Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events: 10/02/23

Monday, October 2, 2023

Most wanted person arrested in Isabela

From the Manila Times (Sep 27, 2023): Most wanted person arrested in Isabela (By Leander C. Domingo)

THE Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Police Regional Office in Cagayan arrested a suspect included in the national top most wanted persons list for violating the election gun ban in Isabela province, PRO2 officials said on Tuesday.

The CIDG said the suspect, identified only by his aliases as Bang, Poktong and Frank, is facing multiple cases and has a P380,000 reward from the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

The suspect was arrested in Echague town in Isabela for violation of the gun ban under the Omnibus Election Code and illegal possession of explosives under Republic Act 9516.

He has also been tagged by the intelligence community as the secretary of the New People's Army's Komiteng Rehiyon Cagayan Valley in Isabela.

The CIDG said two arrest warrants were also served on him for murder and robbery cases.

Authorities also confiscated from him an M16 A1 rifle and an AK-47 with defaced serial numbers; an M16 A2 POF-USA model-P-415 rifle with serial number 150188; five M16 rifle magazines; 54 live ammunition for M16 rifle; four AK-47 magazines; 99 rounds of AK-47 ammunition; two hand grenades; a grenade rifle; a binocular; and other personal belongings.

An alleged cohort, identified as Alias Ferdy, was also arrested for the violation of Presidential Decree 1829 or Penalizing Obstruction of Apprehension and Prosecution of Criminal Offenders during the police operation.

BGen. Christopher Birung, PRO2 director, lauded the arresting forces for the successful operation which he said is a big step in suppressing insurgency and criminality in the region.

"I believe that the apprehension of Alias Bang will weaken the anti-government troops in Echague town and their nearby areas of operation," Birung said.

He said the police will never cease to exert its best effort to put an end to the insurgency problem in Region 2.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/09/27/regions/most-wanted-person-arrested-in-isabela/1911954

Military hunts 19 remaining NPAs in Zamboanga Peninsula

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 30, 2023): Military hunts 19 remaining NPAs in Zamboanga Peninsula (By: Leah D. Agonoy)

INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — The Army has assured mountain resort operators in Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental of their safety amid recent encounters with communist rebels in the area.

Lt. Col. Nolasco Coderos Jr., commander of the Army’s 97th Infantry Battalion, said the armed encounters in the last few days in Sergio Osmeña and Piñan towns were due to the New People’s Army guerrillas being constricted by intensified military operations, and not due to a harassment operation.

Coderos explained that the rebels were running away from their lairs in Misamis Occidental’s side of the sprawling Malindang mountain range and had strayed into Piñan and Osmeña towns.

This gave his soldiers the opportunity to chase after the rebels who then engaged in a firefight in a bid to buy time for an escape.

Lt. Col. Jose Andre Monje, commander of the 10th Infantry Battalion operating in Misamis Occidental, said they have counted 12 remaining rebels in the province, indicating their radically weakening state.

Over at Zamboanga del Norte, Coderos said only seven rebels are trying to maintain holdouts there.

The boundaries of the two provinces host what remains of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines, said Coderos.

The reduction of rebel presence in the area has given rise to eco-tourism destinations around Mt. Malindang.

Lawyer Orlando Salatandre, president of the Mt. Malindang Tourism Federation, expressed gratitude to the efforts of the military in ensuring the safety of the tourism destinations, saying their continued operation creates jobs and other economic opportunities in the communities, hence helping address poverty.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1839114/military-hunts-19-remaining-npas-in-zamboanga-peninsula

2 ‘gun dealers’ slain in Sultan Kudarat shootout

From the Philippine Star (Sep 27, 2023): 2 ‘gun dealers’ slain in Sultan Kudarat shootout (By John Unson)

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Two suspected gun dealers were killed in a shootout with law enforcers in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat on Monday.

Brig. Gen. Jimili Lopez Macaraeg, Soccksargen police director, identified the fatalities as Abdullazis Bukakong and Alimudin Tayan.

Macaraeg said suspects opened fire when they sensed that they had sold two sniper rifles to policemen who posed as buyers in Barangay Didtaras.

The Lambayong police said Bukakong was a member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters while Tayan belonged to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/09/27/2299233/2-gun-dealers-slain-sultan-kudarat-shootout

Terrorist group member killed in clash with troops in Maguindanao

From Malaya Business Insight (Sep 26, 2023): Terrorist group member killed in clash with troops in Maguindanao (By Victor Reyes)

A MEMBER of the terrorist group Daulah Islamiyah-Hassan Group was killed in a clash with government troops in Maguindanao del Sur, the military reported.

The military added an M14 rifle, an M79 rifle, a cal. 45 submachine gun, two improvised explosive devices, radio, two cellphones, and personal belongings were recovered.

Lt. Col. Ronaldo Mamangun, commander of the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion, named the slain terrorist as Mermo Mling.

Troops from the 40th IB were conducting a combat operation when they clashed with Mling and his companions at 6:28 a.m. in Sitio Mayan, Barangay Labu-labu II in Datu Hoffer town.

The fight continued in Barangay Poblacion in Ampatuan, also in Maguindanao del Sur, where the terrorists fled.

During clearing operations, troops recovered the remains of Mling, the war materiel and the personal belongings of the encountered terrorists.

Pursuit operations are ongoing against the fleeing members of the group, headed by Nasser Guinaed.

Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, commended the soldiers involved in the successful operation.

“Your soldiers will always be vigilant to ensure that our countrymen, the innocent civilians will be protected from the violence of this terrorist group,” said Rillera.

The Daulah Islamiyah-Hassan Group, one of the terrorist groups operating in central Mindanao, is blamed for numerous atrocities, including bombings.

https://malaya.com.ph/news_news/terrorist-group-member-killed-in-clash-with-troops-in-maguindanao/

20 more former terrorists undergo livelihood training

From the Philippine Star (Oct 1, 2023): 20 more former terrorists undergo livelihood training (By John Unson

The 20 former terrorists who underwent livelihood training in Lanao del Sur last week are from different towns in the province. Philstar.com / John Unson

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Twenty more former enemies of state in Lanao del Sur underwent a farming skills training to hasten their reintroduction to mainstream society after a long involvement in violent religious extremism and acts of terror.

After successfully completing the Agricultural Crops Production National Certificate III Skills Training in Bubong, Lanao del Sur, the 20 former members of Dawlah Islamiya and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters received an initial support of P11,260 each from the Bangsamoro government on Friday.

“We appreciate the activity because it complemented our efforts to transform these former members of groups that are engaged in terrorism into productive citizens respectful of the Philippine government,” Army Major Gen. Steve Crespillo, commander of the Army’s Western Mindanao Command, said Sunday.

The WestMinCom has jurisdiction over military units in Lanao del Sur and in the five other provinces of the Bangsamoro region — Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

The livelihood training for the 20 Maranaos that lasted for a week was part of the Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit, or “Project Tugon,” of the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Project Tugon, led by MILG-BARMM, helps former extremists return to their communities after leaving groups that promoted hatred for non-Muslims and the government.

Records from the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and WestMinCom indicate that 634 former members of the Abu Sayyaf, the Dawlah Islamiya and the BIFF had been assisted by the MILG-BARMM via its Project Tugon in the past eight months.

The 20 men trained in modern farming last week, whose names were withheld for security reasons, had earlier received relief support from BARMM’s Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence contingent, operating under the supervision of BARMM Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo.

The Dawlah Islamiya, the BIFF and the Abu Sayyaf have a reputation for attacking the families and relatives of members who have pledged allegiance to the government.

Sinarimbo said the MILG’s provincial offices shall soon provide more former violent religious extremists who have surrendered in recent months with humanitarian and livelihood support.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/10/01/2300422/20-more-former-terrorists-undergo-livelihood-training

PNP chief lauds wounded commandos

From the Manila Times (Sep 29, 2023): PNP chief lauds wounded commandos (By Al Jacinto)

ZAMBOANGA CITY: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Benjamin Acorda flew to this southern Filipino city on Thursday and visited wounded police commandos whose unit clashed with an Abu Sayyaf fighter in Sulu province.

Acorda pinned medals to the wounded commandos at a hospital where they were recuperating following last week's fighting in the village of Seit Higad in Panamao town, where police forces eventually killed Muksidal Jumadil.

PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda salutes a policeman who was wounded while performing his duty in Sulu’s Panamao town. PNP PHOTO

The wounded commandos, all members of the 7th Special Action Battalion, were rushed to hospital. Among the wounded were a captain and two of his lieutenants.

Police forces were sent to the remote town to serve an arrest warrant on Jumadil at his hideout after villagers tipped off authorities about his presence.

But Jumadil, armed with an automatic weapon, opened fire on the commandos, sparking a fierce battle.

Jumadil was wanted for a string of murders in Sulu, but no other details about his Abu Sayyaf past were made available by the authorities except for the murder of a woman, Nurdija Aminuddin, whom he brutally killed and decapitated in the town of Luuk.

The slain suspect was also linked to illegal drugs.

Acorda said he was ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to visit the commandos and awarded them the prestigious "Medalya Ng Kadakilaan" (Heroism Medal) and "Medalya Ng Sugatang Magiting" (Wounded Personnel Medal) in recognition of their valor and sacrifice.

He also provided the commandos with an undetermined amount of money as financial aid.

Police released the names of the wounded as Capt. Nolie Agmaliw, Lt. Jhorlino Rico Apal, Lt. Earl Abbdurajan 3rd, Pat. Lionel Suarverdez, Pat. Edison Ray Paris and Cpls. Reymir Subion, Lindo Macua, Oliver Alviar and Andres Dalang.

Acorda praised the heroism and bravery of the wounded commandos.

"While we salute the valor of our personnel, the safety of our colleagues is our paramount concern. Tayo ay palagiang mag-ingat lalo na sa mga notorious individual na katulad ni Jumadil na sumugat sa ating mga kasamahan. Iisa lang ang ating buhay, kaya ito'y ating pahalagahan at pakakaingatan para sa ating pamilya," he said.

Many of the Abu Sayyaf leaders in Sulu had been killed in military and police operations, and their members surrendered in the past years to avail of the government's amnesty program.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/09/29/regions/pnp-chief-lauds-wounded-commandos/1912273

Joint Task Force 'Orion' to go after ASG remnants

From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 28, 2023): Joint Task Force 'Orion' to go after ASG remnants (By MARTIN SADONGDONG)

The Western Mindanao Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines unveils the flag of newly-created Joint Task Force "Orion". (Photo by WestMinCom)

A new task force created by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will run after the remnants of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Mindanao.

Joint Task Force (JTF) "Orion" was formed by the AFP's Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) following the deactivation of JTF "Basilan" and JTF "Sulu", WestMinCom commander Maj. Gen. Steve Crespillo said in a statement on Thursday, Sept. 28.

"The Higher Headquarters provided us an opportunity to reconfigure and reorganize our forces in Sulu and Basilan as the need for specialized, highly coordinated, and adaptive military units has become paramount," Crespillo said.

According to Crespillo, JTF Orion is a "multi-service, multi-domain task force organized to address and provide unity of command in confronting the remnants of the Abu Sayyaf Group."

It is also tasked to urge peace-inclined armed groups (PIAGs) "to support and participate in the implementation of various government peace programs through peace process mechanisms."

The newly-activated task force has operational jurisdiction over the provinces of Basilan and Sulu, and will be headed by Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, concurrent commander of the 11th Infantry Division (11ID).

Since the ASG's inception in 1989, the AFP said it has made significant strides in eradicating the threat of the Jihadist militant group in the country, which is evident with the absence of related terror activity in the past couple of years.

The group was notorious for carrying out bombings, kidnappings, extortion activities, and assassinations.

The AFP has since shifted its attention to external defense following the "success" of its internal security operations against ASG and other local threat groups.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/9/28/joint-task-force-orion-to-go-after-asg-remnants

Sulu’s reformatory center for ex-Abu terrorists nearly finished

From the Philippine Star (Sep 28, 2023): Sulu’s reformatory center for ex-Abu terrorists nearly finished (By John Unson)

The P25 million worth reformatory center building in Barangay Langub in Patikul, Sulu is expected to be fully completed by November this year. Philstar.com / John Unson

COTABATO CITY — Officials are looking forward to an easier reintegration to society of hundreds of former Abu Sayyaf members in Sulu via a P25 million worth reformatory center now being constructed in the province.

Army Major Gen. Steve Domin-ong Crespillo, commander of the military’s Western Mindanao Command, on Wednesday said that they are grateful to the local government ministry of the Bangsamoro government for the project.

“It is essential to the efforts of the military and the Philippine National Police to make these former enemies of state become productive for them to thrive in peace in their barangays in Sulu,” Crespillo told reporters.

Crespillo said that the office of Bangsamoro Local Government Minister Naguib Gani Sinarimbo bankrolled the construction of the reformatory center in Barangay Langhub in Patikul, Sulu.

Patikul, one of the 18 towns in Sulu, was the scene of deadly clashes between Abu Sayyaf terrorists and pursuing policemen and soldiers from the 1980s until 2020.

Planners in the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on Wednesday said that they are expecting the P25 million worth building done completely in about six more weeks.

Sinarimbo, who is also overseeing BARMM’s quick reaction Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence contingent, said that the facility shall function as a center for religious reorientation and livelihood education for Abu Sayyaf members who have returned to the fold of law.

The office of Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Mahail Tan, Sr., chairman of the multi-sector provincial peace and order council, and the municipal governments under his administration had worked out the surrender of 518 Abu Sayyaf terrorists and supporters in the past three years, according to records from the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

Brig. Gen. Allan Cruz Nobleza, director of PRO-BAR, said that the reformatory center being built in Patikul will hasten the reintroduction to the local communities of now reforming former Abu Sayyaf terrorists.

He said PRO-BAR is grateful to the MILG-BARMM for having provided in recent months some towns in Sulu with new police station buildings and patrol cars that are needed in their community projects in far-flung areas that were once hotbeds of Abu Sayyaf activities.

In a session early this month, the Sulu peace and order council declared the province “Abu Sayyaf free” through a resolution based on extensive assessments by local government units and peace-advocacy groups helping the Tan administration maintain law and order in the province.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/09/28/2299673/sulus-reformatory-center-ex-abu-terrorists-nearly-finished

Ex-Abu Sayyaf now a soldier after completing Army training

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep30, 2023): Ex-Abu Sayyaf now a soldier after completing Army training (By: Leah Agonoy)

Major General Antonio Nafarrete | PHOTO: Leah Agonoy

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — A former member of the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf who surrendered to the government is now a full-fledged member of the Philippine Army.

Major General Antonio Nafarrete, commander of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, said that one of the 363 newly minted soldiers who completed their training at the Camp Cesar Sang-an in Labangan town last Tuesday is a former Abu Sayyaf fighter.

The former Abu, whose identity he kept under wraps for security reasons, surrendered to the authorities, and after a series of processing, qualified to join the Army, Nafarrete said.

The 363 graduates of the Candidate Soldier Course Class 773-2023 | PHOTO: Leah Agonoy

Nafarrete said there were already a number of surrenderees who joined the military ad one way to “provide livelihood, and a better future for them and their families (so they can) live a new and better life.”

He added that it is also a means of encouraging those who joined the Abu Sayyaf and fight against the government to surrender.

“And those who wanted to join the military are welcome. They do not have better opportunities in the past, one reason they were successfully recruited. We don’t discriminate, for those who wanted to join the military, for example you are an NPA rebel and you abandon the mountain lairs, and you are qualified, you can join the military,” Nafarrete emphasized.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1839116/ex-abu-now-a-soldier-after-completing-army-training

WESTMINCOM: Military continues campaign against loose firearms in Tawi-Tawi

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 2, 2023): Military continues campaign against loose firearms in Tawi-Tawi

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 2, 2023

The military’s intensified campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms continuously bears positive results as three more civilians handed over their loose firearms on September 29, 2023.

Brig. Gen. Romeo Racadio, Commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade, said that the personnel from the 212th Marine Company under the Marine Battalion Landing Team 12 successfully facilitated the voluntary surrender of loose firearms and ammunition at 212MC headquarters in Barangay Poblacion, Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi on Friday morning. Surrendered firearms include two M1 Garand rifles, one Cal .45 pistol with magazine, one KG9, and 16 rounds of live ammunition for M1 Garand rifle. The owners of the loose firearms are all residents of Sitio Ponduhan Pangutaran, Barangay South Larap, same town.

“This accomplishment exemplifies the effectiveness of our conduct dialogues and security forums to convince the local populace to surrender their loose firearms, adhere to the government’s Election Gun Ban, and support the Small Arms and Light Weapons program,” Brig. Gen. Racadio added.

The surrendered firearms and ammunition were temporarily kept at H212MC while waiting for the formal turnover to the higher headquarters.

Western Mindanao Command Chief, Maj. Gen. Steve Crespillo said the military’s mission is to keep the communities safe and secure. “Firearms are the root causes of violence; hence, we are working doubly to curb the proliferation of loose firearms. Rest assured that we will continue to bolster our efforts to eradicate these tools of violence and maintain peace and order in the communities in our area of operation.”

“We also strengthen the implementation of the campaign to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections come October 30,” Maj. Gen. Crespillo added.

#SupportOurTroops
#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach
Office of the Vice Governor Hja. Nurunisah Abubakar Tan
Municipality of Pata, Sulu
BARMM Governors' Caucus - Sulu
Maimbung Municipal Government
Ministry of Interior and Local Government- SULU
Sulu Police Provincial Office
Jolo Municipal Government
LGU Parang Sulu
Municipality of Patikul Sulu
Governor Ann K. Hofer
Divina Grace C. Yu
Province of Lanao del Norte
Mayor Charlotte Dumanjug-Panal
Province of Maguindanao Del Norte
Provincial Government of Cotabato
City Government of Cotabato
City Government of Dapitan
City Government of Iligan
John Dalipe - Page
Tawi-Tawi Provincial Government
Bangsamoro Government
Governor Yshmael "Mang" I. Sali of Tawi-Tawi
City Government of Zamboanga
LGU Mahayag Public Information
Pagadian ZamboSur
IGMAT Labangan
Mdrrmo Dimataling Zds
LGU-Dimataling Agriculture Office
Municipal Government of San Pablo Zamboanga del Sur
Municipality of Kumalarang, ZDS
I Love Yu Distrito Dos Zambosur
LGU Lake Wood Tourism, Culture & Arts
1st Infantry "Tabak" Division, Philippine Army
6th Infantry "Kampilan" Division, Philippine Army
JTF Zamboanga
54th Engineer "Sarangay" Brigade, PA
Naval Forces Western Mindanao

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=342325441800170&set=pcb.342328331799881

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/

WESTMINCOM: 3 communist terrorist group personalities apprehended in South Cotabato

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2023): 3 communist terrorist group personalities apprehended in South Cotabato

3 communist terrorist group personalities apprehended in South Cotabato

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – September 27, 2023

Soldiers apprehended three communist terrorist group personalities at Sitio Kangko, Barangay Lamlahak, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, on Saturday afternoon, September 23, 2023.

The three CTG personalities were identified as Bryan Dusa, a.k.a. Bornok, 28 years old, single; Arnold Itum, 24, married; and Phaizal Layol, 23, married, all couriers and members of the Regional Operations Command, Far South Mindanao Region.

Soldiers from the 5th Special Forces Battalion were conducting decisive military operations when they chanced upon the trio at the location mentioned. Apprehended personalities are under the custody of the battalion for dispositive action.

Western Mindanao Command Chief, Maj. Gen. Steve Crespillo commended the men and women of Joint Task Force Central for their numerous accomplishments. He also attributed the military’s successes to the collaborative efforts of the armed forces, partner agencies, stakeholders, and the peace-loving people of Mindanao.

#SupportOurTroops
#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach
Office of the Vice Governor Hja. Nurunisah Abubakar Tan
Municipality of Pata, Sulu
BARMM Governors' Caucus - Sulu
Province of Sulu
Maimbung Municipal Government
Ministry of Interior and Local Government- SULU
Sulu Police Provincial Office
Jolo Municipal Government
LGU Parang Sulu
Municipality of Patikul Sulu
Governor Ann K. Hofer
Divina Grace C. Yu
Province of Lanao del Norte
Mayor Charlotte Dumanjug-Panal
Province of Maguindanao Del Norte
Provincial Government of Cotabato
City Government of Cotabato
City Government of Dapitan
City Government of Iligan
John Dalipe - Page
Tawi-Tawi Provincial Government
Bangsamoro Government
Governor Yshmael "Mang" I. Sali of Tawi-Tawi
City Government of Zamboanga
LGU Mahayag Public Information
Pagadian ZamboSur
IGMAT Labangan
Mdrrmo Dimataling
LGU-Dimataling Agriculture Office
Municipal Government of San Pablo Zamboanga del Sur
Municipality of Kumalarang, ZDS
I Love Yu Distrito Dos Zambosur
LGU Lake Wood Tourism, Culture & Arts
LGU Labangan
1st Infantry "Tabak" Division, Philippine Army
6th Infantry "Kampilan" Division, Philippine Army
Alakdan Division
JTF Zamboanga
54th Engineer "Sarangay" Brigade, PA
Naval Forces Western Mindanao

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=339133445452703&set=a.273716101994438

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/

WESTMINCOM: Local terrorist neutralized, war materials seized in Maguindanao del Sur clash

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 27, 2023): Local terrorist neutralized, war materials seized in Maguindanao del Sur clash

Local terrorist neutralized, war materials seized in Maguindanao del Sur clash

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – September 27, 2023

A local terrorist group member was killed in an encounter in Maguindanao del Sur on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

While conducting a clearing operation at Purok 2, Poblacion, Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, troops of the 40th Infantry Battalion encountered more or less five Daulah Islamiyah-Hassan Group members early morning Saturday. The firefight lasted about two hours, after which the enemy withdrew toward the northeast.

Operating troops pursued the fleeing enemies, resulting in another armed confrontation at Sitio Mayan, Labu-Labu II, Datu Hoffer, same province, at about 7 a.m., same day. The 20-minute firefight resulted in the death of one DI-HG member and the recovery of assorted war materials. No casualty was reported on the government side.

Soldiers scoured the encounter site and recovered the cadaver of the slain DI-HG member, identified as Mermo Mling.

Also recovered were the following war materials: one M14 rifle, one M79 rifle, one Cal .45 Sub-Machine Gun, two improvised explosive devices (IED), one magazine for Cal .45 SMG, one Baofeng commercial radio, two analog phones, one green shirt, and one pair of slippers.

Operating troops continue the decisive military operations in the area.

“We once again urge the remaining members of the different threat groups to join us in the peaceful resolution of conflicts. It is better to win peace without loss of life,” Western Mindanao Command Chief, Maj. Gen. Steve Crespillo said.

The WestMinCom Commander said that the armed forces remain steadfast in countering the terroristic activities of the remnants of the different threat groups in the central and western parts of Mindanao.

#SupportOurTroops
#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach
Office of the Vice Governor Hja. Nurunisah Abubakar Tan
Municipality of Pata, Sulu
BARMM Governors' Caucus - Sulu
Province of Sulu
Maimbung Municipal Government
Ministry of Interior and Local Government- SULU
Sulu Police Provincial Office
Jolo Municipal Government
LGU Parang Sulu
Municipality of Patikul Sulu
Governor Ann K. Hofer
Divina Grace C. Yu
Province of Lanao del Norte
Mayor Charlotte Dumanjug-Panal
Province of Maguindanao Del Norte
Provincial Government of Cotabato
City Government of Cotabato
City Government of Dapitan
City Government of Iligan
John Dalipe - Page
Tawi-Tawi Provincial Government
Bangsamoro Government
Governor Yshmael "Mang" I. Sali of Tawi-Tawi
City Government of Zamboanga
LGU Mahayag Public Information
Pagadian ZamboSur
IGMAT Labangan
Mdrrmo Dimataling
LGU-Dimataling Agriculture Office
Municipal Government of San Pablo Zamboanga del Sur
Municipality of Kumalarang, ZDS
I Love Yu Distrito Dos Zambosur
LGU Lake Wood Tourism, Culture & Arts
LGU Labangan
1st Infantry "Tabak" Division, Philippine Army
6th Infantry "Kampilan" Division, Philippine Army
Alakdan Division
JTF Zamboanga
54th Engineer "Sarangay" Brigade, PA
Naval Forces Western Mindanao

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=339151832117531&set=pcb.339159338783447

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/

WESTMINCOM: WestMinCom reorganizes forces to focus on emerging challenges

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 28, 2023): WestMinCom reorganizes forces to focus on emerging challenges

WestMinCom reorganizes forces to focus on emerging challenges

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – September 28, 2023

The Western Mindanao Command deactivated two of its joint task forces to capacitate its forces to sustain the campaign set by Higher Headquarters and focus on the emerging challenges in internal security and territorial defense in its area of operation.

WestMinCom Commander, Maj. Gen. Steve Crespillo spearheaded the deactivation of Joint Task Forces Basilan and Sulu at Camp Teodulfo Bautista, Busbus, Jolo, Sulu, on Monday, September 25, 2023.

“The Higher Headquarters provided us an opportunity to reconfigure and reorganize our forces in Sulu and Basilan as the need for specialized, highly coordinated, and adaptive military units has become paramount,” Maj. Gen. Crespillo said.

With the deactivation of JTFs Sulu and Basilan, a new milestone in WestMinCom history unfolds as it activates Joint Task Force Orion, a multi-service, multi-domain task force organized to address and provide unity of command in confronting the remnants of the Abu Sayyaf Group and in compelling the peace-inclined armed groups (PIAGs) to support and participate in the implementation of various government peace programs through peace process mechanisms.

JTF Orion has operational jurisdiction over the provinces of Basilan and Sulu. Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, the commander of the 11th Infantry Division, was designated as the concurrent commander of the newly activated task force.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Joint Task Force Basilan Commander, Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon and other military officers and personnel.

During his visit to Sulu, Maj. Gen. Crespillo also paid a courtesy call to Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan at the Provincial Capitol. Maj. Gen. Crespillo expressed his gratitude to Governor Tan and the provincial government of Sulu for their unfailing trust and support to the armed forces, then and now.
“Good governance and strengthened collaboration bore positive results in our campaign against terrorism in Sulu. Our efforts led to the decline of the Abu Sayyaf Group and the promise of socio-economic development in the province,” Maj. Gen. Crespillo said.

Gov. Tan pledged continued support to WestMinCom as it endeavors to address the remaining threats in Sulu.

The WestMinCom Commander also boosted the morale of troops during his visit to the headquarters of the 1101st, 1102nd, and 1103rd Infantry Brigades from September 25 to 26. The commanders of the three brigades presented their unit briefings to Maj. Gen. Crespillo during his visit to their respective unit. The WestMinCom Commander also gave his guidance to the troops.

In his visit to Sulu Maj. Gen. Crespillo was accompanied by Col. Franklin Fabic, the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Intelligence; Col. Rogelio Gabi, the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Operations; and Col. Wendell Basat, the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Civil-Military Operations.

#SupportOurTroops
#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach
Office of the Vice Governor Hja. Nurunisah Abubakar Tan
Municipality of Pata, Sulu
BARMM Governors' Caucus - Sulu
Maimbung Municipal Government
Ministry of Interior and Local Government- SULU
Sulu Police Provincial Office
Jolo Municipal Government
LGU Parang Sulu
Municipality of Patikul Sulu
Governor Ann K. Hofer
Divina Grace C. Yu
Province of Lanao del Norte
Mayor Charlotte Dumanjug-Panal
Province of Maguindanao Del Norte
Provincial Government of Cotabato
City Government of Cotabato
City Government of Dapitan
City Government of Iligan
John Dalipe - Page
Tawi-Tawi Provincial Government
Bangsamoro Government
Governor Yshmael "Mang" I. Sali of Tawi-Tawi
City Government of Zamboanga
LGU Mahayag Public Information
Pagadian ZamboSur
IGMAT Labangan
Mdrrmo Dimataling Zds
LGU-Dimataling Agriculture Office
Municipal Government of San Pablo Zamboanga del Sur
Municipality of Kumalarang, ZDS
I Love Yu Distrito Dos Zambosur
LGU Lake Wood Tourism, Culture & Arts
LGU Labangan
1st Infantry "Tabak" Division, Philippine Army
6th Infantry "Kampilan" Division, Philippine Army
JTF Zamboanga
54th Engineer "Sarangay" Brigade, PA
Naval Forces Western Mindanao

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=340463215319726&set=pcb.340463241986390

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/

WESTMINCOM: Government forces apprehend 27 communist terrorists in South Cotabato

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 29, 2023): Government forces apprehend 27 communist terrorists in South Cotabato

Government forces apprehend 27 communist terrorists in South Cotabato

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – September 29, 2023

Soldiers apprehended a total of 27 communist terrorists in the series of decisive military operations in South Cotabato from September 23 to 25, 2023.

Operating troops of the Joint Task Force Central conducted decisive military operations in response to information about the enemy’s presence in Barangays Lamlahak and T’kunel, both of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.

Seized from the CNT’s possession were eight commercial Baofeng radios.

Military personnel turned over the apprehended personalities to Mr. Rudy Tomas, Barangay Chairman of T’kunel, and the Lake Sebu Municipal Station for filing of appropriate charges.

Maj. Gen. Steve Crespillo, Commander of Western Mindanao Command, commended Joint Task Force Central for the successful operations against the enemies of the state. “Rest assured that we will continue to work hard to prevent the terror group remnants from creating havoc in peaceful communities.”