From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2021): Cotabato, South Cotabato municipalities benefit from P80M PAMANA infra dev't projects (By OPAPP)

Photo Credit: OPAPP

“We now have a sense of ownership sa [water system] at tayo na ang may-ari, ang mag-manage, mangangalaga. Ang importante may sustainability ang ating proyekto,” he added.

The PAMANA water system is equipped with a mega water reservoir that can hold up to 600,000 cubic meters of water and can serve up to 12,004 households.

The water will flow from the water source directly to the homes of residents in the isolated highland barangays of Malapang, Tomado, Luanan, and New Leon of this municipality.

The chairpersons of the beneficiary barangays shared the major benefits of the largest water system ever built in their area.

Photo Credit: OPAPP

According to them, since the project’s completion, village folk now have access to safe and adequate water for their household needs.

Moreover, Muslim residents have clean water which they can use for ablution or cleansing before doing their obligatory prayer.

“Maraming maraming salamat po dahil matagal na itong inaasam namin dahil naghihirap po talaga kami dito sa bukid. ‘Yung kinukunan namin ng tubig malayo talaga na kinakailangan pang ikarga sa kabayo para makarating sa bahay,” said Luanan Chairperson Abdulsaid Atan, whose barangay is one of the beneficiaries.

“Sa ngayon po maraming maraming salamat po sa OPAPP PAMANA na nabigyan tayo ng tubig na magamit natin hindi lang sa tatlong barangay [ang makikinabang] dahil kahit sino pa ang makakadaan d’yan ay [makakagamit] para sa ating lahat ito…Nagagamit na po namin ang tubig sa paglinis, pagsimba (ablution) dahil nakakarating na ang tubig sa aming mga bahay,” he added.

The chairpersons vowed to remind their constituents to take good care of the water system so that it can benefit the next generations.

Board members Rosali Cabaya and Loreto Cabaya donated a portion of their land where the most ideal water source is located.

This paved the way for the construction of the massive water system which now serves thousands of households in the area.

Also present during the ceremonial turnover were Provincial Administrator Efren Piñol representing Governor Nancy Catamco; Cotabato provincial board members Kelly Antao and Shirlyn Macasarte representing Vice Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza; Sangguniang Bayan (SB) member and chair of the Committee on Infrastructure Cornel Calambro; and SB members Cesar Caballero, Doris Clarito, and Efren Cabaya.

Other attendees included PAMANA project engineer and focal Efren Aujero; municipal planning and development officer Rowena Bañaga; OIC municipal engineer Warda Culod; project engineers Abdulbasir Kindatu and Abdulrauf Manalasal; and Malapang chair Arnel Cabaya, New Leon chair Felimon Caluyo, and Tomado chair Ernesto Dela Serna.

The turn-over was also graced by Brig. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong and Lt. Rommel Mundala from the Armed Forces of the Philippines; and Municipal Police Chief PMaj. Maxim Peralta from the Philippine National Police.

No Tantangan village left behind in PAMANA water system

“Yung water system po bawat barangay ay may budget na 1.7 (million pesos). Malaking tulong ‘yung water system para sa aming constituents sa aming barangay. Noon po yung hindi naaabot ng water system, kinakailangan pa po ng pressure tank pero ngayon po dahil may water system na galing sa OPAPP, nakakatipid na po sa gastos dahil sa murang singil ng bawat BAWASA (barangay water system association).”

This was according to Brgy. Captain Johnny Alada, president of the league of barangays Tantangan chapter, whose barangay is among the recipients of the water system project.

Noon malayo at level 1 o level 2 lang [na water systems], ngayon ay level 3 na kung saan diretso na talaga sa loob ng kanikanilang mga bahay ang tubig na galing sa OPAPP PAMANA kaya sa ngalan ng Liga ng mga Barangay, kami po ay nagpapasalamat sa Pangulong Duterte na s’ya ay tumutugon sa aming pangangailangan,” added Alada.

All 13 barangays of the municipality of Tantangan in South Cotabato are the beneficiaries of a Php 22 million Level II potable water system project built under the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) Program.

Photo Credit: OPAPP

OPAPP Director and PAMANA National Program Management Head Cesar De Mesa and Tantangan Mayor Benjamin Figueroa, Jr. led the official turnover of the water facilities on Thursday, May 6.

“Nagpapasalamat po kami especially kay Presidente Rodrigo Roa Duterte [para] sa fund na ibinigay nila [sa amin]. Habang may tubig po mula sa projects natin ay magagamit po ito ng tao, ng mga constituents natin sa 13 barangays,” said Figueroa.

The water systems were built in barangays of Magon, Mangilala, New Cuyapo, Poblacion, Dumadalig, New Iloilo, Cabuling, New Lambunao, Bukay Pait, Maibo, San Felipe, Libas, and Tinongcop.

Meanwhile, De Mesa explained that the PAMANA Program is in line with the six-point peace and development agenda of the Duterte administration, and supports the Philippines’ comprehensive peace process.

“Ito (PAMANA) ang programa ng gobyerno para sa mga conflict sensitive at vulnerable areas at mga lugar na geographically isolated and depressed areas (GIDAs),” De Mesa said.

“‘Pagka maganda po ang kabuhayan ng ating mga mamamayan ay hindi sila basta basta ma-recruit ng kung sino mang rebelde,” he added.

De Mesa and Figueroa also led the project’s exit conference participated in by the beneficiaries and project contractor.

Exit conferences are held to address issues and concerns related to a project implementation before it is officially turned over to beneficiaries.

The event was also attended by municipal Engr. Joseph Pudadera; Tantangan barangay chairmen Musa Magon, Noel De Castro, Armando Nono, Eliezer Reyes, Pedro Rufino, Jr., Maibo, Jose Cabayao, Benhur Peñol, Rodelio Palomo, Jimmy Juaneza, Ernesto Layos, Julio Leal, and Nelia Delos Reyes.

Also present were Lt. Col. Edwin Alburo, commander of the 40th IB and Col. Joel Mamon, commander of the Joint Task Force Talakudong and deputy commander of the 601st Brigade; and PCpt. Brandie Rasos from the Philippine National Police.

Photo Credit: OPAPP

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2021): RTF-ELCAC 6 Spox :CNT can never defeat government forces (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2021): NTF-ELCAC to fund development projects in 2 Ilocos Sur barangays (By Joyah Mae C. Quimoyog)

Regional Development Council in the Ilocos Region chairperson and Vigan City Mayor Juan Carlo S. Medina during the Kapihan sa Ilocos hosted by the Philippine Information Agency on April 29 in San Fernando City, La Union. (Screenshot from PIA Region 1's live stream)

Of the 822 barangays cleared of insurgency nationwide from 2016-2019, which were approved by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to be given Php20 million each under the BDP, the said two barangays in Ilocos Region were included as beneficiaries of the BDP 2021.

As per the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Ilocos Sur, development projects such as the rehabilitation of barangay health center, construction of public toilets, farm-to-market roads, classroom, assistance to indigent individuals/families, and livelihood, technical-vocational training are programmed to be implemented in the two villages.

These projects are identified by the residents and the local government unit, the DILG said.

Medina recalled during the forum that for the 2020 budget, 30 projects from the Departments of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Social Welfare and Development, Environment and Natural Resources, Public Works and Highways, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and the Philippine National Police were implemented.

“Nakikita talaga namin na dahil sa mga projects na nagawa rito, bumaba ang insurgence dito sa atin at kaya noong 2020 ay mayroong 18 na former rebel ang nag-surrender at nabigyan ng assistance worth P1.1 million kasama na rito ang reintegration activities at livelihood projects para sa kanila,” he said.

For the first quarter of 2021, 11 former rebels from Ilocos Sur were also given assistance worth P400, 000.

With the dismantling of the only existing guerilla front of the CPP-NPA-NDF in the Ilocos Region particularly in Ilocos Sur, Medina hopes that Ilocos Sur will be insurgency-free through the whole-of-nation approach to end armed conflict institutionalized through Executive Order 70.

“Kailangan talaga ang mga ito para ipaabot ang serbisyo sa ating mga kababayan na nasa far-flung barangays kasi iyon ang inaasam at hinihintay nila na umabot ang serbisyo sa kanila and through the efforts of the NTF-ELCAC through National Security Adviser at CORDS-1 Hermogenes Esperon, Governor Ryan Luis Singson at mga kapwa ko local chief executives, talagang umaabot na ang serbisyo sa kanila so kung makikita niyo itong mga projects, from education to economic, iyong farm-to-market road to trainings for our farmers, students, at children, malaking bagay talaga ang NTF-ELCAC,” Medina added.

“We are hoping that in the next quarter or two quarters, Ilocos Sur will be insurgency-free,” Medina ended. (JCR/VHS/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2021): Calayan wants to sustain its insurgency-free status (By Oliver T. Baccay) 

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 11, 2021): AFP’s CSP program supports 11 barangays in Balbalan, Kalinga (By Peter A. Balocnit) 

 

With convergence of services as the strategy to bring interventions to these ELCAC barangays, grass-root planning will be conducted by Army teams assigned to gather data needed in the identification of programs or projects to be funded by ELCAC. They will also facilitate the preparation of project proposals for funding.

Balbalan Mayor Eric Gonayon warmly welcomed the 50IB soldiers as he lauded the Philippine Army’s efforts prioritizing Balbalan LGU for the CSP. He said the CSP team will help the LGU in identifying community concerns, which is also a big help in the delivery of various services in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas.

50IB Commander LTC Melanio Somera explained the CSP troops would not be bringing with them the solutions immediately, rather they would serve as facilitators in addressing the issues on the exploitation of the communist terrorists in the communities in collaboration with the LGU, partner agencies and other concern stakeholders.

He said the community and village chairman have critical roles in terms of advocating and protecting the youths and students from joining the New People’s Army. “We will also conduct localized peace engagements to convince NPA remnants to surrender and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program for them to start a new and normal life.

“Your Philippine Army will be working in your areas not only to address peace and security concerns but also to help facilitate the safe delivery of government basic social services in distant and conflict-affected areas. Our aim is to bring our government closer to the people,” Somera said.

Meanwhile, 503rd Brigade Executive Officer LTC Magtangol Panopio rallied the villagers to join the band-wagon and be on the side of government. “Your Philippine Army is always here as a partner of the LGUs in attaining sustainable peace and inclusive development. It is imperative that we undertake the whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach to end the local communist armed conflict.

As confirmed by MLGOO Mediatrix Alino, upon the success of the CSP, LGUs will be mandated to sustain those projects through their inclusion in the Local Investment Plan. (JDP/PAB-PIA CAR, Kalinga)

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 10, 2021): Former Kalinga rebel receives assistance under ECLIP (By Peter A. Balocnit)

 


The rebel returnee received a total of Php165,000.00- Php15,000 as immediate assistance, Php50,000 livelihood assistance and Php100,000 remuneration of firearm surrendered).

The former rebel is grateful he was given the chance to be re-integrated to mainstream society, and expressed his regret for joining the CPP-NPA for nothing. He said he will invest the assistance he received on hog raising.

Governor Ferdinand Tubban, who was represented by Provincial Administrator Atty. William Puday Jr. during the turn-over, said the intervention is in response to the reasons why some people join the CPP-NPA – poverty.

“If all the remaining NPAs surrender, it means a lot to the progress of the province since the assistance they will receive will surely contribute to the solution of other problems like employment, income disparity and justice among others,” Tubban said. (JDP/PAB-PIA CAR, Kalinga)

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 10, 2021): Army’s Islamic summit brings ‘stronger’ partnership with gov’t (By Keren Anne Bernadas)

LEGAZPI CITY (PIA) – The 9th Civil Military Operation (CMO) Kaagapay Batallion of the Philippine Army, takes a leap higher in bringing stronger linkages between Bicolano Muslim community and government agencies.

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2021): Military recovers high-powered firearms, IED while pursuing terrorists BIFF in Central Mindanao

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – Military troops recovered high-powered firearms and an improvised explosive device in separate operations against the local terrorists Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) in Central Mindanao on May 10, 2021.

According to WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., while the troops from the Joint Task Force Central were conducting a combat clearing operation in Sitio Balisa, Barangay Lepak, Pandag, Maguindanao around 1:10 p.m. Monday (May 10, 2021), they seized one Elisco M16 rifle loaded with a long magazine and 22 ammunition; and one Colt M16 rifle with one long magazine with 30 ammunition and one short magazine loaded with 17 ammunition.

Troops from the JTF Central continue to scour the area and pursue the BIFF local terrorist group.

The said firearms are believed to be owned by the fleeing BIFF terrorists who are responsible for the recent violence in Datu Paglas according to Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander, Joint Task Force Central.

Meanwhile, an IED was recovered by the joint elements of the AFP and PNP on Sunday morning, May 9.

The PNP personnel of Isulan Municipal Police Station received a report of a suspected IED placed on top of a fuel tank at Purok Masagana, Kalawag 1, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.

Combined elements of the PNP and AFP immediately proceeded to the area to verify the report.

According to Brig. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander, 601st Infantry Brigade, upon confirmation, the operating troops immediately cordoned the area and secured the item. “The prompt response of the government forces preempted the enemies from executing their terror plan.”

Recovered was a complete set of IED which include one Cartridge 81mm high explosive, one 9-volt battery, one improvised electric blasting cap, one sniper veil, white masking tape, brown packaging tape, and one Emylo receiver.

Since January 2021, the military recovered a total of 12 firearms and 74 explosives of the BIFF.

[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/military-recovers-high-powered-firearms-ied-while-pursuing-terrorists-biff-in-central-mindanao/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2021): Army, PNP conduct Kapwa ko Sagot ko and Barangayanihan to Muslim Community in Bacolod



CAMP GERONA, Murcia, Negros Occidental – The 303rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army with 79IB, 14CMOBn, Bacolod City Police Office Station 6 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles collaborated and conducted Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko and BARANGAYanihan at Barangay 31, Bacolod City on May 8, 2021, Saturday.

The activity is geared towards helping the Muslim community in Bacolod City as the country still experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic. Around 100 Muslim brothers and sisters benefited from the program, received vegetables and food packs with rice, canned goods and instant noodles.

The Coordinator of the Bangsamoro Communities Outside of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BCOBAR) in Western Visayas Khalid Dalidig Lumna in a statement thanked all the agencies and generous stakeholders involved in the said activity and added that it is a great help for the community especially those affected by the pandemic.

Colonel Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander likewise said that the “Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko” activities of the Philippine Army along with our stakeholders will continue to sustain one another while we are in these challenging times.

[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]

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2021): MLGU in Agusan Sur, AFP collaborate to bring services in remote IP community



More than 200 Indigenous People from the Ata Manobo and Dibabawon tribe benefited from the “Tulong Bayanihan Para Sa Sambayanan” which was organized by the municipal local government of Loreto and the 60th Infantry (Mediator) Battalion (60IB) in Sitio Nursery of Barangay Kasapa 1, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.

The activity is part of 60IB’s Community Support Program and the local government of Loreto’s initiative in diminishing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is also a collaborative effort of the local government unit (LGU) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines in ending the local communist armed conflict in the area. The activity was co-facilitated by the local government of Loreto headed by the municipal mayor, Hon. Lorife Otaza and 60IB headed by Lt Col Ronaldo Sarmiento.

Some national and local government agencies that attended the said activity include the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), Department of Health (DOH) and Rural Health Unit of Loreto (RHU), Municipal Engineers Office (MEO), Local Civil Registrar (LCR), Municipal Agriculture Office (MAGRO), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Public Employment Service Office (PESO), Department of Labor and Empowerment Region XIII (DOLE), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP).

The “Tulong Bayanihan Para Sa Sambayanan” paved way to the delivery of 62 solar-powered lights, 52 hygiene kits, Php 15,000.00 cash for the repair of the sitio’s school roof, Php 1,000.00 cash each for the 71 households of Sitio Nursery, free haircut, free medical consultation, food, and grocery items. The DOH also conducted a lecture on the COVID-19 vaccine in preparation for the upcoming vaccination of the members of the tribe the following week. Also, DOH distributed water containers and water purifiers as a temporary purifying tool for their drinking water to prevent them from acquiring disease.

The municipal engineer also inspected for possible water source for the construction of the sitio’s potable water system. Furthermore, LCR conducted civil registration of the IPs therein for their birth certificates and marriage certificates. TESDA also facilitated the pre-registration for Loreto’s Real Initiative for Education Training Program. Finally, DOLE awarded the Certificate of Registration of the People’s Organization of Sitio Nursery.

[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/mlgu-in-agusan-sur-afp-collaborate-to-bring-services-in-remote-ip-community/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2021): Firearms, explosives and several items recovered by 48IB in an enemy hideout

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2021): Rebels Continue to Lose In Davao Region: Two High Ranking Leaders Surrender to 10th Infantry Division



MAWAB, Davao de Oro- Troops of the 28th Infantry Battalion under 10th Infantry “Agila” Division together with the 1001st Brigade and other units successfully facilitated the surrender of Alias JAY-JAY, Commanding Officer of Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), Sub-Regional Committee 2, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee together with her party wife Alias SASSY last May 9, 2021, Sunday in Bugac, Barangay Ma-a in Davao City.

Alias JAY-JAY, 34-years old together with her party wife Alias Sassy, 22 years old, a resident of Mabini, Davao De Oro yielded several items and war materials: One (1) UZI gun INGRAM MAC-10 Delux Two (2) AK47 Steel Magazine with 120 rounds of ammunition Two (2) Cellular Phones Five (5) Sim Cards Two (2) Flash Drives One (1) SD Card with three card adapters and Extortion letter. After the surrender, the two are brought to Mawab Police Station for proper disposition, recording their official surrender to authorities. Right after, a medical examination was conducted at Mawab Health Center. Meanwhile, Major General Ernesto C Torres Jr, Commander of 10th Infantry Division commended the troops for the accomplishment and welcomed the surrenderees. “Together with the men and women of 10th Infantry Division, we welcome the right path chosen by Alias Jay-jay and Sassy, his wife in going back to the folds of the law.

Together with the whole nation, we will work hand in hand as we approach the final frontier on our quest on the total eradication of insurgency unto our nation brought by the false ideology instilled by the CPP-NPA-NDF to brainwash vulnerable communities.” “Also, I would like to commend the troops under 28th Infantry Brigade, and 1001st Brigade who delivered such huge accomplishment to the division in neutralizing high-ranking officials. Your contribution has been duly recognized by the command,” Major Gen eral Torres added. Moreover, the Alias JAY-JAY together with his party wife executed their affidavit and signified their willingness to go back to the folds of the law, and vowed to cooperate with the authorities and be put under protective custody. Likewise, the Agila Division recently neutralized Alias Bosyong, Secretary of Southern Mindanao Regional Party together with party wife Alias Bambam in an encounter last April 26, 2021, in Agusan Del Sur.

The recent neutralization of two high-ranking officials of the New People’s Army has further weakened the presence of communist terrorist group under Agila Division’s area of responsibility with only eight (8) guerilla fronts in which three are already under the weakened status while two are set to be declared as dismantled within this year.

[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/rebels-continue-to-lose-in-davao-region-two-high-ranking-leaders-surrender-to-10th-infantry-division/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2021): Philippine Army joins Dingalan LGU Serbisyo Caravan



BALER, Aurora-The Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion joined the “Serbisyo Caravan” of the local government unit (LGU) Dingalan, Aurora for the delivery of basic services to residents on May 10, 2021 at Barangay Dikapanikian. Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of 91st IB said that one (1) Platoon led by 1st Lieutenant Jevie J.

Sagragao provided security and man-power assistance together with Dingalan Police Station officer-in-charge Police Lieutenant Jetro Amengan during the Serbisyo Caravan headed by Mayor Shierwin H. Taay together with different offices of LGU and other agencies. In addition, personnel of 91IB offered services to the Dikapanikian residents that included the twenty tree (23) individuals who participated for the Libreng Gupit, ten (10) individuals for repairing of appliances by 7th Signal Battalion, Army Signal Regiment (ASR), nine (9) individuals for BP Consultation and feeding program gives for the fifty (50) individuals to the said barangay. Furthermore, 1Lt Jevie Sagragao and Staff Sergeant Shane Gregorio of CMO Section 91st IB together with Philippine Coconut Authority Technician Frederick Ramos distributed the (50) coconut seedlings to Maralitang Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Magsasaka Jose L.

Nunes, the president of the said association and also distributed syrup and antibiotic for kids below 12 years of age with the assistance from the Barangay Health Workers (BHW) of the said barangay. The said initiative was part of the government’s end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) livelihood program. The 91st Infantry (SINAGTALA) Battalion and other agencies are working together out of munificence to achieve the same intention and that is to deliver aid to communities in need. Lt. Col. Rubio lauded the efforts of the LGU Dingalan and the supports of national and local agencies through Serbisyo Caravan in delivering of government services closer to the people.

[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/philippine-army-joins-dingalan-lgu-serbisyo-caravan/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 11, 2021): 3ID, PRO6 boost insurgency, criminality efforts



CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz –The 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army and the Police Regional 6 convened anew to review their performance in the 1st quarter of 2021 and intensify their current efforts to address the insurgency problem and maintain peace and order across the region.

The two uniformed services meet as the Regional Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Cluster (RJPSCC 6) at Madi-as Hall, Police Regional Office 6 at Camp Martin Delgado Iloilo City on Thursday, May 06, 2021. The police force was led by no less than PBGen Rolando Miranda, the Regional Director of PRO6, while for 3ID is BGen Noel T Baluyan, the Acting Division Commander, who joined the meeting virtually.

The meeting updated the members on the current insurgency situation, counterinsurgency operations, status of Legal Offensive against the Communist Terrorist Group, training between PNP and AFP, and other matters of mutual cooperation. PBGen Rolando Miranda, the Regional Director of PRO-6, assured the full support of the police force to the 3rd Infantry Division’s campaign to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Western Visayas. “The collaboration and cooperation of the Philippine National Police and the 3ID is very strong here in Panay and Negros Islands. Let us continue working together as one, for we can achieve great things when we support one another,” said PBGen Miranda.

In his message that BGen Baluyan read, MGen Eric C Vinoya said that the joint efforts of AFP and PNP this quarter has once again proven the efficiency and effectiveness in addressing insurgency and peace and order situation. “We have done enough, but there is still need to be done. This is because until it is not over, it is not yet over. As they say, in order to finish insurgency, we need to finish them completely, and we shall continue the fight in the spirit of joint operations.” said MGen Vinoya. “Through the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the CTGs influence is decreasing not only in the region but nationwide.

To this effect, the RJPSCC 6 should reach out to other concerned government agencies and coordinate all efforts to further our endeavor,” added MGen Vinoya. The RJPSCC was formed to ensure the collaborative efforts of the military and the police in addressing peace and security concerns in Region 6.

[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/3id-pro6-boost-insurgency-criminality-efforts/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 12, 2021): Former Rebels who topped the Computer Training receive laptops from Government in Agusan del Norte

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte- With the partnership of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Local Government Unit of Cabadbaran City and the 29th Infantry “Matatag Fighters” Battalion; four (4) units of laptop were awarded on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Headquarters of Delta Company, 29th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City to the former rebels (FRs) and dependents who topped the computer training provided by the DICT.

As promised by the 2nd district representative of Agusan del Norte, Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba, to give laptops to the top 4 performing participants, City Councilor Inez Rosario Amante-Bautista then personally handed over the four units of laptop and reminded the beneficiaries to continue on developing the basic knowledge which they have acquired from the training. She emphasized that these gifts would surely be of great help in their studies and it also can provide the opportunity of gaining employment, such as on current economic trend of online jobs.

It can be recalled that recently the City of Cabadbaran posted about a three-day seminar on Digital Literacy Program which was launched last May 3, 2021 that aims to educate the former rebels and their dependents on acquiring new skills in computers.

Likewise, the honorable mayor of Cabadbaran City gave PHP 1,200 to every trainees and Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba also gave PHP 2,000 each. While those who made it to be on the top 4 and have excelled in their presentations received an additional PHP 10,000. Alias Cris, a former rebel and one of the recipients of laptop said, “Ako nagapasalamat gyud pag-ayo sa kanunay nga tabang sa gobyerno sa amoa. Gitabangan gayud mi nila sukad adtong nagsurrender mi hangtod sa makabarog na kami sa among kaugalingon. Wala sila napakyas sa pagpakita unsa mi nila gipalangga. Nanghinaut lang ko nga makabalos mi nila sa ilang kamaayo ug kabootan sa amoa.”(I am forever grateful for the continuous help and support of the government for us.Truly, they have assisted us all throughout our way from the day of our surrender until the day we can fully stand on our own. They have not failed to show us how much they cared for us. I just hope someday we could also repay back for all their goodness and kindness for us.)

According to Boding, daughter of alias Jumong,” Walay kabutangan akong kalipay ug pasalamat nga napili ko nga tagaan sa laptop. Dugay na nako nga pangandoy nga makapanag-iya sukad nga nag-eskwela pako ug kasagara sa among mga buluhaton manginahanglan gayud ug online. Tungod ani, ako nagasaad nga pag ampingan ug iapod-apod kini sa uban, kay aron mahibalo sad sila sa kamaayo sa gobyerno ug ang kahibalo nga nakuha nako sa training.” (I cannot contain my happiness and gratitude when I was chosen to be one of the recipients of laptop. It has always been my dream to have one since I was a student and most of our activities and outputs require the use of online. By this, I promise to take care of it, and share to others, how good the goverment is and also the learnings which I have gained from the training.)

[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/former-rebels-who-topped-the-computer-training-receive-laptops-from-goverment-in-agusan-del-norte/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 12, 2021): 76 Communist Terrorist Group surrenderees receive financial assistance under Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program



BALER, Aurora-76 former members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the province of Nueva Ecija who recently surrendered to the authorities along with a former recipient were given financial assistance under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Of the said figures, 50 are regular members of New People’s Army (NPA) and 26 are former member of the Milisyang Bayan (MB). Lieutenant Colonel Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, Philippine Army said that each former MB member received Php15,000.00 immediate assistance while the former E-CLIP recipient who used to be a former cadre of the NPA, received Php65,000.00-worth of firearm remuneration in a ceremony held at the Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office (NEPPO) here on Tuesday, May 11, 2021.

He said that 2nd Lieutenant Zamzamyn K. Dimasinsing, Executive Officer (Ex-O) of Alpha Company of 91st Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army attended the awarding of E-CLIP Livelihood Assistance together with Provincial Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Nueva Ecija headed by LGOO VII Ariel G. Espinosa-CLUSTER II Team Leader Police Colonel Jaime O. Santos, Provincial Director of NEPPO, Police Lieutenant Colonel Marco A. Dadez- Force Commander of 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), Police Lieutenant Colonel Alexander C. Aurelio-Force Commander of 1st PMFC to the 76 beneficiaries.

Also present during the activity was Doctor Anthony Umali, Vice Governor of Nueva Ecija.

Lieutenant Colonel Rubio lauded the former rebels for deciding to return to the fold of the law and gave assurance for the continuous assistance from the national government especially with the strengthened implementation of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70.

He also called for the cooperation of the former rebels and supporters of CPP-NPA to help end local communist armed conflict in the provinces of Aurora and Nueva Ecija by supporting the government’s peace and development efforts.



[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/76-communist-terrorist-group-surrenderees-receive-financial-assistance-under-enhanced-comprehensive-local-integration-program/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 12, 2021): Dingalan residents receive basic services through Serbisyo Caravan



BALER, Aurora-The Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion has joined the “Serbisyo Caravan” of the local government unit (LGU) Dingalan town for the continued delivery of basic services to residents on Monday, May 10, 2021 at barangay Dikapanikian, Dingalan, Aurora.

Lieutenant Colonel Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of 91st Infantry Battalion said that one (1) Platoon led by 1st Lieutenant Jevie J. Sagragao provided security and man-power assistance together with Dingalan Police Station officer-in-charge Police Lieutenant Jetro Amengan during the Serbisyo Caravan headed by Mayor Shierwin H. Taay together with different offices of LGU and other agencies. In addition, personnel of 91st Infantry Battalion offered services to the Dikapanikian residents that included the twenty tree (23) individuals who participated for the Libreng Gupit, ten (10) individuals for repairing of appliances by 7th Signal Battalion, Army Signal Regiment (ASR), nine (9) individuals for BP Consultation and feeding program gives for the fifty (50) individuals to the said barangay.

Aside from that, 1st Lieutenant Sagragao and Staff Sergeant Shane Gregorio of CMO Section 91st Infantry Battalion together with Philippine Coconut Authority Technician Frederick Ramos distributed (50) coconut seedlings to Maralitang Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Magsasaka Jose L. Nunes, the president of the said association and also distributed syrup and antibiotic for kids below 12 years of age with the assistance from the Barangay Health Workers (BHW) of the said barangay.

The said initiative was part of the government’s end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) livelihood program. “The 91st Infantry (SINAGTALA) Battalion and other agencies are working together out of munificence to achieve the same intention and that is to deliver aid to communities in need,” Lieutenant Colonel Rubio said. He lauded the efforts of the LGU Dingalan and the supports of national and local agencies through Serbisyo Caravan in delivering government services closer to the people.

[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/dingalan-residents-receive-basic-services-through-serbisyo-caravan/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 12, 2021): 127 Families Benefit from (NOLCOM) Northern Luzon Command’s ‘Kapwa Ko Sagot Ko Project’



San Miguel Tarlac, 12 May 2021–A total of 127 families of Barangay Pando, Tarlac City were benefited of fresh assorted vegetables distributed through a Community Pantry by the 1st Civil Relations Group, CRSAFP, 31st Mechanized Infantry Company and Tarlac City Police Office on May 11, 2021.

The activity which is under the Northern Luzon Command ‘Kapwa Ko Sagot Ko Project’ (KKSK) aims to provide immediate food assistance to the less-fortunate Kababayan, particularly those presiding in vulnerable communities, to alleviate their sufferings caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The beneficiaries were delighted to receive vegetables, donated by the Rise and Rebuild International Foundation. They were also grateful for the assistance as food would now be available for their respective families. “In behalf of Rise and Rebuild International Foundation, we hope to continue to improve health by nourishing not just the Filipino children, but also the whole Family” said Ms. Liahona Mae B. Del Rosario, Farm Manager of Rise and Rebuild International Foundation-Tarlac.

The activity was successfully conducted as a result of the discipline and adherence to the health protocol of the residents.

This Unit will continue to reach out to the indigent families in different Barangays within the area of responsibility through the NOLCOM KKSK.

[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/127-families-benefit-from-nolcom-northern-luzon-commands-kapwa-ko-sagot-ko-project/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 12, 2021): Sustained military operations in Datu Paglas resulted in four BIFF extremist killed



Camp Sionco, Maguindanao – Four members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters – Karialan faction were killed in an armed clash with government forces in the outskirts of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao early morning today, May 12, 2021.

Brigadier General Roy Galido, Commander of 601st Infantry Brigade, confirmed that government forces encountered members of the said group who were trying to evade security forces. Accordingly, the operating troops recovered 4 dead bodies belonging to the extremist group, one high-powered firearm, and other war materials. Said group has been the target of the security force’s pursuit operations in Datu Paglas and other nearby towns after clashing with military forces near the Public Market of the said town last Saturday, May 8, 2021.

Since then, the extremist group already suffered, with 4 of its members killed while 2 were arrested with the intensified manhunt of military and police forces. The early morning armed clash in Datu Paglas came after the visit of President Rodrigo Duterte inside the Headquarters of the 6th Infantry Division in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao yesterday, May 11, 2021. Consequently, the President met with military area commanders and local officials of Central Mindanao and BARMM in a private meeting inside the military camp. During the meeting, the President called on the Local Chief Executives to help him (the government) in addressing the extremist and terrorist threat in Central Mindanao.

He even expressed satisfaction with the military’s dedication to protecting the civilians and communities and called on them to intensify military operations to prevent terrorist groups from attacking the civilian populace and communities. Major General Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry Division, applauded the efforts of the operating troops against the BIFF and the Daulah Islamiya. “Your efforts are a manifestation of your commitment to serve the Filipino people,” Maj. Gen. Uy said. He further stressed that the JTF Central and 6ID will continue their intensified operation against the said groups to prevent them from hurting the civilian populace and destroying infrastructures.

[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/sustained-military-operations-in-datu-paglas-resulted-in-four-biff-extremist-killed/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 12, 2021): RAMADAN MUBARAK | Islamic Symposium fosters peace and unity, food packs distributed to FVEs

ISABELA CITY, Basilan — More than fifty former violent extremists (FVEs) attended the Islamic Symposium held at the Headquarters 4th Special Forces Battalion in Barangay Cabunbata last Monday afternoon, 10 May 2021.