Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 11): 18 NPA supporters, militiamen surrender

The 62nd Infantry Battalion reported yesterday that 18 supporters of the New People’s Army pledged allegiance to the government, as they abandoned and denounced the armed struggle during a ceremony held in Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

1Lt. Allen Mark Tacorda, 62IB Civil Military Operations officer, said the former rebels used to be Yunit Militia members and supporters of the NPA, who burned the CPP-NPA flag, as a symbol of their separation from the terrorist organization.

Tacorda said the former rebels were updated on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, that NPA members who want to surrender and live peacefully with their families may avail of.

Lt. Col. Egberto Dacoscos, 62IB commander, said he expects more NPA members to surrender, following their sustained information dissemination campaign on the deceptive tactics and atrocities of the CPP-NPA.

“The surrender of these former supporters of the CPP-NPA is a clear indication that they can no longer endure the barbarism and viciousness inflicted on them by this terrorist organization who feeds them with nothing but poverty and misery,” Dacoscos said.

At the same time, he also lauded the bravery of the 18 former rebels and the people of barangay Carabalan for denouncing the ruthlessness of the CPP-NPA terrorist organization.

The activity was witnessed by the Himamaylan police, represented by Senior Inspector Renante Salgado, deputy police chief, Father Ritchie Villaflor, Pastor Winston Villanueva Carabalan, the barangay council headed by Mldred Titular, Punong Barangay, and the Sangguniang Kabataan officials headed by Aurello Laja Jr. who is also the president of the Youth for Peace and Development Movement of the Philippines in Himamaylan City.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/August/11/topstory6.htm

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 11): REDS CLAIM ‘Marañon anti-environment’

The National Democratic Front‒Negros disputed the recognition given to Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon as “champion of the environment”.

He (Marañon) is most undeserving of this title and the broad masses do not owe him any gratitude for his contributions to the social, economic and environmental destruction of Negros, Frank Fernandez, NDF-Negros spokesperson said, in a statement he issued.

Marañon recently received the People’s Gratitude Movement award from the United Nations Environmental Programme during a recognition ceremony for Outstanding Contributions to the Environment at the UN Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand.

The award was in recognition of the governor’s contributions to the conservation, protection and rehabilitation of the environment, the UNEP award said.

The governor, who was one of the six awardees from the Philippines, was recognized for his initiatives over the years as mayor of Sagay City, congressman and governor of Negros Occidental, and as one of the founding members of the Visayan Sea Squadron.

His initiatives such the establishment of the 32,000-hectare Sagay Marine Reserve, the creation of Task Force Lawod which aims to protect the coastal waters of the province, and the rehabilitation of coastal resources through the establishment of the Blue Swimming Crab Hatchery and Seeding, resulted in the increase of economic opportunities for the marginal fisherfolk in the province, were noted.

Fernandez, however, accused Marañon of opening Negros to private and foreign companies who denuded the island's mountains and forests, hazardously extracted mineral resources and polluted its rivers, watersheds and seas.

The provincial government under Marañon uses deception and force in implementing its anti-people and anti-environment projects, Fernandez further claimed, noting also that it engages in pro-environment gimmickry to attract support especially from the middle class.

However, world-renowned environmental lawyer Antonio Oposa said that the award is a testament of the governor’s commitment and passion for the environment and is a very good example that people should look up to.

Fernandez further insisted that Marañon is an environment devastation advocate for supporting land conversions that harm the peasants' livelihood and the environment, citing the provincial government’s project, Negros First Ranch, in Murcia, that caused dislocation of farmers from their farms.

Instead of protecting the environment and people's rights, Marañon is siding with his Japanese clients, in connection with the construction of a ship recycling facility in Hinobaan, and is insisting on the illegality of the Department of Agrarian Reform's distribution of Certificates of Land Ownership to the farmers, the rebel priest added.

The $300-million ship recycling facility will surely destroy the surrounding ecology covering 15,000 mangroves and deprive the fisherfolk of their fishing grounds, Fernandez also claimed.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/August/11/topstory7.htm

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 11): Rebels claim killing mayor’s bodyguard

They did it again.

The Leonardo Panaligan Command of the New People’s Army issued a statement yesterday claiming responsibility for the killing of the bodyguard of Guihulngan City Mayor Guido Reyes.

LPC spokesman Ka JB Regalado confirmed the successful military operation against Bunjing Bulado, who was killed on July 31, while on his way to his cock farm in Sitio Kinayan, Brgy. Bulado, Guihulngan City.

Regalado, in a statement issued by LPC, claimed that Bulado was in possession of firearms, and allegedly used them in indiscriminate firing, and was facing land-grabbing complaints before the revolutionary court.

Bulado was employed by the local of Guihulngan City government, Supt. Mario Baquiran, city police chief said. He was also reported to be a bodyguard of Mayor Reyes.

Regalado also reported the disarming of barangay kagawad Jomar Timtim and Danny Timtim on the same day in Sitio Lipata, Brgy. Balogo, Guihulngan City, who are also facing complaints of abuse, and indiscriminate firing, among others.

He also linked the two, who were disarmed of two 45 caliber pistols with magazines containing ammunition, to an armed group allegedly maintained by a barangay official in Guihulngan City.

Regalado said they also raided a mining site on July 9 in Brgy. Banwage, Guihulngan City, that are subjects of complaints by the residents in the area, that is being maintained by a teacher of the Negros Oriental State University-Guihulngan,and allegedly authorized by Mayor Reyes.

Last month, the NPA also claimed responsibility for the killing of a retired Army soldier, and a barangay chairman and his nephew in Guihulngan City.

Despite the deployment of the 94th Infantry Battalion in Guihulngan City, Regalado said they were able to carry out their military actions successfully.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/August/11/topstory8.htm

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 9): COOPERATION | PN and RAN completes 4th Maritime Security Activity

CALARIAN, Zamboanga City (DWDD) – Philippine Navy and Royal Australian Navy concluded its 4th Combined Maritime Security Activity through a Closing Ceremony held here at Officers’ Club, Naval Station Romulo Espaldon, August 7, 2018.

The closing ceremony was attended by Col. Hernanie S Songano PN (M)(GSC), Deputy Commander for Marine Operations as the Speaker and Lt. Col Judd Finger, Commander, Joint Task Group 629 with the officers and men from the Western Mindanao Command, Naval Forces Western Mindanao, and PN-RAN vessels.

“We have much to be thankful to you, the Royal Australian Navy – for leveraging the power to enact change and for helping us making our country safe. We do hope that this cooperation and partnership will continue to grow in the coming years and your government will not tire in contributing to the achievement of our goal to have a safe and strong maritime region, using means such as this maritime engagement,” message of the Deputy Commander for Marines Operations, NFWM.

Also, an After Action Review (AAR) was held prior to the closing ceremony to evaluate and assess the impact and outcome of the just-held maritime cooperation. Generally, the 4th MSA between the PN and RAN accomplished its objectives on improving the interoperability, capability and professional skills of personnel through the conduct of various drills and exercises on board.

The continuous partnership and cooperation by the Philippine Navy and Royal Australian Navy had helped in pre-empting any acts of terrorism, piracy and kidnapping in the Western Mindanao Command’s Area of Responsibility. This brought the two navies into a higher level of mutual cooperation while performing its task of protecting the people and maritime domain. NPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/08/09/cooperation-pn-and-ran-completes-4th-maritime-security-activity/

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 9): PARTNER IN DEVELOPMENT | 6ID supports government Peace and Development efforts

CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division fully supports the government’s Peace and Development efforts, like the anti-drug campaign of the administration.

This was the statement made by Brigadier General Cirilito E Sobejana AFP, in an interview by DWDD.

According to BGen Sobejana, jointly with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), they have launched numerous operations against illegal drug groups like the recent recovery of numerous volumes of the illegal substance in the town of Datu Sinsuat.

BGen Sobejana added that if the joint operations would meet any resistance, the AFP is ready to support and respond.

TERRORISM TO TOURISM

Sobejana is optimistic that the region would benefit from the gained peace and development in the region. The 6ID is now pushing for an increase in tourism with their “terrorism to tourism” and “battlefield to oil field” slogans. He has assured the security of these developments in coordination with the Local Government Units (LGUs) and religious leaders in the region.

MARTIAL LAW

The continued implementation of Martial Law in Mindanao has made Mindanaoans more secure with the daily lives. The ordinary citizens have now felt the presence of their government through the delivery of basic services. He added that they respect the sentiments of some sector on their resistance to the implementation of martial law but the Mindanaoan themselves have felt the positive change with its continued imposition.

The AFP is in the forefront of the transformation ng Mindanao with the campaign of Peace and Development through the implementation of various livelihood programs in cooperation with the LGUs who will provide the much-needed resources. The AFP is also in the thick of mediating and encouraging civilian partners to assist in different projects that would make a positive impact on our countrymen.

LOCALIZED PEACE TALKS

BGen Sobejana fully-supports the conduct of localized peace talks in the pursuit of a lasting peace and development in the region. He believes that the talks would be more credible if you could we face the problem on the grounds. Direct talks with local rebel leaders can better resolve any issues of concerns since they know the problem very well. Compared to dealing with Communist leaders based in a foreign country that does not have a clear control of their members on the ground.

The AFP is not only involved in dealing with security threats but leads the way in resolving development concerns of the community. Sobejana added that the bottom line is that the problem is economic, like the lack of job opportunities and poverty. So the government is implementing a hard and soft approach on the matter to gain a sustainable effect and thus preventing them in being duped to joint any armed uprising. AES / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/08/09/partner-in-development-6id-supports-government-peace-and-development-efforts/

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): Palace to probe Chinese military’s warning on PH aircraft in WPS

Malacañang on Monday said an investigation will be held whether the Philippine military aircraft got a warning from Chinese military while conducting over flight over disputed West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said he has yet to get information about the reported Chinese military’s two warnings, including one to Philippine military aircraft.

“Investigation will be conducted but if the information is true, the good news is hindi naman nagpatakot iyong ating mga piloto. Tinuloy pa rin nila iyong lipad nila dahil mayroon naman tayong teritoryo doon (the good news is our pilots were not rattled. They continued their flights because we have territory there),” he said in a Palace press briefing.

According to media reports, the Chinese military ordered: “Philippine Military aircraft, I’m warning you again: Leave immediately or you will bear responsibility for all the consequences”.

The Chinese military also reportedly issued warning to the US military aircraft which also conducted over flights over the South China Sea.

The US military aircraft pilots have been told that China has “sovereignty of the Nashan Islands, Spratlys including inaudible reef and its adjacent waters”.

Roque said the Philippines will continue to assert its sovereignty in the WPS despite China’s refusal to recognize an arbitral tribunal’s ruling nullifying a nine-dash line map that China uses to claim nearly the entire South China Sea.

“They will not stop us. We will continue with our flights. We will assert our sovereignty. And if need be Filipino pilots will die for our sovereignty,” the Palace spokesman said.

The Philippines-China relations continued to improve under President Rodrigo Duterte's leadership which opted to discuss contentious issues, including WPS dispute, in a peaceful and friendly dialogues.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044729

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): AFP welcomes relief of erring officials, personnel in health units

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said it welcomes President Rodrigo R. Duterte's relief and court martial order against the commanding officers of the AFP Health Services Command (HSC) and AFP Medical Center (also known as the V. Luna Hospital) and 20 others for their alleged involvement in anomalous transactions.

"The AFP welcomes the pronouncement made by Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque relieving from his post Brig. Gen. Edwin Leo Torrelavega, the Commander of the AFP Health Services Command and Col. Antonio Punzalan, the Commander of V. Luna Hospital, for them and around 20 others to face court martial proceedings," AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. said.

The relief of these officials stemmed from the outcome of two different but parallel investigations ordered by the AFP chief.

"The task to thoroughly collect material and relevant information regarding the case started sometime in the month of May 2018. The results of which I transmitted to Malacañang by way of a letter to the President sometime this month (August)," the AFP chief added.

The case will be tried under the military justice system and the accused will be proceeded against in court martial proceedings where they will be given the opportunity to be heard.

Galvez said these personnel will be charged with violation of Article of War 95 (Fraud Against the Government).

He, however, said this is without prejudice to other infractions of the Articles of War that may have also been violated; and the accused military personnel’s right to due process.

"As the AFP chief-of-staff and like our Commander-in Chief, President Rodrigo Duterte, I am both saddened and offended by this report. I am not prejudging the named Officers and Enlisted Personnel as the would-be recommendations of the courts martial will be submitted to me for approval and further submission to the Commander-in-Chief for final approval," he added.

"But I commit to the members of the AFP, to the Filipino People, and to our beloved President and Commander-in-Chief that I will render justice to all concerned without undue haste. As the President said during the last SONA (State-of-the-Nation Address) corruption is corrosive. And the warning that— 'I will get you!' And I am one with him in that desire. At ito na yun," Galvez said.

In line with this and based on the investigation, the AFP chief bared that he will order that reforms be instituted in the AFPHSC along with a major revamp in that unit to address the systemic corruption.

"I will cause the installation only of officers and staff with the necessary qualifications, competencies, integrity, and unquestionable reputation, to run this institution which is vital to the health and well-being of our personnel and their dependents," Galvez added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044696

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): DND backs Duterte’s purge of corrupt officials

The Department of National Defense (DND) expressed strong support for President Rodrigo R. Duterte's ongoing campaign to remove erring and corrupt officials from the government.

This was emphasized by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana Monday following the Chief Executive's relief of Armed Forces of the Philippines Health Service Command (AFPHSC) head Brig. Gen. Edwin Leo Torrelavega, AFP Medical Center (also known as V. Luna Medical Center) commander Col. Antonio Punzalan and the chiefs of the facility's Management and Fiscal Office and Logistic Office among others.

The above-mentioned officials are reportedly involved in the anomalous purchases of equipment and engaged in fraudulent transactions, including ghost-purchasing, splitting of contracts to circumvent mandatory bidding processes, and conceiving fictitious suppliers.

Aside from their immediate relief, these military officials will also be subjected to court martial proceedings.

"The relief of the AFP officials involved in the highly-questionable transactions at the AFP Health Service Command was (the) result of an internal investigation, which was initiated by the Defense and military establishments. A parallel investigation was also conducted by the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission," Lorenzana added.

The defense chief also said the incident is unfortunate, considering that the DND and the AFP are currently enjoying the trust of the Filipino people.

"It is unfortunate that this happened at a time when the DND and AFP enjoys the trust and confidence of the Filipino people. We will ensure that those responsible will be held fully accountable for their actions. The investigations of the other individuals who might possibly be involved are still on-going," he stressed.

Lorenzana, however, assured the public that the DND and AFP will not tolerate irregularities and vow to continue safeguarding the institution against similar incidents in the future.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044661

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): PRRD fires ranking military officials over corruption

President Rodrigo R. Duterte has fired at least 20 high-ranking officials and employees of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Health Service Command over alleged corruption at the V. Luna Medical Center in Quezon City, Malacañang said on Monday.

“It was brought to the President's attention that alleged corruption activities have been taking place at the V. Luna Medical Center,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a Palace briefing.

He said Duterte has since read the reports of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Carlito Galvez.

Based on the report, Roque said corruption activities include anomalous purchases of equipment and fraudulent transaction, such as ghost purchases, splitting of contracts to circumvent the mandatory bidding processes, and conceiving fictitious suppliers.

Citing Galvez, Roque put the estimated number of sacked individuals at 20 but said he only had two names so far.

“I suppose the entire office that has to do with procurement will be relieved,” Roque said, noting that investigation has been concluded.

The two sacked top military brass officials were Brig. Gen. Edwin Leo Torrelavega, commander of the AFPHSC; and Col. Antonio Punzalan, head of the V. Luna Medical Center.

The respective chiefs of the management and fiscal office and the logistics office were also ordered relieved.

More anomalous transactions

Roque said Galvez has already released a memorandum relieving the military officials, which shall be effective upon their receipt. However, there has yet to be word on who will be their replacements.

“I think there will be widespread (removal) and many replacements to be appointed because according to the Chief of Staff, there will be no less than 20 individuals who will be relieved and subject to court martial procedure,” he added.

Roque said the AFP currently has a report involving one ghost transaction involving PHP1.491 million but a larger report involving hundreds of millions of pesos will be released in due course.

“Tomorrow, they (AFP) will be releasing a larger report. The report that they have now only involves ghost transactions, ghost deliveries involving PHP1.491 million but there are (a) series of transactions involving almost hundreds of millions of pesos. So they will be releasing subsequent reports in due course,” Roque said.

“This is not an isolated transaction. It involves quite a number of anomalous transactions,” he added. “Apparently it’s a conspiracy. It was institutional corruption in V. Luna.”

Roque was unsure whether medical equipment procured for the hospital were delivered, but noted that there were “definitely overpricing and other kinds of fraud committed.”

Aggravated, ballistic

Roque was mum on the details but explained that a report on the alleged corruption activities at the medical center came in during the last Cabinet meeting held on August 6.

He said Duterte was “very aggravated” in talking about corruption during the Cabinet meeting because there was the issue of both the Nayong Pilipino Foundation and the V. Luna Medical Center.

On Aug. 7, Duterte fired the entire board and management of the Nayong Pilipino Foundation (NPF) over the "ridiculous" lease of government property.

Roque said alleged irregularities at the V. Luna Medical Center did not start during the Duterte administration but “has been ongoing for a very long period of time.”

“He’s ballistic because only recently, he ordered that the sum of PHP50 million a month be released to V. Luna to make sure that V. Luna will have sufficient funds to cover all medical requirements of members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines only to find out that bulk of the funds or much of the funds may be going to pockets of corrupt officials of the Armed Forces,” the Palace official said.

“He was personally aggravated when the information on corruption was confirmed in V. Luna. Personally aggravated and angered,” Roque added.

Duterte has repeatedly said that he will not think twice about sacking officials involved in even “a whiff” of corruption.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044635

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): PNP chief orders units to be vigilant vs NPA attacks

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed its units in areas with known presence of Communist insurgents to be on their toes to prevent incidents similar to the attack on the town hall and police station of Lapinig, Northern Samar last week.

Speaking to newsmen, PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said the PNP would also investigate the possible liability of police officials in the area in connection with the incident, which resulted in the loss of at least 10 service firearms from the PNP along with other equipment.

Part of the investigation would look into why there were only six policemen on duty at the time, Albayalde said. Albayalde noted that the incident was earlier reported as a mere harassment attack before the true extent of the ransacking was bared.

"(W)e are reminding our troops, especially in critical areas and infested to undertake target hardening measures," Albayalde added.

Albayalde said the decision to relieve the personnel involved should serve as a warning to other officials and the "need to emphasize our one strike policy against lackluster performance" by PNP personnel.

Police Regional Office 8 (Eastern Visayas) director Chief Supt. Mariel Magaway was relieved from his post following the attack by communist rebels early Friday morning and replaced by PNP Aviation Security Group director Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos.

Albayalde also ordered the relief of all personnel of the Lapinig Municipal Police Station in Northern Samar and their immediate superior officers as investigation into the circumstances surrounding the raid is underway.

Reports said at least 100 New People’s Army members laid siege to the town around 2 a.m.

Two policemen, PO1 Edison Aguirre and PO2 Gerry Quilicol, were wounded in the reported initial firefight with the armed group. They were taken to the Gamay District Hospital for medical treatment.

Others relieved from their post were Insp. Noli Montebon, Lapinig chief of police; Chief Insp. Juan Byron Leogoe, commander of the 2nd Northern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company; and Northern Samar provincial director Senior Supt. Romeo Campomanes.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044625

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): PH Navy now capable of engaging 'surface targets'

With the successful test-firing of its Rafael Advanced Defense Ltd. Spike-ER (extended range) surface-to-surface missile off Lamao Point, Limay, Bataan last Aug. 9, the Philippine Navy (PN) now is capable of engaging and destroying targets such as ships, or "surface targets" in naval parlance.

"This provides the Navy a significant capability against surface targets. This is also a milestone as your Navy prepares to acquire more sophisticated and powerful missile and weapons system," Navy spokesperson Cmdr. Jonathan Zata said Sunday.

The Spike-ER was fired from one of the PN's three Spike-ER armed multi-purpose assault craft (MPACs) and successfully hit a floating target six kilometers away.

The above-mentioned MPACs were constructed by the Subic-based Propmech Corporation and activated on May 22, 2017.

The PN MPAC Acquisition Project entered into a contract with Rafael, through SIBAT of Israel Ministry of Defense, for the supply and integration of the above-mentioned weapons systems to three Mark III MPACs.

On April 15, 2017, DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana approved the Notice to Proceed.

The Spike-ER system, which arrived in the country last April, is the PN's first missile weapon capable penetrating 1,000 mm (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor and having a range of eight kilometers.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044603

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12): Ammonium nitrate traced in Basilan blast: Lorenzana

Ammonium nitrate is among the components of the improvised explosive device (IED) that killed 11 people and wounded six others in Lamitan City, Basilan last month, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said.

"Ang balita dyan is ammonium nitrate (ang ginamit). It is used for fertilizers, these people are expert in making bomb because they can use this ammonium nitrate (as an explosive agent) along with gunpowder and some triggering device," Lorenzana told reporters Friday.

Lorenzana, meanwhile, said checks are ongoing in Basilan, Sulu and Zamboanga to determine whether significant amounts of ammonium nitrate have been acquired there.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines earlier said that it is still trying to identify the driver of the van-loaded with IEDs which exploded near a military checkpoint in Lamitan City, Basilan last July 31, killing himself and nine others aside from wounding seven more people.

Another victim, one of the seven wounded, died in the hospital early this week raising the death toll to 11.

The said van suddenly exploded while the troops were about to inspect the vehicle at a checkpoint in the boundaries of Barangays Bulanting, Colonia and Maganda in Lamitan City.

The military is eyeing Abu Sayyaf leader Furuji Indama as the mastermind behind the blast in response to the growing number of terrorists surrendering in Basilan.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044569

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12): PH Navy now capable of using modern missile weaponry

The Philippine Navy (PN) is now capable of using the missile weaponry and other equipment it is acquiring for its ongoing modernization program, the Department of National Defense (DND) said.

This is in wake of the successful test-firing of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s Rafael Advanced Defense Ltd. Spike-ER (extended range) surface-to-surface missile off Lamao Point, Limay, Bataan last August 9.

"Kasi bumili tayo ng missile hindi naman natin alam kung papaano gamitin at saka kung tatama tayo sa target, so ginawa nila, dinala nila dun sa may bandang (Bataan), naglagay sila ng target sa dagat, na six kilometers, tinarget nila, bull's eye naman, so happy-happy naman si (PN flag-officer-in-command) Admiral (Robert) Empedrad, ni-report niya sa akin na successful ang testing ng ating missile, so in short, okay naman yung nabili nating missile, kaya naman nating gamitin (We bought a missile yet we do not know how to use it and if it will reach the target. So what they did, they brought it in Bataan, they put a target in the sea, about six kilometers. When they targeted it, it was a bull's eye. So PN flag-officer-in-command Admiral Robert Empedrad was happy. He reported to me that the testing of the missile was successful. The missile that we bought is fine and we can use it),"Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in an interview Friday.

The weapon was fired from one of the PN's three Spike-ER armed multi-purpose assault craft (MPACs).

The said assault craft was constructed by the Subic-based Propmech Corporation and activated on May 22, 2017.

The PN MPAC Acquisition Project entered into a contract with Rafael, through SIBAT of Israel Ministry of Defense, for the supply and integration of the above-mentioned weapons systems to three Mark III MPACs.

On April 15, 2017, Lorenzana approved the notice to proceed with the project.

The Spike-ER system, which arrived in the country last April, is the PN's first missile weapon capable penetrating 1,000 mm (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor and having a range of eight kilometers.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044570

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): Soldier hurt as troops, NPA rebels clash in Misamis Occidental

Troops have recovered a high-powered firearm and food supplies following a clash over the weekend against New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Misamis Occidental.

A ranking military official said Monday that a soldier was injured in the clash.

Maj. Gen. Roseller Murillo, Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, said the firefight occurred around 9 a.m. Saturday in Barangay Hoyohoy, Tangub City, Misamis Occidental.
Murillo said the clash broke out while troops of the Army’s 10th Infantry Battalion, headed by Lt. Col. Ryan Severo, were conducting an onsite verification of the reported presence and harassment of residents by NPA rebels in Barangay Hoyohoy.

Murillo said the firefight lasted for about 40 minutes before the rebels fled towards the northeast direction. A soldier was slightly injured during the clash.

He said the troops have recovered an AK-47 rifle, two sacks of rice of 25 kilos each, dried fish and a backpack abandoned by the guerrillas.

“The armed confrontation between the troops and the NPAs in Misamis Occidental manifests the ever-widening support of the civilian community in totally wiping out the presence of the terrorist group in the province,” he said.

He urged the remaining NPA rebels to surrender and avail of government programs so that they can live peacefully with their families.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044621

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): Bomb expert hurt as Army foils bombing attempts in Maguindanao
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – A military bomb disposal expert was slightly injured when an improvised bomb he was deactivating went off Sunday morning.

The accidental blast came hours after military bomb experts discovered several improvised bombs planted by IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao, where a brief encounter between the Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion (MIB) and the BIFF also transpired.

Capt. Arvin John Encinas, speaking for the Army's 6th Infantry Division, declined to identify the injured member of Army Explosive and Ordnance Disposal Unit for security reasons but said the personnel "is now out of danger.”

Encinas said 57th Infantry Battalion personnel discovered a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) in Barangay Kuloy, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao and were trying to deactivate the ordnance when it went off at 11:30 a.m. Sunday. It was the third IED that military bomb disposal experts tried to deactivate Sunday. Two other IEDs were defused earlier, also in Shariff Aguak.

Also on Sunday, elements of the 2nd MIB recovered high-powered firearms and medical supplies in a safe house used by the BIFF under Ismael Abubakar alias "Imam Bungos" in Barangay Malangog, Datu Unsay, Maguindanao.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division chief, said Malangog villagers alerted the Army about the presence of the BIFF in their area around 2 p.m. After a brief clash, the rebels fled toward the marshland.

At a rice field near the alleged BIFF safe house owned by local farmer Khadafy Abdulatif, the state forces recovered 20 assorted mortar rounds, 10 improvised blasting caps, a. 50-caliber Barrett sniper rifle, one M16 rifle, one M14 rifle, a .45-caliber pistol, two improvised explosive devices (hand grenade-type), three sacks of IED components, detonating cords, an ICOM antenna, assorted magazines and ammunitions, medical supplies like syringes, and other war material.

Sobejana lauded the civilians for quickly alerting the military about the presence of the BIFF in their village.

“We are very grateful for the trust and support you have shown your AFP, which boosted our morale and inspired us more to be of service to the people of Central Mindanao,” he said.

Sunday’s incident was preceded by a grenade attack carried out by suspected BIFF militants on a roadside detachment of the Army’s 57th IB in Barangay Labu-Labu, Shariff Aguak.

Around 7 p.m. Saturday, two men onboard a motorbike and believed to be BIFF members tossed two hand grenades towards the detachment.No soldier was hurt in the blasts, but a passerby identified as Nasser Kusain, 19, was hurt.

“Violent extremism and terrorism have no place in Central Mindanao. We condemn in strongest term the criminal and barbaric acts of these local terrorist groups,” Sobejana said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044624

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): Army’s 1IB troops clash anew with Reds in Quezon

CAMP GEN. MATEO CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal — Government troops belonging to the Army’s 1st Infantry Battalion (1IB) clashed anew with the New Peoples Army (NPA) Communist terrorist group in Sitio Cabungahan, Mauban, Quezon on Sunday afternoon.

Lt. Col. Jonathan Manio, Commanding Officer of the 1st IB, said the armed encounter occurred 3:15 p.m., immediately after receiving verified intelligence reports and information from concerned citizens.

Manio confirmed reports that the NPA terrorist group’s plan to burn construction equipment that were stationed for the Real-Mauban Road Project in eastern Quezon province.

He said the troops proceeded to the site to confirm the report when they encountered around 20 NPA rebels believed to be belonging to Platoon 4A1 of the Sub-Regional Military Area 4A1, Southern Tagalog Regional Party Commitee (STRPC).

He said firefight ensued and lasted for 30 minutes, leaving an undetermined number of casualties from the enemy side due to some traces of blood stains at the encounter site. The NPAs withdrew, bringing along their wounded comrades.

Manio reported two soldiers were wounded but are now in stable condition.

The pursuing soldiers recovered an M16 rifle that was left by the rebels.

Military report also said a group of NPA members burned the construction equipment of Monte Rock Quarry at Sitio Upper Abuab, Barangay Malanday in San Mateo, Rizal at around 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

According to the report reaching this camp headquarters, around 20 armed men with five female companions, some clad in police athletic uniforms, forcibly entered the quarry compound, disarmed the security guards and then burned the heavy equipment.
The NPA members were reported to have fled towards the San Mateo landfill on board the two quarry firm’s trucks, carting away laptops, radios and assorted cash.

Brigadier General Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr., Commander of the 202nd Infantry (UNIFIER) Brigade, which exercises operational jurisdiction over Calabarzon Region, said the 1IB troops’ encounter has preempted NPA plans to sabotage the road construction project in Quezon.

Burgos condemned the latest arson incident perpetrated by the communist terrorist group in Rizal.

“The recent atrocities perpetrated by the NPA communist terrorist group targeting construction companies are clear manifestations of their anti- development objectives,” Burgos said.

Meanwhile, Major General Rhoderick M. Parayno, Commander of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID), lauded efforts of the 1IB troops against the terrorists.

“The NPAs are attacking civilians. They don’t want development to reach the communities as this will limit their movement. Hitting soft targets will cover their weakness. This is their way of projecting strength. We will run after them,” Parayno said.

As of press time, the police has beefed up checkpoints in the area as pursuit operations are still ongoing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044707

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): Army brings warring Moro clans to settlement

PEACE PACT. Erstwhile enemies Bong Abdul, 33 (white shirt), and Kindaw Samama, 45 (striped shirt), shake hands after signing the peace covenant on Sunday (Aug. 12) as Maguindanao Assemblyman Khadafy Mangudadatu (behind them) and other local and military officials join the community prayer. (Photo courtesy of 33rd IB)

KIDAPAWAN CITY -- Army "peacemakers" on Sunday succeeded in bringing together to a “table of peace” Muslim families involved in a bloody family feud following weeks of negotiations.

The warring families agreed to end their conflict by signing a peace pact in front of local leaders and military officials, led by Col. Robert Dauz, commander of the Army's First Mechanized Infantry Brigade (MIB), in Buluan, Maguindanao.

Assemblyman Khadafe Mangudadatu, offered his home as a venue for the historic peace pact-signing ceremony.

Dauz said both parties embroiled in the conflict -- Bong Abdul, 33, and Kindaw Samama, 45 -- agreed to sign the peace pact in a
ceremony held at 9 a.m. at Mangudadatu’s house.

The families have been at odds since 2015 and both sides have lost several members in a series of armed confrontation.

Dauz said the Army unit worked with local chief executives and traditional leaders in resolving the conflict that had sparked armed violence in the past years.

“We applied the whole of government concept in addressing the issues that fueled the conflict among blood relatives. Both the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion and the 1st MIB worked in tandem to ensure the success of the negotiations on the ground,” the Army official said.

Abdul, village chairman of Midconding, Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun, Maguindanao, was grateful that the Army and local officials facilitated the conflict resolution.

“I could not describe my happiness today. Finally, my constituents can return to work in the 80-hectare farmland that was abandoned due to violent clashes during the past two years. We can now rebuild our lives,” he said, tears welling in his eyes.

His adversary, Samama, said his signing of the peace covenant was a clear indication he will no longer involve his family in inter-clan violence, in support of the government’s call for the peaceful resolution of minor conflicts.

“I swear to Allah that I will adhere to our agreement here. It is high time that we mend our broken ties as members of the same family,” said Samama, who lost a brother in the fighting last year.

Mangudadatu, for his part, said all residents must abandon the path of violence to support the peace and development agenda of the government.

“Let us stop this senseless infighting among relatives and instead, support President (Rodrigo) Duterte’s vision of achieving genuine peace and development in Mindanao,” said Mangudadatu who is related to both parties of the conflict.

Mangudadatu himself was injured during a family feud in Buluan 30 years ago.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044669

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): Panay island gets 15 add'l CAFGU detachments

The Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) will have an additional 15 detachments on Panay Island, according to the Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade (301st IB) based in Camp Hernandez, Dingle, Iloilo.

Colonel Benedict Arevalo, Commander of the 301st IB, said the additional detachments would beef up the security and sustain the gains on the entire Panay island.

“We should not be complacent because our enemies have also the strength to become stronger especially that we have concentrated some of our forces outside Panay,” he said in an interview Monday.

Also, the additional detachments are in preparation for the 2019 mid-term elections.

“We want to put pressure on the armed groups so that they could not make any violent incident for the coming periods,” he said.

Arevalo further said the CAFGU detachments will be spread in the different priority areas around the island in addition to the 42 existing detachments.

He noted some of these will be located in the towns of Calinog, Maasin, Lambunao and Miag-ao in Iloilo province and towns of Tapaz and Dumarao in Capiz; while others will be in Aklan province.

Arevalo said they have already started recruiting about 500 CAFGU personnel to man these detachments.

The recruitment is being done at the 12th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Aklan.

Arevalo said most of the recruits are residents of localities in Panay.

Due to security reasons, Arevalo did not disclose how many CAFGU personnel will be deployed in each detachment, but he said it will be a “sizable number”.

“We will just finish the numbers and we will establish the detachments,” he said.

Arevalo hoped that all the 15 CAFGU detachments will be established before the end of the year.

Meanwhile, an estimated 200 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) are still active on Panay Island as of the moment, Arevalo said.

He reiterated his call among the public especially the youth that they should avoid believing in the promises of the rebels.

“It is always good to follow our laws. Joining the rebel groups will just harm you, not all that they say are true,” he further said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044679

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 13): Military heightens security in Palawan vs ASG kidnapping plot

SECURITY TASK GROUP. Joint operatives and troops of the PNP Maritime Group, Philippine Coast Guard, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines while conducting regular security patrol off Honda Bay Islands, Puerto Princesa City. (File photo by CARF)

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan – The military has heightened Palawan’s security alert following “credible” reports of a kidnapping threat by the extremist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

In a statement released late Sunday, Western Command (Wescom) commander Lieutenant General Rozzano Briguez said their air and naval assets have been on constant security patrol, while the Marines and the Army special forces “are scouring grounds and coastlines” to ensure Palawan’s safety.

He said they are being supported by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the province and its Maritime Group in securing all strategic points at sea and on land.

"Wescom is grateful to our security partners and concerned citizens for proactively sharing with us vital security information. Wescom is validating all this information and is taking appropriate actions. We remain on heightened alert. All our units are undertaking appropriate security measures," he said.

Briguez urged the public to remain vigilant and calm and to report suspicious personalities, incidents, or “anything doubtful” in their localities to their hotline number 09178960014, or any other fast means of communication.

Briguez’ statement was released by the Public Affairs Office (PAO) of Wescom after Provincial Legal Office (PLO) chief and Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) member, Atty. Teodoro Jose Matta, sent out text messages to local government unit (LGU) officials, community leaders, and tourism operators, warning them to be vigilant against members of a remnant unit of the ASG from Sulu province who are attempting to gain entry to Palawan.

Matta told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) they issued the information on the belief that the kidnap-for-ransom group’s threat is "credible enough."

“Wherever you go, there is a threat. It’s not only in the province that this is happening. Like other places in the country, our province is also threatened by remnants of this extremist group. Only this time, we believe the threat is credible enough so we alerted all our mayors and tourism operators, including barangay officials to be careful, be aware of their surroundings, and be vigilant,” Matta said.

He also said that Palawan’s safety and security does not only concern the military and the police, but also entails the awareness and cautiousness of the public.

“Governor Jose Alvarez and I, agree that the best weapon against terrorism threat is public awareness and vigilance to protect communities as a whole. What business we may lose in making this public is better than them (ASG) being able to really come in and do something more serious,” he said.

He said the heightened alert should put Palaweños at ease that all measures of security are being undertaken by the provincial government, in close cooperation with the military and the police, to sustain peace and order even in far-flung communities in the province.

Briguez also stressed that any group trying to pose danger to the province should not underestimate the attentiveness and unity of the Palaweños.

They can attempt to enter the province but they will have difficulty in perpetrating their atrocities as its residents will not allow them to do so.

"WESCOM and the Palaweños take security and safety very seriously and we work together to ensure that these criminals will not be able to succeed with their evil plans,” Briguez said.

He said even before the information came out, Wescom and the residents of Palawan have already formed a partnership and mutual commitment to ensure security and safety through an information-sharing mechanism.

This partnership against any threat, Briguez reiterated, remains strong with the backing of municipal and barangay officials through the conduct of neighborhood watch and timely reporting.

This is further strengthened by the commitment of the tourism and business sectors, fishing communities, yacht owners, and others whose support is key to maintaining peace and order in Palawan.

Briguez said Palawan is ready to address threats, always bearing in mind that security is a shared concern and the responsibility of all.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044618

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12): Samar officials urged to engage in localized peace talks

Village officials greet Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go before his speech at a covered court during the Samar Day celebration. (Photo from FB page of Bong Go)
CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar -- Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go on Saturday urged local officials to actively participate in the localized peace talks in line with the forthcoming issuance of an executive order for the planned localized talks with communist rebels.

Speaking before thousands of local officials at a covered court here, Go said local officials, including those in villages, can do something to attain lasting peace.

“The order will be signed and will be out soon to guide our local officials on how to engage with the communist rebels. We really need this because in some areas, some officials have to deal with NPA (New People's Army) for their safety,” said Go, who was guest speaker of Samar Day celebration.

President Rodrigo Duterte approved during the 28th Cabinet meeting on Aug. 6 the draft of the directive, which provides the framework that will aid local government officials in dialogue with the rebels.

The guidelines, as previously announced by Malacañang, include:

* Nationally orchestrated, centrally directed, and locally supervised and implemented

* Constitutional integrity and sovereignty will not be compromised.
Complete and genuine resolution of the local armed conflict that shall cover the New People's Army, organs of political power and Militia ng Bayan

* there is a ceasefire, the constitutional mandate of the State to protect public safety, civilian welfare, critical infrastructure and private properties and the guarantee of rule of law and order will not be compromised at all times.

* Government goodwill, full amnesty package based on disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration to the mainstream society.

* Substantive agenda will be based on the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan and Philippine Development Program 2040

The top presidential aide expects that these guidelines will help stop decades of bloody struggle by the NPA especially in poverty-stricken areas such as Samar Island.

Go previously recalled that when Duterte was still mayor of Davao City, he accompanied the latter several times in going to the mountains to talk to communists. He added that there had been a trust between the communist group and then mayor Duterte such that they have met with them even without bodyguards.

Sincere approach, he said, comes with various government projects such as the livelihood assistance offered by local government units, among others.

Samar province has been a stronghold of armed rebels due to their densely-forested mountainous areas, high poverty incidence, and issue of widespread landlessness, based on a 2013 study of William Norman Holden of the University of Calgary in Canada.

The NPA launched its first tactical operation in the country in Calbiga, Samar in 1974, when its members ambushed an Army scout patrol and seized a number of weapons.

In 1976, the NPA gained popular support among the inhabitants of Samar following its actions against cattle rustling gangs.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1044567

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