Eastmincom troops lauded for clearing NPA-SRC5

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 4, 2022): Eastmincom troops lauded for clearing NPA-SRC5 (By Che Palicte)

Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (File photo)

Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom), lauded on Friday the combined efforts of the military, police, former rebels, and the local government units in clearing the remnants of the communist New People’s Army Sub-Regional Committee 5 (NPA-SRC5).

The Eastmincom statement came after various NPA members who were former students of the so-called “lumad schools” and its underground mass organization supporters continued to surface and scrap the local communist armed struggle.

On February 28, a total of 206 indigenous individuals here who were members of various NPA front groups surrendered and declared "pagsalikway" or rejection of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA in a ceremony at the Balimba Hills, Sitio JBL, Barangay Sto. Niño in Talaingod, Davao del Norte.

The surrenderers included eight members of the NPA Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU)/Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) 5; Bakwits - five; Militiang Bayan (MB) – six; Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipal (KRM) - four, Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Baryo (KRB) – 168, and Salugpungan teachers and students - 15.

"This is yet another testament of the effectiveness of President Rodrigo Duterte's Executive Order 70 which institutionalized the whole-of-nation approach. The SRC5, which is considered the most active SRC unit of the NPA in the country, is now demolished,” Almerol said.

“We owe this not only to our security forces but also to our civilian counterparts and local leaders who equally contributed finally ending the local communist armed conflict," he added.

Almerol pointed out that the recent mass surrender was made more significant by the submission of former Salugpungan students and teachers.

“This gave us another proof that, indeed, there is an underground activity in these fake lumad schools. The NPA lured our IP children to the terrorist movement, whose only desire is to be educated but were instead radicalized by their teachers," Almerol said.

He added that the surrenderers revealed that the sustained focus military operations led to the collapse of the SRC5.

Before the mass surrender, former high-ranking members of the SRC5, Southern Mindanao Regional Command (SMRC) led by Ida Marie Montero alias Mandy yielded to the 1003rd Brigade on January 13 this year.

She encouraged her former comrades to return to the folds of the law and support the government.

"The cooperation of alias Mandy and other former rebels who previously encouraged their comrades to turn in, as well as provided our troops with valuable information on their whereabouts, allowed us to locate all remnants of SCR5 and finally convinced them to surrender," Almerol said.

He also called on the remaining members of the NPA groups in Eastern Mindanao to surrender.

"Your former comrades who are now at the side of our government are proof that they are now living with freedom after they chose to yield. It is high time for you to follow in their footsteps, and not those who chose to die for a failed cause,” Almerol 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.

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 inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169024

Region 8 Army hopes next gov't will continue NTF-ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 4, 2022): Region 8 Army hopes next gov't will continue NTF-ELCAC (By Roel Amazona)

SUSTAINING GAINS. Major Gen. Edgardo De Leon, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division. The Philippine Army in Eastern Visayas is hopeful that the next president of the country will continue implementing the development initiative of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to sustain gains in wiping out the insurgency. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army in Eastern Visayas is hopeful that the next president of the country will continue implementing development initiatives of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to sustain gains in wiping out insurgency.

Major Gen. Edgardo De Leon, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said on Friday the NTF-ELCAC continuation by the next administration means that the Barangay Development Program (BDP) will also continue.

The military official said through the BDP-funded projects, communities will be empowered to reject the ideology of the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

In Eastern Visayas, there are over 200 previously conflict-stricken villages identified as BDP recipients.

The BDP is a flagship program of NTF-ELCAC to address insurgency by bringing sustainable solutions and basic services to communities in need of projects such as farm-to-market roads, water and sanitation systems, health stations, school buildings, electrification, assistance to poor families, and agricultural and livelihood training assistance.

It is directed to the sustainable rehabilitation and development of 822 barangays formerly established as guerilla fronts of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

"We are waiting who among the presidential aspirants will continue the NTF-ELCAC. We encourage voters to examine the stands of these candidates on issues related to insurgency,” De Leon said in an interview.

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.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169013

PRRD OKs promotion of several AFP officials

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 4, 2022): PRRD OKs promotion of several AFP officials (By Priam Nepomuceno) 

File photo

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday announced that President Rodrigo R. Duterte has approved new designations and promotions of several military generals, flag and senior officers.

In a statement, the AFP said Rear Admiral Antonio Palces, the current AFP deputy chief of staff for education and training (J-8) was designated effective as the new Philippine Navy vice commander effective February 21, taking over the position vacated by Philippine Marine Corps commandant Maj. Gen. Nestor Herico.

Meanwhile, Air Force Maj. Gen. Nesto Florente Rayos will take over the helm of the Air Education, Training, and Doctrine Command effective March 12.

He is set to relinquish his current post as Air Combat Command chief to Maj. Gen. Edward Libago, the current commander of the Air Force Reserve Command.

The President also approved the designation of Brig. Gen. Zosimo Oliveros as the new assistant division commander of the 8th Infantry Division effective March 2. He is the current commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade.

Meanwhile, the AFP General Headquarters and Headquarters Service Command is also set to have its new commander, Brig. Gen. Ferdinand S. Razalan, effective April 11.

Razalan is the current AFP assistant deputy chief-of-staff for reservist and retiree affairs. Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat, 603rd Infantry Brigade head, will also assume as the assistant division commander of the 6th Infantry Division starting April 16.

Marine Col. Doroteo Jose Jalandoni was designated as the assistant deputy chief-of-staff for intelligence effective March 2.

Navy Capt. Alan Javier, the current deputy commander for fleet operations of Naval Forces Western Mindanao, was also designated as the commander of Naval Forces West effective March 2.

In a separate document from Malacanang, the President approved the ad-interim appointment of several AFP senior officers.

Brig. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, was promoted to the rank of Major General effective February 17.

Navy Capt. Francisco Tagamolila Jr., Naval Forces Northern Luzon chief, was promoted to the rank of Commodore while Col. Consolito Yecla, commander of 1003rd Brigade, and Col. Marvin L. Licudine, AFP Peace and Development Office head, were promoted to the rank of Brigadier General effective February 14.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169027

BTA composition stays for smooth turnover to next admin

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 4, 2022): BTA composition stays for smooth turnover to next admin (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao government center (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the recommendation to maintain the status quo on the current composition of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), according to the Security, Justice and Peace Cabinet Cluster (SJPCC).

The SJPCC said the retention of the current BTA is crucial to addressing concerns of massive changes once the next administration takes over.

"By keeping the status quo in the BTA, we are not only building on and sustaining the gains of the Bangsamoro peace process. We are laying the foundations where genuine development and long-lasting peace can take root and flourish, and where our Moro brothers and sisters can look ahead to a better and brighter future," the SJPCC said in a statement on Friday.

Duterte also approved the nomination of the 41 Moro Islamic Liberation Front for the BTA, submitted by BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim.

"Although the SJPCC recommended maintaining the status quo in the BTA, it must be noted that the President has the authority to replace those members who may be elected into office during the 2022 national elections," the statement read.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., and Interior Government Secretary Eduardo Año signed the statement.

The BTA acts as the interim government with executive and legislative power over the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, created following the abolition of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao through the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law in 2019.

The BTA was tasked to oversee the three-year transition period from 2019, followed by an election of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) officials.

The SJPCC made the status quo recommendation as the three months before the new administration will provide the incumbent members time to complete their tasks.

It will also allow the current administration to "focus on ensuring that the key aspects of the transition process", such as building the capacity of the BTA Parliament and the BARMM Cabinet for good and accountable moral governance, will be "effectively carried out".

In Resolution No. 173, dated Oct. 12, 2021, the BTA requested Duterte to allow its incumbent members to continue carrying out their mandate "in order to preserve the gains achieved under the body’s various programs, projects, and legislative measures".

In the same resolution, the BTA said keeping the status quo is necessary in view of the "diverse ethnic-cultural and professional background of the body’s membership; their policy advocacies and accomplishments; and the extensive training on governance they have received from academic and other development institutions".

On November 17 last year, BTA Resolution No. 93 asked for the extension of the three-year transition period until June 30, 2025 "to complete transitional programs and projects for the constituents hampered by the coronavirus pandemic".

The BTA requested Duterte on February 15, through Resolution No. 209, to reappoint the BTA members whom he appointed, noting "this will ensure a smooth transition process without the possibility of any political disruptions taking place".

The SJPCC said the status quo in the BTA will be done in the exigency of public service.

"Undoubtedly, the BTA has over the past two years played an instrumental role in uplifting the lives of the Bangsamoro people and unleashing the economic potential of the region. Given these major accomplishments, its current membership must not only be given due recognition but must also be given the chance to complete what it has started," read the statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169036

PNP vows justice for slain cop in Sorsogon NPA attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 4, 2022): PNP vows justice for slain cop in Sorsogon NPA attack (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief, Gen. Dionardo Carlos (File photo)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has joined the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in condemning the violent attack initiated by communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, which killed a police officer in Sorsogon earlier this week.

“We feel for the family of the victim. Our comrade who died in the line of duty must be given his share of justice. His death will not go in vain. We thank the CHR for expressing concern regarding this blatant violation of human rights,” said PNP chief, Gen. Dionardo Carlos, in a statement Friday.

Last February 28, NPA terrorists attacked the camp of the 504th Police Maneuver Company in Pilar town, which resulted in the death of Corporal Ryan Atos.

CHR spokesperson Jacqueline De Guia said “atrocious attacks that deliberately violate the right to life cannot be justified under any ideology or circumstance.”

While the PNP is conducting its investigation on the case, the CHR has also vowed to proceed with their separate probe.

“This will be of great help in identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the crime,” Carlos said.

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.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169016

Kalinaw News: WestMinCom Chief visits wounded soldiers in Lanao del Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 4, 2022): WestMinCom Chief visits wounded soldiers in Lanao del Sur



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command checked on the status of the battle casualties of the Lanao del Sur encounter during his visit to Lanao del Sur Thursday, March 3, 2022.

The WestMinCom Commander together with Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, Commander of Joint Task Force visited and conferred medals to the wounded soldiers currently recuperating at the Forward Support Medical Company of the 103rd Infantry Brigade at Kampo Ranao, Marawi City. Awarded with Wounded Personnel Medal were Private First Class Jayson Dayhop, Private First Class Romeo Aclan, Jr., Private Jayson Jay Pielago, Private Genes Mike Rellon, and Private Ariel Bahala, all of the 55th Infantry Battalion. They were recognized after sustaining wounds during the combat operations conducted against more or less 40 members of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group under Abu Zacariah in Barangay Ilalag, Maguing, Lanao del Sur last Tuesday (March 1). Cash assistance was also given to the battle casualties and to the next of kin of the fallen soldier.

Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. expressed his gratitude to the soldiers for their commitment and gallantry to end terrorism. He also thanked them for their service and sacrifices.

Maj. Gen. Ponio said, “Our troops are very motivated to carry on their duties because they know the WestMinCom Commander supports them. We are overwhelmed by the support of our Commander and this will all the more propel us to do our job with utmost fervor”.

On the same day, the WestMinCom Commander joined Maj. Gen. Ponio; Brig. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Deputy Commander for Administration of WestMinCom; and Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, Commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade during the press conference held at Kampo Ranao.

Also present during the press conference were Maguing Mayor Fahad Molok, Mr. Amer Bitor who represented Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong, Jr., and Police Col. Christopher Panapan of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office.

In the press conference, Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. once again denounced the false information released on social media and stressed that the targets were members of the IS-inspired Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group. He also emphasized that the MILF, local government officials, PNP, and other stakeholders are providing full support to the military in all of its endeavors.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. also paid a courtesy call on Pagadian City Mayor Samuel Co early in the morning of the same day. The two met at the Mayor’s Office in San Jose District, Pagadian City.

Mayor Co thanked the military particularly the Philippine Army for sustaining the peace in Pagadian City. Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. on the other hand expressed his gratitude to the local government of Pagadian for establishing good relationship with and for the continued support to the military units situated in the city.

During his visit to Pagadian City and Lanao del Sur, the WestMinCom Commander was accompanied by Maj. Gen. Ponio, Brig. Gen. Nafarrete, and other officers.

[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/westmincom-chief-visits-wounded-soldiers-in-lanao-del-sur/

Kalinaw News: CGPA welcomes Deputy Commanding General of US Army Pacific

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 4, 2022): CGPA welcomes Deputy Commanding General of US Army Pacific



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Commanding General, Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., welcomed US Army Pacific (USARPAC) Deputy Commanding General Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane who rendered a courtesy call at the Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on March 2, 2022.

Maj. Gen McFarlane’s call on the Army Chief came a week after the visit of USARPAC Commanding General Gen. Charles A. Flynn who vowed to strengthen ties between the two armies. Lt. Gen. Brawner and Maj. Gen. McFarlane also tackled Salaknib and Balikatan Exercises, two of the comprehensive combined and joint exercises participated by Philippine and US forces.

The Philippine Army and USARPAC are scheduled to finalize the 2023 line-up of activities in the 10th Executive Steering Group Meeting on March 3, 2022 which will cover Army-to-Army Capability Development, Interoperability, and Military Professionalization and Development.

Maj. Gen. McFarlene is slated to visit the Army’s 7th Infantry Division, Artillery Regiment, and the 1st Brigade Combat Team. He is also set to grace the opening ceremony of Salaknib on March 5, 2022.

[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-welcomes-deputy-commanding-general-of-us-army-pacific/

Kalinaw News: “Salugpungan students-turned-NPA, other personalities yield as EastMinCom pursue CTG remnants

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 4, 2022): “Salugpungan students-turned-NPA, other personalities yield as EastMinCom pursue CTG remnants



NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – More Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members who are former students of the so-called “lumad schools” and its Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) members continue to surface as the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), under the supervision of LtGen. Greg T. Almerol, intensifies its campaign to pursue the remnants of dismantled CTG units in Eastern Mindanao and finally end the local communist armed conflict.

This came after more than 200 remaining members and followers of the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC5), Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) surrendered en masse to the combined troops of 1003rd Brigade and Davao del Norte Provincial Police Office during the conduct of “Community Surrender and Declaration of Pasalikway Ceremony against the CTG” held at the Balimba Hills, Sitio JBL, Brgy. Sto Niño, Talaingod, Davao del Norte on February 28, 2022.

The surrenderees are composed of the 13 former students of Salugpungan Ta’Tatanu Igkanugon Learning Center Inc. (STTILCI) who became CTG members, two former teachers of the same school, eight regular members of SRGU, SRC5, SMRC, six Milisyang Bayan members, four Komiteng Rebolusyunaryo sa Munisipalidad (KRM) personalities, 168 Komiteng Rebolusyunaryo sa Barangay (KRB), and seven UCCP Haran “bakwit.”

They also brought various high-powered firearms and war material composed of an RPG Rocket Launcher, a Caliber .50 Barret Sniper, two M653 Rifles, four M16 Rifles, a Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR), a Carbine Rifle, two Anti-Personnel Mines (APM), assorted magazines, various ammunitions, two Bandoliers, four containers of rice, and Medical paraphernalia, during the ceremony.

The yielders revealed that the sustained focus military operations that led to the collapse of the SRC5, added by the lost support of the masses to the armed movement because of the series of developments made by the government in their former mass bases, convinced them to reject the failed rebellion.

Prior to the mass surrender, it can be recalled that former high-ranking members of the SRC5, SMRC led by Ida Marie Montero alias Mandy who yielded to the 1003rd Brigade on January 13 this year, encouraged her former comrades to return to the folds of the law and support the government.

“The cooperation of alias Mandy and other former rebels who previously encouraged their comrades to turn in, as well as provided our troops with valuable information on their whereabouts, allowed us to locate all remnants of SCR5 and finally convinced them to surrender,” LtGen. Almerol said.

“Most significant of this is the surrender of former Salugpungan students and teachers, which gave us another proof that, indeed, there is an underground activity in these fake “lumad schools.” The CTG lured our IP children to the terrorist movement, whose only desire is to be educated but were instead radicalized by their teachers,” LtGen. Almerol added.

It can be recalled that EastMinCom troops neutralized Chad Errol Booc alias Chad and Jojarain Alce Nguho II alias Rain, together with three other CTG personalities during the series of armed encounters in Brgy. Andap, New Bataan, Davao de Oro on February 24, 2022.

Both personalities were also pointed out by their former students and comrades as volunteer teachers and recruiters of CTG-linked schools such as Salugpungan, Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural Development (ALCADEV), and Community Technical College of Southern Mindanao (CTCSM), who eventually joined the armed struggle as part of their “revolutionary integration.”

Meanwhile, LtGen. Almerol lauded the combined efforts of the troops, PNP, former rebels, and the Local Government Units for the successful clearing of the remnants of SRC5.

“This is yet another testament of the effectiveness of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 70 which institutionalized the Whole-of-Nation Approach. The SRC5, which is considered the most active SRC unit of the CTG in the country, is now demolished. We owe this not only to our security forces but also to our civilian counterparts and local leaders who equally contributed finally ending the local communist armed conflict,” the EastMinCom Commander said.

He also called upon the remaining members of the terrorist groups in Eastern Mindanao who are still hesitant to surrender “due to fears ingrained by their leaders.”

“Your former comrades who are now at the side of our government are proof that they are now living with freedom after they chose to yield. It is high time for you to follow in their footsteps, and not those who chose to die for a failed cause. The benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and your families are waiting on your return,” LtGen. Almerol emphasized.”

[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/salugpungan-students-turned-npa-other-personalities-yield-as-eastmincom-pursue-ctg-remnants/

Kalinaw News: ComNoLCom welcomes Special Ops Commander

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 3, 2022): ComNoLCom welcomes Special Ops Commander



Camp Aquino, Tarlac City – The Commander of Northern Luzon Command Lt. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr. welcomed Commander of the Special Operations Command Armed Forces of the Philippines, Maj. General Francisco Ariel Felicidario as he rendered a courtesy call on March 2, 2022, at the NoLCom headquarter in Camp Aquino Tarlac City.

Maj. Gen. Felicidario was accorded with full military honors by the men and women of NoLCom and was received by NoLCom’s Deputy Commander, Brig. Gen. Leandro Abeleda III.

The visiting general expressed his appreciation for the warm reception he received from the NoLCom troopers. He also conveyed his respect for the command’s excellent performance under the guidance and leadership of Lt. Gen. Torres.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Torres thanked the visiting general and his wife Mrs. Ma. Carmela Laarni Felicidario for taking the time off their busy schedules to visit NoLCom.

“It is our pleasure to have one of the most skilled generals in terms of strategic military operation set foot to the home of the defenders of the north,” said the NoLCom commander.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines Special Operations Command is the AFP’s unified special operations command, in charge of planning, executing, and supporting special operations.

[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/comnolcom-welcomes-special-ops-commander/

Kalinaw News: Australia’s Defense Attaché renders courtesy visit to NoLCom

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 3, 2022): Australia’s Defense Attaché renders courtesy visit to NoLCom



Camp Aquino, Tarlac City – Col. Paul Barta, Australia’s Defense Attaché rendered a courtesy visit to NoLCom and was welcomed by Deputy Commander of Northern Luzon Command Brig. Gen. Leandro Abeleda III on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, at the Cordillera Hall of NoLCom in Tarlac City.

Col. Barta expressed their openness “to explore opportunities of cooperation” with NoLCom troopers.

Australia’s Defense Attaché is set to visit other units with NoLCom’s area of responsibility to introduce the new members of the Australian embassy defense section, meet other AFP senior officers, and “seek ways to intensify interoperability and cooperation between the PH-AUS armed forces.”

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Abeleda conveyed his mutual agreement towards enhancing PH-AUS security cooperation and partnership.

“Let us continue to strengthen our relationship and enhance cooperation towards capacitating our armed forces in performing their mandate as the protectors of our people and as guardians of peace in both our area of operations,” said the NoLCom Deputy Commander.

Moreso, Col Barta expressed his gratitude to Brig. Gen. Abeleda and NoLCom’s command staff for their warm welcome affirmed his support to the command’s furtherance of mutual understanding and cooperation between the NoLCom and the Armed Forces they represent.

[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/australias-defense-attache-renders-courtesy-visit-to-nolcom/

Kalinaw News: Army leads wreath-laying and interfaith service for 125th Founding Anniversary

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 3, 2022): Army leads wreath-laying and interfaith service for 125th Founding Anniversary



The Philippine Army commemorates its 125th Founding Anniversary through a Wreath-laying Ceremony and Interfaith Prayer Service on March 3, 2022 at the Tomb of Unknown Soldiers, Libingan Ng Mga Bayani, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila.

The Commanding General Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. graced the activity witnessed by the Army personnel and Army Veterans. During the activity, Lt. Gen. Brawner paid tribute to the fallen troops’ gallantry and heroism which allowed the attainment of the Army’s aspirations of achieving lasting peace and progress for the country.

The CGPA also recognized the efforts of the troops deployed to fight the seen and unseen enemies nationwide as he offered a prayer for their safety.

“To the men and women of the Philippine Army, may the memories of our dauntless soldiers remain our core inspiration and motivation. May we epitomize our heroes in all our endeavors as we continue to fulfill our sworn mandate of serving the people and securing the land,” said Lt. Gen. Brawner in his remarks.

[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-leads-wreath-laying-and-interfaith-service-for-125th-founding-anniversary/

Kalinaw News: BCDA rep visits NoLCom, prepares for turnover of new ASCOM facilities

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 3, 2022): BCDA rep visits NoLCom, prepares for turnover of new ASCOM facilities



Camp Aquino, Tarlac City – The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) Vice President for Public Affairs Department visited the Northern Luzon Command to inspect the ongoing construction of the P1.5-billion project site for Army Support Command (ASCOM) facilities inside Camp Servillano Aquino in Tarlac City on March 2, 2022.

Commander of Northern Luzon Command Lt. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr., together with the NoLCom command staff welcomed Ms. Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet and her team,

Ms. Macasaet intends to inspect the projects of the BCDA that are within Camp Aquino, Tarlac City as a preparation for the upcoming formal turn-over of said facilities to AFP on Monday, March 7.

“Over the years, BCDA has worked closely with DND and the Armed Forces to realize the concept of modern ASCOM logistics facilities,” said Ms. Macasaet.

Multiple headquarters facilities, officers’ quarters, barracks, a warehouse, student classrooms, and transportation and maintenance battalion areas are included in the said project development plan.

“Our soldiers are always at the frontlines when it comes to ensuring the country’s peace and security, I am very much honored that we get to help our defenders by providing them the much-needed modernized logistical facilities which will better serve our military towards the excellent performance of their duties,” added Ms. Macasaet.

Lt. Gen. Torres recognized the role and contributions of BCDA as a major driver of national development by turning old military bases into modernized areas for economic growth and development.

“With our current thrust towards AFP’s Modernization Program, BCDA has been one of our generous stakeholders who continues to help our armed forces perform their mission as protectors of the people and the country by providing facilities and improving capabilities for the enhancement of our operations,” said Lt. Gen Torres.

It can be recalled that BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Dizon, Defense Assistant Secretaries Manuel Ramos, and Josue Gaverza Jr., ASCOM Commander Maj. Gen. Glenn Cruz and former Northern Luzon Command Chief Lt. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. led the groundbreaking rites on February 23 last year at Camp Aquino, paving the way for the construction and development of a 29.8-hectare lot there.

[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/bcda-rep-visits-nolcom-prepares-for-turnover-of-new-ascom-facilities/

Kalinaw News: Exhausted Communist terrorist yields to gov’t troops in Kalinga

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 3, 2022): Exhausted Communist terrorist yields to gov’t troops in Kalinga



Camp Aquino, Tarlac City – Exhausted member of the Communist terrorist group peacefully surrendered to the troops of 50th Infantry Battalion of the Joint Task Force Tala together with their police counterpart in the vicinity of Sitio Kibog, Brgy Apatan, Pinukpuk, Kalinga on the afternoon of March 01, 2022

According to Lt. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr, Commander of Northern Luzon Command, “based on a report submitted by 50IB Commander Lt. Col. Melanio Somera, the surrendered personality was identified as alias “Stan”, a 64-year-old resident of Sitio Kibog, Brgy Apatan, Pinukpuk, in Kalinga, who was convinced to return to the folds of the law by his family, motivated by the troops’ relentless conduct of community support programs in the area,”

Joint Task Group Peace and Justice led by Brig. Gen. Santiago Enginco furthered that “Stan has been on the government’s Periodic Status Report on the Threat Groups (PSRTG) watchlist for the 3rd quarter of 2021 as a member, Squad Dos, Platoon Guevara, of the dwindling terror group KLG Baggas.”

The former member of the terrorist group is currently undergoing custodial debriefing at the Pinukpuk Municipal Station.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Laurence Mina, Commander of Joint Task Force Tala attributed the peaceful surrender of Stan to the help and persuasion of his relatives. “I encourage the remaining CTG members’ families and relatives to assist the government in its fight to end local communist armed conflict by spreading the genuine reforms of peace of the government to the remaining hiding members of the terror group,” he said.

Likewise, Lt. Gen. Torres hailed the success of the peaceful surrender of the former terrorist to the unyielding efforts of the troops on the ground and the support of the peace-loving residents of Brgy. Apatan to their peace campaigns.

“Our security forces will continue to intensify their efforts to fully eradicate terrorism in this part of the country. With the help of the local populace, it is only a matter of time before we can achieve our goal of creating an environment of lasting peace, security, and development,” the NoLCom commander concluded.

[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/exhausted-communist-terrorist-yields-to-govt-troops-in-kalinga/

Kalinaw News: “Mataas na Kalibre ng Armas at mga Iligal na Pampasabog, Isinuko sa mga Kasundaluhan sa SurNor”

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 3, 2022): “Mataas na Kalibre ng Armas at mga Iligal na Pampasabog, Isinuko sa mga Kasundaluhan sa SurNor” (“High Caliber Weapons and Illegal Explosives, Surrendered to SurNor Armed Forces”)



Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte – Dalawang Matataas na kalibre ng armas at mga pampasabog ang isinuko pagkatapos na maikipagtulungan ang dating miyembro ng Milisyang Bayan sa mga kasundaluhan ng 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion, Philippine Army nitong ika-1 ng Marso 2022.

Nangyari ang nasabing pagsuko ng mga armas habang nagsasagawa ng Community Support Program (CSP) ang mga tropa ng 30IB sa komunidad ng Brgy Magtangale, San Francisco, Surigao del Norte. Sa patuloy na pagsasagawa ng mga aktibidades ng CSP ay matagumpay na nahikayat ang buong komunidad na makipagtulungan sa gobyerno at isuko ang pagsuporta nila sa teroristang grupo ng New People’s Army o NPA.

Kung kaya, isang aktibong miyembro ng Milisyang Bayan ang nagsiwalat ng impormasyon ukol sa pinagtataguan ng mga armas at pampasabog ng mga NPA. Upang kumpirmahin ang nasabing impormasyon ay agad na nagsagawa ng Retrieval Operation ang 30IB upang mabawi ang matataas na armas at mga pampasabog na ginagamit ng mga NPA para sa kanilang pananakot at pakikipagdigmaan. At dito na nakumpirma at nakuha iligal na pampasabog o Improvise Explosive Device (IED), isang (1) 5.56 M16 rifle at isang (1) M79 grenade launcher sa bulubundukin bahagi ng nasabing barangay.

Sa pahayag ni Lt Col Ryan Charles G Callanta, Pinuno ng 30IB, kanyang sinabi ang kanyang pasasalamat sa patuloy na pakikiisa ng ating mga mamamayan sa pamahalaan upang makamit natin ang minimithi nating kapayapaan. “Una sa lahat nagpapasalamat ako sa patuloy na makikipagtulungan ng mamamayan sa ating kasundaluhan. Nagpapatunay ito na lahat tayo ay nagnanais ng isang masagana at mapayapang pamumuhay. Ang inyong kasundaluhan sa 30IB ay patuloy kayong poprotektahan sa abot ng aming makakaya. Patuloy tayong magkaisa para sa kapayapaan at kasaganaan sa Surigao del Norte.

Sa ngayon, ang mga kasundaluhan ay patuloy na nagsasagawa ng CSP sa mga barangay sa Surigao del Norte. Ang layunin nito ay para alamin ang mga pangangailanagan ng mga mamamayan at upang ito ay matugunan ng pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict o NTF-ELCAC.

[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/mataas-na-kalibre-ng-armas-at-mga-iligal-na-pampasabog-isinuko-sa-mga-kasundaluhan-sa-surnor/

Kalinaw News: “Pagod at Gutom na NPA, Sumuko sa 30IB”

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 3, 2022): “Pagod at Gutom na NPA, Sumuko sa 30IB” (“Tired and Hungry NPA, Surrender to 30IB”)



Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte – Sumuko sa kasundaluhan sa 30IB ang isang miyembro ng teroristang grupo ng New People’s Army o NPA sa himpilan ng 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion, Philippine Army nitong ika-1 ng Marso 2022.

Si A.k.a. Rustom, miyembro ng Sandatahang Yunit Pang propaganda 16C Guerrilla Front 16 ay bulontaryong sumuko dahil sa pagod, uhaw at gutom na kanyang dinanas sa kilusan, lalo pa’t puspusan ang operasyon ng mga kasundaluhan ng 30IB, Kung kaya noong siyay makakita ng pagkakataong makatakas sa kanyang mga kasamahan buong loob siyang nagpasya na tumiwalag na sa makakaliwang grupo na pinagsilbihan niya ng mahabang panahon.

“Kalisod sa among kahimtang sa kabukiran labi na kung naay operasyon ang mga sundalo. Wala me tarong na kaon, walay tarong nga tulog, ug walay kahapsay ang akong panghunahuna kay bisan unsang orasa pwede kami maabtan sa mga sundalo, mao nga nangurso gyud ko sa pagsurender, aron pud makauban naku ang akong pamilya.” Ayon kay A.k.a. Rustom

Sa pahayag ni Lt Col Ryan Charles G Callanta, Commander 30IB, “nagpapasalamat ako sa naging desisyon ni ‘Aka. Rustom’ na nagbabalik-loob sa pamahalaan.” “ Patuloy kaming nananawagan sa mga natitira pang miyembro ng NPA na nasa kabundukan na tulad ni “A.k.a. Rustom” na sumuko na bago pa mahuli ang lahat. Ganun din sa mga pamilya ng aktibong miyembro ng NPA na sana gumawa ng paraan upang hikayatin ang kanilang kaanak na magbalik- loob sa gobyerno. Ang pamahalaan ay handang tumulong upang magkaroon ng mapayapa at matiwasay na pamumuhay kasama ang inyong mga mahal sa buhay sa ilalim ng Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)”.

[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/pagod-at-gutom-na-npa-sumuko-sa-30ib/