Saturday, August 19, 2017

DWDD: SEASONED WARRIORS | MetroBank TOPS Awardees

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 18): SEASONED WARRIORS  |  MetroBank TOPS Awardees



CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – Three seasoned warriors who fought local terrorists in Mindanao were presented as this year’s “The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers” (TOPS) in a ceremony held Monday, 14 August 2017 at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Headquarters Building.

Lieutenant Colonel Elmer Suderio, Lieutenant Colonel Ricky Bunayog, and Staff Sergeant Narding Pascual will be honored during Metrobank’s 55th Anniversary in September. They will each receive P1 Million cash incentive, a gold medallion, and a trophy from the Metrobank Foundation, Inc.

The three awardees were chosen for rendering service beyond the call of duty, and for inspiring and influencing their comrades and the people in their respective communities. All three members of the Philippine Army were selected from around 40 nominations from the Army, Air Force, and Navy. CRSAFP / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/18/seasoned-warriors-metrobank-tops-awardees/

DWDD: DWINDLING | NPAs in Palawan weakening

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 18): DWINDLING  |  NPAs in Palawan weakening



MANILA (DWDD) – The number of New People’s Army members in the Province of Palawan continue to dwindle, after a majority of them have opted for a more peaceful life and returned to the folds of the law.

The AFP Western Command (WesCom) has assigned mobile numbers that the remaining terrorist can call for their surrender.

They could also approach their baranggay or purok leaders and ask for their assistance.

Most of the surrenderees revealed that things have worsen for them and their families since they joined the NPAs. Most of the promises made by leaders of the rebel group have never materialized.

The former rebels are very grateful to all the help and financial assistance they have received from the government. AES / MCAG / 6CRG

AFP WESCOM – 0917-8960014

JTF Peacock – 0926-7156659

NavForWest – 0917-5311677

Provincial PNP – 0998-5338964

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/18/dwindling-npas-in-palawan-weakening/

DWDD: Pinoy Artists Sing to Raise P4.5 Million for Marawi Heroes

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 17): Pinoy Artists Sing to Raise P4.5 Million for Marawi Heroes

 Pinoy Artists Sing to Raise P4.5 Million for Marawi Heroes

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – A total of P4.5-million were raised in a benefit concert for the heroes of the battle-stricken Marawi City, Sunday night, 13 August 2017 at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Theatre.

“The AFP expresses its deep gratitude to Mr. Joel Cruz and his team for their initiative in putting up ‘Awit Sa Marawi’, and for encouraging their partners to support the families of our troops who died, and those continuing the fight in order to finish the rebellion in Marawi City,” Colonel Edgard Arevalo, AFP Public Affairs Chief said.

Cruz, the President, and CEO of Aficionado spearheaded the activity that aimed to raise funds for the benefit of soldiers who were Wounded-In-Action (WIA), or Killed-In-Action (KIA) during the rebellion in Marawi. It will also benefit their families, and displaced residents of the city.

The concert featured performances from various OPM artists, including AFP’s Singing Soldiers. The songs include “Isang Lahi” performed by Heidi, “Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” by Baguio General Hospital Nurses, “Nais Ko” by Elcid, “Dingin Mo Bayan” by Mel Soriano, and “Sundalo” by the Special Forces Band.

The concert was attended by uniformed and non-uniformed members of the AFP as well as audiences from the public and private sectors.

The donations from sponsors reached P3.5-Million while Cruz personally donated P1-Million to the AFP.

In his speech, Cruz said he hopes the concert will give inspiration to the Filipinos, and other organizations to continue supporting the Armed Forces amid ongoing conflicts, particularly in Marawi City.

‘Awit Sa Marawi’ was organized by Aficionado in partnership with the Civil Relations Service AFP, and other sponsors.

“On behalf of the whole Armed Forces of the Philippines, I extend my deep gratitude to the donors and sponsors who helped raise funds for our troops and their families. Your generosity and manifestation of support continue to be a source of inspiration and strength for our soldiers to continue to fight towards just and lasting peace for our country,” General Eduardo Año, AFP Chief of Staff said.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/17/pinoy-artists-sing-to-raise-p4-5-million-for-marawi-heroes/

DWDD: “Food for Peace” reaches Pantar

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 17): “Food for Peace” reaches Pantar

 “Food for Peace” reaches Pantar   

PANTAR, Lanao del Norte – In its second serving, the City Mayor’s Mobile Kitchen jointly administered by the LGU-Marawi and the Joint Task Group Tabang rolled over Pantar evacuation center to serve a freshly cooked nutritious meal in the families there, Tuesday, August 8.

JTG Tabang cooked mixed vegetables and stripped chicken known as “chicken with creamy mushroom soup” that was enjoyed mostly by the children at the said center.

Around 500 individuals partook the food prepared, cooked, and served by the soldiers and some IDP volunteers.

The City Mayor’s Mobile Kitchen serving “food for peace” was launched on Sunday, August 6 and now serving to all evacuation centers in the provinces of Lanao.

Colonel Thomas Sedano, commander of the Joint Task Group Tabang in his message to the IDPs said that the activity would not be realized without the partnership fostered between the Joint Task Group Tabang and the LGU-Marawi.

He also said that through that simple gestures of serving “food for peace”, the government can deliver a message of peace across the province and across the country.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/17/food-for-peace-reaches-pantar/

DWDD: NEUTRALIZED | BIFF Bomb Maker and Trainer killed

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 16): NEUTRALIZED  | BIFF Bomb Maker and Trainer killed

 

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao (DWDD) – Authorities were able to neutralized an alleged bombmaker and trainer of the bandit group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters or BIFF.

According to P/Chief Insp Achmad Alibonga, Chief of Police of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao – PNP, the operation was jointly launched by the combined elements of the PNP-Criminal Invetigation and Detection Group of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Datu Odin Sinsuat – PNP and troops from the 603rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army against the suspect identified as Ebrahim Ali.

Ali was killed in the operation after he fought it off with the raiding team. Recovered from the suspect was one caliber 45 pistol, one magazine and bullets.

The suspect is in the No. 2 Arrest Order of the Department of National Defense. AES / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/16/neutralized-biff-bomb-maker-and-trainer-killed/

DWDD: ENCOUNTER | Army Troops battle NPA remnant’s in Burauen, Leyte

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 16): ENCOUNTER  |  Army Troops battle NPA remnant’s in Burauen, Leyte



BURAUEN, Leyte (DWDD) – A 20-minute firefight ensued between the 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion’s Scout Platoon and members of the communist terrorists New People’s Army at Barangay Roxas, Burauen, Leyte yesterday, August 15, 2017, at 10 ‘ o clock in the morning.

No casualty was reported on the government side, while the enemy suffered an undetermined number of casualties.

The troops seized an enemy encampment and recovered one (1) back pack, one (1) sack of rice and subversive documents in the area. The seizure of the enemy encampment is the result of the mutual cooperation between the military and the villagers in the said barangay.

Civilians reported the presence of the NPA rebels who continue to extort, recruit and harm them. 78IB / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/16/encounter-army-troops-battle-npa-remnants-in-burauen-leyte/

MILF: Bangsamoro delegates just concluded their study tour in Japan for local industries promotion

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Aug 18): Bangsamoro delegates just concluded their study tour in Japan for local industries promotion



Seventeen Bangsamoro delegates have just concluded their Study Tour in  Hiroshima, Japan, for local industries promotion for the Bangsamoro.
The study tour started from August 1 and lasted on August 16, 2017. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) organized and sponsored the program.

Leading the delegates was Atty. Anwar Malang, the Regional Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DTI-ARMM). He was accompanied by other ARMM Officials, such as Dimnatang Radia, Regional Director of Cooperative Development Authority (CDA)-ARMM; Isah Batao Abduljalil, Planning Officer of Regional Planning and Development Office (RPDO)-ARMM; Fayruz Hyne Samanodi Akmad-Losanes, Investment Analyst of Regional Board of Investment (RBOI)-ARMM; and Jalika Mangacop, Program Officer, HVCD, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF)-ARMM.

Various clusters joined the program. They are: Domingo Narsico, Chairman of the Sta. Clara Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Integrated Cooperative (Rubber Cluster); Sadat Abubacar Marohom, Manager of SLS Enterprise, (Abaca Cluster); Jodl Isahac, Technical Research Officer of Sulu Lupah Sug Coffee Company, (Coffee Cluster); Jolly Ahaja, Member of Sitangkai Seaweed Export Company, (Seaweed Cluster); and Datuali Ayao, Member of Dulangan Multi-Purpose Cooperative, (Coconut Cluster).

Rima Hassan, President of ARMM Business Council; Mohamad Pasigan, President of Bangsamoro Business Council; and Nishreen Yu Hashim, CEO of The Moroprenuer, Inc. represented the business sector.

From academe are Professor Josephine Migalbin from University of Southern Mindanao and Professor Delfin Carrasco Papa from Mindanao State University, Maguindanao Campus.

Two from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) were also invited. They are Marjanie S. Macasalong, Vice-Chairman on Human Resource and Economic Development and member of the MILF Peace Implementing Panel (PIP), and Jandatu Salik, Project Coordinator of the MILF Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA).

Early part of the program was the courtesy visit to the Governor of the Hiroshima Prefectural Government, Hidehiko Yuzaki, at his office in Hiroshima City.

One of the important points he shared was the idea of having good "feeling" in doing the work. He was referring to two things: loving the work; and having conducive place to work. These, according to him, contributed a lot to the fast recovery of Hiroshima after the atomic-bombing.

Part of the study tour is to have lectures on some significant concept of industrialization and field visitation.

For most of the lectures was the "Engagement in 6th Industrialization Support". This is to understand how the local industries in Japan are thriving through the collaborative efforts of the local residents, industries and the government. Indeed, subsidies and other forms of assistance from the government are manifested.

Other significant lectures were also conducted, including the following:

- Research Development and Support for Agricultural Techniques/Technology;

- Public Service and Civil Society;

- Marketing Support for Local Agro-Products;

- Promoting Fisheries in Hiroshima City;

- Three Party Collaboration to Promote Local Industries: SME, Academia and Local Government;

- A Case Study of 6th Industry: A Women's Group Running Food Processing and Selling Business.



Field visitation included the Visit to Farm-Fresh Market of Farm and Marine Products; Visit to the Direct Sales Market of Agricultural and Fishery Products (Morning Market at the heart of Hiroshima City); and Roadside Station.

Hands-on activity for fruit picking and making canned fruits were also part of the program.

Further, the study tour also provided an opportunity for the Bangsamoro delegates to present the current condition and challenges in Mindanao to the group of academe, including professors, researchers and students. Atty. Malang was the one who presented the topic.

In addition to the lectures and field visitation, the study tour became even more historical and significant when the Bangsamoro delegates, along with the world representatives, were invited to the 72nd Commemoration of the Hiroshima Atomic-Bombing on August 6.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/969/bangsamoro-delegates-just-concluded-their-study-tour-in-japan-for-local-industries-promotion

MILF: GPH-MILF Ceasefire Mechanisms confer for smooth and proper implementation of Protocol of Cooperation on Anti-Illegal Drugs Operation

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Aug 18): GPH-MILF Ceasefire Mechanisms confer for smooth and proper implementation of Protocol of Cooperation on Anti-Illegal Drugs Operation



A comprehensive and fruitful discussion between the GPH-MILF Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) and Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) was conducted last 15 August 2017 at Park Inn of Radisson Hotel, Davao City.

The said meeting focused on the smooth and proper implementation of the Protocol of Cooperation on Anti-Illegal Drugs Operation and Other Related Activities in MILF Areas/Communities signed last 30 June 2017 by and between the two vital components of the GPH-MILF ceasefire mechanism.

Prominent personalities present were Atty. Abdul Dataya, MILF-AHJAG Chair with his counterpart PCSupt. Pierre Bucsit, GPH-AHJAG Chair; Butch Malang, MILF-CCCH Chair, also with his counterpart, Bgen. Earl Baliao AFP, GPH-CCCH Chair.

The said conference was also graced by Retired Col. Dickson Hermoso, OPAPP Assistant Secretary on Peace and Security Affairs and Nabil Tan, Undesecretary on Peace Accords and Acting Chair of GPH Peace Implementing Panel.

ASec. Hermoso delivered his welcome remarks where he commended the significant partnership between the GPH and MILF in terms of pursuing against spoilers of peace. Years have passed where the trust and confidence between GPH and MILF forces have been declining, but for now they are real partners in Peace.

Highlighted during the discussions were strategies on how to realize effectively the signed Protocol of Cooperation. These include conduct of workshops and seminars for GPH and MILF concerned units as well as massive advocacy campaign to the public using comprehensive information kits.

Other important concerns relative to the entire ceasefire mechanism were also discussed in the conference such as security concerns in provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Sur, and Island Provinces as well as other matters to strengthen the proper coordination between the Parties to the Peace Process.

At the end part of the conference, USec. Tan, acting chair of the GPH Peace Implementing Panel formally closed the program and committed himself to ensure that operations of the ceasefire committees will be properly assisted through immediate and sustained administrative support due to the critical and volatile nature of this committee.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the GPH and MILF expect stronger and more effective collaboration in mitigating illegal-drugs related activities in MILF communities and other factors that would endanger the on-going peace process.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/970/gph-milf-ceasefire-mechanisms-confer-for-smooth-and-proper-implementation-of-protocol-of-cooperation-on-anti-illegal-drugs-operation

MILF: BBL now in Congress

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Aug 18): BBL now in Congress



The proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) has already been transmitted to the office of Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III last August 14 with a copy of it furnished to the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

In a one-page letter bearing same date signed by Undersecretary Atty. Ryan Estevez of the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO), it was stated that “we trust in the collective wisdom of both houses of Congress should they deem proper to refine the draft in the course of the regular legislative mill.”

The expanded Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), the body mandated to draft the BBL, handed over the proposed law to President Duterte last July 17 in Malacañan during a ceremony that was attended also by MILF Chairman Alhaj Murad Ebrahim.

Last August 9, BTC Chairman Ghazali Jaafar and other commissioners were invited by the House Special Committee on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity to give a briefing. The special committee is chaired by Tawi-Tawi Representative Ruby Sahali.

Also on same day, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez received in his office Chairman Jaafar and his delegation for a courtesy call.

It is not yet known what committee in the House and Senate would handle the draft BBL.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/968/bbl_now_in_congress

MILF: Islamic Scholar explains Extremism, Radicalism and Terrorism in the Concept of Islam

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Aug 17): Islamic Scholar explains Extremism, Radicalism and Terrorism in the Concept of Islam



Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao Del Norte- Local stakeholders and Civil Society Organizations held an Orientation-Seminar at the Sports Stadium in this town on August 13, 2017 through the support of the local government unit.

The program was attended by about a hundred local leaders, members of the Bangsamoro Communication Network (BCN) of Kapatagan and Marogong of Lanao Del Sur, Prime Movers for Peace and Development (PRIMO), Bantay SND, Inc., CARES, ORACIS, Islamic Radio Club, Maradeka and Federation of Bangsamoro Civil Society Organizations (FBCSO).

The primary aim of the activity was to let people understand what Islam in its correct perspective.

Municipal Secretary Mando Mama also invited Lt. Col. Ericson Rosana, Battalion Commander, 15t IB, 3ID whose area of jurisdiction covers the 11 municipalities of Lanao Del Norte.

The Welcome Address was given by Municipal Councilor Andom Marohom on behalf of Mayor Uluwan Dimaporo and Vice Mayor Mutalib Dimaporo who were attending an official meeting.

Atty. Amir Bassir, PRIMO Regional Director, and President of Bantay SND, Inc. told the participants that they have organized and helping the LGU in the maintenance of peace and order in the communities.
 


For his part, Lt. Col. Rosana said he was truly elated by the awareness program by both the LGU’s and CSOs in their campaign against radical groups whose aim is the total destruction of communities and sow fear among residents.

“Problems on religious extremism, radicalism and terrorism cannot be solved by the military alone. Our government needs the support and cooperation of the people”, Lt. Col. Rosana pointed out.

“Islam is ahead by centuries before the Spaniards set foot on the shores of the Philippine Archipelago and introduced Christianity”, he added.

FBCSO member Amer Mutia presented a report on the actual situation in Marawi City since at the start of the siege on May 23.

Sheikh Abdulhadie Gumander, Islamic Scholar defined in a clear and simple the meaning of Islam as a Religion of Peace, because it is derived from the word Salaam, which connotes peace and nothing else.

“Extremism, radicalism and terrorism is new and foreign to Islam. It has nothing to do with it”, he said. He also narrated that all the prophets from Adam, to Prophet Jesus, and more so to the last Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) never commanded their followers to kill those who do not follow them.

“If we only study the life of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.), then we can fully understand how he was treated harshly and his people, how they were persecuted that caused them to migrate. And there at Madina when they were attacked by their enemy that a revelation granting him to fight those who fight them. Take note, be not the aggressor, but be on defensive only”, Sheikh Gumander said.

He also cited a verse from the Noble Qur’an: “If you kill intentionally a person without a just cause, it is as if you kill the whole mankind. “See how Almighty Allah made life sacred”, Sheik Gumander added.

“Even the judges were commanded not to render justice in times of anger, because, all our acts are for Allah, that any action done outside the ambit of Islam, we are accountable for that in the day of judgement. And even during the time of war, Muslim kills for Allah alone and never for vengeance, retaliation just because the other side have different faith and religion”, he said further.

While the sheikh was making his presentation, the military officers present were listening attentively.

In his parting message, Sheikh Gumander mentioned the importance of ‘communication’. Through dialogue, we can solve all differences. Listen to the other side; do not impose your own views only. Respect the rights of other irrespective of faith or race for it is the key to peace and that is what Islam stands for. Islam is a religion of moderation and not extremism, not radicalism, not terrorism. Anyone who acts like this will only bring devastation and havoc as what we see in the middle-east.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/966/islamic_scholar_explains_extremism__radicalism_and_terrorism_in_the_concept_of_islam

NDF/NPA-Negros: Victories in armed struggle in Negros

NPA-Negros propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Aug 18): Victories in armed struggle in Negros

PRESS RELEASE



The Negros NPA Regional Operational Command launched a total of 17 armed actions since late January this year which netted for the people’s army 10 high-powered rifles, 15 short arms and assorted ammunition and other military materiel. These were carried out through the five guerrilla fronts in the the island.

Ka Juanito Magbanua, spokesperson of the NPA Apolinario Gatmaitan Regional Operational Command said the most significant was the ambush last July 21 in barangay Magsaysay, Guihulngan City, which finally punished C/Supt. Arnel Arpon, five other policemen and a Cafgu militiaman.

“This tactical offensive was long overdue in the face of the revolutionary masses’ clamor to punish the fascist PNP unit in Guihulngan who, for years, have been committing extra-judicial killings against ordinary civilians, aside from protecting drug lords and criminal gangs while being guns-for-hire themselves,” he added.

During the last six months, the NPA also successfully implemented punitive measures against fourteen land-grabbers, criminal elements and intelligence assets of the 303rd Brigade responsible, just this year, for a host of human rights violations and anti-peasant activities, including the salvaging of four legal activist-leaders. Their punishment hit at the capability of the AFP/PNP to inflict further harm upon the people’s lives, rights and livelihood within and outside the guerrilla areas in the island.

The enemy also suffered further damage in the three defensive actions so far this year, with the 62nd IB losing two of its men in June 22 at barangay Cambayobo, Calatrava town, and the 79th IB four of its own in June 30 at barangay Binobohan, Guihulngan City.

In all these offensive and defensive actions, the people’s army had only one fighter slightly wounded.

Ka Juanito Magbanua said “these demonstrate the NPA’s increasing capability in launching armed struggle that is integrated with agrarian revolution and base building; nevertheless, we must constantly improve ourselves as the US-Duterte regime strips itself of all progressive trappings and intensifies its brutal reactionary war against the armed revolutionary movement.”

In this regard, the NPA Regional Operational Command also conducted two politico-military trainings during the last six months aimed at improving the fighting skill, political capability, combat discipline and revolutionary militance of NPA commanders and fighters. The first was the 40-day Basic Politico-Military Course-Instructors Training, which had 27 graduates. The second was the 50-day Basic Politico-Military Course, with 67 graduates. At least 80% of the trainees were aged 18-30, while around 15% were of petty-bourgeois class origin.

Ka Juanito Magbanua said these trainings provide added impetus for Red commanders and fighters to better implement the Party’s three-year program aimed at, among others, building more and bigger NPA formations at all levels, intensifying armed tactical offensives to seize arms and other military equipment mainly from the AFP/PNP, and waging an extensive and intensive guerrilla warfare based on an ever-widening and ever-deepening mass base.

The trainings were the first held since 2008, when Negros became one of the national priority targets for sustained counterrevolutionary campaigns under Oplans Bantay Laya 2 and Bayanihan. The people’s army in the island had to make do with politico-military crash courses in the face of sustained search-and-destroy operations of the enemy until 2013, while prioritizing rebuilding work of the revolutionary mass base thereafter.

As the fourth major island in the country and the second in the Visayas, it is necessary for the armed revolutionary movement in Negros to overcome its weaknesses and rectify its errors in order to help frustrate the US-Duterte regime’s Oplan Kapayapaan and contribute in the national development of the strategic defensive of the people’s war towards a new and higher stage, Ka Juanito Magbanua concluded.

Juanito Magbanua
Spokesperson, AGC-Apolinario Gatmaitan Command
NPA-Negros Island

https://www.ndfp.org/victories-armed-struggle-negros/

NDF/NPA-Sorsogon: Tropang 31st IB Phil. Army, Gumagamit Ng Iligal Na Droga Habang Nasa Operasyong Militar

NPA-Sorsogon propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Aug 15): Tropang 31st IB Phil. Army, Gumagamit Ng Iligal Na Droga Habang Nasa Operasyong Militar

Pahayag sa Midya
Agosto 15, 2017

Mariing kinukundena ng Celso Minguez Command ang pagiging hipokrito ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa pagpapatupad ng kampanya nitong Oplan Tokhang upang sugpuin diumano ang mga adik at pusher sa ating bansa samantalang ang sarili nitong pwersa ay gumagamit ng droga habang nagsasagawa ng operasyong militar.

Sa matagumpay na ambush ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan laban sa mga elemento ng 31st IBPA, 22nd IBPA at 5th Police Public Safety Battalion (5PPSB) sa Brgy. Casili, Sorsogon noong Agosto 7, 2017, natagpuan nila ang tatlong (3) sachet ng shabu at mga drug paraphernalia sa nasamsam na military pack na pagmamay-ari ni 2Lt. Lee Tremedal. Nakasuksok ang mga ito sa nilukot na medyas ng napatay na commanding officer (CO) ng Alpha Coy, 31st IBPA, AFP.

Malinaw na pagpapakita ito ng pagiging hipokrito ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa pagpapatupad ng Oplan Tokhang sa ilalim ng Oplan Kapayapaan. Habang inuutusan niya ang mga sundalo at pulis na maghasik ng pasistang karahasang walang pananagutan sa mga maralita na adik at pusher, ang mismong mga opisyal ng Armed Forces of the Philippines ay gumagamit at promotor sa paggamit ng droga ng hanay ng kanilang pwersa. Kinumpirma ng pagkatagpo ng iligal na droga sa mga nasamsan na gamit ng tropang 31st IBPA ang matagal ng mga hinala ng masang mamamayan na biktima ng kanilang walang-pakundangan na karahasan.

Liban sa tropang AFP-PNP, di linggid sa mamamayan na embwelto din sa droga ang ilang matataas na opisyal sa reaksyunaryong pamahalaan. Matatandaan na nitong nakaraan ay nasangkot ang Department of Customs sa isang malaking transaksyon o ismagling ng shabu na pinalusot ng nasabing ahensya sa bansa. Bagama’t malaki ang pananagutan ni Customs Commissioner Faeldon sa nasabing transaksyon bilang hepe ng nasabing ahensya ay nagawa pa ni Duterte na ipagtanggol ito. Tila may “double standard” din ang pagpapatupad ng Oplan Tokhang. Mapahanggang ngayon ay puro maliliit na pusher at adik lang ang nahuhuli o pinapatay habang ang mga malalaki at maimpluwensyang druglord ay patuloy na namamayagpag sa kanilang narco-negosyo. Libre din sa Oplan Tokhang ang mga matataas na opisyal ng AFP-PNP na protektor ng droga sa bansa.

Kundenahin ang paggamit ng diumano’y gera kontra-droga upang patuloy na patayin, takot at abusuhin ng rehimeng US-Duterte ang mamamayan!

Ka Samuel Guerrero
Tagapagsalita
Celso Minguez Command
New People’s Army-Sorsogon

https://www.ndfp.org/tropang-31st-ib-phil-army-gumagamit-ng-iligal-na-droga-habang-nasa-operasyong-militar/

Military claims Negros Island citizens offering P100,000 for arrest of rebels, terrorists

From Rappler (Aug 18): Military claims Negros Island citizens offering P100,000 for arrest of rebels, terrorists

Major General Jon Aying explains the citizens funding this are capable of paying up to P20 million, or P100,000 for 200 rebels or terrorists



The military recently claimed that some concerned citizens in Negros Island are offering P100,000 in reward money for anyone that could provide information that would lead to the arrest of rebels and terrorists.

Major General Jon Aying, commander of the Third Infantry Division of the Philippine Army based in Jamindan, Capiz, said on Wednesday, August 16, the informant would get the money if the military becomes successful in neutralizing these lawless elements.

He was referring to members of the New People’s Army (NPA), who have strongholds in the Negros provinces; Mindanao-based extremists and terrorists, some of whom had managed to sneak into Bohol months ago; private armed groups; and other groups that owned high-powered firearms.

He said informants could get P100,000 for each suspect they are able to point the authorities to.

Aying did not disclose the identity of the citizens offering reward money, but said they are only concerned with the safety of Negros Island.

Currently, there are about 200 rebel forces in Negros Island.

Aying, however, stressed that all information will be validated. “We have to be very sure that those subjected to the information are all members of the NPA,” he said, adding that they should be bona fide “hardened” rebel forces.

“Rebels who are with the NPA for just one year can’t be considered as member yet. They’re like part-time,” Aying said.

He reiterated the call of the government to the rebel forces to join the mainstream society.

He said the government will provide resettlement sites and livelihood programs, and will also allow them to keep their firearms.

“I have a strong trust that the government is capable in doing social, economic, and constitutional reforms,” he added.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/179191-negros-island-citizens-offer-reward-terrorists

MILITARY: NPA reactivated liquidation squad

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 16): MILITARY: NPA reactivated liquidation squad

THE New People’s Army (NPA) has reactivated its Sparrow Unit, its dreaded armed group responsible for summary execution activities during the time of the late President Ferdinand Marcos, a top military official said.

“Eto naman ay modus ng NPA hindi sila lumalaban nang harapan. They are targeting those soldiers and policemen who are on administrative duties,” Maj. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of (EastMinCom) told reporter’s yesterday during the AFP-PNP press conference held at Royal Mandaya hotel.
 
Balagtey said that the reactivation of the liquidation unit, whose members are considered the elite in the rebel ranks because of their shooting accuracy, is among their latest schemes as they intensify their atrocities.

He added that the military is “conducting measures to prevent the NPAs liquidation against our soldiers” by intensifying intelligence gathering against the rebels.
 
On Monday, alleged rebels shot dead two soldiers of the 71st Infantry Battalion as the latter were on their way to Purok 3, Poblacion Mawab, Compostela Valley.

Sr. Insp. Catherine Dela Rey, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office ( PRO) XI, identified the victims as Pfc. Jerome Bocquinlasan, 26, resident of Barangay Tuboran, Mawab; and PFC Acolito Aberin, 29, resident of Barangay Kamansa, Asuncion.

The report said the soldiers, who were on a motorcycle, were distracted when a rebel pretended to be insane to attrack their attention. As they were attending to the “insane person,” four other rebels shot them that resulted in their death.

Last week, two men on a motorcycle also shot dead Sgt. Sgt. Delfin H. Dangayo of the 4th Scout Ranger Battalion along the national highway in Purok 7, Barangay San Antonio, Mabini, Compostela Valley.
 

Soldiers recover guns, ammo

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 19): Soldiers recover guns, ammo

TROOPS of 16th Infantry Battalion recover war materiel belonging to the members of New People’s Army (NPA) while conducting clearing operation in Purok 8, Sitio Quibaton, Barangay Dominga, Calinan District on Wednesday afternoon.

Lt. Col. Darren Comia, the battalion commander of 16th IB, told TIMES yesterday that the soldiers received a tip from a concerned resident.

Upon conducting clearing operation they were able to recover an M1 Garand rifle with 32 rounds of ammunition; .357 caliber revolver with 25 rounds of ammunition; magazine of Super 38 revolver with 63 rounds of ammunition.

They were able also to recover 129 rounds of ammunition for Carbine rifle; 15 rounds of ammunition for Garand rifle; two steel ammunition box; four ICOM commercial radios; military uniforms; six pairs of combat boots, which were stashed near a banana plantation in the place.

“The tip of a concerned civilian resident is a clear indication that the communities on the ground are supporting the government forces in its fight against the NPAs that threatens the security and safety of the people,” he said.

The 16th Infantry battalion covers the areas of Paquibato district, parts of Calinan, Buhangin, and Marilog districts of Davao city. It also covers the areas of Sto. Tomas, Carmen, Braulio E. Dujali and Panabo City in Davao del Norte.
 
Col. Ernesto Torres, the commander of 1003rd Infantry Brigade based in Barangay New Visayas, Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, lauded the efforts of 16th IB.

“We encourage everyone to support our government forces by providing relevant information on the location of the armed group, sympathizers and their arms cache,” Torres said. ”I also urge our troops to remain focus in defeating the NPAs that hinders peace, security and development in our area of operation.”

“With the support of the civilian stakeholders in our area and the commitment of other security forces, we can defeat and end the rebel group,” he further said.
 

PH Navy to get US-donated radar system on Aug. 22

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 19): PH Navy to get US-donated radar system on Aug. 22

The Philippine Navy (PN) will formally take possession of its first-ever tethered aerostat radar system (TARS) donated by the US government.

The turnover ceremony will be led by US Embassy in Manila’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Michael Klecheski, and PN flag-officer-in-command, Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado, at the Naval Education and Training Command in San Antonio, Zambales on Tuesday.

Navy spokesperson, Capt. Lued Lincuna, said the TARS, a self-sustained, unmanned lighter-than-air systems, would enhance the PN’s capability in maritime intelligence surveillance reconnaissance by effectively detecting maritime and air traffic within the country’s coastal waters using sensors.

It will also be used in the conduct of humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.

The TARS includes a weather station that provides telemetry data to the ground station for the monitoring of ambient temperature, pressure, wind speed, and other pertinent parameters in the operation of the system.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1006809