WESTMINCOM: 2 communist terrorists opted to end their armed struggle, yield in South Cotabato

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Dec 27, 2020): 2 communist terrorists opted to end their armed struggle, yield in South Cotabato

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- December 27, 2020

Two members of the Communist Terrorist Group chose to end their armed struggle and yielded to the troops of the Joint Task Force Central a day after Christmas, December 26, 2020.

“Abraham Arida, a.k.a. Tantan, and Bryan Dusa, a.k.a. Bornok, both members of the Platoon Central, Guerilla Front Musa, Far South Mindanao Region submitted themselves to the troops of the 5th Special Forces Battalion under Lt. Col. Randy Banaag in Barangay Lamlahak, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato at 9 a.m.,” said Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“The duo handed over one 5.56mm rifle, one improvised explosive device, and one M14 rifle,” the Commander added.

The surrendered personalities were brought to the 11th Special Forces Company in Barangay Lambingi, Banga, South Cotabato for consolidation and were subsequently transferred to the Alpha Company of the 5SFBn in Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato for the conduct of custodial debriefing.

During the initial debriefing, the duo revealed that they decided to abandon the armed struggle due to hardships, hunger, and uncertainties of life as the government troops launch all-out offensives against the terror group.

Lt. Col. Banaag said, “We will see to it that they will be enrolled in the E-CLIP of the government”.
Meanwhile, 601st Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Roy Galido said, “Those who wish to return to the fold of the law are always welcome in our unit”.

Likewise, Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Joint Task Force Central Commander said the military is gaining grounds, hence, the momentum will be sustained and all-out offensives will continue to press on the remaining terrorists to yield and start anew”.

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Kalinaw News: No CPP-NPA Anniversary in Sultan Kudarat-Military troops destroyed FSMR

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 27, 2020): No CPP-NPA Anniversary in Sultan Kudarat-Military troops destroyed FSMR



CAMP Siongco, Maguindanao – The troops from 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division headed by Major General Juvymax R. Uy, Joint Task Force Central Commander led the operation to prevent the attempt of hundreds of New People’s Army – Communist Party of the Philippines belonging to Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR), to commemorate their 52nd founding anniversary in the hinterlands of Mt. Lumuton in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat on December 25, 2020 (during Christmas celebration).

Major Gen. Uy, said the operation to thwart the convergence of Communist Terrorist Group, FSMR for the commemoration of their anniversary on December 26 was launched after President Rodrigo Duterte declared no ceasefire this holiday season.

Lt. Col. Anhouvic Atilano, spokesperson of 6th ID told media men that villagers reported sightings of armed men proceeding to Mount Lumuton early this week from upland towns in South Cotabato province and Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat prompting military troops conducted focused military operations.

The military operation resulted to the death of 3 (body count) CTG members while other reported deaths are still being confirmed; also recovered were several high powered firearms, IEDs (Anti-Personnel Landmines), Laptops, 2 sets Generator, subversive documents and other war materials. Clearing operations is still being conducted by troops in the area.

“Gamit ang ating air assets at Joint-combined arms operations, mabilis nating naitaboy ang tangkang pagtipon-tipon sana ng mga rebelde at itinayo natin ang bandila ng Pilipinas dito sa nakubkob natin na kuta ng NPA” Maj. Gen. Uy said.

He said credit for the feat has to go partly to Col. Eduardo Gubat, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, and his subordinate-battalion commanders for the besieged of their encampment and the neutralization of three NPAs.

The Provincial LGU of Sultan Kudarat is calling the NPAs to go back to the folds of law and avail the reconciliation program of the government.

“Barangay leaders, among them members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, are supporting the military’s anti-NPA campaign” Abdulsatar Badruddin, executive secretary of the municipal mayor of Palimbang, stressed during his message in the simple program after the military obtained encampment of NPA in Palimbang municipality.



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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/no-cpp-npa-anniversary-in-sultan-kudarat-military-troops-destroyed-fsmr/

Kalinaw News: Soldiers discover cache in Surigao del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 27, 2020): Soldiers discover cache in Surigao del Norte



PLACER, Surigao del Norte— The government discovered an arm cache of the communist NPA terrorists (CNT) in the vicinity of Tugnawan, Sitio Little Baguio, Brgy. Payapag, Bacuag, Surigao del Norte, Sunday morning, December 27.

Based on the report, the 30th Infantry Battalion launched operation in response to the information revealed by a former rebel regarding the whereabouts of CNT’s cache containing high powered firearms and war materials in the said area.

As a result of the operation, the troops recovered numerous firearms including one cal 5.56 AR18 rifle with SN BB777999; one AK47 Rifle with SN 5508081, one cal 30 M1 Garrand Rifle; one cal .22 Springfield Rifle with SN 2094577; one Hagen Shotgun; three (3) anti-personnel mines; 76 rounds 7.62 live ammunition for AK47; 31 rounds 7.62 live ammunition for cal. 30 M1 Garrand, assorted magazines; three magazines for AK47; 250 meters electrical wire; and batteries. The said war materials were believed to be owned by the elements of Guerilla Front 16, NEMRC.

In the statement of Col. George L Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, he said that the discovery of the firearms was a clear manifestation that many are displeased with the existence of the communist terrorists group (CTG).

“In most of our successful operations if it’s not the civilians, it’s the former rebels who disclose the whereabouts of their hideouts, cache and the likes. This clearly suggests that our people including the FR are disgruntled and tired of the CTG atrocities and they want to end insurgency,” he said.

The Commander said that they will continue to pursue the remaining members of the CTG in order to ensure the safety and security of the communities in Surigao del Norte. He added that the remarkable gains in the counter-insurgency campaign in the province were the results of the convergence of efforts of different sectors of the society.

“We have achieved these gains because the local populace have seen and appreciated the efforts of the government in pursuing genuine peace by facilitating the convergence to address insurgency”, he added.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/soldiers-discover-cache-in-surigao-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: 6 NPA members surrender to the government during CPP-NPA Anniversary

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 27, 2020): 6 NPA members surrender to the government during CPP-NPA Anniversary

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur- While the Philippine Army had increased its vigilance ahead of the 52nd Founding Anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on December 26, 2020, six (6) New People’s Army (NPA) members voluntarily surrendered to the 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion during the said anniversary.

The NPA is considered as the armed wing of the CPP and it is believed that they will increase possible hostilities through attacks against the government especially the security forces, telecommunication facilities, plantations, and other agro-industrial sites.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), President Rodrigo Duterte, did not allow any ceasefire between the government and the NPA since the latter had violated the declaration of previous ceasefire agreements and only used it as an opportunity to recruit additional militants and to conduct extortion activities.

The surrenderees are Alyas Eking from Brgy. Balit, Alyas Nel and Alyas Juan from Brgy Binicalan, all of San Luis, ADS, Alyas Paying from Brgy Lydia, Alyas Ebo and Alyas Nadel from Brgy Angeles, all of La Paz, ADS. They are all Militia ng Bayan (MB) members of the Guerilla Front 88 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) operating in San Luis and some parts of Talacogon and La Paz, ADS.

“Taphaw ug haw-ang ang kalipay nga among nasinati sa nilabay nga pasko tungod kaya na ang kakulba ug kaguol nga basin kami masikop sa mga awtoridad nga tungod ky kami mga member man sa NPA isip MB, ug karun nag surrender mi aron mahimong bulawanon ang masadya ang among mga mahal sa kinabuhi sa pag sugat sa bag-ong tuig ug makasugod na usab kami ug malinawon nga kinabuhi uban among pamilya. Gikapoy na kami sa among mga gibuhaton isip usa sa mga teroristang NPA tungod ky wala kini gikatabang kanamu.”, Alyas Nel said.

With the intent to fully surrender to the government, they peacefully laid down six (6) firearms composed of one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) carbine rifle, two (2) caliber 38 revolver, two (2) caliber 45 pistol, one (1) KG9, four (4) magazines, assorted live ammunition and NPA flag.

As part of the Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (BTF-ELCAC) the empowered Brgy Officials of Brgy Balit, San Luis, ADS headed by Hon. Elisa P. Gaud, Brgy Chairwoman, accompanied the surrenderees going to 26IB Headquarters as a way of showing their efforts in ending insurgency and peace-building initiatives at the barangay level.

The 26IB under the command of Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce is on high alert thru increased patrols, checkpoints, and strengthened security in its area of operations to prevent the NPA’s threat of violence during its anniversary. “We have deployed our troops for an intensified military operations, we will not allow these terrorists to mark their anniversary with any atrocities.”, he said.

“These surrenderees have already realized the futility of their armed struggle, welcome back to the fold of law. The continuous surrender only means that the CPP-NPA is weakening and the AFP will continue its duty in ending the conflict. The goverment, thru the efforts of the NTF-ELCAC, is winning the war against these terrorists and there will be no more anniversaries for them.”, Lt. Col. Goce added.

Currently, the unit of 26IB is conducting Custodial Debriefing to the surrenderees and they will be processed for the enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits, a government program that aims to help the rebel members of CPP-NPA-NDF and MB to restore their allegiance to the Philippine government.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/6-npa-members-surrender-to-the-government-during-cpp-npa-anniversary/

Kalinaw News: NPA in Bukidnon disintegrates on the day of the CPP 52nd Founding Anniversary

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 27, 2020): NPA in Bukidnon disintegrates on the day of the CPP 52nd Founding Anniversary



Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon December 26, 2020. As the Communist Party of the Philippines celebrates its 52nd Founding Anniversary on December 26, 2020, nine (9) rebels from the notorious guerrilla units in Bukidnon surrendered to the 1st Special Forces Battalion under the 403rd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army. The rebels finally reached their breaking point because of what they realized as selfish social exploitation from their communist leaders. Furthermore, the rebels felt that the meaningless guerrilla fighting and deceptive communist recruitment in the mountainous communities of Bukidnon have only brought intimidation, violence, and socio-economic despair to the people.

@Lee, Political Instructor and @Langlang, Medical Officer, couple who both served as communist mass organizers and guerrilla fighters under the Guerrilla Front 68 in Bukidnon, shared how they were manipulated by the communist underground movement and their hardships and frustations in waging the terroristic armed struggle of the New Peoples Army. Along with their equally exploited comrades in the communist underground armed movement, they were haunted by their unbearable physical and psychological exhaustion, extreme emotional depression, and rampant financial abuse which eventually made them decide to abandon the communist armed struggle and go back to the mainstream society and to the folds of the true and legitimate government of the Philippines.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL VERCISIO G. SAN JOSE JR. INF (GSC) PA, Battalion Commander of the 1st Special Forces Battalion said that “the peace, development, and security operations of the Philippine Army and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are effective in bringing the national and local government closer to the people even in the most isolated and disadvantageous communities. We assist the civil instrumentalities of the government in their main role of resolving the root causes of insurgency where the communist armed group thrive in their deceptive recruitment and exploitation of the local populace. Social progress and economic development are now tangible in the countryside because of the active involvement of the local government units and agencies and this could have happened partly with the stable security conditions attributed to our military operations. The convergence of national and local government units and agencies, and the active support of the military and police, paved the way for the peaceful surrender of communist rebels in Bukidnon and in all other parts of the country. But for those communist rebels who remain entangled in their twisted violent ideology and terroristic ways, to those who prefer not to heed the government’s call for peaceful surrender, the 1st Special Forces Battalion will be relentless in its operations and we will hunt down the enemy until the last communist terrorist element is prevented from waging violence and intimidation to our peace-loving people.”

In his remarks, BRIGADIER GENERAL FERDINAND T. BARANDON PA, Commander, 403rd Infantry Brigade, 4ID, PA also stated that “the NTF ELCAC, cascaded down to the Provincial, City, Municipal, and Barangay level with the military and police units as components, facilitated the responsive delivery of government services in the remotest communities and this helped a lot in encouraging the disgruntled communist rebels to abandon their violent armed struggle.” He also believed that the continuous military pressure of the entire 403rd Infantry Brigade has finally compelled the disintegration of the communist Guerrilla Fronts in the Provinces of Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental. Brigadier General Barandon also explained that “what we see now is the irreversible collapse of the communist terrorist group in Bukidnon and I think this is also happening in other insurgency-affected areas of the country. As the Communist Party of the Philippines celebrates its 52nd Founding Anniversary of lies, violence, corruption, and exploitation on December 26, 2020, the guerrilla units in Bukidnon are breaking down to their ultimate defeat as manifested by the continuous influx of surrenderors in the past years and recent months. We are now starting to reap, together with the local government units and agencies, the dividend of our interagency and military efforts to finally put an end to this destructive and deceitful communist insurgency.”



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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-in-bukidnon-disintegrates-on-the-day-of-the-cpp-52nd-founding-anniversary/

Kalinaw News: Rebels opt to live, and surrenders to government in South Cotabato as the NPA commemorates its founding anniversary

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 27, 2020): Rebels opt to live, and surrenders to government in South Cotabato as the NPA commemorates its founding anniversary



H601IBde, Camp Leono, Brgy Kalandagan, Tacurong City- Two (2) communist terrorist group members in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato surrendered to the 5th Special Forces Battalion while the 601st Infantry Brigade of Joint Task Force Central intensified its focus military operations against the CTG in the whole province to thwart any hostile acts as the CPP terrorist commemorates its 52nd founding anniversary.

Battalion commander of 5SFBn, SFRA Lt. Col. Randy Banaag disclosed that the rebel, identified as alias Tantan and alias Bornok a members of Platoon Central, Guerrilla Front Musa, Far South Mindanao Region of CPP-NPA-NDF. Further, the rebel likewise turned over their firearms comprises of one (1) M14 rifle and one (1) 5.56mm rifle (HM).

BGen. Roy Galido, Brigade Commander, 601st Infantry Brigade said full military offensive against the CTG in the province pressured the rebels to laid their arms. Further, the surrenderees were being cognizant of the government efforts against the CTG as PRRD administration recently officially declared the CPP/NPA as terror group. Likewise, information dissemination on the E-CLIP program of the government and opportunity to change their lives paved way to correct their mistakes committed due to deception.

On the other hand, the surrendered of CTG personalities accounted to the current efforts of Joint Task Force “Central” in conducting combat operation in the boundaries of Palimbang and Sen. Ninoy Aquino municipalities wherein several clashed were transpired which resulted to seven (7) CTG killed and foiled an attempt by hundreds of guerrillas to commemorate the NPA founding anniversary.

“We will not rest our laurels to call our misguided brothers who are still in the influenced of CTG to lay down their arms and embrace the peace. Our government has its programs, enable to provide you a better livelihood and become even more productive member of the society,” Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander, JTF-Central said while he lauded the troops on the said accomplishment in the 601st Infantry Brigade AOR.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/rebels-opt-to-live-and-surrenders-to-government-in-south-cotabato-as-the-npa-commemorates-its-founding-anniversary/

Kalinaw News: 2 NPA couriers apprehended on Christmas Eve

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 26, 2020): 2 NPA couriers apprehended on Christmas Eve

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – Two New People’s Army (NPA) couriers were apprehended by the troops of 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion in the hinterlands of Talisayan, Misamis Oriental on December 25,2020.

The two apprehended were identified as Russel Cago, 31 years old and Richard Cago, both are residents of Barangay Mintabon, Talisayan, Misamis Oriental who facilitated food stuffs and other logistical requirements of Platoon Falcon, Subregional Committee 1 (SRC1), North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

The 58th IB conducted Focused Military Operations (FMO) following the tip and reports of the residents on the presence of the armed group. The troops were able to apprehend the two and seized on their possession one (1) hand grenade, three (3) detonating cords with blasting cap for anti-personnel mine, Medical paraphernalia, Personal belongings, and subversive documents.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, the Commanding Officer of 58th IB said, “We wish to celebrate Christmas with peace and encourage the remaining members of the NPA to lay down their arms and live peacefully. However, for those who continue to spoil the peace, we will continue to use force to protect the people.”

“We call on the peace loving Misamisnon to once and for all help the government in our quest to End Local Communist Armed Conflict by not supporting the NPA of any means to keep the pressure for the much better possibility of having these remaining NPAs consider surrendering so the LGUs and partner agencies, could help them towards a better chance in life.” Lt. Col. Canatoy added.

The two apprehended personalities were turned over to Talisayan Municipal Police Station for proper disposition and filing of cases.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/2-npa-couriers-apprehended-on-christmas-eve/

Kalinaw News: Government Troops Nab 2-NPA Leaders, Prevent Possible Atrocities on Christmas Day in Sorsogon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 26, 2020): Government Troops Nab 2-NPA Leaders, Prevent Possible Atrocities on Christmas Day in Sorsogon



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-Two ranking leaders of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) were arrested after being found in possession of firearm, explosives and terroristic propaganda materials in Barangay Lalud, Bulusan town in Sorsogon province, Friday, December 25.

According to the report, at around 5:30 in the morning, joint elements of 31st Infantry Battalion (31IB) and PNP, Sorsogon while conducting combat operation along the aforesaid Barangay saw an armed CTG member identified as Winefredo Guyala Griego AKA Adax/Lolo, the second in rank of Platoon 2, Larangan 2 (L2), Komiteng Probinsya 3 (KP3) of Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC) but was able to flee together with two communist NPA terrorists.

Within the proximity were two suspicious-looking women located, this prompted the troops to make a brief questioning. Spotting an improvised shotgun inside the house where the two were allegedly residing, the troops then decided to arrest them and do further clearing, which resulted in the seizure of anti-personnel mines, one improvised shotgun, blasting cap, detonator, at least 100-meter wire, hand grenade, two improvised hand grenade, three backpacks with personal belongings, medical equipment and several terrorists’ propaganda materials.

Investigation revealed that one of the women is Griego’s party wife, Enriquita Guelas AKA Cora/Corazon Escandor who is at the same time the L2, KP3’s Secretary while the other one is Elizabeth Estilon AKA Lanie, their medical staff.

Former rebels on the other hand, confirmed the identification of the two and their involvement in the CTG organization.

It was also learned that Griego, Guelas, Estilon and other members of L2, KP3 went into hiding after the armed encounter against the 22nd Infantry Battalion (22IB) last November 23 in Irosin town where one of their comrades was killed and one (1) M16 rifle was captured.

Since Griego is still on the run, Lt. Col. Eric Culvera, Battalion Commander of 31IB directed his troops to remain in close coordination with the PNP for his immediate arrest.

Meanwhile, Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) under MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA stressed that with the absence of Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) this holiday season, the military has strengthened the security measures being laid down in the region to stop the CTG from hurling any treacherous and terroristic acts.

“The arrest of these ranking leaders will cripple the CTG even more knowing how significant their roles are in the movement. Nahadlangan din natin ang posibleng atrocities na pwede nilang gawin. Indikasyon nito ang mga anti-personnel mines na nakuha sa kanila na maaari nilang gamitin against our government troops. Ito na ang sinasabi natin sa mga natitirang miyembro ng teroristang grupong ito, mas mainam kung kayo ay susuko na lamang at makipagtulungan sa gobyerno na tapusin ang armadong tunggalian dahil matutulungan pa namin kayong makapagbagong-buhay. You are fighting a lost cause. Thus, you are only wasting your time, your energy and your life in this battle that you can never win. Itong dalawang ‘to, kung sumuko na sila noon pa, hindi sana sila nagpaskong nakaposas. Weigh your decisions properly. Magbalik-loob na kayo, ngayon na,” MGen. Robinson said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/government-troops-nab-2-npa-leaders-prevent-possible-atrocities-on-christmas-day-in-sorsogon/

2 rebels killed in Negros Oriental clash on Christmas Eve

From Rappler (Dec 24, 2020): 2 rebels killed in Negros Oriental clash on Christmas Eve (By MARCHEL P. ESPINA)

This comes after President Rodrigo Duterte rejected the customary holiday ceasefire with communist rebels – the third time no such ceasefire was observed under his government

Two rebels were killed in a clash with government troopers on Christmas Eve, December 24, at Barangay Napacao, Siaton town, in this province.

Major Cenon Pancito III, public affairs office chief of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, said government forces received reports from concerned residents and barangay officials about the presence of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the area.

Solders of the 11th Infantry (Lapu-Lapu) Battalion then encountered the remnants of Southeast Front, Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor (SEF,KR–NCBS) in the area around 7:25 pm on Thursday, December 24.

The troops were able to outmaneuver the rebels and successfully seized their position, Pancito said.

They also recovered two dead bodies with their firearms, a caliber 5.56mm M653 (baby armalite), and a caliber .45 pistol, he said.

Also recovered from the encounter site were allegedly subversive documents, a bandolier with two magazines of M14, a backpack with medical supplies, two backpacks with personal belongings and medical paraphernalia, he added.

The troops are still in the process of scouring the perimeter of the encounter, while the police are checking the evidence for forensic investigation.

This comes after President Rodrigo Duterte rejected the customary holiday ceasefire with communist rebels – the third time no such ceasefire was observed under his government.

The last time the warring sides observed a ceasefire was from December 23, 2019, to January 7, 2020.

Duterte, however, recently stepped up his verbal assaults against communist rebels and their perceived sympathizers, as more activists also get arrested. Government critics said this is part of Duterte’s war on dissent.

‘Unfortunate but necessary,’ says military

Lieutenant Colonel Ramir Redosendo, commanding officer of the 11th Infantry (Lapu-Lapu) Battalion, said in a statement: “We would like to thank the residents and officials of Barangay Napacao for these efforts as they provided the necessary information needed, which led to the successful engagement against the NPA. This is also brought about by the intensified peace and security operations being undertaken through the Joint Enhanced Military and Police Operation.”

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those killed communist-terrorists. This could not have happened if the leaders of this communist-terrorist organization did not deceive and offered lies to its members,” he added.

Colonel Leonardo Peña, commander of 302nd Infantry Brigade, said: “May this encounter serve as a lesson to all members of the CPP-NPAs and we reiterate our message to their remaining members just to lay down their arms and come back to the folds of the law to embrace the peace offered by the government and be reconciled with their families.”

Major General Eric Vinoya, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, said “the incident is unfortunate but necessary in protecting more of our kababayans (countrymen) from the terroristic activities of the CPP-NPA.” – Rappler.com

https://www.rappler.com/nation/rebels-killed-negros-oriental-clash-christmas-eve-december-24-2020

Worse harassment to come after CPP-NPA terror designation – son of slain peace consultants

 From Rappler (Dec 26, 2020): Worse harassment to come after CPP-NPA terror designation – son of slain peace consultants (By LIAN BUAN)

'Kapag na-red tag ka sa kasalukuyang administrasyong ito, hindi malayo na ikaw ay ma-harass, dakpin, saktan, at ang pinakamahirap 'yung pinapatay,' says lawyer VJ Topacio

There will be more victims of worse harassment from state forces after the designation of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples' Army (CPP-NPA) as terror group, said lawyer VJ Topacio, son of former peace consultants of the communist-led National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) who were killed in a police operation in late November.

"Ina-anticipate ko na mas matinding pandarahas, pangha-harass, at mas dadami pa ang biktima ng karahansan ng administrasyong ito," Topacio said on Saturday, December 26, during a streamed webinar of advocates for the resumption of peace talks with communists. (I'm anticipating worse violence, worse harassment, and more victims of this government's brutality.)

The Philippine's Anti-Terrorism Council has officially designated the CPP-NPA as a terror group, using a unique designation power under the hotly-contested anti-terror law whose constitutionality is in question before the Supreme Court.

Under the law, and its equally-contested implementing rules and regulations (IRR), the Anti-Money Laundering Council can freeze the assets of the designated terror group.

But petitions filed with the Supreme Court have raised fear that designation will be used by law enforcement to arrest individuals accused of being part of the designated terror group – in this context, activists.

"Wala pa 'yung designation, tuloy-tuloy na yung red-tagging – alam nating lahat 'yan. Kapag na-red-tag ka sa kasalukuyang administrasyong ito, hindi malayo na ikaw ay ma-harass, dakpin, saktan, at ang pinakamahirap, 'yung pinapatay," said Topacio. (Even before designation, the red-tagging has continued – we all know that. If you are red-tagged under this administration, it's not far-fetched that you would be harassed, abducted, hurt, and worst, killed.)

Topacio's parents, Agaton Topacio and Eugenia Magpantay, were consultants of the NDF but retired and living at an apartment in Angono, Rizal, when authorities raided their house. Police said the elderly couple shot at them, which prompted cops to return fire, killing the two.

A raid on the power of a search warrant has been a police template, resulting in the arrest and charging of dozens of activists in the past year.

The law and the IRR say the effect of designation is freezing of assets, but the law's vague language worries activists that there would be worse effects than freezing of assets.

"Ang pag-designate ng CPP-NPA as terrorists, ito ay administrative pa lang, wala pa itong court proceedings. Hihintayin natin na umabot ito sa korte at ke-kuwestiyunin natin ito," said Topacio. (Designating the CPP-NPA as terrorists, it's an administrative act, there are no court proceedings yet. We will wait for this to reach court and we will question it.)

Designation is a distinct power from proscription. Proscription is a court proceeding to declare someone as a terrorist, and which undergoes trial, as opposed to designation which is a secret process of the Anti-Terrorism Council made up only of Cabinet secretaries.

'Reject' the designation

It is unclear whether the CPP-NPA will seek to delist itself, which is provided for under the IRR.

In a statement posted on Twitter, the CPP's information officer Marco Valbuena said they "reject" the designation, adding that the Anti-Terrorism Council's resolution has "falsehoods and infirmities."

The December 9 resolution cited "similar designations" of the CPP-NPA as a terror group like that of the United Kingdom supposedly made in 2002 and reaffirmed on July 7, 2020.

"The CPP-NPA is not included in the list of proscribed terrorist organizations of the United Kingdom, not even in its July 17, 2020 updated list," said Valbuena's statement.

Valbuena said the designation "is a precursor for heightened fascist suppression against the broad democratic forces which are being red-baited and persecuted for fighting Duterte's tyrannical rule."

"The regime is setting the stage for all-out suppression of democractic rights using anti-terrorism as pretext," said Valbuena. –

https://www.rappler.com/nation/worse-harassment-come-after-cpp-npa-terror-designation

Intel cop shot dead while with mayor

From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 23, 2020): Intel cop shot dead while with mayor (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

A police intelligence officer, who had just a brief talk with Pontevedra Mayor Jose Maria Alonso, was shot and killed by a lone gunman wearing a face mask at the reclamation area in Barangay 1-Poblacion, Pontevedra, Negros Occidental yesterday morning.

Scene of the crime operatives examine the area where SSgt. Ildefonso Casugod was gunned down in Brgy. 1 poblacion, Pontevedra, Negros Occidental yesterday  Pontevedra PNP photo

The police officer, identified as SSgt. Ildefonso Casugod, sustained a lone gunshot wound in the head, and was declared dead on arrival at the Bago City District Hospital, Capt. Hancel Lumandaz, the Pontevedra police chief, said.

Lumandaz said the killing of Casugod, 37, intelligence officer of the Pontevedra Police Station, may be job-related, as he was actively involved in the fight against illegal drugs and gambling, and in the arrest of most wanted persons in the town.

Initial investigations of the Pontevedra police showed that Casugod alighted from his bike, approached and greeted Alonso when he saw the mayor and two others jogging in the area at about 6 a.m. yesterday.

After a brief greeting, the two parted ways and Lumandaz said the unidentified gunman, wearing a hooded black jacket and jogging pants, and a face mask, and who was trailing Casugod, shot him in the head and fled on foot towards a waiting motorcycle.

The gunman was armed with a .45 caliber pistol, the police said.

Lumandaz said that Alonso and his bodyguard, Ramon Briguelo, and SFO2 Edmund Cabatas, were unharmed.

Alonso said he did not witness the actual shooting of Casugod, as he had turned around after their brief conversation.

Lumandaz described Casugod, of Brgy. Recreo, Pontevedra, as a good police officer and dedicated to his work.

Alonso and Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson called on authorities to exert their best efforts in identifying the gunman, in order to give justice to his killing.

Lacson said Alonso was never under threat. “I think the target was very specific on the police officer,” he added.

Lacson expressed hope that the family of Casugod will get the justice they are seeking.

The Pontevedra PNP said in a statement that they strongly condemn the killing of Casugod.

“To the families and loved ones left behind by our fallen comrade, please accept our sincerest condolences and sympathy. Justice will be served. Rest in Peace Brother,” the statement added.

Col. Romy Palgue, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, said they are also looking into the involvement of communist rebels. Palgue reminded policemen to be vigilant, as the Communist Party of the Philippines is marking its 52nd founding anniversary on Dec. 26.

https://news.visayandailystar.com/intel-cop-shot-dead-while-with-mayor/

Bodies of 3 NPA guerrillas killed in aerial bombing in Sultan Kudarat recovered

Posted to MindaNews (Dec 26, 2020): Bodies of 3 NPA guerrillas killed in aerial bombing in Sultan Kudarat recovered (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

PALIMBANG, Sultan Kudarat (MindaNews /25 December) — At least seven members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were reportedly killed Wednesday night when a Philippine Air Force FA-50 fighter jet dropped six bombs in the hinterlands of Daguma Range, the military said, but only the remains of three rebels have so far been recovered.

Major General Juvymax Uy, commander of Joint-Task Force Central’s 6th Army Division, said the NPA guerrillas were killed when their base camp was hit by GPS-guided smart bombs fired by the FA-50 jet.

The FA-50 fighter jets were first used in the five-month Marawi siege in 2017.

Officials led by 6th ID chief Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy led in the flag-raising of the Philippine flag on December 25 in a village in Sultan Kudarat province. Photo handout

Uy said they were able to monitor, through the help of residents and local officials, the movement of the rebels from the Far South Regional Committee ahead of the December 26 celebration of the 52nd anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

The air assault was followed with ground assault which led to the discovery of the base camp of the NPA in Sitio Kalumutan in the boundaries of Palimbang, Lebak, Kalamansig and part of Senator Ninoy Aquino town all in Sultan Kudarat province, Uy said.

“Instead of their planned hoisting of flag and expected anniversary activity in this place, our troops raised our Philippine flag,” he said.

Recovered from the blast site and encounter site are the remains of three rebels. Lt. Colonel Anhouvic Atilano, spokesperson of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the bodies of the other slain rebels could have been blown apart by the blasts.

Recovered from the camps were around 100 bandolier bags, improvised explosive device (IED) components, laptop, generators, destroyed firearms and documents.

Local government officials from the towns involved attended the ceremonial flag-raising on Christmas Day, after the capture of the camp in Sitio Kalumutan.

Uy said this is the first time government forces captured a base camp of the Far South Regional Committee after years of operation in the Daguma range.

He lauded his troops for not letting up despite the Christmas season.

“Our last recourse and last option is to use arms but we are always open to accept them anytime they want to go back to the folds of the government,” Uy stressed.

No ceasefire was announced this year by the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) which represents the CPP and the NPA in the peace talks. President Duterte called off the peace talks in November 2017 through Proclamation 360, citing alleged “lack of sincerity” of the NDF.

On December 5, 2017, Duterte issued Proclamation 374, designating the CPP and the NPA as terrorist organizations.

But back channel talks continued, leading to a declaration of unilateral ceasefire on both sides during the Christmas holidays last year.

On December 9 this year, the Anti-Terrorism Council, a body created under the Ant-Terror Act of 2020, approved Resolution No. 12 designating the CPP and NPA as terrorist organizations.

The resolution states that there is probable cause that the CPP-NPA committed acts defined as terrorism under the Anti-Terrorism Act, and should be tagged as “terrorist organizations, associations or groups of persons.” (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/12/bodies-of-3-npa-guerrillas-killed-in-aerial-bombing-in-sultan-kudarat-recovered1/

Sayyaf man in kidnap-slay of Canadian miner captured in Manila

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 24, 2020): Sayyaf man in kidnap-slay of Canadian miner captured in Manila

Police captured early Thursday two notorious members of the pro-ISIS group Abu Sayyaf, one of them is involved in the 2015 kidnapping of three foreigners – one beheaded in captivity - and a Filipina on a posh holiday resort in the South.

National Police Chief Debold Sinas said the militant Jehan Aklul and Mohammad Muslimin were tracked down on their hideout not far from the Presidential Palace in San Miguel in Manila. The raiders also seized two hand grenades, a blasting cap and detonating cord from the hideout.

Sinas said Aklul is a prime suspect in the kidnapping of Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall; and Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, and Maritess Flor who were taken from Samal Island.

Ridsdel - Chief Operating Officer of TVI Resource Development Philippines, Inc. - was eventually beheaded on April 25, 2016 after his family failed to pay P300 million ransom demanded by the Abu Sayyaf.

The other three hostages were separately freed unharmed after ransom payments by private negotiators.

Just early this month, three of Abu Sayyaf fighters - one of them also involved in the Samal Island kidnappings - surrendered to the Philippine military in the southern province of Tawi-Tawi.

Army Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the trio, who surrendered separately, yielded weapons and may be handed over to the custody of the local government. He identified the militants as Alsadi Hanain, Bennaser Pae and Ugali Alimudin.

He said Hanain is being linked to the Samal Island kidnappings. Hanain was also involved in the ransom kidnappings of Italian national Rolando del Torchio on October 7, 2014; European birdwatcher Ewold Horn who was killed in May 2019 during a firefight between militants and soldiers; and Chinese Jin Hua Chen and Yahong Chen.

Vinluan said Hanain, who was under terror leader Hajan Sawadjaan, is also involved in deadly attacks on security forces in the provinces of Basilan and Sulu.

Tens of dozens of Abu Sayyaf militants surrendered in the South in the past years to avail of the government’s peace program in exchange for financial assistance and livelihood aid. But many of these terrorists opted to surrender and availed of the program to escape criminal liability.

Since 1995, hundreds and perhaps thousands of Abu Sayyaf fighters and New People’s Army and Moro rebels surrendered to the government through various programs - from Up, Up (United for Peace, United for Progress) Mindanao and Balik-Baril Program and the Comprehensive Local Integration Program now called Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, and other similar undertakings to lure rebels and terrorists to surrender peacefully.

But the majority of those who yielded cannot be accounted for now by the government and many of them had reportedly rejoined their groups after spending government money and back in their old ways again. (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/12/sayyaf-man-in-kidnap-slay-of-canadian.html

Former NPA official surrenders in Aurora

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 27, 2020): Former NPA official surrenders in Aurora (By Jason De Asis)

BACK TO THE FOLD OF LAW. A former supply officer and medic (right) of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilla Sierra Madre (KLG-SM) of the New People's Army surrendered voluntarily to the troops of the 91st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army at its headquarters in Barangay Calabunana, Baler, Aurora on Saturday (Dec. 26, 2020). The former rebel also turned over his firearm. (Photo by Jason de Asis)

BALER, Aurora – A former supply officer and medic of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilla Sierra Madre (KLG-SM) of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to the 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion (91IB) at its headquarters in Barangay Calabunanan here on Saturday.

The surrender coincided with the 52nd founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines' (CPP), the political wing of the NPA.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of 91IB, said alias "Ka Berong" voluntarily submitted himself to the 91IB through the joint efforts Aurora Police Provincial Office and other friendly forces and in collaboration with the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development (PLED) Support Team Cluster of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of Aurora.

Ka Berong also yielded one .45-caliber pistol with one magazine containing eight rounds of live ammunition.

Rubio commended the surrenderer for his courage and eagerness in returning to the fold of law during the CPP anniversary.

“Welcome back to the mainstream society. You made the best decision in your life before this year ends. I am happy to commend you for coming back to the folds of law without fear and hesitation,” he said.

Rubio said Ka Berong’s surrender was a result of intensified joint military and police operations targeting the remnants of KLG Sierra Madre.

He called on the other members of the armed group to lay down their arms and start peaceful and meaningful lives together with loved ones especially this coming New Year.

The 91IB conducted custodial debriefing to the surrendered rebel for his enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) under which he is entitled to monetary benefits from the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125734

Groups call on solons with alleged Red links to resign

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2020): Groups call on solons with alleged Red links to resign (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

SURRENDER NOW. Anti-communist groups and civil society organizations have marched from Morayta Street to the Mendiola Peace Arc in Manila, to protest the CPP-NPA-NDF's commemoration of its 52nd founding anniversary on Saturday (Dec. 26, 2020). The groups also condemn the 52 years of atrocities, killings of innocents, unhampered terror attacks, and relentless recruitment of minors perpetrated by the NPA rebels. (PNA photo by Joey Razon)

Anti-communist groups and civil society organizations on Saturday called on the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its allied legal front-organizations to step down and surrender.

Members of the League of Parents of the Philippines (LPP), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), Sulong Maralita, Duterte Youth Movement, Kabalikat ID, Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terrorismo (KKDAT), Yakap ng mga Magulang, and Hands-Off our Children (HOOC), alongside parents of the missing student activists reportedly recruited by the progressive organizations, have marched from Morayta Street to the Mendiola Peace Arc in Manila, to protest the CPP's 52nd founding anniversary.

In a picket rally, the groups strongly denounced the CPP-NPA-NDF's 52 years of atrocities, violence, recruitment of minors as child warriors, and exploiting the indigenous peoples (IPs) for the armed struggle.

The anti-communist groups reiterated their relentless call to the NPA members to return to the fold of the law and live a peaceful life.

"Let the country be free from the CPP-NPA's lawlessness, barbaric activities, and cruelty," they said.

CPP-NPA as terrorists

Remy Rosadio, LPP chairperson, urged the revolutionary rebels "to return to the fold of the law, while the government is giving them the ample time to surrender."

She made this call after the country's Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) has officially announced the approval of a resolution designating the CPP and its armed wing, NPA as terrorist organizations on Friday.

Rosadio cited the need to end the deceptions and lies of the communist rebel groups and its legal front-organization.

She assailed the communist groups' continuous indoctrination of wrong ideologies to the youth, particularly the exploitation of student activists and IPs, to recruit more members to join the armed revolution.

The anti-communist groups are relentless in their call to end armed conflicts perpetrated by the CPP-NPA-NDF, Rosadio said.

Following the guidelines set by the United Nations Security Council, the ATC is tasked to designate any individual or group as a terrorist under the Anti-Terror Law.

"Pretending to work for the betterment of the community, the CPP-NPA is able to receive support from international non-government organizations (NGOs) to raise funds and continue perpetuating its rebellious deeds. By striking fear through violence, they also employ extortion and collection of fees during the campaign period,” the council said.

It added that the CPP-NPA has been tagged in numerous election-related encounters.

ATC also claimed the CPP-NPA has extorted around PHP5.5 billion in form of “revolutionary taxes,” from 2016 to 2019.

Rosadio said the council's move to label the communist groups as terrorists will give justice to the innocent civilians, who were killed during the senseless armed conflicts.

She added it will also dignify those abused women and youth within the NPA ranks.

Addressing terrorism in PH

Meanwhile, Ka Pep Goita, LIPI secretary-general, encouraged the current members of the CPP-NPA-NDF who would like to start new lives away from the communist insurgency, to return to the fold of the law and surrender their loose firearms to the government.

"Nananawagan ako sa kanila na isuko ang kanilang mga armas bago maging huli ang lahat (I'm calling on them to give up their weapons before it is too late)," Goita said during the rally.

Goita called on all sectors of the society to support the government efforts to address the communist insurgency and mitigate terrorism in the country.

"Denounce the violent actions of the CPP-NPA-NDF. Our nation’s future is held at gun-point and more innocent lives will be destroyed if we let the atrocities continue," Goita said.

The declaration of the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization, he said, could end the communists' 52 years of insurgencies, maltreatment, and inhumane abuses amongst innocent Filipinos.

"Joma’s (Jose Maria Sison) belief that the problems we face will only be solved by replacing our system of governance with communist rule by way of an armed struggle is barbaric. This is unacceptable to all peace-loving Filipinos," he said.

Nolan Tiongco, LIPI spokesperson, cited the various deceptions and dirty tactics of the CPP-NPA-NDF and its allied organization to fulfill their "senseless cause."

Fight vs. recruitment of minors

Meanwhile, Relissa Lucena, mother of Alicia Jasper (AJ), a student activist who was reportedly recruited by the youth group Anakbayan allegedly linked to the CPP-NPA-NDF, railed against the communist groups for recruiting youths and urging student activists to become rebels.

Lucena slammed the Makabayan bloc lawmakers and other local politicians for supporting the communist insurgency and aiding illegal activities of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

Rosadio, meanwhile, called on anew for House Speaker Allan Lord Velasco to initiate an investigation on the connections of the Makabayan bloc lawmakers to the CPP-NPA-NDF, citing the involvement of the bloc's progressive organizations to the continuous recruitment of student activists to the armed movement.

CALL FOR RESIGNATION. The anti-communist groups called on the Makabayan bloc lawmakers to resign to their posts at the lower house. The groups also hit the CPP-NPA's front organizations for manipulating tactics to overthrow the government. (PNA photo by Joey Razon)

The anti-communist groups also criticized the Makabayan lawmakers for repeatedly concealing their involvement on the missing student activists, wherein some of them were found in the mountains infiltrated by the NPAs.

The groups said this could be substantial evidence of the Makabayan bloc's ties with the CPP-NPA-NDF.

The groups called on the resignation of the Makabayan legislators.

They hit the CPP-NPA's front organizations for pushing most of the recruited student activists to overthrow the government.

During the condemnation rally, the protesters burned the CPP-NPA-NDF's flags and tarpaulins bearing the images of the NPA rebels and CPP founding chairman Jose Maria “Joma” Sison as they condemned the 52 years of atrocities, killings of innocents, unhampered terror attacks, and relentless recruitment of minors by the communist rebels.

Former NPA members and cadres also shared their experiences in joining the armed struggle.

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/1125710