Kalinaw News: Soldiers intensify info campaign on CTG deceptive recruitment in Ifugao

From Kalinaw News (Dec 4, 2022): Soldiers intensify info campaign on CTG deceptive recruitment in Ifugao (By Jonathan Blanco)

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija–Soldiers of 54th Infantry Battalion (54IB) under operational control of 7th Infantry Division (7ID), Philippine Army intensified their information campaign in Ifugao province to raise the awareness of the youth on the deceptive recruitment of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) held at the Ifugao State University-Nayon Campus last November 25, 2022.

The Information and Education Campaign (IEC) was actively participated by 258 students from the 3rd and 4th year levels of the Criminology Department.

It can be recalled that in the 3rd quarter of 2022, various schools in Ifugao also benefited from the same activity spearheaded by soldiers as part of the government’s program to insulate the youth from the deceptive recruitment of violent extremists.

Lt. Col. Emmanuel Diasen Jr, 54IB Battalion Commander said that the IEC is one of the unit’s pro-active measures to counter the deceptive CTG recruitment scheme and to educate the youth particularly students on the duplicity and dual tactics of the terrorists.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Andrew D. Costelo, Commander of 7ID, encouraged the youth sector to be vigilant against the Communist Terrorists’ presence in the community.

“Sa panahon na kayo ay maka-encounter ng mga CTG members sa inyong lugar, huwag kayong mag-atubili na lumapit sa ating kasundaluhan at kayo ay aming po-protektahan,” Maj. Gen. Costelo 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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/soldiers-intensify-info-campaign-on-ctg-deceptive-recruitment-in-ifugao/

Kalinaw News: Government troops unearth NPA arms cache in Quezon

From Kalinaw News (Dec 1, 2022): Government troops unearth NPA arms cache in Quezon (By Jonathan Blanco)

An arms cache belonging to the New People’s Army was recovered by the government troops in General Nakar, Quezon on Thursday, November 24, 2022.

Soldiers of the 2nd Infantry Division and 7th Infantry Division were acting on information from former rebels regarding an arms cache hidden by NPA members at Sitio Uyungan in Barangay Umiray when they unearthed the buried war materiel. Among the items recovered were one M16 rifle, a short magazine and 17 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition.

It can be recalled that on November 11, 2022, two members of KLG Narciso’s Platun 2 from the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee’s Sub-Regional Military Area 4A surrendered to the joint forces of 2ID and 7ID at Barangay Tagumpay in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija. The pair are residents of Sitio Pinamaypayan, Barangay Umiray in Dingalan, Aurora and were among those who helped locate the arms cache.

“The cooperation of former rebels has led to significant gains crucial to the government’s effort to end insurgency. This feat contributes to our efforts of securing our communities from the atrocities of the NPA in Southern Tagalog. With this, we urge those still in arms to surrender and return to the folds of the law so we can ensure a safe and peaceful Christmas season for everyone,” 2ID Commander Maj. Gen.0 Roberto S. Capulong said in a statement.

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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/government-troops-unearth-npa-arms-cache-in-quezon/

Kalinaw News: 4 members of CTG surrender to the government in AgSur

From Kalinaw News (Dec 1, 2022): 4 members of CTG surrender to the government in AgSur (By Jonathan Blanco)



TALACOGON, AGUSAN DEL SUR – Four (4) regular members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) bringing along their firearms with magazines and live ammunition yielded to the 26th Infantry Battalion on November 30, 2022.

The unit’s intensified military operations, support of the locals and strengthened partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs) and tribal leaders significantly contributed to the voluntary surrender of the four (4) regular members of PLTN SAGAY, Sub-Regional Committee 3 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee operating in the hinter areas of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur and Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte. They also surrendered two (2) AK47 rifles, one (1) KG-9 sub-machine gun, and one (1) Carbine rifle.

Fear for their lives, hunger, longingness for their families and children, and broken promises of their recruiters fueled them to return to the folds of the law. “Ni sulod ko sa NPA tungod sa ilang mga propaganda ug pasalig nga makabaton ko ug maayong kinabuhi ug aron maka eskwela ang akong mga anak. Apan sa pila ka tuig walay kahayahay nga akong nasinati, hinoon mas nisamot ang kalisud nga akong nahiaguman, nadugangan pa akong kamingaw ug kalooy sa akong mga anak nga nabiyaan. Karon ni surrender ko uban sa akong mga kauban tungod kay ang ilang mga pasalig nga maka lingkawas sa kalisod usa lamang ka pangilad ug walay kamatuoran” Alyas Airish said.

Likewise, Lt Col Sandy Majarocon, Commanding Officer of this unit, welcomed the surrenderees and appreciated them for choosing the path of peace and reconciliation with the government. “Sakto kaau ang tayming sa inyong pag-surrender kay naay nindot kaau nga programa ang atong gobyerno karon para sa mga Former Rebels (FRs) pinaagi sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program o E-CLIP. Ang 26IB maningkamot nga matabangan kamo ug maalalayan kamo ngadtu sa nagkalaiyang mga ahensya sa gobyerno sa pag proseso sa mga programa ug benepisyo alang kaninyo. Manghinaut ko nga kaning inyong pag-surrender tinarong ug matinud-anon kini ug magtinabangay na kita para malungtarong kalinaw ug seguridad sa atong lugar”, he said.

The surrenderees will undergo various types of assessment and documentation for their enrolment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government and availment of other programs for their reintegration into the mainstream society and to be able to start better lives.

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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/4-members-of-ctg-surrender-to-the-government-in-agsur/

Kalinaw News: Killed NPA Terrorist in Kabankalan identified as Top NPA Leader in Negros

From Kalinaw News (Dec 1, 2022): Killed NPA Terrorist in Kabankalan identified as Top NPA Leader in Negros (By Jonathan Blanco)

CAMP GERONA, Murcia, Negros Occidental –One of the Top NPA Leaders stationed on Negros Island was identified as one of the NPA Terrorists killed in a recent encounter in Kabankalan City on November 30, 2022.

Informants and former rebels positively identified the deceased Top NPA Leader as ERICSON LEGAZPI ACOSTA @RAFFY, a 43-year-old native of Ligao City, Albay. According to their admissions, Acosta @RAFFY is currently the head of the political unified committee (PUC) of the NPA terrorists in the Visayas and the deputy secretary of the Komiteng Rehiyon- Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KR-NCBS). He is the husband of the late Kerima Tariman, a female NPA leader who was slain on August 22, 2021, in Silay City after a legal conflict with members of 79IB. After RAMON PATRIARCA @USTING/@CHINO, the acting secretary of Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, was arrested earlier this year, Acosta took over as first deputy secretary. Due to internal disputes and issues within the NPA organization as well as the declining number of political cadres in Negros Island, Acosta and his wife Kerima Lorena Tariman were sent by the National Organ of the New People’s Army to Negros Island in 2018. They were tasked with managing the NPA’s Regional Party Committee in Negros.

Acosta @RAFFY is the Head of the Political Unified Committee (PUC) and a member of the Pambansang Kalihiman sa Edukasyon (PAKED), which automatically entitles him to membership on the KR-NCBS Executive Committee. He masterminded many NPA crimes on Negros Island, including the early-year ambush on the Binalbagan PNP and other deadly NPA acts. Acosta also conducted multiple NPA political trainings in various hinterland areas and communities on Negros Island based on the informants and Former Rebels to revive the NPA and its Politico-Military Organizations (Underground Organizations).

The National Democratic Front (NDF) spokespeople’s assertions that Acosta is an NDF consultant, peasant organizer, and poet are false. They tried to glorify Acosta’s murder to hide his role in the NPA terrorists’ underground activities and crimes by portraying him as a musician, poet, and innocent activist rather than a notorious NPA leader. The NDF is attempting to hide Ericson Acosta’s genuine identity with its statement.

“The locals’ vigilance and complete faith in the government led to the deaths of NPA Top Leaders Ericson Acosta @RAFFY and Albert Jimenez @TAN-TAN. The encounter highlights the NPA terrorists’ ongoing decline in community support.

The CPP-NPA-NDF will undoubtedly release propaganda whenever they experience significant losses in order to elicit sympathy from the community. When things don’t go their way, they always say there wasn’t a battle or an encounter “The 303rd Brigade Commander, BGEN Inocencio Pasaporte, made a statement.

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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/killed-npa-terrorist-in-kabankalan-identified-as-top-npa-leader-in-negros/

Invisible scars remain in conflict areas: ICRC

From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 2, 2022): Invisible scars remain in conflict areas: ICRC

TWO SENIOR leaders of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have expressed alarm over the suffering of civilians due to violent conflicts.

ICRC Vice President Gilles Carbonnier and Regional Director for Asia-Pacific Christine Cipolla who were recently in Marawi City said they witnessed the long-lasting impact of urban warfare and engaged authorities in steps to reduce civilian harm. They also addressed relevant International Humanitarian Laws and humanitarian issues in conjunction with geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region and reaffirmed the organization’s neutral, impartial, and independent humanitarian action in the country, in strong partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC).

“War in cities inflicts deep scars, both visible and invisible. In Marawi, the most affected area has been reduced to rubble, and livelihoods were destroyed. Families continue to search for their loved ones who have gone missing for more than five years,” Carbonnier said.

“Complying with IHL in the midst of conflict, particularly in densely populated areas, reduces civilian harm and ensuing grievances. This in turn helps create an enabling environment for peace and reconciliation, as a former commander of a non-state armed group shared with me based on his experience in Mindanao,” he added.

Carbonnier and Cipolla also had the opportunity to better understand the causes and consequences of massive overcrowding in Philippine detention facilities, seeing first-hand the situation in Quezon City Jail. The ICRC supports the Philippine authorities’ efforts to decongest places of detention and improve the treatment and conditions of detention.

“Overcrowding increases the spread of communicable diseases such as COVID-19, scabies, and tuberculosis in places of detention. We will continue to engage detaining authorities in confidential and bilateral dialogues to pursue a collective and sustainable response,” Cipolla said.

The two leaders appreciated the humanitarian response of the PRC in Mindanao, including in areas that were recently hit by Tropical Storm Nalgae (Paeng). The ICRC has been supporting the PRC and the government’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts in remote and conflict-affected areas in Mindanao.

With PRC Chairman Richard Gordon and Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang, they visited a PRC Bakuna Bus (“vaccine bus”) in General Santos City.

Gordon said the ICRC has always been supportive of the PRC’s COVID-19 interventions. “They donated buses equipped with a vaccine administration area and supplies, while we provided a cadre of volunteers to perform the task. In the PRC, we cannot deny opportunities to help because it’s our aim to uplift people… we do not give dole-outs, we uplift people,” he said.

During their visit, the ICRC leadership also discussed humanitarian priorities at national and regional levels with the President Marcos’ Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Jesus Domingo, Defense Undersecretary Ignacio Madriaga, the Bangsamoro Minister of the Interior and Local Government Naguib Sinarimbo and the Secretary of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Guiling Mamondiong.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/12/invisible-scars-remain-in-conflict.html

Letters to the Editor: Death of rebel leader is big blow to NPA

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 3, 2022): Letters to the Editor: Death of rebel leader is big blow to NPA

Dear Editor,

The recent death of New People's Army (NPA) leader Ericson Legazpi Acosta and his NPA comrade Joseph Jimenez in a clash with government troops in Kabankalan City on Wednesday (Nov. 30, 2022) is another "huge blow" to the communist-terrorists movement in Visayas Regions and mostly in Negros Island.Acosta, also known as "Raffy" and "Fredo" is the NPA's first deputy secretary for Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol and Siquijor (KR-NCBS) and head of the Political Unified Committee in the Visayas. He is the husband of the late Kerima Tariman, a female NPA leader who died in a legitimate encounter with elements of 79IB in Silay City last August 22, 2021.

Contrary to the propaganda claims of the National Democratic Front (NDF) that Acosta is an NDF consultant, peasant organizer and a poet, he and Jimenez were killed in a legitimate encounter and pursuit operations with ground forces in Makilo, a mountain community in the village of Camansi of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on November 30, 2022.





As expected, the CPP-NPA-NDF have been very quick to exploit the incident- a worn-out ploy to discredit the government troops and win public sympathy as what they always do whenever they suffer major setbacks. As their propaganda aims to glorify Acosta’s death to cover up his involvement in the NPA Terrorists underground activities and atrocities, they must realize that they can no longer manipulate and deceive the peace-loving Filipino people and that violence has no place in a civilized community of the Visayas.

The long arm of the law has finally caught up with Acosta. Unfortunately, the consequences of his atrocities and violence led to a tragic ending. He orchestrated numerous NPA atrocities in Negros Island including other neighbouring provinces particularly the ambush of Binalbagan PNP early this year, countless recruitments of farmers and students, extortion activities, and other NPA violent activities.

Based on the informants and Former Rebels, Acosta also conducted numerous NPA political trainings in different hinterland areas and communities in Negros Island to revitalize both the NPA and their Politico-Military Organizations (Underground Organizations).

With that situation, it is believed that his death is the result of the continuing coordinative effort of the populace who had grown weary of the NPA menace and the unrelenting commitment of your army troops to protect the community from the NPA terrorists.

It is the voice of the people that makes the NPA terrorist irrelevant and likewise, it is the resiliency of the Negrense to recognize the truth that will set Negros Island free from the lies and propaganda of the communist-terrorists that put the lives of Negrense people in danger.

Now, justice has been served for those innocent civilians and their communities that the NPA have victimized for several decades. For these people, Ericson Acosta is not a poet, songwriter or peasant organizer but the leader of a terrorist group that has sowed fear.

His death will greatly affect plans of the communist terrorists to plot violence against the peace-loving people in this side of the country and hopefully could be a blow for the eventual collapse of the communist terrorist group and will usher in eventual peace in the regions.

Likewise, his death will bring the remaining NPAs to their realization to choose the path of peace and lead a normal life. As one, it is nearly time that no more Negrense will close their doors and windows in nightfall and let the evils of communism and terrorism takeover their land.

Sincerely yours,

MAJOR JOE PATRICK A MARTINEZ PA
Group Commander
3rd Civil Relations Group
Civil Relations Service, AFP
Camp Lapu-Lapu, Apas, Cebu City

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2022/12/letters-to-editor-death-of-rebel-leader.html

164 Reds surrender in Mimaropa since January

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3, 2022): 164 Reds surrender in Mimaropa since January (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

MANILA – A total of 164 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) have surrendered to different police units in Mimaropa from January to December 1 this year, the regional police said Friday.

“We are committed to sustaining the success of this campaign towards a communist terrorist group-free Mimaropa,” Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-B (Mimaropa) chief, Brig. Gen. Sidney Hernia, said in a statement.

The latest to surrender were two members of the NPA in Oriental Mindoro on Thursday.

“Ka Gringo”, 27, and “Ka Jimbo,” 33, both members of Platoon SERNA of Kilusang Larangang Gerilya - Mark Anthony Velasco under the Lucio de Guzman Command of the Sub-Regional Military Area 4D, Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee, voluntarily surrendered after a series of dialogues with the 403rd B Maneuver Company (MC), Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 4-B, led by Lt. Sherwin Ramirez, in Barangay Cabalwa, in the town of Mansalay.

The successful surrender of the former rebels was made possible with the assistance of the Bulalacao municipal police, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, and Provincial Intelligence Unit, all under the Oriental Mindoro provincial police; Regional Intelligence Division; 10th Special Action Battalion, Philippine National Police (PNP) Special Action Force; 4th Infantry Battalion and 23rd Military Intelligence Company, 203rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army; and Regional Intelligence Unit Mimaropa, PNP Intelligence Group.

Hernia said the surrenderers are now under the custody of the 403rd B MC for debriefing, and assistance for their enrollment in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“All those who surrendered can avail of the E-CLIP for their reintegration to the community and will be receiving livelihood program and cash aid from the government,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190005

Leader of armed group yields in Basilan town

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3, 2022): Leader of armed group yields in Basilan town (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A leader of a clan, listed as a potential private armed group, has surrendered to authorities in the province of Basilan, a top police official said Saturday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said Sabtarul Arasalun, 66, surrendered around 10 a.m. Friday at the town hall of Tipo-Tipo, Basilan province.

Verceles said Arasalun is the leader of the Hamuto clan, listed as a potential private armed group in Barangay Lagayas, Tipo-Tipo.

Arasalun turned over a .38-caliber revolver with tampered serial number and ammunition.

With the surrender of Arasalun, the Hamuto clan will be delisted in the data of potential private armed groups in Basilan as of the fourth quarter of 2022.

Private armed groups are often utilized by politicians during elections.

Verceles said Arasalun will be reintegrated back into his community where he will be closely monitored by the Tipo-Tipo Municipal Police Station to ensure that he will abide by the law.

The surrender of Arasalun was witnessed by Tipo-Tipo Mayor Arcam Istarul and top police and military officials in Basilan province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190015

Army Support Command gets 21 new facilities from BCDA

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2022): Army Support Command gets 21 new facilities from BCDA (By Priam Nepomuceno)

TURNOVER. BCDA chairperson Delfin Lorenzana (left) and PA acting chief of staff Maj. Gen. Jose Eriel Niembra (center) show the document for the turnover of 21 newly completed facilities in simple rites at Camp Servillano Aquino in Tarlac City on Wednesday (Nov. 30, 2022). The facilities turned over to the Army Support Command are expected to provide a better logistics, storage and management hub for ASCOM which is tasked to provide firepower, transportation, organizational and maintenance equipment support to PA major units. (Photo courtesy of BCDA)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) announced that the Army Support Command (ASCOM) based in Camp Servillano Aquino, Tarlac City formally received 21 newly completed facilities from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on Wednesday.

The ASCOM facilities project is part of the 2017 memorandum of agreement signed by BCDA and the Department of National Defense for the relocation of Army facilities from an 11.5-hectare portion of Fort Bonifacio to Camp Servillano Aquino, the headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Northern Luzon Command.

In a statement Wednesday night, Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said BCDA chair Delfin Lorenzana and PA acting chief of staff Maj. Gen. Jose Eriel Niembra, representing Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., signed the document for the turnover of the facilities in a ceremony at Camp Servillano Aquino.

"Maj. Gen. Niembra said relocating and constructing modern ASCOM facilities at a strategic location in Camp Servillano Aquino will bolster the unit’s capability to provide logistical support to ground forces," Trinidad said.

He added that the facilities are expected to provide a better logistics, storage and management hub for ASCOM which is tasked to provide firepower, transportation, organizational, and maintenance equipment support to PA major units.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189828

PH-US 1951 MDT still 'under negotiation, evolution': PBBM

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2022): PH-US 1951 MDT still 'under negotiation, evolution': PBBM (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and US Vice President Kamala Harris (PNA photo by Rey Baniquet)

MANILA – The 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States (US) remains under "negotiation and evolution," President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Thursday.

"Well, the Mutual Defense Treaty is continuously under negotiation and under evolution. I always call it as an evolution because things are changing," Marcos said in a media interview on the sidelines of the Kadiwa ng Pasko caravan in Quezon City.

Marcos' statement came after National Security Adviser Secretary Clarita Carlos earlier revealed that the President ordered a scrutiny of MDT.

Marcos said the defense pact between the two countries are under review because the US has "many requests and proposals," particularly in the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

"So all of that is under study now to see what is really feasible and what will be the most useful for the defense of Philippine territory," he said.

Concerns on security and defense cooperation between the two nations were among those tackled during a recent meeting with US Vice President Kamala Harris, Marcos said.

"We covered that and many more subjects. But essentially, on the security, ‘yun tinitingnan natin ‘yung kanilang pino-propose, ‘yung mga joint exercises (we are studying their proposal, the joint exercises), and EDCA, the use of our bases, all of these. We are in the middle of that," Marcos said.

During their meeting at Malacañan Palace on Nov. 21, Harris assured Marcos that the US would "always" stand with the Philippines in defense of international rules and norms as it relates to the highly-contested South China Sea (SCS).

Harris also stressed that any possible armed attack against Philippine forces in the SCS would prompt the invocation of US mutual defense commitments.

The 1951 MDT, the longest-running defense pact, aims to step up the defense and security cooperation between the Philippine and US troops.

Carlos on Nov. 22 said that the government has already created a group to study and review the MDT.

The group, Carlos said, is composed of officials from the National Security Council, the Department of National Defense and the Department of Foreign Affairs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189843

Army chief fetes 11th Infantry Division for gains vs. ASG

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 2, 2022): Army chief fetes 11th Infantry Division for gains vs. ASG (By Priam Nepomuceno)

11TH ID ANNIVERSARY. Army commander, Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. (2nd from left), awards the Commanding General Philippine Army (CGPA) significant accomplishment streamer to the 11th Infantry Division during its fourth founding anniversary celebration at Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo town, Sulu province on Thursday (Dec. 1, 2022). The Army chief also recognized the 11ID, also known as the "Alakdan" Division, for the recovery of assorted high- and low-powered firearms, and facilitation of the implementation of developmental projects for the internally displaced persons in collaboration with the provincial and local government units of Patikul and Talipao, Sulu. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – Philippine Army (PA) chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. has commended the 11th Infantry Division (11ID) for its efforts in combating the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) via intelligence-driven operations as it marked its fourth founding anniversary on Thursday.

Brawner graced the celebration at the unit's headquarters at the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Busbos in Jolo town, Sulu province.

The Army chief also recognized the 11ID, also known as the "Alakdan" Division, for the recovery of assorted high- and low-powered firearms, and facilitation of the implementation of developmental projects for the internally displaced persons through the "Balik Barangay Program" in collaboration with the provincial and local government units of Patikul and Talipao, Sulu.

"(He) lauded the unit's effort in maintaining lasting peace and progress in its areas of responsibility since its inception in 2018," PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Friday.

During the celebration, Brawner also led the awarding of plaques to the best battalion, officers, enlisted personnel, and stakeholders.

"To the gallant servant-soldiers of the 'Alakdan' Division, continue to focus on your primary objective of defeating and eliminating the remaining elements of local terrorist groups within your area of operations. We shall continue to pursue and promote the Philippine Army's primordial objectives as enshrined in the acronym, S.E.R.V.E. I am certain that together with the steadfast convergence support of our partner-stakeholders, we will restore the old glory and facilitate a prosperous future for the people of Sulu," Brawner said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189966

3 men slain in shootout with cops in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 2, 2022): 3 men slain in shootout with cops in Sultan Kudarat (By Edwin Fernandez)

TACURONG CITY – Three men died after ignoring a checkpoint inspection and engaged the police in a predawn shootout in Lambayong town, Sultan Kudarat province, on Friday.

Major Jenahmeel Toñacao, Lambayong police chief, said cops manning a checkpoint around 1 a.m. in Barangay Didtaras, Lambayong flagged down three men onboard a motorbike heading toward the town proper.

The men instead sped away and a chase ensued. As the trio fled, their motorbike crashed, and they started firing at the pursuing lawmen.

“This prompted the police to return fire, hitting the armed men who all fell on the ground,” Toñacao said.

Police rushed the three men to the hospital, but all were pronounced dead upon arrival by the attending physician.

Police investigators recovered two .45-caliber pistols, a hand grenade, a sachet of shabu, and a Suzuki motorbike from the slain suspects.

The identities of the suspects are still being verified, Toñacao said.

The recovered firearms and grenade were brought to the police station for examination and cross-matching while the remains of the trio remained in the hospital awaiting claimants, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189956

WWII vets in NegOr honored with US Congressional Gold Medal

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 2, 2022): WWII vets in NegOr honored with US Congressional Gold Medal (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

TRIBUTE. Defense Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. awards World War II veteran, Pvt. Felix A Sechico, the US Congress Gold Medal in the presence of US Embassy and Philippine officials at the Silliman University gymnasium in Dumaguete City on Friday (Dec. 2, 2022). A total of 45 war veterans in Negros Oriental received the award, most of them already deceased and represented by their families. (Photo by Judy Flores Partlow)

DUMAGUETE CITY – A total of 45 World War II Filipino veterans in Negros Oriental were given the United States Congressional Gold Medal during ceremonies held at the gymnasium of Silliman University in this capital city on Friday.

Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. of the Department of National Defense (DND) expressed gratitude to the United States government for giving recognition to Filipino war heroes, noting the sacrifices that they made for the sake of the country and the world.

He said this was “long overdue” and it is just but fitting to pay them tribute noting they can set a good example of bravery, courage, and sacrifice to the younger generations.

Of the 45 awardees, only four are still alive.

“This is a very proud moment for the veterans, they are a part of our history and they give us inspiration in that whatever peace we are experiencing right now, whatever we want to hand over to the next generations, we have to backtrack and relive their bravery and heroism,” Faustino said in mixed English and Filipino.

The gold medals were given to the veterans and/or their families by Faustino; Mr. Brett Blackshaw, Political Counselor of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines who represented U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson; Acting Director Kevin J. McAllister of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator; and Dr. Henry Sojor, representing Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo.

Blackshaw, in his message, said “The United States Gold Medal is the U.S. Congress’ highest expression of national appreciation to distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals and one of the highest civilian awards” in their country.

He said his country is grateful to the Filipino war veterans even though many are no longer around.

Meanwhile, Mapagu told the Philippine News Agency in an interview that there is still a lot of “hard work” to be done for the welfare and benefit of the veterans.

“Right now I can say that we have pension and non-pension benefits for them,” he said, “as actually, veterans do not actually receive a pension.

Mapagu said the monetary benefit has been recently raised from PHP5,000 to PHP20,000 monthly.

Non-pension benefits include hospitalization and educational/scholarship for their children or grandchildren as well as a death benefit, he added.

On the awarding of the US Congressional Gold Medal, Mapagu said “this is very significant because it’s a kind of a late recognition of their heroism and their contribution to our country in terms of attaining our freedom and our independence”.

Many of them were not recognized as part of the US Armed Forces, he said.

The medals handed out to the war veterans here are replicas of the last remaining original gold medal that is now displayed at the Smithsonian Institute in the U.S., he noted.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189963

DND exec lauds Negros military for anti-insurgency gains

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 2, 2022): DND exec lauds Negros military for anti-insurgency gains (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

SALUTE. Military and police commanders honor World War II veterans in Negros Oriental during a recognition ceremony in Dumaguete City on Friday (Dec. 2, 2022). Defense Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr., who attended the activity, commanded the efforts of the uniformed men in Negros Island for the accomplishments in the fight to end the communist insurgency. (PNA photo by Judy Flores Partlow)

DUMAGUETE CITY – A ranking official of the Department of National Defense (DND) on Friday commended the Philippine Army for its accomplishments in the government’s fight against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

DND Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr., in an interview, said “at the national level, ELCAC (End Local Communist Armed Conflict) will continue and the administration fully supports ELCAC and we know that this is very effective as can be seen by the remarkable accomplishments”.

Faustino particularly mentioned the gains in Negros, having "the best military commanders", saying that together with the Philippine National Police and other uniformed services, “this has become a model for others to replicate, especially in the Visayas region, on how we solve the insurgency problem.”

The DND official also cited the help of the local chief executives, the local government units and agencies, for being key in ending the insurgency.

He also noted that some areas are already “enjoying relative peace” because of the whole-of-nation efforts.

During a courtesy call with Governor Roel Degamo earlier, Faustino said they discussed the insurgency fight now being relegated to the regional or even provincial level “and that is very encouraging”.

Some regions in the country have already been declared insurgency-free, he noted.

Faustino was in this capital city for the awarding of the US Congress Gold Medal to 45 Filipino World War II veterans from Negros Oriental who fought alongside troops of the United States Armed Forces in the Far East (USAFFE).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189969

4ID bestows medals on wounded troops in clash vs. NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 1, 2022): 4ID bestows medals on wounded troops in clash vs. NPA (By Nef Luczon)

COURAGE. Maj. Gen. Wilbur Mamawag (left), the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) chief, pins the "Wounded Personnel Medal" on Thursday (Dec. 1, 2022) on Private Danclint Patindol of the 36th Infantry Battalion(IB). Conferred with the same medal is Private Dave Calsa of the 26IB, as both were confined at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital in Cagayan de Oro City. (Photo courtesy of 4ID)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Army’s 4th Infantry Division (ID) bestowed medals on two of its soldiers Thursday who were wounded in a recent clash with communist rebels.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Wilbur Mamawag, 4ID commander, pinned the "Wounded Personnel Medal" to Privates Danclint Patindol and Dave Calsa of the Army’s 36th Infantry Battalion (IB) and 26IB, respectively, who are both confined at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital here.

They were taken to the hospital after a Nov. 30 clash with the remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) at the borders of Caraga Northern Mindanao regions.

Mamawag lauded the "selfless dedication and patriotism of the two soldiers in securing the communities and protecting the people against the atrocities and deceptive recruitment of minors" by the NPA.

He assured the soldiers of financial assistance and quality health care.

The Wounded Personnel Medal is given to soldiers who have been injured while fighting the enemy or as a direct result of an enemy attack and those who have exemplified bravery, military professionalism and heroism in the performance of their mandate.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189901