DND orders more AFP presence in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2022): DND orders more AFP presence in WPS (By Priam Nepomuceno and Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

File photo

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) has directed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to beef up its presence in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) following Chinese activities monitored near Pag-asa Island.

In a statement Thursday, the DND said any encroachment or reclamation on the features in the WPS is a threat to Pag-asa Island which is part of the country's territory.

"Any encroachment in the WPS or reclamation on the features therein is a threat to the security of Pag-asa Island, which is part of Philippine sovereign territory," it added.

The DND also said such actions also endangers the marine environment and undermines the stability of the region.

"We strongly urge China to uphold the prevailing rules-based international order and refrain from acts that will exacerbate tensions in the WPS and the larger South China Sea,” the statement read.

Chinese militia vessels spotted

Meanwhile, Wescom, in a separate statement Thursday, said its regular naval and air patrols have observed the persistent presence of China militia vessels in three locations in the WPS.

"They were spotted in namely Pag-asa Cay 1 (Sandy Cay), Julian Felipe Reef (Whitsun Reef), and Panata Island (Lankiam Cay)," it added.

All activities and development in those areas are reported to the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTFWPS) for an appropriate response.

"Wescon shall continue conducting maritime patrols and sustaining our presence in the WPS to protect our nation's territory and sovereign rights," it added.

Earlier, DND officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. expressed alarm over the reported swarming of Chinese ships off Iroquois Reef and Sabina Shoal in the WPS but maintained that they will not give up any part of the country's territory and will continue with its regular maritime and air patrols.

"The DND views with great concern the reported swarming of Chinese vessels in Iroquois Reef and Sabina Shoal in the WPS," he said in a statement on Dec. 14.

Another incident which took place last Nov. 20 involved the China Coast Guard reportedly interfering with efforts of Western Command personnel to recover an unidentified floating object spotted near Pag-asa Island.

Meanwhile, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has denied reports that Beijing is carrying out new reclamation activities in some unoccupied features within the Spratlys in South China Sea.
Bloomberg reported on Tuesday that Beijing started building up several land features in the unoccupied northern part of Spratlys, citing unnamed Western officials.

In a presser on Dec. 21, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the report as "completely untrue" and stressed that Beijing strictly abides by the Declaration of Conduct (DOC) in the South China Sea.

"The Bloomberg report is completely untrue. Refraining from action on the presently uninhabited islands and reefs of the Nansha Islands is a serious common understanding reached by China and ASEAN countries in the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), and China always strictly abides by it," Mao said, referring to the Spratlys.

"The growth of China-Philippines relations currentlyenjoys sound momentum and the two sides will continue to properly handle maritime issues through friendly consultations," she added.

Under the 2002 DOC, China and the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) agreed to exercise "self-restraint in the conduct of activities that would complicate or escalate disputes and affect peace and stability including, among others, refraining from action of inhabiting on the presently uninhabited islands, reefs, shoals, cays, and other features".


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191301

Cops hurt in NPA raid in Antique get medals, financial aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 22, 2022): Cops hurt in NPA raid in Antique get medals, financial aid (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP MEDAL. Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. on Thursday (Dec. 22, 2022) pins a medal on Cpl. Jomer Clamor Yamuyam, one of two police officers wounded in an encounter with New People's Army (NPA) insurgents in San Remigio, Antique. The two cops also received financial assistance. (Courtesy of PNP PIO)

MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. on Thursday awarded medals to two police officers who got wounded during an encounter with New People's Army (NPA) insurgents in San Remigio, Antique on Dec. 11, 2022.

Azurin awarded the "Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting" (PNP Wounded Medal) to Cpl. Jomer Clamor Yamuyam and Patrolman Danmer Dela Torre Cruz during his visit at the Iloilo hospital where the two are being treated.

Aside from the medals, financial assistance was also given to the two wounded police officers and their families.

The two were wounded during patrol operations launched in response to reports of NPA members vandalizing the Green House, a government owned vegetable plantation.

According to reports, upon arrival of the responding team in the area, more or less 16 NPAs members with long firearms engaged in armed encounter with the PNP personnel which resulted in Yamuyam and Cruz being wounded.

They were immediately brought to the nearest hospital and are now in stable condition.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191319

PH ‘cautious’ in drawing conclusions on latest SCS activities

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23, 2022): PH ‘cautious’ in drawing conclusions on latest SCS activities (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

File photo courtesy of PTV

MANILA – The Philippine government prefers not to make hasty conclusions on the reportedly latest reclamation activities in the hotly-contested South China Sea (SCS), National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos said Friday.

This, after Carlos was informed by Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian on Thursday that it was Vietnam that was actually reclaiming land in the SCS.

"Ang sinabi niya (Huang) kasi kahapon, 'clinaim ng Bloomberg na sa China 'yun. Actually sa Vietnam 'yun'. So, part ng investigation. Kaya siguro huwag tayong padalos-dalos sa conclusion natin. (He said yesterday, Bloomberg is claiming that it was China, but it was actually Vietnam [which is behind the reclamation activities]. So, that's part of the investigation, that's why perhaps, we should not make hasty conclusion)," Carlos said in a radio interview.

"Kaya ako wala akong conclusion na mashi-share sa inyo kasi ongoing pa ang investigation. So, huwag din tayong magkaroon ng determination hanggang wala pa talagang masusing imbestigasyon (That' why I could not share any conclusion because the investigation is still ongoing. So, let us avoid making assumptions while the results of the thorough investigation are not yet out)," she added.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila earlier dismissed as "fake news" the Bloomberg report on China's supposedly new land reclamation activities in unoccupied features of the Spratlys.

The Chinese Embassy, citing a Twitter post by China-based research group SCS Probing Initiative (SCSPI), said sandbars and formations of Lankiam Cay, Eldad Reef, and Whitsun Reef "naturally change every year," while Sandy Cay is "indeed in reclaiming" by Vietnam.

Honor international law

Carlos noted that during her meeting with Huang, she emphasized the importance of upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

China, as one of the signatories to UNCLOS, must honor the international treaty that lays out a comprehensive legal framework governing all activities and uses of the world's seas and oceans, Carlos said.

"Kailangan sumunod sila diyan kasi ano ba naman susundan natin (They should follow that because what would we follow)? We are just living in one planet. At isa lang ang international law, unless meron silang ibang international law na sinusunod na wala naman. Iyan ang ini-stress ko kay Ambassador Huang Xilian kahapon (There is only one international law, unless they are following other international law which does not exist. That's what I am stressing to Ambassador Huang Xilian yesterday)," she said.

Carlos said she also relayed to Huang the Philippines' concern over China's reported activities in SCS, despite the fact that Manila already sent over 100 notes verbales to Beijing.

'Continuous critical dialogue'

Considering the latest developments, Carlos stressed the need for "continuous critical dialogue" to settle the SCS disputes.

She added that the Philippines should also pursue not just a bilateral approach but also multilateral consultations on SCS issues.

"Hindi lang dapat bilateral ang ating ano, ibig sabihin Philippines at China. Tumukod tayo sa mga ibang bansa na ganoon din ang interes nila, na pangalagaan talaga ang mga resources diyan sa South China Sea. Isda ang talagang pinaka-importanteng resource diyan. Food security natin ang nakasalalay diyan (We should not just seek bilateral dialogue between the Philippines and China. Let's consult other countries whose interest is to protect the resources in the South China Sea. Fish is the important resource there. Our food security depends on that)," Carlos said.

Carlos expressed confidence that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will raise the SCS issue with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit to China in January 2023.

Book for 'regional fishing deal'

As part of the effort find to address the maritime disputes in the SCS, Carlos revealed that she is writing a book which contains a recommendation to pursue a "regional fishing agreement" that will benefit all the sea claimants.

Carlos said she would seek Marcos' approval to publish the book, once she is able to complete its five chapters.

"'Yung libro na 'yun, magkakaroon ng proposal. Actually, marami na ngayong mga fishing agreement kaya lang mga bilateral sila, almost bilateral. Pero ito, kung magkaroon tayo ng regional fishing agreement (That book contains a proposal. There are already existing fishing agreements but they are only bilateral agreements. The book seeks regional fishing agreement)," she said.

"Kasi pag regional fishing agreement, hindi lang ang China ang magde-declare ng fishing holiday. Dapat kailangan lahat ay mag-agree na magkakaroon ng fishing holiday (If we push for the regional fishing agreement, China could not declare a fishing holiday. All concerned parties need to agree if there is a need to declare fishing holiday)," Carlos added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191365

AFP says CPP now ‘gasping for breath, without direction’

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2022): AFP says CPP now ‘gasping for breath, without direction’ (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar

MANILA – The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) is suffering from a breakdown in communication between its units due to the neutralization of its ranking leaders as it struggles to "gasp for breath", the spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Monday.

In a statement, Col. Medel Agular said the death of CPP's chair Jose Maria Sison in the Netherlands has also left the underground movement, which observes its 54th founding anniversary Dec. 26, with "no sense of purpose and direction".

"There is a breakdown in the communication lines between the CPP Central Committee and its subordinate organs and armed group (NPA). This is primarily due to the neutralization of many of the CPP top leaders: Julius Giron; Menandro Villanueva; Jorge Madlos; etc, the silence and long absence of their supposed Chairman now, Benito Tiamzon, and the loss of their mass bases and mass organizations," Aguilar said.

The CPP is left with only 23 guerrilla fronts, only five of which are able to implement party programs and the 18 are "weak and gasping for breath", Aguilar said.

"This gives the military the opportunity to focus its superior capability against the five while the civil government needs only to implement programs that will address the source of peoples’ discontent to render the UGM’s AOM (agitate, organize and mobilize) activities inutile," he said.

Sison, who died last Dec. 16, established the CPP in 1968.

"To keep the organization afloat, the CPP through a digital person known as 'Marco Valbuena' can only come up with press releases and statements to convey the party’s directive and message to its lower organs and armed group, including its threat of tactical offensives," Aguilar said.

Following Sison's death, the CPP said it would not seek a ceasefire with state forces this holiday season.

The CPP's call to its remaining New People's Army (NPA) fighters to carry out "tactical offensives" against government troops, Aguilar said, was aimed at preventing the organization's "total disintegration".

"The CPP is now more likely to strengthen its hold to what remains of its fighters and followers, hence the directive to conduct tactical offensives, in order to avoid disintegration and collapse," he added.

Even after more than 50 years, the CPP has failed to achieve its goals despite peaking with an estimated 28,000 members in the mid-80s, Aguilar said.

"Indeed, 54 years is more than enough. The country’s suffering must end now," he said adding "54 years after it was founded, the underground movement never achieved anything significant to get closer to its goal, violent overthrow of the government, seizure of political power, and overhaul of the political system."

"As the UGM struggled to establish a guerrilla front in every congressional district of the country, its leaders and members can only watch with frustration and helplessness as the government’s security operations and development programs decapitates them," Aguilar said.

Dwindling NPA membership

Members of the New People's Army (NPA), the CPP's armed wing, are down to 2,112 as a result of the military's campaign and the whole-of-nation approach of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor said.

Its guerilla fronts were also reduced to 22 from 89 six years ago, significantly lower than the over 4,000 NPA members reported in 2016.

"Seventeen of these were already classified as weakened while the remaining five guerilla fronts are now the focus of relentless focused military operations and synergized efforts employing the whole-of-nation approach," Baclor said in a media statement.

NPA leaders were also neutralized, including Helenita Pardales, Secretary of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee; Ericson Acosta, top NPA leader of Komite Rehiyon - Cebu-Bohol, Negros, Siquijor; Rogelio Sapon Gerondio Jr., Secretary of the Sub-Regional Committee 3 in Agusan del Norte; and Gina Belsa Granada, Secretary of the defunct Guerilla Front BBC in Zamboanga del Norte.

The NPA's income generation through extortion activities also went down.

"From as high as PHP4.2 billion in 2017, they were only able to extort PHP8.5 million in 2022. Schemes to raise funds through so-called international solidarity works were also stopped in coordination with legitimate foreign advocacy financers," Baclor said.

For 2022, 156 cases of human rights and international humanitarian law violations have been filed against NPA personalities, bringing the total to 1,886 since the year 2010.

"The number summarizes the CTG’s continued use of children in armed conflict, destruction of civilian properties, use of anti-personnel mines, willful killings, and other HR abuses," Baclor said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191460

IP slots eyed in military, police academies

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2022): IP slots eyed in military, police academies (By Leonel Abasola)

RECEPTION. The Philippine Military Academy in Baguio City welcomes new cadets in this undated photo. A Senate bill wants the military and police academies to allot at least 10 percent of their enlistments to indigenous peoples. (Screenshot)

MANILA – The Senate has found more ways to promote the indigenous sector with the ultimate aim to promote equal rights.

Senator Francis Tolentino wants military and police academies to appropriate at least 10 percent of their slots to indigenous peoples’ (IP) under Senate Bill (SB) No. 1586 or the "Katutubong Tagapagtanggol" Act.

The bill recognizes and promotes the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights of indigenous cultural communities and IPs and ensure that they are afforded their rights, protections and privileges with regard to recruitment and employment.

It mandates the Philippine Military Academy and Philippine National Police Academy to admit IPs to their academic programs, to be accorded the same procedures with non-IP members and must not be discriminated by reason of their physical, social cultural backgrounds and religious beliefs.

The Department of National Defense and Department of the Interior and Local Government will head the program.

Meanwhile, Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. wants indigenous games preserved for future generations to build a strong psychological base for children.

SB 1523 will be in compliance with the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund declaration that play is one of the most important tools on how children gain essential knowledge and skills.

Revilla said indigenous games such as patintero, luksong tinik, taguan, sungka, and sipa that are considered markers of cultural heritage will also veer children away from gadgets and digital entertainment.

The measure tasks the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in coordination with the Department of Education, to initiate measures to preserve traditional games.

An annual regional competition of the traditional games which may include tribal archery, blowpipe, sibat, dug-out canoe race, rock balancing, sumpit, sungka, and kadang-kadang must be held under the supervision of the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and local government units.

The bill likewise proposes that the games be part of the curricula in the basic and higher education systems, production of documentary or other useful means, and conduct of regular demonstration in the Palarong Pambansa and other national sports events.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191470

155 Reds surrender to police since January

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2022): 155 Reds surrender to police since January (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Former NPA rebels (NCRPO photo)

MANILA – A total of 155 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) have surrendered to different police units in Metro Manila from January to Dec. 26 this year, the National Capital Region Police (NCRPO) said Monday.

Since January, 16 were arrested and one died in a police operation.

The latest to surrender Monday were 55 former members of the rebel group and turned over to the authorities their firearms and ammunition.

Following the death of their leader, CPP founding chair Jose Maria Sison, the government has urged the rebels to give up the armed struggle and return to mainstream society.

"We believe that despite the difference in belief and ideology, we are one in pursuing a safe and progressive community for our children and families." NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Jonnel Estomo said in a media statement.

"We never meant to ‘red tag’ anybody. We only call for peace and unity. This decade-long armed conflict has brought so much violence in our country already. It is high time to finally end this, move on, and unite towards the betterment of this nation," he added.

During the event, surrenderers took their oath of allegiance to the government, renounced their membership and ideologies, as well as partook in the ceremonial turn-over of firearms and ripping of rebel flags.

They are now under the custody of the NCRPO for debriefing and will get assistance for their enrollment to the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191477

Jet fighter acquisition tops PH, Sweden talks’ agenda

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 27, 2022): Jet fighter acquisition tops PH, Sweden talks’ agenda (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Jose Faustino Jr. (right) and Swedish Ambassador to Manila Annika Thunborg (left) (Photo courtesy of DND)

MANILA – Sweden's offer to supply Saab-made JAS-39 "Gripen" multi-role fighters (MRF) to the Philippines was among the key topics discussed by Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Jose Faustino Jr. and Swedish Ambassador to Manila Annika Thunborg in a recent meeting.

Thunborg paid a courtesy call on Faustino at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Dec. 21 to discuss "mutual interests in the field of defense", DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement Tuesday.

The JAS-39 "Gripen" is one of the two jet fighters eyed by the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to fulfill its MRF requirement.

"The OIC, DND and the Swedish Ambassador discussed the PAF MRF Acquisition Project and the offer of Swedish defense and aerospace company Saab AB of Gripen aircraft, which has been on the PAF's shortlist," Andolong said.

Another contender in the PAF's MRF acquisition program is the Lockheed Martin F-16V "Viper" jet fighter.

The MRFs are expected to backstop the military's existing fleet of 12 South Korean-made Mach 1.5 capable FA-50PH light jet fighters.

The requirements for the MRF project stipulate that the offered aircraft must be "fourth generation or higher."

The project also requires 12 MRFs at least capable of patrolling the country's protected waters and airspace.

The MRF project is supposed to be part of Horizon 2 of the AFP Modernization Program slated for 2018 to 2022, which aims to acquire more equipment for external defense.

Any aircraft that will be selected must be able to integrate with existing radar systems that have a range of about 250 nautical miles.

"Both officials stressed on the importance of building a strong air defense. Relatedly, the OIC, DND underscored the need to improve capabilities in the context of regional security developments, mentioning the shift in focus of the Philippine defense sector from internal security to external defense," Andolong said.

He said Faustino recognized the potential of bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and Sweden, particularly in the defense industry and logistics.

"Meanwhile, Ambassador Thunborg noted the successful visit to Stockholm of the Commanding General, PAF on 09 to 14 December, as well as the recent meeting between Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at the sidelines of the ASEAN-European Union Commemorative Summit last 14 December 2022 in Brussels. She further conveyed the readiness of the Swedish Government to enter into discussions on an agreement on cooperation on defense materiel, as earlier proposed by the Philippine side," Andolong said.

The two officials also exchanged views on other topical issues on security, such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Philippine efforts to end local communist armed conflict and the situation in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191525

Reject leftist candidates, senator asks voters

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 27, 2022): Reject leftist candidates, senator asks voters (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

NO TURNING BACK. Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. hands over government assistance to former New People’s Army rebels at the National Capital Region Police headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City on Monday (Dec. 26, 2022). On the day of the 54th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the police highlighted how members of communist groups are realizing the futility of their violent ways. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

MANILA – Senator Ronald Dela Rosa advised voters not to elect into office public officials who are "left-leaning" or sympathizes with the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

Dela Rosa said there were attempts to block the approval of the requested PHP10-billion budget for the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) during the budget hearings.

"Kahit huwag niyo na akong piliin, huwag niyo na akong ire-elect as a senator. Basta ang importante lang huwag niyong piliin ‘yung mga kandidato pagkasenador na humaharang dito sa mga project ng NTF-ELCAC kasi para sa mga kababayan natin ito eh (It’s okay if you don’t reelect me but the more important thing is to also reject the candidates who are blocking the projects of NTF-ELCAC that benefit our countrymen)," Dela Rosa said in an interview with a news channel on Monday, the day of the CPP’s 54th founding anniversary.

The bicam eventually restored the funding which was reduced to half during deliberations.

"In my modest opinion, ‘yung mga umaayaw, ‘yung iba meron talagang leaning sa kaliwa na ayaw talaga nilang mawala ‘yang problema na ‘yan. Parang pinagkukunan pa nila ng lakas ‘yang pekeng idolohiya na ‘yan (those who were against, they really have left-leaning tendencies. They do not want to solve the problem. They seem to get their strength from this fake ideology)," he said.

The NTF-ELCAC was created by Executive Order No. 70 in December 2018 to employ a whole-of-nation approach to end communism and institute peace-building initiatives.

In another interview, Senator Francis Tolentino assured that the Senate is implementing "institutional changes" to protect the budgetary support for NTF-ELCAC and other government anti-insurgency programs.

"There are various ways we can help facilitate the correction, so to speak, of the history and to give real justice to the victims. Kapag pinagsama-sama po ‘yung efforts na ‘yun, sa palagay ko po maganda ang kalalabasan. ‘Yung pagbibigay po ng governance ng mga (If we combine these efforts, I think it will produce good results. The governance being provided by the) local government units is likewise a step that can really break the back of the efforts of the left," Tolentino said.

Tolentino likewise supports the creation of a Historical Truth Commission for an "unredacted version of our history" in coordination with the Commission on Human Rights and the National Historical Commission.

The creation of the commission is being pushed by a group of former CPP-NPA-NDF members and high-ranking officials who have renewed their allegiance to the government.

"We want to spill out the truth for the nation, not only to correct and rectify the history, but also to protect the future generations about the destructive nature, the manipulative, and the dangerous na kaisipan at baluktot na organisasyon ng (ideology and crooked organization of the) CPP-NPA-NDF," said Jeffrey "Ka Eric" Celis, a former CPP-NPA leader and host of the SMNI program that interviewed Dela Rosa and Tolentino.

Jose Maria "Joma" Sison, CPP founder, died at the age of 83 on Dec. 16 in Utrecht, the Netherlands where he has been living in exile since the late 1980s.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191553

Media role cited in improved AFP trust, approval rating

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23, 2022): Media role cited in improved AFP trust, approval rating (By Nef Luczon)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Army's 4th Infantry Division (4ID) has credited the role of the media for the continued high trust and the approval rating of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

In a statement Friday, Maj. Gen. Wilbur Mamawag, 4ID commander, said the media – the local outlets in particular – has helped the military "lead and succeed" by being partners in providing timely information to the public.

"We know that you have played an important role for us in gaining the people's trust and approval," he said, referring to the 3rd quarter trust and approval ratings of every government agency this year, conducted by Publicus Asia.

According to Publicus Asia, the AFP garnered 57 percent trust rating and 67 percent approval rating.

Office of the Press Secretary Officer-in-Charge Cheloy Garafil said it was not surprising for the AFP to have the highest trust rating, as it is also involved in search and rescue operations in times of disaster.

Mamawag also acknowledged the media's coverage of the 4ID's participation in the "whole-of-nation" approach, as prescribed under Executive Order No. 70, which institutionalized holistic measures against insurgency to attain inclusive and sustainable peace.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191367

Army troopers discover abandoned NPA lair in central Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23, 2022): Army troopers discover abandoned NPA lair in central Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

REBEL LAIR. Soldiers from the Philippine Army's 94th Infantry Battalion discover an abandoned lair of the New People's Army in the hinterlands of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on Thursday (Dec. 22, 2022). The soldiers found the temporary shelter based on the information provided by the locals who are being harassed by the rebels for food. (Photos courtesy of 94th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – Soldiers from the Philippine Army's 94th Infantry Battalion (94IB) has found an abandoned lair of the New People's Army (NPA) in the hinterlands of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.

Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, commander of 94IB, said in a statement Friday that his men discovered the NPA hideout in Sitio Tara, Barangay Tan-awan Thursday based on the information provided by locals being harassed by armed rebels for food.

“We are thankful that the masses are now cooperating with the government forces,” he said.

Almonte said the hideout can accommodate at least 20 individuals and was also possibly used to train NPA recruits.

Items recovered from the rebel hideout included a back pack, hammock, pair of boots, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

This is the second time that 94IB troopers have discovered a rebel hideout in Barangay Tan-awan.

In July last year, they also found a temporary shelter in Sitio Buko, where they recovered a firearm with ammunition, improvised explosive device components, as well as personal items, after engaging communist rebels in a firefight at Sitio Manulaya.

Following the latest development, Almonte reiterated his call for NPA rebels in central Negros to return to the fold of the law.

“Surrender now, before it’s too late. Your families are waiting for you to celebrate the Yuletide season together,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191394

Burying Joma in PH insult to victims of NPA atrocities: IP leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23, 2022): Burying Joma in PH insult to victims of NPA atrocities: IP leader (By Alexander Lopez)

Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of San Miguel town, Surigao del Sur province. (Photo courtesy of Rico Maca Facebook page)

BUTUAN CITY – Burying the remains of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison in the country would be a "big insult" to the victims of New People's Army's (NPA) atrocities, a leader of the indigenous peoples (IPs) in Surigao del Sur province said.

This was according to Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of San Miguel town, following proposal of Sison’s supporters to bring home his ashes in the country.

“I strongly disagree with their proposal to bring the remains of Sison into the country. It’s an insult to the families of the victims of New People’s Army (NPA) executions and killings,” Maca said in an interview Friday.

Marco Valbuena, CPP public information officer, said in a media interview on Dec. 17 that Sison’s remains or ashes should be returned to the country “in accordance to his wishes as a Filipino."

Sison had been on self-exile since 1987 in The Netherlands until his death last Dec. 16.

As CPP-NPA leader, Maca said Sison was responsible for IP members who were "mercilessly executed by the NPA rebels in the past years."

“We have been crying and praying when will Sison and his henchmen, the notorious NPA rebels, end the killings of IPs. In the hinterlands of Surigao del Sur, these terrorists hunt us like wild boars,” Maca said.

Until now, Maca said the family members of 73-year-old IP leader Datu Bernandino Montenegro Astudillo is still seeking justice for his death.

Astudillo, the Manobo tribal chieftain of Barangay Magroyong, San Miguel town, was hacked to death by NPA rebels in March 2020.

“It’s painful to realize that through the years, Sison has been living comfortably in The Netherlands while his armed followers were butchering the IPs in Surigao del Sur,” Maca said.

It would have been better if Sison was arrested and brought alive to the Philippines to face trial in court, he said.

“He and the terrorist NPA rebels waged an armed struggle that victimized ordinary civilians, destroyed communities, and hampered the development initiatives of the government and the business sectors,” Maca said.

Maca is among the few IP leaders in Surigao del Sur who have been vocal against the intrusions of the NPA rebels in their ancestral lands and the killing of tribesmen.

Anothe IP advocate in the province, Datu Hawudon Jumar Bucales, the IPMR of Lianga town, was killed by the NPA rebels in October 2020.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191385

NPA rebel yields in Surigao Norte on Christmas Eve

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 25, 2022): NPA rebel yields in Surigao Norte on Christmas Eve (By Alexander Lopez)

BUTUAN CITY – A member of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the police in Claver, Surigao del Norte on Saturday.

Col. Laudemer Laude, director of the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO), identified the NPA member as “Ka Glen”, 30, of the same town.

He was a regular Militia ng Bayan member under the Sandatahan Yunit Pampropaganda 16 (SYP-16) of the NPA North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

“Ka Glen was actively functioning under the SYP-16 covering the towns of Claver, Gigaquit and Alegria in Surigao del Norte,” Laude said in a statement on Sunday.

“ Ka Glen” surrendered in Sitio Pangi, Barangay Daywan and was fetched by the personnel of the 2nd Surigao del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company.

He also handed over an improvised shotgun, a magazine loaded with four ammunitions and a hand grenade.

“Ka Glen” said he was recruited by the NPA in 2014.

He had been trying to abandon the movement since 2015 but was always persuaded to stay to serve as a medical staff.

“The SDNPPO is calling on the other members of the terrorist group in the area to return to the fold of the law and to their families,” Laude said.

The ex-rebel is undergoing documentation and processing for enrolment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program that will provide financial, livelihood and psychosocial assistance, among others.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191444

NPA rebel killed in Zambo Sur clash on Christmas Day

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2022): NPA rebel killed in Zambo Sur clash on Christmas Day (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Barangay Saad, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed in a clash with government troops in the province of Zamboanga del Sur, according to the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) on Monday.

The Westmincom reported that Martino Ayas alias "Ka Nasser" of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee was killed in a clash with the 53rd Infantry Battalion (IB) troops on Christmas Day at Purok 2, Barangay Saad in Dumingag town, Zamboanga del Sur.

The clash ensued while the troops were checking the reported presence of NPA rebels in Purok 2, Barangay Saad, according to the Westmincom.

Recovered from the possession of Ayas were an M16A1 rifle with short magazine loaded with 15 live ammunition; one sling bag with "malong", tobacco and one cellular phone.

Lt. Col. Terence Ylanan, 53IB commander, said in a statement Monday that Ayas together with other NPA rebels were trying to recruit members into the NPA in Barangay Saad.

Residents in Barangay Saad recognized two of Ayas’ companions recruiting new members in their village as Jessel Cabal alias "Ka Sabel" and Nelboy Baron alias "Ka Jundy."

However, Ylanan said their attempt to recruit new members failed in Barangay Saad.

“The communist terrorists (NPA) may be trying to reinfect Zamboanga del Sur, but the people are no longer easily deceived,” he said.

“Your soldiers were and will always be on guard to keep the province insurgency-free,” he added.

He said troops are tracking down the fleeing companions of Ayas.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191475

10 NPA rebels surrender, yield firearms in central Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26, 2022): 10 NPA rebels surrender, yield firearms in central Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

SURRENDER. Some of the 10 Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) rebels in central Negros who surrendered to the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police last week. On Monday (Dec. 26, 2022), the 62nd Infantry Battalion turned them over to the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict of Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental during a ceremony that coincided with the CPP's 54th founding anniversary. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – Ten Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) rebels have surrendered and yielded firearms to the military and police in central Negros Island from Dec. 20 to 22, a report from the Philippine Army's 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) said.

Capt. Dorcesimo Cuyag Jr., civil-military operations officer of the 62IB based in Isabela town, Negros Occidental province, said the 10 rebels were turned over to the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) of Guihulngan City during a ceremony Monday.

The CPP is commemorating its 54th founding anniversary today, Dec. 26.

"The timing is a blow to the CPP. They have no reason to celebrate because their people have already surrendered. It is us who should celebrate this victory," Cuyag told the Philippine News Agency.

He said the rebels, who are all members of the Central Negros Front 1, Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor, decided to leave the armed struggle after realizing the CPP-NPA's pointless ideology, and experiencing so much exhaustion and hunger while trying to evade pursuing government troops.

Among those who surrendered were father and son Crasiolo "Claire" Landisa, 53, and Redgen "Anghel" Landisa, 22, who were the first to yield on Dec. 20.

The elder Landisa spent 38 years in the armed revolution as he joined the NPA in 1984, Cuyag said.

They brought with them an M16 A1 rifle, a Colt M203 .40mm grenade launcher, and a .45-caliber pistol.

On Dec. 21, Boging "Jona" Cantila, 52, who was with the NPA for 13 years, and her son Joel "Prince" Sta. Ana, 23, turned themselves in along with their four comrades, Crisel "Tadlong" Fat, 39; Jerome "Bradely" Bitongga, 36; Ricky "Bugtong" Saraguelles, 32; and Rodney "Gary" Pasatiempo, 25.

Siblings Jercel "Be-an" Gonzaga, 27, and Ronel "Robert" Gonzaga, 33, also surrendered with a Magnum .357 revolver and a .45-caliber pistol on Dec. 22.

Cuyag said they have long wanted to surrender, but were hesitant because of rumors that soldiers would harm them once they do so.

"Recently, they were able to listen to our radio program and learned that the government is willing to help them. They approached the 62IB and we asked the assistance of the Philippine National Police. At first, there were only two of them, and when the six others knew that they have been treated well, they followed suit. Then the next day, two more surrendered," he added.

Cuyag said the 10 were able to celebrate Christmas for the first time in years while they stayed at the camp of 62IB.

"They were so happy to gather together on Dec. 24. We prepared food for them. They ate and sang together. This was something they did not experience when they were away from their families and they were just hungry and weary during Christmas," he said.

In a statement, Guihulngan City Mayor Filomeno Reyes, chair of the local TF-ELCAC, said the surrenderers have finally realized that they were deceived into joining the CPP-NPA after being promised a better life through armed revolution.

"This false propaganda has been proliferated far too long. Let us all wake up from this deception. Come back to the fold of the law and work with the government for an authentic better life for all," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191482

2 men killed in Cotabato City gun attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 27, 2022): 2 men killed in Cotabato City gun attacks (By Edwin Fernandez)

BULLET-RIDDLED. The bullet punctured the sedan of Jonity Kubato, who was shot dead along Gonzalo Javier Street, Cotabato City on Tuesday evening. A manhunt is underway for riding-in-tandem gunmen who carried out the attack. (Photo courtesy of DXMS - Cotabato)

COTABATO CITY – Law enforcement authorities have launched a manhunt against gunmen who killed two persons in separate shootings here Monday night and Tuesday dawn.

“Manhunt is ongoing against the perpetrators of two separate gun attacks,” Lt. Col. Carmelo Mungkas, city police spokesperson, said.

Mungkas identified the victims as Jonity Kubato, 45, and Joseph Yu, both local residents.

The two incidents were unrelated, he said.

Mungkas said Kubato was driving his silver gray sedan heading home at about 5:45 p.m. Monday when two men riding tandem on a motorbike showed up on Gonzalo Javier Street, Barangay Rosary Heights 7 and opened fire.

He died on the spot from multiple gunshot wounds in the head and body.

The suspects sped away before responding village watchmen and policemen arrived.

Police found empty shells for a .45-caliber pistol at the crime scene.

Meanwhile, at 3:30 a.m. Tuesday, police received a call about a shooting that transpired inside the home of Yu, who was running a boarding house, in Barangay Poblacion 3.

Maj. John Vincent Bravo, city police station 1 chief, said an initial investigation showed that the victim had a heated discussion with an unidentified man who later pulled a pistol and shot him in the head.

Mungkas said police are working into several leads that would help identify the perpetrators of the incidents.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191504