Kalinaw News: Army’s 91IB conducted humanitarian assistance to 2,187 families typhoon victims in Southern Aurora

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 20, 2020): Army’s 91IB conducted humanitarian assistance to 2,187 families typhoon victims in Southern Aurora



BALER, Aurora-The Philippine Army troops in Southern Aurora have been deployed to help the victims of Typhoon Ulysses and to conduct security and man power assistance in the so called Batanes of the East in Central Luzon.

LTC REANDREW P RUBIO, (GSC) PA, commanding officer of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, based in barangay Calabuanan, here, said that the soldiers have conducted humanitarian assistance to 2,187 families in the town of Dingalan, Aurora.

The 91st IB deployed one (1) squad under 1st Lieutenant Jun Niño O. Espora, Alpha Company Commander to typhoon-affected areas as part of the Battalion’s humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) missions to the local government unit (LGU) of Dingalan headed by Mayor Shierwin Taay.

He said that the army troopers conducted security and manpower assistance in the distribution of relief goods to the victim of typhoon “Ulysses” to one thousand sixty seven (1,067) families at the barangay of Ibona and one thousand one hundred twenty (1,120) families at Barangay Umiray of said municipality on Tuesday (Nov. 17, 2020).

“The conduct of food packs distribution to the affected communities in Dingalan town is part of our HADR operations. We are collaborating with different stakeholders for their possible assistance and donations such as blankets, clothes, water, and food stuffs intended for the victims of Typhoon Ullyses,” LTC RUBIO said.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/armys-91ib-conducted-humanitarian-assistance-to-2187-families-typhoon-victims-in-southern-aurora/

Kalinaw News: Former red area turned tourist destination

 Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 20, 2020): Former red area turned tourist destination



Mabini, Davao De Oro – In the last decades, we have lost some local communities to the clutches of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA). In the most remote communities in Davao de Oro, the CPP-NPA-NDF (CNN) has destroyed the lives of innumerable civilians, torn families apart, and cost the lives of brave men and women in the Armed Forces. We have been locking horns in an endless cycle of violence that has lasted more than one generation. But change is coming.

The armed forces, focusing on warfighting, has been engaging the enemy on the battlefield not knowing the key to winning the peace is winning the hearts and minds of our citizen, especially those who are most isolated and marginalized. It is a widely accepted truth that true peace cannot be achieved through warfare and violence.

Acknowledging the importance of development, PRRD promulgate the EO 70 which calls for a whole of nation approach in ending local communist armed conflict to attain sustainable peace and inclusive development.

Mabini of Davao de Oro has a lot of stories to tell as it has been the bailiwick of the CPP NPA NDF. Massive community support programs and relentless combat operations have been undertaken by the 71st Infantry Kaibigan Battalion and other units of the 10ID so as to clear this area from the insurgents influence. As peace and security stabilize, development comes in. Mabini now unleash its potential as one of the tourist destinations in Davao de Oro.

Dagpang Peak: The Batanes of Davao de Oro

The advent of the Community Support Programs (CSP) in various local communities, particularly in the operational area of 71st Infantry (KAIBIGAN) Battalion ushered effective peace and development programs initiated by the unit in collaboration with the local government units (LGUs) and private stakeholders which led to the development of former red areas now tuned tourist destinations such as of tourist destinations such as the Dagpang Peak and the Mabini Mountain Ridge located in Sitios Dagpang and Patawon both in the Municipality of Mabini, Davao de Oro.

Dagpang Peak is a newly developed tourist destination situated at Sitio Dagpang, Brgy. Pangibiran, Mabini, Davao de Oro. A spectacular view of sunrise and sunset over a splendid landscape of cogon land would be perfect for “selfies” and “groupies”. Some couples choose Dagpang Peak for the Pre-Nuptial shoots. Because of its open green space, the people feel free to stroll around and admire its natural beauty.

It was only discovered as a tourist spot after the 71st Infantry (KAIBIGAN) Battalion dismantled Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) in the area which provides a safe haven to the New People’s Army (NPA). Now, influx of local tourists visit dgapang for trekking, biking and just stroll around, enjoying the majestic view of the cogon land overlooking the sea. Former members of the milisya ng bayan (MB) and UGMOs now reap the outcome as economic activities in the area comes in.

Mountain Ridge and Bikers Camp

During the early 2000s, the Sitio Patawon of Brgy Cabuyoan was the mobility corridor of Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) where they were conducting their IPO works in the communities around and it served also as its staging area before conducting their tactical offensive against the government troops. Many years had passed that the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) took control of the situation in the area and also its adjacent barangays that enabled them to execute their plans against the government forces and its efforts to ruin the lives of the people in the community through their lies and black propaganda.

Through the persistent efforts of the 71st Infantry (KAIBIGAN) Battalion, Sitio Patawon is now being developed as peace and security stabilize. The deployment of the Community Support Program (CSP) teams in the area unearthed, reoriented and, redirected the Underground Mass Organization (UGMO). Patawon ridge is a quiet promenade, open green mountain which gives an enormous view overlooking the sea and the whole of Mabini. The creation of the terrace displays a striking architecture view of a bike’s rim shaded with lights with a static fascinating bicycle beside it. It is less crowded and peaceful with the cold breeze and sea of clouds in the early morning that will really struck the visiting tourists. The “Mabini Mountain Ridge and Bikers Camp” has been trending/viral in the social media as one of the promising tourist destinations in Mabini. The influx of local tourists has been recorded since its establishment. As a result, economic activities in the former NPA lair have been initiated benefitting the former members of the Under Ground Mass Organization (UGMO), who venture into small entrepreneurship.

“The project is one of the investments in peace and development in the operational area of the Kaibigan Battalion. Through the years, the Battalion has been a dependable partner in peace and development in Davao de Oro. The Government will spend more if insurgency problem lingers in the hinterlands. Conflict ruins the livelihood of the people, as well as government facilities. Let us focus our energy and resources in sustaining the peace through collaboration and a strong partnership with our stakeholders.” Lt. Col. Gonzales, said.

By eliminating insurgent resistance, the campaign successfully set the conditions necessary for achieving the desired end-state that if transforming these conflict areas to a conflict resilient communities. The willingness to provide support and the initiatives of the stakeholders in partnership with 71st Infantry (KAIBIGAN) Battalion is a manifestation that our government desires to end the local communist armed conflict. Unity can be a huge force in bringing changes to the community which will soon uplift the economic, political, and social conditions of the people. “PAG WALANG TERORISTA, MAY TURISTA!”.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/former-red-area-turned-tourist-destination/

Kalinaw News: Two Subleader of Abu Sayyaf Group killed during clash with the Marines of JTF-Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 20, 2020): Two Subleader of Abu Sayyaf Group killed during clash with the Marines of JTF-Sulu



November 20, 2020, Camp Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – Early today, the Marine Battalion Landing Team 1, 4th Marine Brigade had two (2) consecutive encounters with the Abu Sayyaf Group at Panamao, Sulu.

With the guidance of Joint Task Force – Sulu Commander MGen William N Gonzales to intensify combat operations in Sulu, the Marine Battalion Team – 1 of 4th Marine Brigade encountered the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) under Subleader Hatib Munap Binda at around 5:44am today at Bud Bawis Complex, Barangay Kawasan, Panamao, Sulu.

According to 4th Marine Brigade Commander Col Ruben Candelario, troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team – 1 (MBLT-1) with 2Lt Mark Baldazan as the officer on the ground of a team had an intensive 30-minute firefight with the group of ASG members. This resulted to the death of ASG Sub-leader Hatib Manup Binda and recovery of one (1) M16 Rifle and (1) M14 rifle. The cadaver of Binda was later found by MBLT-1 while scouring the encounter site.

A pursuit operation immediately followed that at 06:45am another armed encounter led by Cpt Jeffrey C Marquez against the group of another ASG Sub-leader Sansibar Bensio a few meters from the first encounter site. The firefight lasted for about 20 minutes and resulted to the death of Barahama, and recovery of one (1) M14 rifle.

MGen Gonzales, attributed the success of the operation to the intensified intelligence gathering of battalions under the 4MBde. “Two days prior the encounter I was briefed by Col Candelario regarding their plans for these sub-leader that they are targeting. They executed it with Col Marvin who is decisive and snappy that they were able to bring down two Panamao based ASG subleaders,” MGen Gonzales said.

ASG Subleader Binda is known to be involved in Kidnap for Ransom (KFR) activities at the tri-boundaries of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Philippines. He was a member since 2002 and known at the municipalities of Kalingalan Caluang and Panamao, both of Sulu.

Meanwhile, Sub-leader Bensio Barahama who is a Panamao-based ASG is directly involved in the KFR of a Swiss national named Lorenzo Vinciguerra and Indonesian nationals Maharudin Bin Lunani and Muhammad Farhan (both Indonesian National). His group also targeted and victimized several Filipinos for their KRF activities.

To recall, seven members of ASG set to conduct KFR were neutralized by troops of JTF – Sulu earlier this month. Furthermore, would be suicide bomber identified as Rezky Rullie was apprehended on October 11, 2020. This series of combat and special operations is made possible by the cooperation of civilians who give tip-offs.

“All the military units here in Sulu remain vigilant and resilient in eliminating the remaining ASG terrorists. We are backed by the local government and by the residents of Sulu. With them we will continue to work tirelessly to end terrorism,’’ said Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, JTF Sulu Commander and 11th Infantry Division Commande

https://www.kalinawnews.com/two-subleader-of-abu-sayyaf-group-killed-during-clash-with-the-marines-of-jtf-sulu/

Kalinaw News: Former NPAs receive cash assistance during Serbisyo Caravan in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 20, 2020): Former NPAs receive cash assistance during Serbisyo Caravan in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat



MAKILALA,COTABATO – Three former members of the Communist Terrorist Group receive cash assistance from Local Government Unit of Columbio, Sultan Kudarat during the month-long serbisyo caravan today November 20, 2020.

The influx of surrendering members to government forces is a clear manifestation of the successful implementation of the President’s EO 70 in the municipality paired with overflowing support of the Local Government Units of Columbio headed by Mayor Edwin Bermudez, dedicated municipal department heads and the 39th Infantry Battalion.

Mayor Bermudez said “We pledge our commitment to adopt the principles, implement policies, plans and programs that will address the root causes of insurgency.”

“To our deceived brothers who still believe in the baseless armed struggles initiated by terrorist groups, we encourage you to step down and take part of the government’s projects and programs. It’s never too late for change.” LTC Carandang, Commander of the 39IB said.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/former-npas-receive-cash-assistance-during-serbisyo-caravan-in-columbio-sultan-kudarat/

Kalinaw News: 2 NPA rebels surrender in Davao de Oro

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 20, 2020): 2 NPA rebels surrender in Davao de Oro



Mawab, Davao de Oro – two (2) members of the Weakened Guerilla Front 2 (WGF2) of the New People’s Army (NPA) submitted themselves to the Kaibigan Battalion on 08 and 10 of November 2020 and surrendered several firearms and ammunitions.

The surrenderees have yielded the following : one (1) M16 rifle with SN: 142798 and one (1) improvised shotgun with one (1) magazine loaded with four (4) 12 gauge ammunitions.

Lt. Col. Sonny Gonzales, 71IB commander, said the former rebels surrendered separately in Sitio Biasong, Brgy. Napnapan, Pantukan through the help of the Brgy. Captain of Brgy. Napnapan and in Special Brgy. Candinuyan, Brgy. Golden Valley, Mabini all of Davao de Oro. He added that the surrenderees will be provided necessary assistance through the hovernment’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) for rebel returnees.

Alias Buboy disclosed that he was recruited by Alias Eboy, Commanding Officer of Milisya ng Bayan of WGF2 sometime in 2014 at Sitio Palale, Brgy. Golden Valley, Mabini, DDO and clashed with 71IB troops for several occasions. One of which was the armed encounter in Sitio Tagudyong, Brgy. Libudon, Mabini which resulted to the death of their members and recovery of five (5) High Powered Firearms (HPAFs.

On the other hand, Alias Sam was recruited by Alias Tatay Bert and Alias Lando at Sitio Piasusuan, Brgy. Napnapan, Pantukan, DOO in 2010. He was involved in the extortion activities at Sitio Boringot, Sitio Piasusuan, Sitio Biasong, Sition Lantawan, Sitio Putting Sayaw, Sitio Sarog, Sitio Lusang, Sitio Camarin all of Brgy. Napnapan, Pantukan, DDO. He also facilitated the Hukumang Bayan (HUKBAY) for the drug user and drug pusher punishable by hard labo

Both revealed that they could no longer take in their conscience what the organization has tasked them to do. They wanted to live peacefully as what other law-abiding citizens do. They also wanted to clear out their names and catch up with their families. “Kapoy na kaayo, ug gutom sa bukid” said @ Buboy

The surrender was a result of the ongoing MCSP and continuous engagement to the relatives of the subject in coordination with the barangay officials. Indeed, local officials play a significant role in facilitating the surrender of these rebels who wish to go back to their normal lives. “Insurgency, is not just a mere issue of poverty but the relationship between the Government with the people. We can see the result of the ‘Whole-of-Nation’ initiative can wield. Consequently, they voluntarily support and help the government initiatives and its efforts to end this local communist armed conflict” Lt. Col. Gonzales, said.

“It’s a clear manifestation that the local populace in our area of responsibility is no longer blinded by the wrong ideologies imprinted to them and has already awakened on the truth behind the black propaganda made by these terrorist groups.” Lt. Col. Gonzales, added

https://www.kalinawnews.com/2-npa-rebels-surrender-in-davao-de-oro/

Davao City hails capture of 2 NPA rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): Davao City hails capture of 2 NPA rebels (By Che Palicte)

DAVAO CITY – The local government lauded the capture of two young members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Quibolog, Barangay Mapula here last Nov. 14.

In a statement Thursday night, the city government said the capture of Nasria Bansil and Geliejorain Ngojo "unmasked and exposed the true face" of the Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Inc. (MISFI) and the Haran Center of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) in Davao City.

Bansil and Ngojo were both scholars of MISFI and have served as part-time teachers for indigenous children and the elderly currently staying at the compound of Haran Center.

Authorities said two were recruited early this year to become full-time cadres of the terrorist group.

“The City Government of Davao commends the men and women of the 27th Infantry Battalion for the recent successful operations against the New People’s Army in Paquibato District,” the statement added.

As scholars, authorities said Bansin and Ngojo were made to sign a "return service" contract, binding them to serve and volunteer with organizations allied with the scholarship donor.

Before finishing college in 2019, both Bansil and Ngojo volunteered twice with Haran, teaching what they called "Litnum" or basic literacy and numeracy education.

“Clearly, MISFI and Haran played important and active roles in recruiting Bansil and Ngojo into the underground terrorist movement. These organizations primed and prepared Bansil and Ngojo into joining a terrorist group that has perpetuated the condition of poverty and underdevelopment across upland communities of indigenous peoples," the local government said.

State security forces have long accused MISFI schools such as Salugpungan Ta Tanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center (STTICLC) of teaching NPA ideologies for years while serving as training and recruitment centers for the NPA.

On the one hand, Haran has been accused of sheltering indigenous peoples (IP) from various parts of Mindanao that are allegedly sympathetic to the NPA to derail military operations in areas where the NPAs operates.

The local government said Haran's coddling of groups linked to the NPA was "a tactic straight from the playbook" of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF), the Communist Party of the Philippines CPP), and its allies.

“We reiterate the warning of the security sector about the existence and operations of groups that serve as recruitment arms and fronts of the NPA’s. These groups operate on the pretense of education, religion, human rights, environment, women empowerment, children’s rights — basically just like MISFI and Haran,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, the city government also cited various peace and development initiatives in hinterland areas where the rebels are regularly sighted, such as in the mountainous Paquibato District.

“Through Peace 911, we are providing the people in Paquibato with livelihood and economic opportunities, education, roads, bridges, community health centers, and other infrastructure projects,” it further said.

The city government also urged the Dabawenyos to reject individuals and organizations that hamper the city's development and participate in the "culture of security" campaign.

“Together, we should stand against individuals and organizations that, in the guise of selfless and pro-people acts, plant seeds of terrorism in our youth,” the local government said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122405

Samar couple punished by NPA recalls ordeal

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): Samar couple punished by NPA recalls ordeal (By Sarwell Meniano)

DRIVEN AWAY. Couple Virgil and Estreng of Marabut, Samar. Suspected as military informants, the New People's Army ordered the couple some two years ago to immediately leave their properties in an upland sub-village in Basey, Samar, the couple said in an interview on Thursday (Nov. 19, 2020). (PNA photo by Sarwell Meniano)

MARABUT, Samar – It was still a sigh of relief for couple Virgil and Estreng (not their real names) when the New People’s Army (NPA) evicted them from their land in a remote community in Basey, Samar two years ago.

Suspected as military informants, the NPA ordered the couple to immediately leave their properties in upland Sitio (sub-village) Bagong Silang in Guirang village and settle in a place outside of Basey town.

"It was a mixed feeling since the punishment drove us away from danger, but we felt sad to leave our house built by a humanitarian organization for super typhoon victims and a hectare of land," said Virgil, 70.

For 40 years, the couple considered themselves as "default NPA members" since they and 50 other families in the sitio frequently mingled with leaders and members of the communist terrorist group.

"My task was to help the NPA gather sacks of rice, crops, canned goods, and cash every time they visit our community once or twice a month. We shared food with them for fear of our safety," Estreng, 60, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in an interview on Thursday.

The mother of three recalled how she turned emotional when they sold their house for only PHP10,000 and their coconut farm for a mere PHP15,000.

"Several heavily armed men surrounded our house that night when they announced the punishment in 2018. We left our village early morning the following day and never got a chance to return there until last month to visit my son," Estreng recalled.

Their former place is now peaceful after the Philippine Army’s 63rd Infantry Battalion set up a detachment near the community.

The village is now along a new highway with the ongoing construction of Basey-Maydolong Road, providing a shorter route between Samar and Eastern Samar provinces.

Their old place is about 25 kilometers away from the town center.

Until last year, the community can be accessed through a motorcycle ride to Wespal village and a three-hour hike upland.

The couple is now staying at a relative's house in nearby Marabut town with their youngest daughter supporting their basic needs.

“I don’t want to return to our old place anymore. It was a nightmare living in fear and giving in to extortion activities of the NPA. Our life here is normal and peaceful,” Virgil said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been assisting the couple receive financial assistance from the central government under the enhanced comprehensive local integration program (E-CLIP).

E-CLIP gives former rebels a holistic package of benefits such as livelihood, medical, education, housing, and even legal assistance.

Guirang village is one of the priority areas in the deployment retooled community support program (RCSP).

Other villages covered by RCSP are Inuntan, Burgos, Cancaiyas, Bulao, and Cogon.

Through RCSP, the Philippine Army and the PNP deploy teams to facilitate solutions for those identified problems through the convergence of efforts of different government agencies supervised by the local task force of ending local communist armed conflict (ELCAC).

The military initially identified 100 remote villages in the Eastern Visayas region as priorities for RCSP deployment due to threats of the NPA.

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/1122431

Navy ship to return to Catanduanes for more relief ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): Navy ship to return to Catanduanes for more relief ops (By John Rey Saavedra)

SAILING BACK. The Philippine Navy's Landing Craft 299, the BRP Batak, at the Rafael Ramos Naval Base in Looc, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu in this undated photo. Naval Forces Central's public affairs officer Lt. Jr. Grade Frances Maye Macapinig said Friday (Nov. 21, 2020) the BRP Batak is preparing for another humanitarian voyage to Catanduanes to bring more relief assistance from Cebu. (Photo courtesy of Navforcen PAO)

The Philippine Navy’s BRP Batak will sail back to Catanduanes to bring more relief assistance from Cebu, the Naval Forces Central (Navforcen) in the Visayas said Friday.

Commander Dexter Caga-anan said the Landing Craft 299 just returned to the Rafael Ramos Naval Base in Looc, Lapu-Lapu City last Wednesday from its relief operation in Catanduanes, during which Councilor David Tumulak, on behalf of the Cebu City government, handed over to Catanduanes Governor Joseph Cua PHP5 million in financial assistance, as well as relief goods donated by Cebuanos.

The Cebu City Quick Response Team also conducted clearing and cleaning operations on main roads in Catanduanes and helped restore electrical lines felled by typhoons Rolly and Ulysses.

“The BRP Batak will undertake another transport mission to deliver donations from ShelterBox Operations Philippines, Inc., such as emergency shelter kits and other household items,” Lt. Jr. Grade Frances Maye Macapinig said in a statement.

Macapinig, Navforcen’s public affairs officer, said the BRP Batak is now loading clothing, one sack of utensils, and 1,000 food packs from the Rotary Club of Cebu.

She said the vessel would also carry used clothing, mineral water, canned goods, and instant noodles collected from reservists of the 513th Naval Squadron Reserve in the southern towns of Cebu.

The donated items from the reservists in Alcoy, Boljoon, Oslob, Santander, Ginatilan, Malabuyoc, Alegria, Moalboal, and Ronda municipalities were collected through the Naval Reserve Center - Eastern Visayas to support the affected families of the two typhoons in the Bicol region, Macapinig added.

“The said relief goods were consolidated by the Naval Forces Central, in partnership with the different government, non-government units, and other cause-oriented organizations in the Visayas region,” she said.

The Naval office in Lapu-Lapu has not announced the date of BRP Batak's second voyage to Catanduanes but the travel will depend on the weather condition, it said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122426

Remote Samar villages tag projects to end NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): Remote Samar villages tag projects to end NPA (By Roel Amazona)

FIGHTING INSURGENCY. Some village officials receive generator sets from the Office of Civil Defense during a dialogue in Marabut, Samar on Friday (Nov. 20, 2020). Residents of two remote villages in Marabut town have identified four projects meant to prevent insurgency in their communities. (PNA photo by Roel Amazona)

MARABUT, Samar – Residents of two remote villages here have identified four projects meant to address decades-long insurgency in vulnerable communities.

In a dialogue on Friday, residents of Tagalag and Tinabanan villages listed road access, safe and potable water supply, farm irrigation system, and land ownership as priority projects.

These projects will be carried out under the government’s retooled community support program (RCSP), an initiative that seeks to identify issues and concerns in remote communities vulnerable to the influence of the New People’s Army (NPA).

Although there is no NPA presence, these villages are considered susceptible because their location is along the path of rebels crossing Samar and Eastern Samar provinces.

“With this approach, communities in far-flung areas could see that the government is serious in ending insurgency problems because they can see that all agencies are working together unlike before that it is only through a military solution,” Marabut Mayor Percival Ortillo said.

“To make insurgency irrelevant, we have to provide answers and solutions to what the people need,” he added.

Tagalag has more than 800 residents while Tinabanan has more than 1,200 dwellers. Some villagers attend dialogue at the town hall complex.

They also received food packs and hygiene kits from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), which also turned over two generator sets to the two villages.

Joining the dialogue are key officials from the Philippine Army, OCD, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine National Police, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, a representative from the Office of the President, and Philippine Information Agency.

“Now you can see that all agencies of the government and the local government units are working together in this campaign. We can never achieve our goal without your help, the community,” Philippine Army 8th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso III said.

The development initiative is aligned with the national government’s goal to end the communist terrorist group by 2022.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122439

ASG leader, follower killed in Sulu clashes

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): ASG leader, follower killed in Sulu clashes (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Map of the Bud Bawis Complex in Brgy. Kawasan, Panao, Sulu province. (Courtesy of the Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

A mid-level leader and a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) involved in cross-border kidnappings were killed in separate clashes early Friday in the hinterlands of Sulu, military officials said.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said the first encounter occurred around 5:45 a.m. Friday in Bud Bawis, Barangay Kawasan, Panamao, Sulu.

Vinluan said the 20-minute firefight broke out after the Marine Battalion Landing Team-1 (MBLT-1) troops chanced upon the group of ASG leader Hatib Munap Binda while conducting combat operations in Bud Bawis, Barangay Kawasan.

Vinluan said the firefight resulted in the death of Binda, whose group operates in the municipalities of Kalingalan Caluang and Panamao, Sulu.

Government troops recovered an M-16 Armalite rifle and one M-14 rifle at the encounter site, including Binda's remains.

Vinluan said Binda was a close associate of the late ASG mid-level leader Alhabsi Misaya, and was involved in series of kidnappings in the tri-boundaries of Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

He said the second firefight took place around 6:45 a.m. Friday when a separate team of MBLT-1 troopers clashed against ASG bandits led by another mid-level leader, Sansibar Bensio, several meters away from the first clash site, while pursuing the fleeing followers of Binda.

Lt. Col. Marvin Salvan, MBLT-1 commander, said the 20-minute clash resulted in the death of Barahama Bensio and the recovery of an M14 rifle.

“Our good intelligence operations yielded to these positive results, and we are grateful that no one from our side was injured during the operations,” Salvan added.

Vinluan said Barahama is the father of Sansibar, whose group operates in the towns of Luuk, Omar, and Panamao, Sulu.

Sansibar and his followers, he said, were also involved in numerous kidnapping activities victimizing foreign nationals, including Swiss Lorenzo Vinciguerra, and Maharudin Bin Lunani and Muhammad Farhan, both Indonesians.

Sansibar was also involved in the kidnapping of several Filipinos, he added.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said: “All the military units here in Sulu remain vigilant and resilient in eliminating the remaining terrorists who refuse to cooperate with us and continue to inflict terroristic activities in the peaceful communities."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122443

ASG bandit nabbed in Basilan law enforcement operation

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): ASG bandit nabbed in Basilan law enforcement operation (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Isabela City, Basilan Island province.

Police have arrested an Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit allegedly involved in killing nine people in an attack more than three years ago in Basilan province, an official said Friday.

Capt. Edwin Duco, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) information officer, identified the arrested ASG bandit as Ranger Siason, 33, also known as Abu Ranger and Roseller Siason Mohammad.

Duco said that Siason was arrested by virtue of an arrest warrant around 11:50 p.m. Thursday in Barangay Aguada, Isabela City, Basilan.

Authorities confiscated from the hideout of Siason two grenades, a plastic container of ammonium nitrate, an explosive component, a flag of Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a backpack; five rounds of .50-caliber ammunition, two pieces CTG 40-mm cartridge, and 29 rounds of caliber 5.56-mm ammunition.

Siason is a follower of Basilan-based ASG leader Radzmil Jannatul alias Abui Kubaib, Duco said.

Duco said Siason was involved in an attack on August 21, 2017 in Barangay Tubigan, Maluso, Basilan, which killed nine villagers, including three women and a 13-year-old girl.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122456

Ex-rebel says parents influenced him to join NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): Ex-rebel says parents influenced him to join NPA (By Alexander Lopez)

NEW LIFE. Former New People's Army combatant Christian Montenegro Arreza, 20, recounts his ordeal while with the communist rebels during a virtual presser hosted by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict on Thursday afternoon (Nov. 19, 2020). Arreza, a Surigao del Sur resident, says he wants to become a police officer someday. (Screenshot from NTF-ELCAC virtual presser)

The active involvement of parents in the communist rebel movement can be a factor for their children's susceptibility to recruitment by the New People’s Army (NPA).

This was the case of Christian Montenegro Arreza, a young NPA combatant captured by the Army's 36th Infantry Battalion in an encounter in Surigao del Sur in May this year.

Arreza, together with another NPA surrenderer Cheryl Dalaguan, voluntarily appeared during the virtual press conference on former child warriors Thursday afternoon hosted by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and the 401st Infantry Brigade (401Bde).

“I was recruited when I was at the young age of 17 in our village in Surigao del Sur. My father and mother were active members and supporters of the communist movement in our area,” Arreza said in the dialect.

The active members of the movement, even the NPA's regular fighters, frequented not only their village but also their home as his parents welcomed them.

Eventually, he said, the regular members became his acquaintances who recruited him to join the NPA.

“I was in the movement for more than three years serving as a political guide until I was captured by the Army last May 2020,” said Arreza, who is now 20-years-old.

But the former rebel said he had realizations when he was inside the movement, especially upon witnessing the unfair treatment of combatants from their leaders.

“Life was tough inside the NPA movement. Our leaders do not treat us fairly, a reality I personally discovered and was very different from what I was told during recruitment,” Arreza said.

Before his capture, Arreza said he had been planning to escape and surrender to authorities but was afraid of their leaders.

Arreza said his capture was a blessing in disguise that allowed him to change his life.

“My simple dream is to land a decent job and help my family. Since I was a boy, I really wanted to become a policeman,” Arreza said.

With the Army's help and the other line agencies of the government, he is now planning to finish his studies to fulfill his dream of helping his family.

Defense Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu of the Task Force Balik Loob said Arreza is among the hundreds of minors exploited by the NPA who are now back into the fold of the law.

“The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), and its armed wing, the NPA, are destroying the future of our children,” Mapagu said during Thursday's virtual presser.

“They are the living witnesses that prove the recruitment of minors of the PP-NPA and their blatant disregard to their welfare and human rights, and in violation of the Philippine and international laws,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122491

Navy relief ship now in Catanduanes

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): Navy relief ship now in Catanduanes (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy photo

The landing dock BRP Tarlac (LD-601), one of the two largest ships of the Philippine Navy (PN), has unloaded 240 tons of relief goods and construction materials in San Andres, Catanduanes starting Thursday morning.

Naval Forces Southern Luzon spokesperson Lt. Jonathan Carretas said the ship dropped anchor around 6:17 p.m. Wednesday.

"Personnel aboard BRP Tarlac are currently unloading the relief goods using the two landing craft utility aboard LD-601. Clearing operations and rehabilitation efforts shall be conducted by the team," he said.
The ship departed Pier 15, Manila South Harbor on Nov. 17 with a cargo of relief goods and construction materials donated by the different government agencies, non-government organizations, and private individuals.

The BRP Tarlac is considered a "critical asset" for civil-military operations and humanitarian assistance disaster relief due to its capability of transporting a large number of personnel, logistics, and supplies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122410

PNP gets 3 new choppers

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 20, 2020): PNP gets 3 new choppers (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP photo

The Philippine National Police (PNP) now has a total of 10 air assets with the arrival of three H125 choppers, a police official said Friday.

PNP Director for Logistics Maj. Gen. Angelito Casimiro said the new chopper each costs PHP205,305,898.

"Mayroon tayong bagong dating lang na tatlong (We have three new) H125 na air bus undergoing field testing and evaluation prior to acceptance," Casimiro said in a phone interview.

Aside from the newly-arrived air assets, the PNP has four H125s; two Robinson 44 trainer choppers; and one Cessna C150 trainer fixed wing.

The chopper, Bell 429, involved in a crash in Laguna last March was beyond mechanical repair, Casimiro said.

Casimiro said proceeds from the Bell 429, about PHP430 million, would be used to buy Pump Air Ambulance, which are two H130s.

"Magiging air ambulance natin 'yung dalawang bibilhin from the proceeds doon sa nahulog na Bell 429 natin (The two that we will buy from the Bell 429 proceeds will be used as air ambulance)," he said.

He added that the choppers would also be used for rescue operations, medical evacuation, aerial survey, and lifting of vital assets.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122442

AFP teams bring aid to Aurora typhoon victims

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 19, 2020): AFP teams bring aid to Aurora typhoon victims (By Jason De Asis)

HUMANITARIAN AID. Teams from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) bring five truckloads of food and non-food items to Dingalan, Aurora for distribution to typhoon-hit residents on Thursday (Nov. 19, 2020). The assorted relief goods were turned over to Dingalan Mayor Shierwin Taay (fourth from right). (Photo courtesy of 91st IB, Philippine Army)

BALER, Aurora – Soldiers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) arrived on Thursday in the province to provide aid to typhoon-hit residents.

The AFP teams with five trucks loaded with food and non-food items went to Dingalan, one of the heavily devastated towns by Typhoon Ulysses.

Lt. Col. Reandrew Rubio, commanding officer of the Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, said the move is part of the AFP’s humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) efforts to affected communities within the area of responsibilities of Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) and the 7th Infantry “Kaugnay” Division (7ID).

Of the five trucks, two came from the 7ID, and one each from Nolcom, 91st IB and 703rd Brigade.

“The activity is in line with the 7ID’s initiative to uplift the spirit of Dingaleños that it has conceptualized the Tulong Kaugnay Program,” Rubio said in an interview.

“Through the efforts and initiative of Nolcom, Kaugnay troopers, Kiwanis Club of Golden Tagum, Gia Veloso of The Geo Projects Inc., and Hydeliza Tuazon of Tacloban City, we were able to donate five trucks containing assorted items and relief goods to LGU Dingalan intended for the affected residents. This is one way of helping our less fortunate constituents who were indeed severely affected by the recent typhoon in our area of operations,” he said.

The assorted relief goods were turned over to Dingalan Mayor Shierwin Taay.

Lt. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos, Jr., Nolcom chief, said Dingalan could rest assure of support from the AFP “that is within their capacity and in whatever legal means possible for the immediate recovery from the destruction brought by Typhoon Ulysses.”

The aid distribution was also attended by Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander 7th ID, Brig. Gen. Andrew Costelo, commander 703rd (Agila) Brigade and witnessed by other local officials.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122339