Kalinaw News: Four communist terrorists killed, 10 high powered firearms captured as army and bicolanos press on the fight against NPA in Bicol

Kalinaw News (Feb 1, 2021): Four communist terrorists killed, 10 high powered firearms captured as army and bicolanos press on the fight against NPA in Bicol



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-Four communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) were killed in an armed encounter that ensued between the government troops and the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) at 10 o’ clock in the morning in Barangay Toytoy, Garchitorena town in Camarines Sur province, Monday, February 1.

Elements of 83rd Infantry Battalion (83IB) were conducting a security operation in response to the report of residents about the CTG’s presence in the area when they encountered at least 20 CNTs.

Four still unidentified CTG members were killed, eight M16 rifles, one M14 rifle and one M203 grenade launcher were captured from the encounter site while a minor CTG member was arrested.

Lt. Col. Clark Dalumbar, Battalion Commander of 83IB thanked the residents for the prompt report and for not allowing the CTG to roll out another unlawful activity victimizing even the poorest of the poor.

Meanwhile, Col. Jaime Abawag, Brigade Commander of 902nd Infantry Brigade lauded his troops’ ever persistent operations and the cooperation of the Bicolanos that led to the recent score.

MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, Commander of Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) on the other hand, denounced the CTG for using children as a combatant citing that recruitment of minors is a violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the 1989 UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

According to him, it is also a clear violation of RA 7610 which states that children shall not be the object of the attack and shall be entitled to special respect and are not allowed to become part of any armed group.

“We strongly condemn the CTG’s continuous use of children as combatants. This only proves how terrible, ruthless and selfish these terrorists are. Children should be in school, they do not belong in battlefields. These communist terrorists are not just outlaws, they are also threat to the youth—the future of our country. Thus, I urge all the Bicolanos to help us in our persistent campaign to totally eliminate communist insurgency. Let us not allow these terrorists to ruin the lives of our children. This successful engagement must serve as a warning to the remaining CTG members; there are only two options left for you: to die fighting for a lost cause or to surrender and live a peaceful life with your loved ones,” 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/four-communist-terrorists-killed-10-high-powered-firearms-captured-as-army-and-bicolanos-press-on-the-fight-against-npa-in-bicol/

Kalinaw News: Lt. Gen Sobejana Graces FR Summit in Bicol, Affirms the Growing Support of Bicolanos Aimed at Ending Communist Insurgency

 Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 31, 2021): Lt. Gen Sobejana Graces FR Summit in Bicol, Affirms the Growing Support of Bicolanos Aimed at Ending Communist Insurgency



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-True to its promise of assisting the former members and supporters of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to start over again upon returning to the folds of the law, the 9th Infantry (Spear) Division (9ID) organized a 2-day FR Summit.

From January 29-30, representatives from TESDA, DSWD, NHA, and DILG provided lectures and brief training to a total of 31 FRs.

During the closing program, no less than the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, LTGEN CIRILITO E SOBEJANA PA served as the keynote speaker.

In his speech, Lt. Gen. Sobejana expressed his happiness for the opportunity to see the FRs face to face and cast the vision the government has for them.

“‘Yong E-CLIP program is just an added thing na nakukuha ninyo for returning to the folds of the law. Ang importante dito, makamit natin ang kapayapaan, katahimikan, ‘yong matutulog ka sa gabi na hindi ka mangangamba namagkaroon ng putukan. Napakasarap namnamin ‘yong undisturbed ‘yong ating pagtulog at pag hanapbuhay. I am looking forward that with your right decision ay lalong magsusulong ng katahimikan at kapayapaan dito sa rehiyon ng Bicol,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana said.

Some of the FRs also shared their willingness to rally with the government’s campaign to end communist insurgency.

“Dati, ako’y nasa kabundukan. Ngayon ay nasa kahawanan na, malaki po ang pagkakaiba ng buhay na nandito tayo ngayon sa tamang pamahalaan at nagpapasalamat din po ako sa lahat ng nagbigay ng E-CLIP benefit na nakatulong po sa aming mga anak at sa pamilya,” Leo, not his real name said.

Another FR also encouraged the Bicolanos and his former comrades not to turn a blind eye on the CTG’s deceptions and terrorism.

“Kami po ay patuloy na nananawagan sa mga natitira sa kabundukan na ang pagkakataong ito ay bigyan nating pagpapahalaga para matapos na ang problema. Hindi po ito matatapos na problema kung patuloy magbubulagalagan at magbibingihan, susunod sa maling ideolohiya. Sana po ay maging bahagi kayo ng nagbalik-loob sa ating pamahalaan. Patuloy po kaming nanawagan sa lahat ng ahensya ng gobyerno lalo na sa ating mahal na Pangulo na itong programa ng Whole-of-Nation Approach at EO 70 ipagpapatuloy at sustainable para matapos na ang problema,” Rodel, also not his real name said.

Meanwhile, MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, Commander of 9ID said that the division is very honored that Lt. Gen. Sobejana was able to grace the event.

“Si Lt. Gen. Sobejana na mismo ang nagsabi na hindi gyera ang gusto ng mga sundalo. That is why, we reach out to these former rebels because we want them to feel that we are here for them, we don’t want them to get left behind. Ganito rin ang gusto nating mangyari para sa mga natitira pang CTG members kaya hindi tayo titigil hangga’t hindi natatapos ang armadong tunggalian na ito. Ang mabuti ngayon, lalong dumarami ang kakampi natin. Once we continue joining our hands towards our goals and aspirations, we will win this fight,” 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/lt-gen-sobejana-graces-fr-summit-in-bicol-affirms-the-growing-support-of-bicolanos-aimed-at-ending-communist-insurgency/

Kalinaw News: Combatting Terrorism through Education, Military and GMA Kapuso Foundation Strengthen Partnership in Bicol

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jan 31, 2021): Combatting Terrorism through Education, Military and GMA Kapuso Foundation Strengthen Partnership in Bicol



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-In the pursuit to provide the Bicolanos a conducive environment for learning, the Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) and GMA Kapuso Foundation Inc. (GMAKFI) once again collaborated to rehabilitate and build classrooms for various schools in Bicol which were damaged by three strong typhoons last year.

On Friday, January 29, a total of 20 newly rehabilitated classrooms were inaugurated in Sto. Domingo Central School in Sto. Domingo, Albay.

No less than the Commanding General of Philippine Army, LTGEN CIRILITO E SOBEJANA PA, served as one of the guests during the ceremony.

In his message, Lt. Gen. Sobejana lauded the programs for education of GMAKFI which he considers as a great complimentary effort to the peace and security campaigns of the government.

“We really need to invest on education. Ika nga, mayroon kayong mga sundalo that kills the terrorists, we have the teachers or the academe that kill terrorism. So, if our teachers and our academe are effective in doing their job, of killing terrorism, then, there will be no terrorists. So, if there are no terrorists, then your soldiers will be effectively supporting your efforts of educating the youth which I consider the most vulnerable sector in our society,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana said.

As a constant partner, Ms. Rikki Escudero-Catibog of GMAKFI thanked the Army for its sincerity to extend a hand to the beneficiaries of their various projects.

“I really noticed how the Bicolanos value education, from primary to secondary to college. It really pleases us that we have this very nice school to turn-over to you because we know how hard the students and the teachers work on education,” Catibog added.

Also present during the event were MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, Commander of JTFB; Gov. Al Francis Bichara of Albay; Mayor Joseling Aguas Jr. of Sto. Domingo; Norma Samantela, the Schools Division Superintendent of Albay, Barangay officials and the faculty and staff of Sto. Domingo Central School.

Prior to this, a blessing and inauguration of two classrooms of San Rafael Integrated School in Barangay San Rafael and another two classrooms of Prieto Diaz Central School in Barangay Poblacion both in Prieto Diaz town in Sorsogon was conducted last January 27 with LTGEN ANTONIO G PARLADE JR PA, Commander of Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) as one of the guests.

Meanwhile, in Catanduanes, a groundbreaking ceremony was also held on January 28 for the construction of four classrooms of a Kapuso type school building and the rehabilitation of two classrooms of Palta Big Elementary School in Barangay Palta Big, Virac town.

Aside from security during the rehabilitation phase, the Army also provides the labor counterpart through its 565th Engineer Construction Battalion.

MGen. Robinson on the other hand said that the success of the said projects is a manifestation of the undying “bayanihan” of the government, its partner stakeholders and the Bicolanos.

“We are hopeful that with these school facilities, young Bicolano learners will be better equipped in terms of education. I fully agree with Lt. Gen. Sobejana that as future leaders of our country, we should address the needs of the youth sector. Schools should be a place where students can hone their skills, discover their potentials and learn how to be productive individuals. Thus, we thank the GMAKFI for always giving us the opportunity to be part of these noble projects,” 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/combatting-terrorism-through-education-military-and-gma-kapuso-foundation-strengthen-partnership-in-bicol/

Troops, NPA clash in MisOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2021): Troops, NPA clash in MisOcc (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)  

Military troops hunting a group of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels figured in a clash that injured a militiaman in Misamis Occidental province, officials said Monday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the subject of the pursuit operation are members of the Guerrilla Front Sendong of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

Vinluan said the troops of the 10th Infantry Battalion were conducting combat operations when they figured in a 20-minute firefight with 20 rebels in Barangay Tuno, Don Victoriano Chiongbian, Misamis Occidental on Jan. 30.

The NPA communist terrorists, who were believed to have incurred casualties, fled bringing along their wounded comrades.

“The enemy (NPA rebels) incurred an undetermined number of casualties as evident in the bloodstains in their withdrawal path,” said Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson, 10IB commander.

Tiongson said the militiaman, whose identity was withheld, is recuperating at a hospital in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur.

The troops recovered personal belongings, assorted foodstuff, and 60 live ammunition for AK-47 assault rifle at the clash site.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129131

4 rebels killed in clash with gov't troops in CamSur

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2021): 4 rebels killed in clash with gov't troops in CamSur (By Mar Serrano)  February 1, 2021, 3:24 pm

Map of Garchitorena, Camarines Sur (Google image)

Four suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a clash with Army soldiers on Monday in a remote village in Garchitorena, Camarines Sur, an Army report said.

Army Capt. John Paul Belleza, 9th Army Infantry Division public affairs chief, said the firefight resulted in the death of four NPA rebels whose identities are yet to be determined.

Army troopers were on combat patrol when they encountered a group of NPA rebels belonging to the Guerilla Front (GF) Larangan 1 operating in the province at around 11 a.m. in Barangay Toytoy.

Soldiers recovered from the scene nine assault rifles, four of which belonged to the slain rebels.

Belleza said government troops are still pursuing the fleeing rebels.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129153

Cops, Army hunt down 2 men in grenade attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2021): Cops, Army hunt down 2 men in grenade attack (By Edwin Fernandez)

BLAST SITE. A police officer points to the spot where the fragmentation grenade landed and exploded inside the paramilitary base in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao on Saturday (Jan. 30, 2020). A militiaman was injured during the attack. (Photo courtesy of Shariff Aguak MPS)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Police and military authorities are on the lookout for two men who lobbed a hand grenade inside a military detachment in Shariff Aguak town, leaving a militiaman injured.

Maj. Olegario Salvador, Shariff Aguak police chief, said that the attackers were on board a motorbike and quickly fled after throwing the explosive past 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.

“The search for the ‘persons of interest’ is still ongoing, and we hope to catch them soon,” Salvador said in an interview by reporters here Monday.

Joey Reyes, a member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), was inside the paramilitary detachment in Barangay Labu-Labu when the grenade attack occurred.

“He is now undergoing medication at the Maguindanao provincial hospital,” Salvador said, adding that other militiamen inside the detachment were unharmed.

The harassed CAFGU detachment belonged to the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion situated beside an irrigation canal in the area.

Salvador said a closed-circuit security camera at the detachment captured the two suspects on motorbike slowing down as it passed by the Army base and lobbed something before they sped away.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129145

Extortion group behind Tulunan bombing: SITG

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2021): Extortion group behind Tulunan bombing: SITG (By John Andrew Tabugoc)

EXTORTION TARGET. A unit of the Yellow Bus Line (partly hidden) that was allegedly targeted by the Al Khobar extortion group during the Jan. 27, 2021 bombing in Barangay Sibsib, Tulunan, North Cotabato. No one was hurt among the passengers, but the blast that occurred at a drop point killed a fruit vendor and wounded three bystanders. (Photo courtesy of Tulunan MPS)

TULUNAN, North Cotabato -- The police’s Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) Sibsib has identified the Al Khobar extortion group as responsible for the Jan. 27 bombing incident here that killed one and injured three others.

Major Jun Napat, Tulunan police chief, said the group was identified based on the bomb fragments gathered by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit and Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) that matched with the signature improvised bombs used by the Al Khobar group in the past.

“The bombing survivors also managed to distinguish two suspects as the ones who planted the bomb at an abandoned ticket booth in Barangay Sibsib and are now ‘persons of interest’ in connection with the incident,” Napat said on Monday.

The bomb went off past noontime as a Yellow Bus Line (YBL) unit was approaching and about to unload passengers near the ticket booth adjacent to a waiting shed in Barangay Sibsib here.

Napat said “extortion” on the bus company was the primary motive in the bombing that killed fruit vendor Gina Paunon, 53.

The Tulunan bombing was connected to another bomb planted in the baggage compartment of a bus unit that was disarmed by the EOD team at the Kidapawan City overland terminal last month, the police official bared.

“We are still waiting for the official statement of the YBL regarding our findings,” he said, adding that the Al Khobar extortion group has been preying on big businesses in Central Mindanao since 2007.

The SITG Sibsib is composed of personnel from the Police Regional Office - 12, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, the North Cotabato Police Provincial Office, and the Tulunan police office.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) has ordered all bus units plying the Tulunan route to load and unload their passengers only at the designated bus checkpoints, particularly in Barangays Bual and La Esperanza.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129184

Army, PDEA join hands to combat illegal drugs in NorMin, Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2021): Army, PDEA join hands to combat illegal drugs in NorMin, Caraga (By Nef Luczon)

AGAINST ILLEGAL DRUGS. Maj. Gen. Andres Centino (left), commander of the Army's 4th Infantry Division, joins PDEA director general Wilkins Villanueva in signing an agreement for both parties to jointly tackle the problem of illegal drugs in Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions Monday (Feb. 1, 2021). The agreement takes effect immediately after the signing. (Photo courtesy of 4ID)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Army's 4th Infantry Division (4ID) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) signed an agreement on Monday to combat illegal drugs in Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.

Signed by Director-General Wilkins Villanueva and 4ID commander Maj. Gen. Andres Centino at the 4ID headquarters here, the agreement seeks to harness both parties' resources to heighten the government's war on illegal drugs.

"As the division restlessly continues its fight against insurgency, the troopers are also one with the PDEA in freeing Northern Mindanao and Caraga from illegal drugs," Centino said.

He said the Army's participation in the fight against illegal drugs "can also run parallel" with the war against communist insurgency, which the 4ID chief noted are "priority programs of President Rodrigo Duterte."

"Illegal drugs, just like the communist insurgency, are victimizing people and destroying precious lives," he said.

For his part, Villanueva thanked Centino for his commitment, even as he expressed hope for the end of insurgency and illegal drugs before Duterte’s term ends next year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129173

NTP for fast attack missile boats out mid-February

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2021): NTP for fast attack missile boats out mid-February (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Notice to Proceed (NTP) for the Philippine Navy (PN)'s Fast Attack Interdiction Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) is expected to be out by mid-February.

This was confirmed by PN public affairs office chief, Commander Benjo Negranza, when asked by the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on updates for the project Monday.

"The contract for the project is being finalized for subsequent signing and issuance of NTP estimated to be on mid-February this year," he said.

The FAIC-M project (also known as the Shaldag Mark 5) was already issued a Notice of Award (NOA) by the Department of National Defense (DND) last January 4.

The NOA was signed by DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana as head of the procuring entity.

The project, which consists of two lots, is worth around PHP10 billion.

Lot 1 consists of acquisition of the naval platforms and upgrade of the Cavite Naval Shipyard while Lot 2 is focused on the acquisition of the weapons system of these FAIC-Ms which include remotely-controlled gun and missile systems.

"Another milestone was achieved just recently which includes the successful negotiations for the Lot 1 (Platforms) & Lot 2 (Combat Systems and Missiles) of the Fast Attack Interdiction Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) Acquisition Project. This resulted in the provisions for an additional one unit with one set of remote combat weapon systems (on top of the programmed 8 units FAIC-M) for the PN and an upgrade of the Naval Ship Yard - without additional cost to the government. Hence, the PN expects to obtain a total of nine missile-equipped FAICs in the coming years," PN chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo earlier said.

The FAIC-Ms, the Navy chief was referring to, is expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium (PKM) or medium-sized patrol craft, with deliveries expected to start in 2022.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

With the FAIC-Ms, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu, and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

While operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129163

Groups rally behind gov’t lawyers set to defend anti-terror law

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2021): Groups rally behind gov’t lawyers set to defend anti-terror law (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

SUPPORT FOR TERROR LAW. A member of an anti-communist group hangs tarpaulin on a footbridge to support government lawyers who will defend the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 in oral arguments at the Supreme Court on February 2. The law seeks to prevent, prohibit and penalize terrorism in the country. (Photo courtesy of Remy Rosadio/LPP)

Various multi-sectoral groups rallied behind government lawyers who will defend the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 in oral arguments at the Supreme Court on Tuesday by hanging tarpaulins expressing their support for the law.

Members of the League of Parents of the Philippines (LPP) or the Liga ng mga Magulang, Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), Sulong Maralita, Youth for Peace and Development, Hands Off Our Children (HOOC), and Yakap ng mga Magulang (YKM) put up tarpaulins bearing messages of support for the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (ATA), a law that seeks to prevent, prohibit and penalize terrorism in the country.

Remy Rosadio, LPP chair, said the move is also part of the groups' relentless condemnation against the atrocities perpetrated by communist terrorist groups and other terrorist organizations.

"We, parents, fully believe that this law puts a strong legal backbone against terrorisms –– including those barbaric acts which are being locally carried out by the members of Abu Sayyaf and the New People's Army," she said.

The law could also stop terrorists from pursuing their illegal recruitment schemes, she added.

“Every child has the right to live peacefully and must not be engaged with the uncertainties of the armed movement,” Rosadio said.

She said this could be a tougher response against the threat of terrorism and armed insurgency in the country.

Meanwhile, Jose Antonio Goitia, secretary-general of LIPI, said the move also seeks to boost the morale of “our valiant lawyer defenders”.

"We all decided to put up tarpaulins all around Metro Manila so our valiant lawyer defenders would see themselves the overwhelming support the people and our Nation has for them,” Goitia said. "We are doing this to boost their morale and principles to fight the terror which is the communist terrorist groups, the radical extremists, their legal fronts and sympathizers."

Goitia said the anti-terrorism law is crucial to defending national security.

“The Anti-Terrorism law is of paramount importance to our national security, as the nation endured decades of violent extremism perpetrated by the Communist Party of the Philippines, its armed and legal fronts, causing the destruction of billions worth of businesses and properties, killings of innocent people, kidnappings, the radicalization of our youth, illegal taxation, and other crimes,” he said.

Goitia said "to negate the importance of this landmark law is an insult to all Filipinos."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129246

Senate OKs resolution to ratify treaty vs. use of nuclear weapons

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2021): Senate OKs resolution to ratify treaty vs. use of nuclear weapons

Senate plenary hall (File photo)

The Senate on Monday adopted a resolution expressing its concurrence to the ratification of a treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons (TPNW).

Introduced and sponsored by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, proposed Senate Resolution 620 was unanimously adopted with 23 votes. The resolution was co-sponsored by Senator Risa Hontiveros and all other senators.

"The Treaty further reinforces commitments against the use, threat of use, development, production, manufacture, acquisition, possession, stockpiling, transfer, stationing, or installation of nuclear weapons," said Pimentel, chairman of the Committee on Foreign Relations.

He said highlights of the treaty include the prohibition to:

--Develop, test, produce, manufacture, otherwise acquire, possess or stockpile nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices;
--Transfer to any recipient whatsoever nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices or control over such weapons or explosive devices directly or indirectly;
--Receive the transfer of or control over nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices directly or indirectly;
--Use or threaten to use nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices;
--Assist, encourage or induce, in any way, anyone to engage in any activity prohibited to a State Party under this Treaty;
--Seek or receive any assistance, in any way, from anyone to engage in any activity prohibited under this Treaty; and
--Allow any stationing, installation or deployment of any nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices in its territory or at any place under its jurisdiction or control.

Pimentel said the treaty is the "first globally applicable multilateral agreement to comprehensively prohibit nuclear weapons on the basis of international humanitarian law."

He said the Philippines is among the first states to sign the treaty, along with other 52 countries.

As a signatory to the treaty, he said the Philippines has much to gain, including the TPNW's provisions on victim assistance and environmental remediation.

He cited an environmental research that warned of a global climate cooling capable of adversely affecting food production for years even with a "limited regional nuclear war."

The same research warned that a large-scale nuclear war could "create ice-age like conditions that might eliminate most of the human race."

"Nuclear weapons do not discriminate. We cannot afford another nuclear arms race. The Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings in Japan are horrors that should never be repeated," Pimentel stressed.

For her part, Hontiveros said nuclear weapons have "humanitarian and environmental consequences that span decades and cross generations."

"The TPNW is groundbreaking and a step in the direction of creating an international norm of conduct. With 86 nations signing it and 52 so far ratifying it - perhaps we will be the 53rd - the collective voice of humanity is clear: nuclear weapons should be banned forever, as we have banned landmines and biological and chemical weapons," she said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129263

Hunt on for killers of soldier, 3 others in Maguindanao ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 31, 2021): Hunt on for killers of soldier, 3 others in Maguindanao ambush (By Edwin Fernandez)

AMBUSHED. The ambushed vehicle in Datu Anggal Midtimbang town in Maguindanao crashed by the roadside after the Saturday afternoon (Jan. 30, 2021) incident. The four occupants of the vehicle were killed during the ambush. (Photo courtesy of Datu Anggal Midtimbang LGU)

Police pursuit operations are ongoing against a group of armed men who ambushed and killed four persons on Saturday afternoon in Maguindanao.

In his report to the police provincial office, investigator-on-case Police S/Sgt. Michael Lacsasa said the victims were on board a white multicab vehicle (MAB 2431) traversing the national highway in Barangay Tulunan of Datu Anggal Midtimbang town when ambushed by unidentified gunmen at 3:45 p.m.

Lacsasa identified the victims through their identification cards as Army Pfc. Heredin K. Kanakan, of Barangay Sta. Cruz, Koronadal City, Heredin Kamidon of Cotabato City, Fatima Usman of Muntinlupa City, and a still unidentified woman.

“We found 14 empty shells for (the) M16 rifle and .45-caliber pistol at the ambush site,” he said.

Also found from the slain victims were three sachets of suspected shabu items.

Lacsasa said they have “persons of interest” linked to the attack but declined to divulge further details pending police follow-up operations.

https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/4004111469161356591/4589502781597894802

Troops, NPA clash in MisOcc

 From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 31, 2021): Troops, NPA clash in MisOcc (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)\

Military troops hunting a group of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels figured in a clash that injured a militiaman in Misamis Occidental province, officials said Monday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the subject of the pursuit operation are members of the Guerrilla Front Sendong of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

Vinluan said the troops of the 10th Infantry Battalion were conducting combat operations when they figured in a 20-minute firefight with 20 rebels in Barangay Tuno, Don Victoriano Chiongbian, Misamis Occidental on Jan. 30.

The NPA communist terrorists, who were believed to have incurred casualties, fled bringing along their wounded comrades.

“The enemy (NPA rebels) incurred an undetermined number of casualties as evident in the bloodstains in their withdrawal path,” said Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson, 10IB commander.

Tiongson said the militiaman, whose identity was withheld, is recuperating at a hospital in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur.

The troops recovered personal belongings, assorted foodstuff, and 60 live ammunition for AK-47 assault rifle at the clash site.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129131

Retirement of key officials triggers another PNP revamp

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 31, 2021): Retirement of key officials triggers another PNP revamp (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Debold Sinas (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Debold Sinas on Sunday announced a major revamp triggered by the retirement of some senior officials of the police organization.

Sinas named Brig. Gen. Luisito Magnaye as new director of PNP Health Service, replacing Brig. Gen. Nolasco Bathan who retired on Sunday.

He also appointed Maj. Gen. Dennis P. Agustin to replace PNP Director for Intelligence Maj. Gen. Amado Clifton Empiso who will retire Feb. 6, and Brig. Gen. Albert Ignatius Ferro as acting Director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) replacing Maj. Gen. Joel Napoleon Coronel who is set to retire on Feb. 11.

“We are infusing new blood into the command structure to fill the void created by the retirement of some senior officials and ensure continuity of command,” Sinas said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Domingo Lucas was named as the new Director for Research and Development while Brig. Gen. Florencio Ortilla was designated as the new head of the Aviation Security Group.

Sinas named Brig. Gen. Jon Arnaldo as the executive officer of the Directorate for Intelligence while Col. Tellio C Ngis-O was appointed as acting Deputy Director of the Special Action Force.

Col. John Guygoyon is now the acting executive officer of the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management while Col. Angeles Geñorga Jr. as acting Dean of Academics of the PNP Academy.

Brig. Gen. Ronaldo Llanera now heads the Explosive and Ordnance Division and Canine Group while Brig. Gen. Samuel Nacion in the new deputy director of the National Police Training Institute; Col. Victor Valencia is now the acting executive officer of the Directorate for Research and Development; and Col. Robert Gallardo as acting chief of the Legislative Affairs Center of the Directorate for Plans.

Brig. Gen. Eliseo Cruz was named as the new director of the Southern Police District (SPD) which covers the cities of Parañaque, Pasay, Makati, Taguig, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, and the municipality of Pateros.

On the other hand, Brig. Gen. Nelson Bondoc was appointed as the new district director of the Northern Police District which covers Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela.

Other senior officers assigned in Metro Manila are Brig. Gen. Antonio Yarra as deputy regional director for Administration of the National Capital Region Police Office; Brig. Gen. Benjamin Acorda as the deputy regional director for Operations of the National Capital Region Police Office.

Brig. Gen. Emannuel Peralta, formerly assigned to the SPD and was replaced by Cruz, is now the regional director of Police Regional Office in Ilocos Region (PRO-1).

Peralta replaced Brig. Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, whose appointment as the new head of the Directorate for Information and Communication Technology Management (DICTM) will make him earn promotion to two-star rank.

Brig. Gen. Celso Bael was named as the number two man of the Mimaropa (Mindoro Oriental and Occidental, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) regional police, while Col. Ronaldo Cabral also assumed the same position for PRO 10, or Northern Mindanao.

Brig. Gen. Walter Pornillos, was named as the deputy regional director for Administration in Bangsamoro Administration Region, the same position given to Col. Victor Wanchakan for the PRO 9 or Zamboanga Peninsula.

Others affected in the reshuffle are as follows:

Brig. Gen. Walfredo Gimpaya Pornillos from Directorate for Plans (DPL) to PRO Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BAR); Brig. Gen. Jonathan Mendoza Ureta from PNP-Explosive and Ordinance Division/K9 to Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit of the Directorate for Personnel and Records Management (PHAU-DPRM); Brig. Gen. Benjamin Capati Villasis Jr. from Directorate for Investigation and Detection Management (DIDM) to PHAU-DPRM; and Col. Tellio Colte Ngis from PRO BAR to Special Action Force.

Sinas said reshuffle is effective on Feb. 1.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129093

ASG leader killed in Tawi-Tawi encounter

From The Manila Times (Jan 31, 2021): ASG leader killed in Tawi-Tawi encounter (By Al Jacinto) 

A sub-leader of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) was killed in a clash with policemen in the southern Philippine province of Tawi-Tawi, according to officials.

The officials on Friday said Alkam Hadjail exchanged gunfire with commandos, who were trying to capture him in Maraning village in Languyan town on Thursday.

Hadjail opened fire on police forces sent there to serve a warrant of arrest.

He was involved in terrorism and ransom kidnappings in Mindanao and was eventually tracked down in his hideout by security forces.

Meanwhile, the fighting happened on the same day soldiers ordered the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to dismantle its camp in the capital town of Bongao after villagers noticed the presence of strangers in the area.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the illegal camp, which was accessible by boat in the village of Lakit-Lakit, raised serious security concerns among civilians in the town.

“The camp, which is accessible by boat, has become a serious security concern for the people of Bongao due to the continuous construction of perimeter houses and the reported presence of people not from the province,” Vinluan added.

He said the illegal establishment of the camp is a violation of the peace accord that the MNLF signed with Manila in 1996.

“This is a clear violation of the 1996 final peace agreement between the government and the MNLF. Hence, [a] series of dialogues were conducted by the provincial government and the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi with the local MNLF (leaders) for the dismantling of the structure,” Vinluan added.

He said the local government and the military exhausted all diplomatic means to compel the group to peacefully dismantle and vacate their unauthorized encampment.

Gov. Yshmael Sali said only police and military camps are allowed in Tawi-Tawi, one of five provinces under the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

“We disallow the establishment of camps except those by legitimate security forces [such as] the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police here in Tawi-Tawi,” he added.

There was no immediate statement from MNLF’s Nur Misuari, chief of the former rebel group.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/01/31/news/regions/asg-leader-killed-in-tawi-tawi-encounter/835339/