CPP/NPA-Abra: Bukas na liham para sa pamilya ng 2 CAFGU na biktima ng berdugong AFP-PNP

NPA-Abra propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 28, 2019): Bukas na liham para sa pamilya ng 2 CAFGU na biktima ng berdugong AFP-PNP

DIEGO WADAGAN

NPA-ABRA (AGUSTIN BEGNALEN COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

AUGUST 28, 2019

Para Kadagiti Kapamilya ken Kakabagian ni Dandi Wacquisan ken Gordon Gallao:

Panggep daytoy nga surat mi nga mangilawag iti napasamak a labanan iti detachment idiay Brgy. Maguyepyep, Sallapadan, Abra a nu sadinnu ket da ni Dandi Wacquisan ken Gordon Gallao ti nagbalin a kaswalti.

Konkondenaren mi ti inuulbod nga akusasyon ti AFP-PNP nga NPA ti nakin-aramid iti nasao a krimen. Maysa daytoy a fake news, black propaganda laban iti CPP-NPA-NDF, ken panagkalub iti bukod da a krimen.

Kakadlaw a fake news daytoy ti AFP gapu ta iti napalabas, nu ti AFP,PNP ken CAFGU ti nadarangranan wenno naaddaan ti casualty ket saan da ianunsyo. Ngem ita, napaspas da nga inpadamag ti depensib a pasamak kanyada.Paset daytoy ti scripted a drama wenno military saywar tactics da tapnu pasaknapen iti kapanunutan ti umili nga adda terorismo ken agpammarang nga isuda ti manngibus iti daytoy. Kagiddan na daytoy ti panangiturong ti akusasyon nga ti CPP-NPA-NDF ti terorista.

Amin a plano ken aksyong militar nga isaysayangkat ti NPA ket maisigsigurado nga adda ti politikal a basaran ken panggep tapnu sungbatan ti kadawatan ti umili a mabira dagiti armado a pwersa ti reaksyonaryo a gobyerno aglalo ta isuda pay ti mangiyun-una kadagiti ilegal ken kontra-umili nga aramid.

Saan a galad ti NPA ti panaglimed ken panaglibak kadagiti aksyong militar na kas iti ambush, snayp, reyd, panagdusa kadagiti personahe a kontra-umili ken kontra-rebolusyonayo ken dadduma pay. Amin datoy ket maipablaak kadagiti pagiwarnak, radyo, telebisyon ken dadduma pay a social media outlet, gapu ta paset amin daytoy ti balligi ti gubat ti umili.

Numan pay birbiraen tayo dagiti detachment ti AFP-CAFGU, iti kapadasan, siaamo ti AFP ken CAFGU amin nga maisaysayangkat a laban ti NPA ket saan a napaut ken maksimum a panggep na ket makapagklining ti armas.

Ikarkarigatan met lang ti NPA a magun-od ti wagas ti raid nga awan ti putok ken awan kaswalti aglalo nu napasuko tayo isudan, agagasan tayo dagiti nasugatan ken saanen a makalaban ken aw-awisen isuda nga umikkat iti serbisyo da iti reaksyonaryo ken bulok nga gobyerno.

Taltamegan tayo nga iaw-awis kadagiti CAFGU a panawan ti kastoy a klase ti trabaho. Nabayagen nga napasnek tayo nga ipakpakaawat kadagiti umili ken CAFGU mismo nga pagbalbalinen laeng isuda nga kalasag dagiti Cadreman kadagiti operasyon, tagabo ken para-masahe,maipapaidaman ti sweldo, maipaspasubo kadagiti ilegal a transaksyon ken pagbalbalinen nga asset laban iti rebolusyonaryo a tignayan. Sursuruan da laeng dagiti CAFGU nga mangparnuay ti panakagudua-gudua iti ili, ken pumatay para iti agar-ari a dasig.

Agpayso nga kas armado nga instrumento ti estado, dagiti AFP,PNP, ken CAFGU ket maibilang kas kabusor ti umili ngem bigbigen tayo isuda kas biktima met laeng ti kabulukan ti gobyerno. Ammo tayo nga kaaduan kanyada ket napilitan a pinili daytoy a panggedan. Dakkel a porsyento kanyada ket naggapu iti dasig a mannalon isu nga karaman da met laeng kadagiti umili nga aw-awisen tayo a talikudan ti estado a pagserserbian da ngem isu met lang ti mangparparigat kanyada.

Ti pasamak keni Dandi ken Gordon ket pamaneknek iti maka-ayup ken berdugo a programa ti Rehimeng US-Duterte tapnu maipatungpal ti Oplan Kapanatagan iti intero a pagilian ken naan-anay a maimplementar ti Martial Law.

Planado ti AFP-PNP ti nasao a krimen tapno ikalintegan ti ad-adu a presensya ti tropa da iti intero a proninsya ti Abra.Ti risiris dagiti CAFGU ken AFP a nagturong iti panagpipinnatay da ket dagus da nga inparang iti media kas terorismo kanu nga insayangkat ti NPA. Kasapulan da nga iparang nga adda terrorismo ken ipabasul da daytoy ti CPP-NPA NDF tapnu kagiddan na ket makaluban met laeng ti bukod da krimen.Iti desperasyon da a rippuogen ti rebolusyonaryo a tignayan, maala da a pumatay iti intar da tapno laeng maipagballigi dagiti narurugit da a plano. Ngarud, iti kastoy nga aramid, isuda ti terorista. Kayat da nga idayo ti rikna ti umili iti NPA, banag nga saan a mapasamak gapu ta naadal ti umili ti ag-amiris ken bigbigen da ti NPA kas pudno a soldados da a para iti marigrigat ken maidadanes.

Addu met lang ti maipapadanon a reklamo kanyami kasilpo iti panaggian ti detachment kadagiti komunidad. Ammo mi met lang nga adu dagiti saan a pagkikinaawatan ti CAFGU ken AFP ken uray iti PNP. Agpayso nga saanen a mabura ti narugit ken nadara a rekord ti 24th IB iti panaggian da iti Abra, kakumplot dagiti opisyal iti tukad probinsya.

Ngarud, awan ti kainaigan ti NPA-Abra iti napasamak a rinupak. Makiladladingit kami. Kagiddan na daytoy, makikaykaysa kami nga rumbeng laeng a madusa ti makin-aramid iti daytoy a krimen.

Agbalin koma nga awis daytoy iti amin a kabagian ken kailian ni Dandi tapno saanen a sumrek iti kastoy a klase a panggedan.

Ammo mi nga sakbay a madanon kayo iti daytoy a surat mi, ket palalo ti pungtot yo kanyami gapu ta namati kayo iti inpasaknap a damag ti 24th IB ken PNP. Ngem pag-iggiman mi latta ti kinapudno. Ti kinapudno met lang ti mangiduron kanya tayo nga gun-oden ti hustisya ken iti dalan ti rebolusyon tayo laeng a magun-od ti hustiya.

https://cpp.ph/statement/bukas-na-liham-para-sa-pamilya-ng-2-cafgu-na-biktima-ng-berdugong-afp-pnp/

Kalinaw News: 114 Region 7 Cops Now Ready for Internal Security Operations

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 28, 2019): 114 Region 7 Cops Now Ready for Internal Security Operations

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz- 114 police personnel from the Police Regional Office 7 (PRO-7) successfully completed the PNP Internal Security Operations (PISO) Training at 3 rd Division Training School (3DTS) on August 28, 2019.

The closing ceremony was graced by MGen Dinoh Dolina, Commander, 3ID and PRO-7 Director BGen Debold Sinas.

The said training which commenced last July 16 is part of the collaborative efforts of the Army and PNP in implementing internal security operations through the expanded cross-trained training of more or less 30 to 45 days.

It is designed to train and equip PNP personnel with right attitude, knowledge, skills, and capability on public safety in order to secure the people against criminality, violence, terrorism and threats of insurgency.

In his message, MGen Dolina commended the graduates of the PNP ISO Training for enduring and completing more than a month of training at 3DTS in order to become the best guerilla fighters in the Visayas.

MGen Dolina also expressed his gratitude to BGen Sinas for choosing Camp Peralta as training ground for PRO-7’s potential counter-insurgents. “Having a common denominator with our soldiers here in Visayas brings our organizations closer to each other, thus making our jobs easier,” MGen Dolina emphasized.

He lauded the effort of BGen Sinas for taking serious action to capacitate the PRO-7 and taking the lead in fight against insurgents in Army and PNP joint area of operations.

It can be recalled that the 3DTS also catered the PNP Basic Internal Security Course (BISOC) where 317 police personnel from Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) completed the course last May 03, 2019. These police personnel were trained by 25 Community Support Program (CSP) instructors from 3ID.

Division Public Affairs Office 3rd Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT CENON C PANCITO III (SC) PA
Chief, 3rd Division Public Affairs Office
Camp General Martin T Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City
Contact: dpao.3idpa@gmail.com / 0917-124-1983

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/114-region-7-cops-now-ready-for-internal-security-operations/

Kalinaw News: 219 Former MILF combatants finish basic military training

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 28, 2019): 219 Former MILF combatants finish basic military training

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – A total of 219 former Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF) Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) combatants graduated from a month of basic military training in Army’s 602 nd Infantry Birgade in Camp Lucero, Brgy Nasapian, Carmen, North Cotabato this morning.

The former combatants underwent 26 days of Basic Military Training, composed of Class 53-2019 and Class 54-2019, to become part of the Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) as part of the peace agreement of the government and the MILF.

The training started last August 01, 2019 that aimed to equip them to become competent peacekeeping forces, which is composed of the MILF-BIAF, AFP and PNP. This team will be deployed at the 6 government-acknowledged MILF camps during the decommissioning of the former combatants on September 07, 2019.

The ceremony was attended by Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana as guest of honor and speaker; Joint Task Force Central Commander Maj. Gen. Diosdado C. Carreon; 602 nd Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Alfredo B. Rosario; Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region
in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Director Police/Brigadier General Marni C. Marcos; Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Assistant Secretary David B. Diciano; BARMM Ministry of Finance and Budget Management Minister Eduard Guerra; Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Vice Chairman Datu Romeo Sema; and BARMM Ministry of Transportation and Communication Minister
Dickson Hermoso.

“I put emphasis on the values as to how this could help you relearn the basics and assess yourselves both in terms of knowledge to concepts and application of combat skills,” said Maj. Gen. Carreon.

“The Joint Task Force Central and the AFP as a whole are glad to have been working with you in pursuit of lasting peace and sustainable development in Central Mindanao, he added.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Sobejana said, in his message, that the training has equipped them to become more resilient and capable because their roles after the training will be as important as the role of every security sector since they will be tasked as additional peacekeeping forces.
In closing, he encouraged everyone to be part of the foundation of just and lasting peace
along with sustainable progress in the Bangsamoro Region. He also reminded not to be
deceived by others who always choose to take the wrong path.

Division Public Affairs Office 6th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Maj Arvin G Encinas
Chief, Public Affairs Office, 6ID, PA
Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao
+6391775226469

https://www.kalinawnews.com/219-former-milf-combatants-finish-basic-military-training/

Kalinaw News: Army, NPA clash anew in Sursur town

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 28, 2019): Army, NPA clash anew in Sursur town

TAGO, Surigao del Sur – The Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion and the New Peoples Army (NPA) Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) clash anew in the hinterlands and uninhabited area of Vic Sua, Brgy Esperanza, Carmen, this province today, August 26, 2019 at around 1 o’clock in the afternoon.

Elements of Charlie Company, 36IB while conducting combat operation due to the reports from the civilian populace of the presence of NPA CTG in the said area, troops immediately responded and upon reaching the enemy location conducted skirmish position triggering the firefight in a running gun battle to more or less 10 NPA CTG believed to be member of SPP2, WGF30 of the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

The exchange of fires lasted for about 15 mins and the enemy scampered to different direction and forced to withdraw. The clash resulted in the wounded of one soldier and undetermined number to the NPA CTG as bloodstains scattered on the path of their withdrawal.

The said WIA was extricated to the encounter site and arrived at the nearest hospital. The attending physician had treated the WIA and declared in stable condition.

In his statement, Ltc Xerxes Trinidad, Commander of the 36IB said that the 36IB will never stop going after these NPA CTG. We will never stop chasing this menace of the country until the last drop of our blood.

“We will never stop until communities and populace will experience the peace and progress that they are longing for.” Ltc Trinidad added.

He further added that the growing support of the community to the Philippine Army manifest a bold move to help in ending the Communist armed conflict.

“It is our commitment to preserve the peace and order situation in the province. We will sacrifice our lives in order to protect the peace-loving people of Surigao del Sur. To the remaining CTG, lay down your arms and surrender now. You still have a chance, live in peace and harmony together with your family, “Ltc Trinidad ended.

36th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division PA
1LT Jonald D Romorosa
CMO Officer, 36th Infantry Battalion
Sitio Upper Mambago, Dayo-an, Tago, Surigao del Sur
valor_36@yahoo.com
0917-1466-326/09491243886

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-npa-clash-anew-in-sursur-town/

Kalinaw News:Tribal Leaders of Agusan and MisOr Unite to End Insurgency

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 28, 2019): Tribal Leaders of Agusan and MisOr Unite to End Insurgency

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – A total of 55 Tribal Leaders of Higaonon, Banwaon and Manobo from the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur and Misamis Oriental voice their stand to end Local Communist Armed Conflict on August 24, 2019 at Headquarters 23rd Infantry Battalion, Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The activity was conducted to define the roles of Tribal Leaders in relation to the implementation of Executive Order 70 – Institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The Whole-of-Nation Approach requires the participation of not only the different agencies of the government but the different sectors of the community in addressing the very long existing insurgency caused by the CPP-NPA which hinders development particularly in the countryside.

The different tribal leaders expressed their desire to fight the CPP-NPA to finally end local communist armed conflict.

Present during the meeting were: Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, Representative, 2nd District of Agusan del Norte; Mr. Ferdaussi Cerna, the Regional Director of NCIP in CARAGA and Datu Bawang Eddie Ampiyawan, Provincial IP Mandatory Representative of Agusan del Norte.

Meanwhile, Datu Bawang Eddie Ampiyawan extends his gratitude to the Local Government Unit of Agusan del Norte and to the 23IB for helping the IPs/lumads and for hearing their grievances against the CPP-NPAs who continuously sow terror in their communities. He also said “I encourage all Tribal Leaders to support the government to end insurgency. Let us be one in fighting the CPP-NPA for us to have peaceful community. We will not allow them to deceive and manipulate anymore our families and become victims again of their evil interest.” – Datu Bawang added.

Moreover, Congresswoman Angel Amante Matba expressed her appreciation for holding the activity in supporting the effort of the government in implementing E.O. 70 particularly in the province of Agusan del Norte. “I know that there are many IPs deceived and recruited by the NPAs. I can’t take it if lumads will fight against each other. Let us work hand-in-hand, converge our efforts to end insurgency.” – Cong. Amante-Matba added

Likewise, Director Cerna articulated that the best contribution our Tribal Leaders can extend to end insurgency in CARAGA is to inform our respective constituents that there is only one government. “We shall support only the duly constituted government. Let us not be deceived by the CPP-NPA because they destroy the lives of our people. They caused disintegration amongst the Indigenous Peoples.”

Further, Lieutenant Colonel Francisco L. Molina Jr, Commanding Officer of 23rd Infantry Battalion stressed his appreciation to the Tribal Leaders in their passion in helping the government in ending local communist armed conflict. “Insurgency is not only the concern of the AFP and PNP, but it is the concern of every Filipino. With your expressed desire, cooperation and support, for sure, we can have peace and development in our communities.” – said Lieutenant Colonel Molina.

23rd Infantry Battalion Philippine Army
1LT ROEL T MAGLALANG
CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA
Mobile Nr. 09171440972
Facebook Page: 23rd Infantry Battalion @ TeamMasigasig23
http://m.me/TeamMasigasig23

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/tribal-leaders-of-agusan-and-misor-unite-to-end-insurgency/

Kalinaw News: MMRPC SECRETARY FALLS, Nab in High Rise Condo Safehouse

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 28, 2019): MMRPC SECRETARY FALLS, Nab in High Rise Condo Safehouse



CUBAO, Quezon City – No matter how elusive a communist terrorist could be, she is bound to fall and be caught into the hands of vigilant military and police authorities.

Elements from Joint Task Force National Capital Region, Army Intelligence Regiment and Joint Special Operations Group, complemented by combined elements from the NCR Police Office, Quezon City Police District and Philippine National Police Special Action Force, arrested Metro Manila Regional Party Committee Secretary Esterlita Espinosa Suaybaguio while inside her high rise condominium safehouse at Escalades Condominium Tower 5, 20th Avenue, Cubao, Quezon City, August 26.

Recovered in her possession were one 9mm pistol, one magazine assembly with seven rounds of ammunition, one hand grenade and subversive documents.

Suaybaguio was swooped down by virtue of a search warrant operation of violation of RA 1059 or illegal possession of firearms used by Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 89 Judge Cecilyn & Burgos – Villavert, August 23.

The captured terrorist is facing three previous cases – multiple murder, multiple frustrated murder and murder of Patrolman Ronald U. Napalan of Cabadburan City last June 29.

Suaybaguio was a Tagum City professor and had also served with the Southern Mindanao Regional Party Committee and Komesyon Mindanao (KOMMID).

It was learned that the woman high ranking leader transferred to Metro Manila after she was chosen by the CPP’s Central Committee to jumpstart and lead efforts to revive the communist movement in Metro Manila.

NCRPO Chief P/Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said they applied for a search warrant after receiving intelligence information from their military counterparts.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/mmrpc-secretary-falls-nab-in-high-rise-condo-safehouse/

WESTMINCOM: Former outlaws now ready to serve nation rightfully

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Aug 28, 2019): Former outlaws now ready to serve nation rightfully



After undergoing a month-long basic military training, 219 former Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF) members are now ready to be deployed and become part of the Joint Peace and Security Team of the Bangsamoro region.



The training started on August 1, 2019 and culminated in a graduation ceremony held at the headquarters of the 602nd Infantry Brigade in Camp Lucero, Barangay Nasapian, Carmen, North Cotabato yesterday, August 27.

In his remarks, Maj. Gen. Diodado Carreon said to the graduates, “I put emphasis on the values as to how this could help you relearn the basics and assess yourselves both in terms of knowledge, concepts, and application of combat skills.”



“Joint Task Force Central and the Armed Forces of the Philippines as a whole, are glad to that we will be working with you in pursuit of lasting peace and sustainable development in Central Mindanao,” Maj. Gen. Carreon added.

As part of the peace agreement between the Philippine Government and the MILF, the training was done purposely to equip the former combatants to become competent peacekeeping forces prior their deployment to the 6 identified MILF camps, on September 7, 2019. They will form part of the team composed of the AFP, PNP, and MILF-BIAF.

The graduation ceremony was graced by WestMinCom commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana; Joint Task Force Central commander Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon; 602nd Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Alfredo Rosario; Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Director Police/Brigadier General Marni Marcos; Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Assistant Secretary David Diciano; BARMM Ministry of Finance and Budget Management Minister Eduard Guerra; Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Vice Chairman Datu Romeo Sema; and BARMM Ministry of Transportation and Communication Minister Dickson Hermoso.



In his message as the guest of honor and speaker, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana reminded the graduates not to be deceived by others who chose to still take the wrong path.

“You are trained to become more resilient and capable of performing your duties and responsibilities as part of the security forces,” said Lt.Gen. Sobejana.

“I encourage everyone to be part of the foundation of a just and lasting peace along with sustainable progress in the Bangsamoro region,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

Source: PIO Western Mindanao Command

http://www.westmincom.com/former-outlaws-now-ready-to-serve-nation-rightfully/

302nd IB has new commander

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 28, 2019): 302nd IB has new commander

The Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade stationed in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, has a new commander.

Col. Noel Baluyan, a member of the Philippine Military Acvademy Class 1990, took over the command of the 302nd Infantry Brigade from Brig. Gen. Ignacio Madriaga yesterday.

Madriaga, who had served as 302nd Infantry Brigade commander for one year and eight months, has been designated as chief of the AFP Office of the Strategic Studies and Strategy Management.

Before his new position, Baluyan served as deputy commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade and Task Group Cebu chief.

Baluyan supervises three Army battalions stationed in the southeastern portion of Negros island and in Bohol, as commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade.*

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/28/topstory14.htm

‘Blame Joma, not us’

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 28, 2019): ‘Blame Joma, not us’

“Blame not us, but Communist Party of the Philippines leader Jose Maria Sison.”
The statement was made yesterday by Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, in response to accusations of Red tagging of militant organizations, or linking them to the CPP-NPA-NDF.
Arevalo said militant organizations should blame CPP leader Jose Maria Sison, who revealed that there are three components or processes, by which they are going to advance the armed revolution – that is by building the CPP-NPA-NDF.
“Now, if your organization is part of the National Democratic Front and Joma (Sison) is the one who mentioned the connection with affiliation of the NDF to the CPP-NPA, who should they blame for the Red-tagging?” Arevalo asked.

“Why do they get offended when their organizations are mentioned to be affiliated with NDF, if they say NDF is legal and that they are not doing anything bad?” he also asked.

Migrante International and other progressive groups in Negros strongly denounced the vilification campaign against them during a recent Philippine Army forum that more than 2,000 students in Bacolod City, attended.

On Monday Maj. Gen. Dinoh Dolina, 3rd Infantry Division commander, vehemently debunked the issue of Red tagging that was hurled against them.

Dolina, who attended the launching of the Church Military Police (CMP) Forum- Negros at the Bishop’s House in Bacolod City, said “We know who our enemies are”.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/28/topstory11.htm

Anti-insurgency TF backed

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 28, 2019): Anti-insurgency TF backed

The creation of Provincial Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) yesterday got overwhelming support from members of the Provincial Peace and Order and Development Councils of Negros Occidental.

The Negros Occidental PPOC and PDC, both, chaired by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, unanimously approved a resolution for its creation, in compliance with Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte that institutionalizes the Whole-of-Nation Approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace.

Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, who briefed PPOC and PDC members on the creation of PTF-ELCAC during a joint meeting at the Negros First Residences in Bacolod City, said they will schedule its formal launching, and hold another workshop on how to deliver government services, especially to NPA affected areas.

Arevalo said they will also exert efforts for the realization of localized peace talks, that already got the support of the Roman Catholic Church in Negros.

It is a very challenging task, but we will try to, at least, make an effort, he added.

The newly-formed PTF-ELCAC will be chaired by Lacson, with Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer as vice-chairman, and its members will include representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Police and various government agencies.

Following the creation of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is urging the s 81 provinces “to do their share in bringing local insurgency to its conclusion” by organizing their respective task force against insurgency.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año said, in a statement, that provinces play a key role in wiping out the decades-old local communist problem because “they are more grounded on the societal issues in their localities which are being exploited by communist terrorist groups to influence locals to take up arms against the government.”

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/August/28/topstory5.htm

Unfriendly, not hostile: Navy drafting protocols for warship intrusions

From Rappler (Aug 29, 2019): Unfriendly, not hostile: Navy drafting protocols for warship intrusions

The Philippine Navy is working on protocols for foreign vessels 'intruding' in territorial waters, following President Rodrigo Duterte's order to enforce sovereignty even through 'unfriendly' ways



FIRST FRIGATE. The BRP Jose Rizal as it was launched in a shipyard in South Korea in May 2019. Expected to join the Philippine Navy fleet in 2020, it will be the country's most powerful warship yet. Photo from the Philippine Navy

Without the military muscle to match the occasional foreign warship wandering unannounced through its territorial seas, the Philippines is looking for ways to compel trespassers to leave without provoking an armed response.

The Philippine Navy is working on protocols for dealing with intruders, to enforce an order from President Rodrigo Duterte to drive away unauthorized foreign vessels even through "unfriendly" means if necessary, Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad told reporters on Wednesday, August 28.

A series of recent incursions by Chinese naval and survey vessels has caused alarm among security officials, and prompted Duterte to issue the directive.

The question is, how "unfriendly" can Philippine forces get toward stronger navies like China's?

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier dodged the question, saying he would defer to the Navy's recommendations.

"So regarding the 'unfriendly' gesture, the Navy is coming up with rules of engagement…. Not necessarily provocative kasi 'pag nag-general quarters ka(because if you call general quarters), it means your ship is ready for war. We will not be doing that," Empedrad said.

"General quarters" is a signal calling a navy ship's crew to prepare for battle.

Possible scenario

There are no definite rules yet, but the Navy chief described a possible scenario.

Once the Navy's littoral, or coastal, monitoring station detects an unannounced foreign warship, it can send its own vessel to approach and "shadow" the warship.

The Filipino crew will "continuously challenge" the foreign warship by radio, informing it that it has entered Philippine territorial waters, and that it must take the quickest route out.

If the warship ignores communication or if it turns off its automatic identification system, making it undetectable by radar, the Philippine Navy can deploy a plane to shadow it, too, and take pictures to establish its location.

If the intruder still does not budge, then the Philippine ship can cross its bow to cut its course and edge it until it exits Philippine waters.

"Hanggang ganun lang ang puwede nating gawin (That's about all we can do). We cannot provoke them," Empedrad said, but added that a foreign warship is unlikely to respond with hostility if it is caught foraying into Philippine waters without the government's permission.

"Malalagay siya sa alanganin diyan (It will get in trouble)," Empedrad added.

Incursions

In recent weeks, security officials revealed successive reports of Chinese naval vessels passing Sibutu Strait in Tawi-Tawi and Balabac Strait in Palawan without notice to the government.

Although Sibutu Strait is considered an international sea lane where vessels from any country are entitled to innocent passage, Lorenzana and the commanders of military units in Tawi-Tawi and Palawan said warships ought to inform the government before passing through, as is customary among most navies.

Besides, there were instances when the Chinese warships followed a curved course, which could not be considered "innocent passage" as it must be a straight line or the shortest way through the strait, the officials said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has filed several diplomatic protests against China over the unauthorized passage of its naval and survey vessels.

Although security officials welcomed Duterte's order to demand that foreign vessels seek the government's permission before traversing Philippine waters, they could not immediately tell how they're going to enforce it.

While presenting his proposed budget for the Department of National Defense to lawmakers on Tuesday, August 27, Lorenzana said that the military had only a "small capability to react to these intrusions."

The government is slated to spend P25 billion in 2020 on the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Plan to give it a credible defense capability.

The current phase of the program, from 2018 to 2022, has been alloted a total of P125 billion for acquiring vessels, aircraft, weaponry, and other assets.

On Wednesday, Empedrad said "the Navy should be the one to be modernized" because the Philippines is a maritime nation.

The Navy will be getting new warships over the next few years: two brand new frigates, two brand new corvettes, and possibly two more hand-me-down corvettes from South Korea.

Although these will significantly boost the Navy's capability to stand up to intruders, Empedrad said there is still a long way to go before it can match China's naval might.

Until then, "We will always challenge if they enter our territorial waters. That is our role," said the Navy chief.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/238771-unfriendly-not-hostile-navy-drafting-protocols-warship-intrusions

Philippines sends BRP Ramon Alcaraz off to ASEAN-U.S. naval drills

From Rappler (Aug 29, 2019): Philippines sends BRP Ramon Alcaraz off to ASEAN-U.S. naval drills

The Philippine Navy will participate in the first ever maritime exercises between the United States and ASEAN member states, as the region pushes back against China's expansionism



NAVAL DRILLS. The Philippine Navy sends the BRP Ramon Alcaraz and its crew off to Thailand on August 29, 2019, for the first ASEAN-US Maritime Exercises. Photo by JC Gotinga/Rappler

The Philippine Navy sent the Del Pilar-class patrol ship BRP Ramon Alcaraz off to Sattahip, Thailand, to participate in the first ever joint maritime exercises among the member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the US.

A Naval Task Group of 172 Philippine Navy sailors and marines pulled out from the Manila South Harbor on Thursday, August 29, after a send-off ceremony led by the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Loumer Bernabe.
“This is a very important and timely activity as it shall boost our readiness to work seamlessly with our counterparts, particularly in countering security threats,” Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said in a statement delivered by Bernabe.

Navies from the ASEAN states – Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines – and the US will hold maritime drills from September 2 to 6 in the waters of eastern Thailand to "promote maritime security and safety, freedom of navigation and overflight, and unimpeded commerce in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law," the Philippine Navy said.

The ASEAN-United States Maritime Exercises (AUMX) will be hosted by the US Navy and the Royal Thai Navy.

In recent years, the US has increasingly engaged with its allies in the Asia Pacific region to push back against China's attempts to dominate the region.

Earlier this month, the American Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan made a friendly port call in Manila, a move perceived as a message of deterrence against China’s expansionism.

Washington has repeatedly called out Beijing for militarizing the South China Sea, disregarding international maritime law, and bullying smaller countries to gain control of the strategic sea lane.

The Philippines faces the challenge of China’s encroachment of its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, or the West Philippine Sea, where Chinese vessels have been swarming Philippine-held islands and outposts.

A series of intrusions by Chinese warships in the Sibutu and Balabac straits have posed a security challenge to Philippines and highlighted its Navy’s incapacity to match China’s naval might.

The government recently said that it would prioritize modernizing the Philippine Navy, with the planned acquisition of new warships and submarines in the next few years.

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz, acquired from the US Coast Guard in 2013, is among the newer vessels in the Navy’s fleet.

As recent as 5 years ago, the Philippine Navy did not get invitations to international drills, Bernabe said, and the fact that it now regularly participates in joint exercises abroad is a sign of improvement.

“When you’re invited by navies around the world, it only shows that you do have the credibility. Before, they did not invite the Philippine Navy to participate because our vessels couldn’t reach their area because of distance. But now, the Philippine Navy is very visible in international occasions and exercises like these,” Bernabe told reporters after the ceremony.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/238826-philippines-sends-ramon-alcaraz-ship-asean-united-states-naval-drills

PH Navy to get submarines, might lease HQ

From Rappler (Aug 29, 2019): PH Navy to get submarines, might lease HQ

Racing to keep up with other countries' naval capabilities, the Philippines plans to acquire new warships and submarines, but it might lease its naval headquarters to help fund the asset-buying spree



NAVY CHIEF. Philippine Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad speaks to reporters at Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila on August 28, 2019. Photo by JC Gotinga/Rappler

For an archipelago with an enviable strategic location, the fact that the Philippines has one of the region's most underequipped navies is lamentable, the Navy chief admitted, and he would willingly give up his office overlooking Manila Bay if it meant more boats, ships, and perhaps, a submarine or two.

"Maganda mag-opisina dito dahil nakikita mo 'yung dagat (It's nice to hold office here because you have a view of the sea), but then…" Philippine Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad trailed off as he discussed a plan to lease their headquarters that occupies prime real estate along Roxas Boulevard.

Empedrad confirmed to reporters on Wednesday, August 28, that the Navy is "engaging with companies" over a plan to lease Naval Station Jose Andrada for about P40 billion.

The Department of Budget and Management has earmarked the lease proceeds for the ballooning cost of retired soldiers' and war veterans' pensions.

Empedrad disagrees, "I would rather use it to modernize our Philippine Navy."

"Relative to our neighboring powerful navies, malayo pa tayo (we're still a long way off)," he added.

Confronted with Chinese naval, survey, and fishing vessels criss-crossing Philippine territorial waters with growing frequency, the government said the Navy will become the focus of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Plan – a 15-year program to boost the military's defense capabilities that began in 2013 worth roughly P300 billion.

Last week, the Navy brought home the Pohang-class corvette BRP Conrado Yap, a refurbished 30-year-old hand-me-down from South Korea, equipped with anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

In the next several years, the Navy is expected to get two brand new frigates, two brand new corvettes, and another two refurbished Pohang-class corvettes.

In September, the Navy will commission 4 amphibious assault vehicles (AAV) and 3 multi-purpose attack craft (MPAC).

President Rodrigo Duterte has "approved in principle" the Navy's plan to acquire two submarines, Empedrad said. Last month, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the first submarine might be acquired from France.

Meanwhile, the Navy also wants to be able to build its own ships locally. Empedrad said talks are underway with possible contractors, including the Australian shipbuilder Austal, to build shipyards capable of churning out warships for the Navy.

By the end of the Duterte administration in 2022, Empedrad expects the Navy to acquire 6 new offshore patrol vessels (OPV) and 8 new fast attack interdictor craft-missiles (FAIC-M), of which 4 would be constructed locally.

"This is crucial to achieving the self-reliant defense posture that our defense secretary is pushing for," Empedrad said in a mix of Filipino and English.

But to achieve all this requires a lot of money, and Empedrad said the Navy is willing to make its own adjustments to help shore up funds.

They could move the headquarters to Naval Station Sangley Point in Cavite City or Naval Station Fort Bonifacio in Taguig. The Marines could move to Morong, Bataan.

"Although magiging masikip kami doon (we would be cramped there)," Empedrad added.

If and when the Navy moves, the property their headquarters now occupies, adjacent to the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, will be expanded by reclaiming a portion of the harbor.

It would command a hefty price, Empedrad said. "Mahal na dito (It's become expensive here)."

https://www.rappler.com/nation/238801-philippine-navy-get-submarines-might-lease-headquarters

Eastmincom sees NPA rendered insignificant by 2022

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 28, 2019): Eastmincom sees NPA rendered insignificant by 2022

The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) has set a 2022 target to cripple the New People’s Army still operating in its area of jurisdiction.

Lt Gen Felimon Santos Jr., the EastMinCom commander, said in an interview at the sidelines of the 13th founding anniversary of EastMinCom held at Naval Felix Apolinario Station on Monday that some guerrilla fronts of the NPA have aleady been dismantled.
There are only a few units of the Pulang Bagani Command in the region left in the region.

“The governors and local chief executives and the military, especially in Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, they could see the results for the past few months that there were no encounters that happened because of the fewer presence of the NPA, ” he said.

He said only few barangays in Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, and Davao City are still under the influence of the NPA.

But he said Caraga Region and Northern Mindanao remain a challenge, particularly in Kitaotao, Valencia, and Quezon in Bukidnon and in Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur in Caraga. They will train their attention on these areas in the months to come.

“But we focus on establishing conflict and resilient communities since there are no armed men already, so will sustain it through the help of local chief executives, ” he added.

He said within this quarter, they could declare the remaining 16 barangays in Davao City cleared from the NPA.

In the area of EastMinCom, he estimated that there are more or less 20 guerrilla fronts with 1,000 NPA fighters. “Some groups are just maintaning their names but don’t have manpower already so we need to revalidate again, ” he further said.

He believed by 2022, the influence of the NPA in both Caraga and Region X will be “minimal.”

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/08/28/eastmincom-sees-npa-rendered-insignificant-by-2022/

Army, PNP conduct joint counter-insurgency training in Surigao Norte

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 28, 2019): Army, PNP conduct joint counter-insurgency training in Surigao Norte (By 30IB, Philippine Army)

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Aug. 27 -- “Proficient and ready for the next mission,” the 30th Infantry Python Battalion (30IB), Philippine Army and 2nd Surigao del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd SDN PMFC), Philippine National Police (PNP) said out loud during the closing ceremony of the 30IB-2nd SDN PMFC Inter-Operability Training on August 9, 2019 at the 30IB headquarters, Brgy. Sta Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte.

Aligned to the “whole-of-nation” approach by virtue of the issuance of Executive Order (EO) No. 70, series of 2018 to combat terrorism and violent extremism, the participating trainees completed the four-day training that focused on enhancing the tactical competencies and leadership skills of every man in uniform.

“We recognize the efforts of the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and PNP whose love for the country is paramount than their personal happiness, comfort and convenience. Congratulations to our partners, the highly dedicated peacekeepers. Our province is proud of your efforts in organizing this kind of activity,” said Cayetano Recabo, board member of District II, Surigao del Norte.

Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Villarosa, acting commanding officer of 30IB said that the objective of said training is to jointly enhance the capability to provide a secure and safe environment in the province so that the local government units and other agencies will be able to bring their services to the geographically isolated and disadvantage areas (GIDAS) like LASICAM or Brgy. Lahi, Sico-Sico, Camaman-onan.

Meanwhile, Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro, Jr., deputy brigade commander of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade said that the PNP and the AFP inter-operability training is a very commendable initiative of both 30IB and the 2nd SDN PMFC to enhance their operational effectiveness.

He further stated that before, the police and the military works hand-in-hand in suppressing the insurgency. Upon the proclamation of RA 8551 also known as the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act, the PNP then focused on law enforcement. However, with the proclamation of EO 546 Series of 2006, the PNP was tasked to once again take an active support role to the AFP in suppressing insurgency.

After the training, the 2nd PMFC and the 30IB are expected to be more aggressive in the conduct of counter-insurgency operations to maintain the peace and security in Surigao del Norte. (1Lt. Wilfredo F. Quilang, Acting Civil-Military Operations Officer, 30IB/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1026359