Kalinaw News: Army strikes NPA, yields high powered firearms, IED

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2020): Army strikes NPA, yields high powered firearms, IED (By 10TH INFANTRY DIVISION)



Mawab, Davao de Oro – The 71st Infantry KAIBIGAN Battalion (71IB) encounters members of the Weakened Guerilla Front 2 (WGF 2) of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Mabini, Davao de Oro, earlier this morning. Two high powered firearms, an improvised explosive device, and other war materiel are recovered.

Following the complaints of the residents that members of the NPA were harassing their community, the 71IB launched strike operations to the perpetrators. A tip from reliable informant revealed the whereabouts of the suspects. This morning, troops of KAIBIGAN Battalion tried to intercept but were fired upon by the criminals who were taking a hault in the vicinity of Sitio Magnonook, Brgy Pangibiran, Mabini, Davao de Oro. 

This led to an armed encounter which transpired at about 7:00 o’clock this morning with more or less 5 members of the WGF 2 of the Southern Regional Command 2 (SRC2) of the NPA. 

After five minutes of firefight, KAIBIGAN troopers scoured the area and recovered 1 improvised explosive device and 2 high powered firearms (1 M16 and 1 AK47 rifles), 10 magazines, 206 live ammos, 7 blasting cap, 100 meter electrical wire, 4 backpacks with personal belongings and subversive documents. Bloodstains were also found along the enemy’s withdrawal route towards southwest.

LTC SONNY E GONZALES, Commanding Officer of 71IB, is determined to destroy WGF 2 that operates in 71IB’s area of operation. “We will not allow NPA to perpetrate horrible acts anymore, or as freely as they like. Nevertheless, let us to strive even harder, think even smarter and move even swifter so that we can really end local armed conflict in our area of operation.”, he emphasized to his subordinates during his briefing prior to the said combat operation. The 71IB covers the municipalities of Mawab, Maco, Mabini and Pantukan all of Davao de Oro and Tagum City of Davao del Norte.

It can be recalled that last April 7, the unit neutralized 2 high ranking NPA members who reportedly terrorized locals in Sitio Ibuan, Brgy Tagdangua, Pantukan. Several high powered firearms and other valuable war materiel were seized. It also facilitated the surrender of 4 regular members of NPA which significantly reduced the manpower of WGF2. Just last week, 71IB helped the NAGMAPPA or “Nagkahiusang Mag-uuma sa Pindasan og Pangibiran” in Mabini to disaffiliate themselves from the “Kilusang Mambubukid ng Pilipinas” or KMP, a legal front organization of CPP-NPA-NDF that organized the former, gave them false promises and taught them to go against the government.

All these feats are the result of the cooperation and synergy in practice by the Local Government Units (LGU) and other peace stakeholders. The LGU actively work-in-hand with the 71IB in attaining sustainable peace in the community. In fact, the LGU Mabini gives incentives to citizens who can give real-time information of the NPA that led to their neutralization or capture.

Meantime, Hon. Reynaldo Dayanghirang, municipal Mayor of Mabini, extended his support and lauded the 71st IB on its recent encounter which caused significant reduction of enemy’s firepower.
“Congratulations to the officers and men of 71IB for having made another great accomplishment. Be assured, I, as the municipal mayor of Mabini will continue to give my support to the men and women in uniform of the AFP to fight aginst insurgency and lawless elements in our community.”

The 71IB continues to enjoin local government unit, line government agencies, civil society organization, private entities and typical locals as peace and order is not just an AFP’s concern but a shared responsibility. “Together, let us continue to hit the NPA hard and tip them off as much as we warmly accept those rebel who submit themselves and return to the folds of the law,” said LTC Gonzales.

The 71ib together with the LGU continues to welcome NpA members who lay down their arms and surrender and assists them to benefit from government’s Enhanced Local Integration Program (ECLIP) that offers them cash and livelihood assistance and even housing program.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-strikes-npa-yields-high-powered-firearms-ied/

2 injured soldiers get assistance

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 11, 2020): 2 injured soldiers get assistance

Two Army soldiers injured in recent armed skirmishes with New People’s Army rebels in Victorias City, Negros Occidental, received special financial assistance from the Comprehensive Social Benefit Program of the government.

Fatima Diaz, DILG Northern Negros Cluster leader, turned over P5,000 worth of groceries and hygiene kits on Friday to Cpl. Ranie Chiefe and PFC Louie Maghanoy, both members of the 79th Infantry Battalion, who were injured in a gunbattle with NPA rebels in Brgy. Gawahon, Victorias City, on April 24.

Army soldiers and troopers of the PNP Special Action Force recovered from the encounter site two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) with blasting caps, a bandolier with five magazines for AK47 assault rifle, and another bandolier with two magazines of M16 rifle with ammunition.

Also recovered from the site were two hand-held radios, two mobile phones, a binocular, a compass, four jungle packs containing personal belongings, five hammocks, eight blankets, 10 ponchos, three rain boots, assorted medicines, and subversive documents.

Diaz said that the Comprehensive Social Benefit Program was institutionalized as a mechanism to provide speedy, sustainable and rationalize social benefit assistance to the military, police and other uniformed personnel.

She added that the initial package will be followed by a full tranche of special financial assistance worth P100, 000 on the category of minor injury after completing the necessary requirements.

Lt. Col. Gerald Alvaran, 79IB commanding officer, thanked the DILG for recognizing sacrifices of the military in combat operations.

These gestures will serve as our inspiration and motivation to do more and continue our selfless service to end local communist armed conflict in northern Negros, Alvaran said.

He added that they will continue to serve as partner to provide security in all of the activities of the government, including the fight against local communist terrorists and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Diaz said the DILG highly appreciates and salutes the heroism of the AFP-PNP in countering the communist terrorist groups that would like to take advantage of COVID-19 pandemic.*

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/May/11/topstory11.htm

CDRRMC,RIATG tackle ELCAC updates and concerns

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2020): CDRRMC,RIATG tackle ELCAC updates and concerns (By PIA CAR)

BAGUIO CITY, May 11(PIA)-- A Militia ng Bayan from Bauko, Mountain Province voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines on April 29, 2020.

@Ambo surrendered without firearm after a series of negotiation. He may be evaluated for possible provision of benefits under E-CLIP program.

National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Deputy Regional Director Cherry Tamang during the Cordillera Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council and Regional InterAgency Technical Group joint coordination meeting on May 6 gave updates on Regional Task Force Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict and conflict concerns amid COVID-19.

Cordillera Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council and Regional InterAgency Technical Group joint coordination meeting tackles concerns on ELCAC.(CCD-PIA CAR)
Tamang presented five issues and concerns involving the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) that need government action. These include the propaganda being launched by the CPP-NPA and their legal fronts especially in social media that aims to undermine the government efforts on COVID; fund raising and solicitation these groups are conducting; conduct of relief operations/mission of CTG; their criticism on the Social Amelioration Program, and the termination by NPA of the multilateral ceasefire last April 30 that signify their objective of advancing their communist agenda amid the COVID pandemic.

“The CTG would seek every opportunity to undermine government efforts in order to advance their communist agenda. Hence, the need for all of us to effectively pre-empt and actively expose their lies and deception,” Tamang said.

CRDRRMC Chairperson and OCD - CAR Regional Director Albert Mogol encouraged member agencies to continue with their programs and services and highlight the good news and best practices while at the same time help counter the lies and misinformation that the CTG are doing. He also advised the law enforcement agencies to look into the relief mission of the CTGs that may have been violating the rules on Authority of Person Outside Residence under the Enhanced Community Guidelines or General CQ guidelines. (PIA CAR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1041528

Phil Army honors 9 soldiers for exemplary combat

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2020): Phil Army honors 9 soldiers for exemplary combat (By Jennifer C. Tilos)



NEGROS ORIENTAL, May 11 (PIA) -- The 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army honored nine soldiers for demonstrating exemplary action during encounters against communist terrorists in the area of operations of the 94th Infantry Battalion (IB).

Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, offered medals or Military Commendation Medals during the awarding rites on Thursday at Brgy. Tambo, Ayungon, this province.

In April, it was reported that the joint Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police elements of 94IB and the police force of Bindoy Municipal Police Station while conducting community security patrols clashed with undetermined number of New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist groups in Sitio Namunduan, Brgy. Cambudlas, Bindoy.

The said encounter resulted in the minor wounding of one soldier while two NPA members killed an undetermined number of casualties based on the heavy bloodstains found in the NPA position and route of withdrawal.

The troops were able to recover at the encounter site the following war materials: one shotgun with live ammunitions; one bandoliers with magazines and live ammunitions; two backpacks; one rifle grenade; six pairs of rain boots; medical supplies and paraphernalias; subversive documents; and other personal belongings.

Troops are still pursuing the fleeing NPA terrorists.

Pasaporte lauded the bravery and selfless dedication of the operating troops to secure and protect the community of Bindoy.

"The medal symbolizes your bravery in facing our enemy and selfless dedication on your oath to protect the people and the country. As your Brigade Commander, I want to recognize your collective efforts and may this simple occasion motivate you to do more and perform well on your next mission,” said Pasaporte.

Addressing to the troops, he added: “Let us continue our efforts in going after the communist NPA terrorists and show to them the true grit of the 94th Infantry ‘MANDIRIGMA’ Battalion.” (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1041532

Army secures emergency cash aid, beneficiaries in Guihulngan

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2020): Army secures emergency cash aid, beneficiaries in Guihulngan (By Jennifer C. Tilos)

Army soldiers provide security during the cash assistance distribution to maintain peace and order in Guihulngan City. (PIA Negros Oriental/Philippine Army)
NEGROS ORIENTAL, May 11 (PIA) -- The Guihulngan City government has completed its emergency cash subsidy distribution of P90.780 million to all family beneficiaries in 33 barangays in Guihulngan.

During the cash distribution from April 16 to May 9, the troopers from 62nd Infantry (Unifier) Battalion, 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, Philippine Army through its Operational Control (OPCON) Unit, Alpha Company, 94th Infantry (Mandirigma) Battalion went to different areas in the city to secure and assist in the conduct of social distancing.

Guihulngan City has a total of 15,130 beneficiaries who received the cash assistance under SAP which include 5,654 families who are unconditional cash transfer (UCT) recipients and other 9,476 poorest of the poor families.

Each qualified family received P6,000 cash aid from the government through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).

The soldiers joined and assisted the Philippine National Police and the local government of Guihulngan City together with CSWDO in maintaining peace and order during the distribution of the cash subsidy to families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A soldier monitors the wearing of face masks and conduct of physical distancing of SAP recipients in Guihulngan City. (PIA Negros Oriental/Philippine Army)
Distribution of the cash aid is in line with Republic Act 11469 known as “Bayanihan Act to Heal as One” enacted in March 2020 granting the President limited emergency powers to address COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

The act grants the President the authority to give low-income families with P5,000 to P8,000 emergency cash aid during the crisis.

Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, commanding officer of 62IB, said the security provided by the soldiers is part of the 62IB transformation effort to collaborate with the partner stakeholders in uplifting the socio-economic conditions in Central Negros.

“In order to protect the people and secure our land, the personnel of 62IB and 94IB are putting their own lives at risk by exposing themselves to possible contamination,” said Flores.

The partnership and collaboration among the concerned agencies ensured the safety and security of the people which led to the successful delivery of cash assistance to the beneficiaries in the city, the army officer said.

It was noted that in other areas of the country, there were reported cases of terrorist attacks by the CPP-NPA on the frontliners to seize goods intended for families in need.

“The 62IB together with LGU/LGAs of Guihulngan City and Guihulgan PNP will continue to serve the people of Negros Oriental to protect the local populace from any barbaric activity of the CPP-NPA terrorists and we will not let any selfish act hamper the government services for the people. Let us not just fight this terrorist but also this pandemic. Our partnership manifests that 'we can win together as one' as 'we heal as one'," said Flores. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1041554

Former rebels in Lanao del Sur receive assistance amidst COVID-19

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2020): Former rebels in Lanao del Sur receive assistance amidst COVID-19 (By 82nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

SAGUIARAN, Lanao del Sur, May 12– Amidst coronavirus disease (COVID-19), 26 former members of the Dawlah Islamiyah – Maute Group (DI-MG) received assistance on Monday at the Municipal Hall of Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

The Ministry of Social Services and Development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSD-BARMM) in collaboration with local government unit (LGU) of Piagapo and the 82nd Infantry Battalion (IB) distributed one sack (25 kilos) of rice to the former rebels (FRs) in the municipality of Piagapo as part of the continuous efforts of the government in aiding the community in fighting and surviving COVID-19.

Troops of Charlie Company of 82IB led by its company commander, 1LT Chris Anthony T. Cayaba facilitated the travel and attendance of the FRs during the distribution of the food assistance.

In his message, vice-mayor Ali L. Sumandar assured his constituents that in trying times like these the government will help the people and no one will be left behind, not even FRs.

It can be recalled that after the liberation of Marawi City from the hands of the ‘ISIS-inspired’ violent extremists, the government offered its doors to those who wanted to return to the folds of the law and be re-integrated in the mainstream society.

Sumandar assisted in numerous negotiations and peace dialogues that resulted in the voluntary surrender of some active and lie-low members of the DI-MG in his municipality.

Meanwhile, LtCol. Rafman S. Altre, commanding officer of 82nd IB called on the remaining active and lie-low members of the DI-MG and also of the Communist Terrorist Group in the area to lay down their arms and accept the peace offered by the government in furtherance to ending the local armed conflict in the province.

“The government is serious in giving you a chance to live peaceful and normal lives once again, just like these former rebels who are now enjoying the different programs of the government in the comfort of their homes and their families, "said LtCol Altre.

Months ago, different agencies of the government including non-government organizations in and out of Lanao del Sur offered psycho-social interventions, livelihood trainings and livelihood assistance to the FRs and their families as part of their rehabilitation and reintegration to the mainstream society.

“While our troops are focus on assisting the different frontliners against COVID-19, there is no let-up on our security and efforts in tracking down the remnants of the Local Terrorist Groups in our area, "LtCol. Altre added. (82IB/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1041599

Sorsogon clash not 'massacre' but legit encounter: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Sorsogon clash not 'massacre' but legit encounter: Army (By Mar Serrano)

An Army commander has denied the accusation of the communist rebel group that the encounter in Sorsogon where five insurgents were killed on Friday last week was a "massacre".

Maj. Gen. Fernando Trinidad, commanding officer of the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) and Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), clarified on Monday that the incident in Barangay Dolos, Bulan town was a legitimate encounter contrary to the claim of the New People’s Army-Romulo Jallores Command (NPA-RJC).
Trinidad said the clash ensued as police operatives, along with Army troops, were about to serve a warrant of arrest to a certain Golima, a suspected NPA member facing murder charges.

“I would like to inform the Bicolanos to be wary of the misinformation being spread by the NPA purposely to discredit the police and the military,” he said in an interview.

Trinidad named the suspected NPA rebels killed in the encounter as Jaime Tañada alias Ame, 54; Reymond “Monding” Tañada, 39; Jerry “Ben” Palanca, 31; Jerick Buno, 30; and Roberto “Furgoso” Villafuerte, 21, all members of Larangan 2, Komiteng Probinsya 3 of the Bicol Regional Party Committee.
“The recovered high-powered firearms and subversive supplies are proofs of their continuous lawless activities that have affected the lives of innocent civilians and surrounding communities,” he said.

Earlier, the NPA-RJC condemned the killing of the alleged "farmers" whom the military has tagged as suspected communist rebels.

Raymundo Buenfuerza, RJC spokesperson, in a press statement, accused the military and police forces of allegedly committing human rights violations.

He claimed the incident last Friday was a “massacre” where the military allegedly planted high-powered assault rifles and ammunition to justify their atrocities.

Buenferza denied the statement of the military that the farmers were members of the communist movement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102445

Clan war displaces hundreds in NoCot during fasting month

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Clan war displaces hundreds in NoCot during fasting month (By Edwin Fernandez)



Google map of Pikit, North Cotabato.

A blood feud or "rido" involving members of two clans erupted anew Sunday in the North Cotabato town of Pikit, sending some 1,500 families to safer grounds while they observe fasting for the Ramadan period.

Fueled by a land dispute, the armed conflict between the warring families have resulted in sporadic encounters that have escalated further as both sides used mortars and machine guns.

Worse, the protagonists raided and burned homes left by fleeing civilians and carted away valuables, food supplies, and work animals, including chickens, goats, carabaos, and cows, according to local and military officials.

Pikit Mayor Sumulong Sultan said skirmishes ignited again on Sunday in the villages of Takepan, Bulol, and Talitay between local factions of Moro National Liberation Front sub-commanders Jainudion Butuan and Kuwat, and the group of Moro Islamic Liberation Front base command sub-commanders Abdul Hamid Sansawi, Sambutuan, and Ekot.

Sultan had earlier gathered both sides to settle the dispute peacefully.

“The fighting slowed down but on Sunday, both sides exchanged bullets again,” Sultan said in a radio interview Monday.

“We pity these people, they avoid bullets but they could hardly move to safer places due to community quarantine,” the mayor added.

Sultan said emissaries of the MILF and MNLF have been sent to put an end to the "rido".

Likewise, the mayor said he has also sought the help of the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade and North Cotabato police provincial office to send in peacekeepers to separate the warring families. Soldiers have been sent and fighting has ceased as of Monday morning. 
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102438

NPA rebel dies after 5-minute clash in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): NPA rebel dies after 5-minute clash in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



CASUALTY. A communist New People’s Army is killed following a five-minute firefight in the Surigao del Sur town of Cantilan on Monday, May 11. The clash broke out after government forces responded to a civilian tip-off on the presence of suspected NPA rebels conducting 'extortion activities' in the area. (Photo courtesy of 36IB)

A communist New People’s Army (NPA) combatant was killed in a fresh firefight between the rebels and the Philippine Army Monday morning (May 11) in Surigao del Sur.

Capt. Jonald Romorosa, the civil-military operations officer of the Army's 36th Infantry Battalion, said the encounter in Barangay Cabangahan, Cantilan town ensued when government forces responded to a civilian tip-off on the presence of suspected NPA rebels conducting "extortion activities" in the area.

Romorosa said the 10 NPA combatants belonging to the Guerrilla Front 16C-1 of the NPA's Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NMRC) of the NPA were headed by a certain “Jacob”.
After a five-minute firefight, he said the NPA rebels retreated into the northeast direction and left the body of a dead comrade near the clash site.

Government forces recovered an AK-47 rifle with live ammunition, personal belongings, and documents with high intelligence value, the Army official said.

Lt. Col. Jezreel Diagmel, 36IB commander, lauded the residents in the area for providing the Army with vital information.

“This is a manifestation of the growing support of communities to the Army and the government and an expression of their disinclination and unwillingness of the presence of the NPA in their communities,” Diagmel said.

He also expressed grief over the death of an NPA combatant, saying the still-unidentified fighter was "another victim of the futile armed struggle and failed ideology of the communist movement in the country".

“I call on the remaining Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) NPA terrorists to surrender now and return to the fold of the law. Lay down your arms and return to your families,” Digamel said.

He added that the government is "always ready to accept NPA members" who will be assisted through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) and other livelihood programs for returnees.

Romorosa said the recovered cadaver will be turned over to the barangay officials in the area and to the Philippine National Police (PNP) for identification and proper disposition, Romorosa said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102454

Davao de Oro firefight yields NPA war materiel

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Davao de Oro firefight yields NPA war materiel (By Che Palicte)



ARMED ENCOUNTER. The Army's 71st Infantry Battalion recovers two high-power firearms, an improvised explosive device, and other war materiel after a firefight with the communist New People’s Army in Barangay Pangibiran, Mabini, Davao de Oro, on Monday (May 11, 2020). Military officials say the crash occurred after the troops responded to the complaints of the residents in the area about the rebels' harassment. (Photo courtesy of 71IB)

The Army's 71st Infantry Battalion (71IB) recovered two high-power firearms, an improvised explosive device, and other war materiel after a firefight with communist New People’s Army (NPA) in the Davao de Oro town of Mabini Monday.

2Lt. Kim Carlos, 71Ib civil-military operations officer, said the encounter broke out after government troops responded on the complaints of the residents about a group of NPA fighters harassing their community.

“No casualty from both sides, but bloodstains were found along the enemy’s withdrawal route,” Carlos told Philippine News Agency (PNA) in an interview.

After the armed encounter with about five NPA combatants, government troops managed to recover an improvised explosive device, an M16 rifle, an AK47, 10 magazines, 206 live ammunition, blasting caps, backpacks with personal belongings and subversive documents, and other pieces of evidence.

“We will not allow NPA to perpetrate horrible acts anymore, or as freely as they like. Nevertheless, let us strive even harder, think even smarter, and move even swifter so that we can really end local armed conflict in our area of operation,” said Lt. Col. Sonny Gonzales, 71IB commander.

Gonzales also vowed the government troops are determined to "destroy communist groups" operating within the 71IB jurisdiction covering the municipalities of Mawab, Maco, Mabini, and Pantukan in Davao de Oro, and Tagum City in Davao del Norte.

Last week, 71IB said it assisted the “Nagkahiusang Mag-Uuma sa Pindasan og Pangibiran” (NAGMAPPA) from the Davao de Oro town of Mabini withdrew their support from the leftist “Kilusan ng Mambubukid sa Pilipinas” (KMP).

The military has long identified KMP as a legal front of the NPA, listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

“All these feats are the result of the cooperation and synergy in practice by the Local Government Units (LGU) and other peace stakeholders”, Gonzales said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102489

Wanted ‘NPA combatant' nabbed in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Wanted ‘NPA combatant' nabbed in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



BUSTED. A team of police operatives arrest Lando G. Turaja, an alleged member of the communist New People's Army in the Surigao del Sur town of Lianga on Sunday (May 10, 2020). Turaja, 50, has standing warrants of arrest for murder and frustrated murder. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

A suspected member of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) with a standing warrant of arrest was arrested by government forces in Lianga, Surigao del Sur over the weekend.

Brig. Gen. Joselito T. Esquivel Jr., Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga) director, identified the suspect as Lando G. Turaja, 50, a resident of Barangay Balibadon in Cortes, Surigao del Sur.

In a statement Monday (May 11), Esquivel said Turaja, who was arrested during a manhunt operation on Sunday, has a standing arrest warrant for murder and attempted murder issued by a regional court in Tandag City.

Turaja is a member of Guerrilla Front 30 of the NPA's North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), Esquivel said, adding the suspect is the fourth most wanted person in Surigao del Sur.

“Our troops confiscated one caliber 9mm Bereta pistol loaded with six ammunition from his possession. Based on our investigation, he was the primary suspect in a shooting incident that killed the Barangay Captain of Cayale, San Miguel Surigao del Sur last 2018,” Esquivel said.

He said PRO-13 remains on a heightened alert against persons with standing warrants of arrest despite the health crisis caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

In a separate interview Monday (May 11), Col. James T. Goforth, Surigao del Sur provincial police director, said Turaja was also involved during the ambush of a police patrol car in Surigao del Sur sometime in 2015.

“During the investigation, Turaja admitted that he was part of the blocking force of the NPA during the said ambush,” Goforth told the Philippine News Agency.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102508

Mom recalls fond memories with activist daughter on Mother's Day

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Mom recalls fond memories with activist daughter on Mother's Day (By Lade Jean Kabagani)



Relissa Lucena, mother of Alicia Jasper, a student activist. (File photo)

Relissa Lucena, mother of Alicia Jasper, a student activist who was reportedly recruited by a militant organization, reminisced the many happy years of celebrating Mother's Day with her daughter.

"Lagi kaming magkakasama tuwing Mother's Day at madalas nasa Parañaque kasama ang lolo at lola nila (we always spent time together on Mother's Day, we would celebrate in Parañaque with their grandparents)," Lucena told the Philippine News Agency on Sunday.

Lucena said she misses Alicia, especially her sweet gestures at home.

"Pagkagising nila sa umaga at pagkakita nila agad sa akin, lalapit at hahalik, sabay bati ng 'Happy Mother's Day' mommy! (When they wake up early morning, as soon as they see me, they would immediately approach me and kiss me, and they would greet 'Happy Mother's Day mommy')," she said.

Lucena said Alicia used to be a sweet child before she was introduced to militant group Anakbayan.

She recalled how Alicia was so caring as a daughter and as a sister to her siblings.

"Hindi ko mawari at maisip kung anong klaseng idelohiya at propaganda ang ibinigay nila sa mga bata para makalimutan nila kami nang tuluyan, kalimutan ang pamilya nila (I can't even think about the kind of ideology and propaganda they introduced to these children that they would totally forget us and forget their families)," she said.

Lucena expressed anxiety as she longs for her child especially during the celebration of Mother's Day.

"It really breaks my heart observing this special day without my eldest, Alicia," she said.

Attempts to reach out

She said she realized that Mother's Day couldn't even make her feel special when she can't even protect, hold and talk to her daughter.

"Takot at lungkot ang nararamdaman ko para kay Alicia. Walang sapat na salita ang makakapaglarawan nito (I feel sad for Alicia. No words can even completely describe what I feel right now)," she said.

She added that it is even harder to offer support for her fellow mothers whose children were also recruited by various militant organizations.

"No one understands what we are going through right now, while other children are physically showing love and care for their mothers, here we are, still longing for our children to come back home," she said, citing Elvy Caalaman's daughter Lory, who also became a full-time activist.

She said they have been repeatedly attempting to communicate with their children and convince them to return home.

"It's uncomfortable to think that it's their choice to leave us, their families, and that they chose to stay away from us," she added, believing that Alicia and her fellow student activists were only indoctrinated by the wrong ideologies of the militant groups.

"All these children need care and protection from their parents, we will not be able to do that if they will not bring them back to us," she said.

She said this special day has never been the same since Alicia left their home.

"Paano ako magiging nanay kay Alicia kung wala siya dito? Paano ko siya mapoprotektahan kung hindi ko siya kasama? (How could I become a mother to Alicia if she is not here? How could I protect her if she's not with me?)," Lucena said, saying that most parents whose children were also recruited by the militant groups feel the same way.

"I pray for the protection of our children. We will keep our eyes open. We will take some actions to end the spread of wrong ideologies of these militant organizations to our youths and we hope the whole Makabayan bloc will send back these children to their real families," she said.

Mother's fight

Lucena said she won't stop fighting against militant organizations until she gets Alicia back to their family.

She said she can't afford to stay at home and do nothing about Alicia's situation, especially that the whole country is confronting a health crisis.

"I need to fight for my daughter no matter what. I will not stop being a mother to her," she said, noting that along with his husband Francis, they filed an urgent petition for writs of habeas corpus and amparo before the Supreme Court.

The petition she said, will ask the high court to compel Anakbayan and Kabataan Party-list to return recruited youths to the custody of their parents and to comply with the implementing rules under the Republic Act 11469 or the "Bayanihan To Heal as One Act."

Meanwhile, anti-communist groups backed the filing of these petition before the high court.

Remy Rosadio, League of Parents in the Philippines (LPP) chairperson, said the alleged front-organizations of the communist groups are just confusing the youth, and even indoctrinating wrong ideas on government efforts to address the health crisis.

"Ito po ang epidemya ng Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), halos 50 taon at mahigit ang panggugulo at pananalanta ng epidemyang ito sa ating lipunan, libu-libo ng inosenteng mamamayan na ang namatay dito (This CPP-NPA-NDF is contagious, it has been destroying our society, thousands of innocent people have been killed)," she said.

Rosadio said the anti-communist groups, along with the parents of the recruited student activists, will not stop condemning the acts of communist rebels and the recruitment of minors of its allied organizations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102411

Navy taps 361 reservists for quarantine checkpoint duty

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Navy taps 361 reservists for quarantine checkpoint duty (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday announced that it has called up a total of 361 reservist officers and enlisted personnel to help regular troops manning checkpoints established to implement the enhanced community quarantine following the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak.

In a message, Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said of this number, 11 officers and 199 enlisted personnel or a total of 210 reserve troops are deployed in various parts of Pangasinan, Baguio City and Zambales.

Meanwhile, one officer and 150 enlisted personnel, or 151 reservist personnel, are deployed in Albay, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Quezon and Occidental Mindoro.

"This number of reservists are over and above the regular deployment of other naval forces," Roxas said.

Earlier, the PN has deployed over two battalions of regular sailors and Marines to man the various checkpoints for the enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102463

Bordado assumes as new naval staff chief

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Bordado assumes as new naval staff chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)



NEW NAVAL STAFF CHIEF. Rear Adm. Adelius Bordado (right) assumes as the new Chief-of-Naval Staff in a ceremony led by PN chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo (left), in Manila on Monday (May 11, 2020). Bordado replaced Rear Admiral Rey T. dela Cruz who was named as the Navy's vice commander. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday welcomed Rear Adm. Adelius Bordado as its new Chief-of-Naval Staff.
Bordado formally assumed the post in a change of command ceremony at the PN headquarters in Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila.

Navy flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, presided the ceremony, said Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, in a statement.

Bordado replaced Rear Adm. Rey T. dela Cruz who is now the Navy's vice commander.

He is the former head of the AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command before becoming the new Chief-of-Naval Staff.

Bordado hails from Camarines Sur and is a member of the PMA “Maringal” Class of 1988.

"The office of the Chief-of-Naval Staff has the overarching role of being one of the key advisers of the( Flag-Officer-In-Command) FOIC, PN and likewise administers the HPN (Headquarters, PN) staff - the central nervous system of the Navy - in the accomplishment of the respective mission," Roxas said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102497

Navy deploys small boats to curb unauthorized sea travel

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2020): Navy deploys small boats to curb unauthorized sea travel (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Navy chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo. (File photo)

The Philippine Navy (PN) said it has deployed small boats to prevent non-essential sea travel in compliance with the enhanced community quarantine.

In a radio interview on Sunday, PN flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said this is part of the Navy's efforts to help contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"Our small boats are also contributing to the PCG (Philippine Coast Guard), who are patrolling the ports of the big cities in the enforcement of this (enhanced community) quarantine," he said in a mixture of English and Filipino.

He also assured continuous patrolling activities in the country's vast maritime territories amid the health crisis.

"(Despite) this Covid-19 crisis, we would like to assure (our) 'kababayans' (fellow Filipinos) that we still continue to patrol the seas, our (maritime) territory, our contiguous zone and our exclusive economic zone," he added.

Bacordo said the PN's big ships are deployed to patrol the West Philippine Sea and waters off the Zamboanga Peninsula and the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi.

"(The PN's) internal security and territorial defense operations (are still ongoing despite) this Covid-19 crisis," Bacordo said.

Earlier, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said that eight PN ships are deployed to help the government in its Covid-19 efforts.

These vessels are tasked to pick-up and deliver urgently needed medical supplies and personnel all over the country aside from picking up new supplies of protective personal equipment (PPE) sets from abroad.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1102433