawat tagumpay na nakakamit sa pamamagitan ng sama-samang pagkilos ay higit na nakikintal ang gintong aral ng kahalagahan ng pagkakaroon ng organisadong lakas at militanteng pagkilos sa landas ng pambansa demokratikong rebolusyon na may sosyalistang perspektiba.

Mabuhay ang tigil-pasada!

Mabuhay ang tagumpay ng sambayanang lumalaban!

Tuloy ang laban!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/tagumpay-ng-militanteng-sama-samang-pagkilos-pagpupugay-ng-kaguma-sa-matagumpay-na-tigil-pasada/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: 1 Patay, 1 Samaron sa 62nd IB sa Canlaon City

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 10, 2023): 1 Patay, 1 Samaron sa 62nd IB sa Canlaon City (1 Dead, 1 Injured for the 62nd IB in Canlaon City)

 


JB Regalado

Spokesperson

NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

March 10, 2023

Isa patay kag isa ang pilason sa mga katapo sang 62nd IB nga naga-operasyon sa sityo Batang-batangan, Brgy Bucalan, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental sang ginharas sang New People’s Army sadtong Marso 6, 2023 ala 1:30 sang hapon. Pasulit-sulit nga nagabinutig ang militar nga nagapanginwala sang ila mga kaswalti sa mga opensiba sang NPA.

Madinalag-on nga natigayon sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army ang opensiba batok sa pasistang tropa bangud sang suporta sang malapad nga masa. Sabat man ini sang NPA sa madugay na nga mga reklamo sang mga residente sa madata nga human right’s violations nga ginkomiter sang nasambit nga berdugong militar. Militarisasyon kag ala Martial Law ang ginpaluntad sang militar sa lugar halin pa sadtong Disyembre 2022 tubtob subong Marso 2023 nga pagtiner sang militar sa lugar. Ginasaka ang ila mga puluy-an sa tion sang kagab-ihon. Nadisturbo ang ila mahamuok nga pagtulog kag pagpanguma sa nasambit nga baryo. Masami sila nga ginapatawag para sa interogasyon kag imbestigasyon kaangot sa presensya sang NPA. Pilit nga ginakumbinse agud himuon nga tagpaniktik sang militar batok sa CPP/NPA. Masami ginapasibangdan sila nga suporter sang NPA kon indi man sila magkooperar sa pasistang tropa.

Samtang ara ang presenya sang militar sa ila lugar, wala sang seguridad ang kabuhi kag pangabuhian sang pumuluyo. Nagatuga lamang sang grabe nga kakugmat kag wala sang kaseguruhan ang pagpauli sang ila mga kabataan gikan sa trabaho kag pag-eskwela sa tion sang kagab-ihon.

Hugot nga ginamando sa mga yunit sang NPA nga maglunsar sang taktikal nga opensiba batok sa AFP, PNP, para-militar kag iban pa nga mapintas nga makinaryas sang estado. Silotan ang pasistang tropa militar!

Padayon nga mag-isa ang pumuluyo! Palayason ang berdugong 62nd IB sa kaumahan sa Central Negros!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/1-patay-1-samaron-sa-62nd-ib-sa-canlaon-city/

CPP/NPA-Sultan Kadarat: 37th IB troops brutally assault civilians in Sultan Kudarat, 1 killed

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 10, 2023): 37th IB troops brutally assault civilians in Sultan Kudarat, 1 killed

 

This article is available in Bisaya

March 10, 2023

The NPA-Sultan Kudarat of the Mt. Daguma Sub-Regional Operations Command-Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) strongly condemns the 37th Infantry Battalion for indiscriminately firing their weapons last February 27 against civilians in Sitio 27, Barangay Sangay, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.

The attack occured on the evening of Monday, February 27 as a group of four civilians were hunting for food near the community. The victims are as follows: Nasyon Gantangan, 30-years old and a father of three; Epin Dasol, father of one; and the two minors Waldo Lunon (16) and Verano Matilak (15). All were residents of Sitio Tinagdanan, Brgy. Hinalaan, Kalamansig. The attack resulted in the death of Gantangan and the wounding of Dasol.

According to one of the victims, they were walking down a major rural road, using headlamps. As they entered the residential area at around 7:28 p.m., they were suddenly fired upon by soldiers from the 37th IB who were operating at that time in the area. Before he was killed, Gantangan was able to shout “Sibilyan ni!” (We are civilians!) but the soldiers continued to fire at them. The troops continued to sporadically fire shots until morning.

According to family and friends who identified and recovered Gantangan’s corpse, his body was so riddled with bullets that his internal organs had spilled from his abdomen and his body was nearly torn in half. The perpetrators then planted a M14 assault rifle and carbin to justify his death.

This heinous act is nothing new for the murderous, mercenary and fascist AFP. On September 2020, the 37th IB similarly murdered two civilians near the residential area of Barangay Sta. Slara identified as Dino Limboy and a certain Macargas. On July 2022, soldiers from the 7th IB under the 6th ID murdered Kalesa Langgaw in Sitio Matingaw, Barangay Baluan, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat. This is just a “tip of the iceberg” of the military’s atrocities against the people.

The impact of the latest attack goes beyond the immediate casualties. Due to the news of her husbands horrific death, Gantangan’s wife, who was into the third month of her pregnancy, miscarried. The two minors suffer from severe trauma, which includes uncontrolled trembling, screams and fear of leaving their homes. The entire community now lives in terror.

A survivor also reported that several civilian homes were ransacked and private belongings scattered. As a result, residents are afraid to walk into their community.

Under the guise of the AFP’s so called anti-terrorism military operations, the US-Marcos Jr regime justifies and defends the killings of civilians in the 2nd district of Sultan Kudarat. This is because these operations pave the way for multinational companies to enter the area for mining, logging, set up commercial plantations and other destructive projects. In the face of the AFP’s trampling on the people’s rights and dignity, the masses are pushed to rise up and defend their democratic interests and ancestral domains.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/37th-ib-troops-brutally-assault-civilians-in-sultan-kudarat-1-killed/

Kalinaw News: Demoralized CTG leader yields with 9 High Powered Firearms in Surigao del Sur

From Kalinaw News (Mar 10, 2023): Demoralized CTG leader yields with 9 High Powered Firearms in Surigao del Sur

Lianga, Surigao Del Sur – On March 9, 2023, at Purok 3, Brgy. St. Christine, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, a high-ranking Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leader armed with powerful guns willingly surrendered to the 3rd Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion, Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), Philippine Army.

Patrick Tejeros Wagdos @Tuloy, Squad Leader of SYP-I/GS (HQF, SRC) of SRC SL, NEMRC, who had been operating in the hinter areas of the municipalities of Lianga, San Agustin, Marihatag, Cagwait, and San Miguel, all in Surigao del Sur since 2017, was neutralized via surrender due to the unit’s relentless Focused Military Operations. Alias Tuloy carried with him nine (9) AK47 firearms and seven (7) AK47 magazines.

In his interview, alias Tuloy expressed his dread for his life due to the government soldiers’ ceaseless Focused Military Operations and his love for his family, which led him to forsake the armed conflict.

Presently, the former rebel is undergoing correctional debriefing and the processing of documentation necessary to access the Expanded Comprehensive Local Integration Program services (E-CLIP). Initially, the FR will receive urgent help from the Department of Social Welfare Development Office (PSWDO) and monetary incentives from the City and Provincial Office. In addition, a Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) in the amount of Php 20,000.00 would be provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

The commanding officer of the 3rd Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion, Lt. Col. Paulo F. Baylon, praised @ Tuloy’s choice to return to the folds of the law. In addition, he communicated the government’s message of reconciliation to the surviving Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members and begged with their families to persuade their loved ones to surrender, as the government is committed to ending the communist armed war in the nation.

[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/demoralized-ctg-leader-yields-with-9-high-powered-firearms-in-surigao-del-sur/

Kalinaw News: SBDP project breaks ground for construction of Php12M farm to market road in Aurora town

From Kalinaw News (Mar 10, 2023): SBDP project breaks ground for construction of Php12M farm to market road in Aurora town

BALER, Aurora-A Groundbreaking of Php12-million farm to market road project by the department of interior and local government (DILG) in this province was held Thursday, March 9, 2023 in the Barangays of Dianawan, Diaat and Bayanihan in the town of Maria Aurora, Aurora.

LTC JULITO B RECTO JR INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion participated the projects were under the Support to Barangay Development Program (SBDP) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

LTC RECTO on his message that the project started from the community support program (CSP) to address the grievances, needs and projects to be given by the government for the villagers in the said town.

“I am very thankful for this development for the welfare of our community. I also urge everyone to protect our community from the threats brought about by the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) for peace and development, for the sake of our future generation,” Recto said.

He lauded the efforts of the government agencies involved in the realization of the ELCAC Projects.

Mayor Ariel S. Bitong expressed his utmost appreciation to the Philippine Army, DILG, police and ELCAC Officials during the groundbreaking ceremony.

Bitong said that it’s the government who will help the people of Aurora.

The mayor urged his constituents to continue ending their support to the NPA rebels, so that the government will continue building more roads in their area.

Meanwhile, DILG Aurora Provincial Director Ener P. Cambronero said that the government is serious and sincere in bringing the government closer to the people.

He thanks the 91st IB for their Retooled CSP in the province that serves bridge for the projects in the far-flung communities.“Our Philippine Army assist us in the delivery of needed basic services and in the implementation of different government programs and projects that will allow peace and development in our communities,” Cambronero said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/sbdp-project-breaks-ground-for-construction-of-php12m-farm-to-market-road-in-aurora-town/

Kalinaw News: Troops discover firearms and food cache in Bataan

From Kalinaw News (Mar 10, 2023): Troops discover firearms and food cache in Bataan

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – A combined operating elements of soldiers and policemen discovered an arms and food cache belonging to Communist Terroris Group (CTG) in Sitio Pintong Bakal, Brgy. Pinulot, Dinalupihan, Bataan last Saturday, March 04, 2023.

Soldiers from Bravo Company led by 1Lt. Mark Anthon Fragio under 70th Infantry (Matatag at Matapat) Battalion (70IB), Philippine Army acted on information from the community that led to the discovery of the cache containing one cal. 5.56 M653 rifle, two containers of rice and one bag of subversive documents from the dissolved Komiteng Larangang Gerilya WEST, South Party Committee of the CTG operating in Bataan.

Lt. Col. Ronel Dela Cruz, the commander of 70IB thanked the community for for the commendable action saying, “Ang pagtulong ng mga residente sa pagtuklas ng mga armas na ito ay nagpapatunay na sila ay namulat at natuto na tunay na mapanlinlang at walang mabuting dulot ang terorismo. Ito ay pagpapatunay din na nakakarating sa taong bayan ang serbisyo at kampanya ng ating gobyerno laban sa terorismo. Ang programang Balik-Loob at Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program ng gobyerno para tulungan ang mga biktima ng maling idelohiya upang makapagsimula muli , magbago at maging produktibo kapaki-pakinabang na mamamayan ay patuloy kayat hinihikayat natin ang ating mga kapatid na nasa kabundukan pa na bumaba na at magbalik loob upang makasama ang kanilang pamilya”.

Major General Andrew Costelo, commander of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army lauded the accomplishment of soldiers and policemen and assured that government troops will be relentless in conducting its focused military operations to locate other hidden weapons and pursue the CTG.

” Our soldiers and policemen will always be there to protect communities and one way of protecting the people is getting rid of weapons that may be used against our countrymen”, Maj. Gen. Costelo said.
The general also thanked the community for the valuable support in the fight against terrorism to attain sustainable peace and development and vowed to help CTG members who will return into the folds of the law.

“We thank the community for the relentless support to the security sector in its role in maintaining the peace and security in the community as we vow to help our brothers who went astray in the wrong path if they finally choose peace but for those who spread violence, the long arms of the law will bring you to justice”, Maj. Gen. Costelo concluded.

[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/troops-discover-firearms-and-food-cache-in-bataan/

DND ordered to suppress 'criminal activities' in Negros Island

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2023): DND ordered to suppress 'criminal activities' in Negros Island (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (Screengrab from DND Facebook live video)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the Department of National Defense (DND) to "suppress criminal activities and impunity" in the entire Negros Island.

Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the Chief Executive issued the order on Thursday night and directed him to give justice to the families of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and the eight other victims who were killed in a brutal attack last March 4.

"And to give justice to the families and loved ones of those who were slain in the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo and restore normalcy and confidence of our people," Galvez said in a press conference held at the DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Friday.

He also added that the President also issued verbal orders to create a joint task force composed of two brigades to step up and assist ongoing joint Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police (AFP-PNP) operations.

This joint task force is tasked to carry out Marcos' order and search warrants, Galvez stressed.

"Also we have just deployed a 50-man specially-trained strong Light Reaction Company, kung alam nyo po yung light reaction company (if you are know of the Light Reaction Company), they were involved in the Battle of Marawi (in 2017) from the deployment of the AFP to monitor the remaining suspects," he added.

The deployment of these special troops give emphasis to Marcos' earlier comment that the suspects can run but cannot hide.

"As the President had said that we will give justice to the family and sabi niya na (and he told the) suspects, you can run but you cannot hide, we will find you," Galvez said.

Meanwhile, AFP chief of staff Gen. Andres Centino extended the military's condolences to the victims and their families.

"Collectively the AFP sends its its sympathies to the bereaved families of those who died in the incident, of course the people of Negros Oriental. We condemn in the strongest terms this brutal act committed by the attackers," he added.

Centino also said AFP has been coordinating with the PNP and this cooperation has resulted in the arrest of the suspects.

"The arrested suspects are now in the custody of the PNP and the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) and the AFP will continue to work with the other agencies to arrest the remaining perpetrators so justice will be served to the victims and their families," he added.

Centino also said that the joint task force, ordered created by the President, shall be composed of AFP units based in the area and augmented by troops from outside of Negros.

"As mentioned earlier we have already deployed an elite unit coming from Cotabato and now they are now in Negros to augment our forces there. The joint task force will be headed by the commander of 3rd Infantry Division, Brig. Gen. Marion Sison and he will be assisted by two brigade commanders, Brig. Gen Leo Pena and Col. (Orlando) Edralin, they are brigade commanders having operational control over six battalions in the island. We assure that the AFP in collaboration with the PNP and other law enforcement agencies will continue to protect the people and safeguard the peace and security in our community," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197106

Beijing chides US for ‘discrediting’ PH-China economic ties

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2023): Beijing chides US for ‘discrediting’ PH-China economic ties (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

MANILA – The Chinese Embassy in Manila called out Washington DC on Friday for “discrediting” China’s economic relations with the Philippines.

The statement is in response to a Philippine Daily Inquirer report citing State Department Undersecretary Victoria Nuland questioning whether Beijing’s “promises” in the past had actually generated jobs for Filipinos.

“China and the Philippines are natural partners for the geographical proximity, close kinship, and complementary advantages,” the embassy said.

“In recent years, under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and the Philippines have deepened the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and the ‘Build, Build, Build’ and ‘Build Better More’ programs of the Philippines,” it added.

Further, it touted the various government-to-government cooperation projects and recently signed agreements between Beijing and Manila in agriculture and fisheries, finance, customs, e-commerce, tourism, etc.

The embassy added that the export of fresh Philippine durians to China is also expected to generate up to 10,000 direct and indirect job opportunities in farming, packing and logistics chain in the Philippines.

“Since (President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s) state visit many Chinese business delegations are coming to the Philippines, reaching extensive agreements on expanding trade and investment cooperation between the two countries, demonstrating the huge potential and broad prospects of China-Philippines practical cooperation,” it said.

It then went on criticizing the growing defense cooperation between the US and the Philippines, specifically Nuland’s remarks that Washington DC’s access to four more EDCA sites would bring “economic opportunities, jobs” to their host communities.

“Such cooperation will seriously endanger regional peace and stability and drag the Philippines into the abyss of geopolitical strife and damage its economic development at the end of the day,” the embassy said.

In a comment, US Embassy spokesperson Kanishka Gangopadhyay said Washington DC’s commitment to defend the Philippines remains “ironclad” and that it would continue to strengthen their economic and investment relationship.

“My only response to the PRC (People’s Republic of China) statement is to repeat what we have said for some time: The United States and the Philippines enjoy an alliance and partnership based on deep historical, economic, and cultural ties, and our shared democratic values,” he said. “The United States and the Philippines stand together as friends, partners, and allies."

The Department of Foreign Affairs earlier said Nuland and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo met on March 6 and discussed developments in the West Philippines Sea as they previewed plans for the upcoming US-Philippines defense and foreign ministerial meeting.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197109

PCG monitors fewer Chinese vessels in disputed waters

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2023): PCG monitors fewer Chinese vessels in disputed waters (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

(Photo courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) observed fewer Chinese vessels near some of the disputed features in the West Philippine Sea during its latest Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) flight on Thursday.

In a statement on Friday, the PCG said the MDA flights were conducted over Pag-asa Island, Ayungin Shoal and Sabina Shoal, where it has previously reported significant numbers of foreign-flagged vessels, including Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) and the presence of People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels.

It spotted 15 CMM vessels near Pag-asa Island, down from 42 last week.

However, it also noted that a PLA Navy warship and a CCG vessel remained within the island's territorial sea.

“The PLA Navy’s Jiangdao Class warship and CCG vessel 5203 continue to loiter within Pag-asa’s 12-nautical mile territorial sea,” it said.

Over Ayungin Shoal, where the Philippine Navy's BRP Sierra Madre is grounded to assert Philippine sovereignty, the PCG said that CCG vessel 5304 was still lurking about six nautical miles away.

Over Sabina Shoal, another feature claimed by both countries, the PCG reported that it saw 17 CMM vessels, down from 26 two weeks ago.

During the MDA flights, it received seven radio challenges from the CCG vessels -- four over Pag-asa Island and three over Ayungin Shoal.

The PCG is coordinating with the Western Command (WESCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Area Task Force – West (ATF-WEST) to ensure a unified response to the situation in the contested waters.

“A complete report on the MDA flight will be endorsed to the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea for review and analysis,” it said.

The PCG expressed its support for AFP-WESCOM's statement that the Philippines' efforts are aimed at promoting adherence to an international rules-based order and strengthening established bilateral and multilateral mechanisms to avoid conflict and maintain peace and stability in the West Philippine Sea.

The PCG also reiterated its commitment to defend Philippine sovereignty and rights despite incidents of harassment, coercion, and provocations from Chinese vessels challenging its legitimate entitlements as articulated by UNCLOS and upheld in the 2016 Arbitral Award.

PCG Commandant Adm. Artemio Abu, meanwhile, assured that the they would "remain steadfast in advancing the national interest.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197138

9 rebels surrender, yield firearms in Samar provinces

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2023): 9 rebels surrender, yield firearms in Samar provinces (By Sarwell Meniano)

QUITTING THE NPA. The New People's Army (NPA) fighters who surrendered to the police and military on March 8, 2023 in Lope De Vega town, Northern Samar province. At least nine NPA members surrendered to government forces in two Samar provinces and yielded their firearms to authorities on that day. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – Nine members of the New People’s Army (NPA) have surrendered to government forces in two Samar provinces and yielded their firearms to authorities, the Philippine National Police (PNP) regional office here reported on Friday.

Of the nine rebels who gave up on March 8, six of them showed up to the police and military in Magsaysay village in Lope de Vega town, Northern Samar province.

Five were identified by their aliases as "Paz," 57; "Bembem," 25; "Jay-ar," 17; "Mara," 17; "Justin," 24; and Arthur De Guia, 31.

The surrenderers, who are residents of the towns of Catarman, Lope de Vega, San Isidro and Bobon in Northern Samar, have turned over two .45-caliber pistols, two 5.56 mm M16A rifles, a .38-caliber pistol, a 7.62mm M14 rifle, two magazines with 40 rounds of 7.62 ammunition, and a backpack containing subversive documents.

Their surrender is a result of joint negotiations between the 1st Northern Samar provincial mobile force company, the Philippine Army’s 43rd Infantry Battalion, and the Lope de Vega municipal police station.

Said personalities are now under the custody of the Philippine Army for the facilitation and assessment of their possible enrollment in the government’s financial assistance program while surrendered firearms and ammunition were turned in to the Northern Samar police provincial office supply for proper disposition.

Meanwhile, three NPA underground mass organization (UGMO) members also surrendered to authorities on the same day in Quinapondan town, Eastern Samar.

They were also known by their aliases "Armina," 64; "Daling," 67; and "Sarah," 31; all residents of General MacArthur town, Eastern Samar.

UGMOs have been established by the NPA inside open sectoral groups and open alliances to advance and support the armed atrocities and other activities of the rebel group.

Intelligence personnel from the 2nd Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd ESPMFC) and 805th Maneuver Company of the Police Regional Mobile Force Battalion received them.

The active support of an advocacy group was instrumental in locating and convincing the die-hard NPA supporters (to surrender), according to the police.

They are now under the custody of the 2nd ESPMFC for documentation and proper disposition while further verification in all courts is being facilitated for any possible standing warrant of arrest issued against them.

Brig. Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, PNP Eastern Visayas regional director, lauded the successful surrender of the said NPA members and staunch allies.

“Their surrender is a result of the intensive police and military operation in cooperation with the community in ending insurgency in the region. We will continue to encourage other rebels to surrender to the government and lay down their arms to put an end to this false propaganda once and for all,” Marbil said in a statement.

Samar Island is considered the last bastion of insurgency in the country with four of the last five remaining guerilla fronts operating in the boundaries of three Samar provinces.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197066

NPA rebel tagged in killing of Surigao Sur IP leader falls

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2023): NPA rebel tagged in killing of Surigao Sur IP leader falls (By Alexander Lopez)

ARRESTED. The Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region reports the arrest of Dante C. Sanchez, an alleged New People’s Army rebel tagged in the ambush-slay of an indigenous people leader in Lianga town, Surigao del Sur province on Oct. 4, 2020. Sanchez is also wanted for four counts of murder, theft and attempted murder. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

BUTUAN CITY – A suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebel linked to the ambush-slay of an Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) in Surigao del Sur province two years ago has been arrested, a top police official bared Friday.

Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, director of the Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13), identified the captured communist insurgent as Dante C. Sanchez, 46, a member of the Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU), an IP organization known for its alleged links with the NPA.

Labra said Sanchez works under the NPA Guerrilla Front 19, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee. He was served with an arrest warrant Wednesday at Barangay San Isidro in Marihatag town, Surigao del Sur province.

“Sanchez had arrest warrants for four counts of murder issued by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 28 in Lianga,” Labra said in a statement.

He said the suspect is also wanted for theft and attempted murder.

“Based on the report from the Lianga municipal police station, Sanchez was among the communist rebels who ambushed and killed Datu Hawudon Jumar Bucales, the IPMR of Lianga,” Labra said.

Bucales, a staunch anti-communist crusader who criticized the NPA for its atrocities against tribal members, was waylaid on Oct. 4, 2020 in Barangay Banahao, Lianga town.

Two other companions of Bucales, including a militiaman, also died in the ambush.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197078

Families evacuate as soldiers clash with armed men in Bohol town

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2023): Families evacuate as soldiers clash with armed men in Bohol town (By John Rey Saavedra)

(Google map of Balilihan, Bohol)

CEBU CITY – The Visayas Command (Viscom) has confirmed that more than 30 families evacuated as soldiers from the 47th Infantry Battalion clashed with an armed group in the hinterland village of Hanopol Norte in Balilihan town, Bohol province on Thursday afternoon.

Maj. Israel Galorio, Viscom public information officer, could not confirm the identities of the group whether they are members of the New People’s Army (NPA) or just “lawless elements” operating in the area.

However, the Balilihan Police Station identified the armed men as members of the NPA.

There were no casualties reported in the clash.

Galorio said the families that evacuated due to the encounter have returned to their homes on Friday. Soldiers are staying in the area “to make sure the residents are safe” while security operations are ongoing, he added.

Some of the villagers sought refuge in the house of the barangay chairperson while others went to the barangay hall when the clash erupted, he noted.

“We have recovered a rifle grenade, a magazine of AK-47, and several ammunitions left in the area. We have a sustained security operation to clear the area of any armed elements,” Galorio told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.

For his part, Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Renoblas of the local police said the exchange of gunfire occurred in Sitio Lusad, Purok 3 at around 4:50 p.m.

He added that seven armed men retreated after shooting it out with the government troopers for about 10 minutes.

Hanopol Norte barangay chairperson Teodico Mancha said there had been no previous reports of NPA presence in his village prior to the encounter.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197104

20 ex-rebels in northern Negros now engaged in swine raising

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2023): 20 ex-rebels in northern Negros now engaged in swine raising (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

LIVELIHOOD AID. Some of the former rebels in Escalante City, Negros Occidental province receive piglets for swine raising as livelihood assistance from the city government at the city’s Event Center on Thursday (March 9, 2023). The turn-over rites were witnessed by Lt. Col. J-jay Javines, commander of the 79th Infantry Battalion (3rd from right), Councilor Leo Alejandro Yap (2nd from left), and Sharon Cadigal (1st from left) of the Department of the Interior and Local Government. (Photo courtesy of 79th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – At least 20 former Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) rebels in Escalante City, Negros Occidental province will engage in swine raising after receiving piglets as livelihood aid from the city government.

The turnover rites held at the Event Center in Barangay Hacienda Fe on Thursday is the latest of the projects extended to the former rebels in line with the initiatives of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

“The Philippine Army extends its gratitude to Mayor Melecio Yap Jr. for his continuous support and aggressive stance to end local armed conflict,” said Lt. Col. J-jay Javines, commander of the 79th Infantry Battalion, in a statement on Friday.

Javines, who witnessed the turn-over of assistance along with Councilor Leo Alejandro Yap and Sharon Cadigal, local government operations officer of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, acknowledged the mayor’s benevolence in looking after the welfare of the former rebels.

Those who returned to the fold of the law in the northern Negros city have received sustainable livelihood projects, economic packages, and capacity-building and skills training as they take the path to peace and live normal lives, he added.

In October last year, the city government also provided farm animals to the former rebels through their cooperative, and lined-up more assistance such as the distribution of carabaos and provision of rolling stores, sari-sari stores, a motorized boat with fishnets, market stalls, and job opportunities in public and private offices.

In Negros Occidental, Escalante City has the most number of insurgency-cleared villages, with a total of 14 barangays, which are beneficiaries of the Local Government Support Fund-Support to Barangay Development Program under the NTF-ELCAC.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197117

NTF-ELCAC farm-to-market road project underway in Aurora

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 10, 2023): NTF-ELCAC farm-to-market road project underway in Aurora (By Jason De Asis)

FARM-TO-MARKET ROAD. At least PHP12 million was allocated for the construction of a farm-to-market road in Maria Aurora town in Aurora province. Funded under the Local Government Support Fund-Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), the project will benefit residents of three villages that were once under the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army. (Photo by Jason de Asis)

BALER, Aurora – A PHP12-million farm-to-market road is now underway in a far-flung area of Maria Aurora town in this province as part of the government’s effort to address the root causes of insurgency.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday led the groundbreaking of the project that is funded through the Local Government Support Fund-Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

Lt. Col. Julito Recto Jr., commander of the Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB), said in an interview on Friday that the project will benefit residents in the villages of Dianawan, Diaat and Bayanihan which were once under the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Recto said they first conducted a community support program (CSP) in the recipient barangays that paved the way for the implementation of the SBDP.

“The project started from the CSP to address the grievances, needs and projects to be given by the government for the villagers,” he said.

CSP is the Army's tool that aims to bring peace and development in conflict-affected barangays and an initiative to bring the government closer to the people through an immediate delivery of basic services, especially to far-flung communities.

“I am very thankful for this development. This is for the welfare of our community. I also urge everyone to protect our community from the threats brought about by the communist terrorist groups for peace and development, for the sake of our future generation,” Recto said.

He lauded the efforts of the government agencies involved in the realization of the ELCAC projects.

Meanwhile, Maria Aurora Mayor Ariel Bitong thanked concerned government agencies for the project that help bring development to their area.

He urged his constituents to end their support to the CPP-NPA, noting that the government continues to implement projects in conflict-affected areas.

DILG-Aurora Provincial Director Ener Cambronero said the government is serious and sincere in bringing the government closer to the people.

He thanked the 91IB for its community support program in the province that serves as a bridge for the projects in the far-flung communities.

“Our Philippine Army assists us in the delivery of needed basic services and in the implementation of different government programs and projects that allow peace and development in our communities,” Cambronero said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197123