CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – Two hapless civilians were murdered by NPA terrorist rebels in separate incidents around Bicol today, a military officer said.
LtCol Ernesto Cruz, Commander of the 42nd Infantry Battalion said that Barangay Captain Maritess Toldanes of Pulang Daga village in Balatan, Camarines Sur, was gunned down by three suspected NPA rebels outside her residence at around 1:30pm today (June 27).
Toldanes sustained a gunshot wound to the head and to her chest, causing her instantaneous death. Army investigators found spent shells for Cal .45 pistol near the crime scene.
Cruz said that Toldanes had received numerous death threats because of her refusal to support the NPA rebels who persistently demanded extortion money from her.
“Bgy Captain Toldanes openly cooperated with the military in its peace and development programs, earning the ire of the NPA terrorists. It is aggravated by the fact that she has a son-in-law and also a son who are serving the Philippine Army,” revealed Cruz.
Earlier in the day, another man was also shot and killed by suspected NPA rebels in Poblacion Sur, Barcelona, Sorsogon.
Colonel Leoncio Cirunay, Commander of the 22nd Infantry Battalion, said that Rodrigo Felonia, 35, was gunned down by 2 armed rebels at around 9:30am, while the victim was walking towards his house.
Felonia died instantly after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds in the different parts of his body. Responding policemen found 7 spent shells for Cal .45 pistol and 15 spent shells for 9mm pistol near the scene of the crime.
Cirunay said that Felonia had served in the past as a militiaman (CAFGU) under his battalion’s supervision.
“My intelligence operatives had received information that Felonia had been receiving death threats from NPA rebels who accused him of wrongdoings,” said Cirunay.
Major Harold Cabunoc, Spokesperson of the 9th Infantry Division said that Felonia and Toldanes are the 5th and 6th civilian victims of extra-judicial killings perpetrated by the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorists in CY 2010 alone.
Cabunoc said that the terrorists had also killed 1 soldier and 7 militiamen in the past five months.
In 2009, the NPA terrorists had killed 52 people in the Bicol Region. The list of the victims include 30 innocent civilians who were accused of being military informants and those who refused to pay the extortion demands.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division has condemned the series of murders perpetrated by the communist terrorist rebels. He has also directed the Army’s legal officer to help the victims’ relatives file criminal cases as well as complaints of human rights violations against the members of the CPP-NPA-NDF who are behind the series of killings.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Irate Resident Complains About Forcible NPA ‘Taxation’ in Albay
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – Offended by the forcible collection of NPA ‘revolutionary tax’, a poor farmer dialed the phone number of a military commander to report the presence of a known NPA extortionist in Albay yesterday, a military report said.
LtCol John Oberio, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Battalion, said that the tipster rang his ‘hotline’ at around 9:00 am yesterday, Saturday, and reported the presence of 7 NPA rebels in his neighbor's farm house.
“Sir, if you want to help poor farmers like me, please send soldiers to arrest Ka Tony (a.k.a. Bonoy Orande) and his men who are preparing their meals close to our place,” Oberio quoted the tipster as saying.
Oberio immediately sent a squad of his highly-trained recon team to arrest the rebels who were reported to be in Maonon village, Ligao City.
Through the assistance of the tipster, the troops were able to easily locate the rebels who were temporarily resting in a hut located in Sitio Tambak of the said village.
At around 11:45am, while approaching the location of the bandits, a firefight ensued as the soldiers were being fired upon by the terrorist rebels. The NPA rebels fled the scene after the 10minute firefight, leaving behind some of their belongings.
The soldiers confiscated a Cal .45 M1911A1 Pistol with several rounds of ammunitions, a digital camera, voluminous subversive documents and a medical kit.
Soldiers also found pools of blood in the enemy positions and in their route of withdrawal, indicating that they suffered heavy casualties during the firefight. No one was injured among the soldiers.
Oberio said that he has found the pictures of some notorious bandits posing with their firearms still intact inside the digital camera.
“The rebels are camera-conscious guys too! Fortunately, this will help us identify the extortionists who are still forcibly collecting food or money from the poor residents especially in upland villages,” Oberio said.
Major Harold M Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that more and more civilians are providing information to the military regarding the rebel’s extortion activities.
As a result of this cooperation by civilian residents, 4 encounters were recorded in Albay from February to May, resulting to the recovery of three high-powered firearms and the capture of two NPA rebels including one of its leaders identified as a certain Renante Mortel.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, has personally commended the soldiers for their continuous efforts in defeating the communist insurgency in the Bicol Region.
LtCol John Oberio, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Battalion, said that the tipster rang his ‘hotline’ at around 9:00 am yesterday, Saturday, and reported the presence of 7 NPA rebels in his neighbor's farm house.
“Sir, if you want to help poor farmers like me, please send soldiers to arrest Ka Tony (a.k.a. Bonoy Orande) and his men who are preparing their meals close to our place,” Oberio quoted the tipster as saying.
Oberio immediately sent a squad of his highly-trained recon team to arrest the rebels who were reported to be in Maonon village, Ligao City.
Through the assistance of the tipster, the troops were able to easily locate the rebels who were temporarily resting in a hut located in Sitio Tambak of the said village.
At around 11:45am, while approaching the location of the bandits, a firefight ensued as the soldiers were being fired upon by the terrorist rebels. The NPA rebels fled the scene after the 10minute firefight, leaving behind some of their belongings.
The soldiers confiscated a Cal .45 M1911A1 Pistol with several rounds of ammunitions, a digital camera, voluminous subversive documents and a medical kit.
Soldiers also found pools of blood in the enemy positions and in their route of withdrawal, indicating that they suffered heavy casualties during the firefight. No one was injured among the soldiers.
Oberio said that he has found the pictures of some notorious bandits posing with their firearms still intact inside the digital camera.
“The rebels are camera-conscious guys too! Fortunately, this will help us identify the extortionists who are still forcibly collecting food or money from the poor residents especially in upland villages,” Oberio said.
Major Harold M Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that more and more civilians are providing information to the military regarding the rebel’s extortion activities.
As a result of this cooperation by civilian residents, 4 encounters were recorded in Albay from February to May, resulting to the recovery of three high-powered firearms and the capture of two NPA rebels including one of its leaders identified as a certain Renante Mortel.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, has personally commended the soldiers for their continuous efforts in defeating the communist insurgency in the Bicol Region.
Friday, June 25, 2010
500 Army Soldiers Clean the Binasagan River in CamSur
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – 500 Army soldiers stockpiled their service firearms and flocked to a river in CamSur for de-clogging operations today, a military report said.
Major Harold Cabunoc, Division Spokesperson, said that the Binasagan river had over-flowed during the heavy rains last year, leaving hundreds of soldiers stranded inside the camp.
“If we are stranded due to heavy flooding, we might end up being unable to send our Disaster Response teams to save the victims of natural disasters. Likewise, the protection of this river is the responsibility of the community and the soldiers who are assigned here,” said Cabunoc.
Colonel Arthur Ang, the Chief of Staff of the 9th Infantry Division, led the soldiers during the clean-up drive which kicked-off at 6:00am.
“It is part of our sworn duty to protect the environment. In our Oath of a Filipino soldier, we commit ourselves to be ‘maka-kalikasan’ (pro-environment),” Ang proudly declared in a TV interview.
A week ago, the Disaster Response Operations Platoon has completed its training activities in preparation to the foreseen natural disasters which plague the Bicol Region every year.
Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and gadgetry, the DRO platoon will be deployed to conduct search and rescue operations ‘anytime and anywhere’.
Presently, the DRO platoon is re-echoing their skills and techniques to all disaster response teams assigned to the brigades and battalions.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, has directed the subordinate units to activate their own teams to be deployed for disaster response operations in their respective area of responsibility.
Major Harold Cabunoc, Division Spokesperson, said that the Binasagan river had over-flowed during the heavy rains last year, leaving hundreds of soldiers stranded inside the camp.
“If we are stranded due to heavy flooding, we might end up being unable to send our Disaster Response teams to save the victims of natural disasters. Likewise, the protection of this river is the responsibility of the community and the soldiers who are assigned here,” said Cabunoc.
Colonel Arthur Ang, the Chief of Staff of the 9th Infantry Division, led the soldiers during the clean-up drive which kicked-off at 6:00am.
“It is part of our sworn duty to protect the environment. In our Oath of a Filipino soldier, we commit ourselves to be ‘maka-kalikasan’ (pro-environment),” Ang proudly declared in a TV interview.
A week ago, the Disaster Response Operations Platoon has completed its training activities in preparation to the foreseen natural disasters which plague the Bicol Region every year.
Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and gadgetry, the DRO platoon will be deployed to conduct search and rescue operations ‘anytime and anywhere’.
Presently, the DRO platoon is re-echoing their skills and techniques to all disaster response teams assigned to the brigades and battalions.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, has directed the subordinate units to activate their own teams to be deployed for disaster response operations in their respective area of responsibility.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
NPA Rebels Torched Down a Mining Firm Facility in CamNorte
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – Suspected NPA terrorists torched down a building owned by a mining company in Camarines Norte, at around 12:30am yesterday, a military official said.
Major Harold Cabunoc, Division Spokesperson, said that more or less 5 heavily armed NPA terrorist rebels burned down a building owned by El Dore Mining Corporation in Dumagmang village in Labo town.
Cabunoc said that no one was injured in the burning incident and that there was no estimated cost of damage reported.
“This could be another attack against business firms that refuse to give extortion money to the terrorist rebels. The 902nd Brigade is conducting a thorough investigation regarding this matter,” said Cabunoc.
Barely a month ago, motor graders owned by a construction firm were also burned down by NPA rebels in Camarines Sur followed by a bombing attempt against a Globe cellsite in Masbate Province.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan has direct all line units to remain vigilant and implement countermeasures to preempt the attacks against ‘soft targets’ such as government facilities, civilian-owned business establishments and unarmed soldiers.
Major Harold Cabunoc, Division Spokesperson, said that more or less 5 heavily armed NPA terrorist rebels burned down a building owned by El Dore Mining Corporation in Dumagmang village in Labo town.
Cabunoc said that no one was injured in the burning incident and that there was no estimated cost of damage reported.
“This could be another attack against business firms that refuse to give extortion money to the terrorist rebels. The 902nd Brigade is conducting a thorough investigation regarding this matter,” said Cabunoc.
Barely a month ago, motor graders owned by a construction firm were also burned down by NPA rebels in Camarines Sur followed by a bombing attempt against a Globe cellsite in Masbate Province.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan has direct all line units to remain vigilant and implement countermeasures to preempt the attacks against ‘soft targets’ such as government facilities, civilian-owned business establishments and unarmed soldiers.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Drive-by Shooting by Suspected NPA Rebels Hurt a Militiaman in Masbate
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – An off-duty CAFGU personnel was seriously hurt in a drive-by shooting perpetrated by suspected NPA rebels in Masbate Province last Monday, June 21, 2010.
LtCol Anthony Purugganan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Battalion identified the casualty as Ronaldo Mesa, member of the 1st Masbate CAFGU Active Auxiliary based in Puro village in Aroroy town.
Purugganan said that Mesa was standing in front of his house in Cabangaalan village in the same municipality when he was shot by three suspected NPA rebels, hitting him three times in his body. The perpetrators immediately fled towards the direction of Malubi village after the incident.
“CAA Mesa is on vacation when he was shot by the NPA terrorists. This is a clear indication that they continue to target unarmed soldiers and CAFGU personnel who are spending their vacation with their respectively family,” said Purugganan.
Mesa was immediately brought to a hospital in Masbate City for treatment. He is declared to be ‘in good condition’ by attending physicians.
Major Harold Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that seven CAFGU personnel had been killed by NPA rebels since January 2010.
Two soldiers were also among the victims of extra-judicial killings, the latest of which was Private First Class Francisco Nodado who was gunned down in Camarines Sur on June 11, 2010.
Cabunoc added that civilians were not also spared in the killings perpetrated by the CPP-NPA. On May 24, 2010, Imelda Madrilejos, the sister of Private First Class Gene Velasco was also shot and killed by NPA rebels in Aroroy, Masbate.
“The NPA rebels are becoming very desperate because of the series of tactical losses they suffered from the government forces. They are now intensifying their efforts to kill unarmed military personnel by murdering them while on vacation. We have lodged a complaint before the Commission of Human Rights regarding these violations which they arrogantly owned-up,” said Cabunoc.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division has directed all units under his Command to be vigilant against the NPA’s attacks against unarmed soldiers and other ‘soft targets’ such as telecom facilities.
LtCol Anthony Purugganan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Battalion identified the casualty as Ronaldo Mesa, member of the 1st Masbate CAFGU Active Auxiliary based in Puro village in Aroroy town.
Purugganan said that Mesa was standing in front of his house in Cabangaalan village in the same municipality when he was shot by three suspected NPA rebels, hitting him three times in his body. The perpetrators immediately fled towards the direction of Malubi village after the incident.
“CAA Mesa is on vacation when he was shot by the NPA terrorists. This is a clear indication that they continue to target unarmed soldiers and CAFGU personnel who are spending their vacation with their respectively family,” said Purugganan.
Mesa was immediately brought to a hospital in Masbate City for treatment. He is declared to be ‘in good condition’ by attending physicians.
Major Harold Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that seven CAFGU personnel had been killed by NPA rebels since January 2010.
Two soldiers were also among the victims of extra-judicial killings, the latest of which was Private First Class Francisco Nodado who was gunned down in Camarines Sur on June 11, 2010.
Cabunoc added that civilians were not also spared in the killings perpetrated by the CPP-NPA. On May 24, 2010, Imelda Madrilejos, the sister of Private First Class Gene Velasco was also shot and killed by NPA rebels in Aroroy, Masbate.
“The NPA rebels are becoming very desperate because of the series of tactical losses they suffered from the government forces. They are now intensifying their efforts to kill unarmed military personnel by murdering them while on vacation. We have lodged a complaint before the Commission of Human Rights regarding these violations which they arrogantly owned-up,” said Cabunoc.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division has directed all units under his Command to be vigilant against the NPA’s attacks against unarmed soldiers and other ‘soft targets’ such as telecom facilities.
Monday, June 21, 2010
A Captured NPA Rebel Facilitates The Surrender Of Another Comrade In Catanduanes
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – A captured NPA rebel who was collared by soldiers of the 83rd Infantry Battalion helped persuade another comrade to surrender in an upland village in Catanduanes last Saturday, June 19, 2010.
LtCol Danilo Aquino, Commander of the 83rd Infantry Battalion said that a squad of his soldiers led by SSg Monico Buenavista arrested a certain Roderick Fernandez a.k.a Nognog, a regular member of the CPP-NPA, at around 5:30am in Porot village located in the town of Pandan.
Aquino said that Fernandez was attending the barangay fiesta when he was collared by the government forces. He did not resist arrest and volunteered to cooperate with the soldiers.
LtCol Danilo Aquino, Commander of the 83rd Infantry Battalion said that a squad of his soldiers led by SSg Monico Buenavista arrested a certain Roderick Fernandez a.k.a Nognog, a regular member of the CPP-NPA, at around 5:30am in Porot village located in the town of Pandan.
Aquino said that Fernandez was attending the barangay fiesta when he was collared by the government forces. He did not resist arrest and volunteered to cooperate with the soldiers.
“The former rebels who had previously surrendered to us last year pinpointed the location of Fernandez. He (Fernandez) fully cooperated to us and he assisted us in persuading another comrade in the same barangay to peacefully surrender three hours after his arrest,” said Aquino.
Aquino further identified the new surrenderee as a certain Noel Verano a.k.a. Jovan, who joined the rebel movement in 2006. Through the help of Ka Nognog, Fernandez was convinced to surrender to the government due to his own belief that they are being duped into believing that their lives will become better if they fight the government.
“I am convinced that it is high time to extend our cooperation to the government. My family is not receiving the ‘suporta sa pamilya’ (financial support) promised by our leaders in the CPP-NPA-NDF,” said Verano.
Major Harold Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that since August last year, the 83rd Infantry Battalion has persuaded 30 NPA rebels to surrender to the government.
Thirty seven of the former rebels all over Bicol Region were granted their various benefits in a simple rites attended by PGMA herself held in Camarines Sur in March 2010.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, has earlier directed all units in the Bicol Region to prioritize the implementation of peace and development programs in the ISO campaign.
“I believe that the acme of generalship is winning the war without resorting to violence and by convincing the enemy to peacefully surrender. I will ensure that the surrenderees will receive the financial and livelihood benefits due them through the Social Integration Program of the government,” said Pabustan.
Aquino further identified the new surrenderee as a certain Noel Verano a.k.a. Jovan, who joined the rebel movement in 2006. Through the help of Ka Nognog, Fernandez was convinced to surrender to the government due to his own belief that they are being duped into believing that their lives will become better if they fight the government.
“I am convinced that it is high time to extend our cooperation to the government. My family is not receiving the ‘suporta sa pamilya’ (financial support) promised by our leaders in the CPP-NPA-NDF,” said Verano.
Major Harold Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that since August last year, the 83rd Infantry Battalion has persuaded 30 NPA rebels to surrender to the government.
Thirty seven of the former rebels all over Bicol Region were granted their various benefits in a simple rites attended by PGMA herself held in Camarines Sur in March 2010.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, has earlier directed all units in the Bicol Region to prioritize the implementation of peace and development programs in the ISO campaign.
“I believe that the acme of generalship is winning the war without resorting to violence and by convincing the enemy to peacefully surrender. I will ensure that the surrenderees will receive the financial and livelihood benefits due them through the Social Integration Program of the government,” said Pabustan.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Alert Guards Thwarted Cellsite Burning by NPA Terrorists in Masbate
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – Security guards manning the Globe cellsite prevented the attempted burning of their transmitter facility in Masbate Province two days ago, a military official said.
Colonel Lope Dagoy, Commander of the 85th Infantry Battalion said that more or less 5 suspected NPA terrorist rebels attacked the Globe cellsite in Poblacion, Esperanza town at around 11:30pm on 17 June 2010 (Thursday).
Dagoy said that the rebels lobbed at least 4 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at the power generator but the posted security guards fought-off the attackers by firing their shotguns at the attackers who were positioned outside the fence.
“The rebels ran away when the ‘blue guards’ started firing their weapons to defend the facility. The generator set suffered minor dents and the transmitter is fully operational. These civilian guards must be commended for their heroic actions because this acts of bravery must be the fine example to all other personnel in the security industry,” said Dagoy.
This attack on the Globe cellsite coincided with the harassment of the 85th Infantry Battalion’s company base in Uson town, by more or less 5 rebels at around 10:00pm on that same day.
No one was reported injured in the 5-minute firefight which ensued and pursuit operations are ongoing to hunt the fleeing rebels.
Elsewhere in Camarines Sur, troops of the 2nd Infantry Battalion under LtCol John Oberio chanced upon 3 terrorist rebels while in the act of foraging for food in Agpay village, Guinobatan, Albay at around 08:30am on June 18.
The rebels immediately escaped towards the bushes leaving behind one bandolier with 5steel magazines and at least 100 rounds of live ammunitions.
Major Harold Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson said that the information provided by the civilians to the military were instrumental to the prevention of the atrocities planned by the rebels.
“The rebels are only capable of attacking ‘soft targets’ such as lightly-defended telecommunications facilities and heavy equipment used in the construction of infrastructure projects. Normally, they are attacking the facilities owned by businessmen who refuse to pay the extortion money to the rebels,” said Cabunoc.
Since January 2009, a total of 6 Globe cell sites had been attacked in the Bicol Region. Sorsogon tops the list with two attacked cell sites while the provinces of CamSur, Catanduanes, Albay and Masbate recorded one NPA attack each.
Colonel Lope Dagoy, Commander of the 85th Infantry Battalion said that more or less 5 suspected NPA terrorist rebels attacked the Globe cellsite in Poblacion, Esperanza town at around 11:30pm on 17 June 2010 (Thursday).
Dagoy said that the rebels lobbed at least 4 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at the power generator but the posted security guards fought-off the attackers by firing their shotguns at the attackers who were positioned outside the fence.
“The rebels ran away when the ‘blue guards’ started firing their weapons to defend the facility. The generator set suffered minor dents and the transmitter is fully operational. These civilian guards must be commended for their heroic actions because this acts of bravery must be the fine example to all other personnel in the security industry,” said Dagoy.
This attack on the Globe cellsite coincided with the harassment of the 85th Infantry Battalion’s company base in Uson town, by more or less 5 rebels at around 10:00pm on that same day.
No one was reported injured in the 5-minute firefight which ensued and pursuit operations are ongoing to hunt the fleeing rebels.
Elsewhere in Camarines Sur, troops of the 2nd Infantry Battalion under LtCol John Oberio chanced upon 3 terrorist rebels while in the act of foraging for food in Agpay village, Guinobatan, Albay at around 08:30am on June 18.
The rebels immediately escaped towards the bushes leaving behind one bandolier with 5steel magazines and at least 100 rounds of live ammunitions.
Major Harold Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson said that the information provided by the civilians to the military were instrumental to the prevention of the atrocities planned by the rebels.
“The rebels are only capable of attacking ‘soft targets’ such as lightly-defended telecommunications facilities and heavy equipment used in the construction of infrastructure projects. Normally, they are attacking the facilities owned by businessmen who refuse to pay the extortion money to the rebels,” said Cabunoc.
Since January 2009, a total of 6 Globe cell sites had been attacked in the Bicol Region. Sorsogon tops the list with two attacked cell sites while the provinces of CamSur, Catanduanes, Albay and Masbate recorded one NPA attack each.
Philippine Army Engineers Complete P175 Million-Worth Infrastructure Projects in CamSur
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – The Philippine Army Engineers have completed P175 million worth infrastructure projects which were part of the Kalayaan sa Barangay Program (KBP) projects, a military officer said.
Major Harold M Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that 138 completed infrastructure projects were turned-over to the local government officials of Camarines Sur during a simple turn-over rites held in the provincial capitol yesterday (18 June).
“Our 51st Engineering Brigade has completed various projects including 28 school buildings, 31 water systems, 20 health centers and 41 farm-to-market roads, which were implemented in 8 different municipalities in Camsur province” said Cabunoc.
Barangay Chair Jinet Delgado of Palsong Village in Bula town came to witness the turn-over ceremony. She was very happy that the soldiers came to help construct additional classrooms in her village.
“I could not contain my happiness for the help extended to us by the Philippine Army. In the past, some of our school children were having classes under the shades of the trees, due to over-population in our public schools,” said Delgado.
In her speech, Mayor Jeanette Bernaldez, the mayor of Bato town, shared her experience about the lack of roads in her hometown.
“When I visited the constituents of my barangays, it was very difficult for me to travel due to the problem of inaccessibility of the remote villages; but now, we are blessed to have these new roads constructed by the Army Engineers,” she said.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, said that the implementation of the Army’s peace and development programs is his top priority.
“We cannot defeat the communist insurgency with the use of guns alone. To address the various root causes of the problem, we are helping communities to have access to the basic social services that they need and the KBP projects are among the assistance that we can extend to our people in remote areas,” Pabustan said.
The Kalayaan sa Barangay Program (KBP) projects are part of PGMA’s flagship programs. It is aimed to achieve sustainable peace and development in conflict-affected communities through the accelerated, barangay-focused rehabilitation and development.
Unlike any other development projects of the government, the KBP projects are implemented by the Army Engineers under the over-all supervision of the National Development Support Command (NADESCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Major Harold M Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that 138 completed infrastructure projects were turned-over to the local government officials of Camarines Sur during a simple turn-over rites held in the provincial capitol yesterday (18 June).
“Our 51st Engineering Brigade has completed various projects including 28 school buildings, 31 water systems, 20 health centers and 41 farm-to-market roads, which were implemented in 8 different municipalities in Camsur province” said Cabunoc.
Barangay Chair Jinet Delgado of Palsong Village in Bula town came to witness the turn-over ceremony. She was very happy that the soldiers came to help construct additional classrooms in her village.
“I could not contain my happiness for the help extended to us by the Philippine Army. In the past, some of our school children were having classes under the shades of the trees, due to over-population in our public schools,” said Delgado.
In her speech, Mayor Jeanette Bernaldez, the mayor of Bato town, shared her experience about the lack of roads in her hometown.
“When I visited the constituents of my barangays, it was very difficult for me to travel due to the problem of inaccessibility of the remote villages; but now, we are blessed to have these new roads constructed by the Army Engineers,” she said.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, said that the implementation of the Army’s peace and development programs is his top priority.
“We cannot defeat the communist insurgency with the use of guns alone. To address the various root causes of the problem, we are helping communities to have access to the basic social services that they need and the KBP projects are among the assistance that we can extend to our people in remote areas,” Pabustan said.
The Kalayaan sa Barangay Program (KBP) projects are part of PGMA’s flagship programs. It is aimed to achieve sustainable peace and development in conflict-affected communities through the accelerated, barangay-focused rehabilitation and development.
Unlike any other development projects of the government, the KBP projects are implemented by the Army Engineers under the over-all supervision of the National Development Support Command (NADESCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Suspected Arms Supplier of the NPA Rebels Arrested by Government Forces in Cam Sur
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – Government troops swooped down on a safehouse and arrested a suspected NPA arms supplier in Camarines Sur yesterday, a military officer said.
Major Harold M Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that combined elements of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion led by First Lieutenant Rolando Granados and Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO) under Police Senior Inspector Henry Canuel, collared a certain Efren Flores, 55 years old, a resident of Felix Plazo, Brgy Igualdad, Naga City, while illegally selling firearms to an intelligence operative posing as a buyer in Barangay La Purisima, Quipayo, Calabanga, Camarines Sur at around 2:15pm yesterday.
Seized from the suspect include one Cal .357 Smith&Wesson revolver, one Cal .380 Lorcin pistol and several rounds of live ammunitions.
LtCol Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion, said that they had been monitoring the activities of the suspect for the past 3 months after receiving a tip-off from one of the former rebels about the source of their weapons.
“As planned, we are supposed to buy some high-powered firearms such as M14 assault rifles from the suspect, but he was not able to bring them as he promised. We had already conducted a ‘test-buy’ of some weapons prior to this operation,” Sobejana said.
The suspect was immediately turned over to CamSur PPO as appropriate criminal cases are readied against him.
The Army forces in Bicol is trying to control the flow of weapons and ammunitions to the rebel group after the series of successful encounters and NPA surrender which yielded a cache of weapons starting in January 2009 until today.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, lauded the efficient coordination between the PNP and the Philippine Army, resulting to the success of the operation.
Major Harold M Cabunoc, 9ID Spokesperson, said that combined elements of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion led by First Lieutenant Rolando Granados and Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO) under Police Senior Inspector Henry Canuel, collared a certain Efren Flores, 55 years old, a resident of Felix Plazo, Brgy Igualdad, Naga City, while illegally selling firearms to an intelligence operative posing as a buyer in Barangay La Purisima, Quipayo, Calabanga, Camarines Sur at around 2:15pm yesterday.
Seized from the suspect include one Cal .357 Smith&Wesson revolver, one Cal .380 Lorcin pistol and several rounds of live ammunitions.
LtCol Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion, said that they had been monitoring the activities of the suspect for the past 3 months after receiving a tip-off from one of the former rebels about the source of their weapons.
“As planned, we are supposed to buy some high-powered firearms such as M14 assault rifles from the suspect, but he was not able to bring them as he promised. We had already conducted a ‘test-buy’ of some weapons prior to this operation,” Sobejana said.
The suspect was immediately turned over to CamSur PPO as appropriate criminal cases are readied against him.
The Army forces in Bicol is trying to control the flow of weapons and ammunitions to the rebel group after the series of successful encounters and NPA surrender which yielded a cache of weapons starting in January 2009 until today.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, lauded the efficient coordination between the PNP and the Philippine Army, resulting to the success of the operation.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Army Soldiers Planted Mangrove Trees In CamSur
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, CamSur – The Philippine Army in the Bicol Region came in droves to a coastal village in Calabanga town yesterday (June 5) to plant mangrove trees together with various stakeholders, a military official said.
Major Harold Cabunoc, 9th ID Spokesperson said that a platoon of soldiers joined the mangrove tree planting activity together with participants from different organizations, including local residents of Cagsao village.
“We prefer to plant trees that will benefit the people than bombs that will maim and cause the loss of life and property,” Cabunoc said.
Started in August 2009, the reforestation project in Cagsao is one of the most successful endeavor due to the 90% survivability rate of the planted trees.
At least a hundred strong participants braved the scorching heat of the sun as they planted more than 2,000 seedlings adjacent to the first reforestation site.
The residents of the fishing village of Cagsao had previously complained about the dwindling fish catch due to over-fishing.
Mang Renato, a local fisherman, said that he relies on fishing to sustain his growing family. He believed that the planting of mangrove trees will ‘attract the fishes and crabs’.
“I have personally seen the presence of more crabs and other sea creatures a few months ago when the trees we planted last year started to grow,” he said.
The village was handpicked as the recipient of the project due to the strong support provided by its local government officials and residents.
Town Mayor Evelyn Yu, together with the barangay (village) officials of Cagsao, came with their family members to show their willingness to support the project.
“We are very thankful to all of our partners for continuously supporting this project. I would also like to credit the residents of this coastal village (Cagsao) for their active participation to protect this future mangrove forest that will contribute towards environmental protection in general,” said Yu.
LtCol Erwin De Asis, Civil-Military Operations officer of the 9th Infantry Division and one of the participants, said that he had participated in similar reforestation projects in the past, particularly in Panay Island.
“It is heart-warming to see that the local people are actively participating in this undertaking. It is the Army’s job to assist the people in the various peace and development programs that will benefit them. This is one way to end the communist insurgency problem in our country,” De Asis, a veteran of Mindanao’s conflict, narrated.
Mangrove tree planting is supported by many cause-oriented groups because it is believed that mangrove trees can protect coastal areas from erosion, storm surge during typhoons which victimize the Bicol region almost every year.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Thousands of Army Soldiers “Attacked” the Schools in Bicol Region for the Brigada Eskwela
SOLDIERS FOR EDUCATION. Army soldiers flocked to the public elementary schools around the Bicol Region to support the Brigada Eskwela 2010. This time, soldiers stockpiled their weapons and carried carpentry tools and cleaning materials instead.
SOLDIERS AND CARPENTERS. Soldiers who participated the Brigada Eskwela were armed with hammers and nails as they repaired decrepit school buildings like the one shown in the photo.CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, CamSur – Thousands of Army soldiers literally swarmed the public elementary schools around the Bicol Region to participate in the DEPED’s Brigada Eskwela 2010, a military report said.
To maximize the efforts of the soldiers, Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division directed the 5,000-men strong Army Division to participate in the maintenance and repair of school buildings.
“I specifically ordered every Brigade Commander to support the Brigada Eskwela activities in their respective area of assignments so that all provinces will be covered. We have the manpower to support this government-initiated program for our children’s education,” said Pabustan.
Launched on May 24, 2010, thousands of soldiers and CAFGU personnel of the 9th Infantry Division flocked to the various schools armed not with rifles and machineguns, but with brooms, paint brushes and carpentry tools.
Colonel Leoncio Cirunay, the Commander of the 22nd Infantry Battalion which administers the CAFGU units in Bicol Region, has supported the Brigada Eskwela for the past two years. He tapped the services of the 3,864 CAFGU personnel who are deployed in various areas around the region.
“Our participation in the Brigada Eskwela shows our willingness to support the peace and development programs of the government that benefit the people. Our soldiers are not only trained in warfighting, they are also taught on their roles in peace building,” said Cirunay.
Mrs Agustina Regalario, School Principal of the Pili West Central School, the first beneficiary during the program’s launching last Monday (May 24), said that she has relied on the Army’s help for the repair of the facilities.
“I am very thankful to the Army for its continuous support in this endeavor. We are indeed short of funds to maintain this school which caters over 1,000 pupils,” Regalario revealed.
Tinangis Elementary School, located near the foot of Mt Isarog in Pili town, was among the last schools refurbished by the soldiers during the closing of the Brigada Eskwela activities yesterday, May 28.
Over 200 participants supported the clean-up drive and repair of facilities, with the active participation of partners from Smart Communications and Pili Jaycees.
With the able support of all Army units, the Brigada Eskwela was a huge success.
To sum it all, the Army has supported the maintenance of 125 schools which benefited 40,357 elementary school pupils all over the Bicol Region.
AFP Chief General Delfin Bangit Visits Army Forces in the Bicol Region
(Photos by Maj Harold M Cabunoc (INF) PA)CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – The Chief of Staff, AFP General Delfin Bangit visits the Army forces in the Bicol Region today as part of his military camp tour all around the country.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the Army's 9th Infantry Division, warmly received Bangit inside the resort-like military camp in Pili town at around 8:00am.
The AFP chief said that he is visiting the soldiers in Bicol to express his sincerest thanks for their dedicated service and said that “I want to revisit the places credited for my growth”.
“Kinakailangang bago ako umalis sa aking panunungkulan sa aking serbisyo, dapat ay magbibigay muna ako ng personal na pasasalamat sa inyong lahat,” shared Bangit to a large crowd of soldiers who welcomed him.
Reminiscing his younger days as a combat officer, Bangit shared his memorable experiences as a Captain who saw action against the communist insurgents in Nabua, Camarines Sur in the late 80’s.
“As a young Company Commander, I already realized that the communist insurgency cannot be solved by armed combat alone. What came to my mind was that probably, the best antidote to the insurgency problem is addressing the issues,these (issues) can be addressed through good governance,” said Bangit.
It can be recalled that numerous Kalayaan sa Baranggay Program (KBP) projects were implemented in the Bicol Region during Bangit’s term as SOLCOM Chief and later, as Army Chief.
These ‘peace and development’ projects include the construction of additional school classrooms, water systems, farm-to-market roads and electrification system.
In December 2009, completed infrastructure projects were turned over to the local government officials in Lupi, Camarines Sur and in Guinobatan, Albay.
The visit was capped by the ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the facilities which were supported by Bangit during his incumbency as the Army Chief.
Escorted by General Pabustan, General Bangit was toured around the camp to inspect the completed projects such as the female barracks and the power generator house.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Unarmed Soldier Murdered in Cam Sur
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – An unarmed soldier was ambushed by four suspected NPA-SPARU members in Camarines Sur at 10:30am yesterday , a military officer said.
First Lieutenant Allan Divina, Company Commander of the slain soldier, said that Private First Class Francisco Nodado was on his way home for a 3-day leave when he was shot and killed by NPA rebels in Calauat village of Pamplona town.
Nodado was traversing a rough road on board a motorcycle when he was chanced upon by his assailants who suddenly appeared from behind the houses with their firearms pointed at him.
“He was shot repeatedly when he attempted to flee. He bore seven gunshot wounds all over his body that caused his instantaneous death,” said Divina.
The slain soldier was immediately brought by responding soldiers and policemen to Pamplona town for autopsy.
In 2009, the NPA terrorist rebels had killed 52 people in the Bicol Region. The list of the victims include 30 innocent civilians who were accused of being military informants and those who refused to pay the extortion demands.
In 2010, the CPP-NPA-NDF has continued its series of murders victimizing unarmed military personnel, resulting to the killing of 1 soldier, 7 CAFGU personnel and 4 civilians.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division has directed the 42nd Infantry Battalion to pursue the NPA attackers in coordination with the police.
“We condemn these serious violations to human rights committed by the CPP-NPA. We call on the people to denounce these rebels who have engaged in banditry all over the Bicol Region,” said Pabustan.
First Lieutenant Allan Divina, Company Commander of the slain soldier, said that Private First Class Francisco Nodado was on his way home for a 3-day leave when he was shot and killed by NPA rebels in Calauat village of Pamplona town.
Nodado was traversing a rough road on board a motorcycle when he was chanced upon by his assailants who suddenly appeared from behind the houses with their firearms pointed at him.
“He was shot repeatedly when he attempted to flee. He bore seven gunshot wounds all over his body that caused his instantaneous death,” said Divina.
The slain soldier was immediately brought by responding soldiers and policemen to Pamplona town for autopsy.
In 2009, the NPA terrorist rebels had killed 52 people in the Bicol Region. The list of the victims include 30 innocent civilians who were accused of being military informants and those who refused to pay the extortion demands.
In 2010, the CPP-NPA-NDF has continued its series of murders victimizing unarmed military personnel, resulting to the killing of 1 soldier, 7 CAFGU personnel and 4 civilians.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division has directed the 42nd Infantry Battalion to pursue the NPA attackers in coordination with the police.
“We condemn these serious violations to human rights committed by the CPP-NPA. We call on the people to denounce these rebels who have engaged in banditry all over the Bicol Region,” said Pabustan.
Friday, June 11, 2010
NPA Bomber Arrested in Cam Sur
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – A suspected NPA terrorist bomber was arrested by troops of the 902nd Brigade who are securing an infrastructure project in Camarines Sur, a military officer said.
First Lieutenant Michael Morales, leader of the arresting team, said that he was conducting security patrols in Bgy Kinahulugan village in Lagonoy town, when a local village official tipped-off the presence of the said terrorist bomber at around 5pm on June 9 (Wednesday).
“I was told by a barangay official that one of the perpetrators of the roadside bombing that killed 2LT Logronio and three others in Presentacion town was mingling with the crowd in the village. I immediately rushed to the scene together with the tipster and arrested the suspect, identified as a certain Noel Alarcon,” said Morales.
Cornered by the Army investigators, the suspect brought the soldiers to the site of two improvised landmines which were strategically positioned near the road in the village.
Morales said that Alarcon and his comrades were supposed to ambush their troops who were transporting some of their supplies three days ago. “We were lucky that we avoided passing through established pathways,” added Morales.
Alarcon admitted to have laid the bombs to ambush the soldiers who will pass by along that road. He refused to admit his participation in the deadly ambush in Presentacion town.
Col Cirilo Teodoro Torralba, Commander of the 902nd Brigade, said that he has coordinated with the military’s legal officer to press charges against the suspect who was brought to Lagonoy municipal police station yesterday.
“We will pursue a criminal case against the suspect to seek justice for the death and injuries of my soldiers. Another case of human rights violations will be lodged before the CHR as regards to the CPP-NPA’s continuous use of the banned weapons (landmines),” said Torralba.
First Lieutenant Michael Morales, leader of the arresting team, said that he was conducting security patrols in Bgy Kinahulugan village in Lagonoy town, when a local village official tipped-off the presence of the said terrorist bomber at around 5pm on June 9 (Wednesday).
“I was told by a barangay official that one of the perpetrators of the roadside bombing that killed 2LT Logronio and three others in Presentacion town was mingling with the crowd in the village. I immediately rushed to the scene together with the tipster and arrested the suspect, identified as a certain Noel Alarcon,” said Morales.
Cornered by the Army investigators, the suspect brought the soldiers to the site of two improvised landmines which were strategically positioned near the road in the village.
Morales said that Alarcon and his comrades were supposed to ambush their troops who were transporting some of their supplies three days ago. “We were lucky that we avoided passing through established pathways,” added Morales.
Alarcon admitted to have laid the bombs to ambush the soldiers who will pass by along that road. He refused to admit his participation in the deadly ambush in Presentacion town.
Col Cirilo Teodoro Torralba, Commander of the 902nd Brigade, said that he has coordinated with the military’s legal officer to press charges against the suspect who was brought to Lagonoy municipal police station yesterday.
“We will pursue a criminal case against the suspect to seek justice for the death and injuries of my soldiers. Another case of human rights violations will be lodged before the CHR as regards to the CPP-NPA’s continuous use of the banned weapons (landmines),” said Torralba.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
NPA Bandits Rob a Politician’s House in Masbate
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur – Suspected NPA bandits forcibly entered a politician’s house in an early morning robbery in San Pedro village, San Pascual, Masbate at around 6:00am yesterday, a military officer said.
LtCol Anthony Purugganan, Battalion Commander of the 9th Infantry Battalion, said that more or less 10 NPA rebels belonging to the Jose Rapsing Command, barged in the house of Rolly Gemina, a village councilman, and poked a gun at him.
The rebels searched the rooms and took away some personal belongings including Gemina’s two M16 A1 Rifles, three pistols and several rounds of ammunitions.
It could not be independently confirmed if the stolen firearms were all licensed to Gemina. He could not be reached for comment regarding the documentation of his firearms.
“This is the second incident of robbery perpetrated by the NPA bandits in Masbate. In mid-January of this year, NPA bandits also robbed the house of a village councilman Monching Radan in Claveria town, carting away two M16 Rifles,” said Purugganan.
The 9th Infantry Battalion, in coordination with the San Pascual PNP, is now conducting thorough investigation to shed light on the said incident.
The Special Task Force Masbate, supported by the 9th Infantry Battalion and the 85th Infantry Battalion, has remained in existence to continue its task of dismantling the various partisan armed groups in the province.
The aforesaid Army battalions are also currently tasked to carry out military operations against the NPA terrorists who perpetrated the series of bombings in the province.
LtCol Anthony Purugganan, Battalion Commander of the 9th Infantry Battalion, said that more or less 10 NPA rebels belonging to the Jose Rapsing Command, barged in the house of Rolly Gemina, a village councilman, and poked a gun at him.
The rebels searched the rooms and took away some personal belongings including Gemina’s two M16 A1 Rifles, three pistols and several rounds of ammunitions.
It could not be independently confirmed if the stolen firearms were all licensed to Gemina. He could not be reached for comment regarding the documentation of his firearms.
“This is the second incident of robbery perpetrated by the NPA bandits in Masbate. In mid-January of this year, NPA bandits also robbed the house of a village councilman Monching Radan in Claveria town, carting away two M16 Rifles,” said Purugganan.
The 9th Infantry Battalion, in coordination with the San Pascual PNP, is now conducting thorough investigation to shed light on the said incident.
The Special Task Force Masbate, supported by the 9th Infantry Battalion and the 85th Infantry Battalion, has remained in existence to continue its task of dismantling the various partisan armed groups in the province.
The aforesaid Army battalions are also currently tasked to carry out military operations against the NPA terrorists who perpetrated the series of bombings in the province.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Government Troops Clash with NPA Extortionists in CamSur
The photo shows some of the belongings of 2LT MIGUEL LOGRONIO JR who died in an ambush in San Francisco, Presentacion, Camarines Sur, which were confiscated from the NPA rebels in the Garchitorena encounter. (Photo by 2LT Alden Brinas)CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, CamSur – Government troops encountered suspected NPA rebels in a remote village in Camarines Sur at 4:30pm yesterday, a military officer said.
2nd Lieutenant Alden Brinas, the leading officer of the engaged troops, said that he received a text message form local residents in Bahi village in Garchitorena town about the presence of about 6 NPA rebels who were asking for food provisions from the villagers.
The 35-man platoon was approaching the village center when they were fired upon by the rebels who positioned themselves behind the cluster of houses.
A 40-minute firefight ensued after which the rebels withdrew towards the forested area, carrying with them some of their casualties.
“I have personally seen one terrorist rebel being carried by his comrade. There were blood traces found along their route of withdrawal. If not due to the presence of civilians, we could have annihilated those bandits,” said Brinas.
The soldiers confiscated a Cal 5.56mm M16A1 Rifle and several rounds of ammunition from the encounter site.
Brinas also reported that he had identified some of the military uniforms and accessories owned by his slain mistah, 2nd Lieutenant Miguel Logronio Jr, who died in an NPA ambush in Presentacion town on May 29.
“I feel elated upon seeing the personal belongings of my mistah (PMA classmate) who is a dear friend to me. I know he is happy that I am taking part in this campaign to militarily defeat the NPA terrorists,” added Brinas in a phone interview.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, has continuously called on the NPA rebels to lay down their firearms and return to the folds of the law.
“We can’t solve the insurgency problem with the use of violence. I welcome every NPA rebels to avail the Social Integration Program of the government and live a normal life,” Pabustan said.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Army in Bicol Prepares for Natural Disasters, Activates a Special Unit for Disaster Response Operations
DRO specialists demonstrating some of their life-saving skillsCAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, CamSur – The Army in the Bicol Region has activated a special unit that would be tasked to conduct disaster response operations (DRO) in the event of natural calamities, a military official said.
Major Harold Cabunoc, 9th ID Spokesperson said that a 35-man strong DRO unit has been activated on May 20, 2010.
Cabunoc said that the newly activated unit has started its various skills development training such as Rope Technician’s Course, Mountain Operations Search and Rescue (MOSAR), Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) and Spineboard training.
The soldiers who compose the Army’s primary rescue unit are very happy to perform their non-traditional roles in the service of the Bicolanos.
First Lieutenant Ronnie Sicad, the Platoon Leader, said that his unit is still undergoing a series of sustainment training activities to further develop their confidence and abilities.
“We are conducting daily practices on combat life saving and rope courses which are among the most important skills that we need to help the victims of heavy flooding and the rampaging typhoons,” Sicad said, during the strenuous rappelling activity today.
Aside from the skills training, the new DRO unit are equipped with rubber boats, sophisticated ropes, flares and floating devices.
The 4x4 medium built KM 450 trucks are also among the fleet of vehicles that are issued to this unit.
The highly-trained soldiers of this unit are also responsible for the training of the selected soldiers who are assigned in the different provinces in the region. Mobile training teams will be sent to re-echo the skills and knowledge needed by the Army rescue operators.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, has prioritized the activation of a rescue unit after experiencing the various natural calamities in 2009.
“Last year, we had shown the bravery of our soldiers who crossed raging floodwaters to save some hapless victims, despite of the lack of rescue equipment. This time, I have ensured that they are issued the necessary equipment and the proper training as well,” said Pabustan.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
NPA Rebels Step Up Attacks in CamSur
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, CamSur – Two small-scale attacks were launched by the NPA terrorist rebels after the series of skirmishes that killed 5 Army soldiers four days ago, a military report said.
On May 30, the night before the visit of PGMA in Camarines Sur, more or less 5 rebels harassed the San Pedro Detachment of the 22nd Infantry Battalion in Iriga City. No one was reported injured after the 10-minute firefight.
At 10:00pm last night (May 31), more or less 10 rebels fired upon the CAFGU personnel manning another CAFGU detachment in Cambalidio village in Libmanan town, triggering a 10-minute exchange of gunfire.
Snipers who were manning the watch towers in the detachment claimed to have hit some of the rebels.
“Through his sniper scope, my sniper saw the flash of the enemy’s rifle behind the coconut tree. My sniper was able to hit him (NPA rebel) but he was dragged away by his comrades,” said Col Leoncio Cirunay, Commander of the CAFGU Battalion in the Bicol Region.
Troops of Cambalidio detachment who conducted clearing operations early this morning found blood traces along the enemy positions and some spent shells used by the attackers.
The series of attacks came after the deployment of at least 300 soldiers in Presentacion town two days ago.
Government forces have launched a massive combat operations to hunt down terrorist rebels who ambushed a squad of soldiers tasked to secure a road project which links Presentacion to Caramoan town.
LtCol Ernesto Cruz, Commander of the 42nd Infantry Battalion said that he has alerted his troops about the possible ‘hit-and-run’ attacks by the terrorist rebels.
“We are aware about this diversionary tactics of the communist terrorist rebels. These diversionary attacks are intended to ease the pressure on their comrades in Presentacion town who are now being relentlessly hunted by the feared Scout Rangers,” said Cruz.
On May 30, the night before the visit of PGMA in Camarines Sur, more or less 5 rebels harassed the San Pedro Detachment of the 22nd Infantry Battalion in Iriga City. No one was reported injured after the 10-minute firefight.
At 10:00pm last night (May 31), more or less 10 rebels fired upon the CAFGU personnel manning another CAFGU detachment in Cambalidio village in Libmanan town, triggering a 10-minute exchange of gunfire.
Snipers who were manning the watch towers in the detachment claimed to have hit some of the rebels.
“Through his sniper scope, my sniper saw the flash of the enemy’s rifle behind the coconut tree. My sniper was able to hit him (NPA rebel) but he was dragged away by his comrades,” said Col Leoncio Cirunay, Commander of the CAFGU Battalion in the Bicol Region.
Troops of Cambalidio detachment who conducted clearing operations early this morning found blood traces along the enemy positions and some spent shells used by the attackers.
The series of attacks came after the deployment of at least 300 soldiers in Presentacion town two days ago.
Government forces have launched a massive combat operations to hunt down terrorist rebels who ambushed a squad of soldiers tasked to secure a road project which links Presentacion to Caramoan town.
LtCol Ernesto Cruz, Commander of the 42nd Infantry Battalion said that he has alerted his troops about the possible ‘hit-and-run’ attacks by the terrorist rebels.
“We are aware about this diversionary tactics of the communist terrorist rebels. These diversionary attacks are intended to ease the pressure on their comrades in Presentacion town who are now being relentlessly hunted by the feared Scout Rangers,” said Cruz.
PGMA Awards P1.45M Cash Assistance to Army Heroes in CamSur
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, CamSur – Family members of the soldiers who were killed or wounded in an NPA ambush in Camarines Sur received cash assistance amounting to P1.450M from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during her visit in 9ID headquarters at 1:30pm today.
Five soldiers were killed while four were wounded in a series of skirmishes with the NPA terrorist rebels in Presentacion town last Saturday, May 29.
The soldiers were deployed in the area to secure PGMA’s flagship project in the Region. The road project links Presentacion to the tourist-magnet town of Caramoan.
Several family members came to witness the awarding ceremony held in the 9ID chapel and inside the camp’s hospital.
Mr Edwin Britanico Sr, father of slain soldier Pfc Edwin Britannico Jr, has mixed emotions about the P250,000.00 cash assistance that he received from the President.
He is one of the 5 direct dependents of the fallen soldiers who benefited from the government’s cash assistance.
“I am very thankful that our beloved President has not forgotten the plight of her soldiers’ family members. I may be in deep sorrow but her presence has made me smile for this moment,” said Edwin Sr.
Four other soldiers who were wounded in action (WIA), received P50,000.00 each from the President.
One of them, Private First Class Jerry Magdasoc, was very happy for the fund support that he personally received from PGMA.
“I can use this amount to start a sari-sari store that will be attended by my wife. I proudly salute the President for this financial help,” Magdasoc said.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, the 9ID Commander assisted the President during the awarding ceremonies.
The soldiers also received the award of Military Merit Medals for heroism in combat as well as the award of the Wounded Personnel Medal.
The soldiers were cited for their heroic actions during the one-hour firefight after being ambushed by a superior enemy force in an upland village of Presentacion town two days ago.
Though outnumbered and being bombarded with landmines and Molotov bombs, the soldiers held their positions to engage the NPA terrorists until they run out of ammunition after the intense hour-long firefight.
Presently, about 300 soldiers have joined the massive manhunt operations supported by helicopter gunships and artillery units to locate the perpetrators of the bloody ambush.
Meanwhile, security patrols for the construction company that implements the road project have been resumed immediately.
“We will continuously support this important infrastructure project of the government. This will surely alleviate the hardships of the people in this part of CamSur,” said LtCol Ernesto Cruz, Commander of the 42nd Infantry Battalion.
Five soldiers were killed while four were wounded in a series of skirmishes with the NPA terrorist rebels in Presentacion town last Saturday, May 29.
The soldiers were deployed in the area to secure PGMA’s flagship project in the Region. The road project links Presentacion to the tourist-magnet town of Caramoan.
Several family members came to witness the awarding ceremony held in the 9ID chapel and inside the camp’s hospital.
Mr Edwin Britanico Sr, father of slain soldier Pfc Edwin Britannico Jr, has mixed emotions about the P250,000.00 cash assistance that he received from the President.
He is one of the 5 direct dependents of the fallen soldiers who benefited from the government’s cash assistance.
“I am very thankful that our beloved President has not forgotten the plight of her soldiers’ family members. I may be in deep sorrow but her presence has made me smile for this moment,” said Edwin Sr.
Four other soldiers who were wounded in action (WIA), received P50,000.00 each from the President.
One of them, Private First Class Jerry Magdasoc, was very happy for the fund support that he personally received from PGMA.
“I can use this amount to start a sari-sari store that will be attended by my wife. I proudly salute the President for this financial help,” Magdasoc said.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, the 9ID Commander assisted the President during the awarding ceremonies.
The soldiers also received the award of Military Merit Medals for heroism in combat as well as the award of the Wounded Personnel Medal.
The soldiers were cited for their heroic actions during the one-hour firefight after being ambushed by a superior enemy force in an upland village of Presentacion town two days ago.
Though outnumbered and being bombarded with landmines and Molotov bombs, the soldiers held their positions to engage the NPA terrorists until they run out of ammunition after the intense hour-long firefight.
Presently, about 300 soldiers have joined the massive manhunt operations supported by helicopter gunships and artillery units to locate the perpetrators of the bloody ambush.
Meanwhile, security patrols for the construction company that implements the road project have been resumed immediately.
“We will continuously support this important infrastructure project of the government. This will surely alleviate the hardships of the people in this part of CamSur,” said LtCol Ernesto Cruz, Commander of the 42nd Infantry Battalion.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)