Brgy. Officials recover two dead bodies in a shallow grave

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – Two (2) dead bodies were found by the brgy. Officials of Concepcion, Arteche, Eastern Samar buried in a shallow grave two days following an encounter that transpired between the terrorists and elements of Army’s 14^th Infantry Battalion in the forested area of Brgy. Dorillo, Jipapad same province.

Report disclosed that around 4:30 P.M. of February 14, while the platoon of Sgt Orosco was having their temporary patrol base in brgy. Concepcion, some brgy. Officials and tanod personally led by their Chairwoman Zedaria Pajares brought out two cadavers.Accordingly, an undisclosed folk discovered the said grave due to its strong foul scent that prompted Pajares to lead his constituents to identify and later on bury the bodies more decently.

Initial report revealed that the duo’s cause of death were gunshots base on the wounds that found all over their body.

One body suffered a wound at his right armpit while the other one is at his neck that believed to be the cause of their instant death. Official autopsy report is still being waited and the bodies’ identity is being uncovered as of press time.

It can be recalled that on the morning of February 12, troops under Staff Sergeant Pejana encountered some 10 terrorist NPAs at Brgy. Dorillo and reported that most of the rebels were wounded including the owners of their recovered M16 and M14 rifles.

This situation is no longer new to the underground movement that once their comrades were wounded in action, they drag it away from the troops and avoid it being caught for they are afraid that information can be elicited from their wounded comrades.

Lt. Col. Jaime Hidalgo, commander of 14IB already sent his troops to facilitate the burial and assist the doctors who examine the remains.

Meanwhile, the Commander of 8^th Infantry Division Maj. Gen. Arthur I Tabaquero expresses his heartfelt appreciation to the Brgy Officials who initiated the simple good deeds of bringing out the truth to the open.

“This simple deed is a clear manifestation of support to our advocacy of pursuing peace to achieve development in the whole region,” Said Tabaquero.

“I urge you to carry on your simple ways of supporting our government to encourage your fellow local officials to replicate same for us to ultimately attain our dreamt peace and development in this part of the country,” He added.

This successful feat against the terrorist NPA is the third time for this year following an encounter in Brgy. Rizal, Eastern Samar in January 13 and in Brgy Santander, Bobon, Northern in January 29 where two (2) M16 rifles, radios, war materiel, personal belongings and voluminous subversive documents with significant values were collectively recovered.

Moreover, Maj. Gen. Tabaquero calls upon the peace-loving Samarnon that should an incident occur that wounded NPAs were left in their possession by the fleeing terrorists, they should inform any nearest PNP or Army detachment to help them attend their medical needs.

“The 8ID will always be here to give these NPAs, wounded or not a chance to live freely and re-experience the fruit of democracy whenever they feel the desire to. We will give necessary medical attention the same treatment we give when we have our wounded soldiers for it is the right of the individual.” The good general concluded.

Three days after, two shallow grave sites were discovered by barangay folks 2kms away from the encounter site. The Brgy Officials of Brgy Conception headed by Byrg Kap Freddie Roncales and elements from 14IB responded on said report, together with Dr. Eduardo de Dios, MHO of Jipapad, ESamar who later conducted autopsy. The cadavers were identified as Elcon Liad (TN: Lilio Liad) @ Binal/Mila/Nilpo/Batoy and one known only as @Naval/Antoy Authorities confirmed that the duo were got killed during the earlier encounter with the elements of 14IB. Elcon Liad was further identified as the CO of Regional Security Force (RSF), EVRPC with code name: BANGKAW. Their remains were provided of decent burial at Public Cemetery of Brgy Conception, Arteche, ESamar.

14IB recovers firearms following a tip from civilian

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – Two (2) high powered firearms were recovered by troopers from Army’s 14^th Infantry Battalion in a forested side of Brgy. Dorillo, Jipapad town of Eastern Samar after a firefight against the members of the terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) 9 A.M this morning.

Report reaching to this headquarters disclosed that while the troops under Sgt. Jessesito Pejano conducts their regular security patrol, a civilian approached and informed them that some 10 armed groups were sighted not far distant from their present location.

The undisclosed civilian also said that these armed groups are the same group who regularly collects foodstuff and extort from them.

Accordingly, after assessing the information, Pejano led his troops towards the given location and there they confirmed the civilians tip.

Firefight between the two groups commenced and lasted for about 20 minutes after the terrorist group fled dragging along their wounded comrades.

The incident resulted to the wounding of two NPA rebels leaving along their respective firearms that were recovered by the troops during their clearing in the encounter site while no reported hurt in the side of the government forces.

An M16 rifle and an M14 rifle bearing the serial number 180888 and 1264373 respectively that was recovered in the encounter are now in the possession of the 14IB and are being turned-over to the higher unit after its inspection.

Lt. Col. Jaime Hidalgo, commander of 14IB said that a pursuit and blocking operations is on progress as of press time in order to track the fleeing terrorist and let them face various criminal charges against the innocent people.

Lt. Col. Hidalgo also calls the barangays immediately surrounding the encounter site to report any wounded person that may be sighted in their area to help them provide medical attention.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Arthur I. Tabaquero lauded the troops for the successful security operations. “While we continue to perform our mandated task of preserving peace and stability in the province, we are calling to our people to intensify their usual support extended to our government in the pursuit of peace stability for the ultimate attainment of development of the whole province.

Surviving descendant graces the 8ID’s wreath laying ceremony in honor of Gen. Vicente Lukban

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – The Army’s 8^th Infantry Division’s wreath laying ceremony in honor of Gen. Vicente Lukban yesterday morning was charmed by the surviving descendant Atty. Hubert Lucban who traveled all the way from Pambujan, Northern Samar just to add meaning with the celebration.

Atty. Lucban a practicing lawyer and the Clerk of Court in Lao-ang Municipal Trial Court traced his origin by citing some of the historical background of his great great grand father Gen. Lukban and gave his stories on why and how the Lucban is spelled either “c” or “k” in it.

He also mentioned in his eloquent speech how his great grand father became well known and greatest as he led the revolutionary in Samar and Leyte against the Americans to include one of the victorious feats of the Filipino-American war, the “Balangiga Massacre”.

Atty. Lucban conveyed his great appreciation to the men and women of the said division for giving due recognition and made the death of Gen. Lukban very significant not just because it carries the name of the late general but because of its contribution to the liberty and freedom of the province.

“I would like also to extend my sincerest gratitude for the heroism being demonstrated by the 8^th Infantry Division in performing their mission because in doing so, it just doing the same thing as the late Gen. Lukban did for this province”, he uttered.

The ceremony was also attended by all officers, enlisted men and women and civilian employees of the Division, members of the Mason Mount Huraw Lodge, Mayor Coefredo Uy of Catbalogan City and Barangay officials where the Division is nesting.

In his message read by Col. Alexander Cabales, the Assistant Division Commander of Administration, Gen. Arthur I. Tabaquero stressed out the heroism of the soldiers before that still being demonstrated by the present breed of soldiers. Gen. Tabaquero attended the internal security operations (ISO) of Bohol province to Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) during the said ceremony.

Gen. Tabaquero also encouraged his men to maintain the high standard of discipline and professionalism as they perform their mission particularly in the performance of their traditional role.

“By doing what we ought to do and by professing the spirit of duty and service, we can follow and revive the heroism that once showed by Gen. Lukban when he saw the first light in Samar and Leyte”, Gen. Tabaquero added.

Meanwhile, the said ceremony was the subsequent activity of the command following the “Unity fun run for honest, orderly and peaceful elections 2010” early morning at 5 which was hosted by the PNP.

Said fun run categorized into 3K, 1K and 500 meter run which was participated by more than 800 individuals that came from 8ID, PNP, clergies, peoples’ organizations, students, media and ROTC cadets were headed by the 8ID’s Assistant Division Commander, SPPO Provincial Director,

Signing of “Unity Manifesto” of the different participating agency culminated the said ceremony ###

8ID runs for unity and “HOPE 2010”

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – Some 500 warmed body of the Army’s 8^th Infantry Division shared their physical agility as they joined the unity fun run hosted by the Samar Provincial Police Office, 5 A.M. yesterday morning.

The fun run bearing the theme, “Takbo ng Pinagsamang Simbahan, Sandatahang Lakas, Pambansang Pulisya ng Pilipinas, Mga Mamamahayag at mga Mag-aaral para sa Malinis, Maayos at Mapayapang Halalan 2010” aimed to advocate a united call for impartial, honest, orderly and peaceful election comes May 2010.

As one of the mandates during election period especially when deputized by the COMELEC, the 8ID ensures that the right of our people to vote is preserved and carried out without any stain from the few who have their evil personal interest.

Together with the media, students, clergies, peoples’ organization, ROTC cadets, civil societies and PNP personnel, the 8ID troopers ran 3K, 1K and 500m respectively depending on their chosen categories that started at the SPPO grounds until 8ID Grandstand after series of rounds in the command’s oval where simple program and ceremonial signing of unity manifesto was conducted.

No less than the Chief PNP P/Dir. Jesus Verzosa commended the participation of the Stormtroopers in the said endeavor.

In the message of 8ID commander, Maj. Gen. Arthur I. Tabaquero which was delivered by his Assistant Division Commander Col. Joel Ibanez, he stressed the roles of different members of societies particularly the common people who are the potent element of attaining peace and honest electoral processes. Gen. Tabaquero attended the internal security operations (ISO) of Bohol province to Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) during the event.

He also ensures the public that the Stormtroopers, will continue to assist the PNP and COMELEC not only in this coming May 2010 elections but also in the future elections to come.

“As we exercise our rights to suffrage, your soldiers in Eastern Visayas will continue to safeguard its portion for the people to at least enjoy all the freedom embodied in our constitution.” He added. ###

Farmer slain by terrorist NPA

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City – an innocent farmer was slain by the members of the notorious New People’s Army (NPA) at Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Matuguinao, Samar 1P.M., yesterday.

Arman Diaz of legal age, married and a resident of the Brgy Madoroto of said town was shot dead by five unidentified members of NPA using assorted high powered fire arms while he was in his farm place. Victim suffered gunshot wounds all over his body that caused his instantaneous death.

Based on the reports of the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion, the victim was mercilessly slain in front of his children and wife. After the killing, the dead body of Diaz was allegedly dragged and emplaced at the center of barangay plaza to exhibit with the populace. The residents disclosed that the victim is known for being hushed and hard-working in upbringing his family and remember nothing to pay with the underground movement.

The people of Matuguinao particularly the victim’s family are calling to the human rights groups especially to the Katungod-Sinirangang Bisayas to give due attention to the barbaric, un-Godly and violent killing perpetrated by the terrorists. They also call on to the Katungod-SB to conduct investigation to give justice to the victim.
“Election Day is fast approaching. This is perhaps one of their means to sow terror to the masses in order to create chaos and destruct the rights of the people to vote and choose a candidate of their choice”. Exposed by Roberto Gacuma a.k.a Ka Huling in his most interviews. Ka Huling is a former top rank NPA official of Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) that was captured by the government forces sometime in 2007.

Meanwhile, PNP Matuguinao is now conducting necessary investigation to give justice to the victim. The 34IB under Lt. Col. Jose B Gongona immediately conducts pursuit and security operations in the area to go after the perpetrators.

Major General Arthur I Tabaquero, Commander 8ID said, “this is a clear manifestation that the terrorist NPA are the number one violator of human rights. This is also the reason why the development in the province is at stake.” ###

One terrorist killed, one soldier wounded in a clash

A terrorist NPA was killed and two others were wounded following an encounter transpired between the members of the Army’s 20^th Infantry Battalion and the terrorist group after responding to the civilian tip that some armed rebels are collecting foodstuff and extorting money to the local folks of barangay Santander, Bobon, Northern Samar yesterday morning.

The encounter transpired at around 10 in the morning when the troops of Lt. Florencio Tayo responded to the tips of the civilians.

Meanwhile, an M16 rifle, two handheld radios at various subversive documents were left and recovered by the pursuing troops in the area of encounter after about 10 minutes of firefight.

Initial information reveals that upon approaching of the troops under Lt. Tayo the said terrorist group immediately fired upon unto them the initiated the firefight between the groups.

One soldier was slightly wounded, Sgt Floro Lozano who was immediately air-evacuated and now in a stable condition at Camp Lukban Station Hospital.

It is also believed that more wounded rebels were dragged by their comrades towards their secured places as evident in their route of withdrawals. This was confirmed by some of the local folks who personally saw some withdrawing rebels.

This incident is another proof that our localities can no longer stand with the terrorist’s different modes of sourcing out support in order to sustain their existence. With this, the 20IB thru their commander, Lt. Col. Jose Narciso continued their pursuit operations in order to track down with the fleeing rebels and let them face charges against the law.

One rebel slain in encounter

CATBALCOGAN CITY- One NPA bandit was killed and two were wounded while a government trooper was slightly injured in an encounter in a remote village in Oras, Eastern Samar Wednesday at around 7:00 O’clock in the morning.

Lt. Colonel Armand Rico, Chief DPAO, 8th Infantry Division, based in Catbalogan City, said that the wounded soldier, identified as Pfc Ramon Estico, is now in stable condition and recuperating.

The said encounter, the first in the area for this year, took place in sitio Tugop, Barangay Rizal, some 26 kms away from the town proper.

Lt. Col. Rico said that one of the 10 rebels belonging to SECOM, North East, Eastern Samar Provincial Party Committee, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee was killed while two others sustained injuries during the 30 minutes firefight that also resulted in the government troops from the 14th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Antonio Dayag recovering one M16 rifle bearing serial number: 135108, one rifle grenade, two back packs, one bandoler, three with full of ammunition, medical kit, one detonating cord with blasting cap, and personal belongings.

“The wounded rebels were dragged by their escaping comrades”, the information officer of the 8th ID said.

“Our soldiers, under Lt. Antonio Dayag, were in the area as part of their community work”, Rico said.

Major General Arthur Tabaquero, commanding general of the division, immediately directed for the troops of the 14th IB, under Lt. Col. Jaime Hidalgo, to hunt down the rebels and intensify security operations in the area.

Alleged failure of military and PNP to protect civilians: an unfair statement

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan, Samar – Failure of military and PNP to protect civilians as quoted from Sen. Chiz Escudero’s statement in his interview over the ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) which was published as “Top Story” in a December 4-10 issue of Bullhorn newspaper is an unfair sweeping statement.

Said statement was aired relative to the issue of Maguindanao massacre wherein the Ampatuans are accused of killing almost 60 people including some of the local media practitioners.

Bullhorn’s title carrier, “Military and PNP failed to protect civilians” in their early December issue is misleading and irresponsible considering that Sen. Escudero was only referring to Maguindanao.

The AFP as always is focused on its mandated task of protecting the lives and even the properties of the people. As professional organization, proofs were already been noted in its various traditional and non-traditional role of performing its mandate.

The incident in Maguindanao could not be blamed against the AFP. Although it was one of the most brutal election-related atrocities ever recorded, it was an isolated instance that should not be compared to other areas where peace is dominated thru the AFP. Moreover, the incident is politically-motivated.

Sen. Escudero is right when he said, “If you are not a soldier or personnel in uniform, you have no business carrying a gun” because no civilian must possess any kind of firearms without proper authority. The AFP is firm to implement such especially to terrorist-infested areas.

In Eastern Visayas and in other areas covered by the 8th Infantry Division, the Internal Security Operations (ISO) is properly carried out. With the intensive collaboration of other stakeholders, numbers of illegally armed groups/rebels are notably decreasing due to the Army’s successful implementation of its campaign against internal threats.

Successive encounters against the rebels and private armed groups that freed our local settlers were successfully carried out by the Army for the past years. This is manifested by the support spearheaded by the local government and other peoples’ organizations who are contented with the service of the 8ID troopers.

This resulted to the downgrade of enemy’s guerilla fronts in Leyte and Samar provinces that declined the enemy’s affectation in the whole region. Two more guerilla fronts are expected to downgrade for this quarter.

The effective implementation of ISO in Central Visayas should be taken into consideration. Cebuanos and Boholanos are now experiencing the result of having insurgent-free provinces where development is really atop.

Luzon should also be considered since the socio-economic zone from Metropolitan Manila is now extended up to the provinces of CALABARZON and in Bulacan due to degradation of terrorist rebels thru the success of the AFP’s campaign. The AFP is generally winning the battle against the rebellious group for the sake of the people.

This sweeping statement depicting the futility of the AFP in its fight against the depressive group for the sake of our people is no longer new. The AFP’s name has always been implicated in controversies in order to defame and destroy its nobility.

Although it cannot be denied that while the AFP is striving to bring forth the desired liberty of our people, there are some who are disinterested to the real aspirations of the AFP for their personal interest. The AFP is firm with their mandate of protecting our people for the benefit of the majority.

Team 8ID celebrates Christmas

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar – The Army’s 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division celebrated the birth of Christ inside camp through simple yet meaningful activities highlighted inside camp last December 1 – 25.

The series of activities were all attended by the officers, enlisted personnel, dependents and civilian employees which were personally graced by their commander, Major General Arthur I. Tabaquero who always act as father of the stormtroopers.

The “Ceremonial Switching” of Christmas lights in the command building last December 1 signaled the start of long Christmas celebration inside camp. The twinkling of lights especially at night coupled with cold breeze of the air adds more excitement to the people that Christmas is really fast approaching.

Some activities include the Catholic’s traditional “Misa de Gallo”, Day Care’s Christmas party, morning serenade, medical and dental assistance, media Christmas fellowhip, decentralized and centralized command Christmas party, gift giving, and of course Noche Buena.

It was highlighted by various children’s magic show, fun games, sports competition, carols, lantern making contest and fellowship sharing of foods.

In the line units, although they are in the frontlines confronting the terrorist who might wreak havoc in different areas especially during this yuletide season, they never forgot to celebrate the date that reminds us how faithful our God is for sending his only begotten son to wash away our sins. Simple soiree with their men and dependents joined with gift-giving were initiated by different commanders.

Christmas of team 8ID may be different to other people because most of its personnel usually celebrate Christmas with out their families. Only few soldiers live with their family inside camp that can enjoy the spirit of Christmas together. Almost all soldiers endure the taught of living away from their family for the sake of people to live in prosperity and peaceful as they celebrate Christmas.

In his message, Major General Tabaquero said to his soldiers to share the brotherhood of men because they belong to one big family in the Army. Helping, caring, and working for each other, were also emphasized by General Tabaquero in order to do the heavy tasks on their shoulders as protectors of our country and our people.

“Christmas should not only be celebrated every end of the year. We must always carry the Spirit of Christmas in our hearts and in our minds because Christmas is a way of life that upholds love, forgiveness, charity and humility in every time of the year and in every opportunity that is given us by the One who gave Christmas in our lives”, he added.

With the culmination of the series of activities, the stromtroopers had their decentralized Christmas party in the mid-day of December 19, clustering different offices and post units within the different areas inside camp. Major General Tabaquero managed to visit each cluster to at least personally greet and convey his personal message to each member of his division including the dependents and civilian employees.

Meanwhile, a centralized get-together Christmas fellowship was also conducted at 8ID covered court in the evening of December 19 as a one big happy family of stormtroopers.

With this celebration, the 8ID family celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ, our savior with its real meaning of love, charity and sharing which they believe (Stormtrooper) that they will receive the goodness of God in the next year to come more than the blessings they received in this present year.

8ID gives blood on Christmas

Every year, different places different races are excited to re-experience the joy that Christmas brings. Although it is considered as the year-ender holiday celebrated every year (of course New Year is the start of the year), Christmas is the most meaningful celebration ever. Not because of the gifts or presents, new toys for the children, bountiful foods on table, Christmas carols playing on air, parties and many more things and activities to enjoy, but because we commemorates the fulfillment of prophecy that a boy will be born by the grace of God who will save us from all of our sins through his own blood.

This Christmas, the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division family included in their list of activities a one of a kind “gift giving”, although, this could not level on to the sacrifices that our Lord Jesus Christ made when he died on the cross. This “gift” could somewhat share a life and extend hope to our brethren who are deeply in the midst of hopelessness. The 8ID gave “blood” on Christmas thru a bloodletting activity as a pre-Christmas activity.

While most of us now are very busy preparing the menus for our parties, scanning the brochures for new clothes, checking accounts for budgets, rushing shopping and preparing our long list for gift-giving, there are people who are undeniably hibernating in some corners of our busy communities who cannot afford to do the same thing what majority is doing.

Most of them are dying and badly needs blood transfusion to at least extend their life shortly if they could not sustain it for long. They are our brothers and sisters who humbly need some share of our blood to keep them see the beauty of life that God has lend us. Many of these people die because of some blood that was deprived of them that was suppose to add some more years in their lives.

With the sterling support of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) Leyte Chapter, the bloodletting activity was made possible. 150 bags of blood each having a capacity of 500cc of blood were collected out of those who volunteered which includes officers and soldiers of the division. Unlike in any other blood letting activities wherein the toughest part is to find those who are willing to donate their blood for free, PNRC proudly said, “Not in 8ID”. 8ID has been very good partner in the bloodletting activity and known to be the biggest source of blood in Region 8.

The moment where the needle is inserted into a vein on their arm is the most nerve-wracking moment of the experience. Not because of fear, but the thought of that, you become a co-creator of our Lord who help extends life. Filling up the bag with almost 500cc with blood that takes about half an hour to almost two hours depending upon the condition of the donor is another story. Some remain conscious and very alert all throughout some doze off half-way. All of them are satisfied that their little sacrifice will save hundreds of lives in the future. Almost all of them would return to donate some more once their bodies have replaced the donated blood because of the call of love to brethren.
Over-all, this simple act of charity and generosity is what makes us truly human and provide as the real meaning of Christmas in our hearts.
Christmas is definitely the most meaningful celebration ever, so why not celebrate it everyday. Let us always commemorate the fulfillment of prophecy when a boy was born by the grace of God that saved us from all of our sins through his own blood… That’s why 8ID gave blood this Christmas…

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.