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EastMinCom Troops Neutralize Two High-ranking CTG Leaders, Secures Another Victory Against the Terrorists
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – Troops from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn), under the operational control of the 401st Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division (4ID) of the Eastern Mindanao Comma...
Read MoreEastMinCom Troops Neutralize Two High-ranking CTG Leaders, Secures Another Victory Against the Terrorists
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – Troops from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn), under the operational control of the 401st Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division (4ID) of the Eastern Mindanao Comma...
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NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) troops belonging to Joint Task Force (JTF) Agila, launched series of intensive combat operations to prevent the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTG) in its recovery efforts along the borders of Davao Region on the last week of December 2023.
In the latest development, EastMinCom Commander LtGen. Greg T. Almerol reported the death of a certain Joedil C. Virtudazo alias Jerby/Janjalani, a Political Officer of the Regional Sentro de Grabidad, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (RSDG, NEMRC) following an encouter with 67th Infantry Battalion (67IB) troops at Sitio Paradise, Brgy. Santa Juana, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur on December 26.
Troops also captured an R4 Carbine Rifle, an M4 Rifle, and three cell phones with SIM cards at the site.
On the following day, 48IB forces seized three high-powered firearms during the two consecutive skirmishes with the CTG remnants from Sub-RSDG Peddler, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) at Sitio Migarang, Brgy.Lipa and Sitio Bagong Lipunan, Brgy. Linabo both of Quezon, Bukidnon.
The joint operations which utilized close air and artillery fires support, resulted in the capture of two M16A1 Rifles, a CZ858 assault rifle, six backpacks, and various war materiel.
Consequently, a couple identified as “Simon” and “Rica” who were formerly associated with the CTG, along with their three children, surrendered to Governor Edwin I. Jubahib of Davao del Norte bringing along with them a Caliber .38 Revolver and an anti-personnel mine, at the Provincial Capitol Compound, Mankilam, Tagum City on December 27.
The surrenderers who first yielded to 56IB in Talaingod, Davao del Norte on December 24 were former members of the dismantled Guerilla Front 55, with Simon serving as Squad Leader and Rica as Squad
Meanwhile, LtGen. Almerol lauded the troops of JTF Agila for their relentless pursuit of the CTG remnants that resulted in recent accomplishments. He also vowed to sustain the peaceful situation in Davao Region and continue to pursue the remaining CTG remnants in EastMinCom JOA.
“This accomplishment was made possible because of the immense support of all government instrumentalities in our pursuit towards peace and progress in Eastern Mindanao. Along with all units under EastMinCom, we will persist in exerting all efforts to fulfill our mission to end the local communist armed conflict in our JOA," he said.#
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - LtGen. Greg T. Almerol, the Commander of the Eastern Mindanao (EastMinCom) has directed the Joint Task Force (JTF) Haribon, which holds the TF Davao to conduct a thorough investigation following a ramming incident involving a KM450 truck at Bangkerohan Market in Davao City on December 24, 5:30am.
Based on initial reports, TF Davao troops were unloaded by a KM450 in the said area to conduct security operations when the driver temporarily parked the vehicle for personal necessities.
However, a certain Crenenandy R. Cadiente boarded and drove the vehicle that led to the ramming of pedestrians waiting and other parked vehicles.
The incident resulted in the death of two individuals and the injury of three others who were immediately brought to the Southern Philippines Medical Center. Mental Health evaluation of Mr Cadiente is yet to be released.
Meanwhile, LtGen. Almerol assured the public and families of the victims for a speedy investigation to immediately look if there is negligence on the part of their personnel and provide appropriate action.
He also expressed his condolences and assured the Command's support and assistance as they grieved for the loss of their loved ones.
"While this incident is isolated, it is unfortunate that it happened while we are preparing for a festive celebration of Christmas. We extend our condolences to families of the victims. Be assured that we will not rest until you get the justice deserved by your loved ones," he said.
Task Force Davao is presently assisting the needs of victims and their respective families in coordination with the City Government of Davao.
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) forces, under the supervision of LtGen. Greg T. Almerol, secured the communities in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, from persistent harassment by the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) during Christmas Day as they launched a combined operation that led to the death of nine communist terrorists and the recovery of eight firearms.
In a report from the Joint Task Force (JTF) Diamond, the skirmish occurred after troops monitored a build-up of CTG elements belonging to the Sub-Regional Committee 2 (SRC2), Headquarters Loader, and Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG) Compaq all of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in hinterlands of Malaybalay City, which brought fear to the residents in the area.
The joint operations, which utilized Close Air Support (CAS) from the Tactical Operations Group 10 (TOG10) of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and artillery support from the 4th and 10th Field Artillery Battalions (FAB) to the maneuvering forces of 403rd Infantry Brigade (403Bde), came into effect after several days of pursuit operations, pushing the CTG to the hinterlands of Brgy. Can-ayan, Brgy. Kibalabag, Brgy. Kulaman, and Brgy. Mapulo.
The seized firearms include four M16 Rifles, an M16 Rifle attached with an M203 Grenade Launcher, a 12-Gauge Shotgun, one Caliber .45 Pistol, a Hand Grenade, while identities of the neutralized CTG members are still being identified as of this writing.
Meanwhile, LtGen. Almerol called on the remaining armed CTG remnants to surrender. He also lauded the soldiers for their commitment to secure the people despite the holidays to finally put an end to the local communist armed threats.
He previously directed his troops on the ground to sustain their offensives to further entice other CTG members to yield and prevent any disturbance as the holidays continue.
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) has brought the families of its personnel together as they celebrate the Yuletide Season through the annual Team EastMinCom Christmas Party held at Camp Panacan, Davao City on December 15.
EastMinCom Commander LtGen. Greg T. Almerol, his wife Ms. Lynette Almerol, and their children led the celebration alongside the command's Officers, Enlisted Personnel, and Civilian Human Resource (CivHR), together with their dependents.
During the party, the children of EastMinCom's personnel enjoyed the various games prepared by the command and received gifts from LtGen. Almerol and Ms. Lynette. Lucky troops and CivHRs also won raffle prizes.
In his message, LtGen. Almerol lauded the dedication and service of all the command's personnel for their contribution to its achievements under his leadership. He also thanked them for making his last Christmas celebration with EastMinCom special and a fruitful one.
“Napaka espesyal at makabuluhan ng selebrasyong ito para sa akin at sa aking pamilya. Sa aking minamahal na Eastern Mindanao Command family, sa Team EastMinCom, nais kong iparating ang aking taos-pusong pasasalamat at paghanga sa bawat isa sa inyo. Ang inyong walang pagod na pagsusumikap, dedikasyon, at di matatawarang serbisyo ay siyang naging susi sa mga tagumpay na nakamit natin,” he said.#
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – The Philippines and Indonesia (PH-ID) Border Committees have agreed to intensify the security measures of their respective territorial borders through the adoption of 11 agenda items during the recently concluded 40th PH-ID Border Committee Chairmen’s Conference (BCCC) at the Acacia Hotel, Lanang, Davao City, on November 16.
This year's PH-ID BCCC, hosted by the Philippine Government through the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), was held in a hybrid format with EastMinCom Commander/PHBC Chairman LtGen. Greg T. Almerol and the Philippine contingent physically present at Acacia Hotel.
Simultaneously, Manado Main Naval Base VIII Commander/IDBC Vice-Chairman First Admiral Nouldy J. Tangka, and other Indonesian delegates participated via Video Teleconference in Manado City, Indonesia.
During the conference, both committees deliberated on matters of common concern and interest to both countries. This included the review of the proposed amendment to the existing Standing Operating Procedures (SOP) for Border Area Patrol Operations in line with international maritime laws.
They also agreed to explore the possible regularization of the status of undocumented non-citizen Filipino residents in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, and the immigration status of Indonesian descent in Sarangani Province and General Santos City.
Additionally, both parties looked into improving information exchange among their respective law enforcement agencies and security forces. This involves establishing a communication channel to ensure a prompt response to potential threats and efficiently prevent and mitigate transnational crimes.
Likewise, they decided to enhance the security features of Border Crossing Cards used by border crossers to prevent the illegal entry of foreign nationals that might pose threats to the security of both countries.
Other topics discussed included the review of the 1975 Border Patrol and Border Crossing Agreement, resumption and improvement of operations of Border Crossing Stations, involvement of maritime agencies in PHIL-INDO Coordinated Patrol Operations, and establishment of the Indonesia-Philippines Border Operational Community.
During the program, FAdm. Tangka underscored the importance of mutual respect, trust, and a common understanding among the delegates of both countries to provide solutions to border concerns.
“I have high hopes that the results of our meeting today will contribute to a stronger, closer, and more meaningful partnership between us. We look forward to enhancing cooperation and supporting measures needed by both countries," he said further.
Meanwhile, LtGen. Almerol emphasized the importance of the partnership, display of unity, and cooperation between the Philippines and Indonesia through the 40th Border Committee Chairmen’s Conference.
He also reminded both parties to be vigilant as they face new challenges ahead in securing their territorial boundaries.
“The seas continue to present challenges and new ones may emerge in the future. It is imperative that we remain vigilant and ready to face these challenges together, as partners and as friends. Our shared commitment to maritime security and regional stability must remain steadfast,” he said.
PH-ID BCCC is an annual activity where the Border Committees of the Philippines and Indonesia discuss border-related issues. #
Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP