Ex-child warrior in Leyte files rape case vs. NPA leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Ex-child warrior in Leyte files rape case vs. NPA leader (By Sarwell Meniano)

VICTIM OF ABUSE. 'Shane' (not her real name), 17, a former New People's Army child warrior, speaks to reporters during a press conference in Calubian, Leyte. The victim filed on Thursday (Oct. 29, 2020) a rape complaint against their former commander in the communist terrorist group before the prosecutor’s office. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

A former child warrior of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army CPP-(NPA) on Thursday filed a rape complaint against their former commander in the terrorist group.

Accompanied by lawyers and Army officials, "Shane" (not her real name), 17, filed the complaint before the prosecutor’s office in Calubian, Leyte against Paterno Opo alias "Dodong", commander of the NPA sub-regional committee operating in Leyte and Biliran provinces.

“I suffered in the hands of our supposed superior when I was only 15 years old in the mountains of Calubian, Leyte in July 2018. This incident continues to haunt me until today and I want to seek justice,” Shane said during a press conference at the Calubian town hall.

Shane and her older sister "Ruffa" voluntarily surrendered on June 12 to officials of the Army's 14th Infantry Battalion based in Kananga, Leyte.

Their parents are also NPA rebels, who reportedly disagreed with the sisters’ plan to yield to government troops out of fear. Two of their younger brothers are also rebels.

“We were so frightened to surrender because our commander threatened to rape, torture, or kill us, but we got the chance to escape when we were asked to collect food in a nearby community,” Ruffa, a former NPA finance officer, told reporters. "When we surrendered, I thought it was the end of our life, but the soldiers fed us and provided us shelter."

Shane’s family hails from Hilongos, Leyte but they operated with the CPP-NPA's Platoon 1, Sub Regional Committee Levox, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee in northwest Leyte.

Both Shane and Ruffa reportedly suffered abuse while with the communist group. The latter got pregnant and gave birth to a baby girl, now two years old.

Due to poor nutrition and lack of proper medical care, Ruffa was said to have suffered postpartum depression syndrome but instead of being given appropriate medical care, she was tied to a corner like a dog.

The two sisters’ parents allegedly did nothing to help Ruffa. On the order of the CPP-NPA leadership, her baby was left to the care of a childless farmer couple, who were mass members of the rebel group in a town in the northwest part of Leyte island.

The 802nd Infantry Brigade under Brig. Gen. Zosimo A. Oliveros is reportedly finding ways to fulfill Ruffa’s wish to reunite with her child.

Meanwhile, Shane’s lawyer, Ryan Balais, is confident that the local prosecutor’s office will find probable cause on the rape complaint.

Oliveros, on the other hand, condemned the NPA for recruiting minors and abusing female warriors.

"I am condemning in strongest terms the blatant disrespect to human dignity committed by the NPA commander. I am saddened by the fate of these victims due to the terrible sufferings and injustices that they experienced while they were in the hands of the NPA. Likewise, I admire the courage of Ka Shane in confessing her horrible experience, though it may degrade her reputation and dignity as a woman,” he said. With her revelation, she exposes the evils of joining the NPA."

He added that this confirms the blatant and persistent recruitment of minors within the communist terrorist organization.

Oliveros appealed to parents, youth, and all organizations advocating for women’s and children’s rights to unite and stop the deceptive recruitment of the youth by the communist terrorist group.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, 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/1120179

Army execs laud surrender of more NPA fighters in Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Army execs laud surrender of more NPA fighters in Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

SURRENDER. Lt. Col. Melvin Flores (left), commanding officer of the 62nd Infantry Battalion, receives the M-16 rifle turned over by New People’s Army fighter Jun "Mel” Vergara during the latter’s surrender at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Libas, Isabela, Negros Occidental on Tuesday (Oct. 27, 2020). Vergara was a member of Squad 2, Sangay ng Yunit Pampropaganda Platoon under the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

Philippine Army officials have lauded the series of surrenders of combatants of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Negros Island.

Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, commander of the Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division, said in a statement on Thursday that he was glad that those who returned to the fold of the law have realized the false and deceptive ideology of the communist-terrorist group.

“I know that you can see and feel the looming downfall of your senseless armed struggle. Hence, we, the legitimate armed forces of the people, are very much willing to accept you with open arms as you willingly embrace peace,” Vinoya said.

In the past two weeks, five former NPA fighters have surrendered to the 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) based in Barangay Libas, Isabela, Negros Occidental.

On October 27, Jun “Mel” Vergara, a member of Squad 2, Sangay ng Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) Platoon under the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor (KR-NCBS), turned himself in to government forces, bringing along an M-16 rifle and magazine loaded with 29 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition.

Vergara’s surrender was coordinated by the Guihulngan City Police and City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict headed by Mayor Joan Jeorge Reyes.

Four members of the KR-NCBS, identified as Jone “Dim/Dem” Alfuerto; Deito “Mar” Ferolino; Snooky “Noky” Mejio; and Rodrigo Fat, also surrendered to the 62IB troops on October 16.

Vinoya said the series of surrenders strongly indicates not only weary and hopeless fighters but also a terrorist organization that is falling apart.

Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, commanding officer of 62IB, said he salutes “Ka Mel” for his bravery and courage in choosing his family instead of the NPA.

“I hope this would be the last time that you wear that (Leonardia Panaligan Command - NPA) uniform to symbolize that you have totally abandoned the armed struggle. You have made the best decision of becoming a productive and law-abiding citizen,” Flores told the surrenderer.

Both Army officials reiterated their call to the remaining members of the communist-terrorists still hiding in the mountains to lay down their arms and avail of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

The CPP-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/1120165

150 ex-NPA rebels, supporters join DavOr peace-building seminar

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): 150 ex-NPA rebels, supporters join DavOr peace-building seminar (By Che Palicte)

ALLEGIANCE. Some 150 former members and mass supporters of the communist New People’s Army gather in Montevista, Davao de Oro, Wednesday (Oct. 28,2020) to pledge allegiance to the government. They also joined the three-day peace-building seminar by local and military officials. (Photo courtesy of the Army's 1001st Infantry Brigade)

Some 150 former rebels and mass supporters of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) joined the three-day peace-building seminar at the Municipal Sports Complex, Montevista, Davao de Oro from October 26-28.

In a statement Thursday, the Army's 1001st Infantry Brigade said the participants consisted of former Milisyang Bayan (MB) and Sangay sa Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) members, as well as NPA supporters from the town's six barangays.

According to the 1001Bde, the six barangays were formerly "infiltrated" by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), which managed to influence the villagers into organizing communist-allied groups.

“Today, the NPA is now weakened, and there are only a few of them left. Let us stop them from recruiting other victims and inform others of their lies and deceit. Let us unite and stop them from going back in the barangays,” said Col. Luis Rex Bergante, 1001st brigade commander.

Bergante said the peace-building seminar consisted of anti-radicalization lectures, as well as an information drive to raise awareness on the government's financial programs for rebel returnees.

“The government is willing and determined to support and deliver basic services to the people to finally end communist armed conflict,” Bergante added.

Montevista Mayor Eutropio Jayectin urged the participants to "unite and help one another to be vigilant to shield their loved ones from the lies and recruitment of the NPA."

“We ask for your commitment and support by helping the government in protecting your communities against terrorist groups. Let us convince them to surrender to the government so that we could attain lasting peace in the community,” Jayectin said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120148

2 foreign terrorists join ASG in Sulu: Westmincom

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): 2 foreign terrorists join ASG in Sulu: Westmincom (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) bared Thursday that two Indonesians are among the five foreign terrorists who have joined the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Sulu province.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of Westmincom, said the presence of the two Indonesians was known through the materials the troops recovered following a 20-minute clash Wednesday with the followers of ASG leaders Radulan Sahiron and Mundi Sawadjaan in Barangay Adjid, Indanan, Sulu.

Vinluan said the firefight broke out around 4 p.m. Wednesday when the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion chanced upon 15 ASG bandits while conducting security operations in the area.

He said the ASG bandits fled to different directions, adding the troops recovered two M-14 rifles, three hammocks, two pairs of combat boots, two backpacks, and other personal belongings.

“Our troops also recovered documents including photocopies of passports owned by two Indonesian nationals whose identities are yet to be identified. The recovered documents of high intelligence value will undergo a thorough investigation to extract information that would strengthen our campaign in eliminating the local and foreign terrorists,” Vinluan said.

“The ASG also suffered undetermined casualties as evident on the bloodstains in the encounter site. I am happy to report that there is no casualty on the government side,” he added.

Earlier, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Philippine Army, bared the presence of five foreign terrorists who are either with the ASG bandits in the province of Sulu, or in Maguindanao.

Sobejana said the nationalities of the five are Indonesians, an Egyptian, and a Singaporean.

Col. Antonio Bautista commander of the Army's 1101st Infantry Brigade, said government troops are tracking down the fleeing ASG bandits.

“We immediately deployed supplemental troops to establish blockades in the possible withdrawal route of the local terrorists,” Bautista said.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the 11th Infantry Division, acknowledged the "unwavering support of the local government units and the peace-loving people of Sulu."

“Our troops are currently pursuing these terrorists. We have the manpower, we have the war assets, and we have the people of Sulu rallying behind us. They give tip-offs, and they forbid ASG presence in their communities. The Tausugs are very confident, and they are not afraid as they themselves are volunteering to confront terrorists,” Gonzales added.

He also urged the ASG bandits to lay down their arms and to return to the fold of the law.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120113

Housing site for ex-NPAs to be built in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Housing site for ex-NPAs to be built in Agusan Norte (By Alexander Lopez)

HOUSING SITE FOR EX-REBELS. A 1.4-hectare land in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, donated by San Roque Metals, Inc., will be the site of the housing project for former combatants of the New People’s Army. The donated land was formally accepted by Governor Dale B. Corvera and 2nd District Rep. Maria Angelica Amante-Matba on Thursday (Oct. 29, 2020). (Photo grab from Agusan Up Facebook Page)

Agusan del Norte’s provincial government broke ground on Thursday a housing site for former combatants of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in the area.

Governor Dale B. Corvera, Agusan del Norte 2nd District Rep. Maria Angelica Amante-Matba, and Cabadbaran City Mayor Judy C. Amante led the groundbreaking ceremony of the 1.4-hectare housing site in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City that was donated by San Roque Metals, Inc. (SRMI).

Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of the Army's 402nd Infantry Brigade who was present during the activity, lauded the National Housing Authority for giving priority to the housing needs of the former rebels.

Licudine said 91 former rebels under the brigade have already availed of the housing program, one of the benefits that former NPA combatants could avail of through the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

Butuan City Councilor Ryan Culima, who represented the SRMI, estimated that 100 families of former rebels would benefit from the housing project.

1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, civil-military operations officer of the Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Thursday that 83 former rebels under their unit have applied for the housing project.

“Except for those who opted to go back to their communities, some of our former rebels will benefit from the newly opened housing site in Cabadbaran City,” Maglalang said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120127

50 AFP senior officers get CA nod

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): 50 AFP senior officers get CA nod (By Priam Nepomuceno)

CONFIRMED. Senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) attend the confirmation hearing of the Commission of Appointments (CA) Committee on National Defense at the Senate on Wednesday (Oct. 28, 2020). The committee, presided by Rep. Luis “Jon-Jon” A. Ferrer IV, approved the confirmation of 49 ad interim appointments and one nomination of senior military officers. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Commission of Appointments (CA) Committee on National Defense has confirmed the ad interim appointments and nominations of 50 senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday.

In a statement forwarded to reporters late Wednesday, AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, said the committee, presided by Rep. Luis “Jon-Jon” A. Ferrer IV, gaveled the en banc confirmation of 49 ad interim appointments and one nomination of senior military officers.

“CA’s confirmation of the ad interim appointments and nomination of our senior officers validates our officer’s corps’ competence and diligence to better prepare them to take on greater responsibilities in the organization. Let this milestone empower your dedication to serve our nation even further for the benefit of every Filipino,” he added.

Among those confirmed was Major Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, the current commander of the 6th Infantry Division and the highest-ranking officer present.

The CA also confirmed the nomination of Brig. Gen. Vener Odilon D. Mariano to Major General. The CA found the following Army Colonels qualified for their ad interim appointments: Harold M. Cabunoc, Ramon P. Zagala II, William George S. Cordova, Danilo E. Estrañero, Ernest John C. Jadloc, Vincent Arnold O. Dy, Vicente Edgardo C. De Ocampo, Jessie R. Montoya, Cesar L. Portiz, Edgar O. Josue, Neil Alfonso R. Roldan, Ciriaco A. Lomas-e, Amadeo U. Cruz, Dennis C. Gutierrez, Samuel G. Yunque, Melencio W. Ragudo, Rico O. Amaro, Richard T. Servito, Dante T. Bermillo, Eliezer P. Valdez Jr., Camilo A. Saddam, Joel D. Aquino, Castor O. Bahin, Josue M. Caberto, Zane B. Fernandez, Nemesio A. Escleto, and Arturo E. Junco. Meanwhile, the six Air Force Colonels also confirmed were Francis Karem E. Neri, Rommel Allen P. Genete, Reynaldo Jose A. Montoya, Jerome Erwin S. Santiago, Melvin A. Banua, and Vicente F. Flora.

The CA likewise confirmed three Navy captains namely: Norman A. Mutia, Edwin F. Carpio, and Michael G. Barrion.

Three Marine colonels, Bladimer B. Caluya, Frederick G. Baradi, and Noel M. Tiu, also got the CA's nod.

Meanwhile, six other colonels from the Dental Service were also approved by the CA. These are Isidro Alex C. Urriquia, Ranulfo O. Espera, Sonny A. Ramos, Jonathan L. Dumlao, Maria Teresa P. Boto, and Ben Hur A. Cariño. Meanwhile, Col. Jose Rosel R. Reduble from the Medical Corps and Col. Ela Gemma J. Taguba from the Nurse Corps were also confirmed.

Col. Roy L. Onggao from the Chaplain Service also received the CA's approval.

Gapay said the confirmation of ad interim appointments and nomination of senior military officers by CA is a manifestation of professionalism and commitment to the highest ethical standards among the AFP’s ranks.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120064

PH, US affirm strong defense alliance in security engagement meet

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): PH, US affirm strong defense alliance in security engagement meet (By Priam Nepomuceno)

STRONGER ALLIANCE. Officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, led by Chief of Staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay (center left), and the United States Indo-Pacific Command, led by Admiral Philip Davison (center right), convene the virtual Mutual Defense Board - Security Engagement Board Meeting on Thursday (Oct. 29, 2020). During the meeting, military leaders of the two countries discussed the impact of the pandemic on the activities and other international engagements slated for 2021, including the annual "Balikatan" exercises. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Philippines and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their defense alliance.

This came as Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, and US Indo-Pacific Command commander, Admiral Philip Davison, on Thursday convened the Mutual Defense Board - Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) Meeting, which was held virtually for the first time due to the pandemic.

"We view the alliance as a strong and resilient partnership that needs to be responsive to the ever-changing security environment," Gapay said.

The MDB-SEB Meeting is being held annually between the AFP and the US Indo-Pacific Command to discuss security cooperation activities and a strategic vision for the alliance, anchored on the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.

"The United States and the Philippines remain steadfast allies in our pursuit of regional peace and stability. Our close cooperation ensures our forces are interoperable and a formidable force for stability throughout the region while further strengthening the ties that make us such close friends, allies, and partners," Davidson said.

During the meeting, military leaders of both countries discussed the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) health crisis on the activities and other international engagements slated for 2021, including the annual "Balikatan" exercises.

Gapay said the AFP envisioned the alliance with the US to continue with mutually beneficial activities that would result in greater interoperability between the two militaries.

"Our alliance should continue to provide the mechanism to further enhance our already robust defense cooperation by pursuing capability building initiatives for our interoperability," he added.

Gapay also noted the importance of using Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement locations and other resources to ensure an effective response to different mission areas.

Also discussed was the possible use of mitigating actions to prevent the transmission of Covid-19, including the use of training bubbles and the scaling down of exercises.

However, he said events must conform to health and safety protocols, should the pandemic persist.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120145

Groups call on CPP-NPA to end attacks, recruitment of youth

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Groups call on CPP-NPA to end attacks, recruitment of youth (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

'SAVE OUR YOUTH'. Anti-communist groups and other civil society organizations gather at the University of the Philippines Diliman on Thursday (Oct. 29) to hold candle-lighting vigils for the victims of the CPP-NPA-NDF. The groups also called for the end of the recruitment of minors by the communist armed movement. (PNA photo by Lade Kabagani)

Anti-communist groups and other civil society organizations on Thursday called on the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its allies to end their atrocities and stop the recruitment of youth.

Members of the League of Parents in the Philippines (LPP), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), and Hands Off Our Children, and mothers of students who were reportedly recruited by various militant groups, gathered at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman and in Timog Circle in Quezon City, as they protested the attacks by communist terrorist groups.

LPP chair Remy Rosadio said communist rebels should be held liable for their lawlessness.

While these groups claim to be "pro-people and pro-marginalized", Rosadio said these groups and their allied organizations should not be emulated.

"They're are destroying our children, they are destroying our country, for them, no government is doing its job because they wanted to take the lead. Leading to what? To the insurgency, to killing innocents and recruiting youth to bring to the mountains," Rosadio said.

Rosadio urged the communist groups to stay away from engaging vulnerable youth to join their cause.

"Stop your propaganda. Stop deceptions. Stop the lies. Stop recruiting minors," she said, noting that each child deserves a peaceful life.

Recruitment of youth

LPP spokesperson Arlene Escalante said the recruitment of minors has continued despite the coronavirus outbreak.

"It may not be face-to-face recruitment, they have been very active in recruiting our youth through online, through social media. We have received some reports from various universities and places all over the country that they are still engaging our youth to join the front-organizations and their progressive movements," Escalante said.

"That's the reality, it may be during the pandemic or not, the CPP-NPA-NDF is very active in their recruitment," she added.



Escalante, meanwhile, defended members of advocacy group "Hands Off Our Children" who denounced the atrocities by the NPA via Facebook.

"They are not making up stories about their missing children who were reportedly recruited by the militant organizations," she said.

Escalante said members of the group are only expressing their thoughts and are not inventing stories to get attention.

"We, from the League of Parents of the Philippines, are helping the parents who are members of the Hand Off Our Children to express their sentiments, grievance and appeal to the government to help them fight for their missing children," Escalante said.

The Hands Off Our Children page was among those hit by Facebook's recent move to suspend and shut down several pages for violating its policy against coordinated inauthentic behavior (CIB).

"We hope Facebook brings back their page, as it is their only platform to express themselves and their call about their missing children," Escalante said.

Escalante appealed to the CPP-NPA and its allied organizations to stop exploiting minors.

Put a stop to insurgency

Meanwhile, LIPI secretary-general Jose Goita said the more than 50 years of communist armed conflict must end now.

"We must stand up and put a stop to this useless, pointless, deceptive, criminal and terroristic insurgency that has no purpose but to destroy our country by destroying our families," he said.

Goita appealed to lawmakers to craft a law protecting the youth against "insurgency recruitment."

"The youth are a special-protected class under the constitution. We have laws addressing delinquency and other abuses against children, but only a few, if there's any, are addressing situations of their recruitment into the insurgency," Goita said.



Goita said the CPP-NPA is no longer a revolutionary group, but employs "money-making" schemes, making them a "criminal enterprise."

"Because they murder, they illegally extort money through illegal means like revolutionary taxation," he said.

"They manipulate our children which is child abuse, their drug dealings, the kidnapping of government officials and civilians and even the documented raping of new recruits," Goita said.

The anti-communist groups have conducted simultaneous candle-lighting vigils since Wednesday.

The CPP-NPA-NDF 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/1120124

Activist’s mom urges Liza, Catriona to protect the youth

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29, 2020): Activist’s mom urges Liza, Catriona to protect the youth (By Marita Moaje)

Actress Liza Soberano (left) and Ms. Universe 2018 Catriona Gray (right)

A mother whose daughter was taken away from her after being recruited by a leftist group wrote an open letter to actress Liza Soberano and Ms. Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.

Relissa Lucena, in her Facebook post on Oct. 25, said while she respects Soberano and Gray's advocacy to speak up about women and children’s rights, they also have an obligation to "lead the youth to the right path" as popular celebrities today.

She said while everyone is entitled to his or her own rights and privileges, these things also come with responsibilities.

“Bilang mamamayan ng bansa, meron kang karapatan bilang Filipino at bilang artista, ngunit sa bawat karapatan na iyong tinatamasa meron din itong kaakibat na responsibilidad na dalhin ang mga taong sumusunod at tumitingala sa'yo bilang idolo na dalhin sila sa tamang landas na walang bantang kapahamakan (As a citizen, you have rights as a Filipino and as an artist, but with every right that you enjoy, there is a corresponding responsibility to bring those who follow or idolize you to the right path),” Lucena said.

Lucena said her family was a victim of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and their front organizations.

“Ako po at ang aming pamilya ay isa sa mukha ng mga na biktima ng CPP-NPA-NDF at kabilang ang Gabriela sa itinuturing mapaminsalang organisasyon na sumisira ng kinabukasan ng aming mga anak ito ay ayon sa ahensya ng Pilipinas na nangangalaga ng inyong katiwasayan at kapayapaan mula sa terorismo at krimen (Me and my family are victims of the CPP-NPA-NDF and Gabriela is considered as a destructive organization that ruins the future of our children, and this is according to the agency that is responsible for the peace and order of the country against crimes and terrorism),” she said.

False advocacies

Like artists and celebrities, Lucena said it is also the obligation of military officials and the rest of uniformed personnel to assure the safety of Filipinos and inform them of false advocacies and destructive organizations.

Lucena also told Soberano and Gray about her daughter, Alicia Jasper or AJ, who was recruited by leftist groups when she was only 16 years old.

She said she tried to fight for AJ to have a complete family.

She said she hoped for a good future for AJ, and has sacrificed a lot to get her back while her family waits for her to come home.

Lucena also posted a photo of her daughter AJ taken in August last year together with the Makabayan bloc at the House of Representatives where she was presented to the media.

AJ was seated in the middle of Makabayan Bloc congressmen that include Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro, Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate, Kabataan Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago, and Alex Danday, spokesperson of the Anakbayan.

Relissa Lucena posts a picture of her daughter AJ together with the Makabayan Bloc on her Facebook page. She said the CPP-NPA-NDF destroyed her family when they took AJ away from them. (Photo courtesy of Relissa Lucena)

Lucena said this was the last time she saw AJ.

The congressmen in the photo, she said, are government officials who are paid by taxpayer's money.

“Ipinaglayo nila kaming mag-anak, bilang kinatawan ng gobyerno it's their duty na maging daan upang ayusin ang problemang pampamilya at hindi sirain, ngunit hindi ito nangyari (they separated our family, as government officials it is their duty to help families stay intact and not destroy them),” her post reads.

Lucena told Soberano and Gray that as popular celebrities, they have an obligation to research about the group they are affiliating themselves with.

“Bilang isang pampublikong pigura ng bayang itong meron kang obligasyon na alamin ang organisasyon kung tama ba na dalhin mo ang aming mga kabataan o iyong tagasunod sa organisasyon na maari silang mapahamak? (As a public figure, you have the obligation to know and identify organizations, and is it correct to bring our youth and children or your followers to an organization that may lead them to danger?),” Lucena said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120182

Farmer attacked, killed inside his home by terrorists

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 29, 2020): Farmer attacked, killed inside his home by terrorists (By Liezle Basa Iñigo)

CAGAYAN — A band of terrorists killed a farmer inside his residence in Barangay Isca, Gonzaga here on Wednesday.

PHOTO VIA LIEZLE BASA INIGO/ MANILA BULLETIN

The victim was identified as Freddie Pahicniyon, 34, a native of Banaue, Ifugao and resident of Purok 7, Barangay Isca, Gonzaga, Cagayan.

Investigators said that at about 5:15 a.m. on Wednesday, at least 10 unidentified terrorists in camouflage uniforms barged into the house of the victim and shot him several times causing his instantaneous death.

The suspects fled towards Sitio Tagcar of Brgy. Isca, Gonzaga, Cagayan.

Police Regional Office 2 (PRO2) Regional Director Police Brigadier General Crizaldo O Nieves said the murderous act of the Communist Terrorist Group is proof of their criminal nature and total disregard for the life and rights of other people.

“I urge the public to deny support to these lawless groups and to immediately report to the authorities their presence in the community to prevent them from disturbing the peace and order in the region,” he added.

Nieves assured the family of the slain farmer that they will hunt down the perpetrators and have them face the full force of the law.

He directed Cagayan Philippine National Police Provincial Director Col. Ariel N Quilang to conduct a thorough investigation and manhunt operation for the identification and immediate arrest of the perpetrators.

“They are no different from ordinary criminals. Hence, treat them as such,” Nieves said.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/29/farmer-attacked-killed-inside-his-home-by-terrorists/

Abu Sayyaf member arrested, sub-leader escapes

From Malaya Business Insight (Oct 29, 2020): Abu Sayyaf member arrested, sub-leader escapes (By Victor Reyes)

A MEMBER of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf group involved in a recent kidnapping of a Filipino-American farmer was arrested Tuesday in Zamboanga City while his immediate superior, Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Injam Yadah, evaded arrest.

Maj. Ronaldo Lumactod, spokesman of the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG), identified the arrested bandit as Anerson Tungayao, a resident of Barangay Tapanaya in Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.

Lumactod said Tungayao was nabbed by AKG operatives, backed by other police and military units, at around 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at the shoreline of Barangay Arena Blanco.

He said Tungayao and Yadah were spotted by the government troops in the area “preparing for possible kidnapping operation and seen armed with high-powered firearms.”

Lumactod said Tungayao was cornered and subsequently arrested by the troops but Yadah, who he said was the primary target of the operation, managed to evade arrest.

AKG director Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo said Tungayao and Yadah were behind the September 16 kidnapping of Filipino-American farmer Rex Triplitt in Barangay Tapanayan, Sirawai. Triplitt’s wife was able to escape and reported the incident to authorities.

Triplitt was rescued by joint military and police forces after a brief firefight with his Abu Sayyaf captors in Barangay Pisa Itom, also in Sirawai on September 30. No one was hurt in the encounter.

Estomo said Tungayao’s arrest foiled a planned kidnapping of the Abu Sayyaf.

Estomo said the Abu Sayyaf members usually disguise themselves as construction workers when they kidnap and extort money from victims, who are mostly local businessmen in the Zamboanga Peninsula area.

https://malaya.com.ph/index.php/news_news/abu-sayyaf-member-arrested-sub-leader-escapes/

Troops clash with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Sulu; war materials, documents seized

From GMA News (Oct 29, 2020): Troops clash with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Sulu; war materials, documents seized (By ANNA FELICIA BAJO)

An encounter between government troops and Abu Sayyaf bandits in Indanan, Sulu, on Wednesday afternoon resulted in the recovery of war materials, including weapons, the military said Thursday.

Among those recovered by government security forces were two M14 rifles, three hammocks, two pairs of combat boots, two backpacks, and photocopies of passports allegedly owned by two Indonesians.

The gun battle with more or less 15 local terrorists believed to be under Mundi Sawadjaan and Radulan Sahiron lasted for 20 minutes, the military said.

Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the military's Western Mindanao Command, said no casualties were reported from the government side but noted that the Abu Sayyaf group sustained an undetermined number of casualties. Hot pursuit operation is ongoing to arrest the bandits.

Vinluan also said the documents containing high intelligence value would be subjected to a thorough probe, which can help in the military's campaign to eradicate activities of local and foreign terrorists.

Colonel Antonio Bautista, commander of the 1101st Infantry Brigade, said the military deployed additional troops to establish blockades in the possible routes of the local terrorists.

Meanwhile, Joint Task Force Sulu chief Major General William Gonzales hailed the troops for their unrelenting efforts to eliminate the Abu Sayyaf group.

"Our troops are currently pursuing these terrorists. We have the manpower, we have the war assets, and we have the people of Sulu rallying behind us," he said.

"They give tip-offs and they forbid ASG presence in their communities. The Tausugs are very confident and they are not afraid as they themselves are volunteering to confront terrorists," he added.

The military continues to hunt Sawadjaan, the alleged mastermind of bombing attacks in Sulu province, including the twin blasts in Jolo that claimed the lives of at least 15 people in August.

On September 22, government troops seized a suspected lair of Sawadjaan in Indanan where some personal belongings as well as food were recovered.

Sawadjaan's cousin, identified as Arsibar Sawadjaan, was killed during an encounter in Patikul early this month. He was also a sub-leader and bomb-maker of the Abu Sayyaf group, according to the military.

Meanwhile, Sawadjaan's alleged assistant, Hashim Saripada, was nabbed by authorities in Zamboanga City last month.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/761854/troops-clash-with-abu-sayyaf-bandits-in-sulu-war-materials-documents-seized/story/

Troops recover NPA arms cache in Zambo Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 29): Troops recover NPA arms cache in Zambo Norte (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

RECOVERED. Troops belonging to the Army's 44th Infantry Battalion recover on Wednesday (Oct. 28, 2020) an arms cache containing five M-16 Armalite rifle, one Carbine rifle, and other war materiel of the communist New People's Army in Sitio Palos, Barangay Santo Niño, Gutalac, Zamboanga del Norte. The recovery was made possible through information shared by former rebels who had surrendered. (Photo courtesy of the 44th Infantry Battalion)

Government troops recovered Wednesday an arms cache and other war materiel of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists in the hinterlands of Zamboanga del Norte, a military official said.

Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, commander of the Army's 44th Infantry Battalion, said the recovery of the firearms that include five M-16 Armalite rifles and one M1 .30-caliber Carbine rifle was the result of the information provided by former NPA combatants who had earlier surrendered to the government.

Also recovered in Barangay Santo Niño, Gutalac, Zamboanga del Norte, were various types of munition, a cellular phone, medicines, medical and dental equipment, and other belongings.

“The troops were able to gain the complete trust and confidence of high-ranking officials of Guerrilla Front Feliciano 'A', Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee, who surrendered to the unit," Templonuevo said.

“During the conduct of custodial debriefing, these former rebels voluntarily relayed the information of the location of the arms cache,” he added.

Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, assured the former rebels who provided the information that they would receive remuneration under the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120017

3 BIFF members yield to Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 28, 2020): 3 BIFF members yield to Army (By Edwin Fernandez)

PURSUING PEACEFUL LIVES. Lt. Col. Glenn Caballero (left), the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion commander, and Mayor Ramil Dilangalen of Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao (right), flash the peace sign together with three members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters who yielded to military authorities in Midsayap, North Cotabato on Tuesday (Oct. 27, 2020). The surrenderers said they want to live normal lives after realizing that they were fighting for a futile cause. (Photo courtesy of 34IB)

Three members of the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have surrendered to military authorities in North Cotabato, the commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division said.

“The surrenderers complained that they were duped in(to) joining a lost cause and an extremely wrong advocacy,” Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy said.

The surrenderers, all members of the BIFF under Commander Mando Mamalumping alias Commander DM, voluntarily yielded on Tuesday afternoon to the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion (34IB) based in Barangay Salunayan, Midsayap, North Cotabato.

“The Moro bandits were operating in the peripheries of Midsayap town and neighboring Northern Kabuntalan municipality in Maguindanao province,” Lt. Col. Glenn Caballero, the 34IB commander, said in a separate interview on Wednesday.

Caballero lauded Mayor Ramil Dilangalen of Northern Kabuntalan for facilitating the surrender of the three, whose identities were withheld for security reasons.

“Live a peaceful and progressive life together with your families,” he told the returnees who also turned over a Barrett .50-caliber sniper rifle, an M-14 sniper rifle, and ammunition.

In a recorded message, one of the surrenderers said he was excited to return to their respective families.

“We have not seen our families since the start of the pandemic,” one of the three said in the vernacular.

The provincial government of Maguindanao is set to provide them with initial livelihood assistance.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1119934

Esperon slams calls for dismantling the NTF-ELCAC

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 27, 2020): Esperon slams calls for dismantling the NTF-ELCAC (By Martin Sadongdong)

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. on Tuesday lambasted Left-leaning lawmakers and organizations who want the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to be dismantled after one of its officials was accused of red-tagging.

PCOO / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN

“In the strongest terms, I denounce the personalities that claim to be ‘progressive’ and are calling for the dismantling of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict,” Esperon, who also serves as the vice chairman of the anti-communist task force, said in a statement.

Aside from this, Esperon also hit back at the task force’s critics who want to defund the Barangay Development Program (BDP), a counter-insurgency plan which aims to deliver various government programs in conflict-afflicted and geographically isolated areas that are freed from the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Calls for the dismantling of the NTF-ELCAC originated from Bayan Muna Partylist Reps. Carlos Zarate and Ferdinand Gaite last week.

They want the anti-communist task force to be dissolved after one of its spokespersons, Lieutenant General Antonio Parlade Jr., was embroiled in a red-tagging controversy involving some celebrities.

“We have here a task force that is only spreading lies, disinformation, and fake news that would be funded by around P19 billion of taxpayers’ money that could have been allocated to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, give aid to those left jobless by the pandemic, and help our agriculture,” said Zarate.

“Why waste hard-earned money on this fake news agency and just dismantle it?” he added.

But Esperon rebutted Zarate and Gaite as he explained that the NTF-ELCAC follows a two-track strategic framework to accomplish their mission of eradicating communist insurgency.

He said the first track focuses on the political, economic, and socio-cultural impact of NPA rebellion to address the primary issues and root causes of insurgency and the development of strong institutions in the communities.

He said part of the NTF-ELCAC’s proposed P19-billion fund for 2021 will be used to build and provide farm-to-market roads, school buildings, water and sanitation system, national greening program, health stations, electrification, crops, livestock and fisheries, interconnectivity, and livelihood and skills trainings in 822 NPA-cleared barangays under the Barangay Development Program.

On the other hand, he said that the second track tackles peace engagement, law enforcement, and military tactics to invite communist rebels to return to the fold of the law, delegitimize insurgents, and conduct sustained military operations against the CPP-NPA.

“We, in the NTF-ELCAC, do not stand in the way of advocacies for the rights of vulnerable sectors. In fact, these are exactly what we want for our society — the opportunity for women to be heard, to protect our children from armed conflict, to provide sustainable development solutions to poverty and the health crisis,” Esperon emphasized.

“This BDP belies the accusation of Congressman Zarate that the task force is only for ‘spreading lies, disinformation, and fake news’ that would be funded with P19 billion. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic, in fact, magnifies the urgency of delivering these initiatives to the communities,” he said.

The controversy stemmed from Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade’s warning to actress Liza Soberano to distance herself from Gabriela Women’s Party, a progressive group advocating for women’s rights.

Soberano participated in an online forum organized by the Gabriela’s youth sector, which was linked by Parlade to the CPP-NPA. The group has denied the military general’s allegation, although many former Gabriela youth members had been killed in encounters, fighting on the side of the NPA rebels.

Parlade also issued the same warning to Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, while accusing actress Angel Locsin and her sister, Angela “Ella” Colmenares, and their uncle, former Bayan Muna Partylist Rep. Neri Colmenares, of ties to the underground movement. They all denied these claims, even as General Parlade, commander of the AFP Southern Luzon Command, cited evidence that Ella had joined the NPA on Polillo Island, Quezon and returned only to legal life when she gave birth.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had cautioned Parlade from accusing any individual of ties to communist groups unless he has a solid evidence.

Meanwhile, Jose Maria “Joma” Sison, founding chairman of the CPP, criticized Parlade and Lorenzana for supposedly branding activists and advocates as “terrorists.”

“In their excessive zeal to witch hunt and red-tag legal democratic organizations and personalities, Lorenzana and Parlade exposed their ignorance of the NDFP [National Democratic Front of the Philippines] table of organizations,” Sison said.

Sison said Parlade, Lorenzana, and the rest of the NTF-ELCAC are bent on using the rule of “guilt by association” under the “catch-all pretext of anti-terrorism” to “incriminate any person in any kind of criminal offense while doing away with the principle of due process.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/27/esperon-slams-calls-for-dismantling-the-ntf-elcac