Sobejana is next AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 27, 2021): Sobejana is next AFP chief (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana as the next chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Malacañang announced on Wednesday.

“The Palace confirms that LGEN Cirilito Sobejana will be the next Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement sent to Palace reporters.

Sobejana is set to replace AFP chief-of-staff Gilbert Gapay who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on Feb. 4.

Roque said the Palace believes in Sobejana’s competence to lead the AFP.

“We are confident that General Sobejana will continue to modernize our military and undertake reform initiatives to make the Armed Forces truly professional in its mandate as the protector of the people and the State,” he said.

Roque also wished Sobejana "all the best in his new tour of duty as we pray for his success.”

Sobejana, a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Hinirang Class” of 1987, is the commanding general of the Philippine Army since July last year.

He also commanded the Joint Task Force Sulu, the Maguindanao-based 6th Infantry Division, and the Western Mindanao Command.

Sobejana is also a recipient of the Medal of Valor, the country’s highest military award that is equivalent to the Congressional Medal of Honor of the United States.

He earned his Medal of Valor in 1995 after leading the fight with an estimated 150 Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Isabela town in Basilan despite sustaining crippling wounds in the encounter.

Meanwhile, the AFP welcomed Sobejana’s appointment as its next chief.

“Lt. Gen. Sobejana, the incumbent Commanding General of the Philippine Army, epitomizes the finest in Filipino soldiery. He earned the Medal of Valor (MOV)—the highest military award that can be bestowed to a soldier for conspicuous and singular act of gallantry above and beyond the call of duty,” military spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

Arevalo stressed that Sobejana has an impressive track record as a military officer and has a vast experience in command and leadership.

“He is known to his superiors, peers, and subordinates as a warrior with the heart of a peacemaker,” he added. He is the pride of PMA 'Hinirang' Class of 1987 -- the class with three Medal of Valor recipients -- and the first AFP chief who garnered the MOV,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1128721

PNP probes slain Zambo cop's ASG links

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 27, 2021): PNP probes slain Zambo cop's ASG links (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan) 

PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas. (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Debold Sinas on Wednesday has ordered an investigation into the past activities of a slain police officer who had links with the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

“We want to know the extent of his involvement with the terrorist organization and to further establish other linkages," Sinas said in a statement.

Citing reports from the PNP Intelligence Group (IG), Sinas said Staff Sgt. Jamiri Hawang Abraham alias "Jamz/Abz Salip Adzhar Alidjam" was killed in a police operation on Galvez Drive, Barangay Mampang, Zamboanga City at around 3:40 a.m. Wednesday.

Sinas said the operation was initiated by the elements of the IG, Police Regional Office 9, Special Action Force, Criminal Investigation Group, Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group, and the Explosive Ordnance Division (EOD)/K9 Group in Zamboanga.

The operation was conducted by virtue of a search warrant issued by the Zamboanga City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 15 for illegal possession of explosives raps.

In his report, IG acting chief, Col. Warren de Leon said Abraham opened fire at the members of the search team that resulted in a brief shootout.

Abraham died of gunshot wounds at the Zamboanga City Medical Center.

Recovered from the suspect were several improvised explosive device (IED) components, two pistols, and an assault rifle.

Abraham, who is assigned at the City Drug Enforcement Unit of Zamboanga City Police Office, is listed in the 2019 Periodic Status Report of Terrorist Financing activities of the Abu Sayyaf Group-Dawlah Islamiya.

He had family ties with the late ASG sub-leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan and Muammar Askali and another sub-leader Ben Quirino a.k.a. Ben Tatoh.

PNP-IG records also showed that he was involved in past kidnapping activities of the ASG under sub-leader Alhabsi Misaya in his hometown in Barangay Latih, Patikul, Sulu, a known stronghold of the terrorist group in the province.

Abraham was monitored to be in direct communication with ASG sub-leader Mundi Sawadjaan regarding the planned transport of IED from Sulu to Zamboanga.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1128747

PH issues diplomatic protest over new Chinese coast guard law

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 27, 2021): PH issues diplomatic protest over new Chinese coast guard law (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. (File photo)

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has issued a diplomatic protest over a new Chinese law that allows the China Coast Guard (CCG) to fire on a foreign vessel.

In a tweet on Wednesday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said the specific law can be likened to a "verbal threat of war" to any state who would defy it.

"After reflection I fired a diplomatic protest. While enacting law is a sovereign prerogative, this one—given the area involved or for that matter the open South China Sea—is a verbal threat of war to any country that defies the law; which, if unchallenged, is submission to it," he said.

The said Chinese legislation, adopted on Jan. 23, empowers the CCG to "take all necessary measures, including the use of weapons" when a foreign vessel or individuals infringed upon its sovereignty, risking an escalation of tension in the contested South China Sea where Manila, Beijing and several Southeast Asian states are locked in a territorial dispute.

Despite a 2016 Arbitral Ruling disregarding China's nine-dash line over the South China Sea, the Asian superpower continues to claim almost 80 percent of the waters, including the Spratly Islands as its "inherent territory".

Asked for comment, security expert and president of the Philippine Association for Chinese Studies (PACS) Rommel Banlaoi said: "China is posturing".

Earlier, he said Manila should increase its presence in the contested waters and develop its capability to patrol the area.

If China fires from a disputed area, he said: "We can always challenge China legally when that situation occurs. But we need to develop deterrent capability to prevent China from doing so."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1128769

Ex-student rebel tags UP profs in CPP-NPA recruitment

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 27, 2021): Ex-student rebel tags UP profs in CPP-NPA recruitment (By Marita Moaje)

Former rebel Ivy Lyn Corpin alias “Ka Red” (Screenshot from the National Press Club livestream)

A former student of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa, Manila tagged some University of the Philippines (UP) professors in the recruitment of students into the Communist Party of the Philippine-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

In a press conference with some former CPP-NPA cadres at the National Press Club on Wednesday, Ivy Lyn Corpin alias “Ka Red”, a former youth rebel, bared the recruitment activities happening inside universities.

“Sa lahat ng state universities and colleges may recruitment na nangyayari sa buong bansa, pati sa mga private higher education institutions na eskwelahan ay may nagaganap na recruitment (Recruitment happens in all state universities and colleges in the country, and even in private higher education institutions),” Corpin said.

She said she was not aware of these schemes when she entered PUP in 2010.

All she was thinking of then was to focus on her studies and finish college since she’s a scholar in a state university.

She said she was keen on focusing on her studies that time and did not want to join protest actions inside the university.

On her first day in college, she said different militant groups were already conducting room-to-room campaigns in PUP to explain their organizations and advocacies.

This opened the doors for her recruitment into the Lakbay Cagayan Valley or Lakbay CV.

Lakbay CV, she said, is directly under the regional committee of the CPP-NPA that represents the youth sector inside the university.

UP profs behind recruitment

Corpin said they were also being handled by professors from UP Diliman and UP Manila.

“Ang humahawak sa’min ay mga professors ng UP Diliman at UP Manila kaya nung na-organize ako sa legal organization nung 2010, ginawa akong secretary general ng Lakas ng Kabataan para sa Lakbay CV bilang support group sa loob ng PUP (We were handled by professors from UP Diliman and Manila and when I got involved in 2010, I became secretary-general of the ‘Lakas ng Kabataan para sa Lakbay CV’ as support group inside PUP),” she said.

In July 27, 2011, she said she was recruited by another PUP student to the ‘Kabataang Makabayan’ (KM), which is an underground mass organization.

She said she was just brought inside a classroom in PUP where she was introduced to the KM that claimed to be a youth organization.

She then realized that Lakbay CV is a legal front organization that recruits students to support the armed struggle.

“Unti unti, dinahan-dahan nilang sabihin sa’kin na ito ay sumusuporta sa NPA, na balang araw, darating yung panahon na makakakita tayo ng talagang naglulunsad ng armadong pakikibaka para labanan niya at durugin at ang gobyerno (They told me that it supports the NPA, and that time will come that we will personally see and meet people involved in the armed struggle to defeat the government),” she said.

That same day, after introducing her to KM, Corpin said she was brought to the Faculty Center in UP Diliman where she met a UP professor.

Corpin said the orientation was done right inside the office of the UP professor, who also told her that KM is a “secret organization” and that no one should know about it.

She said she only came to see other members during underground meetings, lightning rallies, and consultations.

Corpin said after that day, she started frequenting UP Diliman where they will stay at the Sunken Garden or in waiting sheds where they would discuss The Communist Manifesto as if they were just doing some group studies.

In April 2012, she was invited by the same UP professors to be part of the ‘Kandidatong Kasapi’ or KK that also initiated her oath.

“After nila ako pasumpain, naglatag na sila ng parang flag na maliit ng CPP tapos may orientation na nakataas kamao kami na nanunumpa doon sa flag tapos mahinang-mahina lang na kinakanta namin yung internasyunal kasi nga baka marinig nung mga katabing rooms sa faculty (After the oath they placed a small CPP flag, then we had an orientation with our fist raised. We softly sang the hymn. We were careful so nobody would hear us in the next room),” Corpin said.

She was then introduced to the ‘Batayang Kurso ng Partido’ (BKP).

From that point, Corpin said she was tasked to conduct ideological, political and organizational (IPO) works and started recruting other youths from different universities.

During the press conference, Corpin was joined by other former rebels Rey Christian “Ka Nads” Sabado, and Joy James “Ka Amihan” Saguino.

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/1128785

Remains of rebel leader unearthed in Cagayan town, says Army

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 25, 2021): Remains of rebel leader unearthed in Cagayan town, says Army (By: Villamor Visaya Jr.)

The remains of Justine Bautista, a reported rebel leader, are being unearthed at a site in Barangay Bitag Grande, Baggao, Cagayan on Saturday. Photo courtesy of the Army’s 5th Infantry Division

Army soldiers and police unearthed the remains of a suspected rebel leader in Baggao town, Cagayan province on Saturday, Jan. 23.

In a belated report, the military on Monday identified the body as that of Justine Bautista alias “Aira,” a medical officer and political guide of the New People’s Army (NPA)-Northern Front Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley.

Bautista was a former student of the Cagayan State University, and a member of the College Editors’ Guild of the Philippines.

His remains were found at Sitio Kapanisuwan in Barangay Bitag Grande.

Citing a former rebel, who served as the guide in going to the gravesite, the Army said Bautista was buried after he died in an encounter between the NPA-Northern Front and Army soldiers in a failed attack at a military detachment in San Jose, Baggao on June 25, 2017.

Major Gen Laurence Mina, 5th Infantry Division commander, said Bautista should have been given a decent burial since he was the son of an alleged rebel commander operating in Cagayan.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1387945/remains-of-rebel-leader-unearthed-in-cagayan-town-says-army

List of AFP chief contenders sent to Duterte

From Malaya Business Insight (Jan 25, 2021): List of AFP chief contenders sent to Duterte (By Victor Reyes)

DEFENSE Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has furnished President Duterte a list of senior military officials for the post of ninth Armed Forces chief under the Duterte administration.

Gen. Gilbert Gapay is reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 on February 4.

Lorenzana did not say when the list was submitted and how many names are in the list.
“It’s an open race yet. Maybe next week we will know,” he said.

Gapay is bowing out of the service after serving as AFP chief for six months. Gapay, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class 1986, was Army chief prior to his assumption as AFP chief in August last year.

A senior military official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Army chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, of the PMA Class 1987, is among the front-runners. Sobejana is due for retirement in August this year. He is a recipient of the Medal of Valor, the highest military decoration in combat, “for acts of conspicuous courage, gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty” during a firefight with about 150 Abu Sayyaf men in Isabela City in Basilan in 1995.

https://malaya.com.ph/index.php/news_news/list-of-afp-chief-contenders-sent-to-duterte/

Kalinaw News: 701st Brigade Recognize changing of leadership and personnel awards and promotion

 Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 25, 2021): 701st Brigade Recognize changing of leadership and personnel awards and promotion

Mati City, Davao Oriental – The 701st Brigade once again recognizes the changing of the leadership of its army backbone and recognition to key personnel. On January 25, 2021, TSg Ely Anecito D Avila (CAV) PA was given with a Certificate of Recognition for graduating number 2 on the recently concluded Sgt Major Course conducted by the Philippine Army. Also the outgoing First Sgt of the Brigade TSg Jake V Gesta (Inf) PA , awarded with Military Commendation Medal for his invaluable and exemplary performance during his stint as Brigade First Sgt.

Meanwhile, Donning of Rank to the Brigade Sgt Major SMS Peter Pio J Caparroso (QMS) PA recognizing his achievements of his military career at Sambisig Hall, Headquarters 701st Infantry (Kagitingan) Brigade, 7ID, Phil Army, Sitio Magay, Brgy Don Martin Marundan, Mati City Davao Oriental.

The event highlighted by a turn-over of First Sgt of the Brigade between TSg Jake Gesta (Inf) PA and TSg Richard L Luz (Inf) PA presided by Col Oliver C Maquiling INF (GSC) PA, Deputy Brigade Commander. Col Maquiling during his message emphasizes the two considerations of a leader while he lead; the Mission Accomplishments and Morale & Welfare of his men.

“In doing so, there are tasks to undertake such as; Relationship to others, Spiritual enlightenment, Happiness in doing it, Financial Management to be financially stable, Physical Fitness to maintain the daily duty, Education, continuously educating ourselves and Preservation of Nature”, Col Maquiling 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/701st-brigade-recognize-changing-of-leadership-and-personnel-awards-and-promotion/

Kalinaw News: PRRD Visits Troops of JTF-SULU, commends Militarty Accomplishments in FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 25, 2021): PRRD Visits Troops of JTF-SULU, commends Militarty Accomplishments in FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM



January 25, 2021, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – On the afternoon of January 22, 2021, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, visited the troops of Joint Task Force-Sulu and commended their accomplishments in the government’s fight against terrorism.

President Duterte, personally conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kamagi to the troops of the Joint Task Force-Sulu led by its commander MGen William N Gonzales in connection with the success of the Perfect Storm 2, a special operation that led to the neutralization of seven Abu Sayyaf Group – Kidnap for Ransom Group (ASG-KFRG) members near Sulare Island in Parang twon, Sulu in November 2020.

The twenty-four (24) awardees, comprised of thirteen (13) military officers and eleven (11) enlisted personnel, came from the different branches of military service who form part the JTF namely, the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, and Philippine Air Force.

In his speech, the president said that he is deeply honored to recognize the extraordinary heroism of the officers and enlisted personnel of the AFP. “They will be conferred with the order of Lapu-lapu with the rank of Kamagi which I hope will further inspire the rest of men and women in the AFP to continue serving our country no matter the cause.”

“Let me take this opportunity to commend the brave men and women of the Joint Task Force Sulu and the 11th Infantry Division for their recent gains against the Abu Sayyaf Group. Your determination has greatly reduced their strength in the past year,” the president added.

The President also remembered soldiers who have sacrificed their lives fighting for peace. “I see this is as a very opportune time since we are about to mark the second year of the bombing of Mount Carmel Cathedral on January 27. Our presence here is assurance that we will not just honor those who have perished in this tragedy we also do everything within our power to prevent similar acts of violence in this country so that people will not experience it again.”

The ceremony was also witnessed by Defense Secretary Delfin N Lorenzana, Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines, the three major service commanders, and Sulu Governor Abdusakur M Tan.

For his part, MGen Gonzales expressed his gratitude to the President and vowed to continue the JTF-Sulu’s mandate in pursuit of peace in the region. “This recognition inspires us to remain steadfast in our mission to eliminate the ASG and clear the path toward peace and development here in Sulu. More than this, the President’s assurance of support really uplifts the morale of our troops, who bravely risk their lives every day to protect our nation and fellowmen. We are very privileged that this is the first official visit of the president to a military unit,” said MGen Gonzales.

The Order of Lapu-Lapu is usually given to government officials/personnel and private individuals in recognition of their exemplary service in significantly advancing the campaign of the president. Aside from the award, President Duterte also gave a check that was received by CSAFP Gen Gilbert Gapay in support of the military’s offensive operations against the ASG in Sulu.

[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/prrd-visits-troops-of-jtf-sulu-commends-militarty-accomplishments-in-fight-against-terrorism/

Case junked vs ex-NPA supporters

From the Mindanao Times (Jan 25, 2021):  Case junked vs ex-NPA supporters (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

LAW ENFORCERS released last week 10 individuals who were former supporters of the New People’s Army after investigators concluded that there was insufficient evidence to file a murder case against them.

The 27th Infantry Battalion facilitated the release of the 10 in coordination with the Peace 911, municipal government of Sto Tomas in Davao del Norte, Paquibato Police Stations, Barangays of Malabog, Mapula, Paquibato Proper and Lumiad and other government agencies.

First Lieutenant Gen Adrian Gautane, Civil- Military Operation (CMO) officer of the battalion, said the 10 were released after dialogues were conducted to ensure that they would resist arrest and voluntary surrender so they could be helped in facing the case.

The military unit turned over the 10 Davao City Police Office on January 10 so the investigation on the case against them could proceed.

Lt Col Victorino Seño, commander of the battalion, turned them over to City Police Director Kirby John Kraft and Aileen Mabanding, focal person of Peace 911.

As they were staying at the Malabog Police Station, Mabanding and Atty Elisa Evangelista-Lapiña, Sto. Tomas municipal administrator, in coordination with Paquibato Police Chief Marvin Hugos provided helped so the case against them could be immediately resolved.

During their release, members of their families welcomed them as they expressed their gratitude to those who helped them in facing the case.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/01/25/case-junked-vs-ex-npa-supporters/

6 years on, MILF maintains Mamasapano carnage due to PNP-SAF’s lack of coordination

From MindaNews (Jan 25, 2021): 6 years on, MILF maintains Mamasapano carnage due to PNP-SAF’s lack of coordination (By BONG S. SARMIENTO)

KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews / 25 January) – Exactly six years ago today, 25 January, the Mamasapano carnage during the previous Aquino administration shocked the nation, which the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the families of the 44 fallen commandos of the elite Special Action Forces (SAF) commemorated anew with a candle-lighting and wreath-laying ceremony.

PROBING MAMASAPANO. Commission on Human Rights Chair Etta Rosales, during her office’s conduct of investigation, visits the corn field in Mamasapano, Maguindanao where 44 operatives of the PNP-SAF died in a clash with Moro rebels on 25 Jan 2015. MindaNews file photo by Ferdinandh Cabrera

Six years on, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) continued to blame the PNP- SAF for the Mamasapano clash that left dead what have now been known as the “SAF 44.”

Butch Malang, chair of the MILF’s Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), said Monday the PNP-SAF violated the government and MILF’s ceasefire agreement and the Implementing Guidelines of the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group for failing to coordinate the operations through the established protocols of the ceasefire mechanisms.

“If there was proper coordination of the police operation, that deadly incident would not have happened,” he told MindaNews on the phone.

While sympathies poured for the SAF 44, Malang noted that the MILF’s Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), the front’s armed wing, also lost 18 fighters in the clash with the police commandos.

Members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, who were familiar with the terrain just like the MILF fighters, joined the fighting and pounded the operating troops with high-powered firearms. Five BIFF members were reportedly killed in the gunfight.

At least seven civilians were also reportedly killed during the police operation in Barangay Tukanalipao, Mamasapano, a fifth class municipality in Maguindanao province.

Dubbed Operation Exodus, the police commandos were out to capture Malaysian national Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan, who was on the US government’s list of most wanted international terrorists with a bounty of $5 million.

Marwan was later confirmed killed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation though DNA testing and photographs taken on the man killed by the operating troops.

The BIFF, a splinter of the MILF, was allegedly coddling Marwan, a known bomb-making expert, in Mamasapano town.

CANDLES FOR PEACE. Students, faculty members and civil society organizations light candles not only for the 44 fallen PNP-SAF operatives but also to call for peace and justice during a prayer rally on 4 Feb 2015 at Rizal Park in Davao City. MindaNews file photo by Toto Lozano

Malang said the MILF has submitted their formal complaint against the PNP-SAF to the GPH-MILF Peace Implementing Panels, which was constituted in March 2017.

“But until now, we are still waiting for the result of our protest,” he said in Filipino.

A press release during the 18th Congress from the office of Senator Grace Poe, chair of the Committee on Public Order, dated January 27, 2016 on the Mamasapano probe stated: “The clear conclusion was that ‘inadequate Intelligence, poor planning and lack of coordination’ resulted in ‘fatal mistakes’ that cost the lives of 44 SAF officers, 23 Moro fighters and 5 civilians and gravely affected the peace process.”

On Monday, the Maguindanao police command paid tribute to the SAF 44 by lighting candles and a wreath laying ceremony at their provincial headquarters in Shariff Aguak.

The 44 SAF fighters killed in the Mamasapano clash was the biggest single loss in the history of the elite police command.

Six years after the Mamasapano clash, Malang said the BIAF maintained a “friendly relation” with government security forces, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Since 2019, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim (BARMM) is governed by the MILF-led Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Ahod Ebrahim as interim chief minister of the Bangsamoro government.

Ebrahim is also the chair of the MILF. He is popularly known as Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, his nom de guerre.

The creation of the Bangsamoro region is the key component of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the final peace deal signed by the government and the MILF in 2014 after 17 years of negotiations.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/01/6-years-on-milf-maintains-mamasapano-carnage-due-to-pnp-safs-lack-of-coordination/

Youth groups in Sison advocate against insurgency

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 25, 2021): Youth groups in Sison advocate against insurgency (By Venus L. Garcia) \

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Jan. 25 (PIA) -- With the continuing armed attacks and threats by the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) that affect communities especially the most vulnerable sectors including the youth, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of the municipality of Sison in this province is relentless in pushing for activities and creating a holistic approach aimed at weakening the insurgents.

In his guesting during the Laging Handa Network Briefing on Friday, Warren Maitel, SK federation president, emphasized the significant role of the youth in nation-building and in the fight versus insurgency.

“Patuloy po ang SK ng Sison sa pagpapatupad ng iba’t ibang aktibidad para sa mga kabataan para hindi sila ma-recruit ng New People’s Army (NPA) at hindi nila maramdaman na left behind sila. Kasama rin diyan ang malawakang information drive laban sa droga at terorismo,” Maitel said.

He said that getting them involved in the local community can boost their confidence and self-esteem and would help them to become empowered to assert and claim their human rights out from knowing the legal and social implications.

Maitel also urged the young individuals in their locality to continue with what they have started doing as a contribution to the community or even in enriching themselves. “Ipagpatuloy natin ang ating nasimulan sa pamamagitan ng pagtutulungan. Sa mga mag-aara, laban lang. Kung mayroon kayong gusting sabihin o tulong, just contact SK Sison sa mobile phone at FB page/messenger ko para matulungan kayo lalo sa panahon ngayon,” he said.

The SK federation of Sison also plans to carry on the programs that were not implemented in the previous year primarily of health and education.

“Nariyan po yung provision of school supplies. Gagawa rin tayo ng Youth Leadership Summit at sports activities kung ma-lift na ang pandemic. Mahalaga rin ang pagsasagawa seminar on mental health,” said Maitel.

The SK members are also thankful to the local government unit of Sison for the scholarship grants and other assistance to the students.

Maitel recounted the efforts of the LGU led by Mayor Karissa Fetalvero-Paronia in keeping their area safe and secure despite the presence of the CTG.

For her part, Mayor Paronia expressed her gratitude to the Philippine Army and Philippine National Police. “Last week. We had our community support program in Brgy. Ima and they have been cleared. This time, kailangan paigtingin at pagbutihin talaga yung sevices naming and bring them to the grassroots level," she said.

Mayor Paronia further said that in her two consecutive terms in leading the municipality, the main issue they continually encountered is the problem of insurgency.

She said that the presence of the CTGs in the area has even taken the lives of the uniformed personnel serving in the communities and the atrocities have a frightening effect among locals. But the LGU, she said, has been active in implementing the activities, programs and projects set forth by its local task force to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) such as the declaration of New People's Army as 'persona non grata' in the said municipality. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064840

Agusan del Norte town villagers denounce, abandon NPA terrorists

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 25, 2021): Agusan del Norte town villagers denounce, abandon NPA terrorists (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army) 

BUENAVISTA Agusan del Norte, Jan. 26 -- The members of the Milisya ng Bayan (MB) and Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) in Las Nieves town in Agusan del Norte have withdrawn their support from the Communist New People's Army (NPA) Terrorists (CNTs) and pledged their allegiance to the government. The withdrawal of support to the CNT movement was done during the mass surrender ceremony conducted on January 21, 2021, in Barangay Casiklan, Las Nieves.

The MB and UGMO members decided to abandon the cause of the CNT and return to the fold of the law after the series of peace consultation and dialogues made by the troopers of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB) with the support of the local government unit (LGU) and different line agencies of the government. The series of dialogues started on December 12, 2020, where residents were asked to ventilate the main issues in their communities, especially on the concerns of peace and order and the presence and recruitment of the CNT members in their communities.

Five members of MB and 448 CNT mass supporters under the existing UGMO in Barangay Casiklan have withdrawn their support to the communist movement and pledged allegiance to the government of the Republic of the Philippines during the said activity last Thursday. The residents said they could no longer endure the harassment, extortion, and recruitment of the CNT members in their community. Aside from the daily dose of terrorism, the residents said the CNTs blocked the development programs and projects of the government that resulted in the underdevelopment of their community. The absence of development initiatives, they said, caused privations and poverty among the residents.

Alias “Berto”, a former rebel who hails from Casiklan shared his experiences and difficulties when he was still supporting fully the communist movement.

“Nag sige ko og balhin ug puy-anan ug kanunay nagdagan dagan ug tago tungod sa kahadlok nga madakpan sa mga kasundalohan. Mao pag abot sa mga sundalo diri sa barangay, nag desisyon gyod ko nga mag surrender na sa sabakan sa atong gobyerno. Dako ang akong kalipay nga ang atong gobyernmo nia na mitabang pagsulbad sa kalisod sa atong barangay. Mao nga magtinabay ug maningkamot kita sa pagsalikway sa mga dautang binuhatan sa mga NPA kay dako kaayo ang kahasol nga ilang gidala sa atong komunidad (I don’t have permanent address to stay, we keep on running, because we are afraid that the miitary will caught us, that’s why I have decided to surrender. I am happy that our government is helping us to start a new life)," Berto said.

Provincial Director Rey Cueva of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in Agusan del Norte (TESDA-ADN) witnessed the mass surrender on Thursday and extended his compliments to the residents for reaching such a decision. Cueva said TESDA, in partnership with the 23IB and the LGU, provides support to the residents in the area, particularly in the field of honing their technical skills for increased productivity.

“Part of our mandate is to develop self-reliant, resilient, productive, and sustainable communities through the implementation of harmonized and culturally responsive development training programs. TESDA, as the head office on Poverty Reduction Livelihood Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), in partnership with LGU of Las Nieves and the 23IB, commits several livelihood training in your barangay to uplift the lives of the residents,” Cueva said.

Las Nieves Mayor Avelina S. Rosales cited the courage of the residents of Casiklan in condemning the CNT and making a turn to the right path for the good future of their community.

“As you chose to start living a new life, I am sure that you will never regret the decisions you made today because in the coming years, you will reap the good fruits of progress and development not only for your family but including your whole community and our nation. You were just victims of the CNTs who destroyed your future and your families. No one will be responsible for solving our own problems, we need to make a move in order to get away from poverty,” Rosales said.

Jerry S. Laurito, the provincial administrator of Agusan del Norte who represented Gov. Dale B. Corvera during the activity also recognized the bravery and resolve of the residents to cut their ties from the terrorist movement and embrace new lives with the government.

“This activity is not only for the AFP, PNP, the LGU, and the line government agencies. This activity is designed for you, for the people of this barangay, who wished to live normally and peacefully. Armed conflict is a hindrance to development and progress because it disturbs our daily livelihood activities,” Laurito said.

He added that the government is always ready to find solutions to the problems of barangays through the provisions of programs and services.

“With the help of TESDA, who works with the 23IB and the LGU, we will develop livelihood projects in your barangay, especially agricultural production in order for you to have a sustainable livelihood and help our government in recovering the status of our economic system. Kay kung walay kalinaw, walay kalambuan," Laurito said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23IB thanked the members of the council of Casiklan for the trust and cooperation they bestowed to the Army and the line agencies of the government. He also commended the local residents for their help in ending the local communist armed conflicts in Casiklan.

“For over 52 years, thousands of villagers were seduced by and recruited by the NPA. But what accomplishment or contributions, especially in terms of economic development, the NPA had brought and implemented in Casiklan? Nothing. Wala sila'y naitabang kaninyo sulod sa pipila ka tuig nga pasalig ug pagpangilad,” Paulo said.

He emphasized that the 23IB is thankful that finally, the people of Casiklan realized the grand deceit and trickery of the NPA movement.

“Dako ang among pasalamat kay gisalikway na ninyo ang mga teroristang NPA ug boluntaryong mibalik sa sabakan sa panggamhanan,” Paulo said.

The mass surrender of the residents of Casiklan will also push down the NPA movement in the area given that they have lost a community where they extort support for food and finances.

“The NPA will suffer more from hunger and exhaustion as the people will no longer welcome them in this community. They can no longer extort money and ask food supplies to support their daily needs,” Paulo said.

Without the support of the local populace, politicians, business owners, and other supporters, the CNT will eventually die in Agusan del Norte, Paulo emphasized. (1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064855

CDO hinterlands benefit from 4ID’s outreach program

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 25, 2021): CDO hinterlands benefit from 4ID’s outreach program (By 4ID)

CAMP EVANGELISTA, PATAG, CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 25 -- Close to 2,000 families from two hinterland barangays in the city benefited from the outreach program held at Barangay Tignapoloan Covered Court, Cagayan de Oro City, January 23.

The activity, which was a convergence effort of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), was a part of the division’s upcoming celebration of its 51st founding anniversary on Feb. 1.

Food packs and clothings were distributed to more than 1,300 households in Barangay Tignapoloan. (4ID)

Food packs and clothings were distributed to more than 1,300 households in Barangay Tignapoloan and to some 300 families in Barangay Besigan.

Barangay Tignapoloan Chairperson Nancy Aban expressed her gratitude to the 4ID and DSWD saying "the gifts are already of great help to the people who are much affected by the pandemic."

MGen. Andres Centino, 4ID commander, said that the outreach program was a way of giving back to the people for their support to the division over the years.

It can be recalled that Barangay Tignapoloan was a pilot barangay where the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in the city was launched last year.

He also encouraged the people to continue supporting the programs and projects of the government and withdraw their support to Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) by not giving in to extortion activities to end the insurgency problem of the country.

A tree planting activity preceded the outreach activity which was participated in by the Diamond troopers, PNP personnel and barangay officials and staff. (4ID)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064752

Lanao del Norte PTF-ELCAC revitalizes efforts to end insurgencies

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 25, 2021): Lanao del Norte PTF-ELCAC revitalizes efforts to end insurgencies (By PIO-LDN) 

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Jan. 25 (PIA) - The Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) in Lanao del Norte convened here on Jan. 21 to tackle revitalized efforts to address armed threats and conflicts in the province.

The meeting was spearheaded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the provincial government of Lanao del Norte and attended by representatives of regional and national government agencies, the security sector, and civil society organizations.

Updates on the status of projects and activities of member-government agencies as well as future projects that can vitally help in addressing the root causes of insurgencies and armed conflicts in the province were discussed.

The Halfway House for former rebels of DILG was also tackled during the meeting.

Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo presides over the meeting of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. (PIO-LDN)

The Provincial Government also gave commitment updates and status on the Infrastructure, Economic, Social, and Administrative Developments as Governor Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo is strongly supportive of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 which institutionalizes a Whole-of-Nation Approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace.

“The peace and order in Lanao del Norte have been satisfactorily sustained. The collaborative efforts of all government instrumentalities and civic organizations are essential in paving the way to attain lasting peace and development," the Governor said.

Also present during the meeting were Provincial Vice Governor Maria Cristina Atay and Lanao del Norte 2nd District Representative Abdullah Dimakuta Dimaporo.

“There are so many ways to help alleviate the lives of our constituents. In order to unite the people, the officials and the different government offices must be united, must plan and implement together," said Congressman Dimaporo. (PIO-LDN/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064849

JTF Bicolandia backs Sec. Lorenzana's move to abrogate DND-UP Accord

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 25, 2021): JTF Bicolandia backs Sec. Lorenzana's move to abrogate DND-UP Accord (By Philippine Army) 

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur (Jan.25 ) - Driven by its desire to protect the youth, the Joint Task Force (JTF) Bicolandia expressed its all-out support to the abrogation of DND-UP accord.

JTF Bicolandia underscored that abrogating the said agreement is for the greater good of the students and their future as it preempts any attempt of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) from making the University of the Philippines (UP) a possible venue of their recruitment scheme.

Meanwhile, MGEN. HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, Commander of JTF Bicolandia emphasized that they have nothing against UP. However, he pointed out that the military will not tolerate any alleged underground maneuvers of the CTG inside the campus to target and recruit students by deceiving and corrupting their young and innocent minds.

"Our full support in the abrogation of the DND-UP accord implies one message, there are more people who care for the youth—the hope of our motherland. The decision to do away with the agreement is not aimed to break the wings of academic freedom but to give it more strength to soar higher.

Sa una, akala natin hindi maganda pero buksan natin ang ating mga mata sa katotohanan. Kung ating pagtatagpi-tagpiin ang mga pangyayari, marami na ang mga nakaraang insidente na magpapatunay na posible ngang may mga estudyante sa UP na isinasama ng CTG at ng legal front nito sa kanilang mga inoorganisang rally o kaya naman kinukuha ng armed wing nito upang gawing komunistang terorista. (We fight first thought its ok but let us open our eyed to the reality. We cannot just turn a blind eye to UP students being influenced to join the CTG and make them part of the legal front , including those rallies being organized by the CTG or take them to the armed wing to male them a coomunist terrorist.)

We cannot allow this scheme to continue. We have to stop it if we want to preserve the youth sector, their future and the future of our country. These young ones are the future leaders thus, it is but right to protect them. Ang kabataan ay dapat nasa paaralan at nag-aaral, hindi nakikidigma para sa maling ideolohiya (Our youth should be in school, nurturing themselves and not waging a war for a wrong ideology)," MGen. Robinson said.

Just recently, a list of UP students who were killed in armed encounters against the government troops circulated online, exposing the truth that students from UP are one of the targets of CTG's deceptions. (Press release: c/o DPAO Chief CPT John Paul Belleza/encoded with minor transcription LSMacatangay-PIAV/Camarines Sur )

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1064776