#88th infantry battalion

[hopeonmyphone]

“Incomparable influence”… BTS J-Hope becomes the first Korean solo singer to enter the ‘Global Top 100 Spotify Followers’ list (TOPS STAR NEWS)

J-Hope of BTS set the first record on the world's largest music platform, proving his unrivaled popularity, influence, and ripple power beyond his artistic vision.

According to ChartMasters, a French music industry analysis company, on the 11th, J-Hope surpassed 16.43 million followers on Spotify and ranked 100th among singers around the world. J-Hope is the first Korean solo singer to enter Spotify's global top 100 ranking.

Currently, the world's number one Spotify follower is Ed Sheeran with 115.2 million, and the top 100 includes Taylor Swift at 3rd (91.9 million), Drake at 6th (81.65 million), and Michael Jackson at 47th (29.25 million). ), and the world's best pop stars, including The Beatles (26.49 million), ranked 52nd.

There are only four Korean singers named in the top 100: BTS (70.8 million) in 11th, Blackpink (46.67 million) in 18th, Twice (19.2 million) and J-Hope in 88th.

J-Hope has remained at the top for 4 years and 7 months since becoming the number one Korean solo singer on April 8, 2019, surpassing 1.34 million followers on Spotify.

The reason why J-Hope is able to show off such global popularity and influence is that while she is focusing on group activities as a member of BTS, she consistently releases solo works written and composed by herself, demonstrating her own style as a solo artist. Because it has built a reputation.

In 2018, he released the solo mixtape album 'Hope World', setting a record of becoming the first Korean solo artist to enter the Billboard 200 main album chart for two consecutive weeks. In 2019, she released her solo single 'Chicken Noodle Soup' (feat. Becky G), becoming the first Korean solo singer to enter the main single charts in the US, UK and Canada simultaneously in 7 years since Psy, becoming a global sensation. caused.

In 2022, he released his first full-length solo album, 'Jack In The Box', which ranked 17th on the Billboard 200, and the physical album version released in August of this year ranked 6th on the Billboard 200.

In addition, he was the first Korean singer to perform as a headliner at the American music festival Lollapalooza, receiving love from music fans around the world.

Meanwhile, J-Hope is currently serving as an assistant instructor in the 36th Infantry Division Recruit Training Battalion, Wonju Army, Gangwon-do, and is scheduled to be discharged on October 17, 2024.

Source: Top Star News

[davidshawnsown]

USA HOCKEY TEAM RPF (MODERN AU-Russo-Ukrainian War) - Spies and Combat Shoes (Prologue 2)

(AN: Apologies to all if this chapter has taken time for me to write as I am focused on my baseball fandom while thinking of hockey in the recently concluded NHL playoffs and the 2022-23 season, as well as the USA campaign in the summer World Juniors.)

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO

United States Air Force Academy

1015H MST, January 7, 2022

"MOBILIZATION? Are you freaking me?"

"Major General, that's the content of the letter given to me yesterday," LTGEN Trimbolli has been saying to a Space Force major general who has been visiting the city's local Space Force garrison, which has been active now for months. "That's from First Lieutenant Krieder and the letter has been addressed to the man I have already assigned here for the national mobilization contingent about to be sent to China, Colonel Quinn. This is regarding the fact that CIA and Defense Intelligence, together with their overseas counterparts, have stated that Russia is about to prepare to strike against Ukraine because of Western support for the country and also because of Russia's support for the rebel republics of the Donbass, directly and indirectly. I'm sure the Russian Space Forces are also preparing for that war. This is what that officer recommended I must do for the 892nd with the permission of the Army General Staff and the Joint Chiefs, even if it means that we have to do something about those Russians in the 17th Corps."

When asked by that major general on what should that service do, he stated that the Space Force, already four years old, must be prepared for anything that should come their way, so that the country's space capabilities must be bolstered because of threats from abroad. Motivated by these words, the major general left to meet up with the growing Space Force cadet contingent to the Corps of Cadets of USAFA.

The lieutenant general had already left the Air Force Academy complex earlier after having talks with his Air Force counterparts and is already being driven to the garrison of the 892nd Command HQ in the city.

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO

HQ COMPLEX OF 37TH BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM

January 7, 2022, 1245H

Lunchtime's almost over at the barracks of the 37th Brigade Combat Team's camp, wherein the 3rd battalion, made up of Colorado Springs residents and those among family members working in the city from all over the country, has been stationed. They make up the active element of the brigade and is a mixed of motorized and mechanized companies, and a training company as the battalion also serves as the depot battalion recieving mobilization contingents sent by the 892nd Command leadership.

At this time LTG Trimbolli, 892nd Special Command commanding general, has arrived there together with other elements of the command staff. These include a number of veterans of the 17th Corps and its affilated organizations, as well as the affilated 15th Women's Light Brigade, with 6 battalions and a separate company based in Montreal under the Canadian Army soon expected to be upgraded into a battalion. Soon this brigade's organization will expand into seven two-battalion regiments, opting to a future reflagging as a division of two brigades. These officers are:

LTG Kelleher, executive officer

MG Regan, J-1 chief of staff

MG Dillinger, J-3 chief of operations

BG Tobin, J-8 chief legal counsel of the command

CSM Pino, command sergeant major of the 46th and advisor for safety affairs

BG Tummina, commanding general, 15th Women's Light Brigade

BG Carey, executive officer, 15th Women's Light Brigade

COL Haley, 15th Brigade chief of staff

COL Krotz, 15th Brigade PAO chief

Then, as USEC Bettman finished his remarks via Zoom from the Pentagon, the commander spoke to the officers of the 892nd, the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and the 15th Women's Light Brigade, as well as select officers of the 17th Corps and the following affilated units of the command:

26th Territorial Corps

88th (Light) Corps

4th (Southeastern) Light Infantry Division

209th Armored Division

Collegiate battalions under college service regiments and brigades affilated to the 892nd

16th Minnesota Infantry Division (Mecanized)

37th Light Infantry Division

12th Mountain Division

14th (Western) Armored Division

His address today is regarding the letter given to COL Quinn by 1LT Kreider of the 26th NY, 1st Brigade Combat Team, under the 17th Corps' 25th (Canadian American) Infantry Division serving eastern North America, the other division being the 46th Infantry, serving the western half. It was regarding the fact stated by US and foreign intelligence agencies that Russia is preparing to strike Ukraine as part of its grand plan to prepare to invade the European Union and the United Kingdom, and soon the United States, over their support for Ukrainian democracy after the events of 2013-14. The advice of the lieutenant that served previously with the 37th Brigade's mobilization company years before: that the command be prepared to mobilize with the blessings of the Pentagon given the circumstances while also advising the same for its Canadian counterparts in the 75th Army Corps and the 14th Brigade, its primary mobilization force. Moreover, the 17th Corps would be advised on what to do with the Russians in its ranks, especially the much loved Ovechkin serving in Washington who has been serving, first as a adjutant, then as a second in command and later company commanding officer, and now as battalion XO for the local regiment there. But before that, he addresses them on the letter, saying that the command knows that 1LT Panarin would be a big asset to expose the huge Russian involvement in the command over the past years with many taking up residence in the country. He suggested that the command would send him a letter in reply to help them and their Canadian counterparts know if the majority of the Russian-born officers, NCOs and enlisted who joined the 17th Corps in the past years have supported Putin or not. The lieutenant will be a huge asset to sway their support and the Russian expat communities in the two countries for the Russian opposition should the country be ready to fight Ukraine in the year.

Then the commander spoke on the need to be ready for mobilization.

Speaking to the 3rd battalion staff and its personnel as well as his fellow command officers and HQ staff, he said, "More than ever in this time we need to be ready for mobillzation because of the letter given to me. Russia as we all know is preparing its army for a war unlike any other - a PLANNED INVASION of Ukraine to be held later in the first quarter of the year. We are already coordinating with our Canadian counterparts and all our reserve and affilated units. Thus, ladies and gentlemen, I am now informing the Pentagon that given the cirumstances of the situation facing the world at large, we are now beginning the mobilization of all our brigade's elements - and the WHOLE of the command towards preparing for such a scenario upon us. We must be prepared now for the day Russia would be given the green light to fight in Ukraine, while also persuading those Russians of the 17th Corps to choose to fight for Ukraine or for their countrymen in Russia. We can't lose this chance! This is for not just the Ukrainian people, but also for all of us Americans and peoples of the free world. I am hoping to inform my fellow commanders regarding the decision to mobilize the command in days."

Lieutenant General Kelleher agreed with his commanding officer stating that the country needs to not just intensify supporting Ukraine and its NATO and non-NATO allies, but also to prepare for the scenario of the armed forces and reserve organizations being sent to the country to help in the possible hosilities against Russia and possibly Belarus. This was also the sentiment of Brigadier General Tummina of the 15th Brigade who also hopes that the women of the brigade are to be prepared for any scenario in the coming weeks. The commander of the 892nd Command replied to her saying that given all the women had gone through, both in units under the 37th Brigade and within the 15th, they have what it takes to take on a determined enemy.

As the lieutenant general heard the statements from those gathered, he later said "Then what are we waiting for? The time cannot run out and we have to be prepared as a nation. Ladies and gentlemen, I now ask all of you one thing: prepare the lads of the 1st Battalion of the 37th. The nation must be ready for war, now. Ukraine is asking for assistance, we will provide the men and women ready to fight with her in its time of need. And regarding the 17th Corps' Russians... I will coordinate with the command in New York City and that Panarin guy. He will be a big help to us in this situation."

@careypricey @linskywords @sophie83540 @greymichaela @hartsyhart @dylanduker @penaltbox @owencanpowermybattery @princesstillyenna @macknnons @midnightsoldier187

[atlanticcanada]

How investigators identified Canada's unknown WWI soldier

For more than 100 years, the family of Pte. John Lambert knew he died fighting in the First World War, but never knew what happened to his body.

Known as “Jack” to family, Lambert lied about his age to enlist as a 16-year-old in the Newfoundland Regiment on August 14, 1916.

His battalion served with the 88th Brigade of the 29th Infantry Division of the British Expeditionary Force.

On Aug. 16, 1917, Lambert and the Newfoundland Regiment were assigned to capture a portion of the German line, an effort known as the Battle of Langemarck, in Belgium.

While his unit captured its objective, Pte. Lambert died of his battle wounds, according to his personnel file.

“My father often spoke about him and said that he must have been blown to bits in the war,” said Anne Smith, Lambert’s niece. “That was his way of trying to explain why he didn't come back.”

Smith’s father, James Lambert, died in 1982, without knowing what happened to his older brother.

“He never had a final resting place,” said Smith. “And my father was always troubled by that.”

The whereabouts of Pte. Lambert's body seemed lost to time, until a team of archeologists uncovered the remains of four soldiers near St. Julien, Belgium.

Three turned out to be British soldiers, and one had a shoulder tile with the letters NFLD, from a First World War Newfoundland Regiment uniform.

“Pte. John Lambert was admittedly one of more complicated cases that I personally faced,” said Sarah Lockyer, the Canadian Armed Forces Casualty Identification Program’s forensic anthropologist. “Mostly because he was found with three other individuals and their remains were mixed together.”

Lockyer says since Lambert’s bones were younger, it was easier to separate them from the other remains.

The Casualty Identification Team then had to search for living relatives for 16 missing Newfoundlanders from that battle.

“We got lucky, we were able to find a DNA donor for Pte. Lambert,” said Lockyer. “And the results were positive for him.”

That sample came from Lambert’s cousin, 91-year-old Patricia Egan.

The family officially found out it was a match on Dec. 1, 2020.

“We were all awestruck we just couldn't believe it,” said Smith.

Lambert was buried at the New Irish Farm Cemetery in West-Vlaanderen, Belgium, on June 30, 2022. Current members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment carried his casket.

It was a moment Smith wishes her father could have seen.

“I know that he would have been extremely pleased that he finally had a resting place for his brother,” said Smith.

There are more than 27,000 unknown soldiers who fought in 20th century wars, most of whom fought during the First World War.

Lockyer says she uses artifacts, records, and DNA to try to confirm their identities. Still it’s time consuming, difficult work.

“Since 2007 the program as been able to successfully identify 35 sets of remains,” said Lockyer. “We've had to bury eight as unknown soldiers.”

from CTV News - Atlantic https://ift.tt/tkCfx2N

[phgq]

NPA 'disintegrating' in Bukidnon: 88IB chief

#PHnews: NPA 'disintegrating' in Bukidnon: 88IB chief

MARAMAG, Bukidnon – The chief of the Army's 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB) said Tuesday the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Bukidnon province is on the verge of "disintegrating", given the sustained number of guerilla surrenderers in the past few years. Lt. Col. Franklin Fabic issued the prediction after he welcomed 12 NPA surrenderers at the 88IB headquarters here last August 14. “For those who choose to remain as threats (to) our peaceful communities, we will not hesitate to exhaust all our capabilities to hunt and destroy you with all our might for the protection of peace-loving citizens of Southern Bukidnon,” Fabic said in a statement Tuesday. He said the 12 surrenderers were under the NPA's Guerilla Front-Malayag operating in Cabanglasan town that was involved in several skirmishes with government forces early this month. The unit, Fabic said, suffered "losses and debacles" in recent months, forcing its members to abandon the rebel movement. One of the surrenderers, identified only as Rolen, said they were compelled to yield after experiencing "hunger and misery." "We were also scared when our comrade died in an encounter and we might have the same fate. I don’t want to die, I want to do better things together with my child and my family," Rolen said in the vernacular. In a series of armed encounters late last month, government forces killed an NPA fighter and seized the group's hideout in the municipalities of San Fernando and Cabanglasan. Government troops also recovered firearms, ammunition, and subversive documents. The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "NPA 'disintegrating' in Bukidnon: 88IB chief." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112600 (accessed August 19, 2020 at 01:58AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "NPA 'disintegrating' in Bukidnon: 88IB chief." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112600 (archived).

[itsmeathan]

AFP, LGU launch RCSP to combat NPA radicalization activities

<p style="text-align: justify">SAN FERNANDO, Bukidnon, Feb. 15 (PIA) — The 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB) and the local government unit (LGU) of San Fernando in Bukidnon launched on February 12 the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.</p> <p style="text-align: justify">This is an offshoot of the LGUs commitment in support of…

The post AFP, LGU launch RCSP to combat NPA radicalization activities appeared first on KUWADERNO.com.

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[worldnewsph]

Army offensives in Bukidnon kill NPA terrorist leader

Army offensives in Bukidnon kill NPA terrorist leader

MALAYBALAY CITY, September 29 (PIA) — A terrorist leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) died Saturday after being fatally hit by pursuing special skilled soldiers of the 88th Infantry Battalion in an intensified offensive combat operations following the recent instruction of President Rodrigo Duterte to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The gunfight transpired in an isolated forested area…

[finriv]

A force organisation list, because I’m a nerd. Mildly incomplete

Northern Theater: Field Marshal Trix II (Arsehole)

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14th Army Group (West): Field Marshal Borolov (Grumpy, drunk, reasonably competent.) Mostly inexperienced troops with a pathworked veteran/green officer corp, some Red Snow vets. 7th Field Army: General Rossokovsky (432nd - Valentin, 70th - Fredor, 68th - Bromburg) 3rd Tank Army: General Hurenburg (29th - Trantov, 207th - Haase, 38th - Gruber) 8th Field Army: General Blane (98th - Zwetti, 75th - Graff, 124th - von Schiller) 22nd Field Army: General Sarentan (44th - Kinderhiem, 59th - Halenov, 36th - Fyodr)

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15th Army Group (Central): Field Marshal Valhanden (Eager, inexperienced yet talented.) A mix of old, well trained units and green troops with inexperienced officers. 12th Tank Army: General Williams (13th - Wren, 6th - Illisovich, 34th - Drom) 2nd Field Army: General Helmann (67th - Relov, 265th - Tvov, 88th - Bisburg) 7th Tank Army: General Poloski (55th - Zintenburg, 294th - Hulov, 167th - Poplova)

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16th Army Group (North): Field Marshal Dresden (Red Snow Vet, competent armoured officer.) Well Trained but green Troops, many red snow veteran officers. 15th Tank Army: General Rostanlina (127th - Gorolov, 128th - Bolk, 129th - Transtova) 43rd Field Army: General Hirx (139th - Fep-Kozlove, 143rd - Tarn-Forq, 154th - Corovol) 16th Tank Army: General Welch (428th - Lorn, 323rd - Varesevich, 62nd - Ionescov) 68th Field Army: General Capo (274th - von Schwarzenberger, 133rd - Kober, 134th - Manteuffel)

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17th Army Group (East): Field Marshal Rostlova (Competent Infantry Commander & Logistics Expert. Red Snow Vet) Callsign: Roadway A collection of mixed units, with veterans and greens at essentially every level.

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27th Tank Army: General Larionovich (Studied under Gen. Vilhelm.) Callsign: Radiohead 168th Corps - Lt. Gen. Ida 169th Corps - Lt. Gen. Semyonovna 170th Corps - Lt. Gen. Mair

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34th Tank Army: General Eichinger (Political Outcast, staff officer not used to combat roles. Also damn good.) Callsign: Executioner 233rd Corps (Mostly at full strength due to being reserve formation)- Lt. Gen. Blomberg 234th Corps (Brought back up to strength from the remnents of the 235th corps) - Lt. Gen. Hellmuth 72nd Armoured Division - Maj. Gen. Porolov Combat Brigade 17. - Brigadier von Relvon Endhurst Lancers Regiment (Badly battered) - Colonel Falkhurst. Adjudant - Captain Strider 1. Battalion - Lt. Col. Dietmar Fersen 3. Battalion - Major. Bernhard Bodmer 4. Battalion - Major. Korneyev Ippolit Georgiy 6. Battalion - Major. Sofya Vitalievna 3rd Domoliky Mechanzied Regiment - Colonel Klotz Combat Brigade 18. - Brigadier. Meidner Combat Brigade 21. - Brigadier. Turnau 37th Field Division - Maj. Gen. Beckermann 57th Corps (absorbed from the 64th Field Army.) - Lt. Gen. Schoff

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27th Field Army: General Ilyinishna (Younger and inexperienced, oft placed in reserve formations.) Callsign: Flag-pole 102nd Corps - Lt. Gen. Vitya 103rd Corps - Lt. Gen. Leonid 107th Corps (Badly ravaged in the battle for Izoeburg)- Lt. Gen. Lutz

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Independent Operations Group: General Hyryev IX (aristo, pompous and talented for good measure. Considered as Tras's personal attack dog) The 22nd is an elite unit of well trained troops with veterans drawn from all over, the 14th main body is made up from mobalized reserves, but with a highly experienced and disciplined officer corps

22nd Independent Operations Army: General Hyryev IX (See above) 17th Corps - Lt. Gen. Williams 42nd Corps - Lt. Gen. Bains 6th Corps - Lt. Gen. Volovoi

14th Independent Operations Army: General Kilane (Needs no introduction). Adjundant - Brigadier Larousse 121th Corps - Lt. Gen. Mancrix 122nd Corps - Lt. Gen. Köstner 123rd Corps - Lt. Gen. Hertrich

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[deblala]

Wiretapppp: Comey Lied, Clapper Lied, Rice Lied, The Mainstream Media Lied. – Eye On America News

Wiretapppp: Comey Lied, Clapper Lied, Rice Lied, The Mainstream Media Lied. – Eye On America News

From 1910 to the end of World War II Korea was ruled by Japan. Kim Il Sung was captain of the 1st battalion/88th detached infantry brigade, under the command of Joseph Stalin. Kim Il Sung was a well known and feared guerrilla fighter, who hated Japan with deep passion. He called them “the imperialists” until… Source: Wiretapppp: Comey Lied, Clapper Lied, Rice Lied, The Mainstream Media Lied. –…

[phgq]

Army pursues Reds who burned quarry equipment in Bukidnon

#PHnews: Army pursues Reds who burned quarry equipment in Bukidnon

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – A manhunt operation is ongoing against communist rebels who burned heavy equipment in Valencia City, Bukidnon, the military said Wednesday. In a statement, the Army's 4th Infantry Division (4ID) said the rebels responsible for the torching of quarrying equipment belonged to a unit under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People’s Army (NPA). Capt. Anthony Pueblas, chief of 4ID’s Division Public Affairs Office, said the rebel unit is under Fredo Banawan, a native of Barangay Cawayan, Quezon town, Bukidnon, who has been a fugitive from the law for arson, extortion, grave threat, and murder. Banawan also has a standing arrest warrant for trafficking in persons, Pueblas said. Following the burning of the heavy equipment on June 19, Pueblas said troops under the Army's 88th Infantry Battalion launched pursuit operations against the culprits. “The burning of private properties is a clear violation of the rule of law and of the International Humanitarian Law committed by these ruthless NPA terrorists,” he said. On Monday, Pueblas said government troops clashed with Banawan’s group, resulting in the seizure of various firearms and an M203 grenade launcher. In a separate clash on the same day in the area, Pueblas said the communist rebels also left behind a laptop, six mobile phones, a C4 landmine, two improvised anti-personnel mines, assorted M14, and M16 rifle magazines, three burners, assorted medical items, personal belongings, and documents with "high tactical value." Maj. Gen. Andres Centino, the newly-installed 4ID commander, vowed the troops would be "relentless in the pursuit against the communist terrorists who have nothing to offer to the people but endless violence and a vicious cycle of terror.” “This intensified campaign is aimed to finally put an end to the decades-long problem of communist insurgency. Hence, we call on all well-meaning and responsible citizens to support our campaign against the communist terrorist group so that we will finally end this menace of our society,” Centino said. Centino has also appealed to victims of extortion to come forward and cooperate with authorities to deter the communist insurgents from attacking civilian targets. “So long as they pursue their acts of terrorism, know that the Diamond Troopers will pursue with resolve and commitment to our mandate of protecting the people and the communities here in our area of responsibility. We call on everyone to support your government’s efforts of convergence to end this communist insurgency once and for all,” he said. Centino also warned the remaining NPA rebels that their end is near, adding that their "meaningless cause is dying because their deceptions against the citizens have been uncovered." He said the government remains open to receive communist rebels who want to surrender and receive the government's socio-economic support and rejoin their families. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Army pursues Reds who burned quarry equipment in Bukidnon." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106918 (accessed June 25, 2020 at 04:02AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Army pursues Reds who burned quarry equipment in Bukidnon." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106918 (archived).

[phgq]

119 Reds voluntarily surrender from May 17-23: AFP

#PHnews: 119 Reds voluntarily surrender from May 17-23: AFP

MANILA – A total of 119 communist terrorists have voluntarily surrendered as a result of "intense military operations" from May 17 to 23, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Monday.

Aside from this, two rebels were killed and another three were arrested in the same period, AFP public affairs office chief, Navy Captain Jonathan Zata, said in a statement.

Of this number, 36 surrendered in the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) area, one was killed, and three were apprehended; 82 surrendered in the Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom), and one surrendered and another was killed in the operational area of the Southern Luzon Command (Solcom).

These surrenders from May 17-23 were as follows:

In Eastmincom, a rebel with alias "Bakal" yielded to 36th Infantry Battalion (IB) troops in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur on May 17.

Meanwhile, 29 communist rebels surrendered to the 88th Infantry Battalion in San Fernando, Bukidnon on May 18. On the same day, two rebels with aliases "Jimboy‟ and "Meme‟ surrendered to government forces in Magpet, North Cotabato, while a rebel with alias "Camal" gave up to the 56th IB in Talaingod, Davao del Norte.

Also on May 18, a rebel was killed in an encounter in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.

On May 19, two communist terrorists with aliases "Kaypee" and "Wena" surrendered to the Army's 23rd IB in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte while another rebel with alias "Loko" yielded to authorities in South Cotabato on May 22.

Meanwhile, two communist terrorists were arrested in separate operations in Asuncion, Davao del Norte, and Lianga, Surigao del Sur on May 19 while another one was captured in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte on May 20.

In Nolcom, a rebel with alias "Red‟ surrendered in Bulacan on May 18 while 81 other communist terrorists surrendered in Nueva Ecija from May 21 to 23.

In Solcom, an alias "Jigs‟ surrendered to authorities in Macalelon, Quezon while government troops killed another rebel in a firefight in Iriga City, Camarines Sur on May 22.

The military also seized 18 high-powered firearms, five improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and 413 assorted ammunition during the same period.

“The increasing support of communities and local government units through the National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) contribute to the continued success of the AFP’s operation against the Communist Terrorist Groups,” AFP chief-of-staff, General Felimon Santos Jr. said.

He added that the AFP will not stop until it has completely destroyed the armed capabilities of the communist terrorists who continue to threaten the safety and security of Filipinos aside from hampering peace and development initiatives in the country. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "119 Reds voluntarily surrender from May 17-23: AFP." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103831 (accessed May 25, 2020 at 11:30PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "119 Reds voluntarily surrender from May 17-23: AFP." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103831 (archived).

[phgq]

Army helps secure the cash aid distribution in southern Bukidnon

#PHinfo: Army helps secure the cash aid distribution in southern Bukidnon

MARAMAG, Bukidnon, May 1 (PIA) —The 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion provided security and assistance to the Local Government Units (LGUs) and Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices (MSWDOs) in the cash distribution of Social Amelioration Program (SAP) to the qualified beneficiaries in Southern Bukidnon.

Based on MSWDO’s records, a total of 23,954 beneficiaries from the municipalities of Don Carlos, Damulog, Dangcagan, Quezon, Valencia, and Kadingilan received the government’s SAP cash assistance at P6,000 each.

The government forces were tasked to ensure security and safety during SAP distribution to prevent any atrocities of the New People’s Army (NPA).

This is in line with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s newly signed Republic Act 11469, otherwise known as the “Bayanihan to Heal as One” Act, which empowers the national government to provide an emergency cash subsidy to the poorest of the poor families affected by the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ).

Lieutenant Colonel Franklin F. Fabic, Commanding Officer of 88IB, said “Your Army, together with the GUs, will work hand in hand to ensure the smooth, quick, and peaceful distribution of cash aid to the beneficiaries. We will assure the security and protection of government workers and civilians against the Communist NPA Terrorists’ threat."

“We will not allow these CNTs to take advantage of the situation. Let’s help one another to fight this unseen enemy and also these barbaric NPAs," Ltc Fabic added. (Cpt Norven Jay Garcia, CMO, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "Army helps secure the cash aid distribution in southern Bukidnon." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1040578 (accessed April 30, 2020 at 05:09PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "Army helps secure the cash aid distribution in southern Bukidnon." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1040578 (archived).

[phgq]

Army troopers recover food supplies, arms cache in Bukidnon

#PHinfo: Army troopers recover food supplies, arms cache in Bukidnon

MARAMAG, Bukidnon, Feb. 21 -- Troops of the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion discovered food and arms cache at an uninhabited and forested area of Sitio Buco, Banlag, Valencia City while conducting combat operations.

A certain alias Janjan, member of SDG, Company Thunder, Guerilla Front 6 (GF6), SRC2, NCRMC who recently surrendered divulged the buried firearms and supplies which they extorted from the community.

Among the recovered items were eight (8) containers filled with rice, two (2) shotguns with two (2) magazines loaded, and one (1) Magnum .22 rifle with empty magazines.

Accordingly, these items were buried by the group of late Commander alias Amana, the Commanding Officer of SDG, Company Thunder.

Lt. Col Franklin F Fabic, commanding officer of 88IB, commended the troops for the success of the operation and recognized the former rebel who revealed the buried foods and arms cache.

"We are calling the remnants of Coy Thunder who are still undecided and continue to embrace a wrong ideology, now is the right time to return to the folds of the law and live a normal life just like what your Front Secretary and Commanding Officer did. Don’t waste your life, open your eyes for the truth while you still have time. The 88IB troopers will always be open for you if you intend to surrender," he said. (88IB, PA)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "Army troopers recover food supplies, arms cache in Bukidnon." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1035231 (accessed February 25, 2020 at 01:59PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "Army troopers recover food supplies, arms cache in Bukidnon." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1035231 (archived).

[phgq]

LGU, AFP join hands to end insurgency via RCSP

#PHinfo: LGU, AFP join hands to end insurgency via RCSP

SAN FERNANDO, Bukidnon, Feb. 13 (PIA) -- “Reaching the unreached even in the most challenging situation is the key to ending poverty. Through this RCSP, in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), we will empower individuals so that everyone becomes a channel of peace,” said Mayor Levi Edma as he lauds the government for initiating such effort as part of its move in ending insurgency.

The undertaking, known as Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP), seeks to contribute to poverty reduction and mobilize the marginalized and the poor who are often left out from economic growth and other opportunities that would somehow provide them an avenue to generate income.

In his speech, Edma emphasized the need to assess the communities’ current situation to identify and prioritize the delivery of government services.

“With these activities, we are one step closer to attaining lasting peace in San Fernando,” he said.

The mayor sent the RCSP core teams off to Nala sub-village from San Fernando municipal and barangay local government. It is composed of three teams namely Basic Delivery of Services (BDS) Team led by Municipal Health Officer Dr. Maria Algerlina Edma; the Citizenship and Community Participation (CCP) Team led by the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Romero Navaja; and the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Team led by the 88th Infantry (Maringal) Battalion and Police units in the area.

Right after the send-off ceremony, the three teams headed to Sitio Nala where residents gathered at the community covered court to welcome the RCSP core teams who will be immersed in the area.

During the program, Sitio leader Roel Mahinay reported that the people of Nala, mostly farmers, are in utmost need of a Health Worker and Health Center; farm-to-market roads; availability of Day Care Center; additional teachers and classrooms for high school; livelihood training; solar dryer; senior citizen benefits; release of tenurial instruments and land titling, including residential lot survey; and the most important project that villagers want to be prioritized—access to safe drinking water.

As a result, reports on the presence of unregistered motorcycles and vehicles, and the proliferation of gangs in the community were tackled during the discussion of PLEDS Team and Sitio leaders.

The CCP Team also identified social issues such as registration of established People’s Organization as well as birth registration of IP residents.

The mayor initiated this ‘working group’ to sustain the initial gains made by CSP Team deployed earlier in the area.

He said the deployed teams would help in setting things up to address some issues exploited by the New People’s Army (NPA) on enticing new rebel members.

After the immersion at Sitio Nala, the RCSP teams conferred at San Fernando townhall for feedbacking, evaluation of issues identified per team, sharing of lessons learned, documentation of necessary things needed to address problems presented, and actions to be taken in preparation for the 1st RCSP Summing-up scheduled before this February ends.

Col. Ferdinand T. Barandon, 403rd Brigade Commander said, “We are doing this to deradicalize the community. It is high time that we should combine our efforts to end communist insurgency in San Fernando and to develop and transform these conflict-affected areas into resilient communities. We will finish this once and for all.”

He explained that the RCSP would help enhance a community-driven approach that will allow beneficiaries to collectively identify, prioritize, plan, and implement their development needs, which is in support to the government’s whole-of-nation approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict or ELCAC as specified in President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70. (Rene Belmonte Jr, CMO 403rd Bde, Norven Jay Garcia, 88IB, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "LGU, AFP join hands to end insurgency via RCSP." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034939 (accessed February 19, 2020 at 09:43PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "LGU, AFP join hands to end insurgency via RCSP." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034939 (archived).

[phgq]

Disintegration of NPA continues in Bukidnon

#PHinfo: Disintegration of NPA continues in Bukidnon

MARAMAG, Bukidnon, Feb. 18 (PIA) -- Another member of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to the troops of 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion in Purok 10, South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon at around 6:00 pm on Saturday, February 15.

The 27-year old combatant known as alias JEFF was identified as a member of Squad 1, Malayag 2, Company Malayag, Sub Regional Committee 2 (SRC2), Northern Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC). He brought with him one M16 rifle and six magazines with 156 ammunition, one AK47 rifle and 5 magazines with 137 ammunitions, one box of medical supplies, and one digital mobile radio.

Alias Jeff also surrenders to the government one M16 rifle and six magazines with 156 ammunition, one AK47 rifle and 5 magazines with 137 ammunitions, one box of medical supplies, and one digital mobile radio.

“Gikapoy nasad ko ug lakaw ug sige ko gapoblema kun mabuhe pako sunod adlaw. Katong nadunggan nako na daghan na nagsurrender, gikuha nako ni na tsansa na magbag-o akong kinabuhi ug mauban ako pamilya (I am already tired and I'm worried if I can still live in the next days. When I heard that many had surrendered, I took the chance to change my life and join my family)," Jeff said.

Meanwhile, Lt.Col Franklin F.Fabic, commanding officer of 88IB, welcomed the latest rebel returning to the mainstream. “We are happy that you have decided to abandon the armed struggle," he said.

Fabic also assured that the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion will be ready to help Jeff who will benefit from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.

"The fall of NPA in our area is nearing. We are hoping to the other members to surrender as many of them have now surrendered and enjoyed their life," he added. (88th IB/PIA10)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "Disintegration of NPA continues in Bukidnon." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034802 (accessed February 18, 2020 at 11:21AM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "Disintegration of NPA continues in Bukidnon." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034802 (archived).

[phgq]

AFP, LGU launch RCSP to combat NPA radicalization activities

#PHinfo: AFP, LGU launch RCSP to combat NPA radicalization activities

SAN FERNANDO, Bukidnon, Feb. 15 (PIA) — The 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB) and the local government unit (LGU) of San Fernando in Bukidnon launched on February 12 the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

This is an offshoot of the LGUs commitment in support of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 (EO70) in an effort to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

Residents of Sitio Nala, Halapitan, San Fernando, Bukidnon gathered at the community-covered court to witness the launching of AFP’s RCSP and listen to their Sitio leader’s report on the priority projects needed by the villagers.

Sitio leader Roel Mahinay reported that the people of Nala, mostly farmers, are in dire need of access roads including drainage system; Daycare center for the preschoolers; Health center; additional schoolroom and a stage for Grade 7 students; and the most important project that villagers want to be prioritized—access to safe drinking water.

Taking action on the leaning issue, municipal engineer Wyman Lubido said the LGU is ready to implement the long-planned project once the Memorandum of Agreement is approved. 

He, however, assured the residents that the road-widening project of Sitio Salumayag (the adjacent sub-village) would start soon.

Residents of Sitio Nala, Halapitan, San Fernando, Bukidnon gather at the community covered court to witness the launching of AFP’s Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) and listen to their Sitio leader’s report on priority projects needed by the villagers. Sitio leader Roel Mahinay reports that the people of Nala, mostly farmers, are in dire need of access roads including drainage system; Day care center for the preschoolers; Health center; additional schoolroom and a stage for Grade 7 students; and the most important project that villagers want to be prioritized—access to safe drinking water. (Jovan Marlou Caῇadilla/BukSU, with reports from Jeric Lambo and Reymart Pulido/PIA Bukidnon)

As to the bridge connecting barangay Halapitan to remote areas of San Fernando town—especially Sitios Nala, Salumayag, and Casilaan, Engr. Lubido said that the Sangguniang Bayan already had the resolution to address the issue.

Lt. Col. Franklin F. Fabic, 88IB commander, said RCSP is a primary program in line with the government’s effort at the grassroots level to combat activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), which is focused on socio-economic and cultural problems. 

He explained that RCSP is an inclusive program that is addressing identified issues of the community by closing the governance and development gaps through the provision of needed government programs and projects.

“It is our duty to protect the people against threats, intimidation, and extortion activities of the outlaws but we need communities’ cooperation to successfully carry out the mission,” Fabic said. (Jovan Marlou Caῇadilla/BukSU, with reports from Jeric Lambo and Reymart Pulido/PIA Bukidnon)

  ***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "AFP, LGU launch RCSP to combat NPA radicalization activities." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034706 (accessed February 16, 2020 at 10:43PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "AFP, LGU launch RCSP to combat NPA radicalization activities." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1034706 (archived).

[itsmeathan]

AFP, LGU launch RCSP to combat NPA radicalization activities

AFP, LGU launch RCSP to combat NPA radicalization activities

SAN FERNANDO, Bukidnon, Feb. 15 (PIA) — The 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB) and the local government unit (LGU) of San Fernando in Bukidnon launched on February 12 the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

This is an offshoot of the LGUs commitment in support of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 (EO70) in an effort to End Local…