Navy exec: China has no right to dictate PH actions within EEZ

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 10, 2024): Navy exec: China has no right to dictate PH actions within EEZ (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad(PNA file photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)

MANILA – China is not in the position to dictate any terms or conditions on what actions the Philippines can take in its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), a ranking Philippine Navy (PN) official said on Sunday.

PN spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad made this remark after the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Manila needs Beijing's permission to access Ayungin Shoal.

This came out after China tried to justify the aggressive actions of its Coast Guard against a Filipino vessel evacuating three sick soldiers from the BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57).

"In the first place they should not be in our EEZ, secondly they have no right to demand, (also) they have no right to set any conditions, in the first place they should be out of our EEZ," he said in a media interview.

Trinidad also said they would not comply with China's conditions.

Earlier, National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo M. Año said Ayungin Shoal lies within the Philippines' EEZ and the country does not need permission from China to conduct any activities in its territory.

He said the Philippines "do not and will never need China’s approval for any of our activities therein".

The NSA also called such actions "barbaric and inhumane".

He also added that the Philippines will continue to maintain and supply its outposts in the WPS, including the BRP Sierra Madre, without seeking permission from any other nation.

WPS issue now a global concern

Trinidad, meanwhile, said the WPS issue is now a global concern as proven by the strong support the Philippines is getting from other nations across the globe.

"It's a problem that is not only faced by the Philippines, it's a global concern, all nations using the maritime domain, kaya nga marami tayong nakukuhang mga suporta mula sa ibang bansa sapagkat alam nila na nagkataon because of geography, tayo ang nasa front-line and ayaw nila tayo ang bumigay because ang stake dito is respect for international law (that is why we are getting a lot of support from other countries because they know that due to geography, we are at the front-line and they don't want us to give in because the stake here is respect for international law)," he said in a radio interview on Monday.

He said Manila will continue to stand for its sovereignty and sovereign rights.

He said aside from using the military approach, the Philippines can use diplomatic means and other methods to take a stand on the issue.

"But for the PN (Philippine Navy), we have to assert our right for the continued conduct of patrols and reprovisioning and rotation of troops (aboard the) BRP Sierra Madre," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226566

Soldiers seize firearms from abandoned NPA lair in SoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 10, 2024): Soldiers seize firearms from abandoned NPA lair in SoCot (By Priam Nepomuceno)

NPA LAIR. Soldiers seize weapons and materiel from an abandoned hideout of the New People's Army in Sitio Demamis, Barangay Lacunon, T’boli, South Cotabato on Saturday (June 8, 2024). The Western Mindanao Command on Monday (June 10) said the lair is believed to have been abandoned by NPA members under a leader identified as alias "Macmac." (Photo courtesy of Wesmincom)

MANILA – Government forces seized assorted weapons and materiel from an abandoned lair of the New People's Army (NPA) in a remote area in South Cotabato province.

Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) chief Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, in a news release on Monday, said soldiers from the 5th Special Forces Battalion discovered the NPA hideout during patrol operations in Sitio Demamis, Barangay Lacunon, T’boli town on June 8.

Gonzales said the lair is believed to have been abandoned by the rebels under a leader identified as alias "Macmac," a target of the recent series of operations conducted by the 1st Mechanized Brigade.

Recovered from the lair were one M-16 rifle, one M-16 magazine, one firing pin, one trigger mechanism, three cellular phones, two jungle hammocks, three ponchos, one bandolier, medical paraphernalia and binoculars.

Pursuit operations are ongoing as of this time.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226571

PH, New Zealand strengthen defense ties with signing of MLSA

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 10, 2024): PH, New Zealand strengthen defense ties with signing of MLSA

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

MANILA – The Philippines and New Zealand have agreed to strengthen security and defense cooperation with the signing of a Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement (MLSA), Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said Monday.

The signing is a follow-up to the bilateral meeting of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in April when they committed to “maintaining and strengthening defense engagements while exploring new frameworks of cooperation to deepen defense ties.”

"We welcomed the signing of the Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement, a pivotal document that will greatly enhance future military engagements between our nations," Manalo said in his remarks during the joint press briefing with visiting New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Raymond Peters.

Foreign Affairs spokesperson Teresita Daza said the MLSA was signed Monday, June 10.

On his X account, Peters said the MLSA was signed between Defense Assistant Secretary Marita Yoro and Royal New Zealand Navy Assistant Acting Deputy Chief Commodore Maxine Lawes.

Meanwhile, Manalo said the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA), one of the military partnerships discussed by Marcos and Luxon, is under consideration and would likely start discussions soon.

Aside from the United States, the Philippines also has a SOVFA with Australia and is currently developing a similar defense pact with Japan, known as the Reciprocal Access Agreement.

These types of military partnerships allow Filipino and foreign soldiers to train in each other’s territory, as well as improve and share military equipment and assets.

Peters is in Manila for an official visit this week to enhance bilateral relations and explore new avenues for partnerships in trade and investment, renewable energy and combating climate change.

Manalo said the Philippines and New Zealand "agreed to undertake more frequent exchanges of high-level visits, discuss ways to increase our connectivity through air flights and visas, and celebrate the commonalities of our culture and heritage."

Commitment to uphold rule of law

Manalo also thanked New Zealand for its "steadfast support" for the Philippines in the challenges it is facing in the South China Sea.

"We reaffirmed our continued commitment to uphold the rule of law as a pillar to achieving peace and security in the region," Manalo said.

"I reiterated the Philippines’ support to New Zealand’s proposal to elevate ASEAN-New Zealand relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership next year, when we mark the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-New Zealand Dialogue Relations as well as celebrating the ASEAN-New Zealand Summit. I am confident that New Zealand will remain a trusted partner in upholding ASEAN centrality,” Manalo said.

Recognizing that both nations have a shared interest as Pacific maritime nations, Manalo said New Zealand has a "special role" among the member countries of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).

"We exchanged views on the current and emerging challenges in our Pacific region and how the Philippines, as a PIF Dialogue Partner, can contribute towards achieving their goals in a beneficial way," Manalo said.

The two nations will celebrate their 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations in July 2026.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226631

PH must prepare amid ‘more worrisome’ external threats – Marcos

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11, 2024): PH must prepare amid ‘more worrisome’ external threats – Marcos (By Darryl John Esguerra)

CAMP VISIT. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visits the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division at Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela on Monday (June 11, 2024). In his message, the President pressed the need for the country to be prepared amid what he described as "more worrisome" external threats brought by the geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific such as the rising China-Taiwan conflict. (Presidential Communications Office photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has emphasized the need for the Philippines to be prepared for “any eventuality” amid what he described as “more pronounced” and “more worrisome” external threats in the region heightened by geopolitical issues, including the flaring tensions between China and Taiwan.

Marcos, in his visit to the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division at Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela on Monday, said the Philippines’ “proximity to Taiwan puts it in China’s area of interest,” highlighting the importance of the northern part of the country to be “well-prepared for any eventuality.”

“And that is why --- the external threat now has become more pronounced, has become more worrisome. And that is why we have to prepare,” Marcos said as quoted by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) in a news release.

“So, that is the mission that you have before you. Now, you have two missions, whereas before it was only internal security,” he added.

The President, however, clarified that the Philippines would not take territories and would only defend its own while engaging in various efforts to maintain peace in the region through continued diplomacy.

“We are not trying to take territory. We are not trying to redraw the lines of sovereign territory, the EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone), the baseline,” the President said.

“Hindi natin binabago anything na kahit isang --- not even one inch. Ngunit hindi tayo puwedeng pumayag na kukunin naman 'yan sa atin (We’re not changing anything, not even one inch. But we will not also allow that our territory to be taken from us),” he added.

This changing geopolitical landscape and emerging new threats, according to the President, prompted the government to include Cagayan as a site for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States, the country’s closest military ally.

China has recently increased military activities near Taiwan after it swore in a new leader. It considers the self-ruled Taiwan as a breakaway province.

Internal security

Marcos said the 5th ID’s mission now includes territorial defense from external threats, on top of the existing internal security concern brought by the communist terrorist group (CTG).

Among the current domestic security threats are the Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee (ICRC) and Komiteng Rehiyon Cagayan Valley (KRCV) groups.

The provinces of Quirino and Nueva Vizcaya were declared insurgency-free on Oct. 10, 2022 and Dec. 18, 2023, respectively, as well as other parts of Isabela.

Government forces dismantled four CTG operating units: two KRCV (September 2022); one KRCV and one Komiteng Larangan Guerilla-ICRC in December last year.

Resolute in defending PH

Ahead of the country’s 126th Independence Day, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Tuesday said the military remains resolute in its mandate to protect the country against security threats.

"As one sovereign nation, established by the steadfast perseverance of our predecessors, we shall remain resolute in upholding our pledge to public service, loyalty, and solidarity for the country, our people, and the flag,” Brawner said in his message for the occasion.

He also added that patriotism and unity remain the military’s strength in fulfilling its commitment to building a “strong Philippines” for future generations. (with Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226649

Palace: OPAPRU chief Galvez to represent PH in global peace summit

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11, 2024): Palace: OPAPRU chief Galvez to represent PH in global peace summit (By Darryl John Esguerra)

Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has tapped Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. to represent the Philippines at the Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland.

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) made the announcement on Tuesday, ahead of the June 15-16 Swiss-organized global peace summit on the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Manila last week to secure the Philippines’ commitment to participate in the summit.

Zelenksyy met with Marcos in Malacañang to discuss the two countries’ bilateral relations.

The Ukrainian leader thanked Manila for its support and recognition of Kyiv’s sovereignty amid the ongoing Russian invasion.

Marcos, meanwhile, expressed willingness to send Filipino mental health workers to assist during the crisis as part of the country’s humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226651

DND chief: China's '10-dash line' provoking WPS tensions

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11, 2024): DND chief: China's '10-dash line' provoking WPS tensions (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. maintained that tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) are heightened by China's illegal "10-dash line" claim.

Teodoro made the remark on the sidelines of the Swedish National Day celebration and reception for Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson on June 7, the DND said in a news release Tuesday.

“China wants us to go to the small details to forget the main message. The main message is: The ten-dash-line is the provocation. And everything flows from that,” Teodoro said.

He said Beijing has no business in the WPS and other areas where Manila has jurisdiction.

Teodoro said narratives are being whittled down to the tactical level to distract the Filipino public and the international community from focusing on the root cause of the tensions in the WPS.

“They are trying to bait us by straying from the main points and dragging us into an action-drama debate, where we focus on minor details which stray us from the main message. Let’s stick to the message," he added.

The DND chief also said the government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, is continuously undertaking efforts to manage WPS tensions.

He, however, said no discussions at the defense level are underway and that any agreement or talks should be open, rooted in international law, and uphold Philippine national interests.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226659

Troops aboard BRP Sierra Madre ready to repel 'boarding attacks'

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11, 2024): Troops aboard BRP Sierra Madre ready to repel 'boarding attacks' (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad (PNA photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – A ranking Philippine Navy (PN) official on Tuesday said military personnel aboard the BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57) in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) are prepared to respond to any incidents, including the possibility of those who might try to take over the ship.

"We all live on plans, we all live on contingency so for every action and situation we have the appropriate contingency plans and for the PN, there are different bills (training) that we practice, when we say bills, different situations that will include repelling boarders, so rest assured that our personnel aboard LS-57, BRP Sierra Madre, have the appropriate actions guided by the rules of engagement," PN spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad said in a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

He said the PN and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are regularly holding patrols to prevent these actions.

"We conduct regular patrols, we involve our partners and allies, we don't want the situation to escalate," he said.

He said there would be no let-up in the PN's resupply and rotation (RORE) missions to Philippine-held features in the WPS despite China's opposition to these operations.

"We have to understand (that) these are our seas, these are our rights, this is our future. Ito'y ating karagatan, ipaglalaban ng inyong Sandatahang Lakas ang ating karapatan para sa iyong kinabukasan (these are our oceans, your Armed Forces will be fight for your rights and future)," he said.

More Chinese naval vessels in WPS

Meanwhile, the number of Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels spotted in various WPS features increased to 22 from June 4 to 10.

This is double the 11 PLAN ships monitored in these areas from May 28 to June 3.

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the 22 PLAN vessels are among the 146 assorted Chinese ships spotted in these waters from June 4 to 10.

These ships, which include China Coast Guard vessels (CCGVs) and Chinese maritime militia vessels (CMMVs), were spotted in the following locations in the WPS:

--Bajo de Masinloc: four CCGVs and 29 CMMVs;

--Ayungin Shoal: five CCGVs, eight PLAN vessels, and 37 CMMVs;

--Pagasa Island: one CCGV, one PLAN vessel, and 40 CCMVs;

--Kota Island: one CCGV and one PLAN vessel;

--Likas Island: one PLAN vessel;

--Panata Island: two PLAN vessels;

--Lawak Island: one CCGV, five PLAN vessels, and two CCMVs;

--Sabina Shoal: four CCGVs and four PLAN vessels.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226673

DND chief: Ditch lies, disinformation vs. PH sovereignty

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11, 2024): DND chief: Ditch lies, disinformation vs. PH sovereignty (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BIG DAY. Philippine flags are up in Dasmariñas City, Cavite, as photographed on June 10, 2024. The country is in the thick of events for the 126th Independence Day commemoration on June 12. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Tuesday called on Filipinos to stand united against misinformation aimed at undermining the country's sovereignty.

"Ngayon higit kailanman, ating paigtingin ang pagkakaisa ng sambayanan upang iwaksi at pabulaanan ang mga kasinungalingan at maling impormasyon na pinalalaganap ng mga naglalayong tayo ay supilin at magkabaha-bahagi (Now more than ever, let's reinforce national unity to ditch and refute lies and misinformation which aim to suppress and divide us)," Teodoro said in a message a day before the country's 126th Independence Day commemoration.

Teodoro assured that the DND is committed to protecting the Philippines' sovereign rights over its maritime domains.

"Sa gitna ng panibagong banta sa ating kalayaan at soberanya, at ng mga hamon ng modernong panahon, ang Kagawaran ng Tanggulang Pambansa ay inyong maaasahan na mananatiling matatag sa paninindigan sa pambansang karapatan sa ating mga kapuluan at sa pagtitiyak ng ating kinabukasan (Amid new threats to our freedom and sovereignty and the challenges of the modern times, the Department of National Defense will stay strong in its commiment to safeguard the country's rights on our islands and our future)," he added.

Teodoro also paid tribute to all soldiers and veterans who have sacrificed their lives for the country's independence.

"Magsilbi nawang inspirasyon ang kanilang kagitingan sa ating Sandatahang Lakas at sa bagong henerasyon ng ating mga bayani (May their bravery serve as inspiration to our Armed Forces and the new generation)," he added.

He urged Filipinos to reflect on the lessons of history and recognize their contributions to nation-building.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226680

New PCG ships to help respond to tensions in WPS – DOTr

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11, 2024): New PCG ships to help respond to tensions in WPS – DOTr (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

The Japan-made PCG patrol vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua (Photo courtesy of Japan Embassy)

MANILA – The five new capital ships of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will help boost the country’s response to tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Tuesday.

In a statement, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said the five 97-meter multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) being acquired under the Maritime Safety Capacity Improvement Project (MSCIP) Phase 3 will help protect Filipino fisherfolk within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and boost disaster response capability.

“These Japan-made multi-role vessels would be crucial for PCG's strategic response to tensions at the WPS,” Bautista said.

The five new vessels will be in addition to the 12 Japanese-made vessels in the PCG fleet.

These include the BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Gabriela Silang -- both 97-meter MRRVs.

“These modern assets have been long expected. This will certainly boost the moral support of Filipinos to our frontliners,” Bautista said.

The funding for the five vessels was secured on Monday through the signing of a loan deal between the DOTr, the Department of Finance (DOF), and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

During the event, DOF Secretary Ralph Recto said the vessels would help spur the country's rapid growth.

“These vessels will help us steer towards harbors of economic security and prosperity for the Filipino people,” Recto said.

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya expressed the support of the Japanese government in boosting the country’s maritime sector.

“By handing over the vessels to the PCG, we hope to contribute even more to maintaining rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific Region,” Endo said.

Once delivered, the number of Japanese-made vessels in the PCG fleet will be 17.

On May 17, Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Endo signed an exchange of notes for the acquisition of the five vessels.

Aside from funding, the agreement covers the development of required support facilities for the PCG to improve its capabilities in addressing transnational crimes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226697

Moro Islamic Liberation Front leader with P1.3-M bounty nabbed in Marawi City

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 10, 2024): Moro Islamic Liberation Front leader with P1.3-M bounty nabbed in Marawi City (By Edwin Fernandez)

ARRESTED. Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CIDG-BARMM) arrested Moro Islamic Liberation Front sub-leader Jovy Sanguila (seated) during a law enforcement operation in Marawi City on Saturday (June 8, 2024). The suspect has a standing arrest warrant for multiple charges issued by a local court in Iligan City in connection with the 2008 attacks in Lanao del Norte province. (Photo courtesy of CIDG-BARMM)

CAMP S.K. PENDATUN, Maguindanao Norte – Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested in Marawi City over the weekend a wanted member of Moro Islamic Liberation Front linked to the 2008 attacks in Lanao del Norte that killed an Army officer and several other soldiers and civilians.

Brig. Gen. Prexy Tanggawohn, police director for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), identified the Moro Islamic Liberation Front leader as Jovy Sanguila, who has a PHP1.3 million reward for his arrest on multiple murder charges. The suspect has a warrant of arrest issued by the Iligan City court.

Tanggawohn described Sanguila as a "skilled" gunsmith and sub-leader of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front  102nd Guerrilla Base Command.

In a report, Lt. Colonel Ariel Huesca, chief of the CIDG-BARMM, said police units implemented the Oplan Pagtugis against Sanguila at 11:45 a.m. on Saturday in Barangay Tuca, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.

Huesca said Sanguila had been a primary target due to his involvement in the 2008 Lanao del Norte attacks, which resulted in the deaths of several civilians and military personnel, including Army Lt. Col. Angelo Benitez.

“Sanguila remained a highly sought-after fugitive because he orchestrated strategic operations for the group,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a separate 3 p.m. operation on the same day, CIDG-BARMM personnel also arrested two gunrunners in Malabang town of Lanao del Sur.

Seized from suspects Jamel Cabila Musor and Pananggi Sarip Ampuan during an entrapment operation along the national highway in Barangay Sarang of Malabang were two M14 rifles and an M16 rifle.

Charges were filed against the suspects for violating Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226567

Agusan Sur cops get bomb disposal robot from US

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 10, 2024): Agusan Sur cops get bomb disposal robot from US (By Alexander Lopez)

ANTIBOMB. The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office presents its newly acquired explosive ordnance disposal robot provided by the United States Department of State Antiterrorism Assistance Program on Monday (June 10, 2024). The new equipment is seen to boost the provincial police's capability to ward off threats and terrorism. (Photo courtesy of Agusan del Sur-PIO)

BUTUAN CITY – The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) has bolstered its counterterrorism capabilities by acquiring an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) robot from the United States Department of State Antiterrorism Assistance Program.

On Monday, the ADSPPO presented the EOD robot to the provincial government by demonstrating its capabilities, particularly its proficiency in detecting explosives and safely transporting them to designated disposal areas.

ADSPPO EOD K9 team leader Chief M/Sgt. Alexander Fazon Jr. said the robot can penetrate dangerous situations, such as addressing an improvised explosive device or an unattended package to determine the presence of explosives.

“Our adjacent regions, such as Davao and Cagayan de Oro, have already experienced bombing incidents. The acquisition of this EOD robot is timely for Agusan del Sur and the Caraga Region in our continuing preparations for such incidents,” Fazon said.

The Office of Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA) is the US government’s premier provider of counterterrorism training and equipment grants to foreign law enforcement.

ATA was created by the US Congress in 1983 and has delivered counterterrorism training to more than 165,000 law enforcement officials and first responders from more than 150 countries.

The ATA program assists partner nations in dealing with security challenges within their borders and threats to national and regional stability.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226620

22 ex-rebels in E. Samar tapped to persuade remaining NPAs to yield

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 10, 2024): 22 ex-rebels in E. Samar tapped to persuade remaining NPAs to yield (By Sarwell Meniano)

PERSUASION. Military, local government officials and some of the former rebels in Eastern Samar who recently surrendered to the Philippine Army released doves and balloons on Monday (June 10, 2024). These former rebels will be tapped to encourage the remaining 16 New People's Army operating in Eastern Samar to also give up the armed struggle. (PNA photo by Sarwell Meniano)

BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar – The Philippine Army is counting on 22 former rebels who recently surrendered to the government to persuade the remaining New People's Army (NPA) fighters operating in the boundaries of Samar and Eastern Samar provinces.

During a meeting on Monday in Locso-on village here, Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir said the former members of NPA's sub-regional committee Apoy Platoon will be instrumental in persuading the remaining 16 members. Apoy is the Filipino term for fire.

"Basically, the former platoon members will be our partners to help families of their former comrades to surrender. The former Apoy Platoon members will pour cold water to extinguish the burning hatred and anger in the hearts of former comrades so that they will completely abandon the armed struggle," Vestuir said.

The former rebels are expected to send encouragement letters and video messages to their 16 former comrades, who are still actively fighting the government.

They surrendered between September 2023 to May 2024.

Fatigue, hunger, difficulty of hiding in the mountains, and regular dialogue with families initiated by the military and local government prompted them to surrender.

Alias Brando, 22, a former leader of Squad 1, has called on the remaining NPA members to return to their families and live a peaceful life.

"We are grateful for how the government treated us even if we are former enemies. My message to our former comrades is not to believe what the NPA told them that they would be jailed and tortured if they surrender," Brando told the Philippine News Agency.

Brando, a native of Calbiga, Samar and his pregnant partner, alias Andy, 22, a native of Borongan City, formally surrendered to authorities in October last year.

Vestuir said the NPA platoon running in the mountains of Eastern Samar and Samar provinces has significantly weakened this year.

From 47 members with 43 firearms in the third quarter of 2023, Apoy Platoon's strength dropped to just 16 members with 25 members as of the second week of June 2024.

Most of them surrendered through the Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families (FReE Families) initiative.

The program optimizes the local government’s efforts to link and convince the remaining NPA members through the active participation of the rebels’ families to work for the peaceful surrender of their loved ones and take advantage of the benefits through the Enhanced Local Integration Program.

Aside from Apoy Platoon, the Philippine Army is also working on dismantling another NPA sub-regional committee unit in the province. Currently, the Bugsok Platoon has nine members and nine firearms.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226564

NPA rebel slain in clash with military in S. Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 10, 2024): NPA rebel slain in clash with military in S. Kudarat (By Edwin Fernandez)

Google map of Senator Ninoy Aquino town.

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao Norte – The military here announced a successful operation against communist rebels in an upland town in Sultan Kudarat province over the weekend, which left one rebel dead.

Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said soldiers under the 7th Infantry Battalion (IB), led by Lt. Col. Tristan Rey Vallescas, clashed with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels at 4:30 a.m. on Sunday in Barangay Kiadsam, Sen. Ninoy Aquino town.

“No casualty was reported on the government side,” Rillera said.

He said 7IB troopers launched the operation after civilians complained of "massive extortion" activities by the NPA, led by NPA subleader Eusebio Cranzo.

Vallescas said Cranzo and his followers fled to Sitio Kiluding in Kiadsan village, leaving behind their slain comrade.

Recovered from the possession of the slain NPA rebel was a Garand rifle with ammunition.

Following the operation, Brig. Gen. Michael Santos, the Army’s 603rd Infantry Brigade commander, has ordered all units under his jurisdiction to intensify the operation against communist rebels who have been mulcting farmers during harvest season.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226569

NPA killed, firearms seized in Masbate clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11, 2024): NPA killed, firearms seized in Masbate clash (By Connie Calipay)

RECOVERED. The items seized after an encounter between government troops and the New People's Army (NPA) in Pio V. Corpuz, Masbate province on Tuesday (June 11, 2024). An NPA member was reported killed in the exchange of gunfire. (Photo courtesy of 9ID)

LEGAZPI CITY – A member of the New People's Army (NPA) was killed while high-powered firearms were seized in a clash in Barangay Tubog, Pio V. Corpuz, Masbate province on Tuesday, the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) said.

In a report, Maj. Frank Roldan, 9ID Public Affairs Office chief, said the encounter ensued after troops responded to the reports of residents about the presence of armed men in their village.

Based on the initial report, the government troops encountered more than 12 NPA members led by Bobby Cañete, also known as Den-den/Bugas, of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilla South, Sub-Regional Committee 4.

Roldan said no casualties were reported on the side of the government troops, while an unidentified rebel was killed during the 20-minute firefight.

"We are still waiting for the identification of the NPA member since our troops are still at the encounter site," he said in a message.

After the insurgents withdrew, soldiers recovered several firearms, including an M14, M16, and M653 rifles at the clash site.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1226693

CPP/NPA-Northern Negros/Negros Island ROC: Desperate to crush the NPA, military on killing spree against innocent civilians

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 1, 2024): Desperate to crush the NPA, military on killing spree against innocent civilians

 


Cecil Estrella

Spokesperson

NPA-Northern Negros (Roselyn Pelle Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

June 01, 2024

In a futile attempt to meet its own deadline this June 2024 to crush ‘remaining’ Red fighters, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and its #DiMasaligan79IB are on a killing spree against innocent civilians they repeatedly tagged as New People’s Army (NPA) supporters.

Another victim fell prey on #DiMasaligan79IB’s maneuvers to lure supposed NPA supporter to their untimely death.

Jigger Barotolo, 43 years old, was reportedly killed on May 30, 2024 at Sitio Sangay, Barangay Hilub-ang, Calatrava, Negros Occidental at around 5pm. Barotolo sustained four gunshot wounds from the unidentified perpetrators on his way to tend to his carabao.

Barotolo was red-tagged by the AFP as an NPA supporter. The AFP unleashed its psychological warfare against residents of Barangay Hilub-ang through its Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) from 2019-2022. Barotolo was one of the many residents presented as surrenderee after repeated summons, interrogations and intimidation.

Queries surrounding the shooting of Bartolo compelled the NPA to investigate on the matter. Upon initial investigation, a unit of the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command-Northern Negros Guerrilla Front of the New People’s Army (RJPC-NPA) found out that around 3pm, perpetrators disguised themselves as Red fighters and summoned Barotolo through his neighbor. Barotolo planned to check on why he was summoned after tending his carabao. A few minutes after Barotolo left his home to tend to his carabao, shots were heard and residents rushed to find only his lifeless body.

The NPA’s investigation unit also gathered that residents spotted asset/s of #DiMasaligan79IB aboard a motorcycle fleeing from the said barangay. At the time of the incident, #DiMasaligan79IB deployed its fascist troops in neighboring Barangay Macasilao.

Only the AFP allows mercenaries to kill innocent civilians in broad daylight where columns of #DiMasaligan79IB were deployed at the nearby barangay by the time of incident. Maximizing intelligence assets as death squads or hitmen, such as the likes of Juvie Loki-loki, Tolindoy Nepalar, Danny Brasona, Momar Alingasa and other notorious personalities, the AFP showed their utter desperation by killing red-tagged innocent civilians.

After their gimmickry of a fake encounter that killed Jeje Redobles in Barangay Cambayobo last May 22 backlashed as residents, barangay officials and the general public exposed the truth behind the said incident, the AFP vainly maneuvers the attention of the general public away from the Redobles killing by initiating the Barotolo killing. Within a span of eight days, two families in Northern Negros are now without breadwinners due to the mercenary AFP’s futile attempt to crush the revolution.

Cases of killings of innocent civilians, like the cases of Redobles and Barotolo, must be investigated by humanitarian and rights groups. The victims’ respective neighbors can attest to their good record and relations to others.

The RJPC-NPA pays respect to the thousands of victims of state terrorism, like Redobles and Barotolo. We extend our sympathies to the bereaved families, their respective wife and children. Justice will be served!

Red commanders and fighters of the RJPC-NPA are one with the Negrosanons’ rage against the semifeudal and semicolonial system that pays no attention nor respect to the lives, livelihood and common good of the Filipino people. The RJPC-NPA will unleash its might, together with the people, to fight for a better future. The revolution continues!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/desperate-to-crush-the-npa-military-on-killing-spree-against-innocent-civilians/