AFP bares more plots by Reds

From Business World (Oct 28): AFP bares more plots by Reds



THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday bared more alleged destabilization plots by communist rebels following “Oplan Bungkalan” in Negros Occidental, as the military tags Oct. 20 massacre of sugar farmers in Sagay City, Negros Occidental.

“‘Oplan Okupasyon’ will also be conducted in another city in Central Visayas. ‘Oplan Aklasan’, on the other hand, will be in full swing in two companies in Southern Tagalog,” AFP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Edgard A. Arevalo said in a statement on Sunday, Oct. 28, citing a document allegedly intercepted from the New People’s Army.

Last week, nine sugarcane farmers belonging to the National Federation of Sugar Workers were killed at a hacienda in Sagay City. The military said the farmers were framed by their own group, which it also tagged as a communist front.

From the seized documents, Mr. Arevalo said that they also found codes of planned small attacks on soft targets.

“‘Supermarket’ is targeting PNP stations/AFP detachments to gain firearms; ‘Casino’ is sparrow operations targeting our assets and intelligence operatives; ‘Bulldozer’ is about attack(s) on mining companies; of burning of heavy equipment for government’s high impact projects; ‘Tabasco’ is targeting suspected ‘Tokhang’ agents/EJK suspects,” said the AFP spokesperson.

“They are not stopping. The cited incidents are not going to be the last if we, as a nation, will not stop them. If we will not heed the warning,” he said.

“The CPP-NPA will not stop their dastardly plans, hence we have forewarned all concerned….(T)he AFP and other security forces with the support of our people will frustrate the plans of these communist terrorist group,” the AFP spokesperson also said.

https://www.bworldonline.com/afp-bares-more-plots-by-reds/

NPA leader, 4 recruits arrested

From the Manila Standard (Oct 28): NPA leader, 4 recruits arrested

A ranking official of the communist movement in Negros Occidental was arrested by government troops in Kabankalan City over the weekend.​

Lt. Col. Egberto Dacoscos, commander of the 62nd Infantry Battalion, identified the rebel leader as Mary Grace Delicano, alias “Tingting/Cleo/Karyle,” an executive committee member of the Negros Island Regional Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines.
Delicano was on board a Toyota Innova along with four individuals believed to be new recruits of the New Peoples’ Army when she was apprehended by authorities at a checkpoint Friday evening.
Dacoscos identified Delicano’s companions as Richard Baylosis Serapin, Arnold Collastes Villegas, Wildie Pacle Adal and Eric James Salcedo.
Delicano was the third ranking communist leader to be captured in Negros Occidental after the arrests of Aurora Cayon, deputy secretary of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee and Louie Antonio Martinez, a logistics officer of the CPP-NPA.
Dacoscos said Delicano headed the CPP’s Regional Education Department that is responsible for the production of propaganda manuals, publications, and leaflets and the conduct of research work.

The communist rebel was arrested on the basis of a warrant for murder issued by Kabankalan City acting presiding Judge Fernando Elumba

Government troops recovered a Macbook laptop; one Acer tablet; two USB flash drives; one external hard drive; medical supplies; three notebooks and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

“The capture of Delicano is a proof that the NPA ideology is an ideology of criminals,” the military official said.

“Having someone with a criminal record for murder as the lead educator of the communist ideology puts their teachings under scrutiny—What is her credibility to become a teacher? What are they really teaching the masses?’ Dacoscos said.

http://manilastandard.net/news/national/279160/npa-leader-4-recruits-arrested.html

Philippines: 3 Marines, 7 Abu Sayyaf Killed in Jolo Clashes

From BenarNews (Oct 27): Philippines: 3 Marines, 7 Abu Sayyaf Killed in Jolo Clashes



Philippine soldiers arrive at a military hospital in Jolo after a clash with Abu Sayyaf militants, March 3, 2017.

Three Marines and seven Filipino Abu Sayyaf militants were killed in clashes on the southern Philippine island of Jolo where the gunmen have been holding several hostages, the military said Saturday.

Three other Marines were wounded and 12 militants were captured following Friday clashes involving about 50 Abu Sayyaf gunmen, regional military chief Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega said.

The troops were patrolling jungle areas in Jolo’s Patikul town when they encountered the fighters, triggering the violence, he said.

“We are sad to report that we lost three of our valiant Marines during the course of the fight,” Dela Vega said. “We ask for prayers from all peace-loving people of the country for their eternal repose and for the speedy recovery of the three others who were wounded during the encounter.”

The rebels withdrew into the jungle and were being pursued by the military Saturday.

Regional military spokesman Col. Gerry Besana said the identities of the slain Marines were withheld pending notification of their immediate families. The wounded soldiers were being treated at a military hospital in Jolo.

The Abu Sayyaf, or Bearers of the Sword, is the most brutal militant group operating in the southern Philippines and has been engaged in kidnappings and bombings. In February 2017, Abu Sayyaf members beheaded a German hostage. A year earlier, two Canadian hostages suffered the same fate.

The group is holding 12 hostages, including three Indonesians, one Vietnamese, one Dutch and seven Filipinos, the military has said.

In September, 18 members of the Abu Sayyaf’s faction on the nearby island of Basilan were charged for their roles in a July suicide bomb attack that killed 11 people. The Islamic State (IS) had claimed one of its fighters, a Moroccan national, had carry out the bombing, a claim discredited by the Filipino military.

Last year, Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, who pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, led a siege of the southern city of Marawi, leaving 1,200 people dead, most of them militants. The five-month siege ended in October with the death of Hapilon, although the government said dozens of militants escaped from the city.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/sayyaf-clash-10272018083722.html

Communist surrenderer killed by comrades in Negros Occidental — police report

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 27): Communist surrenderer killed by comrades in Negros Occidental — police report

Raymart Dagohoy dreamed of going back to a normal life as a sugarcane plantation worker and spend time with his family after leaving the communist movement.
 But on Friday at around 6:30 a.m. while the 22-year-old Dagohoy was about to have breakfast with his father and other co-workers in Purok 3, barangay San Antonio in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, a group of communist rebels arrived and peppered him with bullets.

A police report reaching Camp Crame in Quezon City said that prior to the shooting of Dagohoy, some 20 communist rebels were seen looking for the victim in the sugarcane plantation site where he was working. They were Dagohoy’s former comrades in the New People’s Army.

The police report said Dagohoy has been working as sugarcane cutter for several months already after he was convinced to surrender to the government.

Renato, Dagohoy’s father, said two gunshots were first heard from the approaching rebels, which prompted his companions to run away.

“The victim was shot hit first at the stomach and was shot again while he was running away from his attackers,” the police report read.

“One the male gunmen approached the wounded victim and shot him at close range with an M16 rifle three times on the head,” it added.

Renato told the police investigators that he saw two women armed with handguns and four male companions armed with high-powered guns when he went to the area where his son was killed.

Police later identified the six gunmen as a certain Lando Llamada, also known as Ka Chua; Eustaque Manait, alias Ka Choi; Ka Greg, Ka Joey; Ka Kompol and Ka Lara.

The gunmen reportedly fired their guns while shouting “Long Live NPA” in the local dialect before they left.

The attack on Dagohoy happened while the government is encouraging communist rebels to surrender amid the cancellation of peace talks with the communist rebels. It is being done through localized peace talks.

President Duterte earlier promised to give livelihood projects and houses to communist rebels who would surrender on top of the money being given to the rebels in exchange for the weapons they would surrender.

But police said the security of communist rebels who would surrender is always a challenge as their former comrades would hunt them down especially if they surrender their guns and provide vital information about the movement and their colleagues to the military.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/10/27/communist-surrenderer-killed-by-comrades-in-negros-occidental-police-report/

Security forces arrest 5 alleged Negros Occidental CPP-NPA fighters

From GMA News (Oct 28): Security forces arrest 5 alleged Negros Occidental CPP-NPA fighters

KABANKALAN CITY, Negros Occidental - Philippine security forces on Friday arrested five alleged Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army fighters, including Regional Executive Committee member Mary Grace Delicano, in Negros Occidental's Kabankalan City.

Joint elements from the Armed Forces and the Philippine National Police arrested Delicano, along with Richard Baylosis Serapin, Arnold Collastes Villegas, Wildie Pacle Adal, and Eric James Salcedo Rufino at a checkpoint on the Mabinay road.

Delicano was allegedly in-charge of the CPP's education and training, publications production, and  research work on Negros Island. She was also said to be the incumbent Front Secretary of the Central Negros Front 2 (CN2), an NPA group that operated in Central Negros.

Her companions, meanwhile, were said to be new recruits of the CPP-NPA.

Also seized by authorities were the suspects' vehicle, a laptop, a computer tablet, two flash drives, an external hard drive, medical supplies, and three notebooks and other documents.

Custody of the suspects was eventually given to the Kabankalan City Police Station.

Meanwhile, after the arrest, the 62nd Infantry Battalion's commander, Lieutenant Colonel Egberto Dacoscos, called on other NPA fighters to lay down their weapons and return to the fold of the law.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/672676/security-forces-arrest-5-alleged-negros-occidental-cpp-npa-fighters/story/

BIFF detonates 2 IEDs as 9 members surrender

From the Manila Times (Oct 28): BIFF detonates 2 IEDs as 9 members surrender

CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao: Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) believed to be owned by Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) exploded in separate locations in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Friday.

The explosions happened as nine BIFF members surrendered to security forces in General Salipada K. Pendatun, also in Maguindanao, on the same day.

Maj. John Arvin Encinas, spokesman for the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) on Saturday said the first explosion happened at about 8:40 a.m., some 400 meters away from the troops of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion who visited Barangay Poblacion to conduct an activity for the community.


Encinas said that when the troops were about to respond to the blast site, another IED exploded about 100 meters away, 15 minutes after the first explosion.

The troops immediately secured the blast sites and conducted road clearing to secure motorists passing along the highway as the 32nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team (32EOD) conducted safety procedures and assessment.

The 32EOD found that the first IED was made of 81mm unexploded mortar ordnance while the second was made of black powder placed in a can.

 Initial investigation and reports from civilians in the area pointed to Samad Simpal, a BIFF commander, as perpetrator of the twin explosions.

“The BIFF’s recent IED attacks are manifestations of their being desperate and weak already. They could no longer fight face to face with the government forces that secure the Filipino people,” said Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6ID commander.

Sobejana also said that Simpal was responsible for the series of harassments of military troops and detachments.

Meanwhile, nine BIFF members, including a commander, surrendered in General Salipada K. Pendatun town after their families convinced them to return to the fold of law.

They surrendered to Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion, with a certain commander Banog who arranged a meetingto formalize their surrender.

“Commander Banog said his family members were instrumental in convincing him to finally surface in the name of peace,” Cabunoc said.

The BIFF members handed over two .50-caliber sniper rifles, three anti-tank rocket launchers, two rifles and two grenade launchers.

A total of 39 BIFF militants have already surrendered to the 6th ID since April 2018.

https://www.manilatimes.net/biff-detonates-2-ieds-as-9-members-surrender/458311/

BIFF members tried to carry out bomb attacks in Maguindanao

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 27): BIFF members tried to carry out bomb attacks in Maguindanao

Suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) attempted to carry out bomb attacks on local military forces in Ampatuan town of Maguindanao amid nine of its members surrendered to the government in the area.


Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana (photo courtesy of wikipedia / MANILA BULLETIN)

Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, said there were actually two bomb attacks that were carried out in just a span of 15 minutes, the first was at around 9 a.m. on Friday in Barangay Poblacion of Ampatuan town.

The target, he said, was a group of soldiers who were conducting ocular inspection for a planned military activity with the local residents.

“When the troops were about to respond on the area of blast site, another suspected improvised explosive device exploded 15 minutes after the first explosion. The second explosion was 100 meters away from the site of the first explosion,” said Sobejana.

Sobejana said the attacks were carried out by BIFF men under Samad Simpal.

“Simpal and his men want to take revenge for the military troops’ (6th Infantry Division) continued launch of operation against the terror group BIFF,” Sobejana said.

There were no government troops reportedly hurt during the explosions but it caused panic among the residents, according to Sobejana.

The attacks occurred after nine BIFF members surrendered to the security forces in General Salipada K. Pendatun in Maguindanao.

“The rebels surrendered to 33rd Infantry Battalion led by Commander Banog, a prominent BIFF field commander in the area,” said Col. Robert Dauz, commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade.

Banog arranged a meeting with 33rd IB commander Lt. Col. Harold M. Cabunoc on October 20 to formalize their surrender and lay down their arms to the government.

Banog said in their meeting that his family members were instrumental in convincing him to finally surface in the name of peace.

The former rebels handed over nine high-powered firearms including two caliber 50 sniper rifles, three rocket-propelled grenade launchers, one M16 assault rifle, one M14 Rifle, and two 40mm M79 grenade launchers.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/10/27/biff-members-tried-to-carry-out-bomb-attacks-in-maguindanao/

AFP tells media: Be more perceptive vs. extremists’ propaganda

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 27): AFP tells media: Be more perceptive vs. extremists’ propaganda

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) appealed to media on Saturday to be ‘more perceptive’ in reporting as he raised the possibility that violent extremists may use national and regional issues to spread fear and hatred to the public.



Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr, (OPS / MANILA BULLETIN)
AFP chief of staff General Carlito Galvez Jr. made the statement as the conclusion of the Mindanao Media Safety and Security Summit held in Toril, Davao City that was organized by the Mindanao Independent Press Council, Inc. (MIPC).

“The AFP commits itself in forging partnerships anchored on effective coverage and media safety and security; not only in conflict situations but more importantly in environments where threats—physical and political— abound,” Galvez said.

“Terrorist organizations including the New People’s Army and Daesh-inspired groups have platforms and mouthpieces that exploit national and regional issues to advance their violent ideologies,” he added.

The military has consistently linked the communist rebels to some of the most violent incidents in the past, from political killings to the most recent one, the massacre of nine farmers in Sagay, Negros Occidental earlier this month.

“It is the media’s duty and responsibility to challenge enemy narratives that seek to glorify violence and discredit legitimate peace and development efforts of the government,” Galvez said.

However, the AFP chief was asked by MIPC to address media restriction in Mindanao and “the rising incidents of threats, harassment, and intimidation targeting members of the press who report on critical issues.”

In response, Galvez said that the military values media coverage “but there are greater considerations that come to play, especially in cases where high levels of confidentiality are warranted, thus limiting the access and coverage of the media.”

“Should there be a need for media practitioners to research and gather materials, especially in critical areas here in Mindanao, or if there are threats to your lives or safety, please do not hesitate to tell us,” Galvez noted.

He also assured that press freedom will not be affected by the implementation of martial law in Mindanao. “We have strictly ensured that our soldiers implementing martial law adhere to the rule of law,” he said.

Aside from Galvez, other top government officials who joined the summit included Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, Presidential Task Force for Media Security (PTFMS) Undersecretary Joel Egco, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Dente Gierran, Maguindanao governor Esmael Mangundadatu, and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) governor Mujib Hataman.
The event, which started on October 25, was held as a venue for discussions on the challenges faced by media personnel and organizations in Mindanao and to promote safety and security for journalists covering conflict.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/10/27/afp-tells-media-be-more-perceptive-vs-extremists-propaganda/

AFP assures press freedom, protection amid martial law in Mindanao

From GMA News (Oct 27): AFP assures press freedom, protection amid martial law in Mindanao

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has guaranteed it will uphold press freedom amid the martial law being implemented in Mindanao, and offered assistance to media personnel covering critical areas.

"The AFP commits itself in forging partnerships anchored in effective coverage and media safety and security; not only in conflict situations but more importantly in environments where threats—physical and political—are abound," AFP Chief of Staff General Carlito Galvez Jr. said Friday during the Mindanao Media Safety and Security Summit in Toril, Davao City.

However, Galvez said there are still limitations on media coverage, especially if the information is confidential.

"We value media coverage but there are greater considerations that come to play, especially in cases where high levels of confidentiality are warranted, thus limiting the access and coverage of the media."

"Should there be a need for media practitioners to research and gather materials, especially in critical areas here in Mindanao, or if there are threats to your lives or safety, please do not hesitate to tell us," Galvez added.

Organized by the Mindanao Independent Press Council, Inc (MIPC), the event tackled the challenges faced by media personnel and organizations in Mindanao and the promotion of safety and security for journalists covering conflict.

Galvez also urged the media to be objective in order to sort out propaganda by violent extremists.

"Terrorist organizations including the New People’s Army and Daesh-inspired groups have platforms and mouthpieces that exploit national and regional issues to advance their violent ideologies," Galvez said.

"It is the media’s duty and responsibility to challenge enemy narratives that seek to glorify violence and discredit legitimate peace and development efforts of the government," Galvez added.

In turn, the MIPC called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to end the practice of requiring journalists to sign as witnesses during anti-drug law enforcement operations.

The MIPC also called to attention the rising incidents of "threats, harassment, and intimidation targeting members of the press" reporting on critical issues.

"We urge the authorities to fast track the prosecution of persons behind harassment and killings of media in Mindanao who remained at large," the MIPC said in the "Mindanao Manifesto."

General Galvez was joined by the AFP’s Public Affairs Office Chief Colonel Noel Detoyato; Army Chief Public Affairs Lieutenant Colonel Louie Villanueva; Director of the Navy Public Affairs Office Commander Jonathan Zata; and Air Force Public Affairs Office Chief Major Aristides Galang.

Top government officials also attended the two-day event, which started on October 25, including Peace Secretary Jesus Dureza, who discussed peace culture and the Mindanao peace process, and Special Adviser to the President Bong Go who gave an inspirational talk.

Presidential Task Force for Media Security Undersecretary Joel Egco was also present during the event. He discussed the role of his agency in ensuring safety and security of journalists in Mindanao.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/672635/afp-assures-press-freedom-protection-amid-martial-law-in-mindanao/story/

PH Navy wins ASEAN-China maritime exercise comms drill challenge

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 28): PH Navy wins ASEAN-China maritime exercise comms drill challenge

The Philippine Navy (PN), through its Naval Task Force 88, was hailed as the champion in the communications drill spearheaded by the People's Liberation Army-Navy (PLAN-N) during the last day of sea-sub phase of the first-ever ASEAN-China Maritime Exercise (ACMEX) last Oct. 26.

NTF head Capt. Sherwin Respeto said the results were revealed during the after-action assessment at the Ma Xie Naval Base, Zhanjiang, China on Saturday.

This was followed by the closing ceremony with Vice Admiral Wang Hai, Commander of the Naval Forces Southern Theatre Command, as the speaker.

"The Naval Task Group 88, with the efforts of the command team and the support of both of the BRP Dagupan City (LS-551) personnel and task group crew, were able to easily respond to the communications challenges sent over the radio network, besting other participants, as part of testing the integrity of the communications established during the series of exercise briefings," Respeto said in a statement Saturday.

He added that ACMEX 2018 has proven the PN's capabilities to inter-operate with its partners as it modernizes. Moreover, the PN’s participation in a multi-lateral exercise is aimed at evaluating its inter-operability and readiness in cooperating with other navies.

"The confidence brought about by the said exercise will enable the PN to better perform its mandate," Respeto added.

BRP Dagupan City and the 200-man contingent aboard her left Sangley Point, Cavite last Oct. 17, and arrived in Zhanjiang, China on Oct. 20 to participate in the ACMEX.

It is hosted the People's Republic of China and Republic of Singapore Navy.

BRP Dagupan City has a displacement of 4,265 tons at full load, are 273 feet long, has a draft of 12 feet and has a top speed of 12 knots.

It was commissioned in PN service during the 1990s.

Earlier, Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said the proposal for a joint ASEAN and Chinese naval exercise was submitted during the ASEAN Defense Minister Meeting in Singapore last February.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1052328

29 Filipino war veterans awarded US Congressional medal

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): 29 Filipino war veterans awarded US Congressional medal



GOLD MEDAL AWARDEE. World War II veteran Corporal Cato Pulac, who turned 100 years old in March 2018, is one of the recipients of the United States Congressional gold medal from Ambassador Sung Kim in a ceremony held at the Philippine Military Academy on Saturday (October 27, 2018). (Photo by Pamela Mariz Geminiano)

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City -- The United States government has given the Congressional gold medal award to 29 Filipino veterans for their loyalty, valor and sacrifices in the defense of freedom and justice during World War II (WW2).

“The congressional gold medal is given to the Filipino war veterans in recognition of their dedicated service, and selfless sacrifice during the war,” said US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim, in a ceremony at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) here on Saturday.

“This declaration is awarded to an individual or unit who performed outstanding deed or act of service to the security, prosperity, and national interest of the United States.,” he told veterans and their families and witnessed by hundreds of PMA cadets and members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The US ambassador added that the Congressional gold medal is also the highest expression of national appreciation from the US Congress for the distinguished achievement and contribution of veterans.

Shared experience fighting the Japanese during the World War II and defeating a post-war communist rebellion further cemented the “special relationship” between the two countries, Kim said.

Santiago Busa Jr., a Filipino-American graduate at West Point and a PMA professor of Internal Relations, said the recognition will not stop in just giving medals, education component is perhaps the most important.

"Americans and Filipinos shall be taught about the sacrifice of both nations, which the medal symbolizes that is proof of the involvement of the Filipinos in WWII" he said.

The medal will serve as a reminder that this history will not be forgotten and will be forever passed on to succeeding generations, he added.

Busa is a member of a “lobby” group belonging to the Philippine Veterans Recognition and Education project that went to all the 314 Congressmen and 70 Senators of the United States to get their support for the passage of Public Act 114-265, entitled “Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act 0f 2016.”

“Public Act 114 is the law that grants the congressional medal to the Filipino veterans of World War II,” Busa said on the sidelines of the awarding ceremony.

The medal does not have an accompanying benefit. No health care or a visa or an education, but only a recognition of the WW II veteran’s sacrifice. “These guys didn’t fight for that, they fought for themselves, they fought for the country, they fought for each other but it’s also good to give them recognition,” he said.

Even if the award was given 76 years after, Busa said “now they feel that they are being appreciated after all these years.”

The veterans who received the Congressional gold medal is led by centenarian Corporal (CPL) Cato Pulac of La Trinidad; CPL Rizalino Alingbas, 95 of La Trinidad Benguet; Sergeant Angelo Andrada, 92 of Baguio City; Private Camilo Atas, 94 of Buguias, Benguet; Private First Class Mateo Bakian, 92 of Atok Benguet; Private Cosme Baltazar,94 of Kayapa Nueva Vizcaya; Private First Class Tuacan Barian, 97 of Kapangan Benguet; Private First Class Timoteo Boado, 90 of Baguio City; Private Alberto Bugtong, 93 of Itogon Benguet; Private Camilo Bugtong, 93 of Itogon Benguet; Private First Class Graciano Clavano Jr., 89 of Central Baguio City; Private Pio Doro, 92 of Kapangan Benguet; 2nd Lieutenant Wilfredo Estandian, 96 of La Trinidad Benguet; Private Pedro Hipol, 91 of Bauang La Union; Private Magno Lamsis, 94 of La Trinidad Benguet; Private Vicente Madarang, 92 of Rosario, La Union; Private Ernesto Luis, 91; Private Enrique Sobrepena Jr. of Carmona Cavite; Major Jaime Tabernero, 97 of Rosario La Union; Corporal Jose Tadifa, San Fernando City, La Union; Sergeant Jose Tiangao, 93 of Itogon Benguet; Private Garcia Wakit, 92 of Sablan Benguet and Private Salvador Yapyapan, 93 of Balaoan, La Union.

Posthumous awards were also given and received by the families of General Vicente Lim; LTC Pastor Martelino, 1Lt. Francisco Paraan and 3Lt. Jose San Juan.

The awarding, the second in a series, is just the start of the giving of the Congressional gold medal. Busa said the first batch was given to 13 veterans in a ceremony at the US Embassy in Manila and the next will be on November 13 in Lingayen, Pangasinan, then to each province in the country where the veterans are located.

“What better place to have this ceremony than the PMA where the ideals of the nation converge- the ideals of the beauty of the country- honor, integrity and courage are part of their daily existence,” Busa said.

He urged the cadets to recall history, the reason for their continued existence.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1052314

DWDD: CONVERGENCE | AFP-PNP in Eastern Mindanao joins for Peace and Security

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 26): CONVERGENCE  |  AFP-PNP in Eastern Mindanao joins for Peace and Security

NAVAL STATION FELIX APOLINARIO, Panacan, Davao City (DWDD) – The Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Directorate for Integrated Police Operation, Eastern Mindanao (DIPO-EM) of the Philippine National Police conducted Joint Command Conference on October 25, 2018 at Grand Menseng Hotel, Davao City.

   

The convergence of AFP and PNP units’ head and staff at different levels which are headed by Lt. General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Commander of EMC, AFP and Police Chief Superintendent Daniel Macatlang Jr., Director, DIPO-EM was anchored on the common objective of attaining peace and security in eastern Mindanao.

It was held purposely to review present peace and security situation, update the participants on the Development Plan of Mindanao, develop common understanding on the conflict sensitivity of peace efforts, the dynamics of peace and security, enhance inter-operability and synchronize AFP and PNP efforts in sustaining the gains of peace and security in eastern Mindanao.

The two major security agencies in eastern Mindanao agreed through a Joint Letter Directive to work, back to back, hand in hand in fighting insurgency, maintaining the territorial integrity, securing the different government flagship projects, terrorism, anti-criminality and anti-drug campaign.

The operational directive specified the joint concept and general protocol on Focus Military Operations, Law Enforcement Operations, Intelligence Operations, Countering and Preventing Violent Extremism, Community Support Program, Maritime and Border Security and Civil Relations Program. EASTMINCOM / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/26/convergence-afp-pnp-in-eastern-mindanao-joins-for-peace-and-security/

DWDD: TIRED | NPA members surrender in Cuartero, Capiz

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 26): TIRED  |  NPA members surrender in Cuartero, Capiz

CUARTERO,Capiz (DWDD) – Members of the New People’s Army together with their members of the Militia ng Bayan under East Front Committee, Komiteng Rehiyon Panay voluntarily surrendered to the Local Government of Cuartero, Capiz and 61st Infantry Battalion, 3rd Infantry “Spearhead” Division, Philippine Army at Brgy Poblacion, Cuartero, Capiz on October 22, 2018.

There are a total of seven (7) NPA regular members and 52 Militia ng Bayan (MB) members who voluntary surrendered bringing along with them the following high powered and low powered firearms; one (1) US M1 Garrand rifle, one (1) US calibre .45 pistol, ten (10) locally made shotguns, two (2) calibre .38 pistols, one (1) hand grenade and various live ammunition.

The said surrender is the result of the relentless efforts of the 61st Infantry Battalion and with the assistance of the LGU Cuartero particularly the Barangay Officials of Brgy Putian, Cuartero, Capiz.

The Militia ng Bayan, (MB) is a force multiplier or sometimes act as part time NPA armed members. They support the regular NPA members by providing them additional manpower, information, food and other logistics.

A certain alyas “Bong-Bong”, former Militia ng Bayan (MB) member said that “The reason we surrendered is because we are already tired of fighting the government forces. We experienced starvation due to the continuous combat operations conducted by the Joint AFP-PNP forces in the area and realized the false promises of the CPP-NPA, that is why we decided to return to the folds of the law.”

Colonel Benedict M Arevalo, Brigade Commander, 301st Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army said “We acknowledge the important efforts of the local chief executives in leading the campaign in anti-insurgency in their community by encouraging NPAs to surrender. We encourage the other members of the NPA to surrender and live a peaceful life. And for those who still choose to fight, we will hunt them and use the full force of the law and our military might to neutralize or capture them”.

The Philippine Army and the Local Government Units will ensure that all benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) will be given to the NPA members who surrendered in order to help them have a normal and peaceful life”, Colonel Arevalo added.



Col Arevalo inspects the surrendered firearms together with Mayor of Cuartero, Capiz Hon Tito Mayo, Provincial Director John Ace Azarcon of DILG Capiz, Ms.Joerin C Tan-Representative from DSWD Capiz and PSI Grace D Borio-OIC Cuartero MPS





Rebel Returnees swear allegiance to support the government



Relatedly, for those who want to surrender and for any information on NPA’s movements and extortion activities call or text the 301st Infantry Brigade hotline numbers, 0928-175-7208 and 0916-766-3740. 301IBde / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/26/86710/

DWDD: NPA CRUMBLING | 10ID dismantles another Guerilla Front in COMVAL Province

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 26): NPA CRUMBLING  |  10ID dismantles another Guerilla Front in COMVAL Province

NEW BATAAN, Compostela Valley Province (DWDD) – After destroying the large formation of Guerilla Front 27, Sub-regional Committee 2, and breaking its knees until it bogged down into being dismantled, the 66th Infantry Battalion drove another guerilla front into dissolution. Guerilla Front 25, Sub-regional Committee 1, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, was dismantled in accordance with the AFP PNP Joint Letter Directive 3.



After the decisive encounter in the early morning of January 20, 2018, 24 regular members of the beleaguered Guerilla Front 25 surrendered to the 66IB leaving the strength of the communist terrorist group to the least with two (2) dead members, several wounded and forced to lie low, and the capture of 26 high powered and several low powered firearms. Another encounter in mid-June 2018 further enhanced the total dissolution of the group with a remaining strength of nine (9) personnel and for failing to recruit at least one squad. Several other members of the Guerilla Front 25 surrendered bringing the strength of the group to five (5) fighters. The SRC 1 has been trying to revive the front but to no avail.

Guerilla Front 25 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee lost its mass base when the Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad (KRM) with seven (7) Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Baryo surrendered to the 66IB in the first semester of this year. This caused the legal front Compostela Farmer’s Association to finally lose its grounds and cease to exist. The resource generating mechanism of the Guerilla Front was broken and destroyed. Lately, it was seen how the Kilusang Mayo Uno was defeated by the rage of workers in Compostela. The people took justice into their own hands as the KMU strikers defied the orders of the court and the assumption of jurisdiction of the Department of Labor and Employment signed by the DOLE himself; it is one of the biggest sources of support of the Communist Terrorist Group (NPA).

“This is another proof that the NPA continues to lose tactically. The 701st Infantry Brigade is one with the local government units of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley Province in calling out to those who are still trying to fight it out. You are at the losing end, fight the government and you will surely perish. Surrender now while peaceful ends are being offered to you,” BGen Reuben Basiao said.

The 10th Infantry Division congratulates the troops of the 66th IB for its accomplishments in the past eight (8) months. MGen Noel S Clement, Commander of the 10th Agila Division told the Kabalikat Troops led by LtCol Palmer M Parungao that, “It is with distinct pride that 10ID has once again proven that we are really capable of defeating the CTG in this part of the country. While pressing the fight against the terrorist groups, we continue to assure that we do things in accordance with the rules of law. The 66IB have truly protected peace in its area of responsibility. I commend you for dismantling two (2) Guerilla Fronts of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee; you have continued accomplishing your part of the campaign, carry on and continue doing your best in defeating the enemy.” 10DPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/26/npa-crumbling-10id-dismantles-another-guerilla-front-in-comval-province/

DWDD: SUSTAINED OPERATIONS | 7 CNTs surrender to 10ID, yields firearms, war materiel and voluminous documents

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 26): SUSTAINED OPERATIONS  |  7 CNTs surrender to 10ID, yields firearms, war materiel and voluminous documents

NEW BATAAN, Compostela Valley Province (DWDD) – This week, several members of the Communist Terrorist Group surrendered to the 66th Infantry Battalion bringing along with them war materiel and other items.



Alias Bert was a member of the Yunit Pampropaganda Platun while alias Bryan was with the Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) group both of Guerilla Front 25 of Sub-regional Committee, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee. Both surrendered to Ltc Palmer M Parungao, Commander of the Battalion last Monday. They brought with them war materiel and materials for instructional package used by cadres in teach-ins and recruitment. They surrendered the following items: 1 improvised explosive device (IED), Improvised 22 caliber long rifle, books, publications, notebooks, reference materials, placards and other documents of intelligence value. There are other war materiel they brought along; IED blasting paraphernalia, 12 clips for garand rifle, WACOM V105 radio and one caliber 40 mm magazine.

Alias Dats,a former Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad chairman, facilitated the surrender of a political guide and organizer of the Guerilla Front 25. Alias Yummyboy surrendered to the Commandant of the Battalion 1Lt Joy Maunahan on Wednesday, October 17. He surrendered one carbine rifle, magazines of .30 caliber rounds and ammunition.

Towards the end of the week, Friday, three political leaders of the dismantled Compostela Municipal Revolutionary Committee surrendered to Maj Ricky Dioneda bringing along one dual purpose IED, a blasting cap, one caliber 38 revolver, one uzi 9mm pistol, one caliber 357 revolver, several ammunition and documents used in propaganda and demonstrations. In a continuous fashion, Maj Dioneda led a team to capture a cached carbine rifle after one of the surrenderor revealed it.

Meanwhile, Alias RM, a member of Guerilla Front 15, Sub-regional Committee, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, who was tasked by the communist terrorist group’s higher organ to operate in Luzon from April 2015 as squad leader, with his caliber 45 pistol loaded with a magazine of ammunition surrendered to Ltc Palmer M Parungao, Battalion Commander of the 66th Infantry Battalion.

MGen Clement, Commander of the 10th Agila Division lauded the 66th Infantry “Kabalikat” Battalion for a week of relentless push towards a clear end state of resiliency; “you have been so effective in dealing with the remnants of the fallen guerilla front you have been confronting, the remaining tentacles of the communist terrorist group have kept coming down to the folds of the law, the enemy will soon perish. Keep up the good work, carry on protecting the peace” he said. 10DPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/26/sustained-operations-7-cnts-surrender-to-10id-yields-firearms-war-materiel-and-voluminous-documents/