Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 08/23/23

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

NPA eyed in La Libertad murder

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 22, 2023): NPA eyed in La Libertad murder

Police investigators are eyeing the New People’s Army (NPA) as allegedly behind the killing of a barangay intelligence network (BIN) member in a remote sub-village in Barangay Aya, La Libertad town, Negros Oriental early Monday.

An initial report from the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office identified the victim as Julibe Sanoy, married, and a resident of Sitio Manghuya in Barangay Aya, the farthest hinterland village of La Libertad.

Early investigation showed that unidentified heavily armed men shot the victim in the head twice inside his residence in Sitio Manghuya around 6:30 a.m.

Barangay Aya chairperson Elvin P. Gomez reported the shooting incident to the police.

Police Senior Master Sergeant Jared Oclinaria, La Libertad police station case investigator, talking in Cebuano told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that members of the town’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office proceeded to the area to retrieve the body of the victim “as we could not take any risks of a possible ambush such as what happened to police personnel in Negros Occidental recently.”

They recovered some empty shells and slugs of caliber .45 from the site, he added.

Oclinaria said they are still validating information that the perpetrators, about 10 men, were allegedly NPA members.

No motive for the shooting was also available as of posting time.

Sitio Manghuya is about 45 kilometers from the La Libertad town proper and is already at the boundary of Binalbagan, Negros Occidental.*PNA

https://visayandailystar.com/npa-eyed-in-la-libertad-murder/

Rebels seize guns, ammunition from ambush

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 22, 2023): Rebels seize guns, ammunition from ambush (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

NPA rebels presenting the high-powered guns and other items recovered from policemen they ambushed in Brgy. Minapasuk, Calatrava, Negros Occidental.* RJPC-NPA photo

The Roselyn Jean Pelle Command of the New People’s Army issued a statement that it recovered four high-powered firearms and ammunition, and other war materials and personal belongings from policemen they ambushed on August 9 in Brgy. Minapasuk, Calatrava, Negros Occidental.

In a statement, rebel spokesperson Ka Cecil Estrella said that the RJPC-NPA Northern Guerilla Front congratulated its Red fighters for staging the successful ambush that led to the death of policeman and injuries to two others.

Estrella said they were able to recover four high powered firearms, including a Galil Ace 22 N Caliber 5.56 (Serial Number x45 IWI), two Colt M-16 rifles, with another Colt M-16 rifle damaged by the command-detonated mine explosion.

An ammunition vest, 16 magazines of 5.56 mm loaded with ammunition, assorted mobile phones, identification cards and materials with intelligence value were also seized by the Red fighters at the ambush site, the statement added.

Prior to the ambush, two civilians accused as military informants were killed by rebels in the same barangay.

The RJPC-NPA claimed responsibility for the killing of Eliseo Mahilum and his uncle, Felix Resotay Sr. in Sitio Batyogon, Brgy. Minapasuk, Calatrava.*

https://visayandailystar.com/rebels-seize-guns-ammunition-from-ambush/

Rebels kill alleged military informant

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 24, 2023): Rebels kill alleged military informant (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Leonardo Panaligan Command has issued a statement claiming responsibility for the death of a civilian it alleged as a “military informant” on August 21 in Sitio Manghuya, Brgy. Aya, La Libertad, Negros Oriental.

In a statement, rebel spokesman Ka JB Regalado said it successfully carried out the imposition of the death penalty on Levy Sanoy, who they accused as an intelligence asset of the 62nd Infantry Battalion, based on the decision of the People’s Revolutionary Court.

Regalado further alleged that Sanoy was a land grabber, illegally possessed firearms, and an organizer of the “Pulahan” group in the barangay, whose members serve as force multipliers of the La Libertad Police Station and 62IB.

The victim was also alleged by the NPA to have been serving as a guide of the 62IB in the conduct of military operations in the boundary of La Libertad, Negros Oriental, as well as in Binalbagan and Isabela in Negros Occidental.

Investigations of the La Libertad PNP showed that armed men shot the victim on the head twice, inside his residence in Sitio Manghuya of the barangay.

Policemen recovered empty caliber .45 shells and slugs of from the scene of incident.*

https://visayandailystar.com/rebels-kill-alleged-military-informant/

Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Abu Sayyaf join forces in Basilan

From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 22, 2023): Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Abu Sayyaf join forces in Basilan

'Police say Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Abu Sayyaf behind deadly ambush in Ungkaya Pukan town'

BASILAN - Police in the Muslim autonomous region have linked both the Abu Sayyaf and the former rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front in a deadly attack against a convoy of security forces escorting a town vice mayor in the southern province of Basilan.

The revelation came out days after the Moro Islamic Liberation Front surrendered August 17 two of its fighters involved in the August 12 ambush of Vice Mayor Ahmadin Barahim in Unkaya Pukan town’s Ulitan village. Barahim was unhurt from the attack, but two security personnel were killed and seven other soldiers wounded in the attack.

“The victims from 64th Infantry Battalion and Joint Peace Security Team Sumisip, who are on board an AFP KM (military truck) and white Toyota Hilux vehicle (pickup truck) was ambushed by the identified 7 Moro Islamic Liberation Front-BIAF (Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces) and ASG members using assorted high powered firearms,” the regional police, under Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza, said.

“The Police Regional Office (PRO) BAR (Bangsamoro Autonomous region) collectively condemns this act of lawlessness and aggression displayed by these lawless individuals. This outraging incident which has a detrimental impact on civilian lives in the area, their safety, and well-being will not be taken lightly by this PRO,” it added.

Police said it filed murder charges and multiple murder charges against the attackers. The revelation bolstered suspicion that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Abu Sayyaf have forged an alliance in Basilan and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front is harboring the local terrorist group allied with ISIS.

“The PRO under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza assures a speedy resolution of this case. Rest assured that at the soonest possible time, all involved in this incident will be dealt with accordingly and that justice shall be served to the victims of this atrocity,” police said.

Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade in Basilan province, said the Moro Islamic Liberation Front surrendered two of the ambushers - Mudzni Sapau, 27; and Adzmin Manjapal, 20.

He said Malik Caril and Sammad Ahaddin, members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities; and Abdurahman Rajan, deputy commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front ’s 114th Base Command in the province, handed over the ambushers.

The Western Mindanao Command did not release any statement despite attempts to get information from its spokesman Maj. Andrew Linao. The motive of the attack was not made public by the army, but the town is a major stronghold of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan, one of 6 provinces under the Muslim autonomous region.

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/08/milf-abu-sayyaf-join-forces-in-basilan.html

Islamic preacher shot dead in Southern Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 22, 2023): Islamic preacher shot dead in Southern Philippines

COTABATO CITY - Police mounted an investigation into the killing of an Islamic preacher who was gunned down by a lone attacker in the southern Filipino city of Cotabato.

Police Major John Vincent Bravo said the 32-year old Mohammad Hessam Midtimbang was shot late Monday afternoon while about to board his car in downtown Cotabato. The victim was the son of Cotabato City Administrator Abdulwahab Midtimbang and the brother of Cotabato City Councilor Giuadzuri Midtimbang II.

No individual or group claimed responsibility for the murder, but Midtimbang was also a radio host for the program called “Bityala na Islam” of the Bangsamoro Darul Ifta', an Islamic advisory council which has jurisdiction over the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Midtimbang was shot multiple times and police investigators recovered shell casings fired from .45-caliber pistol. The motive of the killing is still unknown, but gun attackers are not uncommon in Cotabato where hired killers are actively operating.

Vice Mayor Johari Abu and the City Council on Tuesday condemned the killing.

“We, the members of the 17th Sangguniang Panlungsod of Cotabato City, extend our deepest condolences and condemn in the strongest terms the tragic killing of Mohammad Hessam Midtimbang on the evening of August 21, along Governor Gutierrez Avenue.”

“We are profoundly saddened by the loss of a promising life and stand united against any form of violence that threatens the peace and security of our city. Our thoughts are with the Midtimbang family during this painful time,” Abu said.

Abu also urged the authorities to swiftly investigate the murder and bring the perpetrators to justice. “Our commitment to the safety and well-being of our constituents remains unwavering,” he said. (Al Jacinto)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/08/islamic-preacher-shot-dead-in-southern.html

India assures timely delivery of BrahMos cruise missile to PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2023): India assures timely delivery of BrahMos cruise missile to PH (By Priam Nepomuceno)

TIMELY DELIVERY. India Ambassador to the Philippines, Shambhu Santha Kumaran (left), and Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (right) during their Aug. 17, 2023 meeting at DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. In this meeting, Kumaran assured Teodoro that the BrahMos cruise missile system will be delivered on time. (Photo courtesy of the DND)

MANILA – India has assured the Philippines of the timely delivery of the BrahMos cruise missile platforms which the country has acquired for its Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile (SBASM) system.

The assurance was made during the courtesy call of India Ambassador to the Philippines, Shambhu Santha Kumaran, to Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. last Aug. 17.

"Ambassador Kumaran also reassured the timely delivery of the Shore-Based Anti-Ship SBASM, which is being procured by the Philippines from BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd under the Horizon 2 of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement Tuesday night.

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

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

Three batteries of the BrahMos cruise missiles will be acquired by the country under this contract.

Lorenzana earlier said the BrahMos cruise missiles will greatly beef up the Philippine Navy's firepower, particularly the Marines' Coastal Defense Regiment, and provide counter-attack capabilities within the Philippine exclusive economic zone.

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

Both officials also agreed to elevate the level of their dialogue mechanisms in view of increasing and deepening defense and military engagements.

Andolong said the DND chief reiterated the invitation to meet with India's Minister of Defence, which may also be conducted through virtual means.

"Ambassador Kumaran encouraged strengthening cooperation on counter-terrorism, cyber security, maritime security, and other specialized training programs that could enhance capabilities of their military establishments in addressing common defense and security challenges," he said.

The DND chief also highlighted the importance of deepening collaboration among defense industries of India and the Philippines as the country is currently developing a credible defense posture.

"Ambassador Kumaran welcomed the initiative and further conveyed India's willingness to support, through line of funding or credits, the development of the Philippine's defense infrastructure, including extensive maintenance support for various projects and transfer of technology," Andolong said.

In their meeting, Teodoro and Kumaran reaffirmed their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order and strengthening relations with like-minded countries in the region.

"Ambassador Kumaran conveyed that India recognizes the Philippines' emerging role in shaping the regional security architecture in the Indo-Pacific. The Ambassador further conveyed India's support for ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) centrality and all ASEAN platforms, particularly the ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus," Andolong said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1208351

VP Sara lauds special ops forces for their bravery, heroism

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2023): VP Sara lauds special ops forces for their bravery, heroism (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

JOIINT GRADUATION. Vice President Sara Duterte attends as guest of honor during the graduation ceremony of the Philippine Naval Special Operations Command (Navsocom) at the Naval Base Heracleo Alano in Sangley Point, Cavite on Wednesday (Aug. 23, 2023). The event was a joint graduation of the SEAL Qualification Training (SQT) Class 15 and Basic Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Course (BNEOD) Class 20. (Photo courtesy of OVP)

MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte underscored on Wednesday the role of special operations forces as strong partners in securing the country's sovereignty and protecting the its democracy.

Duterte was invited as the guest of honor at the Philippine Naval Special Operations Command (Navsocom) Joint Graduation Ceremony of the Sea, Air, Land (SEAL) Qualification Training (SQT) Class 15 and Basic Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Course (BNEOD) Class 20 at Naval Base Heracleo Alano in Sangley Point, Cavite.

The Vice President described the 30 SQT Class 15 and 15 BNEOD Class 20 graduates as “the latest batch of warriors” who have undergone rigorous training that is considered as one of the toughest military selection programs in the world.

She also acknowledged the efforts of the special operations forces in advocating for national security over the past years, from rescuing hostages from terrorists and liquidating a high-ranking terrorist leader in Mindanao to raiding a narcotics laboratory in Manila.

“Truly, you have played a significant role in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other national security challenges. These displays of bravery and heroism have confirmed our faith in your capacity in dealing with modern-day threats to our national security,” Duterte said.

The importance of special operations, Duterte said, will increasingly grow as the country confronts greater threats to national security and the international geopolitical landscape continues to evolve.

“I am confident you will become invaluable assets to Navsocom and the Philippine Navy as you dedicate your skills to safeguarding our country from all foreign and domestic threats,” she added.

Instructors and staff of Navsocom were also recognized by Duterte for their commitment and hard work in preparing the graduates for a life of selfless service for the greater good of the nation.

The Navsocom is a special operations unit of the Philippine Navy that specializes in sea, air, land operations ranging from reconnaissance, close combat, demolition, intelligence and underwater operations in support of overall naval operations.

Duterte was also invited as the guest of honor of Navsocom’s 66th founding anniversary last year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1208375

DFA: PH activities in WPS not subject to any country’s approval

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2023): DFA: PH activities in WPS not subject to any country’s approval (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza (PNA file photo)

MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday reiterated that Ayungin Shoal is within the Philippines’ maritime zones and that Filipino activities in the area are not subject to any state’s approval.

The statement came after Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian on Tuesday made a comment that there had been a “special arrangement” for the delivery of humanitarian supplies to BRP Sierra Madre and that the "problem arose when the Philippines transported large-scale building materials”.

DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza did not confirm Huang's claims but said "the rotation and resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre are legitimate and routine activities in our EEZ (exclusive economic zone)”.

“The Philippines' exercise of its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction within our maritime zones is not subject to any other country’s approval. This is the norm,” she said in a statement.

The Philippine Coast Guard on Wednesday, meanwhile, denied that there was a special agreement over what kind of supplies the country can bring to Ayungin.

PCG spokesperson for West Philippine Sea Jay Tarriela echoed that Manila does not need permission from Beijing as the country has sovereign rights over the feature.

The rotation and resupply mission was able to safely deliver fresh provision supplies to the contingent manning the beached BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal on Aug. 22.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said the routine missions to the Philippine outposts on various features in the West Philippine Sea will continue “on a regular basis”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1208376

Slain Muslim in Cotabato City not a journo: PTFoMS

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2023): Slain Muslim in Cotabato City not a journo: PTFoMS (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

MANILA – The victim of another shooting incident in Cotabato City on Aug. 21 was not a member of the press but a Muslim scholar, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) clarified Wednesday.

The clarification was made following initial reports saying that the victim, identified as Mohammad Hessam Midtimbang, was a radio blocktimer and host of the Bangsamoro Darul Ifta radio program aired over Gabay Radio 97.7 FM.

Citing an updated local police report, PTFoMS executive director Paul Gutierrez said Midtimbang was not a journalist but an “ustadz” or someone who is knowledgeable on Islam laws.

Gutierrez said the victim had been invited by Gabay Radio as guest on several occasions to seek his expertise “being an acknowledged scholar and expert on Islam.”

Midtimbang was gunned down by two unidentified assailants when he was about to board his vehicle parked along Gov. Gutierrez Ave. at Barangay Rosary Heights 9 in Cotabato City past 6 p.m. on Monday.

The victim sustained at least five gunshot wounds.

Gutierrez said police are looking at politics and personal motive as “the likely reasons why Midtimbang was killed,” given that the Muslim scholar came from a prominent political family in Cotabato City.

Gutierrez condemned Monday the “senseless” act of violence and coordinated with the police and the military to expedite the resolution of the victim’s case.

During the PFToMS’ first inter-agency meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Aug. 16, there was a discussion on the definition of who constitutes “members of the media” or those considered as “media workers.”

Gutierrez said the clarification would help the task force in speeding up the resolution of all cases of violence against members of the media based on its mandate.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1208413

Congress to fix problems besetting MUP pension system - Speaker

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2023): Congress to fix problems besetting MUP pension system - Speaker (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)

MUP PENSION SYSTEM. Speaker Martin Romualdez delivers his message during the 51st Anniversary of Force Reconnaissance Group at the Headquarters of the FRG, Marine Barracks, Camp Gregorio Lim in Ternate Cavite on Wednesday (Aug. 23, 2023). He assured that Congress is working to fix the problems besetting the pension system for the Military and Uniformed Personnel. (Photo courtesy of House Press and Public Affairs Bureau)

MANILA – Speaker Martin Romualdez on Wednesday assured that Congress is working to fix the problems besetting the pension system for the military and uniformed personnel (MUP).

Romualdez gave the assurance in his message during the 51st Anniversary of Force Reconnaissance Group at the Headquarters of the FRG, Marine Barracks, Camp Gregorio Lim in Ternate Cavite.

Romualdez reported how much reform has been made to make lives better for both active and retired military personnel, highlighting that pensions will be fully funded and that the accompanying salary hikes will be guaranteed yearly under the approved substitute bill.

“I am proud to announce that the efforts of the House Ad Hoc Committee on the MUP Pension System have borne fruit,” he said.

Among the key MUP reforms include: a 90 percent maximum retirement package based on base pay for all MUP, an increase from the previous package of 85 percent for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel; an annual guaranteed salary increase of 3 percent for all MUP; and two separate pension management systems: one dedicated for AFP and another for civilian uniformed personnel.

The bill also proposes that MUPs would be required to contribute 5 percent for the first three years, 7 percent for the next three years and 9 percent thereafter for active personnel while new entrants would contribute 9 percent of their base and longevity pay for their pension.

As a counterpart, the government will chip in 16 percent for the pension of those in active service during the first three years, 14 percent during the fourth to sixth year and 12 percent for the seventh year and onwards.

The government will contribute 12 percent for new entrants.

“This revamped pension system underscores our unwavering commitment to the brave men and women in uniform. It not only provides financial security but also recognizes their boundless dedication and service to our nation,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez particularly gave credit to the Philippine Marine Corps’ Force Reconnaissance Group, whose 51-year presence has given Filipinos priceless peace of mind as security forces battle all kinds of terrorism.

“You have embodied the very spirit of dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment. It is not an exaggeration to say that the peace and security we enjoy today is largely due to your tireless efforts,” Romualdez said.

He also commended the soldiers’ “relentless pursuit of excellence, your mastery of both land and sea, and your commitment to preserving the core values of honor, duty, and loyalty set you apart.”

“In this rapidly changing global landscape, where new threats emerge as swiftly as the old ones fade, it is units like the Force Reconnaissance Group that stand as our nation's shield,” Romualdez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1208399

Maguindanao Sur village execs surrender 18 firearms, explosives

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2023): Maguindanao Sur village execs surrender 18 firearms, explosives (By Edwin Fernandez)

BIG GUNS. Local officials of Pagalungan, Maguindanao del Sur, handed over loose firearms on Tuesday (Aug. 22, 2023) to help the government in administering a peaceful and orderly Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections in October. The guns were from barangay officials and civilians unauthorized to possess firearms. (Photo courtesy of Pagalungan LGU)

COTABATO CITY – To help make the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in October peaceful, village officials in Pagalungan town, Maguindanao del Sur province voluntarily surrendered firearms and explosives to authorities on Tuesday.

A total of 18 high-powered firearms and explosives were handed over by village chairmen to Pagalungan Mayor Salik Mamasabulod who in turn gave the war materiel to Maguindanao del Sur provincial police director Colonel Roel Sermese and Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade deputy commander Colonel Neil Roldan.

This is the fourth time this year that Pagalungan local officials turned in loose firearms to the government in support of the Balik Baril program.

Mamasabulod said the officials agreed to gather unlicensed guns in the hands of unauthorized persons to help make the forthcoming BSKE in their area peaceful and violence-free.

Likewise, Pagalungan Vice Mayor Abdilla Mamasabulod said the village officials are all supporting the calls by the national government to surrender unlicensed guns.

The surrendered firearms included a 60 mm mortar tube, mortar explosives, homemade Barrett sniper rifles, M14 and M16 rifles, and ammunition.

The mayor said he expects more unlicensed guns to find their way toward the custody of proper government agencies in the coming weeks.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1208356

WESTMINCOM: Influx of BIFF surrenders in Central Mindanao continues

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 21, 2023): Influx of BIFF surrenders in Central Mindanao continues

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – August 21, 2023

Six remnants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters – Karialan Faction (BIFF-KF) laid down their arms and returned to the folds of the law in Cotabato on August 18, 2023.

Three of the six former violent extremists surrendered to the military at the 90th Infantry Battalion Headquarters in Barangay Ladtingan, Pikit, Cotabato, at 1:00 p.m. Friday.

The trio handed over two Garand riddles and one Cal .30 Barret Sniper rifle. They submitted themselves to Col. Neil Alfonso Roldan, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade; Lt. Col. Rowel Gavilanes, Commanding Officer of the 90IB; Maj. Raul Obaob, Executive Officer of the 34th Infantry Battalion; and Police Col. Argel Ancheta, Commanding Officer of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14.

Meanwhile, three more BIFF-KF remnants yielded to the Community Support Program-Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (CSP-PCVE) operators in Barangay Kabasalan, same municipality, at 5:27 p.m., the same day.

The former violent extremists handed over one M14 rifle with a magazine, one Garand rifle with a magazine clip, one Cal .45 pistol with a magazine, and assorted ammunition.

Col. Roldan attributed the influx of surrenders to the continuing CSP-PCVE efforts of the 90IB to locate and encourage the remaining members of the BIFF to return to the folds of the law and conduct a series of peace dialogues in the area.

Western Mindanao Command Chief, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, said the military’s successful implementation is a result of the collaborative efforts of the operating troops, partner agencies, local government units, and other stakeholders.

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WESTMINCOM: Communist terrorist group officers, members surrender to military in Maguindanao del Norte

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 21, 2023): Communist terrorist group officers, members surrender to military in Maguindanao del Norte

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – August 21, 2023

Four remnants of the communist terrorist group surrendered to the troops of the 57th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Mirab, Upi, Maguindanao del Norte, on August 18, 2023.

The surrendered personalities presented themselves to Lt. Col. Guillermo Mabute, Jr., Commanding Officer of the 57IB at 3 p.m. Friday. They were identified as alias Bugsay, political instructor of Sub-Regional Committee Daguma (SRC Daguma), Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR); alias Sangkay, vice squad leader of the Vertical Force of SRC Daguma; and alias Cesar and alias Jack, both members of the vertical force.

During their surrender, the former rebels handed over two M14 rifles, one Cal .38 revolver, one improvised explosive device with 20m flat cord stranded wire #18 and one blasting cap, and two magazines for M14 rifles with ammunition.

The duo was also instrumental in the surrender of certain Malakas and Justine and the recovery of two high-powered firearms after the conduct of follow-up/pursuit operations. On the other hand, Cesar and Jack were also reprojected after their surrender last September 19, 2022. They recently expressed their willingness to return to mainstream society, hence their surrender.

Surrendered CTG personalities are currently under the custody of 57IB while undergoing custodial debriefing. Meanwhile, the surrendered firearms and other war materials are deposited at the H57IB supply room for dispositive action.

Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of Western Mindanao Command, said the surrender of the four CTG remnants manifests that the government continues to win the hearts of the enemy. "This success is a result of the combined efforts of the troops, the local government units, and the populace in the joint battle against terrorism, insurgency, and any form of criminality."

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Office of the Vice Governor Hja. Nurunisah Abubakar Tan
Municipality of Pata, Sulu
BARMM Governors' Caucus - Sulu
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WESTMINCOM: Enlightened Daulah Islamiyah members yield in Lanao del Norte

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 18, 2023): Enlightened Daulah Islamiyah members yield in Lanao del Norte

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City, August 18, 2023

Two remnants of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group yielded to the troops of Joint Task Force ZamPeLan in Lanao del Norte on August 16, 2023.

The former violent extremists, identified as Abu Talha and Abu Anas, handed over one Cal .45 pistol and one Cal 9mm pistol to the 2nd Mechanized Brigade. The surrendered personalities were accompanied by Bangsamoro Transition Authority Commissioner Al-Haj Abdullah Macapaar, a.k.a. Bravo, and the representative of Munai Mayor Racma Andamama.

Surrendered personalities were presented to the 2nd Mech Bde Commander, Brig. Gen. Anthon Abrina and Department of Interior and Local Government Provincial Director, Mr. Bruce Colao, CESO V.
During the debriefing, the ex-DI members revealed that the government's programs for former outlaws and the continuous dwindling of their group convinced them to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law. They also realized that the ideologies of their group were extremely useless.

Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of Western Mindanao Command, reiterated his call to the remaining members of the Daulah Islamiyah to surrender to sustain peace in the Lanao Provinces.

Lt. Gen. Galido commended the troops for their efforts which contribute to the overall accomplishment of WestMinCom and the AFP as a whole.

The accomplishment was a result of the intensified Intelligence, Combat, and Civil-Military Operations of the military units in the area.
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WESTMINCOM: Strengthen Peace Initiatives

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 23, 2023): Strengthen Peace Initiatives

Tabiawan, Isabela City, August 23, 2023 — A momentous collaborative effort unfolded as soldiers, police personnel, and members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) came together for a transformative 3-day Joint Verification Group (JVeG) Training. The training was organized under the auspices of the Joint Body on the Management of the Arms and Forces (JBMAF) led by distinguished figures: Col. Noel Buncab PN (M) of the AFP Peace and Development Office, PLTC Heinrich Alafriz of the PNP Peace Process and Development Center, and Ms. Maricon Sagayno of the MNLF Peace Process Office of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU).

Taking place from August 15 to 17, 2023, at the Headquarters of the 101st Infantry Brigade in Barangay Tabiawan, Isabela City, Basilan, the training marked a significant stride in fostering collaboration and understanding among diverse stakeholders.

The participants were immersed in a dynamic program encompassing workshops, interactive discussions, and simulation exercises meticulously crafted to amplify their proficiencies in facilitating the transition of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) combatants through the MNLF Transformation Program. This comprehensive program aims to cultivate socio-economic stability, elevate security measures, foster confidence-building, and initiate the vital processes of community healing and reconciliation for former MNLF combatants.

The successful execution of this training was achieved through the dedicated coordination of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity, under the stewardship of Brigadier General Buenaventura Pascual (Retired), Co-Chairperson of the Peace and Security Sub-Committee, OPAPRU; Joint Task Force Basilan, led by Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon; and the Office of the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Civil-Military Operations of Western Mindanao Command, directed by Col. Wendell Basat.

For his part, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of Western Mindanao Command, commended the OPAPRU for initiating the conduct of this kind of activity. “Trainings such as this are crucial in keeping the actors abreast of how to do better to ensure the success of their mission.”

According to Lt. Gen. Galido, the activity was a good venue for confidence-building and patching of wounds that had long been healed but still keep on piercing. “I am personally overjoyed that this initiative promises the speedy delivery of goods to the people and communities.”

This collaborative endeavor stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of all parties involved in pursuing lasting peace, unity, and prosperity for the region.