CPP/NPA-Rizal: Pagpaslang sa Baras 5 ng 2nd IDPA at PNP-4A, mukha ng terorismo ng RUS-Duterte sa Rizal

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jan 6, 2021): Pagpaslang sa Baras 5 ng 2nd IDPA at PNP-4A, mukha ng terorismo ng RUS-Duterte sa Rizal

MACARIO 'KA KARYO' LIWANAG

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-RIZAL

NARCISO ANTAZO ARAMIL COMMAND

SOUTHERN TAGALOG REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND

MELITO GLOR COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

JANUARY 06, 2021

Tigmak ng dugo ang kamay ng Armed Forces of the Philippines at Philippine National Police sa kanilang patuloy na paglabag sa karapatang tao, sa pamamagitan ng Anti-Terror Law at NTF-ELCAC, na siyang mayor na instrumento ng Rehimeng US-Duterte upang makapanatili sa kanyang paghahari. Sa ngalan ng pagsupil sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan, lansakan nitong nilalabag ang internasyunal na makataong batas ng Geneva Convention. Hindi nito kailanman isinaalang-alang ang panuntunan hinggil sa paggalang sa karapatang tao at mga internasyunal na mga tuntunin na sumasaklaw sa armadong tunggaliang umiiral sa iba’t ibang panig ng daigdig.

Nagpupuyos sa galit ang mamamayan ng Rizal sa pagmasaker ng pinagsanib na pwersa ng 2nd ID at PNP-4A sa Baras 5. Karumal-dumal na pinaslang ng mga berdugo sina Vilma Salabao, Wesley Obmerga, Carlito Zonio, Jonathan Alberga at Niño Alberga noong Disyembre 17 sa Brgy. San Jose, Baras, Rizal..

Malaking kasinungalingan ang pahayag ni 202nd Bde. Commander Alex Rillera na magsisilbi lamang sila ng warrant of arrest sa nagngangalang Antonio ‘Ka Dad’ Cule nang paputukan diumano sila kung kaya’t naobliga silang gumanti ng putok. Ang totoo, pinalibutan ng hindi mabilang na pwersa ng AFP at PNP at kaagad na pinasok ang farm at pinadapa ang lahat ng mga tao sa loob nito saka pinagbabaril. Upang bigyang katwiran ang kanilang ginawang krimen, agad na nagpahayag muli ang 2nd IDPA na nakatakas diumano si Ka Dad sa lugar na pinangyarihan.

Sa ginawa naming sariling imbestigasyon, nagtatrabaho bilang mga manggagawa sina Carlito, Jonathan, Niño, Vilma at Wesley. Caretaker at head security ng farm si Carlito at mga security guard naman sina Jonathan at Niño. Napag-alaman ding nagpapagamot mula sa malubhang karamdaman sina Vilma at Wesley. Maysakit na kanser sa lalamunan si Vilma at matagal nang iniinda ang malalang arthritis na nagdudulot ng pamamaga ng kanyang dalawang tuhod habang may tuberculosis sa buto at kidney failure si Wesley.

Ang pagmasaker sa Baras 5 ay isa lamang sa patung-patong nang mga kasong kriminal ng AFP-PNP. Pinalalaganap ng rehimeng Duterte ang kultura ng impyunidad at ginagawang karaniwan ang kabi-kabilang ala-tokhang na pagpaslang sa mga sibilyan at hors de combat. Padron na ng kanilang gawa-gawang istorya ang pagsisilbi kuno ng warrant of arrest, pagdedeklarang ‘nanlaban’ ang mga biktima at pinutukan hanggang mapaslang. Paboritong oras ng kanilang patraydor na mga operasyon ang alas dos hanggang alas tres ng madaling araw habang nahihimbing sa pagtulog ang kanilang target. Sa kabalintunaan, ang paulit-ulit na mga istoryang ito rin mismo ang naglalantad sa katangian ng berdugo at mersenaryong AFP-PNP na kampon ng sagad sa pagkapasistang presidente na si Rodrigo Duterte.

Isa lamang ito sa mga napakaraming kaso ng brutalidad ng rehimeng Duterte tulad ng sinapit nina Ermin Bellen, Mario Caraig na walang-awang pinaslang sa kabila ng kawalan na ng mga ito ng kakayahan na lumaban. Hindi rin hiwalay ang kaso ng pagpaslang sa mag-asawang Agaton Topacio at Eugenia Magpantay, mga retiradong lider ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas, na sa kabila ng kanilang katandaan at mahinang kalusugan ay pinaslang habang natutulog sa kanilang tahanan sa Angono, Rizal.

Ang sunud-sunod na pagmamasaker ni Duterte sa lahat ng mga kritiko at mga nagsusulong ng demokratikong interes ng mamamayan ay pagpapakita ng labis niyang pagkatakot sa kumukulong galit at napipintong pagsambulat ng lumalakas na sigaw ng pagpapatalsik sa kanya sa estado poder.

Hindi na masikmura ng mga Rizaleños ang terorismo ng estado na kumitil sa maraming buhay at puminsala sa kabuhayan ng mamamayan upang itulak ang imbing pakana nito ng kampanyang kontra-insurhensiya. Kailanma’y hindi palulupig ang mamamayan at rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa lagim na inihahasik ng rehimeng Duterte. Tuluy-tuloy na isusulong ng mga Rizaleños ang matatagumpay na mga pakikibakang anti-pyudal at kilusang masa para sa batayang karapatan nila sa buhay at kabuhayan.

Pagbabayarin ng NAAC-NPA-Rizal ang 2nd IDPA at PNP-4A sa krimen nila sa Baras 5 at iba pang biktima ng terorismo ng estado sa hanay ng mamamayan. Patuloy na isusulong ng mamamayan sa lalawigan ng Rizal ang armadong pakikibaka upang pabagsakin ang rehimeng-US Duterte at dalhin ang digmang bayan sa mas mataas na antas hanggang sa ganap na tagumpay.

Katarungan para sa Baras 5!

Ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Duterte!

Isulong ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan hanggang sa ganap na tagumpay!

https://cpp.ph/statements/pagpaslang-sa-baras-5-ng-2nd-idpa-at-pnp-4a-mukha-ng-terorismo-ng-rus-duterte-sa-rizal/

Kalinaw News: Ka Angel surrenders

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 8, 2021): Ka Angel surrenders



CAMP LEON KILAT, Tanjay City, Negros Oriental – Another dissatisfied member of the Terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered with his firearms to the troops of 16th Scout Ranger Company (16SRC) under 302 nd Infantry (Achiever) Brigade at Barangay Carabalan, Himalayan City, Negros Occidental on Friday, January 08, 2021.

COL LEONARDO I PEÑA (MNSA) PA, Commander, 302 nd Brigade identified the returnee as Jerryd Gargoles, also known in the movement as SARGENT/ANGEL, 21 years of age and Team Leader of Squad 1, Regional Strike Force (RSF), Komiteng Rehiyon Negros-Cebu-Bohol-Siquijor (KR NCBS). The following items were likewise surrendered by aka ANGEL: One (1) COLT Caliber .45 pistol with Serial number: 981989; One (1) INTRATEC KG-9 Caliber 9mm with SN: 012921; One (1) Magazine for Caliber 45 pistol loaded with seven (7) rounds ammunition; One (1) magazine for KG-9 loaded with twenty-one (21) rounds ammunition; and several subversive documents of essential value to determine the plans of the terrorist group in the area.

Col Peña warmly welcomed the returnee who apparently realized that his life in the communist movement will just go astray. The Army Brigade Commander said, “We are thankful for this achievement of our troops; I commend the 16th Scout Ranger Company under CPT. ROLDAN T PANGILINAN for a job well done. It also proved the professionalism of our Scout Rangers that they are indeed – A Force for Peace! I also thank Mr. Jerryd Gargoles, for his decision to lay down his arms and move out from the deceitful belief that the CPP-NPA imparts to their recruits and their members. With the whole of government approach through the Task Force-ELCAC, we will help Jerryd restore a normal life with his love ones. This is a clear manifestation that members of the CPP-NPA are losing their will to fight and the confidence with their movement because of their falsehearted ideology.”

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/ka-angel-surrenders/

Kalinaw News: Community peacekeepers |former MILF members in HADJI MOHAMMAD AJUL train as Civilian Volunteer Organization

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 8, 2021): Community peacekeepers |former MILF members in HADJI MOHAMMAD AJUL train as Civilian Volunteer Organization



HADJI MOHAMMAD AJUL, Basilan Province – A group of former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members here in Barangay Langgong trained as peacekeepers in the community thru the Civilian Volunteer Organization (CVO) Training conducted by the 15th Special Forces Company, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of HMA and the local police last January 4 to 6, 2021.

For the very first time, the community of Barangay Langgong, which is formerly infested with different factions and armed group, has embraced the peace initiatives of the AFP and express their full commitment to sustain peace.

Commander Ajail Fernandez, the leader of MILF-BIAF in the community, together with his members wholeheartedly submitted themselves and volunteered to train as CVO so that they will be one with the government in protecting the community and its people.

“Kung may pagkakaisa, may kapayapaan. Kung may kapayapaan, may kaunlaran. Masaya kami na iisa tayo sa ganitong adhikain.”, Captain Sherwin Latiera, the Commanding Officer of 15SFC, said.

Hon. Ibrahim S. Ballaho, the Municipal Mayor of HMA and the guest speaker during the closing ceremony, lauded the efforts of the military for initiating proactive measure to sustain peace in the Barangay of Langgong.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/community-peacekeepers-former-milf-members-in-hadji-mohammad-ajul-train-as-civilian-volunteer-organization/

532 incidents of Destruction of Civilian Property committed by Communist Terrorist Groups

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 8, 2021): 532 incidents of Destruction of Civilian Property committed by Communist Terrorist Groups



CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported a
total of 532 incidents of destruction of civilian-owned property committed by Communist
Terrorist Groups in armed violence since 2010.

The AFP Human Rights Office (AFPHRO) submitted to the Commission on Human Rights,
for appropriate action, the list of incidents on Thursday, January 7. These were mostly by
arson perpetrated by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National
Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

Data collected by the AFPHRO from field units provided factual and verifiable basis for the
report. The figures which had been recorded as of date are expected to rise, as AFP units
continue their inquiry and tender reports on the activities of non-state armed groups.
Colonel Joel Alejandro Nacnac, Chief of AFPHRO stated that the CPP-NPA-NDF’s acts of
destroying civilian property has shown a nationwide pattern of organized, continuing, and systematic scheme as part of their violent struggle.

“To come up with a comprehensive statistical analysis which may lead to the filing of
appropriate charges of IHL violations, our Office orchestrated the collection of data from
lower AFP units and offices regarding the destruction of civilian owned property by the CNN.
These unlawful activities constitute violation of Human Rights and International Humanitarian
Law as well as local laws such as RA 9851” he said.
 
As part of its mandate, the AFPHRO continues to monitor Human Rights and International
Humanitarian Law violations by non-state armed groups such as the CPP-NPA-NDF. Its
rebellion is the longest ongoing armed conflict in the Philippines with its armed components
committing violent activities through the use of guerilla tactics for more than five decades
now.

The AFP Chief of Staff, General Gilbert Gapay applauded the efforts of the AFPHRO for
continuously exposing the CTGs. The groups’ persistent disregard of human rights and
international humanitarian law by destroying civilian properties should not be targeted in the
course of an armed conflict.

“With the assistance and support of the Commission on Human Rights, we will be able to put
a stop to the CPP-NPA-NDF’s criminal acts. The AFP, through its Human Rights Office, will
continuously coordinate with the appropriate agencies in this whole-of-nation approach
towards just and lasting peace,” General Gapay said.

The AFP remains faithful to the rule of law and steadfast in upholding its constitutional duty
to protect the people against all forms of threats, and let lasting peace and security prevail.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/532-incidents-of-destruction-of-civilian-property-committed-by-communist/

Kalinaw News: JTF Spear Commander visits the Joint Enhanced Military and Police Operations Task Force

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 7, 2021): JTF Spear Commander visits the Joint Enhanced Military and Police Operations Task Force (By Jamaiela Ellaine)



CAMP LEON KILAT, Tanjay City, Negros Oriental – The 302nd Infantry “Achiever” Brigade, 3rd Infantry Spearhead Division, Philippine Army being in-charge of the Joint Enhanced Military and Police Operations Task Force (JEMPO TF) in Negros, welcomes Major General Eric C. Vinoya, Commander of the Joint Task Force Spear and also the Commander of 3ID, Philippine Army at the JEMPO TF Operations Center co-located with the Headquarters of 542nd Engineer Construction “Pathfinder” Battalion, Philippine Army in Sitio Tuyuman, Brgy Caradio-an, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on January 6, 2021.

MGen Vinoya was apprised by the Commander of 302nd Inf Bde, Colonel Leonardo L. Peña, who is also the designated JEMPO TF Commander in Negros, along with his staff and subordinate commanders about the task force’s significant achievements; as well as, its ongoing operational activities to sustain the gains in Central and Southern Negros against the CPP-NPA-NDF and in Law Enforcement Support Operations (LESO). The area of operations of the JEMPO task force is crucial for gaining the grounds to pave way and support the government’s thrust of establishing an environment conducive for peace and development in Negros Island.

Col Peña was elated during the visit of MGen Vinoya as it boosts the morale of the operating troops under the JEMPO TF. He said, “Together with the PNP partners, we are truly thankful to the Commander JTF Spear not only for his visit; but for his confidence with the JEMPO Task Force in accomplishing its mandate at Central and Southern Negros. The JEMPO TF in Negros Island will continue to hunt down the remaining terrorists in the area to finally eradicate them and prevent them from plaguing not only Negros Provinces but the whole country, as well.”

MGen Vinoya, during his Commander’s guidance congratulated and motivated the JEMPO TF by saying, “The higher units of the AFP together with the PNP in West and Central Visayas are ecstatic with what you are doing here in Central and Southern Negros. We are thankful for your unselfish job to accomplish the mission despite you have not fully availed and enjoyed the holiday season with your respective family. Surely, with your sacrifices, we will earn the fruits of our labor and leave nothing for the terrorist groups who are hindering the Peace and Progress in this area. With a fresh start for 2021, we will not just hit them; but we will hit them hard for the protection of the Filipino people whom we are serving!”

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/jtf-spear-commander-visits-the-joint-enhanced-military-and-police-operations-task-force/

Army gives gifts to conflict-affected areas in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 7, 2021): Army gives gifts to conflict-affected areas in Agusan Norte (By 901st Brigade, Philippine Army)

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte, Jan. 7 – The Philippine Army through the 29th Infantry “Matatag Fighters” Battalion (29IB) in partnership with the local government unit of Jabonga conducted a Christmas drop program in Sitio Apa-apa, Barangay Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

The said activity is a credit initiative of 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division (4iD) Commander, MGen. Andres C. Centino for the people of conflict-affected areas to feel that the government cares for them.

The activity was an integration of various sectors of the government which includes the Philippine Army through the efforts of 901st Brigade, 29IB and 30IB, the local government unit of Jabonga led by Mayor Napoleon Montero.

Food packs, toys, and clothes were distributed to more than 200 residents of Sitio Inayaw and Sitio Apa-apa, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

Marwin Serrano, punong barangay of Sitio Apa-apa, thanked the army for the gifts they have received. “Akong dakong pasalamat kay ania ang mga kasundaluhan niduyog ug nanghatag ug regalo diri sa amua, nga ilaha ming gitagaan ug saktong pagtagad labi natong mga lumad. Daghan kaayong salamat (I am very grateful that the troops are here to join and give gifts here in front of us, who have given us the proper attention especially our natives. Thank you very much),” he said.

For his part, Mayor Napoleon Montero was very happy to see his constituents attending the activity of the Philippine Army. "We are lucky that in most barangays, Barangay Bangonay has been chosen to receive Christmas gifts so I hope we will not support another group- the NPA because the Philippine Army is here to help," he said.

"On behalf of LGU Jabonga, we are very thankful to the Philippine Army that they chose Brgy. Bangonay to this program," added Mayor Montero.

According to Col. George Banzon, 901 Brigade Commander, the said activity is their continuous plan to manifest and make the people feel the spirit of Christmas. "This is not just about the efforts of our soldiers alone, we, the soldiers are just instruments of the government to deliver all of these," Col. Banzon said.

"Along with the hope of Mayor Montero, I am appealing to you if you know someone, friends, and classmates in school who are deceived by the NPAs to go with them and join them in moving into the mountains for their armed struggle, please let us save them. Let us neglect our friends who are deceived by twisted words, by twisted promises,” he added.

Col. Banzon emphasized that the residents can ask for help and in return, the troops are ever willing to help those whoever will seek help. (Cpt. Joash U. Pramis, CMO Officer, 901 Infantry Brigade/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063163

Continuous debacles plague NPA terrorists in Caraga

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 7, 2021): Continuous debacles plague NPA terrorists in Caraga (By 3rd Special Forces Battalion, PA)

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Jan. 7 – Another Communist New People's Army Terrorist (CNT) died recently and five high-powered firearms were seized in an hour-long encounter between the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) troops under the 4th Infantry Division and more or less 30 CNTs under the Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad (SRSDG) Southland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee led by Rizaldy Sumonod alias “Mansoy” in Sitio Paradise, Barangay Magsaysay, Agusan del Sur.

These five firearms recovered consisted of three M16 5.56 caliber rifles, one AK-47 rifle.

Other war materials recovered were: one IHL-banned anti-personnel land mine, nine rounds 40mm M203 grenade launcher ammos, 50 rounds 7.62mm M60 ammos, two sets of commercial radios, 15 backpacks and personal belongings, medical supplies and equipment, three keypad cellular phones, one touch screen android phone, and 20 meters electrical wire.

The discovered CNT hideout is about 200 square meters (10mx20m) which can accommodate more or less 30 CNTs and had 15 makeshift tents and kitchen paraphernalia.

With the recent efforts of the National Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in exposing the deceptive scheme and the grand conspiracy of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (NDF) within various sectors of society, people in CARAGA, particularly the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), vowed to track down Communist NPA Terrorists and their front group leaders such as the Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU) to put an end to their countless atrocities and crimes against the people.

It can be recalled that CNT Jevilyn Cullamat, daughter of Bayan Muna Representative Eufemia Campos Cullamat, and top CNT leader and spokesperson of the NDF Mindanao and Komisyun Mindanao (KOMMID) Alvin Loque, suffered the same tragic fate last November 28 and December 10 sequentially in Surigao del Sur as a result of the vigilance and information gathering of the IP communities.

CNT personalities and their front groups were already declared persona-non-grata in the whole Province of Surigao del Sur and in the municipality of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur where the recent clash between government forces and CNTs ensued.

“The succeeding debacles of the NPA Terrorists in Caraga only show that people had enough of them. They no longer have a safe haven in the IP communities because for sure they will be reported and tracked down,” said Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, 3SFBn Commanding Officer.

“We are saddened with the fact that another victim of the CPP-NPA-NDF died in vain. We do not want this that is why we need to support the NTF-ELCAC to put an end to the CNTs’ useless struggle by peacefully addressing the root causes of NPA terrorism-that of peace and development program implementation for the conflict-affected and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas where CNTs recruit and conduct Ideological, Political and Organizing works (IPOW),” said BGen. Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander.

“We call on the remaining CNTs to bring their firearms and go down to surrender and return to the folds of law. The door towards a peaceful life is always open for those who wish to peacefully surrender. Having that said, we will remain focused and enthusiastic on our mission to end local communist armed conflict in the soonest time possible in the Caraga region,” underscored MGen. Andres C. Centino, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army. (1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan, CMO, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063168

Kalahi-CIDSS Caraga hits 100% of NCDDP community projects for 2020

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 7, 2021): Kalahi-CIDSS Caraga hits 100% of NCDDP community projects for 2020 (By DSWD-Caraga)

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 7 - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga has once again proven that it is one of the top-performing field offices of the agency in the entire country as it posted a 100 percent completion rate for its Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Program, completing all the 202 target subprojects (SPs) under the National Community-Driven Development Program (NCDDP).

Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the poverty alleviation programs of the government being implemented by DSWD.

Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Kalahi-CIDSS have adopted the Disaster Response Operation Procedure (DROP), allowing the program to shift from developmental activities into a disaster-response modality to immediately address health issues.

The NCDDP subprojects are implemented in the local government units (LGUs) of Tagana-an, Placer, Malimono, and San Francisco in Surigao del Norte province; Dinagat, San Jose, and Basilisa in Dinagat Island province; and in Madrid, Bayabas, and Barobo in Surigao del Sur province.

The 202 completed SPs under NCDDP are as follows:
- Construction/Installation of quarantine/isolation facility - 69 SPs
- Cash for Work – 65 SPs
- Procurement of Disaster Response/Rescue Equipment – 34 SPs
- Procurement of communication device – 7 SPs
- Communal handwash facility – 7 SPs
- Sanitary toilet - 5 SPs
- Refurbishment/conversion of Community Center / Multi-Purpose Building into isolation facility – 5 SPs
- Refurbishment of school building – 3 SPs
- Refurbishment of day care center – 3 SPs
- Refurbishment of barangay hall – 2 SPs
- Installation of water system – 1 SP
- Capability Building / Training / Feasibility Study – 1 SP

Kalahi-CIDSS Regional Program Coordinator Bennette Dave Calo is thankful to all partner LGUs and to the Regional Program Management Office and field staff for the said success.

"To all our partner LGUs and stakeholders, thank you for your unwavering support and desire in the implementation of Kalahi-CIDSS NCDDP despite the challenges and struggles brought by the pandemic," Calo said.

“To all RPMO and field staff who accept and dares to believe in struggles, thank you for stepping up in overcoming these challenges. Congratulations on the brilliant success. Indeed, there is no shortcut to success,” Calo added.

Meanwhile, eight out of 10 target subprojects for 2020 under the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn Indigenous Peoples Community-Driven Development (PAMANA IP CDD) are still ongoing.

The RPMO and Area Coordinating Teams are working overtime to finish these projects as soon as possible for the beneficiary communities. (DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063284

Soldiers score anew in Agusan del Norte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 8, 2021): Soldiers score anew in Agusan del Norte (By 901st Brigade, Philippine Army)

PLACER, Surigao del Nort, Jan. 8 -- The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion (29IB), Philippine Army scored anew after a firefight ensued between soldiers and communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) in Sitio Tinago, Barangay Baleguian, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte recently.

According to a report of 29IB under Lt. Col. Aristotle Antonio, the unit launched an operation in response to the information provided by displeased civilians regarding the presence of more or less 15 armed CNTs who were seen staging a celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines founding anniversary a day before the said clash transpired. The said group was believed to be under Marvin Bugas @ Eman of SYP16A, Guerilla Front 16.

The said encounter lasted for almost an hour and resulted in the death of two NPA members (1 male and 1 female) and seizure of two AK47 rifles, assorted magazines with live ammunition, one cellphone, personal belongings and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

In his statement, Mayor Napoleon M. Montero of Jabonga said the local government unit fully understands that the incident was a result of a legitimate military operation conducted by the government forces in their area. He further cited that Barangay Baleguian was among the identified conflict-affected areas in the province and one of the recipients of the Retooled Community Support Program with the objective of ending the local communist armed conflict.

He also added that the local government will do its part to support the Philippine Army and all the involved government agencies and instrumentalities in ending the insurgency problem to finally bring peace and development in their area.

Meanwhile, Col. George L. Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, said that the encounter was a product of the continuing efforts and proactive measures being implemented by the unit to deny the communist terrorists from conducting atrocities while the communities are in observance of yuletide season.

“We intensified our monitoring and operations during these holidays to ensure that these communist terrorists will not have the opportunity to unleash violence to highlight CPP’s anniversary which they usually practice in the past years,” the commander said.

He further said that the intensified operation will continue particularly in the areas where the armed CNTs are frequently sighted in order to keep them away from their traditional guerilla bases and be isolated from their former masses. He further said that with the convergence of different sectors and cooperation being extended by the civilians, the CNTs are now losing ground and running out of space.

“The recent encounter may serve as stern warning for the remaining members of the CNTs that there’s no more safe place for them. The people nowadays are aware of their deceitful tactics and they are already cooperative in our peace efforts. The CNTs' remaining option is to surrender and abandoned the armed struggle,” he added.

On the other hand, Col. Banzon expressed condolences to the families of the CNT casualties citing that they were just victims of CNT’s deceptions and lies. (Cpt. Joash U. Pramis, CMO Officer, 901 Infantry Brigade/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063175

Two NPA terrorists killed in AgNor clash

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 8, 2021): Two NPA terrorists killed in AgNor clash (By 901st Brigade, Philippine Army) 

PLACER, Surigao del Norte, Jan. 8 -- The remains of the New People's Army (NPA) terrorists who were killed in the recent encounter between the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB), PhilippineArmy and communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) in Jabonga town were positively identified and claimed by their respective families on Wednesday, December 30.

The dead bodies were identified by their kins as Marife Mercansel Montero @Owen, 23, single, and a resident of Purok Pangasian, Unaban, Tago, Surigao del Sur while the other male cadaver was identified as Regie Mae Ochavillo @Thunder, 20, single and a resident of Purok 8, Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City.

In the investigation conducted, it was found out that Marife was recruited to join the CNTs sometime in 2018. She was a second-year college student taking up Political Science at St. Theresa College in Tandag City. According to Annabelle, an older sister of Marife, all they know was her sister is doing well in her studies but unknowingly she got involved in the underground movement with the CNTs.

On the other hand, Regie’s body was claimed by his grandfather. Accordingly, he stayed with his grandparents prior to his involvement with the armed movement sometime in October 2019. In his stint with the armed group, he was identified as a regular member of SYP16A of Guerilla Front 16 operating in the towns of Kitcharao-Jabonga-Santiago-Tubay.

In his statement, Lolo Nerio Ochavillo, expressed his heartfelt thanks to the soldiers who assisted them in claiming the remains of his grandson.

Meanwhile, Col. George L Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight ‘Em) Brigade, strongly condemned the CNTs for their longstanding deceptions and exploitations on the students and youth to advance their hidden agenda. He added that the CNTs are using lies and propaganda to entice the youth to join their violent movement.

“We strongly denounced the CNTs for the unfortunate demise of two young individuals. Just like the other members of NPA who went astray with the communist terrorist group, they were victims who fell in the CNT’s modus. Their recruiters brain-washed and radicalized them using propaganda on societal issues with the intent of agitating their youthful minds, arousing their emotions and building hatred in their hearts. These youngsters took arms and went against the government because of CNT’s exploitations," he said.

Along this line, he also reminded the public to be mindful of their children who are vulnerable and target of CNT’s recruitment. He further explained that the CNTs are aiming at the youth because they need to fill the dwindling numbers of their cadres and members in order to sustain their armed struggle.

The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Batallion in coordination with the local government unit of Jabonga facilitated the turnover of the remains of the dead NPA members to their respective families so that they will be accorded with a decent burial. (Cpt. Joash U. Pramis, CMO Officer, 901 Infantry Brigade/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063181

4 NPAs, 1 MB surrender to Army in Agusan del Norte a day after CPP anniv

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 8, 2021): 4 NPAs, 1 MB surrender to Army in Agusan del Norte a day after CPP anniv (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 8 – Four regular combatants of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) and one Milisya ng Bayan (MB) member in Agusan del Norte have decided to abandon the cause and ideology of the communist movement and surrendered to the troopers of the 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23IB) in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The surrender came one day after the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) celebrated its 52nd anniversary last Saturday, December 26, 2020.

The four NPA members were identified as Alias Else, 18, who brought one caliber .30 M1 Carbine with one magazine and three live ammunition; Alias Dodong, 30, who also handed over one caliber .45 pistol, Cal .45 Pistol with two live ammunition, one caliber .357 revolver and two caliber .38 revolvers; Alias Rebo, 30; and Alias Indai/Bea, 23.

The MB member was identified as Alias Jimmy/Omar, 55, a resident of Barangay Durian, Las Nieves town who also surrendered one shotgun (ARMSCOR) with four live ammunition.

Alias Else, Dodong and Rebo were active members of Sub Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) SAGAY, Sub Regional Command 3 (SRC3), of the North Central Regional Committee, while Alias Indai/Bea served as the Finance Officer of SRC 3, NCMRC. 

In his testimony, former MB member Jimmy/Omar admitted that he was already tired of serving the CPP-NPA but he cannot leave the group due to fear for his life and the safety of his family.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Acting Commander of 23IB welcomed the five surrenderers and urged the remnants of the CNTs in the area to go back to the folds of the law and live peacefully with their families.

“I am glad that the members of the CNTs have recognized the sincerity of the government in helping the FRs and they have seen the deceptive tactics of the CNTs,” Paulo said.
The 23rd IB commander added: “Inside the 52 years of CNT existence, they were claiming that they were the protectors of the poor but as we can see, they only manipulated and exploited the vulnerabilities of the people to elevate their status in life. Instead of providing the basic necessities of the people, they only extort and harassed them so that they will follow the orders given to them.”

He further asked the remaining CNTs to start their new lives this 2021 by laying down their arms and return to their families.

“Leave your chaotic life behind and live peacefully with your family. Set your goals in life in order to live prosperously in the upcoming years. Let us help one another to stop the CNTs from conducting rampant exploitation with their rotten ideology that kills the future of our nation,” Paulo said. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063262

Army facilitates christening of 32 FRs, dependents in Agusan del Norte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 8, 2021): Army facilitates christening of 32 FRs, dependents in Agusan del Norte (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 8 -- The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Agusan del Norte recently facilitated the baptism of 32 former rebels (FRs) and their children during a Thanksgiving Mass conducted in the unit’s headquarters at Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The baptism was officiated by Rev. Fr. Jhonny Villanueva, the assistant parish priest of Saint James the Great Parish in Buenavista.

Among the FRs who received the sacrament of baptism was Alias Osang, 39, a mother of seven children. She was thankful to the 23rd IB and the PSWDO of Agusan del Norte for facilitating the baptismal rite, saying that it was a way of renewing her commitment to become a productive member of their community and continue to serve the government.

One of the godparents of the newly-baptized FRs and their children is 2nd District Representative of Agusan del Norte Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba, represented by Nita Racho who stood as witness to the baptism rite.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, Commanding Officer, 23IB, congratulated everyone for doing their best to start their new lives.

“As we always hear that men cannot stand by bread alone, we also need to feed ourselves with the words of God and follow his commandments. We are all sinners but we are saved by the grace of God," Paulo said in a message during the baptismal rite.

"I am so proud to see not only the kids but also these adults or parents who’ve been helping themselves to build an intimate relationship with God. May you seek wisdom every day in order for you to follow the right path in all your undertakings,” he added. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063256

Former rebels launch SAMBAYANAN

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 7, 2021): Former rebels launch SAMBAYANAN (By Jeanevive Abangan)

DAVAO DEL NORTE, Jan. 6 (PIA) - Former key members of the New People’s Army strengthened their ranks and launched the Sentrong Alyansa ng mga Mamayan Para sa Bayan (SAMBAYANAN) on Monday (Jan. 5) morning together with a number of support peoples organizations from peasants, youth, private media and other sectors.

SAMBAYANAN national spokesperson Noel Legaspi said the SAMBAYANAN Southern Mindanao Region (SMR) launch held at the Eco Park in Tagum City was the fourth of the series that took off last year in Panay Island.

Led by former NPA cadres who have abandoned their allegiance to the underground communist movement, SAMBAYANAN chapters have also been organized in Central and Southern Luzon areas bringing together former rebels.

Legaspi revealed in an interview that the team of cadre SAMBAYANAN organizers have touched based with more than 4,000 former rebels who either were combatants or those who belonged to the so-called “white area operations of NPA legal fronts”.

Within first quarter of 2021, the SAMBAYAN national organizing committee are aiming to wage series of 10 launches in all regional areas nationwide, Legaspi said.

In his talk during the SMR Launch in Tagum City, he said the SAMBAYANAN is aimed at promoting nationalism and obedience to national and legal laws under the rule of responsible democracy.

As a multi-sectoral civil society organization (CSO), SAMBAYANAN also serves as a legitimate body to receive complaints of former rebels and those who intend to go come to the folds of the law, while also serving as the voice revealing the deception that the triad “communist party of the Philippines-New Peoples Army-National Democratic Front” has been espousing.

Through the movement, the SAMBAYANAN cadre team seeks to establish what they call as Livelihood Defense mechanism through which a Labor Education and Advocacy for Development and Peace will be set up serving as labor resource and service arm.

This is also expected to serve as a preventive measure for the communist terrorist group to infiltrate the labor sector, Legaspi said.

A so-called “Depensa Paaralan” shall also be organized to promote alternative school-based organizations of students and teachers to thwart the NPA and its legal fronts from organizing in schools.

Sentrong Alyansa ng mga Mamayan Para sa Bayan (SAMBAYANAN) on Monday (Jan. 5) at the Tagum Eco Park

Part of SAMBAYANAN’s intention is to protect communities from intrusion of communist terrorist groups especially in far-flung geographically isolate depressed areas (GIDAs). Its so-called “Depensa Komunidad” is aimed at organizing the women, the youth, the vulnerable and disadvantaged sector and eventually spare them from recruitment into the folds of rebellion.

Legaspi is optimistic that the SAMBAYANAN movement would be sustained through the alliance that the organizing cadre team has done with primary agencies of the national government particularly the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, among other agencies of the government primarily involved in the roll-out of Execrtuvei order no. 70 to Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

Bearing the theme, “Katawhang Gobyerno Maghiusa, Kab-uton and Kalinaw, Kalambuan ug Panaghiusa”, the SAMBAYANAN SMR launch generated the support of Tropang Mindanao media organization, the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Youth Organization (MIPYOI), the Brotherhood AGri-venture Incorporated (BRAVE), the Bagong Kabataang Katutubong Guro (BKKG), the Katipunan ng Pamilya at Kadre ng Nagliglingkod sa Bayan (KAPAKANAN).

Other support organizations were the Davao Center for Shelter Inc. (DCSI), the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples’ Council of Elders and Leaders (MIPCEL), the Damgo Alang sa Malipayong Pagpuyo (DAMPA). (PIA XI/ Jeanevive Duron Abangan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063233

DavSur LGU, 39th IB assist young former rebel couple

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 8, 2021): DavSur LGU, 39th IB assist young former rebel couple (By Samantha Jabol)

Former rebel alias “Chinchin”, 15, and live-in partner alias “Jimbo”, 28, benefit from an P8,000.00 worth of financial assistance, grocery items and medical check-up from the Provincial Local Government of Davao del Sur and 39th Infantry Battalion during the holidays. The young FR couple has surrendered to the 39th IB in Makilala, South Cotabato on December 25, 2020. (Photos by 39th IB)

DAVAO CITY, Jan. 06 (PIA) – A young pregnant former rebel received financial assistance from the provincial local government unit of Davao del Sur during the holiday season.

Former rebel alias “Chinchin”, 15, along with live-in partner alias “Jimbo”, 28, benefited from an P8,000.00 worth of financial assistance and grocery items handed by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office of Davao del Sur before the new year.

The two FRs surrendered to the 39th Infantry Battalion in Makilala, South Cotabato last December 25, 2020 through the help of barangay officials.

“Jimbo” was thankful for the assistance of the provincial government of Davao del Sur, and also for the help of the 39th IB which facilitated the medical check-up of his pregnant partner.





"Salamat pod kay Presidente tungod kay naa sya programa nga para kanamo nga nagbalik sa sabakan sa balaod para mag bag-ong kinabuhi (Thank you also to the President because of his program for us who returned to the fold of the law to have a new life),” “Jimbo” stated.

He encouraged those who are still in the mountains to surrender, saying that the government is willing to help and assist them of their needs.

In the efforts of ending insurgency, 39th IB Commander Ltc. Geoffrey Carandang said that the Army and the different government agencies are always ready to offer true programs and services, not just to attain peace and order, and also to help improve the economy. (PIA-XI/Samantha Jabol/39th IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063193

AFP's JTF-NCR beefs up security for Black Nazarene feast on Jan. 9

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 8, 2021): AFP's JTF-NCR beefs up security for Black Nazarene feast on Jan. 9 (By Jimmyley E. Guzman)

PASIG CITY, Jan. 8 (PIA) -- The Joint Task Force National Capital Region (JTF NCR) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is set to deploy hundreds of its troops and beef up the security in key areas celebrating the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Jan. 9.

"We will deploy hundreds of [our] troops from the different major services of the AFP, namely the Philippine Army, the Philippine Navy, the Marines, the Philippine Air Force, and the special operations forces," JTF-NCR's public affairs chief 1Lt. Arrianne Bichara told the PIA-NCR.

"This is in support to the peace and order efforts of the National Capital Region Police Office of the Philippine National Police, the Manila City Government, other government agencies, and non-government organizations," she added.

Bichara said the deployment is also part of the military's Stability and Security Operations or SASO, in order to "prevent any chaos and secure the people during the novena masses of [the] Feast of Black Nazarene 2021."

The JTF NCR AFP she said, also encourages the public to participate in the peaceful and orderly observance of the 2021's Feast of Black Nazarene and to always observe health protocols against COVID-19.

To recall, during pre-COVID times, Quiapo Church officials led the annual Black Nazarene Traslacion, the biggest religous procession in the Philippines.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, church officials decided to cancel the procession this year to prevent further coronavirus infection and adhere to current health protocols and strict physical distancing.

The Traslacion is an annual commemoration on the turn-over of the miraculous image of the Nazareno from Luneta Chapel, managed by the Recolletos Missionaries, to the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, known canonically as the Parish of Saint John the Baptist, and also known as Quiapo Parish Church (QPC).

For this year's feast, its activities started on Dec. 30, 2020 and will end in the early morning of Jan. 10, 2021.

Also due to the COVID 19 pandemic, the primary activities for the event include the novena masses on Jan. 9, 2021 at the Quiapo Church; San Sebastian Church; Nazarene Catholic School; and Sta Cruz Church respectively. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1063318