CPP/CIO: Fight the Marcos Firewall!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 22, 2022): Fight the Marcos Firewall!

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

June 22, 2022

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) denounces the National Security Council and various agencies of the reactionary government for the push to erect a Marcos Anti-Democracy (MAD) Internet Firewall in a desperate bid to censor online criticism and dissent against the incoming illegitimate Marcos II regime, as well as suppress progressive, patriotic and revolutionary journalism and literature that exposes the ills of the ruling system.

In a June 6 letter, Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, NSC director general and officer of the National Task Force (NTF)-Elcac, told the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to order internet service providers to block access of Filipino subscribers to 25 websites including those of the Communist Party of the Philippines (PRWC or Philippine Revolution Web Central), the National Democratic Front of the Philippines and several of its allied organizations. In a June 8 memorandum to all internet service providers with the subject “For Blocking Illegal Online Cockfighting Websites,” the NTC ordered “the immediate blocking of the reported websites found to be affiliated to and are supporting terrorists and terrorist organizations.” We have received recent reports that subscribers of Smart and PLDT could no longer access the PRWC (https://cpp.ph).

Of the list of websites which the NSC wants banned, only seven are actually affiliated with the CPP and NDFP. The rest are websites of local cause oriented groups (6), alternative news websites (3), progressive journalists and academics (3), international organizations (2), international alternative news (2), a news blog and a blog of Indian activists. At least six websites in the haphazardly drawn list are inactive with some last updated ten years ago. Surprisingly, the list also includes the Monthly Review and the Counterpunch, both highly regarded US-based organizations that promote progressive views.

The MAD Firewall is an authoritarian measure meant to suppress the people’s freedom to express criticism or grievance against the ruling government and ruling system and promote progressive, patriotic, anti-imperialist and revolutionary ideas. This is the latest measure promoted by the militarists in the NSC and NTF-Elcac after the push to purge public libraries of books and literature related to peace talks and the NDFP, the funding of incessant distributed denial-of-service attacks against the PRWC and several other websites, the terrorist-tagging against patriotic and progressive bookstores, and the repeal of the UP-DND accord banning military personnel in UP campuses.

We believe that the MAD Firewall is just the opening scene for a general crackdown against Philippine media under the incoming Marcos II regime. On the pretext of “anti-terrorism,” Filipino reporters and journalists will soon be under intense pressure to suppress information, news reports and views expressed by the CPP, as well as progressive and patriotic, and eventually of any views and reports that are critical of the incoming Marcos regime on the likely rationale that such news writing “destabilizes government” and “undermines unity.”

The NSC/NTF-Elcac’s internet ban exposes the intolerance of militarist zealots in power and how they use “national security” and “anti-terrorism” as pretext to clamp down on basic people’s freedoms. The push for the MAD Firewall is a direct outcome of the so-called Anti-Terrorism Law and exposes its real authoritarian and draconian intent. In fact, the MAD Firewall has nothing to do with “anti-terrorism” as it is nothing but barefaced censorship. It shows how “anti-terrorism” is being used as an arbitrary category to suppress all forms of opposition and people’s resistance.

In behalf of all the oppressed and exploited classes and sectors, the CPP asserts the intrinsic right of people of whatever affiliation–social, political, ideological, national, cultural or gender-based–to express their ideas and views, and promote patriotic, progressive, anti-imperialist and revolutionary programs as alternative to the ruling pro-imperialist, reactionary, fascist and militarist agenda of the ruling system.

We urge all democratic, progressive and patriotic organizations and individuals, journalists and academics who value press freedom and freedom of expression to resist the MAD Internet Firewall. Fight authoritarian censorship against the promotion of progressive, anti-imperialist and revolutionary ideas!

We urge Filipino internet readers to use alternative means of accessing information, including the use of the Tor Browser, proxies and virtual private network services (VPNs) in order to circumvent the Marcos Firewall.

More importantly, we call on the broad masses of the people to take action, organize against online censorship and protest and manifest their indignation against the burgeoning authoritarian regime.

https://cpp.ph/statements/fight-the-marcos-firewall/

CPP/CIO: General Esperon is a charlatan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 24, 2022): General Esperon is a charlatan

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

June 24, 2022

The Philippine Daily Inquirer today carried the news article “Esperon blasts CPP for opposing order to ban alleged pro-Red websites.” In it, Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, national security advier, is quoted denouncing the CPP as “anti-democratic” because it wants a “dictatorship of the proletariat.” General Esperon must be repudiated and denounced for misleading and misinforming the people about the CPP, in a vain attempt to justify the outrightly anti-democratic order to ban the websites of the CPP and the NDFP, as well as those of alternative media groups, people’s organizations, academics and international anti-imperialist groups.

[Let me digress early to quickly settle the somewhat comical remark of General Esperon. I don’t know if he has seriously read any book or article by Marx, Lenin or Mao Zedong, but clearly, General Esperon does not understand the concept of the “dictatorship of the proletariat”, when he denounced it as something sinister, authoritarian or tyrannical. In fact, the dictatorship of the proletariat is the most democratic state because it is the rule of the majority of working class. It can also be called proletarian democracy or worker’s democracy, especially from the point of view of workers and the people; but exercises dictatorship, against the minority classes of oppressors and exploiters, e.g. it will prohibit capitalists to make superprofits from unbridled accumulation of capital and exploitation of workers. It is a fundamental fact of class society that one class exercises dictatorship over another contending class, just as the ruling minority classes in the Philippines exercises dictatorship (the coercive powers of the state) over the majority classes of workers and peasants to preserve and expand their property.

I also don’t know if General Esperon has seriously studied the literature of the CPP, but clearly he does not know that establishing socialism or proletarian dictatorship is not the immediate program of the CPP, because the conditions in the country does not yet permit it, where majority of the people is composed of the peasant class that demand land ownership, and who are not ready to support or practice socialist or collective land ownership and production. The CPP is pushing for a people’s democratic revolution and the establishment of a people’s democratic state.]

We urge the Filipino people, especially the youth, to be vigilant and resist being dumbed down by the myopic and cold war-era mindset and rhetoric of General Esperon that has now morphed into one that supports the “war on terror,” an unli-war instigated and sponsored by the US militarist hawks and their backers among big American weapons makers and defense companies.

People deserve to have the level of public debate raised and have a more educated discussion about the fundamental social, economic, political, historical, as well as ideological and philosophical questions that underlie the issues of rising prices, poverty, hunger, joblessness and other pressing questions that they are confronted with daily.

It is a happy consequence of General Esperon’s move to ban the websites of the CPP and NDFP, that more and more people, especially among the youth, are taking interest to study more closely the standpoint and views promoted by the CPP. We are also receiving offers to help mirror and propagate the contents of our websites. Especially in face of threats to democracy, we trust that there will be more online and in-person discussions among the youth and students, teachers, academics and professionals who wish to enlighten themselves about the views of the CPP and the need for the country to undergo revolutionary transformation.

Except for a few people who share General Esperon’s extremist measures, most people reject the MAD Internet Firewall and his dogmatic views and intolerance of opposing views–even by those who do not necessarily agree with the CPP.

General Esperon and his ilk want to silence the CPP, as well as the patriotic, progressive and anti-imperialist forces which have relentlessly exposed the lies and distortions being promoted by the pro-US security and defense officials of the Duterte regime, and that of the incoming illegitimate Marcos II regime.

General Esperon wants to shut out the websites of the CPP and the NDFP claiming they are being used for recruitment. Of course! That is our intrinsic right. And indeed, the websites of the CPP and NDFP are effective tools for education and recruitment. People go to the website of the CPP to seek its views about domestic and international issues. The CPP also uses its website to give accurate battlefield information from the New People’s Army (NPA) which often contradicts the information being churned out by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). I think the Filipino public deserve and need access to such information, and do not agree to General Esperon’s wishes for the military and the ruling government to monopolize the flow of information.

General Esperon claims “he has all the intelligence” but was not careful enough in drawing up his list to include at least three websites that have not been updated for the past ten years, and to include the academic and journalistic websites Monthly Review and Counterpunch which promote views that often are not congruent with those of the CPP.

In ordering that these websites be banned, General Esperon shows he is not ready to fight at the level of ideas and information, and chooses only the authoritarian option of using government power to wholesale silence and suppress those who promote views that challenge their narrative.

General Esperon’s actions are clearly exposing the undemocratic political and economic system in the Philippines, that is under the class dictatorship of big bourgeois compradors (people like the Villars and Razons) and big landlords (the Aranetas and the Cojuangcos), and the US-controlled neocolonial state run by bureaucrat capitalists (like the Dutertes and Marcoses) and fascists (like Lorenzana and Esperon). These are people who comprise less than 1% of the Philippine population, but control most of the country’s wealth and resources, live off the sweat of workers, peasants and other toiling classes and run the government like business for their own interests, all while claiming to represent the masses. In the Philippines, democracy is a farce. Elections are pseudo-democratic as they are dominated by political parties that are fundamentally no different from one another and bankrolled by big capitalists and landlords. Even the party-list system that was supposed to give a few seats to the “disenfranchised” is now under the control of ruling class interests.

As one who represents and defends the minority ruling classes in the Philippines, and with his acts of outright suppression, General Esperon is a charlatan when he talks of “democracy.”

The CPP stands with the Filipino people as they resist the burgeoning authoritarianism under the Marcos II regime. The CPP is a democratic organization both in the sense that it represents the broad and democratic interests of the Filipino working class, that is aligned with the interests of other democratic classes (the petty-bourgeoisie and the national capitalists) in the Philippines; and in the sense that it upholds and promotes their democratic rights such as freedom of expression and freedom of assembly.

The CPP is leading a people’s democratic revolution that aims to win national sovereignty and end US neocolonial domination, which has consigned the country to backwardness and crisis over the past 120 years. It stands for the most fundamental right of people to bear arms in order to fight tyranny and oppression. The CPP aims to establish a democratic system, where socialist revolution and transformation of society can be carried out, where the workers and toiling classes control state power, and where the old ruling classes can no longer exercise armed dictatorship over the masses.

https://cpp.ph/statements/general-esperon-is-a-charlatan/

Kalinaw News: Army’s 71IB raises awareness on CTG’s deceptive recruitment among the youth sector in Ilocos Sur

From Kalinaw News (Jun 24, 2022): Army’s 71IB raises awareness on CTG’s deceptive recruitment among the youth sector in Ilocos Sur



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — As one of its main thrusts to prevent the communist terrorist group’s recruitment in the youth sector, which is their primary source of cadre, the troops of the 71st Infantry (Kaibigan) Battalion, Philippine Army conducted an information and awareness drive among high school students of Burgos National High School in Barangay Poblacion Norte, Burgos, and Banayoyo National High School, Brgy Poblacion, Banayoyo, of Ilocos Sur on June 21, 2022.

The activity aims to increase awareness of the youth sector about the deceptive recruitment of the said terrorist group and to empower them about their significant role in nation-building.

Troops of 71IB led by 2lt Mae Pearl A Agustin, the Civil-Military Officer of 71IB discussed on the role of the youth in nation-building, challenges and issues among Filipino youth, evils of communism, stages of youth infiltration and EO70/NTF-ELCAC.

According to Lt Col. Michael B Bautista, Acting Commanding Officer of 71IB, the youth plays a significant role in our society; some of them will be the future legislators and leaders. At their very young age, let us mold their character to become good and productive citizens on our country.

“I challenge all parents and teachers that it is our duty to protect our children against the CTG upang wala nang kabataan ang maging biktima pa ng kanilang panlilinlang.” Lt. Col. Bautista added.
Meanwhile, MGen Andrew D Costelo PA, Commander of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division reminded the youth sector and teachers to be more aware of the deceptive recruitment by the Communist Terrorist Group.

“As one of the most vulnerable sector’s target by the CTG recruitment, students must be smart to analyze false information they use to engage the young generation in arm-conflict against the government, and as the second parent of the learner, teachers must be the first guard of the student to look for suspicious activity that can affect the students’ welfare.”

[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/armys-71ib-raises-awareness-on-ctgs-deceptive-recruitment-among-the-youth-sector-in-ilocos-sur-2/

Kalinaw News: Communist Terrorist Group Bomb Maker in Nueva Ecija Surrenders to Military

From Kalinaw News (Jun 23, 2022): Communist Terrorist Group Bomb Maker in Nueva Ecija Surrenders to Military

Camp Gatan, San Jose City, Nueva Ecija – A Communist NPA Terrorist Improvised Explosive Device (IED) “bomb making” expert of the Communist Terrorist Group’s (CTG) “Larangan Gerilya sa Patag 1 (LGP 1)” surrendered to the 84th Infantry (Victorious) Battalion, 7ID, Philippine Army 2pm on June 22 here.

Lieutenant Colonel Enrico Gil C Ileto, Commanding Officer of 84IB, identified the person as “Ka Wing”, 34 years old and member of the 2019 defeated LGP1 also voluntarily surrendered two IEDs, twenty meters detonating cord, and one 500ml bottle containing about 125ml of phosphorus black powder and two improvised explosive device (Anti-tank).

Alias Wing, who operated in Nueva Ecija for five years, revealed that one of his reason to surrender was because of deception and false promises of the CTGs. “Ako po ay nag balik loob at nag surrender sa ating mga kasundaluhan sapagkat napagtanto ko na ako lamang ay nililinlang, ginamit, at pinangakuang mabibigyan ng lupain ng teroristang NPA at para makapamuhay ng maayos kasama ng aking pamilya at malinis ang aking pangalan,” said alias “Ka Wing”.

Ltc Ileto, on the other hand reiterated his call to the remaining members of the CTGs to abandon the terrorist organization and avail the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government in order to live peacefully together with their families.

Ileto added that, “With his surrender, nawala na ang pagkakataon ang posibilidad na pwede pang ma recruit ulit si Alias Wing at magamit ang kanyang kakayahan na magamit ang hawak nya noon na mga pampasabog at gumawa pa ng bomba na maaring sumira ng ari-arian, magdala ng takot at makasakit sa mga mamamayan”

Meanwhile, MGen Andrew D Costelo PA, Commander of 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division commended the 84IB for the surrender of the said former CTG member and appealed to the active CTG affiliate to return to the government side to have a peaceful life.

“We can recall that for the past 6 months enormous numbers of returnee have been set down, it’s a proof that the campaign against insurgency is efficient, with the help of the local government agencies to guide the returnee to start a new life MGen Costelo Added.



[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/communist-terrorist-group-bomb-maker-in-nueva-ecija-surrenders-to-military/

Kalinaw News: Isang miyembro ng CTG, patay matapos and sagupaan laban sa Kasundaluhan sa Surigao del Sur

From Kalinaw News (Jun 23, 2022): Isang miyembro ng CTG, patay matapos and sagupaan laban sa Kasundaluhan sa Surigao del Sur (A CTG member, dead after clashes against the Army in Surigao del Sur)



CARMEN, Surigao del Sur – Isang engkwentro ang naganap sa pagitan ng mga kawani ng 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion at terorristang grupo sa kabundukan ng Lahi, Bagsac, Madrid nitong ika-22 ng Hunyo 2022.

Sa naturang engkwentro ay nakasagupa ng 36IB ang tinatayang labindalawang (12) kalaban na pinamumunuan ni Noel Tumarlas Alacre. Ito ay sa tulong ng mga sibilyan, natunton ng ating mga kasundaluhan ang kinalolooban na pansamantalang taguan ng naturang aramadong grupo.

Matapos ang bakbakan, agad na tumakbo papalayo ang mga armadong NPA at pinabayaan ang kanilang namatay na kasamahan. Naiwan nila ang isang (1) M16 na riple, dalawang (2) M16 magasin na mayroong apatnapu’t limang (45), 5.56mm na bala, mga personal na kagamitan, mga subersibong dokumento, tatlong (3) backpacks, mga kagamitang pang-medisina, at ilang kagamitan at sangkap na pang-luto.

Ayon sa pahayag ni Lt. Col. Michael Rey S. Reuyan, pinuno ng 36IB, nagpapasalamat siya sa tiwala ng mga sibilyan na tumukoy sa lokasyon ng armadong grupo, “Taos puso kaming nagpapasalamat na kasundaluhan ng 4ID sa pagbibigay impormasyon sa presensya ng armadong grupo. Dahil sa inyong tulong at kooperasyon ating naitawid ang ating kampaya laban sa insurhensiya.”

“Kami ay nanawagan sa iilang natitira pang miyembro ng NPA, na huwag matakot, ibaba na po ang inyong armas at bumalik sa ating gobyerno. May programa tayong maaring makatulong sa inyong hinaing gaya ng Enhanced Comprehenisive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). Huwag na tayong magpabulag at magpalinlang sa kasinungalingan ng CPP-NPA-NDF.” Idinagdag ni Lt Col. Reuyan.

[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/isang-miyembro-ng-ctg-patay-matapos-and-sagupaan-laban-sa-kasundaluhan-sa-surigao-del-sur/

Kalinaw News: 2 NPAs killed, 3 firearms seized in Agusan del Norte clash

From Kalinaw News (Jun 23, 2022): 2 NPAs killed, 3 firearms seized in Agusan del Norte clash

BANCASI, Butuan City – Two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed during an encounter with the troops of 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade on 21 June 2022 at So Little Baguio, Brgy Consorcia, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

The encounter involved troops from 23IB under the operational control of the 402Bde led by BGen Adonis Airiel G Orio and an estimated of 15 CNTs of Platoon Sagay, SRC 3 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCRMC) in Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

The said firefight resulted to the seizure of two (2) enemy body counts; one (1) RPK LMG ; one (1) AK47 Rifle; one (1) M16 Rifle; one (1) Anti-Personnel Mine (APM); 11 AK47 magazines; three (3) M14 magazines; NPA flags; subversive documents and assorted personal belongings. Moreover, the enemies who were killed in the said encounter were identified as Rey Torregosa, 24; a resident of Brgy Maasin, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, a member of Platoon Sagay, SRC 3; and Juliven Badbaran, 41; a resident of Brgy Balit, San Luis, Agusan del Sur, former CO of Platoon Banglas, SRC 3 / member of Platoon Sagay, SRC3 of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCRMC).

With the persistent efforts and continuous military focused operations alongside with the support and cooperation of the Local Government Units and other agencies, the CNTs in Agusan del Norte are struggling and suffering overwhelming losses in the series of encounters from the past years which will certainly lead to the neutralization of leaders and members of the said enemy group.

In his statement, BGEN ADONIS ARIEL G ORIO, Commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade lauded the 23IB, “I would like to commend the troops of 23rd Infantry Battalion for your recent accomplishment. Indeed, the successful conduct of your combat operation was a result of careful planning, excellent intelligence and strategy with flawless execution of our capable leaders and soldiers. Still, we appeal to all the remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Groups to lay down your arms and return to the folds of law to live peacefully and be with your families. As we have vowed to protect our people, we will continue to hunt the enemies down and remain true to our mandate of sustaining the peace and development in the area of Agusan del Norte.”

[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/2-npas-killed-3-firearms-seized-in-agusan-del-norte-clash/

Kalinaw News: Eight (8) Full Blown Guerilla Fronts dismantled; Davao De Oro now Insurgency-Free

From Kalinaw News (Jun 23, 2022): Eight (8) Full Blown Guerilla Fronts dismantled; Davao De Oro now Insurgency-Free




MAWAB, Davao De Oro – The Provincial Local Government Unit of Davao De Oro, together with the 10th Infantry “Agila” Division officially declared the province of Davao De Oro as Insurgency-Free during a ceremony held at Provincial Capitol Grounds, Cabidianan, Nabunturan on Wednesday afternoon, June 22, 2022.

The official declaration follows after the eight (8) full-blown guerilla fronts of the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) previously operating in the province were now all dismantled and destroyed. Guerilla Front 27 was dismantled in 2018, followed by Guerilla Front 15, and GF 34 in 2019. Likewise, Guerilla Front 33 was dismantled in 2020, and the Guerilla Front North in 2021. In 2022, Guerilla Front 3, Guerilla Front 2 which is one of the oldest guerilla fronts in Mindanao, and the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU) were also declared dismantled and destroyed, respectively.

Likewise, the recent notable defeat of the CTGs in Davao De Oro were the neutralization of Menandro Villanueva alias “Bok”, the highest-ranking CTG leader in Mindanao; the surrender of Guerilla Front 3 Secretary Maximo Catarata alias “SM”; and the surrender of Guerilla Front 2 Secretary Rosefel Movera, alias “Dandan”.

From 2016 to 2022, 10ID units in Davao De Oro figured 159 armed encounters which resulted in 42 killed CNTs; 619 surrendered; 103 captured; 776 firearms recovered; and the cooptation of 1,248 NPAs in the barangays, and more than 6,000 members of the Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs). Moreover, about 145 People’s Organizations (POs) with 7,722 members mostly former rebels and mass supporters benefited from various programs and projects from the province which eventually helped them uplift their social and economic status as part of the re-integration program of the province.

In his message, Agila Division Commander Major General Nolasco A Mempin said that the total defeat of the CTG in Davao De Oro is attributed not only to the dedication and aggressiveness of the commanders on the ground but to the strong leadership of the province. “The activation of the NTF-ELCAC in 2018, and the local its version, “OPLAN PAGBABAGO” hastened the coordination among stakeholders, thereby isolating the CTGs from the masses. The leadership provided by Governor Uy as chairperson of the PTF-ELCAC contributed immensely to the smooth delivery of basic services, especially in the implementation of the Barangay Development Programs (BDP),” MGen Mempin added.

Also present during the activity were the National Security Adviser General Hermogenes C Esperon Jr (Ret); former Commander 10ID and appointed Officer-in-Charge of the Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary, General Jose C Faustino Jr (Ret); Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) Commander Lieutenant General Greg T Almerol; 1001Bde Commander BGEN Jesus Durante III; 701Bde Commander BGEN Oliver Maquiling, Battalion Commanders of 25IB, 28IB, 60IB, 67IB, 66IB, 48IB; and other key stakeholders.

[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/eight-8-full-blown-guerilla-fronts-dismantled-davao-de-oro-now-insurgency-free/

Kalinaw News: NPA Terrorists’ supplies recovered by 65IB in Agusan del Norte Gun Battle

From Kalinaw News (Jun 23, 2022): NPA Terrorists’ supplies recovered by 65IB in Agusan del Norte Gun Battle



SIBAGAT, AGUSAN DEL SUR – An armed clash between the troops of 65th Infantry (Stalwart) Battalion under the operational control of 901st Infantry (Fight ‘Em) Brigade and the New People’s Army (NPA) resulted to the recovery of an anti-personnel mine, ammunitions, medical supplies, and other belongings in the hinterlands of Brgy. De Oro, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte last June 18, 2022.

Through the conduct of deliberate intelligence operation and the cooperation of concerned citizens, the Government forces were able to identify the location of the NPA hideout and their activities. These led to a 10-minute firefight which resulted to the seizure of the following enemy war materiel and supplies:

• one (1) Anti-personnel Mine
• one (1) magazine of AK47
• one (1) magazine of M16
• one (1) Samsung Tablet
• one (1) Huawei Smart Phone
• three (3) USB
• six (6) Nokia keypad phones
• one (1) SD card
• two (2) Bandoleers
• nine (9) Backpacks with personal belongings
• assorted medical supplies
• fifteen (15) kg Rice

The gun battle which ensued the recovery of an Anti-personnel Mine (APM) reflects the enemies’ continuous violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The use of such destructive weapon is a clear violation of its restrictions as stated in the rules of the armed conflict. Such behavior of continuous violation of Human rights led to the enlightenment of the people they terrorized and withdrew their support for this lost cause.

LTC EMERSON P DE VERA, the Commanding Officer of 65th Infantry (Stalwart) Battalion, vows to ensure the peace and safety of the residents in its Area of Operation (AO). The unit will continue to intensify the conduct of its operations to secure the area against any form of terrorism. The troops along with other government agencies stand in the frontline to fight and address the infiltration of the CTGs.

“The Stalwart troopers, following its strong mandate of protecting the people and securing the land, will continue to battle the remnants of the NPAs who refuse to return to the folds of law”.

“We are calling upon the remaining members of the NPAs to surrender. The Government is true to their commitment of giving you a new beginning and start living for a renewed cause.” De Vera added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-terrorists-supplies-recovered-by-65ib-in-agusan-del-norte-gun-battle/

Kalinaw News: Military continuously gain ground against terror groups in Southern Philippines

From Kalinaw News (Jun 22, 2022): Military continuously gain ground against terror groups in Southern Philippines



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – June 22, 2022

The Western Mindanao Command held the 2nd quarter campaign assessment on Tuesday afternoon, June 21. WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. presided over the conference held at the Khadaffy Mansion at Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city.

Based on the reports presented by the triad officers of the command, the continuous efforts of the military units under the command and control of WestMinCom resulted in the neutralization of 119 communist terrorist group members, dismantling of three Guerilla Fronts, and clearing of four focus areas. Dismantled fronts include Guerilla Front BBC of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC), and the East and West Daguma Fronts under the Sub-Regional Committee Daguma (SRC Daguma).

For the local terrorist groups, 77 Abu Sayyaf Group personalities were neutralized including the surrender of 6 sub-leaders and the killing of Radzmil Jannatul. Also, 40 affected areas in Sulu and Basilan were cleared from ASG presence. Additionally, 120 Daulah Islamiyah personalities were neutralized including four key leaders, and three affected areas in Lanao Del Sur were cleared.

In Central Mindanao, a total of 139 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were neutralized and 11 affected areas in Maguindanao were cleared. All of these were accomplished during the first and second quarters of 2022.
The commanders of Joint Task Forces Central, ZamPeLan, Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, and Zamboanga; Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM); Tactical Operations Wing Western Mindanao (TOWWM); 54th Engineer Brigade; and Joint Special Operations Forces 2 (JSOF2) were among the participants who were physically present during the campaign assessment. WestMinCom’s Deputy Commander for Internal Defense Operations and the Command Staff were also physically present during the activity.

Other participants including the brigade commanders; 4th Civil Relations Group Commander; and health service units attended the activity virtually via Zoom.

In his message, Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. said, “Let me take this opportunity to congratulate our Joint Task Forces for the serious efforts that led to numerous accomplishments and substantial gains. I would also like to commend our men and women of Team WESTMINCOM, from our Joint Task Forces down to the brigades, battalions, and the lowest echelons of the Command, for well-executed security operations in connection with the recently concluded national and local elections. The presence of our security forces and the proactive measures we have implemented have effectively secured our people as they voted freely, while our forces prevented criminal elements and other lawless armed groups from conducting atrocities.”

The three-star general urged the attendees to remain steadfast and encouraged the sustainment of gains. “I urge everyone to give your full commitment to our sworn duty, maximize the ‘whole-of-nation approach’, sustain the momentum, and make deliberate efforts to pressure the remaining armed components of the CTG and the different LTGs. I am confident that whatever is set to be accomplished will be achieved with everyone’s cooperation,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. further stated.

[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/military-continuously-gain-ground-against-terror-groups-in-southern-philippines/

Kalinaw News: 4ID Commander: ELCAC is sustainable with strong collaboration between government agencies and local communities

From Kalinaw News (Jun 22, 2022): 4ID Commander: ELCAC is sustainable with strong collaboration between government agencies and local communities

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – MGEN WILBUR C MAMAWAG, Commander of the 4ID, stated that Ending the Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), borne out of the Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte, has been very effective with government agencies and LGU cooperation.

This, he said during his live interview as a resource person at the “Talakayan sa PIA: ELCAC Series” organized by the Philippine Information Agency Region 10 (PIA-10) on Thursday, June 16, 2022 at Ground Floor of SM Mall Uptown, CDO City.

Hosted by Ms. Jasper Marie O. Rucat and Mr. Vincent Philip Bautista of PIA-10, the event centered on the efficiency of NTF-ELCAC in 4ID’s campaign in Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.

MGEN MAMAWAG explained that the EO 70 is the convergence of efforts that brings all government agencies and LGUs together under the principle of whole-of-nation approach to address insurgency.

“EO 70 allows government agencies to re-prioritize and focus its resources to conflict-affected communities including Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), in terms of high-impact projects and services such as but not limited to health, education, and road networks.” MGEN. MAMAWAG said.

“When EO 70 started, we had 12 Communist Terrorist Groups Guerilla Fronts (GF) on record. Now, there are only three (3) remaining GF. More than 2000 former rebels (FR) have enrolled in the government’s Balik-Loob Program or Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) while another 800 FR (including supporters) whose benefits are being processed.” MGEN MAMAWAG explained.

[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/4id-commander-elcac-is-sustainable-with-strong-collaboration-between-government-agencies-and-local-communities/

Kalinaw News: All-in-One Bayanihan benefits Balbalan residents

From Kalinaw News (Jun 22, 2022): All-in-One Bayanihan benefits Balbalan residents



CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- 494 individuals were granted services through the All-in-One Bayanihan held at Barangay Pantikian, Balbalan, Kalinga on June 18, 2022.

GO SHARE Foundation, Breathe of Hope Foundation, Department of Education, Local Government Unit, Philippine National Police, Naval Special Operations Command, and the 50th Infantry Battalion joined forces in extending assistance to the locals. They rendered free medical and dental check-ups and handed free crutches and wheelchairs to the Persons with Disabilities.

Additionally, the inauguration of KLASRUM PAG-ASA or Breathe of Hope Library took place alongside the distribution of books and other educational materials. The building of the classroom is to encourage the youth in studying and not to waste time joining organizations related to the terrorist groups that were pronounced by the Anti Terrorism Council.

According to LtC Melanio Somera, Battalion Commander of 50IB, the All-in-One Bayanihan manifests that the services to the people are not only for the locals in the mainstream but also for the residents in the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. “Whole-of-Nation Approach does not mean- the government is working alone. But the success of the implementation is done through the assistance of the non-government organizations and the residents per se. So, hand-in-hand we will extend projects, programs, and services to attain inclusive peace and development in every community.”

[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/all-in-one-bayanihan-benefits-balbalan-residents/

Kalinaw News: RTF-ELCAC 10 awards its four (4) former TWG Chairpersons

From Kalinaw News (Jun 21, 2022): RTF-ELCAC 10 awards its four (4) former TWG Chairpersons



CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict 10 (RTF-ELCAC 10) recognized the leadership and contribution of the four (4) former Technical Working Group (TWG) Chairpersons namely GEN ANDRES C CENTINO (former 4ID Comdr and now Chief of Staff, AFP), LTGEN FRANCO NEMESIO M GACAL (RET) (former 4ID Comdr, TIG, AFP, and now retired), LTGEN ROMEO S BRAWNER JR. (former 4ID Comdr, and the incumbent Commanding General of Philippine Army), and BGEN FERDINAND T BARANDON (incumbent 403Bde Comdr who once served as the Interim Chairperson).

The Plaques of Appreciation were given in the presence of the Regional Director of National Economic and Development Authority-10 (NEDA-10), Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño and the Assistant Regional Director of Department of Interior and Local Government, Region-10 (DILG-10) Ms Yvette Tolentino-Sunga, during the 2nd Quarter 2022 RTF-ELCAC 10 Meeting held on Monday, June 20, 2022 at Alcoseba Hall, Camp Evangelista, Patag, CDO City.

GEN CENTINO flew in to personally receive the award along with BGEN BARANDON while the plaque for LTGEN BRAWNER was received by MGEN MAMAWAG. LTGEN GACAL also attended thru VTC.

The RTF-ELCAC-10 cited the former TWG Chairpersons’ exemplary performance and demonstrated capability, competence, commitment, professionalism, and sincerity in working with stakeholders during their stints as TWG Chair, which resulted in significant gains towards sustaining peace and inclusive development in Northern Mindanao Region.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy of the Presidential Communication Operations Office (PCOO), the Acting Chairperson of RTF-ELCAC 10 and concurrently one of the Spokespersons of NTF – ELCAC, who attended through VTC, conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to RTF-ELCAC-10 and congratulated them for battling the five-decade insurgency problem thru good governance that effectively regained the people’s trust. “Kayo ang mga totoong bayani na hindi mababayaran. With your collective efforts, we hope to empower communities to participate in developing a culture of peace. Therefore, I congratulate everyone for your active and relentless drive to sustain the programs of NTF-ELCAC, geared towards ending the communist’s insurgency,” she added.

In a statement, MGEN MAMAWAG praised his predecessors for guiding RTF-ELCAC TWG to where it is today, doing target-focused and synergized planning to accelerate implementation of peace and developmental projects aimed at providing better opportunities for the people in conflict-affected communities while offering the hand of reconciliation to CTG remnants willing to abandon the armed struggle and return to the path of peace.

[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/rtf-elcac-10-awards-its-four-4-former-twg-chairpersons/

Kalinaw News: 220 new 4ID recruits take their oath

From Kalinaw News (Jun 21, 2022): 220 new 4ID recruits take their oath

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Two hundred twenty (220) young aspirants took their oath as Candidate Soldiers before MGEN WILBUR C MAMAWAG, Commander, 4ID on June 16, 2022 at 4ID Gym, Camp Evangelista, Brgy. Patag, CDO.

The new recruits (190 males and 30 females), 11 of which are CAFGU members while 31 come from the Indigenous People (IP) communities, were selected from almost two (2) thousand applicants who underwent a month-long screening process. They will compose the Candidate Soldier Course Class of 726 and 727 to undergo a 6-month Basic Military Training at Mindanao Army Training Group (MATG), Camp Kibaritan, Kalilangan, Bukidnon.

One of the trainees, Mary Grace Opitan, an IP from Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, says that joining the Army has been a life-long dream and hopes that this would pave the way for a better life for her family and tribe. Her tribe, Manobo, has always been subjected to exploitation, illegal recruitment, and abuse by the communist terrorist group (CTG).

In his message, MGEN MAMAWAG stated that the ceremony signals the start of the new life of these young individuals who accepted the challenge of joining the profession of arms in order to serve the country and the Filipino people.

“I’m sure will always remember this day for the rest of your life. You are no longer carefree civilians. You will be trained to become responsible defenders of our freedom and democracy.” he added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/220-new-4id-recruits-take-their-oath/

Kalinaw News: A mother with her unborn child was saved from the Communist Terrorist Group

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 21, 2022): A mother with her unborn child was saved from the Communist Terrorist Group



CARMEN, Surigao del Sur – A Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) member Charmaine Ravelo Coquilla voluntarily surrender to the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion last 14 June 2022 at Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.

During the interview, the said member was deluded in the opportunity of a promised life and opportunity to earn. However, Charmaine was not allowed to leave as she was threatened with stories of torture the CNTs do to those who escape. This led her to stay in the group as she was brought to unknown places without her knowledge. She then decided to surrender to the government as she was left pregnant by her partner Dexter Umba who was killed in an encounter last 14 April 2022. Charmaine realized that her unborn child deserves a peaceful life away from the torment of the CNTs.

36IB Commanding Officer, Lt Col. Michael Rey S Reuyan, welcomed the decision of Charmaine to return to the folds of the government.

“The right to live peacefully is a right of every human being. There is no direction in joining the false and forced propaganda of the CTGs, especially to the unborn. A life of terror and ambiguity by holding arms is not the solution to the menial problem of our nation. Your baby could have a brighter future ahead as you step away from the armed struggle,” LTC Reuyan said.

The surrenderee is being applied to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). She had her first visit to a health clinic and had undergone prenatal, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Her baby is in a healthy condition.

“There is a second chance for those who want peace with the government. The E-CLIP as the government’s reintegration program for the Former Rebels (FR) has played a key role in the CNTs’ decision to surrender and have a better future. You could also have another chance to be with your community and family.” Lt. Col. Reuyan added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/a-mother-with-her-unborn-child-was-saved-from-the-communist-terrorist-group/

Kalinaw News: 2 ASG sub-leaders surrender in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 20, 2022): 2 ASG sub-leaders surrender in Sulu



THE Philippine Army (PA) said two sub-leaders of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrendered to state troops in Sulu on Friday.

In a statement, the PA said the two voluntarily approached the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu and the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division at its headquarters in Camp Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu.

JTF Sulu commander Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio said the ASG sub-leaders were identified as alias Mujer Yadah, 55 years old, and alias Ben Tatto, 41 years old, both belonging to the ASG-Indanan kidnap-for-ransom (KFR) group of senior leader alias Apo Mike.

“The ASG returnees also brought with them two M16 rifles,” said Patrimonio.

Patrimonio said that Yadah had been with Apo Mike’s group since 2002 and was involved in KFR, bombing, and beheading of foreign and local kidnap victims.

After the death of their leader, they were always on the run, had no place to hide, exhausted and often experienced starvation. Yadah also revealed that they no longer have the support of the community which prompted them to go back to the folds of the law.

“The voluntary surrender of the ASG members was through the concerted efforts of 32nd Infantry Battalion, 6th Special Forces Battalion, 45th Infantry Battalion, the police counterpart of Sulu Provincial Police Office, 7th Special Action Battalion, Special Action Force and Regional Intelligence Unit 9, ” Brig. Gen. Benjamin Batara Jr. said.

Col. Jaime Mojica, Sulu police provincial director, also said that the ASG members had been served with several warrants of arrest for kidnapping, homicide, and serious illegal detention.

“As the military formally handed the ASG returnees to us, they will properly undergo the legal process,” said Mojica.

Patrimonio lauded the convergence of efforts that brought the ASG members back to the fold of the law.

“This is indicative of our successful peace and security campaign in Sulu. The decision of the ASG returnees will contribute to inducing more ASG members who have standing warrants to return to the fold of the law who are in doubt to surrender,” he said.

“This is now the right time for you to lay down your arms, avail yourself of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, and live peacefully.”

[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/2-asg-sub-leaders-surrender-in-sulu/