AFP counter-intel group reactivated amid coup rumors

From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 18, 2023): AFP counter-intel group reactivated amid coup rumors (By MARTIN SADONGDONG)

AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (middle) hands over the office symbol of the Counterintelligence Group (AFPCIG) to acting commander Col. Jonathan Manio while AFP deputy chief of staff for intelligence Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon (right) observes during the reactivation of the group at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Jan. 18, 2024. (Photo by AFP)

A key unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that is focused on preventing spying, sabotage, and intelligence gathering has been reactivated on Thursday, Jan. 18, amid rumors of attempts to overthrow the government.

AFP Chief, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. led the reactivation of the AFP Counterintelligence Group (CIG), which was created in 1989 at a time when then President Corazon Aquino faced numerous coup attempts against her administration.

The group's reactivation was based on a memorandum order issued by Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr. which took effect on Jan. 11.

The group will be headed by Colonel Jonathan Manio, and supervised by AFP deputy chief of staff for intelligence Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon.

Brawner addressed the intelligence personnel making up the AFPCIG and emphasized the group's crucial role "in securing the nation in an ever-shifting global landscape."

"[T]he security of our beloved nation rests upon your capable shoulders. Your tireless efforts will ensnare any threats and guarantee the safety of our treasured citizens," Brawner said.

"May the AFP Counterintelligence Group ascend to unimaginable heights, preserving the rights and liberties of our great nation," he added.

According to the AFP, the reactivation of the Counterintelligence Group was "fueled by the commitment of the Commander-in-Chief (President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.) to secure the nation."

This came after rumors surfaced that retired military and police personnel were urging those in the active service to join efforts in ousting Marcos from power.

In a press conference earlier this week, Brawner had insisted that the troops remain loyal to the Constitution as he dismissed the need for a loyalty check within the military to determine if there are personnel involved in supposed ouster plots.

The AFP said that the AFPCIG was created on Dec. 29, 1989 after the most serious coup attempt against the Aquino administration although public affairs office (PAO) chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad could not pinpoint when the group was deactivated.

The group, according to AFP, also played a vital role in preventing coup attempts in the early 2000s against the administration of then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who coincidentally had Teodoro as her defense secretary.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/1/18/afp-counter-intel-group-reactivated-amid-coup-rumors#google_vignette

AFP counter-intel group to help curb espionage, sabotage vs. PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19, 2024): AFP counter-intel group to help curb espionage, sabotage vs. PH (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BOOSTING COUNTER-INTELLIGENCE. AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (left) and AFP deputy chief of staff for intelligence, Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon (center) unfurl the banner of the military's Counter-Intelligence Group during its reactivation ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday (Jan. 18, 2024). The unit will assist the military's activities aimed at neutralizing espionage efforts by other countries and their agents. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

MANILA – A ranking military official said Friday the reactivated Armed Forces of the Philippines Counter-Intelligence Group (AFPCIG) would help the service's counter-intelligence operations nationwide.

"(Its mission is) to conduct counter-intelligence nationwide to support the AFP mission," AFP public affairs office chief, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, said in a message to the Philippine News Agency when asked about the mandate of the AFPCIG.

Trinidad, citing security reasons, did not provide other details on how these missions would be carried out.

Counter-intelligence refers to military activities aimed at neutralizing espionage efforts by other countries and their agents.

Trinidad said the AFPCIG was ordered reactivated based on a Jan. 11 memorandum issued by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.

The AFPCIG was organized and activated on Dec. 29, 1989, and was deactivated in 1995. It is distinct from the Intelligence Service of the AFP.

During the AFPCIG's reactivation ceremony on Thursday, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. emphasized the important role of the unit in securing the nation in an ever-shifting global landscape and encouraged its members to strive for excellence, embrace innovations, and uphold the highest standards of integrity.

“To the valiant men and women of the AFPCIG, the security of our beloved nation rests upon your capable shoulders. Your tireless efforts will ensnare any threats and guarantee the safety of our treasured citizens. May the AFP Counter-Intelligence Group ascend to unimaginable heights, preserving the rights and liberties of our great nation,” he said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier directed the AFP to "reconfigure our approaches to dealing with the different threat groups" being faced by the country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1217241

Army: 2 suspected NPA rebels killed in Agusan del Norte clash

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 18, 2024): Army: 2 suspected NPA rebels killed in Agusan del Norte clash (By: John Eric Mendoza)

MANILA, Philippines — Another suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebel died following an encounter with government forces forces in an Agusan del Norte, the Philippine Army said on Thursday.

The Army said another body was recovered in Sitio Calaitan, Brgy Simbalan, Buenavista after a 10-minute firefight with the 402nd Infantry Brigade last Tuesday.

“The operating troops together with K9 units followed the traces of the fleeing enemy and this resulted in the recovery of two cadavers,” the Army said in a statement.

The two alleged rebels were identified as Wewein Binongcasan alias Bagwis or Lucas, and Analyn Mondas alias Talang or Angela.

Three high-powered firearms were also recovered after the clash.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1891120/killed-alleged-npas-in-agusan-del-norte-clash-climbs-to-2

Suspected NPA rebel killed in NegOr clash

From the Daily Guardian (Jan 19, 2024): Suspected NPA rebel killed in NegOr clash (By Glazyl Y. Masculino)

BACOLOD City – Another suspected member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a clash with government forces at Sitio Sug-ong, Barangay Milagrosa, Sta Catalina, Negros Oriental yesterday.

Troops of the Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion (IB) engaged in a firefight with nine alleged remnants of the dismantled South East Front, Komiteng Rehiyon – Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KR-NCBS) operating in the province around 6 a.m., following information about the alleged presence of the group in the area.

The fatality has yet to be identified by the authorities, as of this writing.

Recovered from the encounter site were assorted war materials including an M16 Rifle, three AK47 magazines, an M203 ammunition, and nine backpacks containing some personal belongings.

The captured weapons and other war materiel represent a significant blow to the capability of the NPA in Negros Island, further ensuring the security of the local community, according to the Army.

In a statement, Brigadier General Joey Escanillas, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade (IBde), said the success of this operation is a testament to the skill and bravery of the forces, as he commended them for their professionalism and dedication.

We remain vigilant and resolute in our mission to protect the community from any potential harm, Escanillas said. He also said that they would continue their operations in pursuit of peace and to pave the way for the development of the area.

He urged the residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities, reinforcing the importance of community cooperation in maintaining peace and order.

Major General Marion Sison, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (ID), said the prompt response and successful prevention of the NPA’s extortion attempts owe much to the local populace’s vigilance in providing timely information.

“Let us continue to work together to achieve our long-desired NPA-free Negros Island,” Sison said in a statement.

This clash came a day after the 62nd IB also figured in an encounter with suspected NPA rebels in Barangay Sag-ang, La Castellana, Negros Occidental last Wednesday, which resulted in the death of two suspected NPA rebels.

Captain Jessie Ebalan, acting civil military operations officer of 303rd IBde, said that 10 families or 50 individuals have been affected by the La Castellana encounter.

Ebalan said that these families had already been given a go signal to return to their respective homes yesterday.

The local government of La Castellana is taking the lead through the Office of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) in coordination with the 62nd IB in managing the affected families of Wednesday’s incident, Ebalan said.

Meanwhile, the NPA’s Apolinario Gatmaitan Command-Negros Island Regional Operational Command slammed the Army for the two encounters in the towns of Calatrava and La Castellana this week.

Ka Maoche Legislador, spokesperson of the group, said the two clashes in the past days were “fake.”

Legislador said that units of the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command-NPA Northern Negros Guerrilla Front are all intact and performing their revolutionary tasks with renewed fervor among farmers and farm workers.

The supposed camp raided by 79th IB soldiers in Calatrava town was staged, Legislador said.

The group also said that the two casualties in the La Castellana clash were not members of the NPA.

“As a matter of fact, there was no encounter between the 62nd IB and the NPA that day,” Legislador said.

The AFP’s bases for declaring ‘dismantled’ guerrilla fronts in Negros Island is farther from the truth. The people of Negros Island know that, the group said.

For the Army, these statements of the NPA are just part of their propaganda against the government’s efforts for peace and development.

https://dailyguardian.com.ph/suspected-npa-rebel-killed-in-negor-clash/#google_vignette

Think of new ways to fight threat groups, Marcos tells Armed Forces of the Philippines

Posted to Panay News (Jan 19, 2024): Think of new ways to fight threat groups, Marcos tells Armed Forces of the Philippines

Talking about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s (left) first command conference this year, Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (right) says, “the President said we needed to reconfigure our approaches dealing with different threat groups.”

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the leadership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to “reconfigure its approach” in dealing with different threat groups in order “to be more effective,” AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said.

The President said there were no more active guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). But the CPP dismissed that claim, saying Mr. Marcos “is in dreamland.”

Talking about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s first command conference this year, Brawner said in a news conference: “For his guidance, the president said that we needed to reconfigure our approaches dealing with different threat groups.”

The AFP is dealing with various threats, including communist rebels, terrorists, and the dispute with China in the West Philippine Sea.

“We have to think of new ways in dealing with them, innovative ways… When dealing with these threats, [the President] said we need to invoke a whole of nation approach, we need the support of our citizens and the support of our international allies and partners,” Brawner added.

But he said Marcos did not give any particular orders regarding the West Philippine Sea not to micromanage the military.

“He said in his previous speeches that there will be a paradigm shift, but he did not give any specifics because he mentioned that he doesn’t want to micromanage,” the military chief said.

‘Weakened’ NPA fronts

Despite the president’s earlier assertion on Saturday, Brawner said there were still 11 NPA guerrilla fronts with an estimated total of 1,500 fighters, although these fronts have been “weakened.”

The military defines a weakened guerrilla front as being no longer able to recruit new cadres and boost its resources for its armed struggle.

“Even if we were able to decrease the number of guerrilla fronts, there are still NPA formations out there. They’re trying to recover the areas that they have lost,” Brawner said.

Commenting on Marcos’ remarks, CPP spokesperson Marco Valbuena, in a statement on Sunday, said: “Marcos Jr. is in dreamland when he claims there are no more active NPA guerrilla fronts. In truth, the NPA remains active in 14 regional commands across the country, each with a number of guerrilla fronts.”

Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., executive director of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, had also said earlier this month that there were 14 NPA guerrilla fronts still operating.

“With his claims, Marcos should answer why it is that the AFP continues to be focused and deployed mainly against the NPA instead of gearing up to defend the country against US-China armed conflicts,” Valbuena said.

‘Far from defeated’

Valbuena wondered why around 60,000 to 70,000 combat troops of the AFP, together with counterinsurgency units of the Philippine National Police, are regularly deployed against the rebels.

The government also continues to provide huge budgets for its counterinsurgency operations, he added.

“Despite having suffered setbacks over the past years, the NPA is far from defeated,” Valbuena said.

But the military has stepped up its offensive recently, launching a Christmas Day attack on a rebel camp in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, as the rebels, who had unilaterally declared a ceasefire, were preparing for the CPP’s 55th anniversary on Dec. 26 last year.

Before the return to hostilities, the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), the political arm of the insurgents, had already agreed to resume peace negotiations, issuing a joint communiqué on Nov. 28 on reviving the talks.

NDFP leaders had noted then the significance of the talks being possibly revived on the watch of the son and namesake of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr., considering that the rebellion was organized to oppose his regime.

On March 29, the NPA will mark its 55th anniversary, a milestone indicating that the communist rebellion has spanned more than half a century. (Delfin T. Mallari Jr., Frances Mangosing © Philippine Daily Inquirer)

https://www.panaynews.net/think-of-new-ways-to-fight-threat-groups-marcos-tells-armed-forces-of-the-philippines/

Año: PH peace situation has ‘greatly improved’

From Malaya Business Insight (Jan 18, 2024): Año: PH peace situation has ‘greatly improved’ (By Victor Reyes)

NATIONAL Security Adviser Eduardo Año yesterday questioned a travel advisory issued by Canada that told its citizens to “exercise high of caution in the Philippines due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping.”

“While we appreciate their concern for the safety and security of Canadian citizens, we wish to express our disagreement with the basis and scope of the advisory,” he said.

Año said the peace situation in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao, has “greatly improved,” noting the country’s improved ranking in the Global Terrorism Index, from being part of Top 10 a few years ago to No. 18 last year.

“The Philippines also ranked 115th in the Global Peace Index in 2023 scoring 6 points for positive change,” he also said.

He invited representatives from the Canadian government to a “constructive dialogue” with Philippine officials “to better understand the context and nuances of the security situation.”

“Such discussions will help ensure that travel advisories accurately reflect the current conditions in the Philippines,” said Año.

“While we respect the right of every country to issue travel advisories based on the safety of their citizens, we believe that a more nuanced approach will be beneficial. We remain committed to the safety and well-being of all visitors, including Canadian nationals, and we are open to working together to address any concerns,” he added.

The advisory, issued on January 10, told Canadian citizens to “avoid all travel” to Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi “due to the presence of extremist groups, serious threat of attacks, kidnapping, piracy and violent clashes between the security forces and rebel groups.”

It likewise asked Canadians to also “avoid all travel” to Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Cotabato, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay “due to the serious threat of terrorism, kidnapping, high levels of crime, and violent clashes between the security forces and rebel groups.”

The advisory also advised Canadians to “avoid non-essential travel” in Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte (excluding Siargao Island), Surigao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte

Davao del Sur (excluding Davao City), Davao Occidental and Davao Oriental some parts of eastern Mindanao “due to the threat of terrorism, kidnapping, high levels of crime, and violent clashes between the security forces and rebel groups.”

Año said government has implemented “comprehensive measures to enhance peace and security in Mindanao” and has been unrelenting in addressing root causes of violence and rebellion in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)

He said the implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Act that created BARMM “significantly reduced violent incidents in Mindanao.”

“This significant reduction in incidents signifies successful law enforcement operations contributing to a safer and more stable environment in Mindanao,” said Año.

He also noted President Marcos Jr’ announcement that there are no more active guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army and 1,399 communists and terrorists were neutralized last year.

https://malaya.com.ph/news_news/ano-ph-peace-situation-has-greatly-improved/

Sec. Galvez, Gen. Rillera join Bishop Ulama Dialogue meeting in Cotabato City

Posted to the Notre Dame Broadcasting Corporation Website (Jan 18, 2024): Sec. Galvez, Gen. Rillera join Bishop Ulama Dialogue meeting in Cotabato City (6th ID News Release)

Members of Bishop-Ulama Dialogue gathered in Cotabato City with Peace Adviser Sec. Carlito Galvez and 6th ID chief Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera in attendance. (6th ID photo)


CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte - In commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of the January 24 Peace Day, the Mindanao Ulama-Bishop Dialogue Meeting and Joint Statement on the December 3, 2023 Mindanao State University-Marawi Bombing Incident was held at the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA), Bangsamoro Government Center, Cotabato City on January 16, 2024.

To show his support, Major General Alex Rillera, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central attended the said dialogue along with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Hon. Carlito Galvez Jr. and his team; His Eminence Cardinal Orlando Beltran Quevedo, O.M.I., D.D.; Most Reverend Antonio Ledesma S.J D.D.; Sheikh Mohamad Pangca; HWPL Philippines Chief Branch Manager John Rommel Garces; and other attendees.

Religious leaders also came together, acknowledging the bombing incident, to express their collective grief and concern, condemning violence and emphasizing the need of continuous efforts to forge understanding between all faiths. From the community of Islam, Dr. Muhammad Nadzir Ebil, Shari’a Doctor and Executive Assistant III at Bangsamoro Darul Ifta gave his message while Most Rev. Edwin de la Peña, M.S.P., D.D., Bishop, Prelature of St. Mary’s Marawi gave his message from the Catholic current situation in Marawi.

The security and peace landscape of BARMM and the rest of Mindanao was also discussed during the said meeting.

The dialogue meeting and discussion for the joint statement emphasized the significance of promoting understanding among the diverse religious communities in Mindanao, fostering interfaith cooperation and mutual respect as a means to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

https://www.ndbcnews.com.ph/news/sec-galvez-gen-rillera-join-bishop-ulama-dialogue-meeting-cotabato-city

2 more Yakan clans in Basilan end 'rido'

From the Philippine Star (Jan 18, 2024): 2 more Yakan clans in Basilan end 'rido' (John Unson)

Leaders of the Asarul and Karim families agreed to reconcile through the joint intercession of local executives, the police and the military.  Philstar.com / John Unson

COTABATO CITY — Two more enemy Yakan clans in Basilan that lost their members in a gunfight last November 8 in an incident that went viral on Facebook reconciled on Wednesday.

Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, said on Thursday that the leaders of the Asarul and Karim clans in Sumisip, Basilan have signed a peace covenant, ending a two-month standoff that residents in the municipality feared would escalate into clashes that can affect their lives.

The "rido", or clan war between the two groups was triggered by the fatal shooting of Nasser Asarul by Basid Karim inside a roadside eatery in Barangay Buli-Buli in Sumisip. Karim was shot dead too by policemen who were dining in the establishment.

“Now there is no more tension between these two clans,” Nobleza said.

Nobleza said the Asarul and Karim families agreed to settle the conflict during a dialogue at the headquarters of the 101st Infantry Brigade in Tabiawan in Isabela City in Basilan.

Nobleza said that the amicable settlement of the Asarul-Karim rido was brokered by Gov. Hadjiman Salliman, Sumisip municipal officials, Army Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon of the 101st Infantry Brigade and Basilan’s police director Col. Carlos Madronio.

The two groups signed a peace covenant barely a day after two feuding groups in the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Hadji Muhammad Ajul town forged a peace covenant that ended a three-year rido, touted as Basilan's deadliest and had exacted no fewer than 20 fatalities on each side.

The leaders of the two rival Moro Islamic Liberation Front factions, Geon Arasad and Tanad Nasalon, also agreed to thrive in peace anew through the efforts of the local executives, Army and police officials responsible for reconciling the Asarul and Karim clans.

 
https://qa.philstar.com/nation/2024/01/18/2326765/2-more-yakan-clans-basilan-end-rido

DND implements stricter measures to enhance cybersecurity

From Palawan News (Jan 17, 2024): DND implements stricter measures to enhance cybersecurity (By Andrew Atienza)

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. pushes for stricter operational security, more responsive cybersecurity paradigm. (Photo from the Department of National Defense.)

To enhance cybersecurity infrastructure and processes, Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr., disclosed that the Department of National Defense (DND) is undertaking a transition to stricter operational security during a conference on Tuesday.

The Stratbase ADR Institute organized cybersecurity in partnership with the Embassy of Canada in Manila, Teodoro said.

Teodoro said the vulnerabilities in cyberspace meant that the DND had to transition into stricter operational security.

“It starts with individual security, facility security, digital hygiene, and the architecture that we’re going to put into our systems,” Teodoro said.

https://palawan-news.com/dnd-implements-stricter-measures-to-enhance-cybersecurity/

Soldier dies, one hurt in Tubungan clash

From Panay News (Jan 19, 2023): Soldier dies, one hurt in Tubungan clash (By Ruby P. Silubrico)

Palma. JOSELEMON ALFANZA PHOTO / FACEBOOK

ILOILO City – A member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines was killed and one other was wounded in an encounter with the New People’s Army (NPA) on Wednesday in Barangay Igpaho, Tubungan, Iloilo.

Slain soldier Private First Class Rodelo Alfanza Palma of Negros Occidental was assigned to the 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB). He succumbed to a gunshot wound to the neck.

Palma’s companion with the rank of Sergeant, meanwhile, is currently confined in a hospital.

The incident happened at 10:30 a.m., while personnel of the 61IB were conducting a combat operation in the said area.

They clashed with 15 armed men of the Puregold (SYP) Platoon, SPF, KR-Panay under Nahum Camariosa alias “Bebong,” according to Lieutenant Colonel J-Jay Javines, spokesperson of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID).

Javines said that the firefight lasted for 12 minutes after the rebels scampered in different directions.

The army believed that there were undetermined casualties on the rebels’ side due to heavy bloodstains found in their withdrawal route, Javines added.

“As of now, our soldiers are still conducting a hot pursuit operation against the rebels. We also sent more personnel to the area for augmentation,” he said.

On the other hand, Brigadier General Michael Samson, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade, was saddened by the death of their soldier and for the wounded other.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of our comrade who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our people and nation. Another hero sacrificed his life to give peace a chance. The death of our companion does not terrify us, but instead, it reminds us to give our very best to put an end to the decades-long cruelty of the rebels,” Samson said.

https://www.panaynews.net/soldier-dies-one-hurt-in-tubungan-clash/

3 rebels killed in 2 days of gunbattle

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 19, 2024): 3 rebels killed in 2 days of gunbattle (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Backpacks left behind by the fleeing rebels and recovered M16 assault rifle with magazines containing ammunition for AK 47 rifle at the encounter site in Brgy. Milagrosa, Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental.* PA photo

Another New People’s Army rebel was killed yesterday in another encounter in Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental, increasing to three the number of NPA combatants that died since January 17.

The latest encounter ensued between 11th Infantry Battalion troopers and about nine remnants of the dismantled South East Front of the Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor at about 6 a.m. yesterday at Sitio Sug-ong in Brgy. Milagrosa, Santa Catalina.

The armed skirmishes led to the death of a suspected NPA member, whose identity has yet to be established as of this time, and the recovery of an M16 assault rifle, three AK47 assault rifle magazines containing ammunition, an M203 grenade launcher ammunition, and nine backpacks containing personal belongings.

On Wednesday, two suspected remnants of the dismantled Central Negros 1 guerilla front also died, following an encounter with 62IB soldiers in Hacienda Gomez, Brgy. Sag-ang La Castellana.

Recovered from that encounter site were an AR15 assault rifle, a .45 caliber pistol, a homemade 12-gauge shotgun, assorted magazines of firearms with ammunition, two backpacks containing assorted medical paraphernalia and personal belongings, as well as subversive documents.

The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office has recorded 31 families, composed of 126 individuals, that temporarily evacuated from their homes in Hacienda Gomez and neighboring areas in Brgy. Sag ang, La Castellana, as a result of the encounter

PCol. Leo Pamittan, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, yesterday said that the affected families have already returned to their respective homes after the area was cleared by the Philippine Army.

Pamittan said that the rebel remnants fled from the hinterlands of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, to the far flung areas of La Castellana in Negros Occidental, to avoid the focused military operations of the Philippine Army.

With the dwindling of their numbers, the NPA remnants are now trying to regain the support of the masses, whom they will use as “force multipliers,” he added.

The encounters in La Castellana and Santa Catalina took place several days after 79IB soldiers also overran and recovered assorted firearms, following an encounter with about five remnants of the dismantled Northern Negros Front in Brgy. Cambayobo, Calatrava, Negros Occidental.*

https://visayandailystar.com/3-rebels-killed-in-2-days-of-gunbattle/

Philippine Navy seizes bomb ingredient, smuggled goods off Sulu

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 18, 2024): Philippine Navy seizes bomb ingredient, smuggled goods off Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Philippine patrol ships seized 164 bags of ammonium nitrate, an ingredient used by terrorists in the manufacture of improvised explosives, and smuggled cigarettes and fuel in separate operations off the southern province of Sulu.

The Naval Forces Western Mindanao released photos of the operations that resulted in the seizure of ammonium nitrate, smuggled cigarettes and fuel off the southern Sulu province.

The operations were mounted on January 13-14 but were only announced on Thursday for a still unknown reason.

The Naval Forces Western Mindanao said patrol units from the Naval Task Force 61 intercepted M/L Somewhere-5 loaded with the banned chemical while heading to the island-town of Pangutaran. It said the illegal cargo, worth over P3 million allegedly came from Palawan province.

The Navy has not released the name of the boat's owner or whether any arrest was made but said the task force and members of the Bureau of Customs also intercepted two other motor launches transporting cigarettes, fuel, automatic rifle and a pistol.

It said M/B JFM was loaded with some 700 boxes of undocumented cigarettes worth P 14 million and during inspection, Navy personnel recovered one M653 automatic rifle and a .45-caliber pistol from the boat. It said the boat was heading to Palawan from Pangutaran.

"The vessel, M/B JFM also carried illegal firearms, including one M653 rifle and one .45 caliber pistol with accompanying ammunition, allegedly originating from the Municipality of Pangutaran Sulu and heading towards Palawan. However, due to engine trouble, the vessel returned to the municipality of Pangutaran and was then intercepted by the operatives somewhere in North Ubian (also in Pangutaran)," the Naval Forces Western Mindanao said.

The task force also intercepted M/L Fatima Daniya off Sulu's Basbas Island transporting some 100,000 liters of undocumented fuel worth about P6.5 million which allegedly originated from the town of Mapun in Tawi-Tawi province.

The names of the crew member and owners of M/B JFM and M/L Fatima Daniya were not made public by the Navy or the Bureau of Customs. But one photo released by the Naval Forces Western Mindanao shows 18 people, including a boy, being served coffee on a navy patrol.

Rear Admiral Donn Anthony Miraflor, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, lauded the operations and "expressed satisfaction and pride, stating that the success of this operation underscores the professionalism and dedication of Naval Forces Western Mindanao in safeguarding the country's maritime boundaries and upholding the rule of law." (Mindanao Examiner)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2024/01/philippine-navy-seizes-bomb-ingredient.html

NTF-ELCAC to remaining Reds: Give up lost cause, rejoin society

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18, 2024): NTF-ELCAC to remaining Reds: Give up lost cause, rejoin society (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Thursday reiterated its appeal to all remnants of the New People's Army (NPA) to peacefully surrender and rejoin their families rather than sacrifice their lives for a lost cause.

"Rather than sacrificing your lives for a lost cause and obsolete ideology, lay down your arms, surrender peacefully, avail the government’s amnesty and other related reintegration programs, and return to mainstream society as productive and law-abiding citizens," the task force said in a social media post.

During the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Command Conference last Jan. 15, the military said there remained only 11 weakened NPA guerilla fronts and "a little over 1,500" insurgent fighters nationwide.

The AFP also expressed hope that they will be able to defeat the remaining insurgents within the year.

NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. also urged the remaining 1,500 NPA remnants to lay down their arms and avail of the government's amnesty and integration programs.

"Surrender peacefully, and avail the government's amnesty program and other related programs for their complete reintegration into mainstream society," he added.

Torres also urged all remaining NPA insurgents, interested in surrendering, to communicate to local peace engagement councils and the municipal and provincial affiliates of the NTF-ELCAC.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1217156

DND to work with JICA in identifying maritime security projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18, 2024): DND to work with JICA in identifying maritime security projects (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MARITIME SECURITY COOPERATION. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (front row, center) meets with officials of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), led by Director General Tanaka Hiroo (front row, 2nd from right), and Japanese Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko (front row, 2nd from left) at the DND main office in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday (Jan. 18, 2024). During their meeting, Teodoro and the JICA officials committed to identifying possible maritime security cooperation projects in the Philippines. (Photo courtesy of the DND)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) has committed to working with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in identifying maritime security cooperation projects in the country.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. made this remark during Thursday's meeting with JICA's delegation headed by its Director General Tanaka Hiroo at the DND main office in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

In a statement, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said the meeting tackled how the Japanese government, through the Official Development Assistance and Official Security Assistance (OSA), could further contribute to enhancing the Philippines’ maritime domain awareness capabilities amid the evolving security challenges in the region.

Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko and other officials of the Japanese Embassy in Manila also joined the meeting.

"Highlighting the importance of sustaining regional peace and stability, Secretary Teodoro reaffirmed the DND and AFP’s (Armed Forces of the Philippines) full commitment to working with JICA in identifying maritime security cooperation projects while adopting a holistic approach to address traditional and non-traditional security concerns for long-term economic development," Andolong said.

During the state visit of Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio to the Philippines in November last year, Manila and Tokyo signed and exchanged notes on Japan’s grant of coastal surveillance radars to the Philippines worth 600 million yen (about PHP226 million) through the OSA.

"Secretary Teodoro also encouraged the JICA delegation to engage with relevant government agencies, such as the Department of Transportation, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, among others, and Local Government Units to further capacitate not just the capability requirements of the Philippine Navy, but also maritime law enforcement agencies and Filipino fisherfolks," Andolong said.

The meeting ended with a possible cooperation between Manila and Tokyo on information sharing, hardware and software support, and technical assistance, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1217238

Rebel killed in Negros Oriental town armed encounter

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18, 2024): Rebel killed in Negros Oriental town armed encounter (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

NEUTRALIZED. Army soldiers of the 11th Infantry Battalion recovered a high-powered firearm, ammunition, and personal belongings following an encounter with suspected New People's Army rebels in Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental on Thursday (Jan. 18, 2024). The clash resulted in the death of an NPA member. (Photo courtesy of the 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army)

DUMAGUETE CITY – A suspected member of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with government troops in Sta. Catalina town, Negros Oriental, Thursday.

Lt. Col. Michael Aquino, commanding officer of the 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Siaton, Negros Oriental, told the Philippine News Agency that the clash came following reports of armed men in the community.

Around nine suspected NPA members and remnants of the dismantled South East Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor were allegedly extorting money from residents in Barangay Milagrosa in Sta. Catalina town.

The soldiers clashed with the rebels for about 20 minutes at Sitio Sug-ong, Barangay Milagrosa, before the latter fled to different directions, leaving behind their slain companion and personal belongings.

Recovered from the encounter site were one (1) M16 rifle; three (3) AK47 magazines; one (1) M203 ammunition; and nine (9) backpacks containing personal belongings.

The slain rebel has yet to be identified.

Meanwhile, another member of the remnant of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA party committee in Bohol province was shot and killed during an encounter last Tuesday in Barangay Liboron, Catigbbian town.

Julieto Rizaldo Alban of the dismantled Bohol Party Committee (BPC) of Komiteng Rehiyon Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor, had a pending warrants of arrest for murder, multiple attempted murder, and attempted homicide.

Troopers recovered in Alban’s possession a caliber 45 pistol, a hand grenade, several magazines, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

IED components recovered

Meanwhile, Police operatives recovered components for improvised explosives devices (IEDs) believed to have been buried by NPA rebels at Sitio Badjang, Barangay Dobdob, Valencia, Negros Oriental.

The components included three pieces main charge; three pieces peanut bulbs; three pieces of one-meter firing wire; one piece 9-volts Energizer battery; and one switch.

Barangay Dobdob is one of the identified conflict areas in the province affected by the Communist insurgency and is on the list of priority areas under the whole-of-nation-approach through the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The recovered items were turned over to the Provincial Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit (PECU) of NOPPO for proper and safe disposition. (With reports by John Rey Saavedra/PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1217220