2 suspected bombers slain in Maguindanao

Posted to MindaNews (Feb 5, 2021): 2 suspected bombers slain in Maguindanao (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao. Map courtesy of Google

Two alleged members of Dawlah Islamiyah, a group linked to ISIS and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, were killed after they reportedly resisted arrest in Maguindanao.

Colonel Donald Madamba, provincial police commander identified the slain suspects as Rasul Dubpaleg and his cousin Bhadz Dubpaleg.

Madamba said they served an arrest warrant on the duo around 10:45 a.m. Thursday in Barangay Zapakan, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao for their alleged involvement in bombings in Isulan in Sultan Kudarat, Midsayap in North Cotabato and Cotabato City.

The suspects were to be brought to the provincial police headquarters in Shariff Aguak town for booking and interrogation, but attempted to grab the firearms of one of the policemen, according to the report from the Police Regional Office of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BARMM).

The commotion that followed resulted in gunshot wounds on the suspects, the report released by the office of Police BGen Samuel Rodriguez said.

It did not say if the suspects were handcuffed during the arrest.

The National Intelligence Coordinating Agency listed Rasul as number 3 in the so-called Dawlah Islamiyah Hassan Group.

“The arrest of these suspects who were linked to local terrorists group BIFF is a great help in our fight against terrorism. Rest assured that the team of PRO-BARMM, together with the other agencies of the government will do our best to arrest other rebels hiding in Bangsamoro Region,” Rodriguez said.

The arrest was a joint operation of Maguindanao Police, Regional Public Safety Battalion of PRO-BARMM and several intelligence operatives.

Earlier this month, Rajah Buayan town residents declared ISIS-inspired terrorist groups as persona non grata.

In a peace rally led by Mayor Yacob Ampatuan, residents condemned the acts of terrorist groups, saying they are unacceptable to Islam and humanity.

They burned a black flag resembling the one used by groups that align themselves with ISIS.

A few days later, Ampatuan received threats of violent attacks purportedly coming from these groups.

Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling, commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion lauded the efforts of the local government of Rajah Buayan which he said signaled to neighboring Sultan sa Barongis town to do the same in the coming days.

“From the barangays they created a resolution to declare these ISIS-inspired terror groups as persona non grata. This was discussed in the Sangguniang Bayan and approved during the previous peace and order council meeting condemning the acts of these violent groups,” Boongaling said.

At the dialogue with internally displaced persons in Shariff Aguak on Wednesday, the Army official challenged them to stand up to the ideas espoused by these groups.

“Kasi ang narrative nila usually ay ang Islam ay (Their usual narrative is that Islam is) under attack which in reality, according to local officials and residents, ay free naman silang magsamba or gawin ang (they’re free to worship or perform) religious peaceful activities nila, wala namang pumipigil (nobody is preventing them),” he added.

Muslim religious leaders, nongovernment organizations, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and other groups in the region have been working together to prevent and counter the phenomenon of violent extremism. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/02/2-suspected-bombers-slain-in-maguindanao/

Security forces praised

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 6, 2021): Security forces praised

MAYOR BENG Climaco praised members of the security forces in Zamboanga City for their hardwork, swift response and steadfast dedication in protecting the public from all kinds of threats – terrorism, violent extremism and even crimes.



Climaco said with the vigilance of the residents and the dedication of the policemen and soldiers, and barangay tanods and government militias, there have been no bombings and kidnappings, and piracy for 5 straight years.

“We are proud to report to the public, together with Task Force Zamboanga and the Zamboanga City Police Office, that we have maintained again zero bombing, zero kidnapping and zero piracy in our seas for five straight years. I take pride of this historic accomplishment as Chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council (appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte).”

“Ta sale lang siempre librao el Ciudad de Zamboanga por cinco años ya na mal actos de terorismo y man junto siempre kita todo dale el deaton esfuerzo para preveni pa maga atrocidad para na seguridad del deaton maga familia y comunidad. Muchas gracias tambien con Consejala Pinpin Pareja, our action officer for peace and order for all the efforts done,” she said.

But the mayor was quick to say that terrorism does not rest, adding “It may have been hampered by Covid-19, but LGUs (local governments) like ours, must remain on their toes for evolving threats.”

Climaco said: “Recently, we had terror threats to Zamboanga City which include potential kidnapping and IED attack by foreign-led bombers. We mobilized the Region and the City with preventive measures of all combined security forces, the LGUs down to the barangays. Zamboanga City Police Office reported that they received more than 200 information reports pertaining to plans, sightings and all forms of illegal activities of threat groups and other criminal elements.”

“While we have to focus on maintaining measures to fight Covid-19, the threat of terrorism, violent extremism and crime remains. Zamboanga City is no stranger to incidents of terror as attested by the 2013 siege of Zamboanga (by members of the Moro National Liberation under Nur Misuari). Thus, we reiterate our stand,” she said.

Even while under the pandemic, Climaco emphasized that the local government continues to maintain efforts in preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism so as not to give terrorists the opportunity to take advantage of the health situation now.

“Our mandate versus violent extremism is to deny terrorists opportunity to conduct terror activities. We deny terrorists by beefing up security and target hardening of key spaces and infrastructure in the City, by building and strengthening community resilience by engaging the local communities as partners in peacekeeping. We fortify our walls but we build bridges,” Climaco said.

“We continue to build community resilience which is key versus terror and violent extremism. We have ongoing community dialogues, a joint undertaking of national and local government with local police, hijab patrollers, and Salam volunteers made possible with support from the US Department of State, Bureau of Counter Terrorism,” she added.

Security forces have neutralized several Abu Sayyaf members in Zamboanga in recent months. (Zamboanga Post)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/02/security-forces-praised.html

China 'threatens war' with Philippines as US pledges support to Manila

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 6, 2021): China 'threatens war' with Philippines as US pledges support to Manila

CHINA IS "threatening war" after it authorised its warships to open fire on fishers plying traditional waters, warns the Philippines. Now Washington says it has Manila's back.

Beijing has passed legislation calling upon its military-controlled coast guard to open fire upon "foreign" vessels and destroy "illegal" structures within the East and South China seas.

Problem is, those territories don't belong to it. Which means the law represents a significant escalation in international tensions. And that has Manila worried the region is about to erupt in violence.

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. says the Chinese move "is a verbal threat of war to any country that defies the law". Any nation not rejecting the law will be signalling its "submission".

Beijing's aggressive new legislation orders its coast guard to "take all necessary measures, including the use of weapons, when national sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction are being illegally infringed upon by foreign organisations or individuals at sea".

Hours after the new law was passed, a flight of H-6K strategic bombers escorted by advanced fighters made a dummy "attack run" on the USS Theodore Roosevelt battle group.

Filipino fishers operating out of Thitu (also known as Pag-asa) island in the Spratly Islands also reported Chinese coast guard and militia vessels forcing them out of traditional waters.

New US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has responded to Beijing's intimidation by contacting Mr Locsin, telling him the longstanding defence agreement between the two nations would be honoured.

"Secretary Blinken pledged to stand with Southeast Asian claimants in the face of PRC pressure," a State Department press release reads. "Secretary Blinken stressed the importance of the Mutual Defence Treaty for the security of both nations, and its clear application to armed attacks against the Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, which includes the South China Sea."

The new Chinese law dramatically raises the stakes of an armed clash in the region. And posturing such as the two dummy air attacks on the US aircraft carrier battlegroup increases the odds of an incident.

Neither side is showing signs of backing down. Earlier this month, the US military warned it planned to be "more assertive" against international law violations in the Pacific Ocean and the East and South China seas.

"Our globally deployed naval forces interact with Chinese and Russian warships and aircraft daily," the statement reads. It highlighted the "growing aggressiveness" of encounters and declared China "the most pressing, long-term strategic threat".

The East China Sea is bracketed by Taiwan, North and South Korea, Japan and China. The South China Sea is bracketed by Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and China.

After World War II, China signed the international law of the sea which allocates specific portions to each nation under clearly defined criteria. Beijing insists these don't apply to it. It says both seas belong to it based on historical ownership.A 2016 ruling by the international court of arbitration judged this assertion to be without merit.

Now, US President Joe Biden has "underscored that the United States rejects China's maritime claims in the South China Sea to the extent they exceed the maritime zones that China is permitted to claim under international law".

Mr Duterte's office issued a statement saying he hoped no country would do anything to increase tensions further. His foreign minister later expressed concerns the Philippines was about to lose access to its western exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The law "is virtually a declaration of war against countries that are legitimate claimants of the Chinese-claimed marine territory," fishing federation chairman Fernando Hicap told the Hong Kong based South China Morning Post.

Concern has been growing at the militarisation of China's civilian coast guard and fishing fleets. The Coast Guard has recently been put under the operational control of the People's Liberation Army Navy. Analysts saw this as a disturbing move as coast guards are supposed to be a civilian policing force.

Beijing has long sent its political commissars to sea with its enormous fishing fleets. But, in recent decades, these fleets have also undergone cooperative naval training.

"The white ships of the coastguard symbolise maximum tolerance at all times to protect civilians and merchants at sea," Philippines defence analyst Chester Cabalza says. Grey warships are "symbols of antagonism and war". "(Now) Chinese coastguard can just shoot anyone, armed or unarmed, in territorial waters that they illegally claim. This is a serious threat to Filipino fishers … in our very own territorial waters."

Meanwhile, resentment among the Filipino community is rising. One fisher told local TV he had been barred from sandbars surrounding Thitu Island by Chinese coast guard and militia. "Of course I'm furious, we used to be able to go there, that's ours," he said. "Why would they forbid us to go there now?"

Another fisher released a short video account: "I have many enemies at sea. Look. Those are Chinese ships in front of me. They're blocking me and I can't get to sandbar two," Larry Hugo states. "I will leave first."

Beijing has again warned that the US's ongoing military presence in the South China Sea is "not conducive to peace". China's foreign ministry stated earlier this week that US freedom-of-navigation operations designed to "flex its muscles" were threatening the region's stability.

Meanwhile, the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier battle group passed China's illegal artificial island fortresses in the Spratly Islands. Satellite imagery reveals ships in the group passed close to Beijing's 12 nautical mile territorial boundary claim. But China continues to ramp up its efforts to enforce its territorial ambitions arbitrarily.

Publication Defence News reports an analysis of satellite imagery has revealed a recent build-up of Chinese surveillance aircraft on Hainan Island at the northern extremity of the South China Sea. Work is well underway on enormous dry docks big enough to support China's future force of aircraft carriers. And Woody Island in the Paracels has been undergoing further land reclamation efforts to protect its military airfield facilities from erosion. (Jamie Seidel, News.com.au)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/02/china-threatens-war-with-philippines-as.html

EO70 info caravan, anti-terror law held in AgNor town

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 3, 2021): EO70 info caravan, anti-terror law held in AgNor town (By 29th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte, Feb. 2 -- The 29th Infantry (Matatag Fighters) Battalion (29IB) together with the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) recently launched the Executive Order (EO) 70 Information Caravan.

NICA 10 and 13 Regional Director Manuel M. Orduña led the information caravan at the Municipal Building of Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte. “Ito na ang pinakamalaking programa ng gobyerno, ang EO 70. Ang Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict. Itong problema natin na ito ang humila sa atin pababa. Ang gusto po ng presidente matapos ang Local Communist Armed Conflict na ito habang siya pa ang presidente,” Orduña said.

The information drive was attended by barangay captains, Sangguniang Kabataan representatives,Sangguniang Bayan members, businessmen and members of the Kitcharao Municipal Police Station.

Mayor Aristotle M. Montante, Kitcharao’s Municipal Mayor, requested to initiate the caravan to support his municipalities’ effort in the information campaign. The goal of the information caravan was not just to orient the public but also to remind the stakeholders and agencies of their respective roles in the said campaign. The main topic covered was the EO 70, although the Anti-Terror Law and Resource Control were also discussed.

“Akong mainiton nga pagwelcome ug pagpasalamat sa inyong pagtambong. Kani nga information caravan mao ning atong pagsupporta sa E.O. 70 kinahanglan sad ni nato kay kita man ang mga frontliners diri sa atong lungsod (I warmly welcome and thank you for attending. This information caravan is what we need in support of E.O. 70 because we are the frontliners here in our town)," said Mayor Montante.

“This is the biggest program of the government, the EO70. Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict. This is the problem that is pulling us down. What the President wants is to end this Local Communist Armed Conflict while he is still the President,” said Orduña.

According to Lt. Col Aristotle Antonio, Acting Commanding Officer of 29IB, they are in the area because they want to let them know what EO 70 NTF-ELCAC is. "Because the public has not been informed. For over 52 years, the Philippine government has been destroyed by Communist ideology. The Communist Terrorists or the CPP-NPA, so it is important that each of us knows about this program. It is important so that we won’t be deceived by the propagandas of this communist-terrorist group," he said.

It can be recalled that EO No. 70, series of 2018, entitled “Institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach in Attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, and Directing the Adoption of a National Peace Framework” was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on December 4, 2018. The order aims to address “the root causes of insurgencies, internal disturbances, tensions and other armed conflicts and threats by prioritizing and harmonizing the delivery of basic services and social development packages, facilitating societal inclusivity, and ensuring active participation of all sectors of the society in the pursuit of the country’s peace agenda.” (1Lt. Edmar C. Colagong, CMO Officer, 29IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065558

Info activities conducted to shield youth from CTG influence in Agnor town

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 3, 2021): Info activities conducted to shield youth from CTG influence in Agnor town (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Feb. 3 -- The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), in partnership with the Youth for Peace (YFP) Las Nieves chapter and the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) members conducted a series of information and education activities to youth groups from the different barangays in Las Nieves town in Agusan del Norte from January 20 to 28, 2021.

The eight-day activity was supported by the local government unit (LGU) of Las Nieves and the council members of every concerned barangays and communities.

The activity aims to educate the youth in countering the propaganda of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorists (CNTS) in their localities and to enlighten them on the different deceptive tactics that the terrorist insurgents use in social media. In the overall perspective, the activity sought to shield the youth in Las Nieves from the recruitment of the CTGs.

The YFP Las Nieves was established last July 15, 2017, through a Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) activity conducted by the 23IB. With the formation of the YFP, the youth members were organized, transformed, and empowered to fulfill their roles as responsible citizens and catalysts in advocating peace and development in their respective communities.

Karen S. Rosales, the president of YFP, expressed gratitude to the YFP members and SK officers for the success of the series of information and education activities.

“The YFP was established with the primary purpose to educate and enlighten the youth of Las Nieves to widen their perspectives on the different issues that hinder peace, progress, and development. Our organization also seeks to uplift the leadership capabilities of our youth, as the future leaders of our communities and municipality, through lectures and a series of education drives. The organization also works with other stakeholders, such as the 23IB, to enlighten our youth on the different schemes that the CNTs exploit, whether through individual recruitment activities in the barangays or through social media. We want our youth to be aware of the different disinformation campaigns that the CNTs and their cohorts employ in different platforms,” Rosales said.

He also asked the youth in Las Nieves to join the cause of the YFP and win over more members of the sector to the organization and transform them as effective agents in peace-building and development works in the municipality.

“Let us all work together and plant the seed of compassion and patriotism among our youths so that together, we can stand as one and help our municipality grow and prosper,” Rosales said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB, commended the YFP and SK leaders and members of Las Nieves for the success of the activity.

“Your readiness and willingness to support the different peace and development initiatives and interventions of the government will save the youth of Las Nieves from the influence and destruction of the CNTs,” Paulo said.

“Your bigger purpose is to become part of the overall peace development campaigns in your municipality. As members of the youth sector, you need to learn more and accept the various challenges you will come across in the future. But I am certain that you will succeed, as long as you are united and believe in the cause that you began to nurture today. Continue your learnings because it is only through education that we become effective leaders in our communities,” added Paulo.

The 23rd IB commander also encouraged the YFP and SK leaders to help the efforts of the LGU and other line agencies of the government to end the local communist armed conflict. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065603

Incoming AFP chief visits 402nd Brigade in Butuan City

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 4, 2021): Incoming AFP chief visits 402nd Brigade in Butuan City (By 402nd Brigade, PA)

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 4 – The incoming Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, visited the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, Home of the Stingers Troopers on February 02, 2021 at Camp Romualdo Rubi, Barangay Bancasi, this city.

A Medal for Valor awardee and the current Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Sobejana’s visit to the 402nd Brigade is his only official visit to an Infantry Brigade as he prioritized major units of the Philippine Army and as a way of looking back to the people he worked with in the past. He was accompanied by Major General Andres Centino, the Commander of the 4th Infantry Division.

“We must know how to look back, even in doing our own job. We should look back and put forward the things that we have done that resulted in a good outcome and learned lessons from our mistakes. As we move forward, we must know how to look at ourselves on how capable we are in doing our job,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana said.

He was warmly welcomed and accorded with Foyer Honors by Brigadier General Maurito Licudine, the 402nd Brigade Commander. Also present to welcome him were the Brigade Commanders of the 401st and 901st Brigade, Brigadier General Allan Hambala and Brigadier General George Banzon, respectively, together with the Battalion Commanders and other AFP units in the Caraga region.

Lt. Gen. Sobejana during his ‘Talk to the Troops’ highlighted the need to capacitate the Army and seek partners from civilian stakeholders as peace and security is a shared responsibility. “If we wanted to get the full support and cooperation in our efforts, we must have PEACE, People Empowerment in Addressing Conflict Environment. We must empower and increase people’s situational awareness and impress upon them that in the name of public service, the soldiers are not above them or below them but instead we are beside them,” he said.

He further stressed the soldiers’ discipline and humility are of utmost importance to win the hearts and minds of the people recognizing that the insurgency problem is a propaganda war. “The more allies we have, the better chance for us to triumph battles to win the peace,” said Sobejana.

Meanwhile, BGen. Licudine also expressed his gratitude on the visit of the incoming Chief of Staff of the AFP. “It is an honor to be visited by one of the most decorated Army Officers, my mentor and a living hero who inspired every one of us here. We are the only Infantry Brigade visited by Lt. Gen. Sobejana reflecting our standard of excellence as a show window of the whole 4ID. His message is clear, we are more motivated to ensure and provide our people a community that is safe and secured. Let us remain humble and continue doing our job well,” he said.

Lt. Gen. Sobejana, a member of PMA “Hinirang” Class of 1987, was announced recently to assume the most coveted position in the military as the 55th AFP Chief of Staff and shall replace General Gilbert Gapay, who will bow out of the military service this week. (Major Francisco Garello, Jr., CMO, 402nd Brigade/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065822

4ID celebrates 51st anniv with community locals in AgSur

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): 4ID celebrates 51st anniv with community locals in AgSur (By 26th Infantry Battalion, PA)

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Feb. 5 -- The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID), Philippine Army under the command of Major General Andres C. Centino, celebrated its 51st founding anniversary in the community through an outreach program held in Barangay Lydia, La Paz, Agusan del Sur on Feb. 1, 2021.

This year's anniversary was anchored on the theme, "Diamond Division: Sustaining Excellence Amidst Challenges." As part of the celebration, the activity intends to touch the lives and provide sociological support to the people who were struggling amidst pandemic as well as to bring happiness to those underprivileged in the far-flung and isolated local communities.

Barangay Lydia is one of the fortunate barangays in Agusan del Sur, which was selected by the 4ID as the beneficiary of the outreach program. Aside from being a geographically isolated barangay, it is also considered as a conflict-affected area because of the presence of the New People's Army (NPA) and their constant threat to the residents. A total of 228 beneficiaries took part in the activity.

The troops of 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB) also facilitated the distribution of food packs and other assistance during the activity and was made possible thru collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of La Paz headed by Mayor Michael V. Lim and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga regional office.

“My gratitude to the Diamond Division for choosing Brgy. Lydia to be one of the beneficiaries in your area of responsibility. Happy 51st Anniversary and I am honored to be part of this momentous celebration. Rest assured that the local government of La Paz will always be grateful in your time and effort in providing sociological needs for our people and we will always be your partner on the implementation of government programs and initiatives for peace and development in our community," said Mayor Lim.

Meanwhile, MGen. Centino, commended all the partner agencies for their benevolent support for the unit. "As our partner in achieving peace and development, I am very grateful to all who are committed in uplifting and empowering the lives of every Filipino especially the less fortunate. We guarantee that we will do our best in all our undertakings to help the people especially those in the remote communities. With all our efforts, no community will be left behind," he said. (2Lt. Cecille Tappa, acting CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065818

5 CPP-NPA terrorists die in Lanao del Sur encounter

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 4, 2021): 5 CPP-NPA terrorists die in Lanao del Sur encounter (By 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army) 

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 3 - Five CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) died in an encounter with government troops in the boundary of Talakag, Bukidnon and Tagoloan II in Lanao del Sur, ‪Tuesday morning, Feb. 2.

The firefight erupted when elements of the 1st Special Forces Battalion (SFBn)were conducting security operation and encountered more or less 30 armed CNTs believed to be members of the Sub-Regional Command (SRC) 5 and Sub-Regional Command (SRC) 4 under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), ‪at around 9:00 a.m. in the vicinity of Barangay Gayakay, Tagoloan II. The exchange of fire lasted for one hour.‬

The encounter happened anew ‪at around 11:00 a.m. of the same day with the same armed group, which lasted for about 30 minutes.‬

Recovered from the encounter site were five (5) cadavers of killed CNTs, six (6) high-powered firearms composed of three (3) M16 rifles, two (2) Garand rifles, and one (1) M14 rifle.

LtCol. Vercisio San Jose Jr, 1st SFBn Commanding Officer, confirmed no casualty on their side.

Pursuit operation is ongoing against the armed group.

BGen. Ferdinand Barandon, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, said in a statement that the incident resulted from the community’s growing support to the army that constantly reports the presence of CNTs in their area.

Moreover, MGen. Andres Centino, commander of the 4th Infantry Division and JTF Diamond, said the security operations would continue against the CNTs until they surrender to the government or abandon the armed struggle.

"Again, we are calling the remaining CNTs to lay down your arms, join the government’s call for peace, and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) so you will have a peaceful and productive life with your family,” Centino said.

He also extended condolences to the families of the killed rebels and assured them that they will be given a decent burial.

The 1st SFBn already coordinated with the Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office for the cadavers' proper disposition and had their identity confirmed. (DPAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065950

Zambo Schools to be wary on terrorist’s recruitment - Former Rebel

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 4, 2021): Zambo Schools to be wary on terrorist’s recruitment - Former Rebel (By Jayson R. Aucensillo) 

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Feb 4 (PIA) - As the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) propaganda still reigns for over five (5) decades now, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 together with the security forces of Zamboanga City unite to counter their ‘hoopla’ by a massive information dissemination drive to avoid undergoing communist recruitments and infiltration of terrorist groups in schools.

Recently, the information volunteers (ivolunteers), who are student leaders of their respective colleges and universities in Zamboanga City converged in the meeting and campaign planning on defying the entry of the lawless groups in their respective schools.

Ka Amihan, a former rebel and currently the media and information officer of Sambayanan National, is continuously appealing the schools to really monitor those organizations who will tend to infiltrate the schools and be aware of those legal front organizations whose aim is to encourage the youth and/or students to be part of terrorism groups.

"They are hypocrites if they say they promote terrorism, rather they will really look for a way just to recruit those potential youth or students that they could easily persuade to engage on their group,” said Ka Amihan during the ivolunteer meeting and campaign planning.



"That’s why I encourage the school managements together with the government agencies to have a massive information dissemination campaign that could deactivate the operations of their recruitment,” Ka Amihan added.

Moreover, there are three (3) reasons why insurgency exists; poverty, social injustice and illiteracy and the government is now doing steps to address these factors by means of “informing the public as well as to let them feel that there is a government that cares,” affirmed by Chairperson of Joint Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC)-9 and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA)-9 Regional Director Ariel T. Perlado.



Undeniably, the students remain to be one of the vulnerable sectors on NPA-CPP recruitment and they are seem to be easily believed with the talks of the terrorists.

"We are here to plan and raise awareness to the student leaders with regards to the CTG’s propaganda and give interventions to prevent the deceitful moves of the lawless groups,” said PIA-9 Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga.

Present on the planning were from the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA)-9, Joint Task Force-Zamboanga (JTFZ), 4th Civil Relations Group (CRG), and Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-9 who shared their agency’s views and counterpart in response to the possible communist terrorist activities.



By means of the massive information dissemination drive against the propaganda of the other side, the government is hopeful to win the trust of the public and put an end on their undergoing recruitments in school and in the city.

As of now, the CPP-NPA-NDF's presence in Zamboanga City is still not very prominent, but still authorities are cautious because anytime, they could resume recruitment. (RVC/JRA/PIA9-Zamboanga City)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065936

NHA-9, Siay LGU inks MOA on P70-M Housing Projects for FRs, IPs

 From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): NHA-9, Siay LGU inks MOA on P70-M Housing Projects for FRs, IPs (By Jocelyn Alvarez)

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay, Feb 5 ( PIA) - The National Housing Authority (NHA)-9 inked recently a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the local government unit of Siay town, this province for the implementation of the Php70 million Housing Projects in the municipality.



NHA-9 Information Officer Hanzel Hoffdahl said identified beneficiaries of the housing projects include 110 former rebels (FRs) from Barangay Mirangan and 100 Alsa Masa Indigenous Peoples (IP) families of Barangay Balagon.

Out of the Php70 million fund, Php50 million is allotted for the construction of 110 house and lot units for FRs while about 100 units worth Php20 Million is allotted for the identified IP families.

“Dapat yung mga FRs natin ay JAPIC certified. Sa ngayon, of the 110 FR-beneficiaries, 15 pa lang sa kanila ang JAPIC certified,” said Hoffdahl.

The Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee (JAPIC) is a body created by virtue of the AFP-PNP Joint Standing Operating Procedures (JSOP) No. 01-2008 that serves as source of the authenticity of FR.

Hoffdahl explained funds for the projects will be released in two tranches, and that LGU Siay should make two separate requests for fund release for each housing project.

“Posible na sabay ma-release ang first tranche nitong dalawang magkahiwalay na housing projects, depende sa request ng LGU,” he said.

However, he informed that the money will be released two to three weeks after request from the LGU beneficiary.

Hoffdahl said the Php70 million fund will come from NHA, and will be downloaded to LGU Siay for project implementation.

“Si LGU Siay na po ang maghahanap ng contractor, etc, for the housing project implementation; si NHA will be on the monitoring side, may project engineer din po from NHA as part of the monitoring.”

Both housing projects are expected to be completed within 245 calendar days from its commencement.

This endeavor is in consonance with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s E.O 70 that seeks to institutionalize the Whole-of-Nation approach in obtaining exclusive and sustainable peace; giving an effective solution against communist-terrorists or end local communist armed conflict in the country. (EDT/JPA/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay) #InformExplainEmpower

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065989

RTF-ELCAC6 reaches out to universities

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): RTF-ELCAC6 reaches out to universities (By Jaime S. Cabag) 

ILOILO CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) – The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict Region (RTF-ELCAC) 6 is reaching out to universities in Western Visayas which have been included in the list of educational institutions in the country which the national task force has named as recruitment grounds of the communist terrorist group (CTG).

So far, the regional task force has engaged three universities in the region in a dialogue on the recruitment activities of the CTG. The dialogue involved members of the task force on one hand and officials of the universities on the other side.

These universities are Aklan State University (ASU) of Aklan, Filamer Christian University (FCU) of Capiz, and Central Philippine University (CPU) of Iloilo.

National Task Force Director for Stakeholder Engagement Fidel Añonuevo, Jr. commended RTF-ELCAC6 “for its efforts in engaging the universities in Western Visayas that were included in the published list of educational institutions that are targeted by the CPP-NPA for its recruitment operations.”

Añonuevo, who joined the RTF-ELCAC6 Technical Working Group meeting on February 5, said that with these efforts the regional task force has set a “great example” for other regional task forces to follow when it comes to addressing the CTG’s exploitation of our youth.

In its official statement, Aklan State University said that it “will not allow communist-terrorist groups to destroy the future of our students; hence, ASU is one with the peace-loving Aklanons in denouncing their (CTG) criminal activities.”

Central Philippine University has also issued an official statement, saying “The university does not and has never condoned activities which promote recruitment for armed resistance to the government. As Christians, we encourage peaceful resolution of conflicts. This is the humane thing to do.”

Añonuevo urged the region’s task force to continue the effort of “protecting our youth from the deceptive recruitment of the CTG.” (JBG/JSC/PIA6)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066057

Tagalog News: Mga tauhan ng PCG-Palawan, sinanay sa 'Tactical Combat Casualty Care'

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): Tagalog News: Mga tauhan ng PCG-Palawan, sinanay sa 'Tactical Combat Casualty Care' (By Leila B. Dagot) 

Dalampu't isang tauhan ng Philippine Coast Guard - Palawan ang sumailalim sa tatlong araw na pagsasanay sa Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) na pinangasiwaan ng U.S. Civilian Military Support Element - Philippines. (Larawan mula sa U.S. Emabassy in the Philippines)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan, Peb. 5 (PIA) -- Sumailalim sa tatlong araw na pagsasanay ang nasa 21 tauhan ng Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) sa Palawan para sa pagtugon sa medical emergencies.

Ang pagsasanay ay tinatawag na Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) bilang bahagi ng ‘Coast Guard’s Surface Support Force (CGSSF)’ boarding officer course na pinangasiwaan ng U.S. Civilian Military Support Element – Philippines (CMSE-Phl).

Kinapapalooban ito ng pagsasanay sa pag-responde sa emergency situation sa panahon ng pagpapatupad ng batas, seguridad pandagat, at maging sa maritime search and rescue operations.

Layon ng gawain na mapalakas ang kakayanang pang-medikal ng mga partisipante na nagtatrabaho sa maritime at land-based operations.

“Ang aming mga personnel, specifically ang gaming boarding team members ay may pagkakataon na iangat at palawakin pa ang kanilang kaalaman at kakayanan sa pagtugon sa mga emergency situations na maaari nilang maranasan habang nagpe-perform ng kanilang tungkulin sa karagatan,” tinuran ni Commodore Erwin Tolentino, commanding officer ng BRP Cabra sa isang pahayag.

Aniya, malaking tulong ang pagsasanay na ipinagkaloob sa kanila ng kanilang katuwang na CMSE-Phl upang makapaghatid ng maayos na serbisyo sa mga mamamayan ng Palawan. (LBD/PIAMIMAROPA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066036

Top NPA killed, firearms seized in Quezon encounter

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): Top NPA killed, firearms seized in Quezon encounter (By PA 2ID DPAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal, Feb. 5 --A notorious NPA mastermind was killed in a 45-minute firefight after his group encountered government forces in Sitio Pung-uy, Brgy Masaya, Buenavista, Quezon on Friday, February 5 at 4:00 in the morning.

The NPA terrorist casualty was identified as Ronnel Batarlo alias Marwin who died during the gunfight while an M16 rifle and an M203 grenade launcher were recovered after the soldiers secured the area.

It can be recalled that said NPA group was responsible for various terroristic activities, including the ambush of the police at Brgy San Juan in San Narciso, Quezon in February last year.

MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of the Army's 2nd Infantry Division, said that one of his troops injured during the encounter is already in stable condition at the hospital.

Almerol admired the bravery of the citizens in being one with their soldiers in this quest to get rid of terrorism and bring back normalcy in this part of the country.

"These recent incidents would not happen if these NPA terrorists heeded the government’s call for peace and given themselves a chance to live away from the horrors of terrorism. So, for those few of you [NPAs], better surrender and return to the folds of the law before it's too late."

All available military assets have been placed on high alert in support of the ongoing pursuit operations against the fleeing terrorists.

Joint AFP-PNP checkpoints also were established on possible exit points in the area.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066050

ELCAC Task Forces in Central Luzon hold levelling meeting

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5, 2021): ELCAC Task Forces in Central Luzon hold levelling meeting (By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu) 

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Feb.5 (PIA) -- About 600 leaders from national government agencies, local government units and private sector on Thursday attended a virtual levelling meeting organized by the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict 3 (RTF-ELCAC 3).

It aims to provide local task forces with knowledge on the strategy, tactics and programs being utilized by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front and create greater synergy in the efforts being carried out by the national, regional, provincial, city, municipal and barangay task forces.

“There is still much to be done in order to put an end to the communist armed rebellion in the country. But through a Whole-of-Nation Approach, just and lasting peace is within reach,” Peace Adviser and Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Region 3 Carlito G. Galvez Jr. said in his message that was read by Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process consultant Abraham Claro Casis.

“The remaining 18 months of the Duterte administration will be dedicated to implementing inclusive, integrated and multi-sectoral interventions that will enable us to sustain the gains of peace and move forward as one people and one nation,” Galvez furthered.

The cabinet official recognized the hard work and dedication of RTF-ELCAC 3, as evidenced by the collaborative efforts of its different clusters to promote good governance in the area.

Peace Adviser and Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Region 3 Carlito G. Galvez Jr. (OPAPP File Photo)

“I am confident that we will be able to finally put an end to the decades-long communist rebellion, and bring sustainable development and long-lasting peace to our people,” he said.

Executive Order No. 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and subsequently, the RTF ELCACs.

Since its establishment, RTF-ELCAC 3 has helped capacitate various sectors such as the youth, labor, agriculture, and the Indigenous Peoples through the delivery of basic services, provision of livelihood programs, grants of amnesty, and other socio-economic interventions.

“Peace is on the horizon, but it will not come on a silver platter. We must work for it, sustain it, and protect it at all costs. Let us do this for our children and the future generations,” Galvez said.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066073

Caraga cops nab NPA political instructor

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6, 2021): Caraga cops nab NPA political instructor (By Alexander Lopez)

POLITICAL INSTRUCTOR. Authorities arrest communist rebel Jude Laray, 27, on Saturday (Feb. 6, 2021) in a manhunt operation in Barangay San Isidro, Sison, Surigao del Norte. Laray is described as a political instructor of a rebel unit under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People's Army. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

Police arrested a political instructor of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) Saturday in the Surigao del Norte town of Sison.

In a statement, the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) said Jude Laray, 27, was arrested in Barangay San Isidro, Sison.

He is identified as a political instructor of the NPA's Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) Kingdom of Guerrilla Front (GF) 4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) that operates in Agusan del Norte and Butuan.

Laray is facing two counts of murder, attempted murder, and multiple attempted murder, police said.

“He is listed in the Periodic Status Report on Threat Group of the Regional Intelligence Division and was involved in the series of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) harassments and attacks in the area,” Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr., PRO-13 director, said.

He said Laray was involved in the series of NPA harassments and armed attacks in Agusan del Norte in 2018.

“Records also show that Laray is involved in the series of killings, including that of Jhonny T. Villamor in Barangay 4 on August 20, 2018, and of Elim A. Margaret at District Narra, Barangay Talisay on October 17, 2018, all in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte,” he said.

"I commend the continuing efforts of our operatives in bringing to justice these fugitives from the law and we share our commitment to the people of Caraga to affect the arrest of persons with standing warrants of arrest to make them answer for the charges filed against them in court,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129864