Kalinaw News: 303rd Infantry Brigade holds information awareness drive on deceptive recruitment of CPP-NPA to parish youth ministries of Kabankalan and Hinobaan in Negros Oriental

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 27, 2023): 303rd Infantry Brigade holds information awareness drive on deceptive recruitment of CPP-NPA to parish youth ministries of Kabankalan and Hinobaan in Negros Oriental

303rd Infantry Brigade holds information awareness drive on deceptive recruitment of CPP-NPA to thousands of parish youth ministries of Kabankalan and Hinobaan in Negros Oriental

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Kalinaw News: 4ID Troops Neutralize NPA Leader "Muling" in Ginoog City. Misamis Oriental

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 28, 2023): 4ID Troops Neutralize NPA Leader "Muling" in Ginoog City. Misamis Oriental

BREAKING NEWS: Troops of 58th Infantry Battalion neutralize top NPA leader in an encounter with communist rebels in Brgy. Libertad, Ginoog City, Misamis Oriental, on July 26, 2023. Also recovered from the casualty were one (1) AK Rifle, one (1) Cal .22 Rifle, assorted war materiel and personal belongings.

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4ID TROOPS NEUTRALIZE NPA LEADER ‘Muling’

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro – The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, through the 58th Infantry Battalion under the operational control of the 402nd Infantry Brigade, neutralized the top NPA leader of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in an encounter on July 26, 2023, in Brgy. Libertad, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental.

 
The troops of 58IB under Lt. Col. Christian C Uy figured in a 10-minute encounter against more or less 10 CPP-NPA terrorists (CNTs) under Sentro De Gravidad (SDG) MTJ Eagles of the Sub Regional Committee 1 (SRC1) of NCMRC resulting in the death of the CTG leader and capture of one (1) AK Rifle, one (1) Cal .22 Rifle and assorted war materiel and personal belongings.

402nd Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Adonis Ariel Orio identified the lone fatality during the said encounter as Dionisio Micabalo alias Muling, the Secretary of the NCMRC, whose group was responsible for the numerous atrocities and criminal activities in most parts of Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental and parts of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur.

BGen. Orio further stated that Micabalo, 61 yrs old, and a resident of Dancagan, Bukidnon, was a notorious fugitive for rebellion, double murder with frustrated murder, multiple frustrated murder and arson, and murder and violation of RA 9851. He was one of the top two NPA leaders in the area, with Myrna Sularte alias Iyay/Imang, as the Secretary of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) operating in most parts of Caraga region.

In a statement, Major General Jose Maria R Cuerpo II, Commander of 4ID, said that the demise of Micabalo will make the whole NCRMC headless that could lead to further weakening and crumbling of this criminals in Northern Mindanao region. He lauded the tireless efforts of 58IB and 402nd Brigade.

 
“After the dismantling of all seven (7) guerilla fronts under NCMRC since 2020, Micabalo is on the run, continuously evading and highly mobile to avoid capture and engagements with our troops. With his death, his criminal acts are stopped and justice is served to the hundreds of innocent victims of their crimes. This is high time and an opportunity for those remaining members to lay down their weapons and embrace the path of peace specially that our President recently issued a pronouncement to issue a proclamation granting amnesty to former rebels. With this, there is no other way but to yield and cooperate so that we can fully support the government’s effort to achieve peaceful and developed communities.”

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DIVISION PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
4TH INFANTRY (DIAMOND) DIVISION, PHILIPPINE ARMY
Camp Edilberto T Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City

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Kalinaw News: Troops of Joint Task Force Diamond neutralize notorious Mindanao NPA leader

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 28, 2023): Troops of Joint Task Force Diamond neutralize notorious Mindanao NPA leader

Troops of Joint Task Force Diamond neutralize notorious NPA leader responsible for numerous atrocities and criminal activities in Mindanao
Read: https://bit.ly/3Oxx55L

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AFP: Sulu now Abu Sayyaf-free

From the Philippine Star (Jul 28, 2023): AFP: Sulu now Abu Sayyaf-free (By Roel Pareño)

The Municipal Task Force to end Local Armed Conflict declared the Omar town Abu Sayyaf-free last week, Col. Alaric delos Santos, 11th Alakdan Division civil-military chief, said.  STAR / File

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – After more than two decades, Sulu has been cleared of Abu Sayyaf bandits, according to the military.

The Municipal Task Force to end Local Armed Conflict declared the Omar town Abu Sayyaf-free last week, Col. Alaric delos Santos, 11th Alakdan Division civil-military chief, said.

The declaration followed the surrender of the followers of slain Abu Sayyaf leader Alhabsy Misaya, who was tagged in cross-border kidnappings.

The surrenderees turned over their guns and pledged commitment to the government during a ceremony held at the town’s gymnasium in Barangay Lahing-Lahing.

Delos Santos said the towns of Maimbung, Indanan, Talipao and Patikul had earlier been declared Abu Sayyaf-free.

“Sulu is technically cleared of Abu Sayyaf bandits. To make it official, all municipalities which were previously considered as affected and influenced... each have to make their official declaration,” Delos Santos said.

The military said the surrender of the 21 followers of Radullan Sahiron in June signaled the fall of the terror group.

Delos Santos said the military is still trying to confirm reports that Sahiron had died of a lingering illness.

Seven other Abu Sayyaf bandits, including suicide bomber Mudzrimar Mundi Sawadjaan, are in the military’s order of battle.

“We can declare total victory against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu once we have neutralized Mundi Sawadjaan,” Delos Santos said.

Sawadjaan was last monitored in Basilan after escaping from Sulu.

“We are optimistic that ground troops will be able to get him because he is on unfamiliar ground,” Delos Santos said.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/07/28/2284394/afp-sulu-now-abu-sayyaf-free-?fbclid=IwAR0zYOHfLH8mNwj0a6dqc_-37_YYwmZSikIJTRYp4GDTMTIMm7-BaCj6yw8

NPA rebel slain in Sultan Kudarat clash

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 28, 2023): NPA rebel slain in Sultan Kudarat clash (By BONITA ERMAC & PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – Troops killed a New People’s Army rebel and recovered two assault rifles during an encounter in Kalamansig town, Sultan Kudarat province on Thursday, July 27.

In a statement on Friday, July 28, Lt. Col. John Paul Baldomar, commander of the 37th Infantry Battalion (IB), said the gun battle erupted after his troops chanced upon 20 NPA guerillas at about 3 p.m. in Barangay Limulan.

“A dead rebel was abandoned by his comrades who fled at the height of the 20-minute firefight,” Baldomar said, noting that there were no casualties on the government side.

He said hours earlier, the troops found an abandoned NPA lair in Barangay Limulan that could accommodate about 30 persons.

Brig. Gen. Michael Santos, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, lauded the 37th IB for their relentless campaign against those who still fight a lost cause using violence.

Santos said two M14 rifles were found after the firefight.

“We will continue to hunt the remaining NPA (rebels) in the mountains of Kalamansig,” he said.

Major Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the 6th Infantry Division (ID), has reiterated his appeal for the remaining guerillas to avail of the government’s offer for reconciliation and the opportunity to lead peaceful lives.

Since January, the 6th ID has neutralized 40 communist rebels, five of whom were arrested, 11 were killed, and 24 voluntarily surrendered.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/7/28/npa-rebel-slain-in-sultan-kudarat-clash

NPA rebel yields in Cotabato

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 28, 2023): NPA rebel yields in Cotabato (By BONITA ERMAC)

ILIGAN CITY – A New People’s Army rebel yielded to the 34th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Guiling, Alamada, Cotabato on Wednesday, July 26.

Lt. Col. Rey Rico, 34th IB commander, welcomed the surrender of alias “Joko,” a member of Squad 3, Platoon Fury, Sub-Regional Committee 5, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

Joko was presented to Brig. Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade.

Gumiran attributed Joko’s surrender to the collaborative efforts of the 602nd IBde and the 11th Brigade of the Bangsamoro Armed Forces-Moro National Liberation Front (BAF-MNLF).

Joko told the military that he surrendered because he was starving and having a hard time evading the military.

Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Western Mindanao Command chief, urged Joko’s comrades to surrender.

“It is always best to end conflicts without firing a single bullet. It is high time for them to lay down their arms and surrender for the chance of living a peaceful life with their family and loved ones."

https://mb.com.ph/2023/7/28/npa-rebel-yields-in-cotabato

DOJ chief favors localized peace talks with Reds

From the Manila Standard (Jul 28, 2023): DOJ chief favors localized peace talks with Reds

LOCALIZED peace talks would be one of the best ways to deal with communist insurgency, according to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.

Meanwhile, newly appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the death of a ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leader in an encounter with troops in Northern Mindanao would speed up the defeat of the communist insurgency.

Remulla stressed that in holding localized peace talks, the government can also “focus on what’s happening in the area so that development can also be concentrated.”

“Many of these rebel pockets are there because of underdevelopment also and lack of government attention,” he said.

“That’s why the localized peace talks can be more focused in addressing the complaints of the people who are rebelling in the areas,” Remulla pointed out.

The Justice Secretary noted that the government has named Samar, Bicol, parts of Negros, and parts of Mindanao where localized peace talks would be held.

Remulla said the communist organization is “a fractured group already.”

“Going on national talks is not what we want to do because many of them have many localized complaints about their society, about what they are fighting for in the beginning, and many of these issues have disappeared,” he explained.

He cautioned that “any attempt to an organized peace talks would just serve as a “theater for the insurgents to start raising funds again in the European Union.”

“That’s what they do and we won’t allow them to do that,” he stressed.

Earlier, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. disclosed plans to grant amnesty to persons who violated laws in the pursuit of their political beliefs.

Brawner commended the Army’s 4th Infantry Division for the successful military operation in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental that resulted in the death of Northern Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) secretary Dionisio Micabalo, also known as “Muling,” last July 26.

“As the AFP has attained strategic victory against local and communist terrorist groups with most of their armed members neutralized, those who remain are in survival mode,” Brawner said in a statement.

“This presents an opportunity for us to dismantle and defeat all remaining armed components to end insurgency and prevent their resurgence,” he added.

The military has tagged Micabalo’s group as notorious, having perpetrated atrocities criminal activities in such areas as Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental and parts of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur.

In the July 26 encounter, the troops captured one “AK rifle” along with a .22-caliber rifle and various war materiel and personal belongings.

Micabalo, 61, who hails from Dancagan, Bukidnon, was facing a string of criminal charges including rebellion, double murder with frustrated murder, multiple frustrated murder and arson, as well as violation of Republic Act 9851 or Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity.

He was considered one of the top two NPA leaders in the region, with Myrna Sularte, also known as “Iyay/Imang,” operating in most parts of Caraga Region.

Meanwhile, 4th ID commander Maj. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II commended the efforts of the 58th Infantry Battalion and the 402nd Infantry Brigade.

He viewed Micabalo’s death as a significant blow to the NPA and might lead to the weakening and disintegration of criminal groups in Northern Mindanao.

He also cited the positive impact of the government’s amnesty proclamation for former rebels, encouraging hold out NPA members to abandon violence and contribute to the region’s peaceful and prosperous development.

https://www.manilastandard.net/news/314354667/doj-chief-favors-localized-peace-talks-with-reds.html

NPA rebel killed, another surrenders

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Jul 29, 2023): NPA rebel killed, another surrenders

ZAMBOANGA. A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed while another surrendered to authorities in Central Mindanao region. The troops recover two M-14 rifles and other personal belongings of the NPA rebels as shown in this photo handout. (SunStar Zamboanga)

A NEW People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed while another NPA rebel surrendered to authorities in Central Mindanao area, the military reported Friday, July 28.

Major General Alex Rillera, Joint Task Force (JTF)-Central commander, said the NPA rebel was killed while two high-powered firearms were recovered following a clash with the troops in Limulan village, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.

“The Joint Task Force Central continues to employ more pressure on the remaining CTG members to gain more enemy strongholds and dismantle their groups,” JTF Central Commander Major General Alex Rillera said.

Rillera said the clash broke out when the troops of the 37th Infantry Battalion chanced upon a group of NPA rebels while they were conducting combat operation in Limulan village, Kalamansig.

Rillera said the firefight lasted for about 20 minutes that resulted in the death of one NPA rebel and the recovery of two M14 rifles, a grenade and a backpack of personal belongings.

Rillera said the rest of the NPA rebels have scampered to different directions.

The identity of the slain NPA was not immediately identified except that the rebels who figured in the clash belong to the Sub-Regional Committee Daguma of the NPA’s Far South Mindanao Region.

“The Joint Task Force Central continues to employ more pressure on the remaining CTG (Communist Terrorist Group) members to gain more enemy strongholds and dismantle their groups,” Rillera said.

He said the remains of the slain NPA rebel were turned over to Kalamansig Municipal Police Station for proper identification and disposition.

Lieutenant General Roy Galido, commander of Western Mindanao Command, said they will intensify the conduct of combat operations against the remaining members of the NPA.

“We still encourage the remaining members of the CTG and other threat groups to lay down their arms and start a peaceful life with their families,” Galido said.

Meanwhile, an NPA rebel identified only as Ka Joko has surrendered to the 34th Infantry Battalion in Guiling village, Alamada, North Cotabato on Wednesday, July 26.

Joko is a member of Squad 3, Platoon Fury, Sub-Regional Committee 5, of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

Brigadier General Donald Gumiran, 602nd Infantry Brigade commander, attributed the surrender of Ka Joko to the collaborative efforts of the military units under his command and the 11th Brigade of the Bangsamoro Armed Forces-Moro National Liberation Front.

Ka Joko revealed during the initial debriefing that he was starving and having a hard time evading the military forces.

“Feeling tired and weary, he decided to surrender to the government forces,” Gumiran said. (SunStar Zamboanga)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1968190/zamboanga/local-news/npa-rebel-killed-another-surrenders

Troops, Dawlah Islamiya clash in Maguindanao

Posted to the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Jul 29, 2023): Troops, Dawlah Islamiya clash in Maguindanao

ZAMBOANGA. Government troops recover high-powered firearms and other war materials after a clash during a law enforcement operation against Dawlah Islamiya (DI) terrorists in Tabungao village, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur. A photo handout shows the firearms and other war materials the troops have recovered during the clash. (SunStar Zamboanga)

GOVERNMENT troops have recovered high-powered firearms and other war materials after a clash during a law enforcement operation against Dawlah Islamiya (DI) terrorists in Maguindanao del Sur, the military reported Friday, July 28, 2023.

The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said the clash ensued while the 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB) troops and policemen were on joint operation to serve arrest warrants against DI members in Tabungao village, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur on Wednesday, July 26.

“While operating troops were approaching the targets’ location, they encountered more or less ten fully-armed personalities,” the Westmincom said.

“A short firefight ensued, after which the enemies scampered in different directions, bringing their casualties with them,” the Westmincom added.

The Westmincom identified the subject of the joint warrant of arrest operation Jaffer Mariano and Solaiman Nilong of the DI-Hassan group for murder; Russel Mamo and Zaidee Jade Nilong of the DI-Maguid group for direct assault with attempted murder; Tonto Akmad, Katendeg Mustapha, Candao Illa, and Amir Aparudo for robbery with homicide; and, Banjo Tanto and Candao Tantong Kabalo for frustrated murder.

The troops scoured the clash site and recovered high-powered firearms and other war materials.

The firearms include two caliber 7.62- millimeter (MM) rifles, one M-60 machine gun, one 5.56-mm M16A1 rifle, one 40-mm grenade launcher, one caliber .50 sniper rifle, three short and one long magazines for M16 rifle, three commercial radios, one bandolier, and assorted ammunition.

Meanwhile, the government troops have also rescued 10 civilians at the clash site. Of the 10, seven were children, while the three others were women, believed to be relatives of the DI group members.

They were turned over to the village officials of Tabungao for identification and proper disposition.

Lieutenant General Roy Galido, commander of Westmincom, said this operation is a result of the excellent cooperation between the military and police.

“We are one with our partners in preventing lawless elements from wreaking serious violence or other criminality in the communities,” he added. (SunStar Zamboanga)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1968191/zamboanga/local-news/troops-dawlah-islamiya-clash-in-maguindanao

AFP: PRESS RELEASE | Brawner to Rangers: Bring Laudable Success in Countless Operations in ending Fight Against CTGs

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Facebook Page (Jul 27, 2023): PRESS RELEASE | Brawner to Rangers: Bring Laudable Success in Countless Operations in ending Fight Against CTGs

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—General Romeo Brawner Jr, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP), reiterated to the officers and enlisted personnel of the First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR) the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to end communist armed conflict in the country this year.

In his speech as Guest of Honor and Speaker in the Change of Command Ceremony of the FSRR in Bulacan on Wednesday, July 26, the CSAFP also cited the contributions of the AFP scout rangers in strategic and tactical victories, including the defeat of high-value individuals of the communist terrorist group (CTG).

"We’ve been given an urgent mission to defeat the horizontal and vertical units of the CTG this year. This is a tall task for all of us, because they are much harder to find as their numbers go small. But let us give our everything and our best so we will be able to accomplish this task,” he added, saying that the AFP intends to go “full blast” in its efforts to shift to territorial defense next year.

Read more: https://www.afp.mil.ph/.../brawner-to-rangers-bring...
(Photos by SSg Lopez/OACPA)

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Soldiers kill top NPA leader in Northern Mindanao in Gingoog encounter

From Rappler (Jul 28, 2023): Soldiers kill top NPA leader in Northern Mindanao in Gingoog encounter (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

With the death of Dionisio Micabalo, the military says the widow of the late NPA operations chief Jorge Madlos becomes the last known remaining communist guerrilla leader still at large in Northern Mindanao

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Army troops killed the top leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Northern Mindanao as he and his companions were about to settle for the night in Gingoog, a small city in eastern Misamis Oriental near the Caraga region, the military said on Thursday, July 27.

Major General Jose Maria Cuerpo, commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said Dionisio Micabalo, alias Muling, was killed immediately when soldiers of the 58th Infantry Battalion surprised the rebels in Barangay Libertad in Gingoog City at around 5:50 pm on Wednesday, July 26.

Cuerpo said Micabalo was the only casualty in the firefight that lasted 20 minutes. He said troops were able to recover his firearm, an AK-47 selective-fire assault rifle, several magazines, and a .22 caliber rifle.

The remains of Micabalo were brought to a mortuary in Gingoog City where an autopsy was done by the PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives on Thursday.

“Micabalo was identified by his former comrades who had already surrendered. That confirmation is enough for us,” Cuerpo said.

The 61-year-old Micabalo was the secretary-general of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, the highest-ranking communist rebel leader known in the region.

He also served as a spokesperson of the NPA in Northern Mindanao, the military said.

Colonel Christian Uy, commander of the Army’s 58th Infantry Battalion, said his troops had been on the trail of Micabalo for three months after they learned the rebel leader had moved to Gingoog City in Misamis Oriental from neighboring Bukidnon province where he used to lead NPA operations.

Uy said two sections of soldiers caught up with the rebels as they set up camp in the village of Libertad, some 600 meters from a highway.

“The soldiers told me they first saw two armed women and then spotted a lone rebel leaning on a coconut tree. Subsequently, my soldiers unleashed volleys of fire, prompting the rebels to return fire, resulting in a 20-minute gun battle,” Uy said.

With Micabalo’s dead, Cuerpo said Myrna Sularte, known as alias Ka Maria Malaya and the widow of the late NPA operations chief Jorge Madlos, is the last known remaining NPA leader still at large in Northern Mindanao. Jorge, who served as the NPA’s leader, was killed by Army troops in Bukidnon on October 29, 2021.

“After the dismantling of all seven guerrilla fronts under NCMRC since 2020, it is high time and an opportunity for those remaining NPA members to lay down their weapons,” Cuerpo said.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/soldiers-kill-new-peoples-army-leader-encounter-gingoog-misamis-oriental-july-2023/

China proposes military drills with Armed Forces of PH

Posted to Panay News (Jul 29, 2023): China proposes military drills with Armed Forces of PH

The military ties between the Philippines and China go a long way, says Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

MANILA – China has proposed to hold joint military exercises with the Philippines, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said on Thursday, in an apparent effort to convey its friendship with its smaller neighbor amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

The offer was put forward by Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian during the 96th People’s Liberation Army (PLA) anniversary celebration in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday night.

“There were no details yet. They just said, ‘Let’s do something together,’” Brawner told the Inquirer. The informal proposal has yet to be studied, he added.

The military ties between the two countries go a long way, said Brawner in his remarks as guest of honor at the event.

He said the strong military relations were on full display when the PLA provided sniper rifles and ammunition that were used “intensively” during the Marawi siege, a five-month battle between government troops and Islamic State-linked militants in 2017; donated various engineering equipment that has been used for developmental efforts nationwide; and donated the first vaccines for front-liners during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, the AFP also sends military officers to China for training and education. “We will continue to send our officers to China if you continue to invite us,” he said.

The celebration at the five-star luxury hotel struck a stark contrast to often tense encounters between the two parties at sea, where Chinese vessels are known to harass Philippine ships and encroach the country’s waters.

Beijing has militarized and continues to occupy parts of the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, or the waters within the country’s 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone.

Chinese coast guard or navy vessels routinely block or shadow Philippine ships carrying out supply missions to islands in the disputed sea that host Philippine garrisons.

‘Steady progress’

However, the Chinese ambassador, in his remarks, said the PLA has been “a staunch force safeguarding world peace.” “The PLA is a peace-loving and peace-preserving army. The development and growth of the PLA is tantamount to development and growth of the forces of peace in the world,” he said.

Huang said the relations between the two militaries have made “steady progress” under the strategic guidance of President Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“China is willing to work with the Philippines to adhere to independence and good neighborliness, deepen practical cooperation in various fields, properly manage differences through consultation and dialogue, and ensure China-Philippines relations remain healthy and move steadily into the future,” he said. (Frances Mangosing © Philippine Daily Inquirer)

https://www.panaynews.net/china-proposes-military-drills-with-armed-forces-of-ph/

Armed NPA rebel surrenders

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 29, 2023): Armed NPA rebel surrenders (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

One of the remnants of the dismantled New People’s Army South East Front has surrendered on July 27, to the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7 in Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental, also turning over a caliber .38 revolver.

PCol. Dyan Vicente Agustin, RMFB 7 commander, identified him through his alias “Genie.”

Agustin said that RMFB 7 is assisting former or active rebels who are willing to surrender, in collaboration with other government agencies.

The surrender was facilitated by the 705th Maneuver Company of RFMB 7, led by PLt. Alfredo Liguayan Jr.*

https://visayandailystar.com/armed-npa-rebel-surrenders/

Army lauds PBBM’s order to lift state of emergency on Mindanao

From the Mindanao Times (Jul 27, 2023): Army lauds PBBM’s order to lift state of emergency on Mindanao (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

 

THE 10TH Infantry Division praised President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for issuing Proclamation No. 298 or “Lifting the State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.”

Business groups have been pushing to lift Proclamation No. 55, issued by former President Rodrigo Duterte, “Declaring a State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao,” due to its devastating repercussions on Mindanao’s economy and tourism.

Proclamation No. 55 was signed on Sept. 4, 2016, by former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in light of the threats of further terror attacks and other similar acts of violence by lawless elements.

One of the bases for issuing the proclamation was the Roxas Night Market bombing on Sept. 2, 2016, which killed 14 people and injured a hundred others.

Major Mark Anthony Tito, the spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said that since the declaration of the Davao Region as insurgency-free, they haven’t recorded any violent or non-violent incidents from the communist terrorist group.

Also, former guerilla bases were transformed into peaceful, developed, and progressive areas.

In a statement, the 10ID “believes that more livelihood opportunities will come with the said proclamation that will benefit even those who live in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, which is critical in sustaining an insurgency-free region.”

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2023/07/27/army-lauds-pbbms-order-to-lift-state-of-emergency-on-mindanao/

Galvez: 26,000 Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters totally deactivated by end 2023

Posted to MindaNews (Jul 27, 2023): Galvez: 26,000 Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters totally deactivated by end 2023 (By BONG S. SARMIENTO)

KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews / 27 July) – A total of 26,000 combatants of the 40,000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) would, have been deactivated this year with the resumption of the decommissioning process on August 3, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said.

MILF combatants. MindaNews file photo by BONG S. SARMIENTO

He said that 1,301 Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants would be deactivated with the resumption of the third phase of the decommissioning process, which is expected to be finished before the end of 2023.

“Once that number is decommissioned, it will complete the first, second and third phases involving a total of 26,000 [Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters],” Galvez said in Filipino in a statement issued Thursday by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU).

“Next year at sa susunod na taon, may 14,000 or 35% remaining na ide-decommission (Next year and the succeeding year, we will be decommissioning another 14,000 Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters or the remaining 35%),” he added.

Galvez gave updates for the decommissioning process during the post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) discussions attended by several government agency heads on Wednesday in Pasay City, two days after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered his SONA.

The decommissioning of Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters is part of the Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the peace agreement between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front signed in 2014 after 17 years of negotiations.

Under the normalization aspect of the CAB, members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s armed wing, will be decommissioned as key milestones of the peace agreement.

Phase 1 of the decommissioning process took place in June 2015 in the municipality of Sultan Kudarat in the then undivided Maguindanao province, following the signing of the CAB. The late President Benigno Simeon Aquino III graced the occasion. It involved 145 Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters and 75 high-powered weapons.

Phase 2 commenced in September 2019 with former President Rodrigo Duterte attending the event in the same town. It was completed in March 2020 with the decommissioning of 12,000 Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants, 2,100 assorted weapons and at least 500 ammunition.

Phase 3 started in November 2021 also in Sultan Kudarat town, involving 14,000 Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants, or 35 percent of its forces, and about 2,500 weapons.

Galvez said that the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB) is expected to complete the decommissioning process before the first election in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2025.

The first parliamentary elections in May 2022 was postponed by a law signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte. The postponement effectively extended the transition period in the BARMM until June 30, 2025, when the first set of regional officials shall have taken their oaths of office.

In his SONA, Marcos said that he is “proud of the progress that the BARMM has taken. It will be self-governing, progressive and effective.”

Galvez noted that “it’s very critical that we build on the peace gains and ensure continuing progress.”

Based on the CAB, it is the IDB, which is composed of international and local experts, that oversees the decommissioning process of Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants and weapons so that these are put beyond use.

“The partnership between the government and the MILF enabling the final leg of the Phase 3 of the decommissioning to push through serves as a testament that both sides are sincerely committed to implementing the nine-year old agreement,“ said Cesar Yano, chair of the government’s Peace Implementing Panel for the GPH-MILF peace accord.

Yano, a retired military general, said the deactivation will allow the MILF fighters to transform from “being combatants into productive members of civil society.” (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2023/07/galvez-26000-milf-fighters-totally-deactivated-by-end-2023/

Top NPA leader in NorMin killed in clash: Army

From the Mindanao Times (Jul 28, 2023): Top NPA leader in NorMin killed in clash: Army (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

SOLDIERS under the 4th Infantry Division neutralized the top New People’s Army (NPA) leader of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in an encounter in Barangay Libertad, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, on July 26.

 

Dionisio Micabalo alias Muling, 61, is killed in a clash with soldiers in Barangay Libertad, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, on July 26.

The military identified him as Dionisio Micabalo alias Muling, 61, the NCMRC secretary.

According to the report, 58th Infantry Battalion troops, under Lt. Col. Christian C Uy, clashed with more or less ten rebels for about ten minutes. The communist guerrillas reportedly belonged to the Sentro De Gravidad (SDG) MTJ Eagles of the Sub Regional Committee 1 (SRC1).

Micabalo reportedly died in the encounter.

Soldiers also recovered an AK rifle, a .22 caliber rifle, war materiel and personal belongings.

Brigadier General Adonis Ariel Orio, 402nd Infantry Brigade commander, said Micabalo was responsible for numerous atrocities and criminal activities in parts of Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Agusan del Norte, and Agusan del Sur.

Orio also said Micabalo, 61, a resident of Dancagan, Bukidnon, had standing warrants for rebellion, double murder with frustrated murder, multiple frustrated murder and arson, murder, and violation of RA 9851.

He was one of the top two NPA leaders in the area, along with Myrna Sularte, alias Iyay/Imang, secretary of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) operating in most parts of the Caraga Region.

In a statement, Major General Jose Maria R Cuerpo II, commander of the 4ID, said Micabalo’s death renders the NCRMC headless, which could weaken their rebels’ resolve and hopefully surrender to the government.

“After dismantling all seven guerilla fronts under NCMRC since 2020, Micabalo is on the run, continuously evading and highly mobile to avoid capture and engagements with our troops,” Cuerpo said.

“With his death, his criminal acts are stopped, and justice is served to the hundreds of innocent victims of their crimes. This is high time and an opportunity for those remaining members to lay down their weapons and embrace the path of peace, especially that our President recently issued a pronouncement to issue a proclamation granting amnesty to former rebels,” he added.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2023/07/28/top-npa-leader-in-normin-killed-in-clash-army/

Top NPA leader in NorthMin slain in surprise Army attack

Posted to MindaNews (Jul 28, 2023): Top NPA leader in NorthMin slain in surprise Army attack (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 28 July)—Army troops killed the top honcho of the New People’s Army in Northern Mindanao as he and his companions were about to settle for the night in Gingoog City late Wednesday afternoon.

Scene of encounter in the mountains of Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental. Inset: Dionisio Micabalo alias “Muling.” Photo courtesy of EastMinCom

Maj. Gen. Jose Maria R Cuerpo, commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said Dionisio Micabalo alias “Muling” was killed immediately when operatives of the 58th Infantry Battalion surprised the rebels around 5:50 p.m. in Barangay Libertad in Gingoog City.

He said Micabalo was the only casualty in the firefight that lasted 20 minutes. Cuerpo said troops were able to seize his firearm, an AK 47, several magazines and a caliber .22 rifle.

Micabalo’s body was brought to a local funeral parlor in Gingoog City on Thursday where an autopsy was done by the PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives.

“Micabalo was identified by his former comrades who have already surrendered. That is confirmation enough for us,” Cuerpo said.

Micabalo, 61, headed or was the secretary general of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, the military said. He reportedly figured in several events like release of prisoners of war and sometimes act as spokesperson of the rebels.

Col. Christian Uy, commanding officer of the 58th Infantry Battalion, said his troops were on the trail of Micabalo since three months ago after they learned the rebel leader had transferred to Gingoog City from Bukidnon where he used to operate.

He said two sections of soldiers caught up with the rebels as they set up camp in Barangay Libertad, some 600 meters from the highway.

“The soldiers told me they first saw two armed women and then spotted a lone rebel leaning on a coconut tree. My soldiers fired volley upon volley yet the rebels fired, ensuing a 20-minute gun battle,” Uy said.

With Micabalo dead, Cuerpo said only Ka Maria Malaya, wife of NPA leader George Madlos who was killed by Army troops on Oct. 29, 2021, remains at large among NPA leaders in the region.

“After the dismantling of all seven guerilla fronts under NCMRC since 2020, this is high time and an opportunity for those remaining members to lay down their weapons,” Cuerpo said. (Froilan Gallardo / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/07/top-npa-leader-in-northmin-slain-in-surprise-army-attack/

Philippine troops clash with pro-ISIS group

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Jul 27, 2023): Philippine troops clash with pro-ISIS group

COTABATO CITY – Security forces clashed with pro-ISIS militants while trying to capture members of the Dawlah Islamiya or Islamic State in the restive Muslim province of Maguindanao del Sur, army officials said Thursday.







Photos released by the 6th Infantry Division show the weapons recovered by security forces from a Dawlah Islamiya hideout in Maguindanao del Sur province in southern Philippines.

Lt. Col. Dennis Almorato, a spokesman for the 6th Infantry Division, said policemen, backed by soldiers, were about to serve arrest warrants on a suspected terrorist hideout against at least 10 militants wanted on various criminal charges when the gunmen attacked them, sparking a firefight in the village called Tabungao in Radjah Buayan town early Wednesday.

He said the gunmen managed to escape the 20-minute fighting. There was no report of casualties on both sides. Soldiers recovered one M60 machine gun, one M16A2 automatic rifle, one M1 rifle, a grenade launcher, a Barrette sniper rifle and assorted ammunition and radio communication sets at the hideout.

They also “rescued” seven children and three women left behind by the gunmen, according to Almorato, quoting Lt. Col. Udgie Villan, commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion, who was involved in the operation.

Almorato also said that Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, the division commander, ordered security forces to hunt down the gunmen. “Kung hindi natin sila nakuha ngayon, alam ko na sa mga susunod na araw ay mahuhuli din natin sila. Gayunpaman, malaking bagay itong pagkakasabat natin sa mga gamit sa karahasan,” Rillera was quoted as saying.

Rillera also assured the public that the military is not stopping its operation against the terrorists. “Sa mga mamamayan ng Central at South Central Mindanao, asahan ninyo na ang inyong Joint Task Force Central ay hindi titigil sa pagtugon hinggil sa usaping panseguridad. Kami ay patuloy na magsisilbing tagapagtaguyod ng kapayapaan, seguridad, at pag-unlad ng ating komunidad,” he said.

Philippine authorities have blamed the Dawlah Islamiya for the spate of deadly attacks in the South. The group is fighting for the establishment of a caliphate in the troubled region. (Mindanao Examiner)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/07/philippine-troops-clash-with-pro-isis.html

NPA downfall looms with death of another ranking leader - Brawner

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Jul 28, 2023): NPA downfall looms with death of another ranking leader - Brawner

ARMED FORCES of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Friday said the death of a ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leader in an encounter with troops in Northern Mindanao will help hasten the defeat of the communist movement.

In a statement, the AFP chief cited 4th Infantry Division troops for their successful military operation in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental that resulted in the death of Northern Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) Secretary Dionisio Micabalo, also known as “Muling,” last July 26.

"As the AFP has attained strategic victory against local and communist terrorist groups with most of their armed members neutralized, those who remain are in survival mode," Brawner said.

The AFP chief earlier claimed strategic victory against communist and local terrorist groups.

"This presents an opportunity for us to dismantle and defeat all remaining armed components to end insurgency and prevent their resurgence," he added.

Micabalo's group was notorious for perpetrating numerous atrocities and criminal activities in areas such as Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental and parts of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur.

In the encounter, troops captured one “AK rifle” along with a .22-caliber rifle along with various war materiel and personal belongings.

Micabalo, 61, who hails from Dancagan, Bukidnon, is wanted for charges including rebellion, double murder with frustrated murder, multiple frustrated murder and arson, as well as murder and violation of Republic Act 9851 or Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity.

He was considered one of the top two NPA leaders in the region, with Myrna Sularte, also known as “Iyay/Imang,” operating in most parts of Caraga Region.

Meanwhile, 4th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II commended the efforts of the 58th Infantry Battalion and the 402nd Infantry Brigade.

He said Micabalo's demise is a significant blow to the NPA and may lead to the weakening and disintegration of criminal activities in Northern Mindanao.

He also acknowledged the positive impact of the government's amnesty proclamation for former rebels, encouraging remaining NPA members to abandon violence and contribute to the region's peaceful and prosperous development. (Priam Nepomuceno)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/07/npa-downfall-looms-with-death-of.html

Troops kill 2 NPA rebels in Southern Philippines

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Jul 28, 2023): Troops kill 2 NPA rebels in Southern Philippines

DAVAO CITY - Government soldiers killed two communist rebels, one of them a senior commander of the New People’s Army (NPA), in separate clashes in southern Philippines, officials announced on Friday.

Photos released by the Eastern Mindanao Command shows the NPA weapons seized by troops after killing a senior rebel leader Dionesio Micabalo in Gingoog City.

Officials said both fighting occurred on Thursday in Gingoog City in Misamis Oriental province in northern Mindanao, and in the town of Kalamansig in Sultan Kudarat province in central Mindanao where troops mounted combat operations against the rebel group.

Army Lt. Col. Alex Mindalao, information officer of the Eastern Mindanao Command, said the clashes in Gingoog City killed Dionesio Micabalo, the NPA’s regional secretary and member of the Communist Party of the Philippines politburo.

He said soldiers were deployed to the city after civilians reported the presence of gunmen in the village of Libertad. Troops from the 58th Infantry Battalion managed to catch up with the rebels and engaged them in a running gun battle that eventually killed Micabalo.

Mindalao said there were no military casualties and that infantrymen recovered an Ak-47 assault rifle, a .22-caliber rifle and ammunition, including anti-government propaganda and six backpacks, among other items.

Mindalo, quoting Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, chief of the Eastern Mindanao Command, said: “Micabalo's group was responsible for numerous atrocities and criminal activities in most parts of Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, and parts of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur. He also had various criminal records, including double murder with frustrated murder, multiple frustrated murder and arson, murder, and violation of R.A. 9851.”

R.A. 9851 refers to the “Philippine Act on Crimes against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and Other Crimes Against Humanity.”

Almerol lauded the cooperation of civilians and the tireless dedication of troops that led to the death of Micabalo. He also offered his condolences to the family of the slain CTG leader.

“Micabalo had been on the run since the dismantling of all seven guerrilla fronts in 2020...this is part of our goal to defeat the CTG in Eastern Mindanao this year. Without him leading the way for the survival of his subordinates, their only solution is to surrender or face the same fate,” he said.

In Central Mindanao, Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, confirmed the killing of a communist rebel in a clash in Limulan village. “Troops recovered the dead body of one communist terrorist group remnant and seized two high-powered firearms following the armed confrontations in Sultan Kudarat on July 27,” he said. “The Joint Task Force Central continues to employ more pressure on the remaining CTG members to gain more enemy strongholds and dismantle their groups.”

CTG or communist terrorist group is the term used by the military to refer to the NPA, which has been fighting for many decades now to overthrow the democratic government and install a communist state in the country.

Rillera said members of the 37th Infantry Battalion and 1st Scout Rangers clashed with a group of rebels. No military casualties were reported.

“While conducting a decisive military operation in Limulan in Kalamansig town, troops of the 37th Infantry Battalion engaged an undetermined number of communist terrorist group remnants under the Sub-Regional Committee Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region. Likewise, while troops of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion were establishing a blockade, they encountered the withdrawing enemies. The firefight lasted for 20 minutes, after which the CTG remnants scampered in different directions,” he said.

“The consecutive encounters resulted in the death of one CTG remnant and the seizure of two M14 rifles with magazines and ammunition, one hand grenade, and one backpack with personal belongings,” he added.

Rillera said the operations against the NPA are continuing in the region.

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/07/troops-kill-2-npa-rebels-in-southern.html

NSC one with PBBM in protecting, upholding PH sovereignty

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 26, 2023): NSC one with PBBM in protecting, upholding PH sovereignty (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año (File photo)

MANILA – The National Security Council (NSC) on Wednesday assured it is one with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in upholding the country's sovereign rights and territorial integrity.

"We join the President in his declaration that the Philippine government will continue to uphold its sovereign rights and preserve our nation’s territorial integrity. Guided by the President, the National Task Force - West Philippine Sea will underscore the importance of unity and social cohesion among the Filipino people, assuring them that the government will not lose any of its territory," National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, who also heads the NSC, said in a statement.

Año's remarks came in response to the Chief Executive's vow to protect the country's sovereign rights and preserve its territorial integrity in his second State of the Nation Address.

He vowed that they would never waver in upholding the implementation of the 2016 Arbitral Award regarding the country's rights in the West Philippine Sea, in defense of a rules-based international order, under the Marcos administration.

"Our position is clear: The award is final and indisputable. And we firmly reject attempts to undermine it but guided by the President, we will always pursue constant dialogue and diplomatic approaches with other claimants towards the resolution of any issue that may arise," he said.

The NSC also said they support the Chief Executive's directive to relentlessly continue the fight against illegal drugs, as well as the arrest and prosecution of smugglers and hoarders.

"Towards this end, the National Intelligence and Coordinating Agency will provide actionable intelligence to law enforcement agencies to ensure that the days of these drug syndicates, hoarders and smugglers are numbered," he added.

Año hailed the President's commitment to strengthening and modernizing the police and armed forces.

"We also welcome the President’s directive to include climate change as an important criterion in our integral national policies, in planning, decision-making, up to the implementation of programs," he added.

The NSC said this is a critical component of the country’s National Security Policy 2023-2028, which he recently approved.

"We vow to continuously support the President’s aspiration of peace and progress for our country. Guided by the National Security Policy, we commit to stand behind and beside the President in his pursuit of a more peaceful, more progressive, and more united Philippines, thus attaining the aspirations of Bagong Pilipinas," he said.

"Indeed, as mentioned by the President, the Philippines and the Filipino people are now moving together toward peace and development. Abot kamay na natin ang tunay na kapayapaan at kaunlaran (genuine peace and progress are within our reach)."

The NSC also lauded the President for his continuing support for the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-ELCAC) flagship programs.

Año was referring to the Barangay Development Program, which brings much-needed development projects to barangays recently cleared of the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which supports the reintegration of rebel returnees into mainstream society.

The Chief Executive's commitment to these programs, he said, means he is truly determined to address the root causes of armed conflict in the countryside.

"We thank the President for his announcement that he will be issuing a proclamation granting amnesty to all rebel returnees as this highlights the government's commitment to achieving peace. The issuance of this presidential proclamation will be an important step to finally end communist terrorism in the country because this will pave the way for the mass surrender of the NPA remnants in the remaining guerilla fronts of the CPP-NPA-NDF," Año said.

He added that this reinforces the call of the NTF-ELCAC for the remaining armed combatants to lay down their weapons, and embrace the path to peace.

"It also makes the E-CLIP more comprehensive and engaging to the remnants of the CPP-NPA-NDF as this will help them rebuild their lives and finally contribute to our nation's development," the NSC said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206443

DND: Detailed assessment needed to determine Egay impact

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 26, 2023): DND: Detailed assessment needed to determine Egay impact (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)

MANILA – A detailed assessment is needed before the effects of Typhoon Egay can be considered minimal, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said Wednesday.

"Hindi natin mako-consider na minimal ang epekto nito kasi hindi pa tayo nagaassess ng lubusan kung ano talaga ang nangyari dito, kaya ang susunod po na mangyayari, kaalinsabay ng pagbibigay po ng tulong sa ating mga displaced na mga kababayan at masigurado pong patuloy na ligtas sila sa kapahamakan, ay magra-rapid assessment po ang mga kanya kanyang lugar kung ano po ang talagang nangyari (We cannot consider the effects yet as minimal as we are still to conduct a total assessment of what really took place during the typhoon. So what will happen now, while we are giving aid to our displaced countrymen and ensuring that they are safe from further harm, is that we will conduct a rapid (damage) assessment of all places [affected by the typhoon)] to determine what really transpired)," said Teodoro, who is also chairperson of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) in a situation briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

He said the national government can decide on "interventions" it could take to help local government units once data from the assessment of the typhoon's impact has been obtained.

The DND chief said they would be doing this while preparing for the possible effects of another low pressure area (LPA) which is being monitored by the weather bureau.

Amid response efforts on the aftermath of Egay, Teodoro said the government and all its agencies are sparing no efforts in helping communities affected by the earlier effects of the southwest monsoon and the unrest of Mayon Volcano.

This is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive that government response in all calamities must be fast and coordinated, he added.

PAF, PNP mount response efforts

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) announced that it has activated its disaster response team units (DRTUs) with equipment and vehicles as Egay battered Northern Luzon.

"The concerned Tactical Operations Wings specifically TOGs 1 and 2 are actively mobilizing their personnel and equipment, and making thorough preparations for deployment to the regions affected by ST Egay," PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said in a statement.

She also said the PAF remains committed and ready in providing assistance to all communities during these times of calamities.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said around 7,000 police officers were deployed to five regions to help in ongoing response efforts for typhoon-hit villages.

He added that these personnel were deployed in Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Mimaropa and were ordered to do various relief functions such as road-clearing, food pack distribution, and police response missions.

"So far we are happy to report that there are no criminalities reported in these areas and nagpapasalamat tayo (we are thankful for that) and I thanked all the agencies and all our police force on the ground for doing a good job," Acorda said in a press briefing in Camp Crame. (with Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206479

House panel chair eyes gov't savings to fund MUP pension

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 26, 2023): House panel chair eyes gov't savings to fund MUP pension (By Jose Cielito Reganit)

(File photo)

MANILA – Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co, chairperson of the House of Representatives Appropriations Committee, said Wednesday he and other leaders are looking at government savings to help augment the military and uniformed personnel’s (MUP) pension fund.

“Bago pa dumating ang hearings para sa 2024 national budget, hahanapan natin ng pagkukunan ng pondo ang pension ng ating mga sundalo, pulis, at iba pang uniformed personnel (Before the hearings for the 2024 national budget, we will search for sources of funds for the pension of our soldiers, policemen, and other uniformed personnel),” he said in a statement.

Computations by the House showed that the government needs PHP3.6 trillion in the next 30 years to resolve the problems of the MUP pension due to backlogs and the growing number of retirees every year.

Earlier, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez directed members of the House committees on appropriation and ways and means to find ways to raise PHP120 billion this year for the MUP pension fund.

This was after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. asked Congress to look for funds to pay the pension of the MUPs.

“Maganda ang punto ni Speaker Martin na tingnan ito bilang installment at hindi isang bagsakang gastos. Hindi na natin patatagalin ito. Sosolusyunan natin ngayong taon (Speaker Martin has a point in looking at it as an installment and not as a one-time expense. We will not prolong this any longer. We will find a solution this year)," Co said.

To stop the ballooning of the MUP pension shortfall, Co is also looking at the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) to manage the fund.

He also agreed with the President that the MUP pension fund must self-generate to avoid depleting it, by letting it earn and grow beyond 30 years.

Since 2006, the Department of Finance has advised past presidents to resolve the pension of soldiers and police officers after the shutdown of the Retirement Savings and Benefits System (RSBS) due to corruption.

In May, Marcos pushed for “self-regenerating” pension plans for both the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to avoid a scenario in which funds would be depleted.

“Mahalaga kay Pangulong Marcos, Speaker Martin, at sa akin na maalagaan ang kapakanan ng ating mga uniformed personnel (It's important to President Marcos, Speaker Martin, and myself that we take care of the well-being of our MUPs),” Co said.

During his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, Marcos said his administration is “inclusive in our pursuit of social protection.”

“The pension of the military and the uniformed personnel is as important, as urgent, and as humanitarian as that of all other civilian Filipino employees. Efforts are underway to make it fully functional and financially sustainable,” he said.

“We are once again working closely with Congress to ease the transition from the old system to the new one, so as to be able to guarantee that no effects are felt by those in the uniformed services."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206469

AFP eyes acquisition of multi-role fighters, shore-based assets

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27, 2023): AFP eyes acquisition of multi-role fighters, shore-based assets (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (Screengrab from RTVM)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is looking to acquire multi-role fighters, additional naval assets and shore-based deterrents for Horizon 3 of its ongoing modernization program.

"For the 3rd Horizon of the (AFP) modernization program we are looking at acquiring multi-role fighter aircraft, naval assets, command and control or C-2 systems, shore-based deterrent capabilities, submarines and the like," AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said during the post-State Of the Nation Address (SONA) briefing held at the Hilton Hotel Manila, Pasay City Wednesday afternoon.

Brawner said the AFP is "very fortunate" to have President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as their commander in chief as the Chief Executive is very supportive of the military's modernization program.

Horizon 3 is slated for 2023 to 2028 while Horizon 2 was from 2018 to 2022 and Horizon 1 in 2013 to 2017.

These procurement tranches are designed to acquire equipment, weapons systems and platforms geared at enhancing the external or territorial defense capability of the AFP.

Some of the platforms procured in the ongoing AFP Modernization Program include the S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters, missile frigates, close air support aircraft, air defense surveillance radars, unmanned aerial vehicles or drones, corvettes, anti-submarine helicopters, light tanks, tactical radios, amphibious assault vehicles, civil engineering equipment and modern pistols.

In line with the ongoing military upgrades, the AFP chief said that they are looking at the possibility of developing their cyber warfare capability.

"But one thing that we would like to really develop in the next (few) years is the capability for cyber warfare and this is one capability where we could excel in the AFP and we could be at par with even the modern countries," he added.

Aside from modern equipment, Brawner also said that the AFP is also focusing on the training of military personnel so that they can "really cope with the demands of the regional threats" and that they are able to use and maintain these platforms properly.

"Kailangan po nating alagaan din itong mga (we really need to take care of these) modern equipment, we have to sustain them properly," he added.

Marcos, in his second SONA last July 24, assured continued efforts to strengthen the country's police and military to ensure "strong and stable rule of law" as the foundation of the country's transformation.

"Our police and armed forces are being strengthened and modernized, to be more effective in maintaining peace and order and in defending our sovereignty," the Chief Executive said.

Also, Brawner said the AFP will also help in the propagation of the "archipelagic mindset" mentioned by the Chief Executive.

"We will help our citizens develop that mindset of patriotism, being able to defend our country from any threats whether it is manmade or natural," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206532

DND vows more upgrades to build credible defense posture for PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27, 2023): DND vows more upgrades to build credible defense posture for PH (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (Screengrab from RTVM)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) is continuing to build the "strong fundamentals of a credible defense posture" to preserve the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"The Defense Department is based on building blocks with strong fundamentals, we continue to build the strong fundamentals of a credible deterrent posture for our country, we continue the upgrades, continuing upgrades not only in our equipment but bridging the gaps between the different horizons in our modernization timeframe and the concomitant upgrading of skills of our people, both in the civilian side of the Defense Department and the five agencies," DND Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. said when asked on what is being done to achieve these goals during the post-State Of the Nation Address (SONA) briefing held at the Hilton Hotel Manila, Pasay City Wednesday afternoon.

Aside from this, he added that the DND is also working with its partner agencies in the government to maintain internal peace and stability as "territorial integrity may be subverted by outside threats through internal security challenges".

"That being said the President (Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.) also instructed us to look for non-traditional partners in alliances for upgrading our defensive capabilities and our capabilities to predict and analyze trends in order to prepare for any eventuality which may befall our country and need the use of DND resources in the future," Teodoro said.

Aside from this, the DND chief said the country is also looking for partners for the "convergence of both the economic potentials and security potentials of growth industries particularly in technology and in cyber."

Amid the emergence of "asymmetric" threats or those using unconventional strategies or tactics, Teodoro said there is a need for efficient and immediate analysis to enable quick decisions in dealing with these.

"As we know the threats to the country become more asymmetric, we need stronger, real-time and fully analyzed convergence of information from point of occurrence up to the decision-making process in as much real time as possible," he pointed out.

Also, the DND chief said efforts are now ongoing to beef up the morale of those personnel manning the defense and military establishments.

"Because the strongest factor is the human element, we also are strongly into efforts to upgrade the morale and welfare of our men and women in uniform in the DND. This includes our retirees and veterans whom we are mandated to care for. And the President's instructions are that their welfare be made paramount in our mandate to uplift the lives and to continue to care particularly of those who cannot care for themselves anymore," he added.

This includes ensuring the well-being, safety and health of the families of military personnel who are often detached due to deployments, Teodoro said.

Aside from this, Teodoro said there are now "program management and project management skills" to ensure that each and every item of equipment being acquired is integrated into a system with "synergies".

This includes ensuring that these equipment are programmed to have adequate resources for the optimal utilization of each and every item for its life cycle.

"And we are slowly getting the management practices and our resource management contracting acquisitions capabilities in order to have an optimal balance of much necessary resources at the best possible value for our people knowing that it is not cheap and defense is everybody's business," Teodoro said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206534

Decommissioning of Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants resumes Aug. 3

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27, 2023): Decommissioning of Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants resumes Aug. 3 (By Priam Nepomuceno)

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (File photo)

MANILA – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has announced the third phase of the decommissioning process of the remaining 1,301 Moro Islamic Liberation Front - Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces combatants will resume next month.

“Gusto po naming i-announce na this coming Aug. 3, mayroon po tayong 1,301 combatants ma-de-decommission para makumpleto po yung first, second, third phases na 26,000 (We would like to announce that this coming Aug. 3, 1,031 combatants will be decommissioned to complete the first, second, and third phases for 26,000)," OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said during the Post-State Of the Nation Address (SONA) Discussions held at the Hilton Hotel Manila, Pasay City Wednesday afternoon.

As of this time, Galvez said 24,000 combatants have been decommissioned based on the normalization track.

“Next year at sa susunod na taon, may 14,000 or 35 percent remaining na ide-decommission (by next year and the following year, another 14,000 or 35 percent will be decommissioned)," the OPAPRU chief said.

The Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB) is expected to complete the decommissioning process before the first election in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2025, he added.

In his second SONA on July 24, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed that he was “proud of the progress that the BARMM has taken. It will be self-governing, progressive, and effective.”

“It’s very critical that we build on the peace gains and ensure continuing progress,” Galvez said.

One of the critical steps needed is the process of decommissioning. It is among the key provisions of the Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the peace agreement between the government of the Philippines (GPH) and the MILF signed in 2014.

This step will serve as an initial key in helping former MILF-BIAF combatants successfully transition to civilian life.

Based on the CAB, the Independent Decommissioning Body is composed of international and local experts that oversee the decommissioning process of MILF fighters and weapons so that these are put beyond use.

“The partnership between the government and the MILF enabling the final leg of Phase 3 of the decommissioning to push through serves as a testament that both sides are sincerely committed to implementing the 9-year old agreement,“ GPH Implementing Panel Chair for the GPH-MILF Peace Accord retired Brig. Gen. Cesar B. Yano said.

A critical part of the Normalization track, the decommissioning process validates and verifies the identities of former combatants.

“As they complete the upcoming third phase this August, the succeeding steps will hopefully allow them to transform from being a combatant into a productive member of civil society,” Yano added.

During the post-SONA discussions, Galvez also lauded the President’s sincere efforts to further advance the Bangsamoro peace process. “Dalawang buwan after ng kanyang assumption ay nabuo niya po yung napakagandang unified Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) (Two months after he assumed the Presidency, he created the beautiful unified Bangsamoro Transition Authority)," he added.

Galvez said the Chief Executive reconciled the differences between the leaders of the MNLF and MILF and became part of the BTA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206541

State of nat'l emergency due to lawlessness in Mindanao lifted

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27, 2023): State of nat'l emergency due to lawlessness in Mindanao lifted (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

(Photo courtesy of The Official Gazette)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has lifted the declaration of state of national emergency on account of lawless violence in Mindanao, considering the improved peace and order situation in the region.

Marcos on Tuesday signed Proclamation 298, repealing Proclamation 55 issued in 2016 which proclaims the state of national emergency because of a “spate of violent and lawless acts across many parts of Mindanao.”

Proclamation 298 emphasizes that the lawless violence perpetrated by private armies and local warlords, bandits, criminal syndicates, terrorist groups, and religious extremists “have been significantly mitigated or reduced.”

“Through successful focused military and law enforcement operations and programs that promote sustainable and inclusive peace, the government has made significant gains in improving and restoring peace and order in the region,” the new proclamation said.

According to Proclamation 298, the lifting of a state of national emergency would help boost economic activity and hasten the recovery of the local economy.

A copy of Proclamation 298 was made public on Thursday.

Former president Rodrigo Duterte issued Proclamation 55 on Sept. 4, 2016 because of lawless violence in Mindanao, including abductions, hostage-takings and murder of innocent civilians, bombing of power transmission facilities, highway robberies and extortions, attacks on military outposts, assassinations of media people and mass jailbreaks.

Duterte, in issuing Proclamation 55, explained that the acts of violence exhibit the audacity and propensity of the armed lawless groups to “defy the rule of law, sow anarchy, and sabotage the government’s economic development and peace efforts.”

Proclamation 55 was also issued because of government intelligence reports about “credible threats of further terror attacks and other similar acts of violence by lawless elements in other parts of the country, including the metropolitan areas.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206575

NTF-ELCAC condemns rebels' rejection of PBBM's amnesty offer

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27, 2023): NTF-ELCAC condemns rebels' rejection of PBBM's amnesty offer (By Benjamin Pulta)

MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Thursday condemned the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) for rejecting the amnesty offer extended by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during his second State of the Nation Address.

In a statement, NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Ernesto C. Torres Jr. said the offer of amnesty is aimed at achieving lasting peace and reconciliation and will provide an opportunity for those involved in armed conflict to lay down their arms and return to the mainstream of society and contribute to nation-building.

"Their (CPP-NPA-NDF) refusal to accept the amnesty offer only shows their insincerity in pursuing peace and demonstrates their dedication to perpetuating an outdated, violent, and bloody ideology," Torres said.

The NTF-ELCAC called on remaining members and sympathizers of the CPP-NPA-NDF to reconsider their stance and embrace the path to peace.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206579

13 of 18 'resigned' generals, colonels remain in posts - PNP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27, 2023): 13 of 18 'resigned' generals, colonels remain in posts - PNP (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo (PNA file photo)

MANILA – More than half of the 18 third-level officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) whose courtesy resignations were accepted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remain in their present positions.

Speaking to reporters in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Thursday, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said 13 officials are still occupying positions while five are currently on floating status.

“Sa ngayon -- five naka-assign sa PHAU (Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit). Yun po floating status kasi wala silang designation while the remaining 13 remains occupying present positions while waiting for the decision kung sila ay ire-relieve pending processing ng resignation (So far -- five are now with PHAU. That's floating status because they have no designation while the remaining 13 are still occupying their present positions while waiting for the decision if they will be relieved pending processing of their resignations),” Fajardo said.

On Tuesday, the President accepted the courtesy resignation of the following officials for their alleged involvement in illegal drugs:

-- Brigadier Generals Remus Medina, Randy Peralta and Pablo Labra II;

-- Colonels Rogarth Campo, Rommel Ochave, Rommel Velasco, Robin King Sarmiento, Fernando Ortega, Rex Derilo, Julian Olonan, Rolando Portera, Lawrence Cajipe, Dario Menor, Joel Tampis, Michael David, Igmedio Bernaldez, Rodolfo Albotra Jr., and Marvin Sanchez.

PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. is set to meet Palace officials to clarify the fate of these officers.

“Wala pa po tayong opisyal na kopya ng dokumento na pinirmahan ng ating Presidente para tingnan yung specific na wording doon -- like kung may colatilla (We still do not have an official copy of the document signed by our President to check the specific wording there -- like if there is a colatilla),” Fajardo said.

“There was an earlier pronouncement before that once your resignation will be accepted you will be considered as optionally retired for purposes of receiving our retirement benefits. That's what we have to clarify, the status of the 18 if they are indeed included in the document signed by the President,” she explained.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. earlier called on third-level officers of the police force to submit their courtesy resignations which were screened by the National Police Commission Ad Hoc Advisory Group on their alleged involvement in illegal drugs.

The move was an offshoot of the 990-kg drug haul in Tondo Manila last year in the warehouse owned by dismissed police Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo.

The ad hoc committee, however, rejected the courtesy resignations of 935 other police officials.

Fajardo, meanwhile, said 69 cops are now facing criminal and administrative charges after they were found to have committed irregularities during the seizure of drugs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206590