Kalinaw News: Loose Firearms Turned Over to 103rd Infantry Brigade in Lanao del Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): Loose Firearms Turned Over to 103rd Infantry Brigade in Lanao del Sur

Lanao del Sur- Seven high powered firearms were turned over to the 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade by the Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC) of Marugong, Lanao del Sur on Tuesday, September 22, 2020.

The turned over ceremony was held with presence of the barangay captains and other local officials.

Colonel Jose Maria R Cuerpo II, Commander, 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade, personally witnessed the handover of the firearms to First Lieutenant Roxan Barbosa, the commander of the Bravo Company of the 55th Infantry Battalion.

Firearms consisted of one improvised .50 cal sniper rifle, one M4 5.56mm rifle, one m1 carbine rifle, and four .30 cal M1 Garand rifles.

“The turnover was made possible through the continuous collaboration of the unit and the local government of Marugong who are both sustaining the national government’s effort against the proliferation of firearms and other peace initiatives”, said Lt. Col. Franco Raphael Alano,55IB commander.

In his message, Col Cuerpo commended the people of Marugong for their commitment to stop the cycle of senseless violence in the province.

“We will remain relentless in our campaign in bringing about peace and development to the province of Lanao del Sur”, said Col. Cuerpo.

“One of our efforts is against the proliferation of loose firearms within the province which has been the primary instrument of violence by unlawful groups and individuals,”

He added that “Attaining peace is a collaborative effort and the security sector cannot resolve issues which lead to conflict alone, we need all the help we can muster from all sectors of society”.

Meanwhile, Horoun T Maruhom, the Vice Mayor of Marugong, vowed to support the national government’s effort against loose firearms and challenged his constituents to do away with the culture of violence in resolving conflict and accept a culture of tolerance and understanding.

He later expressed his gratitude to the 103rd Infantry Brigade, more particularly to the Bravo Company of the 55th Infantry Battalion, for not only securing their area but also for assisting them in addressing existing societal issues.

[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/loose-firearms-turned-over-to-103rd-infantry-brigade-in-lanao-del-sur/

Kalinaw News: Four NPA Rebels Yield After Soldiers Retrieve Terrorist’s War Materials in Quezon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): Four NPA Rebels Yield After Soldiers Retrieve Terrorist’s War Materials in Quezon

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Four more NPA rebels voluntarily surrendered a few hours after soldiers recovered an M16 rifle along with explosives in Quezon on Wednesday, September 23.

Per report that reached the 2nd Infantry Division, the former rebels belonged to the NPA’s Sub Regional Military Area or SRMA 4A and opted to surrender after localized peace negotiation in Brgy Canaway, General Nakar while the recovery of war materials in an NPA-designated arms stash took place in Brgy Magsaysay, Infanta all in Quezon province.

Lt. Col. Jesus Diocton, Commanding Officer of 1IB, identified the former rebels as alias Anton, alias Alvin, alias Jim, and alias Boy, adding that all of them used to play key roles in the NPA atrocities in the hinterland communities of Quezon.

“We were also able to recover one M16 rifle, one hand grenade, and an anti-personnel landmine after our troops acted upon the reports of our informant regarding an arms cache belonging to the terrorists.”

“These NPA terrorists hide their firearms and other war materials whenever they want to evade our forces and recover them once the government troops leave the area,” added Diocton.

The military has recorded a total of 115 surrendered firearms since 2016.

BGen Alex Rillera, Commander of the 202nd Brigade said that the community’s support to our soldiers has caused growing demoralization and disenchantment across the ranks of the NPA rebels resulting to unprecedented number of surrenders and recovery of firearms as the government advances its campaign to finally push these terrorists in the verge of irreversible collapse.

“Our soldiers have proven, yet again, their ability to secure their informants and their families from any acts of retaliation from the NPA terrorists.”

Rillera added that those willing NPA rebels who will turn their backs from the armed conflict will be treated humanely and with dignity while those who shall insist to stay on the path of terrorism must be ready to face the full force of the law.

The former rebels are set to undergo the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP enrollment process, where a former rebel will be assessed by the DSWD for profiling and counseling by their health experts in preparation for their reintegration to the mainstream society.

For his part, MGen Greg Almerol, Commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division praised the bravery of the concerned civilians who set aside their safety and wellbeing, and instead, chose to help the government forces by tipping off timely information to support our quest to end the five-decade insurgency and bring peace the soonest possible time.

“We are calling the remaining NPA terrorists to abandon your violent ideologies and return to the folds of the law so that you and your families will be able to have a bright and secured future and without you having to die for an unworthy cause.”

Almerol assured the people of Southern Tagalog that the government will not tolerate any acts of terror to its forces and most especially to the Filipino citizens whom the government vowed to serve and protect.

At present, 2ID has facilitated the surrender of 678 former rebels across Southern Tagalog and it will remain committed to advocate peace and serve the people under its jurisdiction.

[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/four-npa-rebels-yield-after-soldiers-retrieve-terrorists-war-materials-in-quezon/

Kalinaw News: NPA Losing Ground with More Surrenderees

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): NPA Losing Ground with More Surrenderees

Mati City, Davao Oriental – The Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) weakens in Davao Oriental with the surrender of two (2) key personalities to ELCAC Chief Implementer Ednar G. Dayanghirang yesterday.

Said surrenderees identified as Lito Migon Mabasa former Milisyang Bayan and Amelbic Llianos Talingting who was the Chairperson of Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Barangay Sanghay, Mati City handed over 2 improvised explosive device (IED) and one (1) rifle grenade left by fleeing NPA.

“The end is near for the NPA in the province due to surrender of regular and mass supporters”, Ednar Dayanghirang revealed.

“IED can inflict damage to anybody. We thank the civilians for their continuing support to the government that led to the surrender and recovery of IEDs,” COL KRISHNAMURTI A MORTELA of 701st Infantry Brigade pointed out.

[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/npa-losing-ground-with-more-surrenderees/

Kalinaw News: Components of APM Recovered by Army Troops in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): Components of APM Recovered by Army Troops in Maguindanao

CAMP Siongco, Maguindanao – The troops of 33rd Infantry Battalion under 6th Infantry Division have recovered components of Anti-Personnel Mines in the continuing military operations in Barangay Saniag, Ampatuan, Maguindanao at 9:00 in the morning of September 22, 2020.

The items recovered include two bottle 1ltr battery solution, two bottles hydrogen peroxide 500ml, 1/2 kg propellant charge ctg .50 cal, one pack baking soda 227gm, one each pyrex tube 100ml, one each pyrex tube 1000ml, one each thermometer kit, 1/2 kg propellant charge ctg .30 cal, one each scope, one bottle hydrochloride 30ml, one box machinery- nagel, one pack aluminum flash powder 200grams, ISIS Flag and subversive documents containing marksmanship and bomb making manuals.

“I commend the troops for their successful recovery of these anti-personnel mines and war materials. The terrorist group will now have lesser capabilities to conduct terroristic attacks against our troops and the civilian populace” said Maj. Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, Commander of Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division.

[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/components-of-apm-recovered-by-army-troops-in-maguindanao/

Kalinaw News: AFP, Facebook discuss partnership to counter terrorism online

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): AFP, Facebook discuss partnership to counter terrorism online

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay and Facebook Head of Public Policy in the Philippines, Ms. Clare Amador met on Wednesday, 23 September 2020 to discuss possible partnership in preventing terrorists’ exploitation of the internet.

Ms. Amador and her team reached out to Lt. Gen. Gapay in August to set the virtual courtesy call and share Facebook’s global efforts to counter terrorism and in dealing with harmful content on the platform. Facebook is a member of the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism (GIFCT) which was established in 2017 and is now a consortium of companies dedicated to disrupting terrorist abuse of members’ digital platforms.

“We laud and express gratitude to the members of the GIFCT, including Facebook, for stepping up in its self-regulation initiatives that targets the dissemination of extremist propaganda, including photos and videos of terrorist violence. We likewise in the security sector shall extend any assistance as needed and our lines of cooperation shall always be open,” Lt. Gen. Gapay said.

There have been many documented cases of social media being used by terror groups as tool to advance their campaigns. The war against the Daesh in the Middle East and the country’s own experience in fighting terrorists in Marawi City proved the potential of social networks as conduit for the fast spread of violent extremism and terrorist propaganda.

The spread of videos and images of execution incites fear and panic among the public, as well as increases the morale of terrorist elements and their sympathizers. Private messaging apps continue to be used as first line of communications followed by personally mediated and face to face meetings in recruitment and radicalization.

The Facebook team also shared about the nine-point plan being implemented by the GIFCT to prevent terrorist exploitation of the internet while respecting human rights and freedom of speech.

“We seek an open and above-board partnership with social networking sites to prevent and counter the spread of violent extremism, without curtailing the rights of users to free expression and information,” said Lt. Gen. Gapay.

Facebook Philippines currently has partnerships with other government agencies for its endeavours on child safety, education, human rights, elections, and law enforcement. It recently met with representatives from the Department of National Defense and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency to discuss matters on counter-terrorism.

[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-facebook-discuss-partnership-to-counter-terrorism-online/

Kalinaw News: Residents condemn CPP-NPA-NDF in Pinukpuk, Kalinga

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): Residents condemn CPP-NPA-NDF in Pinukpuk, Kalinga

Camp Melchor F Dela Cruz, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Residents of Barangay Baay in the municipality of Pinukpuk, Kalinga joined forces to condemn the infiltration and deception of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) on September 22,2020.

Dubbed as Walk for Peace with the theme: “Lakad Tungo sa Kapayapaan, Iwaksi ang Terrorismo at Karahasan,” the residents marched with signboards denouncing the terroristic activities of CPP-NPA-NDF and condemning the 50 years of lies and deception of the said Communist Terrorist Group.

The residents also burned the CPP-NPA-NDF flags together with the effigy of exiled CPP founder Jose Maria Sison and the images of NPA leaders operating in the province of Kalinga.

Together with the Local Government Unit and Barangay Officials, Pinukpuk Mayor Irving B Dasayon led the activity and thanked the 50th Infantry Battalion on their effort to protect their municipality against the terrorist group. He also assured the government troops of their continuous support in ending local communist armed conflict in their municipality. “The intensified Community Support Program activities, the efforts of Pinukpuk Municipal Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) and the support from the community are complimenting each other that resulted to the success of this activity against the CPP-NPA-NDF,” said Dasayon.

Lt Col Allan G Espela, Battalion Commander of 50IB said that the activity symbolizes the empowerment of the communities and manifests their awareness on the evil intentions of the CPP-NPA terrorist. The activity also encourages social involvement and active participation to deny the infiltration of CPP-NPA-NDF in their communities. The residents are promoting peace and establishing a resilient-community against terrorist organizations like the CPP-NPA-NDF and its allies.

During the ceremony, a former rebel recalled his experiences and spoke of the ills and evils of the CPP-NPA-NDF. He called for the condemnation of the communist terrorist and stressed out the deception of the NPA and its allied organizations.

BGen Laurence E Mina PA, Commander of 5th Infantry Division, lauded the LGU of Pinukpuk, Kalinga and its residents for holding an activity that signifies people’s support of the campaign against insurgency. “I am grateful to the peace-loving people of Pinukpuk for showing their active support to end the 50-year insurgency and their desire to attain genuine peace. This is a manifestation of the irrelevance of CPP-NPA in the eyes and hearts of the people. Together with the whole of government agencies and departments, we are one with and for the people.”

Meanwhile, Walk for Peace will also be held in Barangays Limos and Apatan, both of Pinukpuk on September 23 and 24, 2020 respectively.

[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/residents-condemn-cpp-npa-ndf-in-pinukpuk-kalinga/

Kalinaw News: 8 ASG members under Sawadjaam's group surrendered to Joint Task Force Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): 8 ASG members under Sawadjaam's group surrendered to Joint Task Force Sulu

September 23, 2020, Camp Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – Following the sustained ground operations of 1101st and 1102nd Brigades under JTF Sulu at the hinterlands of Patikul and Indanan to track the fleeing groups of Mundi Sawadjaan and Radulan Sahiron, eight (8) of its members surrendered to Col Antonio I Bautista Jr, Commander, 1101st Brigade at 2:00 o’clock this afternoon for fear of being caught in an armed encounter with the operating troops.

With the tall order of BGen William N Gonzales, Commander, JTF, Sulu to track down the group of Sawadjaan and Sahiron after the seizure of their encampment in Indanan yesterday and encounter in Patikul last September 20, Abdul Jihili, 28 y/o; Abu Yusop, 38 y/o; Sahira Sahibul, 28 y/o; Ali Jumsa, 38 y/o; Piedo Jumahari, 54 y/o; Mujib Jainal, 48 y/o; Abdul Abubakar, 34 y/o; and Ila Abbas, 47 y/o of Patikul, Indanan, Parang, and Maimbung, Sulu laid down their arms to 2nd Special Forces Battalion and 100th Infantry Battalion under 1101st Brigade.

In a statement of Ltc Busiños, CO, 2nd SFB and Ltc Gagula, CO, 100th IB, the eight (8) surrenderees decided to break away from Sawadjaan and Sahiron subsequent to the surrender of their sub-leader, Idang Susukan, to the authorities last August 13 in Davao City. Moreover, Col Bautista narrated that according to an intelligence report, the group of Idang Susukan had been decimated due to the surrender of these eight (8) members.

In one of the highlights of the visit of MGen Reynaldo M Aquino, Vice Commander, Philippine Army to 11th Infantry Division, the eight (8) surrenderees were presented to him this afternoon at Headquarters, 1101st Brigade, Brgy Samak, Talipao, Sulu. It is a welcome development that you returned to the folds of the law. This will be a life changing event on your part as you will be processed by JTF Sulu to go back to the mainstream; MGen Aquino said.

“There will be no let-up on our focused military operation until we have neutralized Mundi Sawadjaan and Radulan Sahiron. Another eight (8) members turned their backs to the group mainly for distrust and dissatisfaction on the leadership. My congratulations go to the Local Chief Executives of Sulu for the continuing support to your military. The Social Integration Program of the Provincial and Municipal Task Force ELACs awaits the members who plan to surrender; however, the full force of JTF Sulu will be focused to the remaining members of the ASG who continue to sow terror.” – BGen William N Gonzales PA

[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/8-asg-members-under-sawadjaans-group-surrendered-to-joint-task-force-sulu/

Kalinaw News: NPA commander and four others surrender to Army in Zamboanga del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): NPA commander and four others surrender to Army in Zamboanga del Norte

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS— New People’s Army (NPA) Commander and three NPA members and one Yunit Militia member voluntarily surrendered to joint elements of 97th Infantry “Kalasaglahi” Battalion (97th IB) and 42nd Infantry “Tagapagtanggol” Battalion under the 102nd Infantry “Igsoon” Brigade, 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division, Philippine Army at Poblacion, Leon B Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte Tuesday, 22 September 2020.

Surrenderees were identified as alias Warwar the Commander of Platoon Guerilla Front Feliciano Alpha (GF Flex “A”); alias RONALD, JOREL, and CHYNA MAE of Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU); and alias JIMMY member of Yunit Militia (YM) all under Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) operating in the Zamboanga Peninsula and Province of Misamis Occidental.

Initial custodial debriefing reveals that, Alias Warwar served 20 years of his life inside the NPA.

The surrenderees also recalled their hardships inside the terrorist group.

“We just want to have a job to support our family, but they fooled us, they indoctrinated us with all the lies against the government, but after we heard that our former comrade, alias Peewee, was humanely treated by the army, provided medical attentions and recieved benefits and assistance from the government, we didn’t waste our time and surrender.” alias War-war said.

It can be recalled that a Platoon of NPA under WMRPC Regional Headquarters Kalaw of WMRPC surrendered also to 97th Infantry “Kalasaglahi” Battalion under 102nd Infantry Brigade last 14 August 2020

” More NPA personalities will hear the news and hopefully surrender and return to society to lead a peaceful and progressive life.” Lt. Col. Manaros M Boransing, Commanding Officer, 97th IB.

As of this posting surrendered NPA rebels finally reunited with their families and will undergo medical treatment and debriefing given by government forces.

Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, 102nd Infantry Brigade commander vowed to facilitate their benefits and enroll them to the government’s Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

He also stressed to remain relentless against those who will not surrender and other threats in the area of operations.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Gene Ponio, the 1st Infantry Division commander, lauded the 97IB for the successful surrender of Former Rebels.

“Communist Terrorist Group in our area of responsibility is dwindling. Likewise, we will sustain our efforts to defeat them the soonest”, said Maj. Gen. Ponio.

“With the continuous surrender and neutralization of their ranks, we can achieve the lasting peace and progress in Western Mindanao”, added Maj. Gen. Ponio.

[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/npa-commander-and-four-others-surrender-to-army-in-zamboanga-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: CA approves promotion of 15 AFP officers

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): CA approves promotion of 15 AFP officers

CAMP GENERAL EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Commission on Appointments (CA) confirmed the ad interim appointments and promotions of 15 top officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on Wednesday, September 23 at Senate of the Philippines, Pasay City.

Without any objection the motion to recommend the appointments and nominations was approved during the CA hearing presided by its Chairperson, Senator Vicente C. Sotto III.

Among the military officers confirmed by CA were Brigadier General Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander of the 801st Brigade and Brigadier General Marion R. Sison, Commander of the 301st Brigade.

Also recommended for confirmation in the plenary were Army Colonels Warlito A. Limet, Sali A. Limpahong, Roberto B. Sarmiento, Eduardo V. Domingo, and Rey P. Pasco.

Three (3) Colonels from the Philippine Air Force were also confirmed namely; Myroade R. De Leon, Denis S. Mangcoy, and Henry D. Estoesta.

Navy Captains Fred R. Correo, Franklin B. Rotoni, Emerson C. David, Teodoro A. Bolanio, and Boyd P. Amorado were also confirmed by CA.

In the military, promotion is a testament to a soldier’s dedication to service and their ability to take on more challenging responsibilities. The promotion is also a part of the AFP’s swift implementation of its Morale and Welfare program.

CA on September 3, previously confirmed the ad interim appointments and promotions of 30 AFP Senior Officers including AFP Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Gilbert I. Gapay.

“Promotion is a well-deserved reward for hard-work and sacrifices. It also a way of seeing how far you’ve come in your careers and how much you can still accomplish. The AFP deeply commends your excellent job and may you continue mastering your skills in the fulfillment of Honor, Service, and Patriotism,” Lieutenant General Gapay said as a congratulatory statement.

[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/ca-approves-promotion-of-15-afp-officers/

Kalinaw News: Terrorist Camp Seized by Military in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): Terrorist Camp Seized by Military in Maguindanao

CAMP Siongco, Maguindanao – A terrorist camp was captured by the troops of 33rd Infantry Battalion at Barangay Saniag, Ampatuan, Maguindanao last Sunday morning Sept 20, 2020.

The 33IB troops, while scouring the area, found several anti-personnel mines intended to disrupt the movement of advancing military troops.

The Commander of Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division, Maj. Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, have ordered the relentless pursuit on the withdrawing terrorist members, as the military gained momentum in the ongoing focused military operation.

Maj. Gen. Uy also added, that the troops of Joint Task Force Central have been targeting the local terrorists in the area since last week to prevent the group from conducting bombing activities in Central Mindanao.

[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/terrorist-camp-seized-by-military-in-maguindanao/

Kalinaw News: Second Encounter in a Day Recorded in Negros

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 23, 2020): Second Encounter in a Day Recorded in Negros

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan Capiz – A few hours after the troops of 62nd Infantry Battalion encountered the members of CPP-NPA Terrorist in Canlaon City, the joint elements of Army’s 94th and 11th Infantry Battalion (IB) figured in a separate encounter with more or less 12 communist-terrorists at Sitio Amian in Barangay Tan-awan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on Thursday, September 17, 2020.

The encounter happened at around 3:20 in the afternoon while the troops are conducting clearing combat operations in response to persistent reports from the local populace about the presence of the communist-terrorists conducting recruitment activities in the mountainous area of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental and in the adjacent municipality of Ayungon, Negros Oriental.

The exchange of firefight lasted for about 25-minutes. After which, the communist-terrorists withdrew for fear that they will be collared by the operating troops. No one was hurt on the government side.

Captured from the encounter site were the following war materiels: one (1) M16 rifle; one (1) cal.45 pistol; one (1) 357 revolver; four (4) riffle grenades; one (1) hand grenade; 15 assorted magazines with ammunitions; five (5) backpacks three bandoliers; three (3) cell phones; one (1) solar panel; assorted medicines and medical paraphernalia; subversive documents and personal belongings.

Major General Eric Vinoya, the Commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division said in his statement, the encounter shows that the Army with the support of the local populace is winning against the communist-terrorists.

“The successive encounters should not suggest for a worsened peace and order situation in the island of Negros but an indication that our units have been hitting them very effectively.

Our soldiers intend to pursue them wherever they are in order to free the communities from their illegal activities,” MGen Vinoya said. “We also acknowledge the nonstop support of the local populace to the Army especially on giving accurate and timely information.

Their realization to support government initiatives came right on time; we are grateful for the trust and the confidence of the community on their Army,” Vinoya added.

[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/second-encounter-in-a-day-recorded-in-negros/

Arrest of 2 NPA leaders ‘justice’ for slain police

From the Visayan Daily Star (Sep 23, 2020): Arrest of 2 NPA leaders ‘justice’ for slain police

The arrest of two alleged ranking leaders of the New People’s Army in central Negros has been described by the Philippine Army as “justice” for the families of the six policemen, who were killed in an ambush three years ago in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Nabbed by virtue of arrest warrants issued by Guihulngan Regional Trial Court Judge Mario Trinidad for various crimes were rebel leaders identified by Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, 62nd Infantry Battalion commander, as Nona Espinosa, deputy secretary of Central Negros Front 1 (CNF1) of Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor, and Adidas Acero, vice commanding officer of the Leonardo Panaligan Command.

Flores said Espinosa and Acero were among those who participated in the ambush of then Police Supt. Arnel Arpon, Guihulngan City police chief, and five of his men on July 21, 2017, while responding to a shooting incident in Brgy. Magsaysay in the city.

Judge Trinidad has denied bail to Espinosa and the other respondents, identified as Medaro Sayosa, Eutique Manait, Randy Saguran, Toto de Asis, Rogelio Posadas, Glemar Bacusmo, Marilou Villanueva, Misael de la Cruz, Domingo Compoc and Jonathan Lacadman, in the multiple murder cases, Maj. Cenon Pancito, spokesperson of the 3rd Infantry Division, said.

Seven companions of Espinosa and Acero were also apprehended. Their arrest yielded assorted guns and explosives, among other items, and subversive documents.

Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said yesterday their arrest is another setback to the CPP-NPA operating in Negros Island, and a victory for the government’s anti-terrorism drive.

With their capture, Pasaporte said they expect demoralization and disarray among their ranks, especially the CNF1 that continues to suffer defeats from their troops.

The security operations of the 62nd, 94th and 11th infantry battalions in the hinterland of Guihulngan, Canlaon and Kabankalan, led to two encounters with groups of NPA rebels that also yielded 17 assorted firearms and explosives, from Sept. 17 to 19.

Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, 3ID commander, said in a statement that the series of positive operations against the CPP-NPA was part of their aggressive and intensified campaign against insurgency and wanted persons, in attaining a peaceful Negros Island.

“We are doubling our efforts and strategies to stop these communist-terrorists from staging more terror, Vinoya said, adding that they and the PNP will be conducting more joint law enforcement operations to permanently disable, not only their terroristic activities, but also their organization.

https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/September/23/topstory8.htm

4 Red fighters surrender

From the Mindanao Times (Sep 23, 2020): 4 Red fighters surrender (By BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

FOUR communist guerrillas surrendered in Loreto, Agusan del Sur, and Laak, Davao de Oro over the weekend.

1Lt Amadeuz Vj Celestial, the civil-military operations officer of the 60th Infantry Battalion, said three of the rebel-returnees were from guerilla Front 3, Sub-regional Committee 4, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee. They also surrendered their firearms.

Alias Keno, who has been a member of NPA for over three years, says they have been waiting to surrender since February following the intensive conduct of combat operations in the boundary areas of Agusan del Sur and Bukidnon.

However, they couldn’t find any opportunity until now because their commanders have been strictly monitoring the fighters for any sign of disloyalty.

Alias Chico said that they were already cornered and were struggling to source supplies because of the pandemic.

“Most of our comrades were already low in spirit due to hunger, fatigue, and fear that the military’s operations will catch up on us anytime,” he said.

On the other hand, alias Noli said their decision to surrender was bolstered when they saw the development in the community in La Paz, Agusan del Sur. His son and other relatives also laid down their arms earlier.

The entire barangay already declared the CPP-NPA and all its legal fronts as persona non-grata since June this year.

Keno surrendered his .45 caliber pistol, Chico his .38 caliber revolver; and Noli his M1 Carbine rifle.

Meanwhile, alias Mar surrendered to the 60IB amid the ongoing pursuit operations against a splinter unit of GF 3 that recently attacked a local tribal defense group in Laak, Davao De Oro. Mar claimed that he was tired of the corruption and infighting in the organization.

Mar’s group abducted a local in Laak whom they forced to become a guide in going to their target area. But he heard their leader say that they would kill the resident after meeting their objective. This made him decide to run to save both himself and the abducted local.

Mar surrendered his M16 rifle.

Lt. Col. Ronaldo Sarmiento, commander of the 60IB, said that while the combat operations have been effective, the success of the government’s anti-insurgency efforts still hinges on the social impact of its communist support programs.

In the past few months, the Army has recorded 410 surrenderees who turned over 78 assorted firearms in identified communist strongholds in Agusan del Sur, Davao de Oro, and Davao del Norte.

“Couple this with the outpouring of government programs and projects in these same localities and we render the CPP-NPA and their deceitful propaganda useless and without effect,” he said.

As of this date, four barangays were beneficiaries of P30 million worth of projects in programs under the Whole-of-Nation initiatives being undertaken by 60IB with various government agencies, local government units, and people’s organizations. This excludes other infrastructure projects, such as the construction of farm-to-market roads, which will physically connect these vulnerable areas to town centers.

All the rebel-returnees will be endorsed to their respective LGUs of Loreto and La Paz in Agusan del Sur, and to Laak in Davao de Oro for immediate assistance. They will also be later enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the national government.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/09/23/4-red-fighters-surrender/

Soldiers seize guns, bomb making materials in 2 Maguindanao towns

 From MindaNews (Sep 22, 2020): Soldiers seize guns, bomb making materials in 2 Maguindanao towns (By MALU CADELINA-MANAR)

KIDAPAWAN CITY (MindaNews / 22 Sep) – Elements of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion of the Sixth Infantry Division (6ID) seized several components of anti-personnel mines during their continued military operations against terror groups in Barangay Sanlag in Ampatuan, Maguindanao, Tuesday morning.

Province of Maguindanao. Map courtesy of Google

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, 6ID commanding officer, said the troops recovered from the site during the 9 a.m. raid two one-liter bottles of battery solution, two bottles of 500 ml hydrogen peroxide, half a kilo of propellant charge, one pack baking soda weighing 227 grams, two Pyrex tubes (a 100 ml and a 1,000 ml), one thermometer, one 30ml bottle of hydrochloride, one box machinery with brand name Nagel, and one pack 200 grams of aluminum flash powder.

They also recovered a caliber .50 rifle, flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), and several subversive documents which contained marksmanship and guide to bomb-making.

Uy, in a press statement, commended their soldiers for their successful recovery of anti-personnel mines and other war materials.

In nearby Mamasapano, also in Maguindanao, elements of the 90th Infantry Battalion recovered three high-powered firearms during their continued patrol operations in Barangay Tukanalipao around 2:40 p.m. Thursday last week.

The military said soldiers recovered a caliber .50 Barret rifle, 7.62mm sniper rifle, and an M79 grenade launcher.

More than five years ago, the Barangay Tukanalipao became the site of the bloody encounter between elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and members of the Special Action Forces (SAF) of the Philippine National Police when the latter launched a covert operation against an international terrorist surnamed Marwan who sought refuge in the area. Marwan died in the operation but 44 SAF members became casualties in the process. (Malu Cadelina Manar / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/09/soldiers-seize-guns-bomb-making-materials-in-2-maguindanao-towns/

PNP, AFP sign new joint directive to dismantle insurgency, terrorism in the country

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 23, 2020): PNP, AFP sign new joint directive to dismantle insurgency, terrorism in the country (By Susan G. De Leon) 

CALOOCAN CITY, Sept. 23 (PIA) The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) signed today a new joint directive that aims to dismantle the communist insurgency and terrorism in the country.

PNP Chief, Police General Camilo Cascolan and AFP Chief of Staff, General Gilbert Gapay led the signing of Joint Letter Directive No. 03 series of 2020 or "Guidelines in Evaluating the Effectiveness of Internal Security Operations in Support to the National Thrust to End Local Communist Armed Conflict” during the National Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) Meeting on Wednesday, September 23 in Camp Crame, Quezon City,

The PNP and AFP also signed a Joint Resolution that declares of communist guerilla fronts as weakened and dismantled groups at present times.

Present to witness the signing of the directive and resolution include Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser, Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, and NICA Director General Alex Paul Monteagudo.

Cascolan expressed his sincerest gratitude and appreciation to General Gapay "for always being supportive of the efforts of the PNP in attaining peace and harmony not only with the terrorist conflict areas but in whole country".

"On behalf of the Philippine National Police, I express my unqualified support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in your desire to eliminate communist insurgency in affected provinces," Cascolan said.

The PNP Chief also pointed out the essence of the JPSCC meeting to strengthen the rapport of the PNP and AFP as police force supports anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism operations, particularly, in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

"While we must perform our primary responsibility to serve and protect our people, it is our duty to give our best to help the AFP in defending our country through giving the best assistance and support to your troops especially in part of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region," he said.

Aside from anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism efforts of the PNP, Cascolan emphasized that this new directive is aligned on his 9-point Strategic thrusts as part of the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030, citing continuous campaign against loose firearms, illegal discharge of firearms, and campaign against criminal gangs, and drug suspects and peddlers.

"The signing of the Joint Letter Directive and Joint Resolution will collectively adopt all pursued cooperative efforts among the AFP and our organization to attain our goals with the end view of realizing the Filipino people’s aspirations for peace, security, stability and progress, and upholding their civil, political and human rights, under the rule of law," he said.

In 2017, the PNP and AFP also signed a Joint Resolution on the creation of the Inter-Agency Committee on Legal Action (IACOLA) during the 20th National JPSCC Meeting.

The accord has established stronger collaboration of ongoing and future efforts of the national government in addressing threat groups and local insurgency in the country.

Prior the event, all attendees underwent antigen testing to ensure health safety inside the venue. All participants' results are negative. (PNP PIO/PIA-NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1054079