From Malaya Business Insight (Mar 12, 2019): 2 BIFF men, soldier dead in Maguindanao assault
MILITARY aircraft and artillery assets pounded a lair of the Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Shariff Saydona Mustapha town in Maguindanao on Monday, leading to the death of two BIFF men and a soldier and wounding of six other BIFF members. “It started with a bomb run,” said Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
He said the bomb run, which started at 5:50 a.m., targeted a lair of the BIFF in Barangay Inaladan. Sobejana said MG 520 attack helicopters then fired rockets at the lair, followed by shelling, using military howitzers.
“There was demonstration of air power initially then after that, there was a ground maneuver. The ground maneuver resulted to multiple encounters, leading to the death of two and wounding of six on the enemy side initially,” said Sobejana.
Sobejana said a sergeant from the Army’s 61st Division Reconnaissance Company was hit in the head while maneuvering towards the enemy lair across a river. The identity of the soldier was withheld.
As of yesterday afternoon, Sobejan said sporadic firefight were still ongoing against an estimated 100 to 120 BIFF men led by Abu Toraype, Salahudin Hassan and Singaporean Muhamad Ali Abdul Rahiman, alias Mauwiyah. HE said that also in the area was Esmail Abubakar, alias commander Bungos, a leader of a BIFF faction.
Sobejana said Toraype and Abubakar had differences on how to run the organization a few years back. “They’ve established a tactical alliance and they are fighting side by side against us,” Sobejana said.
Sobejana said members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front are ready to come to the aid of the military if necessary. The BIFF is composed mostly of former members of the MILF that signed a peace accord with government in 2014.
https://malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/2-biff-men-soldier-dead-maguindanao-assault
Monday, March 11, 2019
DWDD: Military conducts community dialogues in Surigao conflict areas
Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV (Mar 11, 2019): Military conducts community dialogues in Surigao conflict areas
TAGBINA, Surigao del Sur – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will continue to conduct dialogues in conflict-affected areas to win the hearts and minds of far-flung villagers in the hinterlands of Surigao del Sur.
(MANILA BULLETIN)...
Armed Forces of the Philippines (MANILA BULLETIN)
Second Lt. Maricris C. Capilitan, Civil Military Operation Officer (CMO) of the Army’s 75th Infantry (Marauder) Bartallion (75th IB) told The Manila Bulletin on Monday that the units’ Community Support Program (CSP) spearheaded the community dialogue in far-flung villages of Barangay Sta. Juana, in Tagbina town, Surigao del Sur last week.
Close to 200 residents participated in the peace dialogue where government programs were laid down by local government units (LGUs) and government agencies.
The “Dialogue for Peace and Development” (DPD) was held at Sta. Juana Gymnasium, Tagbina town of that same province. Barangay Sta. Juana was a recipient of the Peace and Development Zone (PDZ) program in Caraga region.
“PDZ will promote durable peace by addressing the root causes of conflict through reconciliation, institution building, and social, political, and economic transformation particularly in Conflict Affected Areas (ConAAs),” said 75th IB commander Lt. Col. Jaime R Datuin, who spearheaded the activity.
Among the key personalities present during the occasion were Tagbina town Mayor Generoso Naraiso, Regional Director Dr. Florencio Sunico Jr. of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Provincial Director Rey Cueva, also of TESDA in Surigao del Sur and other local officials, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Business Permit Licensing Office (BPLO), Municipal Treasurer’s Office (MTO) and Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO).
During the community dialogue, barangay officials and concerned residents raised issues and concerns with the respective government agencies.
Mayor Naraiso said the efforts of the government to reach the grassroots through dialogues only shows its sincerity in facilitating the peace and development concerns of affected communities. “If there is no peace, there is no development,” he added.
“Your Army wants to bring the government closer to the communities through the convergence of efforts by government agencies in addressing socio-economic and security issues thereby uplifting the living condition of the populace here in Barangay Sta. Juana,” Datuin said.
https://news.mb.com.ph/
https://www.facebook.com/fourcrg/photos/a.458560437817709/851247021882380/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/pg/dwdd1134/posts/?ref=page_internal
TAGBINA, Surigao del Sur – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will continue to conduct dialogues in conflict-affected areas to win the hearts and minds of far-flung villagers in the hinterlands of Surigao del Sur.
(MANILA BULLETIN)...
Armed Forces of the Philippines (MANILA BULLETIN)
Second Lt. Maricris C. Capilitan, Civil Military Operation Officer (CMO) of the Army’s 75th Infantry (Marauder) Bartallion (75th IB) told The Manila Bulletin on Monday that the units’ Community Support Program (CSP) spearheaded the community dialogue in far-flung villages of Barangay Sta. Juana, in Tagbina town, Surigao del Sur last week.
Close to 200 residents participated in the peace dialogue where government programs were laid down by local government units (LGUs) and government agencies.
The “Dialogue for Peace and Development” (DPD) was held at Sta. Juana Gymnasium, Tagbina town of that same province. Barangay Sta. Juana was a recipient of the Peace and Development Zone (PDZ) program in Caraga region.
“PDZ will promote durable peace by addressing the root causes of conflict through reconciliation, institution building, and social, political, and economic transformation particularly in Conflict Affected Areas (ConAAs),” said 75th IB commander Lt. Col. Jaime R Datuin, who spearheaded the activity.
Among the key personalities present during the occasion were Tagbina town Mayor Generoso Naraiso, Regional Director Dr. Florencio Sunico Jr. of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Provincial Director Rey Cueva, also of TESDA in Surigao del Sur and other local officials, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Business Permit Licensing Office (BPLO), Municipal Treasurer’s Office (MTO) and Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO).
During the community dialogue, barangay officials and concerned residents raised issues and concerns with the respective government agencies.
Mayor Naraiso said the efforts of the government to reach the grassroots through dialogues only shows its sincerity in facilitating the peace and development concerns of affected communities. “If there is no peace, there is no development,” he added.
“Your Army wants to bring the government closer to the communities through the convergence of efforts by government agencies in addressing socio-economic and security issues thereby uplifting the living condition of the populace here in Barangay Sta. Juana,” Datuin said.
https://news.mb.com.ph/
https://www.facebook.com/fourcrg/photos/a.458560437817709/851247021882380/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/pg/dwdd1134/posts/?ref=page_internal
DWDD: Army trooper’s played friendship game with MILF
Posted to Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV (Mar 11, 2019): Army trooper’s played friendship game with MILF
CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao –Troops of 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 63rd Division Reconnaissance Company played friendly basketball game with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Task Force Itihad of MILF in Brgy Old Maganoy, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao on March 7, 2019.
The event is a continuing p...eace initiative of 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion to connect people and to show everybody that we are all partners to create friendship.
It can be recalled that on February 18, 2019, a peace dialogue was orchestrated in the said town after fake news and rumors came out, that the military will attack the MILF community that resulted on massive evacuations. Later, it was resolved and agreed for the establishment of military patrol base.
Winning is not the most important part of this event, but by bringing people from different sectors to work together as a team, it leads peace and development in the area,” said Ltc Alvin G. Iyog, Commanding Officer 2nd Mech Infantry Battalion.
The friendship game is our opportunity to exchange thoughts and discover a new friendship to join together with our aspiration to create a peaceful environment with full of love and understanding,” Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana Commander 6th Infantry Division said.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/
https://www.facebook.com/fourcrg/photos/a.458560437817709/851248161882266/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/pg/dwdd1134/posts/?ref=page_internal
CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao –Troops of 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 63rd Division Reconnaissance Company played friendly basketball game with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Task Force Itihad of MILF in Brgy Old Maganoy, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao on March 7, 2019.
The event is a continuing p...eace initiative of 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion to connect people and to show everybody that we are all partners to create friendship.
It can be recalled that on February 18, 2019, a peace dialogue was orchestrated in the said town after fake news and rumors came out, that the military will attack the MILF community that resulted on massive evacuations. Later, it was resolved and agreed for the establishment of military patrol base.
Winning is not the most important part of this event, but by bringing people from different sectors to work together as a team, it leads peace and development in the area,” said Ltc Alvin G. Iyog, Commanding Officer 2nd Mech Infantry Battalion.
The friendship game is our opportunity to exchange thoughts and discover a new friendship to join together with our aspiration to create a peaceful environment with full of love and understanding,” Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana Commander 6th Infantry Division said.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/
https://www.facebook.com/fourcrg/photos/a.458560437817709/851248161882266/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/pg/dwdd1134/posts/?ref=page_internal
1 police dead, 1 hurt in Samar ambush
From the Sun Star-Tacloban (Mar 11, 2019): 1 police dead, 1 hurt in Samar ambush
(Screenshot gikan sa live video ni Furtuito J. Aim)
A POLICE officer was killed and another was hurt in an ambush in Motiong, Samar Monday, March 11.
Police Senior Superintendent Dante Novicio, director of Samar Police Provincial Office, identified the slain policeman as Police Officer 3 (PO3) Glenn Meniano while the wounded was Police Officer 1 (PO1) Jane Abejar.
The ambush incident occurred around 7 a.m. while members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Motiong were onboard their Mahindra Mobile patrol car along the Maharlika highway at Barangay 1 in the town.
Police said a group of still unidentified gunmen onboard another vehicle waylaid them using M16 rifles.
The ambush caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle and crashed into the highway guardrail barrier, followed by the explosion of the mobile patrol car.
Police are conducting a hot pursuit operation against still unidentified suspects.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1796273/Tacloban/Local-News/1-police-dead-1-hurt-in-Samar-ambush
(Screenshot gikan sa live video ni Furtuito J. Aim)
A POLICE officer was killed and another was hurt in an ambush in Motiong, Samar Monday, March 11.
Police Senior Superintendent Dante Novicio, director of Samar Police Provincial Office, identified the slain policeman as Police Officer 3 (PO3) Glenn Meniano while the wounded was Police Officer 1 (PO1) Jane Abejar.
The ambush incident occurred around 7 a.m. while members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Motiong were onboard their Mahindra Mobile patrol car along the Maharlika highway at Barangay 1 in the town.
Police said a group of still unidentified gunmen onboard another vehicle waylaid them using M16 rifles.
The ambush caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle and crashed into the highway guardrail barrier, followed by the explosion of the mobile patrol car.
Police are conducting a hot pursuit operation against still unidentified suspects.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1796273/Tacloban/Local-News/1-police-dead-1-hurt-in-Samar-ambush
Troops intensify ops vs communist guerillas
From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Mar 11, 2019): Troops intensify ops vs communist guerillas
AGUSAN DEL NORTE. Government troops of Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) over the weekend recovered firearms and war material after a clash with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. (Photo by 4ID)
THE 4TH Infantry Division (4ID) has deployed some 248 Civilian Active Auxilliary in Bukidnon last Friday, March 8.
Combat clothing and individual equipment (CCIE) were also distributed to the newly trained members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Units (Cafgu).
8th Infantry Battalion commander Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana said the new CAFGUS are part of the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) purposely to protect communities from the New People’s Army (NPA) and secure national flagship projects of the government.
“In behalf of the Philippine Army we are so very thankful that many of our citizens appreciate the duties and responsibilities rendered of our Filipino soldier. So many are called but few are chosen to become a regular soldier,” he said.
The Cafgu are paramilitary units composed largely of volunteer reservists organized into companies of 120 personnel per company which are handled by a squad of regular troops responsible for providing guidance and control.
The military said the Cafgus are the ones giving information since they have access to the different areas, complete knowledge of the terrain, and direct contacts in the community.
The Cafgus also have the advantage in protecting their villages from outside threats as they are more familiar with the people in their respective communities.
All Cafgu members have undergone a 45-day basic training program that focuses on firearms and small unit tactics.
They also received free health care, initial clothing allowance and monthly stipend amounting to P4,500.
They will also be required to wear uniforms and will be armed with M16, M14 and carbines subject to military laws and regulations.
Another encounter
Meanwhile, government troops of Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) over the weekend recovered firearms and war material after a clash with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina Jr., commander of the 23IB, said some concerned residents reported on the alleged presence of armed men in their area.
Troops proceeded to the area where a five-minute firefight ensued.
While recovering alleged possessions of the rebels, Molina meanwhile thanked the residents of Barangay Lower Olave for providing the information.
“Through the cooperation of the civilian stakeholders, we were able to save lives by thwarting the hostile plans of the CNTs (Communist NPA Terrorists) in using the prohibited anti-personnel mines which can victimize even ordinary civilians,” he said.
“We encourage the CNT members to abandon armed struggle and go back to the folds of the government, live a peaceful life together with their families and loved ones. Our government is open to help you,” he added.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1796430/Cagayan-De-Oro/Local-News/Troops-intensify-ops-vs-communist-guerillas
AGUSAN DEL NORTE. Government troops of Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) over the weekend recovered firearms and war material after a clash with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. (Photo by 4ID)
THE 4TH Infantry Division (4ID) has deployed some 248 Civilian Active Auxilliary in Bukidnon last Friday, March 8.
Combat clothing and individual equipment (CCIE) were also distributed to the newly trained members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Units (Cafgu).
8th Infantry Battalion commander Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana said the new CAFGUS are part of the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) purposely to protect communities from the New People’s Army (NPA) and secure national flagship projects of the government.
“In behalf of the Philippine Army we are so very thankful that many of our citizens appreciate the duties and responsibilities rendered of our Filipino soldier. So many are called but few are chosen to become a regular soldier,” he said.
The Cafgu are paramilitary units composed largely of volunteer reservists organized into companies of 120 personnel per company which are handled by a squad of regular troops responsible for providing guidance and control.
The military said the Cafgus are the ones giving information since they have access to the different areas, complete knowledge of the terrain, and direct contacts in the community.
The Cafgus also have the advantage in protecting their villages from outside threats as they are more familiar with the people in their respective communities.
All Cafgu members have undergone a 45-day basic training program that focuses on firearms and small unit tactics.
They also received free health care, initial clothing allowance and monthly stipend amounting to P4,500.
They will also be required to wear uniforms and will be armed with M16, M14 and carbines subject to military laws and regulations.
Another encounter
Meanwhile, government troops of Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) over the weekend recovered firearms and war material after a clash with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina Jr., commander of the 23IB, said some concerned residents reported on the alleged presence of armed men in their area.
Troops proceeded to the area where a five-minute firefight ensued.
While recovering alleged possessions of the rebels, Molina meanwhile thanked the residents of Barangay Lower Olave for providing the information.
“Through the cooperation of the civilian stakeholders, we were able to save lives by thwarting the hostile plans of the CNTs (Communist NPA Terrorists) in using the prohibited anti-personnel mines which can victimize even ordinary civilians,” he said.
“We encourage the CNT members to abandon armed struggle and go back to the folds of the government, live a peaceful life together with their families and loved ones. Our government is open to help you,” he added.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1796430/Cagayan-De-Oro/Local-News/Troops-intensify-ops-vs-communist-guerillas
Slain ‘assassin’ identified
From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 11): Slain ‘assassin’ identified
The suspected member of the New People’s Army Special Partisan Unit, who was killed in a brief shootout with a policeman on March 7 in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, turned out to be a resident of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.
Capt. Oliver Usog, 94th Infantry Battalion Civil Military Operations officer, yesterday identified the slain NPA SPARU unit member as Tachico Salvacion, 23, of Sitio Dawahan, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City.
The cadaver of Salvacion, a habal-habal driver in Manjuyod town, was claimed by his parents and relatives, Usog said.
Police investigations showed that Usog and three of his companions, at gunpoint, tried to disarm SP01 Humprey Teves of his gun. But the police officer managed to fight back, and was able to shoot two of the four assailants.
Usog, who was killed, was left behind by his fleeing comrades, with one of whom also hit and injured in the leg, Senior Supt. Raul Tacaca, provincial police director of Negros Oriental, earlier said.
Lt. Col. Randy Pagunuran, 94IB commanding officer, in a statement, condemned the recruitment of teenagers and minors by the New People’s Army.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/11/topstory9.htm
The suspected member of the New People’s Army Special Partisan Unit, who was killed in a brief shootout with a policeman on March 7 in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, turned out to be a resident of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.
Capt. Oliver Usog, 94th Infantry Battalion Civil Military Operations officer, yesterday identified the slain NPA SPARU unit member as Tachico Salvacion, 23, of Sitio Dawahan, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City.
The cadaver of Salvacion, a habal-habal driver in Manjuyod town, was claimed by his parents and relatives, Usog said.
Police investigations showed that Usog and three of his companions, at gunpoint, tried to disarm SP01 Humprey Teves of his gun. But the police officer managed to fight back, and was able to shoot two of the four assailants.
Usog, who was killed, was left behind by his fleeing comrades, with one of whom also hit and injured in the leg, Senior Supt. Raul Tacaca, provincial police director of Negros Oriental, earlier said.
Lt. Col. Randy Pagunuran, 94IB commanding officer, in a statement, condemned the recruitment of teenagers and minors by the New People’s Army.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/11/topstory9.htm
Soldiers, ex-rebels celebrate Women’s Month
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11, 2019): Soldiers, ex-rebels celebrate Women’s Month
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Instead of fighting it out in the mountains where lives are at stake, soldiers and former rebels engaged in a military tradition called "boodle fight” to celebrate life.
In line with the nationwide celebration of International Women’s Day, the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division shared food with four former ranking female New People's Army (NPA) members at the headquarters of the 1st Special Forces Battalion in Brgy. Mampayag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on March 3.
Jai-jai, Diding, Jao and Lala (not their real names) were among the recent batches of surrenderees from the CPP-NPA terrorist group of the Sub-Regional Committee and Regional Urban Committee of Northern Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in Region 10 who turned their backs against their terrorist organization and surrender to the government troops in February this year.
The Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division sharing food with former female NPA members at the headquarters of the 1st Special Forces Battalion in Brgy. Mampayag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on March 3, 2019 in line with the nationwide celebration of International Women’s Day. (4ID)
The ex-rebels turned in assorted medical and dental supplies, medicines, cellphone, tablet, and subversive documents.
“I am very grateful to the soldiers and the government agencies for giving us a chance to gain back our normal life and become productive members of the society. We know that women play a significant role in a family and we are critical components in creating a peaceful community. I am more than honored and privileged to be personally visited, conversed and was able to partake sumptuous lunch (boodle fight) with the officers and men of the 4th ID headed by Brigadier General Gacal. They have shown utmost respect and took good care of us contrary to what NPA terrorist leaders told us," said Lala, a former finance officer and political instructor.
Gacal said they recognize the active contributions of women especially in peace building in Mindanao. "These female former rebels have a great role to perform, to reach out to their former comrades and be a worthy example that there is an easy way out from the terrorist organization if they only give peace a chance," he said.
Gacal added that the 4th ID is a gender responsive Army unit and this activity highlights the celebration of Women’s Month with the theme: “We Make Change Work for Women.”
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1019544
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Instead of fighting it out in the mountains where lives are at stake, soldiers and former rebels engaged in a military tradition called "boodle fight” to celebrate life.
In line with the nationwide celebration of International Women’s Day, the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division shared food with four former ranking female New People's Army (NPA) members at the headquarters of the 1st Special Forces Battalion in Brgy. Mampayag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on March 3.
Jai-jai, Diding, Jao and Lala (not their real names) were among the recent batches of surrenderees from the CPP-NPA terrorist group of the Sub-Regional Committee and Regional Urban Committee of Northern Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in Region 10 who turned their backs against their terrorist organization and surrender to the government troops in February this year.
The Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division sharing food with former female NPA members at the headquarters of the 1st Special Forces Battalion in Brgy. Mampayag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on March 3, 2019 in line with the nationwide celebration of International Women’s Day. (4ID)
The ex-rebels turned in assorted medical and dental supplies, medicines, cellphone, tablet, and subversive documents.
“I am very grateful to the soldiers and the government agencies for giving us a chance to gain back our normal life and become productive members of the society. We know that women play a significant role in a family and we are critical components in creating a peaceful community. I am more than honored and privileged to be personally visited, conversed and was able to partake sumptuous lunch (boodle fight) with the officers and men of the 4th ID headed by Brigadier General Gacal. They have shown utmost respect and took good care of us contrary to what NPA terrorist leaders told us," said Lala, a former finance officer and political instructor.
Gacal said they recognize the active contributions of women especially in peace building in Mindanao. "These female former rebels have a great role to perform, to reach out to their former comrades and be a worthy example that there is an easy way out from the terrorist organization if they only give peace a chance," he said.
Gacal added that the 4th ID is a gender responsive Army unit and this activity highlights the celebration of Women’s Month with the theme: “We Make Change Work for Women.”
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1019544
AFP backs PRRD initiative on Freedom of Information
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2019): AFP backs PRRD initiative on Freedom of Information
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) strongly supports President Rodrigo Duterte's calls for transparency and full public disclosure of information.
“The public has the right to know the right information at the right time. An informed populace is a source of national power, and right information can empower Filipinos of informed decision,” AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said in statement over the weekend.
In line with this initiative emphasized under Duterte's Executive Order (EO) No. 2, the AFP conducted its Freedom of Information (FOI) Cascading and Leveling Seminar to its respective offices and units at the AFP Commission Officers Club, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Friday.
Assistant Secretary Kristian Ablan of the Presidential Communications Operations Office discussed the contents of the EO, which is the enabling order for FOI and mechanism to promote transparency in the government’s administrative process.
He also discussed the list of exceptions and the electronic FOI portal.
As the AFP cascaded its FOI Manual to the offices and units, Col. Napoleon de Vera of the AFP Civil-Military Operations or OJ-7 presented the overview and important aspects of the AFP FOI Manual.
On legal matters, Col. Agustin Matavia, AFP’s Deputy Judge Advocate General, discussed the administrative liabilities of the failure to comply with the requirements of the process.
While Noriza Atienza, acting public affairs division chief of the Department of National Defense Public Affairs Service, shared the defense department's experience on the implementation of FOI.
“We must release the information to the people with maximum disclosure and with minimum delay,” Detoyato added. And to ensure compliance to the FOI process, an oath-taking ceremony for the designated FOI Action Officer and Staff was held after the seminar presided by the AFP vice chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr.
"The AFP understands that the power of the State emanates from the public, and that the public needs and deserve to know all government transactions, decisions, and policies that affect the lives of Filipinos," Detoyato concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064161
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) strongly supports President Rodrigo Duterte's calls for transparency and full public disclosure of information.
“The public has the right to know the right information at the right time. An informed populace is a source of national power, and right information can empower Filipinos of informed decision,” AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said in statement over the weekend.
In line with this initiative emphasized under Duterte's Executive Order (EO) No. 2, the AFP conducted its Freedom of Information (FOI) Cascading and Leveling Seminar to its respective offices and units at the AFP Commission Officers Club, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Friday.
Assistant Secretary Kristian Ablan of the Presidential Communications Operations Office discussed the contents of the EO, which is the enabling order for FOI and mechanism to promote transparency in the government’s administrative process.
He also discussed the list of exceptions and the electronic FOI portal.
As the AFP cascaded its FOI Manual to the offices and units, Col. Napoleon de Vera of the AFP Civil-Military Operations or OJ-7 presented the overview and important aspects of the AFP FOI Manual.
On legal matters, Col. Agustin Matavia, AFP’s Deputy Judge Advocate General, discussed the administrative liabilities of the failure to comply with the requirements of the process.
While Noriza Atienza, acting public affairs division chief of the Department of National Defense Public Affairs Service, shared the defense department's experience on the implementation of FOI.
“We must release the information to the people with maximum disclosure and with minimum delay,” Detoyato added. And to ensure compliance to the FOI process, an oath-taking ceremony for the designated FOI Action Officer and Staff was held after the seminar presided by the AFP vice chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr.
"The AFP understands that the power of the State emanates from the public, and that the public needs and deserve to know all government transactions, decisions, and policies that affect the lives of Filipinos," Detoyato concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064161
Whole-of-gov't approach needed to defeat Reds
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2019): Whole-of-gov't approach needed to defeat Reds
Only a unified and whole government approach will defeat the threat posed by New People's Army (NPA) communist rebels, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said Monday.
He made this statement when asked what factors can spell defeat for the rebels once and for all.
"We have identified so many factors to eradicate the communist terrorists (and these are) prevent them from accessing funds, counter their mass base recruitment and front organizations," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.
These can only be neutralized effectively only if the government will synchronize its efforts to counter these threats.
"We can only do this effectively if the whole government will synchronize their efforts towards a common goal (which is aimed at containing these factors that responsible for the continued operation of the NPA movement)," the AFP official added.
The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
Once this is done, Detoyato expressed confidence that the ideology espoused by Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison and his "blind followers" will be defeated once and for all.
Earlier, the AFP official said the NPA attacks, targeting and destroying even civilian targets, highlighted its aimed at pressuring businesses to give in to their extortion plans.
The wanton attacks also highlighted the communist rebels’ terroristic inclinations, he added.
"The burning spree of heavy equipment being perpetrated by the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army) is meant to continue with their terrorism plans and to pressure the companies to give in to their extortion demands," Detoyato said.
Also, the NPAs target equipment of construction companies because they are soft and undefended, and destroying them will delay and prevent the government from bringing in basic services to rural communities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064172
Only a unified and whole government approach will defeat the threat posed by New People's Army (NPA) communist rebels, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said Monday.
He made this statement when asked what factors can spell defeat for the rebels once and for all.
"We have identified so many factors to eradicate the communist terrorists (and these are) prevent them from accessing funds, counter their mass base recruitment and front organizations," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.
These can only be neutralized effectively only if the government will synchronize its efforts to counter these threats.
"We can only do this effectively if the whole government will synchronize their efforts towards a common goal (which is aimed at containing these factors that responsible for the continued operation of the NPA movement)," the AFP official added.
The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
Once this is done, Detoyato expressed confidence that the ideology espoused by Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison and his "blind followers" will be defeated once and for all.
Earlier, the AFP official said the NPA attacks, targeting and destroying even civilian targets, highlighted its aimed at pressuring businesses to give in to their extortion plans.
The wanton attacks also highlighted the communist rebels’ terroristic inclinations, he added.
"The burning spree of heavy equipment being perpetrated by the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army) is meant to continue with their terrorism plans and to pressure the companies to give in to their extortion demands," Detoyato said.
Also, the NPAs target equipment of construction companies because they are soft and undefended, and destroying them will delay and prevent the government from bringing in basic services to rural communities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064172
Lorenzana, Empedrad to witness launching of BRP Jose Rizal
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2019): Lorenzana, Empedrad to witness launching of BRP Jose Rizal
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad are expected to visit South Korea to witness the launching of the country's first-ever missile-armed frigate this May.
The PN chief, in an interview with DWDD Monday, said the visit will be from May 17 to 19.
He, however, did not give specific details on the launching date of the BRP Jose Rizal, the Navy's first-ever missile frigate, which is undergoing construction by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).
The second frigate, which will be named BRP Antonio Luna, is also being constructed by HHI.
"Ibig sabihin ng launching ng first frigate is yung barko ay tapos na yung ginagawa sa kanya sa dry-dock, so ibaba siya and mag-float na siya sa dagat from the dock of the shipyard (When we say launching of the first frigate, it means the construction of the ship at the dry-drock is done. So it will be floated in the sea from the dock of the shipyard)," Empedrad said.
BRP Jose Rizal's launching will be followed by the keel-laying of BRP Antonio Luna, the PN chief stressed. He added that this is necessary because the ships will be delivered six months apart.
Also, Empedrad said that the Navy's first two anti-submarine helicopters, the AgustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcat", which will be armed with torpedoes and missiles, will be arriving in the Philippines by May 14.
These will be followed by four amphibious assault vehicles intended for the Philippine Marine Corps.
The Philippines and HHI signed a PHP16-billion contract for two missile-armed frigates with another PHP2 billion set aside for its weapon systems and munitions. Projected delivery date of the first frigate is by 2020 with the second one in 2021.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064197
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad are expected to visit South Korea to witness the launching of the country's first-ever missile-armed frigate this May.
The PN chief, in an interview with DWDD Monday, said the visit will be from May 17 to 19.
He, however, did not give specific details on the launching date of the BRP Jose Rizal, the Navy's first-ever missile frigate, which is undergoing construction by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).
The second frigate, which will be named BRP Antonio Luna, is also being constructed by HHI.
"Ibig sabihin ng launching ng first frigate is yung barko ay tapos na yung ginagawa sa kanya sa dry-dock, so ibaba siya and mag-float na siya sa dagat from the dock of the shipyard (When we say launching of the first frigate, it means the construction of the ship at the dry-drock is done. So it will be floated in the sea from the dock of the shipyard)," Empedrad said.
BRP Jose Rizal's launching will be followed by the keel-laying of BRP Antonio Luna, the PN chief stressed. He added that this is necessary because the ships will be delivered six months apart.
Also, Empedrad said that the Navy's first two anti-submarine helicopters, the AgustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcat", which will be armed with torpedoes and missiles, will be arriving in the Philippines by May 14.
These will be followed by four amphibious assault vehicles intended for the Philippine Marine Corps.
The Philippines and HHI signed a PHP16-billion contract for two missile-armed frigates with another PHP2 billion set aside for its weapon systems and munitions. Projected delivery date of the first frigate is by 2020 with the second one in 2021.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064197
Abu Sayyaf member nabbed in Taguig
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2019): Abu Sayyaf member nabbed in Taguig
A suspected member of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) has been arrested by operatives of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Taguig City.
In a statement Monday, NBI Director Dante A. Gierran said Salahim Dawani a.k.a. Abu Moadz was nabbed in an operation last March 6.
Dawani has a standing arrest warrant issued by the Basilan Regional Trial Court (RTC) in connection with the kidnapping of several workers of the Golden Harvest Plantation in Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan in 2001.
Witnesses said Abu Moadz was with the group who burned down houses in the area and decapitated plantation workers Primitivo Falcasantos and Crisanto Suela.
He was among those who served as augmentation force to the ASG brigands who kidnapped victims at the diving resort in Sipadan, Pulao, Sabah, Malaysia on April 23, 2000. He also helped guard the kidnap victims when they were brought to the towns of Talipao and Patikul in Sulu.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064207
A suspected member of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) has been arrested by operatives of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Taguig City.
In a statement Monday, NBI Director Dante A. Gierran said Salahim Dawani a.k.a. Abu Moadz was nabbed in an operation last March 6.
Dawani has a standing arrest warrant issued by the Basilan Regional Trial Court (RTC) in connection with the kidnapping of several workers of the Golden Harvest Plantation in Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan in 2001.
Witnesses said Abu Moadz was with the group who burned down houses in the area and decapitated plantation workers Primitivo Falcasantos and Crisanto Suela.
He was among those who served as augmentation force to the ASG brigands who kidnapped victims at the diving resort in Sipadan, Pulao, Sabah, Malaysia on April 23, 2000. He also helped guard the kidnap victims when they were brought to the towns of Talipao and Patikul in Sulu.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064207
Maguindanao resident hands over live explosives to Army
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2019): Maguindanao resident hands over live explosives to Army
TURNED OVER. The two 60-mm mortar explosives handed over by a civilian to the Army in Guindulungan, Maguindanao. (Photo by 6ID)
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) on Monday lauded a resident of Guindulungan, Maguindanao, for turning over to authorities two unexploded 60-mm mortar shells he found near his farm.
For security reasons, Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6th ID commander and head of Joint Task Force Central, only identified the civilian as “Datu”, who handed over the two mortar shells that appear to be new and shiny, to the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion on Saturday.
“The military’s information campaign against anti-personnel mines is now getting support from the locals,” Sobejana noted.
Datu said he found the explosives in an area near his farm and quickly alerted the soldiers.
The explosives, now under the care of 90th IB, will be turned over to the Army’s Explosives and Ordnance Disposal Team.
Had it not been found and turned over, Sobejana said the explosives could have landed in the hands of lawless elements and convert them into anti-personnel mines.
“I appeal to the public in the countryside to be extra careful when they find unexploded ordnance and other weapons to avoid accidents,” said Sobejana, adding that anyone should immediately report such find to authorities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064180
TURNED OVER. The two 60-mm mortar explosives handed over by a civilian to the Army in Guindulungan, Maguindanao. (Photo by 6ID)
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) on Monday lauded a resident of Guindulungan, Maguindanao, for turning over to authorities two unexploded 60-mm mortar shells he found near his farm.
For security reasons, Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6th ID commander and head of Joint Task Force Central, only identified the civilian as “Datu”, who handed over the two mortar shells that appear to be new and shiny, to the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion on Saturday.
“The military’s information campaign against anti-personnel mines is now getting support from the locals,” Sobejana noted.
Datu said he found the explosives in an area near his farm and quickly alerted the soldiers.
The explosives, now under the care of 90th IB, will be turned over to the Army’s Explosives and Ordnance Disposal Team.
Had it not been found and turned over, Sobejana said the explosives could have landed in the hands of lawless elements and convert them into anti-personnel mines.
“I appeal to the public in the countryside to be extra careful when they find unexploded ordnance and other weapons to avoid accidents,” said Sobejana, adding that anyone should immediately report such find to authorities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064180
Massive military operation launched vs. BIFF in Maguindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2019): Massive military operation launched vs. BIFF in Maguindanao
Soldiers find empty rifle bullet shells in a site where Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters launched an attack against them in Barangay Tuka, Mamasapano, Maguindanao. (Photo by 6th ID)
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The Army’s 6th Infantry Division has stepped up its operation against the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao after the terror group's continued attacks against the military and civilians in the province.
“The pursuit operations against the terror group will continue without letup to preempt them from further sowing fear and violence,” said Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6ID commander, in an interview with newsmen here Monday.
The latest BIFF attack occurred on March 7 in Barangay Tuka, Mamasapano, Maguindanao, where two soldiers and a civilian were hurt. Sobejana declined to name the wounded soldiers pending notification of their respective families.
He identified the wounded civilian though as Bihamdi Abdulkarim Abdulgani who sustained injuries in his knees. Abdulgani was walking home around 10 p.m. along the village when he noticed about 300 armed men near the Army detachment in the area.
Sobejana said Abdulgani cautioned the armed men not to come near the military base but was fired upon. Other BIFF gunmen fired at the military base that injured two members of 40th Infantry Battalion 3rd Light Armor Company and sparked a 10-minute firefight.
“The BIFF then withdrew towards nearby Liguasan Marsh while the civilian victim was rushed to a hospital in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao,” Sobejana said.
The military official condemned the attack, calling it barbaric and inhuman since the civilian was a non-combatant.
Meanwhile, at least four off-duty Army soldiers were killed--three in Maguindanao and one in neighboring Cotabato City--in separate attacks over the past two weeks. The BIFF claimed they carried out the attacks in retaliation to the series of military airstrikes and artillery bombardment against them in the province.
Sobejana vowed the heightened military operations against the BIFF in Maguindanao will be sustained.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064174
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The Army’s 6th Infantry Division has stepped up its operation against the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao after the terror group's continued attacks against the military and civilians in the province.
“The pursuit operations against the terror group will continue without letup to preempt them from further sowing fear and violence,” said Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6ID commander, in an interview with newsmen here Monday.
The latest BIFF attack occurred on March 7 in Barangay Tuka, Mamasapano, Maguindanao, where two soldiers and a civilian were hurt. Sobejana declined to name the wounded soldiers pending notification of their respective families.
He identified the wounded civilian though as Bihamdi Abdulkarim Abdulgani who sustained injuries in his knees. Abdulgani was walking home around 10 p.m. along the village when he noticed about 300 armed men near the Army detachment in the area.
Sobejana said Abdulgani cautioned the armed men not to come near the military base but was fired upon. Other BIFF gunmen fired at the military base that injured two members of 40th Infantry Battalion 3rd Light Armor Company and sparked a 10-minute firefight.
“The BIFF then withdrew towards nearby Liguasan Marsh while the civilian victim was rushed to a hospital in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao,” Sobejana said.
The military official condemned the attack, calling it barbaric and inhuman since the civilian was a non-combatant.
Meanwhile, at least four off-duty Army soldiers were killed--three in Maguindanao and one in neighboring Cotabato City--in separate attacks over the past two weeks. The BIFF claimed they carried out the attacks in retaliation to the series of military airstrikes and artillery bombardment against them in the province.
Sobejana vowed the heightened military operations against the BIFF in Maguindanao will be sustained.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064174
CV execs discuss project implementation in rebel-infested areas
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2019): CV execs discuss project implementation in rebel-infested areas
JOINT MEETING. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Secetary for External and Legislative Affairs Ricojudge Javier Echiverri graces the first joint meeting of the Regional Development Council (RDC) and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meeting chaired by Cebu Govenor Hilario Davide III on Monday, March 11, 2019. Also in photo is Police Regional Office (PRO-7) Reigonal Director Debold Sinas. (Photo from Department of Agriculture Regional Director Salvador Diputado's Facebook page)
CEBU CITY — Regional officials in Central Visayas (CV) have discussed ways to construct school buildings in far-flung villages of Negros Oriental, where contractors who have won the bidding are afraid to go because of threats from armed groups.
Regional Development Council (RDC)-7 (Central Visayas) Chair Kenneth Cobonpue on Monday said among the agreed means of implementing the projects is allowing the Philippine Army Engineering Battalion in Negros Oriental to undertake the construction.
He admitted that school building projects have not been implemented in said province due to the resurgence of the New People's Army (NPA) in the hinterlands.
Cobonpue said the concern was raised during the joint meeting of the RDC and the Regional Peace and Order Council in the region headed by Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III.
Some of the project sites of those school-buildings are situated in rebel-infested areas, he said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
According to him, contractors who have won the bidding are afraid to go up to the project sites.
“It was resolved in the meeting that DepEd (Department of Education) should look for alternative means of constructing those school-buildings,” Cobonpue said.
“The joint body will inform DepEd of what we come up to ensure that education for the school-children in Negros Oriental are not hampered,” Cobonpue said.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-7) Assistant Regional Director Mario Montejo, in a separate interview with PNA, confirmed there are “few” school-buildings which are left unconstructed due to the insurgency situation in Negros island.
“Gamay ra nuon na (It’s just a few of them). But we need to see how many (school) buildings were due for implementation but na-stall (being stalled),” Montejo said, adding that he could not, as of press time, secure exact data of the number of school-building projects left unimplemented in Negros Oriental, reiterating that “they are a few.”
He said there are school building projects that can no longer be implemented due to lack of sites or areas where they can be built.
He said he supports the view that DepEd needs to find alternative way of carrying out the project.
Montejo, however, urged proponents of the plan to turn over the project to the Army’s engineering unit to ensure its completion within the time frame.
He explained that the funds from DepEd will be transferred to the Department of National Defense (DND) which, in turn, will transfer it to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), then to the Philippine Army before it can reach the engineering battalion for project implementation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064245
JOINT MEETING. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Secetary for External and Legislative Affairs Ricojudge Javier Echiverri graces the first joint meeting of the Regional Development Council (RDC) and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meeting chaired by Cebu Govenor Hilario Davide III on Monday, March 11, 2019. Also in photo is Police Regional Office (PRO-7) Reigonal Director Debold Sinas. (Photo from Department of Agriculture Regional Director Salvador Diputado's Facebook page)
CEBU CITY — Regional officials in Central Visayas (CV) have discussed ways to construct school buildings in far-flung villages of Negros Oriental, where contractors who have won the bidding are afraid to go because of threats from armed groups.
Regional Development Council (RDC)-7 (Central Visayas) Chair Kenneth Cobonpue on Monday said among the agreed means of implementing the projects is allowing the Philippine Army Engineering Battalion in Negros Oriental to undertake the construction.
He admitted that school building projects have not been implemented in said province due to the resurgence of the New People's Army (NPA) in the hinterlands.
Cobonpue said the concern was raised during the joint meeting of the RDC and the Regional Peace and Order Council in the region headed by Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III.
Some of the project sites of those school-buildings are situated in rebel-infested areas, he said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
According to him, contractors who have won the bidding are afraid to go up to the project sites.
“It was resolved in the meeting that DepEd (Department of Education) should look for alternative means of constructing those school-buildings,” Cobonpue said.
“The joint body will inform DepEd of what we come up to ensure that education for the school-children in Negros Oriental are not hampered,” Cobonpue said.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-7) Assistant Regional Director Mario Montejo, in a separate interview with PNA, confirmed there are “few” school-buildings which are left unconstructed due to the insurgency situation in Negros island.
“Gamay ra nuon na (It’s just a few of them). But we need to see how many (school) buildings were due for implementation but na-stall (being stalled),” Montejo said, adding that he could not, as of press time, secure exact data of the number of school-building projects left unimplemented in Negros Oriental, reiterating that “they are a few.”
He said there are school building projects that can no longer be implemented due to lack of sites or areas where they can be built.
He said he supports the view that DepEd needs to find alternative way of carrying out the project.
Montejo, however, urged proponents of the plan to turn over the project to the Army’s engineering unit to ensure its completion within the time frame.
He explained that the funds from DepEd will be transferred to the Department of National Defense (DND) which, in turn, will transfer it to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), then to the Philippine Army before it can reach the engineering battalion for project implementation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064245
PNP condemns attack that killed, hurt Samar cops
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2019): PNP condemns attack that killed, hurt Samar cops
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday denounced the attack in Motiong, Samar allegedly launched by the New People’s Army, killing a policeman and wounding his comrade.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday denounced the attack in Motiong, Samar allegedly launched by the New People’s Army, killing a policeman and wounding his comrade.
“The police regional office deeply condemns such act of violence. Thus, the public is encouraged to be of help and be cooperative to the authorities in reporting unusual movements in their places,” the PNP said in a statement.
The two police officers were on board the patrol car of Motiong town police station around 7:15 a.m. on Monday when armed men detonated anti-personnel mine and attacked the two police officers. The incident occurred within the national road in Barangay (village) 1.
Killed on the spot was Police Staff Sergeant Glenn Meniano. On the other hand, Patrolwoman Jane Abejar was hit by shrapnel but managed to escape from the gun attacks.
Armed rebels also burned the police vehicle.
The two police officers were heading back to Motiong police station after fetching water from the nearby police station in Paranas town.
Silvestre Igdalino, a civilian, was also injured.
Probers recovered empty shells of M16 rifle in the crime scene.
PNP Eastern Visayas Regional Director, Brigadier General Dionardo Carlos went to the area to lead the investigation.
“We are now assisting the bereaved family of Meniano and pray for the recovery of Abejar. The police and military are conducting hot pursuit operation to bring the terrorist-killers before the bar of justice,” Carlos said in a statement sent to reporters.
The NPA in Eastern Visayas admitted the attack and torching the police car in a social media post Monday afternoon.
Both the United States and European Union have declared the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group.
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