Kalinaw News: Seven red fighters in Davao Oriental join growing list of individuals returning to folds of the law

Posted to the Kalinaw News Website (Jul 6, 2021): Seven red fighters in Davao Oriental join growing list of individuals returning to folds of the law

Provincial Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang welcomed Seven (7) Former Rebels (FRs) on July 5, 2021 (Monday) at the Provincial Capitol in a ceremony dubbed as “Pag-uli: Acceptance Ceremony for Returning Rebels.”

Present also in the event were Mr. Orlie A Cabaobao, Provincial Director, DILG Davao Oriental, Ms Sarah Gudes, Provincial Head, PSWDO, Colonel Oliver C Maquiling Inf (GSC) PA, 701st Brigade Commander and Police Major Tesorero, PCR Officer, Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office.

The Governor led the acceptance of the seven FRs and handed P100, 000 to every surrenderee as cash reward. The tipsters who negotiated for their surrender also received P50, 000 each. Also highlighted during the ceremony is the Ultimax Submachine gun that was surrendered by one of the FRs.

The returning rebels will be processed through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) before being fully integrated back to society.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/seven-more-red-fighters-in-davao-oriental-join-the-growing-list-of-individuals-who-chose-to-return-to-the-folds-of-the-law/

Kalinaw News: 48IB Bayanihan with the Youths of Magnaga, Army Artillery and Church Workers for Chapel Rehabilitation

Posted to the Kalinaw News Website (Jul 6, 2021): 48IB Bayanihan with the Youths of Magnaga, Army Artillery and Church Workers for Chapel Rehabilitation

Pantukan, Davao de Oro – The spirit of Bayanihan was once again seen as the 48th Infantry “Guardians” Battalion (48IB), youth volunteers, Army Artillery personnel and members of The Christ the King Chapel joined hand in hand for the Chapel’s renovation and rehabilitation in Purok 14-B, Sitio Upper Lahi, Brgy Magnaga, Pantukan, Davao de Oro on July 4, 2021.

The activity was conducted after the Guardians Battalion donated the needed materials for the renovation of the chapel that include four (4) bags of cement, four (4) gallons of paint with brushes and 80 pieces hollow blocks. Manpower assistant was also provided by the churchgoers, youths and personnel from Army Artillery.

Battalion Sergeant Major Master Sergeant Daniel R Vallador collaborated with Christ the King Lay Minister Jonel Ladama for the turn-over of the materials and subsequently started the renovation of the chapel. Tagaytay Youth Towards Development President Mr. Joey Sadingan and 2nd Howitzer Platoon Charlie Battery, 2nd Field Artillery Battalion personnel likewise offered their help for the said activity.

“Lubos ang aming pagpapasalamat sa 48IB sa kanilang tulong sa amin sa mga serbisyo dito sa amin, pagbibigay ng karagdagang project dito sa aming GKK. Sana po marami pa po kayong matulungan kagaya namin”, said Mr Ladama.

Mr Sadingan added, “Nagpapasalamat kami kay Lieutenant Colonel Enrique G Rafael sa biyayang binigay sa amin, sa dinonate na materyales sa amin sa GKK. Lubos namin pinasasalamatan ang mga taong tumulong sa paggawa dito ngayon. Malaking tulong po sa amin ito higit sa lahat sa mga taga 48IB buong puso po kaming nagpapasalamat.”

Lieutenant Colonel Rafael, 48IB Commanding Officer emphasized the importance of Bayanihan to make the job easy and to make it more successful. He also stressed that the 48th Infantry “Guardians” Battalion will be their constant partner especially in bringing services to our constituents. All we have to do is to coordinate, collaborate and cooperate for us to achieve more resilient and peaceful community for further development. He also mentioned the role of the religious sector in the spiritual enhancement of the populace especially in times of calamities and while the country is currently facing COVID-19 pandemic.

[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/48ib-bayanihan-with-the-youths-of-magnaga-army-artillery-and-church-workers-for-chapel-rehabilitation/

Kalinaw News: Army troops retrieve abandoned NPA cadaver after clash in Zambo Norte

Posted to the Kalinaw News Website (Jul 6, 2021): Army troops retrieve abandoned NPA cadaver after clash in Zambo Norte

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – Combined troops of 97th Infantry “Kalasaglahi” Battalion (97IB) and 42nd Infantry “Tagapagtanggol” Battalion (42IB) retrieved the abandoned Communist NPA Terrorist cadaver after a clash in Sitio Pinis, Barangay Kauswagan, Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte, Sunday afternoon, July 4.

The firefight between the troops under the 102nd Infantry “Igsoon” Brigade (102Bde) and the Guerilla Front-BBC of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) transpired at around 4:30 in the afternoon that lasted for about 30 minutes.

The troops discovered the abandoned lifeless body of a certain alias An-an, from Barangay Saad, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur, which was positively confirmed by former rebels, along with Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) Propaganda materials and personal belongings.

“It has been over a week since we deployed our troops to track down the armed group in response to reports from concerned citizens of their presence and extortion activities in hinterland barangays of Sergio Osmeña,” said Lieutenant Colonel Manaros Boransing, Commanding Officer, 97IB.

The GF-BBC is one of the two remaining guerilla fronts following the series of the dismantling of five guerilla fronts of the WMRPC from 2019 to date.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Leonel Nicolas, 102Bde Commander, expressed his sympathy to the family of alias An-an.

“We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of alias An-an, and we are saddened by the fact that another victim of CTG deception lost her life for the futile cause of the decades-long insurgency, and worse, she was abandoned by her recruiters and comrades,” said Brigadier General Nicolas.

“Our troops on the ground carried the cadaver, transported and endorsed to the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Dumingag for a decent burial that was denied to her by her comrades,” Brigadier General Nicolas added.

For his part, Major General Gene Ponio, Commander, 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division (1ID), urged the remnants of the WMRPC to surrender or face the full force of the law.

“Our forces will extend the necessary assistance needed to those who wish to return to the folds of law but will never hesitate to use the full force of the law for those who continue to sow terror to the peace-loving citizens of Zamboanga Peninsula,” said Major General Ponio.

As of posting, the troops of 102Bde are continuously conducting pursuit operations against fleeing members of the WMRPC.

[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/army-troops-retrieve-abandoned-npa-cadaver-after-clash-in-zambo-norte/

Kalinaw News: 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division gets New Commander

Posted to the Kalinaw News Website (Jul 6, 2021): 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division gets New Commander

PATAG, Cagayan de Oro City – Major General Romeo Saturnino Brawner Jr assumed as the new Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army during the Change of Command Ceremony held yesterday, July 5, 2021 at the Headquarters 4ID, Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.

MGen Brawner Jr, a native of Baguio City and member of Philippine Military Academy “Makatao” Class of 1989, replaced Major General Andres C Centino, the recently installed Commanding General of the Philippine Army through a traditional Change of Command Ceremony presided by General Cirilito E Sobejana, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Prior to his present designation, Major General Brawner held the position as the first Deputy Chief of Staff for Financial Management, J10 of the GHQ, AFP. He also served as the Commandant of Cadets of the Philippine Military Academy, the Commander of the 103rd Brigade during the liberation of Marawi City and , served as the spokesperson of the Philippine Army and Chief of AFP Public Affairs Office.

In his assumption speech, MGen Brawner delivered a reconciliatory but firm message to the New People’s Army (NPA) encouraging them to return to the folds of the law and to live a normal life while also directly identifying the said organization as the biggest illegal business enterprise in the country that collected Billions of Pesos from extortion activities.

“Mag balik-loob kayo, hindi sa gobyerno, pero magbalik-loob kayo sa mapayapang pamumuhay. Makaka-asa kayo na tutulungan namin kayo na mag bagong-buhay. H’wag kayong pumayag na habang nagpapakahirap kayo sa bundok ay nagpapakasarap naman ang mga lider ninyo sa Netherlands”. He also said that “We can stop extortion by the NPA with the cooperation of the private sector, the LGUs and the hard working citizens”.

He also appealed to all partners and stakeholders to continue supporting the soldiers to work towards achieving lasting peace in the area while delivering a clear message as a stern warning against the New People’s Army who continuously exploit and recruit the youths, IPs and extort from the people.

“I am not red tagging you. I am tagging you as common criminals – arsonists, extortionists and murderers. Hence, my offer stands to the NPA – mag balik loob kayo, kung ayaw ninyo, prepare to face the consequences”, MGen Brawner added.

Meanwhile, MGen Centino, the outgoing Commander, extended his deepest gratitude to all individuals, Units, and Offices of 4ID, and partners and people of Caraga and Northern Mindanao regions for the support and trust which are instrumental to the significant milestones he achieved during his tenure as the 4ID Commander.

He underscored the “two-pronged approach” that set the direction of his counter insurgency campaign creating ground-breaking strategies and innovations after taking the helm of the 4ID last May 29, 2020, leading the way to victories against the communist terrorist group.

“Today marks the last day I served as a Diamond trooper. But truly its brilliant influence and lessons will always stay with me. Though I am now in a different path, our destination remains the same, towards a nation that is free from terror, a place where generations of Filipinos hailing from diverse cultures can thrive in peace, and attain in prosperity”, MGen Centino said.

Per record, a total of 5,556 CPP-NPA Terrorist were neutralized, 26 of whom were High Value Individuals or CTG Leaders while 45 were killed in armed encounters and 91 were captured that dealt the CTG in Northern Mindanao and Caraga with heavy blows. Likewise, a total of 5,420 CTG personalities surrendered to the government, 682 firearms were either seized or surrendered, and 196 enemy hideouts were discovered and seized during his stint.

In his message, GENERAL SOBEJANA stated that he is confident that the 4ID’s campaign will be continued under the leadership MGen Brawner Jr with his rich experience as he also recognized the major contribution of MGen Centino that propelled the 4ID as the fightingest Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.

Said ceremony was witnessed by AFP Commanders and partner stakeholders from Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions thru Face to Face and virtual attendance.

[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/4id-gets-new-commander/

Kalinaw News: Region six youth leaders join Visayas-wide youth leadership summit

Posted to the Kalinaw News Website (Jul 7, 2021): Region six youth leaders join Visayas-wide youth leadership summit

CAMP HERNANDEZ, Dingle, Iloilo – Youth leaders from Panay and Guimaras Islands join the three-day Visayas-Wide Youth Leadership Summit 2021 organized by the Central Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines on 02 to 04 July 2021.

The leadership summit was participated by 50 youth leaders from 16 provinces in Visayas region. Of the 50 participants, 45 were from Cebu City, five from Region 6 who were consolidated at Camp Monteclaro, Miagao, Iloilo and joined the summit via virtual teleconferencing.

The Visayas-Wide YLS aims to sustain the contribution of youths as government’s active partners in nation-building. One of their activities during the summit is the crafting of a Youth Development Plan for the youth sector, particularly in making programs and projects for YFPD aligned with the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation.

The participants also presented their output to no less than the Members of the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict from Regions 6,7 and 8 and the NTF-ELCAC led by USEC Lorraine Badoy.

Sangguniang Kabataan Federation Vice-President in the Province of Guimaras, Ms. Amelia Fe Adin said, “I am grateful for the full support given to us by the AFP for the three days and two nights of collaboration and planning. Inspired by our fellow youth leaders, we represented YFP-Region 6 in the presentation of our Youth Development Plan. All of us would agree that this was no easy task. Working with our fellow delegates through the online platform was a bit disheartening, but we were persistent to finish what we have started. Through this activity, we will always be reminded that the youth play a major role in nation-building. Team Uno of YFP Region 6 will always remember that plans are meant to be implemented and that the youth deserves to be heard.”

Also, Ms. Jennifer Buenavides, YLS President, Municipality of Tubungan, Province of Iloilo said, “For me, through this VWYLS, we were able to bring forth a new idea among the youth nowadays; that there’s still so much hope for us to achieve our common goal through voicing out our issues and concerns as well as our proposed plans, programs, and activities.”

BGen Marion Sison, Commander of the Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade congratulates all the youth for completing the 3-Day activity. “The youth is the hope of our nation. They need to be informed on the lies and deception of the communist terrorist group. They need to participate in peace and nation-building to encourage more youth to do the same,” BGen Sison said.

[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/region-six-youth-leaders-join-visayas-wide-youth-leadership-summit/

Kalinaw News: Surrender of NPA members in Masbate continue, E-CLIP committee welcomes 16 new surrenders

Posted to the Kalinaw News Website (Jul 7, 2021): Surrender of NPA members in Masbate continue, E-CLIP committee welcomes 16 new surrenders

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-From being outlaws, sixteen members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) are now included in the skyrocketing number of Former Rebels (FRs) who abandoned the armed struggle to work hand in hand with the government in eradicating communist insurgency.

In a ceremony held at Tico Maristela Sports and Cultural Center in Aroroy, Masbate around 10 o’clock in the morning, Tuesday, July 6, the new batch of surrenderers were presented to the Aroroy Local Peace Engagement Team headed by Hon. Mayor Arturo Virtucio.

Seeing the hopeless and useless cause of the terrorist group that has endangered the lives of innocent civilians including their own families, the said surrenderers composed of three regular NPA members and 13 Militiang Bayan (MB) members yielded to the government last July 2.

They also brought with them various firearms, including a KG9 submachine gun which they symbolically turned-over to the committee during the event.

Afterward, the group took an oath of allegiance as a sign of their denouncement of CTG’s terrorism and false ideologies.

Lt. Col. Siegfried Felipe Awichen, Battalion Commander of 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB), congratulated the FRs for making the wise decision of withdrawing their membership and support from the CPP-NPA-NDF which, in return, will lead them to a new and more peaceful life.

The now considered FRs will receive complete set of benefits upon finishing the E-CLIP process.

They will also avail various programs from different government agencies on top of the E-CLIP which will grant them financial, livelihood, educational, medical, and housing assistance.

On the other hand, Col. Aldwine Almase, Brigade Commander of 903rd Infantry Brigade, underscored that the Army together with the PNP will continue its intensified security operations and peace initiatives until Masbate finally becomes an armed conflict-free province.

“Ang patuloy na tagumpay ng ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan kasama ang iba’t ibang ahensya ng ating pamahalaan laban sa terorismo ay lalong magpapaigting ng ating kampanya upang wakasan ang karahasan, tulungan ang mga gustong magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan at tuluyan ng tuldukan ang walang kabuluhang ipinaglalaban ng mga teroristang komunista,” Col. Almase said.

Meanwhile, MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, Commander of Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), lauded the Masbateños for sustaining the momentum against the CTG.

“These continuous gains in Masbate is not the work of the government alone, we have the Masbateños to be thankful for. Had it not been for their overwhelming support, our campaigns will be futile. To the surrenderers, aside from the E-CLIP Committee, you also have the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) to assist you as you all start anew. Thank you for heeding the call and setting an example to your former comrades and for proving them that even when you were once deceived by the CTG, there’s still hope for you,” MGen. Robinson said.

Also attending the event were PCol. Joriz Cantoria, Provincial Director of Masbate Police Provincial Office and Mayor Arturo Virtucio Jr. of Aroroy.

It can be recalled that just last month, particularly from June 18-28, 505 CTG members and supporters returned to the folds of the law–the biggest number of surrenderer in Masbate weeks after the tragic death of Kieth and Nolven Absalon in the hands of ruthless communist terrorists.

[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/surrender-of-npa-members-in-masbate-continue-e-clip-committee-welcomes-16-new-surrenders/

Suspected NPA rebel killed in Zambo Norte clash —military

From GMA News Online (Jul 6, 2021): Suspected NPA rebel killed in Zambo Norte clash —military (By JOVILAND RITA)

Photos courtesy of 102nd Infantry Brigade

A suspected member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a clash in Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte on Sunday afternoon, the military said Tuesday.

In a statement, the 102nd Infantry Brigade identified the fatality as alias “An-an.”

The firefight between the Guerilla Front-BBC of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee and the troops from the 102nd Infantry Brigade in Sitio Pinis, Barangay Kauswagan lasted for 30 minutes.

Combined troops of 97th Infantry Battalion and 42nd Infantry Battalion retrieved An-An’s remains with “communist terrorist group propaganda materials and personal belongings.”

“It has been over a week since we deployed our troops to track down the armed group in response to reports from concerned citizens of their presence and extortion activities in hinterland barangays of Sergio Osmeña,” said Lieutenant Colonel Manaros Boransing, commanding officer of the 97IB.

According to the military, the Guerilla Front-BBC is one of the two remaining guerilla fronts of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

Brigadier General Leonel Nicolas, commander of 102nd Infantry Brigade, said An-an's body was transported to the municipal anti-insurgency task force in Dumingag for the burial.

Major General Gene Ponio, commander of 1st Infantry Division, urged the remaining members of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee to surrender or “face the full force of the law.”

“Our forces will extend the necessary assistance needed to those who wish to return to the folds of law but will never hesitate to use the full force of the law for those who continue to sow terror to the peace-loving citizens of Zamboanga Peninsula,” Ponio said.

The pursuit operations against the rebel group are ongoing, the military said.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/794215/suspected-npa-rebel-killed-in-zambo-norte-clash-military/story/

3 Dawlah Islamiyah surrender in Lanao

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Jul 6, 2021): 3 Dawlah Islamiyah surrender in Lanao

ZAMBOANGA. Three members of Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group, including a teenager, voluntarily surrender Monday, July 5, to the 51st Infantry Battalion (IB) in Dilausan village, Madalum, Lanao del Sur. A photo handout shows Brigadier General Jose Maria Cuerpo II, 103rd Infantry Brigade commander (left), and other officers, talk to the three surrenderers at the 51IB headquarters. (SunStar Zamboanga)

THREE members of Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI- MG) voluntarily surrendered to the Joint Task Group Haribon in the province of Lanao del Sur, the military reported Tuesday, July 6, 2021.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1899917/Zamboanga/Local-News/3-Dawlah-Islamiyah-surrender-in-Lanao

'Funds for barangay devt released'

From the Manila Times (Jul 7, 2021): 'Funds for barangay devt released' (By Catherine S. Valente)

About 98.9 percent of the P16.44-billion budget of the Barangay Development Program (BDP) had been released to recipient local governments, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said.

The BDP is a program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac), of which Esperon is the vice chairman. The initiative aims to free Filipinos in conflict zones from the "atrocities and clutches" of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and enable them to become productive members of society.

"If communities are empowered by means of security, necessary infrastructure, education, economic development and livelihood, the CPP-NPA-NDF will become powerless and can no longer exploit their vulnerabilities," Esperon said.

"This will finally put an end to the 52-year insurgency by bringing sustainable solutions and basic services to war-torn and victimized communities," he added.

The 822 barangay (villages) that received the funds were former rebel communities that government security forces have cleared from 2016 to 2019 by dismantling the communist group that exercised control over them.

A report on the status of the Local Government Support Fund to BDP revealed that P16.24 billion were allotted to 812 barangay.

"Out of 822 barangay, 80 percent are IP (Indigenous People) communities, 75 percent of which are mostly situated in Mindanao, which received both infrastructure and non-infra projects from BDP," Esperon said.

He explained that the BDP was one of President Rodrigo Duterte's projects to provide for the "physical needs of the barangay."

Esperon said that livelihood, waterworks and sanitation programs were given priority, aside from the construction of farm-to-market roads and schools.

The P16.44-billion budget for the 822 beneficiary barangay were directly released to the provincial or city governments.

The Department of Budget and Management provided the guidelines in the release of funds for hundreds of villages in nine regions under Local Budget Circular 135 and 135-A.

Under the program, each barangay will receive P20 million worth of projects, broken down into P12 million for concrete farm-to-market roads, P3 million for school buildings, P2 million for water and sanitation, P1.5 million for health stations, and P1.5 million for livelihood assistance.

Out of the 2,276 approved projects, government will be spending some P11.61 billion for farm-to-market roads, P2.4 billion for water and sanitation system, P492 million for health stations, P570 million for school buildings, P482.4 million for rural electrification, P219.4 million for repairs and other infrastructure projects, P329 million for agricultural and vocational training, P110.24 million as financial assistance to indigent individuals and families, P16 million for housing, P25 million for Covid-19 vaccination program, and P500,000 for a non-infrastructure project.

The remaining P200 million are to be distributed to Central Luzon, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) and Mimaropa (Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan).

The BDP is the NTF-Elcac's hallmark program that aims to bring development to former conflict-prone communities.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/07/07/news/national/funds-for-barangay-devt-released/1805990

Brawner is new chief of 4th Infantry Division

From the Manila Times (Jul 7, 2021): Brawner is new chief of 4th Infantry Division (By Cris Diaz)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY: Maj. Gen. Romeo Saturnino Brawner Jr. was installed as the new commander of the Philippine Army's Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division (ID) here Monday.

Brawner, a native of Baguio City, belonged to "Makatao" Class 1989 of the Philippine Military Academy. He replaced Maj. Gen. Andres Centino, the recently appointed Commanding General of the Philippine Army.

Prior to his present designation, Brawner held the position as the first Deputy Chief of Staff for Financial Management, J10 of the GHQ, AFP. He also served as the Commandant of Cadets of the Philippine Military Academy, the Commander of the 103rd Brigade during the liberation of Marawi City and served as Philippine Army spokesman and AFP Public Affairs Office chief.

In his assumption speech, Brawner delivered a reconciliatory but firm message to the New People's Army (NPA) encouraging them to return to the folds of the law and to live a normal life while also directly identifying the said organization as the biggest illegal business enterprise in the country collecting billions of pesos from extortion activities.

"We can stop extortion by the NPA with the cooperation of the private sector, the LGUs and the hard-working citizens," Brawner said.

Brawner appealed to all partners and stakeholders to continue supporting the soldiers to work towards achieving lasting peace in the area while delivering a clear message as a stern warning against the NPA who continuously exploit and recruit the youths, IPs and extort from the people.

"I am not red tagging you. I am tagging you as common criminals - arsonists, extortionists and murderers. Hence, my offer stands to the NPA - magbalik loob kayo, kung ayaw ninyo (return to normal and peaceful lives) or prepare to face the consequences," Brawner said.

The Fourth ID in Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City is the largest military camp covering the North and Northeastern Mindanao regions.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/07/07/news/regions/brawner-is-new-chief-of-4th-infantry-division/1806006

7 rebels surrender in Davao Oriental

From the Manila Times (Jul 7, 2021): 7 rebels surrender in Davao Oriental (By Ruth Palo)

Seven more members of the New People's Army (NPA) in Davao Oriental joined the growing list of individuals in the province who chose to return to the folds of the law.

The former rebels were welcomed by Gov. Nelson Dayanghirang in a ceremony dubbed as "Pag-uli: Acceptance ceremony of returning rebels" on Monday at the Provincial Capitol.

Dayanghirang also handed over P100,000 to each surrenderer as a cash gift.

The civilians who negotiated for their surrender also received P50,000 each.

One of the seven surrenderers yielded an ultimax submachine gun.

The returning rebels will be part of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (Eclip).

Under the Eclip, former rebels will receive financial and livelihood assistance, remuneration for the surrendered firearms and other support packages from various government agencies.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/07/07/news/regions/7-rebels-surrender-in-davao-oriental/1806010

Gov’t troops recover landmine materials

From Panay News (Jul 7, 2021): Gov’t troops recover landmine materials (By Ruby P. Silubrico)

TAPAZ, Capiz – A recent encounter between Philippine Army soldiers and New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Sitio Tabiay, Barangay Buri here led to the recovery of materials used in making anti-personnel mines.

“These are proof that the NPA continue to use landmines against Army troops in clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL),” said Brigadier General Marion Sison, commander of the 301st Brigade.

The NPA’s purpose in using anti-personnel mines indiscriminately, he said, is to destroy lives, including those of innocent civilians.

“These terrorists want to brutally harm our troops and civilians, a blatant violation of the International Humanitarian Law,” said Sison.

The Sitio Tabiay encounter happened on July 1 around 11:35 a.m. It lasted for an hour.

The government forces were conducting an offensive operation there in response to reports about the presence of rebels in the area.

Seized from the encounter site were the following:

* one anti-personnel mine

* 150 meters of electrical wire

* five liters of gasoline

* a container of fertilizer (where ammonium nitrate can be harvested to make explosives)

* one binocular

* medical supplies

* subversive documents

* nine backpacks

* six hammocks

* two stoves

* four flashlights

* three jungle bolos

* two kilograms of tobacco

* six kilograms of meat

* one sack of rice

* assorted food supplies

* personal belongings

No government troops were wounded in the encounter.

“The people are complaining about the NPA terrorists extorting money and food supplies from them. The rebels are using threat and violence to force people to give in to their demands,” Sison said.

He urged the insurgents to lay down their arms peacefully, abandon the armed struggle to be with their families and communities.

Their human rights would be respected, he stressed.

https://www.panaynews.net/govt-troops-recover-landmine-materials/

Brawner redirects focus vs. NPA’s extortion, recruitment

 From the Mindanao Times (Jul 6, 2021): Brawner redirects focus vs. NPA’s extortion, recruitment (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

NEWLY designated commander of 4th Infantry Division Major General Romeo Brawner Jr. vows to intensify the fight against New People’s Army (NPA)’s extortion and recruitment activities under his area of responsibility.

In his assumption speech, Brawner delivered a reconciliatory but firm message to the NPA, encouraging them to return to the folds of the law and to live a normal life. He also directly identified the said organization as the biggest illegal business enterprise in the country that collected billions of pesos from its extortion activities.

“Mag balik-loob kayo, hindi sa gobyerno, pero magbalik-loob kayo sa mapayapang pamumuhay. Makaka-asa kayo na tutulungan namin kayo na mag bagong-buhay. H’wag kayong pumayag na habang nagpapakahirap kayo sa bundok ay nagpapakasarap naman ang mga lider ninyo sa Netherlands (Surrender and go back to leading peaceful lives. We will help you turn your lives around. Don’t allow yourselves to suffer in the mountains while your leader is enjoying his life in The Netherlands),” he said.

He also said that “we can stop extortion by the NPA with the cooperation of the private sector, the LGUs, and the hardworking citizens”.

He also appealed to all partners and stakeholders to continue supporting the soldiers to work towards achieving lasting peace in the area while delivering a clear message as a stern warning against the New People’s Army who continuously exploits and recruits the youths, IPs and extorts from the people.

“I am not red-tagging you. I am tagging you as common criminals – arsonists, extortionists, and murderers,” Brawner added.

Brawner assumed as the new commander of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army during the change of command ceremony held on July 5 at the Headquarters 4ID, Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.

Brawner Jr, a native of Baguio City and member of Philippine Military Academy “Makatao” Class of 1989, replaced Maj. Gen. Andres C. Centino, the recently installed commanding general of the Philippine Army, through a traditional Change of Command Ceremony presided by General Cirilito E. Sobejana, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Prior to his present designation, Brawner held the position as the first Deputy Chief of Staff for Financial Management, J10 of the GHQ, AFP.

He also served as the commandant of cadets of the Philippine Military Academy, the Commander of the 103rd Brigade during the liberation of Marawi City, and served as the spokesperson of the Philippine Army and Chief of AFP Public Affairs Office.

Meanwhile, Centino, the outgoing commander, extended his deepest gratitude to all individuals, Units, and Offices of 4ID, and partners, and people of Caraga and Northern Mindanao regions for the support and trust which are instrumental to the significant milestones he achieved during his tenure as the 4ID Commander.

He underscored the “two-pronged approach” that sets the direction of his counter-insurgency campaign creating groundbreaking strategies and innovations after taking the helm of the 4ID last May 29, 2020, leading the way to victories against the communist terrorist group.

“Today marks the last day I served as a Diamond trooper. But truly its brilliant influence and lessons will always stay with me. Though I am now on a different path, our destination remains the same, towards a nation that is free from terror, a place where generations of Filipinos hailing from diverse cultures can thrive in peace, and attain prosperity,” Centino said.

Per record, a total of 5,556 CPP-NPA terrorists were neutralized, 26 of whom were high-value individuals or communist leaders while 45 were killed in armed encounters and 91 were captured.

Likewise, a total of 5,420 personalities surrendered to the government, 682 firearms were either seized or surrendered, and 196 enemy hideouts were discovered and seized.

In his message, Sobejana stated that he is confident that the 4ID’s campaign will continue under the leadership of Brawner with his vast experience.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/07/07/brawner-redirects-focus-vs-npas-extortion-recruitment/

BIFF seeks return to MILF

From the Manila Times (Jul 6, 2021): BIFF seeks return to MILF (By Franz Sumangil)

Some members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) expressed intention of rejoining the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the province of Maguindanao. 

The BIFF members claimed they were tired of fighting the government and wanted to live normal lives.

They also alleged the BIFF forces became weaker due to the surrender of most of their comrades. 

A large number of rebels had also died in clashes with government forces. 

They also said the BIFF has been divided into three factions because its leaders have different agenda and personal interests.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/07/07/news/regions/biff-seeks-return-to-milf/1805999

CPP/NDF-Eastern Visayas: 20th IB stages “peace rally” for military asset punished by NPA-Northern Samar

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 6, 2021): 20th IB stages “peace rally” for military asset punished by NPA-Northern Samar

NDF-EASTERN VISAYAS

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JULY 06, 2021

Read in: Waray

Residents of a barangay in Las Navas, Northern Samar were hoodwinked into attending a “peace rally” staged by troops of the 20th Infantry Battalion for an active military asset and criminal element, the New People’s Army in Northern Samar (Rodante Urtal Command or NPA-RUC) today reported.

Troops under the 20th IB conducting Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) operations called the residents of Brgy. Paco to an assembly in the dancing hall of their barangay last June. The agenda of the meeting was not announced, residents told the NPA-RUC.

They found out at the actual assembly that the activity was a “peace rally” staged by the soldiers to condemn the punitive action imposed a month earlier by the NPA-RUC against Jonie “Banong” Tortuna, a member of the barangay council and chairperson for the barangay committee for peace and order. Soldiers coerced the residents to hold up ready-made placards with defamatory calls against the NPA.

The NPA-RUC said that unlike how the 20th IB portrayed him, Tortuna was no ordinary civilian. “Among his crimes against the people were serving as an active asset for the 20th IB and killing two innocent civilians. He was a counterrevolutionary and a criminal element,” the NPA command said.

After the military asset was killed, fascist state troops retaliated against the residents of Brgy. Paco. Aside from deceiving the residents, they also arrested their barangay captain and detained him to the police headquarters in Las Navas. He was later temporarily released.#

https://cpp.ph/statements/20th-ib-stages-peace-rally-for-military-asset-punished-by-npa-northern-samar/