Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19, 2022): 5 NPA rebels yield in S. Kudarat, claim struggle going nowhere (By Edwin Fernandez)

TIRED FIGHTERS. Five communist rebels operating in the mountains of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, pledge allegiance to the Philippine flag after their surrender Wednesday (May 18, 2022) in Upi, Maguindanao. The group also turned in eight high-powered firearms during their surrender. (Photo courtesy of 57IB)

Some five more communist New people’s Army (NPA) rebels operating in Sultan Kudarat province have surrendered to military authorities, saying they have been fighting for a futile cause.

“It is better to live with their loved ones than fighting a lost cause,” said one of the surrenderers, who identified himself only as “Ka Abel,” in a statement Thursday.

The rebels turned over their rifles to the Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Mirab, Upi, Maguindanao, Wednesday afternoon.

The group’s firearms consisted of a sniper rifle, a Garand rifle, and a 12-gauge shotgun.

They also helped the Army in locating and retrieving other NPA firearms -- an M60 machine gun and three M16 rifles – kept in the hinterlands of Lebak town.

Lt. Col. Jonathan Pondanera, the 57IB commander, said the surrenderers used to operate under the NPA's Far South Mindanao Region.

Major General Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division and concurrent head of Joint Task Force Central, hailed the rebels' surrender.

“The decision of the NPA group to return to the folds of the law will surely bring happiness to their families and loved ones and the people of Lebak,” Uy told reporters here.

He urged other NPA guerrillas to follow the footsteps of their comrades who are now back in the mainstream society to live normal lives.

Since January this year, more than 60 NPA combatants have availed of various livelihood packages after they decided to surrender to the government.

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/1174824

From the Philippine News Agency (May 18, 2022): 2 rebels, 24 supporters in N. Ecija break ties with CPP-NPA (By Zorayda Tecson)

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. Twenty-four sympathizers of the CPP-NPA pledge their allegiance to the government after they surrendered to authorities in Llanera, Nueva Ecija on Wednesday (May 18, 2022). Two former rebels in the province likewise turned themselves in to the government security forces. (Photo courtesy of PRO-3)

Some two former members and 24 sympathizers of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) have withdrawn their support from the communist terrorist organization in Nueva Ecija.

In his report on Wednesday, Brig. Gen. Matthew P. Baccay, regional director of the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3), said the two rebels identified as Ka Trixie, 60 years old, a former member of the CPP-NPA's Arcadio Peralta command, and “Kaka”, 52, a member of Militia ng Bayan under Komiteng Larangang Guerilla (KLG) Sierra Madre voluntarily surrendered to authorities in on Tuesday.

Baccay said Ka Trixie also yielded a .22-caliber firearm without a serial number when he surrendered in Nampicuan town. Kaka turned himself in to authorities in Cabanatuan City.

Likewise, he said 24 members of Liga ng Manggagawang Bukid (LMB) and Alyansang Mangbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon (AMGL) under the Kilusan ng Magsasaka ng Pilipinas (KMP) surrendered to elements of the 1st Platoon 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company and other partner units in Barangay San Felipe, Llanera town on Wednesday.

“The unremitting efforts of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) have been the contributory factors for the continuous surrender of more active and former members of communist terrorist groups and the withdrawal of support of their sympathizers,” Baccay said in a statement.

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/1174780

From the Philippine News Agency (May 18, 2022): Army adopts 3rd public school in northern Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

PARTNERSHIP. Lt. Col. J-jay Javines, commanding officer of the Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion, speaks during the launch of the unit’s “Adopt-A-School” program at the Lina De La Viña Valmayor Elementary School in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental on Monday (May 16, 2022). In partnership with the city government, the 79IB turned over construction materials to the school officials. (Photo courtesy of 79th Infantry Battalion, PA)

The Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) has officially adopted the Lina De La Viña Valmayor Elementary School in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental to receive assistance from the troops in making the campus more conducive for learning.

Located in the province’s first district, it is the third beneficiary under the unit’s “Adopt-A-School” program after Pacol Elementary School in Sagay City in the second district and Sto. Rosario Elementary School in Silay City in the third district.

Lt. Col. J-jay Javines, commanding officer of 79IB, said in a statement on Wednesday the Philippine Army is a regular partner of stakeholders in the peace and development efforts in their area of assignment in northern Negros.

“Inspired by the outpouring of support from our stakeholders, the Masaligan troopers will remain steadfast and committed to serve the Negrenses,” he added.

To formalize the partnership, the 79IB and the Department of Education forged a memorandum of agreement on Monday, wherein both parties committed themselves to embark on a journey to provide quality and relevant education to the learners as provided for in Republic Act 8525 or the Adopt-A-School Act of 1998.

The 79IB, in partnership with the city government, then turned over construction materials to officials of Lina De La Viña Valmayor Elementary School.

These will be used for the repair and repainting of dilapidated facilities and the construction of tables and chairs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174788

From the Philippine News Agency (May 17, 2022): Army, police to help CHR-10 vs. 'NPA extortionists'(By Nef Luczon)

Military and police authorities in Northern Mindanao have signified intention to help the region’s Commission on Human Rights (CHR-10) against the reported extortion of personalities claiming to be part of the New People’s Army (NPA).

In an interview Tuesday, Maj. Francisco Garello, the Army’s 4th Infantry Division spokesperson, said they will cooperate with CHR-10 officials as soon they are ready to share information on the incident.

Garelllo said based on initial information, the extortion incident happened in Iligan City, which is under the jurisdiction of the 1st Infantry Division.

"First, we need to receive their report and discuss with them the incident," Garello said, adding CHR's cooperation is crucial to verify if the suspected extortionists are legitimate members of the NPA.

In a statement, CHR Executive Director Jacqueline de Guia said CHR-10 and their counterpart office in Region 12 recently received calls from unknown personalities claiming to be NPA members and threatening the regional staff.

One caller demanded PHP200,000, De Guia said.

Lt. Col. Michelle Olaivar, Police Regional Office-10 spokesperson, said they are ready to conduct an investigation to identify the extortionists once CHR-10 allows them to do so.

"What we ask is cooperation from the concerned people to help us, particularly if they have (valuable) information," Olaivar said.

In recent years, the 4ID has filed complaints before the CHR-10 accusing the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the NPA of violating International Humanitarian Law, especially on their practices of recruiting children as combatants.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council has also formally designated the National Democratic Front 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/1174679

From the Philippine News Agency (May 22, 2022): NTF-ELCAC elated by ‘expulsion’ of NPA-linked orgs from Congress

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is elated by the electoral loss of party-list groups linked to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

In a press statement on Sunday, NTF ELCAC spokesperson for sectoral concerns and Communications Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy thanked Filipinos for not voting for Reds-linked party-list groups Bayan Muna and Anakpawis.

“The expulsion, particularly of Bayan Muna, is of notable worth because for 21 years, they have formidably sat in Congress, garnering the allowable maximum seats, three–while using the immense powers of Congress to destroy our people and our country and wasting the precious time of our real Representatives in Congress with their filibustering and their constant obstruction of important legislative work meant to move our country forward and ease the burdens of the most marginalized among us,” Badoy said.

She said Bayan Muna is “on its way to extinction” with just a little over 200,000 votes compared to over a million in the 2019 elections.

“We applaud the Filipino people for closing ranks behind our President, Chair of the NTF ELCAC, and heeding his call to defend and protect our country from these ruthless urban operatives of [CPP founder] Joma Sison/CPP-NPA-NDF by fully using the power of your vote. Truly, you understood so well that your vote is not only your right but your power. And you flexed it mightily,”she added.

According to Badoy, voting Reds-linked party-lists out of Congress is “the fiercest expression” of Filipinos’ love for the country by giving protection to the most helpless, such as children, indigenous peoples, and the poor.

She also thanked Filipinos for slashing in half the number of seats in the House of Representatives for what she described as “urban operatives of the CPP NPA NDF.”

“From around 3 million votes they garnered in the 2019 elections, they could only manage a little over a million votes in this year’s elections,” she added.

However, Badoy said the NTF-ELCAC is “saddened” that other left-leaning party-list groups, such as Kabataan, registered an increase to half a million votes.

She blamed losing presidential candidate Vice President Leni Robredo’s collusion with the CPP-NPA-NDF as a factor in Kabataan’s three more years in Congress.

“We attribute these votes to the treachery of Leni Robredo who colluded with the CPP-NPA-NDF which have co-opted Robredo followers in the youth sector and are now being radicalized and targeted for recruitment into this communist terrorist organization,” she said.

Robredo’s camp has repeatedly dismissed these allegations as “red-tagging”.

Badoy said NTF-ELCAC work “is not done” because there are still three Reds-linked party-list groups in Congress -- Kabataan, Alliance of Concerned Teachers, and Gabriela.

The NTF-ELCAC has filed cases of disqualification and criminal cases against the CPP-NPA-NDF fronts and will file even more, Badoy said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1175064

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20, 2022): OPAPRU, Cabinet cluster endorse peace process to next admin (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU)

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) and the Inter-Cabinet Cluster Mechanism on Normalization (ICCMN) on Friday renewed their commitments to continue the various initiatives under the normalization track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), six weeks left before President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration ends.

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the peace-building and normalization initiatives will be handed over to the new set of government officials.

“It is our hope the ICCMN will be able to accelerate the implementation of our peace-building initiatives under the Normalization Program,” Galvez said in a statement, while reiterating his support for the continuous pursuit of peace and development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The ICCMN, composed of 17 agencies, is responsible for pushing for various programs such as the decommissioning of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s combatants and weapons and transformation of former Moro rebel camps.

It was created through Executive Order 70 signed April 2019.

“These milestones were achieved due to the steadfast commitment and support of all stakeholders -- the Bangsamoro and national governments, civil society organizations, as well our local and international peace partners,” Galvez said.

“Through the support of ICCMN member-agencies, there is no doubt that we shall accomplish the tasks ahead such as the implementation of socio-economic programs for the decommissioned combatants and their families,” he added.

ICCMN co-chairperson and acting Cabinet Secretary, Melvin Matibag, urged the body to continuously ensure timely, appropriate, and efficient delivery of the normalization program for the beneficiaries and their communities.

“Our investment in the normalization programs and projects must not be wasted. You should ensure that this should bring us closer to achieving the Normalization Program’s goals,” Matibag said in another statement.

Sustaining the peace process in the Southern part of Mindanao is among the flagship programs of the Duterte administration.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174974

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20, 2022): Assets maintenance now challenge for PH Navy: DND chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of DND

With the Philippine Navy (PN) now getting more assets, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Friday said the challenge for the service now is getting these equipment properly maintained.

"And so recently, we have been procuring a lot of equipment for the navy and as narrated by the Flag-Officer-In-Command, we bought a lot of equipment, but I see some challenges ahead. I told the Flag-Officer-In-Command (PN chief Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado) we have been buying things, but (the) challenge is how to maintain these equipment," he said in his speech during the Navy's 124th founding anniversary.

Lorenzana also said any unserviceable naval vessel or "those not ready for sea" is a useless ship.

He added that these vessels lying useless anchored might as well be sold for scrap iron.

"We need ships that could (sail out) there and patrol our maritime domains so the challenge now for the next Flag-Officer-In-Command, Chief-of-Staff and the Secretary of Defense is to convince Congress to allocate more funds for the maintenance of these equipment," Lorenzana said.

Another challenge, the DND chief said, is the Navy seems to have no basing facilities for its ships.

"Number 2, I also told Flag-Officer-In-Command that we have been buying ships, wala naman tayong paradahan (we have no area to dock), we have no adequate naval base to park the ships," Lorenzana said.

But this problem seemed to have been resolved with the PN managing to get the northern part of the Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction shipyard in Subic, Zambales.

"But recently, we were able to get the northern part of Hanjin, the Navy is happy because they now have a place of their own that they can park their capital ships, that’s it," Lorenzana said.

He said the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ modernization would not have been possible without the support of President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

"So, a lot of people have been thanking me, (retired members of the) Navy, Air Force also, because of the numerous assets that we have procured for their service during my time, and I always tell them that it's because of the President," he said.

Lorenzana said the Chief Executive has always been supportive of the AFP and all its endeavors.

And if there were no Covid-19 pandemic, the DND chief said more equipment would have been acquired for the AFP.

"But anyway, even if there was Covid, we were able to accomplish what we set out to do. So my advice to the Philippine Navy is to take care of these equipment that you have acquired, make them operational all the time and also keep improving the skills and expertise of your sailors and marines," Lorenzana said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174964

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20, 2022): DOST eyes mass production of BUHAWI project (By Ma. Cristina Arayata)

BUHAWI. The Filipino-made automated gun mount developed under the Building a Universal Mount for Heavy Barrel Automated Weapon Integration (BUHAWI) project is now being eyed for commercialization. Developing this cost PHP14 million, compared to imported technologies that cost around PHP24 million, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said. (Image grabbed from DOST MIRDC's Facebook page)

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said on Friday they are looking to commercialize the Building a Universal Mount for Heavy Barrel Automated Weapon Integration (BUHAWI).

"(BUHAWI's) research and development (R&D) and prototype development were already finished. Training will be done until October. When it gets commercialized, initial adopters will be the DND (Department of National Defense)," de la Peña told the Philippine News Agency.

BUHAWI is a collaboration project among the DOST, the Philippine Navy, and the Robotics Society of the Philippines.

De la Peña said the automated gun mount can later be exported since it is less expensive than the imported ones.

Imported technologies cost around PHP24 million, while BUHAWI's development only cost PHP14 million, de la Peña said.

Mass producing it would further reduce the cost to PHP12 million.

In the pilot commercialization, the DOST chief said the agency aims to establish manufacturing standard processes for BUHAWI to gear up for its licensing to adopters, and for its mass production.

Mass producing the BUHAWI would result in reduced importation requirements since the country can fabricate parts and components locally.

"Another advantage of utilizing the (Filipino-made) BUHAWI is the opportunity to hone the expertise of both manufacturers and end-users. As a nation that owns the technology, we can drive technology transfer initiatives to best benefit Filipinos," de la Peña said.

He acknowledged that other countries are more experienced in designing remote-controlled weapon stations, and the Philippines has been dependent on the defense technologies developed abroad.

"Pursuing a self-reliant defense posture means that we need to build the capability to produce our own. BUHAWI is a proof that we have that capability. From a wider perspective, BUHAWI is a proof that partnership is crucial to sustaining our remarkable journey toward being self-reliant in the area of local defense," de la Peña said.

He noted that BUHAWI’s operation sequence – surveillance, target detection, identification, and recognition, with tracking and engagement – is a result of rigid R&D.

"Its high hit probability, along with the integration of a technology camera system, and optimization of industry 4.0 technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, and additive manufacturing, are results of the collaboration of individuals from different fields of expertise," he said.

BUHAWI, de la Peña said, is a testament to the DOST's support to the DND's Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174953

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20, 2022): PH Navy to test fire missiles of new frigates (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of PN

The Philippine Navy (PN) announced on Friday that the surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles of its two Jose Rizal-class frigates will be test-fired in June.

"Hopefully, after this anniversary, maybe next month, we will witness the test-firing of our newly-acquired weapon systems, itong ating surface-to-air missile at saka surface-to-surface missile na nandiyan sa atin frigates (our surface-to-surface air missiles and surface-to-surface missiles installed on our frigates),"PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado said during PN’s 124th founding anniversary.

Bordado was referring to the Mistral 3 surface-to-air-missiles (SAMs) of the Jose Rizal-class missile frigates -- BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) -- which were delivered last October 8.

Procurement and delivery of the Mistral 3 SAMs is part of the PN Frigate Acquisition Project Lot 2B which was awarded to MBDA Missile Systems based in France.

Meanwhile, the primary surface-to-surface missile of the Jose Rizal-class frigates, manufactured by South Korean LIG Nex 1, the C-Star, was delivered earlier this year.

The C-Star is described as a "sea-skimming surface-to-surface anti-ship cruise missile" and is part of PN Frigate Acquisition Lot 2 A.

Bordado thanked Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana for his support of the PN’s modernization.

"But having these modern and multi-capable vessels, armament, and equipment are not enough and I would like to emphasize this again today, the Navy's assets (and) modernization must complement the modernization of its facilities and the mindset of our personnel," he said.

He also said naval assets are useless "without highly skilled and versatile personnel".

"Without appropriate education, training and doctrines or adequate bases or facilities, yun mga nakikita niyong (which you are seeing) our naval assets will be meaningless," Bordado said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174935

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20, 2022): PCG puts up command posts on Likas, Lawak, Parola islands

Photo courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) established command observation posts (COPs) on Likas Island, Lawak Island, and Parola Island last May 17, expanding the maritime domain awareness in the West Philippine Sea.

"Through these COPs, we improve our capabilities in promoting maritime safety, maritime search and rescue, and marine environmental protection," PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Artemio Abu said in a news release issued Friday.

The PCG's Task Force Kaligtasan sa Karagatan also built a smart house and installed radio communications on the islands during the deployment of the largest Coast Guard contingent in the WPS.

"The activation of these COPs complies with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Department of Transportation Secretary Art Tugade's guidance to support the country's maritime transportation and shipping industry by promoting maritime safety and maritime security," Abu said.

"These COPs will optimize the strategic deployment of PCG assets by monitoring the movement of merchant ships in its surrounding waters and communicating maritime incidents to the PCG national headquarters," he added.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea and National Security Council Adviser, Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, also supported the initiative.

He said this would guide domestic and international ships passing the country's waters through safe and secure sea lines of communications.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174936

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19, 2022): Multi-role vessels needed to fully cover territory: PCG chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BRP Teresa Magbanua (Photo courtesy of PCG)

If given an opportunity or chance, Philippine Coast Guard Commandant, Admiral Artemio Abu, is keen to have 15 more 97-meter long multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) like the newly-commissioned BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) to fully cover the country's maritime territories.

He made this comment when asked by the Philippine News Agency Thursday on how many 97-meter long MRRVs would be ideal for the PCG.

"Kung kaya bigyan kada district ng mas malaking barko, We have 15 regional offices of the Coast Guard for a start, one malaking barko, ideal na yan. Full coverage na yan ng ating archipelagic nation (If each district will be given a similarly-sized ship, the Coast Guard has 15 regional offices for a start, we will have full coverage of our archipelagic nation),"Abu said.

"The more the better," the PCG chief added.

Last May 6, the PCG has formally commissioned its first MRRV, the BRP Teresa Magbanua. It is now headed for Makassar, Indonesia along with three other Coast Guard vessels to participate in the Regional Maritime Pollution Exercise (MARPOLEX) which will take place this coming May 22 to 29.

The second MRRV, the sister ship of BRP Teresa Magbanua, the prospective BRP Melchora Aquino is expected to arrive by the first week of June, Abu said.

He added that these ships, once fully operational, and deployed at the West Philippine Sea, are expected to increase endurance and patrol capabilities of the PCG which was only equipped with small vessels.

"Siyempre, paglaki ng barko natin pagtaas ng kakayahan [din] (once we get bigger ships, our capabilities [like endurance, duration and weather condition] will also improve)," the PCG chief said.

The Teresa Magbanua-class of MRRVs has a length of 97 meters, a maximum speed of not less than 24 knots, and a complement of 67 officers and crew members.

The ship is also equipped with two 6600 kW diesel engines. These MRRVs were constructed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd based on the Kunigami class design, in Shimonoseki.

The PCG is primarily tasked with enforcing all applicable laws within Philippine waters, conduct maritime security operations, safeguarding life and property at sea, and protect the maritime environment and resources.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174857

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19, 2022): PH Army eyes more tie-ups with NZ counterpart (By Priam Nepomuceno)

CLOSER TIES. Philippine Army (PA) Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong gives a token to New Zealand Non-Resident Attaché Col. Paul Michael Dragicevich who made a courtesy call at the PA Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on Wednesday (May 18, 2022) This is to foster closer ties between the two armies. (Photo courtesy of PA)

The Philippine Army (PA) is looking at having more cooperation with its New Zealand counterpart in the field of leadership management and other personnel and military matters.

This, as New Zealand Non-Resident Defense Attaché Col. Paul Michael Dragicevich made a courtesy call on Wednesday to PA Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong at the PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio.

"Maj. Gen. Capulong, who represented Army commanding general Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. and Col. Dragicevich, discussed the possibility of conducting bilateral engagements involving the Army of the Philippines and New Zealand on leadership and management, personnel development, and cyberspace domain," PA Spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Thursday.

Dragicevich is currently based in Tokyo, Japan.

"The PA, based on its medium-term engagement plan with the New Zealand Army, shall focus its engagements in military training and education; strengthen collaboration in technology transfers; intelligence; and, information exchanges," he said.

Capulong also opened up the possibility of tapping the New Zealand Army for the development of a PA warrant officer program and training for further professional development of senior non-commissioned officers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174833

From the Philippine News Agency (May 18, 2022): PCG installs 5 floating sovereign markers for safe voyage in WPS (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

One of the newly installed buoys on the West Philippine Sea. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday completed the installation of five buoys on four different islands in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) to mark the country’s territorial waters and to guide mariners passing through the areas.

In a Laging Handa briefing, PCG Rear Admiral Bobby Patrimonio, commander of the PCG Marine Environmental Protection Command, said one buoy was installed on Likas Island, another on Parola Island, one on Lawak Island, and two on Pag-asa Island.

“These are sovereign markers of our country, but ang pinaka-intention lang is to guide our seafarers navigating in that area para magkaroon ng ligtas na paglalayag (but its main intention is to guide our seafarers navigating in that area to ensure safe voyage),” Patrimonio said.

He noted that the buoys would also be a big help to fishermen as the areas they mark are particularly abundant with fish.

In a media bulletin, the PCG said the buoy laying operation was completed by its BRP Corregidor, BRP Bojeador, BRP Suluan, BRP Capones, and Tug Boat Habagat.

PCG Commandant, Admiral Artemio Abu noted that the buoys mark the areas as “special protected zones” where mining and oil exploration are prohibited to preserve its natural resources.

“These buoys are now our source of pride and honor in serving our great nation. And because our fellow Coast Guardians braved numerous dangers during the said noble mission, they were able to bring the PCG to the next level of success,” Abu said.

He said more navigational buoys will soon be placed in other areas within the country’s exclusive economic zone, particularly in the WPS and Benham Rise.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174791

From the Philippine News Agency (May 18, 2022): 12 officials get new assignments in latest PNP reshuffle (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Some 12 ranking police officials were included in the latest reorganization of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Brig. Gen. Lawrence Coop of the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Record Management (DPRM) will be the next Chief of the Supervisory Office on Security and Investigation Agencies (SOSIA) of the Civil Security Group, while Brig. Gen. Constancio Torayan Chinayog Jr. was designated as Deputy Director of DPRM. (CSG)

Another police official getting a new assignment is Brig. Gen. Sidney Villaflor of CSG will be the Deputy Director for Logistics, while Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo will be the next Acting Deputy Commander of the Area Police Command (APC) in Southern Luzon, replacing Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Peralta.

Brig. Gen. Oliver Enmodias, chief of the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG), will be the new deputy director of the APC Eastern Mindanao. Brig. Gen. Samuel Nacion will replace Enmodias as new IMEG chief.

Taking the helm as Acting Director for Information and Communication Technology Management is Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Peralta, while Brig. Gen. Jon Arnaldo was assigned as Director of the National Police Training Institute.

Col. Christopher Birung was assigned to the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) and Col. Joseph Arguelles was assigned to DPRM.

The revamp took effect on Wednesday (May 18).

Meanwhile, the PNP-Anti-Cybercrime Group will be having a new director on May 24 -- Brig. Gen. Bowenn Joey Masauding, replacing Brig. Gen. Robert Rodriguez, who will be named as Acting Director for Personnel and Records Management.

Col. Wilson Ueta will be assigned as Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Senior Executive Assistant of the Office of the Chief, PNP.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174715

From the Philippine News Agency (May 18, 2022): Successful anti-insurgency ops bring peace to Northern Luzon (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PNA file photo

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Andres Centino said the successful campaign of the 5th Infantry Division against the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) has brought progress and peace to communities in Ilocos, Cagayan Valley and the Cordillera.

"With the active participation of the Star Division in our whole of nation approach, the people of Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, and Cordillera Administrative Region felt significant economic progress, as well as peace and security in their communities," he said in a statement Wednesday.

Centino also recognized the 5th Infantry Division (Star Troopers) for their recent achievements, particularly the employment of game changer assets against CTGs in Cagayan.

"The 5th Infantry Division's conduct of focused military operations and effective coordination with other law enforcement agencies resulted in significant gains against the enemy," the AFP chief added.

It also liberated 117 areas from the influence of communist terrorists; dismantled four guerrilla fronts; and neutralized 950 personalities, 18 of which were high-value individuals.

The 5th Infantry Division also facilitated the withdrawal of support of 488 former communist sympathizers, recovery of 204 firearms, and the re-orientation of five former CTG-supportive organizations.

"The achievements of Star Troopers were possible given the avid support of our stakeholders who share our common goal of attaining genuine peace and inclusive progress," Centino said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174729

From the Philippine News Agency (May 18, 2022): New comms system enables ‘real time’ tracking of PH Navy’s assets (By Priam Nepomuceno)

COMMUNICATIONS UPGRADE. Sailors and Marines from the Philippine Navy (PN) headquarters stand in formation during the launching ceremony of the Enhanced Electronic Document Management System and the Naval Operating Reporting System on May 16, 2022. The Naval Operating Reporting System (NORS) was created to assist in reporting individual status and operating conditions of all deployed naval ships, aircraft, and marine units, providing the leadership with timely situational awareness and a common operating picture for effective decision-making. (Photo courtesy of PN)

The Philippine Navy (PN)'s communications capabilities got an upgrade following the activation of its Naval Operating Reporting System (NORS) giving the service the ability to monitor the status of all its deployed naval ships, aircraft and marine units.

"NORS was created to assist in reporting individual status and operating conditions of all deployed naval ships, aircraft, and marine units, providing the leadership with timely situational awareness and a common operating picture for effective decision-making," Navy spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza said in a statement Wednesday.

NORS was activated last May 16 during short ceremonies at Navy headquarters at Naval Station Jose Andrada along Roxas Boulevard, Manila and is part of the PN's 124th founding anniversary highlights this coming May 20.

"NORS’ unit reporting, asset tracking, and event management systems collect daily accomplishment reports and operational updates, monitor the Navy’s air, surface, and land assets, and log spot reports and maritime incident reports for data analytics," Negranza said.

Another PN communications capability unveiled at the same time is the enhanced Electronic Document Management System (EDMS).

"The enhanced edition of EDMS, on the other hand, now includes naval correspondences (naval, military, and civilian letters) and radio messages, further widening its scope in the Navy’s field of communications," Negranza said.

EDMS allows the PN Headquarters personnel and staff to electronically route communications or correspondences to and from the PN headquarters staff and the Navy flag-officer-in-command.

"The Navy’s move towards updated cyberspace capacities is in line with the organization’s modernization efforts, enabling the organization to become a multi-capable naval institution," the PN spokesperson said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174717

From the Philippine News Agency (May 18, 2022): PH, Australia elevate ties to 'strategic partnership' (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora and Kris Crismundo)

Australian Ambassador Steven Robinson AO (PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan)

The Philippines and Australia are set to elevate their bilateral relations to strategic partnership "at the end of the year," Australian Ambassador Steven Robinson AO said.

The envoy said this was the result of a series of talks and high-level engagements between the two nations over the past years, particularly the August 2021 Philippine-Australia Ministerial Meeting.

"What they did in August 2021 was to set up a pretty ambitious program, which talked about the areas of development that were involved in: peacebuilding, economic recovery, trade, security cooperation and the like. And what that has resulted in is that we're going to elevate our bilateral relationship to what's called a strategic partnership at the end of this year," he said at a reception hosted at his residence in Makati City on Tuesday night.

Robinson said this does not only reflect the expansion of cooperation between the two nations but also how Australia regards the Philippines as a close partner in the region.

Canberra and Manila's bilateral relationship is centered on development, education, people-to-people links, trade and investment, and defense.

This year, it also celebrates over 30 years of law enforcement partnership, focused on countering child exploitation and terrorism.

On education, Robinson said Australia is investing at least 90 million Australian dollars between 2017 and 2026 to help strengthen basic education in the Bangsamoro region.

"Peacebuilding too is important to Australia and what we do down in the south, in the BARMM really matters. We're a strong supporter of peace and development in Mindanao," he said.

"And that's going to be important in the future in terms of the stability not only of the Philippines but also the entire region," he added.

To note, more than 50 percent of the annual PHP3 billion Australian aid program goes to Mindanao to support the peace process, normalization, education, and conflict reduction.

Robinson said Australia would continue this close engagement with the Philippines under the incoming administration.

"I think it's pretty much as we have before, I don't think there's much change in the way in which we'll focus on the Philippines. The defense relationship is really important, the development assistance, the trade and investment is growing," he said.

Robinson said there are "enough reforms" by Manila in the last few years that would likely attract Australian investors to come in.

"What I'm seeing is lots of Australian companies wanting to come to the Philippines that haven't been here before, so I think that's an area of potential focus," he said.

Despite the pandemic, commercial ties between the two countries have flourished, according to Christopher Lim, Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner at the Australian Embassy in Manila.

For instance, agri-food exports from Australia to the Philippines rose 90 percent to 1.5 billion Australian dollars from 2020 numbers. Lim said the embassy has received many inquiries from Australian companies eyeing partners in the Philippines.

"The Australia-Philippines trade and investment relation has reached new heights, and we look forward to working with the business community to scale even greater heights for the full potential of our bilateral relationship," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1174726

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 15, 2022): Military encounters ASG bandits in Sulu

Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – Operating troops of the 100th Infantry Battalion of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu encountered undetermined number of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in the vicinity of Barangay Tumatangis in Indanan, Sulu, at around 11:10 in the morning of May 15, 2022.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu and 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, said “Based on a report submitted by Col. Giovanni Franza, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, operating troops of the 100th Infantry Battalion received an information of ASG bandits presence near the community. While on their way to the area, they encountered an undetermined number of ASG bandits under ASG leader Radullan Sahiron. Firefight lasted for about 30 minutes, and thereafter, the enemy withdrew towards north.”

Maj. Gen. Patrimonio further narrated that the encounter resulted to wounding of three (3) soldiers, while undetermined on the ASG bandits.

“Of the 3 wounded-in-action soldiers, one (1) has been evacuated to Camp Navarro in Zamboanga City while the two (2) are in Camp Bautista Station Hospital. They are all in stable condition,” Maj. Gen. Patrimonio added.

Col. Franza said that they immediately deployed additional forces to block possible escape routes of the ASG bandits.

“We deployed additional forces to pursue the fleeing ASG bandits. We alerted all nearest military and police patrol bases to conduct blocking and checkpoints,” Col. Franza said.

Col. Franza added, “while scouring the encounter site, the troops recovered the following items: one (1) sack of rice; four (4) litrs gallon of water; kitchen utensils, and personal belongings.”

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Patrimonio commended the troops for their gallantry and sacrifices in tracking down the ASG bandits. He also thanked the support of the community, and attributed the encounter to the communities’ ardent desire for peace.

“I commend the courage and sacrifices of our soldiers on our efforts to neutralize the ASG bandits who continue to sow terror in a peaceful communities of Indanan, Sulu. The tipping-off of the ASG bandits’ presence by the community of Barangay Tumatangis, which led us to encounter these bandits, demonstrates their support to our peace and security campaign. I urged you to continue our efforts to neutralize the remaining ASG terrorists and deny them to execute their hostile plans.”

“To the ASG bandits, we will be relentless to hunt you down. We have the support of the community and we will not cease until we bring lasting peace and sustainable development in Sulu. I therefore appeal for you to peacefully lay down your arms, go back to the folds of the law, start anew, and avail of the government’s reintegration program,” Maj. Gen. Patrimonio 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/military-encounters-asg-bandits-in-sulu/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 16, 2022): Bakbakan sa Surigao del Norte, Sumiklab, Kampo na kubkub, Armas at Kagamitan ng mga Teroristang NPA nakumpiska (Clashes in Surigao del Norte, Outbreak, Siege camps, Weapons and Equipment of NPA Terrorists Confiscated)

Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte- Nagkabakbakan nitong linggo ang tropa ng 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion, Philippine Army at grupo ng mga teroristang New People’s Army o NPA sa hindi kalayuang lugar ng Barangay Pungtod sa bayan ng Bacuag, Surigao del Norte dakong ika-anim at kwarenta’y singko ng umaga (6:45 AM) nitong ika-15 ng Mayo 2022.

Nangyari ang sagupaan habang nagsasagawa ng patrolya ang mga tropa ng 30IB pagkatapos makatanggap ng sumbong mula sa mga residente hinggil sa presensya umano ng teroristang grupo ng NPA kung saan sila ay nananakot at sapilitang nanghihingi ng pagkain sa mga mamamayan sa nasabing lugar at nang biglang tambangan sila ng armadong grupo na nagkakampo sa nasabing lugar, kung kaya agad namang gumanti ng putok ang mga kasundaluhan na umabot sa mahigit kumulang na trenta (30) minutos ang palitan ng putok.
Pinaniniwalaan na mula sa Sandatahang Yunit Pangpropaganda (SYP) 16C2 at 16C1 ng Guerilla Front 16, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Party Committee (NEMRC) na pimumunoan nina Alberto Castañeda @JD at Roel Neniel @ Jacob ang grupo ng NPA na nakasagupa ng tropa ng pamahalaan na umatras din pagkatapos silang makubkob.

Nasamsam ng kasundaluhan ang isang Cal 5.56mm AR15 rifle, isang M203 Grenade Launcher, labin-tatlong (30) pirasong mga bala ng AK47 rifle, labin-dalawang (20) pirasong mga bala ng M16 rifle, isang detonating device para sa iligal na pampasabog o improvised explosive device (IED), subersibong dokumento at mga personal na kagamitan ng mga rebelde.

Kung matatandaan, kaparehong grupo ng teroristang NPA ang nakasagupa din ng kasundaluhan ng pamahalaan sa karatig na lugar sa Brgy Payapag, Bacuag, Surigao del Norte nitong ika-28 sa buwan ng Abril 2022 na kung saan nakuhaan din ang NPA ng mga iba’t ibang kagamitang personal at pandigma.
Muling nagpahayag si Lt Col Ryan Charles Callanta, ang pinuno ng 30IB sa kanyang pasasalamat sa mga mamamayan na tumutulong sa pagbibigay ng mga impormasyon tungkol sa kinaroroonan ng mga Teroristang NPA.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa tiwala at suporta ng mga mamamayan sa walang humpay na pagbibigay ng mga impormasyon na kadahilanan upang palagi nating matunton ang grupo ng mga teroristang NPA kahit saan pa sila magtago sa anumang lugar dito sa Surigao del Norte”.

“Nagpapatunay lamang na ang mga mamamayan ay sawang-sawang na sa pangingikil at pananakot ng mga NPA. Kung kaya’t habang maaga pa, ina-anyayahan ko rin ang mga natitira pang miyembro ng NPA na kung maaari bumalik na sila sa kanilang mga kapamilya habang may pagkakataon pa sila. Sana huwag na nilang hintayin na huli na ang lahat.”

[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/bakbakan-sa-surigao-del-norte-sumiklab-kampo-na-kubkub-armas-at-kagamitan-ng-mga-teroristang-npa-nakumpiska/

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 16, 2022): Military offensives lead 4 NPA members to surrender in Zamboanga del Norte

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – Military offensives launched by the 102nd Infantry (IGSOON) Brigade led four communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists (CNT) to surrender in Zamboanga del Norte.

Three CNTs voluntarily surrendered to the combined troops of the 42nd Infantry (TAGAPAGTANGGOL) Battalion and 44th Infantry (AGILE N STABLE) Battalion in Barangay Tiogan of the same municipality on May 14.

Lt. Col. Peter Garceniego Jr, Commanding Officer, 42IB identified the three as Dionesio Jaictin alias Dondon, an Executive Committee member of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC); Rodel Alawi alias Bunso and Maureen Ocnip alias Katty, both are members of the defunct Guerilla Front Feliciano Alpha.

“One of our former rebel is a relative of Alawi, who assisted us in establishing contact and negotiating their surrender,” said Lt.Col. Garceniego.

Subsequently, the wife of Rolando Maglasang alias Mobin — slain during the encounter last May 12 — identified as Jenelyn Lapas alias Em-em, former finance officer of defunct Guerilla Front BBC, initially surrendered to 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion in Barangay Midatag, Leon B Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte on May 15.

“The immediate assistance we can give Em-em today is to give her an opportunity to grieve for the loss of her husband, Mobin, who is now just added to the statistics of Filipinos died due to this futile armed struggle,” said Lt.Col. Jo-ar Herrera, Commanding Officer, 53IB.

The four CNTs are part of the combined remnants of the defunct units of the WMPRC that was engaged by government forces on a series of encounters last May 5, 9 and 12, 2022 in the municipality of Leon Postigo.

“Our troops have immediately provided medical assistance and tended to their needs such as food and clothing,” said Lt.Col. Filven Noche, Commanding Officer, 44IB.

The 102Bde and its units are now facilitating the documentary requirements for their enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

“We appreciate that Em-em and others finally decided to choose the better path and returned to the folds of the law,” said Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, Commander, 102Bde.

“This is a manifestation of our commitment together with our stakeholders in the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict 9 to save as many victims of communist ideology while sustaining our military posture to protect and insulate our communities from their terroristic acts,” Brig. Gen. Nicolas added.

The former rebels will receive Php15,000 immediate cash assistance and Php50,000 livelihood assistance once their enrollment to E-CLIP has been completed.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/military-offensives-lead-4-npa-members-to-surrender-in-zamboanga-del-norte/

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Kalinaw News: Military encounters ASG bandits in Sulu

Kalinaw News: Bakbakan sa Surigao del Norte, Sumiklab, Kampo na kubkub, Armas at Kagamitan ng mga Teroristang NPA nakumpiska

Kalinaw News: Military offensives lead 4 NPA members to surrender in Zamboanga del Norte