One among most wanted Abu Sayyaf members, 3 others surrender in Sulu

From GMA News Online (Nov 29, 2021): One among most wanted Abu Sayyaf members, 3 others surrender in Sulu (By Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas)

Four members of the Abu Sayyaf group, including one of the most-wanted members of the group in Sulu province, surrendered to Philippine officials last week, the Philippine Marine Corps announced Sunday.

Four members of the Abu Sayyaf group, including one of the most-wanted members of the group in Sulu province, surrendered to Philippine officials last week, the Philippine Marine Corps announced Sunday.

According to data released by Marine Battalion Landing Team 7 (MBLT-7) under the 4th Marine Brigade, the surrender was facilitated together with the local government of Panamao in Sulu last Thursday, November 25.

The surrenderers include Sikal Hussien Juhurim who is one of the most-wanted members of the ASG in the Sulu province.

Juhurim was involved in the kidnap-for-ransom of two German nationals in April 2014 in Puerto Princesa, Palawan in April 2014, and of two Canadian nationals in Samal Island in Davao del Norte in September 2015.

Also among the surrenderers are Jumadil Sali who was involved in the Sipadan kidnapping in 2011, Ibnorajik Aranan Igasan who served as a spotter and errand man for the group during the Malaysian kidnapping incidents in 2018 and 2019, and Marajan Jawae Mahing who was under sub-leader Sansibar Bencio operating in the areas of Bud Bawis Complex.

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MBLT-7 Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Eduard Olasco said the ASG members will be taken under the Ending Local Armed Conflict (ELAC) Program of the municipality.

“The whole-of-nation approach is employed to address the issues of our surrenderers as part of their comprehensive mainstreaming and to encourage more ASG members to return into the folds of the law,” he said.

“I urge every ASG member to surrender because your Marines, in partnership with local governments, various agencies, and non-government organizations, have doubled our efforts to formulate and implement programs for you,” added Colonel Hermanie Songano who witnessed the surrender.

“Join us as we continue the fight in winning the peace and in ending violent extremism in the 4th marine Brigade area of operation for us to achieve our goal of lasting peace and development in the Province of Sulu,” he added.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/812578/among-most-wanted-abu-sayyaf-members-3-others-surrender-in-sulu/story/

5 Abu Sayyafs surrender in Basilan, Sulu

 From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Nov 30, 2021): 5 Abu Sayyafs surrender in Basilan, Sulu

ZAMBOANGA. Five more members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrender as the Western Mindanao Command continues to intensify its security operations in the provinces of Basilan and Sulu. A photo handout shows the four ASG members who surrender in Sulu together with Colonel Hernanie Songano, 4th Marine Brigade commander (3rd from right). (SunStar Zamboanga)

FIVE more members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) have surrendered as the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) continued to intensify its security operations in the provinces of Basilan and Sulu.

Major General Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of Westmincom, announced Tuesday, November 30, that the surrender of the five brought the total number of Abu Sayyaf surrenderers in the two provinces to 206 since January this year.

"The Westmincom, through its Joint Task Forces, is tightening its security operations, that is why most of the members and supporters of the threat groups (ASG) opted to return to the folds of the law," Rosario said.

"I hope that the remaining members will also come to their senses soon," Rosario added.

One of the five, identified only as Abu Bullet, 22, surrendered Saturday, November 27, in the province of Basilan.

Bullet, a resident of Tipo-Tipo municipality, is a follower of ASG leader Nurhasan Jamiri.

Bullet handed over his M-16 rifle to the troops of the 18th Infantry Battalion (IB) and was presented to Lieutenant Colonel Egverr Jonathan Abutin, the 18IB commander, during the Community Support Program (CSP) Grand Pulong-Pulong in Limbu Upas village, Tipo-Tipo.

Bullet will be enrolled in the Program Against Violent Extremism (Pave) for Peace of the Municipal Government of Tipo-Tipo.

"The strength and manpower of the ASG have dwindled. We sustain our efforts to totally eradicate the group and bring lasting peace in the province of Basilan," said Brigadier General Domingo Gobway, Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan commander.

Meanwhile, the other four ASG members surrendered Thursday, November 25, to the Marine Battalion Landing Team-7 (MBLT-7) of the Naval Task Group Sulu and 4th Marine Brigade (4MBde) in Panamao, Sulu.

Lieutenant Colonel Eduard Olaso, MBLT-7 commander, did not release the identities of the four ASG surrenderers for security reasons.

The surrenderers turned over two M16A1 rifles, one M1 Garand rifle, one caliber .45 pistol, and assorted ammunition.

The four have undergone custodial debriefing at the MBLT-7 headquarters in Seit Lake village, Panamao, Sulu, after which they were presented to Colonel Hernanie Songano, 4MBde commander, and subsequently turned over to Panamao Mayor Al-Fraizer Abdurajak for proper disposition.

Major William Gonzales of JTF-Sulu enjoined the remaining members of the ASG to peacefully surrender to government authorities.

"We welcome the surrender of the ASG members and acknowledge the support of the local government and the people in our efforts to defeat the enemies of the state," Gonzales said.

Of the total 206 ASG surrenderers since January this year, 165 yielded in Sulu, 37 in Basilan, three in Tawi-Tawi, and one in Zamboanga City.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1914588/Zamboanga/Local-News/5-Abu-Sayyafs-surrender-in-Basilan-Sulu

5 Abu Sayyaf men yield in Sulu, Basilan

From the Manila Times (Dec 1, 2021): 5 Abu Sayyaf men yield in Sulu, Basilan (By Al Jacinto)

Five Abu Sayyaf terrorists surrendered in Sulu and Basilan, two of five provinces under the restive Muslim autonomous region in southern Philippines, the military announced on Tuesday.

The Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) said a 22-year old member of the pro-ISIS group surrendered in Basilan's Tipo-Tipo town. The terrorist was identified as alias Bullet, who also yielded an M16 rifle to the 18th Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Egverr Jonathan Abutin.

This was confirmed by Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan, who said the number of Abu Sayyaf fighters in the province is now dwindling due to the continued surrender of terrorists to the government.

"The strength and manpower of the Abu Sayyaf group have dwindled. We sustain our efforts to totally eradicate the group and bring lasting peace in the province of Basilan," he said.

Four other terrorists also yielded in Panamao town in Sulu, according to Maj. Gen. William Gonzalez, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, as he urged Abu Sayyaf members to surrender peacefully.

"We welcome the surrender of the ASG members and acknowledge the support of the local government and the people in our efforts to defeat the enemies of the state," he said.

The four terrorists, whose names were withheld by the military, surrendered two M16 rifles, one M1 rifle and a .45-caliber pistol, including assorted ammunition when they yielded to the Marine Battalion Landing Team-7 under Lt. Col. Eduard Olaso.

The four were eventually handed over to Panamao Mayor Al-Fraizer Abdurajak for "proper disposition."

WesMinCom chief Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr. commended the soldiers for the surrender of the terrorists.

He said the mass surrender was also an offshoot of the military's continued campaign against terrorism in the province, and the coordinated efforts of the local and provincial governments.

"The Western Mindanao Command, through its Joint Task Forces, is tightening its security operations that is why most of the members and supporters of the threat groups opted to return to the folds of the law. I hope that the remaining members of the Abu Sayyaf will also come to their senses and yield peacefully," he said.

He said some 206 Abu Sayyaf terrorists had surrendered in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi provinces this year.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/12/01/news/regions/5-abu-sayyaf-men-yield-in-sulu-basilan/1824216

Soldiers storm NPA hideout in Iloilo town; 8 rebels killed

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2021): Soldiers storm NPA hideout in Iloilo town; 8 rebels killed (By Perla Lena)

MILITARY OFFENSIVE. The site where the Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division launched a focused military operation on Wednesday (Dec. 1, 2021) foiling the plan of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to attack a military patrol base in the municipality. Eight bodies were among those recovered from the rebels' hideout in Sitio Burak, Barangay Alimodias in Miagao, Iloilo. (PNA photo by 301st Infantry Brigade)

Around eight New People's Army (NPA) rebels were killed and various firearms seized after government troops stormed the rebels' hideout in Sitio Burak, Barangay Alimodias in Miagao, Iloilo on Wednesday morning.

A statement by the Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division said soldiers launched the operation after concerned citizens informed them of the presence of rebels under the Suyak, Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) Platoon, Southern Front (SF)-Panay of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA in the hinterland barangay.

The offensive operation prevented the terror group's alleged plan to attack a military patrol base in the municipality.

“Troops of the 61st Infantry Battalion and 31st Division Reconnaissance Company discovered that the CNT’s (Communist NPA Terrorists) position were fortified and laden with anti-personnel mines (APMs) to secure their hideout,” the military statement added.

Clearing operations are ongoing at the site. Apart from the initial eight bodies recovered, soldiers also found three M16 rifles, one AK47, four APMs, three detonators, one projector, subversive documents, and assorted personal belongings.

Brig. Gen. Marion R. Sison, commander of the 301st Brigade, in the statement, expressed his gratitude to residents of the mountainous barangay for providing timely information.

“The cooperation of every stakeholder is vital to preventing the terror plans of the CNTs. We call on CNT members to return to the government fold and stop being used as instruments of terror by their deceptive leaders. Abandon the senseless armed struggle, which has victimized innocent civilians. Live a peaceful life together with your families and loved ones,” Sison said.

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/1161539

Army warns anew of NPA recruitment during pandemic

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2021): Army warns anew of NPA recruitment during pandemic (By Sarwell Meniano)

QUITTING THE NPA. Some of the 186 supporters of the New People's Army (NPA) during a mass surrender in Carigara, Leyte on Nov. 26, 2021. Days after these residents pledged their allegiance to the government, a Philippine Army official has warned residents in remote communities in Leyte of the NPA's recruitment strategy during the pandemic. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

A Philippine Army official has warned residents in remote communities in Leyte of the New People’s Army’s (NPA) recruitment strategy this pandemic.

Brig. Gen. Zosimo Oliveros, Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade commander, said on Wednesday the NPA has been concentrating on organizing groups of farmers, taking advantage of their need for livelihood opportunities during this health crisis.

“People in far-flung areas are being organized and they were promised with assistance for them to cope up with the impacts of Covid-19 pandemic. They are not aware that they are being exploited by the NPA,” Oliveros told reporters.

The official believes that insurgents resort to other tactics as movement restrictions hindered their regular recruitment efforts, organizing and mobilizing activities, as well as raising funds for logistics.

“In the process of organizing people, they attempt to indoctrinate them on government flaws and eventually convince them to go full-time,” Oliveros added.

Blocking this strategy has been the focus of the Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict through the deployment of Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) in vulnerable communities.

RCSP seeks to link arms between basic service providers from the central government, community participation groups from the local governments, and the security sector from the military and police.

In Leyte, Southern Leyte, and Biliran provinces, over 2,000 lie-low and active NPA members and mass supporters surrendered this year to the operating units of the Army’s 802nd Brigade.

The recent was the surrender of 186 NPA supporters from the 10 villages of Carigara, Leyte on November 26.

There are still 40 remaining NPA fighters hiding in the mountains of Leyte Island with no permanent lair, according to Oliveros.

“Now is the best time for the enemies of the people like the NPA members to return to the mainstream of the society as the present government is giving them the great opportunity to live a normal life once again,” he added.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161420

Cops nab suspect in 2011 murder of Italian missionary

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 30, 2021): Cops nab suspect in 2011 murder of Italian missionary (By John Andrew Tabugoc)

ARRESTED. Police arrest Ricardo Boryo Dorada, the former village chairperson of Dallag in North Cotabato's Arakan town, on Tuesday (Nov. 30, 2021) for his alleged role in the 2011 killing of Italian missionary Fr. Fausto "Pops" Tentorio of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Mission. Four other suspects linked to the killing remain at large. (Photo courtesy of Arakan MPS)

ARAKAN, North Cotabato – Police on Tuesday said they have arrested a former village chairperson linked to the 2011 killing of Italian Catholic priest Fausto "Pops" Tentorio of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) who served as former parish priest here.

Authorities said Ricardo Boryo Dorado alias Nene Dorado, 65, of Barangay Dallag where he once served as its village chief, was nabbed on Monday by virtue of an arrest warrant for murder issued on April 30, 2019 by Judge Arvin Sadiri Balagot, the presiding judge of the 12th Judicial Region Branch 17 in Kidapawan City.

The suspect voluntarily surrendered as apprehending officers, together with some barangay officials, arrived at his residence.

On the day of his arrest, Dorado was presented before the court which ordered his detention at the police custodial facility here.

Dorado is one of the suspects being linked to the killing of the missionary on October 17, 2011. At least four other suspects linked to the killing remain at large.

Tentorio was gunned down early dawn that day by assailants outside his parish convent.

Immediately thereafter, the provincial government has set up a local investigating task force to look into the killing.

Tentorio was the second missionary priest in North Cotabato under the same congregation to be murdered.

The first was Fr. Tulio Favali, PIME, who was killed in Tulunan town in 1985 by then members of a local vigilante group.

The PIME missionaries are Catholic priests and brothers who care for and develop communities in some 18 countries around the world.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161410

Army retrieves more NPA firearms in Agusan Norte, NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 30, 2021): Army retrieves more NPA firearms in Agusan Norte, NoCot (By Che Palicte)

REBEL FIREARMS. Photo shows a collage of high-powered firearms from the New People's Army recovered on Nov. 27 and 28, 2021 in Agusan del Norte and North Cotabato provinces, respectively. The Army said the recent firearms recoveries in Eastern Mindanao were part of the series of operations launched by Eastern Mindanao Command units after getting crucial information from former NPA members and leaders who have surrendered. (Photo from Eastmincom)

Military troops recovered more high-powered firearms from communist New People’s Army (NPA) combatants in separate operations on November 27 and 29 through tip-offs from former rebels, the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) reported.

In a statement Tuesday, Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, the Eastmincom commander, said the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (ID, together with the 65th Infantry Battalion (65IB), recovered two M16 rifles in the hinterland of Sitio Kaunlaran, Barangay Tagbongabong, Agusan del Norte on November 27 following a tip-off from a former rebel.

The tip-off made by Jonel Pasco alias Joel/Gong-gong, a former member of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 21C, Guerrilla Front 21, Sub-Regional Committee Westland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, led to the recovery of the firearms.

Meanwhile, the 1003rd Infantry Brigade along with 89IB, 72IB, and intelligence units also recovered on November 29 an M16 rifle at Sitio Rancho, Barangay Kulaman Valley, Arakan, North Cotabato during a joint intelligence operation.

“On November 29, a former communist group member identified as Mubo Mansumoy-at alias Ram of the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee disclosed the location of the weapon, prompting the 1003rd Brigade troops to respond to the information,” Almerol said.

Almerol said that the recent recovery of firearms in Eastern Mindanao was part of the series of operations launched by Eastmincom units in response to the various crucial information shared by former NPA members and leaders who have surrendered.

“These accomplishments are also coupled with the skyrocketing number of NPA members and leaders who surrendered recently after suffering major defeats in several encounters with government forces,” he said.

Almerol added that former NPA leaders and members have expressed willingness to cooperate with the government troops in locating more arms caches and pursuing the remaining NPA groups.

“Former NPA leaders and members pledged to support the government’s campaign to end the local communist armed conflict by 2022. The series of arms cache discoveries, surrender of NPA members, and recovery of their firearms in Eastern Mindanao are expected in the coming days as ex-rebels and government troops work closely to put an end to communist armed conflict,” he said.

Almerol cited that one of Eastmincom’s breakthroughs this year was the seizure of 30 high-powered firearms following the discovery of an arms cache during operations launched at Sitio Bagyang, Barangay Upper Suyan in Malapatan, Sarangani from November 11 to 16, 2021.

“It was the largest arms cache discovered by the troops in the whole history of Eastmincom,” he said.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161378

Army condemns fresh NPA attacks in Northern Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 30, 2021): Army condemns fresh NPA attacks in Northern Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

EVACUATION. Soldiers and policemen evacuate a wounded soldier in Las Navas, Northern Samar after a clash with NPA rebels on Monday (Nov. 29, 2021). The Philippine Army has condemned the NPA for attacking government troops doing a community support program in Las Navas, Northern Samar. (Photo courtesy of PNP Air Unit)

The Philippine Army has condemned the New People’s Army (NPA) for attacking government troops serving under a community support program (CSP) in Las Navas, Northern Samar that injured a soldier.

Col. Perfecto Peñaredondo, commander of the Philippine Army’s 803rd Infantry Brigade, said soldiers were in the area on Monday to help resolve issues being exploited by the terrorist group, as well as to deliver the much-needed basic services.

"The attack will again disrupt the delivery of services for the people in the area," Peñaredondo said in a statement sent to reporters Monday night.

The CSP is the military's people-centered program meant to bring peace and development in conflict-affected barangays. It is also an initiative to bring the government closer to the people through the immediate delivery of basic services.

The NPA attacks were held simultaneously in San Jose, Epaw, and Sag-od villages at about 10:48 a.m. on the same day.

It prompted the troops to return fire, causing the terrorists to scamper to the forested areas, Peñaredondo said.

Wounded during the attack in San Jose village was Private 1st Class Darrell Besañes, who was rushed to the Catarman Doctors Hospital for treatment. He is now in stable condition.

Former rebels disclosed that the group behind the attacks was under the Front Committee 1, Sub-Regional Committee “Emporium” of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee under Guillermo Jerusalem alias Ka Gimo.

The group was also responsible for the burning of construction equipment in San Francisco and Dolores villages in Las Navas on July 29, 2021, as well as the killing of San Andres village chief Crispin Mordedo, also in Las Navas on July 10, 2021.

"Residents were terrorized as they were worried that the NPA (rebels) are retaliating against them as they have accommodated the Army troops in their villages," Peñaredondo added.

This month, government troops reported several attacks by armed rebels in Northern Samar, including the use of banned anti-personnel mines.

On November 27, a member of the Special Action Force (SAF) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) was wounded in a clash with NPA fighters in Mapanas town.

Government troopers also had an armed confrontation with NPA rebels in Roxas village in Catubig town on November 26. No soldier was wounded.

On November 20, two SAF commandos were killed while four others were wounded when the NPA detonated anti-personnel mines in Gamay town.

The PNP earlier deployed SAF personnel to Northern Samar to help in the fight against the terrorist group.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161335

DND chief backs mandatory Covid-19 vaccination

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2021): DND chief backs mandatory Covid-19 vaccination (By Priam Nepomuceno)

File photo

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday said he supports the mandatory vaccination of Filipinos against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

"Yes, it should be mandatory. Everyone should contribute to the health of the community. Those unvaccinated are vulnerable (to) getting the virus and getting seriously sick," Lorenzana, who is also chairperson of the National Task Force Against Covid-19, told reporters when asked on his opinion on the measure.

Aside from burdening the state by their hospitalization, Lorenzana said unvaccinated people also contribute to the spread of infections.

While admitting that mandatory vaccination is difficult without an enabling law, the DND chief said the government can impose restrictions on the unvaccinated.

These include preventing them from entering public places unless they have an updated RT-PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction) test.

"Mahirap kung walang batas (It is difficult without an enabling law) However, we can impose restrictions to unvaccinated people, like disallow(ing) from entering public places (malls, restaurants, stadiums) unless they have an RT-PCR taken not more than 72 hours, (while) workers (who refused to be vaccinated) will also (be required to have an) RT-PCR every week at their expense to be able to go to work," Lorenzana said.

Aside from these measures, unvaccinated people can also be prevented from traveling.

Starting Wednesday, the vaccination of eligible employees who are doing on-site work in both the public and private sectors is required in areas where there are sufficient vaccine supplies.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), in Resolution No. 148-B, provides measures to increase demand for Covid-19 vaccinations but except when all the onsite employees/workers of an establishment are required under the Alert Level System Guidelines to be fully vaccinated.

Asked if President Rodrigo R. Duterte can issue an Executive Order (EO), Lorenzana said he had no idea but local government units (LGUs) can craft their own ordinances concerning mandatory vaccinations.

"I don’t know if PRRD will issue an EO. But (Department of Interior and Local Government) Secretary (Eduardo) Año said the LGUs can make their own ordinances. That would be the best solution now. Example: (Narvacan) Mayor Chavit Singson (don't) allow unvaccinated people from the barangays to come to town except to get vaccinated first. He also requires everyone in the Poblacion to get inoculated," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161456

Get inspiration from Bonifacio's heroism, military told

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 30, 2021): Get inspiration from Bonifacio's heroism, military told (By Priam Nepomuceno)

WREATH-LAYING. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Andres Centino (in white uniform), joins President Rodrigo R. Duterte during the wreath-laying ceremony at the Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan City on Tuesday (Nov. 30, 2021) to pay homage to Gat Andres Bonifacio and other heroes of the Katipunan during the 158th birth anniversary of Bonifacio. Centino called on all AFP members to get inspiration from Bonifacio’s patriotism and heroism. (Presidential photo by Ace Morandante)

As the nation celebrated the 158th birthday of Gat Andres Bonifacio on Tuesday, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Andres Centino, said he is hoping that all members of the military would draw inspiration from the patriotism and heroism of the Father of the Philippine Revolution.

"To the men and women of the Armed Forces, may the patriotism and heroism of Gat Andres Bonifacio empower us to remain faithful and steadfast in our mandate of protecting the people and securing the state, which shall similarly inspire us into becoming more competent and dependable public servants that the Filipino people can truly rely on,” Centino said in a statement.

He said the AFP joins the rest of the Filipino nation in paying tribute to the Father of the Philippine Revolution and to the patriotism and heroism that left behind a legacy of liberty, dignity, and sovereignty for the country and its people.

"Today, 158 years after his birth, Gat Andres Bonifacio’s nationalistic spirit, which inspired the Katipunan and spurred our ancestors to unite and fight to establish our Republic, still lives on among us. His love of country, bravery, and sacrifices serve as enduring ideals that every freedom-loving citizen strives to emulate and pursue,” he added.

Centino joined President Rodrigo Duterte in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Spirit of Pinaglabanan Monument in Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan City.

This year’s celebration carries the theme Bonifacio 2021: Pagbubuklod para sa Kaligtasan at Kalusugan ng Bayan (Uniting for the Safety and Wellness of the Nation).

Duterte also conferred posthumously the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Magalong to Gat Andres Bonifacio.

Buena Grace Distrito, a great-granddaughter of Bonifacio, received the award.

Also present in the ceremony were acting Presidential Spokesperson Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograles, San Juan City Mayor Francisco Javier Zamora, and National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Dr. Rene Escalante.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161368

Over 20K rebels abandoned CPP-NPA-NDF since 2016: NTF-ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 29, 2021): Over 20K rebels abandoned CPP-NPA-NDF since 2016: NTF-ELCAC

ABANDONING NPA. The 186 supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) during a mass surrender in Carigara, Leyte on Nov. 26, 2021. These surrenderers are from the town's 10 villages. (PNA file photo)

Over 20,000 people linked to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) have surrendered and abandoned the local armed struggle through the effective whole-of-nation approach of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

During the virtual press briefing of the NTF-ELCAC on Monday, Defense Undersecretary and Task Force Balik Loob (TFBL) chair Reynaldo Mapagu disclosed that since the start of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s administration, the government has recorded a total of 20,579 surrenderers, which included 5,262 NPA fighters, 3,414 members of Militia ng Bayan, 7,626 mass supporters, and 2,224 underground mass organization members.

Mapagu said these former rebels have revealed to authorities the locations of 51 NPA arms caches nationwide yielding 245 firearms and 100 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and anti-personnel mines (APMs).

“The recovery of these arms cache is reflective of the dwindling warm bodies in the NPA which is a result of the efforts of the NTF-ELCAC, the continuous military and police operations and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip), the government’s flagship program for the reintegration of former members of the CPP-NPA-NDF,” Mapagu said.

Mapagu added that the government has spent over half a billion pesos in various programs to aid former rebels to live peaceful and productive lives.

P500 million aid for ex-rebels

He said as of November 28, a total of PHP485,462,013 worth of assistance were given to 6,418 individual former rebels nationwide. Of the total, 6,164 of them received immediate cash assistance; 3,744 were given livelihood assistance; 5,198 for reintegration assistance; and 1,430 received remuneration from surrendering their firearms.

Mapagu said the firearms surrendered by the former rebels were all destroyed to show that “there are no so-called recycling of these firearms” and also to end their role as weapons of violence.

He also said there are 623 former rebels who already joined the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), with 66 of them "are now enlisted in AFP’s regular forces," while the remaining 557 former rebels are now members of Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU).

"E-CLIP assistance is not rewards but rather investments in the country's human capital and an opportunity that former rebels … have a better future with their families," Mapagu said.

He added that those found or validated as former regular members of the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) are accorded with various assistance programs such as psychological development, housing and livelihood projects that include their family members who would be sheltered at a community away from the influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

Once former rebels are integrated back into the community, Mapagu pointed out, it is at this stage that, the NTF-ELCAC's Barangay Development Program (BDP) enters.

"It's our weapon to end the insurgency. At may puwang na para sila ay magbalik (And they have been given chance to return) as productive citizens," Magpagu said.

NTF-ELCAC projects for people

On the other hand, Escalante City Mayor Melecio J. Yap Jr. of Negros Occidental lamented that the budget cuts or even the abolition of NTF-ELCAC and its BDP proposed by some of the country's lawmakers will hinder the progress that was started in his far-flung barangays that were formerly infested by CTGs.

Yap said that 90 percent of BDP projects in his city are almost 100 percent implemented, and the abolition of the task force and the BDP will hamper the development and progress at the grassroot level.

"Nakakalungkot. Dumaan din naman ako [as lawmaker], alam natin na meron silang [some senators and congressmen] mga projects na di man lang kinukunsulta kahit ang mga mayors. Ang NTF-ELCAC direct sa tao. Sila ang tinatanong ano suggestion. Idedefund pa nila. Yung sa kanila pang-pulitika lang. Ito para sa tao, para matigil ang temptation to join the NPA (It’s sad. I was also a lawmaker, we know that they have projects that they did not consult with mayors. The NTF-ELCAC projects are direct to people. The people are asked for suggestion. Then now the lawmakers will defund. Their projects are for politics. These [NTF-ELCAC] projects are for the people so they will not be tempted to join the NPA),” Yap said.

He cited that his constituents spend about PHP300 per ton as additional costs in transporting sugar cane, which is their main source of income.

"Baba na ang presyo pag-natapos magawa ang mga kalsada (The costs will go down once the roads are finished)," Yap said referring to the farm to market roads that were built under the BDP.

"Nakiki-usap ako, iwasan ang sobrang pamumulitika. Pakinggan niyo kaming mga nasa baba. Ang mga projects na ito ay kailangan tapusin (I’m appealing, avoid too much politics. Listen to us in the grassroots. These projects should be finished)," Yap pleaded.

Yap even challenged those who proposed the abolition of the NTF-ELCAC and criticized the BDP to visit Escalante and to see for themselves the projects that have been implemented without the so-called politicking but only for the purpose of helping his constituents to have better lives.

Trust of rebels to gov’t

Escalante City is a flash point of activities of the CPP-NPA-NDF as revealed by former rebel "Ka Eric Almendras" who said that through E-CLIP, the government have earned the trust and confidence of returning rebels who saw this Administration’s sincerity of reaching out and helping them get back to society.

"Kami'y mga buhay na katotohanan na nagsasabing ang gobyerno ang nagbigay sa amin ng pag-asa (We are the living proofs that the government gave us hope)," Almendras said.

Meanwhile, Almendras rejected the unfounded accusations made by national officials such as Vice President Leni Robredo's previous pronouncement that the NTF-ELCAC is just a duplication of what other government agencies are already doing while all it does is "carelessly red-tagging".

"Hindi po yan [red-tagging] iniimbento. Kami ang evidence support. Buhay na mga testimoniya, na sila at ang kanilang mga party-list ay nakasama namin. Ang tawag diyan- trust security exposition, para pangalagaan ang bayan (Red tagging is not invented. We are evidence support, living testimonies that they and their party-list group members have been with us. It is called ‘trust security exposition, to protect the nation)" Almendras said.

Denounce CPP-NPA-NDF

He added that Robredo’s sudden change of heart that she is now one with the NTF-ELCAC must translate into action.

"Ituloy sana sa pagdedenounce (sa CPP-NPA-NDF) na siya namang mandato ng bawat lingkod bayan (I hope she will also denounce the CPP-NPA-NDF. That is part of the mandate as people's representative),” Almendras said.

For his part, Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, Regional Task Force - ELCAC 6 spokesperson, said the sudden change of heart by Robredo is proof that she is now enlightened of the NTF-ELCAC’s goals, and cautioned some candidates to “stop maligning the NTF-ELCAC.”

“Our struggle for peace transcends beyond politics," Gonzales said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161322

Safeguard PH freedom like Bonifacio did: DND chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 30, 2021): Safeguard PH freedom like Bonifacio did: DND chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

HERO. Families and groups take souvenir photos in front of the Kartilya ng Katipunan monument near the Manila City Hall on Monday (Nov. 29, 2021). The nation will commemorate on Tuesday (November 30) the 158th birth anniversary of the Tondo-born hero, Andres Bonifacio, who is known as the Father of the Philippine Revolution. (PNA photo by Ben Briones)

As the nation commemorates the 158th birth anniversary of Gat Andres Bonifacio Tuesday, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana urged Filipinos to follow the hero's footsteps by safeguarding the country's freedom.

"Like Bonifacio, may we all become faithful stewards of our nation’s freedom and dedicate ourselves in the service of our fellowmen," Lorenzana said in a statement. "The DND joins the nation in commemorating the life and legacy of Andres Bonifacio. He was a man of lowly beginning who dared to dream of a free and independent Filipino nation."

Bonifacio, who is considered as the “Father of the Philippine Revolution", is remembered on his birthday, Nov. 30, 1863, rather than the date of his death, May 10, 1897.

This is because he died in the hands of his fellow countrymen, not killed by foreign colonizers.

He led the establishment of the secret revolutionary movement “Kataas-taasang, Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan” more commonly known as “Katipunan,” to secure the Philippines’ independence from Spain.

Bonifacio was one of the chief Katipunan officers and emerged as the “Supremo” (Supreme leader) in 1895.

The Katipunan inspired many Filipinos to join the movement that eventually became the most prominent revolutionary force the Spaniards faced.

In these challenging times, Lorenzana said Filipinos must take Bonifacio's example.

"Today, we take courage in facing our present-day challenges inspired by the patriotism and perseverance of the Great Plebeian. He laid the groundwork for the formation of our republic, and underscored the importance of fulfilling our individual duties and working together towards a common goal," Lorenzana added.

Under Republic Act 2946, November 30 of every year is a regular holiday to commemorate Bonifacio’s birth anniversary.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161331

Nothing political about NTF-ELCAC's barangay dev't program

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2021): Nothing political about NTF-ELCAC's barangay dev't program (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., (Screengrab from Laging Handa briefing)

The country's national security adviser on Wednesday maintained that the Barangay Development Program (BDP) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has nothing to do with politics and is only aimed at providing support to communities freed from the influence of the communist movement.

"Walang politika to, it's all about ending the local communist armed conflict and I hope isa na si Vice President (Leni) Robredo, naliwanagan siya (sa) project na ito kaya susuportahan nya ang NTF-ELCAC and I also heard that Senator (Panfilo) Lacson will also support us once we come up with some more reports and probably some modifications dun sa implementation (There is nothing political about the BDP, it is all about ending the local communist armed conflict and I hope that Vice President Robredo, who was briefed about NTF-ELCAC and expressed support to it. And I also heard that Senator Lacson will support us once we come up with some reports and modifications on its implementations)," Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr., who is also NTF-ELCAC vice chair, said in a Laging Handa briefing.

Esperon was referring to the November 26 security briefing by the military with Robredo, where she assured her support for the mandate and functions of the NTF-ELCAC.

“I want to address the elephant in the room kasi (because) I've been quoted so many times already that I'm for the abolition of NTF-ELCAC. And I want to emphasize today that I am all for the mandate and the functions of ELCAC," the Vice President said.

Esperon also said that it would be better for the senators to talk with the governors and the mayors, who are the implementers of the BDP projects for their constituents, in order to get a firmer grasp of the program.

"At ako ay nagtitiwala sa mga governors and mayors na gagawin nila ito dahil para sa kanilang constituents ito, itong mga projects na ito, at alam nila na pag hindi nagawa ito ay hindi mawawala yung mga issue na talagang laging ginagawa ng NPA (New People's Army) na dahilan upang maka-recruit pa sila ng mga tao sa mga kanayunan (I have faith that our governors and mayors will go about completing their BDP projects as it is for the benefit of their constituents, and they know that if these projects are now started and completed, the NPA will not run out of issues in recruiting people in the countryside)," he added.

Esperon also said the communist insurgency will not be defeated if only military solutions are used, adding that socio-economic and political tools must also be utilized.

He added that the whole-nation approach is being used by the NTF-ELCAC in its implementation of the BDP.

"Hindi ito pork barrel, hindi ito politika (This is not pork barrel, nor it is about politics)," Esperon said.

Senators earlier cut the NTF-ELCAC's budget for the BDP from PHP28.12 billion to PHP4 billion for 2022.

Senator Sonny Angara, Senate Finance Committee chair, said they took the bulk of the NTF-ELCAC's budget and realigned it to fund pandemic response programs.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161475

Murder raps vs. law enforcers in March ops recommended

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2021): Murder raps vs. law enforcers in March ops recommended (By Benjamin Pulta)

A special investigating team has recommended the filing of murder charges against “certain” law enforcers tagged in the killing of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Cavite official Emmanuel Asuncion in the so-called “Bloody Sunday” operations in March, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said on Wednesday.

“In the case of the death of the Evangelista spouses (Chai Lemita and Ariel), the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) is winding up its interviews of witnesses,” Guevarra said.

Chai Lemita and Ariel are members of the Ugnayan ng Mamamayan Laban sa Pagwawasak ng Kalikasan at Kalupaan.

He said the report of the Department of Justice’s Administrative Order 35 Special Investigating Team will be out “in about two weeks.”

Guevarra said investigation on the deaths of two Dumagat indigenous leaders is still ongoing.

“The deaths of Puroy dela Cruz and Randy dela Cruz were not included in the probe as no cause-oriented connection was established. Other SIT investigations are going on,” Guevarra said.

The police operations in Calabarzon on March 7 this year have resulted in the arrest of six people in Laguna and Rizal and deaths of nine -- six in Rizal, two in Batangas and one in Cavite.

A search warrant issued by Manila Judge Jose Lorenzo dela Rosa had been issued on Asuncion in his home in Rosario, Cavite.

Police said a pursuit operation resulted in the shooting of Asuncion at the Workers’ Assistance Center in Dasmariñas, Cavite.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161492

Senate OKs nat’l budget including NTF-ELCAC’s P10.8-B

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2021): Senate OKs nat’l budget including NTF-ELCAC’s P10.8-B (By Benjamin Pulta)

The Senate on Wednesday approved on third and final reading the PHP5.024 trillion national budget for 2022, including the PHP10.8 billion for the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The NTF-ELCAC budget for its grass-roots campaign to address the decades-old communist insurgency was the last item tackled on the floor before the senators approved the 2022 General Appropriations Bill via 22-0 vote.

Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa urged the body to reconsider its earlier decision to reduce the NTF-ELCAC’s budget to just PHP4 billion from the original proposal of PHP24 billion.

Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara said the NTF-ELCAC budget was increased to PHP10 billion, adding further adjustments may be made during the bicameral meeting with the House of Representatives.

“Maybe even in the bicam we can even try to go higher ang mahirap dito maghanap ng pondo ng source (the challenge is where to source the fund),” Angara said.

“I have been on record as saying believe the program should be given a chance, I believe the battle for the hearts and minds of our people living in former insurgent areas is very important,” Angara said.

Angara made the comment in response to dela Rosa’s plea to reconsider the NTF-ELCAC’s original proposed budget.

“I appeal to the hearts of my colleagues to give more consideration in order to end this decades-long insurgency,” dela Rosa said.

Dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief, said budgetary support, the country’s insurgency problem might resurrect.

“Walang ibang makikinabang sa desisyon nating ito kundi ang mga Communist terrorist group to the detriment of our kababayans na higit na nangangailangang maramdaman ang ating gobyerno (No one will benefit in our decision but the communist terrorist group to the detriment of our countrymen who are longing to feel the presence of the government),” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1161533