Rights groups demand release of youth activist Alexa Pacalda

Posted to the pro-CPP/NDF/NPA online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Mar 15, 20232): Rights groups demand release of youth activist Alexa Pacalda (By VENMAR CECILLE)

FILE PHOTO. Family members and supporters of Alexa Pacalda call for her release. (Photo courtesy of Karapatan-Quezon)

Almost three years after her arrest, human rights worker Alexa Pacalda remains imprisoned.

MANILA — Women’s rights groups and human rights defenders organized a prayer rally yesterday, March 14, in solidarity with Alexa Pacalda, a day before the promulgation of the trumped-up charges filed against her.

Mothers and Children for the Protection of Human Rights (MCPHR), a Southern Tagalog-based organization, started the virtual campaign to demand Lucena Regional Trial Court Branch 56 to provide a fair and impartial decision on Pacalda’s case.

Last September 14, 2019, Pacalda was arrested without a warrant while she was consulting with farmers of Barangay Magsaysay, General Luna. The farmers were victims of intense militarization.

She was accused of illegal possession of firearms and explosives by members of the 201st Infantry Brigade, who at the time of the arrest were in civilian clothing. Later on, they identified her as a member of the New People’s Army (NPA) who “voluntarily surrendered.”

For more than 24 hours, Pacalda was deprived of food and sleep and was coerced to sign a document stating that she was an NPA surrenderee. The military also threatened to file a case against Pacalda and her father if they did not sign the same malicious affidavit.

Read: After one year, youth activist and rights defender Alexa Pacalda still detained

MCPHR’s manifesto of unity stated that organizations and individuals in Quezon and Southern Tagalog Region condemn the trumped-up charges against her.

“Alexa’s imprisonment over a falsely accused crime is a clear cripple on her rights [sic]. Her case is a manifestation of how the reactionary state sees activists and activism in the country,” the document reads.

They said that members of the 85th Infantry Batallion and the 201st Infantry Brigade should be held accountable for the torture and illegal arrest of Pacalda.

Meanwhile, Gabriela Youth National Spokesperson Shaye Ganal highlighted how state forces continue to use Pacalda for their fraudulent and misleading propaganda.

They said that the case of Pacalda has been cited in the press conferences of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) from 2020 onwards, referring to her as an “activist turned NPA.”

“Attacks on Alexa, and other women human rights defenders show how fascist elements work in their pursuit to discredit and cripple the women’s movement here in our country,” said Ganal.

However, Ganal said that the continuous attacks on human rights defenders will not paralyze the movement.

“On the contrary, it ignites further optimism and fervor as Alexa Pacalda, and many more women human rights defenders, continue to be an inspiration for young women like us,” she added.

For these groups and individuals, the long-overdue freedom of illegally arrested human rights defenders like Pacalda, is one way for the country to genuinely celebrate Women’s Month 2023.

https://www.bulatlat.com/2023/03/15/rights-groups-demand-release-of-youth-activist-alexa-pacalda/

Analysis: China is determined to thwart AUKUS, driven by distrust and fear of a US nuclear build-up

Posted to Australia Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) News (Mar 15,, 2023):Analysis: China is determined to thwart AUKUS, driven by distrust and fear of a US nuclear build-up (By East Asia correspondent Bill Birtles)

China intends to lobby other countries to thwart the AUKUS submarine deal.(Reuters: Greg Baker/ABC)

China has made no secret of its plans to diplomatically thwart Australia's AUKUS submarine plan, which it sees as part of a broader US effort to contain China's future military dominance of Asia.

Beijing's mission to the United Nations yesterday slammed the announcement that Australia will obtain several American nuclear-powered submarines as part of the deal, saying it "fuels arms races and hurts peace and stability".

But rhetoric aside, China's real strategy is focused on stifling the submarine plan at the world's nuclear watchdog body in what will likely be a long-term effort to win over other member states.

So far, China's diplomats are losing the battle, fuelling increasing frustration.

China has the world's biggest navy, including at least 12 nuclear-powered submarines, with a quicker production capacity than the US and its allies.

And not long after the AUKUS plan was first announced in 2021, Beijing launched a vigorous diplomatic campaign at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), arguing the plan blatantly breached the nuclear non-proliferation treaty.

The problem for Beijing is that it doesn't.

However, the deal does set a precedent that some analysts fear could be exploited by countries intent on using the cover of nuclear propulsion to secretly develop weapons.

China's diplomats have so far failed to convince IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi, who has expressed satisfaction that consultations between his agency and the AUKUS nations are in line with the treaty.

In a statement released late on Tuesday, Grossi said Australia had provided the IAEA with preliminary design information about the project, and noted that the agency "must ensure that no proliferation risks will emanate from this project".

"I will ensure a transparent process that will be solely guided by the agency’s statutory mandate and the safeguards agreements and additional protocols of the AUKUS parties," his statement said.

China may find sympathetic ears in a region that is increasingly worried about a broader military build-up.(US Indo-Pacific Command)

"Nuclear submarines are a highly secretive military platform; it's very hard to provide basic transparency to IEAE or other inspecting parties to show them how things are done," said Zhao Tong, a senior fellow in the nuclear policy program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

"So that high secrecy over nuclear submarines might create opportunities for countries like China to raise questions about whether there is any theoretical possibility for misuse of the nuclear technology."

The US-UK plan to transfer highly enriched uranium and reactor technology to Australia for the submarines has also prompted claims of double standards, given America's efforts to prevent other countries from transferring nuclear materials in recent decades.

Why is the AUKUS submarine pact such a big deal?

China's anti-AUKUS campaign is driven by genuine paranoia

While China's diplomats are struggling to argue any rules are being breached, they are, at the very least, trying to convince other countries that the spirit of nuclear non-proliferation is being trashed.

China's ambassador to the IAEA, Li Song, said this month that the AUKUS plan was a "textbook case of nuclear proliferation that runs against the objective and purpose" of efforts to stop the spread of nuclear weapons.

Australia's neighbours, such as Indonesia and Malaysia, have already expressed concerns about the plan, although not outright opposition.

"Indonesia expects Australia to remain consistent in fulfilling its obligations under the [nuclear proliferation treaty] and IAEA safeguards, as well as to develop with the IAEA a verification mechanism that is effective, transparent and non - discriminatory," Indonesia's foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.

The Australian government will take three US Virginia-class submarines early next decade, with an option to purchase another two, while jointly developing a new class with both the US and the UK.(Reuters: Leah Millis)

China's efforts to cast Australia as an irresponsible nation flouting global norms might find receptive ears in a region increasingly worried about a broader military build-up.

That pressure, just as much as the huge long-term cost and uncertain political commitment by future US administrations, might slow down or even scuttle the submarine program.

"I think Chinese diplomats are mainly using nuclear non-proliferation as a tool to create obstacles for this program to materialise," Dr Zhao said.

"But given the serious strategic distrust in China towards the US and Australia, I think there is genuine paranoia in China about the real agenda behind this cooperation.

"Some experts appear genuinely worried that the US is creating this program to open up the possibility of Australia gradually pursuing nuclear weapon capability."
Meanwhile, China is working on its own nuclear build-up

Whether Chinese concerns about nuclear weapons development are genuinely held or not, it's clearly not in Beijing's interests for Australia to possess submarines that can travel further.

China's leader Xi Jinping this week pledged that the nation's armed forces need to be "a great wall of steel that effectively safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests".

Those interests spread from Taiwan to disputed reefs in the South China Sea and potentially throughout the Indian and Pacific oceans as China's economic and military presence grows.

Xi's government this month announced yet another annual funding boost for the military and reiterated — indirectly — a goal of taking control of the self-ruled island Taiwan as part of a so-called "great rejuvenation" before 2049.

"Our observations show whenever Chinese aircraft — especially strategic bombers along with fighters — pass through Taiwan's south-west Air Defence Identification Zone and, especially, through the Bashi channel between Taiwan and the Philippines, it also means, simultaneously, there are Chinese submarine activities too," Sun Yat-sen university military expert Kuo Yujen said.

 

The Chinese government has announced yet another annual funding boost for the military.(Reuters: Jason Lee)

The prospect of the US and its allies militarily intervening in a Chinese invasion or blockade of Taiwan is seen as the biggest deterrent for Xi making a move.

Some experts argue that, if the 2049 deadline is correct, Australia's play for eight new submarines will be too little, too late to add any substantial deterrent.

However, some in Taiwan say this move is symbolic of a rivalry bigger than just Taiwan.

"To me, this is all part of broader hegemonic competition between China the US," Professor Kuo said, adding that most Chinese submarine activity detected near Taiwan is believed to be practising to target the US territory of Guam.

"I don't buy the argument of any type of timeline or deadline for China to invade Taiwan."

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-15/why-china-is-determined-to-disrupt-aukus-plans/102087586

‘Salaknib’ military exercises, nagsimula na

Posted to Ngyaon (Mar 15, 2023): ‘Salaknib’ military exercises, nagsimula na ('Salaknib' military exercises have begun) (By Doris Franche-Borja)

The Filipino and American soldiers during the opening ceremony of PH-US joint army exercises dubbed as "Salaknib" 2023 at Fort Magsaysay in Palayan, Nueva Ecija on March 13, 2023.
STAR/KJ Rosales

MANILA, Philippines — Mahigit 1,000 sundalong Pilipino at 2,000 US soldiers ang lumahok sa pagsisimula ng military exercises nitong Lunes sa Nueva Ecijia.

Ang military exercises na tinawag na Salaknib Exercise 2023 (SN23), ay dinaluhan din nina Philippine Army Comman­ding General Romeo Brawner Jr. at US Army Commanding General Xavier Brunson sa opening ceremony sa Fort Magsaysay sa Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.

Layunin ng pagsasanay na palakasin ang kakayahan ng mga sundalo sa air at shoreline defense, base kay Brawner.

“It aims to strengthen Filipino and American soldiers’ interoperability in various military operations,” ani Brawner.

Tutulong din ang mga Amerikanong sundalo sa community projects at mga disaster.

“The Salaknib exercise is an Army-to-Army annual exercise that started in 2016,” anang Armed Forces of the Philippines sa Facebook post nitong Lunes.

Aarangkada ang military exercises mula March 13 hanggang April 4.

Sinabi ng AFP na sasaklawin nito ang small arms maneuvers, live fire exercises (LFX), jungle training events, artillery and mortar LFX events, maging engineering at construction projects.

Walang dapat na ikabahala ang bansa sa military exercises na layuning palakasin ang kakayahan at galing ng mga Pilipinong sundalo.

https://www.philstar.com/pilipino-star-ngayon/bansa/2023/03/15/2251776/salaknib-military-exercises-nagsimula-na

Over 17K troops to join largest PH-US ‘Balikatan’ exercises

From CNN Philippines (Mar 14, 2023): Over 17K troops to join largest PH-US ‘Balikatan’ exercises (By CNN Philippines Staff)

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 14) — More than 17,000 Filipino and American troops are expected to join this year’s “Balikatan,” described as the largest iteration of the joint training exercises.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said there will be around 17,600 personnel from both countries, including some 12,000 from the United States.

Meanwhile, a hundred more from the Australian defense force will join and take part in smaller events, mostly land-based exercises, said Balikatan 2023 spokesman Col. Michael Logico.

“This is officially the largest Balikatan exercise,” the official told reporters, adding that the activities will be held in Northern Luzon, Palawan and Antique.

Logico noted that apart from the usual exercises, there will also be activities on cyber defense which weren’t done in previous years.

He added that the Philippines will hold live-fire exercises in waters with American troops for the first time.

“It has always been an interoperability exercise to test our concepts for maritime defense, for coastal defense and maritime domain awareness…So ‘yun ang [those are the] themes of the exercise,” he said.

Logico refused to answer if the larger scale of exercises has something to do with rising tensions between Manila and Beijing over the West Philippine Sea, where there have been reports of steady increase in Chinese activities that prevent the movement of Philippine ships and fishermen.

“We have the absolute, inalienable right to defend our territory,” he said. “We are here to practice. We are here to show that we are combat-ready.”

During the visit of US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin last month, Manila and Washington announced an agreement to expand US military presence by giving American troops access to four new sites in the country. The locations have yet to be announced.

Austin also said he discussed with Philippine officials concrete actions to address destabilizing activities in waters surrounding the Philippines, including the West Philippine Sea.

“This is part of our effort to modernize our alliance, and these efforts are especially important as the People’s Republic of China continues to advance its illegitimate claims in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/3/14/ph-us-balikatan-2023.html

PH-US Balikatan 2023 to be largest yet with 17,600 troops

From Rappler (Mar 14,, 2023): PH-US Balikatan 2023 to be largest yet with 17,600 troops (By SOFIA TOMACRUZ)

The Philippine military says 12,000 troops are expected from the US, while over 100 soldiers from Australia will also participate in the war games

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines and the United States will hold their largest Balikatan exercise this year, with 17,600 troops expected to participate in the annual war games in April, said Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Balikatan spokesperson Colonel Michael Logico.

Logico told reporters that about 12,000 US troops and 111 more from the Australian Defense Force will participate in this year’s exercises, along with 5,000 Philippine soldiers.

The exercises, scheduled to take place from April 11 to 28, will be held in areas in Northern Luzon, Palawan, and Antique.

“This is officially the largest Balikatan exercise,” Logico said on Tuesday, March 14.

The number of troops participating in this year’s exercises is nearly double the 8,900 contingent seen in 2022. At the time, Balikatan 2022 had been the “largest-ever” iteration of the exercise.

A team from Japan was also expected to observe this year’s war games. Logico said Japan would stay as an observer this year because Manila and Tokyo do not have a status of forces agreement.
New exercises

Logico said new exercises to be featured in Balikatan 2023 include cyber defense exercises and live fire exercises at sea. Previous joint exercises, usually held in land-based sites, mostly involved the army and Air Force.

“We are now going to be exercising outside the traditional areas where we’re used to operating on…. We’re exercising in key locations where we are able to utilize all our service components,” Logico said.

While the AFP has held live fire exercises at sea on its own, it will be a first for Philippine and US troops.

The defense assets to be featured include the Philippine Navy’s frigates, the Air Force’s FA-50 jets, and other newly acquired artillery, said Logico. Similar to last year’s exercises, the US is again expected to bring in its High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and Patriot missile system.

Exercises this year are aimed at increasing interoperability among the allies’ forces, and will also focus on “maritime defense, coast defense, and maritime domain awareness.”

Joint exercises between the Philippines and US, along with Australia, come on the heels of the Marcos government’s efforts to bolster security ties with its treaty ally, as well as regional partners, following concerns over China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea.

In February, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the expansion of a key military deal that allows the US military greater access to local bases in the country. Days later, the Philippine leader also expressed willingness to strengthen defense ties with Japan, adding he was open to a reciprocal access agreement with the neighboring nation if it would help protect Filipino fishermen and the Philippines’ maritime territory.

On Tuesday, Logico said upcoming exercises between the Philippines and its partners were not aimed against any country, including China.

Logico said, “We are here to practice, we are here to show that we are combat ready.”

“Every country has the absolute and inalienable right to exercise within our territory, we have the absolute, inalienable right to defend our territory,” he added.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/troops-philippines-united-states-balikatan-2023/

Abu Sayyaf member surrenders in Basilan

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Mar 14, 2023): Abu Sayyaf member surrenders in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA. A member of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrenders to government authorities in the province of Basilan on Sunday, March 12, 2023 in Tumahubong village, Sumisip, Basilan. A photo handout shows the ASG surrenderer (2nd from left) in a souvenir pictorial together with military and police officials. (SunStar Zamboanga)

A MEMBER of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrendered to government authorities in the province of Basilan, the military reported Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

The ASG member surrendered to Lieutenant Colonel Ferdinand Lazo, commander of the 64th Infantry Battalion on Sunday, March 12, in Tumahubong village, Sumisip, Basilan.

The ASG surrenderer, whose identity was withheld, handed over his caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle and a clip of ammunition.

Brigadier General Domingo Gobway, Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan commander said the ASG was on lie-low status since the death of his leader, the late Radzmil Jannatul.

Jannatul alias Khubayb was killed in a clash with government troops in Baiwas village, Sumisip, Basilan in March 2022.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Roy Galido, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, expressed his admiration for the former violent extremist for making the right decision.

“As I always say, it is better to win peace without a single bloodshed. Hence, I urge those who are still in doubt to make up their minds and submit themselves to the authorities,” Galido said.

“Rest assured that we will assist them in their reintegration into mainstream society with the help of the National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict,” he added.

 
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1956056/zamboanga/local-news/abu-sayyaf-member-surrenders-in-basilan

Alleged Abu Sayyaf member nabbed in Quiapo

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 14, 2023): Alleged Abu Sayyaf member nabbed in Quiapo (By: Zacarian Sarao)

INQUIRER.net stock photo

MANILA, Philippines — An alleged member of the Abu Sayyaf Group was arrested in Quiapo, Manila, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said Tuesday.

In a report, the NCRPO identified the suspect as Muktar Yusop Maani. He was arrested in an apartment building along De Guzman St. Barangay 393 Quiapo, Manila on March 2. His arrest was authorized by the court for the crime of kidnapping for ransom and serious illegal detention.

According to the NCRPO, Maani was involved in the kidnapping of six members of the Jehovah’s Witnesses at Patikul, Sulu on August 20, 2002.

READ: NBI nabs 3 suspected ASG men in 2002 kidnap of Jehovah’s Witnesses members

READ: ASG man tagged in 2002 Jehovah Witnesses’ kidnapping arrested

The NCRPO also said that the suspect was an active member of the Abu Sayyaf operating in Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Sulu, and Metro Manila.

Maani was brought to the Anti-Terrorism Task Group (ATTG) Regional Intelligence Division (RID) for proper disposition, documentation, and temporary detention at its custodial facility, police said.

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Alleged Abu Sayyaf member falls in Taguig drug sting

Suspected Abu Sayyaf bandit killed, 2 soldiers wounded in Sulu clash

‘Notorious’ Abu Sayyaf member arrested in Zamboanga City

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1742747/alleged-abu-sayyaf-member-nabbed-in-quiapo

Kalinaw News: 4,500 NSTP Students from SLU attends Youth Empowerment Symposium of TG-Baguio

From Kalinaw News (Mar 14, 2023): 4,500 NSTP Students from SLU attends Youth Empowerment Symposium of TG-Baguio

At least 4,500 National Service Training Program (NSTP) students from Saint Louis University (SLU) participated in Task Group (TG)- Baguio’s Information Education Campaign (IEC) thru the Youth Empowerment Symposium (YES) held at the Bishop Carlito Cenzon, D.D. Sports Center, SLU, Baguio City on 12 March 2023.

Personnel from TG-Baguio conducted series of lectures on the 7 Stages of Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) Youth and Student Deceptive Recruitment; Anti-Terrorism; and National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). Leaflets and flyers regarding AFP Recruitment and Government Scholarship Programs were also distributed to the students.

Afterwards, “Ka Red”, a former rebel, made a testimony thru sharing her life experiences when she was still a member of the CPP-NPA-NDF. She also discussed on how she was recruited by the organization and appealed to the youth to be vigilant in choosing and joining organizations that have true advocacies and not just deceiving students of what are their true intentions. “For us, as former rebels, we don’t want any youth to go through the route and place that we have been through because unlike ordinary youth, what the former rebels went through was very traumatic,” she added.

Moreover, Ms Charmaine Mendoza, Director, SLU Community Extension and Programs, mentioned in an interview that the presence of TG-Baguio in SLU conducting such IECs is a great blessing to them because it was formed to share good news, not only for themselves and the society, but also to the youth who they consider the hope of the nation.

“Kaya ang hamon ko sa ating mga kabataan ay ang pag-iisip ng maraming beses bago gumawa ng desisyon. Para naman sa ating mga magulang, mahalaga ang gampanin ninyo dahil kayo ang gumagabay at nagbibigay ng direksyon sa ating mga kabataan kaya hangga’t maaari, ang adbokasiyang ito ay maibahagi sa ating lahat, hindi lamang po sa paaralan kundi sa loob at sa labas ng ating komunidad,” she emphasized.

In his message, Mr Labrador Cobcobo, Department Head, SLU-NSTP, also advised the students to be aware of what is happening in the country and in the different organizations, particularly those organizations who are against the government because it is good to know the foundation of what they are really fighting for. “The information dissemination is for their future. What we really want to our children is to be happy and we are happy if they are in a good situation or if they become a good Filipino citizen,” he said.

Mr Brandon Cadingpal, NSTP Faculty, expressed his appreciation to TG-Baguio for conducting YES to his class, “It takes a community to build a child to be great. Although they are already college students- they can decide for themselves, they are already empowered, and they can express themselves properly, but then, they still need the guidance of their parents so that they can really be directed towards what is supposed to be and what is good. This is also an appeal to our morality which is properly deciding how we express our perspectives in life or who to be with, so that we’ll not lost track of what must be in our lives.”

Meanwhile, the students also thanked the organizers of the event because it was an eye-opener for them that it broaden their knowledge on how things work, what organizations they will be joining someday and be responsible enough in making decisions.

“Nakakatulong ito sa amin na kabataan sapagkat kami yung madalas na tinatarget dahil kami yung laging puno ng curiosity at more on adventurous type. So, in this way, mas alam na namin at mas nalalaman namin on how to be more vigilant sa pagpili ng mga organisasyon na aming pinapasukan,” a participant said.

TG-Baguio continuously conduct IECs thru YES in different schools and universities in Baguio City and Benguet to inform not only the students but also the school administrators and faculties and enlighten them of the CTG’s manipulation and exploitation of the youth thus, empowering them to resist communist terrorism by making them aware and be assertive of their rights.

[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/4500-nstp-students-from-slu-attends-youth-empowerment-symposium-of-tg-baguio/

Kalinaw News: Abu Sayyaf yields to military in Basilan

From Kalinaw News (Mar 13, 2023): Abu Sayyaf yields to military in Basilan

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – March 13, 2023

A member of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group yielded to the military in Sumisip, Basilan Province on Sunday, March 12.

Joint Task Force Basilan Commander, Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, said the surrendered personality surrendered to Lt. Col. John Ferdinand Lazo, Commanding Officer of the 64th Infantry Battalion at the unit’s headquarters at TARBIDC Compound, Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip. The subject also handed over his cal. 30 M1 Garand rifle and one clip magazine with eight ammunition.

The former violent extremist was on lie-low status since the neutralization of his leader, the late Radzmil Jannatul, who was killed during an encounter with the government forces in March 2022.

Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, expressed his admiration for the former violent extremist for making the right decision.

“As I always say, it is better to win peace without a single bloodshed. Hence, I urge those who are still in doubt to make up their minds and submit themselves to the authorities. Rest assured that we will assist them in their reintegration into mainstream society with the help of the National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (NTF-ELAC),” Lt. Gen. Galido stated.

[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/abu-sayyaf-yields-to-military-in-basilan/

Kalinaw News: Reds Arrested in AgNor

From Kalinaw News (Mar 14, 2023): Reds Arrested in AgNor

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte— High-ranking members of Communist Terrorists Group (CTG) were arrested for multiple charges of law violation by the troops of 29th Infantry “Matatag” Battalion together with the Cabadbaran City Police Station on the afternoon of March 11, 2023 at Purok 2,Brgy Kauswagan, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

Commanding Officer of 29IB, LtCol Cresencio Gargar, identified the apprehended as Regie Amora Ligan alias Kylie/Kyle/Kihod, 20 years old, resident of P5 Brgy Tagbongabong, RTR, Agusan del Norte, SPARU Unit Squad Leader of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 21C, Guerilla Front 21, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (SYP21C, GF21, NEMRC) who is charged with attempted homicide case issued by the Municipal Circuit Trial Court, 10th Judicial Region, Butuan City with Criminal Case No. 23770 with ₱36,000.00 fix bail bond. Gabriel Rebucas Sagay, alias Roxan/Onemig, 28 years old, resident of Purok 5, Brgy Pianing, Butuan City, armed member of the same group is charged with attempted murder with warrant of arrest issued by RTC Branch 7, 10th Judicial Region, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur under Criminal Case No. 7227 with fix ₱120,000.00 bail bond.

Recovered from the arrested personalities were one (1) unit of .45mm caliber rock island with live ammunition, one (1) unit of .9mm caliber TAURUS with chamber load live ammunition, blasting cap with detonating cord, five (5) pieces of elongated heat sealed transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance suspected as Shabu, three (3) disposable lighter and cash money amounting to one thousand pesos ( ₱1,000).

LtCol Gargar also lauded the troops for the successful operation of the apprehension of the said CTG members. “The apprehended personalities has hampered the development of Agusan del Norte for their terroristic activities. This accomplishment is the result of joint efforts of the troops and intensified intelligence operations. With this, I am calling to the remaining members to surrender while there is ample time to do so, the government is waiting and we are always happy to assist your return to the fold of the law.”

[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/reds-arrested-in-agnor/

Kalinaw News: Army’s 12IB seized NPA Terrorists’ War Materiel in Tapaz Encounter

From Kalinaw News (Mar 13, 2023): Army’s 12IB seized NPA Terrorists’ War Materiel in Tapaz Encounter (By Jonathan Blanco)

The Army’s 12th Infantry (Lick’Em) Battalion seized CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNTs) war materiel following an encounter in Barangay Santa Petronila, Tapaz, Capiz, on 11 March 2023.

A five-minute gunfight with more or less five NPAs occurred around 7:30 a.m. after the troops received a tip-off from a local populace on the extortion activities of the NPAs in the area.

There was no casualty on the government side, while at least two NPA members were wounded based on the bloodstains found along their withdrawal route.

Seized from the encounter site were the following war materiel: one (1) Magnum 357 Revolver; three (3) pcs Anti-Personnel Mines (IED); two (2) pcs Claymore Mines; (1) pc time bomb; two (2) M16 short magazine; one (1) detonator switch; 50 meters wire; 23 rds of 5.56mm live ammunition; 24 M16 empty shell; six (6) rds 375 live ammunition; four (4) 357 empty shell; and one (1) Hammock.

In his statement, BGen Marion R Sison lauded the local populace in the area for giving timely information that led to identifying the enemy’s location and preventing their extortion activities.

“This is a clear manifestation that the Army is winning the hearts and minds of the local populace. Their cooperation with our troops indicates that they are already fed up with the extortion activities and other atrocities of the NPAs. With the people’s undeniable support, we shall intensify our military operations to insulate communities from CNT’s terroristic act and foster development and progress by securing the populace against the enemies,” Said BGen Sison.

Likewise, BGen Sison called on the remaining NPAs to lay down your arms and join the mainstream society with your family and avail of the government’s reintegration programs like E-CLIP to start a new and productive life together with your family.

[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/armys-12ib-seized-npa-terrorists-war-materiel-in-tapaz-encounter/

Kalinaw News: High-ranking CTG leader with 9 AK-47 rifles yields in Agusan del Sur

From Kalinaw News (Mar 13, 2023): High-ranking CTG leader with 9 AK-47 rifles yields in Agusan del Sur

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City- On March 9, 2023, a high-ranking communist terrorist group (CTG) commander surrendered with nine (9) AK47 weapons to the forces of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion and local government unit in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. The number of neutralized communist terrorist groups (CTG) keeps rising.

The surrendered CTG commander, identified as Patrick Tejeros Wagdos, will be enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

In February, five (5) further CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) surrendered in Surigao del Sur and Agusan del Sur. Marion D. Tanso and Mariel G. Domino surrendered in Sitio Sunrise, Barcelona, Lingig, Surigao del Sur to the 23rd Infantry Battalion, 4ID and the 67th Infantry Battalion, 10ID. Romel A. Versusa, Fiderico M. Bahian, and Dondon C. Manpinsahan surrendered to 23IB at Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Sur, along with three (3) high-powered guns.

Some surrenderees revealed that terrible hunger, exhaustion, and a strong yearning to be with their families and loved ones led them to lay down their arms and leave the foolish cause. In addition, they disclosed that unpredictable leadership, corruption within the CTG, and the loss of support from their prior mass bases had had a devastating effect on their morale.

Since the start of 2023, 49 CNTs have been neutralized (3 killed during encounters, 1 captured, and 45 surrendered). This includes vice commanding officers such as Ricky Mahinay and Leobert Sumatra who are deemed high-value people (HVIs).

The 4ID Commander, Maj. Gen. Wilbur C. Mamawag, stated in a statement that the serial elimination of CTG is a clear indication that the terrorist organization is currently in disarray and that we anticipate an influx of surrenderees in the coming weeks.

“Former rebels’ willingness to rejoin the legal system is a strong indication that the terrorist organization is on the verge of disintegrating. And with our enhanced Focused Military Operations and cooperation efforts under the aegis of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), it is anticipated that this positive trend will continue “Maj. Gen. Mamawag stated.

[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/high-ranking-ctg-leader-with-9-ak-47-rifles-yields-in-agusan-del-sur/

Kalinaw News: Three lawless elements were killed in the joint PNP-AFP operations conducted in Cotabato on March 11, 2023

From Kalinaw News (Mar 13, 2023): Three lawless elements were killed in the joint PNP-AFP operations conducted in Cotabato on March 11, 2023

According to Maj. Gen Alex Rillera, Commander of Joint Task Force Central, combined elements of the police under the Cotabato Provincial Police and the military under the 602nd Infantry Brigade conducted a law enforcement operation to serve warrants of arrest against Abdullah Kurdotoy and Jonathan Kadalem in Barangay Macabual, Pikit, Cotabato at 2 a.m. Saturday.

While approaching the target’s residence, Kurdotoy and his cohorts opened fire which forced the operating troops to retaliate. Firefight ensued which resulted in the deaths of two lawless elements identified as Norman Samsudin and Maano Sanday, and the recovery of two M16 rifles and two bandoliers. The armed confrontation also resulted in the wounding of one police personnel. He is now in stable condition.

Meanwhile, during the pursuit operation, the blocking force from the 34th Infantry Battalion were fired upon by a group of unidentified armed men at Sitio Galigayanan, Macabual. Another armed confrontation ensued resulting in the death alias Baganyan, and the recovery of two M16 rifles and one homemade shotgun.

Overall, the law enforcement operations resulted in the neutralization of three lawless elements and the recovery of four M16 rifles and one homemade shotgun. The cadavers of the neutralized cohorts of the target personalities, and all the recovered firearms were turned over to Pikit Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command commended the military troops under the 90th and 34th Infantry Battalions for their steadfast resolve to end criminalities by actively8 participating in the law enforcement operations conducted by the PNP and other security agencies.

“Rest assured that we will sustain our good relationship with our partners to ensure the successful conduct of operations against the malefactors,” Lt. Gen. Galido stated.

[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/three-lawless-elements-were-killed-in-the-joint-pnp-afp-operations-conducted-in-cotabato-on-march-11-2023/

Kalinaw News: Nasawing NPA sa nangyaring engkwentro sa Balbalan Kalinga nakilala na; labí iniuwi na ng kanyang pamilya

From Kalinaw News (Mar 13, 2023): Nasawing NPA sa nangyaring engkwentro sa Balbalan Kalinga nakilala na; labí iniuwi na ng kanyang pamilya (NPA casualty in the Balbalan Kalinga encounter has been identified; his family has already brought him home) (By Jonathan Blanco)

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Napagkilanlan na ang namatay na miyembro ng Komunistang Teroristang Grupo matapos kumpirmahin ng kaniyang pamilya kahapon, ika-11 ng Marso taong kasalukuyan.

Kinilala ang nasawing NPA na si Onal Osias Balao-ing alyas Beran. Siya ang Commanding Officer ng Rehiyon Yunit Sentro ng Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee.

Matapos ang nangyaring engkwentro sa pagitan ng tropa ng 50th Infantry Battalion at ng Komiteng Larangan Guerilla-Baggas at RSDG, narekober ng kasundaluhan ang wala ng buhay na katawan ni alyas Beran at dinala sa isang punerarya sa Tabuk City, Kalinga.

Agad namang nakipag ugnayan ang kasundaluhan katuwang ang LGU Balbalan sa kaanak ng nasawing NPA sa tulong na rin ng mga former rebels. Tumungo sa punerarya ang naturang mga kamag-anak at dito na kinumpirma ang pagkakakilanlan ng NPA.

Lubos ang pakikidalamhati ng hanay na kasundaluhan at ng buong Provincial Task Force- End Local Communist Armed Conflict ng Kalinga sa walang pakundangang pananamantala ng komunistang teroristang ICRC sa mga miyembro ng Indigineous People sa Cordillera. Nawa’y magpatuloy ang pakikiisa ng mga Kailyan sa Cordillera para mahuli at mapuksa ang mga natitirang miyembro ng ICRC.

Matatandaan, na noong ika-9 ng Marso sumiklab ang engkwentro sa pagitan ng 50IB at teroristang grupo sa Sitio Babacong, Barangay Gawaan, Balbalan, Kalinga na kung saan narekober din ang dalawang mataas na uri ng baril at mga subersibong dokumento. Resulta ito ng impormasyon galing sa mga mamamayan ng Balbalan.

[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/nasawing-npa-sa-nangyaring-engkwentro-sa-balbalan-kalinga-nakilala-na-labi-iniuwi-na-ng-kanyang-pamilya/

Kalinaw News: Hundreds of Anakpawis and Kadamay Members Disaffiliate and Withdraw Support to CPP-NPA in Rodriquez, Rizal

From Kalinaw News (Mar 12, 2023): Hundreds of Anakpawis and Kadamay Members Disaffiliate and Withdraw Support to CPP-NPA in Rodriquez, Rizal

CAVINTI, LAGUNA – A total of 755 residents of 1K2, Kasiglahan Village, Brgy. San Jose, Rodriguez, Rizal disaffiliated and withdrew their support and membership to the Communist Terrorist Group-Affected Mass Organizations (CAMOs) and Sectoral Front Organizations (SFOs) on Sunday afternoon, March 12, 2023.

466 residents are members of the San Isidro Kasiglahan Kapatiran Damayan para sa Kabuhayan Katarungan at Kapayapaan (SIKKAD-K3) and Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap – Southern Tagalog (KADAMAY-ST) under the umbrella of Anakpawis, while 289 residents belong to the Unified Residents Organization, Kasiglahan Friendly Neighborhood Association, and United Muslim Community Association.

Anakpawis, is a party list group claiming to represent the marginalized sectors of workers, peasants, fishermen, minorities, urban and rural poor, and an electoral wing of the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) and the peasant group Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP). Meanwhile, the Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (KADAMAY), is an alliance of urban poor organizations in the Philippines, known for forcefully occupying government housing units.

The CPP-NPA-NDF formed these CAMOs and SFOs to advance their so called legal struggle in urban and town centers in support to the armed struggle being waged in the countryside. These deceitful intentions and manipulations of the exploited masses are all shrouded by the CPP’s vested interest in advancing and supporting the armed atrocities and terrorist activities of the Communist Terrorist Group.

The 80th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army and Rizal Police Provincial Office in collaboration with Rodriguez Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) and San Jose Barangay Task Force ELCAC facilitated the redirection and reorientation of these former Anakpawis and KADAMAY members through a sustained information operation and awareness campaign aimed at unmasking the true motives of these CTG front organizations.

The Commander of the 202nd Infantry Brigade, Brigadier General Cerilo C Balaoro Jr., commended the former Anakpawis and KADAMAY members and supporters for their bravery and firm decision to sever ties and discontinue their support to said SFOs. “Your disaffiliation and withdrawal of support is an opportunity for all of you to tread your own path away from the deceptive and manipulative orchestration of the CPP-NPA. Your Philippine Army, together with other government agencies, will continue to be your instrument of change as you choose to embrace and support the government’s initiative towards sustainable peace and development.” He also thanked the Local Government Units of the Municipality of Rodriquez and Barangay San Jose, for making the activity possible and for providing continuous support and assistance to its constituents

Retired Army General and now Municipal Mayor of Rodriguez, Rizal, Honorable Ronnie S. Evangelista, reiterated the importance of Executive Order No. 70 that institutionalizes the Whole-of-Nation Approach to ending local communist armed conflict. He expressed assurance that his administration will coordinate with the National Housing Authority (NHA) and other concerned agencies in order to provide his constituents with a comfortable and safe home to live.

On his part, Hon. Glenn S. Evangelista, Chairman of San Jose BTF ELCAC will work hand in hand with the local government unit of Rodriquez in its initiative to resolve the underlying issues in housing which is being exploited by the CTG’s sectoral front organizations.

As barangay chief, he denounced the CTGs and its LLOs for roaming around the barangay to deceive innocent individuals and families.A former CPP Cadre, Peter Mutuc alias Ka Ramon of Kilusan sa Pagwawasto sa Kasaysayan cited his involvement in CPP-NPA various terroristic activities along with the late CPP Founder, Jose Maria Sision.

He shared his experience with the Communist Terrorist Group on how they recruit on vulnerable sectors such as the urban and rural poor and others. He also informed the participants on the connection of these sectoral front organizations to the CTG and joining them only caused nothing but hardships and death to its members.Aside from the officials from AFP, PNP and LGU of Rodriquez, Rizal, other attendees include representatives from DILG, TESDA, DTI, LTO and members from the National Cadre Team and Hands Off Our Children.As an affirmation of disaffiliation and withdrawal from Anakpawis, KADAMAY and the CTG, the former members took part in the creation of the People’s Organization and the oath-taking of officers, sharing of testimonies, mass pledging of oath of allegiance, pledge and signing of peace covenant, and the burning of CPP-NPA-NDF flags.It can be recalled that on February 26, 2023, 211 Anakpawis members and supporters in Brgy. Dolores, Taytay, Rizal disaffiliated and withdrew their support from the CTG’s sectoral front.

[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/hundreds-of-anakpawis-and-kadamay-members-disaffiliate-and-withdraw-support-to-cpp-npa-in-rodriquez-rizal/

300 soldiers deployed in Negros Oriental

From the Visayan Daily Star (mar 13, 2023): 300 soldiers deployed in Negros Oriental (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Soldiers from the six Army battalions under the 3rd Infantry Division deployed to 21 areas of Negros Oriental, for joint security operations, in tandem with the Philippine National Police, to hunt down the remaining suspects in the assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo, and to help restore normalcy in Negros Oriental.* PA photo

About 300 Army soldiers were dispatched yesterday to 21 areas in Negros Oriental, to help the police in the conduct of joint security checkpoints, as well as pursuing the suspects behind the assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo who remain at large, Maj. Cenon Pancito, acting spokesperson of the newly activated Special Joint Task Force Negros (SJTFN), disclosed yesterday.

Pancito said that a ceremonial send-off of troops from the 11th, 62nd, 94th, 7th, 79th and 15th Infantry Battalions was held yesterday in Siaton, Negros Oriental, following the activation of SJTFN for the joint security operations in the 2nd and 3rd district of Negros Oriental.

The SJTFN is composed of the Army’s 302nd and 303rd Infantry Brigade, and six of its Army battalions, as well as PNP Special Action Force and other police units.

On the other hand, Lt. Col. Roderick Salayo, 11th Infantry Battalion commander, yesterday said troops were deployed in the 3rd district of Negros Oriental, including Basay, Bayawan City, Santa Catalina, Siaton, Dauin, Zamboanguita, and Bacong areas.

Aside from those areas, they are also concentrating in other areas, such as ports and seaports, as well as airports, Salayo said.

The Philippine National Police is also deploying additional Special Action Force (SAF) troopers, to augment local police units, which will be placed under the SJTFN.

Salayo allayed fears that their additional tasking will compromise their anti-insurgency operations.

It will be a “twin mission”, for us, he said, adding that they are now giving primary efforts to solve the assassination of Gov. Degamo, in compliance with the instruction of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

While they are giving premium to the Gov. Degamo case, Pancito said they have available forces also in the continuing conduct of internal security operations in Negros Island.

As to the deployment of a 50-man Light Reaction Company, an elite counter terrorist unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Pancito said they will only be utilized if there are verified targets that require their expertise.

All the four arrested suspects in the Degamo assassination were former members of the Philippine Army, including an ex-trooper of the AFP Light Reaction Regiment.

Their arrests also yielded several high-powered firearms and anti-tank weapons.

The creation of SJTFN was ordered by President Marcos Jr. to beef up peace and security operations and restore the normalcy and confidence of the Negrenses, using government security agencies, according to a statement issued by the 3ID Public Affairs Office.

The AFP forces under the SJTFN is headed by Brig. Gen. Sison.

Sison said that creating the SJTFN will further intensify and unify all government forces’ efforts to give justice to the victims and catch all perpetrators of the brutal act.

Meanwhile, Galvez said that there will be no state of emergency in Negros Oriental. Instead, a joint task force group was created to suppress the criminal activities and impunity in the province.

Aside from the March 4 bloodbath that killed Degamo and 8 others, Galvez disclosed the new task force would also dig deeper into previous killing incidents in Negros.

“There is always time for reckoning. And this day is that time,” Galvez said.

https://visayandailystar.com/300-soldiers-deployed-in-negros-oriental/

Degamo’s assassins mostly ex-soldiers

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 14, 2023): Degamo’s assassins mostly ex-soldiers (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The possibility that majority of assassins of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo are former soldiers, is being entertained by the Special Joint Task Force Negros, its spokesman, Maj. Cenon Pancito III, disclosed yesterday.

Based on revelations of the arrested perpetrators, who are all former soldiers, Pancito said that the 10 suspects behind the deaths of Gov. Degamo and eight other civilians, inside his residential compound in Pamplona, on March 4, were led by an ex-soldier, known only to his companions as “Black.”

“Based on the description, based on the training, there is [some] reason for us to believe that he is a former member of the Philippine Army,” Pancito said, referring to the leader of the group.

Not all of them are ex-soldiers, “may civilian din (there is a civilian), but somehow has military training,” he added.

Aside from the 300 Army soldiers dispatched by the 3rd Infantry Division to help the police in the conduct of security checkpoints in 21 areas of the central and southern portions of Negros Oriental, the Armed Forces of the Philippines also placed on standby its 50-man Light Reaction Company team, a counter terrorist unit temporarily stationed in the province.

Pancito said he believes the assassin group’s leader, along with three others, who remain at large, are still in Negros Oriental.

All entry and exits points of Negros Oriental, including seaports, ports and airports, are being closely guarded by authorities.

Five of the suspects, one of them killed in a gun battle a few hours after the incident, have been accounted for by the police and Philippine Army.

If we may able to account for the four remaining suspects, Pancito said they may able to put together the missing links to establish a detailed picture of the incident.


“It is clear that these 10 are not just operating on their own.”

“They have tentacles of violence. They have support systems that we also have to look into,” he added.

This group may not be organized long before, but they have been composed for a specific purpose, Pancito said in reply to the question, if the suspects are guns for hire.

He added that the group of assassins are not operating on their own, stressing that their investigations point to “someone big, someone powerful and influential,” behind the incident.

https://visayandailystar.com/degamos-assassins-mostly-ex-soldiers/

Marines unit gets glimpse of PN’s missile frigate capabilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2023): Marines unit gets glimpse of PN’s missile frigate capabilities (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of BRP Antonio Luna Facebook page)

MANILA – The BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), one of the Philippine Navy's (PN) two guided missile frigates in service, demonstrated its advanced capabilities to the officers and enlisted personnel of the Philippine Marine Corps' Coastal Defense Regiment (CDR).

The CDR is poised to operate the Indian-made Brahmos medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile system.

In a post on the frigate's Facebook page on Monday, it said CDR personnel were provided a glimpse of BRP Antonio Luna's advanced system in a "CIC capability demonstration" last March 7.

CIC is short for "combat information center" or the onboard facility responsible for the operation of all the ship's weapons systems and sensors.

"The CDR of the Philippine Marine Corps is postured to operate and maintain shore-based missile systems. The informational programmed visit and series of lectures provided the students a glimpse of fundamentals in missile system operation," it added.

The CDR was formed on Aug. 7, 2020.

"BRP Antonio Luna as one of the leading missile platforms in the PN supports this endeavor as essential in raising awareness, and educate the members of the CDR on their duties and responsibilities ahead," it pointed out.

Former Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and BrahMos Aerospace director general Atul Dinkar Rane signed the PHP18.9 billion contract worth for the BrahMos missile system in a virtual ceremony at the DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City in January 2022.

Three batteries of the BrahMos cruise missiles will be acquired by the country under this contract. Lorenzana also said that the BrahMos cruise missiles will greatly beef up the PN's firepower, particularly the Marines' CDR.

He added that the BrahMos cruise missile system will provide counter-attack capabilities within the Philippine exclusive economic zone.

"As the world's fastest supersonic cruise missiles, the BrahMos missiles will provide deterrence against any attempt to undermine our sovereignty and sovereign rights, especially in the West Philippine Sea," Lorenzana said.

The BrahMos cruise missile can be launched from a ship, aircraft, submarine, or land and has a top speed of around Mach 2.8 (around 3,400 km. per hour), and is capable of carrying warheads weighing 200 to 300 kilograms.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197208

AFP: March 1-9 ops neutralize 53 Reds, local terrorists

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2023): AFP: March 1-9 ops neutralize 53 Reds, local terrorists (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(File photo)

MANILA – The operations conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) across the country from March 1 to 9 have resulted in the neutralization of 53 communist rebels and terrorist group members.

In a statement on Sunday, AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor said the figure includes 26 New People's Army (NPA) insurgents, 22 Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists and five members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

In the same period, 46 NPA supporters also withdrew their support from the communist movement.

Baclor said the military has also recorded the surrender and seizure of 66 high-powered firearms, four anti-personnel mines, and various explosives and ammunition in the same period.

On March 1, four NPAs were killed in separate encounters with the 33rd Division Reconnaissance Company and 94th Infantry Battalion in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

Recovered from the fallen insurgents were two M-16 automatic rifles, two M-203 grenade launchers, two AK-47 assault rifles, and a hand grenade.

On the same day, Joint Task Force National Capital Region and law enforcement operatives captured an NPA leader known as alias "Magno" during operations in Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

He has multiple arrest warrants and has a PHP2.8 million bounty on his head.

This was followed by the combat operations of the 7th Infantry Battalion against more or less 10 NPA members in Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat on March 2, which resulted in three NPAs killed and the seizure of three M-16s, an M-653 rifle, and two hand grenades.

Three anti-personnel mines were seized in an operation conducted by the 52nd Infantry Battalion in Oras, Eastern Samar, on March 1 while an arms cache was discovered by joint elements from the 7th Infantry Division and police officers in Dinalupihan, Bataan, on March 4.

On March 9, troops from the 50th Infantry Battalion encountered around 15 NPAs in Balbalan, Kalinga, which resulted in one insurgent killed and the seizure of M-653 and M-16 rifles.

"The AFP also recorded the surrender of 17 NPA regulars facilitated by various AFP units that include 28IB (28th Infantry Battalion) in Mawab, Davao de Oro; 9IB in Bacon, Sorsogon; 39IB in Makilala, North Cotabato; 66IB in Davao de Oro; 48IB in Lupon, Davao Oriental; 83IB in Tigaon, Camarines Sur; and 43IB in Lope De Vega, Northern Samar. Notably, a ranking NPA leader in Surigao del Sur surrendered to the 3rd Special Forces Battalion yielding nine high-powered firearms. This brought to a total of 27 firearms turned over to government forces during the period," Baclor said.

In the same period, the 85th Infantry Battalion, in cooperation with local police units and the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in General Luna and Catanauan, Quezon, facilitated the withdrawal of support from the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) of 46 mass base supporters.

Baclor added the AFP was able to neutralize five BIFF members, one of which from the BIFF- Karialin Faction (KF) who was killed in an encounter with members of the 40th Infantry Battalion in Ampatuan, Maguindanao Del Sur, on March 1.

"Meanwhile, through continuous conduct of intelligence operations by 71IB, four BIFF-KF members surrendered in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat, turning over an M-14 rifle, (M-1) Garand rifle, an M-79 homemade grenade launcher, two RPG (rocket propelled grenades) launchers, an anti-personnel mine, unexploded ordnance, five hand grenades, three rifle grenades, and various ammunitions," he added.

Baclor also said 22 Abu Sayyaf members surrendered to the 100th Infantry Brigade in Indanan, Sulu. They also surrendered two M-16 rifles and eight M-1 Garand rifles.

"The AFP continues to observe an upward trend in the surrender of regular members and supporters of terrorist groups in the country. It may be attributed to the non-stop intelligence-based focused military operations partnered with various peace initiatives by civilian stakeholders," Baclor said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197206

Human rights defenders' bill threat to PH democracy: NTF-ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2023): Human rights defenders' bill threat to PH democracy: NTF-ELCAC (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Legal Cooperation Cluster (LCC) on Monday said House Bill (HB) No. 77 or the proposed Human Rights Defenders Protection Act is a threat to the country's democratic of way life once enacted into law.

"The impending approval of HB No. 77 or the 'Human Rights Defenders' Protection Act' (HRDPA) before the House Committee on Human Rights in the House of Representatives on February 28, 2023, is a grave, vicious, and insidious threat against the Philippines’ democratic way of life," the body said in a statement Monday.

The NTF-ELCAC LCC is chaired by Assistant Solicitor General Angelita Villanueva Miranda and co-chaired by ASG Karen A. Ong.

It also claimed that if passed into law, HB 77, will make laws such as the Anti-Terrorism Act, Anti-Money Laundering Law as amended, and the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act, among others, as "mere toothless paper tigers."

The NTF-ELCAC LCC also noted that HRDPA "suffers from a plethora of grave constitutional and legal infirmities" such as:

a) The definition of “human rights defender”, is vague and duplicitous such that in essence, it will include within the scope of the term any criminal, rebel, terrorist, or enemy of the state;

b) The Bill gives unjustified preferential treatment by ensuring protection to anyone who claims to be a human rights defender. In fact, Section 37 of the Bill mandates the creation of “sanctuaries” or safe places of refuge for “high risk human rights defenders” and/or their immediate families. Obviously, criminals or terrorists may take refuge in these sanctuaries, from prosecution and law enforcement, by merely claiming to be “human rights defenders” entitled to the protection of the bill;

c) The Bill which proposes for the creation of a Human Rights Defenders Protection Committee is an encroachment upon the jurisdiction and powers granted by the 1987 Constitution to the Commission on Human Rights. The said Committee violates the independence required since it will be composed of members from "Communist Terrorist Group" (CTG) affiliated groups or sympathizers, particularly Karapatan, Flag, PAHRA, and NUPL;

d) The Bill is a patent encroachment by the legislature into the exclusive domain of the Executive branch of the government – a prerogative that is solely vested by Constitutional fiat and the intrinsic nature of the President’s office as the Chief Architect of the country’s foreign relations since it sought to implement a non-binding United Nations (UN) Resolution dated December 9, 1998, which is not even a treaty under international law;

e) The Bill seeks to create "sanctuaries" that virtually makes the CTG beyond the reach of law enforces, which are in direct contrast with the unequivocal language of the aforesaid UN Resolution that it does not create new rights but instead merely articulates existing rights;

f) The Bill is in direct contravention with the legislative intent of Republic Act No. 9160 as it prohibits the freezing and sequestration, among others, of solicited funds and resources irrespective of the character thereof, which will drive the Philippines in breaching its obligations under International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism.

"Apart from its numerous loopholes, HB No. 77 is a clear attempt to cripple the array of programs and projects being implemented by the State through the whole of nation approach, i.e., relentless legal assault, intensified information and education campaign, and the expanded Barangay Development Program (BDP), among others. Without a scintilla of doubt, HB No. 77, HB No. 407 and other related bills are the CTG’s obvious struggle to demoralize the NTF-ELCAC and to decelerate our relentless efforts to end the communist armed conflict," the body added.

The task force also reminded the public of the need to be intelligent, informed, and vigilant against legislations masqueraded as "beneficial" but which, in truth, are dangerous and destructive to the country.

This vigilance is needed as Filipinos will be ultimately the victims of the decades-long destruction and violence brought by the communist insurgency, it added.

"Thus, the NTF-ELCAC, through its Legal Cooperation Cluster, therefore, calls on all Filipinos to unequivocally reject HB No. 77 and to enjoin their District Representatives to junk the said Bill on sight, upon its introduction in the plenary for its Second Reading," the body noted.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197215

PH, Australia military chiefs renew commitment to regional peace

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2023): PH, Australia military chiefs renew commitment to regional peace (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of AFP)

MANILA – The military chiefs of the Philippines and Australia renewed their commitment to upholding regional peace.

This came following the phone call between Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Andres C. Centino and Australian Chief of Defense Force Gen. Angus Campbell on Monday.

"The phone call meeting marked solid military coordination between the Philippines and Australia as partners in keeping the peace and stability in the South Pacific region," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor said in a statement Tuesday.

Centino and Campbell's phone conversation came ahead of the announcement of the Australian government, in collaboration with the United States and the United Kingdom, of its transition to conventionally-armed and nuclear-powered submarines.

"General Campbell informed the CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff AFP) of this development and assured his counterpart of their continued coordination," Baclor said.

Centino, meanwhile, thanked Campbell for the Australian government's continued support and participation to the 38th edition of the Philippine-US Exercise "Balikatan" which opens on April 11.

Joining the CSAFP in the call were Maj. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, the Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS) for Personnel, J1; Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Hechanova, DCS for Plans, J5; Brig. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, DCS for Operations, J3; Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon, DCS for Intelligence, J2; Brig. Gen. Noel Beleran, DCS for Education, Training, and Doctrine, J8; Col. Leo Edward Caranto, Acting DCS for Logistics, J4; Lt. Col. Mark Allan Gavilan, Chief AFP International Military Affairs Center; and Australian Assistant Defence Attache Lt. Col. Tim Lopsik.

PAF gets CAS simulator from Australia

As this developed, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) formally accepted from the Australian government a close air support (CAS) part-task trainer (PTT), classroom and debriefing facility on Monday.

"Another milestone was unlocked after the PAF, together with officials from the Australian Embassy, held a ceremony for the formal acceptance, turn-over, and blessing of the new PAF CAS PTT classroom and debriefing facility on March 13, 2023. The ceremony was held at Col. Ernesto Ravina Air Base, Capas, Tarlac graced by the Ambassador of Australia to the Philippines, Her Excellency Hae Kyong Yu PSM as the guest-of-honor," PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said in a statement Monday night.

The donated technology-based facility is the very first standard air-conditioned facility of the 710th Special Operations Wing which will allow both the students and the training staff to experience, acquire and enhance skills in a conducive learning environment.

"Relatedly, the CAS PTT simulator will allow combat air controllers to acquire almost full sensory experience during the conduct of close air support exercises, thus enhancing proficiency, preventing accidents and saving operational costs," Castillo added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197300

UAE delegation visit chance to deepen defense ties with PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2023): UAE delegation visit chance to deepen defense ties with PH (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of AFP)

MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Andres Centino said the visit of the delegates of the National Defense College United Arab Emirates (NDC UAE) to the military's headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday is an "opportunity to build relations with allies".

The study tour and visit, which runs from March 11 to 18, aims to develop mutual understanding and foster good defense relations between the Philippines and UAE.

The 19-member delegation is headed by Brigadier Staff Pilot Khalifa Butti Thani Alshamsi, AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor said in a statement Monday night.

"It is important to realize that there are better things seen from the outside," Centino said during a conversation with Alhamsi and the delegation. The AFP chief also emphasized the significance of dynamic exchanges of information to acquire better perspectives and create good relations with the country's partners and allies.

"Furthermore, he encouraged the pursuit of more robust defense and security cooperation between the two countries. Likewise, the CSAFP (Chief of Staff AFP) urged the delegates to enjoy their week-long stay in the Philippines," Baclor said.

Meanwhile, Alshamsi thanked Centino for welcoming their team and shared the NDC UAE's objective of sharing perspectives about policies and strategies.

"The delegates were briefed on the mandate and function of the AFP organization, as well as the AFP Transformation Roadmap, our 15-year strategy in becoming a world-class armed force," Baclor said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197303

'Salaknib' drills to help PH Army in swing to territorial defense

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2023): 'Salaknib' drills to help PH Army in swing to territorial defense (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – Philippine Army (PA) chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said this year's iteration of Exercise "Salaknib" with American troops will greatly bolster its ongoing shift from internal to territorial defense.

In a statement Tuesday, he said bilateral training activities such as "Salaknib", which is being held from March 13 to April 4 with the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), is of great value and of help.

“Indeed, there is much more we can learn from each other, and much more that we can do together, in the interest of Indo-Pacific security and wider security regional connectivity,” Brawner said.

"Salaknib" is an Army-to-Army training program between the PA and USARPAC.

The opening ceremonies for "Salaknib" took place at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on Monday

Brawer and US Army Corps commander Lt. Gen. Xavier T. Brunson were both present in the event.

"In the next few weeks, some 3,000 troops will take on a range of activities that reflect on present day scenarios and future possibilities," the PA chief said in his speech during the formal opening of the exercise.

"In learning together, we enhance the capabilities and capacities to work together within the ever changing dynamics of global developments and Indo-Pacific concerns," he added.

Some 3,000 troops from the USARPAC's 25th Infantry Division and PA's 5th Infantry Division, 7th Infantry Division and 1st Brigade Combat Team will be training side-by-side in a spectrum of military operations in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, Brunson, in his remarks, said "Salaknib" is meant to improve human interoperability of both forces and strengthen the defense partnership of the two nations.

He also added that he is looking forward to the exercise improving the "already-strong human interoperability between our armies."

"The training audience will conduct bilateral exercises in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija and other venues in Central Luzon and Northern Luzon. 'Salaknib''s first phase will precede Exercise 'Balikatan' slated for April 2023 while its second phase is scheduled for the third quarter of 2023," Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said.

"Salaknib" (shield in Ilocano) is an annual Army-to-Army exercise geared at strengthening the interoperability of Filipino and American soldiers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197307

Australia cites PH support as AUKUS announces submarine project

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2023): Australia cites PH support as AUKUS announces submarine project (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu (Photo from her Twitter account)

MANILA – Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu thanked the Philippines for its “support” as Canberra unveils its plan to procure nuclear-powered submarine under AUKUS.

“Australia is investing in capabilities to meet the challenges of our strategic circumstances and ensure the Indo-Pacific remains stable, secure and prosperous,” Yu said in a Tuesday tweet.

“We are grateful for the Philippines’ support as Australia seeks to become a more capable defence partner in the region,” she added.

Canberra is planning to acquire conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS, a security partnership established between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Beginning in the early 2030s, the US intends to sell Australia three Virginia-class submarines, with the potential to sell up to two more if needed.

The plan was announced on March 13 following an 18-month consultation period since AUKUS was formed in September 2021.

In a fact sheet, the White House said “AUKUS partners operating highly capable conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines will provide an assured undersea capability that contributes to stability, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and around the world.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs, meanwhile, has yet to comment on the grouping’s submarine project.

But during the term of former Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., the agency backed the creation of AUKUS deeming it “would be beneficial in the long term” including for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states which "singly or collectively, do not possess the military wherewithal to maintain peace and security in Southeast Asia, discourage the sudden creation of crises therein, and avoid disproportionate and hasty responses by rival great powers."

"There is an imbalance in the forces available to the ASEAN member states, with the main balancer more than half a world away. The enhancement of a near abroad ally’s ability to project power should restore and keep the balance rather than destabilize it," Locsin said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197343