CPP/NPA-Southern Panay: Masa na ang maghuhusga

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 19, 2023): Masa na ang maghuhusga (The people will be the judge)

Ang artikulong ito ay may salin sa Hiligaynon

Ariston Remus

Spokesperson

NPA-Southern Panay

Panay Regional Operational Command

New People's Army

February 19, 2023

Ang Napoleon Tumagtang Command, New People’s Army – Southern Panay ay nagnanais na ipaabot ang sumusunod na mga punto:

Una, lubos naming pinasasalamatan ang Zarraga News Live Station (ZNLS) sa pagkakataong ma-inteview si Ka Aurora Malaya, NTC Public Information Officer sa iba’t ibang isyu kaugnay sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Kasabay nito, nagpapasalamat din kami sa daan libong netizens na nakikinig sa aming pahayag pabor man o dispabor sa nilalaman nito.

Ikalawa, dismayado kami na na-delete o ipina-delete ang dalawang audio-videong pahayag ni Ka Aurora Malaya, ng kung sinuman dahil nag-viral ito sa motibo na sagkaan ang patas na pamamahayag at kontrolin ang media. Kasunod nang pagka-delete, nagpa-interbyu si Jefrey Celis alyas Erick Almendras na nang-iintriga sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan at ini-intimidar ang NTC PIO na si Ka Aurora Malaya.

Hindi namin kailangang bumaba sa lebel ni Almendras at pumatol sa kanyang linya ng pag-iisip dahil malinaw namang propagandista siya ng naghaharing uri, ng teroristang estado at ng NTF- ELCAC. Natural lang sa isang tuta na tumahol para depensahan ang kanyang amo. Lohikal din na maglalako ng reaksyunaryong linya ang katulad niya dahil nakatali at hawak ng reakyunaryong estado ang kanyang buhay at kabuhayan. Kaya aksaya na lang ng panahon ang pagpatol na masagot siya punto por punto. Sa halip, para magkaroon ng basehan ang sambayanan sa pagtimbang ng kawastuhan o kredibilidad ng kanyang ipinagtatalak, ipakikilala namin ang ilang background ni Jefrey Celis.

Totoo na sa isang bahagi ng kanyang buhay nakapag-ambag siya sa rebolusyonaryong pakikibàka. Ngunit ang kontribusyong ito ay nalunod nang bumaliktad siya ng 360 degrees at nagtraidor sa interes ng masang anakpawis at nagpagamit sa reaksyunaryong estado.

Matapos tumalikod sa kilusan, lihim na sumurender siya sa pamamagitan ng dating Department of Justice Secretary at dating Iloilo City Congressman Raul Gonzales. Kasunod nito naging assistant on political affairs at spokesperson siya ng dating opposition Mayor ng Iloilo City na pinag-initan at binansagang druglord ni Duterte. Kabilang si Jefrey na binansagan at na-wanted kaugnay sa droga. Nang lumaganap na ang kaso ng pagtokhang at pamamaslang, biglang nawala si Celis sa Panay at lumutang sa anino ni Erick Almendras nang inilunsad ang NTF -ELCAC. Tumahol nang tumahol ng reaksyunaryong linya ng terorista at pasistang Rehimeng Duterte at ng Rehimeng Marcos II na parang asong ulol.

In a simple analysis, ibinenta ni Jefrey ang adhikain ng api’t pinagsasamatalahang mamamayan para makapagpasilong sa militar kapalit ng kaseguruhan ng kanyang buhay laban sa tokhang at katiyakan ng kanyang kabuhayan.

Ironically, sa likod ng pag-aastang matapang at pagmamarunong, si Jefrey Celis ay matakutin sa ilang simpleng bagay lamang kagaya ng dilim, ng tuko at sa labanan. Wala ni kahit isang pagkakataon na sumabak siya sa labanan.

Pinauubaya na lang namin sa malawak na sambayanan ang mag-isip-isip at maghusga ayon sa kasaysayan at paninindigan ni Jefrey Celis. Naniniwala kami na marunong, analitikal at kritikal ang malawak na masang Panayanon.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/masa-na-ang-maghuhusga/

Kalinaw News: Army deploys two additional Battalions to boost Anti-Insurgency Campaign in EV

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 21, 2023): Army deploys two additional Battalions to boost Anti-Insurgency Campaign in EV

CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City, Samar – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division (8ID) welcomes the arrival of 74th Infantry “Unbeatable” Battalion and 42 Infantry “Tagapagtanggol” Battalion at Government Center, Palo Leyte Yesterday, February 20, 2023.

The said Battalions will be placed under the operational control of the Joint Task Force -Storm (JTF-Storm) and will help sustain the gains of the Stormtroopers in the successful implementation of its campaigns.

The 74IB is one of the battalions of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division. Prior to their deployment in Eastern Visayas, 74IB have made significant accomplishments in the fight against the Abu Sayaff Group (ASG) in Basilan Province. The unit also made significant contributions in the campaigns of the Western Mindanao Command under the Operational Control of Joint Task Force Zamboanga.

Meanwhile, the 42IB of the 9th Infantry “Spear” Division also showed exemplary performance in the conduct of offensive operations against the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army operating in Quezon and Bicol area.

The unit have been assigned to different areas in the Philippines; Camarines Sur, Zamboanga Peninsula, Lanao Del Sur and Sulu.

The unit also contributed to the liberation of Marawi City, where they took part in the 6-month fight against the ISIS-Maute Group.

Significant accomplishments in Zamboanga Del Norte was also recorded as they were able to neutralize key NPA leaders and personalities and were able to dismantle the Regional Leadership of Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC).

With their deployment in Eastern Visayas, the Commander of 8th Infantry Division, Major General Camilo Ligayo said that the two additional battalion will boost the anti-insurgency campaign in the region especially that four of the last five remaining guerilla fronts in the country is located here in region 8.

“This Division is in the the winning momentum in dismantling the four active guerilla fronts in the area of operations. Thus, an additional force would be great as we continue to strike hard on the Communist Terrorist Groups and will shorten the time in attaining strategic victory and to finally put an end to this insurgency.”

“The higher headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines is very supportive, from additional forces to war-fighting equipment, they really ensure that we are fully equip in this fight. And definitely, in no time we can totally eradicate the CTGs in the region,” Ligayo said.

Last February 17, 2023 the 21st Scout Ranger Company belonging to the elite force of 4th Scout Ranger Battalion has also arrived as an additional forces to help end the decades-long insurgency problem in the region.

Since last year, a total of four additional battalions have been deployed to Eastern Visayas that will contribute in the internal security operations against CTGs in the region.

[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/army-deploys-two-additional-battalions-to-boost-anti-insurgency-campaign-in-ev/

Kalinaw News: Sayyaf neutralized; high-powered firearm seized in Sulu clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 21, 2023): Sayyaf neutralized; high-powered firearm seized in Sulu clash

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – February 21, 2023

A member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) was killed in an encounter with the military in Sulu on Monday, February 20, 2023.

According to Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, the armed confrontation between the group of Mudzrimar Sawadjaan, a.k.a. Mundi and troops of the 111th Division Reconnaissance Company, and 32nd Infantry Battalion broke out in Barangay Kabbon Takas, Patikul, Sulu Monday morning.

Due to the superior firepower of the 111DRC troopers, the enemies quickly withdrew. While evading the military troops, the ASG members chanced upon the military reinforcement from the 32IB. Another firefight ensued, after which the enemies fled bringing along their casualties with them.

While scouring the encounter site, operating troops recovered one dead body and one M14 rifle. Soldiers also recovered one bandoleer with seven loaded magazines, one Nokia analog phone, and three backpacks loaded with assorted stuff and personal belongings.

The slain ASG member was identified as Rhudymar Habib Jihiran, a.k.a. Gulam. The two encounters also resulted in the wounding of two soldiers. Both are in stable condition and are currently recuperating at Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital.

Meanwhile, the remains of Jihiran was turned over to the PNP-SOCO for legal requirements and proper disposition.

“Despite our constant call for peaceful resolution of conflicts, some remain coldhearted, hence, we continue to intensify our operations to press on them,” Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of Western Mindanao Command, said.

“Rest assured that our operations are always in adherence to the International Humanitarian Law and other laws promulgated to ensure the safety of the communities,” the WestMinCom Commander 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.]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/sayyaf-neutralized-high-powered-firearm-seized-in-sulu-clash/

Kalinaw News: Negros NPA continues to collapse as 15 CNTs surrender

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 21, 2023): Negros NPA continues to collapse as 15 CNTs surrender

CAMP GERONA, Murcia, Negros Occidental – Fifteen (15) more communist-NPA-terrorists surrendered to Joint Philippine Army and PNP efforts in Negros Oriental on February 19, 2023.
They were formally welcomed in a ceremony held at Headquarters, 94IB in Brgy Tambo, Ayungon town.

The surrenderees who brought with them one (1) M4 rifle, two (2) cal.38 revolvers, one (1) homemade shotgun and one (1) rifle grenade were assisted by the 94IB led by its Commanding Officer LTC Van Donald Almonte and other units involved.

They revealed that they have been contemplating returning to the folds of the government after truly experiencing the opposite of what was promised to them, feeling a deficient level of morale aside from the unbearable hunger they have known while constantly running away from the government troops. Additionally, they pity the masses who, like them, have meager food sources yet are forced to give in to the communist-terrorists’ extortion demand.

The returnees further said that they have fully realized that the organization they are involved with has no future for them and their families and that they felt the government’s sincerity as their former comrades who have surrendered and availed of the government programs are now living a better and peaceful life.

303rd Infantry Brigade Commander, Colonel Orlando Edralin commended the tireless efforts of the 94IB as well as other units involved, to encourage the fifteen NPAs to surrender.

Col Edralin likewise congratulated the surrenderees for making the brave move and correct decision to return to the law’s folds. He stressed that they were just victims of the propaganda lies and deceptive recruitment of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army- National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

The 303rd Infantry Brigade, other units, as well as local government officials continue calling on the remaining members of the local communist-terrorist group in Negros island to also return to their families by surrendering and bringing with them their firearms and avail of the Enhanced-Comprehensive Livelihood 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.]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/negros-npa-continues-to-collapse-as-15-cnts-surrender/

Kalinaw News: 8ID Welcomes 564 New breed of Soldiers

Posted to Kalinaw News (Feb 21, 2023): 8ID Welcomes 564 New breed of Soldiers

CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine Army welcomes a new breed of soldiers after having completed a six-month training at Camp Eugenio Daza in Hinabangan, Samar today, February 20, 2023.

A total of 564 new privates who graduated from the Candidate Soldier Course Classes 736, 737, 738, and 739-2022 have finished their Basic Military Training (BMT) during their Candidate Soldier Course, which started on July 18, 2022.

The new privates have completed their training that has put their physical and mental abilities to test while transforming them from civilians into military men and women.

Of the 564 new privates, 537 are males and 27 are females. Two hundred ninety-one of them are from Samar, 42 from Eastern Samar, 45 from Northern Samar, 139 from Leyte, 13 from Southern Leyte, 5 from Cebu, 3 from Bohol, 1 from Biliran, 4 from Negros Oriental, 2 from Negros Occidental, 2 from Camarines Sur, 1 from Surigao del Sur, 6 from North Cotabato, 2 from Lanao del Norte, 2 from Agusan del Sur, 2 from Surigao del Norte, 1 from Davao del Norte, 1 from Bukidnon, 1 from Kalinga and 1 from Rizal.

Among the 564 new soldiers, a 22-year-old Pvt Joshua Regayas from Calbayog City, Samar topped the newest batch of Army soldiers in Eastern Visayas. And followed by a 24-year-old Pvt Angela Cayunda still from Calbayog City, Samar. Pvt Cayunda is a licensed criminologist, an advanced ROTC graduate, and a commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the Army Reserve Command.

Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, presided over the ceremony.

In his speech, Maj. Gen. Ligayo lauded the trainees for overcoming the challenges that were part of the process of shaping and preparing them to be smarter, stronger, and better individuals equipped with the necessary knowledge as they begin their journey in serving the country.

He also emphasized the essence of being a soldier and the responsibilities it entails.

“Dugo’t pawis ang inyong naging puhunan upang maabot ninyo ang inyong kinatatayuan ngayon. At sa pagkakataong ito, ang inyong dedikasyon at pagsisikap ay nagbunga na sapagkat kayo ay ganap ng mga sundalo ng Republika ng Pilipinas,” Maj. Gen Ligayo said.

Maj. Gen. Ligayo also expressed his gratitude to the parents of the new troops for entrusting them with their children who would serve the nation as new soldiers.

“Alam ko ang lungkot na inyong pinagdaanan ng mawalay sila sa inyo ng panandalian subalit kapalit naman nito ay kasiyahan na sila ay masilayan suot ang unipormeng kanilang pinaghirapang makamtan,” Maj. Gen. Ligayo added.

The new graduates will assist in fighting insurgency and bringing out peace to the entire region by serving in various army battalions and units throughout Eastern Visayas.

The distribution of certificates and awarding of individuals, oath-taking, and ceremonial entrustment of firearms are some of the highlights of the said activity.

[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/8id-welcomes-564-new-breed-of-soldiers/

2 members of Army rescue team for crashed Cessna plane killed in Albay ambush

From Rappler (Feb 21, 2023): 2 members of Army rescue team for crashed Cessna plane killed in Albay ambush (By DARCIE DE GALICIA)

After several attempts to reach the crash site on February 21, the search and rescue team of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines find the wreckage of the aircraft on the western slope of Mayon Volcano

LUCENA CITY, Philippines – Suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Monday morning, February 20 killed two members of a Philippine Army rescue team on a mission to find a crashed Cessna plane in Albay province.

A statement by the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) based in Lucena City identified the slain soldiers as Pvt. John Paul Adalim and Pvt. Mark June Esico, members of the Army’s 31st Infantry Battalion.

The both died instantly due to bullet wounds in different parts of the body, the statement said.

The SOLCOM said the two soldiers were at the market in Barangay Cotmon, Camalig town to resupply their unit’s needs when five armed men ambushed them around 7 a.m.

Esico’s father, Emmanuel, condemned the attack while Adalim’s relatives called for justice.

Major General Adonis Bajao, Commander of the 9th Infantry (Spear) Division and Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) said that the ambush was a desperate move by the NPA because of the successive accomplishments of the 9ID in Bicol region against insurgents.
CAAP finds aircraft

A day after the ambush, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said search and rescue (SAR) personnel found the wreckage of the Cessna 340 (Caravan) aircraft (RP-C2080), on the west side slope of Mayon Volcano.

The wreckage, spotted at an elevation of 3500-4000 ft. was identified with the use a high resolution camera, a CAAP statement said.

“As of now, the condition of the crew and passengers are not yet known as the exact site has not yet been reached by the SAR team due to bad weather,” the statement said.

BICOL MISSION. Search and rescue (SAR) operation crew on February 21 managed to positively identify the missing Cessna 340 (Caravan) aircraft (RP-C2080) that went missing on Saturday, 18 February 2023, on the west side of Mayon Volcano in Albay. Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines

The SAR search and rescue team launched three attempts in the morning of February 21 to reach the wreckage site, using a Philippine Air Force (PAF) Black Hawk helicopter and a Philippine Navy AW109 aircraft.

The Cessna 340 plane, which is operated by the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) went missing Saturday morning, February 18, shortly after taking off from the Bicol International Airport (BIA).

Officials said the last contact with the place was around 6:48 a.m., which was 32 kilometers from the airport and flying at 2,600 ft.

The CAAP Aviation Records Management Division (ARMD) database said the aircraft was compliant with CAAP’s airworthiness certification.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/luzon/members-rescue-team-missing-cessna-plan-killed-ambush-albay-february-20-2023/

FACT CHECK: Misleading FB post claims Cordillera activist ordered NPA ambush

Posted to the often times pro-Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on line media outlet the Davao Today (Feb 20, 2023): FACT CHECK: Misleading FB post claims Cordillera activist ordered NPA ambush

CLAIM: A “Did you know?” post published by Facebook (FB) page Filipino Forum claimed that Cordillera activist Jennifer Awingan-Taggaoa “ordered” the 2022 ambush carried out by communist rebels in Abra where two government soldiers died.

The post’s caption said Awingan-Taggaoa, who was arrested by the police last January 30 at her residence in Baguio City for a rebellion charge, is a high-ranking officer of the Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

RATING: Misleading

FACTS:

Awingan-Taggaoa, a research staff of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance, has not been convicted of ordering a New People’s Army (NPA) unit to ambush government troops in Malibcong town, Abra province on October 27, 2022.

The military implicated her and six other activists in the said NPA ambush.

Lawyer Jose Molintas, Awingan-Taggaoa’s legal counsel, argued “there is no probable cause to indict” the seven charged.

Citing the affidavits from the soldiers who survived the ambush, Molintas said the witness only named two alleged NPA members, and Awingan-Taggaoa and the other accused “were not among those identified as assailants.”

A separate petition to exclude the activists from the rebellion case was filed on February 2 this year. On February 7, Awingan-Taggaoa was released after posting bail.

Initially, the court did not recommend bail for the accused. But lawyers said their clients are accused of being members and not leaders of the CPP, making the rebellion case against them bailable.

Filipino Forum’s FB page, with over 5,000 followers, has a media/news company label. However, most of its contents focus on attacking the underground communist movement or red-tagging progressive individuals and groups.

https://davaotoday.com/human-rights/fact-check-misleading-fb-post-claims-cordillera-activist-ordered-npa-ambush/

AFP welcomes EDCA implementation in Visayas

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 22, 2023): AFP welcomes EDCA implementation in Visayas (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines Visayas Command has expressed its support and optimism following the agreement of the United States and the Philippines to expand and accelerate the operationalization of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) in the country.

In a statement, Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, AFP Visayas Command chief, conveyed his optimism as “the implementation of EDCA project in Mactan City will further enhance our preparedness posture and boost our capability to provide prompt humanitarian assistance and disaster response in the region, particularly in Eastern Visayas which is often stricken by calamities.”

The Brigadier General Benito N Ebuen Air Base in Mactan City in Cebu has been identified as one of the five predetermined sites for the implementation of EDCA, which also includes, Antonio Bautista Air Base located in Palawan, Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, and Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro City

The EDCA is a collaborative agreement intended to strengthen the alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines, which allows operating mutually agreed areas and facilities.

Signed on April 28, 2014, EDCA provides greater opportunities in enhancing military capability between the two (2) armed forces, as the utilization of the new sites would likely address security challenges and provide prompter Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR).

Arevalo emphasized further that “EDCA provides VISCOM an avenue to improve interoperability for a more effective response to any eventualities that may arise in the region, particularly during a disaster”.

https://visayandailystar.com/afp-welcomes-edca-implementation-in-visayas/

Scout Ranger killed, another wounded in Basilan ambush

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 21, 2021): Scout Ranger killed, another wounded in Basilan ambush

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Gunmen killed a member of the Philippine Army’s Scout Ranger regiment and wounded another in an ambush Tuesday in the restive Muslim province of Basilan.

The soldiers were on a motorcycle heading back to their camp from the marketplace in Sumisip town when armed men attacked them in the village of Mebak. The identities of the casualties were not immediately known.

No group or individual claimed responsibility for the ambush, but the town is a known stronghold of the pro-ISIS group Abu Sayyaf.

The attack came a day after troops clashed with Abu Sayyaf in the province of Sulu that left one gunman dead and two soldiers wounded in the village called Kabbon Takas in Patikul town.

This was confirmed by Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, saying members of the Philippine Army’s 111th Division Reconnaissance Company, and 32nd Infantry Battalion clashed twice with the group of terrorist leader Mudzrimar Sawadjaan, alias Mundi, one of the most notorious Abu Sayyaf commander in the province and included in the military's order of battle.

Patrimonio identified the slain gunman as Rhudymar Habib Jihiran, alias Gulam.

“The two encounters also resulted in the wounding of two soldiers. Both are in stable condition and are currently recuperating at Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital,” he said without releasing the names of the soldiers.

Army Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, chief of Western Mindanao Command, has ordered an intensified campaign against the remnants of the Abu Sayyaf and assured the safety of civilians against terrorist threats.

“Despite our constant call for peaceful resolution of conflicts, some remain cold-hearted, hence, we continue to intensify our operations to press on them. Rest assured that our operations are always in adherence to the International Humanitarian Law and other laws promulgated to ensure the safety of the communities,” he said.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/02/scout-ranger-killed-another-wounded-in.html

PBBM names Purisima acting head of OPAPRU

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2021): PBBM names Purisima acting head of OPAPRU (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Undersecretary Isidro Purisima as acting head of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), Malacañang said on Tuesday.

Purisima's latest designation was announced by Malacañang Press Briefer Daphne Oseña-Paez in a Palace briefing.

Malacañang has yet to release additional details about Purisima's appointment.

Purisima's appointment came more than a month after Marcos named then OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. as the new head of the Department of National Defense.

Prior to his new stint, Purisima served as Presidential Assistant for Local Conflict Transformation and Peace Sustainability.

Purisima also worked as deputy presidential adviser for operations of the now-defunct Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP).

As a former military officer, Purisima served as deputy chief of staff for operations and head of the command center of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Apart from Purisima, Marcos also promoted OPAPP chief of staff Wilben Mayor as the office's Presidential Assistant 1, Oseña-Paez said.

Oseña-Paez, however, did not elaborate on Mayor's new position.

The OPAPRU, formerly known as OPAPP, is mandated to manage, direct, integrate and supervise the implementation of the comprehensive peace process by promoting and reinforcing reconciliation and unity among the Filipino people.

Other newly appointed officials

Oseña-Paez also bared the names of other new presidential appointees.

Marcos, she said, designated Gabriel Lagamayo as acting administrator of the National Dairy Authority (NDA) and member of the Dairy Industry Board.

The NDA, created by virtue of Republic Act 7784, is an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture that is in charge of ensuring the accelerated development of the Philippine dairy industry through policy direction and program coordination and implementation.

Oseña-Paez, likewise, announced the appointment of Senando Santiago as acting general manager and chief executive officer of Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), an attached agency of the Department of Environment Natural Resources tasked to promote and accelerate the growth of the Laguna Lake area and the surrounding provinces, cities and towns.

Santiago, she said, will also serve as member of the LLDA's Board of Directors.

Marcos also appointed David Ero and Virgina Oroco as acting members of the Board of Directors of the Landbank of the Philippines, both representing the agrarian reform beneficiaries.

Emerico de Guzman and Rufino Margate Jr. were also tapped as members of the National Tripartite Industrial Peace council, both representing the employer sector, Oseña-Paez said.

Other newly appointed government officials were Valerie Joy Brion (executive director V at the Commission on Filipinos Overseas), Domingo Gonzaga (director II at the National Meat Inspection Service), Julieta Opulencia (deputy executive director III at the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries) and Flora Gabunales (director IV at the Department of Trade and Industry).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195711

Australian Deputy PM to discuss defense with Marcos in PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2021): Australian Deputy PM to discuss defense with Marcos in PH (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Hon Richard Marles MP. (Photo courtesy of the Australian Ministry of Defence)

MANILA – Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles will meet with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to discuss the two nations' bilateral ties, including on defense, during his official trip to the Philippines this week.

Marles is expected to arrive in Manila on Tuesday night and will depart for Thailand on Feb. 23, the Australian Embassy in Manila told the Philippine News Agency.

“Australia’s relationships across our region are founded on history, personal connections and shared interests,” Marles said in a statement.

“I look forward to the opportunity to deepen Australia’s engagement with the Philippines and Thailand, including through our important cooperation on defence and security,” he added.

Marles will also meet Officer-in-Charge of the Department of National Defense Carlito G. Galvez Jr. and other senior government representatives to discuss the “already deep ties between the two countries, including our defence forces," according to the Australian Defence Ministry.

The trip comes as Australia seeks to elevate its relations with the Philippines into a strategic partnership as agreed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Marcos on the margins of the 29th APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting last November.

In a readout, the ministry said Australia is committed to working with the Philippines and Thailand in support of a “stable, prosperous and resilient Indo-Pacific region,” with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations at its core.

Last week, Australia was among the first countries to back Manila after it lodged a protest against the Chinese Coast Guard, which flashed a military-grade laser light that temporarily blinded the crew of BRP Malapascua at the Ayungin Shoal, which is around 105 nautical miles west of Palawan province.

Australian Ambassador to Manila HK Yu called the action “unsafe and intimidatory” and called for “peace, stability and respect for international law in the South China Sea.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195765

Army condemns NPA attack that killed 2 soldiers in Albay

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2021): Army condemns NPA attack that killed 2 soldiers in Albay (By Connie Calipay)

(Infographic courtesy of 9ID, Philippine Army)

LEGAZPI CITY – Two soldiers of the Philippine Army's 31st Infantry Battalion died in an attack perpetrated by suspected communist-terrorist group (CTG) members while buying supplies for a search and rescue mission in Albay province on Monday.

In a report on Tuesday, Capt. Frank Roldan, 9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief, identified the fatalities as Private John Paul C. Adalim and Private Mark June D. Esico who suffered severe bullet wounds in their bodies that caused their immediate death when shot at in a market in Barangay Cotmon, Camalig town.

"The CTG took advantage of the fact that the troops of the 31st Infantry Battalion were busy assisting in the search and rescue operation of the crashed Cessna aircraft in Albay after they ambushed two soldiers who were just buying supplies. It was learned that while the two soldiers were in the market, five armed men ambushed them and three of them indiscriminately shot the victims," Roldan said.

He said the grieving families of Esico and Adalim are seeking justice to be served.

Meanwhile, Cotmon Barangay Chairperson Dennise Misolania condemned the ambush and assured cooperation in the investigation of the incident.

Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao, commander of the 9th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), likewise expressed indignation over the attack which he considered as a desperate move because of the accomplishments of the 9ID in Bicol against insurgency.

“The terrorist groups are too desperate because of the ceaseless operation in the mountains by the Philippine Army which has further weakened their group. This is also a display of their cowardice and lack of respect for human rights by taking lives including the soldiers assigned to extend help and save the lives of our countrymen. In this event, on behalf of the JTFB, I extend my condolences to the families left behind by our heroic soldiers," Bajao said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195710

High-ranking NPA leader slain in South Cotabato clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2021): High-ranking NPA leader slain in South Cotabato clash (By Edwin Fernandez)

Infographics courtesy of the Army's 6th Infantry Division.

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – A communist rebel leader linked to various crimes was killed during a militaroperation over the weekend in an upland town in South Cotabato province, military officials said Tuesday.

Brigadier Gen. Pedro Balisi Jr., commander of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Brigade (1MBde), identified the slain rebel leader as Martin Min Fay, also known as Diego or Kidlat, who was with his group during the clash in Barangay Laconon, T’boli town, on Saturday.

Balisi said Fay, the subject of a search warrant, resisted and fired at government forces from the 1MBde and the Army's 5th Special Forces Battalion who were approaching his safehouse during the 5 a.m. operation.

“There was no casualty from the government side,” Balisi said in a statement.

At the time of his death, Fay was the vice commanding officer of the front organizational command of the New People’s Army (NPA) Guerilla Front Musa under the Far South Mindanao Region.

Recovered from him were a .45-caliber pistol, 13 rounds of live ammunition, three mobile phones, two sling bags and personal items.

According to Balisi, Fay's group was responsible for various crimes, including arson and bus bombings, which hindered progress and development in South Central Mindanao.

Fay’s group was tagged as behind the burning of a road grader owned by T-Square Construction in General Santos City in November 2016. The rebels are also accused of torching of multiple vehicles and a building owned by Amadeo Phela Resources, a banana exporting firm, in March 2017.

In addition, the group was also linked to the burning of Yellow Bus Line air-conditioned units in November and December 2016 by planting incendiary bombs inside, and also for setting on fire a packing station belonging to Dole Stanfilco in December of the same year.

Balisi said Fay's group also took part in an ambush against the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion in T'boli, South Cotabato, in 2018.

Major General Alex Rillera, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the neutralization of "a high-ranking NPA officer long wanted for a string of cases."

"Neutralizing the suspect responsible for violent incidents in Southern Mindanao brought closure and justice to victims who suffered property damage, income loss, and even fatalities,” said Rillera, also the commander of Army-led Joint Task Force Central.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195723

Abu Sayyaf killed, 2 soldiers hurt in Sulu clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2021): Abu Sayyaf killed, 2 soldiers hurt in Sulu clash (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Patikul municipality, Sulu.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit was killed while two soldiers were wounded in two separate clashes in the hinterlands of Sulu province, a top military official said Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, 11th Infantry Division commander, said the first clash broke out around 7 a.m. Monday in Barangay Kabbon Takas, Patikul town, Sulu.

Patrimonio said the fire fight ensued when the troops of the Army's 111th Division Reconnaissance Company (DRC) and 32nd Infantry Battalion (IB) chanced upon the group of ASG leader Mudzrimar Sawadjaan while on a combat operation.

“Due to the superior firepower of the 111DRC troopers and 32IB, the enemies quickly withdrew,” Patrimonio said in a statement.

Another firefight ensued as the reinforcing 32IB troops chanced upon the fleeing ASG bandits, he added.

Patrimonio said the bandits are believed to suffered casualties.

While scouring the encounter site, the troops recovered the remains of an ASG bandit, an M-14 rifle, ammunition, an analog cellphone, and three backpacks loaded with assorted stuff and personal belongings.

Patrimonio said the slain ASG bandit was later identified as Rhudymar Habib Jihiran, one of the followers of Sawadjaan.

Jihiran is the husband of Sitti Aisyah Rullie, also known as Maryam Israni, an Indonesian who was indoctrinated to become a suicide bomber.

Government troops rescued Sitti Aisyah from the hideout of Jihiran in June 2021 in Barangay Bangkal, Patikul.

Sitti Aisyah is the daughter of alleged foreign terrorist couple Rullie Rian Zeke and Ulfa Handayani Saleh, both Indonesians and tagged as the suicide bombers behind the 2019 bombing of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo.

Patrimonio said the two soldiers who were wounded during the clash are in stable condition and currently recuperating at the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195708

Soldier killed, another injured in Basilan town drive-by shooting

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21, 2021): Soldier killed, another injured in Basilan town drive-by shooting (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Sumisip town, Basilan province.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A soldier was killed while another was wounded in a drive-by shooting incident in remote village in Basilan province Tuesday, a top police official said.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said the incident occurred around 8:45 a.m. Tuesday in Sitio Kagarigan, Barangay Mebak, Sumisip, Basilan.

Verceles said the victims were aboard a motorcycle on the way to their patrol base in Barangay Cabengbeng from the battalion headquarters when repeatedly shot by one of two motorcycle-riding men.

Verceles was unable to identify the victims, both ranked staff sergeants, although he said they belong of the Army’s 14 Scout Ranger Company.

One of the two soldiers, aged 40, died instantaneously while the other was brought to the hospital for treatment.

Recovered from the crime scene were six empty shells of caliber .45 pistol and the victims’ motorcycle, Verceles said.

Police are investigating to identify the suspects who fled after the incident, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195743