Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From the Philippine News Agency (May 16, 2021): PNP declares ‘enhanced’ offensive vs. BIFF (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar on Sunday ordered police units to intensify offensive against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Eleazar made the directive following Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr.’s observation of heightened recruitment activities and increased attacks by the BIFF amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I agree with our Presidential Peace Adviser, Sec. Carlito Galvez, that it is easy now for the BIFF to recruit members because the pandemic has severely affected the livelihood of many people in Mindanao,” Eleazar said in a statement. “Ito ang sinasamantala ng BIFF, ang kagutuman at kawalan ng trabaho ng ilan sa ating mga kababayan (The BIFF is taking advantage of hunger and the lack of job opportunities).”

He said to prevent the BIFF’s recruitment and attacks, the PNP will further enhance its intelligence operations against the group and conduct aggressive police operations.

“Mas paiigtingin pa natin ang presensya ng pulis para hindi na makaporma pa ang grupong ito (We will intensify the police presence as deterrence to what they are planning to do),” he said.

Eleazar, however, said the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) still need the public’s help to successfully stop the BIFF from getting more members.

“This needs a whole-of-nation approach. Aside from the police and military, other government agencies and stakeholders also have roles to play in preventing recruitment by the BIFF,” Eleazar explained.

Meanwhile, Eleazar said there was no failure of intelligence among state security forces as both the military and the police remain vigilant amid the pandemic.

“Kahit naman po may pandemya, nakatutok pa rin ang inyong mga pulis at sundalo sa pagpapanatili ng seguridad sa bawat komunidad, at kasama na dito ‘yung pagmo-monitor natin sa pwersa ng kalaban (Despite the pandemic, your police and the military are focused to maintain security of every community, and that’s includes monitoring the forces of the enemies). We have not and cannot let our guards down against these local terror groups,” Eleazar stressed.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140416

From the Philippine News Agency (May 16, 2021): Duterte names Centino new PH Army chief (By Azer Parrocha and Priam Nepomuceno)

Maj. Gen. Andres Centino (Photo courtesy of PIA)

President Rodrigo Duterte has named incumbent 4th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Andres Centino as the new head of the Philippine Army (PA).

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed Centino’s appointment in a statement to reporters on Sunday morning.

“The Palace confirms that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed the designation of MGEN Andres C. Centino as Commanding General of the Philippine Army on May 14, 2021,” Roque said.

He wished Centino “all the best” and expressed confidence in his ability to serve as the new Army commander.

“We are confident that MGEN Centino will continue the initiatives to professionalize and modernize the principal branch of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) while building the gains to serve our people and secure our land,” he added.

AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, in a separate statement, welcomed Centino’s appointment.

"The General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines welcomes the designation of Maj. Gen. Andres Centino as Commanding General of the Philippine Army," Arevalo said.

He added that Centino's appointment came at the time when the AFP is vigorously pursuing its initiatives and building on its gains to defeat the Communist Terrorist Group, the Abu Sayyaf Group, and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

"And this is where his attributes are expected to contribute immensely," Arevalo said.

Given Centino's known professionalism, operational experience, and managerial skills gained from various leadership echelons of the AFP, he said the new PA commander will undoubtedly stir the Army to greater heights.

Centino's appointment to the top Army post was confirmed by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana as early as Saturday when asked by reporters if there is a new appointed Army commander.

The 4th Infantry Division is based in Cagayan De Oro.

Centino, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1988, will replace his classmate Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino who was appointed as acting PA chief last February.

Faustino, who still has several months remaining before his mandatory retirement in November this year, will be designated as the Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff on Peace and Development, according to AFP chief Gen. Cirilito Sobejana.

Sobejana said Faustino’s relief was done in accordance with the Republic Act 8186, Section 4 wherein the Commanding General of the Philippine Army should have at least one year remaining in the service on the day of his assumption.

Under RA 8186, officers holding key positions (AFP chief of staff, AFP vice chief of staff, AFP deputy chief of staff, and major service commanders) are limited to a maximum tenure of three years unless relieved by competent authority or compulsorily retired.

Faustino will closely supervise the programs, activities and projects of the AFP Peace and Development Office, especially on matters pertaining to the Normalization Process of the Comprehensive Agreement of the Bangsamoro (CAB), particularly in ensuring that the decommissioning of firearms of the former MILF combatants remains on schedule.

He said Faustino’s proven capacity to lead peace and development programs in communist terrorist group-affected areas will also be instrumental in his new position.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140414

From the Philippine News Agency (May 16, 2021): ‘Notorious’ NPA leader in Caraga nabbed in Cebu (By Alexander Lopez)

The Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13) announced the arrest of a ranking New People’s Army (NPA) officer during a manhunt operation in Poblacion 3, Carcar City, Cebu on Friday.

In a statement on Sunday, Brig. Gen. Romeo M. Caramat Jr., PRO-13 director, identified the NPA leader as Deonesio Doloretos Indoyon, also known as Ronie Indoyon.

“Indoyon is the Deputy Secretary of Guerrilla Front Committee (GFC) 14 of the Sub-Regional Committee Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA,” the statement read.

GFC 14 operates in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur.

Several arrest warrants for Indoyon were issued by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 6 in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur for multiple murder and multiple attempted murder; RTC Branch 29 in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur for multiple attempted murder; and RTC Branch 7 in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur for kidnapping and serious illegal detention and destructive arson.

The arrest warrants were issued on January 30, 2020, with no bail bond recommended.

“Indoyon, considered as a notorious NPA leader in the region, is also listed in the First Quarter 2019 PRO-13 Periodic Status Report,” Caramat stated.

Arrested NPA leader Deonesio Doloretos Indoyon (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

The arrested NPA leader was directly involved in the kidnapping and serious illegal detention of government forces of the New Tubigon 8th Special Forces Company Patrol Base in Purok 1, Barangay New Tubigon, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, and in Barangay Kolambugan in the same town on December 19, 2018.

The report also indicated Indoyon and his group carted 16 units of 5.56mm M16 rifles, three units of 7.62mm M14 rifles, two units of 5.56mm R4 rifles, one unit of M203 grenade launcher, a 7.62mm M60 machine gun, and a Harris handheld radio.

The PRO-13 director commended personnel from the Provincial Intelligence Team of Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office, Regional Intelligence Unit of PRO-13, Intelligence Group of the Philippine National Police, 1303rd Regional Mobile Force Battalion of Caraga Region, Carcar City Police Station, and Caraga cops for the successful operation.

The European Union, through Council Decision 2011/70/CFSP dated January 11, 2011, designated the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA as a terrorist organization.

The CPP-NPA is also listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140394

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): New PMA graduates assure readiness to serve God, country (By Redjie Melvic M. Cawis)

BAGUIO CITY, May 16(PIA) -- The newly commissioned lieutenants and ensigns of the Armed Forces of Philippines assured readiness and dedication “to serve God, the country and the Filipino people” following their graduation from the Philippine Military Academy(PMA) here on May 10, 2021.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana presided the recognition of graduates and distribution of diplomas to the 164-strong cadets of the PMA MASALIGAN Class of 2021 during the graduation rites at the Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City on May 10, 2021. (photos by the AFP)

“Now, we are ready to serve our God, country, and the Filipino people as lieutenants and ensigns. Let us give our best in performing our duties as young officers of our Armed Forces,” PMA MAndirigmang SAmahan na Lakas at SandityIGAN "MASALIGAN" Class 2021 Valedictorian Janrey Artus said in his valedictory address during the blended graduation ceremony at Fort Del Pilar, Baguio

“Let us dedicate ourselves to the service our people deserve. Let us always remember the Baybayin phrase engraved in our class seal: Para sa Diyos. Para sa Bayan,” he enjoined his fellow graduates.

Artus, who will be joining the Philippine Navy, said that their learnings and experiences inside the academy in the past four years have honed them, be ready to serve.

“In our four years of cadetship here in PMA, our class has experienced a lot. Yet, along with these experiences come challenges that tested our limits, discipline, honor, and character as future soldiers and leaders of our Armed Forces. Just a few hours into finishing the race, 164 -strong members of our class are now standing before you, ready to serve our country and our people,” he said.

The 164-strong Class of 2021 is comprised of 138 males and 26 females . 82 will be joining the Army, 46 to the Navy and 36 will be joining the Air Force.

For graduating as Top 1, Artus received the Presidential Saber virtually from President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. He also received the Philippine Navy Saber, the Australian Defence Award, Spanish Armed Forces Award and the Navy Professional Plaque, the General Antonio Luna Award, the Academic Group Award, and the Department of Leadership Plaque during the ceremony.

AFP Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana presided the recognition of graduates and distribution of diplomas. He was assisted by PMA Superintendent LtGen. Ferdinand Cartujano, Assistant Superintendent Capt. Roger Viduya, PMA Commandant of Cadets Col. Julius Tomines and Head of Academic Group Col. Jose Demar Pauly.

Sobejana also facilitated the Oath of Office of the new graduates.

Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana declared the commissionship of graduates while Cavalier Amado Espino Jr., Chairman of the PMA Alumni Association Inc. administered the Oath of PMAAAI Membership virtually.

Other key personalities who attended video teleconferencing include Vice President Maria Leonor Gerona Robredo, Spanish Ambassador of the Philippines Jorge Moragas Sanchez, Association of Generals and Flag Officers Inc. President MGen Alfonso Crucero (Ret), US Army JUSMAG Chief Col. Stephen Ma, Australian Embassy Defense Attaché Col. Paul Barta, Integrated Bar of the Philippines National President Atty. Domingo Egon Cayosa, and General Emilio Aguinaldo Foundation Emilio Suntay III of the General Emilio Aguinaldo Foundation.

Philippine Air Force Commanding General LtGen. Allen Paredes, Philippine Army Chief of Staff MGen. Rowen Tolentino Jr., Philippine Navy Vice Commander LtGen. Jose Faustino, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Erick Kagaoan, AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command and AFP Spokesperson MGen. Edgard Arevalo, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong were also present in the said activity.

This is the second year that the premiere military school closed its doors to the public duringthe graduation ceremony due to restrictions and safety measures against COVID 19. (JDP/RMC-PIA CAR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075211

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): More UGMO members in Ilocos Sur town withdraw support to terrorist groups (By Joyah Mae C. Quimoyog)

STA. CRUZ, Ilocos Sur, May 16 (PIA) - - Another 34 members of Underground Mass Organizations (UGMO) from this municipality withdrew their support to the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs), and pledged their allegiance to the government in a ceremony held on May 14.

Said former UGMO members are from the five barangays of Sta. Cruz, namely: Barangays Caparian, Sevilla, Casilagan, Dili, and Villa Garcia.

In barangay Capariaan, one was a member of the Sangay ng Partido sa Localidad, seven were members of the Pambansang Kilusang Magsasaka (PKM), four were members of Malayang Kilusan ng Makabagong Kababaihan (MAKIBAKA), and 11 were members of Kabataang Makabayan (KM).

In barangay Dili, one was a member of the Barangay Liaison Group (BLG)-PKM and in barangay Casilagan, one is a member of BLG-PKM and another one was a member of BLG-MAKIBAKA, while in barangay Villa Garcia, six were members of the BLG-PKM and in barangay Sevilla, two are members of the BLG-PKM.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo A. Marinas Jr., commanding officer of the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion, Philippine Army, the withdrawal of support of the UGMO members was the result of the joint Community Support Program (CSP) activities of the Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office, in the said barangays.

The ceremony was held at barangay Caparian here where Sta. Cruz Vice Mayor Virgilio J. Valle facilitated the oath of allegiance to the government of the said UGMO members; afterwards, the unveiling of the persona non grata tarpaulin and burning of CTG effigies operating in the province was conducted led by the barangay officials.

As part of the peace efforts of the Sta. Cruz Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC), a dialogue was held with the 34 UGMO members and the local representatives of the Department of Trade and Industry, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and the Department of Labor and Employment as member-agencies of the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) under the Task Force ELCAC.

It can be recalled that 33 UGMO members from Sitio Linggawa in Barangay Pidpid, Sta. Cruz withdrew their support to the CTGs on February 8, 2020.

Moreover, 69 former UGMO members in barangay Paoc Norte, Sta. Lucia also withdrew support to the CTGs on May 3.

Major General Alfredo V. Rosario Jr., Commander of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army, remarked that the series of massive withdrawals of support of UGMO members in Ilocos Sur this year is the result of the joint efforts of the Army and PNP together with all government agencies who are determined to win the peace in the province of Ilocos Sur. (JCR/AMB/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075361

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): Alabel pilots food-for-peace (By Sarangani Provincial Information Office)

ALABEL, Sarangani, May 16– Local farmers from the upland barangays of Alabel have started to sell their farm produce at the food hub launched by the municipal government on May 6 in barangay Alegria.

Every Thursday, the Food Hub Day is held at the Alabel Farmers Scientist Association (AFSA) Bldg., Purok New Bohol in Alegria. (The town of Maitum also runs a “laray” market every Thursday for several years already.)

Farmers from Alegria and the neighboring barangays like Pag-Asa, Datal Anggas, Bagacay, Kawas, Baluntay, and Tokawal were invited by the local government to display and sell their vegetables, fruits, and crops in the food hub at a reasonable price.

According to Giselle Gestupa, End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) focal person of Alabel, the food hub “is an initiative of the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) under the Indigenous Peoples Empowered Agripreneurs towards a Collective End or IPEACE Project of the ELCAC, and supported by the LGU-Alabel.”

Last June 2020, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Isidro Lapeña, together with the Regional Task Force-ELCAC launched the “Project IPEACE” in the four priority barangays in SOCCSKSARGEN, including barangay Alegria.

Project IPEACE “aims to end local insurgencies by increasing agricultural productivity in IP communities and transforming them into integrated food production sites to ensure food security in their areas.”

Gestupa said the food hub initiative targets to “uplift the economic living condition sa atong farmers knowing na magtaas ang ilang income, and then second is mabuild ang relationship sa government ug farmers knowing kabalo na sila asa sila muduol panahon nga naa sila’y harvest), and third is makatabang siya nga ma-attain nato ang food security kay ang farmers nato may confidence ug may reason nga magtanom ug crops nila.”

(The food hub initiative targets to “uplift the economic living condition of the farmers as their income increases, second second is to build the relationship of the government and farmers because they know where to go during their harvest, and third is to help attain food security because our farmers will have the confidence and reason to plant)

Farm products displayed in the food hub include vegetables like ladyfinger (okra), squash (kalabasa), eggplant (talong), Chinese pechay, bitter gourd (ampalaya), string beans (sitaw), and many more.

Also, fruits like watermelon, papaya, avocado, and crops like banana, and sweet potato (kamote) can also be bought in the food hub.

Mayor Vic Paul Salarda encouraged the residents of Alabel, including his employees in the municipal government, to visit and buy farm products directly sold by the farmers in the food hub.

Gestupa noted there are no “middlemen” involved, no commission fees, and no rental fees in the food hub, and the local government even provides P100 fuel subsidy for farmers who deliver their products from their farms in the far-flung areas.

With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Gestupa clarified the minimum health protocols such as wearing of face mask and social distancing are observed in the area.

“At the end of the day, pag may mabilin na produkto, ginapalit sa LGU Alabel so walay produkto dinhi nga iuli sa mga farmers sa ila. Pagpalit sa LGU, ginadispose sa Office of the Municipal Agriculturist, then kung unsa to mabilin ginadala nato sa Busog Lusog Talino (BLT) Kitchen nga naga-prepare ug food sa atong mga Covid-19 isolated individuals,” Gestupa added.

(Any unsold products at the end of the day will be purchased by LGU Alabel to be disposed to consumers by the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist. Any products left will be brought to the Busog Lusog Talino (BLT) Kitchen which prepares the food for individuals under isolation for Covid-19, so no product will be brought back by our farmers)

With the success of the launching of Alegria Food Hub, Gestupa said Mayor Salarda already plans to expand the food hub in other barangays of Alabel as well. (Jori Mae Samillano/SARANGANI PROVINCIAL INFORMATION OFFICE)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075208

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 16, 2021): PTF-ELCAC to harmonize programs, services in MisOcc (By Shaine Mae R. Nagtalon)

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL, May 15 (PIA)--The Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) here conducted a coordination meeting among its members to harmonize its services and programs in Misamis Occidental held at the Provincial Capitol, Function Hall.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Pablio Benitez Jr. said the task force should strengthen ways on the delivery of basic services and social development in conflict affected areas and vulnerable communities, facilitate social inclusivity and ensure participation of all sectors.

“This meeting aims to harmonize our effort after more than a year that we are implementing our activities and programs down to the barangay level,” he said.

Benitez also reiterated the level of understanding of PTF-ELCAC, the functions, and cluster efforts. He stressed that the task force needs to revisit and find out the accomplishments that have been achieved to identify the strategic issues that the PTF-ELCAC needs to address, and come up with a doable solution as road map in the coming months or years.

For his part, Governor Philip Tan shared the initiatives towards the Whole-of-Nation Approach in delivering basic services to the barangays, livelihood, education and others to address local insurgency.

“The province will open many senior high schools to support the students in the province to end the insurgency. We also extend our services to the people in the far flag areas,” the governor said.

As to the activities of the rebel groups in the province, 10th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer LTC Ray Tiongson of the Philippine Army said they are monitoring the groups’ movement, strengthening their information network in the area and planning to organize a wellness program for the youth.

“I hope the different agencies will appreciate the situation so we can see where we can focus our effort in terms of addressing or helping and encourage the remaining NPA to return to the folds of the law,” Tiongson added.

As for the livelihood and skills development, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Director El Cid Castillo said they offer the technology-based community training program in Raise Organic Chicken (Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NC II) and produce organic vegetables (Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NC II) for former rebels, IP Communities and special clients to priority barangays in Misamis Occidental.

To conduct and initiate skills and community-based livelihood programs related to agriculture, construction and food production to the beneficiaries in isolated and disadvantaged areas and special clients, TESDA submitted P2,ooo worth of training proposals under Local Interventions for the Development and Empowerment of Rural in Misamis Occidental (LIDER-MisOcc) where P50,000 per local government unit (LGU) is also allocated for the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).

The agenda of the meeting also includes updates on the FY 2021 Retooled Community Support Program/Support to Barangay Development Plan Projects Implementation in the province of Misamis Occidental.

The members of PTF-ELCAC also presented their accomplishments on the implementation of programs, projects and activities (PPAs), updates on the Provincial Implementation Plan with the corresponding strategic interventions, and updates on the conduct of regular cluster and Inter-cluster meetings and convergences. (SMRN/PIA Misamis Occidental)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075344

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 15, 2021): Barangay Development Program to address insurgency, says Usec Badoy (By Ailene N. Diaz)

CATARMAN, Northern Samar, May 14 (PIA) -- The Barangay Development Program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is a government scheme that will address the insurgency in the six (6) identified barangays of Northern Samar out of the 822 remote barangays all over the country, said Undersecretary Lorraine Marie Badoy of the Presidential Communication Operations Office.

This she shared during an interview by PIA and members of the Capitol Press Corps of Northern Samar on Thursday during her visit to the province.

“People need to understand the Barangay Development Program. It is a good program but is endangered because of some senators who would not want the program to continue. This is a fight against CPP-NPA-NDF and can effectively end the 52 years of insurgency in the country, and end the poverty in the countryside, “ said Usec. Badoy when asked on the purpose of her visit.

“The President himself initiated the program on how to finish the insurgency through good governance and by enhancing government services though the Barangay Development Program, Usec. Badoy further said.

“The poor only have the government, if officials will not serve well, the poor will be helpless and easily be taken advantage of by the lies of the NPA, and that it is never even a lie because the people in the government really do not care at all. If you are an official in the government and you do not serve well, you make the poor vulnerable to the terrorists,” said Badoy.

The Barangay Development Program will really address the insurgency, all identified barangays will get a P20M funds, in answer to the basic needs of the community such as farm-to-market roads, water, electricity, among others.

“But the bigger problem really is poor governance, insurgency is just an off-shoot of the poor governance. Good governance will give you roads, an access to other services, but the reality is, even a simple birth certificate they don’t have, it’s because there’s no road, no access and this closes one to all access in government services,” Usec. Badoy sadly expressed.

Usec. Badoy, on foot, visited the two remote barangays Calatiao of Bobon and san Miguel of Las Navas to engage with the people, listen to their needs and see for herself the real situation.

She also attended the re-organization and planning activity of the Provincial Task Force Northern Samar and had a dialogue with the former rebels before leaving the province. (ldl/ADiaz/PIA-Northern Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075290

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 13, 2021): Serbisyo Caravan reaches distant village in Quinapondan, E. Samar (By Ninfa Barcena-Quirante)

BORONGAN CITY, May 13 (PIA)—Despite the muddy and slippery trail to distant Brgy. San Isidro, Quinapondan town, the Serbisyo Caravan pushed its way to this hinterland village.

The Serbisyo Caravan team starts trekking the muddy and slippery road from Brgy. Anislag to reach Brgy. San Isidro after a four hour trek. This road opening is now being started to make life easier to residents of Brgy. San Isidro and Brgy. Cagdaja. (Photo Pulis E. Samar)

There is no service road to the barangay yet so that the medicines, food, food packs and all treats for distribution were carried on the backpacks of the menfolk. Heavier loads were carried by the ‘kangga’ (carabao-led carriage).

The road turned more sticky and slippery which the Serbisyo Caravan team hurdled, the team now reaches Barangay San Isidro. (Photo Pulis E. Samar)

The NICA representative lectured on the deceptive recruitment by the NPAs and urged them to support the government instead.

PNP Police Director Carlito Abriz said that no matter how far the barangay is, the government tries its best to reach them and offer the different services.

E. Samar Police Provincial Director Carlito Abriz talks to the people of Brgy. San Isidro, Quinapondan E. Samar and urge them to support the government. (Photo Pulis E. Samar)

Deputy Brigade Commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade Lt. Col. Lenart Lelina inspired the audience by announcing that the Office of the Presidential Adviser (OPAPP) has allotted funds for the badly-needed road to the barangay and to extend even more to Brgy. Cagdaja, the last barangay of Quinapondan.

Mayor Rafael Asebias also lit up the eyes of the local residents when he announced that some P30-M fund that came from the Office of the President will finance the road construction from Brgy. Anislag to Brgy. Cagdaja.

“Magsisiguro na kami pananom hin mga duma kun mayda na namon kalsada, makuri it pagkargada hit amon mga duma ngat ha bungto,” (We will be inspired to plant more rootcrops if there will be a road as we can easily transport our products to the poblacion.) said Punong Barangay Igmedio Oliverio.

Another need that Kap. Oliverio yearns is a potable water system.

He said that they can fetch their water in some springs available and he fears that it may not be safe especially for the children.

The DSWD handed 27 families cash assistance of P3,000.00 each. Edison Cinco, the team leader of the young DSWD team said he felt the grateful expression of the rural folks as he handed them their money.

Mayor Rafael Asebias, another guest and Edison Cinco of the DSWD8 distribute the P3,000.00 financial assistance to a local resident of San Isidro, Quinapondan town.

Jeffrey Odevilas nudged this reporter to take a video and his picture if only to tell the world that he is happy with the ‘grasya’ (the P3-K) he received.

He whispered, ”Kikitaon ak ha TV?”

Billy Tohong, the representative of the Office of Sen. Bong Go said that they will distribute rubber shoes for the locals, while his younger members gave out food packs from a famous food chain that children loved. He also gave out toys for the children and some hygiene kits.

Mark Jane Abaya, 4 years old got a pony toy while her brother Mark Jude, 7 years old got a missile robot.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) brought along their two mascots Berong Bumbero and Berang Bumbero to the delight of the children present.

Berong Bumbero and lady love Berang Bumbero form the Bureau of Fire Protection delighted the children of this rural village in Quinapondan town as part of the Serbisyo Caravan on May 12, 2021. (PIA E. Samar)

Representatives of various officials who braved to trek for almost four hours the muddy and slippery trail to San Isidro are from DENR, DSWD, PCSO, OCD, DTI, DA, TESDA, PIA, DILG and DOH with scores of the army and the police. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075082

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 15, 2021): Bukidnon ECLIP committee awards P2-M aid to former rebels (By Jennan E. Montealto, CMO 403Bde, 4ID, PA)

CAMP OSITO BAHIAN, Malaybalay City, May 15--The Bukidnon provincial committee on Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) recently awarded a total of P2.02 million cash assistance to 48 Former Rebels (FRs) at Kaamulan Folk Arts Theater, Malaybalay City.

In a ceremony, Governor Jose Maria R. Zubiri Jr gave each of them P15,000 as immediate cash aid, while 26 of them received additional P50,000 as livelihood assistance.

The governor in a speech said he will always help those who want to surrender and live peacefully with their families.

“As long as I am the governor of this province, I promise that the provincial government will not stop helping those who are in need, especially the former rebels. I encourage you to use that cash assistance wisely. I am sure that the E-CLIP Committee and its partner agencies have taught and capacitated you on how to manage the assistance that you received through various livelihood activities. I am very thankful that you gave yourself a chance to live peacefully with your families and be productive citizens of our province,” Zubiri said in dialect.

The governor also enjoined them to become agents of change and advocates of peace.

Forty-eight (48) former rebels receive a total of P2.02 million assistance from the government’s ECLIP, through the Bukidnon Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC). (CMO, 403Bde, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

In his message, Brigadier General Ferdinand T. Barandon, commander of 403rd Brigade, Philippine Army, clarified that the Bukidnon Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC), through the E-CLIP and Amnesty Cluster is always at work to facilitate the assistance that the government had promised to those who returned to the folds of the law.

“May this activity serve as an inspiration to NPA members who want to avail of the government's reintegration program. The national government is committed to completing its prescribed mission of putting an end to this decades-long insurgency. The granting of financial aid to these FRs today is a hopeful sign that this conflict will be settled. We in the army are very grateful for your decision to finally go back to the folds of the law. Together, we can end this insurgency,” BGen. Barandon said. (CMO, 403Bde, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075275

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 14, 2021): Cebuano news: 17 ka mga rebeldeng NPA sa Bukidnon mi-surender (By Bernadith G. Epan)

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon, Mayo 14 (PIA)--Mi-surender ang 17 ka mga rebeldeng New People’s Army (NPA) ngadto sa 1st Special Forces Battalion (1SFBn) ning milabay’ng semana, dala ang mga nagkalain-laing armas ug mga bala.

Matud ni Lt. Col. Vercisio San Jose Jr, commander sa 1SFBn, nga kining 17 ka mga batan-ong lider ug mga combatants sa NPA, naglihok ubos sa Guerilla Front 68A ug 68B, Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad ubos sa mando sa Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) 4, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

“Misurender kini sila tungod kay matud pa sa lider niini nga grupo, nakita nila kung gi-unsa sila pagpahimulos sa mga kadagku-an sa komunistang CPP-NPA. Ang kooperasyon sa ilang mga paryente ug mga opisyales sa lokal nga kagamhanan nakatabang usab sa pag-surender niini nga grupo sa mga rebelde,” matud ni Lt. Col. San Jose.

Si Gov. Jose Ma. Zubiri sa iyang mensahe atol sa seremonya miingon nga dako iyang kalipay dihang iyang nakita ang daghang batan-ong miyembro sa rebeldeng NPA ang naka-desisyon nga mobalik na sa sabakan sa gobyerno.

Diha-diha gitunol sa Gobernador ang tseke nga balor P25,000 ngadto sa matag usa kanila ug misaad kini nga dugangan pa niya ug laing 25,000 pesos aron mahimong 50,000 ang madawat sa mga mi-surender.

"Malipayon ko nga makita nga daghan mga kabataan nga miyembro sa NPA ang nibalik sa sabakan sa gobyerno. Dako akong kalipay tungod kay naka desisyon mo nga monaug na. Dako pa ang higayon nga molambo ang inyong kinabuhi," dugang sa gobernador.

Sa samang okasyon, ang DSWD sa pagpanguna ni Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga mihatag ug cash assistance nga nagkantidad ug P10,000; family food packs; hygiene kits; kitchen kits; ug sleeping kits ngadto sa mga mi-surender.

Matud pa ni MGen. Andres Centino, commander sa 4th Infantry ‘Diamond’ Division, nga ang pagsurender sa 17 ka mga rebelde sa NPA usa sa mga resulta sa gipatumang whole-of-nation approach sa gobyerno.

"Ang ‘Peacekeeping’ usa ka kaakibat nga responsibilidad. Ang mga paningkamot sa Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) dili lamang ang koordinasyon ug pagpatuman sa mga programa alang sa mga ka-barangayan. Lakip na niini ang pagpadali sa panaghi-usa sa mga kanhi rebelde ubos sa tabang sa kagamhanan; pag-protekta sa mga sibilyang katawhan; ug uban pang mga mekanismo aron hugot nga mapatuman ang Executive Order No. 70,” miingon si MGen Centino. (BGE/PIA-Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075215

From MindaNews (May 16, 2021): Centino is new Army Chief (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

President Duterte has appointed the commander of the 4th Infantry Division as chief of the Philippine Army.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Saturday night announced that President Rodrigo Duterte signed on May 14 the appointment of Major General Andres Centino as the new Army chief.

The 54-year old Centino assumed the post of 47th commander of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division on May 29 last year. The 4th ID covers Misamis Oriental Camiguin, Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Sur , and Dinagat Island province.

Maj. Gen. Andres Centino is the new chief of the Philippine Army. Photo courtesy of 4th ID

He commanded four Army Brigades — the 401st, 402nd, 403rd and the 901st — to fight the largest concentration of New People’s Army in Mindanao, employing the strategy of setting up forward military bases in the mountain ranges to disrupt the operational command and logistics of the communist rebels.

Before assuming the post of 4th ID commander, Centino was deputy chief of staff for operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maringal” Class of 1988 and joined the Army’s Scout Rangers. He is a graduate of Master of Science in Natural Resource Strategy at the National Defense University in Washington DC.

He hails from Tacloban City in Leyte.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/05/centino-is-new-army-chief/

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 15, 2021): Rebels kill 4 civilians in NegOr (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Four civilians were shot dead by New People’s Army rebels in Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental yesterday, Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said.

Pasaporte identified the victims as Ronilo Quirante, 56, of Sitio Agit, Roger Fat, of legal age, and a resident of Sitio Panagtugas, and Rodrigo Lubay, 46, and his wife, Cerelina, 45, both of Sitio Lower Budlasan, all in Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City.

He said the four were killed in their homes at about 6 a.m. yesterday by suspects armed with high-powered firearms.

Mayor Carlo Jorge Joan “Guido” Reyes, chairman of the Guihungan City Task Force–Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict, issued a statement strongly condemning the killing of the four civilians, whom he said were suspected to be military informants.

The shooting came more than a month after 10 NPA rebels died in an encounter with troopers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion in the area. Soldiers recovered several high-powered firearms, including an M60 machine gun, after the clash.

Reyes called on his constituents and government agencies to unite against “these atrocities”. “Let us work together so that these people can never sow terror in any single sitio, in any of our 33 barangays of Guihulngan,” Reyes said.

https://news.visayandailystar.com/rebels-kill-4-civilians-in-negor/

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 15, 2021): Sobejana’s nostalgic visit to Negros (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

AFP chief, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana and his wife, Edna (3rd and 2nd from left), received a plaque of commendation from Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo, in the presence of Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, and Col. Leonardo Peña (left), 302nd Infantry Brigade commander, at the awarding ceremony in Dumaguete City yesterday

Armed Forces chief, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, started what he called his “nostalgic visit” to Brgy. Cabacungan, La Castellana, Negros Occidental on May 13, where he started his military career, and was honored yesterday by the provincial government of Negros Oriental as the first NegOrense Medal of Valor awardee, commanding general of the Philippine Army, and as AFP chief of staff.

Sobejana said he started his military career in 1987 as platoon leader of the 11th Infantry Battalion Charlie Company, with headquarters in Brgy. Cabacungan, La Castellana.

Recalling that it was at the height of the insurgency problem in Negros Island, Sobejana, who is a native of Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental, said they used to be engaged in armed skirmishes with the New People’s Army every day.

That was more than three decades ago, Sobejana said as he led the unveiling of the bust pedestal and marker of Medal of Valor posthumous recipient, 1Lt. Lolanito To-ong, of Brgy. Cabacungan, La Castellana, Thursday.

“I’ve seen today a lot of improvements and I am very happy,” Sobejana said, noting also a marked improvement in the peace and order of La Castellana.

Sobejana recalled that it was his first assignment as junior military officer in La Castellana where he met and married his wife, Edna Iturriaga, of Brgy. Bulad, Isabela, Negros Occidental.

Because of the chaotic peace and order situation at that time, Sobejana said he had to bring his wife to his barracks, a day after their wedding. “It was a combat wedding, it was a combat honeymoon,” he recalled, with a smile.

After his assignment in La Castellana, he was transferred to northern Negros as commander of the 11IB Alpha Company, and moved to the Scout Ranger Regiment.

He got his Medal of Valor during his 1995 assignment in Basilan that almost cost his life. He and his 16 Scout Ranger troops fought against almost 200 Abu Sayyaf fighters in four hours of gunbattle.

LOST RIGHT ARM

Forty-two terrorists and seven of his men died in that clash. And he lost his right arm.

Sobejana was again honored yesterday by the provincial government of Negros Oriental, led by Gov. Roel Degamo, after he was recognized in 2012, for his dedication and service to the AFP, and the country as a whole.

Having been assigned in troubled areas of the country, Sobejana admitted, tested his tenacity, bravery, courage, heroism, and combat leadership. As a NegOrense awardee, Sobejana said this will further motivate him to do more for his countrymen.

https://news.visayandailystar.com/sobejanas-nostalgic-visit-to-negros/

From the Mindanao Times (May 15, 2021): 23 rebels with pending arrest warrants surrender to DCPO (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) successfully facilitated the mass surrender of 23 alleged rebels on Monday, May 10, in the community gymnasium in Barangay Malabog, Paquibato District this city.

Col. Kirby John Kraft, the city police director, said surrenderees were former New People’s Army members, Milisya ng Bayan, and other underground mass organizations operating in Paquibato District, Davao City.

All of them have a pending warrant of arrest for cases of murder, arson, kidnapping, serious illegal detention, among others.

The activity was coordinated with Paquibato Police Station, led by Maj. Marvin Hugos, Philippine Army, Peace 911, Datu Boyson Anib –IPS Representative, and the barangay officials of Paquibato District.

In an interview conducted on one of the surrenderees, alias Joey expressed his gratitude to the government for helping clear their names and help them start anew.

Kraft welcomed the surrender of the group and urged those who are still actively fighting the government to lay down their arms and embrace other peaceful means to attain their sought-after changes.

More so, he also recognized the anti-insurgency efforts of the Police Regional Office XI, through the Revitalized Pulis Sa Barangay (RPSB), to complement the programs of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“This is the outcome of the RPSB Program of our regional director, Brig. Gen. Filmore Escobal,” he said.

“The presence of our police officers in the mountains reaching out to the community, providing opportunities to our IP brothers and sisters to improve their lives, have opened the eyes of these rebels to realize the deceptive ideologies of the terrorist CPP-NPA,” he added.

The 22 surrenderees are now detained in the Paquibato Police Station while one of them was brought to Philippine Air Force upon the court’s order.

“The Davao City Police Office, together with the AFP, shall remain (steadfast) in the conduct of security operations in consonance with the government’s thrust … to finish-off the communist terrorists and other threat groups to pave the way to a lasting peace and development in our city,” Kraft further said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2021/05/12/23-rebels-with-pending-arrest-warrants-surrender-to-dcpo/

From Rappler (May 16, 2021): Andres Centino of Northern Mindanao 'diamond division' is new Army chief

As former commander of the army's 4th Infantry Division, Major General Andres Centino was big on hunting down communist rebels

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Major General Andres Centino as new chief of the Philippine Army, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed to Rappler on Saturday, May 15.

"I wish to inform you, per your letter endorsement and in accordance with the recommendation of the chief of staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)...the designation of Major General Andres Centino as commanding general, Philippine Army,"Duterte told Lorenzana in a letter dated Friday, May 14.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed the designation, saying, "We are confident that MGEN Centino will continue the initiatives to professionalize and modernize the principal branch of the Armed Forces of the Philippines while building the gains to serve our people and secure our land."

Centino replaced Lieutenant General Jose Faustino Jr, who served as acting chief of the army. Faustino took over in an acting capacity last February when Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana was promoted to AFP chief.

Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson questioned Faustino's acting capacity, saying no military officer shall be appointed to key positions if they have less than one year in active service. Faustino will retire in November 2021.

Centino belongs to Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Maringal Class of 1988, same with Police Chief Directorial Staff Lieutenant General Dionardo Carlos.

Centino's last post was commander of the army's 4th Infantry Division (ID) known as the diamond division in Northern Mindanao, covering Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur, and Dinagat Island.

As 4th ID chief, Centino was big on hunting down communist rebels, rallying localities in his jurisdiction to "destroy" the Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples' Army (CPP-NPA).

"We enjoin the members of this body through the regional, provincial, and municipal task force to end the local communist armed conflict to do their share. The CPP-NPA members, without resources, will surely be defeated and can no longer recruit new members nor conduct atrocities against our people," Centino had said in 2020, as reported by the Philippine News Agency.

AFP spokesperson Major General Edgard Arevalo said Centino's appointment "came at the time when the AFP is vigorously pursuing its initiatives and building on its gains to defeat the Communist Terrorist Group, the Abu Sayyaf Group, and the BIFF."

"And this is where his attributes are expected to contribute immensely," said Arevalo.

Centino also previously held the position of AFP deputy chief of staff for operations.

"Given his known professionalism, operational experience, and managerial skills gained from various leadership echelons of the AFP, MGEN Centino will undoubtedly stir the Army to greater heights," said Arevalo

Localized peace talks

In the military's intensifying counter-insurgency campaign, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr said localized peace talks are ongoing, "orchestrated by" the controversial National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

Esperon mentioned the local peace talks during a government briefing on Saturday, in response to progressive groups which said that the recent terror designations of peace consultants have entirely shut the door to the peace talks.

Esperon said peace talks may not be possible for now, but localized peace talks will continue.

"Ang peace talks tutuloy pa ba? Eh ang Pangulo naman ang lagi niyang sinasabi alang-alang sa katahimikan ng ating bansa kung kailangan ng makipag-peace talk sa kanila ay gagawin natin, pero hindi pa ngayon, hindi pa ngayon. Mayroon naman tayong localized peace engagement," said Esperon on Saturday. (Will we resume peace talks? Our President always says that for the sake of peace in our country, if there is a need for talks, we will do it, but not now, not now. Anyway, we have localized peace engagement.)

Esperon had taken this rhetoric to the Supreme Court where oral arguments on the anti-terror law are ongoing, but petitioners had requested the Court not to call back the security adviser for the resumption of hearing on Monday, May 17, and to strike his earlier testimony off the records.

Esperon had red-tagged progressive groups in his testimony.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/andres-centino-new-chief-philippine-army-may-2021

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 15, 2021): Mga Rebelde, Pumatay ng mga Inosenteng Sibilyan sa Negros Oriental

Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental – Apat ang pinatay ng teroristang New People’s Army (NPA) sa nangyaring insidente pasado alas-singko ngayong umaga sa Sitio Agit, Brgy Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Ang mga biktima ay kinilalang sina Ronelo Quirante, 56 taong gulang, Roger Fat, 46 taong gulang, at ang mag asawang Rodrigo Lubay, 46 taong gulang at Sherryl Lubay, 44 taong gulang ang mga biktima sa nasabing insidente. Ayon sa mga residente sa nasabing lugar, sila ang mga taong pinaghihinalaan ng mga teroristang NPA na nagbibigay impormasyon sa mga sundalo sa mga gawain ng kanilang grupo.

Kilala bilang mga nagsusuporta sa mga armadong NPA ang mga nasabing pinatay sa Sitio Agit. Nagbibigay ng pagkain, tinatanggap ng maluwag sa kanilang tahanan at nagbibigay ng maaari nilang kailanganin upang maitawid ang gutom, pagod at uhaw sa kabundukan. Pagkatapos patayin ang nasabing apat na sibilyan ay pinalayas ang iba pang hinihinalang impormante ng sundalo sa naturang lugar.

Pagpatay ang sukli sa mga tulong na binigay sa kanilang kababayan. Trauma at labis na paghihinagpis ang dulot nito sa mga naiwang anak at pamilya ng mga biktima. Kagustuhang makaganti ang sanhi ng nasabing karumaldumal na pagpatay sa mga biktima. Matatandaang Noong ika-23 ng Marso 2021, sila ang pangunahing suspek ng teroristang NPA na nagbigay ng impormasyon sa kasundaluhan na nagdulot ng pagkamatay ng teroristang NPA sa Sitio Agit.

Ayon kay Lieutenant Colonel Flores, “Lubos akong nakikisimpatya sa pagdadalamhati ng mga pamilya at anak ng apat na inosenteng sibilyan na pinatay sa kanilang tahanan. Ang ganitong karahasan ay hindi nararapat at hindi naayon sa ating batas. Nawa ay mabigyan ng katarungan ang mga buhay na nasayang, mga magulang na tinanggalan ng karapatan na mabigyan ng magandang buhay ang kanilang mga anak, at mga taong nasira ang kinabukasan. Patuloy po kaming nananawagan sa publiko na palayasin ang teroristang NPA sa kanilang lugar at huwag ng patuluyin sa kanilang tahanan. Ang ganitong insidente ay hindi nararapat sa isang malayang bansa at demokratikong lipunan.”

[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/mga-rebelde-pumatay-ng-mga-inosenteng-sibilyan-sa-negros-oriental/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 15, 2021): Army troops foil bomb plots of CPP-NPA-NDF in Isabela

Camp Melchor F Dela Cruz, Echague, Isabela – The 98th Infantry (Masinag) Battalion troopers recovered 28 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) while responding to reports from concerned citizens of Sitio Divisoria, Brgy Dibuluan, San Mariano, Isabela on 13 May 2021.

The IEDs recovered were with blasting caps and detonating cords composed of 13 Caps IEDs with 8 inches in diameter and 7 inches long with an estimated weight of 4 to 5 kilograms each; and 15 Caps IEDs with 6 inches in diameter and 8 inches long weighing 2 to 3 kilograms that were left in the area by the CPP-NPA-NDF members. These IEDs can possibly harm innocent civilians and can blow up a bridge. According to the concerned citizens, the IEDs were supposed to be used against government forces, government flagship projects, and other development projects in the region.

However, these IEDs were left in the area by members of Communist Terrorist Group that fled along the coastal areas due to intense military operations of 502nd Infantry Brigade. Brigader General Danilo D. Benavides, Commander, 502nd Infantry Brigade, lauded the vigilance of the community in helping to prevent the terroristic activities of Communist NPA, this was indicating the desire of the communities to distance themselves from the influence and oppression of CPP-NPA-NDF.

Furthermore, such IEDs are proof that CPP-NPA-NDF outright violation of the International Humanitarian Law, particularly on the use of landmines and violent approach to advance evil deeds. Lastly, Brig. Gen. Benavides asked the remaining members of CPP- NPA-NDF in the region to surrender now. The government is willing to receive to those who return to the fold of the law and provide support through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP). The recovered IEDs were immediately defused by members of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit and turned over to Headquarters, 5th Infantry Division for proper disposition.

[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/army-troops-foil-bomb-plots-of-cpp-npa-ndf-in-isabela/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 16, 2021): Continuous multi-sectoral cooperation facilitates fall of Communist NPA Terrorists in Central Luzon

Bongabon, Nueva Ecija – Komiteng Larangang Gerilya (KLG) Sierra Madre of Communist NPA Terrorists operating in the provinces of Aurora, Nueva Ecija and parts of Nueva Vizcaya was declared as disintegrated and destructed, in the span of less than two years after the fall of two other Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in 2019 and 2020.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) scrutinized the Philippine Army’s 703rd Infantry (Agila) Brigade’s (703Bde) operational campaign and found that specific and stringent key deliverables and result areas have been achieved making it sufficient to declare on May 5, 2021 the defeat of KLG Sierra Madre. According to Brigader General Andrew Costelo, Commander, 703Bde, the accomplishment was made possible with a team of dedicated soldiers and support from the Police Regional Office 3 and other stakeholders with a mission of finally putting an end to the decades old communist menace.

Earlier, the CTG’s KLG Caraballo and Larangan Gerilya sa Patag 1 (LGP1) were decimated in 2019 and 2020 respectively through ‘whole of nation’ approach. Working closely with the local government and Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict of Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Tarlac, Zambales, Aurora, Nueva Ecija and Alfonso Cataneda town of Nueva Vizcaya under NTF-ELCAC. Inputs and contributions from former Communist NPA rebels played a significant role in determining the parameters for a communist movement to be declared successfully defeated.

Furthermore, the 703Bde conducted redirection and reorientation of Communist Affected Mass Organizations (CAMO) in communities and a cooptation or rendering ineffective/disbandment of a CTG Front Organization. These CTG Front Organizations were appeared to be legal but provides support to KLGs in terms of recruits, logistics, finances, technical assistance and propaganda. In these communities, Communist terrorists conduct its extortion activities. In the loss of support from the communities, key leaders from KLG Caraballo and KLG Sierra Madre fell in the hands of authorities.

While there were those arrested and surrendered, some suffered an untimely death. The head of KLG Caraballo and Front Operational Command of KLG Sierra Madre, Eleuterio Agmaliw AKA Omeng was killed while resisting arrest in December 2019. Freddie Daileg AKA Poldo who was then the Deputy of the Larangan Gerilya sa Patag (LGP1) also killed during joint AFP-PNP operations in 2019. And Rommel Tucay AKA Isaac, Head of KLG Sierra Madre was killed as well after government forces on March 13, 2021.

[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/continuous-multi-sectoral-cooperation-facilitates-fall-of-communist-npa-terrorists-in-central-luzon/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 16, 2021): General Cirilito E. Sobejana, AFP Chief, honors as a distinguished NegOrense

CAMP LEON KILAT, Tanjay City, Negros Oriental – The Provincial Government of Negros Oriental led by the Governor, Honorable Roel R. Degamo, initiated the Honoring Ceremony for General Cirilito Elola Sobejana PA, being the 1st NegOrense to become the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, held at the Convention Center Plenary Hall, Dumaguete City on May 14, 2021.

He was accorded with military honors at the forecourt of the Provincial Capitol Building by Colonel Leonardo I Peña (MNSA) PA, Commander, 302nd Infantry Brigade. Gen. Sobejana and his wife, Mrs . Edna Iturriaga Sobejana were formally welcomed at the Provincial Capitol Building by the Negros Oriental employees and head of offices with Governor Degamo and his wife, Hon. Janice Degamo, Mayor, Pamplona, Negros Oriental. General Sobejana is a full-blooded son of Negros Oriental who was born in Zamboanguita on July 31, 1965. At the age of 10, he used to assemble toy jeepneys or the so called “tarak-tarak” made of tin can of sardines for the body parts and old rubber slippers for the wheels. Dodong, as his family calls him especially during childhood days, had that desire to produce rough imitations of land vehicles because he was not that privileged to buy for his own toy car and he was inspired by his aspiration to buy a number of vehicles for his mother, Mama Takya, to ride on. From that very simple dream of a child, he became a soldier of the AFP and eventually considered as one of the country’s living heroes because of his heroic combat exploits.

He is a recipient of the Philippines highest military award, the Medal for Valor, an award equivalent to the Congressional Medal of Honor of the United States of America. He started his military career when he entered the Philippine Military Academy in 1983 and graduated with the PMA “Hinirang” Class of 1987. Now, he is holding the helm of the highest military position in the country as the 55th Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on February 4, 2021. During the Honoring Ceremony, Governor Degamo, on his message, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to General Sobejana for his distinguished and selfless service to our country and hailed him the pride of being an outstanding son of Negros Oriental.

As a response General Sobejana, conveyed his sincere gratitude to all the Negrenses for their very warm welcome and honors bestowed upon him on that momentous event. He also encouraged his fellow NegOrense and the civil society to participate in the efforts of the government in ending the local armed conflict; particularly the Communist Terrorism, and help in the attainment of the Peace and Progress in our country. Gen Sobejana stressed in his message that peace and security is a shared responsibility. The AFP alone cannot put an end to the menace of insurgency and terrorism; because there are a lot of factors or reasons why such problems exist. These are deeply rooted to the social issues such as poverty, illiteracy, social injustice or oppression, and inequality where all sectors of the society have a role to perform and work together in order to resolve those issues.

[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/general-cirilito-e-sobejana-afp-chief-honors-as-a-distinguished-negorense/

PNP declares ‘enhanced’ offensive vs. BIFF

Duterte names Centino new PH Army chief

‘Notorious’ NPA leader in Caraga nabbed in Cebu

New PMA graduates assure readiness to serve God, country

More UGMO members in Ilocos Sur town withdraw support to terrorist groups

Alabel pilots food-for-peace

PTF-ELCAC to harmonize programs, services in MisOcc

Barangay Development Program to address insurgency, says Usec Badoy

Serbisyo Caravan reaches distant village in Quinapondan, E. Samar

Bukidnon ECLIP committee awards P2-M aid to former rebels

Cebuano news: 17 ka mga rebeldeng NPA sa Bukidnon mi-surender

Centino is new Army Chief

Rebels kill 4 civilians in NegOr

Sobejana’s nostalgic visit to Negros

23 rebels with pending arrest warrants surrender to DCPO

Andres Centino of Northern Mindanao 'diamond division' is new Army chief

Kalinaw News: Mga Rebelde, Pumatay ng mga Inosenteng Sibilyan sa Negros Oriental

Kalinaw News: Army troops foil bomb plots of CPP-NPA-NDF in Isabela

Kalinaw News: Continuous multi-sectoral cooperation facilitates fall of Communist NPA Terrorists in Central Luzon

Kalinaw News: General Cirilito E. Sobejana, AFP Chief, honors as a distinguished NegOrense