From the Mindanao Times (Aug 20. 2020): 10th ID marks 14th anniversary; officer vows more collaborations BY RHODA GRACE SARON ON AUGUST 20, 2020
A TOP Army officer vowed to put more effort into partnership with the community and private sector to establish conflict-resilient barangays to better prepare them for development.
In his speech during the 14th founding anniversary of the 10th Infantry Division (10ID), Maj. Gen. Reuben S. Basiao, the division commander, said that people’s empowerment is the key to establishing conflict- and disaster-resilient communities ready.
“The basis of the execution of the campaign is the collaboration continuum with the end state of creating an environment conducive to peace and development through convergence. As for the division, the objective is to create conflict and disaster-resilient communities with a sustainable livelihood through networking, cooperation, coordination, and collaboration with partners-stakeholders,” he said.
He also cited that the programs pioneered by the 10ID have also become a model of counter-insurgency campaign of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The programs went through a series of transformations and innovations that eventually designed the campaign to have more emphasis on community-based engagements in countering the communist terrorist group’s massive ideological, political, and organizational machinery.
“I am happy to report the division developed its own line of operations, which comprises 80 percent community-based engagement that involves community support program, peoples organizations, community development, and integrated territorial defense system,” he added.
Basiao also underscored that while the communist rebels continue to radicalize isolated communities where government services are seldom felt, the community support program proved to be an effective tool in winning back the hearts and minds of the people.
He recounted that in 2019, four guerilla fronts and five Pulang Bagani Company were dismantled within the area of responsibility of the division. They were given livelihood assistance like vegetable farming and chicken production, among others.
“These livelihood programs developments in former CTG’s stricken communities’ give economic opportunity and uplift living standard. These campaign innovations played a significant role in reducing armed violence by providing the community with resources, know-how, and life-skills to achieve a sustainable livelihood that creates an environment of shared-responsibility with partner-stakeholders in the promotion of peace and development,” Basiao added.
Apart from that, the division also engages in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in response to the series of earthquakes that devastated the areas of North Cotabato and Davao del Sur in 2019.
“In celebration of our 14th anniversary, allow us to express our sincerest gratitude for your untiring support and selfless sacrifices. But then again, there are still a lot of works to be done especially in hastening the defeat of the CTGs (NPA), rest assured that we will not rest on our laurels,” Basiao added.
https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/08/20/10th-id-marks-14th-anniversary-officer-vows-more-collaborations/
Thursday, August 20, 2020
Government brings assistance to the families of 3 slain NPA rebels in Ilocos clash
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): Government brings assistance to the families of 3 slain NPA rebels in Ilocos clash (By Freddie G. Lazaro)
SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Aug. 19 (PIA) - - The national government through the Provincial Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of Ilocos Sur had brought the assistance to the families of the three slain New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in an encounter at Barangay Suagayan, Sta. Lucia, Ilocos Sur on August 8.
The task force also gave support to the family of the slain civilian, reportedly mistaken as a military informer, who was allegedly hit by the bullets from the NPAs during the clash.
Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo A. Mariñas Jr., the commanding officer of the army’s 81st Infantry Battalion, said the giving of assistance by the government to the bereaved families of the killed NPAs and civilian is a gesture of sympathy to them.
He said that the government had always been prepared of assisting the Filipinos, who are victims of the ideology and ill-effect of communism.
On Tuesday, the task force visited the wake of Edgar Justo AKA Nardo and Rolando Marvil AKA Eugene, both in Barangay Bugnay, Candon City, Ilocos Sur; and Martin Capulas AKA Asiong of Sitio Linggawa, Barangay Pidpid, Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur and gave cash assistance and sacks of rice to the grieving families.
The group also handed-over an assistance to the family of slain civilian, Diosdado Valdez Jr., 36, of Barangay Parioc Primero, Candon City.
During their visit, Mariñas said the PTF-ELCAC member-agencies, and the city government of Candon conducted the consultations and interviews with the bereaved families to determine the appropriate livelihood skills training offered for free for them.
Mariñas said the task force members, who worked on the successful distribution of the assistance were representatives from the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur (PGIS) to include the provincial veterinarian, the agriculturist, and the provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer: City Government of Candon; the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Sta Cruz; the provincial directors from the DILG, TESDA, and DTI; the army and police.
Meanwhile, Floro Capulas, the brother of late Martin Capulas AKA Asiong, expressed his gratitude to the PTF-ELCAC member–agencies for the provision of assistance extended for them.
“With the continuing support and assistance from the government, I’m greatly hoping that there’s no more victim on the ideology of communism,” said Capulas.
Barangay Chairman Bernardo Valdez Jr. of Parioc Primero, Candon City said, “I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to all the members of the PTF-ELCAC who came to give support financially and morally to the bereaved family of the late Diosdado Valdez.”
For her part, Lucita Marvil Langas, the sister of late Rolando Marvil AKA Eugene, appealed to the remaining NPAs in the country to surrender and support the programs of the national government for lasting peace and development.
She thanked the PTF-ELCAC for the support and assistance given to them.
Earlier, the army’s 7th Infantry Division gave cash assistance to the families of the three slain NPAs and the slain civilian in Ilocos Sur. (JCR/FGL, PIA 1)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050701
SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Aug. 19 (PIA) - - The national government through the Provincial Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of Ilocos Sur had brought the assistance to the families of the three slain New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in an encounter at Barangay Suagayan, Sta. Lucia, Ilocos Sur on August 8.
The task force also gave support to the family of the slain civilian, reportedly mistaken as a military informer, who was allegedly hit by the bullets from the NPAs during the clash.
Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo A. Mariñas Jr., the commanding officer of the army’s 81st Infantry Battalion, said the giving of assistance by the government to the bereaved families of the killed NPAs and civilian is a gesture of sympathy to them.
He said that the government had always been prepared of assisting the Filipinos, who are victims of the ideology and ill-effect of communism.
On Tuesday, the task force visited the wake of Edgar Justo AKA Nardo and Rolando Marvil AKA Eugene, both in Barangay Bugnay, Candon City, Ilocos Sur; and Martin Capulas AKA Asiong of Sitio Linggawa, Barangay Pidpid, Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur and gave cash assistance and sacks of rice to the grieving families.
The group also handed-over an assistance to the family of slain civilian, Diosdado Valdez Jr., 36, of Barangay Parioc Primero, Candon City.
During their visit, Mariñas said the PTF-ELCAC member-agencies, and the city government of Candon conducted the consultations and interviews with the bereaved families to determine the appropriate livelihood skills training offered for free for them.
Mariñas said the task force members, who worked on the successful distribution of the assistance were representatives from the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur (PGIS) to include the provincial veterinarian, the agriculturist, and the provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer: City Government of Candon; the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Sta Cruz; the provincial directors from the DILG, TESDA, and DTI; the army and police.
Meanwhile, Floro Capulas, the brother of late Martin Capulas AKA Asiong, expressed his gratitude to the PTF-ELCAC member–agencies for the provision of assistance extended for them.
“With the continuing support and assistance from the government, I’m greatly hoping that there’s no more victim on the ideology of communism,” said Capulas.
Barangay Chairman Bernardo Valdez Jr. of Parioc Primero, Candon City said, “I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to all the members of the PTF-ELCAC who came to give support financially and morally to the bereaved family of the late Diosdado Valdez.”
For her part, Lucita Marvil Langas, the sister of late Rolando Marvil AKA Eugene, appealed to the remaining NPAs in the country to surrender and support the programs of the national government for lasting peace and development.
She thanked the PTF-ELCAC for the support and assistance given to them.
Earlier, the army’s 7th Infantry Division gave cash assistance to the families of the three slain NPAs and the slain civilian in Ilocos Sur. (JCR/FGL, PIA 1)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050701
RTF-ELCAC cluster brings gov’t aid to eastern Pangasinan farmers
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): RTF-ELCAC cluster brings gov’t aid to eastern Pangasinan farmers (By Venus May H. Sarmiento)
UMINGAN,Pangasinan, Aug 20 (PIA) - The Poverty Reduction, Employment and Livelihood Cluster (PRLEC) of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Ilocos Region led on Tuesday the provision of government aid for farmers and irrigators in this eastern town.
The Capsing Irrigators Association in Barangay Diket which has 80 members was the first recipient of livelihood programs and leadership training skills as part of the government’s advocacy to bring help and services to the far-flung areas.
Provincial Director Jimmicio Daoaten of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Pangasinan said, the coming together of different agencies is part of the government’s advocacy to help the residents and explain what the government is doing for them especially in this time of pandemic.
“This is a convergence. Tulong-tulong ang mga national government agencies para matulungan ang mga farmers at irrigators at mapaganda ang inyong produksyon,” Daoaten said during the ceremony launch held at the Diket Elementary School gym.
UMINGAN,Pangasinan, Aug 20 (PIA) - The Poverty Reduction, Employment and Livelihood Cluster (PRLEC) of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Ilocos Region led on Tuesday the provision of government aid for farmers and irrigators in this eastern town.
The Capsing Irrigators Association in Barangay Diket which has 80 members was the first recipient of livelihood programs and leadership training skills as part of the government’s advocacy to bring help and services to the far-flung areas.
Provincial Director Jimmicio Daoaten of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Pangasinan said, the coming together of different agencies is part of the government’s advocacy to help the residents and explain what the government is doing for them especially in this time of pandemic.
“This is a convergence. Tulong-tulong ang mga national government agencies para matulungan ang mga farmers at irrigators at mapaganda ang inyong produksyon,” Daoaten said during the ceremony launch held at the Diket Elementary School gym.
LIVELIHOOD. Some 1,500 tilapia fingerlings were distributed to farmers and irrigators of Brgy Diket in Umingan town as part of the program for Poverty Reduction, Employment and Livelihood Cluster (PRLEC) that brought government aid for farmers and irrigators in this eastern town. (VHS/PIA)
National Irrigation Administration Regional Manager Angelito Miguel encouraged the farmers and even their wives and sisters to join the trainings especially for soap and detergent making and backyard planting.
“Ito pong proyekto, napakaganda para bigyan kayo ng pangkabuhayan. May pagkakaabalahan tayo at pagkakakitaan,“ Engr. Miguel said.
The provincial government, through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, represented by Aurelia Cariaga, gave out 1,500 tilapia fingerlings that were dispersed in the river and will be ready for harvest in two months time.
Cariaga said trainings on organic fertilizer production, plant propagations and bio-pesticide propagation would also be given to the farmers.
Mayor Michael Corleone Cruz thanked the national agencies who travelled to Umingan to bring the good news to his town mates.
“Nararamdaman nating lahat ang tulong at ayuda ng gobyerno para sa mga magsasaka. Gamitin natin ng tama at huwag pabayaan,“ Mayor Cruz said in his native language addressing the farmers.
Capsing IA president Falcuneri Serdeniola thanked the government agencies and said, it is not only their association which will benefit from the help but the entire town of Umingan. (JCR/VHS/PIA-Pangasinan)
National Irrigation Administration Regional Manager Angelito Miguel encouraged the farmers and even their wives and sisters to join the trainings especially for soap and detergent making and backyard planting.
“Ito pong proyekto, napakaganda para bigyan kayo ng pangkabuhayan. May pagkakaabalahan tayo at pagkakakitaan,“ Engr. Miguel said.
The provincial government, through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, represented by Aurelia Cariaga, gave out 1,500 tilapia fingerlings that were dispersed in the river and will be ready for harvest in two months time.
Cariaga said trainings on organic fertilizer production, plant propagations and bio-pesticide propagation would also be given to the farmers.
Mayor Michael Corleone Cruz thanked the national agencies who travelled to Umingan to bring the good news to his town mates.
“Nararamdaman nating lahat ang tulong at ayuda ng gobyerno para sa mga magsasaka. Gamitin natin ng tama at huwag pabayaan,“ Mayor Cruz said in his native language addressing the farmers.
Capsing IA president Falcuneri Serdeniola thanked the government agencies and said, it is not only their association which will benefit from the help but the entire town of Umingan. (JCR/VHS/PIA-Pangasinan)
Army rescues 2 minors recruited by NPA in Guihulngan
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): Army rescues 2 minors recruited by NPA in Guihulngan (By Jennifer C. Tilos)
NEGROS ORIENTAL, Aug. 20 (PIA) –- Philippine Army troopers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) have rescued two female minors who were recruited by the Communist New People's Army (NPA) Terrorist during this week’s encounter at the hinterland barangay of Guihulngan City.
According to Community Military Officer Capt. Kelvin Bayaban of 303IB, the female minors, whose names are withheld for their security and safety, were rescued by troops of 62IB after a series of encounters with the armed NPA members at Sitio Maluy-a, Brgy. Sandayao in Guihulngan.
Bayaban said the two female minors together with Rennel Marosino aka Bikbik were cornered by the troops and abandoned by the withdrawing NPAs after their temporary hideout was overwhelmed by elements of 62IB.
In an interview, the two minors pointed to aka Bikbik and aka James as the ones who enticed and deceived them to join the NPAs.
The children are removed immediately from the encounter site by helicopters to keep them safe, said Bayaban.
After being airlifted out of the danger areas, the rescued minors were turned over to the local police and social welfare personnel of Guihulngan City to undergo trauma counselling.
The incident prompted the City Government of Guihulngan, headed by Mayor Jorge Joan Reyes, to strongly condemn the terroristic acts of the NPAs.
Reyes is deeply saddened to learn that children are being recruited to fight a battle that they do not even fully understand, families are being pushed to war, parents ending up in jail, brothers separated and fighting up in different places, and infants being orphaned.
It was noted that such unnecessary sacrifices are heavy burdens imposed on the people of Guihulngan City by the NPAs who do not even care whether they live or die.
Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, 62IB Commanding Officer, in his statement said “the rescued minors are clear proof that this is how the NPAs value the lives of people, as their sacrificial lambs, ruined the children’s future, lie to their advantage.”
He added that "opposite of their black propaganda against the government troops, the rescued minors who were deceived into joining the NPA terrorist group, are treated well by the soldiers and taken cared of by proper government agencies like the PNP and DSWD to undergo further counselling and stress orientation.”
Meanwhile, Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander, said that "the incident is a clear proof that the LPC-NPA-Central Negros Guerilla Front is a top violator of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (HR-IHL) despite their claims of being pro-people.”
“It also show their adeptness in fabricating lies to deceive the people. However, the people of Negros is aware of their vicious lies and twisted propaganda stories to cover up their HR violations and terroristic evil doings especially the recruitment of minors. Protect your community, spare your children from these terrorist groups who continue to deceive and lead our youth in the armed struggle, eventually ruining their lives and their future,” Pasaporte cited.
The Philippine Army brigade urged the public to contact them for any information regarding the presence of armed groups or NPAs in their areas through its hotline numbers: (Globe) 09567414044 and (Smart) 09300072305. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental with reports from 303rd Infantry Brigade)
NEGROS ORIENTAL, Aug. 20 (PIA) –- Philippine Army troopers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) have rescued two female minors who were recruited by the Communist New People's Army (NPA) Terrorist during this week’s encounter at the hinterland barangay of Guihulngan City.
According to Community Military Officer Capt. Kelvin Bayaban of 303IB, the female minors, whose names are withheld for their security and safety, were rescued by troops of 62IB after a series of encounters with the armed NPA members at Sitio Maluy-a, Brgy. Sandayao in Guihulngan.
Bayaban said the two female minors together with Rennel Marosino aka Bikbik were cornered by the troops and abandoned by the withdrawing NPAs after their temporary hideout was overwhelmed by elements of 62IB.
In an interview, the two minors pointed to aka Bikbik and aka James as the ones who enticed and deceived them to join the NPAs.
The children are removed immediately from the encounter site by helicopters to keep them safe, said Bayaban.
After being airlifted out of the danger areas, the rescued minors were turned over to the local police and social welfare personnel of Guihulngan City to undergo trauma counselling.
The incident prompted the City Government of Guihulngan, headed by Mayor Jorge Joan Reyes, to strongly condemn the terroristic acts of the NPAs.
Reyes is deeply saddened to learn that children are being recruited to fight a battle that they do not even fully understand, families are being pushed to war, parents ending up in jail, brothers separated and fighting up in different places, and infants being orphaned.
It was noted that such unnecessary sacrifices are heavy burdens imposed on the people of Guihulngan City by the NPAs who do not even care whether they live or die.
Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, 62IB Commanding Officer, in his statement said “the rescued minors are clear proof that this is how the NPAs value the lives of people, as their sacrificial lambs, ruined the children’s future, lie to their advantage.”
He added that "opposite of their black propaganda against the government troops, the rescued minors who were deceived into joining the NPA terrorist group, are treated well by the soldiers and taken cared of by proper government agencies like the PNP and DSWD to undergo further counselling and stress orientation.”
Meanwhile, Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander, said that "the incident is a clear proof that the LPC-NPA-Central Negros Guerilla Front is a top violator of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (HR-IHL) despite their claims of being pro-people.”
“It also show their adeptness in fabricating lies to deceive the people. However, the people of Negros is aware of their vicious lies and twisted propaganda stories to cover up their HR violations and terroristic evil doings especially the recruitment of minors. Protect your community, spare your children from these terrorist groups who continue to deceive and lead our youth in the armed struggle, eventually ruining their lives and their future,” Pasaporte cited.
The Philippine Army brigade urged the public to contact them for any information regarding the presence of armed groups or NPAs in their areas through its hotline numbers: (Globe) 09567414044 and (Smart) 09300072305. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental with reports from 303rd Infantry Brigade)
Three more armed NPA rebels surrender in Southern Bukidnon
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): Three more armed NPA rebels surrender in Southern Bukidnon (By Norven Jay Garcia, CMO, 4ID)
MARAMAG, Bukidnon, August 19—A day after their 12 counterparts yielded, another three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, each with firearms, surrendered at around nine o’clock in the evening of Saturday, 15 August, to the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion at 88IB Headquarters, South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon.
They were identified as members of Malayag 1, Guerilla Front Malayag, SRC2, NCMRC under alias ‘Ricky’ operating in the areas of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
In an interview, one of them later revealed that they decided to surrender upon knowing that 12 of their comrades already submitted themselves to the government forces and laid down their 11 firearms on August 14.
The three armed surrendering NPAs were identified as alias ‘Kuyaw’ and alias ‘Dongkoy’—regular NPA members—and alias Micheal, a Militia ng Bayan member. They brought along with them one Carbine M1 rifle; two homemade shotguns; and one homemade pistol revolver.
“Grabe nga ka hadlok para sa among kinabuhi ang among nasinati samtang naa mi sa lasang. Nahadlok mi nga mangamatay sa way hinungdan nga pamaagi. Nakuyawan nasad ko kay daghan na nag-surender. Mas tsada manurender nalang sad mi. (We are so scared for our lives while we are in the hinterlands and forested area, we are afraid to die trivially. I was also worried because many of my comrades already surrendered. We thought of this as the best option we have),” alias Kuyaw said in his dialect.
Few months ago, the government troops engaged with the members of GF Malayag in the municipalities of San Fernando and Cabanglasan which resulted in the death and wounding of NPAs, seizure of their temporary hideouts, and the capture of numerous firearms, war materials, and subversive documents of the said communist terrorist group.
Lt Col. Franklin Fabic, Commanding Officer of 88IB warmly welcomed the surrender of the members of GF Malayag. “I am very happy to know that more and more members of GF Malayag chose to return to the folds of the law. We encourage other members to surrender and benefit from different government programs through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).” (CMO, 88IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050770
MARAMAG, Bukidnon, August 19—A day after their 12 counterparts yielded, another three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, each with firearms, surrendered at around nine o’clock in the evening of Saturday, 15 August, to the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion at 88IB Headquarters, South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon.
They were identified as members of Malayag 1, Guerilla Front Malayag, SRC2, NCMRC under alias ‘Ricky’ operating in the areas of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
In an interview, one of them later revealed that they decided to surrender upon knowing that 12 of their comrades already submitted themselves to the government forces and laid down their 11 firearms on August 14.
The three armed surrendering NPAs were identified as alias ‘Kuyaw’ and alias ‘Dongkoy’—regular NPA members—and alias Micheal, a Militia ng Bayan member. They brought along with them one Carbine M1 rifle; two homemade shotguns; and one homemade pistol revolver.
“Grabe nga ka hadlok para sa among kinabuhi ang among nasinati samtang naa mi sa lasang. Nahadlok mi nga mangamatay sa way hinungdan nga pamaagi. Nakuyawan nasad ko kay daghan na nag-surender. Mas tsada manurender nalang sad mi. (We are so scared for our lives while we are in the hinterlands and forested area, we are afraid to die trivially. I was also worried because many of my comrades already surrendered. We thought of this as the best option we have),” alias Kuyaw said in his dialect.
Few months ago, the government troops engaged with the members of GF Malayag in the municipalities of San Fernando and Cabanglasan which resulted in the death and wounding of NPAs, seizure of their temporary hideouts, and the capture of numerous firearms, war materials, and subversive documents of the said communist terrorist group.
Lt Col. Franklin Fabic, Commanding Officer of 88IB warmly welcomed the surrender of the members of GF Malayag. “I am very happy to know that more and more members of GF Malayag chose to return to the folds of the law. We encourage other members to surrender and benefit from different government programs through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).” (CMO, 88IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050770
Twelve NPA rebels surrender in Bukidnon
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): Twelve NPA rebels surrender in Bukidnon (By Norven Jay Garcia, CMO, 88IB, 4ID)
MARAMAG, Bukidnon, Aug. 18—Twelve New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered at around ten o’clock in the evening on Thursday, August 14, to the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion (88IB) Headquarters in South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon.
The said Former Rebels (FRs) are members of Malayag 1, Guerilla Front Malayag, SRC2, NCMRC under alias ‘Ricky’ operating in the areas of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
They were identified as alias Joe, squad leader; alias Rolen (female), squad supply officer; alias Bayan, team leader; alias Gaw-ay, team leader; alias Rock, political guide, alias Tam-is, political guide; alias Banog, member; alias Jack, member; alias Dayrek, MB (Militia ng Bayan) member; alias Justin, MB member; alias Junel, MB member; and alias Opaw, MB member.
Lt. Col. Franklin Fabic, Commanding Officer of 88IB bared that in previous weeks, prior to the group’s surrender, these FRs were involved in the armed battle against the government forces in Cabanglasan municipality that caused a series of failures and defeats of the communist terrorists.
They also surrendered some firearms such as one M16A1, two Garand Rifles, three Carbine M1 Rifles, four Homemade Shotguns, and one caliber 45 pistol.
In a custodial debriefing, alias Rolen shared their hardships in the mountains especially the lack of food.
“Gutom lang ug kalisod among natagamtaman. Nahadlok sad ko sa among kauban nga nangamatay sa engkwentro, basin mapareho mi sa ila. Dili ko gusto mamatay, daghan pako gusto himuon sa akong kinabuhi kauban sa akong anak ug pamilya.” (We experienced hunger and misery. We were also scared when our comrades died in an encounter. We might have the same fate. I don’t want to die, I want to do better things with my child and my family),” Rolen said in dialect.
A few months ago, from May to July, the government troops figured in a series of encounters with the members of Guerilla Front Malayag in the municipalities of San Fernando and Cabanglasan that resulted in the death and wounding of NPAs, seizure of their temporary hideouts, and the capture of numerous firearms, war materials, and subversive documents.
LtCol. Fabic welcomed the voluntary surrender of the members of GF Malayag. He said each of the 12 former NPA rebels can receive their E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) benefits after some detailed debriefing.
“I hope that @Migs and his other members will do the same. For those who chose to remain a threat to our peaceful communities, we will not hesitate to exhaust all our capabilities to hunt and destroy you with all our might in order to protect our peace-loving citizens of Southern Bukidnon,” Fabic added. (CMO, 88IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050729
MARAMAG, Bukidnon, Aug. 18—Twelve New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered at around ten o’clock in the evening on Thursday, August 14, to the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion (88IB) Headquarters in South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon.
The said Former Rebels (FRs) are members of Malayag 1, Guerilla Front Malayag, SRC2, NCMRC under alias ‘Ricky’ operating in the areas of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
They were identified as alias Joe, squad leader; alias Rolen (female), squad supply officer; alias Bayan, team leader; alias Gaw-ay, team leader; alias Rock, political guide, alias Tam-is, political guide; alias Banog, member; alias Jack, member; alias Dayrek, MB (Militia ng Bayan) member; alias Justin, MB member; alias Junel, MB member; and alias Opaw, MB member.
Lt. Col. Franklin Fabic, Commanding Officer of 88IB bared that in previous weeks, prior to the group’s surrender, these FRs were involved in the armed battle against the government forces in Cabanglasan municipality that caused a series of failures and defeats of the communist terrorists.
They also surrendered some firearms such as one M16A1, two Garand Rifles, three Carbine M1 Rifles, four Homemade Shotguns, and one caliber 45 pistol.
In a custodial debriefing, alias Rolen shared their hardships in the mountains especially the lack of food.
“Gutom lang ug kalisod among natagamtaman. Nahadlok sad ko sa among kauban nga nangamatay sa engkwentro, basin mapareho mi sa ila. Dili ko gusto mamatay, daghan pako gusto himuon sa akong kinabuhi kauban sa akong anak ug pamilya.” (We experienced hunger and misery. We were also scared when our comrades died in an encounter. We might have the same fate. I don’t want to die, I want to do better things with my child and my family),” Rolen said in dialect.
A few months ago, from May to July, the government troops figured in a series of encounters with the members of Guerilla Front Malayag in the municipalities of San Fernando and Cabanglasan that resulted in the death and wounding of NPAs, seizure of their temporary hideouts, and the capture of numerous firearms, war materials, and subversive documents.
LtCol. Fabic welcomed the voluntary surrender of the members of GF Malayag. He said each of the 12 former NPA rebels can receive their E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) benefits after some detailed debriefing.
“I hope that @Migs and his other members will do the same. For those who chose to remain a threat to our peaceful communities, we will not hesitate to exhaust all our capabilities to hunt and destroy you with all our might in order to protect our peace-loving citizens of Southern Bukidnon,” Fabic added. (CMO, 88IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050729
Cebuano news: 38 ka mga 'FRs' sa Bukidnon nakadawat ug 'livelihood' nga hinabang pinaagi sa E-CLIP
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): Cebuano news: 38 ka mga 'FRs' sa Bukidnon nakadawat ug 'livelihood' nga hinabang pinaagi sa E-CLIP (By Bernadith G. Epan)
MALAYBALAY CITY, Agosto 17 (PIA)—Nakadawat ug hinabang gikan sa gobyerno ang 38 ka mga kanhing rebelde ubos sa programang Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integrated program kon E-CLIP.
Mikabat sa P1.7 million ang total sa gipang-apod-apod sa Bukidnon E-CLIP Committee niadtong Huwebes, Agosto 13, sa nasangpit nga 38 ka mga Former Rebels (FRs), diin 23 kanila ang ‘Regular’ nga NPA ug 15 ang ‘Militia ng Bayan.’
Ang 23 ka mga ‘Regular’ nakadawat ug tag P50,000 nga cash alang sa ‘livelihood assistance’ ug dugang P15,000 nga cash para sa ‘immediate assistance’ matag usa kanila; samtang nakadawat usab ug tag P15,000 matag usa ka FR nga miyembro sa ‘Militia ng Bayan’.
Nagpasalamat si Governor Jose Ma. Zubiri sa mga kanhing rebelde nga nibalik na sa sabakan sa gobyerno. Matud niya nga mas malipay pa siya kung ang tanang kauban nila nga nagpabilin pa sa kabukiran, mo-surrender na.
“Parehas ratang tanan Pilipino ug dili kita angayan makig-away sa parehas nato nga Pilipino,” dugang sa Gobernador.
Sa iyang pakigpulong, si Major General Andres Centino, ang Commanding Officer sa 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army miingon nga kini nga mga lakang gihimo sa gobyerno aron kadtong mga igsoo-on nato nga naa pa karon sa kalihukan, maaghat nato nga mo-surender na.
“Kini nagpamatuod nga sinsero ug tinud-anay ang gihimo sa atong gobyerno aron ma-angkon ang kalinaw nga atoong gitinguha,” matud ni MGen Centino.
Tungod ini, si Michael Lumawag, kanhi Political Instructor sa North Central Mindanao Regional Committee sa CPP-NPA nag-awhag sa uban pang mga rebelde nga mo-surender na aron makapanginabuhi sila nga malinawon.
“Nanawagan ko sa akong mga kauban nga nagpabilin pa sa pag suporta ug pag-uban sa kalihokan nga CPP-NPA nga unta mo-surender na kay ang gobyerno andam mosuporta ug motabang kanato aron mahapsay atong kinabuhi" (BGEpan/PIA-Bukidnon)
MALAYBALAY CITY, Agosto 17 (PIA)—Nakadawat ug hinabang gikan sa gobyerno ang 38 ka mga kanhing rebelde ubos sa programang Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integrated program kon E-CLIP.
Mikabat sa P1.7 million ang total sa gipang-apod-apod sa Bukidnon E-CLIP Committee niadtong Huwebes, Agosto 13, sa nasangpit nga 38 ka mga Former Rebels (FRs), diin 23 kanila ang ‘Regular’ nga NPA ug 15 ang ‘Militia ng Bayan.’
Ang 23 ka mga ‘Regular’ nakadawat ug tag P50,000 nga cash alang sa ‘livelihood assistance’ ug dugang P15,000 nga cash para sa ‘immediate assistance’ matag usa kanila; samtang nakadawat usab ug tag P15,000 matag usa ka FR nga miyembro sa ‘Militia ng Bayan’.
Nagpasalamat si Governor Jose Ma. Zubiri sa mga kanhing rebelde nga nibalik na sa sabakan sa gobyerno. Matud niya nga mas malipay pa siya kung ang tanang kauban nila nga nagpabilin pa sa kabukiran, mo-surrender na.
“Parehas ratang tanan Pilipino ug dili kita angayan makig-away sa parehas nato nga Pilipino,” dugang sa Gobernador.
Sa iyang pakigpulong, si Major General Andres Centino, ang Commanding Officer sa 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army miingon nga kini nga mga lakang gihimo sa gobyerno aron kadtong mga igsoo-on nato nga naa pa karon sa kalihukan, maaghat nato nga mo-surender na.
“Kini nagpamatuod nga sinsero ug tinud-anay ang gihimo sa atong gobyerno aron ma-angkon ang kalinaw nga atoong gitinguha,” matud ni MGen Centino.
Tungod ini, si Michael Lumawag, kanhi Political Instructor sa North Central Mindanao Regional Committee sa CPP-NPA nag-awhag sa uban pang mga rebelde nga mo-surender na aron makapanginabuhi sila nga malinawon.
“Nanawagan ko sa akong mga kauban nga nagpabilin pa sa pag suporta ug pag-uban sa kalihokan nga CPP-NPA nga unta mo-surender na kay ang gobyerno andam mosuporta ug motabang kanato aron mahapsay atong kinabuhi" (BGEpan/PIA-Bukidnon)
4ID vows to protect people from NPA harassment
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): 4ID vows to protect people from NPA harassment (By Jan Albert K. Araña)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Aug. 17 (PIA) - "It is the role of government to protect and provide security to people harrased by New People's Army (NPA). Although they instill fear so that they can extort money, they still cannot win if we unite and stand brave against them."
This was the statement of 4th Infantry Division (4ID) Commander MGen. Andres C. Centino during the recent Talakayan sa PIA, as he cited the campaigns being done by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to end local communist armed conflict in regions 10 and 13 despite the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
The NPA is the armed group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). According to Centino, the movement began in the early 1970s and reached its peak around 1988 where 26,000 armed rebels were recorded. Since then, the AFP have been battling the NPA for 50 years.
"This group has spread all over the country, fighting the government and the AFP and staging violent activities like attacking our base camp and burning down pieces of equipment of various businesses that would not cooperate with them," MGen. Centino said.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Aug. 17 (PIA) - "It is the role of government to protect and provide security to people harrased by New People's Army (NPA). Although they instill fear so that they can extort money, they still cannot win if we unite and stand brave against them."
This was the statement of 4th Infantry Division (4ID) Commander MGen. Andres C. Centino during the recent Talakayan sa PIA, as he cited the campaigns being done by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to end local communist armed conflict in regions 10 and 13 despite the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
The NPA is the armed group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). According to Centino, the movement began in the early 1970s and reached its peak around 1988 where 26,000 armed rebels were recorded. Since then, the AFP have been battling the NPA for 50 years.
"This group has spread all over the country, fighting the government and the AFP and staging violent activities like attacking our base camp and burning down pieces of equipment of various businesses that would not cooperate with them," MGen. Centino said.
4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army Commander Major General Andres Centino shares the thrust of the division under his leadership during Talakayan sa PIA. (VPSBautista/PIA10)
The military has its focused operations against this armed group that had been terrorizing the country for decades.
However, he admitted that the armed group continuously recruits members targetting the youth. "It is true, that they [NPAs] still have their recruitment; this sustains their activities. They are targeting the youth especially those in schools or the countrysides. They take advantage of their curiosity and idealism as part of the strategies in recruiting," Centino added.
Also, one factor that also sustains their activities is the extortion done to businessmen or politicians.
"CPP is using the NPA to instill fear and extort money to be used in their operations. They call this as revolutionary taxation but in reality this is extortion. This sustains their activities since they use the extorted money to buy their food and replace their firearms, ammunition, and explosives they lost during encounters or those confiscated during our focused military operations," he said.
Despite the armed group's effort to increase and recruit more, the AFP is conducting focused military operations successfully, thus weakening their strength.
"For the past 10 years, we have successfully decreased their strength. From their peak of 26,000 rebels, they are now down to 4,000 rebels and that they have already plateaued for the past 10 years," Centino maintained.
Both recruitment and extortion of the NPA are being addressed by the AFP aimed at eliminating the armed terrorists.
"We are addressing this by having engagements with various stakeholders, both the schools and business establishments. We explain to them their tactics in both recruitment and extortion. If we stop their source of funds and support together with the focused military operation to reduce the armed group, we believe that we can address this problem ... If they no longer have funds to buy their food, firearms, ammunition, and explosives, they will stop what they are doing," Centino explained.
"To our brothers and sisters who remain in the countrysides, you no longer have reasons to pursue your activities. The issues that you have been raising against the government had been addressed already. You cannot see any abuses committed by the security forces anymore. The government had reached out to the far-flung areas. We already have roads, infrastructure projects, and schools. Services had been delivered and we have seen the programs of other agencies that had reached all the deprived sectors," MGen. Centino concluded. (JAKAraña/PIA10)
The military has its focused operations against this armed group that had been terrorizing the country for decades.
However, he admitted that the armed group continuously recruits members targetting the youth. "It is true, that they [NPAs] still have their recruitment; this sustains their activities. They are targeting the youth especially those in schools or the countrysides. They take advantage of their curiosity and idealism as part of the strategies in recruiting," Centino added.
Also, one factor that also sustains their activities is the extortion done to businessmen or politicians.
"CPP is using the NPA to instill fear and extort money to be used in their operations. They call this as revolutionary taxation but in reality this is extortion. This sustains their activities since they use the extorted money to buy their food and replace their firearms, ammunition, and explosives they lost during encounters or those confiscated during our focused military operations," he said.
Despite the armed group's effort to increase and recruit more, the AFP is conducting focused military operations successfully, thus weakening their strength.
"For the past 10 years, we have successfully decreased their strength. From their peak of 26,000 rebels, they are now down to 4,000 rebels and that they have already plateaued for the past 10 years," Centino maintained.
Both recruitment and extortion of the NPA are being addressed by the AFP aimed at eliminating the armed terrorists.
"We are addressing this by having engagements with various stakeholders, both the schools and business establishments. We explain to them their tactics in both recruitment and extortion. If we stop their source of funds and support together with the focused military operation to reduce the armed group, we believe that we can address this problem ... If they no longer have funds to buy their food, firearms, ammunition, and explosives, they will stop what they are doing," Centino explained.
"To our brothers and sisters who remain in the countrysides, you no longer have reasons to pursue your activities. The issues that you have been raising against the government had been addressed already. You cannot see any abuses committed by the security forces anymore. The government had reached out to the far-flung areas. We already have roads, infrastructure projects, and schools. Services had been delivered and we have seen the programs of other agencies that had reached all the deprived sectors," MGen. Centino concluded. (JAKAraña/PIA10)
Halfway house in South Cotabato ready to accept ex-rebels
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): Halfway house in South Cotabato ready to accept ex-rebels (By Danilo E. Doguiles)
From left: Tantangan Mayor Benjamin Figeroa, DILG South Cotabato Director Rochelle Sero, 6ID Commander Diosdado Carreon and Executive Assistant to the Governor Rudy Jimenea. Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan were also present during the inauguration of the P5-M halfway house for former rebels.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Aug. 20 (PIA) – The Provincial Government of South Cotabato is now ready to accept former rebels (FRs) in its facility in Tinongcop, Tantangan specifically intended for those who return to the fold of law.
On Tuesday, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) 12 turned over to South Cotabato Provincial Government the P5-million halfway house for FRs constructed in one of the properties of the provincial government in Barangay Tinongcop.
Atty. Rochelle Sero, provincial DILG director, said the provision of a halfway house for FRs is a component of the national government-led initiative Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) that promotes just and lasting peace, national reconciliation, and unity.
“The halfway house serves as a temporary shelter for FRs while their accepting unit, such as the Armed Forces of the Philippines or the Philippine National Police, secure their birth certificates, process their registration in PhilHealth, and other documents for their eventual reintegration to the mainstream society.
“Here they also receive interventions such as deradicalization, social healing and reconciliation, spiritual and moral enhancement, and health and wellness program as well as livelihood trainings,” Sero said.
The operationalization of the halfway house, she added, addresses the long prevailing problem regarding the accommodation of former rebels while they are being prepared for community reintegration. Before this, FRs stayed in facilities designated by the AFP and PNP.
Haide Agustin, head of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, said South Cotabato’s halfway house can accommodate at least 50 individuals.
It has separate dormitory-type rooms for female and male residents, five conjugal accommodations, a conference/training hall, mess hall, kitchen, and staff quarter.
Agustin explained that while the center can already accept FRs, additional construction jobs such as floor tiling and painting will be carried out soon to improve the facility through funding from the provincial government.
On Tuesday, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) 12 turned over to South Cotabato Provincial Government the P5-million halfway house for FRs constructed in one of the properties of the provincial government in Barangay Tinongcop.
Atty. Rochelle Sero, provincial DILG director, said the provision of a halfway house for FRs is a component of the national government-led initiative Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) that promotes just and lasting peace, national reconciliation, and unity.
“The halfway house serves as a temporary shelter for FRs while their accepting unit, such as the Armed Forces of the Philippines or the Philippine National Police, secure their birth certificates, process their registration in PhilHealth, and other documents for their eventual reintegration to the mainstream society.
“Here they also receive interventions such as deradicalization, social healing and reconciliation, spiritual and moral enhancement, and health and wellness program as well as livelihood trainings,” Sero said.
The operationalization of the halfway house, she added, addresses the long prevailing problem regarding the accommodation of former rebels while they are being prepared for community reintegration. Before this, FRs stayed in facilities designated by the AFP and PNP.
Haide Agustin, head of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, said South Cotabato’s halfway house can accommodate at least 50 individuals.
It has separate dormitory-type rooms for female and male residents, five conjugal accommodations, a conference/training hall, mess hall, kitchen, and staff quarter.
Agustin explained that while the center can already accept FRs, additional construction jobs such as floor tiling and painting will be carried out soon to improve the facility through funding from the provincial government.
Room for male residents of South Cotabato halfway house
Rudy Jimenea, who represented Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. in the event, told the former rebels attending the inauguration ceremony that the halfway house as well as different programs of Gov. Tamayo for free education, free hospitalization and other pro-poor interventions as well as the assistance given to FRs are enough reasons for people to trust the government and return to the fold of law.
Close to a hundred FRs joined the inauguration of the halfway house. Five of them received P65,000 financial aid from the DILG.
In his message at the ceremony, Major General Diosdado Carreon described E-CLIP and the establishment of a halfway house as a ‘noteworthy endeavor.”
“Finally, we have seen a comprehensive program that could put an end to the long-drawn communist insurgency in the country,” MGen. Carreon said, which he described is “one of the longest running insurgencies in the world.”
Unlike in the past when it seemed that the counterinsurgency program was solely the responsibility of the AFP, this time it’s a whole-of-the-nation approach where all government agencies work together to fight communism, he added.
Construction of the South Cotabato halfway house, started in February, 2019. (DED/PIA 12)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050720
Rudy Jimenea, who represented Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. in the event, told the former rebels attending the inauguration ceremony that the halfway house as well as different programs of Gov. Tamayo for free education, free hospitalization and other pro-poor interventions as well as the assistance given to FRs are enough reasons for people to trust the government and return to the fold of law.
Close to a hundred FRs joined the inauguration of the halfway house. Five of them received P65,000 financial aid from the DILG.
In his message at the ceremony, Major General Diosdado Carreon described E-CLIP and the establishment of a halfway house as a ‘noteworthy endeavor.”
“Finally, we have seen a comprehensive program that could put an end to the long-drawn communist insurgency in the country,” MGen. Carreon said, which he described is “one of the longest running insurgencies in the world.”
Unlike in the past when it seemed that the counterinsurgency program was solely the responsibility of the AFP, this time it’s a whole-of-the-nation approach where all government agencies work together to fight communism, he added.
Construction of the South Cotabato halfway house, started in February, 2019. (DED/PIA 12)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050720
122 CAFGU Active Auxiliary aspirants sumasailalim sa pagsasanay ng 6ID
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 20. 2020): Tagalog News: 122 CAFGU Active Auxiliary aspirants sumasailalim sa pagsasanay ng 6ID (By PIA Cotabato)
LUNGSOD NG COTABATO Agosto 20 (PIA) – Abot sa 122 Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliaries (CAA) aspirants ang nagsimula na sa kanilang military training sa 6th Infantry ‘Kampilan’ Division ng Philippine Army Division CAA Training Base sa Barangay Taviran, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
Ang pagsasanay na inorganisa ng Division CAA Affairs Unit (DCAU) ng 6ID ay magtatagal ng 45 araw. Nabatid na ang muling pagbuhay sa CAA company ay sa pamamagitan ng isang memorandum of agreement sa pagitan ng Pamahalaang Panlungsod ng Tacurong at 6ID.
Ito ay sa layuning palakasin ang seguridad sa lungsod.
Sa isinagawang oath taking ceremony, hinikayat ni dating Tacurong City Mayor Lina Montilla, siyang nagsilbing panauhing pandangal at tagapagsalita sa aktibidad, ang lahat na sama-samang magsikap upang maprotektahan at mapanatili ang kapayapaan at pagkakaisa sa siyudad.
Hinimok din ni 6ID at Joint Task Force Central (JTFC) Commander Major General Diosdado Carreon ang mga CAA aspirant na seryosohin ang pagsasanay, at isa-isip at isa-puso ang mga prinsipyo nito. Aniya, ito ang magiging gabay ng mga CAA aspirant sa pagtupad ng kanilang mga tungkulin sa hinaharap. (LTBolongon-PIA Cotabato City/With reports from DPAO-6ID).
LUNGSOD NG COTABATO Agosto 20 (PIA) – Abot sa 122 Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliaries (CAA) aspirants ang nagsimula na sa kanilang military training sa 6th Infantry ‘Kampilan’ Division ng Philippine Army Division CAA Training Base sa Barangay Taviran, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
Ang pagsasanay na inorganisa ng Division CAA Affairs Unit (DCAU) ng 6ID ay magtatagal ng 45 araw. Nabatid na ang muling pagbuhay sa CAA company ay sa pamamagitan ng isang memorandum of agreement sa pagitan ng Pamahalaang Panlungsod ng Tacurong at 6ID.
Ito ay sa layuning palakasin ang seguridad sa lungsod.
Sa isinagawang oath taking ceremony, hinikayat ni dating Tacurong City Mayor Lina Montilla, siyang nagsilbing panauhing pandangal at tagapagsalita sa aktibidad, ang lahat na sama-samang magsikap upang maprotektahan at mapanatili ang kapayapaan at pagkakaisa sa siyudad.
Hinimok din ni 6ID at Joint Task Force Central (JTFC) Commander Major General Diosdado Carreon ang mga CAA aspirant na seryosohin ang pagsasanay, at isa-isip at isa-puso ang mga prinsipyo nito. Aniya, ito ang magiging gabay ng mga CAA aspirant sa pagtupad ng kanilang mga tungkulin sa hinaharap. (LTBolongon-PIA Cotabato City/With reports from DPAO-6ID).
5 NPA rebels yield in Zamboanga Peninsula
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20, 2020): 5 NPA rebels yield in Zamboanga Peninsula (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)
SURRENDERERS. Five communist New People's Army rebels surrender on Aug. 18, 2020 to the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade in the Zamboanga Peninsula. In the photo is Ka Pawpaw, one of the five NPA surrenderers, handing over a rifle to Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, commander of the 44th Infantry Battalion based in the Zamboanga Sibugay town of Imelda. (Photo courtesy of the 44IB)
SURRENDERERS. Five communist New People's Army rebels surrender on Aug. 18, 2020 to the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade in the Zamboanga Peninsula. In the photo is Ka Pawpaw, one of the five NPA surrenderers, handing over a rifle to Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, commander of the 44th Infantry Battalion based in the Zamboanga Sibugay town of Imelda. (Photo courtesy of the 44IB)
Five communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels operating in the Zamboanga Peninsula area have surrendered to the Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade, military officials said Thursday.
Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade, identified the NPA surrenderers and their unit as 'Ka Pawpaw", Guerilla Front-Feliciano A; "Ka Arkins", Regional Urban Committee; "Ka Eric", Yunit Militia; and "Ka Jaymon" and "Ka Jongjong", Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU).
All of them belong to the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC), Nicolas said, adding their surrender Tuesday was facilitated by the 97th Infantry Battalion (IB), 44IB, 42IB, and 53IB.
Nicolas said the former rebels turned over two AK-47 assault rifles, eight magazines, and 245 live ammunitions when they surrendered.
“I've heard that the soldiers cared for my wounded comrades and those who returned to the government and surrendered their firearms,” Ka Pawpaw was quoted as saying in a statement released by 102Bde Thursday.
On Aug. 6, an NPA couple--identified only as Ka Peewee and Ka Ritchie--also surrendered after they were reportedly abandoned by their comrades following a clash with government troops in Leon Postigo town.
Over the weekend, Nicolas led the first "Western Mindanao Former Rebels Summit" that saw the surrender of a platoon-size of communist rebels to Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, the Philippine Army chief.
“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,” Nicolas said.
Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, 1st Infantry Division commander, said "this is the best time" for NPA fighters 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,” Ponio said.
Ponio said the surrenderers have been assisted for enrolment with the government's primary program for returnees, the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112881
Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the Army's 102nd Infantry Brigade, identified the NPA surrenderers and their unit as 'Ka Pawpaw", Guerilla Front-Feliciano A; "Ka Arkins", Regional Urban Committee; "Ka Eric", Yunit Militia; and "Ka Jaymon" and "Ka Jongjong", Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU).
All of them belong to the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC), Nicolas said, adding their surrender Tuesday was facilitated by the 97th Infantry Battalion (IB), 44IB, 42IB, and 53IB.
Nicolas said the former rebels turned over two AK-47 assault rifles, eight magazines, and 245 live ammunitions when they surrendered.
“I've heard that the soldiers cared for my wounded comrades and those who returned to the government and surrendered their firearms,” Ka Pawpaw was quoted as saying in a statement released by 102Bde Thursday.
On Aug. 6, an NPA couple--identified only as Ka Peewee and Ka Ritchie--also surrendered after they were reportedly abandoned by their comrades following a clash with government troops in Leon Postigo town.
Over the weekend, Nicolas led the first "Western Mindanao Former Rebels Summit" that saw the surrender of a platoon-size of communist rebels to Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, the Philippine Army chief.
“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,” Nicolas said.
Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, 1st Infantry Division commander, said "this is the best time" for NPA fighters 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,” Ponio said.
Ponio said the surrenderers have been assisted for enrolment with the government's primary program for returnees, the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112881
Residents hold indignation rally vs. NPA in Surigao Norte
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20, 2020): Residents hold indignation rally vs. NPA in Surigao Norte (By Alexander Lopez)
INDIGNATION RALLY. Residents and officials in the Surigao del Norte town of Sison town hold an indignation rally Wednesday afternoon (August 19, 2020) condemning the communist New People’s Army for the killing of Police Staff Segeant Restie Dandan, a member of the local police. Dandan was abducted by suspected NPA rebels on July 31 and his body was found 18 days after in the neighboring town of Mainit, Surigao del Norte. (Photo courtesy of 901Bde)
INDIGNATION RALLY. Residents and officials in the Surigao del Norte town of Sison town hold an indignation rally Wednesday afternoon (August 19, 2020) condemning the communist New People’s Army for the killing of Police Staff Segeant Restie Dandan, a member of the local police. Dandan was abducted by suspected NPA rebels on July 31 and his body was found 18 days after in the neighboring town of Mainit, Surigao del Norte. (Photo courtesy of 901Bde)
Residents of the Surigao del Norte town of Sison held an indignation rally against the communist New People’s Army (NPA) over the killing of Police Staff Sergeant Restie Dandan, who was found dead on Aug. 19, 18 days after his abduction by armed men believed to be NPA rebels .
Col. George L. Banzon, commander of the Army's 901st Infantry Brigade (901Bde), expressed support to the move of local residents in the area, which was led by the local government.
“We laud the efforts of the LGU and civilians for condemning the atrocity made by the communist terrorists. This is the right time to be united and stand against the abuses and violence of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs),” Banzon said in a statement Thursday.
He said the people of Surigao "are peace-loving people and do not deserve to be terrorized just to force them to support the CNT’s twisted ideology.”
Banzon said the unified stand of the residents, the municioal government, the Army and other community stakeholders against the atrocities of the communist rebels was "the right thing to do."
Wednesday's rally was led by Sison Mayor Karissa R. Fetalvero-Paronia together with the other local and police officials, led by Captain Giovanni M. Tindoy, chief of Sison Municipal Police Station.
Aside from the residents, representatives from the religious sector and other stakeholders also joined the indignation rally.
Dandan was abducted by suspected NPA rebels on July 31 and his body was found last August 18 in Sitio Napo, Barangay Matin-ao, Mainit, Surigao del Norte.
The Army said Dandan was abducted and killed by the members of Guerilla Front 16 of the NPA under a certain Rolando Leyson Jr.
Leyson, the Army said, is known in the town of Sison as he was born and raised in the municipality.
In the same statement Thursday, Tindoy condemned the "inhumane act committed by the NPA. PSSgt. Dandan was a good public servant in the town of Sison and a responsible family man."
Paronia, meanwhile, condemned "to the highest degree" Dandan's killing, describing it as "a grave disrespect against human life and an act of terrorism."
“We want justice, the family needs justice,” the mayor added.
The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112952
Col. George L. Banzon, commander of the Army's 901st Infantry Brigade (901Bde), expressed support to the move of local residents in the area, which was led by the local government.
“We laud the efforts of the LGU and civilians for condemning the atrocity made by the communist terrorists. This is the right time to be united and stand against the abuses and violence of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs),” Banzon said in a statement Thursday.
He said the people of Surigao "are peace-loving people and do not deserve to be terrorized just to force them to support the CNT’s twisted ideology.”
Banzon said the unified stand of the residents, the municioal government, the Army and other community stakeholders against the atrocities of the communist rebels was "the right thing to do."
Wednesday's rally was led by Sison Mayor Karissa R. Fetalvero-Paronia together with the other local and police officials, led by Captain Giovanni M. Tindoy, chief of Sison Municipal Police Station.
Aside from the residents, representatives from the religious sector and other stakeholders also joined the indignation rally.
Dandan was abducted by suspected NPA rebels on July 31 and his body was found last August 18 in Sitio Napo, Barangay Matin-ao, Mainit, Surigao del Norte.
The Army said Dandan was abducted and killed by the members of Guerilla Front 16 of the NPA under a certain Rolando Leyson Jr.
Leyson, the Army said, is known in the town of Sison as he was born and raised in the municipality.
In the same statement Thursday, Tindoy condemned the "inhumane act committed by the NPA. PSSgt. Dandan was a good public servant in the town of Sison and a responsible family man."
Paronia, meanwhile, condemned "to the highest degree" Dandan's killing, describing it as "a grave disrespect against human life and an act of terrorism."
“We want justice, the family needs justice,” the mayor added.
The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112952
Navy assets ready for Masbate quake response deployment
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20, 2020): Navy assets ready for Masbate quake response deployment (By Priam Nepomuceno)
The disaster risk reduction teams (DRRTs) and vessels of the Philippine Navy are ready for deployment to assist in response operations in quake-hit Masbate province.
Navy public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said Thursday one patrol boat is moored at the Masbate City Port.
"Through Naval Forces Southern, our DRRTs are on standby for deployment. Same thing with our vessel, which is now on alert," she said.
On Tuesday, a magnitude 6.6 earthquake jolted Masbate and nearby provinces, with the epicenter recorded 7 kilometers southeast of the municipality of Cataingan.
The initial damage assessment on roads and public buildings in Masbate caused by the earthquake has reached PHP24 million, the Office of Civil Defense regional office in Bicol (OCD-5) earlier said.
As of Wednesday, the number of injuries has reached 48, according to the OCD-5. In its situation report, the wounded individuals were from the towns of Cataingan (18), Palanas (27), Pio V. Corpuz (two), and Uson (one).
As per the latest report of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office, affected are roads, bridges, buildings, public markets and ports, and 19 schools.
Likewise, 26 houses were totally damaged while 35 were partially damaged.
The quake also killed a retired police officer who was trapped inside his house after it collapsed.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112847
Navy public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said Thursday one patrol boat is moored at the Masbate City Port.
"Through Naval Forces Southern, our DRRTs are on standby for deployment. Same thing with our vessel, which is now on alert," she said.
On Tuesday, a magnitude 6.6 earthquake jolted Masbate and nearby provinces, with the epicenter recorded 7 kilometers southeast of the municipality of Cataingan.
The initial damage assessment on roads and public buildings in Masbate caused by the earthquake has reached PHP24 million, the Office of Civil Defense regional office in Bicol (OCD-5) earlier said.
As of Wednesday, the number of injuries has reached 48, according to the OCD-5. In its situation report, the wounded individuals were from the towns of Cataingan (18), Palanas (27), Pio V. Corpuz (two), and Uson (one).
As per the latest report of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office, affected are roads, bridges, buildings, public markets and ports, and 19 schools.
Likewise, 26 houses were totally damaged while 35 were partially damaged.
The quake also killed a retired police officer who was trapped inside his house after it collapsed.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112847
Illegal drugs tag aims to muddle Sulu shooting: AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20, 2020): Illegal drugs tag aims to muddle Sulu shooting: AFP (By Priam Nepomuceno)
AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo (File photo)
MANILA – Allegations that Cpl. Abdal Asula, one of the four military intelligence operatives killed by local police officers in Jolo, Sulu last June 29, was into illegal drugs aims to draw attention away from the senseless killings, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Thursday.
"That is obviously a desperate attempt by the assailants to besmirch the reputation of Corporal Asula to justify or to divert the attention away from the senseless killing of the soldiers," said AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo in a statement.
The military issued the statement after Brig. Gen. Manuel Abu, head of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, in a Senate public order and dangerous drugs committee hearing, made presentations Wednesday claiming that Asula had links with an illegal drugs syndicate.
"The police earlier invoked self-defense even if investigation by the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) and eye-witness accounts clearly testify that there was no unlawful aggression or sufficient provocation to warrant the shooting. And now, the vilification of one of the slain soldiers," Arevalo said.
He added that the local police are coming up with all sorts of falsities to attempt to shirk criminal, civil, and administrative responsibilities for the murder of the four AFP personnel.
Killed in the June 29 incident in Jolo, Sulu were Major Marvin A. Indammog, 39; Capt. Irwin B. Managuelod, 33; Sgt. Jaime M. Velasco, 38 and Asula, 33.
The four soldiers were conducting intelligence and monitoring operations against two suspected suicide bombers when gunned down by nine Jolo-detailed police officers.
Meanwhile, Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, said the Army ranks are always cleared of individuals with illegal drug links, adding that those found with such connections are immediately investigated and discharged from the service if found guilty.
"Once you are (found) involved with (illegal) drugs, you will be discharged," he added.
Sobejana said that when he was Western Mindanao Command chief, he had these accusations against Asula investigated and nothing came of it.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112882
AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo (File photo)
MANILA – Allegations that Cpl. Abdal Asula, one of the four military intelligence operatives killed by local police officers in Jolo, Sulu last June 29, was into illegal drugs aims to draw attention away from the senseless killings, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Thursday.
"That is obviously a desperate attempt by the assailants to besmirch the reputation of Corporal Asula to justify or to divert the attention away from the senseless killing of the soldiers," said AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo in a statement.
The military issued the statement after Brig. Gen. Manuel Abu, head of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, in a Senate public order and dangerous drugs committee hearing, made presentations Wednesday claiming that Asula had links with an illegal drugs syndicate.
"The police earlier invoked self-defense even if investigation by the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) and eye-witness accounts clearly testify that there was no unlawful aggression or sufficient provocation to warrant the shooting. And now, the vilification of one of the slain soldiers," Arevalo said.
He added that the local police are coming up with all sorts of falsities to attempt to shirk criminal, civil, and administrative responsibilities for the murder of the four AFP personnel.
Killed in the June 29 incident in Jolo, Sulu were Major Marvin A. Indammog, 39; Capt. Irwin B. Managuelod, 33; Sgt. Jaime M. Velasco, 38 and Asula, 33.
The four soldiers were conducting intelligence and monitoring operations against two suspected suicide bombers when gunned down by nine Jolo-detailed police officers.
Meanwhile, Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, said the Army ranks are always cleared of individuals with illegal drug links, adding that those found with such connections are immediately investigated and discharged from the service if found guilty.
"Once you are (found) involved with (illegal) drugs, you will be discharged," he added.
Sobejana said that when he was Western Mindanao Command chief, he had these accusations against Asula investigated and nothing came of it.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112882
Solcom chief seeks probe of Fil-Am ‘terrorist’ death in Mindoro
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20, 2020): Solcom chief seeks probe of Fil-Am ‘terrorist’ death in Mindoro (By Priam Nepomuceno)
Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) chief (PNA File photo)
Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) chief (PNA File photo)
The military’s Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) on Wednesday sought for an investigation regarding the mysterious death of a Filipino-American (Fil-Am) national whom communist terrorists and their allies claimed was an activist who died in the hinterlands of Mindoro.
Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., Solcom chief, in a statement, noted that the Fil-Am in question, Amado Cannham Rodriquez alias "Allen", is known to be involved with New People's Army (NPA) terrorists in Mauban, Quezon.
He added that Rodriguez is also a member of the "Main Regional Guerilla Unit" (MRGU) of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC).
"He is not an activist but an NPA terrorist and was part of the NPAs who were deployed to Mindoro to set up their new regional headquarters," Parlade said.
He said the presence of these NPAs, many of whom are possible carriers of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), could endanger the lives of indigenous peoples (IP) in the province.
"We don't know how many more have died in the mountains or in remote clinics due to Covid-19 which may have been mishandled by health workers allied to the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front). For this, we seek an investigation on the participation of a United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) pastor in surreptitiously bringing alias 'Allen' to a District Hospital in San Jose Occidental Mindoro. Later his body disappeared from the hospital, despite reports that the patient died of Covid-19," he added.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United Kingdom, European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
More proof
As further proof that Rodriguez has links with the NPA, Parlade said they have some testimonies from some of his former students at the Special Operations Group who have voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 203rd Infantry Brigade, and former rebels who knew Amado personally.
A former NPA member, who identified himself as "Nad" and "Berting" and former platoon leader of MRGU, said he met "Allen" in July 2018 and had exposure training with them in Sta. Catalina, Mauban, Quezon.
He also remembered the Fil-Am as carrying an AK-47 automatic rifle and that "Allen" transferred to Mindoro in November 2018, had himself treated for a heart ailment in Metro Manila and had a relationship with a certain "Ka Ella" in the NPA movement.
Alias "Nad"/"Berting" returned to the fold of the law in March of this year.
Meanwhile, a certain "Raffy" remembered "Allen"/"Glenn" as his instructor at SOG.
He added that the Fil-Am taught him and his companions tactics on how to kill two separate opponents.
"Raffy", formerly of the NPA's S4, VIL, IL(SRMA 4E), VIL RSOG, PSRL in KLG North, SRMA 4E Palawan, surrendered to authorities in May.
Meanwhile, a certain "Dan" from the NPA's "KLG ICM" in Mindoro remembers meeting with "Allen"/"Glenn" in November of 2019 in Laguna.
He added that both of them were sent to Mindoro and each given an M-16 automatic rifle.
"Dan" said he reported to an alias "Ida" of KLG ICM while "Allen" was deployed to NPA’s "RCID MRGU/Platoon JB".
Parlade added that "Dan" surrendered in June.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112943
Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., Solcom chief, in a statement, noted that the Fil-Am in question, Amado Cannham Rodriquez alias "Allen", is known to be involved with New People's Army (NPA) terrorists in Mauban, Quezon.
He added that Rodriguez is also a member of the "Main Regional Guerilla Unit" (MRGU) of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC).
"He is not an activist but an NPA terrorist and was part of the NPAs who were deployed to Mindoro to set up their new regional headquarters," Parlade said.
He said the presence of these NPAs, many of whom are possible carriers of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), could endanger the lives of indigenous peoples (IP) in the province.
"We don't know how many more have died in the mountains or in remote clinics due to Covid-19 which may have been mishandled by health workers allied to the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front). For this, we seek an investigation on the participation of a United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) pastor in surreptitiously bringing alias 'Allen' to a District Hospital in San Jose Occidental Mindoro. Later his body disappeared from the hospital, despite reports that the patient died of Covid-19," he added.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United Kingdom, European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
More proof
As further proof that Rodriguez has links with the NPA, Parlade said they have some testimonies from some of his former students at the Special Operations Group who have voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 203rd Infantry Brigade, and former rebels who knew Amado personally.
A former NPA member, who identified himself as "Nad" and "Berting" and former platoon leader of MRGU, said he met "Allen" in July 2018 and had exposure training with them in Sta. Catalina, Mauban, Quezon.
He also remembered the Fil-Am as carrying an AK-47 automatic rifle and that "Allen" transferred to Mindoro in November 2018, had himself treated for a heart ailment in Metro Manila and had a relationship with a certain "Ka Ella" in the NPA movement.
Alias "Nad"/"Berting" returned to the fold of the law in March of this year.
Meanwhile, a certain "Raffy" remembered "Allen"/"Glenn" as his instructor at SOG.
He added that the Fil-Am taught him and his companions tactics on how to kill two separate opponents.
"Raffy", formerly of the NPA's S4, VIL, IL(SRMA 4E), VIL RSOG, PSRL in KLG North, SRMA 4E Palawan, surrendered to authorities in May.
Meanwhile, a certain "Dan" from the NPA's "KLG ICM" in Mindoro remembers meeting with "Allen"/"Glenn" in November of 2019 in Laguna.
He added that both of them were sent to Mindoro and each given an M-16 automatic rifle.
"Dan" said he reported to an alias "Ida" of KLG ICM while "Allen" was deployed to NPA’s "RCID MRGU/Platoon JB".
Parlade added that "Dan" surrendered in June.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112943
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