NPA blamed for 34 civilian deaths in Negros

From the Visayan Daily Star (Oct 11, 2023): NPA blamed for 34 civilian deaths in Negros (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

PCpl. Dennis dela Cruz Nacis, who was among those injured in an ambush encounter in Brgy. Minapasuk, Calatrava on Aug.9, receives financial assistance from PBrig. Gen. Sidney Villaflor, regional police director of Western Visayas, at Camp Martin Delgado in Iloilo City.* PNP photo

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division reported that the New People’s Army perpetrated 51 violent incidents in Negros Island alone, from 2022 up to August 9 this year, which resulted in the death of 34 civilians, five Army soldiers, three former rebels, four barangay officials, and a police officer.

Of the 34 slain civilians, 22 were suspected as military informants, according to a military report.

Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, who yesterday attended a press briefing organized by the National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City, noted that almost all the killings were claimed by the New People’s Army, as published in their social media accounts.

Edralin noted that the increase in numbers of civilians being liquidated also came in the wake of increased encounters between NPA remnants and Army soldiers, where many rebels died, including their leaders.

According to Edralin, their admission of responsibility for killings of alleged military informants form part of the NPA propaganda to prove that they still exist, despite the debacles they suffered in sustained military focused operations of the Philippine Army, the general said.

Aside from killing innocent civilians, Edralin also reported the ongoing purging of suspected military informants among the rank and file of the NPA.

“It shows how frustrated they are, on their current situation,” he added.

Military records further showed that eight heavy equipment and cargo trucks were burned by the NPA

In a statement distributed by the 3ID during the NTF ELCAC press briefing, it said that atrocities perpetrated by the NPA led to losing of millions of pesos in investments by their respective owners, and delays in the completion of infrastructure projects that could have helped alleviate the lives of the people, especially those in far flung areas.

But most importantly, the family of the victims of NPA atrocities have long been seeking justice for the death of their loved ones, it added.

In his speech, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson urged Negrenses in conflict with the law to consider their path.

“The cycle of violence, the destruction of civilian properties, and the loss of innocent lives only deepen the wounds of our society and hinder the progress we collectively work for,” Lacson said.

He expressed his concern, especially the state of children involved in the armed conflicts who find themselves caught in the crossfire of doctrines and ideologies that may not yet fully understand.

“Our role is to work tirelessly for their safety, wellbeing, and a hopeful future”, Lacson said.

He also called upon stakeholders to bring an end violence and conflict, as well as cultivate an environment where dialogue and understanding can overcome hostility.

Maj. Gen. Marion Sison recently met with San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, to ask for his support in the Philippine Army’s peace and development efforts in Negros Island, which Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas, 302nd Infantry Brigade commander, said he will also duplicate in Dumaguete City.

Representatives of the Commission on Human Rights, Department of Interior and Local Government, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Philippine National Police, RTF 6 ELCAC, Calatrava Mayor Marilyn Era, and Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda reiterated their pledge to support the whole nation approach in ending the more than five decades of insurgency problem in the area of Visayas.

Of the five NPA guerilla fronts in Negros Island, the 3ID reported that it has dismantled three, while the two remaining ones have been categorized as “weakened.”

As of the third quarter of 2023, the NPA has still an estimated 53 combatants, with 197 firearms, according to the report.*

https://visayandailystar.com/npa-blamed-for-34-civilian-deaths-in-negros/

AFP chief thanks Congress for defense support

From the Visayan Daily Star (Oct 12, 2023): AFP chief thanks Congress for defense support

Speaker Ferdinand Romualdez and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (l-r, center) during their recent visit to Pag-asa Island*

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. has expressed his gratitude to the House of Representatives led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez for recognizing the need to strengthen the nation’s defense resources after their visit to Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea Thursday.

During a press conference held Thursday night at the Manila Golf and Country Club in Makati City, Brawner praised Romualdez for his commitment to bolstering national security, which is crucial for supporting the AFP’s mission in safeguarding the country’s interests in WPS.

“The name of the game in the (WPS) is effective presence. It means whoever is there has control of that specific area,” Brawner said, as he underscored the symbolism of Pag-asa Island as a representation of Philippine sovereignty and rights.

Brawner expressed his enthusiasm for Romualdez’s invitation to visit Pag-asa and pointed out significant improvements on the island, such as the transition from a dirt runway to a concrete one, the introduction of electricity, and expanded facilities, including an enhanced port for local fishermen.

“Well, of course, that makes me feel very happy. In fact, I’m happy that the speaker invited me to come with him to Pag-asa. This is my third time to visit the island, Pag-asa Island. And the last time I was there, the runway, the surface of the runway was still dirt. But this time when we landed, we landed on concrete. It was very nice. It was extended. And I also saw that there was electricity already in the area. The last time I was there, there was no electricity,” Brawner said.

However, Brawner cited the ongoing need for development not only on Pag-asa Island but also on the other Filipino-occupied features in the WPS.

He disclosed that the AFP is actively seeking increased funding from Congress to enhance infrastructure and living conditions for military personnel and locals.

In response, Romualdez expressed deep appreciation to Brawner and reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ unwavering support for the AFP.

“Maraming salamat to the Chief of Staff and the men and women of the (AFP). You make us very proud and help is on its way. We have no less than the House leadership and the appropriations chairman (Zaldy Co of Ako Bicol partylist) there, and we saw for ourselves how important the service and the sacrifice you all do out there for us in Kalayaan,” the Speaker said in the same press conference.

The leader of the 300-plus strong legislative chamber expressed his appreciation for the crucial role played by the AFP in ensuring the security and success of the House’s mission to Pag-asa Island.

“We are so happy and proud to have no less than our Chief of Staff, Gen. Romeo Brawner, accompanying us throughout the day. We felt secure and relaxed,” the Speaker said.

Romualdez even suggested the island’s potential as a resort due to the sense of security it offers, enhanced by the sight of a Philippine naval vessel on the horizon.

The House chief also noted the paramount importance of the Kalayaan Group of Islands, of which Pag-asa Island is an integral part, within the Philippine territory.

Meanwhile, Speaker Romualdez acknowledged the collective efforts of the personnel from the AFP and various government agencies during the visit.

“You will be proud to see what everyone is doing there for the Philippines, everyone —the men and women in uniform and services, and the residents there, they are true heroes because as the Chief of Staff said, that is in the furthest most point, ang layo na nga eh. We are all the way out, out there at the edge literally,” Speaker Romualdez said.

The trip to Pag-asa Island also included House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe, House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, and House Appropriations Committee Chairman Zaldy Co.*

https://visayandailystar.com/afp-chief-thanks-congress-for-defense-support/

PH, US naval ships hold anti-submarine drills in Southern Luzon

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 10, 2023): PH, US naval ships hold anti-submarine drills in Southern Luzon (By Priam Nepomuceno and Connie Calipay)

MANILA – Naval ships of the Philippines and the United States held anti-submarine warfare (ASW) drills during the ongoing "Exercise Samasama" in the waters of Southern Luzon.

"To enhance the ASW capabilities of the participating Navy ships, an expendable mobile anti-submarine warfare training target (EMATT) was used to mimic the acoustic signature of submarines, enabling the naval forces to practice and refine their ASW tactics," Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NFSL) public affairs office chief Lt. Kim Paulo Lopez said in a statement late Monday.

Some of the naval ships participating in "Exercise Samasama", which runs from Oct. 2 to 13, include the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) and the US Navy's USS Dewey (DDG-105).

The ASW drill is part of "Exercise Samasama's" three-day sea phase that started over the weekend.

Other exercises that took place include the "communications check" between USS Dewey and shore-based units of the US Marine Corps to verify if sensors and communication systems of the participants are operational.

"Subsequently, Navy ships conducted the maritime domain awareness (MDA) exercise as the initial scenario prior proceeding to the visit board search and seizure (VBSS) exercise conducted by the joint boarding force from the PN provided by BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902) and from the USN," Lopez noted.

During the MDA, Navy ships performed the appropriate protective formation while understanding the maritime domain, vessel movements and environmental conditions.

"MDA exercise was participated by US P-8 and PN King Air C-90 aircraft to demonstrate the sharing of information for maritime security. After detecting a vessel of interest, the joint boarding team of the PN and the USN boarded the designated vessel of interest to conduct the proper boarding process in adherence to international legal standards," Lopez added.

After the VBSS exercise, USS Dewey and BRP Antonio Luna performed replenishment at sea approaches with supply ship USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE-8).

"The ship’s crew was able to familiarize their taskings in their particular stations, and the conning officer was able to maneuver the ship accordingly during the approach to USNS Schirra. In addition, other Navy ships performed passage exercises that developed mutual understanding and cooperation, as well as command, control, and communication among the Navy ships," Lopez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211468

AFP chief eyes more mobile, powerful brigade combat teams

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 10, 2023): AFP chief eyes more mobile, powerful brigade combat teams (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (PNA photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) plans to create more brigade combat teams (BCTs) as it shifts its focus to territorial defense.

In a recent interview with reporters, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said these BCTs are "highly mobile" units and "combined arms" in composition which means that it would have its own artillery, armor, transport and other attached units to make it more effective in the field.

It will also be bigger than a brigade which traditionally consists of around 1,500 to 2,500 personnel.

"Combined arms yan, so highly mobile, so isa sa Luzon, isa sa Visayas, isa sa Mindanao (It will be combined arms, and it will be highly mobile. One will be deployed in Luzon, one in the Visayas, and one in Mindanao)," Brawner said.

He added these BCTs are envisioned as the "quick response" units of territorial forces based in these islands. Two more BCTs are being eyed to be formed next year to augment the 1st BCT that formed some five years ago and is now operating in Mindanao.

The 1st BCT is an infantry-heavy unit but is augmented by armor, artillery and other assets, making it more effective than regular Army units.

Brawner also said that one of the proposed BCTs will be armor heavy and this will be deployed in Luzon, while those in the Visayas will be made highly mobile as its area of operations consists of many islands.

"Yung pupunta sa Visayas dapat highly mobile siya na pwede syang mag-cross sa mga islands (the BCT that will be deployed in the Visayas will highly mobilize to allow its units to cross islands)," the AFP chief said.

Also, these BCTs will also be equipped with anti-armor and anti-craft missiles like the FGM-148 "Javelin" and FIM-92 "Stinger" to allow these units to operate in the modern battlefield.

Brawner said these proposed weapons are borne out of lessons of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211476

Army exec scores militant group over lies on nabbed Reds in Mindoro

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 10, 2023): Army exec scores militant group over lies on nabbed Reds in Mindoro (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – A ranking official of the Philippine Army (PA) has scored militant group Karapatan for spreading lies on the recent capture of three New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Oriental Mindoro and for using the issue to amass money through an “alert-surface-donation-release” (ASDR) scheme.

“Mga sinungaling kayo, mga mandurugas (you are liars, scammers)," Brig. Gen. Randolph Cabangbang, 203rd Infantry Brigade chief, said during the online conference Monday of the Integrated Communications Office Center (ICOC), the media bureau of National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed (NTF-ELCAC).

NTF-ELCAC spokesperson and ICOC head and director-designate Joel Sy Egco also lambasted Karapatan for duping the public for calling the captured rebels – Alia Encela, Peter del Monte and Job David – as “IP (indigenous people) advocates.”

“They are fake IP advocates. Hindi nga nila (three rebels) alam na IP advocates sila. Ang alam nila ay NPA sila (not even the three rebels know that they are IP advocates, they know they are NPA members)," he added.

Cabangbang echoed Egco's remarks, saying that even the three were stunned when they learned Karapatan called them IP advocates.

Egco said Karapatan and other "communist terrorist groups" use the “ASDR” template not only to generate funds to aid terror activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and NPA, but also as a tool to recruit from the youth sector as young as junior and senior high school students and out-of-school youth (OSY) from vulnerable communities.

“The three are not aware they’re IP advocates,” Cabangbang said, urging the public not to support the donation campaign of the insurgents.

He said the three NPA rebels were not abducted, presenting a video of the location where Encela, del Monte and David were captured in a legitimate military operation on Oct. 3 in Sitio Malaglag, Barangay Lisap in Bongabong town.

The three NPA rebels are charged with the violation of Republic Act 8294, or illegal possession and manufacture of explosive devices, a non-bailable offense.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211481

No set area yet but PH-Aus joint sail in SCS to proceed - envoy

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 10, 2023): No set area yet but PH-Aus joint sail in SCS to proceed - envoy (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

JOINT SAIL. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong speaks at a press conference on Tuesday (Oct. 10, 2023) in Adelaide, Australia. Wong reaffirmed that Australia would continue to help enhance the Philippines’ maritime capabilities through technical training, activities on the monitoring and protection of oceans and provision of new equipment to the Philippine Coast Guard. (Screengrab from Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade)

MANILA – The Australian and Philippine governments have yet to disclose details on their upcoming joint sail in the South China Sea but Australia's envoy assured that the activity is going to proceed.

“We're not making an announcement on when but the intention remains as the leaders announced for a joint sail in the West Philippine… in an appropriate maritime location (that) is yet to be announced,” said Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong in a press conference on Tuesday.

The future joint sail will come as Manila and Canberra seek increased engagements as strategic partners in the region.

Wong reaffirmed that Australia would continue to help enhance the Philippines’ maritime capabilities through technical training, activities on the monitoring and protection of oceans and provision of new equipment to the Philippine Coast Guard.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Wong met for the 6th Philippine-Australia Ministerial Meeting in Adelaide to discuss a wide range of issues, including law and justice, trade and investment, development, and security and defense.

During the meeting, Manalo said the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea “remains a foremost regional concern”.

“I reaffirmed the Philippines' unwavering commitment to a rules-based international order and adherence to international law especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the final and binding 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award,” he said.

He thanked Australia anew for backing the award, adding that Manila and Canberra as maritime nations ”share a commitment to preserving freedom of navigation and overflight and upholding the rule of law” in the area.

The Philippines, China and several other coastal states have overlapping territorial claims over the South China Sea.

Beijing continues to reject the UNCLOS-based arbitration award insisting on its claims over the vast trade route, including the country’s waters within the West Philippine Sea.

There had also been a number of instances when the China Coast Guard harassed and attempted to block Philippine ships resupplying the troops stationed at the grounded BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, a feature located within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

In a separate statement dated Oct. 9, the Chinese Foreign Ministry accused the Philippines of making “provocations and creating troubles at sea” and urged it to “stop groundless attacks and smears”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211478

AFP denies China’s claims of driving away PH Navy ship in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 10, 2023): AFP denies China’s claims of driving away PH Navy ship in WPS (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Tuesday called as "propaganda" China's claims that its Coast Guard has driven a Filipino naval vessel away from the Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

"Although pinapa-verify pa rin namin, wala namang ganun na nangyari so sa tingin ko propaganda lang ng China yun, galing sa Beijing yun, di ba? (Although we are still verifying the incident, it seems nothing of the sort took place. So, it seems to be propaganda coming from China)," he said in an interview with reporters.

Earlier, the China Coast Guard announced that it had driven away a "Philippine Navy (PN) gunboat" after they spotted it intruding into the waters adjacent to Huangyan Island (Chinese name for Scarborough Shoal).

Scarborough Shoal is known in the Philippines as Bajo de Masinloc and Panatag Shoal.

Brawner said the PN has no presence in the Scarborough Shoal, adding that the PN's presence is located south of this feature.

"Nandun tayo sa south, sa baba, maski nga nung pinutol natin yung obstacle walang Navy dun eh, Coast Guard lang (Our naval presence is down south, even in the location where we cut the obstacle (floating barrier). Only the Coast Guard is there)," he added.

Brawner also said China is doing this bit of propaganda to show that they are doing something.

He said if there was indeed a PN ship in the area, they would never allow it to be driven away.

PN ship challenged but continued mission

Brawner, in a separate interview, said subsequent verification indicated that a PN ship which he did not identify was in the vicinity of Scarborough Shoal.

He added that the ship, which was doing maritime patrol at around 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, was challenged by the China Coast Guard but it continued with its mission.

"Binerify namin meron tayong Navy ship dun sa vicinity ng Bajo De Masinloc pero ang mission nya is maritime patrol, so umaandar sya, ngayon nandun yung Coast Guard ng China, tsinallenge, oo, ngayon itong Navy naman ship tuloy-tuloy lang kasi hindi naman tinaboy(We verified and we found out that we have a Navy ship at the vicinity of Bajo De Masinloc, its mission was maritime patrol, so it was streaming and there was the China Coast Guard and it was challenged, but it just proceeded on its mission)," the AFP chief said.

Brawner also maintained that the PN ship was not driven away and still maintained his stand that China's earlier claim was propaganda.

He also said that at the time of the challenge, the PN ship and the Chinese Coast Guard vessel were far away from each other.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211492

South Korea bats for stronger defense ties with PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2023): South Korea bats for stronger defense ties with PH (By Priam Nepomuceno)

CLOSER PH-ROK DEFENSE TIES. Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (right) presents a token to Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to the Philippines Lee Sang-Hwa (left) during the latter’s introductory call at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday (Oct. 10, 2023). Lee said South Korea is eyeing stronger defense industry cooperation with the Philippines, whose military forces are currently undergoing modernization. (Photo courtesy of the AFP)

MANILA - South Korea is eyeing stronger defense industry cooperation with the Philippines, whose military forces are currently undergoing modernization.

This was emphasized by Lee Sang-Hwa, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, during his introductory call to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday.

“Defense industry cooperation goes deeper. It should be based on long-held trust. We are confident that there will be a stronger collaboration,” the South Korea diplomat said in a statement.

Lee also highlighted the longstanding friendship between the Philippines and South Korea, as he expressed his hopes of strengthening collaboration among like-minded nations and making more contributions to the Philippines’ endeavors to promote a free Indo-Pacific.

South Korea has been a major player in the ongoing AFP modernization program, and is instrumental for supplying the 12 FA-50PH light jet fighters which the Air Force has been using for air defense and other missions.

Its shipyards also provided the Navy with its first two missile frigates which are being utilized for maritime patrols off the West Philippine Sea. Two more corvettes and six offshore patrol vessels are expected to be delivered within the next three to five years.

Meanwhile, Brawner said the AFP is honored with the visit of the South Korean diplomat.

“We are indeed very honored that you came to visit us. It goes to show the importance and value that you give to the AFP and the relationship of our Armed Forces,” he said. “The AFP is also willing to work with our allies and partners."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211557

'Balikatan' 2024 to shift focus to maritime drills – Brawner

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2023): 'Balikatan' 2024 to shift focus to maritime drills – Brawner (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (PNA photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The 2024 iteration of the annual "Balikatan" exercises between Filipino and American forces will be more focused on maritime or naval drills, compared to past editions which are more land-based or infantry intensive, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said.

And due to its more naval orientation, participants for next year's "Balikatan" are placed at 16,000 personnel or much lower than the 17,767 participants in its 2023 iteration, the AFP chief told select reporters in a recent interview.

"Dahil nag-shift tayo ng focus sa maritime, hindi na ‘yun manpower intensive. Dati kung Army, land-based, ang daming tropa yan. Ngayon, pag shift ka ng maritime, yung barko hindi mo naman pwedeng dagdagagan ng tao, kung ano lang yung talagang crew nya, kailangan yun lang (Because we have shifted our focus on maritime exercise, that is not manpower intensive. Unlike if it is land-based or Army, there’s a lot of troops involved. Now, if you shift to maritime, you cannot add additional personnel to the ships, which have a fixed number of crewmen)," Brawner said.

He said some of the possible maritime drills for next year's "Balikatan" include naval gunnery, anti-submarine drills, resupply at sea, and helicopter landing drills or flight deck exercises.

The 2023 iteration of "Balikatan" was held on April 11 - 28, and is considered the biggest in the 38-year history of the joint exercises.

AFP assets used include the newly-acquired ATMOS 155mm self-propelled howitzers, 105mm howitzers, S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopters, Embraer A-29 "Super Tucano" attack planes, FA-50 jet fighters, T-129 "Atak" helicopters, SF-260 light bombers, AW-109, and MD-520MG light attack helicopters, missile frigates, and landing docks.

Among the highlights are the sinking of the decommissioned World War II BRP Pangasinan (PS-31) which was sunk by combined Filipino and American forces off Zambales last April 26.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211556

AFP: No Chinese-built structures off Scarborough Shoal so far

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2023): AFP: No Chinese-built structures off Scarborough Shoal so far (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Wednesday said they have yet to detect signs that China is building any structures in Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) off the province of Zambales.

"Well sa ngayon, wala naman pong mga (Chinese) structures dun sa Scarborough Shoal (as of now, there are no structures in Scarborough Shoal)," Brawner said in an interview with Radyo Pilipinas.

Last month, the China Coast Guard (CCG) placed a 300-meter floating barrier near the entrance of Scarborough Shoal which was then cut by the Philippine Coast Guard upon orders of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Brawner said Scarborough Shoal is part of Philippine territory, contrary to claims made by China.

"We are insisting na hindi sa kanila yan at nasa exclusive economic zone (EEZ) natin yang area na yan Bajo de Masinloc o yung Scarborough Shoal (We are insisting that the area is not theirs and Bajo De Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal, it is located in our EEZ," he added.

Brawner said the AFP has the right to patrol in the country's EEZ as part of its mandate.

Earlier, the AFP chief dismissed claims that a Philippine Navy (PN) ship was driven off by the CCG while doing a maritime patrol near the vicinity of Scarborough Shoal.

While admitting that the PN vessel was challenged by the CCG, Brawner noted that the Filipino naval vessel was not chased and continued with its mission.

Naval ships in 'Exercise Samasama' hold drills

The PN said Wednesday the missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) and US Navy guided-missile destroyer, USS Dewey (DDG-105) held a gunnery exercise (GUNNEX) as part of the ongoing "Exercise Samasama" on Tuesday.

This drill is part of the seagoing phase of the maneuvers, it added.

Target acquisition and engagement were practiced during this exercise, the PN said.

"While, BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902) ensured that the GUNNEX area was clear from other vessels and safe for firing naval guns. Ship’s crew of both navies occupied their respective stations in preparation for engaging the inflatable target 'killer tomato' deployed by DDG-105," it said in a statement.

The PN said BRP Antonio Luna fired its Aselsan SMASH 30mm secondary gun and .50 caliber machine guns while the USS Dewey used its 25mm Mk38 autocannon and .50 caliber machine guns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211573

Negrenses urged to stand united vs. NPA atrocities

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 10, 2023): Negrenses urged to stand united vs. NPA atrocities (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

TESTIMONY. Loremie Camilan, widow of Staff Sgt. Ken Camilan, who was gunned down by New People’s Army rebels during a reconnaissance operation in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, in November last year, gives testimony during the press conference of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City on Tuesday (Oct. 10, 2023). Atrocities of the CPP-NPA have claimed 38 lives, including civilians and soldiers, in Negros Island since February last year. (PNA photo by Nanette L. Guadalquiver)

BACOLOD CITY – Top government and military officials urged Negrenses to stand together against the atrocities of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), which have claimed 38 lives, among them civilians and soldiers, in Negros Island since February last year.

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), led the call during the press conference of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol here Tuesday.

Lacson, who chairs the PTF-ELCAC, called on the stakeholders to “bring an end to violence and conflict and cultivate an environment where dialogue and understanding can overcome hostility.”

“The cycle of violence, the destruction of civilian properties, and the loss of innocent lives only deepen the wounds of our society and hinder the progress we collectively work for,” he added.

Sison said government troops are working hard to protect the people of Negros as the CPP-NPA claimed those atrocities.

“Put yourselves in the shoes of the families of the victims. It is very traumatic, very painful,” he said.

Sison pushed for enhanced local peace engagements among the local chief executives and barangay officials and for strengthened TF-ELCAC as “the most potent instrument to end the insurgency.”

“Not only the military and the Philippine National Police solution is needed to maintain peace and security, but the whole-of-government approach,” he added.

Data from the 3ID showed 11 victims of NPA atrocities in 2022, including former rebels, paramilitary men, barangay officials, and suspected informants.

This year, 27 more were killed, including a policeman, former rebels, paramilitary men, civilians, and several suspected informants.

Widows of a 47th Infantry Battalion soldier and a suspected informant, whose spouses were gunned down by communist rebels, gave testimonies on the grief experienced by their families.

“Every soldier has a family, and when they are compromised in the line of duty, it leaves a part that can never be filled. It is only by striving for peace and cooperation that we can hope to prevent further loss and suffering on all sides, where life is being valued and protected,” said Loremie Camilan, wife of the late Staff Sgt. Ken Camilan.

Rochie Negrido Resotay, wife of farmer Eliseo Resotay, said her two-year-old daughter lost a father because of the violence perpetrated by the NPA.

“They also took his money, which came from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp., that would have been used to buy fertilizer. Stop killing civilians. It is painful to think you took my husband’s life easily,” she said in the Cebuano dialect.

Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, commander of the 3rd Infantry Brigade based in Murcia, Negros Occidental, said the communist groups operating in Negros have “shown complete disregard for human life.”

“We have presented evidence and information that clearly highlights the atrocities committed by these terror groups. It is our duty to shed light on these crimes and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.

The Army official, however, said the government forces cannot win the battle alone.

“I urge the people of Negros Island to stand united against these communist-terrorist groups. Report any suspicious activities, offer information that could aid our operations, and most importantly, refuse to be intimidated by fear,” he added.

Other officials who attended the press conference were Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda; Calatrava town Mayor Marilyn Era; Col. Leo Pamittan, director of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office; Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas, commander of 302nd Infantry Brigade; Teodora Sumagaysay, provincial director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government; Lemwel Casas, deputy provincial director of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency - Western Visayas; and Vincent Parra, officer-in-charge of the Commission on Human Rights - Negros Occidental.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211533

Viscom: Over 500 community projects aid downfall of CPP-NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 10, 2023): Viscom: Over 500 community projects aid downfall of CPP-NPA (By John Rey Saavedra)

WHOLE-OF-NATION APPROACH. The Visayas Command, headed by Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, discusses the gains in the fight against insurgency during a command conference at their headquarters in Camp Lapulapu, Cebu City on Monday (Oct. 10, 2023). Arevalo said 569 community development projects implemented through the Barangay Development Program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict helped the military in its ongoing campaign. (Photo courtesy of Viscom-PIO)

CEBU CITY – The Visayas Command (Viscom) on Tuesday said 569 community development projects in central Philippines’ 16 provinces immensely contributed to the impending complete downfall of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, Viscom chief, said the projects hatched through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-ELCAC) Barangay Development Program (BDP) aided the military to further neutralize communist leaders, most of whom surrendered to authorities.

“We have sustained our gains and prevented the CPP-NPA from regaining their foothold in the region. We will continue our relentless focused military operations to further push the terrorist group to their imminent collapse,” he said on the sidelines of a command conference at the Viscom headquarters here late Monday.

Arevalo said 263 of the BDP in the Visayas were programmed in 2021 while 306 were in 2022.

He disclosed that cases filed against NPA rebels include recruitment, killings, use and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines, destruction of civilian properties, and use of children in armed conflict.

“The CPP-NPA’s reign of terror in the region is nearing its end. Their leaders continue to fall and their members continue to return to the fold of the law,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211518

BRP Davao del Sur reinforces PH fleet in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 10, 2023): BRP Davao del Sur reinforces PH fleet in WPS (By Izza Reynoso)

DECK VIEW. The BRP Davao del Sur docks at Puerto Princesa City, Palawan for a month-long deployment that will boost patrol in the West Philippine Sea. The warship arrived from its homeport in Subic, Zambales on Oct. 6. (Photo courtesy of Wescom Public Affairs Office)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan – The Armed Forces of the Philippines has dispatched BRP Davao del Sur to reinforce the Western Command’s (Wescom) maritime surveillance capabilities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The multi-role-capable vessel will be deployed for a month before sailing back to Subic, Zambales for reprovisioning. It arrived here on Friday.

Wescom spokesperson Commander Ariel Joseph Coloma on Tuesday said BRP Davao del Sur will conduct territorial patrol missions in the WPS.

"We require additional vessels and law enforcement platforms because our territory is vast. Our ships need to cover 7,000 square nautical miles of sea," Coloma said in an interview.

Apart from its patrol duties in the WPS, the Tarlac-class landing platform dock vessel can engage in humanitarian and disaster response efforts as well as provide sealift capabilities, explained Commander Marco Sandalo, the vessel's commanding officer.

Sandalo told local media representatives during a shipboard tour on Monday that they are loading food supplies from the Palawan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

These provisions are intended for transportation to Culion, a town situated in the northern area of the province.

He said that for civilian transportation, they can coordinate with Wescom if necessary, especially for humanitarian reasons.

"But, of course, we are here to intensify our naval presence in Wescom's joint operations area, specifically to ensure our continuous presence in the West Philippine Sea," Sandalo said.

Coloma said that even with the new deployment, they still require additional resources due to the vast expanse it manages in the WPS.

Further, he said that despite resource limitations, Wescom will uphold its commitment to safeguard the nation's territories.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211497

Saudi man slain, wife hurt in Maguindanao Sur ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2023): Saudi man slain, wife hurt in Maguindanao Sur ambush (By Edwin Fernandez)

AMBUSHED. Police cordoned off the pickup truck of Saudi national Solayman Jamal and his wife after an ambush in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur on Tuesday night (Oct. 10, 2023). Jamal died on the spot while his wife, Bainot Jamal, was wounded. (Photo courtesy of Shariff Aguak LGU)

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao del Sur – Police authorities here are tracking down two men, riding tandem on a motorbike, who ambushed and killed a Saudi national and injured his wife on Tuesday night.

In a statement Wednesday, Shariff Aguak Mayor Datu Akmad Mitra Ampatuan condemned the ambush and directed the police to identify, arrest, and prosecute the perpetrators.

Major Haron Macabanding, town police chief, identified the slain foreigner as Saudi Solayman Jamal, 50, and his injured wife as Bainot Jamal, 45, both residents of Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur.

Macabanding said Jamal, who was driving his pickup truck (NER 6511), was killed on the spot while his wife sustained gunshot wounds in the body during the 6 p.m. attack.

The wife’s unidentified brother who was seated in the back seat was unharmed and rushed his injured sister to the Maguindanao provincial hospital aboard a tricycle.

The couple had just visited a farm lot they recently purchased in neighboring Barangay Labu-Labu, Datu Hofer town, and was heading for home via this town when ambushed by the gunmen.

Initial investigation bared that the gunmen were seen tailing the pick-up truck and executed the ambush.

Macabanding said the motive of the attack and the identities of the perpetrators remained unknown as of posting.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211558

Army in E. Samar intensifies campaign to win NPA rebels’ kin

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2023): Army in E. Samar intensifies campaign to win NPA rebels’ kin (By Sarwell Meniano)

ENDING INSURGENCY. The father of an active combatant of the New People's Army attends a meeting with the military and local government officials in Borongan City, Eastern Samar on October 4, 2023. The Philippine Army and the local government will extend more assistance to families of active NPA members as part of their strategy to completely wipe out the insurgency. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Army and the local government of Borongan in Eastern Samar will extend more assistance to families of active members of the New People’s Army (NPA) as part of their strategy to completely wipe out the insurgency in the province.

This developed as the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade recently launched the Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families (FReE Families) project to prevent the recruitment of family members of active NPA combatants.

“The FReE Families project aims to help the families of active NPA members in the 802nd Brigade’s area of operation in Eastern Samar from the anxiety caused by the continued membership of their relatives in the NPA," commander of the Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, said in an interview on Wednesday.

"It has been observed that these family members are also pressured by the Communist Terrorist Group’s leadership to join or support the armed struggle through disinformation, such as instilling hate and fear of the government."

Some officials of the military, police, and local governments, and 29 family members of 19 active NPA members who are residents of the province witnessed the launch of the project in Borongan on Oct. 4.

“The launch was also a venue to know the families’ concerns on having loved ones involved in the communist armed movement. These family members and relatives of active NPA members were also accompanied by their respective village chiefs during the activity to show their endless support in bringing their misguided loved ones to return to the mainstream society and live a peaceful life,” Vestuir added.

Since the transfer of the 802nd brigade from Ormoc City in Leyte to Borongan City in Eastern Samar in May this year, at least seven active NPA combatants have surrendered, while hundreds of their supporters in some parts of Samar provinces have abandoned the communist ideology.

Vestuir attributed this accomplishment to the FReE Families-related program of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in collaboration with family members.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211572

Leadership skills help youth counter NPA ideology

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2023): Leadership skills help youth counter NPA ideology (By Alexander Lopez)

FUTURE LEADERS. At least 61 leaders from the different conflict-affected villages in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte completed their three-day Youth Leadership Summit on Oct. 10, 2023. The activity is aimed at developing critical thinking skills, helping build resilience and self-confidence, and imparting effective communication and conflict resolution skills among the youths to protect them from the influence and recruitment of the New People's Army. (Photo courtesy of 29IB)

BUTUAN CITY – Honing the leadership skills of the youth is among the vital weapons to counter the communist ideology espoused by the New People’s Army (NPA), an official of the non-profit group Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through our Youth, Inc. (POINTY) said on Wednesday.

Aside from leadership training, 61 youth leaders will also be given livelihood programs by the military, said 1st Lt. Jade Bryce Buñe, 29th Infantry Battalion (IB) civil-military operations officer in an interview.

The Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) from Oct. 8 to 10 spearheaded by the 29IB and supported by POINTY was attended by the 61 representatives coming from the different conflict-affected barangays in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

“This training is crucial in our efforts, together with the 29IB, in protecting our youth from the influence and recruitment of the NPA,” Glynmer Jamito, a member of the Board of POINTY in Agusan del Norte, said.

He added that the training also helped the youth leaders develop critical thinking and building of resilience and self-confidence in countering the propaganda of the communist rebels during recruitment.

“Learning effective communication and conflict resolution skills were also part of the YLS which help our youth leaders develop their abilities to express opinions, engage in constructive dialogue, and resolve conflicts peacefully,” he said.

Aside from the leadership training, the military unit will also help facilitate livelihood programs for the youth leaders in Cabadbaran City.

“Most of these leaders are out-of-school youths. The 29IB will help facilitate in providing them with livelihood activities through the different line agencies of the government, the local government unit of Cabadbaran, and the provincial government of Agusan del Norte,” Buñe said.

Buñe added that constant monitoring among the different youth groups will also be implemented through the conduct of monthly meetings and various team-building activities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211585

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2023): Army strengthens local peace engagements in Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

PEACE EFFORTS. Officials of the Philippine Army, including Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of 3rd Infantry Division (right), and Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, commander of 303rd Infantry Brigade (left), are shown with Vincent Parra, officer in charge of the Commission on Human Rights - Negros Occidental, during a press briefing of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict at the Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City on Tuesday (Oct. 10, 2023). Sison, in a statement on Wednesday (Oct. 11, 2023), called for support for the NTF-ELCAC and local peace engagements to prevent and resolve conflicts and violence. (Photo courtesy of PIO Negros Occidental)

BACOLOD CITY – The Philippine Army is strengthening local peace engagements in Negros Island to resolve conflict and encourage Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) rebels to return to the fold of the law.

Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) and Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, underscored such an initiative in support of the whole-of-government approach mandated under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELAC).

“We should support the NTF-ELCAC and local peace engagement to prevent and resolve conflicts and violence,” Sison said in a statement on Wednesday.

He assured that the 3ID would protect the Negrenses and end the decades-long insurgency.

“Whatever we are doing now is part of the efforts that the soldiers of the 3ID are undertaking. It’s not just a promise, it's our commitment to the Filipino people and our country,” he added.

Data from the 3ID showed that from January 2022 to date, the CPP-NPA has been responsible for the deaths of 34 civilians, five soldiers, three former rebels, four government officials, and one police officer in Negros Island.

The communist group had admitted responsibility for 25 violent incidents as published on their websites.

“We are pursuing more comprehensive local peace engagements so that the remaining NPA fighters in the mountains can surrender and avail of our government’s program to start a new life with their families,” Edralin said.

According to the NTF-ELCAC, the local peace engagement intends to facilitate the peace process from the bottom level of the locality or community.

“This is highly encouraged as its main essence is to reach the possible group of surrenderers down the line,” it added.

On Sept. 29, about 12 CPP-NPA rebels, including a ranking official of the Northern Negros Front who surrendered to government forces, were presented in rites held at the 79th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Sagay City.

The surrenderers were from the cities of Escalante, Sagay, and San Carlos and the municipalities of Toboso and Calatrava.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211617

54 NPA rebels, supporters in Bicol pledge allegiance to gov't

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11, 2023): 54 NPA rebels, supporters in Bicol pledge allegiance to gov't (By Connie Calipay)

LOYALTY PROMISE. At least 54 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and their supporters in the provinces of Albay and Sorsogon pledged allegiance to the national government during a ceremony at the 903rd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Castilla town, Sorsogon province on Wednesday (Oct. 11, 2023). The rebel returnees also turned over 28 assorted firearms. (PNA photo by Connie Calipay)

CASTILLA, Sorsogon – A total of 54 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and their supporters in the provinces of Albay and Sorsogon who had surrendered to the authorities pledged allegiance to the national government on Wednesday.

In an interview, 1Lt. Richelle Arambuyong, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the 903rd Infantry Brigade (903 IBde), said the surrender and withdrawal of support were facilitated by the brigade from July to September this year.

"The surrenderers are from Sorsogon province – 32 and Albay province – 22. They are composed of armed groups and white areas or those members of underground movements under the different sectoral front organizations of the CPP-NPA," Arambuyong said after the presentation of the surrenderers in a ceremony at the 903 IBde headquarters in Barangay San Rafael, Castilla town in Sorsogon.

She said the rebel returnees turned over 28 assorted firearms.

"They will also receive firearms remuneration for each type depending on the value and other cash assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)," Arambuyong said.

One of the surrenderers, 29-year-old Ka Gohan, who had been a member of the NPA for 10 years, said disappointment over the group's leadership made him decide to return to the fold of the law.

"Kaming mga mandirigma, nakikita namin yung tama at mali, kaya doon nag decide na ako bumalik sa gobyerno. Para malinis na namin ang aming pangalan, magkaroon ng panibagong buhay dahil mga bata pa kami (We combatants, we see what is right and wrong, that's why I decided to return to the government. So that we can clear our names and have a new life since we are still young)," he said.

Ka Gohan said he now felt free and fearless since he did not need to hide from government soldiers anymore.

"Much more than I am comfortable now, and my family is happy. I still need to secure my safety," he said in the vernacular.

He also said he wants to work in the local government unit to repay its goodness in welcoming him.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Aldwine Almase, 903 IBde commander, commended the 54 surrenderers for their eagerness and courage in returning to the fold of the law and encouraged the remaining NPA members to give up the armed struggle.

"Ang inyong pong kasundalohan ay handang maging kaagapay ninyo sa inyong muling pagyakap sa kapayapaan. Hinihikayat namin ang mga naiiwan pa nating mga kababayan na naligaw ng landas, nalinlang ng mga CPP-NPA na kami po ay handa kayong tanggapin ano man oras, saan mang lugar. Kami po ay naniniwala na ang kapayapaan ay makakamit natin sa mapayapa rin na pamamaraan (Your Army is ready to support you as you re-embrace peace. We encourage those who are still left behind, our compatriots who have lost their way, deceived by the CPP-NPA, that we are ready to receive you at any time, wherever. We believe that we can achieve peace also through peaceful means)," Almase said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211626