Army implements delinquency report system

The Philippine Army (PA) in its efforts to avoid the backlog of cases brought about by minor offenses committed by its soldiers, facilitate the immediate disposition of these cases, and encourage discipline among its members, implemented the Delinquency Report (DR) system effective on January 29, 2009. The DR system is applicable to all active Army personnel assigned to all Philippine Army units from platoon level to the Headquarters Philippine Army.

The offenses which are covered by this DR system are minor offenses such as failure to greet or salute, not wearing of Identification Cards or (ID), smoking in unauthorized areas inside camp, late during formations or activities, wearing incomplete uniform in public places, chewing gum while walking in public, violation of minor traffic rules, and various security violations among others. Offenses not listed in the said directive are not subject to the DR system; however, it will fall under the discretion of the commanding officer to charge the offender any of those offenses falling under Article of War 105.

The following are authorized to issue DRs: all PA officers against subordinates, unit commanders, unit sergeant majors, military police personnel of the PA, military personnel assigned with the Provost Marshall/Division Provost Marshall, and guards/sentinels in duty. The first DR incurred by an erring personnel shall serve as a warning, which he shall immediately correct and report to the reporting/awarding authority. The second DR with the same or different nature of offense incurred within a period of three months shall be punished by any or all of the following: withholding of privileges for 30 days, hard labor without confinement for 15 days; the third DR incurred within the period of three months shall be punished with the same as in the second offense and to add admonition; the fourth to be punished by the same to include reprimand; and the fifth DR shall be punished by demotion for enlisted personnel and reprimand in the case of officers.

The DR system recognizes the collective effort of all military personnel in enforcing discipline in the Army and encourages the participation of commanders of lower units in its implementation. Army Chief Lt. Gen. Victor S. Ibrado said, “We shall ensure that the Army soldier imbibes and lives by the basic tenets of military discipline for I believe that best weapon against insurgency is a disciplined soldier.” #

NPA terrorist killed in Samar clash; 2 NPA camps found

An unidentified New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist was killed in an hour clash between the Army troops and 25 fully armed NPA terrorists under unknown leader at 4 p.m. on February 8 in Brgys. Can-vais, Motiong and Sto. Niño and Anagasi, Paranas all of Western Samar.

The operation involved members of the Army’s 83rd Division Reconnaissance Company of 62nd Infantry Battalion and 14th Infantry Battalion under 1Lt. Roel B. Burac.

Troops recovered an M16 rifle with three magazines and 50 rounds of ammunition. No casualty was reported on the government side.

Also in Samar, a newly abandoned NPA camp was found by the combined troops of Charlie company, 34th Infantry Battalion under 1Lt. Fabian A. Ranit Jr., and Headquarters Service Company of 34th IB under SSg. Frederick Bacuetes at 9 a.m. on February 8 in Brgy. Cristina, Jiabong.

Troops found a US Garand rifle wrapped in a laminated sack, an improvised anti-personnel landmine, a Mimeographing machine, and subversive documents.

Likewise in Quezon, while pursuing NPA terrorists who have taken three PNP personnel as hostages, combined operating troops of the Army’s 22nd Division Reconnaissance Company under Lt. Valera, 16th Infantry Battalion under 2Lt. Lopez, and 16th Infantry Battalion led by Cpl. Dela Cruz found a suspected training and satellite camp of the NPA terrorists at 11:30 a.m. on February 8 at Sitio Sari, Brgy. Lumutan, Gen. Nakar.

The camp is about a hectare in size. It has 22 bunkers, 30 meters running trenches, a six-stair bleacher and a comfort room. Army troops believed that the camp had been abandoned for a month.

Troops continued searching the area for possible camp discovery. #

6 NPA terrorists apprehended; 3 others surrendered to the Army troops

Six New People’s Army terrorists were apprehended; while three others surrendered to the Army troops in six separate incidents in the provinces of Cebu, Zamboanga, Agusan, Pampanga, and Capiz.

In Cebu, a certain Ramo Patriarca alias Willy/ Duro/ Aking/ Robert was apprehended by virtue of an arrest warrant by the combined Army Intelligence operating units, 802nd Brigade, 302nd Brigade, 78th Infantry Battalion and Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) at 12 noon on February 5.

Reports reaching the Army Chief Lt. Gen. Victor S. Ibrado disclosed that Patriarca is the Finance Officer/ Head, Taxation Bureau/ Secretary, Negros Island Committee and Deputy Secretary of KSRB in Brgy. Casili, Consolacion, Cebu.

Troops recovered two hand grenades, a caliber .45 pistol, personal belongings, a mobile phone, financial records, and a wallet containing P11,200.00 cash.

In Pampanga, four suspected NPA terrorists were apprehended by the members of the 71st Division Reconnaissance Company, 7th Infantry Division under 2Lt. Onofre in Brgy. Villa Maria, Porac at 3:10 p.m. on February 4.

They were identified as Robert Dela Cruz, Orlan Felijun, Jimmy Dela Cruz and Rodrigo Santos. Initial investigation revealed that Robert Dela Cruz and Orlan Felijun were really NPA terrorists operating in the area. Troops were able to confiscate 19 rounds of caliber 30 M1 Garand rifle.

At about 5:45 p.m. that day, troops also recovered a caliber .22, two homemade Shotguns, 41 rounds of ammunition for Caliber 30 and an empty clip for Garand rifle in three separate houses in Brgy. Diaz, Porac, Pampanga.

In Zamboanga del Norte, a suspected NPA terrorist identified as Rindo Tumas alias Joe was apprehended by the members of the scout platoon of 53rd Infantry Battalion under 2Lt. Constantino at 3:45 p.m. on February 6 at Sitio Gigang, Canuyan, Bayog.

Another in Zamboanga del Sur, a certain Welito Catas Bracero alias Dexter voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s Intelligence operatives in 1st Infantry Division in Brgy. Tubod, Lakewood at 1 p.m. on February 4.

Bracero’s surrender was through the effort of his cousin, Jomar Mig Catas alias Dagsa, a former member of FC “Sendong”, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) who surrendered to the 53rd IB troops last year.

In Agusan del Sur, a certain Michael Madayan alias Eugene, 24 voluntarily surrendered without firearms to 1Lt. Isagani Villasis, commanding officer of Charlie Company, 26th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division at 2 p.m. on February 5.

Madayan is the former team leader of Baking Squad, SOCOM 2, Front Committee (FC) 3, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC). He was accompanied by Hon. Johnny Doromol, a barangay councilor in Agusan.

In Capiz, a certain Pelejeo Castor y Ortiz, 24 voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s Intelligence operatives of 3rd Infantry Division in Brgy. Abangay, Tapaz, Capiz at 8:30 p.m. on February 7. Ortiz is an active member of Team 1, Limbaong Platoon of CFC, KRP.

All surrenderors are now undergoing custodial debriefing.

The Philippine Army assures active NPA terrorists who want to lay down their arms and join the mainstream society that help will be extended to them. However for those who continue to sow terror, they will be relentlessly pursued. The Social Integration Program (SIP) of the government awaits those who will take the path of peace.

The SIP offers opportunity for rebel returnees (RR) to return to their families and communities and avail themselves of a comprehensive package which include initial financial assistance, livelihood training to go with a provision for initial capital, and remuneration for firearms surrendered. As much as P120,000 or more may be made available to them depending on the number and type of firearms surrendered. SIP ensures that the RR is secured and fully reintegrated back to society. It also capitalizes on the desire of would-be RRs to live normal lives in the comfort of their families, away from harm’s way and difficulties of living in the mountains. #

Increased cash for guns attracts more NPA terrorists to surrender

More and more New People's Army terrorists are returning to folds of law for a hope to start their lives anew, more so now that the government has increased the amount to be paid for every M16 assault rifle or firearm they surrender.

As part of the government's effort to convince more NPA terrorists to return to the folds of law, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has raised the payment of every surrendered firearm to P50,000 from the original amount of P18,000 to encourage the remaining NPA terrorists to surrender.

But even so, the surrender of NPA terrorists with or without firearms has been ongoing due to demoralization in their ranks. Just last week, seven NPA terrorists voluntarily surrendered to the Army troops in five separate incidents in the provinces of Agusan del Sur, Camarines Sur, Quezon, and Samar.

In Agusan del Sur, two NPA terrorists voluntarily surrendered to the members of the Alpha Company of the Army's 26th Infantry Battalion in Brgy. San Patricio, Lapaz at 7:35 p.m. on October 16.

They were identified as Junry M. Petronilo alias Bunso/ Jojo of Caloy Team and Jahmal M. Petronilo alias Joseph of Baking Team, SPP Lamak. Front Committee 88, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

In Camarines Sur, three NPA terrorists all on lie-low status voluntarily surrendered to the members of the Army's 9th Division Reconnaissance Company led by 2Lt. Roco Suerte in two separate incidents on October 13 and 16, respectively.

They were identified as a certain Rodercick Embo alias Jamine and Elmer Banas alias Dennis and Ruel Toledo alias Jigs.

In Quezon, a certain Edmundo Benitez y Chua, 30 years old voluntarily surrendered to the Army's 1st Special Forces Company, 1st Special Forces Battalion led by Sgt Severino A. Versoza at 3 p.m. on October 16. Benitez is a former member of Kasapian Luz, Lokal Gerilya, Komiteng Probinsya (KOMPROB) Quezon.

In Samar, a certain Antonio Valles Espana alias Tony/ Opus, 31 years old voluntarily surrendered to the operatives of Alpha Company, 14th Infantry Battalion led by 1Lt Bautista at Campo 1, Brgy San Isidro, Paranas at 4 p.m. on October 17.

Tony/ Opus is a former team leader of Dalugdog Squad under Arnulfo Ortiz Command, Southern Samar Party Committee (SSPC).

All surrenderees are now undergoing custodial debriefing.

Meanwhile, an NPA terrorist was apprehended by the members of the Army's 901st Infantry Brigade in Brgy San Isidro, Donsol, Sorsogon at 6 p.m. on October 18. He was identified as Zaldy del Castillo y Oblegascion, 29 years old, and a member of Sentro De Grabidad, Front Committee 78.

Oblegascion was already on lie-low status when he was apprehended by the troops.

“19 MURDER CASE FILED VS NPA IN SAMAR”

Camp Daza, Fatima, Hinabangan Samar – Families of murder victims in the towns of Jiabong, Motiong and Paranas all in Samar seek the assistance of the Commission on Human Rights – 8.

The victims’ families asked the help of the CHR to investigate the killing of their love ones by the elements of the New Peoples Army during a Forum held in Motiong, Samar last 11 September 2008.

These were the result after the conduct of massive information drives by joint elements of 34^th IB and 14^th IB assigned in the area that encouraged the people to file a case against the CPP/NPA/NDF.

The Peace and Development Forum, a joint effort by the LGU’s, LGAs, AFP and PNP in the towns of Jiabong, Paranas and Motiong was design to offer an avenue for the local leaders to know more of the different government programs that deals on how to improve them- socially and economically. The other objectives of such forum were to facilitate the filing of complaints of the poor victims of human rights violation committed by the NPA in these towns.

Col Francisco Lanuza, the 801^st Brigade Commander strongly condemns these NPA atrocities, and assured the people in his area of jurisdiction that justice will be serve and that the perpetrators will be punished according to law. “That is why I am calling everybody, both officials and ordinary citizens, let us join our hands, unite our efforts, synchronize our plans and altogether put an end to this insurgency that drained so much of our resources and claimed hundreds of innocent lives,” Lanuza said.

The murder cases were so alarming that that prompted the military to ask the cooperation and active participation of the LGUs, LGAs and the PNP. Reports that reached to the 801^st Headquarters of several residents in the interior barangays of Paranas are now seeking refuge in the town proper, afraid to return to their homes after a certain Noe Pagarao of Brgy Lawaan-1 was sentenced to death by QP and IGONG PLATON under the CFS1.

“Let us do our share, let us serve our people religiously, and let us deliver on what they need with what we have. We will not promise what we cannot provide, but focus and commitment spell a big difference for our people to our realized that we are also a-working-leaders. Lets we forget, that it is not only the mission and duty of the military to put an end to the insurgency, you, as community leaders, you have a great part to curb this menace, too. Pagkaurusa na kita para han kamurayawan ug kauswagan,” Lanuza concluded.

CAFGU KILLS 2 NPA REBELS, 8ID TROOPERS OVERRUN NPA CAMP

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City, Samar – Armed NPA rebels suffered 2 casualties when they tried to abduct CAFGU Nonito Cabarles Sr. at Brgy. Blanca Aurora, San Jorge, W. Samar.

The frustrated abduction took place at his residence in front of his terrified wife and children last August 28, 2008 at around 10:00 P.M. by more or less 30 NPA rebels. Although CAA Cabarles was already hogtied, he managed to get a grenade from his pant’s back pocket, pull out the safety pin and dropped the fragmentation grenade behind him. This clear manifestation of bravery and personal sacrifice resulted to the death of two NPA rebels, wounding five other rebels but unfortunately, he was himself wounded in the process. The death of the two CTs was confirmed when a shallow grave was unearthed by local officials and government authorities at Barangay Moboob, San Jorge, W. Samar last Sept. 6, 2008 at 12:00 noon through the information of the barangay residents.

As a result of this incident, elements of 20IB under Lieutenants Raul Delos Santos and Ariel Moralejo, immediately conducted pursuit operations and were able to track down the withdrawing rebels. On September 3 and 4, the operating troops encountered more or less 30 heavily armed NPA rebels at Barangay San Andres, Motiong, Western Samar which resulted to the recovery of one rifle grenade, 12 pcs. improvised anti-personnel mines, 30 meters detonating cord (Commercial), two blasting caps, five meters firing wire, one solar panel with 12 volts battery, one binocular, one heavy duty automatic voltage regulator (AVR), two ICOM handheld radios, medical paraphernalia and assorted medicines, five backpacks, a sack of subversive documents and personal belongings of the late Pfc Erwin G. Guito of 46IB. The troops successfully overrun the NPA camp without any casualty on the government side.

Commander, 8^th Infantry Division, Brigadier General Arthur I. Tabaquero had emphasized that the NPAs will be charged with frustrated murder, frustrated abduction, illegal use of anti-personnel mines and trespass to dwelling.

General Tabaquero had also lauded the bravery and heroism of CAFGU Cabarles and the 8ID troopers. He intends to give awards to deserving soldiers. For the heroism of CAA Cabarles Sr., he received the Wounded Personnel Medal on September 9, 2008. In addition, CAA Cabarles Sr. will be recommended as CAFGU of the year during the AFP Anniversary Celebration this coming December 2008. General Tabaquero also condemns in the strongest terms the NPA rebels’ continuous use of anti-personnel mines that endanger the lives of innocent civilians. This is a gross violation of the International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva Convention mandating that use of anti-personnel mines is unlawful.

Likewise, he assures all residents that 8ID is committed to undertake military actions to neutralize all armed NPA rebels in Region 8 while accepting with open arms those rebels who wish to lay down their arms to have a peaceful and productive life.

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“Extra-judicial killings by NPA at Villareal”

CAMP DAZA, Hinabangan Samar – field report reach to this headquarters that New People’s Army (NPA) strikes anew against hapless civilians in a remote barangay of Villareal, Samar.

Last August 2, 2008 around 9 O’clock in the morning, Punong Barangay Rafael Papiona of Inasudlan, Villareal and five other companions were ambushed by the NPAs using high powered firearms, while on their way towards their barangay hall purposely to conduct regular monthly session when the incident occurred.

The NPA under Ildefonso Nablo @ Eno, Roger Macapyot and four others perpetrated the ambush cades that caused the instantaneous death of Punong Barangay Rafael Papiona and Arnold Mabisa and injured a certain Romeo Vencio.

These glaring inhumane acts committed by the NPAs are manifestations of their Maoist and barbaric doctrine n economic and social reforms. The group of Hon. Papiona were about to discuss and pass a resolution on its strong support on the joint peace and development accord being conceptualized by the local government unit of Villareal and 34^th Infantry Battalion based in Calbiga, Samar. The tragic fate of Papiona will not hinder the hope and vision of his constituents to have real peace and development in their barangay.

“Pagkaurosa na gad kita. Buligi kami niyo. Sumati iton iyo mga bugto nga ada pa ha kagiusan nga lumusad na hira. Kay kairo man iton ira magin biktima pagpamatay nga waray man mga sala. Waray man nahibulig iton mga NPA pagpakaupay iton aton bungto, sanglit, nananawagan kami, ha tanan, diri la taga Villareal, pati na bug-os nga Samarnon, hiusahan ta an pagpoypoy iton waray data nga komunista nga kagiusan, maiha naman ito pero waray gud kita kumita hin kauswagan nga kaupayan dara pag-api ngan paghatag hin suporta ha ira, puro la pamatay ngan pagpanarhog. Hi kami liwat in nanawagan iton KARAPATAN ngan taga human rights nga buligan kami matatagan hin hustisya iton amon kauropdan nga nagin biktima han mga NPA in waray kalaban-laban” the families of the victims and survivors lamented.

The local PNP unit is finalizing the data of their investigation and will file appropriate case against the suspects who were identified by the survivors.

The entire municipality of Villareal strongly condemns the new atrocities committed by the New People’s Army, for time and again, had never launched a single humanitarian program to care for the people of Samar, never built an inch of road nor constructed a single classroom despite the millions of pesos collected from their stupid revolutionary taxes.

Expectedly, Santiago Salas will speak another version of praising his cohorts, but one thing certain, these are acts of human rights violation and extra judicial killings committed by the armed wing of the CPP/NDF, the New People’s Army.

CATBALOGAN MAYOR AWARDS DESERVING MILITARY PERSONNEL OF 8ID

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City – Hon Coefredo T Uy, Catbalogan City Mayor was the Guest of Honor and Speaker during the awarding of four officers and three enlisted personnel of 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in a simple rites during Monday Flag Raising on June 23 2008 held at Headquarters 8ID, PA.

During the ceremony, these outstanding personnel were awarded personally by Mayor Coefredo T Uy assisted by Brig. Gen. Arthur I Tabaquero, Commander 8ID for their exemplary and invaluable services in the performance of their duty here at 8th Infantry Division.

Deserving officers and enlisted personnel given the Military Merit Medal were Major Teodoro A Montes, Commanding Officer of Camp Lukban Station Hospital, 2Lt Dante E Avergonzado, Sgt Bienvenido C Alfaro, Sgt Alexander L Luzon and SSg Noli C Aying while Cpt Allan D Parayao and Cpt Rizalino A Anasarias were awarded Military Civic Action Medal.

The achievements of the aforementioned officers and EP will served as inspiration not only to their fellow soldiers but also to our beloved Samarenyos who are the recipients of the good services rendered by these soldiers.

In his message, Mayor Uy applauded the 8th Infantry Division for the strong commitment and dedication in serving the people not only in Samar but the whole Eastern Visayas to include Cebu and Bohol islands for the continuous efforts and diligence to the sworn duty to secure and protect the people particularly in insurgents affected areas, the local chief executive emphasized.

On the other hand, Gen Tabaquero also gives his heartfelt thanks to the local officials for their unwavering support and full cooperation with the army towards our common goal of putting an end to the insurgency problem and having a peaceful province ideal for socio-economic development.

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MAJOR MANGINTONONG A TOCALO (INF) PA

Chief, Division Public Affairs Office

Office/Fax Nr: (055) 251-2264 local 3333

Cel # : 09168368357

Email Add: dpao_8idpa@yahoo.com

NPA ATTACK CIVILIAN RESIDENCE AND AMBUSH MILITARY TROOPS IN PARANAS, SAMAR

CAMP LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY – While the military troops of this command are busy conducting Disaster Relief and Rescue Operations (DRRO) in different areas in the region affected by the recent calamity, the New People’s Army (NPA) took advantage of the time to destroy the peaceful loving populace in Paranas, Samar when they attacked a residence in the said town on March 3, 2008.

Based on reports reaching the Army headquarters at about 5:00 o’clock in the morning, an estimated ten NPA members led by Communist Terrorist Leader (CTL) Carlito Dacanay alias SOL forcibly barged into a residence of Mr. Gaspar Dacula at Bliss Site, Brgy 4, Poblacion Paranas, Samar by shooting everything on sight inside the house believing that it was the residence of SPO2 Servando Arellano, PNP of Paranas Municipal Police Office, who was a long time CT-target for liquidation. After realizing that it was not the house of SPO2 Arellano, the CTs immediately left the area.

The assailants belong to the Carlito Salingsing Command, Central Front Samar 1, Samar Provincial party Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines operating In the province of Samar.

Upon receiving the information, elements from Bravo Company, 46th Infantry Battalion under 2nd. Lt. Leonard Jack Orbase conducted pursuit operations against the fleeing rebels. But while on the process of hot pursuit, the group of Orbase encountered the CTs which resulted to the wounding of three soldiers and four killed while undetermined number of casualties to the enemy as evidence of the bloodstains seen on their withdrawal route. The fatalities resulted from a landmine blast planted by the CTs along the side of the roads.

The wounded personnel were immediately evacuated to Camp Lukban Station Hospital while the cadavers of those killed soldiers were brought to Bliss Funeral Home in Catbalogan City, Samar.

Maj. Gen. Armando L. Cunanan, the Commander of the 8th Infantry Division had strongly condemned the NPA’s persistent use of landmines which poses great danger to the civilian populace living in the area.

“Likewise, we also denounce the barbaric attack of the CPP/NPA in Paranas town. The attack committed by the CPP/NPA is a grievous act of violence to sow terror and fear to the general public”. General Cunanan said.
He also extended his deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of the brave soldiers who were killed due to CTs self interest and barbarism. The soldiers have risked their lives to protect and defend the country’s sovereignty but not their brothers and country men.

As of press time, the 8ID troops are still conducting relentless pursuit operations against the perpetrators who try to ruin the tranquility of the residents living in the area.

8ID TROOPERS CONDUCTS RESCUE AND RELIEF OPERATIONS IN EASTERN VISAYAS REGION

CAMP LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY — Military troops of the 8^th Infantry (Storm Troopers) Division, Philippine Army is currently conducting relief and rescue operations in the areas affected by flooding brought about by the weeklong rainfall in Region 8.

Major General Armando L Cunanan AFP, the Commander of the 8th Infantry Division immediately instructed concern unit commanders to organized troops in their respective area of responsibility to be dispatch in order to conduct Disaster Rescue and Relief operations and Task Group from the Division Headquarters to monitor the areas affected by flooding.

It may be recalled that for the past few days the Eastern Visayas Region have experience continuous heavy rainfall that caused flooding and landslides in different provinces of the region. Reports disclosed that the province of Eastern Samar incurred the most number of affected barangays which were submerged in water brought about by the calamity.

As of press time, four (4) platoons from 14^th Infantry Battalion headed by LTC JOSE P MATIAS INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer were dispatched to municipalities of Oras, Maslog, Jipapad and Borongan City, two (2) company from 62^nd Infantry Battalion under LTC JONATHAN G PONCE INF (GSC) PA were also dispatched to the municipalities of Mc Arthur, Quinapondan, Maydolong, Llorente all of Eastern Samar, Basey and Sta Rita in Western Samar to conduct rescue and relief operations.

Following are the following municipalities which were affected by the calamity with its estimated damages:

FLOODED AREA
Municipality	Nr of Brgys Affected	Estimated Property Damages	Nr of Populace Affected
Arteche, ESamar	13		1,068 – families 5,340 – persons
Balangiga, ESamar	2		5 – families 17 – persons
Balangkayan, ESamar	9		451 – families 2,183 – persons
Borongan, ESamar	30		1,376 – families 6,522 - persons
Can-avid, ESamar	14		1,878 – families 8,411 – persons
Dolores, Esamar	27	P5 Million Crop damage	4,050 families 20,250 – persons
Gen Mc Arthur, ES	30		2,556 – families 12,730 – persons
Giporlos, ESamar	10		350 – families 2,007 - persons
Guiuan, ESamar	7		130 – families 419 - persons
Hernani, ESamar	7		48 – families 284 - persons
Jipapad, ESamar	13		1,120 - families 5,800 – persons
Lawaan, ESamar	16		227 – families 1,187 persons
Llorente, ESamar			1,180 – families 8,021 - persons
Maslog, ESamar	12	P11.815 Million	802 – families 4,010 – persons
Maydolong, ESamar	20
Oras, Esamar	22		2,366 – families 14,196 – person
Quinapondan, ES	9		2,976 – families 14,880 – persons
Salcedo, ESamar	17		225 – families 1,125 – persons
San Julian, ES	18		3,152 – families 13,120 – persons
San Policarpo, ES	15		2,587 – families 12,935 - persons
Taft, ESamar	10		1,087 – families 5,058 – persons
Basey, WSamar	4		15 – families
San Jorge, WSamar			54 – families
Mun of Sta Rita, WS	5		240 – families
TOTAL	319		27,943– families 139,642 - persons

Reports reaching this headquarters, there were seven (7) dead, three (3) missing and two (2) were injured due to the calamity in Eastern Samar.

The activity is jointly conducted together with the Local Government Units (LGUs) in the province of Eastern and Western Samar together with the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC) of the region.

Major General Cunanan extended his profound gratitude to the Local Government of Eastern Samar particularly in the municipalities of Eastern Samar and Western Samar for their continued support and cooperation to the efforts of the Philippine Army.

Likewise, he assured them of the Army’s deep commitment of performing the non-traditional role of the army in helping the people in times of calamities and disaster.

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14TH IB TROOPS DISCOVERED NPA ABANDONED CAMP

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan, City – A New Peoples Army abandoned camp was discovered by operating troops of 14th Infantry Battalion at Sitio. Lunoy, Brgy. Tawagan, Arteche, Eastern Samar at 2:45 p.m. on February 8, 2008.

A team led by 2Lt. Lagunero of Alpha Company of 14IB was conducting combat operation in the area of Maslog and Arteche both of Eastern Samar, discovered NPA abandoned camp composed of 15 bunkers that can accommodate 50 Communist Terrorist, three guard posts and one comfort room.

Recovered from said camp were one Battle Dress Attire (BDA) Uniform, one black suit, one fatigue T-shirt, one flash light, one boot “buta”, water container and pentil pen inks.
Same troop encounters NPA communist terrorist (CT’s) armed with M16 Armalite rifle and home made shotgun believed to be members of third squad, platoon Rado, Eastern Samar Provincial Party Committee at Sitio Hitalinga, Brgy. Tawagan same municipality at around 10:40 a.m. on Feb 9, 2008. Firefight ensued for about one minute that resulted to the recovery of one home made shotgun with extra barrel and personal belongings containing letter and Larab (NPA’s local publication). No casualty was reported on both sides.

Maj. Gen. Armando Cunanan, 8ID chief, extends his appreciation to the people of Eastern Samar for their support and cooperation extended to the operating troops of the 14th IB. The encounter is a result of accurate intelligence information provided by the local populace, who are against the CT’s extortion activities, a clear manifestation that they yearns peace and development in their locality Cunanan said.

Government troops are conducting pursuit operations to locate and intercept the withdrawing terrorists.

46th Infantry (Peace Makers) Battalion Launches Project “KASANGKAYAN”

BARANGAY ERENAS, San Jorge, Samar – Lt. Col. Bonifacio Cebrian Jr., 46IB Chief in coordination and supports with the Local Executives in the 13 Municipal towns facilitates the activation of Integrated Area/Community Public Safety Plan (IA/CPSP) pursuant to section 51 of the Republic Act 6975 provides that the Municipal/City Mayors develop, establish, and oversee the implementation of the security, crime prevention, fire prevention, health and sanitation, disaster and relief operation, and development of their communities through the concerted effort of concerned government agencies.

In line to this, the 46IB conceptualized Project “KASANGKAYAN”, a Security Awareness Program for Civilian Volunteer Organization (CVO) giving emphasizes on their active role as an integral part of the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) that provides the first line security in defense in the barangay against all kinds of threats in order for the people to live peacefully. Considering the vital role of the CVO’s, there is a need to re-educate them on security and other related matters that will prepare them to undertake the active role.

The pilot Project “KASANGKAYAN” was officially conducted at the Municipal town of San Jorge, Samar for two day duration and participated by 41 Barangays with 700 participants. The activity was jointly undertaken by 46IB and local executives headed by Hon. Nancy B Gray, Municipal Mayor of san Jorge, Samar who provided the unwavering support and utmost cooperation in the success of the activity. The Project “KASANGKAYAN” will reflect on the other adjacent municipalities within the Area of Operation to strengthen the ITDS of the communities.

NPA MEMBERS SURRENDERS IN LEYTE

CAMP LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY – The ranks of the CPP/NPA/NDF continue to diminish as another two NPA members voluntary surrendered to elements of 43^rd Infantry Battalion in separate occasions in Leyte province.

On January 4, 2008, Narceso Lor @ Elor surrendered to elements of Bravo Company of 43IB in Brgy Luneta, Lapaz, Leyte with a Caliber .30M1 Garand rifle. Likewise, on January 12, 2008. Antonio Selvio, a CT member also surrendered to same elements of 43IB in Brgy Caabangan, Lapaz of same province with his M16 rifle and ammunitions.

The series of surrender among Communist Terrorists members and supporters shows that they are already fed up and dismayed with the false promises and horrible lifestyle in the underground movement. Moreso, when they learned that their commanders are enjoying a luxurious lifestyle in the city as a proof of the earlier arrest of Iglecerio Peria “KA CHOY” at Sta Maria cockpit Arena in Bulacan spending revolutionary Tax Collection.

This was attributed through the massive information campaign and tactical operations conducted by the operating elements of 43^rd Infantry Battalion in the area.

Major General Armando L Cunanan AFP, Commander, 8^th Infantry Division, Philippine Army commended the operating troops of the 43^rd Infantry Battalion for a job well done.

He also encouraged other members and supporters of the New People’s Army to lay down their arms and return to mainstream society while he extend his gratitude to the people of Leyte for the unwavering support they are extending to our troops operating in the province of Leyte.

FIVE DAYS MEDICAL AND DENTAL CIVIC ACTION PROGRAM LAUNCH

Sogod, Southern Leyte – In an effort to bring free health services to the less fortunate constituents, the 43^rd Infantry (We Search) Battalion, 8^th Infantry Division, PA under the leadership of LTC MARIO G LACUROM INF (GSC) PA, in tandem with the Federation of Omega Beneficiaries Incorporated (FOBI), a non-government organization (NGO) that promotes community-based development services for children, youths and families under the supervision of Mr. Edgar Mero, Board of Trustees President, with the assistance of the World Vision Development Foundation and in coordination with the Rural Health Units facilitated a five days Medical and Dental Civic Action Program (MEDCAP) with one target municipality each day.

Medical and Dental Officers from Camp Lukban Station Hospital (CLSH) stationed at 8^th ID, PA, Camp Lukban, Maulong, Catbalogan City, Samar and personnel from 43IB, 8ID, PA were able to provide free circumcision, medical consultation, dental services, haircut and other services to the community. Likewise, the Federation of Omega Beneficiaries Incorporated (FOBI), with the assistance of the World Vision Development Foundation, shouldered the medicines needed for the said activity, as well as, provided Medical and Dental doctors.

On December 11, 2007 at about 7:30 in the morning, Medical and Dental Team from CLHS under 1LT FREDERICK M CHICOTE PA, Civil-Military Operations Officer of 43IB, together with the medical and dental doctors of the RHU of Maasin City and the Federation of Omega Beneficiaries Incorporated headed by Ms. Sofia B Pono, FOBI Project Coordinator arrived at the Municipality of Macrohon, Southern Leyte, the first venue of the five days MEDCAP.

The group provided medical and dental consultations, circumcision and other health services to the community. The activity ended at about 5:00 in the afternoon benefiting a total of 417 less fortunate constituents.

On the following day, same group of medical and dental personnel with MAJ EMILIANO M TOLING JR, Executive Officer of 43IB arrived at the Municipality of Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte for the continuation of the MEDCAP that benefited 417 beneficiaries. On the succeeding three days, the group proceeded to the Municipality of Bato, Leyte; Brgy Asuncion, Maasin City and Brgy Caridad Sur, Matalom, Leyte to conduct same activity which benefited 399, 421 and 562 patients, respectively.

The week long MEDCAP culminated on December 15, 2007 benefiting a total of 2,117 less fortunate constituents.

43IB, 8ID, PA ESTABLISHES ANOTHER “CRUSADE” GROUP

Sogod, Southern Leyte – October 2, 2007, LTC MARIO G LACUROM INF (GSC) PA, the Battalion Commander of the 43rd Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army spearheaded the establishment of another Krusada Kontra NPA Chapter in the 5th District of Leyte.

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