Abu member yields to troops in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 28, 2018) - Another member of the Abu Sayyaf Group, chose to return to the fold of the law and surrender his firearm amid the intensified conduct of combat operations launched by the military and the ameliorating support of the local government in Sulu, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D Petinglay

Disclosed that Jupakkal J. Usman, 50 years of age, a resident of Barangay Lahing-Lahing, Omar, Sulu, and a regular ASG member under the late ASG sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya yielded to the troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu, composed of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-1 led by Lieutenant Colonel Cabanlet, Philippine Marines Ready Fleet 2, and the intelligence group in Sulu at 6am Tuesday (February 27). Usman turned-over his M16 rifle with two short magazines and 32 live ammunitions.

“Initially, the subject was brought to the Headquarters of the 21st Marine Company in Sitio Kanawa, Omar, Sulu for medical examination and proper documentation,” said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

Jupakkal Usman is the 66th Abu Sayyaf to surrender in Sulu since last year. He was then brought to the Headquarters of Joint Task Force Sulu for custodial debriefing.

"The continued pressure employed by the troops on the ground, encourages more Abu Sayyaf members to cross the line," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“This feat inspires us to intensify our offensives even more against the remaining fighters,” LtGen Galvez added.

“Western Mindanao Command has accumulated a total of 182 ASG surrenderees since 2017 and continue to increase this year as it sustains the campaign against the terror group particularly in Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi,” he concluded.

88 firearms surrendered by Iranuns in Maguindanao

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (February 28, 2018) – Residents of the municipalities of Buldon, Parang, Matanaog and Barira in Maguindanao surrendered a total of 88 high and low powered loose firearms this Tuesday morning (February 27) in a turnover ceremony held in Barangay Dinganen, Buldon in the nearby province of Maguindanao, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay said that the surrender of firearms is part of the “Balik Baril” Program of the Local Government Unit of Buldon, Maguindanao through the “Iranun” Inter-Agency Task Force (IIATF) in partnership with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in support to the campaign against loose firearms. The intensified campaign prompted the residents of the 4 municipalities to voluntarily surrender their firearms and eventually will receive a livelihood program under the local government of Buldon and the Regional Government of ARMM. The activity was attended by the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Governor Mujiv S. Hataman, Mayor Abolais A. Manalao of Buldon, Mayor Abdulradzak D. Tomawis of Barira, Mayor Ibrahim P. Ibay of Parang all of Maguindanao and PNP-Maguindanao Director PSSupt Agustin J. Tello.

During the ceremony, Regional Governor Hataman expressed his commitment and support to the security sector in the attainment of a lasting peace in Central Mindanao. He also said that he wants to make sure the delivery of basic services in the region to prevent others to involve themselves in any criminalities and illegal activities.

Major General Arnel Delavega, Commander, Joint Task Force Central commended the “Iranun” Inter-Agency Task Force (IIATF) under the supervision of 37th Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colone Florencio Politud, for their recent accomplishment to stop the proliferation of loose firearms. The 6ID commander also lauded the efforts of the local government units for their cooperation and support to the AFP and PNP.

It can be recalled that 147 high powered firearms were surrendered from the municipalities of Kapatagan, Balabagan, Malabang, Picong and Marogong of Lanao del Sur last November 2017 through the efforts of Ranao-Ragat Inter-Agency Task Force under the supervision of 6th Infantry Battalion. The campaign of the government against loose firearms seeks to stop the clan war or rido cases, disarm the armed groups, and prevent terrorism particularly in the provinces of Maguindanao and Lanaodel Sur, Cpt Petinglay added.

From January 1 to February 27, 2018, the Joint Task Forces recovered a total of 373 loose firearms, 192 of which were surrendered in Zamboanga, 52 in Sulu, 30 in ZamPeLan, and 99 in Central.

“We are making substantial accomplishments in our heightened operations to recover loose firearms in our bid to demilitarize armed groups and support the presidential campaign for security and development in Mindanao. Notwithstanding this operational success, our forces will sustain its offensives against threat groups and will continue to employ a diplomatic approach in calling for the involvement of local officials and other partners for peace,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“Again, my congratulations to our Joint Task Forces for the continuing vigor to recover all vehicles of violence all over the region,” Commander WestMinCom adds.

SWAT Team of Zamboanga Del Norte Provincial Mobile Company topped the 1st PRO9 SWAT Challenged

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 27, 2018) - The SWAT Team of Zamboanga Del Norte Provincial Mobile Company (ZDNPMFC) emerged as the champion in the recently concluded 1st Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9) SWAT Challenge/Competition held at Execom Shooting Range and Regional Mobile Forces Company Firing Range, Camp Col. Romeo A Abendan, Mercedes, Zamboanga City on February 24-25, 2018, police official said.

ZCPO-PRO9 PCInsp Helen L Galvez disclosed that the Zamboanga Del Norte Provincial Mobile Company garnered a total 1, 650 statistical points in the five (5) stages course of fire securing for the 1st place edging out the other SWAT team from Zamboanga Del Sur Provincial Mobile Company (2nd place), Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company (3rd place), Regional Mobile Forces Battalion (4th place), Dipolog City Police Station (5th place) and Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Mobile Company (6th place).         

PCInsp Galvez said the two days SWAT shooting competition was officiated by PNP Match Officers supervised by the Philippine Shooters and Match Officers Confederation (PSMOC) and anchored with five (5) stages course of fire, namely: Stage 1 (Basic), Stage 2 (Close Quarter Battle), Stage 3 (Bus Assault), Stage 4 (Obstacle) and Stage 5 (Pistol).

SWAT team from Zamboanga Del Norte Provincial Mobile composed of Police Senior Inspector Gregorio Joel C Bungulan, SPO1 Ernesto D Bulajao Jr., PO3 Kitch Ivan A Gesulga, PO2 Dino G Latawan, PO2 Armand T Moncida, PO2 Jose Alfred V Bait-it, PO2 Carl Edward C Panoril, PO1 Dover Troy T Aleta, PO1 Eric Q Panangitan and PO1 Mark Medard B Balingit, will represent the SWAT team of Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9) in the upcoming Chief, PNP National SWAT Challenge at Maa, Davao City on March 1-3, 2018.

Zambo officials yield 29 more firearms

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 27, 2018) - With the sustained dialogue and security operations of the military, barangay officials surrendered twenty-nine more loose firearms to the Joint Task Force Zamboanga from February 21-23, 2018, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D Petinglay disclosed that surrendered by said officials were 28 Caliber 30 M1 Garand rifles and a 9mm pistol that are currently in the custody of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-11 in Sangali for initial accounting, firearms check, and investigation.

“The continuing surrender of unregister firearms is an offshoot of the diplomatic mentoring launched by our troops, thereby lessening the possibility of using the instruments of violence for lawlessness and criminality,” said Colonel Leonel Nicolas, Commander of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga.

As of this press time, there are 57 M1 Garand rifles that were surrendered to the JTF Zamboanga while there are other barangays who have signified their intentions to yield their unlicensed firearms given alternative options of safeguarding their barangays.

Last February 21, barangay officials from Arena Blanco, Tigtabon, Mercedes, and Cabaluay, through Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, surrendered 157 firearms to Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, as a gesture of supporting the campaign of the WestMinCom in the midst of the the implementation of Martial Law in Mindanao.

From January 1 to February 27, 2018, troops recovered a total of 285 loose firearms, 192 of which were surrendered in Zamboanga, 52 in Sulu, 30 in ZamPeLan, and 11 in Central.

“In line with the pronouncement our President, the campaign against loose firearms was launched by WMC through our Joint Task Forces to implement the Security, Governance and Development Strategies of Martial Law in Mindanao,” said LtGen Galvez, Jr.

“We are intensifying our security operations to prepare for the forthcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections this year. This includes our heightened operations to defeat armed groups in our area of responsibility,” the WestMinCom Chief adds.

NFWM participates in All-In-One Mission at Luuk, Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 26, 2018) - Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) together with several teams of civilian and government volunteers participated in the All-In-One Medical and Dental Mission organized by Marine Battalion Landing Team 1 (MBLT1) in partnership with Joint Task Force Sulu (JTF Sulu) and other stakeholders on February 23, 2018 at Camp Andres Central Elementary School, Brgy Luuk, Sulu, military official said.

Prior to the activity, JTF Sulu Commander Brig. Gen. Cirilito E Sobejana AFP  and Commander PMRF Sulu/ Commander NTG Sulu Col. Armel S Tolato PN(M)(MNSA) presented the four M16 and four M14 rifles that were recovered by MBLT3 led by Col Ramil Densing last 22 February 2018 to the Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao. It was seized from an identified ASG Member named Apo Eting who attempted to flee the area in a motorized banca upon sensing the presence of government troops in the area.

        

Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina AFP, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao, said that the All-In-One Mission was composed of the different activities which includes: medical consultation, minor surgery, circumcision and tooth extraction. Various recreational workshops like Photo Booth and Storytelling were also conducted. The organizers also officiated a Football Festival entitled “Football for Peace” which is an advocacy of MBLT1 to instil in the hearts and minds of the residents specially the youth the values of confidence, discipline and teamwork.

         

Among the attendees of the said activity were the Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao Rear Admiral Rene V Medina, the Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu Brigadier General Cirilito E Sobejana, the Congressman, 2nd District of Sulu Honorable Abdul Munir M Arbison, Municipal Mayor, Luuk, Sulu Honorable Jun M Arbison and other senior officers and government officials. A simple program was held wherein the traditional Pangalay Courtship dance was presented to the guest of honor and party.

         

In his short message, RADM Medina AFP said, “The all-in-one mission aims to send out a message that every Filipino needs to unite for peace. Through these selfless acts, we will endeavor to continue the advocacy of implementing the true goal of a soldier; that we are for peace and not for war.” He also urged the local populace to help the Armed Forces of the Philippines in making Sulu a better place to live in.

ASG members surrender to Fleet-Marine Troops

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 26, 2018) - Three ASG personalities with their respective FAs voluntarily surrendered to PMRF-Sulu under Col Arnel Tolato PN(M) MNSA. Lt. Col. Stephen Cabanlet PN(M), Commanding Officer, Marine Battalion Landing Team 1 (MBLT1) together with 52SAC, PNP facilitated the surrender of ASG members under late ASGSL Alhabsy Misaya and ASGSL Abraham Hamid on Sunday (February 25, 2018), military official said.

Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) said the surrenderees named Hajat Abbang of Brgy Kan Bulak, Luuk, Sulu and Kirah Ainazri Jawad and  Sansi S Jawad of Brgy Buanza, Indanan, Sulu were brought back to KHTB Trauma Hospital, Brgy Busbus Jolo, Sulu for check-up prior to their custodial debriefing. Among the recovered firearms are one M16 Rifle, one Short Magazine, one M79, one Garand Rifle, and two Bandoliers.

RADM Medina congratulates the troops for a job well done and encourages all the other members of the ASG to surrender to the government where they will be given a chance to a new life.

The number of ASG surrenderees and turned-over firearms has been increasing as the AFP, especially the Fleet-Marine Team with the cooperation of the LGUs, continue to carry out both combat and non-combat operations to win the peace in the Islands of Western Mindanao, he added.

Wife of slain terrorists Janjalani and Marwan captured; loose firearms and grenades seized in Lanao ops

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 26, 2018) - Soldiers and policemen captured a woman believed to be the wife of two slain terrorists in a law enforcement support operation launched by the Joint Task Force Zampelan and the Lanao del Norte PNP, Sunday (February 25) morning, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that soldiers of the 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Ronel Manalo and the Lanao del Norte police seized a fragmentation hand grenade, six blasting caps and its assembly, detonating cord, a Caliber 9mm Glock 17 Gen 4 with three magazines and 37 pieces of live ammunition from Juromee Dongon, SPO4 Andy Ata, and Lorilie Ata at Purok 5, Poblacion, Tubod, Lanao del Norte at 4:30am Sunday (February 25).

Cpt Petinglay said that Juromee Pindoy Dongon is believed to be the wife of two slain militants, Abu Sayyaf Group senior leader Khadaffy Janjalani and Malaysian bomber Zulkifli Bin Hiralyas Marwan. Both were killed by government forces in different encounters, Janjalani was killed in Patikul, Sulu in 2006 while Marwan was killed in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015. The said operation was launched by virtue of a search warrant issued against Juromee Dungon for violations of Republic Act Nos.10591 and 9516.

At almost the same time in a separate operation, a search warrant was served on Romeo Dongon, a.k.a. Faisal, in Sitio Tinago, Barangay San Juan, Baroy, Lanaodel Norte, Cpt. Petinglay added.

Said operation yielded to the arrests of Romeo Dongon (father of Juromee) and Nur-ain Dongon Santos (sister of Juromee). Seized from them were a Caliber .45 Pistol Colt MK1 with three cartridges and a magazine; an M61 fragmentation hand grenade; and several explosive components, including an empty blasting cup, detonating cord, and two electrical wires.

"Operating troops are currently consolidating and coordinating with police counterparts for the processing of the arrested persons and the recovered items," said Major General Roseller G Murillo, Commander of the Joint Task Force Zampelan.

 “Our intelligence community was able to trace and track the suspects and was able to file enough evidence to prove that the arrested persons associate, support and cater the needs of terrorists groups in Mindanao.”

Cpt Petinglay further said that the arrested persons and the pieces of evidence were subsequently brought to the tactical command post of the 5th MechBn. It can be recalled that Police Superintendent Ma. Cristina Nobleza and alleged Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bomber Renierlo "Ren-Ren" Dongon, were arrested by government security forces at a checkpoint in Barangay, Bacani, Clarin on 22 April 2017 amid clashes between the Abu Sayyaf and government troops in Bohol. They were eventually taken into police custody together with Dongon’s mother, Judith, and a minor believed to be his sibling. Juromee is Renierlo Dongon’s sister.

"We will maintain our efforts to deter lawless violence and demilitarize armed groups to support the campaign of the police in Mindanao," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“We will also further intensify our counter-Daesh campaign particularly sustaining collaboration and support to other law enforcement agencies in the government’s campaign against terrorism.”

“My Congratulations to Joint Task Force Zampelan and for the Lanao PNP for another mission accomplished,” the WestMinCom Chief adds.

Soldiers seize seven firearms of the BIFF in North Cotabato

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 24, 2018) - In a law enforcement support operation launched by the 34th Infantry Battalion of the Joint Task Force Central, firearms belonging to the BIFF were seized by soldiers and policemen at 6am, Saturday (February 24) in Brgy Nabalawag, Midsayap, North Cotabato, military official said.

“We were moving toward a reported lair of the BIFF when we noticed two men ran in the back portion of the house towards the river,” said LtC Angelo Lutera. “Our soldiers were able to catch up and saw that the two persons are about to board a motorized banca and upon further search, found the HPFAs and materiel.”

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay said that seized were three (3) cal. 30 Garand rifles; one (1) M16 rifle; two (2) 7.62mm M14 rifle; one (1) 50 calBarret (HM); and various magazines and ammunitions.

“Together with the recovered war materiel were four Identification Cards belonging to a certain Tong Asilon Salem and several upper military uniforms,” said Lieutenant General ArnelDelavega, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central.

“Asilan is a known sub leader under the BIFF Karialan faction,” added Mgen Delavega. “We strongly believe that the seized items, belong to the said subgroup given the fact that four of Asilan’s IDs were also seen in the area.

As of this report, one of the two suspected BIFF members are with the security forces undergoing debriefing while troops are in the immediate vicinity conducting pursuit operations, Cpt Petinglay added.

“My commendations to the soldiers and policemen of Central Mindanao for this recent accomplishment,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

 “With the help of the community and other stakeholders, surely we will be able to defeat all these remnants of the terrorists group in order to allow progress and development to come into the communities.”

One Abu killed, firearm recovered by troops in a clash in Basilan

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 24, 2018) - An Abu Sayyaf was killed and a firearm was captured after a fierce firefight between soldiers of the 68th Infantry Battalion and the Abu Sayyaf Group under an unknown leader at Sitio Pali, Brgy Abong-Abong, Maluso, Basilan Province at 8:45am Saturday (February 24), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay said that air assets were deployed to the area to provide close air support to the engaged troops after more than an hour of firefight while Joint Task Force Basilan provided fire support.

“We also directed other maneuver forces including the special forces battalion, 64IB and 18IB to block the avenues of enemy withdrawal,” said Brigadier General Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.

“After scouring the area, one enemy body count was recovered and one M14 rifle was seized by troops.”

As of noontime, sporadic firefight is still ongoing while troops are conducting pursuit operations to the fleeing bandits, Cpt Petinglay added.

“There will be a no-let up operation against the Abu Sayyaf as our Commander-in-Chief himself has declared such since last year,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

 “The different Joint Task Forces are in full-throttle to get the remaining Abu Sayyaf members and to rescue their kidnap victims.”

“My congratulations to JTF Basilan headed by their Commander Brigadier General Juvymax Uy for this accomplishment.”

Firearms recovered in an arms cache in Sulu

By Jong D. Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 23, 2018) - Acting on a report from a concerned citizen, Marine Battalion Landing Team - 3 of JTF Sulu recovers eight high powered firearms at Sitio Kadkad, Barangay Pitogo, Calingalan Kaluang in the nearby province of Sulu at 7:30pm, Thursday (February 22), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that an ASG member identified as Apo Eting who is guarding the four M16 rifles and four M14 rifles hastily fled the area through a motorized banca upon sensing troop’s presence. The leadership of JTF Sulu believes that with the support of LGUs and peace-loving Tausugs as manifested in the recent successful operations, more loose firearms will be recovered and more ASG members will be neutralized.  The seized firearms were brought to HQs JTF Sulu for proper documentation, legal procedures prior disposal.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana, JTF Sulu Commander commends the accomplishment of MBLT-3 under Lt. Col. Ramil Densing and extends his heartfelt gratitude to the LGU and populace of Calingalan Kaluang for their support cooperation.

Cpt Petinglay said that JTF Sulu continue its intelligence monitoring to track the whereabouts of Apo ETING and the source of said HPFAs. Further exploitation is ongoing.

As of this date, a total of 18 high powered firearms (HPFAs) were already gained by JTF Sulu from Sulu-based ASG for this year alone. This excludes other various HPFAs and crew served weapons surrendered by some local chief executives and also recovered from various personalities in Sulu which is now 52 HPFAs and crew served weapons in line with the Command’s concept of diplomatic mentoring and indirect disarming.

For this year, WestMinCom already recovered a combined 136 firearms coming from various threat groups including surrendered firearms of LCEs and other personalities all over the Joint Area of Operations manifesting its successful intensified security campaign in Western Mindanao.

Police Regional Office-9 set to launch a Walk for a Cause dubbed as L.A.K.A.D. (Lipulin At Kalampagin Ang Droga) Tokhang

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 22, 2018) - The Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9-9) in coordination with the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PNPDEG) is set to launch a Walk for a Cause dubbed as L.A.K.A.D Tokhang (Lipulin At Kalampagin Ang Droga) in Zamboanga City on February 24, 2018 (Saturday) in support to the re-launching of Oplan Tokhang, the anti-illegal drug campaign of the PNP, police official said.

PCSUPT Billy B Beltran, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 9, said that the objective of the L.A.K.A.D TOKHANG is to raise awareness on the ill-effects of drugs and to encourage participants to actively involve in the national campaign against illegal drugs and in line with the re-launching of Oplan Tokhang, the anti-illegal drug campaign of the Duterte administration.

ZCPO-PRO9 PCInsp Helen L Galvez said participants will gather at 3:00 P.M. of February 24, 2018 (Saturday) at the Camp Gen Eduardo B Batalla, Justice RT Lim, Boulevard, Zamboanga City. The parade will start at 3:00 P.M. From Camp Gen Eduardo B Batalla and the culminating venue will be at Plaza Pershings in Zaragosa Street this city, where a short rally and sharing of insights will be held.

PCInsp Galvez further said that expected to join the one of a kind Walk for a Cause are the personnel of Police Regional Office 9, Zamboanga City Police Office, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 9 (PDEA-9), Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC), Zamboanga City Government, the students and non-government organizations.

  

On the other hand, these walk for a Cause dubbed as L.A.K.A.D Tokhang (Lipulin at Kalampagin ang Droga) will also be conducted simultaneously in the provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanaga Del Norte, Zamboanga Del Sur and Isabela City, PCInsp Galvez added.

Communist shadow government officials withdrew support from CNN-NPA-Terrorists

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 22, 2018) - Three councilmen of the Kilusang Rebolusyonaryong Barangay (KRB) withdrew their support from the communist movement at 3pm Wednesday (February 21), military official said.

Lieutenant Colonel Harold M Cabunoc, the Commanding Officer of the 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion, said that the councilmen were deceived by the communist movement in joining the 'village level elections' in 2017.

"They were made to believe that it was a regular election of village leaders. They swore their oath of duty before unfamiliar people who visited the village," said Cabunoc.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay said that the three KRB councilmen, Tikay Ambag, Wilnard Basalo, and Crisanto Colano have pledged to withdraw their support from the Platoon Arabo and KALUHAMIN, a communist affiliated organization which organized Sitio Datal Bonglangon as a communist mass base with its own armed group called Platoon Cosmod.

Wilnard Basalo, 45, said that the rest of the KRB councilmen were hauled by KALUHAMIN to Koronadal City to join the protest rallies.

"We will not support the NPA anymore. We just want to harvest our corn as soon as we get back to our village," he said.

Cpt Petinglay further said that the Joint Task Force Central through its 33IB has facilitated the return of the internally displaced people of Sitio Datal Bonglangon back to their village. At least 20 families have remained in Barangay Sto. Niño here while about 20 families have joined KALUHAMIN in conducting protests in Koronadal City.

Tarcilla Danyan, 28, the daughter of the slain tribal leader, Datu Victor, has requested the Army to protect their community.

"I humbly request that an Army detachment must protect us against the NPA. We want to live peacefully," she said.

"We would also like to request the local government to help us. Until today, we don't have water system and electricity. Our road access is so difficult," she added.

Cpt Petinglay stresses that from January 1 to February 18, 2018, fifty-five communist terrorists, three of whom are members of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee and 52 of whom are members of Guerrilla Front 73, returned to the fold of the law.

“I am very pleased to welcome them back to the government side and accord them the opportunity to live a life far from what they have been facing before,” said Joint Task Force Central Commander, Major General Arnel Dela Vega.

For this year alone, the troops recovered three firearms of the WMRPC and 21 firearms of GF 73, cpt. Petinglay added.

“The Joint Task Force Central, in collaboration with the local government units, continues to sustain the pressure on the communist terrorists operating in Central Mindanao,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

157 firearms yielded by Zambo officials

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 22, 2018) - Officials turned-over 157 loose firearms to the Western Mindanao Command in this city, Wednesday (February 21), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the surrendered firearms were presented by Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar to Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. in a ceremonial turn-over ceremony held in Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city at 2:30pm Wednesday (February 21).

“Barangay officials from Arena Blanco, Tigtabon, Mercedes, and Cabaluay yielded the said firearms to military and police units as an offshoot of the sustained campaign against the proliferation of unregistered and loose firearms,” said Colonel Leonel Nicolas, Commander of the Task Force Zamboanga.

Cpt. Petinglay said turned over were 29 FAs composed of 16 Caliber 30 M1 Garand rifles through 11th Infantry Battalion, eight M1 Garand rifles through the Marine Battalion Landing Team-11, four M1 Garand rifles and a 66mm HE Rocket Launcher through the JTF Zamboanga. The Zamboanga City Police Office also presented to the WestMinCom chief 128 loose firearms, consisting of 92 shotguns, an M16 rifle, fifteen 9mm pistols, eight Caliber Revolvers, eleven Caliber .45 pistols, and a Caliber .22 pistol.

“The Philippine National Police has recorded a total of 29,480 loose firearms as of this moment, but because of the implementation of Republic Act No. 10591, there are only 25,245 firearms left,” said Police Senior Superintendent NarcisoVerdadero, deputy for operations of the Police Regional Office 9, representing Police Chief Superintendent Billy Beltran, Regional Director of the Police Regional Office 9.

 “We believe that these loose firearms were used in different forms.”

The Mayor of Zamboanga City, Mayor Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said in her message,”We are just here to show our commitment and support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This turnover only showcases the success of the cooperation between the military and police.”

“On behalf of our barangay officials, I want to extend my gratitude to Lieutenant General Galvez, Jr. for ensuring the security of Zamboanga City.

In his reply, Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., Commander, Western Mindanao Command said, “The Western Mindanao Command extends its sincerest gratitude and compliments to the local officials present here today, headed by hon. Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, for putting their trust in the armed forces as the WestMinCom takes strides to neutralize loose firearms and disarm armed groups in ZamBaSulTa area,” he added.

Cpt. Petinglay further said that the activity brings to 257 the total number of loose firearms recovered by the Joint Task Forces in the joint area of operations from January 1 to February 21, 2018. Of the 257 firearms recovered this year, fifty-two were surrendered by municipal and barangay officials in Sulu; thirty were surrendered by former warring clans after Rido settlements in Marawi City; nine were recovered by the troops following a law enforcement support operation in Lanao del Sur; nine were surrendered by local officials in Maguindanao; and 157 were turned over today in Zamboanga City.

In line with the pronouncement of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the campaign against loose firearms was launched by the Joint Task Forces to implement the Security, Governance and Development Strategies of Martial Law in Mindanao.

“We would like to urge other officials and residents to do the same in order to free communities from these vehicles of violence.”

“If Zamboanga City can do their share of commitment to a peaceful community, I am also sure the others in ZamBaSulTa can also do the same,” added LtGen Galvez.

455 New Police Officers to Join Regional Mobile Forces Battalion and Provincial City Public Safety Battalion

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 21, 2018) - Some 455 new police officers 1 of Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9) were set to assign and deploy to the Regional Mobile Forces Battalion 9 and Provincial/City Public Mobile Forces Battalion following their Send-Off Ceremony held at PRO9 Quadrangle, Camp Col Romeo A Abendan, Mercedes, Zamboanga City at about 9:00 AM Wednesday (February 21, 2018), police official said.

PSSUPT Romulo Cleve N Taboso, Chief of Regional Personnel and Human Resource Development Division (RPHRDD), said that 102 new Police Officers 1 will be assigned to Regional Mobile Forces Battalion 9 and 101 others to Zamboanga City Mobile Forces Battalion while 101 will be deployed to Zamboanga Del Norte Provincial Mobile Forces Company. On the other hand, 75 will go to Zamboanga Del Sur Provincial Mobile Forces Company and 74 to Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Mobile Forces Company while 2 will be assigned to Isabela City Police Station.        

PSSUPT Romulo Cleve N Taboso, in his inspiring message, challenged the rookies to bring the police closer to the heart of the public. He also reminded the rookies that they are the front row of the PNP in the eye of the public, and the image of a good police officer must be seen in them.

ZCPO-PRO9 PCInsp Helen L Galvez said these new police personnel have already completed six (6) months Public Safety Basic Recruit Course (PSBRC) and six (6) months Field Training Program (FTP) that honed their efficiency and competence as law enforcement officers. In addition, the 455 police officers also had undergone the 60-day Basic Internal Security Operation Course (BISOC) training, a revision of the 45-day Special Counter-Insurgency Operations Unit Training (SCOUT). The BISOC training is designed to equip the new breed of cops with the knowledge, attitude, skills, and values that make them more capable and skilled once they get assigned to the public safety forces.

Soldier, NPA rebel killed in Zambo Norte clash

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025717

By Hirohito Cadion  February 19, 2018, 8:58 pm Share

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur -- A soldier and a New People’s Army (NPA) rebel were killed in a firefight with government forces in the nearby province of Zamboanga del Norte, the military reported.

Lt. Col. Marlowe Patria, Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion commander, disclosed the firefight took place at around 8:34 p.m. Saturday in Barangay San Isidro, Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte.

Patria said the clash broke out while his troops led by 1Lt. Abner Pilando conducted a strike operation following the reported presence of a group of NPA rebels in Barangay San Isidro.

Patria said the clash lasted for about 15 minutes that resulted in the death of a soldier and a rebel after which the rest of the NPA rebels scampered to different directions.

He said the slain NPA member, whose remains were left behind by his comrades, was not immediately identified. An AK-47 assault rifle was also recovered at the clash site.

The name of the slain soldier was withheld pending notice to his family.

Patria said the NPA rebels were harassing the civilians when the clash ensued.

Maj. Gen. Roseller Murillo, Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, condemned in the strongest terms the continued atrocities of NPAs against the hapless civilians.

“Our soldier died a hero while protecting our people and our communities. We will vigorously pursue these NPA terrorists until they will be left with no choice but surrender or get killed,” Murillo said.

“The cooperation of the civilians who reported the armed group’s presence in their area is a strong manifestation that civilians have long been tired of these NPA’s terroristic activities in forms of extortion and harassment,” he added. (PNA)

Fleet-Marine team receive awards for foiling seajacking attempt in Basilan

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 20, 2018) - The Commander, Western Mindanao Command, LTGEN CARLITO G GALVEZ JR AFP together with Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao, REAR ADMIRAL RENE V MEDINA AFP awarded the gallant sailors of PC381, PC386, BA485, and NAVSOU6 with Bronze Cross Medal for their acts of heroism during the recently foiled seajacking attempt of M/V Kudos with 27 crew onboard in Basilan waters, military official said.

During the conduct of Flag Raising Ceremony at Western Mindanao Command on  Monday (Feb. 19), the said award was received and represented by LCDR RANDY A FERRAREN PN (CO, PC386), LT JEFFREY C MENDOZA PN (OIC,  BA485), GM1 Heremias Quijada PN (POIC Gunnery, PC386) and S1UO Jay A Ancheta PN (NAVSOU6).

“Akoy masaya sa kahusayang pinamalas ni Rear Admiral Medina bilang namumuno sa Anti-Kidnapping Joint Task Force. Ang mabilisan at agarang pagresponde ay nagpapatunay lamang ng kahandaan at pagiging magaling ng ating Fleet-Marine Team.”, said LtGen Galvez.

“Nawa’y ang mga sundalong ito ay maging ihemplo nating lahat para nahandang magsilbi sa anumang oras ng pangangailangan.”, added LtGen Galvez.

The award accorded to the gallant sailors merits their selfless devotion to duty at all times to protect our waters against any threat and terror acts.

Firearms and war materiel surrendered in Maguindanao

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 20, 2018) - With the efforts of the Joint Task Force Central in the campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms, a total of nine high-powered firearms (HPFAs) were handed-over to the Joint Task Force around 9am Monday (February 19), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMincom) Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the surrendered firearms were voluntarily turned-over by local officials from different municipalities, a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Task Force Itihad, and a suspected drug personality in Maguindanao to Lieutenant Colonel Alvin Iyog of the 2nd Mechanized Battalion. A locally-made caliber 50 sniper rifle (barret-type) and two US caliber 30 M1 garand rifles which were modified to caliber 7.62 M14 rifles were surrendered by Damabalas, Datu Piang Maguindanao Barangay Chairman Quiapo Dalandas. Barangay Madia, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao Chairman Edris Sindatok also surrendered a US caliber 30 M1 garand which was modified to cal. 7.62 M14 rifle and a US 5.56 colt M16 rifle with magazine. Two others surrendered the following: one US cal. 30 M1 garand; one US cal. 5.56 elisco M16 rifle; a US cal. 5.56 elisco M16A1 rifle; and one locally-made M203 grenade launcher.

“The firearms and war materiel are now under the custody of the 2nd Mechanized Battalion for safekeeping,” said Major General Arnel Dela Vega, commander of the Joint Task Force Central.

“We will make sure that these firearms are properly documented.

“Coordinations are also currently being made with the PNP for the proper legal procedures.” With the intensified operations launched from January 1 to date, a total of 100 loose firearms (52 in Sulu, 39 in Lanao del Sur, and 9 in Maguindanao) were recovered by the troops in the Western Mindanao.

“The recent surrender of nine firearms brings our record to 100 loose firearms surrendered and documented since January of this year,” said WestMinCom Chief Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“In line with the implementation of Martial Law, the Western Mindanao Command maintains its campaign against loose firearms in its joint areas of operation and intensifies security operations against all threat groups and terrorists while also supporting law enforcement operations addressing lawlessnes and illegal drugs.”

“Again, I would like to reiterate that your Armed Forces through WestMinCom is serious in our intent to remove all vehicles of violence in the entire region, no matter what it takes,” he adds.

“They just have to choose whether to turn-over their war materiel the easy way or the hard way,” LtGen Galvez stressed.