Navy’s anti-submarine warfare frigate deployed in West PH Sea

From GMA News (Jun 27, 2023): Navy’s anti-submarine warfare frigate deployed in West PH Sea (By Joviland Rita)

The Philippine Navy's missile and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) frigate, BRP Antonio Luna (FF151), and AW159 ASW “Wildcat” helicopter. PHOTO FROM WESCOM FACEBOOK PAGE

The Philippine Navy's missile and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) frigate and helicopter have been deployed in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Command (Wescom) said on Tuesday.

In a Facebook post, the Wescom said BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) and AW159 ASW "Wildcat" helicopter recently arrived in its area of responsibility.

The tandem of ASW platforms have been deployed along the Philippines' western border for maritime and sovereignty patrols that ensure effective maritime presence, particularly in the WPS, the military said.

According to Wescom, the recent deployment ensures the armed forces’ readiness and commitment to defending the country's maritime interests against any potential threats.

The recent inclusion of the AW159 helicopter completed the warfighting package of RP Antonio Luna. This is a necessary step to protect the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity, Wescom said.

Concerned crews have also been collaborating to ensure maximum readiness during any "eventualities".

For Wescom, the naval assets are a critical deterrent to any hostile forces in the region.

The tandem platforms engage in different tests and training activities while patrolling the WPS, according to Wescom. 

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/874102/navy-s-anti-submarine-warfare-frigate-deployed-in-west-ph-sea/story/

US, China pour aid into Batanes, PH island closest to Taiwan

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 27, 2023): US, China pour aid into Batanes, PH island closest to Taiwan (By: Frances Mangosing - Reporter)

Batanes Gov. Marilou Cayco (Photo from the Facebook page of Batanes)

BASCO, Batanes, Philippines — Rival superpowers United States and China are pouring aid into Batanes, the Philippines’ northernmost island closest to Taiwan, which Beijing considers its territory.

Batanes Gov. Marilou Cayco announced the new forms of assistance pledged by Washington and Beijing during the island province’s 240th founding anniversary on Monday.

Cayco said the United States Agency for International Development and the Philippines’ Department of Information and Communications Technology would set up a Starlink premium service for a faster internet service across Basco, the provincial capital.

US Embassy officials are also scheduled to visit next month, she added.

“They said they will bring some good news about our requests for assistance,” she noted in her speech, without offering other details.

But Cayco said she also sought China’s help for food security.

“The Chinese consulate in Laoag (City in Ilocos Norte) has pledged more than P3 million worth of assistance to develop a production farm in [the municipality of] Itbayat. Chinese officials were here last month and vowed to continue helping us,” she said.

Food sufficiency has been a priority for the far-flung island province, especially during typhoons and earthquakes, as well as concerns over a possible Chinese military action against Taiwan. Farming and fishing are the main sources of food and income for the Ivatans.

Strategic location

An island chain and the country’s northernmost province where the Pacific Ocean merges with the South China Sea, Batanes is located less than 150 kilometers from its nearest point to the south of Taiwan. It has six municipalities and a population of 18,000.

Both the United States and China have been actively helping the strategically located province in recent years.

Analysts have said that self-ruling Taiwan is a potential flashpoint in US-China relations, with Washington as its most important backer.

Beijing considers the island a part of its territory and has not ruled out taking it by force if necessary.

In April, Filipino and American troops trained to defend Batanes from potential aggressors as part of the “Balikatan” military exercises.

Cayco said at the time that their residents were worried that the island would get caught in the crossfire amid the tensions between China and the United States over Taiwan.

The repeated calls to the national government from local officials to build bigger seaports and airports in anticipation of hosting thousands of Filipino repatriates in the event of a crisis over Taiwan appeared to be finally making headway.

Cayco said in the same speech that the Philippine Ports Authority would help in planning the construction of a seaport and their architects would soon start training for its planning.

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/216079/us-china-pour-aid-into-ph-island-closest-to-taiwan

4 NPAs wounded in Sultan Kudarat clash

From the Philippine Star (Jun 27, 2023): 4 NPAs wounded in Sultan Kudarat clash (By John Unson)

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Soldiers recovered two M16 assault rifles left by wounded New People’s Army guerillas who retreated following a clash with state forces in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat Monday.

Citing reports from villagers, local government officials told journalists Tuesday the encounter in Barangay Batang Bagras in Palimbang erupted when NPA members attacked a team of soldiers dispatched to check the presence of guerillas in the area.

Residents of Barangay Batang Bagras were quoted in radio reports Tuesday as saying that four NPAs — two of them identified only as Ramon and Victor — were wounded in the incident. The two others were reportedly members of the Dulangan-Manobo tribe, identified as Emfid and Kedew.

Citing a report from the 57th IB and the 603rd Infantry Brigade, Army Major Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, said the fighters who clashed with soldiers were remnants of a local armed group that, he claimed, forcibly collected money and food from villagers.

He said it was the residents of Barangay Batang Bagras who led the soldiers to the location of the rebels Monday.

Members of the Palimbang Municipal Peace and Order Council told reporters via mobile phone Tuesday that 126 members of the NPA have surrendered to units of 6th ID and the Police Regional Office-12 in the past 14 months.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/06/27/2276935/4-npas-wounded-sultan-kudarat-clash

PNP reviewing applications of Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro National Liberation Front members

From the Philippine Star (Jun 27, 2023): PNP reviewing applications of Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro National Liberation Front members (By Jose Rodel Clapano)

New police officers from the National Capital Region Police Office on June 11, 2023.
STAR / Jesse Bustos

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has started reviewing the applications of members of two Muslim groups who wish to join the police service.

The regional government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the National Police Commission signed last year an agreement allowing qualified members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to take the Napolcom special qualifying eligibility examination.

The entry of the MILF and MNLF members into the police force is provided under the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

Of the 11,033 examinees, 7,145 representing 64.77 percent passed the exams conducted in May 2022 in the cities of Cotabato and Lamitan.

Of the 7,145 who passed the exams, only 1,000 were endorsed by the Bangsamoro government, which is one of the requirements for the entry into the PNP of the MILF and MNLF members.

Of the 1,000 exam passers endorsed by the Bangsamoro government, 700 are from the MILF.

Successful applicants will be assigned to the Bangsamoro police, which has only 400 slots available.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/06/27/2276776/pnp-reviewing-applications-milf-mnlf-members

Farmer leader arrested in Himamaylan, charged for 2018 ambush

From Rappler (Jun 26, 2023): Farmer leader arrested in Himamaylan, charged for 2018 ambush (By REYMUND TITONG)

The military arrests Susan Medes, the chairperson of the Baclayan, Bito, Cabagal Farmers and Farmworkers Association (BABICAFA), the organization of the slain Fausto couple of Himamaylan

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – Police in Negros Occidental arrested on Sunday, June 25 the chairperson of a farmers’ organization in Himamaylan that included among its members the Fausto couple slain with their minor sons in the June 14 Barangay Buenavista massacre.

The Unyon ng Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (UMA) on Monday, June 26 identified the arrested peasant leader as Susan Medes, 58, the chairperson of the Baclayan, Bito, Cabagal Farmers and Farmworkers Association (BABICAFA).

Medes, a resident of Sitio Bito, Barangay Buenavista, was among 18 persons charged with murder and multiple frustrated murders in connection with a May 12, 2018 New People’s Army (NPA) ambush in Sitio Bunsad, Barangay Tanawan, Kabankalan City.

Police Brig. Gen. Sidney Villaflor, the acting regional director of the Western Visayas Police Office (Region 6) said a joint police and military team arrested Mendes in Sitio Calasa, Brgy. Caradio-an, Himamaylan City in an early morning operation.

The police report, which did not identify Medes, said she is currently in the custody of the Kabankalan Component City Police Station pending turn-over to the court that issued the warrant. It said the warrant for Criminal Case Number 2019-8533 did not recommend bail.

UMA said Medes’ husband and six other residents of Brgy Buenavista were arrested in 2019 for the same case. Known among human rights defenders as the Buenavista 7, they remain in jail.

Police reported the arrest on the same day members of the National Solidarity Mission (NSM) in Negros announced in Quezon City the findings of their fact-finding mission on the Himamaylan Massacre and other cases of human rights violations in the country’s fourth-largest island.

“The Fausto case is not an isolated incident, but rather a culmination of harassment, destruction of properties, violation of domicile, illegal searches, and red-tagging that have been inflicted on farming communities in the region,” said Ariel ‘Ka Ayik’ Casilao, UMA’s acting chairperson and Co-Convenor of the Defend Negros Network.

“We observed a similar pattern in the killings of the Fausto family and the Crispin Tingal murder,” Casilao added, referring to the farmer killed in a clash that spread from Himamaylan to Kabankalan on May 3.

Farmer leader, not NPA

Tingal’s family denied the AFP’s claim that he was a New People’s Army (NPA) rebel and said he was heading home from a seminar on catfish farming, part of the Sustainable Livelihood Program of the Department of Social Welfare Development and the City Agriculture Office of Kabankalan on the day the military reported him as a casualty.

A farmer who received a Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) in 2018, Tingal was a member of the Dangalon Farmer and Farmworkers Association (DAFA) and caretaker of its food house and fish pond in Sityo Dangalon, Brgy Hilamonan, Kabankalan City. He was a member of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP). His family is also among the beneficiaries of the government’s 4Ps program.

Iglesia Filipina Independiente Negros Occidental Diocese Bishop Virgilio Amihan on June 25 told Bacolod reporters at a press briefing that the Tingal family had reported military harassment, illegal search, and “deep interrogation” on December 26, 2022, along with seven other households in Sitio Dangalon.

They were targeted based on military informants’ allegations of NPA presence in Sitio Dangalon, which the family and their neighbors denied.

The Tingal clan, including the family of his brother, Ramon was among the beneficiaries of the Kabankalan City Social Welfare and Development Office’s June 9 psychosocial workshop for traumatized residents of the southern Negros Occidental conflict areas.

Rappler contacted the 303rd Brigade Command, which had identified Tingal as an NPA, about his family’s position and that of the fact-finding mission, but got no reply.

With the Fausto massacre, military and police officials, a prosecutor and spokesperson for the Western Visayas Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict have blamed a 15-member NPA group as perpetrators of the massacre in the isolated hamlet of Kangkiling in Barangay Buenavista.

Himamaylan Police Chief Lt. Col. Reynante Jomocan said two witnesses in their custody have issued affidavits identifying at least one member of the NPA band as the killers of Billy Fausto – the name on the death certificate of the farmer previously identified both the authorities, rebels, and activists as Roly – his wife, Emilda, and their two minor sons.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), which is independently investigating the crime, said there are still no clear findings on the men who the Fausto couple had earlier reported to have ransacked their home on three occasions.

The military insists rebels punished the Faustos because the patriarch was an AFP asset who had been trying to convince other members of the NPA, including his still unidentified in-laws.

But a family member told Rappler he was neither an NPA nor a military asset. One of his children also spoke with the Altermidya network to narrate how the military had tried to coerce him to act as their guide during an operation in March 2022.

The NPA has been known to execute civilians it claimed to be spies or criminals in Barangay Buenavista, a practice denounced by the local government and international organization Human Rights Watch. But it usually claims these killings, which officials of the barangay have also pointed out.

The Fausto children have sought sanctuary with a private group, according to the Jomocan, and are safe.

Casilao said “tales of coercion, wherein witnesses are compelled to testify and follow an outline provided by the PNP in order portray the NPA as culprits, have been conveyed with us,” following their fact-finding mission.

[Retired Analyst Note: View from the left, from Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) peasant and human rights front organizations and their sympathizers. The Unyon ng Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (UMA), and the Baclayan, Bito, Cabagal Farmers and Farmworkers Association (BABICAFA) are CPP peasant front groups, .The National Solidarity Mission (NSM) in Negros is page right out of the CPP play book. The commies routinely convene these so-called solidarity missions to "investigate" NPA-AFP/PNP encounters/arrests and invariably find government security forces guilty of human rights abuses. These missions are largely comprised of known CPP front groups/cadre.]

https://www.rappler.com/nation/visayas/farmer-leader-arrested-himamaylan-charged-for-2018-ambush/

Renewed armed skirmishes in Negros Oriental

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 26, 2023): Renewed armed skirmishes in Negros Oriental (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Armed skirmishes have again ensued between Army soldiers and suspected New People’s Army rebels at Sitio Cansampo, Brgy. Bagtic, La Libertad, Negros Oriental, yielding a gun with ammunition, the Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion reported during the weekend.

Members of the 62IB were conducting combat operations in response to information relayed to them by civilians, when they encountered nine NPA rebels in the place, resulting in a firefight that lasted approximately five minutes.

The fleeing rebels left behind two backpacks containing personal belongings and subversive documents, and a caliber .357 revolver with four ammunition.

None of the 62IB soldiers were hurt, and they are still tracking down the fleeing NPA rebels as of press time.

Lt. Col. William Pesase, 62IB commander, reiterated his call for the fleeing injured rebels to surrender so that they can be given proper medical treatment.

Three weeks ago, nine rebels died in encounters with the 62IB in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, and Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Pesase said they are giving a chance for rebel remnants to return to fold of law, before it will be too late for, as they will not stop hunting them down.

https://visayandailystar.com/renewed-armed-skirmishes-in-negros-oriental/

Alleged NPA member nabbed in Himamaylan

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 27, 2023): Alleged NPA member nabbed in Himamaylan (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Police Regional Office 6 reported yesterday said the apprehension of an alleged female member of the New People’s Army who has pending arrest warrant for murder, in Sitio Calasa, Brgy. Caradio-an, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

The identity of the 58-year-old woman, alleged as a member of the Central Negros 2 of the Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor, was however withheld by the Philippine National Police, pending follow up operations, according to P/Capt. Judesses Catalogo, spokesman of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office.

The warrant of arrest was served by troopers of the 2nd Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company, led by PLt. Col. Alvimar Flores, assisted by the Himamaylan and Kabankalan City Police Stations, PNP Special Action Force and Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6, 94th Infantry Battalion, and other military and police intelligence units.

PMaj. Grace Socorro Borio, PRO 6 Public Information Officer, disclosed that the arrested NPA member, a resident of Sitio Bito, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, was denied bail by the court.

The arrested suspect is now under the custody of Kabankalan City Police Station.

https://visayandailystar.com/alleged-npa-member-nabbed-in-himamaylan/

Father-in-law linked to massacre

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 27, 2023): Father-in-law linked to massacre (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The investigation into the massacre of four members of a family in Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, took on a new twist as the leader of New People’s Army rebel group linked to the incident turned out to be the father-in-law of the lone surviving family member.

This was revealed yesterday by PCapt. Judesses Catalogo, spokesperson of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, when he was asked if Emily Fausto Hermino, the lone surviving member of the massacred Fausto family, was indeed missing, as reported by the Commission on Human Rights.

According to police reports, on June 14, about 15 armed men murdered Rolly Fausto, his wife, Emilda, and their two minor sons, at their residence in Sitio Kankiling, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

Their daughter Emily, was not present at their residence when the massacre took place.

Catalogo revealed that Fernando Hermino, who led a group of NPA rebels tagged as the suspects in the massacre, turned out to be the father-in-law of Emily, based on accounts of an eyewitness.

Albert Hermino, the son of Fernando, is married to Emily, the lone daughter of slain Fausto couple, according to the NOCPPO spokesperson.

Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, 94th Infantry Battalion commander, disclosed earlier that Rolly, whom he claimed was a military informant, was negotiating the surrender of some rebels, including family members of his in-laws, prior to the incident.

The New People’s Army and its allied organizations blamed the massacre on the Philippine Army.

Vincent Para, head of the Commission on Human Rights in Negros Occidental, disclosed yesterday that Emily cannot be located, as of this time.

Catalogo said that Emily is under the custody of a non-government organization. He however said that Himamaylan City Mayor Raymund Tongson is negotiating with the NGO to release Emily, as they will provide her shelter and adequate protection.

Based on logbook entries of Barangay Buenavista, Para said that Emilda reported on March 13 and 18 that their house was ransacked on two occasions by armed men, in uniforms and in civilian clothes, respectively, although no items were taken.

The incident was repeated again on May this year, he added.

Para said he already coordinated with the Himamaylan police, who provided him a copy of the police blotter in connection with the incident. He, however, said they were not able to secure copies of affidavits of witnesses, pending the filing of charges against the suspects before the Department of Justice.

He added that they are also scheduled to visit Brgy. Carol-an in Kabankalan City, where the family of Emilda, an IP (Indigenous People) resides, in order to establish the reason behind their transfer to Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City.

Para added that they will also coordinate with the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) for possible assistance to be extended to the victims.*

https://visayandailystar.com/father-in-law-linked-to-massacre/

75 former rebels receive P2-M cash aid from E-CLIP

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 25, 2023): 75 former rebels receive P2-M cash aid from E-CLIP (By RHODA GRACE SARON)



SEVENTY-FIVE former rebels received more than P2 million in cash assistance from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Davao De Oro celebrated its first anniversary of being declared an insurgency-free province at the Provincial Capitol, Barangay Cabidianan, Nabunturan, on June 22.

Major Mark Anthony Tito, the 10th Infantry Division 40 former rebels (FR), received P2.8 million from the E-CLIP, and another 35 former rebels received P10,000 each from the provincial E-CLIP.

The event started with a motorcade followed by a soft opening of the halfway house for former rebels called Kalayaan Village in Barangay Libasan, Nabunturan.

During the ceremony, Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga led the distribution of cash assistance to the former rebels.

In her message, Gonzaga said that it was a day of reflection, gratitude, and renewed determination as they looked back at the achievements and challenges that the people of Davao De Oro went through and overcame.

“Let us use this occasion to reinforce our determination to combat all forms of insurgency, including those that originate from within. Together we can ensure a brighter future for all the people of Davao De Oro,” Gonzaga added.

Moreover, Allen A. Capuyan, the National Commission of the Indigenous People chair, attributed the successful fight against insurgency in Davao De Oro to the National Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), where he also served as the former executive director.

“Through our hard-earned success, we have left no room for their return (referring to the Communist Terrorist Group). Thanks to the collective efforts of NTF-ELCAC, good governance, and the resilient spirit of the people. Let us internalize the essence of good governance and embrace the boundless dedication to public service,” Capuyan added.

Meanwhile, Major General Jose Eriel M Niembra, 10th Infantry Division commander, urged everyone during his speech to remain vigilant and united to prevent resurgence.

Also present during the event were 1001st Infantry Brigade commander Colonel Felix Ronnie B Babac, 701st Infantry Brigade commander BGen Oliver C. Maquiling, 1st District Rep. Ruwel Peter Gonzaga, other battalion commanders, and Davao De Oro mayors.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2023/06/25/75-former-rebels-receive-p2-m-cash-aid-from-e-clip/

Communist rebel leader, seven others surrender after military offensives

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 26, 2023): Communist rebel leader, seven others surrender after military offensives (By RHODA GRACE SARON) 



A HIGH-RANKING New People’s Army (NPA) leader and seven other members surrendered to the 36th Infantry Battalion after a series of heavy defeats from the unceasing military operations in Surigao del Sur and Agusan del Norte in recent weeks.

The NPA’s top leader was identified as Grecy Yparraguirre, the Secretary of Guerilla Front (GF) 30. Joining her was her husband, Ramil Salazar Queda alias Ben; nephew Robert Arreza Yparraguirre alias Mark, the vice commanding officer and member of Platoon 1, GF30; Bakekor Lauro Masiga alias Pidok, member of Sentro de Grabidad 16 (SDG16), all under North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC)

Major Francisco Garello Jr., the spokesperson of the 4th Infantry Division, said the rebel returnees showed up at the 36th IB headquarters in Barangay Puyat, Carmen, Surigao del Sur.

They claimed they were exhausted from hunger and sustained military operations. They also brought with them a Norinco AK 47, an M14 rifle, and one AR18 rifle with a 40mm M203 grenade launcher attached.

On the other hand, joint Army-PNP operations resulted in the surrender of four CPP-NPA terrorists (CNTs) belonging to the Sub Regional Committee Westland (SRC Westland) and Guerilla Front 16 (GF16), both under NEMRC.

Alias Juday from Platoon Apitong of SRSDG Westland and alias Gabriel and Bords of SYP 21C, GF21 members, together with alias Steve, the vice squad leader of SDG16, GF16, surrendered to the 29th Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Cresencio C Gargar in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, on June 21.

Meanwhile, in Bukidnon, Jeffrey Pauran Bacus, Nomer Bonye Donque, Jelly Sinadaya Peliton, and Eljohn Paul Layahon Pina, all belonging to the Sub-Regional Command 5 (SRC-5) of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMC), surrendered to the 1st Special Forces Battalion under Lt. Col. Roger Anthony E Nuylan Jr. at Barangay Mampayag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on June 18, 2023.

They also turned over an M16 rifle and various war materiel.

In a statement, 4ID commander Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II said the successive surrenders directly resulted from the continuous focused military operations to finally end the CTG atrocities.

“This is a clear manifestation that the CTG is completely in a state of confusion and lacks direction due to a vacuum of leadership,” Cuerpo said.

“The relentless pursuit of 4ID’s troops, along with the unwavering support of the populace, has effectively weakened communist terrorism, leading to CTG’s imminent end in the region,” he added.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2023/06/26/communist-rebel-leader-seven-others-yield-in-separate-incidents/

Troops kill NPA rebel in Zambo Sur clash

From MindaNews (Jun 26, 2023): Troops kill NPA rebel in Zambo Sur clash (By MARIVIC OMANDAM DAVIS)

Courtesy of Google Maps

ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews / 26 June) – Troops under the Philippine Army’s 97th Infantry (Kalasaglahi) Battalion killed a New People’s Army (NPA) rebel following a clash in Barangay Sunop, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur last Friday, an official said.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Nolasco Coderos Jr. said the soldiers were conducting combat operations when they chanced upon 10 NPA members under the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC), resulting to a firefight that lasted for about 30 minutes.

Two soldiers were wounded in the clash, he said.

Coderos identified the slain communist rebel as Jayman Taata, alias Rico, a member of the WMRPC, which is headed by an alias Bambam.

He said that troops recovered assorted war materials and personal belongings left by the fleeing rebels.

Coderos said the same NPA rebels clashed with government security forces on June 21 in Barangay Paraiso in nearby Mahayag town, which resulted to the wounding of a member of a Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit or CAFGU.

The official noted the troops have launched a relentless military operation against the NPA rebels that prompted the latter to hide in far-flung barangays bordering the towns of Sergio Osmeña in Zamboanga del Norte and Dumingag town.

On April 15, elements of the 97th IB and the communist rebels also clashed in Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte, which resulted in the death of an NPA fighter identified as alias “Roso”

On May 28, 2023, the 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade, with the help of Philippine Air Force’s Tactical Operations Group 9, conducted an air attack on an NPA hideout in the mountains bordering Sergio Osmeña and Dumingag, after the residents reported the presence of NPA rebels there, Col. Elmer Suderio, the brigade’s commander, said.

Maj. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, Joint Task Force Zampelan and 1st Infantry Division commander, extended his full support for the operating forces’ vigilance and commitment to flush out the communist rebels.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/06/troops-kill-npa-rebel-in-zambo-sur-clash/

Police recover body of gunman, wanted ex-Sulu vice mayor escapes

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jun 26, 2023): Police recover body of gunman, wanted ex-Sulu vice mayor escapes

A police photo shows commandos during the operations to capture ex-Maimbung vice mayor Pando Mudjsan. (Mindanao Examiner)

SULU – Security forces have recovered a cadaver of one of the gunmen of fugitive ex-vice mayor Pando Mudjasan of Maimbung town as soldiers and policemen continue hunting down the former politician who eluded arrest in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, national police chief Benjamin Acorda Jr said on Sunday evening.

Mudjasan is wanted for murder in Sulu, according to Acorda. “The government forces were not able to arrest Mudjasan because he was alerted due to the early start of the firefight,” he said.

Acorda also confirmed that the weekend fighting had killed a police commando – Pat. Regim Gacod, of the 7th Special Action Battalion - and wounded 13 other policemen and an army soldier while trying to serve an arrest on Madjasan in the village of Bualo Lipid in Maimbung town.

He identified the wounded policemen as Cpt. Ergie Wanawan, Cpls. Nelvin Roble, Butz Lenard Bakidan, Jayson Cabalquinto, Alnadzmi Sahirani, Jerwin Tongala, John Lord Paasa, Simon Ligmayo and Vileo Raven Jariolne; and SSgs Julakbar Jahani and Jadier Alfad; Pats. Jasper Massagan and Jason Dacio; and a soldier who is a member of the 41st Infantry Battalion.

“A fierce firefight broke out between government forces and armed men at Bualo Lipid in Maimbung. The operation was carried out to serve a warrant of arrest for the crime of murder and implement a search warrant against Mudjasan and his associates. Mudjasan is reported to be employing armed civilians and keeping in his possession loose firearms and explosives,” he said, adding the fierce fighting lasted 10 hours – from 7.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

“The government forces encountered an undetermined number of enemies, resulting in casualties on both sides. Fourteen wounded and one killed from the government forces. Some of the wounded personnel were brought to an undisclosed medical facility for immediate treatment,” Acorda said.

“I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Pat Gacod, rest assured that the benefits due our fallen comrade will be given immediately to his family. I also extend my sympathies to those operating members who were injured in the recent firefight,” he added.

Acorda commended members of over a dozen police and military units involved in the operations and said the police remain steadfast in its commitment to protect and serve the Filipino people and will continue to enhance its operational capabilities to go after private armed groups.

“I commend the valor and dedication displayed by our law enforcement personnel who participated in the operations. Despite the inherent risks involved, they fearlessly carried out their duty to serve and protect our communities. Their commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining peace and order is truly admirable. The PNP will use all our assets and forces to hunt down those people who are involved and we will not stop until they are behind bars,” he said.

The fighting erupted after the group of Mudjasan sensed the arrival of security forces and attacked them with automatic weapons, sparking the daylong clashes that forced some 5,000 villagers to flee their homes.

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/06/police-recover-body-of-gunman-wanted-ex.html

Govt. continues building up 'exemplary' Army special forces

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jun 26, 2023): Govt. continues building up 'exemplary' Army special forces (By Anna Leah Gonzales)

PRESIDENT FERDINAND R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday assured members of the Philippine Army's Special Forces Regiment Airborne (SFRA) that his administration will continue to strengthen their capabilities.
Marcos made the commitment during the 61st anniversary of the SFRA at Fort Magsaysay in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.

"We assure you of the administration's unassailable commitment and that of your commander-in-chief's support in all of your undertakings, strengthening your capabilities, and ensuring your welfare and that of your families," Marcos said in his speech.

Marcos said the government has adopted the Riverine Operations Equipment Project (ROEP) which is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization.

He said this will further improve the capabilities of the SFRA in riverine operations, referring to the insertion and extraction of special forces troops for rescue and other special military operations.

During the event, Marcos also expressed his gratitude to the “the fortitude and prowess of the men and women in the special forces who dedicated their lives to public service."

“Extensively trained in unconventional warfare [and] equipped with various tools and capabilities, the members of the SFRA have proven themselves valuable in both wartime and peacetime operations,” he said.

“From combating terrorist groups in the country to supporting peacekeeping operations overseas, we have demonstrated competence and professionalism even in the most challenging times.”

Marcos cited SFRA's fourth Special Forces Battalion's efforts that led to the rescue of 316 individuals from a burning passenger marine vessel of Aleson Shipping Lines bound for Jolo Port in March.

The President also congratulated the awardees of the SFRA’s 61st anniversary for their exemplary performance and contributions to the regiment.

“You have exemplified self-sacrifice and resilience, going beyond the call of duty to safeguard communities towards the attainment of internal security and of peace and the Republic. I think it would be safe to say that you have lived up to your name as the: ‘Silent Professionals’,” he said.

“Truly, you have not only played pivotal roles in times of battles but have also become dependable sentinels for the Filipino people. Through the responses for humanitarian assistance, you have created a ripple of hope in our communities [and] increased our people’s trust in the military and in the government.”

Marcos urged the SFRA to continue to support the Filipino people in times of crisis.

“On this note, we enjoin you to keep aiding fellow Filipinos by supporting them in times of crisis. Ensure their safety and well-being during operations and uphold the moral of the people that you serve,” Marcos said.

“May you all continue to train and empower yourselves in maintaining your standing as experts of unconventional warfare strategies.”

National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., Special Assistant to the President Secretary Anton Lagdameo, and other members of the Cabinet likewise attended the SFRA's anniversary.


They were joined by AFP chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino, Philippine Army Commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Northern Luzon Commander Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca, and SFRA commander Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Napuli.

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/06/govt-to-continue-building-up-exemplary.html

Sulu governor calls on people not to panic after deadly clashes

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jun 26, 2023): Sulu governor calls on people not to panic after deadly clashes

A provincial government photo shows Governor Sakur Tan reading Monday, June 26, 2023 a document while Maimbung Mayor Shihla Hayudini (left) and other staff look on.

SULU – Sulu Governor Sakur Tan on Monday has called on the public not to panic following the weekend fighting between a fugitive ex-vice mayor of Maimbung town and members of the security forces that killed at least 2 persons and wounded 14 more in the southern Philippine province.

Former politician Pando Mudjasan and his followers clashed with policemen and soldiers on Saturday, June 24, after security forces were trying to serve an arrest warrant and to search his house in the village of Bualo Lipid for illegal weapons.

“I call on the people of Maimbung, in particular the innocent residents of Bualo not to unduly panic. The authorities are in full control of the situation,” Tan said.

Mudjasan, a member of the former rebel group Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), is facing murder charges, according to national police chief, General Benjamin Acorda Jr.

“The incident in Bualo, Maimbung last Saturday, 24 June 2023, has captured the attention of many news outlets and social media. I do admit that some are straight and factual while some are laced with fiction. The incident was a legitimate police operation, that is, to serve outstanding warrants against an erring former vice mayor of Maimbung. He is now considered a fugitive from the law,” Tan said.

He said the social media platform should not be an instrument to sow more confusion that will compound the concerns of the people in the affected community and the municipality as a whole. “To act with impunity and to challenge the enforcers from exercising their mandates, resulting in the displacements of innocent civilians and the loss of lives and others, is the height of defiance against authority and the power of the state. His defiance has no legal or moral basis to stand on. The affected community is not the right forum for him to defend himself against the charges filed against him. The court is,” Tan said.

Tan also called on the MNLF which signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996 to issue a statement, saying Pando’s “audacity to drag the MNLF to his side for his crime - that is his alone - smells of a veiled threat to escalate the situation. I call on the MNLF to issue a statement on this matter.” “Let the rule of law prevail,” he added.

Acorda said government forces were not able to arrest Mudjasan because he was alerted at the early start of the daylong clashes that killed a police commando – Pat. Regim Gacod, of the 7th Special Action Battalion - and wounded 13 other policemen and an army soldier while trying to serve the warrants issued by the court.

He identified the wounded policemen as Cpt. Ergie Wanawan, Cpls. Nelvin Roble, Butz Lenard Bakidan, Jayson Cabalquinto, Alnadzmi Sahirani, Jerwin Tongala, John Lord Paasa, Simon Ligmayo and Vileo Raven Jariolne; and SSgs Julakbar Jahani and Jadier Alfad; Pats. Jasper Massagan and Jason D Dacio; and a soldier who is a member of the 41st Infantry Battalion.

“A fierce firefight broke out between government forces and armed men at Bualo Lipid in Maimbung. The operation was carried out to serve a warrant of arrest for the crime of murder and implement a search warrant against Mudjasan and his associates. Mudjasan is reported to be employing armed civilians and keeping in his possession loose firearms and explosives,” Acorda said, adding the fierce fighting lasted 10 hours – from 7.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

There were persistent reports that some of Mudjasan’s gunmen were former MNLF rebels which explained the firepower of his group in battling security forces. The fighting forced over 5,000 people to flee their homes, many of them are now in temporary shelters and are being taken care of by municipal social workers led by Mayor Shihla Hayudini.

Acorda commended members of over a dozen police and military units involved in the operations and said the police remain steadfast in its commitment to protect and serve the Filipino people and will continue to enhance its operational capabilities to go after private armed groups.

“I commend the valor and dedication displayed by our law enforcement personnel who participated in the operations. Despite the inherent risks involved, they fearlessly carried out their duty to serve and protect our communities. Their commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining peace and order is truly admirable. The PNP will use all our assets and forces to hunt down those people who are involved and we will not stop until they are behind bars,” he said.

It was unknown whether Mudjasan had sought safe refuge on any of the MNLF territories in the Muslim province or managed to escape from Sulu by boat. The military’s Western Mindanao Command has not issued an official statement as of press time. The fighting broke out just as Sulu is enjoying an improved peace and order situation and a boom in tourism the past years.

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/06/sulu-governor-calls-on-people-not-to.html