Insurgency: Couples Celebrate Unity

The AFP has held mass surrender ceremonies where former rebels pledge loyalty to the government. They are usually the same affair with the burning of the rebel flag and releasing of white doves. However, this time the AFP held a different type of ceremony with former rebels, a mass wedding. 

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/from-conflict-to-commitment-72-couples-celebrate-unity-in-bukidnon/

A POWERFUL symbol of peace and reconciliation unfolded in Barangay Digongan as 72 tribal couples, many former members of the New People’s Army (NPA), exchanged vows in a moving mass wedding ceremony on Feb. 28, 2025.

The “Kasalan ng Bayan,” officiated by Datu Cosme Lambayon, the Municipal Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Kitaotao, Bukidnon, marked a significant step in the couples’ journey toward reintegration into mainstream society. 

Each couple received a gift of rice, symbolizing sustenance and prosperity, as they embarked on their new lives together.

The event resonated deeply as it represented not just the union of individuals, but a collective commitment to peace after years of conflict. 

The couple’s decision to lay down arms and embrace a peaceful future was celebrated by community leaders and government officials alike.

“This mass wedding is not just about the union of two individuals but also a symbol of hope, transformation, and a commitment to a brighter future for these couples and their families,” said Lieutenant Colonel Antonio G. Bulao, commander of the 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion.

Municipal Kitaotao Vice Mayor Mary Ann G. Angit also attended the ceremony, underscoring the local government’s support for initiatives promoting peace, unity, and community development.

The event highlighted the ongoing collaboration between local government, security forces, and indigenous communities to foster stability and sustainable development in the region. 

The mass wedding served as a testament to the power of reconciliation and the promise of a peaceful future for the people of Kitaotao.

Did some of these couples meet during battle? A mass wedding is definitely a sign these people have given up the struggle. After all marriage is for the bourgeois. 

Another arm cache has been found in Camarines Sur. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2040348/govt-forces-discover-arms-cache-in-camarines-sur

Authorities on Tuesday recovered a cache of explosives and firearms in Lagonoy town in Camarines Sur.

Provincial police said government forces recovered an improvised explosive device made of plastic pipe and 52 pieces of steel M16 magazine in Barangay Agosais at 9:59 a.m.

Police officers and Army troops discovered the area while conducting an intelligence operation.

The recovered items were placed under police custody for proper disposition.

No word if these are NPA weapons but that seems most likely. 

A clash in Agusan del Sur resulted in the death of one NPA fighter. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/6/1-npa-killed-in-agusan-del-sur-clash

A New People’s Army rebel was killed in a 30-minute encounter with soldiers in Barangay Magsaysay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on Tuesday, March 4. 

The casualty was identified as Dar, a member of the Subregional Sentro de Gravidad Southland of the Communist Party of the Philippines-Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee. 

Capt. Arc F. Jayson, 401st Infantry (Unite N’ Fight) Brigade civil-military operations officer, said an M16 Armalite rifle, one AR18 rifle, backpacks, a bandolier, and subversive documents were recovered in the encounter site. 

Dar’s remains were turned over to the local government of Prosperidad for proper disposition.  

Jayson said they are pursuing the fleeing rebels. 

“As of this time, our ground troops are still pursuing the remaining running NPAs following their blood stains along their escape route of withdrawal,” he said. 

“The operation was initiated in response to reports from concerned residents about CTG activities in the area, including extortion and other disruptive actions affecting local communities,” Jayson added. 

Troops conducted loudspeaker operations, dialogues, and distributed informational materials in nearby barangays to reassure residents of their safety and security following the encounter. 

Col. Emil Cruz, commanding officer of the 401st Brigade, commended operating troops for their efforts and reaffirmed their commitment to peace and security in the region. 

No casualty was reported on the government side.

The AFP says this encounter was in response to concern about the NPA engaging in disruptive actions. The same disruptive actions of which the AFP has claimed the NPA is no longer capable. They have also claimed the NPA is leaderless but leaders continue to fall. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1245702

Two regional leaders of the New People's Army (NPA) were killed in a clash with troops of the Philippine Army's 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) in the hinterlands of Cadiz City, Negros Occidental on Saturday.

In a report Sunday afternoon, the 79IB identified the fatalities as Hans “Jojo” Ponteras, in his 40s, acting regional front secretary and finance officer of the Regional Taxation Implementing Group of Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor; and Marissa Pobresa, 23, a former squad member who later became Ponteras’ primary staff and the unit’s regional communications officer.

In a press statement, Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan, commander of the 79IB, described their deaths as a major setback for the communist group in Negros and the entire Visayas region.

"The neutralization of their sitting regional front secretary, at the same time regional finance officer, and their communications officer signals their near decimation," he added.

The clash, which took place in Hacienda Paraiso, Barangay Caduha-an at around 1:50 a.m., involved about seven NPA rebels.

Ponteras and Pobresa’s bodies were abandoned by their comrades.

Troops recovered firearms, grenades and subversive documents, including extortion letters allegedly signed by Ponteras under the alias "Armando Magbanua."

The military reported no casualties on their side.

Of course the deaths of these two men "signals their near decimation."

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity says they are helping to facilitate the amnesty applications of 20 former members of the breakaway Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa-Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1245360

Twenty former rebels and members of the breakaway Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa-Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPM-RPA-ABB) in Negros Oriental are applying for government amnesty, a military official said Tuesday.

Capt. Arvin Talco of the Philippine Army's 302nd Infantry Brigade Civil Military Operations told the Philippine News Agency that the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) is spearheading the amnesty application.

“The amnesty applicants are members of the Kapatiran Para sa Progresong Panlipunan-Negros Oriental chapter who have gone through an evaluation process for the amnesty application,” Talco said.

Kapatiran is the RPM-RPA-ABB’s new name under the Tabara-Paduano Group that entered into a peace agreement with the Philippine government.

The RPA-ABB is a breakaway of the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

GPH-Kapatiran chair Cesar Yano, National Amnesty Chair Leah Tanodra-Armamento and GPH-Kapatiran co-chair Ma. Veronica Tabara are attending the activity at the brigade headquarters at Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City on Wednesday.

That's great but 20 is only a small number of those who have applied for amnesty. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/8/2-424-ex-rebels-apply-for-amnesty-commission

A total of 2,424 amnesty applications from former rebels have already been received and processed by the National Amnesty Commission (NAC), a year after the government started accepting requests for the abolition of their criminal liabilities for past political offenses.

As of March 7, the NAC has accepted 1,546 applications from former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF); 518 from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF); 297 from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF); and 63 from the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB).

The highest intake in a single day was recorded by the NAC when it received 127 applications from the MILF and MNLF during the Inter-Cabinet Cluster Mechanism on Normalization, organized by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), last Feb. 26.

In a statement Saturday, March 8, the NAC said the development was a “testament of the strong response the government’s amnesty program received from individuals seeking to benefit from it.”

But how many more forms rebels have yet to submit their applications for amnesty?

The COMELEC has ruled against red-tagging yet according to Bayan Muna they are still being red-tagged.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/5/bayan-muna-condemns-ntf-elcac-s-red-tagging-of-makabayan-party-lists

Former Bayan Muna Party-list Rep. Neri Colmenares has condemned the nationwide red-tagging activities of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) against progressive party-lists in the upcoming elections, calling it “black propaganda".

​Colmenares' remark came amid reports from various regions ​that there was coordinated distribution of materials ​that were red-tagging Bayan Muna and other Makabayan bloc candidates. 

He called this a clear violation of ​Commission on Elections' (Comelec) rules against black propaganda.

"This systematic red-tagging campaign using government resources is not only a blatant violation of election laws but also puts the lives of our candidates and supporters in danger," ​he said.

​Colmenares says the task force is ​"desperately trying to prevent progressive voices from gaining seats in Congress because they know these representatives will hold them accountable for their abuses".

Bayan Muna documented evidence of the coordinated operations​ and questioned the use of public funds for these illegal activities.

​He said such red-tagging activities were done in Kalinga, Nueva Ecija, Mandaue City and Cebu City in Cebu, Malolos City and Calumpit in Bulacan, San Fernando  and Angeles in Pampanga, Lucena City, Iloilo City, Antipolo City, Quezon City and other parts of Metro Manila, Laguna, Tacloban City, Cotabato City, General Santos, and Cagayan de Oro.

"Why are they so afraid of Bayan Muna winning? Why resort to black propaganda when Comelec has explicitly prohibited this?​" Colmenares asked.

"They are spending people's money on these desperate tactics. Are these public funds? Are they using intelligence funds​?" he added.

Colmenares​ then called for a thorough investigation and documentation of all such incidents across the country.

"We have seen enough pictures to know it is a nationally coordinated operation," he added.

"We should expose NTF-ELCAC and its illegal activities. These incidents are not isolated but coordinated," he said.

Well, if the COMELEC will not do anything about premature campaigning  (according to the SC there is no such thing because candidates are not actually candidates until the campaign period starts) then it is likely they won't do a thing about red-tagging. 

Insurgency: Terror Financing

Recently the Philippines has exited the money laundering grey list.  The DOJ says that is because the nation has made significant strides against terror financing as well as money laundering.  

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1244750

The Department of Justice (DOJ), through its Financial Investigation and Litigation Enhancement and Prosecution Support Center (FILEPSC), has made significant strides in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of money laundering (ML) and terrorism financing (TF) cases.

In a news release on Monday, the DOJ reported that from 2020 to 2024, a total of 5,557 TF identifications have been recorded, while TF investigations has reached 1,816.

During the same period, the DOJ has received 1,031 TF information for further action, and made 71 arrests in connection with TF activities.

“The significant increase in identifications and investigations has resulted in a sharp rise in filed cases, ensuring justice is served,” it said.

The DOJ said 237 TF prosecutions have been initiated, resulting in the conviction of six accused for 114 TF counts, reinforcing the government’s commitment to holding criminals accountable.

Meanwhile, a total of 794 individuals have been accused of money laundering from 2021 to 2024.

The FILEPSC filed 264 ML cases, with 185 prosecutions in 2024 alone.

Additionally, a total of 13,799 money laundering investigations were conducted from 2021 to 2024 --with 5,821 investigations in 2024 alone.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the latest statistics reflect the DOJ’s commitment to combating financial crimes and ensuring accountability.

“The DOJ remains steadfast in its mission to combating financial crimes and ensuring that those responsible for ML and TF are brought to justice. These milestones serve as a powerful reminder that justice can be attained through perseverance, commitment and unity,” Remulla said.

“This accolade fuels our relentless pursuit for justice and vow that we will never hold back from our duties until we completely eradicate these two evils of society: money laundering and terrorism financing."

These strides have been possible because of the Anti-Terrorism Law as well as the Financial Action Task Force. The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers says these gains have been made at the cost of human rights.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/02/23/2423607/philippines-money-laundering-grey-list-exit-rooted-political-repression-lawyers

The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) has expressed concerns over the Philippines’ removal from the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) grey list, calling it a “pyrrhic victory” linked to political repression.

In a statement on Saturday, February 23, the NUPL criticized the FATF for congratulating the Philippines without acknowledging the “rampant misuse of counterterrorism financing laws to silence dissent and criminalize civil society.”

“The surge in fabricated terrorism financing cases, arbitrary asset freezes, and instances of financial exclusion are not 'unintended consequences' of compliance; they are deliberate tactics used to satisfy the FATF’s mandates at the cost of human rights,” the NUPL’s statement read. 

The lawyer’s group also accused the government of prioritizing the approval of foreign states and financial institutions over the welfare of its own people by aggressively pursuing FATF compliance. 

They cited the use of counterterrorism financing (CFT) regulations to target grassroots movements while failing to address large-scale corruption, illicit financial flows and money laundering through Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

“The state’s eagerness to prosecute trumped-up charges of financing terrorism while ignoring financial crimes committed by politically connected elites exposes the hypocrisy of this so-called victory,” the NUPL said. 

The group also criticized FATF’s final remark urging the Philippines to ensure that CFT measures do not "discourage or disrupt legitimate NPO activity," calling it "hollow."

They argued that FATF’s own complicity in enabling such policies has contributed to the restriction of freedom of association, particularly the right to access financial resources.

“The very fact that FATF commends the Philippines on meeting its targets without addressing the abuse of these measures is not just disappointing— it is damning evidence that its processes lack genuine accountability and transparency,” the NUPL said.

“As long as the FATF refuses to engage with civil society, it will continue to serve as a convenient shield for governments to legitimize repression under the pretense of financial integrity,” it added.

Prior to the release of the report removing the Philippines from the grey list, the NUPL sent a report to FTAF raising concerns about the government’s CFT regulations that “are undermining civic space and fundamental freedoms.”

Of course the NUPL has been red-tagged so no one is going to listen to them.

Speaking of red tagging, former rebels are against the COMELEC's decision to not red tag without evidence.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/937717/ex-rebels-to-comelec-reconsider-anti-discrimination-resolution/story/

A group of alleged former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDF) on Friday urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to reconsider its resolution declaring labeling groups and individuals as terrorists, dissenters, and criminals without evidence as an election offense for Eleksyon 2025.

In a five-page letter dated February 27, the Advocates for Clean Elections (ACE) questioned Comelec Resoution No. 1116, which sets the anti-discrimination and fair campaigning guidelines for the upcoming midterm polls, saying it may affect freedom of expression by “restricting discussions about individuals and organizations with ties to groups that have historically waged war against the government.”

“The resolution disproportionately protects individuals and groups who claim to be ‘victims’ of labeling, without considering that many of us - former rebels, Lumad victims, and others who suffered under the communist insurgency —are also being unfairly labeled as paid hacks, state agents, and red-taggers when we speak out,” the letter read. 

“Why is it acceptable for them to accuse us, but not for us to present facts about their connections? Instead of promoting fair and open discourse, the subject resolution silences one side of the conversation while giving the other a free pass,” they added. 

There was no mention of “red-tagging” under Comelec Resolution No. 1116 but the poll body defined labeling as "the act of categorizing, classifying, labeling, branding, associating, naming, and accusing individuals, groups and/or organizations as 'vocal dissenters' and activists or subversive group sympathizers or terrorists, or belonging to a criminal group/syndicate without evidence.”

Advocates for Clean Elections, or ACE, is a new group formed in January. 

http://samarchronicle.com/election-2025/advocates-for-clean-elections-ace-launches-campaign-for-honest-and-peaceful-2025-elections/

A new coalition of civil society groups advocating for clean, transparent, and violence-free elections was formally launched on Tuesday, January 21, at Hotel De Fidez in Tacloban City.

The non-profit alliance, named Advocates for Clean Elections (ACE), is spearheaded by church workers and faith-based leaders, with a mission to ensure the integrity of the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.

During the press conference that followed the launch, ACE outlined its plans to serve as a key hub for voter education, electoral monitoring, and advocacy for ethical and peaceful electoral processes.

Rev. Nathaniel Anas, chairman of ACE, explained that the organization is composed of individuals from diverse sectors of society, including church workers, peace advocates, former rebels, youth leaders, industrial workers, urban poor representatives, LGBTQIA+ advocates, women, and farmers.

“This inclusive composition reflects ACE’s commitment to fostering a truly representative movement, one that upholds the values of democracy, justice, and fairness for all Filipinos,” Rev. Anas said.

ACE’s initiatives will include a variety of programs such as voter education workshops, community outreach campaigns, and electoral monitoring efforts. The group also aims to tackle the spread of fake news and political disinformation, advocate for policies that support fair elections, and address the growing threat of insurgency and private armed groups (PAGs) during election periods.

Who is this group? Who is funding them? Why are the advocating against red-tagging? Perhaps they really are "paid hacks, state agents, and red-taggers."

Another NPA leader has been neutralized.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/former-npa-leader-arrested-in-paquibato-firearms-and-explosives-seized/

A FORMER member of the communist terrorist group (CTG) and a regional-level most wanted person was arrested in Paquibato District, Davao City, on Feb. 23, 2025, during a joint police operation.

The Davao City Police Office identified him as alias Larry who was apprehended by the Paquibato Police Station 7, 13th Special Action Company, the 1st Civil Military Force Company, and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 1105th.

The joint operatives served the search warrant and four counts of arrest warrants against the suspect at approximately 6:45 a.m.

Initially, authorities searched Larry’s residence in Purok Upper Bintuin, Barangay Fatima, but he was not there. 

During the search, conducted in the presence of his brother and sister-in-law, police recovered a defaced homemade shotgun, a camouflage chest bag containing an Armscor .38 caliber revolver, and two MK2 grenades.

Larry was later apprehended at his third residence in the same area, near the boundary of Barangay Fatima Proper.

He was arrested based on the following warrants: arson (Criminal Case No. R-DVO-19-02668-CR), murder (Criminal Case No. 66,822.10), grave threats (Criminal Case No. R-DVO-19-02603-CR), and homicide (Criminal Case No. R-DVO-22-00646-CR).

During the arrest, police also recovered a .45 caliber Federal 1911 A1 pistol with a loaded magazine from Larry’s possession.

Larry was a former member of Pulang Bagani Command 1 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee. The seized firearms and explosives have been turned over to the authorities for further investigation.

Well, former leader. And he was arrested. 

The National Amnesty Commission has announced a "record breaking" number of applicants.  

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/26/nac-logs-record-breaking-amnesty-intake

The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) announced Wednesday, Feb. 26, that it has received and processed 127 amnesty applications from former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), the highest intake recorded to date.

The NAC said that 104 applications came from members of the MILF while 23 were from the MNLF.

“This intake bumped the total number of received applications to 517 and 297 for the MILF and MNLF, respectively,” the NAC said.

President Marcos Jr. issued Proclamation Nos. 403, 404, 405, and 404 on Nov. 22, 2023 which granted amnesty to former rebels and insurgents who have committed crimes punishable under the Revised Penal Code and Special Penal laws in furtherance of their political beliefs.

The deadline for the submission of amnesty applications is in March 2026.

These numbers are all MILF and MNLF members. No NPA rebels are included. 

Insurgency: Balut Production

The AFP has had some vicotries of late against the reminaing NPA rebels. However, that does not mean they will be resting on their laurels during election season. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1244304

Despite the successive successful operations of the military that brought severe losses to the New People’s Army (NPA) in the recent weeks, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it will not let its guard down to ensure that the communist insurgents will be unable to interfere in the 2025 midterm elections.  

“While the NPA’s numbers and influence have significantly dwindled, the AFP remains vigilant in ensuring that their remnants do not disrupt the peace, especially in the lead-up to the May 12 elections,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla told the Philippine News Agency in an interview. 

Among those recently neutralized was Myrna Sularte alias “Maria Malaya”, the secretary of the NPA’s North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

Sularte was killed in a clash with troopers of the 901st Infantry Brigade at Barangay Pianing, Butuan City on Feb. 12.  

Also neutralized by soldiers from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion on the same date were two ranking NPA commanders in Sitio Katipunan, Barangay San Lorenzo, Prosperidad, Agusan Del Sur. 

They were identified as Larry Garcia alias “Joven”, commanding officer of the Regional Centro De Grabidad, NEMRC and his vice commander, who was only identified as “Gaga” and “Garing”.  

“Through intensified focused military operations, community engagements, and close coordination with other law enforcement agencies, we are committed to securing a peaceful and orderly electoral process,” Padilla said. 

She said the deaths of Sularte and other NPA leaders highlight the continuous setbacks suffered by the communist insurgents due to sustained military operations and the growing rejection of their violent ideology by local communities. 

“We urge the remaining members of the CTG (communist terrorist group) to lay down their arms, avail themselves of the government’s reintegration programs, and choose the path of peace. The AFP will continue working tirelessly to dismantle any remaining threats while upholding the rights and safety of the Filipino people,” Padilla added.

Did anyone expect them to not remain vigilant? They have been vigilant for the past 50 years. 

But what does one do when the NPA is running for office? 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2035524/party-list-rep-tagged-as-npa-recruiter-in-ntf-elcac-video

Human rights group Karapatan has criticized the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) for releasing a video that “Red-tagged” Kabataan party list Rep. Raoul Manuel.

“This vilification campaign is obviously aimed at misleading and terrorizing the electorate against voting for Kabataan party list,” Karapatan secretary general Cristina Palabay said in a statement on Monday.

“Unfortunately, the Commission on Elections (Comelec), which promised to issue guidelines on Red-tagging, has not kept up with the spate of Red-tagging videos, tarpaulins and the like that have already been sprouting in many places,” she added.

The group was referring to a video posted on the Facebook page of the NTF-Elcac on Feb. 6, which tagged Manuel as a recruiter for the New People’s Army (NPA). It urged him to “stop pretending” and admit his links to the Communist Party of the Philippines.

The task force claimed that Manuel supported the withdrawal of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations from the NTF-Elcac because “once again, he thinks they are free to recruit [students] in schools.”

“The truth is, it is not the NTF-Elcac who is a threat to academic freedom, but you, Raoul Manuel. You are a recruiter of the NPA, and you can no longer lie [about this],” it said.

In response to the video, Karapatan urged the Comelec to issue guidelines against Red-tagging and act on the “many incidents” that had already been reported. It said that the task force uses Red-tagging to “sabotage the right of the electorate to hear from progressive and pro-people candidates and exercise discernment.”

What exactly is the NTF-ELCAC's proof that this guy is recruiter? Don't forget the AFP has repeatedly said the NPA is unable to do any recruiting. Maybe the NTF-ELCAC could send someone undercover to get the proof they need. 

As proof the AFP is not backing down this election season the Eastern Visayas has been reinforced with 52 new soldiers. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2036576/52-troops-join-army-in-eastern-visayas

Fifty-two newly trained soldiers, including one female, joined the Army in Eastern Visayas, which continues to grapple with insurgency problems.

The new soldiers completed a rigorous 45-day Infantry Orientation Training (INFOT) at Camp Eugenio Daza, Barangay Fatima, Hinabangan town, Samar.

The training, which began on Jan. 6 and ended on Feb. 19, prepared them for deployment to various battalions under the 8th Infantry Division (8th ID) to enhance operational readiness.

INFOT was designed to equip newly enlisted soldiers with the skills, knowledge, and discipline required to become effective members of an Infantry Squad and Fire Team.

The progressive course prepares them for various Army operations, including combat and peacekeeping missions.

In his message, Colonel Luzelito Betinol, assistant chief of staff for education and training, underscored the significance of the training, emphasizing that the new privates were not only prepared for combat but also for a mission vital to ensuring lasting peace and sustainable development in the region.

“We are in a crucial phase of our campaign to end the insurgency. Every action you take will help secure a better future for the people here, a future they truly deserve. The work ahead will not be easy, but the impact you make will resonate for generations,” said Betinol who represented 8th ID Commander Major General Adonis Ariel Orio.

He also challenged the new soldiers to uphold the values instilled in them during their training.

“You are fulfilling a responsibility much greater than yourselves, and we expect nothing less than your best. The people depend on you, and we, your fellow Stormtroopers, will stand with you in accomplishing this mission,” Betinol added.

The newly graduated privates will be deployed to the 13 battalions under the 8th ID, reinforcing its efforts to maintain security and stability in Eastern Visayas.

The Philippine Army in the region has vowed to eradicate insurgency in Eastern Visayas, particularly on Samar Island, before the end of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term.

The AFP is very confident they will eradicate the insurgency before Marcos leaves office. Of course the AFP has been very confident they would eradicate the insurgency before the end of every president's term for the past 50 years. 

Another arms cache has been discovered. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1244187

Army soldiers uncovered a weapons cache here believed to belong to the remnants of the dismantled Komiteng Larangang Gerilya Sierra Madre.

Acting on a tip from a former rebel, the 91st Infantry Battalion of the 7th Infantry Division launched a scouring operation in the mountainous village of Barangay Sawmill over the weekend, leading to the recovery of firearms and explosives.

Among the seized items were an M16 rifle, a .38 caliber pistol, a high-explosive hand grenade, spent bullet casings, live ammunition and magazines.

In a statement Sunday, the Army hailed the operation as a significant blow to the remaining elements of Komiteng Rehiyon Gitnang Luzon, reinforcing its commitment to dismantling insurgent groups and ensuring regional stability.

As this developed, the military reiterated its call for insurgents to surrender and avail of the government's offer of financial aid, livelihood support and reintegration assistance.

Without former rebels it seems the AFP might be operating in the dark. Thankfully more rebels are surrendering.  

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/17/9-npa-rebels-surrender-in-northern-samar

Nine members of the New People's Army surrendered to the 19th Infantry Battalion based in Catubig, Northern Samar recently.

These communist rebels from the Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU), Sub-Regional Committee Emporium said they decided to surrender due to severe hunger and loss of community support. 

They turned over an R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two improvised M14 rifles, a carbine rifle, an anti-personnel mine, and two bandoliers.

Lt. Col. Marvin Maraggun, commander of the 19th IB, said their surrender highlights the dedication of security forces and local government units in ensuring peace and prosperity in Northern Samar. “We welcome them with open arms and stand ready to support their reintegration into society,” Maraggun said.

Major Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, said that the government is ready to help NPA rebels who want to live a peaceful life. 

He added that their goal is to reintegrate them into the community and show what the government has to offer — a better life and a peaceful environment. 

Orio commended the 19th IB for its dedicated efforts and successfully facilitating the reintegration of the rebels. 

The 19th IB is coordinating with local government units to provide immediate cash assistance and other benefits to surrenderers. 

They are also undergoing processing under the Local Social Integration Program (LSIP) and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). 

Debriefing, healing, and reconciliation sessions are being conducted to ensure their smooth reintegration into society.

In Silay City 3 rebels surrendered.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/17/3-npa-rebels-surrender-in-silay-city

Three New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the police in Barangay E. Lopez, Silay City, Negros Occidental.

They turned over a .38 caliber revolver, a .22 caliber revolver, two improvised 12-gauge shotgun with three shells, and two 40mm explosives.

The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office said they were convinced to surrender through the Project Pag-Ulikid: Compassion with Action and Armas Baylo Bugas initiative of the 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company (Nocpmfc).

They each received cash assistance, grocery items, and sack of rice and were released to their families following proper documentation.

Meanwhile, the provincial government recently turned over P2.3 million in financial and livelihood assistance to peace volunteers and former rebel associations in Negros Occidental.

Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson distributed  P342,000 in financial aid to 17 Sambayanan Negros volunteers from various towns and cities through the Provincial Planning and Development Office.

Ten National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict associations in the province also received livelihood projects worth P2 million through the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO).

Among these projects is the Itik Pinas Raising for Balut and Salted Egg project that aims to address the gap in the supply of "balut" (fertilized duck eggs) in the province and support the province's food sufficiency initiatives.

Recipients include 1,000 breeder ducks, 10 incubators with a 250-egg capacity, and 127 bags of duck feed (50-kilos per bag).

Lacson said that the demand for balut in the province is one million per month, but with the bird flu scare, which disallowed the importation from Luzon, supply went down to 200,000 to 300,000 a month.

“We are hoping that by initially supplying incubators, we can fill in the gap of 700,000 to 750,000 balut per month,” he added.

Not only did three rebels surrender but money has been put aside by the government of Negros Occidental to train former rebels to to make balut!

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1244136

The Negros Occidental provincial government on Friday awarded PHP2 million worth of support package for balut (fertilized duck egg) production to former rebel group chapters and farmers associations across the province.

Ten beneficiaries were identified under the Itik-Pinas Raising for Balut and Salted Egg Project implemented by the Provincial Veterinary Office for the Animal and Poultry Dispersal for Priority Areas with funding from the 2024 Peace and Order Fund.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, who led the project turnover at the capitol grounds here, said the province needs to fill the gap in its balut supply of about 700,000 pieces a month.

“Before the bird flu scare, we imported from other provinces. Right now, we do not allow it, that’s why we lack balut supply,” he added.

Negros Occidental’s balut requirement is almost one million pieces a month, but the province produces only about 250,000 pieces.

The project recipients include the Kapatiran San Carlos City Chapter, Kapatiran Para Sa Progresong Panlipunan Cadiz City Chapter, Kapatiran Locotan Chapter in Kabankalan City, and Kapatiran Talacdan Chapter in Cauayan town.

Kapatiran is the new name of the Rebolusyonaryong Partido Ng Manggagawa-Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade Tabara-Paduano Group in line with its institutional transformation after entering into a peace agreement with the national government.

Other recipients were the Madaha Handweavers Association and Cunalom, Maliko-liko, Lunou Farmers Association in Himamaylan City; Camingawan Diversified Workers Association in Kabankalan City; Mambaroto Organic Farmers Association in Sipalay City; Inayawan Itik Farm Association in Cauayan; and Canlubang Farmers Cluster Association in Ilog.

The Itik-Pinas Project comprises 1,000 heads of duckling, 10 incubator units with 250-egg capacity and 127 bags of duck feeds.

Each beneficiary has an allocation of 100 heads of breeder duck, one unit of incubator and 12 bags of duck feeds.

Meanwhile, Lacson, in the presence of Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Ted Dumosmog, turned over PHP342,000 in financial assistance to peace and development community volunteers from the Sentrong Alyansa ng Mamamayan Para sa Bayan (Sambayanan) Negros

Sambayanan is an organization composed of former rebels which advocates peace and development programs.

Under the province’s “Balik Salig Program,” the 21 volunteers pursue various undertakings in their communities with the assistance of the Philippine Army and the Provincial Planning and Development Office.

That's a lot of balut!!!

Insurgency: "Love Will Lead You Back"

It's February and that means Valentine's Day. Of course the AFP is using the occasion to tug at the heart strings of the remaining NPA rebels to surrender.  

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1243839

The Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade is upbeat that more active fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) will surrender this month through their “Love Will Lead You Back” campaign.

The program, according to 802nd Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, will encourage NPA members from platoons in Leyte and Samar provinces to reunite with their families and loved ones in this month of love.

“This initiative, set against the backdrop of Valentine’s Day, aims to remind insurgents that love, and peace are waiting for them at home. Through this campaign featuring former rebels, their families, community leaders, and anyone they love, the brigade hopes to touch the hearts of those still hiding in the mountains, encouraging them to lay down their arms and embrace a future filled with hope and reconciliation,” Vestuir said in a phone interview Tuesday.

The campaign targets the surrender of 16 NPA combatants hiding in the boundaries of Samar and Eastern Samar provinces and 21 armed rebels running in Leyte mountains.

The creative approach combines technology and emotion, leveraging the universal theme of love to reach out to insurgents in a way that traditional methods cannot, Vestuir said.

He said the messages that will be shared across various social media platforms and community gatherings will serve as a bridge between estranged families and their loved ones in hiding.

Videos showing the families of the insurgents urging them to surrender will be shown at community gatherings.

“By highlighting real stories of former rebels who have successfully reintegrated into society, the ‘Love Will Lead You Back’ program seeks to dispel fears of surrender and showcase the government's commitment to peace and rehabilitation. This month of love, we send a powerful message: abandon the fight, for love will lead you back home, to family, to peace, to the heart's true victory,” he added.

The program is named after a 1989 song popularized by American singer Taylor Dayne about a woman who is willing to set her lover free because she is confident that one day his love will lead him back to her.

This pay-op is being specifically directed towards 37 rebels. How will showing videos at community gatherings reach them? If they are living out in the mountains how is any of this supposed to reach them? 

Maybe another article will shine some light on this psy-op.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2033150/afp-uses-love-month-to-encourage-npa-fighters-to-surrender

The Armed Forces of the Philippines in Eastern Visayas is using the observance of “love month” this February to encourage members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to return to the fold of the law.

The campaign, spearheaded by the Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, which covers the provinces of Leyte and parts of Samar and Eastern Samar, aims to persuade rebels to end their armed struggle against the government, according to Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, the commander of the brigade based in Ormoc City, Leyte.

Dubbed “Love Will Lead You Back,” the campaign seeks to send a message to insurgents.

“This month of love, the 802nd Infantry Brigade delivers a strong appeal: abandon the fight, for love will lead you back home—to family, to peace, to the heart’s true victory,” Vestuir said over the weekend.

Set against the backdrop of Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14, the initiative aims to remind insurgents that love and peace await them at home.

Vestuir hoped that active communist rebels would be encouraged to surrender, following the example of their former comrades who have already abandoned their cause.

“Through this campaign, we hope to touch the hearts of those still hiding in the mountains, urging them to lay down their arms and embrace a future filled with hope and reconciliation,” he said.

Vestuir said the brigade would utilize both emotional appeals and technology to reach out to active rebels.

Their former comrades, along with their families, will be featured in online campaigns to encourage others to surrender.

“This creative approach merges technology and emotion, leveraging the universal theme of love to reach out to insurgents in ways that traditional methods cannot,” he said.

By showcasing real stories of former rebels who have successfully reintegrated into society, the “Love Will Lead You Back” program seeks to dispel fears about surrendering and highlight the government’s commitment to peace and rehabilitation.

Nope. Nothing here sheds any light on this program. How exactly is the program supposed to reach rebels hiding out in the mountains and jungles? The public needs an explanation. 

The fight goes on. Baybay City has been declared NPA-free.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/8/baybay-city-achieves-npa-free-status

Baybay City in Leyte has been declared free from the New People’s Army and now in a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition.

The declaration made after no communist rebels were sighted in the city for two years was highlighted by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding and a Pledge of Commitment and release of white doves symbolizing peace and new beginnings.

Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos Cari, chairman of the City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, thanked stakeholders who we helped achieve SIPSC.

Cari said the milestone paves the way for further progress in the city and better quality of life for constituents. 

Brig. Gen.  Noel Vestuir, 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade chief, commended the city government and other stakeholders for their support and commitment to upholding a safe and peaceful environment. 

"The declaration of Baybay City as a stable internal peace and security condition city signified our hard-earned victory of winning the peace in which some of us offered the ultimate sacrifice to achieve.” 

He said the SIPSC is just the beginning of a brighter and more progressive future for the people of Baybay City.

It took two years for this city to reach that status. But always remember NPA-free does not mean there are no insurgents. This series of articles has discussed that fact many times. The status rests on NPA rebels not being sighted, not on the complete absence of NPA rebels. 

An NPA rebel was recently killed in a clash.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/11/npa-rebel-killed-in-negros-oriental-clash-1

A New People’s Army rebel was killed in an encounter with the 62nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Talaon, La Libertad, Negros Oriental on Monday night, Feb. 10. 

The casualty was identified as Rolito Tanillo, alias Roy and Gamatoy, a resident of Barangay Talaon, La Libertad and an alleged member of the Sangay Yunit Propaganda (SYP) Squad, Central Negros 1 (CN1)-Dismantled (D), Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KR-NCBS). 

The military was pursuing communist rebels responsible for the burning of heavy equipment in Sitio Manghuya, Barangay Aya, La Libertad on Saturday night, Feb. 8, when they engaged Tanillo’s group.  

The body of Tanillo was left behind by his comrades fleeing from the encounter site.  

Soldiers coordinated with La Libertad Municipal Police Station and the town rescue team for the retrieval of his cadaver.  Recovered from the encounter site was an M14 rifle with defaced serial number.  

No soldier was wounded in the gunbattle. Additional forces were deployed to reinforce pursuing troops. 

The Leonardo Panaligan Command-NPA has admitted burning the heavy equipment – a dump truck, a road roller, and two backhoes – being used in the construction of a farm-to-market road that they said would pave the way for mining companies to operate and commercial reforestation projects that would displace individuals living in the mountains.

Burning heavy equipment won't earn anyone friends. 

Two NPA leaders were killed in a clash in Agusan del Sur. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/14/npa-leaders-killed-in-agusan-clash

A New People’s Army commanding officer and his vice commander were killed in an encounter with soldiers in Barangay San Lorenzo, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on Wednesday, Feb. 12. 

The casualties were identified as Joven, commanding officer of the Regional Sentro de Gravidad of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, and Garing, vice commanding officer. Their bodies were turned over to the local government of Prosperidad for proper disposition. 

Capt. Arc F. Jayson, civil-military operations officer of the 401st Infantry (Unite N’ Fight) Brigade, said they launched the operation after receiving reports that communist rebels have been extorting goods and money from residents. 

Troops engaged the NPA in a 15-minute firefight and left behind the bodies of the two casualties, two backpacks, a handheld radio, two Nokia cellphones, blasting caps, grenade, claymore mine, medical supplies, and subversive documents. 

These were taken to proper authorities for further investigation and subsequent filing of criminal cases. 

Col. Emil Cruz, commanding officer of the 401st Brigade, commended troops for their achievement. 

Cruz urged the remaining NPA members to surrender and live a peaceful life. 

"We remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of our community,” he said. “This successful operation is a testament to the support of the local residents who stand alongside with us in our shared quest for a peaceful and progressive life for all of us."  

Soldiers are pursuing the fleeing rebels.

In Butuan another of the non-existent NPA leaders has been killed in a clash. It turns out this person is a really big fish. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/12/npa-leader-maria-malaya-wife-of-jorge-madlos-killed-in-butuan-clash

Soldiers killed top New People’s Army leader Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya and widow of the late NPA leader Jorge "Ka Oris" Madlos,  in an encounter in Barangay Pianing, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte on Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 12.  

Madlos was one of the old guards of the communist movement in Mindanao and was killed in an encounter with government forces in Bukidnon in October 2021. 

Capt. Jonel Castillo, spokesperson of the Army 901st Brigade based in Placer, Surigao del Norte, confirmed over the phone that Sularte was killed in the gun battle.

Castillo added that Sularte was the secretary of NPA-Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee and a member of the political bureau of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Soldiers pursuing Sularte engaged her group in two encounters at 6:10 a.m. and 6:30 a.m.

Soldiers pursued her and was eventually killed in a gun battle at around 1 p.m. in the hinterlands of Sitio Imelda, Barangay Pianing.

Her death was a big blow to the rebel movement in Northeastern Mindanao and there are no other prominent figures left to assume leadership.

Following the death of her husband, Sularte had been the subject of focused military operations in the Caraga region and Northern Mindanao.

Sularte was a  native of Bayugan City in Agusan del Sur and  is one of the most wanted NPA leaders in the country due to multiple criminal charges, including rebellion, murder, multiple murder, and frustrated murder. 

Her death is not just a big blow to the rebel movement. It is a strategic victory. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/13/death-of-top-npa-leader-maria-malaya-called-strategic-victory

The Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police said on Thursday, Feb. 13, that the death of New People’s Army leader Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya, in Barangay Pianing, this city, on Wednesday, Feb. 12, is a strategic victory against the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA in Mindanao.

“The remaining small group of the NPA, armed wing of the CPP, is already in disarray after neutralizing their top leader during three separate engagements in their regional headquarters on Wednesday, Feb. 12,” Brig. Gen. Michele B. Anayron Jr., 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division chief, and Police Regional Office-13 (PRO-13) Director Police Brig. Gen. Christopher N. Abrahano said.

Brig. Gen. Arsenio D.C. Sadural, commanding general of the 901st Infantry Brigade, said the neutralization of Sularte is a big loss to the communist movement in Mindanao.

“The 30th IB executed three successful operations, and decisively engaged the group of Ka Malaya at their regional headquarters, culminating in the capture of numerous items, CPP-NPA war documents, war materials and personal belongings,” said Sadural. “We have finally brought an end to the reign of terror in Caraga.” 

 Anayron commended the 30th Infantry Battalion under the 901st Brigade for neutralizing the highest NPA leader in the Caraga region. “We fervently hope that the neutralization of the highest leader of the CPP-NPA in the area will be the final straw, leading to the total surrender of the remaining members and the eventual end of the CPP-NPA in our area of responsibility.”

Sularte was the widow of the late Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos, a prominent figure of the CPP-NPA National Operations Command who was killed in a gunbattle in Bukidnon province in October 2021.

It only matters if the remaining rebels surrender. 

The National Amnesty Commission says it has received over 2,000 amnesty applications.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1243914

The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) on Wednesday announced it has received over 2,000 amnesty applications through in its 19 Local Amnesty Boards (LABs).

In a statement, it said four of its LABs have resolved a total of 45 applications, which are currently under review by the agency.

These applications are expected to be forwarded to the Office of the President soon for approval of the Chief Executive.

The NAC said this milestone marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in the country.

The NAC, which is mandated to receive and process applications for amnesty to members of the Rebolusyonaryong Partidong Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP/RPA/ABB), former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), and members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), has employed different means to cascade the government’s amnesty program.

NAC chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento underscored the importance of the amnesty program and said this is a "benevolent act of the President" as this allowed applicants to return to the government fold and live as productive citizens in line with the principle of reconciliation.

She added receiving an amnesty means a fresh start to live under the rule of law and an opportunity to access various government benefits and services available to citizens.

Currently, the NAC has established 19 LABs in key locations, including National Capital Region, Pampanga, La Union, Baguio, Isabela, Albay, Quezon, Iloilo, Bacolod, Catbalogan, Tacloban, Pagadian, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Davao, Jolo (Sulu), Basilan, Koronadal, and Butuan, with two additional LABs set to be established in the Mimaropa region and Bohol.

The LABs serve as frontline offices tasked with receiving applications from interested parties. They also conduct various information, education, and communication campaigns to raise awareness about the amnesty program, ultimately increasing the number of applications.

These campaigns include visits to identified campsites in coordination with other government agencies and non-government organizations, as well as jail visits to accommodate applications from persons deprived of liberty.

Through its vision, the NAC aims to restore the civil and political rights of former rebels and combatants, contributing to the achievement of lasting peace.

With the number of NPA rebels and Islamic insurgents who have surrendered 2,000 seems rather low.