Ex-NPA leader nabbed in Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 29, 2022): Ex-NPA leader nabbed in Caraga (By Alexander Lopez)

Photo grabbed from PRO-13 FB Page

The Police Regional Office - Caraga (PRO-13) on Saturday reported the arrest of a former leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) who has been in hiding for more than three years.

In a statement, PRO-13 Director Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr. said Reynaldo Y. Gaan, 38, was arrested by Cabadbaran City police in Barangay Mahaba in Agusan del Norte.

He said Gaan, a former team leader of the NPA’s Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) 21C of Guerrilla Front 51, has an arrest warrant for attempted murder issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 33 in Butuan City.

“Reynaldo Gaan was among those who ambushed and landmine nine members of Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit under the 29th Infantry Battalion 29IB who were conducting combat patrol at around 6:30 in the morning on Nov. 29, 2018, in Barangay San Antonio, Remedios T. Romualdez, Agusan del Norte,” Caramat said.

Gaan is now under the custody of Cabadbaran City Police.

In Agusan del Sur, the former leader of Squad 2, SYP Platoon of Dismantled Guerrilla Front 88, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA surrendered to the Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) on Friday.

Caramat identified the surrenderer as Alias JB, 34, of San Luis town.

“Alias JB’s name is listed in the First Quarter Periodic Status Report and included in the Common Priority Database list,” Caramat said.

Alias JB, who also handed over to the ADSPPO a cal. 30 Garand rifle with defaced serial number, will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166653

Army nets 6 high-powered guns from clash with NPA rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 29, 2022): Army nets 6 high-powered guns from clash with NPA rebels (By Alexander Lopez)

RECOVERED FIREARMS. The 29th Infantry Battalion recovers high-powered firearms from the New People’s Army (NPA) in a skirmish Tuesday (Jan. 25, 2022) in Sitio Ancili, Barangay Putting Bato, Cabadbaran City. The firearms were recovered after troops conducting a security operation in the area clashed with around 15 NPA insurgents. (Photo courtesy of 29IB)

The 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) reported the recovery of six high-powered firearms after a clash with communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Sitio Ancili, Barangay Puting Bato, Cabadbaran City on Jan. 25.

In a press statement issued Friday, the 29IB said its troops were conducting a security operation in the area when they encountered around 15 NPA rebels.

“The rebels belonged to Sub-Regional Committee Northland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA led by Alias Chong,” it said.

It added that the armed encounter on Tuesday lasted for nearly eight hours. No one was hurt from the government side.

After the encounter, the soldiers recovered assorted food supplies, personal belongings, subversive documents with high intelligence value, and several firearms, including EMTAN 5.56mm rifle, an M16A2 rifle, an M653 rifle, an M203 grenade launcher rifle, and two AK47 rifles

“I call on my brothers and sisters who are still in the armed struggle against the government to surrender. You will continue to suffer hunger because all the government agencies, soldiers, the police, and civilians who are already fed up with chaos you are doing are now working together to stop the insurgency,” said Lt. Col. Jason Saldua, the commander of 29IB said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166658

10 ex-rebels, militants in CDO, Bukidnon await E-CLIP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 29, 2022): 10 ex-rebels, militants in CDO, Bukidnon await E-CLIP (By Nef Luczon)

SURRENDERED. A firearm with magazines, ammunition, and communication device is surrendered by a former communist rebel at the 8th Infantry Battalion headquarters, in Impasugong, Bukidnon on Jan. 23, 2022. Most surrenders were given another chance in life through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government. (Photo courtesy of 8IB)

The military and police are preparing for the endorsement of three former New People's Army (NPA) rebels and seven members of the NPA's "Milisya ng Bayan" who surrendered voluntarily in this city and Bukidnon to avail of government assistance through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

In a statement Friday, Police Col. Aaron Mandia, the Acting Director of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO), commended the decision of the surrenderers to return to the fold of the law.

"It is the best time to be with the government, and avail the programs and privileges the government (through E-CLIP) has to offer for all those who are willing to decide to have a new life by laying down their arms and be with their loves ones in the mainstream society," he said.

E-CLIP is a program of the government to help the former rebels return to mainstream society with their families, with different projects and livelihood offered by partner agencies.

Mandia said in his report Noag Cabucayan, 19, and his brother Omar, 21 - two of the three NPA members who surrendered - were said to be members of the NPA under Guerrilla Front (GF) 12 of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) 5 Crackers Company.

Omar was said to be the team leader of SRC5.

The two surrendered on January 28 in Barangay Tuburan, which was facilitated by the COCPO's City Mobile Force Company.

Bukidnon

Meanwhile, the third NPA surrendered, Hodi Singayan Almahan, 35, and the seven "Milisya ng Bayan" members surrendered to the Army's 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) in Impasugon, Bukidnon on January 23, and are also awaiting to be enrolled in E-CLIP.

Almahan, resident of Barangay Binicalan, San Luis, Agusan del Sur, is a former squad 2 leader of Platoon Copper, Headquarters Force Neo of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

During his surrender, he brought with him an M16 Rifle, four short magazines, and six live ammunition.

Almahan said his party wife Hailyn Saplidan Almahan, former Medic or Supply Officer of the same unit, and his relative Ayon Almahan, also of the same unit, died after an encounter with government troops at the hinterlands of Sitio Tamyang, Barangay Binicalan, San Luis, Agusan del Sur on May 8, 2021.

"I was in great sorrow and was disheartened with the NPA because, after the death of my wife and relative, they left me. I regretted joining the NPA after the sufferings I had endured," the 8IB's statement quoted him as saying in the vernacular.

The seven "Milisya" members who joined Almahan were Noli Almahan Guilosan, 32; Jerry Fabiana Saplidan, 20; Benedy Odinlay Flores, 27; Wilson Fabiana Saplidan, 18; Manlistahan Buscada Saplidan, 75; a minor," 17; and Jemalyn Saplidan Almahan, 27.

Lt. Col. Anthony Bacus, Commander of 8IB, said he was delighted that Almahan and his relatives decided to surrender.

"We were able to save another family. We will help them avail of the benefits from the E-CLIP for their better future," he said.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166632

Westmincom’s cleft lip, palate surgery project benefits 35 kids

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 29, 2022): Westmincom’s cleft lip, palate surgery project benefits 35 kids (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

FREE SURGERY. Doctors operate on a child with cleft lip in Zamboanga City on Friday (Jan. 28, 2022), as part of the free surgery project of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), initiated in partnership with Craciofacial Project Philippines Inc. Volunteer physicians from Metro Manila performed the free surgery at Camp Navarro General Hospital, the military medical facility in Zamboanga City. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom Public Information Office)

Thirty-five children born with cleft lip or cleft palate benefitted from the free surgery project of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) in partnership with the Advance Craniofacial Project Philippines Inc. (ACPPI).

The ACPPI is a non-profit organization that gives free operation to people with cleft lip or cleft palate.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of the Westmincom, said in a statement Saturday the patients underwent surgery Friday at Camp Navarro General Hospital (CGNH), the military hospital in the city.

Physicians from Metro Manila led the surgery of the patients. The screening of the patients ran from January 24 to 26.

Rosario said the objective of the project was to provide hope to children with cleft deformities and advocate equity by targeting underprivileged families.

Those who qualified to avail of the program were billeted at the barracks of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) at Romulo Espaldon Naval Station prior to the surgery.

“It is in adherence to the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) protocol. They also had their antigen testing to ensure everybody’s safety,” Rosario said.

He commended the Civil-Military Operations office of Westmincom headed by Col. Wendell Basat for facilitating the activity.

“We are happy to be instruments of this life-changing event that brought joy to the children with cleft lip and cleft palate and their families,” Rosario said.

“We hope to work with them again soon,” Rosario added, thanking the ACPPI and the volunteer physicians.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166639

NPA rebel found dead 5 days after clash in Davao Oro

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 29, 2022): NPA rebel found dead 5 days after clash in Davao Oro (By Che Palicte)

CADAVER. A decomposing cadaver believed to be that of a New People's Army (NPA) member was discovered by government troops in Purok 6, Barangay Panoraon Maco, Davao de Oro on Friday (Jan. 28, 2022). The body was discovered after a concerned citizen reported a foul smell in the area which prompted the troops to conduct a search. (Photo courtesy of 1001st Infantry Brigade)

Troops from the 1001st Infantry Brigade on Friday discovered an unidentified cadaver of a New People's Army (NPA) rebel, five days after they figured in an encounter with the communist group in Purok 6, Barangay Panoraon Maco, Davao de Oro.

In a statement on Saturday, Brig. Gen. Jesus Durante III, commander of the 1001st IB, said a concerned citizen reported a foul smell in the area which led the troops to the decomposing cadaver, along with an M16 rifle, a bandolier, a backpack with subversive documents, and personal belongings.

“It is quite ironic that the NPAs left one of their fatally wounded comrade behind. If only he called for help and surrendered, maybe he could still be alive. Just like what happened to wounded Daniel Dellosa aka Axel who sought soldiers help, and was saved by the responding troops,” Durante said.

Dellosa, secretary of the Guerilla Front 2 Sub-Regional Committee of the NPA's Southern Mindanao Regional Command, sustained a gunshot wound to his leg after his group figured in an encounter with government troops in Sitio Barigyan, Golden Valley Mabini, Davao de Oro on Dec. 19, 2021.

Wounded and abandoned by his comrades, Dellosa initially tried to hide from the soldiers but eventually realized he still wanted to live.

Hearing the calm voices of the soldiers, he decided to show himself to his pursuers, who ended up helping him.

He is currently recuperating in the hospital.

“Once again, we renew our call to the remaining NPAs to surrender and avail the benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), don’t wait to suffer the same fate of your dead comrades, after all, they’ll leave you once you become a liability,” Durante added.

The 1001st Brigade figured in an armed encounter with the communist group three times already this year - January 5, 20, and 23.

It has resulted in the neutralization of Menandro Villanueva alias Bok, the third-highest ranked Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the commander of the National Operations Command of the NPA.

The encounter also resulted in the recovery of high-powered firearms and various war materiel.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166634

CPP-NPA getting ‘irrelevant’ in Visayas: Viscom chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 29, 2022): CPP-NPA getting ‘irrelevant’ in Visayas: Viscom chief (By John Rey Saavedra)

PERSONA NON GRATA. Residents of an undisclosed barangay in the Visayas burn flags of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) to express their indignation. Visayas Command (Viscom) commander, Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz on Saturday (Jan. 29, 2022) said due to the dwindling support from the community, the CPP-NPA is getting irrelevant in the region. (Contributed photo)

The Visayas Command (Viscom) on Saturday said communist rebels in the regions are fast becoming irrelevant due to dwindling support from the residents, sustained community engagement of soldiers, and the Barangay Development Program (BDP) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

In a statement, Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz, Viscom commander, said the Community Support Program (CSP) has amplified the direct engagement of the government forces to the communities which led the people to detach from the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).

CSP, a flagship program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), is being credited for the many successful clearing of the presence of NPA in the communities.

“With our sustained community engagements, the people in the region started to break free from the clutches of the communist terrorists while embracing an active role in the government’s peace and development initiatives,” Dauz said.

He added that the development is “manifested in the increasing number of information provided by the community which translates into successful internal security and law enforcement operations by your government forces”.

Viscom reported that on January 25, members of the 301st Infantry Brigade successfully seized a hideout of the communist terrorists in Capiz following a 10-minute firefight with the communist rebels in Sitio Nolwan, Barangay Siya, Tapaz.

The soldiers recovered an anti-personnel mine, a hand grenade, a cellphone charger, a wristwatch, a pair of boots, a CPP-NPA flag, a backpack containing several personal belongings, assorted medicines, and several subversive documents.

The operation stemmed from information given by a concerned citizen in the said barangay.

“Having witnessed the government’s sincerity to ensure the well-being of the people in the region through the BDP, more and more people, as well as local government units, alienate the communist terrorists and repulse their presence in their respective locality by reporting it to the government forces leading to these successful skirmishes,” Dauz said.

BDP, the hallmark program of the NTF-ELCAC, is directed to the sustainable rehabilitation and development of 822 barangays formerly established as guerilla fronts of the CPP-NPA. Each barangay is provided with PHP20 million for their respective projects.

Viscom, which oversees military units and task groups in Central, Easter, and Western Visayas regions, reported that on Jan. 1, 2021 to date, 8,174 local government units in the Visayas declared the CPP-NPA persona non grata.

It said 7,759 of which are from the barangay level, 364 are from the municipalities, 39 are from the city, and 12 are from the provincial level.

Dauz lauded the soldiers for their unwavering commitment to secure the people in the Visayas and for ensuring that the democratic way of life is sustained.

“Lay down your arms, abandon your armed struggle, and head to the call of the government for genuine peace. Return to the fold of the law, avail of the government’s local integration program, and live a peaceful and progressive life with your families,” Dauz said in his appeal to the communist rebels.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166643

Ex-NPA leader thankful to soldiers who saved his life after clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 28, 2022): Ex-NPA leader thankful to soldiers who saved his life after clash (By Che Palicte)

SAVED BY SOLDIERS. Daniel Moses Dellosa alias Ka Axel, secretary of the NPA's Guerilla Front 2, Sub-Regional Committee 2, Southern Mindanao Regional Command, is thankful to government soldiers who saved his life after he was left on his own by his comrades. He was wounded in an encounter in Sitio Barigyan, Golden Valley Mabini, Davao de Oroon on Dec. 19, 2021 . (Photo courtesy of John Paul Seniel)

New People’s Army (NPA) rebels may consider the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as their enemies and killers, but not for this 23-year-old former communist leader who now has a newfound appreciation for soldiers.

Daniel Moses Dellosa alias Ka Axel, secretary of the Guerilla Front 2 Sub-Regional Committee of the NPA's Southern Mindanao Regional Command, sustained a gunshot wound in the leg after his group figured in an encounter with government troops in Sitio Barigyan, Golden Valley Mabini, Davao de Oro on Dec. 19, 2021.

Dellosa, in an interview with John Paul Seniel Reports aired online on January 26 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKBQJhEzzMk), said he thought it was his end as military troopers surrounded him.

Wounded and abandoned by his comrades, Dellosa initially tried to hide from the soldiers but eventually realized he still wanted to live. Hearing the calm voices of the soldiers, he decided to show himself to his pursuers and risk being finished off.

Much to his surprise, though, the soldiers saved him -- gave first aid and brought him to a hospital for treatment.

“I thought they will kill me so I hid behind the bushes. I just listened to them [military] while they were talking... I was just around, they did not see me," he said.

Comforting and assuring

“Don't worry, you will live. We will revive you. Just don’t close your eyes, don’t sleep,” these are the words Dellosa heard from the troops whom he thought were rebels' enemies.

In a video provided by the 10th Infantry Division (10ID), Dellosa was seen being rescued by troopers from the 48th Infantry Battalion.

The troops gave words of encouragement as they tried to save him.

By then, Dellosa said, he was assured of his life as the soldiers did all they can to save him, describing them as “seemingly calm individuals.”

“I told them, I was wounded and they shouted that I have to go down, so I crawled down to where they were, but I was still nervous then. I said to myself that if I don't go near them, I'll be dead too, and without hesitation, I entrusted my life to them,” Dellosa said.

He said he felt the sincerity of the soldiers who were trying to save him and felt that they wanted him to survive.

“I felt that it was true. I expected something different at first because I was against them, I don't know what they will do to me,” he added.

Trusting his instincts, Dellosa said he came near the soldiers and was told that he will live.

Abandoned by comrades

Dellosa admitted he felt bad when his comrades abandoned him during the encounter.

“I am hurt when they left me. My colleagues can still rescue me if they want to,” he said.

Based on the data from the Army's 10th Infantry Division, Dellosa joined the Communist Party of the Philippines - NPA when he was 18 years old, a third-year BS Applied Physics student at the University of the Philippines Diliman, and a member of the League of Filipino Students.

Delosa, who hails from Sorsogon, stayed with the armed group for four years and two months.

His wish is to meet his saviors and personally thank them for giving him a new lease on life.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166567

Former NPA rebel surrenders in Aurora

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 28, 2022): Former NPA rebel surrenders in Aurora (By Jason De Asis)

SURRENDERED. The firearm turned over to the military by a former rebel who surrendered to authorities in Barangay Manggitan, Dilasag, Aurora on Thursday (Jan. 27, 2022). The surrenderer is an inactive member of Komiteng Probinsiya, Cagayan Valley Regional Committee of the New People's Army. (Photo by Army's 91IB)

BALER, Aurora – An inactive member of the communist terrorist group surrendered to authorities in Barangay Manggitan, Dilasag, this province on Thursday night.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion (91IB), said in an interview on Friday continuous focused military operations led to the surrender of alias Ka Jeffrey, of Casigura town, who has laid low from the Komiteng Probinsiya (Kom-Prob), Cagayan Valley Regional Committee of the New People's Army (NPA).

Rubio said the surrender was facilitated by 1st Lt. Bobby A. Ferrer, commanding officer and Intel Platoon head of 91IB, together with troops from the 5th Infantry Division and 2nd Aurora Provincial Mobile Force Company.

He said Ka Jeffrey also turned over his .38-caliber revolver to the military.

The surrenderer was brought to the 91IB headquarters in Barangay Dibaraybay, Dinalungan for proper documentation and disposition.

Rubio assured the former rebel that the government will help him lead a peaceful life together with his family.

He urged the remaining rebels to go down from the mountains and return to the fold of the law.

“I am appealing for the remaining terrorists to give up and live peacefully with their families,” Rubio said.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166612

Westmincom to deploy more troops for poll duty in Zambo Sibugay

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 28, 2022): Westmincom to deploy more troops for poll duty in Zambo Sibugay (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ADDITIONAL TROOPS. Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (2nd from right), announces Friday (Jan. 28, 2022) that more troops will be deployed for election security duty in Zamboanga Sibugay province. Accompanied by Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, 102nd Infantry Brigade commander (right), Rosario met with Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Wilter Palma (left) Thursday. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom Public Information Office)

The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) is deploying additional forces to ensure the peaceful and orderly national and local elections on May 9 in Zamboanga Sibugay province.

“Our soldiers will be deployed to ensure the safety of the people, especially during the election period. We will exhaust all our resources to preempt any terror plan of peace spoilers,” Lt. Gen. Rosario Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said in a statement Friday.

Rosario met with Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Wilter Palma when the Westmincom chief visited the province on Thursday.

Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade, accompanied Rosario during the visit.

The two officials discussed the necessary preparations to ensure an honest and peaceful elections, with both agreed that the safety and security of the people is their primordial concern.

Palma reassured the public there is no imminent election-related threats in Zamboanga Sibugay although a town vice mayor was killed in 2021.

Vice Mayor Restituto Calonge of Mabuhay town and Edgar Pampanga, an engineer, were shot dead by two members of the Anwar Ansang Criminal Group in front of the town hall on Feb. 26, 2021.

Wounded during the shooting were municipal employee Hadji Abduhari Gapor and Gregorio Cenas, a retired policeman.

The Anwar Ansang Criminal Group is engaged in gun-for-hire, piracy, and illegal drugs activities in the region.

Meanwhile, Palma commended the military for sustaining peace and aiding in the development of the province.

Palma vowed continued support to the military in all its endeavors.

Rosario thanked Palma and town officials in the province, for their unwavering support that led to numerous accomplishments of the military under the command and control of Westmincom.

Zamboanga Sibugay comprises 16 towns, organized into two congressional districts and further subdivided into 389 barangays and with a population of 669,840 as of the 2020 census.

During his visit to Zamboanga Sibugay, Rosario also looked into the situation of the troops at the 102nd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Barangay Sanito, Ipil, the capital of the province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166581

4 Negrense kids abandoned by parents for NPA get gov’t aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 28, 2022): 4 Negrense kids abandoned by parents for NPA get gov’t aid (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

ABANDONED. The four minors abandoned by their parents, who are members of the CPP-NPA, pose with Lt. Col. J-Jay Javines, commanding officer of Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (2nd from left), municipal social welfare personnel, and village officials of Barangay Hilub-ang in Calatrava, Negros Occidental, during their meeting on Jan. 20, 2022. The children last saw their parents in October 2021 when they left them to a woman, an alleged NPA mass base supporter in the remote village. (Photo courtesy of 79IB, Philippine Army)

Some four Negrense minors, who were abandoned by their parents who are members of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), have been assisted by the municipal government of Calatrava in Negros Occidental.

The children’s plight was reported by the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB) based in northern Negros to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) on January 20 after troops patrolling remote Barangay Hilub-ang learned about their situation.

Of the four, three are boys, aged 16, 10, and seven, while the girl is 13. Their family is from Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental.

1Lt. Dansan Camua, civil-military operations officer of the 79IB, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Friday the children are now in the custody of a woman, who took them in after their parents left them in October last year.

The guardian, identified as a certain Dianita Batcheller, residing in the village’s Sitio Tagbak, is not related to them.

Camua said the children’s parents are part of the NPA front operating in central Negros, mainly in Guihulngan City.

“Since the youngest was only two years old, their family has been moving from one place to another. The parents would always leave them to their mass base supporters,” he added.

During a meeting, Lt. Col. J-Jay Javines, commanding officer of 79IB, discussed with MSWDO personnel and barangay officials led by village chief Gloria Catallupa ways to help the children, such as registering their birth with the Local Civil Registrar, allowing them to attend school, and providing them with a sustainable livelihood.

Camua said they provided the children with personal items, such as clothes and slippers, and the family where the children are staying also received relief goods from the local government.

“We don’t know yet until when they will stay there. The MSWDO assessment is ongoing to determine if there are relatives who can take them in,” he added.

On January 26, 79IB troops conducted a forum with about 90 residents of Barangay Hilub-ang as part of the information awareness campaign on the exploitation, recruitment, and extortion activities of the CPP-NPA, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

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.

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166573

DND inks P18.9-B cruise missiles deal with Indian firm

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 28, 2022): DND inks P18.9-B cruise missiles deal with Indian firm (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of DND

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Friday officially signed the contract for the acquisition of Indian-made BrahMos medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missiles.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and BrahMos Aerospace director general Atul Dinkar Rane signed the contract worth PHP18.9 billion in a virtual ceremony at the DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Shambhu physically represented New Delhi in the event.

Lorenzana said the signing of the BrahMos contract is a milestone for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

"As Secretary of National Defense, I am elated to be part of this huge milestone for the AFP. The acquisition of Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missiles for the PN was first conceptualized in 2017. We are glad that in 2020, President Rodrigo R. Duterte finally approved its inclusion in Horizon 2 priority projects under the Revised AFP Modernization Program," he added.

Three batteries of the BrahMos cruise missiles will be acquired by the country under this contract.

Earlier, Lorenzana said the deliveries of the BrahMos for the PN's Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile System Acquisition Project are expected to start within a year.

On December 31, the DND chief signed the notice of award for the Navy BrahMos' acquisition project which is a government-to-government deal signed with India.

"It includes the delivery of three batteries, training for operators and maintainers as well as the necessary Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) package. Conceptualized as early as 2017, the Office of the President approved its inclusion in the Horizon 2 Priority Projects in 2020," he added.

A missile battery typically consists of three mobile autonomous launchers with two or three missile tubes each, along with the tracking systems.

"Equipping our Navy with this vital asset is imperative as the Philippines continues to protect the integrity of its territory and defend its national interest," the DND chief added.

Lorenzana also said that the BrahMos cruise missiles will greatly beef up the PN's firepower, particularly the Philippine Marine Corps' Coast Defense Regiment.

He added that the BrahMos cruise missile system will provide counter-attack capabilities within the Philippine exclusive economic zone.

"As the world's fastest supersonic cruise missiles, the BrahMos missiles will provide deterrence against any attempt to undermine our sovereignty and sovereign rights, especially in the West Philippine Sea," Lorenzana said.

The DND chief also took this opportunity to express his thanks to the government of India and its people for making the BrahMos deal possible.

"With that, allow me now to express my gratitude to the government and the people of India, represented by Ambassador Shambu Kumaran, for making this endeavor. This was facilitated by the implementing agreement on the procurement of defense material and equipment signed by the DND and Ministry of Defense of the Republic of India in March 2021," Lorenzana said.

He also expressed hope that the Philippines and India's defense relations will continue to thrive and get stronger, especially in the field of logistics and defense industry cooperation.

"Let me also thank BrahMos Aerospace for what has been a smooth procurement process, which I hope that we can maintain as we move forward with our respective contractual obligations. It is our absolute honor to be the first foreign nation to acquire your supersonic cruise missile systems," Lorenzana said.

He also commended all officials and personnel in the DND Bids and Awards Committee and the Technical Working Group who have worked diligently to expedite this procurement process.

"As we race against time in implementing Horizon 2 of the Revised AFP Modernization Program, may this milestone drive you to work harder in completing our remaining acquisition projects," Lorenzana said.

He also expressed that these developments will inspire sailors and marines in fulfilling their mission.

"Rest assured that the government under the Duterte Administration, up until the end of the President's term, will support your vision of becoming a modern and multi-capable Navy that is able to defend our territory, protect our seas, and secure our maritime nation's future," Lorenzana said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166596

PH, US Marines open weeklong joint exercises

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 28, 2022): PH, US Marines open weeklong joint exercises (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Marine Corps

The Marine Exercise 2022 Philippines (MAREX 22 PH) between the Philippines and the United States formally opened on Thursday, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of both sides.

MAREX 22 PH is a combined Philippine-US Marine Forces bilateral exercise that aims to develop the two services' in amphibious operations in support of counter-terrorism, internal security operations, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR).

"It will have simultaneous amphibious operation events in the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Command (Wescom) in Palawan and the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) joint areas of operation from January 27 to February 2," said PMC public affairs office chief, Maj. Emery Torre, in a statement Friday.

The opening ceremony of the exercises took place at the Philippine Marine Corps headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City with PMC commandant Maj. Gen. Ariel R. Caculitan as keynote speaker.

All amphibious planning and executions will be in the Wescom area while all HADR and medical training exercises will be held in the Westmincom area with the participation of the provincial government of Tawi-Tawi.

Caculitan expressed his appreciation for the partnership with the US Marine Corps and underscored the importance of training to equip troops with better skills and knowledge and to achieve a smarter Marine Corps.

“We must continue to conduct relevant trainings that will improve our individual and collective capabilities. MAREX is joined by our foreign counterpart and our major ally, the United States Marine Corps, that has long been training with us and sharing with us the duty to preserve regional peace and security,” Caculitan said.

Meanwhile, Col. James Lively, commanding officer of the US Marine Corp's 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, said their goal is to "successfully integrate our forces during planning and execution to conduct a full-scale expeditionary amphibious operation, side-by-side with our Filipino partners."

"Marine Exercise 2022 Philippines will further strengthen our commitment in the Indo-Pacific region as well as be a memorable experience for our Marines and sailors,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166578

Eastmincom: NPAs retreat to ‘unfamiliar’ Moro areas

From the Business Mirror (Jan 27, 2022): Eastmincom: NPAs retreat to ‘unfamiliar’ Moro areas (By MANUEL CAYON)

The Armed Forces’ Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) said it has pushed New People’s Army guerrillas further into areas populated by Moro residents in the central Mindanao province of Lanao del Sur.

It said it was an unlikely occurrence for the guerrillas to venture into the Moro lands, but Eastmincom commander Lt. Gen. Greg T. Almerol said the NPAs were probably seeking refuge in an “unfamiliar terrain” after they were pushed out from their territories in Bukidnon after a series of armed skirmishes in the last two weeks.

He said the presence of the NPAs in Moro areas was confirmed after government soldiers figured in armed skirmishes in the tri-boundaries of the municipalities of Amai Manabilang, Lumba-Bayabao, and Maguing, all in Lanao del Sur on January 20.

Almerol said soldiers seized firearms and war materiel. In one encounter which lasted for two hours, soldiers collected two M-16 rifles, an M-653 rifle, an M-14 rifle, an AK-47 rifle, assorted magazines for M-16, M-14 and AK-47, five linked ammunitions for M-60 GPMG, 208 rounds of AK-47 ammunitions, three bandoliers, four cellphones, assorted medical supplies and paraphernalia, backpacks with personal belongings, subversive documents, and food supplies.

There was no casualty reported in the clash but soldiers said they found bloodstains along the withdrawal route of the rebels.

The skirmish came after soldiers pursued the trail of a group of guerrillas they have encountered in the previous days in Bukidnon.

Almerol said the fleeing guerillas may number to about 30. He said soldiers of the 403rd Brigade’s 1st Special Forces Battalion (SFBn) were pursuing “the remnants of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee’s [NCMRC] Sub-Regional Committee 4 [SRC4] and SRC5 in said area.”

He said soldiers from the 1st SFBn encountered the same NPA unit on January 8, which killed an alias Rasty/Ade/Hansel, the alleged political officer and team leader of Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad (SRSDG) Crackers Company of SRC5, NCMRC. Soldiers collected an M-60 GPMG, an M-4 rifle, M-16 rifle, M-14 rifle and an M-1 Garand rifle.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2022/01/27/eastmincom-npas-retreat-to-unfamiliar-moro-areas/

Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) Various Photo Charts of Wanted Terrorists (2019-2022)

Posted to My Metro amd FMT (Malaysia): Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) Various Photo Charts of Wanted Terrorists (2019-2022)

18 warga asing dikehendaki ESSCOM
Hazsyah Abdul Rahman
January 5, 2019

SENARAI 18 suspek yang dikehendaki ESSCOM, termasuk tujuh individu baharu yang disyaki terbabit dalam jenayah rentas sempadan di pantai timur Sabah. FOTO ihsan ESSCOM

https://www.hmetro.com.my/mutakhir/2019/01/409076/18-warga-asing-dikehendaki-esscom

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Ustaz Mamay Aburi antara 3 suspek baru ESSCOM
Juwan Riduan

May 6, 2020

Senarai individu yang dikehendaki terbaru dikeluarkan ESSCOM di Lahad Datu hari ini. Foto Ihsan ESSCOM

https://www.hmetro.com.my/mutakhir/2020/05/575306/ustaz-mamay-aburi-antara-3-suspek-baru-esscom

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Empat suspek terbaru dikehendaki ESSCOM
Juwan Riduan
June 28, 2021

5 senarai individu dikehendaki yang dikeluarkan. FOTO ihsan ESSCOM

https://www.hmetro.com.my/mutakhir/2021/06/723771/empat-suspek-terbaru-dikehendaki-esscom

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Esscom adds 5 new Abu Sayyaf members to wanted list

FMT Reporters

January 27, 2022

The 15 suspects previously on Esscom’s wanted list. (Esscom pic)

https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2022/01/27/esscom-adds-5-new-abu-sayyaf-members-to-wanted-list/

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Troops hunt Abu Sayyaf killers of Muslim soldier

From the Manila Times (Jan 28, 2022): Troops hunt Abu Sayyaf killers of Muslim soldier (By Al Jacinto)

Soldiers were deployed to hunt down Abu Sayyaf terrorists blamed for the killing of a Muslim soldier in the southern province of Sulu, the Philippine Army's 11th Infantry Division said on Thursday.

It added that the group of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Ellam Nasirin ambushed a military truck in Patikul town that killed Pvt. Joefrazen Tawasil, a member of the 45th Infantry Battalion.

The attack, which took place on the night of January 25, also wounded two infantrymen.

TAUSUG WARRIOR A Philippine Army photo shows a file picture of Pvt. Joefrazen Tawasil, a member of the 45th Infantry Battalion, who this week was killed in an ambush by the group of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Ellam Nasirin in Patikul town in Sulu province. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

"The 11th Infantry Division confirms that there has been an attack in Barangay Tugas, Patikul, where 45th Infantry Battalion's Private Joefrazen Tawasil, 25 years old, perished. He was part of a team onboard a military truck, facilitating movements of the battalion," the Philippine Army said in a statement.

It added that the attack was in retaliation for a relentless military operation against the pro-Islamic State Abu Sayyaf in December.

READ: Tausug hero now PH Army soldier

"This (ambush) is desperate vengeance. Our troops are currently in pursuit of the sub-leader," the statement said.

Tawasil just finished his military training last year and wanted to follow the footsteps of his elder brother, also a soldier.

"We are saddened by the untimely death of our brother-in-arms and we send our deepest sympathies to his family. He was born and raised in Indanan, Sulu; a loving son to his parents who are farmers.

"Inspired by his brother, also a member of the Armed Forces, Joefrazen underwent basic military training in 2021. His bravery in joining the fight against terrorism embodies the values of a Tausug warrior. He will remain in our hearts and we guarantee that his sacrifices will not go in vain," the Philippine Army said.

READ: 2 soldiers killed in clashes with insurgents in Negros

Tugas village chief Saujar Bara condemned the killing and the Abu Sayyaf, saying it derailed what the government had been doing to improve the lives of the Tausugs.

But Bara vowed to still strive for peace in Mindanao.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/01/28/news/regions/troops-hunt-abu-sayyaf-killers-of-muslim-soldier/1830847