US aircraft carrier Carl Vinson arrives in PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2024): US aircraft carrier Carl Vinson arrives in PH (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

PORT CALL. USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) sets anchors in Manila on Friday (Jan. 5, 2024). USS Carl Vinson is in the Philippines for a port visit, supporting operational readiness and regional partnerships. (US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Micheal Mensah)

MANILA – A United States carrier strike group led by USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) has arrived in the Philippines for a scheduled port call on Friday following a two-day maritime cooperative activity with the country in the South China Sea.

The Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 is currently deployed to US 7th Fleet area of operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

“It is a pleasure for the Carrier Strike Group to visit the Republic of Philippines. The US and the Philippines are steadfast friends, partners in prosperity, and ironclad allies," said Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello, commander of CSG-1.

"Our two countries share democratic values, close cultural ties and our alliance has stood strong for over 72 years. As our oldest treaty ally in East Asia, the Philippines has shown their unwavering commitment in helping secure a free, open, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region," he added.

Together with the USS Carl Vinson were embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Kidd (DDG 100) and USS Sterett (DDG 104).

The US Department of Defense said this visit marks an additional demonstration of the US-Philippines alliance and Washington DC’s broader commitment to the region.

During their stay in Manila, sailors from CSG-1 will participate in cultural exchanges and community relations events, among others.

“By understanding and appreciating other cultural backgrounds, we can build stronger relationships, collaborate effectively and find common ground,” said Capt. Matthew Thomas, commanding officer, USS Carl Vinson.

“All of these are critical when it comes to supporting our allies and partners in the region,” he added.

Preceding their arrival, CSG-1 also conducted trilateral maritime exercises with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy.

Since entering the US 7th Fleet area of operations, the CSG-1 had already participated in the Multi-Large Deck Event and Annual Exercise 2023 in the Philippine Sea to further strengthen regional cooperative efforts.

CSG-1 is a multiplatform team of ships and aircraft capable of carrying out a wide variety of missions around the globe from combat missions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief response.

Its flagship USS Carl Vinson was the very same ship that carried the body of al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden to its burial at sea in 2011.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216432

PH maritime activities within EEZ sovereign right -- NSA Año

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2024): PH maritime activities within EEZ sovereign right -- NSA Año (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año (File photo)

MANILA – The maritime cooperative activities (MCA) between the Philippines and the United States, done within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and in accordance with international law, is not a provocative military activity, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said Friday.

The Philippines is exercising its sovereign right to engage in such activities, Año said, noting that the exercises are aimed at enhancing the country's maritime capabilities and interoperability to ensure security and stability in the region.

"The Chinese spokesman referred to these activities as 'provocative military activities' and deemed them as 'irresponsible.' We wish to clarify that the MCA between the Philippines and the United States were clearly conducted within our EEZ and are consistent with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), so how can they be deemed provocative?" he said.

The second iteration of the MCA with the US took place at the West Philippine Sea (WPS) last Jan. 3 to 4, barely two months after the first one held last Nov. 21 to 23, 2023.

Año said the MCA was also a show of the development of a "world-class Navy and Armed Forces" capable of carrying out the mandate to defend the country's territorial integrity and maritime rights in the WPS.

"The joint patrol emphasizes our ability to work seamlessly together to ensure the readiness of our joint forces to address evolving security challenges. Our joint patrols with the United States and potential future activities with other allied countries show our mutual commitment to a rules-based international order and for promoting peace and stability of the region," he said.

Año also maintained that the Philippines remains open to diplomatic discussions with China and reaffirms its commitment to fostering good relations with all nations.

"We believe that through peaceful dialogue and adherence to international law, we can achieve a resolution that serves the best interests of all parties involved in the region," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216427

Acorda: Destab allegations vs. PNP, AFP 'unforgivable'

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 8, 2024): Acorda: Destab allegations vs. PNP, AFP 'unforgivable' (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan and Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. on Monday cried foul over the act of some vloggers who sow disinformation, pointing to him and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. as allegedly leading destabilization plots against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“It hurts me that there are some people who, for the sake of gaining popularity through their vlogs, would sow disinformation. No less than my face, the face of the CSAFP (Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines) posted and went viral, saying the AFP and the PNP withdrawing support or asking for the resignation of the President. It's unforgivable,” he said during Monday's flag-raising ceremonies at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

Acorda said these acts are an affront to the uniformed services' efforts to secure the country.

"We try to promote investments and tourism pero dahil lang sa mga ito, sa pansarili nagki-create na hindi magandang imahe sa ating bayan (but these selfish acts do not create a good image for the country)," he said.

In the face of disinformation in various social media platforms, Acorda urged all PNP members to unite to uphold the rule of law, the Constitution and to defend the government.

Acorda also appealed to the vloggers not to post defamatory content just to attract viewers.

Meanwhile, PNP spokesperson Col Jean Fajardo said Acorda filed a case against vlogger and retired Philippine Army Brig. Gen. Johnny Lacsamana Macanas before the Quezon City Prosecutors Office on Monday for linking him to destabilization plots against Marcos.

Fajardo said a complaint for violation of Article 154 (Unlawful Means of Publication) of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines as amended by Republic Act (RA) 10951 in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175 otherwise known as "Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012".

“Nirerespeto natin ang kanilang freedom of expression, ang kanilang freedom of speech malaya ang sino man magpahayag ng kanilang saloobin but kagaya ng sinabi ko, this should be exercised within the bounds of the law (We respect their freedom of expression, their freedom of speech, anyone is free to express their opinion but as I have said, this should be exercised within the bounds of the law). Spreading disinformation to advance your personal or even political interest at the expense of another person is wrong,” she added.

Fajardo also stressed that the PNP will always uphold the Constitution and obey legal orders of the duly constituted authorities.

“We are 100 percent behind this administration kaya sa ating mga kababayan asahan niyo the PNP will remain apolitical, we remain solid and intact and professional ang inyong mga pulis at asahan niyo magtutuloy ang pagtupad ng ating mandato. Hindi mawawala yung focus natin in terms of providing security and other public services sa ating mga kababayan (We are 100 percent behind this administration, so to our compatriots, expect the PNP to remain apolitical, we remain solid and intact and professional, and expect your police to continue fulfilling our mandate. Our focus in terms of providing security and other public services to our countrymen will not be lost),” said Fajardo.

AFP: Don't drag us

Meanwhile, AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said there is no destabilization within the military ranks.

"Wala pong ganyan sa (there is no such thing in the) AFP, we can assure the public that we are solid and united and we will continue, we will focus dun po sa ating (on our) mission(s). Huwag na lang muna kaming idamay-damay sa mga yan dahil (Do not involve on these kind of things) it will not be good for our country," he said in a radio interview.

Earlier, Brawner said the military remains loyal to the Constitution and committed to defeating all the threats facing the nation.

He added the AFP remains firm in its "unwavering loyalty" to the Constitution and its solemn commitment to fulfill its mandate.

Brawner said all AFP personnel remain steadfast in their role as the "guardians of our nation’s sovereignty and defender of democratic principles."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216517

AFP: Death of ranking leader highlights Reds' leadership vacuum

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 8, 2024): AFP: Death of ranking leader highlights Reds' leadership vacuum (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said the death of ranking New People's Army (NPA) official Martin Colima during a clash with government troops in Borongan City, Eastern Samar will further highlight the growing leadership crisis in the insurgency movement.

"The death of communist terrorist group (CTG) leader Martin Colima in an encounter in Borongan City, Eastern Samar on January 6 exacerbates the leadership vacuum in the CTG," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

Colima, also known as "Moki", is reportedly the Secretary of the Sub-Regional Committee Sesame of the NPA's Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.

The NPA leader was killed following an encounter with soldiers at the remote area of Barangay San Gabriel, Borongan City.

"This (Colima's death) also further erodes their capability to plan and execute atrocities in the province and sends a strong signal to their members to surrender," Trinidad said.

Meanwhile, AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said the neutralization of ranking NPA leaders like Colima signals the end of the NPA.

"It is leading to that," he added.

In 2023, the AFP announced that it had dismantled eight NPA guerilla fronts aside from weakening 14 others.

Last year, the military also neutralized 1,399 members of communist and local terrorist groups, seizing 1,751 firearms of the communist movement.

Eye opener

Meanwhile, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said the neutralization of Colima should serve as an eye-opener for the remaining insurgents to lay down their arms, peacefully surrender and avail the government’s amnesty program.

"Colima, who was facing a string of multiple heinous crime charges before the courts, and his men entered Barangay San Gabriel, Borongan City oblivious to the strong vigilance of residents in the community against the presence of CTGs," NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said in a statement.

He also called the remaining members of Colima’s group to peacefully surrender and abandon the senseless armed struggle so as not to suffer the same fate like what happened to their leader.

"The politico-military spectrum of the NPA in Samar was the last in the entire archipelago to be weakened from being an active guerilla front. Colima’s death is proof of the weakened state of the NPA and the waning political influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on the Filipino masses in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAS)," Torres said.

He also said the CPP-NPA should accept the fact that in Samar every single barangay liberated by the government from their clutches through the “whole-of-nation and whole of government" approach has been transitioning to become a haven of peace wherein economic development is being effectively spurred by the government.

"Let the CPP-NPA also know that their presence in these communities is no longer welcome and what happened to the group of Colima should serve as a strong warning against the CTGs. There are no more “NPA mass bases” to speak of that for decades the CTGs had exploited to the detriment of poverty-stricken residents in such communities," he added.

Torres said the NTF-ELCAC, through the cohesive leadership of President R. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the NPA scourge in the country will be totally eliminated.

He also expressed hope strongly that all the weakened guerrilla fronts will be dismantled within this year.

"For the sake of peace, unity, and development, we reiterate our ardent appeal to all the CPP-NPA remnants to choose life rather than face senseless death over a senseless and irrelevant ideology. Go back to your families and become productive and law-abiding citizens and actively participate in nation-building. Over the past five decades, your so-called Maoist-inspired revolutionary ideals became irrelevant if not totally obsolete in contemporary times," Torres said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216520

OPAPRU to expand gains, pursue more peace efforts in 2024

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 9, 2024): OPAPRU to expand gains, pursue more peace efforts in 2024 (By Priam Nepomuceno)

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU)

MANILA – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) on Monday vowed to expand this year all peace gains it has achieved in 2023.

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez made this statement during the agency's New Year's Call and monthly General Assembly, the agency said in a news release on Monday night.

Galvez also launched OPAPRU slogan for the year, “Peace: Bawat Buhay Mahalaga,” upon which all of the agency’s peacebuilding interventions will be anchored.

He noted that the peace process significantly affects the lives of every Filipino “regardless of social standing, gender, ethnicity, religion or personal beliefs.”

During this event, the OPAPRU chief thanked and commended OPAPRU personnel for the crucial role they have played in achieving the major milestones in the comprehensive Philippine peace process in the past year even as he stressed the need for the agency to reach out more and actively involve the public in the peacebuilding process.

The OPAPRU chief also called on the agency's employees to work closely with the other government agencies and “remain steadfast at all times to ensure that the hard-won gains of peace are not only maintained, but also nurtured and strengthened in the coming years.”

The agency earlier described 2023 a banner year for the country's comprehensive peace process.

Under the Bangsamoro peace process, the Bangsamoro Parliament has passed five of its priority codes, which aim to uplift the people’s socioeconomic conditions and boost the region’s economy.

Further, the third phase of the decommissioning process of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants was successfully completed in 2023.

In partnership with local government units in provinces, Galvez said Local Peace Engagement efforts and its Transformation Program were successfully carried out to help former rebels to reintegrate into mainstream society and to rebuild their lives as peaceful and productive civilians.

He added that the government also continued to move forward the peace processes with the Cordillera Bodong Administration-Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CBA-CPLA) and KAPATIRAN, through the implementation of the Normalization Program that will enable the groups’ members and families to improve their socioeconomic well-being.

Meanwhile, through the OPAPRU’s Social Healing and Peacebuilding Program (SHAPE) and the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan Program (PAMANA), the agency is helping to bring social cohesion and build much-needed socioeconomic projects in focus areas throughout the country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216590

11 NPA rebels face raps over ambush of Army troops in Occ. Mindoro

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 9, 2024): 11 NPA rebels face raps over ambush of Army troops in Occ. Mindoro (By Benjamin Pulta)

(File photo)

MANILA – State prosecutors indicted 11 communist New People's Army (NPA) members on terrorism raps, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said Tuesday.

In a statement, the DOJ identified the suspects as Jovito Marquez, Antonio Baculo, Sonny Rogelio, Veginia Terrobias, Lena Gumpad, Job David, Jessie Almoguera, Reina Grace, Bethro Zapra Jr., Daisylyn Malucon and Yvann Zuniga.

The 11 NPA members were charged for their part in the ambush on Philippine Army soldiers in Barangay Malisbong, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro on May 30, 2023.

While there were no casualties in the attack, the DOJ said prosecutors characterized it as an act of terrorism.

“The intent behind the ambush was deemed to cause death, serious injury, and to instill a widespread atmosphere of fear, thereby destabilizing the fundamental political, economic, and social structures of the Philippines,” the DOJ said.

Separate charges of unlawful possession of firearms were earlier dismissed due to lack of probable cause as well as charges for war crimes under Republic Act 9851 or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity of 2009.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216610

Indonesia, PH agree to further elevate bilateral ties

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 9, 2024): Indonesia, PH agree to further elevate bilateral ties (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

CLOSER TIES. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo (right) and Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi speak to the press after co-chairing the 7th Philippines-Indonesia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation in Makati City on Tuesday (Jan. 9, 2024). Manalo said Manila reiterated its commitment to implement the Philippine-Indonesia Plan of Action 2022-2027, which was signed on the sidelines of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s state visit to Jakarta in 2022. (PNA photo)

MANILA – The Philippines and Indonesia have agreed to take their cooperation to a higher level as they mark 75 years of diplomatic relations this 2024, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi made the agreement during the 7th Philippines-Indonesia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Makati City.

Marsudi said Indonesia and the Philippines are exploring ways to further improve economic cooperation, including boosting and finding new trade opportunities.

Manalo said Manila reiterated its commitment to implement the Philippine-Indonesia Plan of Action 2022-2027, which was signed on the sidelines of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s state visit to Jakarta in 2022.

On top of economic ties, the plan of action covers the two states’ multifaceted cooperation in political and security, border issues, regional and global issues, and sociocultural and people-to-people exchanges, among others.

“We are committed to continue implementing our plan of action towards further elevating our bilateral relations to new heights, especially as we mark the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Indonesia diplomatic relations this year,” Manalo said.

During the meeting, the two top diplomats also discussed geopolitical concerns both within and outside the region, including the West Philippine Sea, the crisis in Myanmar, and the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

On the West Philippine Sea, Marsudi said Jakarta is committed to work with all ASEAN member states to finalize the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

“We welcome statement on maintaining and promoting stability in the maritime sphere in Southeast Asia issued by ASEAN foreign ministers on 30th December last year. This is an important step to ensure the South China Sea remains a sea of peace, stability, and prosperity,” she said.

The Philippines and Indonesia are celebrating the 75th anniversary of their bilateral relations this year, which was officially established on Nov. 24, 1949.

The ministerial meeting follows the 6th JCBC held in 2014. The next bilateral meeting will be held in Indonesia, Marsudi said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216631

343 NPA-infested communities in Visayas cleared

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30, 2023): 343 NPA-infested communities in Visayas cleared (By John Rey Saavedra)

NEUTRALIZED. Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army members pose with military officials in one of the ceremonies held for their surrender. Visayas Command commander, Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo said on Saturday (Dec. 30, 2023) that the severe reduction in manpower and armed capability of the insurgents significantly contributed to the clearing of 343 NPA-infested communities in Visayas. (Photo courtesy of Viscom-PIO)

CEBU CITY – The severe reduction in manpower and armed capability of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) significantly contributed to the clearing of 343 insurgency-infested communities in the Visayas, an Army official said on Saturday.

Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the Visayas Command, said that 2023 saw a devastating year for the CPP-NPA in the Visayas as they suffered from irrecoverable damage inflicted by government forces.

Arevalo said 162 government-initiated armed encounters transpired throughout the year in the Visayas, with 80 of them in the Eastern Visayas and 82 in Central and Western Visayas.

The encounters led to the neutralization of 607 NPA terrorists, 84 of whom died during encounters, 25 apprehended, and 498 surrendered.

The number of rebels neutralized included 10 high-value NPA members, couple and CCP leaders Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, and 20 alleged finance officers.

They are apart from the 490 mass supporters who denounced their support from the terrorist rebel group and pledged their allegiance to the government.

Dismantled guerilla fronts

Viscom also reported the cooptation of 20 NPA-affected mass organizations and the dismantling of 17 NPA-affected sectoral front organizations, paving the way for the dismantling of five guerilla fronts in 2023, as affirmed by the National Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (NJPSCC).

The guerilla fronts include Central Negros 1 of the NPAs Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol and Siquijor Front Committee 1 and Front Committee 2 of Sub-Regional Committee Emporium; and Front 3 and Front 15 of Sub-Regional Committee Arctic.

“This significant progress in our fight against the CPP-NPA is not only an accomplishment of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) but also the accomplishment of all the peace-loving people in the Visayas region. It is through their active support and collaboration that led us to this milestone. Our people’s longing for peace remains our driving force and motivation in performing our mandate to the highest level of efficacy,” Arevalo said in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216134

Army runs after 6 extremists after 2 soldiers killed in ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4, 2024): Army runs after 6 extremists after 2 soldiers killed in ambush (By Nef Luczon and Leah Agonoy)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Army's 1st Infantry Division (ID) said it has intensified its military operations against armed extremist groups involved in Wednesday's ambush that killed two soldiers in Lanao del Norte province.

In a statement on Thursday, Maj. Gen. Gabriel Viray III, 1ID commander, condemned the “cowardly act of violence” targeted on the soldiers of the Army's 51st Infantry Battalion (51IB).

“We remain resolute in our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our troops and the local communities we serve," Viray said.

Military reports said 51IB intelligence unit troopers Staff Sergeants Raul Pabuaya and Murphy Delos Santos were both "killed in action" when six members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group fired on them along the road.

The armed group waylaid the motorcycle-riding victims along the Main Supply Route from Barangay Lininding, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur going to Munai town, Lanao del Norte.

Staff Sgt. Joenipher Etol survived the attack and was rescued by 51IB soldiers.

Maj. Mark Joseph L. Jaque, 51IB officer-in-charge, said families of the fallen soldiers have been informed of the incident and given support.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216334

Army assails NPA for slay of bizman in northern Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5, 2024): Army assails NPA for slay of bizman in northern Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

BACOLOD CITY – The Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) on Friday assailed the New People’s Army (NPA) for killing businessman Juvinie Sarona in Toboso, Negros Occidental last Jan. 2.

“It’s an arrogant and shameless admission,” said Capt. Dan Carlo Samoza, civil-military operations of 79IB led by Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan, in a statement after the NPA’s Roselyn Jean Pelle Command (RJPC) confirmed to the local media that they ambushed Sarona and torched a tractor that belongs to his father.

The RJPC’s Northern Negros Front was declared dismantled by the 79IB, but its remnants are still operating in some areas in the north.

It claimed that Sarona, 43, was involved in the massacre that claimed the lives of nine sugarcane farm workers in Sagay City in 2018.

However, the Toboso Municipal Police Station reported that Sarona has no criminal records but was instead a well-known supporter of peace efforts in the locality.

In a media interview, Maj. Jun Ray Batadlan, town police chief, said they identified 15 NPA rebels as the perpetrators and would soon file charges against them.

The group of armed men gunned down Sarona at his residence in Barangay Bug-ang on the night of Jan. 2, police report showed.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216425

Top NPA leader killed in Eastern Samar clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 8, 2024): Top NPA leader killed in Eastern Samar clash (By Sarwell Meniano)

RECOVERED. Some of the personal belongings left behind by New People's Army rebels who figured in a gun battle with government troops in Borongan City, Eastern Samar on Saturday (Jan. 6, 2024). A rebel leader was killed in the clash. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – A high-ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) died in a clash between soldiers and rebels in an upland village of Borongan City in Eastern Samar on Saturday.

The Philippine Army identified the slain as Martin Colima (alias Moki), secretary of the sub-regional committee (SRC) Sesame of the NPA’s Eastern Visayas regional party committee.

The military said in a statement late Saturday that Colima died during a gun battle between soldiers and a band of 10 rebels around noon on Saturday in the vicinity of remote Barangay San Gabriel.

Lt. Col. Allan Tria, commander of the Army’s 78th Infantry Battalion, said troops were in the village in response to repeated reports of civilians regarding the presence of the NPA in the area, conducting extortion activities and finding chances to attack members of the Citizens Armed Force Geographical Unit and former rebels.

“Details of their locations, movements, and activities revealed by the civilians provided our patrolling troops a chance to track their location, which resulted in an encounter that killed Colima. Our soldiers also recovered one caliber. 45 pistol and seven backpacks in the encounter site,” Tria said.

Colima, according to the military, is the mastermind and one of the perpetrators of the ambush incident along a major highway in Libuton village, Borongan City on Dec. 13, 2019.

A policeman and three civilians were killed while 12 other civilians, including three minors, were wounded.

Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, is saddened by the death of “another fellow Filipino” and urged Colima’s family and relatives to give him a decent burial.

“With the death of the top NPA leader in our area of responsibility, it is very imminent that their fighters under SRC Sesame will lose direction, be demoralized, and be incapable of protracted fighting for a lost cause and incorrect communist ideology,” Vestuir said.

The Philippine Army reiterated its call for the remaining members of the NPA to abandon the armed struggle and return peacefully to their communities.

The remote communities of Borongan City used to be one of the centers of NPA terrorist activities in Samar Island.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216496

5 NPA rebels facing multiple criminal raps nabbed in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 8, 2024): 5 NPA rebels facing multiple criminal raps nabbed in Masbate (By Connie Calipay)

Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, Police Regional Office 5 spokesperson (PNA file photo)

LEGAZPI CITY – Five members of the New People’s Army (NPA) wanted for several crimes were arrested during manhunt operations in Masbate province over the weekend, the Police Regional Office 5 (Bicol) reported on Monday.

Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson, said the suspects were arrested in separate police operations in the towns of Batuan, Monreal, San Fernando and Uson.

"The suspects were nabbed while in their homes by police operatives with a warrant of arrest," she said.

Calubaquib said four of the arrested individuals are facing charges of multiple attempted murders: Elorde Brabante and Jeryl Lomuntod of Barangay Canvanez, Batuan town; Maria Veronica Baconawa of Barangay Real, Monreal town; and Romeo Bauso of Barangay Lumbia, San Fernando town.

"According to the investigations, the suspects were affiliated with the NPA under Eliseo Cabarles Command alias "Ka Kiko" Team Leader, Squad 2, Platoon 2, Larangan 1, Komite ng Probinsya 4 operating in Masbate province," she said.

Calubaquib identified the remaining arrested NPA member as Julito Hara, who was nabbed in Uson.

"Hara is facing charges of frustrated murder, eight counts of attempted murder, and a violation of Republic Act 11479, also known as the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. Hara is under the command of Loding Tolingin alias 'Dadi', operating in the 2nd District of Masbate," she said.

The arrested suspects are now under police custody for proper disposition.

"These successful operations underscore the commitment of the PRO5 headed by Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon, acting regional director, to maintain peace and order in the region and address threats posed by individuals connected with illegal armed groups," Calubaquib said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216531

Focused military ops drive 3 NPA rebels to yield in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 8, 2024): Focused military ops drive 3 NPA rebels to yield in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)

LEAVING VIOLENCE BEHIND. The three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to the Army’s 3rd Special Forces Battalion in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, on Jan. 6, 2024. The insurgents used to operate under the NPA Sub-Regional Committee Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee. (Photo courtesy of 3SFBn)

BUTUAN CITY – Intensified military operations led to the surrender of three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Liang town, Surigao del Sur province over the weekend, the Army’s’ 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn) said Monday.

In a statement, the 3SFBn said the trio yielded Saturday in Barangay St. Christine after a series of operations by government troops.

“The three were left with no other choice but to turn themselves in to the Philippine Army,” the 3SFBn said.

The surrenderers - Alberto Perez Pañabe, Brian Ruadil Bulagao, and Junmar Alameda Rivas - belonged to the NPA Sub-Regional Committee Southland under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee. They handed over an M203 rifle, an M16 rifle, an AK-47 rifle, and ammunition upon their surrender.

Lt. Col. Paulo Baylon, the 3SFBn commander, acknowledged the support of residents who provided intelligence information to the government forces on the locations where the remaining NPA rebels were operating.

The surrenderers are now completing the necessary documentation to avail of the programs and services of the government, Baylon said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216522

Pregnant rebel reunites with kids after leaving armed struggle

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 9, 2024): Pregnant rebel reunites with kids after leaving armed struggle (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

BRIGHTER FUTURE. A 29-year-old pregnant former rebel is reunited with her two children after she left the New People's Army and surrendered to the military and police in Siaton, Negros Oriental on Dec. 18, 2023. “Ka Aubrey” celebrated her birthday on Sunday (Jan. 6, 2024) with her two daughters, whom she did not see for three years. (Contributed photo)

DUMAGUETE CITY – A 29-year-old former New People’s Army (NPA) Southeast Front rebel sees hope for a new life after she was reunited with her two children.

“Ka Aubrey,” who hails from Bantayan Island, Cebu province, said in an interview Tuesday that she dreams of a normal family life with her children and hopefully with their father, who remains with the NPA organization in southern Negros Oriental.

Pregnant with her third child which is due in two months, she celebrated her on Jan. 6 with her two daughters, aged 5 and 2, whom she did not see for three years.

“My dream is to have a normal life with my children and my husband, who I convince to also come down from the mountains and surrender peacefully to authorities so we can all be reunited,” she said in Cebuano.

She said she joined the armed struggle about 10 years ago when she was still 18 after an organizer came to their island and recruited her with false promises of a better life.

The young mother said she was on and off an "amazon" (lady fighter) in between her pregnancies.

Her first child was left in the care of her mother immediately after her delivery.

A local villager in Barangay Talalak, Sta. Catalina in southern Negros Oriental looked after the second child.

“Life was harsh in the mountains and there was barely enough to eat, except for root crops and sometimes food given by residents,” Ka Aubrey said.

On Dec. 18 last year, she and another pregnant rebel surrendered to the Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion, the 705th Mobile Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7, and the local police in Siaton.

They are currently staying in a safehouse while their applications are being processed for the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for former rebels.

Meanwhile, the guardian of the younger child has agreed to return full custody to Ka Aubrey.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216649

World War II veterans inspire patriotism among Pangasinenses

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 9, 2024): World War II veterans inspire patriotism among Pangasinenses (By Hilda Austria)

VETERANS DAY. Twelve of the 37 living veterans of the World War II in Pangasinan attend the Veteran's Day on Tuesday (Jan. 9,2024) at the Capitol Compound in Lingayen town, Pangasinan. A short documentary film by the Pangasinan Provincial Information Office told the stories of the three oldest living veterans in the province. (Photo by Liwayway Yparraguirre)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – With wrinkled faces and skins and most of them now on wheelchairs or using canes, their once strong bodies and sharp minds, even their numbers, are slowly fading away.

However, their stories of war and how it shaped them and kindled bravery and patriotism in their hearts remain.

Valentine Untalan, 107, the oldest living veteran of Pangasinan, said he experienced being in the water for 24 hours, guarding his post and waiting for the next soldier to replace him. If none arrives, he remains in his post.

“I volunteered in the infantry. Even though I am only a private first class, I was assigned as commander of the platoon and officer. I reached the major rank,” he proudly said in an interview with the Pangasinan Provincial Information Office (PIO) for the documentary titled Pamana, shown during the 17th Veteran’s Day, held Tuesday at the Veterans Memorial Park this town.

Raymundo Cabrera, 98, said his memory of the war was more on his time in remote places.

“I was assigned in Corregidor and in the far east that is around the island of Guam. It was like a prison ward for me,” he said.

Godofredo dela Cruz, 97, recalled that he was a replacement in the war for his aged father.

“They asked my father to join but my father said he has small children so I volunteered,” dela Cruz said, as he remembered their hardships at the war without any food to eat.

The veterans encouraged the young people of the province to remain vigilant, become defenders of the land, and be good citizens.

“The war that defined my generation has come to an end, granting us renewed hope. However, my dear future defenders, we must remain vigilant for another battle looms on the horizon. You are our future defenders, and hold the key to preserving our nation's legacy. Embrace the torch of patriotism and carry it forward with unwavering determination. Spread the flame among your peers and inspire others to join in this noble cause. Together, as I am still alive, we will ensure that the spirit of love for our country burns brightly for generations to come,” dela Cruz said.

Cabrera urged the youth to use their heads in whatever problems they have, citing that they should make up their minds and do what is right.

“Be honest to yourself and be a hardworking man to succeed in life,” Untalan said.

Tears and silence followed the short documentary film in honor and remembrance of the living and fallen veterans of the province.

Each year since 2007, the provincial government of Pangasinan honors the World War II veterans whose number back then was up to a hundred. To date, it is now down to only 37.

Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III, in his speech, described the ambiance of the program as “always a happy and sad” commemoration.

“Happy as we commemorate the patriotism and sacrifices of our kababayan (compatriot) during the Second World War but sad that every year a lot of our veterans pass away,” he said, noting this occasion will always have a special part in the province “because these are the very intangible things we need to give importance to as we will not be enjoying our freedom if not for their sacrifices and patriotism.”

Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu, during the event, said it is high time to reflect on the heroism of the veterans.

He said it is also a time for people to ask themselves if they can measure up or match the veterans’ legacy of gallantry and their sacrifice for the country and their fellow Filipinos.

“And should the time call for it, are we ready to step up to the challenge? I urge the descendants, the families of the veterans to be proud of their lolos (grandfathers) and lolas (grandmothers) for the gift of freedom they bestowed to the land,” he said.

Mapagu said a veterans’ ward will be inaugurated at the Region 1 Medical Center in Dagupan City on Jan. 10.

“Part of the PVAO initiative is bringing to the veterans the medical care program and bring it to them closer,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1216652