RTF-ELCAC 6 StratCom Cluster presents accomplishments, discusses plans

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 13, 2020): RTF-ELCAC 6 StratCom Cluster presents accomplishments, discusses plans (By Carlson B. Alelis)

ILOILO CITY, March 13 (PIA) – Member-agencies under the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) Strategic Communications (StratCom) Cluster for Western Visayas convened to present their accomplishments and discuss activities recently.

Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-6 officer-in-charge Regional Head Jemin Guillermo presided over the meeting composed of representatives from various national government agencies in Western Visayas.

PIA-6, representing the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) on the regional level, is the RTF-ELCAC 6 StratCom cluster lead agency.

Philippine Information Agency 6 OIC Regional Head Jemin B. Guillermo presents the accomplishments of the Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF ELCAC) Strategic Communications Cluster to the cluster meber agencies. She also highlighted the various activitiers in the Integrated Communication Plan to be undertaken by the group. (PIA photo/CBA)

Among the accomplishments of the cluster from 2019 until February, include briefings and orientation on Executive Order No. 70 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte, media support during services caravans, dissemination of information, education and communication (IEC) materials; production of IEC materials translated in local languages in the region; generation of press and photo releases; and conduct of radio programs.

The Philippine News Agency and Radyo Pilipinas in Iloilo City, sister-agencies of PIA-6 under the PCOO, also attended the meeting.

The said agencies committd to help further disseminate news and information regarding ELCAC.

The cluster members were also given time to accomplish their respective communication plan to be consolidated by PIA-6.

Further, the cluster intends to have a monthly meeting to discuss updates.

Meanwhile, a scheduled Youth Peace and Security Development Summit, led by the Strategic Communications Cluter, has been postponed due to the threat of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). (JBG/CBA/PIA6)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036262

NPA leader, 2 others killed in Baguio clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2020): NPA leader, 2 others killed in Baguio clash (By Priam Nepomuceno)

A ranking Communist Party of the Philippines- New People's Army (CPP-NPA) leader was killed in joint police and military operation in Baguio City early Friday.

Julius Soriano Giron, head of the National Military Commission of the Communist Party of the Philippines, and his two companions were killed after resisting arrest, prompting authorities to retaliate in a search warrant operation in Barangay Queen of Peace in Baguio City around 3:30 a.m.

Sketchy reports identified one of his companions as one Lourdes Tan Torres/Ma. Lourdes Dineros Tangco, a member of the CPP Executive Committee and while the other who remains unidentified is allegedly a security aide of the rebel leader.

Recovered in their possession were an M-16 rifle, a .45 caliber Colt and a .45 caliber Rock Island pistols, three hand grenades and a long magazine for the M-16.
The suspects were found in Giron's property which was reportedly acquired and paid for in cash, a rare privilege reserved for NPA leaders and front organization heads.

Giron, who is wanted for rebellion, arson, and frustrated murder, is the overall chairman of the CPP-NPA, the position vacated by Benito Tiamzon when he was arrested in 2014.

In a statement, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. said the neutralization of Giron will further weaken the communist movement.

"The death of Giron will further rattle the communist terror group and its dwindling force for losing its strategic leader. Giron is much closer and more relevant in NPA operations than the absentee Jose Maria Sison and is thus more influential to their ranks. We commend our troops for the successful neutralization of this notorious NPA leader, landing a serious blow against the CTG (Communist Terror Group) and bringing us closer to our goal of ending the local communist armed conflict in the country," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096474

AFP chief, 21 others take oath before PRRD

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2020): AFP chief, 21 others take oath before PRRD (By Priam Nepomuceno)



OATH-TAKING. President Rodrigo Duterte administers the oath to the newly-promoted officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (March 11, 2020). The oath-taking by top officers manifests the AFP’s commitment to the chain of command and Constitutional provision on the principle of supremacy of civilian authority over the military. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos, Jr. and 21 other newly-promoted senior military officials formally took their oath before President Rodrigo R. Duterte at Malacañan Palace, Manila on Wednesday.

In a statement Thursday, AFP public affairs office Capt. Jonathan Zata said Santos was joined Central Command head Lt. Gen. Roberto Ancan, Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. of the Southern Luzon Command, and Philippine Air Force (PAF) commander Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes.

Also present were Civil Relations Service AFP chief Maj. Gen. Ernesto Torres. Jr, Air Mobility Command head Maj. Gen. Simeon Felix Jr, 3rd Infantry Division head Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya. Jr, Naval Inspector General, Rear Adm. Sean Anthony Villa, Philippine Army chief-of-staff Maj. Gen. Rowen Tolentino, AFP deputy chief-of-staff for civil-military operations, Maj. Gen. Edgardo De Leon, and 1st Infantry Division chief Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio.

Other senior officers present were Brigadier Generals Araus Robert Musico, commander of 15th Strike Wing; Brig. Gen. Anthony Cacayuran, 54th Engineering Brigade head, Brig. Gen. Wilbur Mamawag, of the 603rd Infantry Brigade; Brig. Gen. Norwyn Romeo Tolentino, commander of 201st Infantry Brigade; Brig. Gen. Rommel Tello, of the 902nd Infantry Brigade; Commodore Luzviminda Camacho, Chief of the Office for Legislative Affairs; Brig. Gen. Gabriel Viray III, head of 901st Infantry Brigade; Brig. Gen. George Blanco, Senior Military Adviser to the President; Brig. Gen. Fernando Reboja, commander 420th Supply Wing, PAF; Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag, commander of 1st Marine Brigade; and Brig. Gen. Angelica Torres, Chief Dental Service.

Zata said oath-taking by top officers holding vital positions in the military organization manifests the AFP’s commitment to the chain of command and Constitutional provision on the principle of supremacy of civilian authority over the military.

"When our oath before our Commander-in-Chief, we are again reminded that the new ranks that were bestowed upon us come with bigger responsibilities and tougher challenges that we each must overcome with excellence, honor, and dedication," Santos said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096479

Military not involved in forming community quarantine rules: DND

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2020): Military not involved in forming community quarantine rules: DND (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Friday clarified that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is not involved in the crafting of guidelines regarding the community quarantine which will be implemented over in Metro Manila starting March 15.

"The military will not be involved in the determination of the guidelines to enforce the restricted movement," Lorenzana said in a message to reporters.

He added that this is the task of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

"It is the PNP. The military will just be in the support role as they do not have police powers. I am sure the DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government) and PNP are now coming up with the guidelines," Lorenzana said.

Meanwhile, Lorenzana said the DND will maintain a skeletal civilian workforce for its frontline services and other critical office functions.

This is pursuant to the directive of President Rodrigo Duterte based on the March 12 resolution of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infections Diseases (IAFT-EID) which states the work in offices under the executive branch will be suspended.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines will continue its operations, including its support to the ongoing measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. The AFP shall assist the Philippine National Police in implementing the community quarantine in certain areas, and will help ensure the availability of units and personnel, critical logistics and supplies, as well as emergency medical teams, among others," he said.

He added that other civilian bureaus, specifically the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, Office of Civil Defense, National Defense College of the Philippines and Government Arsenal are encouraged to "adopt their own workforce measures to ensure the continuity of frontline and essential services, such as the processing of veterans claims and production of materiel".

Lorenzana also ordered the implementation of guidelines issued by the IATF-EID, including social distancing measures, enforcing proper workplace hygiene, and early medical treatment when symptoms manifest in the workforce.

Meanwhile, the AFP's Joint Task Force-National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) said it is requesting additional personal protection equipment (PPEs) for its troops who will be tasked to support the PNP in its community quarantine mission.

"PPEs are already provided and we are requesting for the additional PPEs for our troops to be deployed," JTF-NCR public affairs officer, 1st Lt. Arrianne O. Bichara said in a message.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096529

WESTMINCOM: Distressed communist terrorists yield in Zambo Norte

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM): Facebook Page (Mar 10, 2020): Distressed communist terrorists yield in Zambo Norte

Three members of the Communist Terrorist Group from the Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU) of Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) yielded to the military troops in the morning of March 9, 2020.

Fernan S. Micasia, a.k.a Gino, Team Leader, Team Baking, Squad 2, MRGU, WMRPC; Teng Alom, a.k.a Teng, Member, Team Abe, Squad-3, MRGU, WMRPC; and Ronie D. Tuburan, a.k.a Tuloy/Loloy, Member, Team Kaloy, Squad-1, MRGU, WMRPC, all residents of Barangay Guibo, Siayan, ZDN, submitted themselves to the troops of the 97th Infantry Battalion in Poblacion, Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte.

“The surrenderors revealed that they decided to surrender and return to the fold of the law because of the adversities they experienced while eluding the intensified offensives of the government forces,” said Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, commander of the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan.

Subject personalities are currently undergoing custodial debriefing at 97IB headquarters.

“This accomplishment is attributed to the dedicated men and women of the 97IB and all those who contributed to the successful surrender of the three communist terrorists,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“It exhibits the untiring commitment and dedication of our troops to continuously protect and secure our communities from the wrong ideologies of our enemies,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

“We continue to exert our best efforts to end the local communist armed conflict and other threats for lasting peace and sustainable development here in Mindanao,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana concluded.

Said surrenderors will be enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) to assist them in their reintegration.

#DefeatingTheCommunistTerrorists
#EndingTerrorismInMindanao
#AFPYouCanTrust

6th Infantry Division - Kampilan
601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade
602nd Liberator Brigade
603 Persuader Brigade
1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade
Unang Marinong Brigada
Team Tabak
Joint Taskforce Basilan
Team Igsoon
Haribon
Magbalantay Cmo
11 Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers"
Gagandilan Siete
1102 Infantry "ganarul" Brigade
1st BCT Aegis
Kwatromarinobrigada Sulu
Jtf Tawi Tawi Indomalphi
Joint Task Force Zamboanga Virtual Center
Unbeatable Ranger Battalion
Matatag Battalion
Tow Westmin Cmo
Tow Westmin Pio
Naval Forces Western Mindanao
Cmou Western Mindanao
Katapatan Pangkatihan-Dagatan

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/a.532970753511652/1673001692841880/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

WESTMINCOM: Two Dawlah Islamiya members yield, hand-over FAs in LDN

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM): Facebook Page (Mar 12, 2020): Two Dawlah Islamiya members yield, hand-over FAs in LDN

Two Dawlah Islamiya members yielded to the troops of the 4th Mechanized Battalion at 9am, March 12, 2020.

Edris Angne, a.k.a. RapRap and Abduracman Macapiil, a.k.a., Abu Akmad submitted themselves to the troops of 4th Mech Bn and were subsequently presented to Brig. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV, commander of the 2nd Mechanized Brigade at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Nangka, Balo-I, Lanao del Norte.

“This achievement is attributed to the local chief executives and the supportive populaces of Balo-I,” said Brig. Gen. Palafox.

Said personalities handed over one M14, one caliber 45, and one Ingram.

“The organizational leadership and capabilities of the Dawlah Islamiya totally weakened when their top leaders were neutralized during the Battle of Marawi,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“With this, I continuously encourage the remaining members to make up their minds, come out, lay down their arms, and begin to live peacefully with their families,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

6th Infantry Division - Kampilan601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade602nd "Liberator" Brigade603 Persuader Brigade1st Mechanized Infantry BrigadeUnang Marinong BrigadaTeam TabakJoint Taskforce BasilanTeam Igsoon103Rd Bde Haribon Pa Campo Ranao, Marawi CityMagbalantay Cmo11 Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers"Gagandilan Siete1102 Infantry "ganarul" Brigade1st BCT AegisKwatromarinobrigada SuluJtf Tawi Tawi IndomalphiJoint Task Force ZamboangaVirtual Center ValenciaUnbeatable Ranger Battalion29th Infantry "Matatag" Battalion, Philippine ArmyPhilippine ArmyTow Westmin CmoTow Westmin PioNaval Forces Western MindanaoCmou Western MindanaoKatapatan Pangkatihan-Dagatan33rd Infantry Makabayan Battalion57th Infantry Masikap Battalion1st Mechanized Lakan Battalion90th Infantry Bigkis Lahi Battalion7th Infantry - TAPAT BattalionReliablecmo R Section6IB Redskin 37IB - Conqueror Battalion40 Infantry "Magiting" Battalion2nd Mechanized Infantry-MAKASAGBattalionOnlyourbest MbltFive38th Infantry We Clear Battalion

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1674771329331583/1674780249330691/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1674771329331583/1674858672656182/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1674771329331583/1674858695989513/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

CPP/NDF-Ilocos: NDF-Ilocos: Militarisasyon, sagot ni Duterte sa mga daing ng masa

NDF-Ilocos propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Mar 13, 2020): NDF-Ilocos: Militarisasyon, sagot ni Duterte sa mga daing ng masa

KA ROSA GUIDON

TAGAPAGSALITA

NDFP ILOCOS

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

MARCH 13, 2020

Whole-of-Nation Approach at iba pang taktika ng TF-ELCAC, labanan!

Walang paglagyan ang kaduwagan ng 81st Infantry Battalion (IB). Tila hindi pa sapat ang pag-target ng Philippine Army (PA) sa mga di-armadong organisasyong. Ngayon naman, mismong anak ng mga lider-masa ay idinadamay nila para maghasik ng takot at lalong ipitin ang hanay ng mga progresibong organisasyon na lumalaban para sa karapatan ng mamamayan. Hindi talino kundi desperasyon at kawalan ng anumang paggalang sa sarili ang tanging makakapagtulak ng ganito kaduming taktika ng pananakot at panunupil.

Noong Marso 10, pinuntahan ng mga elemento ng 81st IB ang anak ng lider ng isang lehitimong organisasyon ng mga magsasaka sa rehiyon ng Ilocos. Sa mismong eskwelahan, hinanap sa kanya ang kanyang ama na pinipilit nilang ‘pasukuin’ bilang lider diumano ng isang Komunistang grupo. Kinabukasan, sinundan naman ng riding-in-tandem ang anak ng isa pang progresibong lider-Simbahan at hinanap siya sa kaibigan nito.

Kabi-kabilang Isyu ng Mamamayan

Lahat ng pamamaraan, gaano man kadumi o kadugo, ay gagamitin ng Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) at ng PA para durugin ang rebolusyonaryong hanay. Nanggigigil ito sa pagunguna ng mga kasama sa paglalantad at paglaban sa kabi-kabilang mga pahirap na pinapasan ng masang Pilipino dahil sa rehimeng Duterte. Mula noong ipinatupad ang Executive Order 70, kung kailan binuo ang mga TF-ELCAC at pinalawak ang pagpapatupad ng whole-of-nation approach, lalong tumindi ang Red-tagging at harassment sa mga progresibong lehitimong organisasyong masa na kinakatawan ng mga lider-masang ito.

Sa rehiyon ng Ilocos, ang pambansa demokratikong kilusan ang patuloy na naggigiit ng tunay na reporma sa produksyon ng tabako. Ang mga demokratikong grupo ang sama-samang kumikilos para ilantad ang pagiging moro-moro ng tripartite conference sa hanay ng nagtatanim ng tabako, bumibili nito at ng National Tobacco Administration. Sila din ang nakikipaglaban para pagsilbihin ang excise fund mula sa buwis sa tabako sa mga nagtatanim nito. Ang totoo, ginagamit ng mga tulad ng dinastiyang Marcos at Singson ang pondo para magkamal ng higit pang kurakot at para panatilihin sa kanilang pamilya ang pagpabor ng mga lokal na yunit ng gobyerno.

Ang Rice Tariffication Law na ipinasa noong Pebrero 2019 at nagpababa sa presyo ng palay sa bagsakan ay mahigpit ding tinutuligsa ng organisadong magsasaka at iba pang alyadong sektor at organisasyon. Sumayad ang presyo ng hanggang Php7 bawat kilo sa ilang bayan ng Ilocos Norte. Kakambal ng TRAIN (o Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law) na nagpataas ng presyo ng mga batayang bilihin at gastusin, nagdudulot ito ng walang kapantay na kahirapan sa mamamayan.

Mahalaga din ang bahagi ng masang Ilokano para singilin ang dinastiyang Marcos, isang lantarang alyado ni Rodrido Duterte, sa mga kasalanan nito sa taumbayan. Sa kabila ng hilaw na mga pagsisikap ng Presidential Commission on Good Government para bawiin sa mga Marcos ang ninakaw nila sa kabang bayan, hindi nangingimi ang masang Ilokano na isama ang kanilang boses sa sigaw para sa katarungan.

Pananakot at Panunupil

Ito ang mga pakikibakang nais patahimikin ng rehimeng Duterte sa pamamagitan ng kanyang kamaong bakal. Habang naggigiit para sa kanilang karapatan at kagalingan ang mamamayan, sumasalag din ang masa sa higit na militarisasyon lalo dahil binubuhusan ni Duterte ng pondo ang mga piling ahensya ng gobyerno ng confidential at intelligence funds. Nitong 2020, siya mismo ang nagmungkahing doblehin ang budget para dito.

Ibig sabihin, habang hindi nakakarating sa mamamayan ang mga halagang nakalaan para sa kanila, walang-kahihiyan namang nakakapangurakot ng pondo ang mga opisyal sa mga ahensyang ito dahil hindi dumadaan sa audit ang mga espesyal na pondo para sa paniktik. At habang lubos na naghihirap ang mamamayan dahil sa pagbagsak ng kabuhayan ng mga magsasaka at pagsirit ng presyo ng mga bilihin, lumolobo ang pondo ng mga pasista laban sa mismong mamamayan. Nangangahulugan ito ng mas mahigpit at mas mahusay na pagmamanman, mas mapanlikha at malawak na black propaganda at mas matinding pagbabanta sa buhay at kaligtasan ng mga indibidwal.

Ngunit nakaukit na sa kasaysayan ang rebolusyonaryong tapang at kapangahasan ng mamamayang Pilipino, lalo sa panahon ng pinakamahigpit na mga kalagayan. Isang katotohanan na ang rebolusyon ay hindi isang picnic o isang piging, kundi isang pakikihamok sa kaaway. At sa panahong naglalabas ng pangil ang mga tulad ni Duterte, ni Hermogenes Esperon Jr. o mga elemento ng 81st IB, makikita ang lakas ng mamamayan sa sama-samang pagkilos. Nananatiling wasto ang mga batayan ng pambansa demokratikong pakikibaka, sa larangan man ng ligal na paglaban o sa armadong tunggalian sa kanayunan. Kung gayon, nananatili ding may laksa-laksang masa na kaisa ng mga ginigipit na lider, propagandista, organisador at iba pang indibidwal para tiyaking matatag ang hanay at may lakas para nagkakaisang magapi ang kaaway. ###

https://cpp.ph/statement/ndf-ilocos-militarisasyon-sagot-ni-duterte-sa-mga-daing-ng-masa/

Kalinaw News: Clash of Gov’t troops and CTG in CamSur, several high-powered firearms seized

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 13, 2020): Clash of Gov’t troops and CTG in CamSur, several high-powered firearms seized (By 9th Infantry Division)



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-An armed encounter between government troops and members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) flared up in a distant vill in Baao town, Camarines Sur province around 2:40 in the morning today, March 13.

Joint elements of 83rd Infantry Battalion (83IB) and 2nd Police Mobile Force Company (2PMFC) of Camarines Sur were conducting security operations in Barangay Pugay of the said town in response to the report about the presence of CTG members recruiting residents in the area when an hostile encounter with at least 15 communist terrorists broke-out.

The firefight lasted for 15 minutes before the fleeing rebels scurried towards hinterland village. No reported casualties on the government troops but the fatalities on the members of the CTG were still undertemined.

Recovered from the encounter site were two M16 rifles, one M203 grenade launcher, one M1 garand rifle, three anti-personnel mines, three hand grenades, seven blasting caps, two rolls of detonating wire, seven long magazines for M16 rifles, subversive documents and other personal belongings.

Meanwhile, Col. Tommy Deliva, Battalion Commander of 83IB expressed his gratitude for the prompt report made by the residents. He said that the public’s cooperation with the army’s efforts to end the insurgency is an evident proof that they are sick and tired with the CTG’s deceptions and atrocities.

He also emphasized that the CTG is already demoralized and crippled with the intensified operations of the military.

Prior to this, elements of 9th Infantry Battion (9IB) and PNP also recovered a bulk of war materials in the towns of Del Gallego and Ragay.

Hence, Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) under MGEN FERNANDO T TRINIDAD AFP believes that this successive recoveries of war materials and ammunitions were the corollary of the urgent appeal of the government and cooperation of the public, former and surrendering rebels in the wide call of stopping insurgency.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/clash-of-govt-troops-and-ctg-in-camsur-several-high-powered-firearms-seized/

Kalinaw News: Arms Caches Yield in Davao de Oro

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 13, 2020): Arms Caches Yield in Davao de Oro (By 71st Infantry “Kaibigan” Battalion)



Mawab, Davao de Oro – Government force recovers arms caches containing a Rocket Rocket Propelled Gun (RPG), pistol, helmets, and subversive documents in Pantukan, Davao de Oro on March 4, 2020 and on Tuesday, March 10, 2020.

The recovery came after the former rebels received cash and livelihood assistance from the Government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) where they disclosed information about arms caches of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs). Acting upon the said information, troops of 71st Infantry “Kaibigan” Battalion together with personnel from Pantukan Municipal Police and 1101st Police Mobile Force Company recovered the said caches in separate locations.

One cache containing a rocket launcher light 40mm RPG, three (3) 40mm high explosives and subversive documents were recovered in Brgy Napnapan, Pantukan, on Tuesday. Alias Lando former leader of NPA confiscated the RPG from MILF group under Kumander Faisal sometime in 2008. The RPG was used during an armed encounter between the military and NPA in July 2015.

Moreover, another cache containing one (1) 9mm pistol with one (1) magazine containing eight (8) live ammunitions, 32 pairs of knee paddings, 32 pairs of US ARMY elbow paddings and eight (8) kevlar helmets were recovered on March 4 in Brgy Bongabong of the same municipality.

“The E-CLIP proves effective as it entices NPA member to surrender and further disclose information that led to the recovery and capture of firearms and ammunition thereby decreasing the adversary’s firepower.” Lieutenant Colonel Sonny E Gonzales, Commanding Officer of 71st IB said.

E-CLIP is a Government program which provides cash and livelihood assistance or housing program for those NPA members who volunteer to surrender.

Meanwhile, the 71st IB continues to welcome and assist NPA members who will submit themselves and return to the folds of the law. It also actively participates in the conduct of Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) which aims to bring the Government projects and programs through Whole of Nation Approach to address the needs of the community.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/arms-caches-yield-in-davao-de-oro/

Kalanaw News: Notorious top NPA leader fall in arrest

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 13, 2020): Notorious top NPA leader fall in arrest (By Public Affairs Office AFP)



CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City-Joint elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police conducted a joint law enforcement operation Friday, March 13, that led to the death of top New People’s Army leader Julius Soriano Giron.

Giron is the head of the so-called National Military Commission of the Communist Party of the Philippines. He is also the overall chairman of the CPP-NPA, the position vacated by Benito Tiamzon when he was arrested in 2014.

“The death of Giron will further rattle the communist terror group and its dwindling force for losing its strategic leader. Giron is much closer and more relevant in NPA operations than the absentee Jose Maria Sison, and is thus more influential to their ranks,” said AFP Chief of Staff General Felimon Santos Jr.

Authorities were serving a search warrant (Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition) and multiple warrants of arrest at around 3:30 a.m. in Brgy Queen of Peace in Baguio City when Giron and two companions resisted resulting to a firefight.

Giron is wanted for rebellion, arson, and frustrated murder.

His companions were identified as Lourdes Tan Torres/Ma Lourdes Dineros Tangco, member of CPP Executive Committee and the other a suspected security aide.

Recovered in their possession were one M16 rifle, one cal. 45 Colt, one Cal. 45 Rock Island, three hand grenades, and one long magazine for the M16.

The subjects were found in Giron’s property reportedly acquired and paid for in cash, a rare privilege reserved for NPA leaders and front organization heads.

“We commend our troops for the successful neutralization of this notorious NPA leader, landing a serious blow against the CTG, and bringing us closer to our goal of ending the local communist armed conflict in the country,” General Santos Jr said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/notorious-top-npa-leader-fall-in-arrest/

Kalinaw News: AFP Chief of Staff, 21 other senior officers take oath

Posted to Kalinaw News (Mar 12, 2020): AFP Chief of Staff, 21 other senior officers take oath (By Kalinaw News)



CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Chief of Staff General Felimon Santos Jr and 21 other newly promoted generals and flag officers took their oath before President Rodrigo Duterte Wednesday, March 11, at the Malacañan Palace.

Joining General Santos Jr were Lieutenant General Roberto Ancan, Commander of Central Command; Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr, Commander of Southern Luzon Command; and Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes, Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

Also in the ceremony were Major General Ernesto Torres Jr, Commander of the Civil Relations Service AFP; Maj. Gen. Simeon Felix Jr, Commander of the Air Mobility Command, PAF; Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya Jr, Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army (PA); Rear Admiral Sean Anthony Villa, The Naval Inspector General; Maj. Gen. Rowen Tolentino, Chief of Staff PA; Maj. Gen. Edgardo De Leon, The Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, J7; and Maj. Gen. GenerosoPonio, Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, PA.

Other senior officers were Brigadier Generals Araus Robert Musico, Commander of 15th Strike Wing PAF; Brig. Gen. Anthony Cacayuran, Commander of 54th Engineering Brigade PA; Brig. Gen. Wilbur Mamawag, Commander of 603rd Infantry Brigade; Brig. Gen. Norwyn Romeo Tolentino, Commander of 201st Infantry Brigade; Brig. Gen. Rommel Tello, Commander of 902nd Infantry Brigade; Commodore Luzviminda Camacho, Chief of the Office for Legislative Affairs; Brig. Gen. Gabriel Viray III, Commander of 901st Infantry Brigade; Brig. Gen. George Blanco, Senior Military Adviser to the President; Brig. Gen. Fernando Reboja, Commander 420th Supply Wing, PAF; Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag, Commander of 1st Marine Brigade; and Brig. Gen. Angelica Torres, The Chief Dental Service.

The oath-taking by top officers holding vital positions in the military organization manifests the AFP’s of commitment to the Chain of Command and Constitutional provision on the principle of supremacy of civilian authority over the military.

“When our oath before our Commander in Chief, we are again reminded that the new ranks that were bestowed upon us come with bigger responsibilities and tougher challenges that we each must overcome with excellence, honor, and dedication,” General Santos said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/afp-chief-of-staff-21-other-senior-officers-take-oath/

Former Army chief Alberto is new PH ambassador to Israel

From Rappler (Mar 12, 2020): Former Army chief Alberto is new PH ambassador to Israel (By Sofia Tomacruz)

President Rodrigo Duterte also reappoints former speaker Jose de Venecia Jr as special envoy for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation



NEW AMBASSADOR. In this file photo, former Philippine Army commanding general Major General Macairog Alberto attends a defense and security exhibition held in Bangkok in November 2019. File photo from Philippine Army

President Rodrigo Duterte appointed former commanding general of the Philippine Army Major General Macairog Alberto as the Philippines’ new ambassador to Israel.

Alberto’s name was included in the latest list of Presidential appointees sent by Malacañang to the media on Wednesday, March 11. Alberto was appointed on Monday, March 2, while his appointment papers were released Friday, March 6.

Alberto’s new government post as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Israel comes some 3 months after he retired from the Philippine Army in December 2019.

Before Alberto was chief of the Philippine Army, he led the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Like many of Duterte's appointees to key security positions, Alberto had once been commander of Task Force Davao.

He is a 1986 graduate of the Philippine Military Academy.


De Venecia keeps post

Meanwhile, Duterte reappointed former speaker Jose de Venecia Jr as special envoy for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).

De Venecia was first given the post last May 2017, a month after meeting Duterte in Malacañang.

De Venecia served as speaker of the House of Representatives from 1992 to 1998, and from 2001 to 2008, or during the presidencies of Fidel Ramos and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, respectively. He was representative of the 4th District of Pangasinan for a total of 6 terms.

De Venecia was also a peace envoy during the Ramos administration. He made a failed bid for president in 1998, finishing a distant second to Joseph Estrada.

Though he was an ally of Arroyo, De Venecia had a falling out with the former president after his son, businessman Joey de Venecia, dragged Arroyo and her husband, Jose Miguel Arroyo, into the NBN-ZTE corruption scandal in 2007.

The two politicians have since reconciled and reunited in a vow to win more members back into the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) party.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/254294-former-army-chief-alberto-new-philippine-ambassador-israel

Rappler Talk: Bangsamoro region turns one

From Rappler (Mar 12, 2020): Rappler Talk: Bangsamoro region turns one

Rappler talks to Zia Alonto Adiong, a member of the Bangsamoro Parliament, on controversies, challenges, and milestones of the fledgling Bangsamoro region in its first year



The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will mark one year since its inauguration on March 29.

Rappler speaks with a member of the region’s interim government, Zia Alonto Adiong, on controversies, challenges, and achievements of the region in its first year. Adiong hails from the battle-stricken city of Marawi and is a scion of one of the region’s powerful political clans.

What’s it like in the fledgling Muslim region and what lies ahead for its leaders and people?

Watch this episode of Rappler Talk on March 13 at 3 pm.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/254248-interview-zia-alonto-adiong-bangsamoro-region-turns-one-year

2 NPAs killed, high powered firearm seized in Pinabacdao, Samar

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 12, 2020): 2 NPAs killed, high powered firearm seized in Pinabacdao, Samar (By RTF 8-ELCAC Stratcom)

PINABACDAO, Samar, Mar. 12 (PIA) -- Two members of the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) died in a 25-minute firefight with the troops of the 46th Infantry (Peacemakers) Battalion, Philippine Army in Brgy. Canlobo, Pinabacdao, Samar at around 8:15 in the morning of March 11, 2020.

The Focused Military Operation (FMO) was in response to the report of the locals on the presence of more or less 10 members of the terrorist group under alias DALTON who were foraging and extorting in the area.

The firefight resulted to the death of two members of the NPA and seizure of war materials including one M16A1 rifle, one bandolier with magazines, one backpack, electrical wires, one battery, solar panels and two cellular phones.

The fatalities were identified as Joel Encinas 50 yrs old, So Bagte, Brgy Mabini, Basey, Samar and Noli Rafales 45 yrs old, Brgy Canlobo, Pinabacdao, Samar.

Unfortunately, one military personnel sustained a gunshot wound that caused his death.

To recall, on March 6, 2020, Salvador Nordan alias Badok, a notorious Communist NPA Terrorist Leader, was killed at Brgy. Guba, Catarman, Northern Samar.

On March 5 and 7, 2020, the 78th Infantry Battalion had a series of encounters with remnants of Front 42, Sub-Regional Committee, under Communist NPA Terrorist Leader Roberto Opo alias Resty/Migo/Lowie in Brgy. Pancho Villa, Sogod, Southern Leyte.

The series of encounters resulted to the recovery of one M1 Garand rifle, ammunition and food stuff.

“We will continue to conduct focused military pursuit operations through legitimate use of force against these CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) that threaten the safety and well-being of the populace. The residents of Pinabacdao are already tired of the lies, abuse, deceptions, and extortions of these terrorists. It is unfortunate that the CNTs continue to endanger the lives of the locals causing injury to the utmost peace and living conditions of the whole community.” Lt. Col. Rhomel R. Langcauon, Commanding Officer of 46IB, remarked.

Maj. Gen. Pio Q. Diñoso III AFP, Commander, 8ID stated that “Tuloy-tuloy na ang pasok ng mga impormasyon galing sa ating mga kababayan na sawa na sa mga pangingikil, pananakot at karahasan ng mga teroristang NPA.

Ang dati nilang tinuturing na ligtas na pinagtataguan ay pinagtuturo na ng dati nilang mga kasamahan at mismong mamamayan.” “Ipagpatuloy lang natin ang pagtutulungan ng lokal na pamahalaan, mamamayan, pulis at kasundalohan.

Sa pamamagitan ng Executive Order 70, tuluyan na nating mawawakasan ang Local Communist Armed Conflict dito sa Silangang Bisayas.”

“Aming pinapaabot ang taos-pusong pakikiramay sa pamilya at pagsaludo sa kabayanihan ng ating magiting na Stormtrooper na nag-alay ng buhay sa ngalan ng serbisyo para sa ating mga kababayang Samareño.” Diñoso added. (RTF8-ELCAC Stratcom)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036154

3rd Mech celebrates 15th founding anniversary

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 12, 2020): 3rd Mech celebrates 15th founding anniversary (By Gabriela Liana Barela)

SAN JOSE, Tarlac, March 12 (PIA) -- 3rd Mechanized Infantry "Makatarungan" Battalion (3rd MIB) celebrated Wednesday its 15th Founding Anniversary.

Bearing the theme "Ika-15 Taong Anibersaryo ng Bayanihan para sa Ganap na Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran," 3rd MIB celebrates continuous service to the country through upholding the bayanihan spirit.

“When we talk about 3rd Mech, the first thing that comes to my mind is 'bayanihan.' This unique concept helps neutralize lawless elements and end insurgency," anniversary Guest of Honor and Philippine Army Commanding General Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay said. 

3rd Mechanized Infantry "Makatarungan" Battalion anniversary Guest of Honor and Philippine Army Commanding General Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay. (Gabriela Liana S. Barela/PIA 3)

Gapay also encouraged the members of the battalion to continue striving to fulfil their duties, and the key stakeholders to continue supporting the battalion's programs.

“Thank you in your efforts toward operational and organizational excellence, your development support and security operations greatly reduced the armed capability and influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army in your areas of operations,” Gapay added.

The 3rd MIB was activated on January 1, 2005 and was created due to the realization of the viability of deploying mechanized unit that will perform internal security operations and confront various threat groups within the area of operations in Central Luzon. (CLJD/GLSB-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1036122