Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From Kalinaw News (Feb 21, 2021): Medical Officer ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA, nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan; mga pampasabog isinuko

CAMP MELCHOR F DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela- Boluntaryong sumuko at nagbaba ng mga pampasabog ang isang medical officer ng Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG), Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley (KRCV) ng teroristang Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army sa hanay ng 86th Infantry Battalion noong ika-20 ng Pebrero taong kasalukuyan sa Barangay Jose Ancheta, Maddela, Quirino.

Kinilala ang nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan na si alyas Nika, Squad Medic ng Squad Dos ng rebeldeng RSDG na kumikilos sa mga bayan ng Echague at Jones sa lalawigan ng Isabela. Ayon kay alyas Nika, isang nagngangalang alyas Brando ang nagpasampa sa kanya sa rebeldeng CPP-NPA noong Oktubre taong 2017. Ngunit matapos ang anim na buwan mula nang siya ay marekrut, agad din siyang naglie-low dahil sa mga naranasang hirap sa loob ng kanyang inanibang rebeldeng grupo. Pagbabahagi niya na hindi nabibigyan ng karampatang atensyong medikal ang dati niyang mga kasamahan na napupuruhan sa mga engkwentro laban sa tropa ng pamahalaan.

Dagdag pa niya, bagamat naaawa siya sa mahirap na kalagayan ng kanyang mga kasamahan sa tuwing napapalaban sa kasundaluhan man o kapulisan, pinili ni alyas Nika na distansiyahan ang terroristang CPP-NPA dahil hindi na rin niya kaya pang sikmurain ang mas higit pang pagpapahirap na ginagawa ng mga kadre ng teroristang CPP-NPA sa kanilang mga simpleng mandirigma. Kaya naman, malaki ang kanyang pasasalamat sa mga ginawang hakbang ng mga kasundaluhan ng 86IB upang tuluyan na niyang maputol ang kanyang ugnayan sa mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA.

Sa kanyang pagbabalik-loob sa pamahalaan, bitbit ni Alyas Nika ang apat na Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

Ikinagalak ni MGen Laurence E Mina PA, Commander ng 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army ang ginawang pagbabalik loob ni alyas Nika. Isa na naman itong malaking dagok sa rebeldeng grupong CPP NPA. Ang mga isinukong pampasabog ay malaking bagay naman upang makaiwas sa kapahamakan ang mga alagad ng pamahalaan pati na rin ang mga inosenteng sibilyan. “Muli nating hinihikayat ang mga nalalabi pang mga rebeldeng nalinlang sa maling ideyolohiya ng CPP-NPA. Nakahanda ang pamahalaan upang kayo’y alalayan sa inyong pagbabagong buhay. Nakahanda rin ang kasundaluhan at kapulisan upang kayoy protektahan laban sa mga pang-aabuso at pananakot ng mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA.”

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/medical-officer-ng-rebeldeng-cpp-npa-nagbalik-loob-sa-pamahalaan-mga-pampasabog-isinuko/

From Kalinaw News (Feb 21, 2021): Rescued IP minors return home

Camp Quintin Merecido, Buhangin, Davao City- On the evening of February 21, 2021; the thirteen (13) rescued minors from the University of San Carlos retreat house in Cebu City belonging to the group of the Indigenous People (IP) of Talaingod, Davao del Norte arrived at Davao International Airport, DAVAO CITY.

Said minors were welcomed by personnel of Police Regional Office 11 led by Deputy Regional Director for Operation PCOL EDGAR ALAN O OKUBO together with PCOL RANIE P HACUELA, Davao Norte Police Provincial Office Director and Davao Norte Tribal Leaders.

The 13 minors were rescued on February 15, 2021 by the operatives from Police Regional Office 7 in coordination with Police Regional Office 11, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), and other concerned agencies.

These minors were transfered from the Talaingod Salugpungan School to Haran in 2018 and then later confirmed they were brought to the retreat house of University of San Carlos in Talamban, Cebu City in a yet to be determined timeline.

The rescue operation came after the parents of the minors sought for help from their tribal leaders, PRO 11 police, and the Municipal Social Worker Development Officer (MSWDO) of Talaingod, Davao Del Norte.

Immediately after their arrival at DIA, the minors together with their parents were transported to a Quarantine Facility in Talaingod Municipality, DAVAO DEL NORTE on board the Talaingod Municipality Bus.

With the foregoing, a case of kidnapping against the personalities responsible in taking the children to Cebu without the knowledge and consent of their parents will be initially filed thereat.

With all these, PBGEN FILMORE B ESCOBAL, RD, PRO 11 remarked: “these children were taken from their parents with false promises of bright future pero ang akala nilang magandang buhay ay ginagamit lang pala ang kanilang mga anak nitong mapagsamantalang grupo.” PBGEN ESCOBAL concluded.

PBGEN Escobal, ordered for further investigation as to the participation of organization or group behind and involved in the exploitation of these IP minors.

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 22, 2020): Abu killed in shootout; kidnapping plot foiled (By Jeannette I. Andrade)

An Abu Sayyaf group member was killed in a shootout with police in Sulu on Saturday.

Gen. Debold Sinas, chief of the Philippine National Police, claimed that the slain Abu Sayyaf, Wahid Sahid, had been surveilling prominent families in Zamboanga City possibly for kidnapping.

Sahid, a member of the subgroup under Almujir Yadah, allegedly smuggled high-powered guns and armed the bandits in Sulu province and Zamboanga City.

On Saturday morning, an undercover agent who posed as buyer went to Sahid’s house in Sitio Buton, Barangay Kansipat in Panamao town, Sulu.

After Sahid’s illegal sale of firearms was confirmed, the arresting team rushed to Sahid’s house but was met with gunfire. Police fired back and killed Sahid.

Several firearms were seized from the house.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1398397/abu-killed-in-shootout-kidnapping-plot-foiled

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 21, 2021): SAF member hurt in Northern Samar firefight with alleged NPA rebels (By: Joey Gabieta)

A member of the Special Action Force (SAF) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Northern Samar was wounded during a firefight with alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) on Friday.

Patrolman Villanor Dumaguing sustained a gunshot wound on his knee as a result of the encounter.

Dumaguing, who is a member of the 12th PNP-SAF assigned at the Northern Samar provincial police office, was brought to a hospital in Calbayog City, Samar where he is recuperating.

Brigadier Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus, police regional director, commended Dumaguing for his bravery as he extended financial assistance to the wounded police officer.

During his recent visit to the region, PNP chief Director Debold Sinas said policemen are part of the campaign of the national government to end the country’s long-running insurgency problem.

Northern Samar continue to be a hot bed of insurgency problem in Eastern Visayas along with the provinces of Samar and Eastern Samar.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1398281/saf-member-hurt-in-northern-samar-firefight-with-alleged-npa-rebels

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 22, 2021): 4 hurt in IED blast in Sorsogon (By: Mar S. Arguelles)

Three civilians and a police officer were wounded when two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) exploded on the national highway in Pilar town in Sorsogon province on Monday, Feb. 22.

Major Maria Luisa Calubaquib, Bicol police spokesperson, said Corporal Jeffry Enconge Putian and three civilians were injured and taken to the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching and Hospital (BRTTH) in this city for treatment. The identities of the civilians were yet to be determined.

Calubaquib said suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels planted the IEDs meant to ambush a Philippine National Police (PNP) truck carrying 11 policemen from the 92 Special Action Command.

The truck was bound for the PNP Bicol headquarters in Camp Simeon Ola in this city for the mandatory reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction testing for coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

A report said the policemen were in Barangay Putiao at 7:25 a.m when fired upon by an unknown number of NPA guerrillas.The rebels allegedly set off two IEDs along the highway, and a 20-minute firefight ensued.

The police troops engaged the NPA members in the brief firefight, prompting the rebels to flee.

The bomb attack also caused minor damage to the unit’s Gazelle Truck.

Clearing operations were being conducted in the area as of Monday noon.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1398595/4-hurt-in-ied-blast-in-sorsogon

From the Philippine Star (Feb 22, 2021): 150 rebels, supporters surrender in Cagayan (Michael Punongbayan)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has lauded the recent surrender of at least 150 New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas and their supporters in Cagayan.

Lt. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., chief of the Northern Luzon Command, said the surrender was a major victory in the government’s anti-insurgency campaign.

“This mass surrender of the Milisya ng Bayan and party members from different NPA-affiliated mass organizations is a testament that the communist terrorists no longer enjoy the support of the masses in these communities,” Burgos said.

He urged other rebels and their supporters to abandon the armed struggle and return to the fold of the law.

The surrenderees are currently undergoing debriefing and profiling, a requirement for the government’s enhanced comprehensive local integration program set for returning rebels.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2021/02/22/2079428/150-rebels-supporters-surrender-cagayan

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 21, 2021): Foreign diplomatic missions now required to clear all NGO donations with DFA (By Roy Mabasa)

All foreign diplomatic missions in the Philippines are now bound to seek “appropriate clearance” from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) before funneling funds to non-government organizations (NGOs) in the country.

MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO

This directive was contained in Note No. 2021-0592 dated February 5, 2021 addressed to all accredited diplomatic missions in the Philippines.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines presents its compliments to all Diplomatic Missions accredited to the Republic of the Philippines and has the honor to inform the latter that all foreign government funding intended for Philippine non-government organizations (NGOs), regardless of mode of disbursement, transfer or download of funds, shall be coursed through the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines for appropriate clearance,” the department said in the one-page document.

Aside from the NGOs, the DFA also reminded foreign missions donating to the Bangsamoro Region of the existing regulations, specifically for donations related to the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic.

“Meanwhile, donations to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) shall remain guided by the Guidelines on Foreign Donations to the BARMM in Relation to the COVID-19 Pandemic circulated to all Diplomatic Missions through Note Verbale No. 2021-0201 dated 14 January 2021,” it added.

Sources said the DFA’s issuance of note to foreign diplomatic missions is reportedly part of the ongoing investigation and the freezing of assets of several designated terrorist organizations, associations, or groups of persons under the Anti-Terror Act of 2020.

Among those earlier classified under the terrorist designation were the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army (CPP-NPA); Islamic State East Asia; Maute Group; Daulah Islamiyah and other associated groups.

In an advisory on February 16, 2021, the DFA said: “Based on the resolutions, the above groups’ assets shall be subject to investigation and/or freezing by the Anti- Money Laundering Council pursuant to Republic Act No. 10168 (The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012).”

In June 2019, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. reminded European states to seek clearance first before funding NGOs in the Philippines following an investigation conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines that revealed the European Union has reportedly released its first tranche of more than 621,000 Euros (PHP36,663,840) to the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, a grassroots organization with alleged ties to communist rebels.

https://mb.com.ph/2021/02/21/foreign-diplomatic-missions-now-required-to-clear-all-ngo-donations-with-dfa/

From the Business Mirror (Feb 23, 2021): Davao counterinsurgency ‘experiment’ continues with P1.58-billion BDP fund (By Jovee Marie de la Cruz)

The National Security Council (NSC) has justified that barangays in Davao City and the rest of Davao region are in need of socioeconomic development after being under the influence and threat of New People’s Army (NPA) for decades.

Responding to accusation of lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, in a news statement, said Davao City and the rest of Davao region “are qualified” to be given allocations under the Barangay Development Program (BDP).

Earlier, members of the Makabayan bloc questioned the reported P1.58-billion counterinsurgency funds under the proposed 2021 budget of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to several barangays in Davao City.

Esperon said the NTF-ELCAC has carefully verified that said areas are vulnerable to the threat of communist groups.

According to Esperon, vice chairman of the NTF-ELCAC, the presence of NPA rebels has long been a factor that has hindered the development of Mindanao, the Davao region and of Davao City.

Records showed that of the five Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army Regional Party Committee in Mindanao, four are in Eastern Mindanao, namely, Northeast Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC); the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC); South Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC); and the Far South Mindanao Regional Committee (FSMRCC).

“The fact remains that there are numerous isolated and remote barangays within Davao City. Hence, with the large land are of Davao City, there still a need for development and infrastructure for the growth of the city,” Esperon said.

Also, contrary to the claim of Makabayan bloc that there are no armed conflicts in Davao City, Esperon said within the city is an existing armed guerilla unit called Pulang Bagani Command and that the SMRC comprises five sub-units threatening the largest city in the country.

From 2016 to the present, Esperon said security forces were able to dismantle four guerilla fronts in Davao City; two in Davao de Oro; three in Davao del Norte; two in Davao Occidental; two in Davao Oriental; and one in Davao del Sur.

Over the years, Esperon further said, these guerilla fronts controlling access to barangays prevent developmental projects from entering their strongholds and therefore leading to a cycle of poverty; isolation; hunger; and lack of educational and livelihood opportunities.

A total of 215 barangays in Davao region were cleared of NPA influence and are now ripe for developmental projects through the BDP.

“For progress to begin, communities must be first freed from the threat and influence of the NPA. The dismantling of guerilla fronts necessitates a comprehensive process of improving coordination between security operations and developmental intervention projects,” Esperon said.

As a flagship project of the government, the BDP offers to every barangay a package of socio-development programs such as P12 million farm-to-market roads; P3 million school buildings; P2 million water and sanitation system; P1.5 million health sanitation and P1.5 million livelihood and other projects.

For Davao City, Esperon pointed out that the city is in need of school buildings to replace the Salugpungan schools, which were operated as NPA training centers. There are 55 Salugpungan schools in the entire Davao region.

Currently, the administration has identified at least 822 barangays cleared of NPA threats, to be included in the BDP to be carried by the NTF-ELCAC. The BDP will provide each barangay a P20-million socio-economic development package.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2021/02/23/davao-counterinsurgency-experiment-continues-with-p1-58-billion-bdp-fund/

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Manhunt on vs. Reds in Sorsogon clash: PNP (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas (File photo)

A manhunt is underway against the communist terrorists who clashed with police commandos along the national highway in Barangay Putiao, Pilar town in Sorsogon province, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Debold Sinas said on Tuesday.

Sinas has mobilized maneuver forces of Police Regional Office-5 to link-up with the 9th Special Action Battalion of PNP-Special Action Force (SAF) that is now engaged in tactical operations against the fleeing terrorists.

Sinas said 11 police commandos from the 92nd Special Action Company on board a troop carrier truck on an administrative mission to undergo swab testing were informed by some civilians that the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist were conducting extortion activities on Visayas-bound rolling cargoes that were stranded on the road due to Tropical Storm Auring.

As the Special Action Force (SAF) troopers approached to validate the information, the NPA terrorists opened fire at the police team and detonated two improvised explosive devices (IED) triggering an encounter that lasted for 20 minutes.

Two civilians -- a truck driver and a local resident, and four PNP-SAF troopers suffered minor shrapnel wounds and were evacuated to the Sorsogon Provincial Hospital for treatment.

Sinas said the police bomb squad recovered an unexploded EID, 50 meters of electrical wire, and a 40mm fired cartridge case from the scene of encounter.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Bartolome Bustamante, PRO-5 regional director, condemned the latest atrocity perpetrated by the communist terrorist group (CTG), whose true objective is to sow chaos and disorder in the community.

He called on the public to "resist CTGs and cooperate with authorities to help end the threat of insurgency in Bicol".

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131596

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): 150 former rebels in Cagayan burn CPP-NPA flag (By Marita Moaje)

BURNING OF CPP-NPA FLAG. Some 150 former rebels in the province of Cagayan burn the flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army in Lal-lo, Cagayan on Feb. 19, 2021. Local governments of Cagayan welcomed the decision of the NPA members to return to the fold of the law. (Contributed photo)

As proof of their sincerity to turn their back on the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army, some 150 former rebels from the province of Cagayan burned the CPP-NPA flag as they returned to the fold of the law.

Maj. Jekyll Julian Dulawan, officer-in-charge of the Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) of the 5th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, said the event took place on Feb. 19 in Lal-lo, Cagayan.

He said 52 of the returnees were former members of the Militia ng Bayan (MB) from Barangay Masi, two from Barangay Bural, 18 from Barangay San Juan in Rizal, 16 from Barangay Balagan, and 21 from Barangay Calassitan, Sto. Niño.

A total of 19 rebel returnees were former members of the Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid (PKM), nine were former MAKIBAKA members, and 13 were from Kabataang Makabayan (KM).

“Bilang patunay ng kanilang pagbalik loob sa pamahalaan ay kanilang sinunog ang bandila ng teroristang CPP-NPA (As proof of their willingness to return to the fold of the law, they burned the flag of the terrorist group CPP-NPA),” Dulawan said.

A certain “Ka Fred”, a member of the Indigenous Peoples group “Agta” and one of the rebel returnees from Barangay San Juan, Rizal also called on the communist terrorist group (CTG) to stop harassing and using them and their community and just let them live in peace.

Ka Fred said they are peace-loving IP tribes and they want to be left alone, far from any threat of the CPP-NPA terrorists.

Meanwhile, the provincial government of Cagayan, led by Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba, also expressed support to its residents for openly denouncing the terrorist group CPP-NPA and not welcoming them in their barangays and the whole province.

The former rebels decided to break away from the CTG through the help of the 501st Infantry Brigade, the provincial government of Cagayan, and the Philippine National Police.

Government officials and agencies patiently do rounds of the barangays to explain to the residents the deceptive strategies of the CPP-NPA listed as a terrorist group by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

During the information drive, some residents started sharing their personal experiences under the hands of the terrorist group.

They said the CPP-NPA has not helped them in any way and instead, the CTG just used and exploited them.

Col. Steve Crespillo, commander of the 501st Infantry Brigade, said the decision of the 150 former rebels to return to the fold of the law was a big help in addressing insurgency in the area.

“Sa tulong ng mga programa ng pamahalaan, sama-sama nating isulong ang pag-unlad sa inyong mga lugar. Tulong-tulong tayo sa pagkamit ng ating pangarap na maayos na pamumuhay at itaboy ang teroristang CPP-NPA papalayo mula sa ang inyong lugar (With the help of different government programs, together, let us push the development of your areas. Let us realize our dreams of a better life and denounce the CPP-NPA),” Crespillo said.

Meanwhile, the PNP assured that they will continue to give protection to those who have decided to leave the CPP-NPA and returned to the fold of the law.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131623

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): DND inoculation drive to start with delivery of Chinese vaccines (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PNA file photo

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday said it will soon start with its inoculation drive once the donated Sinovac Biotech coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines are delivered.

The vaccines were donated to the DND by China through Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe, according to Defense spokesperson Arsenio Arsenio Andolong in a statement.

"With the emergency use authorization (EUA) granted to Sinovac Biotech's Covid-19 vaccine, the DND is set to begin its inoculation drive for its employees upon the delivery of the 100,000 doses," he said.

Andolong said the vaccines will be administered to all employees and military personnel assigned to the DND and its civilian bureaus, namely: the Office of Civil Defense, Government Arsenal, National Defense College of the Philippines, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, as well as the civilian employees of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Family members of DND employees are also eligible to receive the vaccines.

"The intent is to vaccinate everyone who is in the same working environment and those living in the same households as our employees. It is crucial that all must be vaccinated to allow us to create a 'bubble' of an immunized workforce," Andolong said,

Meanwhile, he said uniformed personnel under the AFP will be inoculated under a different vaccine rollout plan.

The Food and Drug Administration on Monday granted EUA to Sinovac Biotech's Covid-19 vaccine after a thorough review by the country's medical and regulatory experts.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131609

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Duterte OKs task force for rebel returnees’ relocation (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

REBEL RETURNEES. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte interacts with some of his Cabinet members and Senator Christopher “Bong” Go prior to the start of the 52nd Cabinet meeting at the Malacañan Palace on Monday (Feb. 22, 2021). Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles on Tuesday said Duterte has given his nod to the proposed creation of inter-agency task force for the resettlement of rebel returnees. (Presidential photo by King Rodriguez)

President Rodrigo Duterte has given his nod to the proposed creation of inter-agency task force for the resettlement of rebel returnees, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said on Tuesday.

During a meeting with his Cabinet on Monday, Duterte approved the Department of Agrarian Reform’s (DAR) proposal to create a task force for the relocation of rebel returnees to places with idle government lands, Nograles said.

“Gusto po natin mapabilis ang pag-distribute nito dahil alam po natin na napakalaki ng role nito para sa ating peace efforts (We want to fast-track the distribution of lands because we know its big role in our peace efforts),” he said in a virtual presser.

The government, Nograles said, has so far distributed a total of 6,406.6 hectares of land located in Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, and Davao Region.

Nograles noted that the distributed lands are “larger than the size of the City of Manila,” which has an area of 4,288 hectares.

Apart from the creation of task force, Duterte has also approved the DAR’s proposal to direct the military and the police to provide security measures in the government-owned land (GOL) areas which are found to be “critical in nature,” Nograles said.

Nograles said Duterte has also approved the recommendation to instruct government agencies to identify idle GOLs that are ideal for distribution to rebel returnees.

The implementation of the “whole-of-nation approach” for the enhancement of livelihood support projects to rebel returnees has also been approved, Nograles said.

On Feb. 5, Duterte signed four proclamations granting amnesty to members of the communist movement, the Moro National Liberation Front, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade.

The granting of amnesty, according to the presidential proclamations, is in line with the government’s peace policy to nurture a climate conducive for peace and implement programs for reconciliation and reintegration of rebels into mainstream society.

On May 29, 2018, the Department of National Defense issued the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) directing the Task Force “Balik Loob” to enforce the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the government’s program for former rebels.

Under E-CLIP, former rebels can avail of PHP15,000 worth of immediate assistance, PHP21,000 to defray the subsistence or meals cost, support to relocate and secure their family, PHP50,000 livelihood assistance, temporary shelter, PhilHealth enrolment, medical assistance, housing assistance, modified conditional cash transfer, legal assistance, and livelihood assistance.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131567

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): 20 senior Navy officers promoted (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Promoted Philippine Navy officers (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy Public Affairs Office)

Twenty Philippine Navy senior officers were promoted to the ranks of Navy captain and Marine colonel during a donning of ranks ceremony Monday.

In a statement Tuesday, Navy Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the promotion of the 20 officers was a testament to their commitment to service, knowledge in their specialization, and leadership.

"In exchange for this promotion to a higher rank, expect greater responsibility and accountability. Display mastery of skills and facilitate the much-needed systemic changes in the PN as we modernize into a multi-capable naval force," he said.

Promoted to the next ranks are Capt. Elmer Toriado, Capt. Remuel Jardinero, Capt. Junmar Sales, Capt. Nerelito Martinez, Capt. Santiago Pacis Jr., Capt. Ariel Halasan, Capt. Leo Dimoc, Capt. Jonathan Salvilla, Capt. Edilberto Balduman, Capt. Lemar Dela Calzada, Capt. Reynaldo Lopez, Capt. Jude Joseph Sumpay, Capt. Jim Razo, Capt. Oliver Fernandez, and Capt. Venus Gualdaquever.

The following Philippine Marine Corps lieutenant colonel were also promoted to the next rank: Col. Danilo Facundo, Col. Ronald Virtudazo, Col. Jose Marie Santos, Col. Dante Robert Grasparil, and Col. Esperanza Casiao.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131546

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Security measures in place for 35th Edsa anniversary (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Edsa People Power Monument (File photo)

Security preparations are set for the upcoming 35th anniversary of the Edsa People Power revolt on Feb. 25, a ranking police official said Tuesday.

National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. has reminded police officers to maximize their presence and strictly implement minimum health standards and protocols during the event.

"Security preparations, coordinations and necessary deployments were set in place as the nation commemorates the unity of Filipino people who have shown the world of the true spirit of a 'non-violent demonstration'," Danao said.

Police are also instructed to activate security control points for the occasion.

He reminded police to carry "yantok" while patrolling to remind the public about physical distancing in places of convergence such as terminals, churches, malls, and markets. (with Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131542

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): 118 rebels, supporters heed Samar town surrender ultimatum (By Roel Amazona)

LEAVING NPA. Some of the 118 former rebels and loyal supporters recite their pledge of allegiance to the government during a ceremony on Feb. 21, 2021 in Matuguinao, Samar. They heeded the call of the mayor to surrender or face legal consequences. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

At least 118 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their staunch supporters formally yielded to the Philippine Army and the local government of Matuguinao, Samar, a military official said on Tuesday.

All, including nine village officials, joined the mass surrender ceremony at the town hall on Feb. 19, four days after the ultimatum set by Mayor Aran Boller.

Last January, the mayor gave NPA members and die-hard supporters until Feb. 15 to submit themselves to the authorities. Those who failed to surrender will be declared persona non-grata or face charges of supporting a terrorist group.

Some 353 town residents were identified by the local government and the military as NPA members and supporters.

Among them, only 195 have been subjected to tactical interrogation, said Lt. Col. Jasper Pecson, commander of the 19th Infantry Battalion.

Of the 195, only 118 attended the mass surrender ceremony.

“The campaign is still a success because those who surrendered are officials in their respective villages who have influences,” Pecson said in a phone interview.

Boller encouraged the surrenderers to totally reject the influences of the communist group.

“You need to have a peaceful life, free from worries and troubles. Focus on how you will improve the life of your family and the community,” he said.

The intensified campaign to encourage rebels to surrender is part of their effort to make Matuguinao a rebel-free town.

Boller added that of the 12 villages identified as NPA-influenced, five have been cleared last year. These are Deit, Libertad, Sta Cruz, San Isidro, and Nagpapacao villages.

Still affected by NPAs are Del Rosario, Ligaya, Carolina, San Roque, Inubod, Rizal, and Mahayag. NPA members operating in the area are from Northern Samar province.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Matuguinao is a fifth-class town in Samar province with a population of 7,288 people. The town is 105 kilometers from Tacloban City, the regional capital.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131582

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Access roads seen to end NPA in Borongan City (By Sarwell Meniano)

FIGHTING NPA. Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda. The official said on Tuesday (Feb. 23, 2021) improved access to far-flung villages in Borongan City, Eastern Samar is the key to wipe out the local communist terrorist group that has been threatening communities in the past five decades. (Photo courtesy of Borongan city government)

Improved access to far-flung villages in Borongan City, Eastern Samar is the key to wiping out the local communist terrorist group that has been threatening communities in the past five decades, Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda said on Tuesday.

Speaking to members of the provincial task force to end the local communist armed conflict (ELCAC), Agda said terrorist activities of the New People’s Army (NPA) will continue for as long as some upland communities are hard to reach.

“People from remote barangays need us, people in the government. They need interventions, but all our planned interventions will be limited to none if we can hardly reach them, and if their needs remain unabated, resentment, division could prevail,” he said.

He cited the city’s Pinanag-an village with more than a thousand families.

This remotest village is about a three-hour motorboat ride from the city’s wharf passing through five villages. The long river is the only access to the village, about 23 kilometers away from the city.

It was in Pinanag-an village where six soldiers died and 20 other government troops were critically injured when NPA rebels detonated a landmine during an ambush on Nov. 11, 2019.

On Dec. 13, 2019, a junior police officer and two civilians were also killed while four other policemen and 11 civilians, including three minors, were injured during an explosion followed by a burst of gunfires along a section of the main highway in Borongan.

At least nine upland villages have been identified as NPA-influenced with Pinanag-an as the farthest.

The mayor said in a phone interview that about 7,000 residents dwell in these communities.

“Government has been in a constant battle with the NPA insurgents and hundreds of peace talks had been made while innocent and helpless civilians are sometimes involved. Apparently, some issues have yet to be addressed, particularly the problem of the inaccessibility to government service,” Agda told the Philippine News Agency.

As a counter-insurgency measure, the Borongan local government will soon launch “Dukwag Agrikultura” (improving agriculture), which was approved recently by the city council, with program components aimed to improve the economic standing of poor farmers.

However, he said many of the identified agricultural farms are located in insurgency-laden communities.

“With the construction of needed roads and bridges, perhaps, some peace and order issues can be addressed eventually,” he said.

Agda has also lined up several road opening projects to improve the living condition of villagers by providing better access to basic skills training and livelihood, medical, and other social services, including education.

For 2021, now awaiting budget appropriations are the road linking the villages of Canyupay-Hebacong-Benowang-Baras-Pinanag-an (phase 2); Surok-San Matero road (phase2); concreting of Cabalagnan-Canyupay (phase 2); road opening in Surok-San Mateo (phase 4); road widening of Amantacop road; road opening in Sta. Fe; road opening of Balacdas-San Pablo; road construction in Sabang South-Sitio Lipgutan, and road opening in San Gabriel to Kaputian Falls, a tourism area.

The mayor is eyeing to complete all these road projects between 2021 to 2024.

Borongan, the capital of Eastern Samar is located 190 kilometers northeast of this city, the regional capital, which has a population of nearly 70,000 in 61 villages.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131574

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): 3 daughters of ex-ASG leader, 6 others nabbed in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ARRESTED. Three of the nine women nabbed Friday last week by the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu and police forces. Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, JTF-Sulu commander, on Tuesday (Feb. 23, 2021) said the women have strong ties with sub-leaders and members of the Abu Sayyaf Group. (Photo courtesy of JTF-Sulu)

Operatives from the police and Joint Task Force-Sulu have arrested nine women with strong ties to Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leaders and members in simultaneous joint law enforcement operations in the said province.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, JTF-Sulu commander, announced this only on Tuesday although the suspects were arrested Friday during intelligence-driven law enforcement operations by way of service of warrants of arrest in the towns of Jolo and Patikul.

Gonzales said three of the nine arrested suspects are daughters of the late ASG leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan. They were identified as Isara Jalmaani Abduhajan, 36; Jedah Abduhajan Amin, 28; and, Elena Tasum Sawadjaan-Abun, 40.

He said the troops recovered several improvised explosive device (IED) components when they arrested Isara and Jedah in Barangay Bangkal, Patikul.

Gonzales said Elena, who is the widow of ASG sub-leader Walid Abun, was arrested together with Firdauzia Said also known as Firdausia Salvin, in Kalimayahan Village, Barangay Latih, Patikul. Firdauzia is the widow of ASG sub-leader Mannul Said.

In another law enforcement operation in Barangay Tulay, Jolo, Sulu, the troops also arrested Nudsza Ismanu Aslun -- widow of ASG member Alias Abu Jabar, and Nurshahada Isnain -- wife of ASG member Alias Abu Akram, one of the trusted followers of ASG sub-leader Mundi Sawadjaan.

“Our combined forces recovered IED components such as switches, batteries, pipes, concrete nails, blasting caps, suspected ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO), and detonating cord. These are now at PNP's (Philippine National Police) crime lab,” Gonzales said.

He disclosed that the intelligence unit of the police reported that they also found a backpack containing a list of people tasked to deploy IEDs.

Gonzales also said the other suspects placed under the custody of government operatives are Linda Darun Maruji, Risa Jhalil, and Sharifa Rajani all residents of Kalimayahan village, Barangay Latih, Patikul.

He said they were arrested for violation of Republic Act 9516, the law against illegal manufacture, sales, possession of firearms and explosives.

“This is how desperate the remaining terrorists are, willing to sacrifice their families just to get back at government forces. JTF-Sulu will continue to exhaust all our options to put an end to terrorism here in this province. Thus, we will constantly collaborate with the police to press legal charges towards ASG members, supporters, and sympathizers,” Gonzales said.

The military noted that the twin bombings in August in Jolo last year were perpetrated by ASG female suicide bombers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131560

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Tagalog News: Site survey sa pabahay para sa mga sumukong rebelde, isinagawa na (By Merlito G. Edale, Jr.)

LUNGSOD NG ILAGAN, Isabela, Pebrero 23 (PIA) - Nagsagawa kamakailan ng site survey ang National Housing Authority (NHA) at LGU Jones katuwang ang 86th Infantry Battalion para sa ipapatayong pabahay na handog ng pamahalaan sa mga dating rebelde.

Ani Jones Mayor Leticia Sebastian, ang isinagawang site survey ay upang matiyak ang kaligtasan ng lugar na pagtatayuan ng kanilang mga bahay.

Sinabi ng alkalde na palaging sumusuporta ang lokal na pamahalaan sa mga programa ng national governement upang mahikayat ang mga rebelde na sumuko na at mamuhay ng normal.

Ayon pa sa kanya, ang libreng pabahay ay ipagkakaloob sa ilalim ng Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) ng pamahalaan.

Dadaan sa masusing eksamin ang mga posibleng mabigyan ng pabahay upang malaman kung pasok ang mga ito sa kondisyon ng NHA ayon pa kay Sebastian. (MDCT/BME/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067684

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Army Support Command facilities to transfer in Tarlac (By Trixie Joy B. Manalili)

TARLAC CITY, Feb. 23 (PIA) -- Army Support Command (ASCOM) facilities in Fort Bonifacio will transfer to a 29.8-hectare lot in Camp Servilliano Aquino in Tarlac by next year.

In today’s groundbreaking of the PhP 1.5 billion development project, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Dizon highlighted the collaboration of the state-owned firm, Department of National Defense (DND) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to realize the vision of modern ASCOM logistical facilities.

“We feel that this is a sound investment which not only puts ASCOM in a better position to serve the military, but opens up new opportunities for the national government to generate much-needed revenues by developing the soon-to-be-vacated Army areas in Fort Bonifacio,” Dizon said.

DND and AFP identified the relocation site in Camp Aquino while BCDA is responsible for the construction of structures and facilities, and the engagement of consulting services for engineering design and construction management.

Based on the four-phase development plan, a total of 44 structures will be constructed in the project site which include multiple headquarters facilities, officers' quarters, barracks, a warehouse, student classrooms and transportation and maintenance battalion areas.

In behalf of AFP Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, Northern Luzon Command Commander Lieutenant General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. cited the role of BCDA in transforming former military bases in premier centers of economic growth, paving the way for national development.

Officials from Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Department of National Defense and Armed Forces of the Philippines hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Army Support Command facilities in Camp Servilliano Aquino, Tarlac. (BCDA)

“The transfer of ASCOM here at Camp Aquino is very timely as it will not only boost the unit’s capabilities to carry out its mission and functions but it also reinforces its thrust to sustain personal readiness and enhancement of its operations and even gain momentum towards modernization,” Burgos said.

“ASCOM plays a very significant role in the AFP and the Philippine Army because they provide the logistical support to all the Army units not only in Luzon but also in Visayas and Mindanao. This is why ASCOM should be situated in a strategic location, like here in Camp Aquino,” he furthered.

For his part, ASCOM Commander Major General Glenn Cruz affirmed that the strategic location of Camp Aquino is advantageous in the logistics support and the deployment of support services.

“Considering the congestion in Metro Manila, the ease of our movement and security of our access from one place to another has already been affected. The new ASCOM area provides us with easier and more efficient logistics operations,” Cruz said.

ASCOM's mission is "to provide proactive, integrated and sustained quality logistics support services to Philippine Army units." (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067752

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 23, 2021): DILG-Lanao Norte initiates peace, dev't, governance talks with key stakeholders (By DILG Lanao del Norte)

LANAO DEL NORTE, Feb. 23 – Aimed towards meaningful and sustainable peace and development in the province, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Lanao del Norte initiated the Peace, Development and Governance Conversations on February 17 at Tangcal, this province.

The activity was participated by Pakigdait, Inc., the 125th MILF Base Camp, the Philippines Army 5th Mechanized Battalion, Provincial Police Office, and respective officials and functionaries of the municipality of Tangcal, Punong Barangays, and religious sectors.

During the activity, 18 Punong Barangays took oath in the presence of Congressman Abdullah Dimaporo and Mayor Fatima M. Tomawis, and pledged to deny entry and suppress any attempt or activity from extremist groups. This is in support of the government’s program in maintaining peace and order and sustainable development.

On the other hand, DILG- Lanao del Norte Cluster Head Mary Jean Y. Quibranza led the Governance Conversations on the national government’s priorities and DILG plans and programs with the local officials and department heads.

Meanwhile, Congressman Dimaporo positively responded to support LGU Tangcal with their endeavors.

Pakigdait, Inc., MILF, military, police, and religious leaders also vowed to support and sustain peace and development. (DILG-LDN)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067749

Kalinaw News: Medical Officer ng rebeldeng CPP-NPA, nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan; mga pampasabog isinuko

Kalinaw News: Rescued IP minors return home

Abu killed in shootout; kidnapping plot foiled

SAF member hurt in Northern Samar firefight with alleged NPA rebels

4 hurt in IED blast in Sorsogon

150 rebels, supporters surrender in Cagayan

Foreign diplomatic missions now required to clear all NGO donations with DFA

Davao counterinsurgency ‘experiment’ continues with P1.58-billion BDP fund

Manhunt on vs. Reds in Sorsogon clash: PNP

150 former rebels in Cagayan burn CPP-NPA flag

DND inoculation drive to start with delivery of Chinese vaccines

Duterte OKs task force for rebel returnees’ relocation

20 senior Navy officers promoted

Security measures in place for 35th Edsa anniversary

118 rebels, supporters heed Samar town surrender ultimatum

Access roads seen to end NPA in Borongan City

3 daughters of ex-ASG leader, 6 others nabbed in Sulu

Tagalog News: Site survey sa pabahay para sa mga sumukong rebelde, isinagawa na

Army Support Command facilities to transfer in Tarlac

DILG-Lanao Norte initiates peace, dev't, governance talks with key stakeholders