Military vows to ‘wipe out’ private armed groups in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): Military vows to ‘wipe out’ private armed groups in Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

TO ENSURE PEACEFUL POLLS. Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Battalion during their welcome ceremonies in Samar on Feb. 7, 2022 after serving in remote communities of Davao City for six years. One of their primary tasks is to hunt down private armed groups in Samar. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division has vowed to eradicate private armies in Samar provinces following recent killings and firefights with government troops involving armed men allegedly hired by local politicians.

Maj. Gen. Edgardo de Leon, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said on Wednesday the fight against private armed groups (PAGs) will be relentless as they work on ensuring peaceful and orderly elections this year.

“We will be steadfast in dealing with private armed groups by enforcing election laws so that everyone will peacefully exercise their rights to vote. We will be relentless in hunting private armies,” the military official said in a phone interview.

The official asked the Army’s 3rd Infantry Battalion, the newly-assigned unit in the region to make dismantling of private armies a priority.

The battalion, assigned to eradicate insurgents in Davao City for six years, is considered the region's maneuver battalion.

De Leon made the pronouncement after soldiers encountered with PAGs in Calbayog City, Samar on Tuesday.

Joint operatives from the police and Army clashed with PAGs members in remote Langoyon village while serving a warrant of arrest to a certain Joanne de Alagdon, who recently escaped from Samar sub-provincial jail.

Alagdon, who is facing murder charges, and two other unknown companions fired upon the troops, causing an armed confrontation. No one was hurt from both sides.

On Sunday, three men heading to a cockfight were shot dead in an ambuscade in remote Roxas village of Santa Margarita town.

The Philippine National Police initially identified the attackers as the Managaysay group, a known PAG in Samar.

In a Facebook post, a mayoralty candidate claimed that the victims were his political supporters.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167342

NPA leader killed in Surigao Norte clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): NPA leader killed in Surigao Norte clash (By Alexander Lopez)

SEIZED WAR MATERIALS. Troopers from the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion seize high-powered firearms, ammunition, and an anti-personnel mine after an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Tuesday (Feb. 8, 2022) in the hinterlands of Barangay Alipao, Alegria, Surigao del Norte. An NPA leader-cum-bomb expert, identified as alias “Wolf,” was killed during the skirmish. (Photo courtesy of 30IB)

A leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter Tuesday in the vicinity of Barangay Alipao, Alegria, Surigao del Norte, according to the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion (IB).

In a statement Wednesday, the 30IB identified the slain NPA leader as alias “Wolf,” a bomb-making expert of the NPA Guerrilla Front 16 (GF-16) of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

“Alias Wolf is a resident of Kilometer 8, Barangay Bolhoon in Surigao del Sur. The unit is still determining his real identity,” the 30IB said.

The 38IB added that the slain rebel is also the former leader of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 16C (SYP-16C) and 16B of GF-16, NEMRC.

On Tuesday, morning, 30IB troopers were dispatched for security operation after receiving reports on the presence of an undetermined number of armed men conducting extortion activities and harassing the residents in the periphery of Barangay Alipao.

“The responding troopers, upon reaching the area, were fired by the NPA insurgents led by Roel Neniel, alias “Jacob” of SYP-16C1 and Alberto Castañeda, alias “JD” of SYP-16C2. The rebels retreated after the encounter that lasted for nearly an hour,” the 30IB statement said.

“As they scampered to different directions, the NPA rebels abandoned the dead body of alias Wolf,” the statement further said.

Soldiers recovered an M16 rifle, an AK-47 rifle, an AR15 rifle, a rifle grenade, and an anti-personnel mine from the encounter site.

Also seized were two AK-47 magazines, three M16 magazines, 970 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, a bandolier, a handheld two-way radio, rain boots, five tents, assorted medicine supplies, and a blood pressure apparatus.

Bomb-making materials were also recovered that included 10 pieces of 1.5V batteries, and a 50-meter wire.

Lt. Col. Ryan Charles Callanta, 30IB commander, lauded the courage of the residents in the area, especially in providing timely and accurate information on the presence of the NPA rebels.

“We thank you for the continued support in our campaign against terrorism and in the efforts to win peace in our localities,” Callanta said in the same statement.

He extended condolences to the family members of alias Wolf who lost his life fighting for the wrong cause of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the NPA.

Callanta then urged the remaining NPA rebels in Surigao del Norte to surrender and avail of the programs and services of the government.

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 National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167363

Viscom to seek mayors’ commitment for peaceful May 9 polls

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): Viscom to seek mayors’ commitment for peaceful May 9 polls (By John Rey Saavedra)

PEACEFUL ELECTIONS. Visayas Command chief Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz hands over a plaque of appreciation to Mario Montejo, assistant regional director of the DPWH-7 during the Stakeholders' Recognition in Camp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City on Wednesday (Feb. 9, 2022). Dauz assured the electorates in the Visayas of the military's commitment to work closely with the Comelec and the PNP in ensuring free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible May 9 national and local elections. (Screengrab from Viscom PIO video)

The Visayas Command (Viscom) on Wednesday said the military will seek the commitment of local chief executives in avoiding violence during the election period.

Lt. Gen. Robert Dauz, Viscom commander, said they will partner with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in conducting activities that will culminate in candidates' signing of a covenant to “shun away violence”.

During the Stakeholder’s Recognition activity in relation to the 86th founding anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Dauz said the primary objective of the military in the forthcoming elections is to assure that the people can exercise their right to vote and that election day would be peaceful.

“We are not partisan and apolitical. We don’t care who will win and who will lose. Our mandate is to have a peaceful election,” he said.

Dauz urged local chief executives to help the military, police and the Comelec perform their respective mandate with regard to the May 9 local and national elections.

The Viscom chief said before this weekend, the military in the Visayas will further intensify security efforts to assist the Comelec in ensuring free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible elections.

Viscom oversees military operations through line units such as the Joint Task Force (JTF) Storm and JTF Spear that will be deployed to assist the PNP in manning Comelec checkpoints, provide security to polling and canvassing centers, and perform other election-related duties.

Dauz said the 3rd Infantry Battalion (3IB) is augmenting the existing troops which can be deployed for the upcoming election, following reports on the continued presence of private armed groups on the island.

He said the 3IB is tasked to hunt down and dismantle private armed groups to prevent them from spreading fear and intimidation to the people.

Dauz, during the event, gave recognition to the military's partners in its peacekeeping efforts, including Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz, a former Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army combatant who turned into a government ally in achieving peace through various programs.

He also recognized five mayors – Alme Rhummyla Nicor-Mangilimutan of La Castellana, Negros Occidental; Carlo Jorge Joan Reyes of Guihulngan, Negros Oriental; Daisy Abuyabor Lleve of Mahaplag, Leyte; Jose Ivan Dayan Agda of Borongan City, Eastern Samar; and Theodorico Abbang Mabag of Pinabacdao, Samar – for working with the AFP in addressing the causes of communist armed conflict in their respective locality.

Also cited were the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Central Visayas for the construction of Camp Lapu-Lapu facilities; Colegio dela Inmaculada Concepcion-Cebu Alumni Batch 1991 for the "Share a Book, Inspire a Life" book donation and learning hub project for children in far-flung areas; and the Five Loaves and Two Fish-Cebu group for the “Kapwa Ko Sagot Ko” program distributing “bags of hope” to marginalized families in Cebu.

Other individuals who received recognition from Viscom were Arnold Bustamante, president of the Cebu Federation of Beat Journalists, for his support to the command’s information dissemination efforts; Theresa Mae Conson, founder of Smarties Apparel for supporting the Heroes Adventure Challenge; and Margie Gadian, consultant for Peace, Order and Public Safety of Antique province.

“These successes that we have gained last year have remarkably improved the situation of our people in the area, especially in the conflict-stricken communities. That is why there are lots of things to be thankful for this year and today. We are having this stakeholders’ recognition week with the theme ‘Pasasalamat 2021: A day of Recognition a Lifetime of Gratitude’,” Dauz said in his speech.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167393

Soccsksargen RTF-ELCAC questions anew HR defenders bill

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): Soccsksargen RTF-ELCAC questions anew HR defenders bill (By Richelyn Gubalani)

National Intelligence Coordinating Agency -Region 12 Director Eduardo Marquez (File photo courtesy of Richelyn Gubalani)

The Soccsksargen (Region-12 ) Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) on Wednesday opposed anew the Human Rights Defenders Bill, describing it as "dangerous".

Director Eduardo Marquez of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency-12 and a member of RTF-ELCAC, said in an interview Wednesday the bill is nothing but a “propaganda" of communist organizations to allow "pretenders" of human rights defenders in Congress to advance their deceits.

He said the bill could serve and protect the interest of dissident organizations such as the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

“If passed into a law, it will open the floodgates of abuse and torment on our people by (radicals) like the CPP-NPA-NDF and it will make the Anti-Terrorism Law that was recently declared constitutional by the Supreme Court ineffective and toothless," Marquez said.

“Every individual can be considered a human rights defender at hindi eto dapat selective (and this should not be selective). Ang masama lang dito (What’s bad about this) is that the human rights issue has been exploited or abused to discredit the government and romanticize the agenda of some individuals or groups who have the intention to demonize the government like what these communist groups are doing (right now),” he added.

Marquez said the ludicrous bill defines who are and are not “human rights defenders,” a definition so porous in its broadness that even the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the Abu Sayyaf Group, and the CPP-NPA-NDF can be defined as rights defenders.

The approved bill is a consolidated version of proposed bills from House members Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman; Quezon City 6th District Rep. Jose Christopher “Kit” Belmonte Makabayan bloc, including Bayan Muna Reps. Carlos Zarate, Eufemia Cullamat, and Ferdinand Gaite, Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro and Kabataan Rep. Sarah Elago.

The bill was approved by the House of Representatives on third and final reading on January 17 with 200 affirmative votes, zero negative vote, and no abstention.

The 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 NDF has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167437

Samar execs condemn fatal shooting of youth leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10, 2022): Samar execs condemn fatal shooting of youth leader (By Sarwell Meniano and Lizbeth Ann Abella)

VIOLENCE. The crime scene in Osmeña village, Calbayog City in Samar in this Feb. 8, 2022 photo. Officials in Samar province have condemned the recent violent attacks in Calbayog City that killed a Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) official and wounded another youth council member. (Photo courtesy of Calbayog City police office)

Officials in Samar province have condemned the recent violent attack in Calbayog City that killed a Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) official and wounded another youth council member.

Samar 2nd District Rep. Shareen Ann Tan, in a statement issued Wednesday night, said the killing of Gerald Casaljay, 25, should not be considered as another statistic.

“It is difficult enough to lose our young people through drug addiction and other social injustices, but to lose them through senseless killings is beyond reason,” Tan said.

Casaljay, SK councilor of Migara village, Calbayog City, died around 7:30 a.m. on February 8 when a lone gunman shot him twice while he was heading home driving a motorcycle in Osmeña village.

His back rider, Brandel Yrigon, also an SK official, was injured during the attack.

In a statement, Samar 1st district Rep. Edgar Mary Sarmiento condemned the shooting of Casaljay.

He said the incident came at a time when a “clean, honest, and peaceful electoral process” is expected.

“This pattern of violence and brutality has long passed alarming and must now be treated as a direct attack on our existence and right to live a safe life in our very own land. It is an affront to our right to choose our future with freedom from fear. It is an attack not only on life but to democracy itself,” Sarmiento said.

Earlier, Samar Governor Michael Tan called for justice for the SK official whose “bright future was cut short by a senseless act of violence.”

“I pray that this senseless attack to our SK member is isolated and that the perpetrators will be held accountable. I urge our Philippine National Police to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation and find the culprit to this cowardly act. I strongly urge our communities to be vigilant and reject violence,” the governor said in a statement.

The SK Provincial Federation of Samar also condemned the fatal shooting as they called for the stop of killings and protection of the right to life.

“This incident is a blatant affront to their human rights as well as an act of deprivation of the right to participate in activities vital to his and his society’s growth and development on the basis of ideology, organizational and political affinity,” the group said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167453

NPA condemned over 2 kids' in N. Samar ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10, 2022): NPA condemned over 2 kids' in N. Samar ambush (By Roel Amazona)

CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE. The bodies of the children when the New People's Army ambushed patrolling soldiers in Roxas village, Catubig, Northern Samar on February 8. The Philippine Army’s 803rd Infantry Brigade has condemned the untimely death of two children caught in a crossfire. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army’s 803rd Infantry Brigade has condemned the death of two children caught in a crossfire when New People’s Army fighters ambushed government troops in Catubig, Northern Samar.

The children identified as Andre Mercado, 12, and Leandro Alivio, 13, died when NPA rebels attacked soldiers patrolling in the remote Roxas village in Catubig town on February 8. Two other civilians were wounded during the incident.

Philippine Army’s 803rd Infantry Brigade civil-military officer, Capt. Valben Almirante, said the two victims were gathering coconuts during the attack.

Mercado died on the spot while Alivio succumbed to injuries after a few hours at the Northern Samar Provincial Hospital in Catarman town while undergoing treatment.

“Our patrolling troops were on the same location with the victims when the NPA launched an attack. We are on the area responding to reports that the NPA has been doing extortion activities,” Almirante said in a phone interview Thursday.

Almirante added that government troops and the victims had a brief conversation before the ambush that led to a 20-minute armed encounter.

Roxas is one of the far-flung villages of Catubig, located about 10 kilometers away from the town center and only accessible by walking or through a riverboat ride.

A fact-finding team composed of personnel from the Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion, Catubig Municipal Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict, and policemen were deployed in the area to investigate.

The Army’s 803rd Brigade Commander Col. Perfecto Peñaredondo has condemned the incident that victimized the innocent.

“This is an indication that the terrorist group does not respect human rights. We will work on seeking justice for the victims,” said Peñaredondo in a statement.

The army official assured the family of victims that they will be provided with assistance.

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 inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167457

Army assures villagers’ safety after clash with NPA in Davao Oro

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10, 2022): Army assures villagers’ safety after clash with NPA in Davao Oro (By Che Palicte)

SEIZED LAIR. Military troops from the 1001st Infantry Brigade overrun a New People's Army (NPA) burrow following a clash on Wednesday (Feb. 9, 2022) in Barangay Tandawan, New Bataan, Davao de Oro. The encounter between the troopers and NPA rebels, led by a certain Leo Lacumbo alias Ole, lasted for more than an hour. (Photo courtesy of 1001st IBde)

The chief of the Army’s 1001st Infantry Brigade (1001st IBde) on Thursday assured residents of Sitio Tandik, Barangay Tandawan, New Bataan, Davao de Oro of their safety, following an encounter between government troops and New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

“We call on to the populace of Barangay Tandawan not to panic. The troops are here to protect you from any harm brought about by atrocities of the NPA,” said Brig. Gen. Jesus Durante III, commander of 1001IB.

Following a tip from a concerned citizen, troops from the 1001st IBde figured in an armed clash Wednesday in the sitio with the NPA group led by a certain Leo Lacumbo alias Ole that lasted for more than an hour.

There is no reported casualty from the government side while those from the NPA side remain undetermined.

With the incident, Durante urged the public to immediately report to authorities any presence of the armed group for them to respond accordingly.

He then called on the NPAs to surrender and be reunited with their families.

“This might be your best chance to surrender as our doors remain open if you choose to do so. To those who continue to fight against the government, I assure you that we will not stop until this part of the region will be free from your (nefarious) activities,” Durante added.

He also assured the public that they will never stop hunting the NPA as they commit all their resources to ensure that the communists are neutralized.

“We will hit you hard,” Durante said.

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.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167454

NPA hit for blocking road, threatening motorists in Surigao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10, 2022): NPA hit for blocking road, threatening motorists in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)

HARASSMENT HIT. The Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) criticizes the New People’s Army (NPA) for harassing and intimidating civilians when they blocked a portion of the national highway Thursday morning (Feb. 10, 2022) in Sitio Lubcon, Barangay Mabahin, Cortes, Surigao del Sur. The SDSPPO said the highway was cleared at around 9:00 a.m. Thursday after the rebels dispersed in different directions. (Photo grabbed from SDSPPO FB Page)

The New People’s Army (NPA) was slammed for blocking a national highway and threatening residents and travelers in Cortes, Surigao del Sur on Thursday.

In a phone interview, Col. Joseph Boquiren, director of Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO), said the NPA caused terror and distress in the area when an undetermined number of rebels blocked a portion of the national highway in Sitio Lubcon, Barangay Mabahin, Cortes town early Thursday morning.

“That was a plain show of force and a terroristic act as they sow fear among the residents in the area. Some motorists, including employees of government and private offices who happened to pass in that portion of the highway, were flagged down and threatened by the rebels,” Boquiren said.

He added that the rebels also raided and ransacked the store and house of a retired Army officer situated near the area where they blocked the highway.

The ransacking incident is still being investigated by the personnel of Cortes municipal police station, he added.

"We condemn the NPA rebels for their terroristic acts and sowing fear among the civilians in the area," Boquiren said.

He also identified the leader of the NPA rebels who led the harassment as Joel Maghinay alias Nico of NPA Guerrilla Front 30, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

“As of 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, the highway was cleared as the rebels dispersed to different directions,” Boquiren said.

He added that an alert memorandum has been forwarded to all police units in the province to intensify security measures and to coordinate with the Armed Forces of the Philippines for follow-up operations.

Boquiren said they will file appropriate criminal charges against the NPA rebels and their leaders.

The Communist Party of the Philippine-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 National Democratic Front has also been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167461

Kennon Road to temporarily open for PMA alumni homecoming

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10, 2022): Kennon Road to temporarily open for PMA alumni homecoming (By Liza Agoot)

PNA file photo

The Cordillera Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CRDRRMC) and the Joint inter Agency Task Force Kennon Road on Thursday announced that the road will be opened for the participants of this year's Philippine Military Academy (PMA) alumni homecoming set from February 15 to 20.

In an advisory, CRDRRMC chairperson and Office of Civil Defense-Cordillera director Albert Mogol said the temporary opening of the road is allowed under Memorandum 8-2022 for some 800 attendees who will come to Baguio City for the event.

“For the duration, Kennon Road shall be opened to PMA Alumni, homecoming guests, and other attendees with vehicle weight limited to five tons and with strict regard to road safety rules and regulations,” the advisory said.

Kennon Road had been closed to vehicular traffic except for vehicles owned by residents and to public utility vehicles that transport the residents within the 33 kilometers stretch.

It is open for the general public every Friday until 6 a.m. on Mondays, for easier and shorter travel time.

Several projects are being completed on the road and on the mountain to stabilize the historic road that was greatly damaged in 1990 but is expected to be rehabilitated soon with the passage of a bill allowing the full rehabilitation of Kennon road.

Meanwhile, Col. Glenn Lonogan, Baguio City Police Office director, said they are ready for the arrival of guests and alumni of the country’s premier military institution.

Aside from alumni, they also expect candidates for the May polls to grace the occasion.

Strict observance of health protocols will also be enforced during the annual event, which has been toned down for the past years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167485

ASG bandit evades arrest but troops seize firearms

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10, 2022): ASG bandit evades arrest but troops seize firearms (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

FIREARMS SEIZED. Troops seize an M-14 rifle and a .9-mm pistol with ammunition in a law enforcement operation against a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) Wednesday (Feb. 9, 2022) in Luuk, Sulu. The ASG member, Muksidal Jumadil, managed to escape. (Photo courtesy of Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

Joint military and police operatives have seized high-powered firearms and ammunition from an Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit in a law enforcement operation in Luuk, Sulu, a top military official said Thursday.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said authorities were serving a warrant of arrest to Muksidal Jumadil, an ASG bandit, Wednesday in Barangay Kan Mindus, Luuk when the suspect opened fire upon seeing the troops and managed to escape.

Seized from his residence, however, were an M-14 rifle and a .9-mm pistol with ammunition and a bandolier, said Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).

The search warrant was for the violation of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

“Your armed forces and other line agencies are working together to sustain our gains in peace and development in this part of the country,” Rosario said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167507

Seizure of high-powered firearms further weakens NPA in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Seizure of high-powered firearms further weakens NPA in Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

SEIZED FROM REBELS. Some of the 34 high-powered firearms recovered by soldiers in a remote village in Pinabacdao, Samar on Wednesday (Feb. 9, 2022). This is the biggest seizure of firearms in Eastern Visayas, the Philippine Army said. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

The recent recovery of 34 high-powered firearms from the New People’s Army (NPA) in Pinabacdao, Samar on February 9 will further cripple the communist terrorist group, a military official said on Friday.

Capt. Ryan Layug, the spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said the recovered firearms in remote Bugho village Wednesday was the biggest seizure of firearms in Eastern Visayas.

“In the entire country, we have not heard bigger than this. This will reduce their capability to do terroristic acts like extortion and attack on government troops and civilians,” Layug said in a phone interview.

The firearms recovered were 24 M16 rifles, two M4 carbine assault rifles, seven China-made AK47 variant rifles, and an M14 rifle.

Layug said the rebels buried the assault rifles since they do not have enough manpower to carry them.

“This a result of reduction of manpower since many of their members have already surrendered to the government,” he told the Philippine News Agency.

Troops from the Army’s 801st Infantry Brigade scoured the area, acting on tips from residents on the presence of armed men.

The town of Pinabacdao, around 46 kilometers away from Tacloban City, is known for frequent sightings of NPA members.

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 inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167554

Driz assumes post as new PH Fleet commander

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): Driz assumes post as new PH Fleet commander (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Fleet commander Rear Adm. Nichols Driz (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

Rear Adm. Nichols Driz formally assumed command of the Philippine Fleet on Tuesday.

Philippine Navy (PN) chief Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado led the change-of-command ceremony at the Captain Moya Boat Landing, Naval Base Heracleo Alano in Cavite City.

Driz replaced Rear Adm. Alberto Carlos who was earlier appointed head of the Western Command which is based in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

Driz, the current commander of the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command, is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1989 along with Carlos.

“I have trust and complete confidence in your ability to manage the Western Command, as you have done here at PhilFleet. Good luck with your new and most challenging assignment yet,” Bordado said in a statement Tuesday night.

Bordado likewise congratulated Driz and wished him “good luck, and God bless on this new and exciting chapter of your career as the new Commander, Philippine Fleet.”

Driz is a seasoned naval officer who has built a distinguished and remarkable career.

Carlos believes that his successor is a good leader deserving of this position, and an epitome of excellence capable of accomplishing great things.

On the other hand, Carlos, during his stint as Philippine Fleet commander, exemplified professional competence and dynamic leadership that led to the successful accomplishment of the command’s mandated tasks and missions.

He also ensured the continuous conduct of naval patrol, sea control, and amphibious operations in order to defend the sovereignty of the country and its territorial waters from foreign aggression, intrusion, and exploitation.

Carlos' "Mission First, Men Always" doctrine enabled unprecedented changes in operational readiness, mission accomplishment, facilities improvement, and enrichment of the morale and welfare of Fleet sailors and aviators.

He was also awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his meritorious and valuable services rendered in a position of major responsibility as commander of the Philippine Fleet from March 29, 2021 to January 19, 2022 and the Award of Presidential Security Service Ribbon for rendering duty with fidelity to effectively guard and protect His Excellency, the President of the Republic of the Philippines, Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167346

PH, China remain friends despite territorial issues: Lorenzana

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): PH, China remain friends despite territorial issues: Lorenzana (By Priam Nepomuceno)

FRIENDS DESPITE ISSUES. Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian (left) and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (right) take a look at the various military equipment donated by Beijing to the Department of National Defense in Camp Aguinaldo on Wednesday (Feb. 9, 2022). Lorenzana said this grant shows that Beijing in Manila remain friends and partners in many aspects despite having territorial claims over the West Philippine Sea. (Photo courtesy of DND)

Despite having contrasting positions on territorial issues, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the Philippines and China remain friends and partners in various areas of cooperation.

Lorenzana made the remark following the turnover of donated military equipment worth 130 million Chinese renminbi (around PHP1.05 billion) by China's Ministry of National Defense to the DND in a ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Wednesday.

"This military grant from China speaks volumes on how our two nations can be civil, diplomatic, and friends despite some issues on territorial claims," Lorenzana said, referring to Manila and Beijing's territorial claims over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The first batch of military equipment worth 76 million Chinese renminbi arrived in Manila on January 16.

The donation comprises various military equipment such as rescue and relief equipment, drone systems, detectors, water purification vehicles, ambulances, firetrucks, x-ray machines, EOD robots, bomb disposal suits and transport vehicles; and engineering equipment such as backhoes, dump trucks, forklifts, and earthmovers.

A second batch worth 54 million Chinese renminbi will be delivered on a later date.

Under the terms of the grant, China will support the capacity-building activities of the Presidential Security Group, Marawi rehabilitation efforts, and other humanitarian assistance and disaster relief undertakings.

"Even as a non-traditional partner, China paid special attention to Marawi at the height of the rebellion in 2017 by providing PHP370 million worth of firearms and ammunition. We are happy that after almost five years, Marawi has risen from its destruction with peace and order now in place for Filipinos who consider it home," Lorenzana said.

Present during the event were Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, acting Defense and Armed Forces Attaché Dou Xuding, Secretary to the Defense Attaché, Maj. Lin Xinhong and delegates of the Chinese Diplomatic Corps.

Lorenzana was also joined by other DND officials, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Gen. Andres Centino and other military officers, enlisted and civilian personnel.

"In 2020, Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe and I agreed to sustain closer cooperation between our nations amid the WPS dispute. Both of us unequivocally committed to the primacy of peace in dealing with this complex issue," Lorenzana said.

As partners, he said the Philippines gains much in trade, infrastructure, technology, and people-to-people exchange.

"Indeed, there is more we can achieve by working together. As we enter a new cycle in the Chinese Lunar Calendar Year, I wish for prosperity for both our peoples, good health, and mutual respect for our sovereignties," Lorenzana added.

On behalf of President Rodrigo R. Duterte and the Filipino people, the DND chief thanked China for its generous support of the defense and security sector.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167374

PNP acquires P576-M new transport, comms assets

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): PNP acquires P576-M new transport, comms assets (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Photo courtesy of PNP

The Philippine National Police's (PNP) response capabilities got another boost with the acquisition of over PHP576 million worth of sea and land mobile transport assets and communications equipment.

“The PNP is grateful to President Rodrigo R. Duterte and the national government for the gesture of genuine responsiveness to the operational needs of the PNP to perform our law enforcement and public safety mission. We can only reciprocate our gratitude through better police service to the people,” PNP chief Gen. Dionardo B. Carlos said in his speech during the blessing of the new equipment in a ceremony at Camp Crame on Wednesday.

Among the latest addition to the PNP fleet of sea transport assets are 10 police high-speed tactical watercraft powered by triple-250 horsepower engines.

The new sea vessels will beef up the existing fleet of police gunboats currently in service with the PNP Maritime Group and Special Action Force for seaborne police operations and preventive patrol along the country’s 36,000-kilometer shoreline, and coastal borders.

Also included in the latest procurement package are 34 six-wheel utility trucks, 123 4 x 2 patrol vehicles, 170 low-band VHF tactical radio sets, and 1,628 handheld digital mobile radio transceivers.

Carlos said the latest procurement program for the new equipment was administered by the PNP Bids and Awards Committee chaired by director for comptrollership, Maj. Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr.

The procurement program was funded from the PNP Capability Enhancement Program (CEP) for the years 2020 and 2021.

“These vehicles and communication equipment make up the backbone of police operations the field that are expected to further boost police patrol and visibility in land and sea environment to meet requirements for greater police presence in communities under heightened Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) Alert levels, and to support KASIMBAYANAN SAFE initiatives for the forthcoming 2022 National and Local Elections,” Carlos said.

“Especially with more communication equipment available, we can now swiftly provide immediate rapid reaction to calls for police assistance and emergency response,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167376

Eleazar to push for continued modernization of security bodies

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 9, 2022): Eleazar to push for continued modernization of security bodies (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Photo courtesy of PNP

Partido Reporma senatorial bet Guillermo Eleazar on Wednesday vowed to work for the sustained modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in order to ensure the protection of the country’s sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.

Eleazar made the remark as he expressed concern over reports that the Philippine Navy and the PCG have temporarily stopped their regular patrol operations in Scarborough Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, and the Panatag Shoal off Zambales.

“Kung totoo nga na tumigil ang ating militar at Coast Guard sa pagpapatrolya, malaking problema ito dahil magiging vulnerable ang ating mga mangingisda sa posibleng pangha-harass ng ibang bansa (If reports claiming that the military and the Coast Guard have stopped patrolling are true, it will be a big problem as our fishermen will be vulnerable from harassments from other countries)," he said in a statement.

Eleazar, a former PNP chief, said the patrols must be continued as soon as possible as every second without any Philippine presence off Scarborough Shoal could endanger Filipino fisherfolk.

According to local fishermen, the patrol operations of the Navy and Coast Guard have disappeared recently, which is why they were again subjected to recent harassment by foreign vessels.

Eleazar emphasized that the AFP, PNP, and PCG should acquire more naval and aerial assets to maintain the country’s presence in the West Philippine Sea.

Once elected into the upper chamber, Eleazar promised that he will ensure these agencies will have a sufficient budget to fulfill the requirements of their modernization programs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167382