Kalinaw News: NPA hideout, packs of ammunition seized anew in Agusan del Norte thru civilians’ aid

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2020): NPA hideout, packs of ammunition seized anew in Agusan del Norte thru civilians’ aid

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Troopers from 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion seized packs of ammunition and food supplies concealed in a hideout abandoned by the members of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in a forested area of Sitio Lamusig, Barangay Tungao, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte on August 18, 2020, at around 08:10 in the morning.

The troops of 23IB together with the personnel from Mobile Community Support and Sustainment Team (MCSST) in Tungao with the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13 (RMFB 13) Community Action Team (ComACT) conducted a special intelligence operation in response to reports by concerned civilians in the area on the activities of the CTGs and the location of the hideout. Upon reaching the place, the government forces discovered an estimated 50-square meter area that served as a hideout that can accommodate around ten (10) persons. The civilians revealed that the said hideout was abandoned by the CTGs two days ago.

Upon scouring, the government troopers recovered one (1) AK47 magazine, one (1) M16 magazine, twenty-two (22) rounds of AK47 7.62mm ammunition, seventy-one (71) rounds of M16 5.56mm ammunition, four (4) empty cartons of AK47 ammunition, four (4) meters electrical wire, and three (3) gallons filled with rice equivalent to one and one-half (1 ½) sacks buried in the hideout. The recovered CTG supplies were brought to the headquarters of 23rd IB for proper disposition and disposal.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C Paulo, Acting Commander of 23rd IB expressed gratitude to the concerned citizens who bravely provided positive and timely information to the government forces regarding the activities and whereabouts of the enemies.

“We are glad that the residents of Sitio Lamusig willingly and bravely supported us in ending the insurgency in conflict-affected areas of Agusan del Norte. Through their cooperation and active participation, we were able to uncover another hideout and supply cache of the CTGs which contains supplies that they also extorted from the local residents of said sitio. In the past weeks and months, we also recovered CTG hideouts, landmines depots, firearms and supply cache within our area of operations through the information provided by the concerned residents. These accomplishments only indicate that they are already tired of the CTG exploitation and have been condemning the presence of CTGs in their communities. It likewise means that the armed group has lost mass support as the local populace shifted their support to the government,” Paulo said.

Furthermore, he also urged the remaining members of the CTGs to give up the futile armed struggle of the communist movement and surrender.

“We once again urge the remnants of CTGs to Lay down their arms and leave the revolutionary movement. You can no longer hide from the government forces because we are serious in our mission of dismantling the Guerilla Front (GF) 4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) who are terrorizing the innocent residents in vulnerable communities of Agusan del Norte,” Paulo said.







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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-hideout-packs-of-ammunition-seized-anew-in-agusan-del-norte-thru-civilians-aid/

Kalinaw News: School and Road for Peace and Development for IP community, underway

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2020): School and Road for Peace and Development for IP community, underway

Maramag, Bukidnon- the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion, Philippine Army together with Local Government Unit of Quezon and 524 Engineering Construction Battalion, facilitated the construction of an Indigenous Peoples School and the improvement of Farm to Market Road (FMR) in Purok 8, Brgy Magsaysay, Quezon Bukidnon.

The 4-kilometer road rehabilitation and the construction of one unit of two-classrooms for the IP school by the Engineering Battalion started last April 06, 2020. It can be recalled that this was the IP community that strongly denounced their support to the NPA.

The said projects were the results of government interventions after the Community Support Team of 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion who immersed in the community identified that the absence of FMR and school in the area were used as propaganda by NPA terrorists in radicalizing the community and to recruit IPs to join their terrorist organization. These projects are the product of the convergence of efforts of different stakeholders of peace and development in identified Conflict Affected Areas (ConAAs) and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAS). The projects were funded by the LGU of Quezon and the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) being implemented by DSWD. The school will be turned-over to the Department of Education (DepEd) for the administration.

In 2019, there is an influx of former rebels (FRs) who surrendered to this unit coming from this community. The said former rebels provided significant information on the whereabouts of Communist terrorist in the area that resulted to series of successful encounters, neutralization of terrorist leaders, seizure of NPA hideouts and capture of numerous firearms and war materials.

A former rebel and a newly graduated CAFGU active auxilliary named @ Toto said, “Dako kaayo ko pasalamat kay dagan nabag o paghuman ug pagsurender namo. Natagaan ko assistance katong pagsurender nako, ug gitagaan pako trabaho. Pasalamat pud ko gitagaan pami ug dalan ug skwelahan Tanan amo lakaw padulong Brgy kay dali na. imbis 3 ka oras karon tunga nalang sa oras. Dako sad ko ug pasalamat ka mahemuan na jud ug skwelahan amo mga bata. Dati, pag abot sa brgy kun asa ila skwelahan kay mangaon na dayon tapos matulog. Walay klaro ang pag adto sa skwelahan. Karon kay naa na dapit, makaskwela na jud sila ug tarong.” (I am very thankful for what happened to our lives after we surrendered. The government gave me financial and livelihood assistance and a permanent job. Then they make roads and school. Before, we used to walk for 3 hours going to the Barangay but now it will just take 30 minutes (by riding a motorcycle) . I also thank them for giving as a school for our children. The children will no longer need to walk for hours just to reach the school in Barangay proper. The school is already near from their houses that make them more interested in learning. )

In his statement, Mayor Pablo Lorenzo III of Quezon, Bukidnon said “Mapasalamaton ang lokal nga panggamhanan sa Quezon, Bukidnon sa pag ayo niini sa dalan sa Purok 8, Brgy Magsaysay. Usa kini ka bililhong gasa alang sa pagsiguro sa kahapsay ug kalinaw sa lungsod. Padayon nga nakig-alayon ang lokal nga panggamhanan sa Quezon alang sa maayong kaugmaon sa katawhan.

Lt Col Franklin Fabic, Commanding Officer of 88IB said, “Let this be a start of a new way of life in your village. These projects and programs are the proof of the commitment of our government in winning the peace and attaining development in far flung communities. Let us protect these projects for the better future of our younger generation. “





[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/school-and-road-for-peace-and-development-for-ip-community-underway/

Kalinaw News: More NPAs surrender in Zamboanga Peninsula

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2020): More NPAs surrender in Zamboanga Peninsula

IPIL, ZSP – Five Communist NPA Terrorists surrendered to the government forces in Zamboanga Peninsula on August 18, 2020.
The operating Battalions of 102nd Infantry Brigade, 97th, 44th, 42nd and 53rd Infantry Battalions, facilitated the surrender of alias Pawpaw, Guerilla Front (GF) – Feliciano A; alias Arkins, Regional Urban Committee; alias Eric, Yunit Militia; and, alias Jaymon and Jongjong , both under the Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU), all of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

Two AK47 assault rifles, eight magazines and 245 live ammunitions were turned over to the troops upon surrender of the CNTs.

Alias Pawpaw said in local dialect said that, “Nadungog nako ang maayong pag-atiman sa kasundaluhan sa ako mga kauban na samaran ug ni-naog balik sa gobiyerno sa ila kaugalingon ug mga armas [I’ve heared that the sodiers cared for my wounded comrades and those who returned to the government and surrendered their firearm].

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, Commander, 102nd Infantry Brigade, stressed that they’ve just recently orchestrated the 1st Western Mindanao Former Rebels (FR) Summit and Acceptance of New FRs last August 15, wherein a platoon-size of HQ-Kalaw surrendered and presented to Commanding General Philippine Army.

“These series of surrenders demonstrate the renewed trust and confidence of the victims of Communist Terrorist Groups deception tactics to the army and the government,” Brig. Gen. Nicolas added.

Maj. Gen. Gene Ponio, Commander of 1st Infantry Division, emphasized that this is the best time for the CNTs to lay down their arms and return peacefully to their communities.

“The doors of the government will remain open for the other members of the WMRPC who still wish to be with their families and be part again of the peace-loving and productive members of their respective communities,” Maj. Gen. Ponio said.

As of this posting, the different units are now assisting these former rebels in processing for E-CLIP.





[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/more-npas-surrender-in-zamboanga-peninsula/

Kalinaw News: Surigaonons condemn NPAs over the killing of a Police Officer

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2020): Surigaonons condemn NPAs over the killing of a Police Officer

PLACER, Surigao del Norte – The 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade joins the people Surigao in condemning the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) following the heartless murder of a police personnel, Monday morning, August 18.

The victim was positively identified as PSsg Restie Dandan, 42, married, and a resident of Sison, and currently assigned to the Police Station in his hometown.

It can be recalled that around 8:45 in the morning last July 31, 2020, PSsg Dandan, was flagged down and forcibly kidnapped by Communist NPA Terrorists in Purok 1, Barangay San Isidro, Sison while on his way to the Police Station. The victim was held 18 days in captivity by the members of Guerilla Front 16 under Rolando Leyson Jr before his lifeless body was found in Sitio Napo, Barangay Matinao, Mainit of Surigao del Norte.

Based on the initial examination, it was revealed that the victim suffered at least three gunshot wounds from still bein identified caliber before he was left dead in the said place

In the statement, Col. George L Banzon, Commander of 901st Brigade, he said that the people of Surigao especially the hopeful family of PSsg Dandan were deeply saddened by a bad news after it was confirmed that their beloved had been brutally murdered by Communist NPA Terrorists.

The Brigade Commander stressed that the kidnapping-slay committed by the Communist NPA Terrorists was a clear evidence of their desperate move wherein they target off-duty uniformed personnel who do not have the capacity to defend themselves. He further said they are already showing their true colors as terrorists and as human right violators.

“This is another blatant disrespect of human rights and clear violation of International Humanitarian Law which add to the long list of atrocities they committed against our countrymen, in this particular case, against the Surigaonons. The crime they committed was barbaric and unacceptable in a civilized society”, he said.

On the other hand, Col. Banzon urged his fellow Surigaonons to denounce the communist terrorists, for they are primary source of chaos and peace spoilers in their province. He also expressed deepest condolences to the bereaved family of the victim and gave the assurance that they will continue to pursue the perpetrators so that justice will be served.

“We offer our sincerest sympathies and condolences to the family of late PSsg Dandan. This will not stop here, our unit, in coordination with the PNP, will continue to pursue the perpetrators so that justice will be served to the victim. It is just a matter of time, these terrorists will fall to the long arm of law and we will make them accountable for this crime”, he added.

As to this press time, appropriate criminal charges against the Communist Terrorist Group under the International Humanitarian Law Act and the Revised Penal Code are being prepared.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/surigaonons-condemn-npas-over-the-killing-of-a-police-officer/

Kalinaw News: Army rescues 2 minors during series of armed clashes in Negros Island

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 19, 2020): Army rescues 2 minors during series of armed clashes in Negros Island

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – Government troops coming from the 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division rescued two (2) female minors during an armed clash with the CPP-NPA terrorists in the hinterlands near Sitio Tabago, Brgy. Sandayao, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental around 12:00 noon, Friday, August 14, 2020.

Meanwhile, a CPP-NPA member dies in a separate clash with government troops coming from the same Army unit in the nearby Sitio Maluy-a of Brgy. Sandayao, also around 12:00 noon, Friday, August 14, 2020. The dead CPP-NPA was later identified as Rickim Remasog, 21 years old, a resident of Sitio Compound, Brgy. Luz, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, and a known member of the CPP-NPA’s Leonardo Panaligan Command in central Negros.

The troops also apprehended a certain Rennel Remasog, 20 years old, and an identified member of the same CPP-NPA group during the series of clashes, while seizing war materiel that includes one (1) caliber .30 M1 Carbine rifle, one (1) shotgun, two (2) caliber .45 pistols, live ammunitions, and subversive documents. It can be recalled that an armed clash between troops of 62IB and suspected CPP-NPA terrorists also took place near the adjacent community of Sitio Uway-uway, Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental around 9:00 am, Thursday, August 13, 2020, which resulted to the wounding of several terrorists as evidenced by the globs of blood seen by the troops in the area.

Major General Eric C Vinoya, Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army and the AFP’s Joint Task Force Spear in Western and Central Visayas, looks at the incident as a result of the shared concept of security among the LGU, the local residents, and the state security forces. He then lauded his troops for their relentless efforts in freeing the people from the terroristic acts of the CPP-NPA in the area.

“This incident is a result of the cooperation and collaboration among the people, the LGUs, and the security sector. The people are already fed-up by the threats posed by the CPP-NPA who continuously terrorize their communities with intimidation, extortion, and murder, hence, they denounce these terrorists by reporting the location of their lairs.” said Major General Vinoya.

“I commend our troops from the 62IB for their dedication to our mandated task, and for upholding the International Humanitarian Law, which we commemorate this month of August, during these series of engagements with the CPP-NPA. Despite the risks and our critical tasks amidst this COVID-19 pandemic, they are still able to conduct relentless operations against the remaining CPP-NPA terrorists in Negros Island.” Vinoya further stressed.

[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-rescues-2-minors-during-series-of-armed-clashes-in-negros-island/

NBI confirms intel soldier unarmed when cops shot him dead in Jolo

From Rappler (Aug 19, 2020): NBI confirms intel soldier unarmed when cops shot him dead in Jolo (By JC GOTINGA)

Witness accounts gathered by the National Bureau of Investigation checks out with the Philippine Army's claim that the killing of 4 soldiers was a 'rubout'

Army intelligence soldier Major Marvin Indammog was unarmed when he got off an SUV to face accosting police, and even held his hands up in a gesture of surrender when he was shot dead in Jolo, Sulu, in late June, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) told a Senate panel on Wednesday, August 19.

This corroborates the Philippine Army’s account of the incident in which 4 soldiers on a mission to track down Abu Sayyaf bombers were gunned down by police, who claimed there was a firefight.

The Army said it was “murder” and a “rubout.”

“Si Major Indammog naman po at that time ay itinaas po ang kanyang kamay, at sabi po ng ating witnesses, itinas din ang kanyang T-shirt, of the impression na pinapakita na wala namang naka-tuck or anything sa kanyang baywang na siguro po weapon,” Zulikha Degamo, a lawyer at the NBI’s death investigation division, told a Senate panel during a legislative hearing on the incident.

(Major Indammog at that time raised his hands, and our witnesses said he also lifted his T-shirt, of the impression that he was showing there was nothing tucked into his waist, like perhaps a weapon.)

Indammog was the leader of the mission that also included Captain Irwin Managuelod, Sergeant Jaime Velasco, and Corporal Abdal Asula onboard the SUV. All 4 soldiers were shot dead in the incident.

However, Senior Master Sergeant Abdelzhimar Padjiri and Patrolman Alkajal Mandangan, who were among the 9 cops tagged in the incident, claimed Indammog was holding a rifle when he got off the SUV right before he was killed.

When the police approached the parked SUV for that final confrontation, Padjiri, the leader of the cops, said he knocked on Indammog’s window to talk to him. It took a bit of time for Indammog to open the window, and Padjiri said he was forced back when Indammog “suddenly” opened the car door.

“Dala na ‘yung baril niya, at nakaharap na ‘yung dalawang back-up ko sa likod. ‘Yun na, nagkaputukan na,” Padjiri told the Senate panel, referring to Indammog.

(He was holding his gun, and my two back-ups behind me were facing him. And then the firefight started.)

None of the Jolo cops at the hearing could tell who fired the first shot.

What happened before?

The 4 soldiers had been using signals intelligence to track down Mundi Sawadjaan, a bomber and nephew of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Hajan Sawadjaan, the leader of the Islamic State or ISIS in the Philippines.

The party was heading back to downtown Jolo from Barangay Maubo in the outskirts when they were halted by police at a checkpoint in Barangay Bus-Bus.

Degamo said the checkpoint was to ensure people were following public health protocols on the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Degamo, 3 cops at the checkpoint said Mandangan, who was among the cops onboard two patrol cars, approached them saying, “May sisitahin kami (We are going to interrogate someone).”

The SUV then arrived and the cops halted it. The persons onboard introduced themselves as soldiers. As the soldiers were in plainclothes, the cops were doubtful, and asked them to join them at the police station back in town. The conversation only took 3 minutes and went without incident, Degamo said, quoting the police account.

However, 3 witnesses from the area gave conflicting accounts, Degamo said.

One witness said the cops pointed their long firearms at the SUV as soon as it pulled over. The cops were shouting for the soldiers to get off the vehicle.

Another witness said the cops surrounded the SUV, as Indammog and Asula shouted, “Tropa! Tropa!” to inform the cops that they were Army troops.

One of the witnesses, also an Army intelligence soldier in plainclothes, told the cops the people in the SUV were indeed soldiers, but the cops brushed him aside.

The NBI witnesses said 3 of the soldiers – Indammog, Managuelod, and Asula – alighted from the SUV following the police’s orders.

Padjiri said only Indammog got off the vehicle to talk to him.

In any case, both sides agreed to meet at the Jolo municipal police station. The soldiers in the SUV led the way, followed by the 9 cops in two patrol cars, and two other witnesses on a motorcycle.

When the soldiers’ SUV went past the police station, the police patrol cars “revved up” to follow it. The SUV stopped in front of a coffee shop across the local fire station, a short distance from the police station.

This was when the fatal encounter happened.

One of the accused policemen, Police Staff Sergeant Iskandar Susulan, told senators that he was at the police station when he saw the police patrol stop nearby, and went over to check what has happening. He claimed he shot at one of the soldiers – thinking the operation was against Abu Sayyaf members or drug lords.

Senator Ronald dela Rosa, a former police chief, said the Senate probe aims to find out what triggered the shooting, what lapse in coordination caused this incident between friendly forces, and whether policies in handling crime scenes should be amended.

The NBI has recommended charges of murder and planting of evidence against the 9 policemen involved in the incident.

https://rappler.com/nation/nbi-confirms-intel-soldier-unarmed-when-cops-shot-him-dead-jolo

AFP accuses PNP of cover-up in Jolo shooting

From Rappler (Aug 19, 2020): AFP accuses PNP of cover-up in Jolo shooting (By RAMBO TALABONG)

'We find the initial [police] report fabricated and full of inconsistencies and really misleading,' says Armed Forces chief Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) believes that the Philippine National Police (PNP) committed a cover-up to defend their cops who "intended to kill" 4 Army intelligence officers in Jolo, Sulu, on June 29.

"When we read the report, [we asked] why this happened, it appears that there was a cover-up, that there was an angle of self defense...We find the initial [police] report fabricated and full of inconsistencies and really misleading," AFP chief Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay said.

Gapay was addressing the Senate in its probe into the incident that has divided the police and the military after policemen shot dead the Army's officers without provocation, as reported by witnesses. 

(READ: NBI confirms intel soldier unarmed when cops shot him dead in Jolo)

"All reports [should] be factual. Let us not cover up misdeeds, infractions of the law. They should be charged accordingly. Being law enforcers and persons in authority, that is an aggravating circumstance," Gapay added.

Military generals told the Senate that 2 female terrorists were the subject of the Army intelligence officers operation when they were gunned down by the Jolo police.

The military has waited long enough since the killings, Gapay said, adding that the cops should now be charged in court. Pending with the Department of Justice is a complaint that accuses the cops of murder and planting evidence. (READ: PNP links soldier slain in Sulu shooting to illegal drugs)

"We have been waiting for two months already, and justice delayed is justice denied, so we expect immediate filing of the recommendations and charges found out by the NBI during their initial investigation," Gapay said.

Intent to kill

The PNP, when it reported the incident, claimed that the soldiers threatened to shoot them, forcing the cops to fire ahead. 

(READ: De la Rosa: 'Right coordination' between military, police could have prevented Jolo shooting)

Citing the military and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)'s probe, Gapay said that the police report could not be further from the truth.

"There was a deliberate act. There was an intent to kill. Although we cannot ascertain the motive, there was an intent to kill," Gapay said.

The military chief likened the killing of the soldiers to Quezon City police killing retired soldier Winston Ragos in April, where Ragos was killed by a cop after appearing to pull something from his sling bag. Police said he carried a pistol, his family said his bag only carried a water bottle. 

(READ: NBI: Cops murdered Winston Ragos, planted evidence)

Military's call, police's defense

Before Gapay spoke, PNP chief General Archie Gamboa gave a different view: that the investigation must not be rushed so that it would not be botched.

"My warning to all is that the degree of proof that is required for a criminal conviction is proof beyond reasonable doubt," Gamboa said, before taking a swipe at the military for being caught on camera tampering with the crime scene.

https://rappler.com/nation/afp-accuses-pnp-cover-up-jolo-shooting

2 female ‘suicide bombers’ were targets of 4 soldiers killed by cops in Jolo

From Rappler (Aug 19, 2020): 2 female ‘suicide bombers’ were targets of 4 soldiers killed by cops in Jolo (By JC GOTINGA)

Four Army intelligence soldiers were on a mission to prevent a suicide attack by the suspected terrorists, say two military generals

Two high-ranking military generals said the 4 intelligence soldiers killed by policemen in Jolo, Sulu on June 29 were tracking down 2 female terrorists about to carry out a suicide bombing.

“We were targeting the two female suspects of suicide bombing, and we do not want that bombing incident to happen again in Jolo,” Philippine Army chief Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana told a Senate panel on Wednesday, August 19. 

(READ: Women of the Eastern Caliphate: Hiding in plain sight)

Sobejana was the commander of the military in Western Mindanao when a group of 9 policemen shot the 4 soldiers dead near the Jolo municipal police station. The Senate panel is investigating the incident.

Before the killings, the military told the police and village authorities about the bomb threat to request their help in hunting down the 2 suspects, Colonel Antonio Bautista Jr, the Army unit commander in Sulu, told the Senate panel.

Major General Corleto Vinluan Jr, former head of the military’s Joint Task Force Sulu and now Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) commander, said it was he who decided to “publicly announce” the threat.

“Because when I weighed the possible outcome, I asked the intelligence units if they could pinpoint the location of the two female suicide bombers – because they said within 2 days, [the bombing] would be executed,” Vinluan told the Senate panel.

When the intelligence group told Vinluan they could not “pinpoint” the suspects’ whereabouts, he instructed Bautista to talk to the area’s barangay captains, the Jolo mayor, the local police chief, and the provincial police director to “announce” the threat.

“Kasi kung hindi mo ma-announce ito, baka ‘pag sasabog – eh mas maganda ‘yung na-compromise ‘yung operation instead na ma-execute yung bombing,” Vinluan said. (Because if you fail to announce this, if an explosion does happen – well, it’s better to compromise the operation than to let the bombing be executed.)

The 4 slain Army intelligence soldiers – Major Marvin Indammog, Captain Irwin Managuelod, Sergeant Jaime Velasco, and Corporal Abdal Asula – were on a roving signals intelligence mission to track down the two would-be suicide bombers.

The Army earlier said one of the targets was Mundi Swadjaan, said to be a bomb expert, who is the nephew of Hajan Sawadjaan, an Abu Sayyaf sub-leader and head of the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist network in the Philippines.

The 4 soldiers onboard an SUV were driving back to downtown Jolo from the outskirts when they were flagged down by cops at a checkpoint in Barangay Bus-Bus. The soldiers, who were in plainclothes, introduced themselves to the cops. The police and witnesses gave conflicting accounts of how the matter escalated, but the soldiers agreed to meet the cops at the municipal police station.

When the soldiers drove a short distance past the police station and pulled over across the local fire bureau, the cops “revved up” to where the SUV had parked. 

(READ: 'Right coordination' between military, police could have prevented Jolo shooting)

The police said a firefight erupted between them and the soldiers, but the National Bureau of Investigation said it appears only the police fired shots. The 4 soldiers died on the spot. Photos showed 3 bodies sprawled on the road beside their vehicle.

The Army said the killing of the 4 soldiers – and the interruption of their mission – was a big “setback” in the hunt for the suspected bombers, and the overall campaign against the Abu Sayyaf.

The Abu Sayyaf, with its links to ISIS, has been blamed by the military and police for a series of suicide bombings in 2018 and 2019. The most devastating of the attacks was the suicide bombing of the Catholic cathedral in Jolo in January 2019 by an Indonesian couple working with the Abu Sayyaf. At least 23 people were killed and 100 others wounded in the attack.

https://rappler.com/nation/two-female-suicide-bombers-targets-soldiers-killed-cops-jolo

Health activist’s murder in Bacolod condemned

Posted to the periodically pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Aug 19, 2020): Health activist’s murder in Bacolod condemned (By KEN E. CAGULA)



Photo from Zara Alvarez’s Facebook account

Another activist was shot dead in Bacolod on Monday night, raising alarm from groups that the “killing spree” against defenders continue despite the pandemic.

Zara Alvarez, 39, was gunned down around 8 pm at Barangay Eroeco, Bacolod City in the province of Negros Occidental, a province that has seen political killings in the past years.

Alvarez was the advocacy officer of the Negros Island Health Integrated Program (NIHIP), a community health group, and was a former paralegal of Karapatan and coordinator of Gabriela Women’s Partylist.

Renato Reyes, secretary-general of the progressive Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), said the murder of activists did not cease in the past few months during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has targeted those in the frontlines of helping the poor who are suffering from the pandemic, including Kadamay’s Carlito Badion in Leyte, Bayan Muna’s Jory Porquia in Iloilo, and now Alvarez in Negros Occidental.

Last week, Anakpawis chairperson and peace consultant Randall Echanis was murdered in his apartment in Novaliches, Quezon City.

On his Facebook post, Reyes said: “The grim reality, it appears, is that even during the pandemic, the regime has not stopped its war on activists and human rights defenders. We have not heard this regime condemn in the strongest terms the continuing killings of activists. Either the regime simply does not care or it is in fact complicit in such killings. When will the Philippine government act to stop the killings? When will it say, ‘Enough!’?”

Bayan calls for a “speedy and impartial” investigation with regards to the spate of killings of activists. Reyes fears that such trend “can be made such worse under a terror law enacted against dissent.”

Intensifying threats

Karapatan said Alvarez is the 13th human rights worker from their group killed under the Duterte administration.

She was included in the initial list of at least 600 names in the Department of Justice’s 2018 proscription case to declare them as members of the “terrorist” Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA). Alvarez’ name along with many others were stricken off the list but she continued experiencing threats and surveillance in her work.

Posters that red-tagged her and other activists and advocates spread over Bacolod City, which included human rights lawyer Benjamin Ramos, who was also shot dead in November 2018.

While grieving on the killing of fellow human rights worker, Jay Apiag, secretary-general of Karapatan Southern Mindanao Region said they are “in extreme rage” since the killing marked that human rights defenders are not spared.

Recently, posters from anonymous sources had been spread in Davao City, tagging several activists and human rights defenders in Davao Region as “terrorists” and “berdugo (murderers)”.

“Zara’s episode before she was murdered is the same episode of many vocal rights worker, and is not far from happening to us also as staunch human rights defenders under this monstrous regime,” Apiag said.

Apiag added: “We will never relent in demanding justice for our slain colleague. Her legacy in advancing our rights will always be celebrated and remembered.”

Right to health advocacy
The Council for Health and Development (CHD), in which Alvarez served as a member of its Board of Trustees, extended their sympathies to Alvarez’ family and friends.

“From the fields and communities of Negros to human rights conferences around the world, Zara truly believed that the right to health was a right worth defending,” the CHD said in a Facebook post.

“We may have lost you to the hands of those murderers but we plesge to keep on keeping on the struggle for a better society where the right to health and right to life are fully recognized, and the peoe are empowered to build a brighter future,” it added.

http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/health-activists-murder-in-bacolod-condemned/

Tagalog News: Tatlong dating rebelde sa OccMin, tumanggap ng ECLIP Assistance

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 19, 2020): Tagalog News: Tatlong dating rebelde sa OccMin, tumanggap ng ECLIP Assistance (By Voltaire N. Dequina)

Isa sa mga nagbalik-loob ay tumanggap ng P105,000 na binubuo ng P15,000 immediate assistance, P50,000 livelihood assistance, at P40,000 firearm renumeration para sa isinuko nitong armas. (VND/PIA Occ Min)

SAN JOSE, Occidental Mindoro, Agosto 19 (PIA) -- Kabuuang P295,000 halaga ng assistance package ang ipinagkaloob kamakailan ng pamahalaang nasyonal sa tatlong Former Rebels (FR) sa lalawigan, sa ilalim ng programang Enhanced -Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Ayon kay Jacob Cruz, itinalagang focal person sa FR ng Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), isa sa mga nagbalik-loob ay tumanggap ng P105,000 na binubuo ng P15,000 immediate assistance, P50,000 livelihood assistance, at P40,000 firearm renumeration para sa isinuko nitong armas.

“Ang halagang nakalaan para sa isinukong baril ay depende sa klase ng armas. Mas mataas na kalibre ay nangangahulugan ng mas mataas na halaga,” saad ni Cruz.

Ang isa pang FR, ani Cruz, ay tumanggap naman ng P65,000 habang ang huli ay P60,000 bilang bayad sa isinukong armas. Paglilinaw ni Cruz, una nang iginawad sa nasabing huling FR ang halagang P65,000 na immediate at livelihood assistance sa hiwalay na pagkakataon. Binigyang-diin ng FR focal person na napakalaking tulong ang ipinagkaloob na ayuda upang magamit sa kanilang tuluyang pagbabagong-buhay.

Sa seremonya ng pagkakaloob ng E-CLIP assistance ay sinabi ni Governor Ed Gadiano na mananatiling bukas ang kanyang administrasyon sa pagbabalik-loob sa pamahalaan ng mga kasapi ng Communist Terrorist Group (CTG). Katunayan, aniya, bukod sa tulong mula E-CLIP ay may ayuda ring ilalaan ang pamahalaang lokal. Paliwanag pa ng 'Ama ng Lalawigan', isang magandang patunay sa sinserong hangarin ng gobyerno na matapos ang insurhensya ay ang pinaigting na paghahatid ng iba't ibang proyekto sa mga liblib na lugar, sa pamamagitan ng whole-of-nation approach.

Samantala, isiniwalat ng 4th Infantry Battalion (4th IB) na base sa kanilang masusing imbestigasyon sa mga sumukong FR, lumitaw na nagsisisi ang mga ito sa pagsanib sa CTG. Nagbunga ito anila ng pagkasira ng kanilang buhay at ng kanilang pamilya. Kaya naman naniniwala si LTC Alexander Arbolado,4th IB Commander, na marami pang kasamahan ang tatlong FR na magbabalik-loob na rin sa pamahalaan.

Ang ECLIP ay programang naghahatid ng tulong sa mga kasapi ng CTG, na nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan, upang magkaroon ng kasanayan at puhunang gagamitin sa pagbabagong buhay.

Isinagawa ang paggagawad ng tulong sa bagong PGO Sub-Office Building sa Brgy. Magbay, San Jose, na pinangunahan ni Gob Gadiano at sinaksihan ng mga kasapi ng Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) kasama sina Col. Jose Augusto V. Villareal, 203rd Infantry Brigade Commander, LTC Arbolado, LTC Bienvenido Hindang, 76th IB Commandeer, Captain Ronnie Sarmiento, CMO 203rd Brigade, Philippine National Police Provincial Director Joseph Bayan at Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Juanito Olave. (Voltaire Dequina/PIA-MIMAROPA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050585

PMA adopts new normal in 2020 cadet recruitment

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 19, 2020): PMA adopts new normal in 2020 cadet recruitment (By Kevin Caro)

The Philippine Military Academy will sustain the recruitment of interested cadets in Region 11 through the entrance examinations. The said examinations will be conducted in accordance with the proper health safety standards of COVID-19.

CITY, August 19 (PIA) – To sustain the recruitment of interested young cadets amidst the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) is conducting its entrance examinations for enlisting cadets while also maintaining the necessary health safety protocols for COVID-19.

The said entrance exam is the first stage in PMA’s selection process of qualified recruits to study at the premier leadership training academy of the Philippines. The said exam will be held at 44 examination centers throughout the country where three (3) will be located at the regional urban centers of Davao, Tagum, and Mati.

The PMA Officer-In-Charge Major Julesther Cañada for the Davao, Tagum, Mati, and Butuan testing centers highlighted that the PMA has made specific adjustments to the entrance exam this year to abide by the required health safety standards.

“Because of COVID-19, we have allocated four (4) days for the entrance examinations instead of one (1) day so that the examinees will be assigned a respective schedule to maintain social distancing at the examination centers,” Cañada said.

As of writing, the PMA has already accepted 766 applicants from Davao City, 253 applicants from Tagum City, and 49 applicants from the City of Mati. Cadet application is still open for qualified applicants aged 17 to 21 years of age, with a minimum attained education level of Grade 12 and with a minimum height requirement of five feet for both males and females.

The PMA is prepared by the significant turn out of applicants for a cadetship in Region 11 due to preparations made in the screening of applicants to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission in test centers.

“While at the exam proper, we will require all examinees to bring medical certificates, and a health declaration from their respective barangays, wear facemasks or face shields and all applicants will undergo a temperature check as they enter the premises of the examination centers,” Cañada said.

The PMA entrance examinations are scheduled to be conducted at the three testing centers in Region 11 during September 2 - 5 for Davao City, September 9 – 12 for Tagum City, and September 16 – 19 for the City of Mati.

“We are inviting all young adults, 17 to 21 years old to take the Philippine Military Academy entrance examinations to be conducted starting September 2 to October 5 – starting with Davao City, Tagum City, Butuan City, and Cagayan De Oro City,” Cañada added. (PIA XI/KPLCaro)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050772

Tagalog News: MILG-BARMM nagsagawa ng joint simulation exercise para sa BIAF, 6ID

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 19, 2020): Tagalog News: MILG-BARMM nagsagawa ng joint simulation exercise para sa BIAF, 6ID (By PIA Cotabato City)

LUNGSOD NG COTABATO, Agosto 19 (PIA) – Isinagawa kamakailan ng Ministry of Interior and Local Government ng Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MILG-BARMM) ang dalawang araw na Joint Simulation Exercise and Incident Command System para sa senior commanders ng Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) at ng 6th Infantry Division ng Philippine Army.

Ito ay inorganisa ng MILG sa pamamagitan ng BARMM Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence (READI) simula Agosto 15 hanggang 16 sa Camp Siongo Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Ang nasabing aktibidad ay tinawag na “Sindaw nu Kalilintad” at dinisenyo upang magtipun-tipon ang mga miyembro at mga opisyal ng BIAF ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF-BIAF) at 6ID.

Sa pamamagitan ng aktibidad ay napalalakas ang kapasidad sa pagresponde sa mga emerhensya at naisusulong ang kooperasyon ng bawat isa.

Samantala, sinabi ni MILG Minister Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo na ang Joint Simulation Exercise sa pagitang ng MILF-BIAF at ng 6ID ay pagkakataon para sa parehong organisasyon hindi lamang upang epektibong talakayin ang mga pamamaraan sa pamamahala tuwing may sakuna kundi isa rin aniya itong pagkakataon upang magtulungan na talunin ang pandemya at isulong ang kapayapaan sa rehiyon at sa bansa.

Dagdag ni Sinarimbo, ang Sindaw nu Kalilintad ay ang paraan ng Pamahalaan ng Bangsamoro upang ipahayag ang taos-pusong hangarin upang wakasan ang dekadang labanan. (LTBolongon-PIA Cotabato City/With reports from BPI-BARMM).

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050702

Surigao Norte cop abducted, slain by NPA: Army says

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 19, 2020): Surigao Norte cop abducted, slain by NPA: Army says (By Alexander Lopez)



Col. George L. Banzon, commander of the Army's 901st Infantry Brigade. (Photo courtesy of the 901Bde)

The communist New People’s Army (NPA) was responsible for the abduction and killing of a Surigao del Norte policeman, whose body was found Tuesday (Aug. 18) in Barangay Matin-ao, Mainit town.

In a statement Wednesday, the Army's 901st Infantry Brigade (901Bde) said that Police Staff Sergeant Restie Dandan was killed by communist guerillas under the NPA's Guerrilla Front 16 led by a certain Rolando Leyson Jr. after 18 days in captivity.

Dandan was kidnapped by armed men believed to be NPA rebels on July 31 in Barangay San Isidro, Sison town. The NPA, however, has not confirmed nor denied whether it was responsible.

Col. George Banzon, 901Bde commander, described Dandan's killing as “heartless”.

“The 901st Infantry Brigade joins the people of Surigao in condemning the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) following the heartless murder of police personnel,” Banson said.

Dandan’s body sustained three gunshot wounds according to the report of the Scene of the Crime Operation (SOCO) sent by the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) on Tuesday.

Desperate

“The people of Surigao, especially the hopeful family of PSSgt. Dandan, were deeply saddened by bad news after it was confirmed that their beloved had been brutally murdered by Communist NPA Terrorists,” Banson said.

He said that the kidnap-slaying of Dandan indicates that the NPA members in the province have become "desperate as they target off-duty uniformed personnel who do not have the capacity to defend themselves".

The NPA rebels, he added, have shown "their true colors as terrorists and human right violators".

“This is another blatant disrespect of human rights and a clear violation of International Humanitarian Law which add to the long list of atrocities they committed against our countrymen, in this particular case, against the Surigaonons. The crime they committed was barbaric and unacceptable in a civilized society,” Banson added.

He also called on Surigao del Norte residents to unite in denouncing the communist rebel movement.

“We offer our sincerest sympathies and condolences to the family of late PSSgt. Dandan. This will not stop here, our unit, in coordination with the PNP (Philippine National Police), will continue to pursue the perpetrators so that justice will be served to the victim. It is just a matter of time, these terrorists will fall to the long arm of law and we will make them accountable for this crime,” Banson said.

PRO-13 slams Reds

In a statement Wednesday, the Police Regional Office in Caraga Region (PRO-13) condemned the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the NPA, for Dandan's death.

“The entire police force condemned in the strongest manner the latest hostility of the CPP-NPA victimizing PSSgt. Restie Dandan. This dastardly and barbaric act proved that the CPP-NPA terrorists never uphold the rule of law and are just good in disguising as protectors of the people,” PRO-13 Director Brig. Gen. Joselito Esquivel Jr. said.

Esquivel said the CPP-NPA "fights for a lost cause and that the atrocities they commit speak of their true colors as anti-peace and development.

The PRO-13 chief described Dandan as "a humble and hardworking police officer. Even in his previous assignments or in the community where he is residing, he did not have a derogatory record."

He also emphasized that joint police and military operation is now ongoing to bring those responsible for Dandan’s death to the bar of justice.

“The death of PSSgt. Dandan widowed his wife and orphaned his son and two daughters. We share the grief of his family, relatives, workmates, and friends over the loss of a good law enforcer, husband, and father. At all costs we will ensure that justice will be served soon," Esquivel said.

Meanwhile, Surigao del Norte Vice Governor Eddie Gokiangkee Jr. also issued a statement Wednesday expressing grief and condemnation over the death of Dandan.

“We are in solidarity with the appeal of the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte for prayers for the eternal repose of the soul of PSSgt. Dandan, as well as for emotional strength of his immediate family and we sincerely express our heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family,” Gokiangkee said.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112749

SoCot opens halfway house for ex-NPA rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 19, 2020): SoCot opens halfway house for ex-NPA rebels (By Allen Estabillo)



The Provincial capitol building of South Cotabato. (File photo courtesy of the provincial government)

The provincial government of South Cotabato unveiled Tuesday a PHP5 million halfway house for returning New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

Rudy Jimenea, head executive assistant of South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., said Wednesday the facility is now fully operational and ready to accept rebel surrenderers.

Jimenea said the halfway house, which was built through a grant from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), will mainly serve as processing center for former rebels as part of the local government’s initiative under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

A provincial government briefer said the two-story halfway house, which is situated within the provincial Animal Production and Processing Center compound in Barangay Tinongcop, Tantangan town, has dormitory rooms, training room, office and several other amenities.

The facility will be used as a temporary home for former rebels as they undergo various processes and interventions under the E-CLIP. All activities related to the program, among them the awarding of assistance and livelihood training, will be conducted at the center.

The inauguration was graced by DILG-Region 12 director Josephine Leysa, 6th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, South Cotabato Vice Gov. Vicente de Jesus, board members Antonio Fungan and Ester Marin Catorce, and Tantangan Mayor Benjamin Figueroa Jr.

Jimenea reiterated the local government’s full support to the E-CLIP and assured that it will continue to assist the returning rebels in the province.

“Through this program, they can be reintegrated back to the community, be with their families, and start over with their new, normal lives,” he said in a statement.

Under the E-CLIP, surrenderers may avail of reintegration assistance worth PHP21,000, immediate assistance of PHP15,000, livelihood assistance of PHP50,000, firearms remuneration and other support interventions.

Since last year, over 100 NPA rebels under Guerrilla Fronts 72 and 73 of the NPA-Far South Mindanao Region have surrendered to the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112765

NPA ammos, food supplies seized in Butuan after civilian tip-off

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 19, 2020): NPA ammos, food supplies seized in Butuan after civilian tip-off (By Alexander Lopez)



AMMOS, FOOD SUPPLIES SEIZED. Government troops recover various types of ammunition and food supplies in a hideout of the communist New People’s Army in the forested area of Barangay Tungao, Butuan City on Tuesday evening (Aug. 23, 2020). The discovery of the rebel hideout is attributed by the military to civilian tip-offs. (Photo courtesy of 23IB)

Civilian tip-offs led to the discovery of a hideout of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) here, resulting in the recovery of high-powered firearms, ammunition, and food supplies.

In a statement Wednesday, the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion said that information provided by villagers led to the discovery of the NPA hideout in a forested area of Sitio Lamusig, Barangay Tungao here on Tuesday.
1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, 23IB civil-military operations officer, said a combined police and military team scoured the area and discovered the 50-square meter hideout that can accommodate around 10 persons where ammunition and food supplies were stored.

“The operation was in response to reports by concerned civilians in the area on the activities of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) and the location of a hideout,” Maglalang said.

Recovered at the hideout were an AK47 magazine, an M16 magazine, 22 rounds of AK47 7.62mm ammunition, 71 rounds of M16 5.56mm ammunition, four empty cartons of AK47 ammunition, a four-meter electrical wire, and food supplies.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar Paulo, 23IB commander, expressed gratitude to the villagers who provided "positive and timely information to the government forces regarding the activities, whereabouts of the enemies, and the concealed ammunition and supply of food".

"We are glad that the residents of Sitio Lamusig willingly and bravely supported us in ending insurgency in conflict-affected areas in Butuan City and the rest of Agusan del Norte,” Paulo said.

He said civilian tip-offs on the activities of the rebels proved that "they are already tired of the presence of the NPA rebels in their localities. It also means that the CNTs are losing mass support as the local residents now shift their support to the government".

“The ordinary civilians are already tired of your harassments and intimidations. You can run but the long arms of the law, with the support of the people, will soon catch you. It is better to surrender now and avail of the programs the government is offering for you,” Paulo told the rebels.

The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112789