Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From MindaNews (Apr 13, 2022): 4 rebels slain in clash ‘positive’ for COVID-19, bodies cremated (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

Members of the New People’s Army of Northern Mindanao Guerilla Front 68 in formation during a ceremony in Barangay Tikalaan, Talakag town in Bukidnon in this file photo taken last April 17, 2017 when the NPA released a police officer it earlier held captive. MIndaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

The bodies of four New People’s Army (NPA) rebels reportedly killed in a clash in Talakag town in Bukidnon were ordered cremated by Army authorities after they were found positive for COVID-19, police said on Wednesday.

Philippine National Police 10 spokesperson Lt. Col. Michelle Olaivar said Army soldiers brought the bodies of the rebels to the Divine Shepherd crematorium in Barangay Bulua last Friday.

Olaivar said the ashes of the four rebels were then turned over to the local government of Talakag who in turn gave them to their families.

“We were present during the cremation which was administered by the Army,” she said.

She said the Army told police that the decision to cremate the bodies came after it was found that all of the casualties were positive of COVID-19.

The military said the four rebels were killed in an encounter with soldiers of the 1st Special Forces Battalion in Barangay Tikalaan, Talakag on April 6.

BGen Ferdinand Barandon, commander of Task Force Peacemaker said 16 high-powered firearms and backpacks were recovered during the clearing operations in Tikalaan.

Major Francisco Garello Jr., spokesperson of the 4th Infantry Division said one of those killed was Jelly Sugnot, a woman in her twenties.

In a statement sent to reporters here, NPA spokesperson Alik Luna in Bukidnon challenged the Army’s version of the encounter.

“The army version is a big lie. There was no encounter that happened in Tikalaan that day,” Luna said, adding the rebels were captured alive by the soldiers and subsequently killed.

The soldiers allegedly fired their firearms in the air after killing the rebels.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/04/4-rebels-slain-in-clash-positive-for-covid-19-bodies-cremated/

From Palawan News (Apr 13, 2022): MBLT-3 personnel recognized for special role in Palawan operations vs rebel group (By Aira Genesa Magdayao)

Philippine Marine Corps commandant Maj. Gen. Nestor Herico salutes an awardee from the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 on Monday, April 11, 2022. (Photo from MBLT-3)

The Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 (MBLT-3) honored eight of its personnel recently for their contributions to their operations in Palawan against the New People’s Army (NPA).

Leading the awardees is 1st Lt. Karl Jens Helmuth, who received a Military Merit Medal for his role and services as a member of the battalion’s Quick Reactionary Force (QRF).

Enlisted personnel Sgt. Rollie Pardilla, Sgt. Jason Navio, Cpl. Dino Etorma, PFC John Albert Dela Cruz, PFC Marvin Saldo, Pvt. Elias Bellen, and Pvt. Glycelie Hope Tapurco received medals for their assistance in deterring the rebel organization from carrying out atrocious activities in the province.

PMC commandant Maj. Gen. Nestor Herico with MBLT-3 commander Maj. Ryan Lacuesta. (Photo courtesy of MBLT-3)

The awards ceremony took place on Monday at the MBLT-3 headquarters during a visit by Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) commandant Major General Nestor Herico.

During his visit, Herico also gave a Talk to Troops, underscoring the PMC’s essential role in providing war-fighting capabilities that develop with battle-space requirements. He said they are relevant and responsive to the military and security environment.

“Let’s continue to be smarter marines. And as we go along our path as a modern Philippine Marine Corps, it is something that we have to be proud of. It is something that we have to take pride and we have to live to the standard as a Marines,” Herico said.

https://palawan-news.com/mblt-3-personnel-recognized-for-special-role-in-palawan-operations-vs-rebel-group/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 13, 2022): Ex-Rebel points largest arms cache in Eastern Mindanao this year

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – A full cooperation of former Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) member who recently surrendered to the troops of Eastern Mindanao Command, under the supervision of LtGen. Greg T. Almerol led to the discovery of the largest arms cache in Agusan del Sur this year at the Bagul River, Brgy, Kasapa 2, La Paz on April 11.

The said personality identified as alias Bolo was a member of the Guerilla Front 3 (GF3), Sub-Regional Committee 4 (SRC4), Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SRMC), which was recently dismantled following the total surrender of its leadership to the 1001st Brigade’s 60th Infantry Battalion (IB).

The recovered high-powered firearms were composed of 10 AK47 Rifles, seven M16 rifles, a Ultimax Light Machine Gun (LMG), an M14 rifle, an M79 Grenade Launcher, a Garand rifle, an M16 rifle with incomplete parts, including one drum magazine for Ultimax LMG, and five magazines of thr AK47 rifle.

It can be recalled on April 7-8, two CTG arms caches were also discovered by EastMinCom troops in Davao de Oro, which led to the recovery of nine high-powered firearms through the aid of former rebels and the synergy of the government’s security forces.

LtGen. Almerol said that the series of arms cache discoveries is a clear manifestation of CTG’s ultimate loss of members due to fear of continuous military operations conducted by government troops.

“They are now hiding their firearms since they no longer have members who would bear them. Their recruitment was also ceased when their former mass bases rejected the terrorist group and pledged their support to the government,” he said.

“With this recent accomplishment, we could say that the GF3 will have no chance of recuperating. They are inutile without firearms to wield against their former mass bases,” LtGen. Almerol added.

Meanwhile, the EastMinCom Commander lauded the troops of 10th Infantry Division’s 1001st Brigade, 60IB, and the support of local leaders and former rebels who have shared a bulk of information that is crucial to the success of their series of accomplishments, including the total dissolution of the GF3.

“We have once again proven that the collaboration of all agencies of government is the best way to end the local communist armed conflict. Let us continue this fight to achieve utmost peace and development in this part of our country,” he expressed.

[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/ex-rebel-points-largest-arms-cache-in-eastern-mindanao-this-year/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 13, 2022): JTF Agila recovers 22 high-powered firearms in Agusan Sur, Guerilla Front 3 dismantled

MAWAB, Davao De Oro – The 60th Infantry “Mediator” Battalion (60IB) of JTF Agila recovers 22 high-powered firearms from an arms cache at Bagul River, Kasapa II, La Paz, Agusan Del Sur on Monday April 11, 2022.

Lt Col Merril Sumalinog, Commander of 60IB immediately dispatched his troops when alias “Bolo”, who recently surrendered to their unit revealed the location of an arms cache which consists ten (10) AK 47 Rifles, seven (7) M16 Rifles, one (1) Ultimax Light Machine Gun, one (1) M14 Rifle, one (1) M79 Grenade Launcher, one (1) Garand Rifle, and one (1) M16 Rifle with incomplete parts.

It can be recalled that on March 31, Maximo Catarata alias “Datu Makatindog”, Secretary of GF3 yielded to 60IB with his firearm in Asuncion, Davao Del Norte. Prior to his surrender, GF3 Commanding Officer Renard Galos Catarata alias “SM”, son of Datu Makatindog, also surrendered together with 12 other NPA members bringing along 13 firearms to the same unit in Laak, Davao De Oro on February 26.

Since the surrender of alias “SM” to date, JTF Agila has accounted for five (5) separate surrender incidents with two (2) arms cache discoveries in the 60IB area of operations alone, which resulted in a total of 20 GF3 members surrenderors and 48 high-powered and one (1) low-powered firearms recovered.

Meanwhile, Major General Nolasco A Mempin, Commander 10ID lauded the officers and men of 60IB for their relentless efforts in taking all the hidden firearms of the Communist Terrorist Group in their area of operations.

“Following the dismantling of Guerilla Front 3, Agila Division will continue to dash towards the finish line as we are now nearing the total eradication of the communist insurgency here in our area of responsibility,” MGen Mempin added.

The dismantling of Guerilla Front 3 was officially declared by the 10ID – Police Reginal Office XI (PROXI) Area Clearing Evaluation Board following the parameters of the AFP-PNP Joint Letter Directive Number 3 on April 12, 2022.

[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/jtf-agila-recovers-22-high-powered-firearms-in-agusan-sur-guerilla-front-3-dismantled/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 13, 2022): Philippine Army joins 2022 Veterans’ Week sunset ceremony

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army joined the candle ceremony which culminated the commemoration of the 80th Veterans’ Week year 2022 at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Libingan ng mga Bayani, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on April 11, 2022.

Pasig Rep. Roman T. Romulo, who was accompanied by Army Intelligence Regiment Commander Brig. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo, served as the guest of honor and speaker at the event which capped-off the 2022 Veterans’ Week commemoration anchored on the theme “Kagitingan ng mga Bayani, Inspirasyon ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino.”

The sunset ceremony is a tradition where Filipino veterans and their families, government officials, soldiers, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines gather and light candles at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor the heroism and sacrifices of Filipino war veterans.

[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-2022-veterans-week-sunset-ceremony/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 13, 2022): CSAFP visits Army Headquarters

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP) Gen. Andres C. Centino renders a visit to the Philippine Army Headquarters today, April 12, 2022, at Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila.

Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., along with the Army staff and personnel, welcomed Gen. Centino and awarded the CSAFP with the Combat Commanders Kagitingan Badge with one silver star – level of major service commander for his exemplary service as the 64th Commanding General Philippine Army. The troops from Army Major Units nationwide also witnessed the event through video teleconferencing.

As he delivered his guidance, Gen. Centino commended the troops for their accomplishments and continuous efforts to serve the Filipino people. He also reminded the troops to always conduct themselves with discipline and sustain their operational gains to become the world-class Army that is a source of national pride.

Gen. Centino also relayed President Rodrigo Duterte’s commendation to the Army troops for their significant contributions to strengthening the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 13, 2022): 79IB launch rescue and relief efforts to flood-hit areas in Northern Negros

Sagay City, Negros Occidental — The Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division conducted Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations as Tropical depression “Agaton” inundated low-lying areas of Northern Negros on April 12, 2022 (Tuesday).

The Masaligan troopers together with the Local Government Unit of Sagay City, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), and other rescue groups successfully evacuated hundreds of families trapped in their homes and were brought to safer grounds.

An LGU-led relief distribution was also assisted by the troops intended for the flood victims.

“We remain to be strong partners with the Local Government Units in our area of operation to respond in any emergency situations. Until this time, our troops are still on the ground not only in Sagay City but also in Escalante, Victorias and Silay continuing their mission in assisting the residents affected by Tropical Depression “Agaton” in close coordination with concerned City/Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (C/MDRRMO), said Lieutenant Colonel J-jay Javines, Commanding Officer of 79IB.

[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/79ib-launch-rescue-and-relief-efforts-to-flood-hit-areas-in-northern-negros/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 13, 2022): 4ID nabs CTG leader, member in Caraga

CAMP EVANGELISTA, PATAG, CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The 4th Infantry Division intensified its campaign against the remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leadership in Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions, as it nabbed another leader in a successful law enforcement operations on Monday, April 11.

Joint elements of 402nd Infantry Brigade and the Regional Intelligence Division – Police Regional Office 13 (RID-PRO13) apprehended a certain Julieta Galario Gerondio by virtue of a multiple Warrants of Arrest issued by the RTC, Branch 7, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur at Sitio Maitum, Brgy Langkilaan, Trento, Agusan Del Sur. Gerondio is the Secretary and Finance Officer of the Sub-Regional Committee 3 under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

Another joint law enforcement operations by the 30th Infantry Battalion, 36th Infantry Battalion and the Placer Municipal Police Station led to the arrest of Jemalyn Calinawan at her residence in Purok 3, Brgy Adlay, Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, on Thursday, April 7 by virtue of a Warrant of Arrest for Multiple Frustrated Murder issued by the 10th RTC, Branch 30, Surigao City. Calinawan is a member of CTG operating in Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur provinces.

In his statement, Maj. Gen. Wilbur C. Mamawag, 4ID Commander, stated that the recent fall of CTG leaders manifest the government’s commitment to really run after the remnants of CTG leadership, especially those responsible for the extortion activities that victimize the local businessmen.

“We will push harder with our campaign to end this insurgency before PRRD’s term ends. Our election duties will not hamper us from achieving this goal,” MGen Mamawag said.

It can be recalled that on April 10, a successful joint law enforcement operation of PRO10 and 4ID’s Task Force Oro led to the arrest of a high-ranking CTG leader, Aldeem A. Yañez, at the Urban Poor Village, Brgy Iponan, this city.

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 13, 2022): High-Powered Firearm Recovered Anew in New Bataan, DDO

New Bataan, Davao de Oro – Joint elements of Scout Platoon, 25th Infantry “FIREBALL” Battalion (25IB), 28th Infantry “KAMAGONG” Bn and Philippine National Police (PNP) counterparts in Davao de Oro Police Provincial Office (DDOPPO) and New Bataan Municipal Police Station discovered communist terrorist groups (CTGs) arms cache composed of one (1) M60 Caliber at Sitio Tandik, Barangay Tandawan, New Bataan, Davao de Oro on April 13, 2022.

Government security forces discovered the said arms cache on the information provided by a former communist NPA terrorist (CNT) identified as alias “Wenwen,” a member of Weakened Guerilla Front 2 (WGF 2) who surrendered to the PNP.

Last April 8, Wenwen revealed the location of another CTG arms cache that resulted in the recovery of seven (7) High powered firearms, and one (1) improvised explosive device (IED) at Barangay Andap also in New Bataan, Davao de Oro. Authorities say that the said firearms were used by the combined elements of Regional Headquarters (RHQ), Regional Operations Command (ROC), and WGF 2, all of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Lt. Col Michael T. Aquino, Commanding Officer of 25IB, said, “Through the continuous combat operations of the Philippine Army’s 1001st Infantry “PAG-ASA” Brigade (1001Bde), the said CTGs have been hard-pressed. The CTG members have been experiencing hunger and fear, leaving them no choice but to surrender. The successive surrender of the WGF 2 slowly demoralizes its remaining members because of its diminishing firearms and manpower, gradually incapacitates the said NPA elements, and slowly approaches its downfall.”
“We are close to winning this fight.

Through collaboration with the PNP units, Local Government Units, and the confidence and support that the former CNts give us, we can finally achieve peace in the whole province that is inclusive for sustainable development. We still offer our hands for those who will give their true intention to join us in the mainstream.” Lt. Col. Aquino said.
Brig. Gen. Jesus P. Durante III, commander of 1001Bde, said, “I commend the troops for yet another significant accomplishment. Their exemplary performance and dedication are worthy of emulation. Wenwen showed sincerity in returning to the folds of the law by tipping off their previous arms cache. We assure him that his sincerity will be recognized and appreciated.”

“More former CNTs continue to reveal the locations of other arms caches in different areas. Former CNTs who surrendered will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP). They will become beneficiaries of various government interventions and assistance to help them reintegrate as responsible and productive members of peaceful communities,” BGen Durante concluded.

[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/high-powered-firearm-recovered-anew-in-new-bataan-ddo/

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr `14, 2022): NTF-ELCAC warns public vs. Reds-linked politicians (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

NTF-ELCAC spokesperson for Sectoral Concerns and Presidential Communications Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy (file photo)

The officials of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) have cautioned the public against politicians that have strong connections with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

NTF-ELCAC spokesperson for Sectoral Concerns and Presidential Communications Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy said the government’s anti-insurgency task force will remain relentless in its fight against the communist terrorist groups and continue unmasking their legal front organizations.

“[B]akit kami relentless at hindi kami titigil? Kasi napakalaking kapahamakan kapag iyong susunod na pangulo ay kaibigan ng CPP-NPA-NDF (Why we won’t stop and relentless? Because it would be a huge catastrophe if the next president is an ally of the CPP-NPA-NDF),” Badoy said in a press conference on Wednesday.

Badoy said the country will “only go back to what it was before the creation of NTF-ELCAC” wherein NPA killings of innocents, massive recruitment of minors to armed revolution, and extortion in the countryside were rampant.

In a statement Thursday, Badoy said the NTF-ELCAC is unfazed by various filed criminal charges and lawsuits against its officials.

“We are not in the least bit beleaguered. We are, in fact, amused at the fear and panic we sense behind these complaints against us and the NTF ELCAC by the CPP-NPA-NDF in the face of their impending demise,” she added.

Badoy is among NTF-ELCAC officials who are facing administrative complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman over “red-tagging” issues.

“When the CPP-NPA-NDF takes me on, they take on the entire NTF ELCAC. And when they take on the NTF ELCAC, they take on the entire government of the Republic of the Philippines that is headed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte- a President who is leaving the presidency with soaring trust and approval ratings never before enjoyed by past Philippine presidents. A President who, since he sat in the office, has been the No.1 most trusted public servant in government,” she said.

Members of Makabayan Bloc including Kabataan party-list Rep. Sarah Jane Elago, Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, ACT Teachers party-list Reps. France Castro, Robert De Castro, Teodoro Casiño, Saturnino Ocampo, and Ariel Casilao also filed complaints against NTF-ELCAC officials on March 25, for alleged electioneering and other violations of the Omnibus Election Code.

Badoy said the complaints against her and other NTF-ELCAC officials were only meant to "harass and silence" them for speaking the truth about the deceptive schemes of the CPP-NPA-NDF through their legal fronts.

“We know exactly that our fidelity is to our countrymen and we, therefore, stand in the fiercest defense of the Filipino people, we will be ceaseless in unmasking members and fronts of the CPP-NPA-NDF because it is precisely because of those masks that they have been able to hurt our people and our country,” she added.

On Wednesday, several officials of the NTF-ELCAC have jointly signed and filed a counter-affidavit in response to the complaints filed by the Makabayan Bloc which include charges for alleged red-tagging presidential aspirant Vice President Leni Robredo.

The NTF-ELCAC, however, maintained “no one is red-tagging.”

Badoy also replied:“We are unfazed by all these nonsense lawsuits and complaints that are meant to harass and have no substance- their favorite being red-tagging, which our Supreme Court has ruled as nonexistent and that there is no danger to life, liberty, and security when you are identified as a member of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Zarate vs. Aquino).”

Meanwhile, Badoy urged Robredo to condemn the CPP-NPA-NDF’s atrocities and violence “if it's true that her camp is not conniving with the communist groups.”

“Madame Vice President, all you need to do is condemn the CPP-NPA-NDF. We’ve been asking you to do it for almost a month now,” she said.

“Madame Vice President, you’re from Bicol, you know Masbate? You know Keith Absalon? He was shot like a dog. He was begging for his life, with his arms up in the air and yet he was shot between his eyes. You cannot condemn that, ‘di ba (right)? You owe that to the Filipino people. That’s your fidelity, that’s your oath of office. We all took that oath of office. Do it, Madame Vice President and panalo tayo (we win),” she added.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the NDF as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172261

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2022): 822 barangays receive poverty reduction, livelihood programs (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

PRLEC INTERVENTIONS. The installation of solar panels and the lighting of houses in Sitio Baboy-baboy, Camagong, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte on April 8, 2022, under the NTF-ELCAC’s Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC). Some 822 conflict-cleared barangays nationwide benefitted from PRLEC through National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, to date. (Photo courtesy of 23IB)

Some 50,000 individuals from conflict-cleared barangays nationwide benefitted from the government’s free livelihood and skills training programs through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), to date.

Under the NTF-ELCAC’s Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC), chaired by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the government has already conducted more than 4,500 livelihood and skills training nationwide.

The PRLEC has so far reached 822 villages, higher than its targeted 802 priority conflict-affected barangays and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).

Among these skills training and livelihood projects include the establishment of organic farms, production sites, and trading centers for agricultural products; setting up community poultry, vegetable production, and processing centers; as well as the implementation of Tubig Kalikasan para sa Barangay (TUKABA), Project iPEACE for the indigenous communities, and Photovoltaic Systems Installation NC II (Project TALA) --wherein communities also benefitted from installations of solar lighting and charging systems.

TESDA deputy director-general Gabriel Quisumbing said the efforts also became essential to the agricultural sector as it has helped in promoting food security amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Apart from lifting the lives of former rebels and their communities, Quisumbing said the government's livelihood and skills training programs have also helped individuals hit hard by the global health crisis, particularly those returning overseas Filipino workers and those that have returned to their respective home provinces.

The PRLEC targets to push “self-reliant, productive, resilient and sustainable communities” in the countryside through a whole-of-nation convergence and good governance approach.

The NTF-ELCAC was created through Executive Order 70 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2018, institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach to address the long-standing local communist armed conflict.

“We hope that the legacy that the President has created with the creation of EO 70 and the NTF-ECLAC is one that will be felt for generations upon generations. And we are sure that with the increased economic impact that these programs have brought into these areas, we are sure that we will feel the prosperity in these areas for years to come,” Quisumbing said in a press conference on Wednesday afternoon.

“So again, on behalf of the PRLE Cluster and TESDA which is the chair of the PRLE Cluster, we are at full step with the NTF-ELCAC and the President in his vision of delivering a lasting peace for our country,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172245

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2022): Election period won’t stop gov't’s peace and order functions (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) vice chair Hermogenes Esperon Jr. (File photo)

National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) vice chair Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said an election period does not suspend the operation of a legitimate arm of government, especially in maintaining peace and order.

This, as the 12 cluster heads of the body on Wednesday signed and filed their counter affidavits on the various Omnibus Election Code complaints filed against them by the Makabayan Bloc and its allies last March 25.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the 1987 Constitution entrusts the state the maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty and property, and the promotion of the general welfare, an election period neither suspends the operation of a legitimate arm of government like the National Task Force-ELCAC, nor the government function in carrying out the whole-of-nation-approach and whole-of-government approach in combating the communist-terrorist group which is the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) especially when President (Rodrigo) Duterte) himself, announces that some parties have links with the CTGs (communist terrorist groups)," he said in a press conference after the filing of the counter affidavits.

Esperon, who is also the National Security Adviser, said an election season does not suspend the state’s function nor render its public officials inutile in carrying out and espousing the President’s opinion, stand, and direction.

"The performance of public officers of their duty to relay the official stand of the President and the administration subsists more so, during an election season," he added.

Esperon also said the Omnibus Election Code is "neither a ban on public officers’ right to freely express their opinions and views nor a refuge for candidate or parties and groups to be shielded from any expression, statement or action of a public officer especially if done by them in the performance of their duty under the orders and mandate from the President of the Philippines."

The NTF-ELCAC vice chair added the Omnibus Election Code is to be harmonized with other new and relevant laws and should not be used to penalize public officers who merely implement or comply or reiterate the policy and statements of the President.

"Most importantly, it is the height of irony and injustice when persons or groups cry red-tagging as an election offense, when in fact the complaint that they filed is in itself based on imaginative speculation that all public officers of NTF-ELCAC are automatically guilty of partisan political activity by their mere association with the NTF-ELCAC," he added.

Esperon also said the complainants' selective handpicking of public officers of NTF-ELCAC as respondents herein, all without basis and without any allegation and proof of the respondents' participation as to the overt act alleged, conveys not their sense of justice but rather betrays their biased prejudice and harassment against the duly constituted authorities of the state.

"Beyond mere media hype and trumped up charges, the complainants’ bucket of shallow complaint affidavit, deserves to be junked and dismissed outright by the Honorable Commission on Elections, the Law Department thereof," he added.

Esperon earlier expressed his support to the 12 cluster heads of the anti-insurgency body who were earlier sued by the Makabayan Bloc and its allies for allegedly violating various provisions of the Omnibus Election Code.

These NTF-ELCAC cluster heads are:

*Strategic Communication (StratCom) Cluster Head Undersecretary Lorraine Marie T. Badoy;

*Sectoral Unification, Capacity Building and Empowerment (SUCBEM), Localized Peace Engagement (LPE), Basic Services (BS) and Local Government Empowerment (LGE) Clusters Head Undersecretary Marlo L. Iringan;

*Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management (SAKM) Cluster Head Director General Alex Paul I. Monteagudo;

*Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment (PRLE) Cluster Head Deputy Director General Gabriel Luis R. Quisumbing;

*Infrastructure and Resource Management (IRM) Cluster Head Undersecretary Maximo L. Carvajal and Assistant Secretary Nonita S. Caguioa;

*Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster Head Undersecretary Cesar B. Yano; *E-CLIP and Amnesty Program (EAP) Cluster Head Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu;

*International Engagement (IE) Cluster Head Undersecretary Brigido J. Dulay; and;

*Legal Cooperation (LC) Cluster Head Justice Angelita V. Miranda.

The officials were charged by Makabayan Bloc and its party-lists allegedly with violations of Section 261 paragraphs E, I, and O of the Omnibus Election Code.

Some of the party-lists include Bayan Muna, Kabataan Party, Gabriela Women's Party, Anakpawis, and Act Teachers Party-lists.

The specific provisions state the following:

“Prohibited Acts. - The following shall be guilty of an election offense:

e. Threats, intimidation, terrorism, use of fraudulent device or other forms of coercion...

i. Intervention of public officers and employee…

o. Use of public funds, money deposited in trust, equipment, facilities owned or controlled by the government for an election campaign.”

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

While the NDF has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172244

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2022): AFP chief orders intensified ops vs. Red extortion (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino has ordered units to intensify their focused military operations against the New People's Army's (NPA) extortion activities.

In a statement Wednesday, Centino said this would prevent the NPA from recovering from its defeats and prevent it from recruiting new members and committing atrocities.

"Let us continue to address the resource generation of the CTG (communist terrorist group) by stopping its extortion activities and seizing their firearms, ammunition, and other war materials," he said, adding that this would expedite the end of the local communist armed conflict in the country.

On April 11, the AFP seized during operations 22 high-powered firearms from NPA fighters in Agusan del Sur.

The 60th Infantry Battalion (60IB) of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Agila discovered 10 AK-47 automatic rifles, seven M-16 rifles, a light machine gun, an M-14 automatic rifle, M-79 grenade launcher, Garand rifle, and another M-16 rifle in Bagul River, Kasapa II, La Paz, Agusan del Sur.

The location of the arms cache was disclosed by an alias "Bolo", a former NPA rebel who recently surrendered to the Army.

The NPA's Guerilla Front 3 (GF3) secretary Maximo Catarata alias "Datu Makatindog" surrendered to the 60IB on March 31.

His son, the commanding officer of GF3, Renard Galos Catarata alias "SM", also surrendered with 12 other NPA combatants and 13 firearms to the same unit on February 26.

The JTF Agila has since accounted for five separate surrenders with two arms cache discoveries in the 60IB's areas of operation.

This resulted in 20 surrenders from GF3 and the seizure of 48 high-powered and one low-powered firearm.

The 10th Infantry Division – Police Regional Office XI Area Clearing Evaluation Board officially declared the dismantling of GF3 after the setting of the parameters of the AFP - Philippine National Police Joint Letter Directive 3 on April 12.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172226

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2022): NPA rebel killed, arms cache recovered in NegOr town (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

RECOVERED. The war materiel and subversive documents recovered by government troops after a clash with remnants of the New People's Army front group in Sibulan, Negros Oriental on Thursday (April 14, 2022). A rebel was found dead after the firefight. (Photo courtesy of the 11IB, Philippine Army)

A suspected member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) was killed on Thursday during an encounter with soldiers of the Philippine Army's 11th Infantry Battalion (11IB) in Barangay Enrique Villanueva, Sibulan, Negros Oriental.

The troops clashed with some 12 remnants of the South East Front (SEF) of the NPA at around 8 a.m. at Sitio Tulong and later recovered a cache of firearms and explosives, Lt. Col. Roderick R. Salayo, 11IB commanding officer, told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.

The firefight lasted for 15 minutes after which the suspected rebels fled in different directions. Salayo said the group of seven remnants previously reported in southern Negros Oriental had “merged” with their colleagues in Sibulan.

The operating troops utilized K9 dogs to go after the fleeing rebels, which resulted in the recovery of a body, identified as Jonard Salo alias Lino/Rapid/Nikko, Team 2 leader of the SEF remnants.

Recovered from the scene of the encounter were one M14 rifle, one M16A1 rifle, one KG-9 rifle, one homemade shotgun, three rifle grenades, five improvised explosive devices/anti-personnel mines, 10 pieces of 12-gauge ammo shotgun, five magazines, four M203 grenade launchers, four bandoliers, two NPA flags, 12 backpacks, assorted ammunitions, other personal belongings, and subversive documents.

Salayo vowed to intensify the peace and order efforts in their area of operation.

“Our enemy is persistently trying to recover their forces and capabilities but your Army will continue to provide security and deliver the best services as much as we can in line with the campaign and mandate of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC),” he said.

Salayo extended the Army’s sympathy to the family of the slain rebel and said they will facilitate the proper burial and transport of his body to Negros Occidental where he came from.

Meanwhile, he acknowledged the cooperation and vigilance of the residents, saying a tip-off led to the operation in the mountains of Sibulan.

Brig. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, commander of 302nd Infantry Brigade, was quoted in a report from the 11IB as saying that the enemy is trying “to recover their loss area and recruit for new members; but our troops keep on preventing them because of the cooperation of the community by providing information” on the NPA.

“The government is calling our brothers and sisters deceived by false ideologies to abandon the armed struggle and return to the folds of the law. Rest assured that our security forces will assist them in availing (of) the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program which will change their lives for a better future and allow them to reunite with their respective families,” Peña said.

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

The National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172263

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2022): Another NPA fighter killed in NegOcc encounter (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

RECOVERED. The items seized by troops of the Philippine Army’s 94th Infantry Battalion after engaging the New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Sitio Pandan, Barangay Caradio-an in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on Thursday morning (April 14, 2022). The encounter also resulted in the death of alias Johnny, leader of Squad 1, Sentro de Grabidad Platoon of the NPA’s Central Negros Front 2. (Photo courtesy of 94th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

Another fighter of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) was killed during a clash with troops of the Philippine Army’s 94th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Caradio-an, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on Thursday morning.

At 5:20 a.m, soldiers engaged about 10 communist rebels in Sitio Pandan after their presence was reported by the locals as they came asking for food to the point of harassing the residents, the 94IB report said.

The fatality was initially identified only as alias Johnny, leader of Squad 1, Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) Platoon of the NPA’s Central Negros Front 2.

Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, commander of 94IB, commended the bravery of the residents in providing timely and accurate information to the government troops.

“Their cooperation is vital to end the decades-long insurgency in Himamaylan City,” he said in a statement.

After a five-minute firefight, troops found the body of the NPA fighter and recovered two magazines of caliber .45 pistol, a hand grenade, a Huawei computer tablet, a mobile phone, medical kits, and backpacks containing personal items.

“The CPP-NPA in central Negros is continuously weakening with the continuous setbacks they suffered from encounters and surrender of their members,” Almonte said.

He added that the remaining cadres are also competing for the position left by Elbert Quillano (alias Carding), leader of the SDG Platoon, and deputy secretary of Central Negros Front 2, who died in a clash with soldiers in the neighboring Barangay Buenavista last April 1.

“The area is divided. They are now betraying each other for their greed to occupy the position of alias Carding. We call on them to surrender before they will be placed in an unfortunate situation caused by the greediness of their comrades,” the 94IB commander said.

In a separate statement, Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of 303rd Infantry Brigade based in Murcia in Negros Occidental, lauded the 94IB troops for the successful operation and thanked the people of Sitio Pandan for reporting the presence of the rebels.

“I commend the 94IB troopers for their vigilance and timely action. We will not give the CPP-NPA breathing space as they continuously refuse to heed our call to return to the fold of the law,” he added.

During the Buenavista encounter, Quillano was killed with his wife Jessa, who was the platoon’s medical officer.

On April 3, they were laid to rest at the Himamaylan City Public Cemetery in rites arranged by the city’s Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict together with troops of 94IB.

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

The National Democratic Front (NDF) has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172254

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2022): Troops build access roads in area once influenced by ASG in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ROAD TO PEACE. Government troops open a two-kilometer road connecting Barangay Bud Bunga to Barangay Upper Sinumaan, Talipao, Sulu, in coordination with the provincial government. In a statement Thursday (April 14, 2022), the Army's 2nd Special Forces Battalion said its troops are also rehabilitating the five kilometer road that connects Upper Sinumaan and Lower Sinumaan, which are former Abu Sayyaf Group-influenced areas. (Photo courtesy of the 6th Special Forces Company)

Government troops mobilized their resources to open a new road and rehabilitate existing but non-passable road networks in an area previously influenced by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

Capt. Ron Villarosa, commander of the 6th Special Forces Company, said Thursday the two-kilometer road projects connecting Barangay Bud Bunga to Barangay Upper Sinumaan in Talipao, Sulu, is part of the Community Support Program of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion (2SFBn).

In a statement, Villarosa said the opening and rehabilitation of the roads with the assistance of the Army’s 545th Engineer Battalion and 12th Civil-Military Operation Battalion solved the decades-old accessibility problem in the area.

As a counterpart, the provincial government of Sulu provided 10,000 liters of diesel fuel.

“It's passable now although finishing touches are still being done,” Villarosa said in a separate text message Thursday.

The Army official said they are rehabilitating a five-kilometer road that connects Barangay Upper Sinumaan and Barangay Lower Sinumaan.

Villarosa said they are undertaking the road projects with caution, noting that ASG fighters lurk just around 500 meters from the project.

He also underscored the importance of the road projects in enabling the troops to "dominate the operational area," allowing the military to rapidly deploy troops within minutes.

Earlier, he said government forces would take two to three days' hike to reach Bud Bunga, Upper Sinumaan and Lower Sinumaan. These areas are located at the foot of Mount Sinumaan, site of some of the most intense armed encounters in Talipao.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172236

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2022): 1.5K NPA fighters in Region 8 ‘return to the fold’ in 3 years (By Sarwell Meniano)

DENOUNCING INSURGENCY. Former members of New People’s Army (NPA) front organizations burn rebel flags outside the People’s Center and Library in Tacloban City in this Dec. 10, 2021 photo. At least 1,505 regular members of the NPA surrendered to the government as of the end of March 2022, a clear indication that the communist terrorist group is weakening, an official of the National Intelligence Coordination Agency said on Wednesday (April 13, 2022). (PNA file photo)

At least 1,505 regular members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the government as of the end of March 2022, a clear indication the communist terrorist group is weakening, an official of the National Intelligence Coordination Agency (NICA) said on Wednesday.

Of the number, 57 of them yielded in 2019 and 415 turned themselves in a year after. Most of them or 1,007 surrendered in 2021 while 26 fighters abandoned the NPA just this year.

NICA Eastern Visayas Regional Director Eustacio Bacabac said many regular NPA members have surrendered through the government’s whole-of-nation approach in the past three years.

“They have been weakening since 2019. Many of them surrendered after they realized that it is a senseless struggle. Others also abandoned the NPA through persuasions by those who already surrendered,” Bacabac said.

The reduced influence of their organization in other parts of the country forced NPA leaders to move to Samar, which they considered their “last bastion".

NICA also reported that 70 members of the terrorist group were killed in clashes with government forces while 54 were captured in operations in more than two years.

“In the last three months, two key NPA central committee personalities were captured in Samar and Northern Samar. The government learned about their presence through information from former NPA members. They have been hiding in Samar because they thought that they are safe here, but they are wrong since the environment is already different,” Bacabac added.

Likewise, some 6,222 mass supporters abandoned the communist ideology while 539 members of Batakang Organisasyon sa Partido (BOP) left the communist terrorist group.

BOP members are used by the NPA in intelligence-gathering activities.

The weakening of NPA in Eastern Visayas is a result of a whole-of-nation approach by linking arms between basic service providers from the central government, community participation groups from the local governments, and the security sector from the military and police.

In support of the fight against NPA, several local government units have formed their task force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) operationalizing Executive Order 70 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018.

The directive also institutionalizes a “whole-of-nation approach” to attaining an inclusive and sustainable peace.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front (NDF) as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1172224

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 14, 2022): Joint AFP-PNP Law Enforcement Operation nabbed 3 wanted CTG ranking leaders, member in separate operations

NSFA Panacan, Davao City – Three wanted Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leaders and member were apprehended following a series of Law Enforcement Operations launched by the joint security forces of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) units on April 7, 10, and 11.

The first arrested personality was identified as Jemalyn Calinawan, a member of Guerilla Front (GF) 16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), who has a criminal case for Multiple Frustrated Murder issued at the 10th Regional Trial Court (RTC), Branch 30 in Surigao City.

Her arrest was made possible through the joint effort of the 901st Brigade’s 30th and 36th Infantry Battalions (IB), Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Office, PNP Placer and intelligence units.

It was followed by the apprehension of a CTG leader identified as Aldeem A. Yañez through the collaboration of PNP Region 10, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 10 (CIDG-RFU), 4th Infantry Division’s Task Force Oro and 403rd Brigade on April 10 at the Urban Poor Village, Brgy Iponan, Cagayan de Oro City.

He was facing charges for violation of the Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act during the implementation of a search warrant issued on April 6, 2022, by the RTC Misamis Oriental, 10th Judicial Court. Authorities also pointed out Yañez as an extortionist and an ideological, political, and organizational (IPO) worker of the CTG.

Recovered from his possession are a caliber .45 Pistol, two fragmentation hand grenades, two 40mm ammunition, fake voter identification, vaccine card, and various subversive documents.

Another joint security force composed of PNP Region 13, PNP Trento, and 402nd Brigade intel units also apprehended Julieta Galario Gerondio, Secretary/Finance Officer of the Sub-Regional Committee 3 (SRC3), North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) at Sitio Maitum, Brgy. Langkilaan, Trento, Agusan del Sur on April 11, through a warrant of arrest issued at the RTC Branch 7, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur for various murder cases.

The CTG leader was nabbed by government forces while traversing from Davao to Agusan when her vehicle was flagged down at a checkpoint in the boundary of Monkayo, Davao de Oro, and Trento, Agusan del Sur.

LtGen. Greg T. Almerol, Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) lauded the joint AFP and PNP forces for the recent successful arrests of the CTG personalities, clearly show the strong commitment and synergy of all government security forces in rounding up all lawless individuals and terrorist groups that keep on hiding from the law.

“This is an ultimate example of the great outcomes due to the established synergy among the different security forces. Hand in hand, we can achieve victories greater than this,” LtGen Almerol said.

“Every arrest of a key CTG personality brings us one step closer to becoming an armed-conflict-free country,” he added, stressing that this is not only a victory for the Command and other government security forces but also the people, especially the victims of the CTG’s injustice.

The EastMinCom Commander also vowed to continue hunting down other notorious CTG members who are on the run while also encouraging others to yield.

“We will be relentless in hunting down the terrorist so we could finally attain lasting peace and development in Eastern Mindanao. While doing so, we are also open for those who would like to surrender and get another chance to live free and in peace with their families again,” LtGen. Almerol said.

“Submit yourselves now so that you may avail of government programs such as the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program,” he added.

[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/joint-afp-pnp-law-enforcement-operation-nabbed-3-wanted-ctg-ranking-leaders-member-in-separate-operations/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 14, 2022): Authorities Arrested 3 Top Ranking CPP-NPA personalities in Pampanga

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The combined elements of
Mabalacat Municipal Police Station, PNP-CIDU 3, troops from 703rd Infantry Brigade and 70th Infantry Battalion along with other law enforcement authorities arrested 3 top ranking CPP-NPA personalities in Central Luzon at Purok 4, Brgy Mauaque, Mabalacat, Pampanga on April 13, 2022.

Major General Andrew D Costelo PA, Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army the law enforcement authorities served a Warrant of Arrest for Murder against Evelyn C Munoz alias “Ched/Emy/Maye/Miray” the Communist Party of the Philippines’ Central Luzon Regional Committee Secretary; National Finance Commission Secretary; Politburo, and member of CPP Central Committee.

Also arrested were Erlinda Lansang alias “Dahlia”, a member and Political Instructor of Komiteng Larangang Guerrilla Tarlac-Zambales (KLG-TARZAM) and one Margarita Lansang alias “Mara”, Secretary of LGP-4, CLRC/EXECOM Member of Central Luzon Regional Committee.

Recovered during the service of arrest was one Cal. 45; two magazine assemblies with 14 ammunition; several Identification Cards depicting their pictures with different names; 26 units of cellular phones; 3 laptops; several USB storage devices; subversive documents/materials and cash with different denominations and currencies amounting to more or less Php400,000.00.

MGen Costelo believed that the money recovered in the possession of the CPP Finance Officer and two others extorted from the local community to finance their White Area Operations as the National Democratic Front’s Founding Anniversary is almost two weeks from now.

“I would like to congratulate all the operating troops for the successful service of Warrant of Arrest for the said CPP-NPA personalities. Their arrest is timely as we were able to thwart their activities in urban and rural operations, especially that the national and local election is coming,” said MGen Costelo.

The Commander also thanked the Former CTG members and the locals for tipping off their CPP-NPA identities, location, and activities in their community.

Meanwhile, the Commander of the 703rd Infantry (AGILA) Brigade, Colonel Joseph Norwin D Pasamonte said that the arrested personalities have been the subject of law enforcement operations for months along with the PNP to stop its criminal activities in Central Luzon.

[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/authorities-arrested-3-top-ranking-cpp-npa-personalities-in-pampanga/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 14, 2022): 7ID mentors ROTC leaders in SALARS 7

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – “Inspire your cadets to become good Filipino citizens.”

This is the main message of Maj. Gen. Andrew D. Costelo, the Commander of 7ID, to the ROTC student participants during the closing of 7ID’s program called, “Strengthening the Army Leadership Attributes of ROTC Students in 7ID” or SALARS 7, held on April 10, 2022.

SALARS 7 is a 3-session online seminar-workshop designed to enhance the leadership skills of the ROTC cadet officers from the country’s Regions 1 and 3.

A total of 93 ROTC cadet officers from different schools in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Aurora Provinces participated in the program.

SALARS 7 introduced the participants on the doctrine of Army leadership focusing on one its main requirements – the Army leader’s attributes of character, presence and intellect.

The Director of the Army Leadership Development Center of the Training and Doctrine Command, Col. John Paul C. Guerrero, gave a lecture on the subject, Army Leadership, and actively participated in all the sessions of the program.

Selected officers from 7ID also shared their insights on character, presence and intellect as basic attributes of an Army leader.

To examine their understanding on the leadership concepts and to test their innovative skills and creativity, the 7ID required all participants by team to produce a 3-minute audio visual production (AVP) on how they can apply the knowledge on Army leader’s attributes in their respective ROTC units.

Out of 31 entries, 7ID selected and recognized the top 7 AVPs of ROTC units during the closing program, namely, Wesleyan University Philippines (WUP) Nueva Ecija, Phinma-Araullo University (PHINMA-AU) Nueva Ecija, Manuel V Gallego Foundation College (MVGFC) Nueva Ecija, Tarlac State University (TSU) Tarlac City, Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) Tarlac City, Pangasinan State University (PSU) Bayambang Campus, Pangasinan and DMMSU-SLUC, Agoo, La Union.

In his message, MGen. Costelo advised the ROTC cadet officers on their roles and responsibilities to their subordinates as Army leaders.

“Listen to them and talk to them regularly. Show them what is a good Filipino that they should emulate. Be a good Army leader, be a good Filipino leader,” said the 7ID commander.

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