From Malaya Business Insight (Feb 20): More troops sent to Sulu in drive vs Abu Sayyaf
ELITE government troops have been sent to Sulu to help in the intensified campaign against the Abu Sayyaf which is notorious for kidnap-for-ransom activities and for beheading its kidnap victims.
The 5th Scout Ranger Battalion, which came from Marawi City, arrived in Sulu on Tuesday last week while the 10th Scout Ranger Company, which came from Zamboanga del Sur, arrived Saturday, said Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.
The new deployment brings to about 10 battalions, or about 5,000 men, now operating in Sulu.
“This is meant to further intensify our campaign (against the Abu Sayyaf),” said Sobejana of the group which has about 300 members in Sulu. The group is holding 10 foreign and Filipino kidnap victims in the province.
Overall, the Abu Sayyaf has about 400 members in Sulu, Basilan, and other areas.
Asked when the military can defeat the Abu Sayyaf, Sobejana said, “Actually it’s hard to give a timeline. What’s important is we are doing our best effort to end the group.”
Sobejana said the military is intensifying the operations in collaboration with local government officials.
“We are trying to harmonize our military operations, development and governance to finally end the security challenge, security problem,” he said.
Last month, AFP Western Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez said the military is aiming to defeat the Abu Sayyaf before the end of the year.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/more-troops-sent-sulu-drive-vs-abu-sayyaf
Tuesday, February 20, 2018
241 former NPA guerrillas to dine with President Duterte
From the Mindanao Times (Feb 20): 241 former NPA guerrillas to dine with President Duterte
THE SECOND batch of former rebels who will dine with the President in Malacañang was sent off yesterday to Manila via two Philippine Air Force C-130 aircraft at the Davao City International Airport.
Maj. Ezra Balagtey, the spokesperson of Eastern Mindanao Command, said the group is composed of 241 individuals, mostly from Compostela Province and Davao Del Norte. Thirty-eight of them are females while the rest are males.
They are part of the 683 former New People’s Army rebels from different parts of Eastern Mindanao who were presented to President Duterte on Dec. 21, 2017 in Camp Panacan, Davao City.
Balagtey said the activity aims to give the former rebels a better perspective in life, particularly in peace-building and nationalism. “It is part of the government’s continuing activity of reintegrating the former rebels in the mainstream society,” Balagtey said.
Part of their tour will be a historical and heritage trip to Luneta Park and Intramuros while a welcome ceremony will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2018, at Camp Aguinaldo to be hosted by AFP Chief of Staff Leonardo Guerrero.
Prior to their dinner with the President, they will also get a chance to interact with other former NPA members who now work as advocates of peace and development. The tour will conclude on Feb. 22 and they will return to Davao City via a C-130 aircraft.
The schedule of the third batch of FRs will be determined later by the Appointments Office of the President.
It can be recalled that the first batch composed of 215 former rebels were toured in Manila and had a dinner with the President last February 6-8, 2018. On Feb. 16, 50 of them were enrolled in the Technical-Vocational Education Training to learn skills.
Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command, reiterated the willingness of the government to help the surrenderees.
“We are committed and more than willing to accommodate NPAs who want to return to the folds of the law and take part in building a nation of peace for progress and development,” Madrigal said.
http://mindanaotimes.net/241-former-npa-guerrillas-to-dine-with-president-duterte/
THE SECOND batch of former rebels who will dine with the President in Malacañang was sent off yesterday to Manila via two Philippine Air Force C-130 aircraft at the Davao City International Airport.
Maj. Ezra Balagtey, the spokesperson of Eastern Mindanao Command, said the group is composed of 241 individuals, mostly from Compostela Province and Davao Del Norte. Thirty-eight of them are females while the rest are males.
They are part of the 683 former New People’s Army rebels from different parts of Eastern Mindanao who were presented to President Duterte on Dec. 21, 2017 in Camp Panacan, Davao City.
Balagtey said the activity aims to give the former rebels a better perspective in life, particularly in peace-building and nationalism. “It is part of the government’s continuing activity of reintegrating the former rebels in the mainstream society,” Balagtey said.
Part of their tour will be a historical and heritage trip to Luneta Park and Intramuros while a welcome ceremony will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2018, at Camp Aguinaldo to be hosted by AFP Chief of Staff Leonardo Guerrero.
Prior to their dinner with the President, they will also get a chance to interact with other former NPA members who now work as advocates of peace and development. The tour will conclude on Feb. 22 and they will return to Davao City via a C-130 aircraft.
The schedule of the third batch of FRs will be determined later by the Appointments Office of the President.
It can be recalled that the first batch composed of 215 former rebels were toured in Manila and had a dinner with the President last February 6-8, 2018. On Feb. 16, 50 of them were enrolled in the Technical-Vocational Education Training to learn skills.
Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command, reiterated the willingness of the government to help the surrenderees.
“We are committed and more than willing to accommodate NPAs who want to return to the folds of the law and take part in building a nation of peace for progress and development,” Madrigal said.
http://mindanaotimes.net/241-former-npa-guerrillas-to-dine-with-president-duterte/
2 NPA members yield
From the Mindanao Times (Feb 20): 2 NPA members yield
TWO MEMBERS of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the troops of the 73rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province on Saturday afternoon.
Capt. McGary Dida, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of 1002nd Infantry Brigade, told TIMES that the returnees belonged to the Guerrilla Front 71.
Dida identified them as alias Dodong, 19, resident of Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel; and alias Mario, 40, resident of Barangay Upper Suyan, Malapatan, Sarangani. They brought along their M16 and AK47 rifles.
Dodong said that he surrendered because he could no longer stomach what they were ordered to do, “especially when were told to harass our fellow Lumads in the community.”
Meanwhile, Mario said that he’s already old and “tired of hiding in the jungle because of the intensive military operation.”
The former rebels will be presented to the LGU of Sarangani for immediate assistance. They will also be enrolled in the Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
It can be recalled that last Feb. 15, three NPAs who also belonged to the Guerrilla Front 71 surrendered, along with their two M16 rifles and one AK47 rifle, to the troops of the 73rd IB in Barangay Pag-asa.
“We continue to intensify our security operations, community support programs, information gatherings and collaboration with our stakeholders to thwart the atrocities planned by the NPA,” Lt. Col. Marion Angcao, 73rd IB commander, said.
Col. Roberto Ancan, 1002nd Infantry Brigade, commander said that they expect more rebels to surrender as they continue with their livelihood and development programs, with the coordination of the local government units.
“The brigade will continue to intensify its security operation to protect and secure the people in its area of responsibility,” Ancan added.
http://mindanaotimes.net/2-npa-members-yield/
TWO MEMBERS of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the troops of the 73rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province on Saturday afternoon.
Capt. McGary Dida, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of 1002nd Infantry Brigade, told TIMES that the returnees belonged to the Guerrilla Front 71.
Dida identified them as alias Dodong, 19, resident of Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel; and alias Mario, 40, resident of Barangay Upper Suyan, Malapatan, Sarangani. They brought along their M16 and AK47 rifles.
Dodong said that he surrendered because he could no longer stomach what they were ordered to do, “especially when were told to harass our fellow Lumads in the community.”
Meanwhile, Mario said that he’s already old and “tired of hiding in the jungle because of the intensive military operation.”
The former rebels will be presented to the LGU of Sarangani for immediate assistance. They will also be enrolled in the Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
It can be recalled that last Feb. 15, three NPAs who also belonged to the Guerrilla Front 71 surrendered, along with their two M16 rifles and one AK47 rifle, to the troops of the 73rd IB in Barangay Pag-asa.
“We continue to intensify our security operations, community support programs, information gatherings and collaboration with our stakeholders to thwart the atrocities planned by the NPA,” Lt. Col. Marion Angcao, 73rd IB commander, said.
Col. Roberto Ancan, 1002nd Infantry Brigade, commander said that they expect more rebels to surrender as they continue with their livelihood and development programs, with the coordination of the local government units.
“The brigade will continue to intensify its security operation to protect and secure the people in its area of responsibility,” Ancan added.
http://mindanaotimes.net/2-npa-members-yield/
34 IEDs found in Surigao
From the Mindanao Times (Feb 19): 34 IEDs found in Surigao
THE 16TH Special Forces Company found an arms cache at the vicinity of Sitio Tingtingon, Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur last Friday.
Capt. Al Anthony Pueblas, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of 402nd Infantry Brigade, which has operational control of the unit, said they counted 34 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and 635 assorted ammunition of 5.56 mm, which can be used for the M16 rifle and the AK47.
“The discovery of 34 IEDs again proves the (NPA’s) insincerity to the sole agreement between the GRP and NDF, CARHRIHL specifically on the prohibition on the use of land mine,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, the commander of the 402nd IB, said the troops acted on the tip from civilians in the area.
“We urge the people to continue protecting their communities by giving information to our troops about the presence of deadly weapons, IEDs and ammunition buried in their farms and areas of abode,” Gacal said.
The items are now in the custody of 16th Special Forces Company.
http://mindanaotimes.net/34-ieds-found-in-surigao/
THE 16TH Special Forces Company found an arms cache at the vicinity of Sitio Tingtingon, Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur last Friday.
Capt. Al Anthony Pueblas, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of 402nd Infantry Brigade, which has operational control of the unit, said they counted 34 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and 635 assorted ammunition of 5.56 mm, which can be used for the M16 rifle and the AK47.
“The discovery of 34 IEDs again proves the (NPA’s) insincerity to the sole agreement between the GRP and NDF, CARHRIHL specifically on the prohibition on the use of land mine,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, the commander of the 402nd IB, said the troops acted on the tip from civilians in the area.
“We urge the people to continue protecting their communities by giving information to our troops about the presence of deadly weapons, IEDs and ammunition buried in their farms and areas of abode,” Gacal said.
The items are now in the custody of 16th Special Forces Company.
http://mindanaotimes.net/34-ieds-found-in-surigao/
Another Marawi possible, MILF chief warns
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20): Another Marawi possible, MILF chief warns
'This ISIS group continues to penetrate us because they are being displaced in the Middle East and they want to have another place,' Murad Ebrahim says. 'The chances of having another Marawi cannot be overruled.'
The chief of the Philippines' main Muslim rebel group warned on Tuesday, February 20, that jihadists loyal to the Islamic State group (ISIS), flush with looted guns and cash, could seize another Filipino city after Marawi last year.
Murad Ebrahim has billed his Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which has made peace with the government, as a rival to ISIS for the hearts and minds of angry young Muslims in the impoverished south of the mainly Catholic nation.
Murad said the MILF was battling pro-ISIS groups for influence in schools as the jihadists worked to infiltrate madrasas (Islamic religious schools) and secular universities.
At the same time ISIS gunmen were making their way into the southern Philippines from Malaysia and Indonesia, he added, but gave no estimates. (READ: End martial law? Lorenzana warns vs another Marawi)
A 5-month siege flattened the city of Marawi on the southern island of Mindanao, the Philippines' main Islamic centre, and claimed more than 1,100 lives.
Murad told reporters conditions on the ground were still ripe for another Marawi-style siege.
"This ISIS group continues to penetrate us because they are being displaced in the Middle East and they want to have another place," Murad said, using an another name for IS.
"The chances of having another Marawi cannot be overruled."
The Marawi attackers found and looted stockpiles of munitions, cash and jewellery from homes – some owned by MILF members – before the city was retaken by US-backed Filipino troops in October, he said.
"When they (MILF members) fled from Marawi they (could) not bring their vaults. That is where the ISIS was also able to get so much money and now they're using it for recruitment," he added.
"It's very sad. In our country some people say buying weapons and ammunition is just like buying fish in the market."
The combination of weak central government authority, the presence of rebel groups and long-running blood feuds means Mindanao is awash with weapons, he added.
Manila signed a peace deal with the 10,000-member MILF in 2014 after decades of Muslim rebellion in Mindanao for independence or self-rule that had claimed more than 100,000 lives.
Murad urged President Rodrigo Duterte's government to speed up the passage of a Muslim self-rule law to flesh out the peace accord, warning pro-ISIS militants were recruiting for a new attack.
"If the (self-rule law) will not be passed now I think it will develop a situation where these extremist groups can recruit more adherents, because it will prove their theory that there is no hope in the peace process," he said.
"Since they have the capability also to supply money and then they also have the ability to make explosives, bombs, they can just use these young recruits to work out their plan."
https://www.rappler.com/nation/196492-another-marawi-possible-philippines-murad-ebrahim
'This ISIS group continues to penetrate us because they are being displaced in the Middle East and they want to have another place,' Murad Ebrahim says. 'The chances of having another Marawi cannot be overruled.'
ANOTHER MARAWI? Murad Ebrahim, chairman of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), gestures as he speaks during a Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) forum in Manila on February 20, 2018. Photo by Ted Aljibe/AFP
The chief of the Philippines' main Muslim rebel group warned on Tuesday, February 20, that jihadists loyal to the Islamic State group (ISIS), flush with looted guns and cash, could seize another Filipino city after Marawi last year.
Murad Ebrahim has billed his Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which has made peace with the government, as a rival to ISIS for the hearts and minds of angry young Muslims in the impoverished south of the mainly Catholic nation.
Murad said the MILF was battling pro-ISIS groups for influence in schools as the jihadists worked to infiltrate madrasas (Islamic religious schools) and secular universities.
At the same time ISIS gunmen were making their way into the southern Philippines from Malaysia and Indonesia, he added, but gave no estimates. (READ: End martial law? Lorenzana warns vs another Marawi)
A 5-month siege flattened the city of Marawi on the southern island of Mindanao, the Philippines' main Islamic centre, and claimed more than 1,100 lives.
Murad told reporters conditions on the ground were still ripe for another Marawi-style siege.
"This ISIS group continues to penetrate us because they are being displaced in the Middle East and they want to have another place," Murad said, using an another name for IS.
"The chances of having another Marawi cannot be overruled."
The Marawi attackers found and looted stockpiles of munitions, cash and jewellery from homes – some owned by MILF members – before the city was retaken by US-backed Filipino troops in October, he said.
"When they (MILF members) fled from Marawi they (could) not bring their vaults. That is where the ISIS was also able to get so much money and now they're using it for recruitment," he added.
"It's very sad. In our country some people say buying weapons and ammunition is just like buying fish in the market."
The combination of weak central government authority, the presence of rebel groups and long-running blood feuds means Mindanao is awash with weapons, he added.
Manila signed a peace deal with the 10,000-member MILF in 2014 after decades of Muslim rebellion in Mindanao for independence or self-rule that had claimed more than 100,000 lives.
Murad urged President Rodrigo Duterte's government to speed up the passage of a Muslim self-rule law to flesh out the peace accord, warning pro-ISIS militants were recruiting for a new attack.
"If the (self-rule law) will not be passed now I think it will develop a situation where these extremist groups can recruit more adherents, because it will prove their theory that there is no hope in the peace process," he said.
"Since they have the capability also to supply money and then they also have the ability to make explosives, bombs, they can just use these young recruits to work out their plan."
https://www.rappler.com/nation/196492-another-marawi-possible-philippines-murad-ebrahim
Bronze Cross Medal awarded to Fleet-Marine team in Zamboanga
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20): Bronze Cross Medal awarded to Fleet-Marine team in Zamboanga
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief, pins Bronze Cross Medals to the gallant sailors in an awarding ceremony on Monday. Assisting him is Read Adm. Rene Medina, Navforwem commander. (Photo courtesy: Westmincom
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) awarded on Monday the Bronze Cross Medal to the gallant sailors who foiled a hijack attempt of a cargo vessel by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)-linked pirates off Basilan province.
The awardees were the personnel assigned with the three patrol crafts--PC381, PC386 and BA485--and Naval Special Operations Unit-6 (NAVSOU6) of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (Navforwem).
Lt. Commander Ferraren and Lieutenant Jeffrey Mendoza, skippers of PC386 and BA485, respectively, received the awards on behalf of the gallant sailors.
The others who received the award were GM1 Heremias Quijada, Petty Office-in-Charge (POIC) Gunnery, PC386) and S1UO Jay Ancheta of the NAVSOU6.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief, and Read Adm. Rene Medina, Navforwem commander, led the awarding ceremony, which was held during Monday’s flag raising ceremony at Camp Basilio Navarro.
Camp Navarro houses the Westmincom headquarters in this city.
“I am happy for the ability displayed by Rear Adm. Medina as the leader of the Anti-kidnapping Joint Task Force. The quick and immediate response only proves the readiness and effectiveness of our Fleet-Marine Team,” Galvez said.
He said the award accorded to the gallant sailors “merits their selfless devotion to duty at all times to protect our waters against any threat and terror acts.”
“I hope these soldiers will serve as an example to all who are ready to serve anytime and as the need arises,” he said.
The timely response of the sailors coupled with evasive maneuver have prevented the ASG-linked pirates to hijack a cargo vessel, M/V Kudos 1, in the evening of February 18 near Sibago Island, Mohammad Ajul, Basilan.
The M/V Kudos 1 was on its maiden voyage from Davao to Manila when around 12 pirates aboard on three motorboats pursued and tried to board the ship.
The ship, which was loaded with tons of steel bars, is manned by a 27-man crew, including the skipper.
The pirates, who are equipped with hooks and ropes, tried but failed to climb on the ship as the crewmen splashed them with hot water mixed with oil.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025787
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief, pins Bronze Cross Medals to the gallant sailors in an awarding ceremony on Monday. Assisting him is Read Adm. Rene Medina, Navforwem commander. (Photo courtesy: Westmincom
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) awarded on Monday the Bronze Cross Medal to the gallant sailors who foiled a hijack attempt of a cargo vessel by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)-linked pirates off Basilan province.
The awardees were the personnel assigned with the three patrol crafts--PC381, PC386 and BA485--and Naval Special Operations Unit-6 (NAVSOU6) of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (Navforwem).
Lt. Commander Ferraren and Lieutenant Jeffrey Mendoza, skippers of PC386 and BA485, respectively, received the awards on behalf of the gallant sailors.
The others who received the award were GM1 Heremias Quijada, Petty Office-in-Charge (POIC) Gunnery, PC386) and S1UO Jay Ancheta of the NAVSOU6.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief, and Read Adm. Rene Medina, Navforwem commander, led the awarding ceremony, which was held during Monday’s flag raising ceremony at Camp Basilio Navarro.
Camp Navarro houses the Westmincom headquarters in this city.
“I am happy for the ability displayed by Rear Adm. Medina as the leader of the Anti-kidnapping Joint Task Force. The quick and immediate response only proves the readiness and effectiveness of our Fleet-Marine Team,” Galvez said.
He said the award accorded to the gallant sailors “merits their selfless devotion to duty at all times to protect our waters against any threat and terror acts.”
“I hope these soldiers will serve as an example to all who are ready to serve anytime and as the need arises,” he said.
The timely response of the sailors coupled with evasive maneuver have prevented the ASG-linked pirates to hijack a cargo vessel, M/V Kudos 1, in the evening of February 18 near Sibago Island, Mohammad Ajul, Basilan.
The M/V Kudos 1 was on its maiden voyage from Davao to Manila when around 12 pirates aboard on three motorboats pursued and tried to board the ship.
The ship, which was loaded with tons of steel bars, is manned by a 27-man crew, including the skipper.
The pirates, who are equipped with hooks and ropes, tried but failed to climb on the ship as the crewmen splashed them with hot water mixed with oil.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025787
PMA cadets get hands-on training from Army’s 7ID
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20): PMA cadets get hands-on training from Army’s 7ID
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, PALAYAN CITY, Nueva Ecija – Members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 2018 - Army group began their on-the-job training under the Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) based here Monday.
The group, composed of 145 PMA Army cadets, will be deployed to the different operational, tactical and support units of 7ID that would provide them with first-hand information on how infantry brigades and battalions conduct their operations and the community support program, and how they run operational, administrative and support activities.
The training of the PMA cadets will last until March 4.
They were welcomed by the officers and members of the 7ID in a simple ceremony held at the Kaugnay Officers Clubhouse here at 9:30 a.m. Monday.
Major Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., commander of 7ID and a member of PMA “Sinagtala” Class 1986, is in full support of the activity and has given his orders to provide the cadets with the best possible training that the command could give.
“From among these cadets will perhaps one day emerge a leader not only for the Philippine Army, but possibly for the whole Armed Forces of the Philippines, as well,” Santos said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025835
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, PALAYAN CITY, Nueva Ecija – Members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 2018 - Army group began their on-the-job training under the Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) based here Monday.
The group, composed of 145 PMA Army cadets, will be deployed to the different operational, tactical and support units of 7ID that would provide them with first-hand information on how infantry brigades and battalions conduct their operations and the community support program, and how they run operational, administrative and support activities.
The training of the PMA cadets will last until March 4.
They were welcomed by the officers and members of the 7ID in a simple ceremony held at the Kaugnay Officers Clubhouse here at 9:30 a.m. Monday.
Major Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., commander of 7ID and a member of PMA “Sinagtala” Class 1986, is in full support of the activity and has given his orders to provide the cadets with the best possible training that the command could give.
“From among these cadets will perhaps one day emerge a leader not only for the Philippine Army, but possibly for the whole Armed Forces of the Philippines, as well,” Santos said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025835
Troops allow return of displaced lumads in SoCot
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20): Troops allow return of displaced lumads in SoCot
An Army official finally cleared some 22 tribal families from a remote village in Lake Sebu town in South Cotabato to return to their homes, nearly three months after being displaced due to fighting between government troops and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.
Lt. Col. James Otida, commanding officer of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion (IB), said Tuesday it is now safe for the evacuees from Sitio Datal Bonlangon in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu to return to their village and resume normal lives.
He said they have cleared the area of potential security threats, especially the presence of NPA rebels.
Residents of sitio Bonlangon, who were all members of the Taboli-Manobo tribe, were forced to evacuate to nearby Sitio Tulali on Dec. 3 last year following a clash between suspected NPA rebels and troops from the Army’s 33rd and 27IB.
Two Army troopers and nine suspected NPA members, including tribal leader Victor Danyan, were killed in the reported encounter.
“Rest assured that we will continue to secure the area against any possible threats,” Otida said.
He specifically cited concerns earlier raised by residents of another clash between government troops and NPA rebels.
The evacuees also noted the possible “continued harassments” by private security personnel of a nearby Consunji-owned coffee plantation.
Sitio leaders of Bonlangon and nearby Tuburan,and Tawan Dagat decried the constant threats they receive from the armed group that patrols 21-hectare plantation that they claim as part of their ancestral domain.
The South Cotabato Provincial Police Office had encouraged the sitio leaders to file complaints against the said group and assured them of police assistance in the process.
The Army official assured they will not tolerate any form of harassment against the tribal residents.
But he stressed that they cannot intervene in the land claims and can only assist the concerned parties, local government and the local police in securing the area.
Otida said the private security group had actually assisted them in the “neutralization and dismantling” of NPA presence in the village.
Owing to this, Milagros Rivera, head of the Provincial Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said they have started the preparations for the return of the evacuees.
She said they are planning to transport the residents back to their community on March 1 and 2.
In coordination with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, she said the local government would provide the affected residents with the necessary assistance.
These include access to potable water and inclusion into the provincial government’s livelihood programs.
Lorca said the Lake Sebu Municipal Disaster and Social Welfare Office would conduct an awareness drive to give evacuees proper “understanding of the present state of their homes and assure their safety.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025818
An Army official finally cleared some 22 tribal families from a remote village in Lake Sebu town in South Cotabato to return to their homes, nearly three months after being displaced due to fighting between government troops and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.
Lt. Col. James Otida, commanding officer of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion (IB), said Tuesday it is now safe for the evacuees from Sitio Datal Bonlangon in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu to return to their village and resume normal lives.
He said they have cleared the area of potential security threats, especially the presence of NPA rebels.
Residents of sitio Bonlangon, who were all members of the Taboli-Manobo tribe, were forced to evacuate to nearby Sitio Tulali on Dec. 3 last year following a clash between suspected NPA rebels and troops from the Army’s 33rd and 27IB.
Two Army troopers and nine suspected NPA members, including tribal leader Victor Danyan, were killed in the reported encounter.
“Rest assured that we will continue to secure the area against any possible threats,” Otida said.
He specifically cited concerns earlier raised by residents of another clash between government troops and NPA rebels.
The evacuees also noted the possible “continued harassments” by private security personnel of a nearby Consunji-owned coffee plantation.
Sitio leaders of Bonlangon and nearby Tuburan,and Tawan Dagat decried the constant threats they receive from the armed group that patrols 21-hectare plantation that they claim as part of their ancestral domain.
The South Cotabato Provincial Police Office had encouraged the sitio leaders to file complaints against the said group and assured them of police assistance in the process.
The Army official assured they will not tolerate any form of harassment against the tribal residents.
But he stressed that they cannot intervene in the land claims and can only assist the concerned parties, local government and the local police in securing the area.
Otida said the private security group had actually assisted them in the “neutralization and dismantling” of NPA presence in the village.
Owing to this, Milagros Rivera, head of the Provincial Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said they have started the preparations for the return of the evacuees.
She said they are planning to transport the residents back to their community on March 1 and 2.
In coordination with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, she said the local government would provide the affected residents with the necessary assistance.
These include access to potable water and inclusion into the provincial government’s livelihood programs.
Lorca said the Lake Sebu Municipal Disaster and Social Welfare Office would conduct an awareness drive to give evacuees proper “understanding of the present state of their homes and assure their safety.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025818
CMS to be acquired for frigates compliant to Navy specs
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 19): CMS to be acquired for frigates compliant to Navy specs
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Monday assured the public that the Combat Management System (CMS), being acquired for the two frigates contracted by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), is compliant to all the specifications set by the Navy.
"No, we are not settling for a less capable system, compliant system (Hanwha CMS), yan ang (that is the) term sa (in) procurement," Lorenzana noted.
Lorenzana made this statement shortly after Monday's Senate hearing where the Navy's Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) was tackled and the reasons why HHI opted to pick Hanwha over Thales Tacticos, the manufacturer preferred by former PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado.
While acknowledging that Thales Tacticos is a good CMS brand, the DND chief said the Hanwha CMS being selected to fit the Navy's first two missile-firing capable frigates is equally capable.
"We are not buying a lesser product. We are buying an equally capable product to be put into our ship(s)," he added.
Lorenzana emphasized that Mercado's relief last December was brought about by the latter's refusal to comply with two of his memorandums on the CMS and pronouncements that he will have the project cancelled if Thales Tacticos was not selected to supply the above-mentioned equipment.
"(The reason for his relief as FOIC was) dahil dalawang beses na memo ko hindi n’ya sinusunod tapos, sa mga conference niya (sinasabi) na pag hindi (na)tuloy ang (Thales) Tacticos, ika-cancel niya ang FAP (The reason for his relief as FOIC was he disobeyed my memos twice and he says in his conferences that he will have the FAP cancelled if Thales Tacticos will not be selected)," the DND chief pointed out.
Also, Lorenzana said that it was Mercado who had the specification "Tactical Data Link 16" or the ability to transmit and receive data from various platforms in a bid to justify the preference for the Thales Tacticos CMS.
"Hindi ko alam may motivation siningit nila nung tapos na technical specifications nung Link 16, baka (para) ma-disqualify ang Hanhwa (I didn't know there was this motivation that they have inserted when the technical specifications of Link 16 were done. Maybe, it's for Hanhwa's disqualification)," he added.
The DND chief added that this specification was not present in the original specifications. He said he has no objections to acquiring the Thales Tacticos CMS provided that adequate funds are allotted for it.
The FAP has a contract of PHP18 billion including the weapon systems and munitions. Earlier, the DND chief said that using the Thales Tacticos CMS will shoot the price of the frigates by USD7 million per ship or USD14 million for the two vessels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025747
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Monday assured the public that the Combat Management System (CMS), being acquired for the two frigates contracted by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), is compliant to all the specifications set by the Navy.
"No, we are not settling for a less capable system, compliant system (Hanwha CMS), yan ang (that is the) term sa (in) procurement," Lorenzana noted.
Lorenzana made this statement shortly after Monday's Senate hearing where the Navy's Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) was tackled and the reasons why HHI opted to pick Hanwha over Thales Tacticos, the manufacturer preferred by former PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado.
While acknowledging that Thales Tacticos is a good CMS brand, the DND chief said the Hanwha CMS being selected to fit the Navy's first two missile-firing capable frigates is equally capable.
"We are not buying a lesser product. We are buying an equally capable product to be put into our ship(s)," he added.
Lorenzana emphasized that Mercado's relief last December was brought about by the latter's refusal to comply with two of his memorandums on the CMS and pronouncements that he will have the project cancelled if Thales Tacticos was not selected to supply the above-mentioned equipment.
"(The reason for his relief as FOIC was) dahil dalawang beses na memo ko hindi n’ya sinusunod tapos, sa mga conference niya (sinasabi) na pag hindi (na)tuloy ang (Thales) Tacticos, ika-cancel niya ang FAP (The reason for his relief as FOIC was he disobeyed my memos twice and he says in his conferences that he will have the FAP cancelled if Thales Tacticos will not be selected)," the DND chief pointed out.
Also, Lorenzana said that it was Mercado who had the specification "Tactical Data Link 16" or the ability to transmit and receive data from various platforms in a bid to justify the preference for the Thales Tacticos CMS.
"Hindi ko alam may motivation siningit nila nung tapos na technical specifications nung Link 16, baka (para) ma-disqualify ang Hanhwa (I didn't know there was this motivation that they have inserted when the technical specifications of Link 16 were done. Maybe, it's for Hanhwa's disqualification)," he added.
The DND chief added that this specification was not present in the original specifications. He said he has no objections to acquiring the Thales Tacticos CMS provided that adequate funds are allotted for it.
The FAP has a contract of PHP18 billion including the weapon systems and munitions. Earlier, the DND chief said that using the Thales Tacticos CMS will shoot the price of the frigates by USD7 million per ship or USD14 million for the two vessels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025747
Capture of ISIS 'commander' shows AFP, PNP cooperation
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20): Capture of ISIS 'commander' shows AFP, PNP cooperation
The recent arrest of the Egyptian national tagged as a commander of the international terror group ISIS demonstrates the resolve of the military and police to defeat and neutralize terrorists in the country.
"This inspiring result of the joint AFP-PNP operation is a testimony not only of the resolve of the government to monitor, deter, and defeat terrorists and their infrastructure. It is also proof of what a robust intelligence sharing and collaboration can do to keep our nation and its people safe," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo said late Monday.
In the same vein, Arevalo reiterated his call to the public to be more vigilant and cooperate actively in the campaign against terrorists and their allies.
“The AFP and the Philippine National Police continue to sound the call for the sustained vigilance, cooperation, and active involvement with your security forces to strengthen our defense posture against terrorists and criminal elements,” he added. AFP and PNP units arrested Egyptian Fehmi Lassqued and his Filipina live-in partner Anabel Salipada during operations in Ermita, Manila on Friday.
They were brought to the Department of Justice for inquest proceedings as they were charged with illegal possession of explosive devices and firearms filed by Regional Police Intelligence Operations Unit (RPIOU) of the National Capital Region Police Office.
The charge sheet signed by Supt. Carlito Narag Jr., RPIOU chief, sought the indictment of the suspects for violations of Republic Act 10591 and RA 9516, laws on illegal possession of firearms and explosives, respectively.
It cited as evidence the explosive devices seized from the couple during their arrest, including four pipes, two batteries, three capacitors, two integrated circuits, three battery clips and 11 resistors and also the .45-caliber pistol and ammunitions recovered from them.
Lassqued has been staying in the Philippines since July 2016 and has been traveling in and out of the country using a fake Tunisian passport when he is actually an Egyptian national.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025802
The recent arrest of the Egyptian national tagged as a commander of the international terror group ISIS demonstrates the resolve of the military and police to defeat and neutralize terrorists in the country.
"This inspiring result of the joint AFP-PNP operation is a testimony not only of the resolve of the government to monitor, deter, and defeat terrorists and their infrastructure. It is also proof of what a robust intelligence sharing and collaboration can do to keep our nation and its people safe," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo said late Monday.
In the same vein, Arevalo reiterated his call to the public to be more vigilant and cooperate actively in the campaign against terrorists and their allies.
“The AFP and the Philippine National Police continue to sound the call for the sustained vigilance, cooperation, and active involvement with your security forces to strengthen our defense posture against terrorists and criminal elements,” he added. AFP and PNP units arrested Egyptian Fehmi Lassqued and his Filipina live-in partner Anabel Salipada during operations in Ermita, Manila on Friday.
They were brought to the Department of Justice for inquest proceedings as they were charged with illegal possession of explosive devices and firearms filed by Regional Police Intelligence Operations Unit (RPIOU) of the National Capital Region Police Office.
The charge sheet signed by Supt. Carlito Narag Jr., RPIOU chief, sought the indictment of the suspects for violations of Republic Act 10591 and RA 9516, laws on illegal possession of firearms and explosives, respectively.
It cited as evidence the explosive devices seized from the couple during their arrest, including four pipes, two batteries, three capacitors, two integrated circuits, three battery clips and 11 resistors and also the .45-caliber pistol and ammunitions recovered from them.
Lassqued has been staying in the Philippines since July 2016 and has been traveling in and out of the country using a fake Tunisian passport when he is actually an Egyptian national.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025802
US-PH Society supports return of Balangiga bells
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20): US-PH Society supports return of Balangiga bells
The United States-Philippines Society (USPS) said it supports the return of Balangiga bells to the Philippines.
In a press conference Tuesday, USPS president John Maisto said that part of the group’s resolution on Monday’s Board Meeting is to support the return of Balangiga bells to the country.
“The Society has passed a resolution yesterday (Monday) that we are in support of the return of Balangiga bells to their rightful owners, which is the parish of Balangiga [in] Samar,” said Maisto.
“We are working on that, and we hope to see a very strong working group of the Society,” he added.
In his visit to Cebu City last week, President Rodrigo Duterte insisted that the US should return the church bells to the country.
Meanwhile, the President will be meeting the USPS executives Tuesday, where the organization will highlight the strong relationship between the Philippines and the US.
The society is a private sector initiative organized to broaden and expand interaction and understanding through basic research and/or applied research in the areas of security, trade, investments, tourism, the environment, history, education and culture between the United States and the Philippines which would benefit the American public and the people of the Philippines.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025829
The United States-Philippines Society (USPS) said it supports the return of Balangiga bells to the Philippines.
In a press conference Tuesday, USPS president John Maisto said that part of the group’s resolution on Monday’s Board Meeting is to support the return of Balangiga bells to the country.
“The Society has passed a resolution yesterday (Monday) that we are in support of the return of Balangiga bells to their rightful owners, which is the parish of Balangiga [in] Samar,” said Maisto.
“We are working on that, and we hope to see a very strong working group of the Society,” he added.
In his visit to Cebu City last week, President Rodrigo Duterte insisted that the US should return the church bells to the country.
Meanwhile, the President will be meeting the USPS executives Tuesday, where the organization will highlight the strong relationship between the Philippines and the US.
The society is a private sector initiative organized to broaden and expand interaction and understanding through basic research and/or applied research in the areas of security, trade, investments, tourism, the environment, history, education and culture between the United States and the Philippines which would benefit the American public and the people of the Philippines.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025829
Frigate deal in accord with PH laws to push through: DND chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20): Frigate deal in accord with PH laws to push through: DND chief
The Navy’s Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) is aboveboard and will be strictly completed in accordance to the country's procurement laws.
This was emphasized by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in Monday's Senate hearing on the frigate project.
"The DND is ensuring that the procurement process for the frigates are done and completed strictly in accordance with our laws, namely, Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act, and 10349 (the Revised AFP Modernization Program)," he added.
The FAP was dragged into controversy following reports over alleged preference for a particular brand of combat management system (CMS) which will be fitted to the two frigates.
"Unfazed by all of the accusations, allegations, and malicious stories, we have come here today, at the gracious invitation of this august body, to shed light on the two aforementioned subjects of this inquiry and to present the facts," Lorenzana said.
The DND is standing by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI)'s decision to use the Hanwha CMS for the two ships while former Philippine Navy flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado is batting for the Thales Tacticos system.
"For the first time in our nation’s history, we have a chance to own a modern state-of-the-art military hardware such as the two frigates which we are acquiring for the Philippine Navy for the first time ever. This is the biggest single procurement so far in the history of the Armed Forces of the Philippines," he added.
But, the DND chief stressed that there appears to be a concerted effort by some to cast doubt on the acquisition project, the entire procurement system, and the people behind it, even calling for cancellation of the FAP contract.
"The issues thrown against the frigate acquisition project is hurting the very institution that is tasked to defend our country from internal and external threats," he added.
Lorenzana also tagged Mercado as the person behind the deliberate attempt to delay or stop the FAP.
"That Vice Admiral Mercado was insistent in his desire to enforce his will on the builder of the frigates, Hyundai, to install a specific brand of combat management system or CMS in the two frigates, which is clearly prohibited under our procurement law," the DND chief added.
Also, Lorenzana pointed out the former PN chief, on many occasions, challenged and usurped his authority such as directing the owner’s team in South Korea; exerted his influence on the project management team and intervened in the processes and outcome of the project; and threatened to have the contract canceled if his preferred CMS was not installed;
"That the loss of trust and confidence of the Secretary of National Defense resulting from his actions leading to insubordination was the reason for his relief as flag-officer-in-command," the DND chief added.
Also, Lorenzana earlier said it was Mercado who had the specification "Tactical Data Link 16" or the ability to transmit and receive data from various platforms in a bid to justify the preference for the Thales Tacticos CMS.
"Hindi ko alam may motivation siningit nila nung tapos na technical specifications nung Link 16, baka (para) ma-disqualify ang Hanhwa (I didn't know there was this motivation that they have inserted when the technical specifications of Link 16 were done. Maybe, it's for Hanhwa's disqualification)," he added.
The DND chief added that this specification was not present in the original specifications. Also, Lorenzana said he has no objections to acquiring the Thales Tacticos CMS provided that adequate funds are allotted for it.
The FAP has a contract of PHP18 billion including the weapon systems and munitions.
Earlier, the DND chief said that using the Thales Tacticos CMS will shoot the price of the frigates by USD7 million per ship or USD14 million for the two vessels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025831
The Navy’s Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) is aboveboard and will be strictly completed in accordance to the country's procurement laws.
This was emphasized by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in Monday's Senate hearing on the frigate project.
"The DND is ensuring that the procurement process for the frigates are done and completed strictly in accordance with our laws, namely, Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act, and 10349 (the Revised AFP Modernization Program)," he added.
The FAP was dragged into controversy following reports over alleged preference for a particular brand of combat management system (CMS) which will be fitted to the two frigates.
"Unfazed by all of the accusations, allegations, and malicious stories, we have come here today, at the gracious invitation of this august body, to shed light on the two aforementioned subjects of this inquiry and to present the facts," Lorenzana said.
The DND is standing by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI)'s decision to use the Hanwha CMS for the two ships while former Philippine Navy flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado is batting for the Thales Tacticos system.
"For the first time in our nation’s history, we have a chance to own a modern state-of-the-art military hardware such as the two frigates which we are acquiring for the Philippine Navy for the first time ever. This is the biggest single procurement so far in the history of the Armed Forces of the Philippines," he added.
But, the DND chief stressed that there appears to be a concerted effort by some to cast doubt on the acquisition project, the entire procurement system, and the people behind it, even calling for cancellation of the FAP contract.
"The issues thrown against the frigate acquisition project is hurting the very institution that is tasked to defend our country from internal and external threats," he added.
Lorenzana also tagged Mercado as the person behind the deliberate attempt to delay or stop the FAP.
"That Vice Admiral Mercado was insistent in his desire to enforce his will on the builder of the frigates, Hyundai, to install a specific brand of combat management system or CMS in the two frigates, which is clearly prohibited under our procurement law," the DND chief added.
Also, Lorenzana pointed out the former PN chief, on many occasions, challenged and usurped his authority such as directing the owner’s team in South Korea; exerted his influence on the project management team and intervened in the processes and outcome of the project; and threatened to have the contract canceled if his preferred CMS was not installed;
"That the loss of trust and confidence of the Secretary of National Defense resulting from his actions leading to insubordination was the reason for his relief as flag-officer-in-command," the DND chief added.
Also, Lorenzana earlier said it was Mercado who had the specification "Tactical Data Link 16" or the ability to transmit and receive data from various platforms in a bid to justify the preference for the Thales Tacticos CMS.
"Hindi ko alam may motivation siningit nila nung tapos na technical specifications nung Link 16, baka (para) ma-disqualify ang Hanhwa (I didn't know there was this motivation that they have inserted when the technical specifications of Link 16 were done. Maybe, it's for Hanhwa's disqualification)," he added.
The DND chief added that this specification was not present in the original specifications. Also, Lorenzana said he has no objections to acquiring the Thales Tacticos CMS provided that adequate funds are allotted for it.
The FAP has a contract of PHP18 billion including the weapon systems and munitions.
Earlier, the DND chief said that using the Thales Tacticos CMS will shoot the price of the frigates by USD7 million per ship or USD14 million for the two vessels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025831
BI asks PNP to examine passport of Egyptian ISIS member
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 20): BI asks PNP to examine passport of Egyptian ISIS member
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday requested the Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct an examination on the passport of Egyptian national Fehmi Lassoued, an alleged member of terrorist organization Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) who was nabbed by authorities last week.
“In light of the recent information, the BI has coordinated with and requested the PNP for a cursory examination of the document to determine if it is fake or a genuine passport but fraudulently acquired,” BI Spokesperson Antonette Mangrobang said.
“Likewise we have sent request to the honorary consulate of Tunisia here to determine if the passport is genuinely issued,” the BI official added.
Mangrobang added that the Egyptian national was allowed entry in the country since he was not included in the Interpol watchlist.
“He does not have a derogatory record in the Bureau's database. We have no record as well that he was denied entry in two countries po,” she said.
“Fehmi Lassoued underwent immigration inspection and was admitted into the country upon presentation of his passport and determination of the absence of any BI derogatory record or Interpol notice. On the authenticity of the passport, the BI primary inspectors' initial determination is that the passport is genuine,” Mangrobang added.
On Monday, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ronald dela Rosa reported the arrest of the suspected ISIS member and his Filipina partner, Anabel Moncera Salipada from Upi in Maguindanao in Manila.
They were arrested in a rented place in Room 409, Casa Blanca Apartment along M. Adriatico, Malate, Manila.
Dela Rosa said Lassoued entered the country with a fake Tunisian passport in July 2016.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025869
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday requested the Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct an examination on the passport of Egyptian national Fehmi Lassoued, an alleged member of terrorist organization Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) who was nabbed by authorities last week.
“In light of the recent information, the BI has coordinated with and requested the PNP for a cursory examination of the document to determine if it is fake or a genuine passport but fraudulently acquired,” BI Spokesperson Antonette Mangrobang said.
“Likewise we have sent request to the honorary consulate of Tunisia here to determine if the passport is genuinely issued,” the BI official added.
Mangrobang added that the Egyptian national was allowed entry in the country since he was not included in the Interpol watchlist.
“He does not have a derogatory record in the Bureau's database. We have no record as well that he was denied entry in two countries po,” she said.
“Fehmi Lassoued underwent immigration inspection and was admitted into the country upon presentation of his passport and determination of the absence of any BI derogatory record or Interpol notice. On the authenticity of the passport, the BI primary inspectors' initial determination is that the passport is genuine,” Mangrobang added.
On Monday, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ronald dela Rosa reported the arrest of the suspected ISIS member and his Filipina partner, Anabel Moncera Salipada from Upi in Maguindanao in Manila.
They were arrested in a rented place in Room 409, Casa Blanca Apartment along M. Adriatico, Malate, Manila.
Dela Rosa said Lassoued entered the country with a fake Tunisian passport in July 2016.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025869
CPP/NPA-Rizal: Pagbati ng MGC sa opensibang militar NPA Rizal
New People's Army-Rizal propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Feb 18): Pagbati ng MGC sa opensibang militar NPA Rizal
Jaime “Ka Diego” Padilla, Spokesperson
NPA-Southern Tagalog (Melito Glor Command)
18 February 2018
Press Release
Malugod na binabati ng Melito Glor Command New People’s Army – Southern Tagalog ang Narciso Antazo Aramil Command – NPA Rizal sa kanilang matagumpay na pamamarusa sa yunit ng Philippine National Police – Special Action Force na naglulunsad ng operasyon sa larangang gerilya at pumipinsala sa mamamayan. Inambus ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang dalawang sasakyan – isang hummer-type jeep na may 4 na SAF commandos at isang back-to-back jeep na may 12 elemento ng SAF commandos sa Sityo San Joseph, Brgy. San Jose, Antipolo City. Pauwi ang mga mersenaryo mula sa kanilang operasyong militar sa kanilang headquarters sa naturang lugar. Tumagal ang labanan mula 6:40 hanggang 7:25 ng umaga.
Anim na elemento ng SAF commandos ang nasugatan at dalawa ang nasawi samantalang walang kaswalti sa hanay ng magigiting na Pulang mandirigma.
Ang opensibang militar na inilunsad ng NPA Rizal ay bilang tugon sa walang tigil na paglulunsad ng mga operasyong militar ng reaksyunaryong pwersang panseguridad sa mga erya na saklaw ng NPA at paghahasik ng lagim sa hanay ng mamamayan.
Patuloy ang pagsasanay ng lahat ng elemento ng NPA sa rehiyon sa iba’t ibang teknika at taktika sa pakikihamok sa berdugong Armed Forces of the Philippines-PNP upang sagkaan ang kanilang kapalalauan at kahambugan sa harap ng lumalabang inaaping mamamayan. Sisikaping kamtin ng NPA ang isang kaaway na kaswalti sa hanay ng AFP-PNP sa paglulunsad ng mga opensibang pamamarusa sa mga nag-ooperasyong tropa ng reaksyunaryong hukbo. Gamit ang iba’t ibang kasanayang militar tulad ng commando operations, sniping operations, sapper operation, sabotage operations at partisan, hihina at wawasak ang moral ng mga mersenaryong hukbo ng estado sa harap ng tuluy-tuloy na paglaban ng inaapi at pinagsasamantalahang mamamayan.
Nananawagan ang Melito Glor Command sa lahat ng yunit ng NPA sa rehiyong Timog Katagalugan na higit pang pasiglahin at padagundungin ang mga opensibang aksyon laban sa lahat ng yunit ng reaksyunaryng hukbo at pulis sa mga sona at larangang gerilya. Hindi dapat hayaang malayang maglabas-masok ang alinmang yunit ng AFP at PNP sa mga barangay na saklaw ng demokratikong gubyernong bayan nang hindi pinagbabayad nang mahal sa kanilang mga krimen at atrosidad sa mamamayan ng rehiyon.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20180218-pagbati-ng-mgc-sa-opensibang-militar-npa-rizalrn
Jaime “Ka Diego” Padilla, Spokesperson
NPA-Southern Tagalog (Melito Glor Command)
18 February 2018
Press Release
Malugod na binabati ng Melito Glor Command New People’s Army – Southern Tagalog ang Narciso Antazo Aramil Command – NPA Rizal sa kanilang matagumpay na pamamarusa sa yunit ng Philippine National Police – Special Action Force na naglulunsad ng operasyon sa larangang gerilya at pumipinsala sa mamamayan. Inambus ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang dalawang sasakyan – isang hummer-type jeep na may 4 na SAF commandos at isang back-to-back jeep na may 12 elemento ng SAF commandos sa Sityo San Joseph, Brgy. San Jose, Antipolo City. Pauwi ang mga mersenaryo mula sa kanilang operasyong militar sa kanilang headquarters sa naturang lugar. Tumagal ang labanan mula 6:40 hanggang 7:25 ng umaga.
Anim na elemento ng SAF commandos ang nasugatan at dalawa ang nasawi samantalang walang kaswalti sa hanay ng magigiting na Pulang mandirigma.
Ang opensibang militar na inilunsad ng NPA Rizal ay bilang tugon sa walang tigil na paglulunsad ng mga operasyong militar ng reaksyunaryong pwersang panseguridad sa mga erya na saklaw ng NPA at paghahasik ng lagim sa hanay ng mamamayan.
Patuloy ang pagsasanay ng lahat ng elemento ng NPA sa rehiyon sa iba’t ibang teknika at taktika sa pakikihamok sa berdugong Armed Forces of the Philippines-PNP upang sagkaan ang kanilang kapalalauan at kahambugan sa harap ng lumalabang inaaping mamamayan. Sisikaping kamtin ng NPA ang isang kaaway na kaswalti sa hanay ng AFP-PNP sa paglulunsad ng mga opensibang pamamarusa sa mga nag-ooperasyong tropa ng reaksyunaryong hukbo. Gamit ang iba’t ibang kasanayang militar tulad ng commando operations, sniping operations, sapper operation, sabotage operations at partisan, hihina at wawasak ang moral ng mga mersenaryong hukbo ng estado sa harap ng tuluy-tuloy na paglaban ng inaapi at pinagsasamantalahang mamamayan.
Nananawagan ang Melito Glor Command sa lahat ng yunit ng NPA sa rehiyong Timog Katagalugan na higit pang pasiglahin at padagundungin ang mga opensibang aksyon laban sa lahat ng yunit ng reaksyunaryng hukbo at pulis sa mga sona at larangang gerilya. Hindi dapat hayaang malayang maglabas-masok ang alinmang yunit ng AFP at PNP sa mga barangay na saklaw ng demokratikong gubyernong bayan nang hindi pinagbabayad nang mahal sa kanilang mga krimen at atrosidad sa mamamayan ng rehiyon.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20180218-pagbati-ng-mgc-sa-opensibang-militar-npa-rizalrn
CPP/NPA-ST: P25,000 bounty sa bawat Pulang mandirigma, desperadong hakbang ni Duterte
New People's Army-Southern Tagalog propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Feb 18): P25,000 bounty sa bawat Pulang mandirigma, desperadong hakbang ni Duterte
Jaime “Ka Diego” Padilla, Spokesperson
NPA-Southern Tagalog (Melito Glor Command)
18 February 2018
Nangangarap nang gising si Duterte kung inaakala niyang ipagkakanulo ng sambayanang Pilipino ang buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan kapalit ang P25,000 pabuya sa bawat mapapatay na miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA) o sinumang simpatisador, pinaghihinalaang taga-suporta o kasapi ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan.
Kahit milyun-milyong piso pa ang ialok ni Duterte, hindi ipagpapalit ng sambayanang Pilipino ang pera sa bawat Pulang mandirigma dahil malinaw sa mamamayan kung sino ang tunay nilang tagapagtanggol at hukbo ng bayan. Ang NPA ay malapit sa masa at taos-pusong naglilingkod para sa kanilang interes. Batid ng mamamayan na katuwang nila ang NPA sa bawat laban sa estado at kaagapay sa bawat tagumpay ng kanilang pakikibaka.
Ang NPA ay nananatiling nagtatamasa ng papalawak at papalalim na suporta ng masang anakpawis. Patuloy itong lumalaki at lumalakas sa buong bansa, patunay na walang pagkasaid ang suportang tinatamasa nito sa sambayanang Pilipino.
Sa kabilang banda, nanganganib ang buhay ng mamamayan lalo ang mga aktibong nakikibakang grupo, organisasyon, indibidwal at mga etnikong grupo tulad ng Moro at Lumad sa ipinahayag ni Duterte. Lalong nitong binibigyan ng awtoridad ang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) at iba pang grupong paramilitar na pumaslang sa ngalan ng pera. Gagatungan lamang ng pahayag ni Duterte ang mga ganid, mersenaryo at militaristang AFP, PNP at paramilitar.
Kung gayon, dapat humanda ang mamamayang Pilipino sa papatinding atrosidad ng berdugong AFP-PNP. Kailangang patuloy silang lumaban at magkaisa sa bawat atake ng mga pwersang panseguridad ng pasista at tiranong estado. Higit sa lahat, marapat nang patalsikin at ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Duterte at itayo ang demokratikong gobyernong bayan na tunay na maglilingkod sa interes ng mamamayan.
Jaime “Ka Diego” Padilla, Spokesperson
NPA-Southern Tagalog (Melito Glor Command)
18 February 2018
Nangangarap nang gising si Duterte kung inaakala niyang ipagkakanulo ng sambayanang Pilipino ang buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan kapalit ang P25,000 pabuya sa bawat mapapatay na miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA) o sinumang simpatisador, pinaghihinalaang taga-suporta o kasapi ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan.
Kahit milyun-milyong piso pa ang ialok ni Duterte, hindi ipagpapalit ng sambayanang Pilipino ang pera sa bawat Pulang mandirigma dahil malinaw sa mamamayan kung sino ang tunay nilang tagapagtanggol at hukbo ng bayan. Ang NPA ay malapit sa masa at taos-pusong naglilingkod para sa kanilang interes. Batid ng mamamayan na katuwang nila ang NPA sa bawat laban sa estado at kaagapay sa bawat tagumpay ng kanilang pakikibaka.
Ang NPA ay nananatiling nagtatamasa ng papalawak at papalalim na suporta ng masang anakpawis. Patuloy itong lumalaki at lumalakas sa buong bansa, patunay na walang pagkasaid ang suportang tinatamasa nito sa sambayanang Pilipino.
Sa kabilang banda, nanganganib ang buhay ng mamamayan lalo ang mga aktibong nakikibakang grupo, organisasyon, indibidwal at mga etnikong grupo tulad ng Moro at Lumad sa ipinahayag ni Duterte. Lalong nitong binibigyan ng awtoridad ang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) at iba pang grupong paramilitar na pumaslang sa ngalan ng pera. Gagatungan lamang ng pahayag ni Duterte ang mga ganid, mersenaryo at militaristang AFP, PNP at paramilitar.
Kung gayon, dapat humanda ang mamamayang Pilipino sa papatinding atrosidad ng berdugong AFP-PNP. Kailangang patuloy silang lumaban at magkaisa sa bawat atake ng mga pwersang panseguridad ng pasista at tiranong estado. Higit sa lahat, marapat nang patalsikin at ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Duterte at itayo ang demokratikong gobyernong bayan na tunay na maglilingkod sa interes ng mamamayan.
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