Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

Friday, February 26, 2021

Kalinaw News: Former NPA’s tip leads to recovery of rifle, war materials in Quezon

From Kalinaw News (Feb 26, 2021): Former NPA’s tip leads to recovery of rifle, war materials in Quezon

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Soldiers of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division recovered a rifle and war materials in an NPA’s pre-designated arms cache in Patnanungan, Quezon on Thursday, February 25.

Troops were able to recover one cal. 30 carbine rifle along with four magazines, and 43 ammunition belonged to an NPA group led by alias Facio at Brgy Luod after receiving information from a former rebel who used to operate in the area.

MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of 2ID, praised the willingness and cooperation of the former rebels in helping the government win peace for the country as well as the renewed push of the soldiers to end the battle against insurgency.

“Their combatants are now realizing the truth that there is nothing to gain but their lives to lose being part of the rebel group.”

“We will continue to sustain our operational momentum to fully defeat the remnants of the NPA in our area of responsibility at the soonest possible time,” ended Almerol. Since 2019, a total of 124 firearms have been captured by 2ID across Southern Tagalog.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/former-npas-tip-leads-to-recovery-of-rifle-war-materials-in-quezon/

Kalinaw News: Gov’t collaborates in enlightenment against NPAs Deception in SurNor

From Kalinaw News (Feb 26, 2021): Gov’t collaborates in enlightenment against NPAs Deception in SurNor

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte- As part of the Information and Education Campaign (IEC) of the Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management Cluster of the National Management Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the 29th Infantry (Matatag Fighters) Battalion under the 901st Infantry (Fight ‘Em) Brigade in collaboration with the Local Government of Surigao City headed by Hon. Ernesto “Estong” Matugas Jr., the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) and the TESDA leads the conduct of Information Caravan on February 24, 2021, to enlighten the Surigaonons against the deceitful tactics of NPA in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte.

Likewise, said activity was also attended by BGen George L Banzon, Commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade; Surigao Del Norte Governor, Hon. Francisco “Lalo” T. Matugas together with the Sangguniang Panglungsod; various Punong Barangays and their respective Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) chairs; some business owners and City employees.

During the event, TESDA discussed various programs and training that the office has been providing and is willing to offer for those who will surrender. Also, NICA personnel tackled the implementation of Executive Order (EO) No. 70, NPA’s process of recruitment, and the Anti-Terrorism Act. The discussion was then supplemented with the testimony of alias @No name and his wife alias @Wella, both former rebels who have shared their awful experiences with the CNTs and the mighty change that had happened in their lives soon after they surrendered to the government.

Mayor Ernesto Matugas Jr. explained, “This gathering is made to inform everyone of what is EO70 that aims to break the cycle of insurgency in our community and to quell the communist movement and their roots. We all have individual roles and I am hoping that you will know the importance of each and everyone for this program (EO 70) in order to be successful and effective in ending the fight against communism.”

Alias @No Name shared in his testimony,”Ining mga NPA, mao ni sila ang gahatag ug problema sa atoa.Sila gahimo ra ug bakak para makapangilad ug makadaut ug kinabuhi sa laing tao ilabi na sa mga kabatan-onan.” (NPA is the one who gives burden to us. They only makes lies just to deceive and destroy the lives of the people especially of the youth.)

Moreover, alias @Wella also testified,”Pagsurrender nako, ayha pako nakasinati ug kabag-ohan sa akong kinabuhi. Makaingon gyud ko nga naa ko sa saktong dalan, lahi sa kinabuhi nga akong nasinatian ug nabatyagan sauna samtang naa pako galihok sa bukid.” (After I surrendered, I experienced drastic changes. I can say that I am on the right path, different from the life that I have lived before when I was still moving in the mountains.)

LtCol. Aristotle F Antonio, Acting Commanding Officer of 29IB, boldly said in his statement, “As your Army, we are ever willing to pay with our own lives the prize it requires to win the peace; but are you also willing to come and support us? This war against insurgency is not just ours alone, but rather it is our fight. Nonetheless, we do not require you to take up arms as well, but rather your strong commitment to abandon any support that you’re giving from our awful enemy is what we need. Peace awaits and it will come but only to those who deserve it.”

[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/govt-collaborates-in-enlightenment-against-npas-deception-in-surnor/

Kalinaw News: Army recovers firearms and land mines after clash with NPA

From Kalinaw News (Feb 26, 2021): Army recovers firearms and land mines after clash with NPA

Madrid, Surigao del Sur – The Army`s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, Philippine Army recovered two (2) firearms and other war materials in an encounter with more or less fifteen (15) fully armed CPP-NPA Terrorists while conducting security operations in the hinterland of Sitio Mahanon, Brgy Maitom, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, yesterday, February 24 2021.

The troops while responding to the report about the presence of NPA conducting extortion activities in the area engaged the armed terrorists believed to be under Ramil Quezada @Ben of
Guerrilla Front 30 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee in a fierce fire fight at around 12:30 in the afternoon that lasted about 20 minutes.

The encounter resulted to the seizure of terrorists’ AK47 rifle, mini Ingram, magazines with live ammunitions, bandoliers, backpacks with personal belongings, landmines, detonating wires, assorted medicines, medical paraphernalia, assorted food supplies and subversive documents.

In his statement, Lt Col Jezreel Diagmel, Commanding Officer of the 36IB assured the populace that government troops are willing to risk their lives and limbs in the performance of their mandate just to secure and protect the peace-loving Surigaonons to maintain and preserve peace and security in the province.

The successful combat operation against the terrorists was a product of successful implementation of Community Support Program (CSP) that enlightened the local populace to support the government forces in the fight against the communist NPA terrorists.

LTC Diagmel added that the 52 long years of communist fruitless struggle must be put to an end to prevent unnecessary loss of lives due to NPA’s terroristic acts, lies and deception.

Likewise, Ltc Jezreel Diagmel is appealing the remaining NPA in the province of Surigao del Sur to return to the folds of the law, embrace peaceful resolution, avail the government’s intervention programs, enroll to the Enhance Comprehensive and Local
Integration Program (E–CLIP) and live a normal life with their love ones.

[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/army-recovers-firearms-and-land-mines-after-clash-with-npa/

Kalinaw News: Teroristang CPP-NPA, idineklarang Persona Non Grata sa Tumauini, Isabela

From Kalinaw News (Feb 26, 2021): Teroristang CPP-NPA, idineklarang Persona Non Grata sa Tumauini, Isabela

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Idineklarang Persona Non Grata ang rebeldeng Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army kasama ang National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) sa bayan ng Tumauini, Isabela ngayong ika-26 ng Pebrero 2021.

Batay sa naipresentang datos sa isinagawang Security Awareness Briefing ng 95th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, 33 sa 46 na mga barangay ang nagpatibay sa ipinasang resolusyon ng Isabela Provincial Peace and Order Council-Provincial Development Council sa kanilang pagde-deklara ng Persona Non Grata ang mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA.

Ayon kay Barangay Captain Romeo Ugaddan, Presidente ng Liga ng mga Barangay sa nabanggit na bayan, kanilang kinokondena ang mga naitalang karahasan, kalupitan, at pang-aabuso ng mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA-NDF. “Hindi sila tatanggapin dito sa bayan ng Tumauini! Sa dami ng kanilang ginawang mga di-makataong gawain, hindi kami makakapayag na mabiktima rin nila ang aming mga nasasakupan. Alam na namin ang totoong mukha ng CPP-NPA-NDF! Hindi kami magpapalinlang sa kanila. Wala silang lugar sa aming mga barangay sa buong bayan ng Tumauini!”

Nakasaad sa resolusyon na nagkaisa ang mga residente sa bayan ng Tumauini na ideklarang Persona Non Grata ang mga teroristang CPP-NPA-NDF dahil sa kanilang mga ginawang pananambang sa mga tropa ng pamahalaan, pagpatay sa mga inosenteng indibidwal, at pagsira’t paghadlang sa mga proyekto ng pamahalaan para sa mga mamamayan. Nakasaad din ang isinasagawang pangingikil ng mga teroristang CPP-NPA sa mga kompanya pati na rin sa mga maliliit na negosyante. Hindi rin nila umano pinapalagpas ang mga mahihirap na residente sa kanilang ginagawang pangongotong.

Nagpasalamat naman ang alkalde ng bayan ng Tumauini sa pakikiisa ng kanyang mga kapitan sa pagdedeklara ng Persona Non Grata laban sa mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA-NDF sa kanilang munisipalidad. Sinabi ni Mayor Arnold Bautista na layunin ng kanilang lokal na pamahalaan na protektahan ang mga mamamayan laban sa mga teroristang CPP-NPA-NDF. “Pagtulungan nating suportahan ang mga programa ng Pambansang Pamahalaan upang makamit natin ang katiwasayan at kaunlaran. Bawat isa sa atin ay mayroong responsibilidad sa kaayusan at kapayapaan sa ating lugar. Isapuso natin ang bayanihan at pagkakaisa upang maabot natin ang ating mga mithiin.”

Kinilala naman ni Lt Col Lemuel Baduya, Commanding Officer ng 95IB ang inisyatiba ng mga kapitan ng barangay sa kampanya laban sa insurhensiya sa kanilang munisipalidad.“Ang hakbang na ito ay para rin sa kinabukasan ng inyong mga anak at ng mga susunod pa na henerasyon. Pagtulungan nating itaboy ang rebeldeng CPP-NPA sa inyong bayan.”

Samantala, ikinatuwa naman ni MGen Laurence E Mina PA, Commander ng 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army ang ginawang pagdedeklara ng Persona Non Grata laban sa CPP-NPA-NDF sa bayan ng Tumauini. “Mulat na ang sambayanan sa panlilinlang na ginagawa ng mga teroristang CPP-NPA. Ang pagdedeklara ng Persona Non Grata laban sa rebeldeng grupo ay malaking ambag sa panawagan ng pamahalaan na wakasan ang insurhensiya sa bansa at upang magtuloy-tuloy ang hangaring pag-unlad ng ating bayan”.

[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/teroristang-cpp-npa-idineklarang-persona-non-grata-sa-tumauini-isabela/

Kalinaw News: New Commander, 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Installed

From Kalinaw News (Feb 26, 2021): New Commander, 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Installed

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The 1st Mechanized Infantry ‘MAAASAHAN’ Brigade, Armor ‘PAMBATO’ Division has a new Brigade Commander and has officially begun his duty during the change of command ceremony held at its Headquarters in Brgy. Kamasi, Ampatuan, Maguindanao on February 21, 2021.

Major General Efren Baluyot, Commander of Armor “PAMBATO” Division, presided the traditional military ceremony where Col. Ferdinand Lacadin relinquished his post to Col. Pedro Balisi Jr., the new Brigade Commander.

“Congratulations to all the officers and personnel of the ‘MAAASAHAN’ Brigade. It was proven as an effective unit under Col. Lacadin. Also to mention the significant gains in winning peace and stability in your area evidenced by the bulk of former rebels that returned to the fold of the government”, said Maj. Gen. Baluyot.

He also challenged the new Brigade Commander to give his best and surpass what has been done by his colleagues and make the 1st Mechanized Brigade a more reliable partner of stakeholders in this part of the country.

Meanwhile, Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines, Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana attended the said activity. He stressed that the place is close to his heart since he was once a brigade commander in the said area. “We wanted to be always relevant to the people whom we serve primarily because we can’t afford to receive our pay and allowances without doing our job” Lt. Gen. Sobejana said.

Lt. General Sobejana acknowledged the sundry stakeholders who have been very supportive to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in achieving lasting peace in South Central Mindanao.

[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/new-commander-1st-mechanized-infantry-brigade-installed/

Kalinaw News: Rido settlement signed, twenty assorted firearms surrendered

From Kalinaw News (Feb 25, 2021): Rido settlement signed, twenty assorted firearms surrendered

ISABELA CITY, Basilan Province – Weary of incessant fighting and loss of innocent lives, two barangays in Tabuanlasa Municipality finally concluded their respective clan war, or locally known as rido, as they signed a peace covenant here at the Headquarters 4th Special Forces Battalion, Barangay Cabunbata, Isabela City on Wednesday, 24 February, where twenty assorted firearms were also yielded by local officials and barangay leaders.

With the combined efforts of the military, police, and local government unit, a rido settlement was signed by the conflicting clans of Barangay Sulloh between the group of Barangay Chairman Basid “Istel” Aba and the group of Hadji Nurjan Dapug; while another settlement was signed by the conflicting clans of Barangay Tong-Umos between the group of Malanji Rahmat and the group of Neriza Barahim.

Aside from signing the settlement, all families involved also perform the ‘magsapa’ or pledge of commitment officiated by Ustad Munar Ibnu of Tabuanlasa Ulama Council.

Through the initiative and efforts of the 14th Special Forces Company, assorted high-power and low-power firearms were voluntarily surrendered by the local officials and barangay leaders during the said activity as a sign of support and commitment to just and lasting peace in the Municipality of Tabuanlasa.

Surrendered firearms include fourteen (14) Caliber 30 M1 Garand Rifles, two (2) M16A1 Rifle, one (1) Colt M4 Automatic Rifle, one (1) M14 Rife, one (1) Caliber 30 M1 Carbine, one (1) Smith and Wesson Caliber .357, assorted magazines, and live ammunitions.

Brigadier General Domingo B. Gobway, the Commander of 101st Infantry Brigade and Joint Task Force Basilan, in his speech, call on every party to embrace peace and let not their future generations carry on the conflict.

“Ipakita natin ang respeto sa bawat isa. Sana huwag na natin ipamana ang kaguluhan sa ating mga anak at sa ating mga apo.” Brigadier General Gobway said.

Also present during the activity were Police Colonel Rodrigo O. Maramo – the Provincial Director of the PNP, Lieutenant Colonel Alex D. Ampati of 4SFBN, First Lieutenant Alvin Balancod of 14SFC, Police Lieutenant Jakaria Muin – the COP of Tabuanlasa, local government officials, barangay leaders, and other guests.

[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/rido-settlement-signed-twenty-assorted-firearms-surrendered/

Kalinaw News: CGPA LTGEN Faustino visits Sulu, Congratulates Troops

From Kalinaw News (Feb 25, 2021): CGPA LTGEN Faustino visits Sulu, Congratulates Troops

February 24, 2021, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo,Sulu – Commanding General, Philippine Army LtGen Jose C Faustino Jr. walks down the memory lane as he visits Sulu and meets with troops of 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division.

Wednesday morning, the army chief was welcomed by Joint Task Force – Sulu (JTF-S) and 11th Infantry Division Commander MGen William N Gonzales at JTF-S Headquarters in Jolo, Sulu.

Western Mindanao Command Chief LtGen Corleto S Vinluan Jr. accompanied LtGen Faustino as he spent a day in the province where he served his battalion commander and brigade commander’s duty.
“11th Infantry Division is my first division visit. This is also my first official visit to the province. That’s how I value this place. I was designated commander of 35th Infantry Battalion way back 2006. Then I became 501st Infantry Brigade commander,” LtGen Faustino remarked in front of his former staff who are now organic of 1102nd Infantry Brigade of the Alakdan Division. (501st Infantry Brigade was reorganized as 1102nd on year 2018)

Meanwhile, MGen Gonzales expressed his gratitude towards the commanding general for his continuous guidance and support in enhancing the security of the province. “Before I assumed as division commander, I personally asked for LtGen Faustino’s advice as to how I should lead our forces in assisting the local government in terms of security and development. He wholeheartedly offered his mentorship.” said MGen Gonzales.

LtGen Faustino, in turn, recognized the efforts of troops in Sulu. “Allow me to extend my warmest congratulations to the entire Joint Task Force – Sulu for a job well done. To all the officers and personnel, who in joint operations with our PNP counterparts have successfully thwarted the possible terroristic attempt by widows, daughters, relatives and associates of the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group the arrest of nine female suspects in possession of explosives, devices, and other related paraphernalia will certainly prevent deaths and injury to countless civilians who shall be put in harm’s way by hateful terroristic ulterior motives.

LtGen Faustino also met with Sulu Governor Abdusakur M Tan in his office at the Provincial Capitol. There, the army chief shared that he had observed significant enhancement in terms of security and economic growth in the province. “When I talk with my friends residing in Sulu, they say that all government forces and agencies are truly working together for the future of this land. This is backed up by pictures they send me of people being able harvest or of kids joyously spending time at the beach.”

Later this day, the commanding general also led the inauguration of the newly constructed officer’s quarters which was implemented by Department of National Defense and Department of Public Works & Highway through its “ Tatag ng Imprastraktura Para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad” (TIKAS) project. In this formal ceremony, Sulu 1st District Engineer Ajan S Ajisul handed over a symbolic key to the commanding general.

[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/cgpa-ltgen-faustino-visits-sulu-congratulates-troops/

Kalinaw News: NPAs continue to threaten development community in Surigao del Norte; burn several heavy equipment

From Kalinaw News (Feb 25, 2021): NPAs continue to threaten development community in Surigao del Norte; burn several heavy equipment

Surigao del Norte – The Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division received reports of arson on multiple heavy equipment perpetrated by fully Armed NPA rebels in several barangays in Surigao del Norte, afternoon of February 24, 2021.

Bryan Canibel Sala, 39 years old, came to the police station to report about the incident. He told the police that the driver of his truck, Florencio Escobido Laurenciana called him to inform that three (3) fully armed men came and threatened him before burning the 10-wheeler truck.

Mr. Laurenciana narrated that while he is repairing one of the heavy equipment, one of the NPA rebels came and said, “pakilid lang mo kay wala moy labot’’ kay leksyon lang ni sa tag iya’’. Thereafter one of them carrying one (1) gallon of gasoline, immediately poured to the one of the Dump Truck then ignited the fire.

After they committed the crime and fled the area, Mr. Laurenciana looked around and found another heavy equipment (Back hoe) caught on fire.

The police coordinated with the AFP to raise the concern. The Army’s 4th Infantry Division deployed troops from the 29th Infantry Battalion to investigate on the scene. Initial investigation reveals that the atrocity made by the rebels left a Php 5,950.000.00 worth of damage to the owners of the trucks and the motive of the crime was speculated to be extortion.

A manhunt search team is currently deployed to apprehend the suspects.

[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/npas-continue-to-threaten-development-community-in-surigao-del-norte-burn-several-heavy-equipment/

Kalinaw News: Three (3) NPA Members Surrender in Bukidnon

From Kalinaw News (Feb 25, 2021): Three (3) NPA Members Surrender in Bukidnon

Damulog, Bukidnon – Members of the New People’s Army voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 16IB and Damulog PNP at Brgy Tangkulan, Damulog, Bukidnon last 20 February 2021.

The surrender of three (3) active members of the communist-terrorist group (CTG) was made possible through the tip of concerned citizens in the area. Acting upon the information, the “Maglilingkod” Troopers together with the Damulog PNP proceeded to the location to negotiate for the peaceful surrender of the rebels.

The surrenderees were identified as ‘Rocky’, 30yrs old; ‘En-En’, 20yrs old; and ‘Masca’, 43yrs old, whom are all operating under the Local Guerilla Unit 2.

They brought with them two (2) Springfield rifle with ten (10) ammunitions, one (1) Command Detonating Explosive (CDX) and one (1) M67 Fragmentation Grenade.

They revealed that they have contact to one of the active members of the CTGs operating in the same area and unit. Using this information, one more rebel identified as ‘Arman’, 31yrs old, a regular member of the Guerilla Front 53 surrendered as well on 24 February 2021.

The said personalities are now undergoing interview, custodial debriefing, and proper documentation for their firearms.

Kalinaw News: More Iloilo and Capiz villages declare CPP-NPA-NDF Persona-Non-Grata

From Kalinaw News (Feb 25, 2021): More Iloilo and Capiz villages declare CPP-NPA-NDF Persona-Non-Grata

CAMP HERNANDEZ, DINGLE – Villages from Janiuay, Maasin, and Lambunao in Iloilo and Tapaz in Capiz declared the CPP-NPA-NDF as persona non-grata in an indignation activity in their respective barangay this February 2021.

Former CPP-NPA-NDF supporters from 13 more Barangays that were formerly influenced by the Communist Terrorist Group withdraw their support and declared the CPP-NPA-NDF as PERSONA-NON-GRATA, barangays Aglobong, Barasalon,

Canauillian, Panuran, and Monte Magapa in Janiuay, Iloilo; barangays Agsirab, Bagongbong, and Panuran in Lambunao, Iloilo; and barangays Bolo and Punong in Maasin, Iloilo; barangays Lahug, Nayawan, and Siya of Tapaz in Capiz took an oath of allegiance as they withdraw their support from the Communist group that had been declared as terrorist organization by the government.

“More Panayanons are now becoming more aware of the deceptive tactics and strategy of the CTGs particularly on their recruitment of minors, extortion and various terrorists’ activities that victimize innocent civilians and threatens the security and safety of peaceful communities. Respective barangay officials led the indignation rally against the CPP-NPA-NDF through a barangay resolution declaring the communist organization as persona non-grata.

The former supporters of the CPP-NPA-NDF signed their oath of allegiance to the government and burned CPP-NPA-NDF flags. The local officials and the residents headed the ceremony.

Before the activity, the Local Government Unit of towns of Janiuay, Maasin, and Lambunao, and Tapaz, Capiz declared the Communist organization as persona non-grata in their localities years ago.

BGen Marion R Sison, the Commander of the 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade, said the local residents long for peace and development in their community and hoping a better life is waiting for them after they withdraw their support from the
CPP-NPA-NDF.

“With the implementation of EO 70 or the whole of nation approach more Panayanons were now aware of the deceptive tactics and strategy of the CTGs, particularly on their recruitment of minors, extortion and various terrorists’ activities that victimize innocent civilians, and threatens the security and safety of peaceful communities,” BGen Sison added.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/more-iloilo-and-capiz-villages-declare-cpp-npa-ndf-persona-non-grata/

Kalinaw News: Full-time NPA member commits suicide; cadaver and firearms recovered

From Kalinaw News (Feb 24, 2021): Full-time NPA member commits suicide; cadaver and firearms recovered

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- The cadaver of a full-time member of the terrorist Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) who committed suicide was exhumed through the joint efforts of troops of 17th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, PNP Sto. Niño, and Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) Region 02 on February 23, 2021, at Sitio Lagum, Barangay Lipatan, Sto. Niño, Cagayan.

The cadaver was identified as a certain Marvin or known as Ka Barney who is believed to be from Tondo, Manila. According to a reliable source, he was a member of Danilo Ben Command, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley (KR-CV) of the terrorist CPP-NPA and allegedly he committed suicide in 2013 because he wanted to go on lie low but was not allowed by the NPA cadres. His cadaver was buried in Sitio Lagum without proper and decent burial.

The cadaver was immediately turned-over to PNP Sto. Niño for further examination and investigation while the 5ID is trying to reach out to his family members for his proper burial.

Aside from the recovered cadaver, two Shotguns owned by the terrorist CPP-NPA were discovered in the said place.

MGen Laurence E Mina PA, Commander of 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army encourages the public to contact the 5th Infantry Division for any similar incident of missing persons who joined the terrorist CPP-NPA through 5ID hotline number 0955-094-4526. “We sympathize with the tragic death of Ka Barney and we extend our condolences to his family. We are once again calling the remaining members of the CPP-NPA to lay down their arms and choose to live a peaceful life. I am also appealing to the community to resist the CPP-NPA’s propaganda filled with pure lies and deception.”

[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/full-time-npa-member-commits-suicide-cadaver-and-firearms-recovered/

Kalinaw News: Army, MNLF, MILF, former ASG, LGU, and other sectors forge unity and camaraderie thru sport

From Kalinaw News (Feb 24, 2021): Army, MNLF, MILF, former ASG, LGU, and other sectors forge unity and camaraderie thru sport

HADJI MOHAMMAD AJUL, Basilan Province – A peaceful clash just happened. For the first time in the history of Basilan Province all sectors here in the Municipality of HMA have come together to engage one another, not by arms, but through friendly sports.

Mayor Ibrahim Ballaho of Hadji Mohammad Ajul Municipality, in partnership with the 15th Special Forces Company, initiated the SPORTS PEACE (sports fest) activity with the theme: “Hap Magdagey dagey amban magpapatey” (It is better to play than to fight) which officially opened last Monday, 22 February 2021 here at Barangay Buton of HMA Municipality.

According to Mayor Ballaho, this activity aims to break the barrier amongst different sectors and to strengthen the camaraderie and cooperation of the different organizations which is important in propagating peace and development in the locality. The game venue will also tour around the different Municipalities of Basilan Province to showcase the local talents of the players.

Twelve teams will compete to be declared as the ultimate champion of the historic event. Participating teams will be coming from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), abu sayyaf group returnees, local government unit, youth organizations, ulama council, local police, military, Cafgu, and other sectors.

On Tuesday, 23 February, the first part of the basketball game was played at the Headquarters of the 4th Special Forces Battalion in Isabela City, Basilan between MNLF versus MILF, and LGU versus Ulama Council, advancing the MILF and LGU to the next round. All players gave their best while enjoying the game. The second leg will be played in Lamitan City.

“Higit sa paglahok at pagkapanalo, nais nating ipakita ang pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan ng bawat sektor dito sa Hadji Mohammad Ajul. Lahat tayo dito ay may malaking kontribusyon sa kapayapaan.”, Captain Sherwin Latiera, the Commanding Officer of 15th Special Forces Company, expressed.

Present during the said activities were Brigadier General Domingo B. Gobway, the Commander of 101st Infantry Brigade and Joint Task Force Basilan, Lieutenant Colonel Alex D. Ampati, the Commanding Officer of 4th Special Forces Battalion, Barangay Officials, and other guests.

[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/army-mnlf-milf-former-asg-lgu-and-other-sectors-forge-unity-and-camaraderie-thru-sport/

Kalinaw News: Lying low ASG member voluntarily surrender, yields firearm

From Kalinaw News (Feb 24, 2021): Lying low ASG member voluntarily surrender, yields firearm

MALUSO, Basilan Province – Another member of the Abu Sayyaf Group voluntarily surrendered to the 14th Special Forces Company here in Barangay Townsite last Monday, 22 February 2021, as peace and development here in Basilan improves and is widely felt by the constituents, including the former ASG members who are now lying low.

The ASG returnee was identified as Jay-R Hamurin alias Abu Solaiman, 31 years old, and a resident of Barangay Langaray, Sumisip, Basilan. Said returnee also surrendered one (1) M16 Rifle and one (1) short M16 magazine with several rounds of live ammunitions.

The military has been intensifying its anti-terrorism and anti-violent extremism campaigns here in Basilan thru radio broadcasting and informal forums. These, together with the programs from the Local Government Unit, have yielded positive results such as the successive surrender of former Abu Sayyaf members.

“Sa mga ASG na gustong magbagong-buhay, napakagandang desisyon ang gagawin ninyong bumaba sa bundok at sumuko. May pagkakataon pa kayo upang magbagong-buhay.”, First Lieutenant Alvin Balancod, the Commanding Officer of 14SFC expressed.

The ASG returnees, upon surrender, are enrolled in the Program Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) where they will undergo several interventions to train and reform them to become productive and responsible citizens of the community. As of latest record, there are almost three hundred ASG returnees who are currently enrolled in the said program.

[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/lying-low-asg-member-voluntarily-surrender-yields-firearm/

Kalinaw News: People’s Organizations in Iloilo City denounce CPP-NPA-NDF

From Kalinaw News (Feb 24, 2021): People’s Organizations in Iloilo City denounce CPP-NPA-NDF

CAMP HERNANDEZ, Dingle, Iloilo –Some people’s organizations in Iloilo City held an indignation rally against the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Fron February 21, 2021 at the Covered Gym of Barangay Balabago.

In a simple program, the 50 members and officers of the Sitio Ilaya Hugpong Bayanihan Urban Poor Association (SIHBUPA) formerly known as Sitio Ilaya Chapter Urban Poor Association (SICUPA from Barangay Tabuc Suba; Barangay Bitoon Bayanihan Newsite Bayanihan Association (BBNSBA) formerly known as KAISOG; and Uswag Balabago Zone IV Bayanihan Association (UBZBA) previously known as Uswag Zone 4 Balabago Association (UZBA) gathered together and denounced the CPP-NPA-NDF and their atrocities.

They carried placards and streamers with messages of condemnation and likewise burned the CPP-NPA flag to show their disapproval against the communist-terrorist group.

The activity was highlighted by the testimonial speech of the former NPA Cadres and organizers. The indignation rally is a result of the Community Support Program (CSP) of the 33rd
Civil Military Operation Company which is under the operational control of the 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade.

In his message, BGen Marion Sison, Commander, 301 st Bde, lauded the bold action of the aforementioned organizations against the CPP-NPA-NDF.

“We are glad that some people’s organizations in Iloilo City are now aware of the deceptive maneuvers and evil doings of the communist-terrorist groups. Their condemnation has left two clear indications; the losing armed movement of the communist-terrorists and the winning peace drive of the government,” Sison 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/peoples-organizations-in-iloilo-city-denounce-cpp-npa-ndf/

Kalinaw News: Army beefs up forces in Sulu, activates 1103rd brigade

From Kalinaw News (Feb 24, 2021): Army beefs up forces in Sulu, activates 1103rd brigade

Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Baustista Jolo, Sulu- In a ceremony this afternoon, Joint Task Force – Sulu and 11th Infantry Division Commander MGen William N Gonzales led the activation of the 1103rd Infantry Brigade, installing Col Eugenio C Boquio as its commander, February 23, 2021.

According to MGen Gonzales, the 11th ID in Sulu now houses three army brigades and one marine brigade, which solidifies the presence of the army in the province. “The creation of the new brigade is a significant step towards sustainable and inclusive peace in Sulu, as we intend to fill it up with Tausug recruits. This provides an opportunity for the people of Sulu to take an active and meaningful role in securing their land.”

“JTF- Sulu’s powerhouse team welcomes another brilliant officer to its line-up.
To 1103rd Brigade Commander Col Boquio, I expect nothing less than excellent leadership and constant collaboration with other security forces, local government units and agencies, and the general public of Sulu,” MGen Gonzales added.

For his part, Col Boquio expressed his gratitude for being given the opportunity to lead the brigade and pledged to live up to the expectations that come with his position. Before taking on his new role, Boquio was the Chief of Staff of the AFP’s Special Operations Command. He also served as the Chief of Staff of JTF-Sulu on year 2017 and 1st Scout Ranger Battalion Commander from October 2014 to March 2016.

To note, the 1101st Infantry Brigade is responsible for securing the southern portion of the 1st District Sulu while 1102nd is in charge of Patikul that lies on the north portion of the mentioned district. Meanwhile, the whole 2nd District of Sulu falls under the responsibility of the 4th Marine Brigade. The 1103rd Infantry Brigade’s deployment is yet to be determined.

[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/army-beefs-up-forces-in-sulu-activates-1103rd-brigade/