Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

Monday, May 15, 2023

Eastmincom neutralizes 155 rebels in 5 months

From the Manila Times (May 16, 2023): Eastmincom neutralizes 155 rebels in 5 months (By Ruth Palo)

DAVAO CITY: The Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) reported that 155 members of the communist New People's Army (NPA) have been neutralized by sustained military operations from January to May 2023.

Eastmincom also said the troops also recovered 172 firearms and 28 anti-personnel mines since January this year.

Recently, combined troops of 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) and 36IB, under the operational control of Joint Task Force Diamond's 901st Infantry Brigade, neutralized three rebels and seized seven high-powered firearms in an encounter at Sitio Katarugan, Barangay Lobo, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur on May 11.

Two of the killed NPA members were identified as Alberto Castañeda alias Bern/JD, commanding officer of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 16C, Guerilla Front 16 (SYP16C, GF16) and Eric Mahinay Colon alias Neo, political guide of squad 1, SDG16, GF16.

They are all under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Government troops also seized three AK-47 rifles, an Ultimax 100 light machine gun, an AR18 rifle, an M16 rifle, an R4 rifle, an improvised explosive device with detonator, 13 backpacks with assorted personal belongings, communication and electronic devices, a medical kit, and other war materiel after the gunfight.

Eastmincom commander Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol lauded the troops for their efforts and dedication to pursue the government's goal to eradicate the communist terrorist group (CTG) with the help of local government units.

"The recent accomplishment is a testament to our continuous efforts to finish the dwindling CTG units in our joint operational area and to attain just lasting peace in Eastern Mindanao," he said.

Almerol, likewise, warned the remaining active CTG members to reconsider their refusal to yield, should they wish to avoid the fate of their dead comrades "who continued to terrorize the peace-loving citizens."

He also urged the rebels to avail of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict program of the government.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/05/16/regions/eastmincom-neutralizes-155-rebels-in-5-months/1891681

Red-tagging issue haunts AFP VisCom chief during CA debate

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 16, 2023): Red-tagging issue haunts AFP VisCom chief during CA debate (By: Beatrice Pinlac)

Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo answers questions from the media after his appointment as commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Visayas Command. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — A red-tagging controversy involving Lieutenant General Benedict Arevalo, Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Visayas Command chief, was raised on Tuesday during the Commission on Appointments (CA) national defense panel deliberations on the designation of 50 military generals and officers.

Senator Risa Hontiveros pointed out that Arevalo in 2021 was relieved of his post as Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, along with the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, “due to his then-department at the AFP releasing and posting an erroneous list on social media of alleged New People’s Army (NPA) guerillas.”

The list, she noted, included an alumni of the University of the Philippines whom the AFP alleged had become a communist guerilla.

“You know that Red-tagging threatens the lives and safety of individuals. This is a massive intrusion into a person’s right to privacy due to surveillance and harassment that may result in unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances and even killings…Red-tagging is disinformation, enabling fraud and violence,” she said in a mix of English and Filipino.

Hontiveros noted that then-Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had cleared Arevalo, saying he was not “directly responsible” for the wrongdoing.

But, she asked, is Red-tagging a policy of the AFP?

“Definitely not. What happened in that time, I already took responsibility as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations. And we also learned some lessons from what happened. That’s why the AFP is very careful now in actually crossing the line on these kinds of issues,” Arevalo said.

He said there was a mixup of files, which led to the release of the AFP list.

“The report coming from the Intelligence was mixed up with the reports of the Civil Military Operations. The mixup actually caused the release of the names inadvertently. Maybe an oversight. As I’ve said, there’s nobody to blame except me as the J7 during the time,” Arevalo recalled.

He said a public apology was later posted on his Facebook page following his mistake.

But when asked if there were people on the list who reacted or replied to the apology, Arevalo said the page had been shut down.

“I don’t know if they were able to react or reply to the said information,” he added.

Arevalo said the AFP had also been stricter with its social media policy after the incident.

“It has to really conform with the community standards of social media. Seeing to it that it is strictly supervised not just by the concerned staff but also the chiefs of offices and the commanders themselves,” he said.

Hontiveros lauded Arevalo for taking responsibility for his mistake but asked that the AFP devise means that will directly relay their apology to the affected persons.

Despite his red-tagging issue, Arevalo’s appointment to the rank of Lieutenant General was still approved by the committee and recommended for confirmation to the CA plenary.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1769811/red-tagging-issue-haunts-afp-viscom-chief-during-ca-debate

Military unveils victory marker in drive vs communists in Isabela

From the Manila Bulletin (May 16, 2023): Military unveils victory marker in drive vs communists in Isabela (By FREDDIE LAZARO)

CAMP AQUINO, Tarlac City – The military over the weekend revealed what it called an enduring symbol of their victory against communist terrorist groups in Palanan, Isabela.

A victory marker was formally unveiled by the Army 5th Infantry Division (ID) at Digoyo Point where, in July 1972, the MV Karagatan carrying a shipment of armaments intended for the insurgents was intercepted by the AFP.

The seizure of high-powered firearms resulted in the neutralization of a significant threat to national security and shook the foundations of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), the military said.

The military added this incident marked a turning point in the battle against communist terrorism, crippling their resources and dealing a severe setback to their operations at that ti

In his message during the unveiling, Senior Undersecretary and Department of Defense officer-in-charge Carlito Galvez Jr. said that the victory marker is the manifestation of the valor and unwavering dedication of the Armed Forces in combating communist terrorist groups.

It also signifies the military’s unyielding commitment to safeguard the nation's security and pave the way for a better future for all Filipinos, he added.

Lt. Gen. Fernyl G. Buca, Northern Luzon Command chief, said that the marker is a vivid reminder that through unity and determination, even the most formidable challenges can be overcome, heralding a future free from the clutches of terrorism.

“Our continuous gains against the CTGs in our area of operations are proof of the nearing end of these few remaining communist terrorists,” added Buca.

The unveiling with the theme "Marking the Foremost Victory of the Armed Forces of the Philippines against Communist Terrorist Groups" celebrated the relentless determination and monumental gains achieved by the Armed Forces in its mission to eradicate communist terrorism in the country.

The victory marker was called a powerful testament to the unwavering bravery and selfless sacrifice of the government forces in safeguarding the nation against terrorists.

Gen. Andres C. Centino, chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Major Gen. Audrey L. Pasia, commander of the Army 5th Infantry Division, also graced unveiling with local and national government officials, soldiers, and various stakeholders.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/16/military-unveils-victory-marker-in-drive-vs-reds-in-isabela

6 NPA rebels surrender in Aurora

From the Manila Bulletin (May 16, 2023): 6 NPA rebels surrender in Aurora (By FREDDIE LAZARO)

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – Six New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from Aurora surrendered to the Army 91st Infantry Battalion in Barangay Calabuanan, Baler, Aurora over the weekend.

The surrenderers were members of the Sub-Guerrilla Unit of the Komiteng Probinsiya-Isabela (SGU-KomProb-Isabela) and Renewed Strength Dinadiawan Association.

They were identified as alias “Enok” of Barangay Lawang, Dilasag, and Rolando Blanco, Bernabe Atimama, Thelma Montaṅes, Reynaldo Caderon, and Benedicto Mahinay from Purok 1, Barangay Dinadiawan, Dipaculao.

They turned over rifles, magazines, ammunition, improvised pistols and revolvers, and a homemade shotgun.

Major Gen. Andrew Costelo, commander of the Army 7th Infantry Division, attributed their surrender to the strong implementation of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the national government.

Costelo lauded the continued engagement of the 91st IB with communist rebels in their area of operation to convince them to surrender.

E-Clip aims to encourage communist guerrillas to return to the fold of the law and live a normal life.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/16/6-npa-rebels-surrender-in-aurora

EASTMINCOM: Supporting People's Organizations

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 14, 2023): Supporting People's Organizations

67th Infantry "Agila" Battalion
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Look II SUPPORTING PEOPLEs ORGANIZATION

The Community Development Team (CDT) of 67th Infantry(Agila) Battalion assisted the Greenfield Farmers Association (GFA) headed by Mr Ernesto M. Villanueva, PO President, in land prepration for Tilapia Production at So Greenfield,Brgy Santa Juana,Tagbina,SDS on May 12, 2023.

#AgilaTroopers
#PhilippineArmy
#AFPyoucanTRUST
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https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=263166166105212&set=pcb.263166912771804

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: Former Rebels get Gov't housing aid

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 14, 2023): Former Rebels get Gov't housing aid

23rd Infantry "Masigasig" Battalion, Philippine Army
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Former Rebels get Gov't housing aid

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion in partnership with the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte under the leadership of Hon. Ma Angelica Rosedell M Amante and the National Housing Authority (NHA) – Region 13, headed by Ms. Ricamel Dawn A. Obligado, Estate Management Supervisor and Ms. Hyacint Lian Mae P. Maganding, Community Support Service Chief held the Turn Over Ceremony of the Completed Housing Units for the Former Rebels (FRs) who are now members of the Philippine Army on May 12, 2023 at Midland Valley Homes Brgy. Mambuaya, Cagayan de Oro City.

A total of three (3) housing units, with 44 square meters floor area and lot area of 80 square meters, were awarded to the FR beneficiaries and families.

The expansion of the coverage of the benefits and services under the Enhanced - Comprehensive Livelihood Integration Program (E-CLIP) is a testament to the government's commitment to uplift the lives of the FRs, which will serve as the foundation for the attainment of peace and progress in our communities.

These benefits do not serve as an end, but rather a means to aid the FRs in securing a foothold in restarting their lives. It provides a wider array of benefits based on the particular needs of FRs and their families such as financial assistance, housing, education, skills training, healthcare, legal assistance, and among others through a convergence of various national and local government agencies.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
#MASIGASIGatongARMY

https://www.facebook.com/TeamMasigasig23/photos/pcb.2165665300292178/2165664316958943/

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: Estimated 800 individuals availed 11 RCDG's Serbisyo Caravan

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 14, 2023): Estimated 800 individuals availed 11 RCDG's Serbisyo Caravan

11rcdg, ResCom

Estimated 800 individuals availed 11 RCDG's Serbisyo Caravan

Davao City – In line with the 11th Regional Community Defense Group, Reserve Command, Philippine Army current initiatives and support to ELCAC in the sustainment areas of 10th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, estimated 800 individuals mostly IPs availed the community outreach program of 11RCDG, RESCOM, PA dubbed as "11RCDG Serbisyo Caravan" at Sitio Qiurorom, Brgy Suawan, Marilog District, Davao City on May 13, 2023.

It was attended by 1003rd Infantry Brigade, 27IB, 10CMOBn, 2202nd Ready Reserve Infantry Brigade, 1105th Ready Reserve Infantry Bn, 6th Technical Administrative Service, LGU Davao City through CSWDO, CHO, and City Information Office, DOH 11, LTO 11, Davao City Police Office, Marilog Police Station, Eastern Mindanao Travellers Club, Philippine Red Cross Davao del Sur and Davao City Chapters, B-85 Transport Cooperative, Reserve Officers Legion of the Philippines, Kawal Atenista Alumni Assn, Inc, 11th RCDG RESCOM Alumni Assn, Inc, The Fraternal Order of EAGLES, The Fraternal Order of Wolf, KIWANIS, Mercy Malaysia, Nissin Monde, 178 Cargo Forwarder, Dekada 90 University of Mindanao High School, Davao City Water District, Philippine News Agency, and Brgy Council as partner units, agencies, and stakeholders/organizations.

The above-mentioned groups and organizations provided different social services such as medical and dental services, operation“tuli", free haircut, BP and laboratory test, legal consultation and services, eye reading and consultation, giving of eyeglasses, distribution of foodpacks, assorted toys, slippers, hygiene kits, educational supplies, used clothings, feeding, PNP Desk, and LTO Desk.

The beneficiaries and the LGU Davao City expressed their gratitude to 11RCDG for bringing the government services closer to the people. The said services will basically uplift the living condition of the people residing in the far-flung areas to counter and prevent the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) from conducting recovery works.

"The conduct of this activity is in support to the campaign of 10ID, PA and its supported units in sustaining the operational gains in close collaboration and partnership with different agencies and stakeholders". And this is part of our Civil-Military Operations efforts in pursuit to lasting peace and development in Davao Region, COL JOSUE M CABERTO MI (GSC) PA, Group Commander, 11RCDG, RESCOM, PA said.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=577496471140140&set=pcb.577497261140061

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: Italian Pack Howitzers Successfully Pass Functional Test Fire

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 15, 2023): Italian Pack Howitzers Successfully Pass Functional Test Fire

4th Field Artillery "Strike From Afar" Battalion, AAR , PA
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Italian Pack Howitzers Successfully Pass Functional Test Fire

In a significant development, the 4th Field Artillery (Strike From Afar) Battalion recently conducted a Functional Test Fire Exercise to evaluate the performance of its newly repaired Italian Pack Howitzers (IPH). These revitalized assets are now poised to make a substantial impact in the ongoing campaign against insurgency within their area of operation.

The IPH, a formidable 105mm artillery weapon, has long been recognized for its power, versatility, and effectiveness on the battlefield. After undergoing meticulous repairs, these howitzers have been restored to peak condition, ready to contribute once again to the battalion's artillery capabilities.

During the recent functional test fire exercise, the IPHs exhibited exceptional accuracy and precision, consistently hitting targets with unwavering reliability. This remarkable performance underscores the profound impact of the successful repair and revitalization of the IPHs on the battalion's readiness to support the maneuver units in their combat operations.

The availability of these fully functional assets significantly strengthens the overall operational capacity of the 4th Field Artillery Battalion, enabling them to effectively support combat units. Troops now have access to a reliable and powerful weapon, bolstering their confidence and morale in combat operations.

In conclusion, the recent functional test fire exercise of the newly repaired Italian Pack Howitzers by the 4th Field Artillery Battalion highlights their exceptional value in combat operations. The revitalized IPHs, with their enhanced accuracy, precision, and rapid deployment capabilities, make a substantial contribution to the battalion's operational success. These assets stand ready to be redeployed, poised to play a crucial role in combat operations and ensure the safety and security of the troops. With their revitalization, the IPHs serve as a tangible symbol of the battalion's commitment to effectively support combat units in their campaign.

#MakabagongArtilyero
#AFPyoucanTrust
#PhilippineArmy
#ServingThePeopleSecuringTheLand
#SustainingExcellenceandDisciplineTowardsModernArtillery

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=623252059954137&set=pcb.623260826619927

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: EASTMINCOM commits to safeguard maritime borders

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 15, 2023): EASTMINCOM commits to safeguard maritime borders

The Philippines and Indonesia (PHIL-INDO) once again bolstered their cooperation in protecting the borders of both countries, as the 37th Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) kicked off this year at Manado City, North Sulawesi, Indonesia on May 3 to 7.

#AFPyoucanTRUST

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=614666620692247&set=a.221431016682478

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: 88th IB conducts "Pulong-Pulong" and information drive in Bukidnon

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 15, 2023): 88th IB conducts "Pulong-Pulong" and information drive in Bukidnon

88th Infantry "Maringal" Battalion, Philippine Army
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LOOK | The 88th Infantry "Maringal" Battalion, headed by LTC ERIC G DEMA-ALA INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 88IB, in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Cabanglasan, Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Department of Agriculture (DA), facilitated an information drive and awareness campaign entitled "Pulong-Pulong at Pagpanumpa sa Pagsalikway sa Pagsuporta sa CPP-NPA-NDF" with the theme, "Tinud-anay nga Kabag-ohan alang sa Kalinaw ug Kalambuan" to the residences of Sitio Tagbacan, Sitio Tumbaga, and Sitio Saluringan, all of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon. This activity is in line with the whole-of-nation approach in pursuit of the country’s peace agenda.

The populace condemned the deceptions and atrocities of the CTGs and even burned the CPP-NPA flag and took their oath of allegiance to the government. The said declaration happened on May 13 and 14, 2023.

The said Pulong-Pulong sets out to raise awareness of the deception strategies of CNTs, the recruitment of minors, and the Human Security Act (RA 10168). It also directs to inform them on the government plans and programs in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict to attain durable peace and sustainable inclusive development; Moreover, it levels to change their behavior, emotion, belief, opinion, and attitude (BEBOA) towards the peace and development efforts of the government; Finally, it aims to motivate their return to the folds of the law and abandon their support from the CTGs; and it strengthens the partnership between the community and the government.

#MaringalTroopersMarangalnaKasundalohan
#EndLocalCommunistArmedConflict
#AFPyoucanTRUST

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=629540212536935&set=pcb.629541085870181

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: EASTMINCOM continues efforts in eradicating the CTG

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 16, 2023): EASTMINCOM continues efforts in eradicating the CTG

The sustained military operations launched by the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) under the direction of LtGen. Greg T. Almerol induced more losses to the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) after neutralizing 155 CTG members and capturing 172 firearms and 28 anti-personnel mines (APM) from January to 2nd week of May this year.

#AFPyoucanTRUST

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=615111890647720&set=a.221431036682476

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: Hatid Serbisyo Caravan Reached The Doors of IP Communities in Kalagangan

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 16, 2023): Hatid Serbisyo Caravan Reached The Doors of IP Communities in Kalagangan

89th Infantry Battalion

Charlie "Crawlers" Company, 89th IB, led by 2LT Jeruly D Vispera PA, Charlie Company Executive Officer took part in delivering services to the far-flung area of Kalagangan, San Fernando, Bukidnon in Hatid Serbisyo Caravan together with the Local Government Unit of San Fernando headed by Municipal Mayor, Hon. Rogelio C Yeke on May 12, 2023.

A bundle of services was provided for the populace of Brgy. Kalangan such as free circumcision, medical check-up, medicines, and implant for adult women. Further, 400 benefited the Hatid Serbisyo Caravan.

Hon. Rommel A. Bartoces, Brgy Captain of Kalagangan conveyed his gratitude for the interventions and programs bought to the community that shows the solidarity of the government and its line agencies for the betterment of the IP Communities.

Finally, 2LT Visperas assuraned their full support in any activities to uplift the communities, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas that would help them deny exploitation and influence of the CTG.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=220869637332203&set=pcb.220869773998856

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

Kalinaw News: MTF-ELCAC Chairman urges unity of efforts against CPP-NPA-NDF

Posted to the Kalinaw News Facebook Page (May 14, 2023): MTF-ELCAC Chairman urges unity of efforts against CPP-NPA-NDF

MTF-ELCAC Chairman urges unity of efforts against CPP-NPA-NDF in visit with 19IB troops to far-flung barangays of Matuguinao, Samar

Read: https://bit.ly/3M2DlQP

#StrongUnitedReliable
#PhilArmy
#ARMY126

https://www.facebook.com/kalinawnews/photos/pcb.2241356132739060/2241356056072401/

https://www.facebook.com/kalinawnews/

Kalinaw News: Military operations of the troops of 4th Infantry Division caused heavy defeats to CPP-NPA-NDF

Posted to the Kalinaw News Facebook Page (May 14, 2023): Military operations of the troops of 4th Infantry Division caused heavy defeats to CPP-NPA-NDF

Relentless military operations of the troops of 4th Infantry Division caused heavy defeats to CPP-NPA-NDF with recent neutralization of 3 rebels and capture of numerous war materiel

Read: https://bit.ly/450lsKP

#StrongUnitedReliable
#PhilArmy
#ARMY126