Kalinaw News: JTFC Commander joins Kasangga Battalion’s 32nd Founding Anniversary

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 18, 2021): JTFC Commander joins Kasangga Battalion’s 32nd Founding Anniversary



The Commander of the Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry Division, Major General Juvymax Uy graced the 32nd Founding Anniversary of the 6th Civil-Military Operations (Kasangga) Battalion held at the Headquarters 6th CMO Battalion, PC Hill, Rosary Heights-1, Cotabato City on August 17, 2021.

Maj. Gen. Uy extended his congratulatory message to Lt. Col. John Paul Baldomar, 6CMO Commanding Officer in leading his men for their job well-done. “You are a battalion who performs a community-centric activities, not necessarily enemy-oriented. For our security forces, winning a war is one thing, and winning the hearts and minds of the people is another.”

Along with this, MGen. Uy together with Lt. Col. Baldomar awarded Military Merit Medals and Military Civil Action Medals to 8 personnel of 6th CMO Battalion.

This year’s anniversary theme is “6CMO (Kasangga) Bn @32: Kaakibat, Kaagapay, Kakampi at Kabalikat para sa Maunlad at Progresibong Komunidad”.

[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/jtfc-commander-joins-kasangga-battalions-32nd-founding-anniversary/

Kalinaw News: CGPA uplifts morale of Gabay Troopers; visits isolated CAA detachment in Bukidnon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 17, 2021): CGPA uplifts morale of Gabay Troopers; visits isolated CAA detachment in Bukidnon

ARAKAN, COTABATO – The 72nd Infantry “Gabay” Battalion warmly welcomed and paid courtesy to the Commanding General Philippine Army (CGPA), MGEN ANDRES C CENTINO PA during his visit at Headquarters 72IB in Arakan, North Cotabato and one of the unit’s isolated CAA detachment in White Kulaman, Kitaotao, Bukidnon on August 17, 2021

MGen Andres C Centino PA has been very dedicated in uplifting and boosting the morale of the troops and CAAs assigned in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) by visiting them to personally see the situation on the ground and have the opportunity to talk to them and deliver materials and supplies needed to assist them in performing their duty.

The Commanding General visited the isolated CAA detachment in White Kulaman, Kitaotao, Bukidnon. He personally commended the troops assigned in the said Patrol Base for being the frontliners in conducting combat and recon patrols and in maintaining peace and order within the unit’s area of operation. He strongly urge the CAAs to continue their efforts in attaining a peaceful and conflict-resilient community in the province of Bukidnon. After the info briefing about Threat Situation and deployment of troops, he personally handed over box of canned goods and military supplies.

Subsequently, the Commanding General proceeded at Headquarters 72nd Infantry “Gabay” Battalion to visit the Gabay Troopers. During his talk to troops, he expressed his support and commended the troops’ continuous efforts in attaining a just ang lasting peace and protecting the communities from any threats perpretrated by the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) amidst Covid-19 Pandemic.

Afterwards, the Commanding General led the donning of ranks to four (4) newly promoted enlisted personnel and awarding of Silver Cross Medal to personnel of Intelligence Team under 72IB for a successful intensified intelligence operation that led to the capture of two high ranking NPA Cadres in Pres Roxas, North Cotabato last 29 November 2020.

During the unit briefing, he emphasized that everyone should focus on winning the peace and ending the 52-year struggle against insurgency. He reminded everyone to exert more effort in doing our campaign. “I am counting on you in winning this fight against the insurgents. We are already on the right track. We just need to be more focus on our goal; that is to attain a just and lasting peace. Be safe and more power, Gabay Troopers!” he ended.

The 72nd Infantry “Gabay” Battalion led by LTC Jose C Regonay Jr. vowed to do everything to contribute to the AFP’s campaign to permanently end the insurgency before the next administration. With the collaboration and support of the Government, the unit will continue to carry out its mandated task of maintaining peace and order within the unit’s area of ​​operation.

[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/cgpa-uplifts-morale-of-gabay-troopers-visits-isolated-caa-detachment-in-bukidnon/

Kalinaw News: Government agencies convene meeting for Upland Rice Farming Cum Production Program in Davao City

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 17, 2021): Government agencies convene meeting for Upland Rice Farming Cum Production Program in Davao City



Davao City – The 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion under the leadership of LTC DONALD P GAFFUD INF (GSC) PA participated in the planning spearheaded by TESDA XI led by Engr Lorenzo G. Macapili, Regional Director, TESDA XI held at Brgy Tapak, Paquibato District, Davao City (PD, DC) on August 11, 2021. Also present during the activity were: MAJ ALMAR MACABACYAO (INF) PA, Executive Officer of 27IB; Mr Constantino B Panes Jr Ed.D, Center Administrator of RTC- KorPhil, Davao and Mr Adonis F Culas, Provincial Director, TESDA Davao City and Davao del Sur Provincial Office.

The objectives of the activity were the updates on the implementation upland rice farming in Barangays Mapula, Tapak, Salapawan, Malabog and Pandaitan all of PD, DC; requirements for the honoraria of 25 IP farm coordinators and one (1) lead coordinator; additional skills training to be implemented in the five (5) Brgys; training on sloping agricultural land technology and other matters such as livelihood training based on the needs of the community wherein the different IP leaders raised the skills they needed such as Carpentry, Dress Making, Welding and Machine Operator for Abaca Processing.

TESDA XI as the lead agency of the EO 70 Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC)!committed to provide the trainings they needed. The cluster aims to develop self-reliant and sustainable communities through harmonized and cultural responsive development programs.

LTC GAFFUD in his message thanked the effort of TESDA XI for going down in the conflict affected areas in order to address the needs of the community. He also assured the participants that the MAKATAO Battalion will always be there to support them.

[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/government-agencies-convene-meeting-for-upland-rice-farming-cum-production-program-in-davao-city/

Kalinaw News: Newly constructed road inaugurates in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 17, 2021): Newly constructed road inaugurates in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte



Davao del Norte- The 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion headed by LTC DONALD P GAFFUD INF (GSC) PA, 534th Engineer Construction Battalion headed by COL ROLLY B FIGUEROA CE (GSC) PA and the Municipality of Sto. Tomas Mayor Ernesto “Tatay Erning” Evangelista turned over 400 meters of newly opened road at Purok 7, Brgy San Jose, Sto. Tomas to Brgy Captain Hon. Eulogio A Andoyo of the said barangay. The convergence and synergy of efforts in addition with political resolve led to the completion of the said road opening that has long been dreamt and envisaged by the local populace.

The project was made possible thru the efforts of Mayor Hon Ernesto “Tatay Erning” Evangelista as the head of the Municipal Task Force-Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC). Mayor Evangelista collaborated with the Philippine Army thru the 534th Engineer Construction Battalion and the 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion and entered into the Inter-Local Agency Partnership Agreement (ILAPA) for the road opening. As stated in the agreement the 534th ECBn shall undertake the project in accordance with the Program of Works provided by the municipality and they will also provide the personnel, equipment and machineries for the entire duration of the project. While 89IB provided for the security to ensure and normalize the peace and order situation in the identified project site, the Local Government Unit also did its part for the project by providing necessary materials, fuel and lubricants for the heavy equipment used.

The significance of the road network is an enabling mechanism for both economic activities and social progress and for better accessibility in promoting peace and stability. The accomplishment of the said road project can also maintain the good relationship within the community and uplift the lives of the people by providing strong roads towards socio-economic opportunities.

The residents of the recipient barangay expressed their gratitude to the different government agencies for providing them with this very important infrastructure project in their locality. Moreover they gave honor and appreciation to Mr. Suico, a private individual who donated the piece of land for the road.

Mayor Evangelista in his message stated that there will be more projects to come such as electrification and water system installation. “Hulat-hulat lang ta muabot ra guihapon sa dili madugay”, he added, and appealed to the community to be more productive in their everyday undertakings.

“Truly if all sectors of the government will come together to work as one in the pursuit of peace, it is possible for further development, and as the protector of the people the MAKATAO Battalion will continue its mandate in preserving the peace to pave the way for economic progress,” LTC GAFFUD 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/newly-constructed-road-inaugurates-in-sto-tomas-davao-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: Government troops assist in financial aid distribution to villagers in San Luis, Aurora

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 17, 2021): Government troops assist in financial aid distribution to villagers in San Luis, Aurora



BALER, Aurora-Military and local government officials of San Luis town, this province award financial aid worth Php 148,000.00 to the beneficiaries of Barangay Diteki on August 16, 2021.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, Commander of 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, 7th Infantry “Kaugnay” Philippine Army said in an interview that the Charlie Company led by 1st Lieutenant Stewart A. Cerbo, Executive Officer of said unit and Staff Sergeant Leonard M. Framil, Civil-Military Non-Comission Officer facilitated the awarding of “Bigasan” to the Peoples Organisation – Solo Parents of Barangay Diteki and personally handed over to Elizabeth Querijero-Solo Parents President of worth Php 25,000.00.

He added that 1st Lieutenant Cerbo together with Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office through Nimfa Jacinto, Barangay Captain Gonzalo B. Carlo Jr. and Mayor Ariel A. de Jesus attended the awarding of educational assistance to 35 students of Barangay Diteki for a total of Php63,000.00. Another Php25,000.00 financial assistance was also given to 60 persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Lt. Col. Rubio also said that the Bigasang Bayan in Barangay Diteki aims to increase the supply and to help lower the price of retail rice in the area.

He also said to the students that, ambition is the most important aspect of human life and it also provides a new essence with up-moving directions in their lives.

“It is necessary for all of us to have an ambition in our life so, that we can live in a meaningful way; thus, I am very thankful to our town’s Mayor Ariel A. de Jesus who always there to support the ambition of the students to live well in life in the near future,” Lt. Col. Rubio said.

He also thanks the LGU San Luis for helping the PWDs, explaining that the COVID-19 pandemic did not deter the government from providing assistance to the persons with disability (PWDs) displaced due to the implementation of community quarantine in various parts of the province.

The activity is part of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) of the 91st IB to help and protect residents in the said barangay from the dismantled communist terrorist groups (CTGs).

Querijero said that she is so happy for the big blessings to have a “Bigasang Bayan” that will provide cheaper but good quality rice to consuming public.

[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/government-troops-assist-in-financial-aid-distribution-to-villagers-in-san-luis-aurora/

Kalinaw News: Government projects, services for IP community in Claveria, unceasing

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 17, 2021): Government projects, services for IP community in Claveria, unceasing



CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – The 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion assisted the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRO) with the other national line agencies in their fifth visit to the Higaonons of Sitio Kalhaan, Barangay Minalwang of the Municipality of Claveria, August 13, 2021.

This was spearheaded by the Provincial Agriculturist Jose Apollo Pacamalan together with representatives from the different sub-agencies of One DA’s Adopt a Community Program, the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC), Philippine Crop Insurance Commission (PCIC), National Dairy Authority (NDA), Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Philippine Fiber Development Authority (PhiFiDa), and other national agencies such Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), First Community Cooperative (FICCO), and the LGU Claveria.

Said agencies returned to Sitio Kalhaan to deliver and hand over various programs, projects, and services to the Higaonon residents. Planting materials of various types were also supplied. Adlai seeds, Abaca seedlings, Upland rice, and other high-value crops suitable for the area were provided to boost agricultural activities.

Following the distribution, various trainings such as the Solar Installation Skills Training under the TESDA-X Project “LAMDAG,” where they were also given solar lights units, opened the path for the locals to enjoy light during the dark. “LAMDAG” is a Kahayag or Lights local term. Beneficiaries received an Agro Plowing Machine (hand tractor) maintenance training, as well as Hi-Breed Carabao Grass Propagation, various gifts and essentials under the TESDAmayan project, and Health Care Services.

Since the activation of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and Adopt a Community Program by Department of Agriculture Region X on April 14, 2021, the community has received a steady stream of dedicated programs and services. And those various agencies have decided to keep their obligations to the community alive and well. Every month, at the very least, a visit to the area is made.

“This unit will continue to facilitate and provide interventions even in far-flung areas like Kalhaan, in collaboration with the various clusters of the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict of E.O 70, in order to finally achieve the durable peace and sustainable, inclusive development that we all desire,” said 58IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Ricky L. Canatoy.

[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/government-projects-services-for-ip-community-in-claveria-unceasing/

Kalinaw News: Another High Powered Firearm seize at Davao de Oro

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 17, 2021): Another High Powered Firearm seize at Davao de Oro



Troops of the 701st Infantry Brigade, 66th Infantry Battalion together with the Philippine National Police conducted an operation which yielded one high powered firearm after the capture of four CPP-NPA-Terrorist personalities last Sunday.

It can be recalled that just a few days ago, the joint operation of 701st Brigade captured four Communist-NPA-Terrorists in a hinterland Sitio of Barangay Napnapan of Pantukan town.

After constant debriefing alyas “TATAY” and “BUNSO” (True name hidden on purpose) in an interview, later on, divulged an information that they left a high powered firearm, an M16 rifle bearing a serial number RP135848 in their custody kept in a secluded place at Sitio Binogsayan, Brgy. Napnapan, Pantukan, Davao de Oro.

Acting on the information, personnel of 66IB and the Philippine National Police were organized and conducted a joint retrieval operation wherein they recovered the said M16 Rifle.

The recovered firearm was immediately brought to the Headquarters of 701Bde for proper documentation and disposition.

[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/another-high-powered-firearm-seized-at-davao-de-oro/

IPs from Haran still get gov’t aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 18, 2021): IPs from Haran still get gov’t aid (By Che Palicte)  

MORE AID. Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib (3rd from left) leads the signing of memorandum of agreement (MOA) with representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and municipal officials at Tahanan, Capitol Compound on Aug. 16, 2021. The MOA provides other forms of assistance to the indigenous peoples from Talaingod town. (Photo courtesy of 10ID)

Government assistance continues to pour for the victims of the "taktikang bakwit (evacuees-tactic)" of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) Haran Center in Davao City after their return to their residences in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, the Army's 10th Infantry Division (10ID) said on Wednesday.

The 99 indigenous peoples (IPs) returned home from Haran Center on Aug. 8 after being deceived by the false promises of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

In a statement, the 10ID said since they have returned home, various government agencies and local government units (LGUs) have extended help.

On Aug. 16, 68 IP families received housing units in Sitio Tibucag, Dagohoy, worth PHP17.25 million funded by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) with the province’s counterpart funding of PHP6 million.

On the same day, a memorandum of agreement between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the provincial government of Davao del Norte was signed to cater other needed assistance to the people of Talaingod.

“This will help our IP harness their agri-potential lands. All agri-products can be transported without delay in the coming months after the completion of the projects,” the statement added.

On Aug 14, the 10ID, with the support provided by the Tactical Operations Group in Region 11 (TOG 11) and Tactical Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao (TOWEM), facilitated the transport of a total of 2,500-kilogram IPs’ belongings to Talaingod.

On Aug. 9, a multi-agency effort was made to dialogue, organize, and transport the IPs from Haran back to their communities.

As part of the agreement, the LGUs vowed for the provisions of food supply and materials for shelter construction while there are no established sources of livelihood of the IPs.

The AFP and the Philippine National Police also committed to providing assistance in the construction of their houses and makeshift school, farming/vegetable gardening activities for immediate food supply, the establishment of patrol bases/detachments in their communities for security assistance (they are requesting for security) and assistance in the coordination with concerned government offices/agencies.

“The evacuees also committed to publicly declared and pledged that they will never go back to UCCP Haran and they will support the government programs,” the 10ID added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150811

Army-villagers collaboration cited in successful ops vs. NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 18, 2021): Army-villagers collaboration cited in successful ops vs. NPA (By Sarwell Meniano)

ENDING INSURGENCY. Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone (left) board a motorboat to visit remote villages in Dolores, Eastern Samar in this Aug. 14, 2021 photo. The official lauded the linkage between the Philippine Army and villagers that led to the successful operation against the communist terrorist group in an upland village in Dolores town. (Photo courtesy of Gov. Ben Evardone)

Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone lauded the collaboration between the Philippine Army and villagers that led to the recent successful operation against the communist terrorist group in an upland village in Dolores, Eastern Samar.

In a statement issued late Tuesday, Evardone, the chair of the Eastern Visayas Regional Peace and Order Council, said the close cooperation between the military and civilians is an effective key to end insurgency.

“I hope that this kind of close collaboration will continue so that we can attain peace and development in our province and country,” Evardone said.

On Monday, at least 16 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed and 29 firearms were recovered when government troops launched a major offensive in Osmeña village in Dolores town.

Soldiers acted on tip-offs from villagers about the existence of NPA lair in the jungles, located just three kilometers away from the community.

There were about 50 rebels taking shelter in the lair. They belong to the remnants of the communist terrorist group who left the neighboring Samar province due to intensified clearing operations last year.

The military described the lair as a big encampment maintained by rebels for several months.

It has a multipurpose hall for training and a bomb-making facility.

The governor appealed to the remaining NPA members to surrender to the government so they can be given all the benefits and live a normal life with their families.

“Let's stop this fighting already. It has cost so much lives of our own brothers and sisters and prevented the development of our country. I am willing to sit down with you (rebels) to listen to all your concerns,” he added.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150800

11ID reshuffles key officers to strengthen Sulu anti-terror drive

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 18, 2021): 11ID reshuffles key officers to strengthen Sulu anti-terror drive (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

RESHUFFLE. Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, 11ID commander (right), installs Col. Govani Franza, the 11ID Assistant Division Commander for Retirees and Reservist Affairs (left), as the new commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, replacing Brig. Gen. Benjamin Batara (center), who was reassigned to lead the 1103rd Infantry Brigade. The Army's 11th Infantry Division (ID) reshuffled its key officers effective Tuesday (Aug. 17, 2021) to strengthen the anti-terror campaign in the province of Sulu. (Photo courtesy of the 11ID Public Affairs Office)

The Army’s 11th Infantry Division (ID) has reshuffled its key officers as the command strengthens its anti-terror campaign in the province of Sulu.

The reshuffle, which took effect Tuesday, involved the 1101st, 1102nd, and 1103rd brigades of the 11ID, also called the Alakdan Division, which is the youngest of all infantry divisions of the Philippine Army.

President Rodrigo Duterte, accompanied by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, led the activation on Dec. 17, 2018, of the 11ID, which is dedicated to fighting the Islamic State-affiliated terrorist groups in the region.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, 11ID commander, who led the change of command ceremony, said in a statement Wednesday that Brig. Gen. Antonio Bautista Jr., 1101st Infantry Brigade (Inf Bde) commander, has been reassigned as the 11ID assistant division commander.

Bautista relinquished the command of the 1101st Inf Bde to Col. Eugenio Boquio, the 1103rd Inf Bde commander.

Gonzales noted that during Bautista's 13-month stint as the 1101st Inf Bde commander, he was able to enjoin a total of 99 Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits to surrender and return to the folds of the law, demonstrating his competence as a strategic leader.

Brig. Gen. Benjamin Batara, 1102nd Inf Bde commander, turned over his post to Col. Giovani Franza, the 11ID Assistant Division Commander for Retirees and Reservist Affairs.

Batara assumed as the new commander of the 1103rd Inf Bde which was recently created to solidify the military's presence in the province of Sulu.

Under Batara's leadership, the 1102nd Inf Bde troops conducted several successful combat operations. He was also known for his efforts under the Provincial Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict's Balik Barangay Program,

Bautista, Batara, and Boquio were awarded medals during the change of command ceremony, which was graced by Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), as the ceremony’s guest of honor.

The three officers also received command plaques from Vinluan and Gonzales.

Gonzales lauded the new commanders, noting that the repositioning of key leaders is part of an effort to streamline the organization and enhance its services for the people of Sulu.

“Your leadership skills and accomplishments in such a short span of time truly show that only the brightest are assigned and appointed as commanders in this province. Indeed, Sulu is changing for the better. Let us keep working with the local government and other partners for peace. I expect nothing less in this new set-up,” Gonzales said.

Present during the change of command ceremony were leading figures from various sectors to include Patikul Mayor Kabir Hayudini, who was donned with the rank of an Army Captain as he officially joined the reserve force.

Hayudini, along with other military officers, was also awarded a Bronze Cross Medal -- an award given for heroism involving risk of life.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150825

Army chief visits troops in Bukidnon-NoCot border

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 18, 2021): Army chief visits troops in Bukidnon-NoCot border (By Noel Punzalan)

MORALE BOOSTER. Troopers under the Army’s 72IB in the border of Bukidnon and North Cotabato provinces receive a much-needed boost following a visit by Philippine Army chief, Maj. Gen. Andres C. Centino (left), on Tuesday (Aug. 17, 2021). Centino (inset left) also handed over goods and military supplies to the troops. (Photos courtesy of 72IB)

Philippine Army (PA) chief, Major Gen. Andres C. Centino, has boosted the morale of troopers under the Army’s 72nd Infantry Battalion (IB) in a visit to a far-flung detachment of the military unit in Bukidnon and its headquarters in North Cotabato on Tuesday.

In a statement on Wednesday, the 72IB said Centino first visited the Civilian Armed Force Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary (CAA) patrol base in Barangay White Kulaman, Kitaotao, Bukidnon.

The CAA base is one of the 72IB units categorized under the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) in the province.

During his visit, Centino commended the CAA unit in fending off advances of communist terrorists on the border of Bukidnon and North Cotabato provinces.

“I strongly urge you (the CAAs) to continue efforts in attaining peaceful and conflict-resilient communities in the province of Bukidnon,” Centino said.

After he was briefed about the threat situation and deployment of troops in the area, Centino personally handed over boxes of canned goods and military supplies to the unit.

Thereafter, he proceeded to the headquarters of the 72IB in Arakan, North Cotabato to also check on the troopers on the ground and deliver materials and supplies needed to assist them in performing their duty.

During his talk to the troops, Centino expressed his support and commended the troops’ continuous effort in protecting communities from threats posed by communist terrorist groups amid the pandemic.

“I am counting on you in winning this fight against the insurgents. We are already on the right track,” he told the troopers.

Centino then led the donning of ranks to four newly promoted enlisted personnel and awarding of Silver Cross Medal to personnel of the intelligence team under 72IB for a successful operation that led to the capture of two high-ranking New People’s Army communist cadres in President Roxas, North Cotabato on Nov. 9, 2020.

For his part, Lt. Col. Jose C. Regonay Jr., 72IB commander, has vowed to do everything to contribute to the military’s campaign in permanently ending communist insurgency in their area of responsibility.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150804

Troops discover NPA arms cache in Zambo Norte town

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 18, 2021): Troops discover NPA arms cache in Zambo Norte town (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Troops of the Philippine Army's 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (IB) have discovered an arms cache of the communist terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) in the hinterlands of Zamboanga del Norte, a top military official announced Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, 53IB commander, in a statement Wednesday, said the troops discovered the arms cache on Tuesday while conducting reconnaissance patrol at Purok 2, Sitio Datagan, Barangay Guibo in the town of Siayan.

Herrera said the discovery of the arms cache, which contained one Garand Rifle, 10 magazine clips loaded with ammunition, and one bandoleer, stemmed from information from a concerned civilian in the community.

Herrera said the tip from the civilian is a genuine sign that hinterland communities renounce communist terrorist ideology.

“The Matapat Troopers will relentlessly pursue the enemy to keep the people of Barangay Guibo and the whole of Siayan town safe. This is a clear sign that hinterland community, once exploited by the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA, now renounce their lies, propaganda, and deception,” he said.

Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, thanked and encouraged the community to continue renouncing the communist ideology.

“We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the people of Siayan for the continued support in our campaign to end local communist armed conflict. We encourage everyone else to continue to denounce the Communist Terrorist Groups and their atrocities for our children and the future generation,” Nicolas said.

Siayan, which consists of 22 barangays, is a second-class municipality in the province of Zamboanga del Norte with a population of 36,236 based on the 2020 census.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150875

Sympathy sought for mother who ‘lost’ child to Anakbayan

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 18, 2021): Sympathy sought for mother who ‘lost’ child to Anakbayan (By Perla Lena)

EMPATHIZE. Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, spokesperson for the Western Visayas Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict, said on Wednesday (Aug. 18, 2021) they empathized with Relissa Lucena, mother of Alicia Jasper (AJ), a student activist who was taken back by militant group Anakbayan on Aug. 16. Gonzales called on peace-loving families and communities in the country to sympathize with Lucena. (PNA file photo)

The Western Visayas Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC) on Wednesday expressed its solidarity with Relissa Lucena in her quest to have her daughter back and be released from the influence of a militant group.

Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, spokesperson for the RTF6-ELCAC in a statement, called on peace-loving families and communities in the country to empathize with Lucena.

Lucena is the mother of Alicia Jasper (AJ), a student activist recruited by the militant group Anakbayan and went missing for years. She was reunited with her family on April 20 this year but was again taken from her family.

In her Facebook post on Aug. 16, Lucena said her daughter was kidnapped by two motorcycle-riding men around 9:55 a.m. on the same day. She said the motorcycle has no plate number.

In her released statement, she identified Anakbayan as the organization that took her daughter.

“Relissa Lucena, and many other mothers like her, are embracing an advocacy of peace, driven by their love for their children. And for this, we empathize with them,” he said.

He added that while AJ could argue that she has a life of her own and together with her colleagues come up with arguments on freedom of thought, expression, and the right to peaceful assembly, yet they can never stop a mother from loving her child.

The spokesperson added that Lucena believed that her child is not in a safe environment and is convinced that she lost her to an ideology that may endanger her life.

“She is hurt when her own daughter disowned her publicly. Despite the humiliation and the pain, Relissa struggled to have her daughter back,” he added.

The spokesperson said that the undisputed and undeniable fact showed that the terrorist organization of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) recruits children and turns them into armed fighters.

Many of them came from indigenous cultural communities and state universities and colleges (SUCs).

While several recruits became full-time members of the NPA, and got killed or captured, some gave up and eventually reunited with their families to live peacefully in their communities, Gonzales said.

He added that the task force believed that in time the mother will be vindicated.

“We can only hope and we can only pray that all Filipino children who have gone astray will be granted enlightenment and will see the futility and hopelessness of the lost cause that they have romanticized,” he said.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150867

5 SoCot villages eyed for ELCAC projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 18, 2021): 5 SoCot villages eyed for ELCAC projects (By Allen Estabillo)

The provincial government of South Cotabato is working on the implementation of various socio-economic projects in five barangays that were previously affected by the communist insurgency.

Ma. Ana Uy, community affairs officer, said Wednesday they are currently looking into several community-based initiatives that will address the concerns and needs of residents for basic services.

She said the target recipients are Barangays San Jose in Koronadal City, Cebuano in Tupi, Klubi and Lamfugon in Lake Sebu, and Sitio Ellaw of Laconon in Tboli.

These were earlier identified by the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines as insurgency-cleared or End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) areas.

Uy said the local government’s convergence team, as directed by South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., recently visited these areas to assess the situation and determine the concerns of residents.

“(The governor) wanted to know as early as now the priority needs of these barangays based on their barangay development plans,” she said in a statement.

During the initial visit, she said the team found out some problems and needs of the identified areas, among them the rehabilitation and opening of roads, electrification, livelihood, and the lack of potable water systems.

Uy said their team will visit anew the five target communities next month to validate their listed issues and concerns.

Under the program, the concerned barangays and the local government will later formulate the necessary plans for the funding and implementation of the priority projects.

“Aside from the budget from national agencies, the provincial government will also allocate a certain amount to support the program,” Uy said.

The initiative is part of the provincial government’s flagship Convergence Program for Poverty Reduction, which aims to bring various basic services and projects to the disadvantaged and conflict-affected areas in partnership with other government agencies and the private sector.

It complements the interventions of the Provincial Task Force ELCAC, which was created under Executive Order (EO) No. 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The EO provides for the rollout of the “whole-of-nation” approach to sustain peace and order in local communities, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150879

Hundreds of hinterland residents benefit from Serbisyo Caravan

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 18, 2021): Hundreds of hinterland residents benefit from Serbisyo Caravan (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

OUTREACH MISSION. Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo speaks to residents of the hinterland barangay of Danao in Bindoy town. The provincial government on Tuesday (Aug. 17, 2021) conducted a medical mission and animal welfare activity in the village. (Photo courtesy of Capitol PIO)

Hundreds of residents from the hinterland village of Danao in Bindoy, Negros Oriental have benefited from the provincial government’s Serbisyo Caravan aimed to alleviate the lives of indigents in remote areas.

Capitol public information officer Bimbo Miraflor in an interview Wednesday said aside from Danao residents, those from adjacent barangays covered by the government’s Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) availed of the services and received assistance during Tuesday’s activity.

While Danao is not on the list of priority barangays under TF-ELCAC, it was chosen as the venue for the medical mission and animal wellness activity because it is surrounded by “cluster barangays” like Nalundan in Bindoy, Luyang in Mabinay, and Mabato in Ayungon, that are affected by insurgency, he said.

The Serbisyo Caravan, a priority project of Gov. Roel Degamo, is aligned with the TF-ELCAC’s activities to ensure that people living in the hinterlands are provided an opportunity to avail of free government services and assistance, he said.

It is the provincial government’s contribution to the government’s efforts, under President Rodrigo Duterte’s Whole of Nation Approach, to end insurgency through attaining inclusive peace and sustainability, he added.

Services provided during the Serbisyo Caravan included medical consultation and free medicines and vitamins, circumcision and minor surgeries, distribution of seeds and seedlings and fertilizers, and immunization of livestock, among others.

This is the sixth activity of its kind conducted by the provincial government for the second quarter of this year and more will be held this year, Miraflor said.

The Serbisyo Caravan had slowed down in the past months due to restrictions following the imposition of stricter quarantine classifications due to a surge of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases in the province, he added.

Those who took part in the outreach program were the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police, the Provincial Agriculture Office, the Provincial Veterinary Office, other provincial government offices, and some national government agencies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150856