Barilan sa bahayan sa Central Luzon: Ang aking pakikipaglaro kay Kamatayan

August 17, 2014, 6:54 am

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Galing kami sa larong "cat and mouse" noong 1996, tinutugis namin ang mga armadong bandido na nagtungo sa isang sementadong bahay sa isang bayan sa Central Luzon. 

Ayaw kong palampasin ang pagkakataong ma-aresto sila. Matagal-tagal ko ring pinagtiisan ang mga lamok at niknik sa aming taguan para sila ay mahagilap. Sobrang dami na ng mga taong nagreklamo ng pangongotong at pananakot sa mga magsasaka sa lugar.

Humihingal pa ako nang dahan-dahan kaming lumapit at pinakiramdaman ang mga tao sa loob. 

Hawak ang aking chamber-loaded na M1911A1 Cal 45 pistol, nakatayo ako malapit sa pintuan habang inaaninag ang mga bandidong nasa loob ng bahay na kanilang pinasok.

Sa mga puno ng mangga na nakapalibot sa sementadong bahay, nakapwesto ang labing dalawa sa aking kasamahan. Kampante ako sa aking mga kasamahang panay beterano sa pakikidigma sa mga bandidong NPA sa hilagang Luzon at sa mga bandidong 'MNLF lost command' sa Sirawai. 

Kaharap ko si Ranger Reyland na hawak ang kanyang M653 Assault Rifle. Dahil nakailaw ang flourescent lamp sa loob, nakikita ko ang anyo ng kaaway. 

Ilang saglit lang, nakita ko sa kanyang anyo ang dulo ng baril. Di ako magkamali sa hitsura ng sight tower ng M16 Rifle. Papunta sya sa direksyon ng pintuan. Segundo na lang ang natira sa akin para mag-command. Bawal ang mabulol. 

"Alis! Take cover!"

 Prak! Bang! Bang!

Halos sabay kaming umatras papunta sa semento. Tumama sa gitna namin ang mga punglo. Nag-ricochet sa semento at tumilamsik ang mga splinters sa maraming direksyon. 

Mahapdi at parang maanghang ang naramdaman ko sa aking noo. Tamang aktor ang inabot ko. Salamat sa Diyos!  

Sa gitna ng kaguluhan, narinig ko ang iyak ng isang bata.

"Waaaaaaah! Waaaaah!""Inay ko po!"

May isa pang paslit ang nagtatawag sa kanyang ina. Kahit pa man sa aking naramdamang sugat, dapat mabilis uli ang aking desisyon. 

Naawa ako sa madadamay. Wala silang kasalanan. 

"May mga bata, wag putukan ang bahay!" 

Praak! Bang! Bang! Bang! Trigger happy ata ang mga bandido sa bahay na iyon.

May namumutok na rin sa gilid na bahagi ng bahay. Nakikita ko ang traces ng apoy ng muzzle flash na likha ng kanyang baril.

Bang! Bang! Bang! Sumagot ng putok ang tatlo sa aking mga tauhan na nakapwesto sa bahaging yaon.

Sa kapuputok ng bandido na katabi ko lang ang pwesto, naamoy ko ang pulbura at nalanghap ko ang alikabok na sanhi ng pagkatama sa semento. Kailangan namin ng mas magandang pwesto.

"Sa mangga tayo Reyland! Go!" Mabilis pa sa kidlat naming tinakbo ang mangga at nagkubli doon. 

Sa aking bagong pwesto, tinawag ko si Ranger Razzy Boy at si Ranger JB na pinagbitbit ko ng aking M16 Rifle na may night vision scope. 

"Hatiin natin ang tropa. Doon kami nina Reyland at JB sa kanan. Icom Radio ang primary commo natin," sabi ko sa kanya habang nasa kalagitnaan ng putukan.

Halinhinan kaming palipat-lipat ng mga puno papunta sa kabilang bahagi ng bahay. Masigasig na 'arrival honors' ng riple ang sumalubong sa amin. 

Madilim ang paligid at ginagamitan ko ng instincts para matutukan ko sya ng aking pistol base sa general direction ng muzzle flash kanyang pwesto. 

"Pak! Pak! Pak! Pak!" May pagka-patsam ang tirada ko. Sumasagot sya at mas malakas ang putok. 

"Bratatat! Bratatatat!" Ramdam ko ang haging ng bala. 

Naalala ko si JB na may dalang Litton NVS. Sya lang nakakakita sa gabi. Sya ang hari sa panahon na iyon. Gusto ko namang madikitan ang mga bandido sa gilid ng bahay at patikimin ng aking Cal 45 ball ammunition.

"Ranger JB, bantayan mo ko. Hanapin mo sya at barilin mo!"

Ginapang ko ang nakita kong tila ay nakaumbok na sementadong pwesto. Dahil sa training namin sa gapangan, walang isang minuto ay nakapwesto na ako sa likod ng 'semento'. Humahapdi ang aking mga tuhod at siko sa kagagapang. 

Paano naman kasi ay naka-sando  lang ako at tatlo kong mga ka-buddy na nag-recon patrol sa hapon na iyon para hindi halata. Nang spotted na ang mga bandido, nagpasya na akong ituloy ang combat patrol nang nagbigay ng go signal ang aking Company Commander. At, nagpakatapang na akong ituloy ang pagtugis kahit pistol lang ang dala ko!

Ang aking 'cover'

Sa aking estimate noon, humigit-kumulang 5 metro lamang ang layo ko mula sa mga bandido na lumabas ng bahay. Ang pinakamalapit sa akin ay halos tatlong metro lamang. Naririnig ko ang pagpapalit nya ng magazine at ginawa ko itong pagkakataon na patsambahan ang kanyang pwesto ng putok mula sa gilid ng aking 'cover'. 

"Pak! Pak! Pak! Pak!""Tsak!"Kabisado ko ang tunog na iyon. Nag-open slide ako. Ubos na ang 7-round mag ko. Kinakapa ko ang isang magazine sa aking shorts habang nagtago sa likod ng cover para mag-change mag. 

"Bratatatat! Bratatat!" 

Naramdaman ko ang alikabok sa bandang ulunan. Tagusan ang bala!

Doon ko na-realize na panay hollow-blocks lang pala yong cover ko na iyon. Lugi ako. 

"Barilin nyo! Cover!" Pinag-return fire ko ang aking kasamahan na iilang metro lamang sa aking pwesto, sa bandang likuran.

Pagapang din ang balik ko sa likod ng mangga. Napuwing ako sa dami ng alikabok ng hollow-block na tinamaan ng bala ng kalaban.

Di ko inaasahan, pagapang ding nag-forward si Ranger JB at pinalitan ang aking pwesto sa may hollow blocks. Sa tangkad nya, nakausli ang ulo nya sa kanyang 'cover'!

"Wag dyan! Alis ka dyan!""Bratatatat! Bratatat!""Bang! Bang! Bang!

Tila ay nahuli ang aking babala kay JB. Naratrat ang kanyang pwesto ng mga kaaway!

"Sir, may tama ako! May tama ako!" Nakita ko si JB na nakahilata na ngunit nakahawak pa sa baril.  

Pinagtulungan naming putukan ang pwesto ng mga kaaway. Nakagapang ang iilan sa aking kasama sa kanilang flanks. 

"Bang! Bang! Bang!" Single shots lang ang naririnig. Tumahimik sa kanilang pwesto. Nahiyang tumayo ang pinakamatapang sa kanila at nagsipagtakbuhan ang iba pa.

Narinig kong umuungol si JB. Di ko alam ang estado ng kanyang tama. Kailangang sagipin ko sya.

"Lakay Novie, forward! Recover natin si JB!" 

Six-footer si Ranger JB at tipong malaking tao. Alam kong mahirapan kaming buhatin sya. 

Naalala ko ang aming Humvee na nakapwesto kasama ang reserve na tropa 3 kilometro lamang ang layo.

"Razzy Boy, tawagan si CO at dalhin ang Humvee dali!"

Sa loob ng bahay, nag-hihiyawan ang mga bata at babae. Batid kong meron pang mga armado sa loob. Dalawa tuloy ang iniisip ko, ang pagsagip ng buhay ng tauhan ko at pati ang pagpasurender sa natitirang mga bandido.

Minabuti kong sinigawan ang mga armado sa loob ng bahay: "Kayong mga armadong nasa loob, sumurender na kayo! Mga sundalo ito!" 

Wala ni isang sumagot ngunit patuloy ang pag-iiyak ng mga paslit.  Samantala, di ko na maantay na maubusan ng dugo si JB. 

"Novie, mag-sacrifice ng damit. Pahintuin natin ang dugo!" 

Mabilis naming inakay si JB papunta sa likod ng puno. Groggy at halos ayaw nang magsalita. Nakahiga lang sya pagkatapos naming lunasan ng first aid. 

"Sir, dalhin nyo na po ako sa hospital!"

Ang pagpa-surrender

Tigasin ang mukha ng mga bandido na nasa loob ng bahay. Ayaw ko rin namang madamay ang mga bata doon. 

Nalagay ako sa mahirap na sitwasyon dahil gustong-gustong pagpapatayin ng aking mga tauhan ang mga namamaril na nagtatago sa loob. Iniisip din nila na mamamatay na si JB.

Nakaisip ako ng isa pang diskarte. Isinigaw ko ang aking 'command'. 

"Gunner, i-load ang bala ng bazooka!" 

Actually, wala akong dalang 90mm Recoilless Rifle sa engkwentro na iyon. Style 'bulok' ko lang na mag-command para ma-dictate ang kanilang aksyon sa loob.

Mabilis ding maka-pick up ng 'style' ang aking mga tuso sa gyera na mga tauhan. 

"Yes sir, loaded na ang bazooka!"

Doon ko sinigawang muli ang mga armado sa loob. 

"Kayong nasa loob, mag-isip isip na kayo. Dahil mamamatay na rin lang itong kasama namin, pasabugin na namin kayong lahat kung ayaw nyong sumurender! Bilangan ko kayo ng sampu!"

"Isa!"

"Dalawa!"

"Tatlo!"

"Ayaw nyo talaga?" 

"Razzy Boy, ready to fire!"

"Nanay ko! Tay! Ateeeee!" Naaawa ako sa lahat ng mga inosenteng ayaw mamamatay pero hindi iyon ang aking inaantay na reaksyon. 

"Reaaaady!!!!"

Ilang saglit lang, narinig ko ang boses na aking pinakaaantay.

"Wag po! Wag po! Maawa kayo! Susurender na po kami!"

Parang nabunutan ako ng tinik ngunit matindi pa rin ang aking tensyon. 

"Buksan nyo ang pinto! Itapon ang mga baril palabas sa pintuan! Paisa-isang lumabas at itaas ang kamay!"

Nakatutok kami sa pintuan at inantabayanan ang susunod na kabanata. 

Paisa-isang nagtilapon ang mga matataas na kalibre ng baril palabas. 

Sumunod ang mga kalalakihan na tila maamong tupa ang mga hitsura.

Sa hindi inaasahang pagkakataon, nagulantang kaming lahat sa sumunod na pangyayari. 

Biglang tumayo si JB at kinwelyohan ang dalawang kaaway.

"Mga animal kayo! Akala nyo mapatay nyo ako ha!" 

Inawat ko si JB kasi para syang tigre na gustong lumamon ng tao.

"Oooops, akala ko ba ay mag-collapse ka na bay? Ba't bigla kang nabuhay?" 

Napatawa ako sa aking nakita. Umaagos ang dugo sa mukha pero nanumbalik ang sigla ni JB!

Minabuti kong dalhin lahat ng mga akusado sa istasyon ng kapulisan upang masampahan ng kaso habang si JB ay itinakbo namin sa pinakamalapit na ospital.

Ang aking mga aral

Marami-rami rin akong napulot sa engkwentro na iyon laban sa mga bandidong komunista. 

Una, na-appreciate ko ang kahalagahan ng pagsuot ng complete battle dress attire. Panay gasgas ang inabot ko sa kakagapang. 

Pangalawa, pwede rin palang matalo ang kalaban gamit ang pananalita. Napasurender ko sila na hindi ginamitan ng dagdag karahasan.

Pangatlo, dapat laging may dalang combat life-saving kit. Panay improvise lang kami noon at pati dahon ng mangga ay ipinangtapal na para ma-stop ang bleeding ng head wound. 

Pang-apat, totoong 'direktor' lamang ang opisyal sa combat patrols.  Pero kung nasa team at squad level ka, dapat warrior ka rin at dapat ay magbitbit ng assault rifle para hindi ka mukhang kawawa kung kailangan mo nang ipagtanggol ang iyong sarili at ang mga kasamahan.

Panglima, mas mabuting iniingatang hindi makapanakit ng inosenteng sibilyan sa mga bakbakan, lalo na ang mga kabataan at kababaihan. Kalimitan, wala naman talaga silang kinalaman sa kabulastugan ng mga kaibigan o kaanak nilang naging kriminal o marahas.

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Paano nilabag ni Marc Sueselbeck ang camp regulations at mga batas ng Pilipinas?

October 26, 2014, 7:30 am

≫ Next: Ang kwento mga sundalong 'Integree'

≪ Previous: Barilan sa bahayan sa Central Luzon: Ang aking pakikipaglaro kay Kamatayan

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Marami ang nagtatanong kung paano nilabag ng Aleman na si Marc Sueselbeck ang batas ng Pilipinas at mga regulasyon ng Armed Forces of the Philippines sa pagbisita sa aming kampo. 

Hindi kasi naikwentong mabuti kung ano ang tunay na pangyayari. Pagkatapos ng aking pag-iimbestiga, ang mga kaganapan ay aking naipagtagpi-tagpi. 

Bago ko simulang ikwento ang mala-telenobelang kaganapan noong ika-22 ng Oktubre 2014, ilahad ko muna ang iilan sa mga basic regulations sa pagpasok sa kahit saang kampo ng militar. 

Marapatin kong sabihin sa inyo na kahit sinong Pilipino ay pwede namang bumisita dito. Kailangan mo lang ipaliwanag ang iyong pakay at magpakita ka ng pruweba ng iyong katauhan. Mas maiging meron kang kakilalang sundalo. 

Camp regulations

Ang pinakamahalaga sa camp regulations na dapat intindihin ng bawat bisita ay iyong patungkol sa security protocols. Ano yon? Ito ay ang mga bagay o lugar o kaya aksyon na ipinagbabawal sa mga bisita. 

Para maging maliwanag, ito ang mga sampol ng camp regulations:

1. Security protocols. Bawal pumasok sa mga lugar na 'off-limits' o 'restricted' areas. Ang halimbawa dito ay ang barracks, supply room, ammo depot, military stockade at mga opisinang gumagawa ng mga sensitibong trabaho na may implikasyon sa national security. Ooops, interesado ka ba dito? Siguro kung espiya ka o talagang laking tsismoso!

 2. Observe speed limits. Kung kaskasero o race car driver ka, sorry ka na lang, di mo ito pwedeng gawin iyan sa kampo. Tandaan mo, 40kph lang ang maximum speed dito. Kung mag-jogging ka lang naman, pwede naman siguro kahit 100kph pa gagawin mo kung wala kang maagrabyado!

3. No smoking areas. Health conscious din kami sa kampo. Merong mga lugar na bawat manigarilyo. Kagaya ko na hindi nagsusunog ng baga, bawal ang mga paninigarilyo sa aking opisina. Hanap kayo ng lugar na kayo lang makalanghap ng usok nyo. Sa inyo na lang iyan di ba?

4. No parking areas. Syempre, i-park mo dapat ang sasakyan mo sa designated parking areas. Basa-basa rin ng parking signs kung may time. Kung gusto mo ma-tow ng Military Police o malagyan ng kadena ang sasakyan mo, try mo i-park sa kanto-kanto ang iyong sasakyan. 

Car pass

Dito sa Camp Aguinaldo, nagbibigay ng decal/sticker ang Camp Commander sa mga indibidwal kagaya ng mga sundalo at mga kaanak o piling kakilala nila. Kapag merong sticker, nakakapasok sa loob ng kampo basta sumunod sa regulasyong kagaya nito:

• Roll down windows
• Patayin ang head lights
• Pailawin ang cabin light kung gabi
• Ipasilip sa gwardya ang loob ng sasakyan 

(Mas maganda kung mag-smile ka rin at gumalang sa gwardya!)

Kung wala kang sticker, kailangang dumaan sa Gate 6 malapit sa 20th Avenue at doon manghingi ng car pass sa MP. Para makakuha ng car pass, kailangang i-justify ang pagbisita at mas maiging merong prior coordination sa bibisitahing opisina o tao para sya na mismo sasalubong sa iyo. Kailangan mong iwan ang iyong driver's license sa gwardya.

Foreign nationals

Kung ikaw naman ay foreign national, I am sorry po pero hindi ka kaagad makakapasok sa kampo. 

Una, kailangan mo ng security clearance. Mabigat ang requirement sa security clearance. I-coordinate pa ito sa embassy mo. Bakeeet? Syempre, di namin kayo kakilala! Malay mo nga naman kung ikaw ay terorista o kaya involved sa transnational crimes kagaya ng drug trafficking o human trafficking? Baka miyembro ka pala ng teroristang ISIS? 

Sa madaling salita, hindi ka makakapasok agad sa kampo kung ikaw ay foreigner. Baka aabutin ng 1-2 weeks ang proseso nyan. Sorry ha? Regulasyon eh. 

Art of deception

Marami ang nagtatanong paano nakapasok si Sueselbeck, Laude family at Atty Harry Roque sa aming kampo noong hapon ng Oktubre 22, 2014. 

Actually, sila ay pinagbawalan nang pumasok sa Gate 3 sa may EDSA dahil nakita ng gwardya ang Caucasian na si Sueselbeck. Syempre, alam ng gwardya na hindi ito pwedeng papasukin kung walang security clearance.

Ang ginawa nila, lumipat sila sa Gate 6 at gumamit ng bagong taktika sa pagpasok. Itinago nila si Sueselbeck sa likuran ng sasakyan. Nilinlang nila ang guard na ang pupuntahan ay ang Public Affairs Office na aking opisina. Dahil pang-publiko ang aking opisina, very convenient itong gagamitin na alibi sa pagbisita. Hindi na sila makakaulit.

Dahil nabigyan sila ng carpass, nakapasok sila sa kampo at nakakita ng pagkakataon na isakatuparan ang maitim na balak. As expected, hindi sila pumunta sa Public Affairs Office. Sa halip ay dumerecho sa MDB-SEB Facility na kung saan ay andoon nakatira si Pfc Joseph Scott Pemberton, ang pangunahing suspek sa pagpatay kay Jeffrey Laude a.k.a. Jennifer. 

Actually, batid namin na pupunta ang grupo nila Sueselbeck. Nagsabi ang isa kong kaibigan sa media na nagti-text ang grupo nila Laude na nang-iimbita sa kanilang planong 'pagkalampag' sa 'kulungan' ni Pemberton. Ang problema, hindi kakilala ng guards ang pamilya at kung anong sasakyan. Dahil sa kakulangan sa oras, hindi na nakapagkalap ng dagdag na impormasyon kagaya ng pictures para sila ay maharang sa gate kapag makilala. Sa paniniwala ng aming legal advisers, ito ay paglabag sa Presidential Decree 1227 na nagbabawal sa pagpasok sa military base na walang kaukulang permiso. Alam din namin na maraming palusot dito.

Dahil nakapasok na sila at andon ang maraming TV at radio reporters, isinakatuparan nila ang pwersahang pagpasok sa unang gate ng compound palagay ko mga 3:00 pm na iyon (di ko sure ang exact time). 

Di kalaunan, inakyat ni Marilou Laude at Marc Sueselbeck ang perimeter fence. Itinulak ni Sueselbeck nang malakas ang gwardya na kumausap sa kanya. Tila nadibdiban ng higanteng Aleman ang aming sundalo. Ito ay direct assault on a person on authority.Mas pinili nito ang maging mahinahon at mapagkumbaba. Alam nya na nakatutok ang lahat ng camera. Ginamit nya ang kanyang isip.

Nasa loob na sila Sueselbeck nang ako ay nakarating sa lugar pagkatapos na makatanggap ng tawag tungkol sa intrusion nila doon. 

Kinausap ko si Marilou at pinaalalahanan na violation ang ginawa nila: 

"Kung bahay mo pinasok ng tao sa pamamagitan ng pag-akyat ng wall, matutuwa ka ba?"

Ipinaliwanag ko sa kanila na wala sa aming level of influence ang pagbukas sa MDB-SEB Facility para ipakita sa kanila si Pemberton. Hello! How I wish lang. Actually, gusto rin naming makamit ng mga Laude ang hustisya eh. Syempre, nakakagalit ang namamatayan. Pilipino rin naman kami at nakakaramdam ng lungkot ng namamatayan ng kababayan. Ang problema, di ba't US government ang may custody ayon sa VFA? Dagdag pa riyan, suspek din iyon at meron din siyang karapatan. In short, "rule of law" lang dapat obserbahan. Alam ito ng mga abogado! Rule of law....Rule of law!

Pagkatapos kong magsalita, tila nahimasmasan si Marilou ng konti ngunit determinado sa on-camera na aksyon, ayaw nilang kusang lumabas. 

"Kung ayaw nyong lumabas dyan, kayo ay ipapa-aresto at ilagay sa kulungan ng sundalo!"

Sinigawan ako ni Atty Roque: "Ahhh, ikaw ba ang Spokesperson ng US Armed Forces?"Marami syang sinabing masasakit na pananalita. Di ko na pinatulan.

Pati mga kapatid sa media ay naiinis sa nangyari, lalo na sa pambabastos sa aming sundalo na si Tsg Pamittan. Kinausap ko sila na dahan-dahang lisanin ang lugar. Sumama sa akin sina Kuya Bing Formento at iilang taga Defense Press Corps. 

Nang dumating si BGen Arthur Ang, kinausap nya ang grupo. Nasigawan at napahiya din si Gen Ang ngunit sya rin ay nagpakumbaba at kinausap sila ng mahinahon. Mga alas-singko na noon nang pumayag ang grupo na sumama sila sa opisina ni BGen Ang. 

Ang mga kaganapan na ito ang dahilan kung bakit ipinag-uutos ni AFP Chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. ang paghain ng reklamo laban kay Sueselbeck sa Bureau of Immigration at maging sa German Embassy. 

Naniniwala kasi ang AFP na dapat ang foreign nationals ay dapat sumunod sa lahat ng batas at regulasyon ng bansa na kanyang binibisita. Ang mga violations ni Sueselbeck ay posibleng basehan para sya ay madeklarang 'undesirable alien' at hindi na makakabalik sa bansang Pilipinas.

Ang kwento mga sundalong 'Integree'

November 1, 2014, 3:51 am

≫ Next: Dying young as a hero: The story of 2nd Lt Jun Corpuz

≪ Previous: Paano nilabag ni Marc Sueselbeck ang camp regulations at mga batas ng Pilipinas?

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Alam nyo bang meron tayong mga sundalo na dating nakikipaglaban sa pamahalaan? Sila ay mas kilala sa generic term na 'Integrees' kagaya ng mga dating mga miyembro ng Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) at ng Cordillera People's Liberation Army (CPLA).

Dahil sa peace agreement sa pagitan ng pamahalaan at sa MNLF at ng CPLA, napagkasunduang isama sa hanay ng kasundaluhan ang iilan sa kanilang miyembro.

Noong ako ay unang naninilbihan bilang mandirigmang Scout Ranger sa Basilan noong 1998, nakasama ko ang iilan sa mga 'MNLF Integrees' sa aming mga lakad laban sa mga Abu Sayyaf na pinamunuan noon ni Abdurajak Abubakar Janjalani. 

Sa aking pakikipaglaban sa mga bandidong Abu Sayyaf noong taong 2000 sa Sulu, malaking tulong din ang naibigay sa akin ng iilang MNLF 'Integree' na sumama sa ilan kong mga lakad. 

Nang binisita ko ang tropa sa Sulu noong ika-30 ng Oktubre 2014, nakasalamuha ko ang iilan sa mga nataguriang 'Integrees'. 

Sina Private First Class June Rose Mukay at Pfc. Cherryl Fernandez ay pawang tubong Kalinga. Sila ay na-integrate sa Army noong 2012 at naging miyembro ng 5th Infantry Division na naka-base sa Gammu, Isabela. 

Samantala, si Major Abdul Gaffor Asiri ay dati namang tauhan ni Nur Misuari sa MNLF. Sya ay nagtapos bilang miyembro ng Officer Candidate Course Class 19 noong 1998. 

Malayong assignment

Pagkatapos ng kanyang commissionship bilang 2nd LT noong 1998, nalibot na ni Asiri ang Southern Mindanao bilang miyembro ng 1st Infantry Division. 

"Marami na rin akong karanasan sa iba't-ibang posisyon sa Army at nagampanan ko naman ang aking tungkulin sa pinakamabuting pamamaraan na aking makakaya," sabi ni Asiri na anak rin ng isang MNLF. 

Sabi ni Asiri, malugod nyang tinanggap ang kanyang paglipat sa 5th Infantry Division mula sa kanyang assignment sa Zamboanga City mga dalawang buwan na ang nakaraan. 

"Hindi ako nagpakita ng kalungkutan o pag-aatubili kasi alam ko para ito sa aking ikabubuti. Pagkakataon ko na rin iyong makita ang Northern Luzon," ani Asiri na lumaki sa lalawigan ng Sulu. 

Samantala, sina Mukay at Fernandez na tubong Kalinga ay hindi inaasahang mapadpad sa kabilang dulo ng Pilipinas.

Silang dalawa ay panay may asawa at meron nang mga anak na naiwan sa kanilang tahanan. 

"Walang problema sa akin ang assignment ko dito sa Jolo sir. Nais ko ring makatulong na matapos ang mga labanan dito," sabi ni Mukay na ina ng 4 na anak. 

Si Fernandez naman ay nagpakita ng positibong pananaw sa kanyang Jolo assignment. Sya rin ay ina ng isang maliit pang anak na iniwan nya sa pangangalaga ng kanyang asawa sa bayan ng Bunao.

"Natatawagan ko naman sila parati at merong phone signal dito. Alam ko naman na mabibigyan din kami ng pagkakataon na makakauwi sa aming pamilya sa takdang panahon," sabi nya.

Hindi inaasahan ni Asiri na ang kanyang assignment sa kabilang dako ng Pilipinas ay magiging pabor pala sa kanya. 

Nang maghanda ang 501st Infantry Brigade para sa deployment nito sa Sulu, agad syang sinabihan na sumama para makatulong sa mga tropa sa bagong assignment.

"Natuwa na rin ako kasi dito rin pala sa aking bayan ang bagsak ng aking destino. Gusto ko ring matapos na itong problema ng Abu Sayyaf dito. Kahit kapwa Tausug at Muslim ay binibiktima na rin nila," sabi ni Asiri.

Mukha ng karahasan

Sabi ni Asiri, tila ayaw na nyang balikan ang mga masasamang ala-ala ng mga madugong labanan na kanyang naranasan simula noong sya ay bata pa. 

Kasama sya na palipat-lipat sa gubat kasama ang buong pamilya nang nakikipaglaban pa ang kanyang ama sa mga sundalo.

"Nakita ko ang masamang dulot ng karahasan. Naalala ko pa ang nagbagsakan na mga bala ng mortar sa aming paligid na syang ikinasugat ng aking kapatid na babae. Naranasan ko ring kumain ng kung anu-ano na lang na halaman at pati niyog para lang maitawid ang gutom," sabi nya. 

Si Asiri, Mukay at Fernandez ay magkakasamang naninilbihan sa 501st Brigade na naka-base sa Bud Datu sa bayan ng Indanan. 

Kinikilala ng pamunuan  ng kanilang yunit ang kanilang serbisyo bilang sundalo. Hindi na sila tinatawag na 'Integree' kundi mga sundalong Pilipino.

Para sa akin, silang tatlo ay ang simbolo na kapayapaan ang isulong natin sa para sa ating bayan. 

Kuha ang larawan sa pagbisita ni Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at CSAFP General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr sa 501st Brigade sa Bud Datu, Indanan, Sulu noong ika-30 ng Oktubre 2014.

Dying young as a hero: The story of 2nd Lt Jun Corpuz

November 2, 2014, 7:31 am

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Cadet Jun Corpuz developed his leadership abilities when he became the Company Commander of Foxtrot Company, Cadet Corps Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Definitely, it was not an ordinary All Souls Day 2014. I was visiting the tomb of my father-in-law when I received a text message about the death of 6 Army soldiers in Basilan. Again?

I heard that one of the fatalities was a young Army officer who wanted to become a Scout Ranger like me. 

In the initial accounts that I gathered from the ground, I learned that he died as a hero.

I called some friends and colleagues to know more about this man. Gradually, I felt like I lost my own brother.

A proud Ilocano, 2nd Lieutenant Jun Galima Corpuz, 22, was the fourth child among the seven children of Cresencio and Elizabeth, both 49. 

He was a second year BS Engineering student of Don Mariano Marcos State University in Bacnotan, La Union when he decided to enter the Philippine Military Academy in April 2010.

A brilliant mathematician since his college days, he excelled and graduated number 13 in his class. 

Scout Ranger dream

As a PMA cadet, Corpuz dreamed of becoming a Scout Ranger and  yearned to live a life that is full of danger. 

After finishing the orientation course on Scout Ranger combat leadership fundamentals, he was more determined become a 'Musang' (Scout Ranger) himself.

As a PMA cadet, 2nd Lt Corpuz had expressed his intention to become a Scout Ranger. This photo was taken during their field training exercises.

He was motivated by the combat stories shared by his maternal uncle, Master Sergeant Jaime Galima, a battle-hardened Scout Ranger who regularly visited his home when he was still a young boy.

"He told me that he would like to earn the 'tabak' (Scout Ranger qualification badge) one day. He really wanted to become a war hero and a warrior like uncle Jaime," said Emmanuel, 23, his elder brother.

His company commander, 1st Lt Michael Ignario, said that Corpuz volunteered to attend the rigorous 6-month Scout Ranger Course. 

"He was very dedicated in his job and he showed the best traits of a leader. I programmed him to attend the SR Course in the 2nd quarter of 2015,"said Ignario.

Dying a hero

Corpuz was never discouraged by the unfavorable comments from his relatives who said that "soldiers die young".

"I am not afraid to die because anyone will die once God decides to take back his life. I rather die a hero than perish as a 'tambay'," Cresencio quoted him as saying.

He considered his Basilan assignment as the start of the fulfillment of his dream of becoming a warrior-leader. 

He was very excited when he reported for duty as a Platoon Leader of Alpha Company, 64th Infantry Battalion in the war-torn municipality of Sumisip.

2nd Lt Jun Corpuz gamely posed for a photo with Muslim women during a CMO activity in Basilan Province.

Sgt Marvin Paragoso, 33, was one of the two survivors who fought with Corpuz against a numerically superior enemy early morning on Sunday (November 2). 

He said that Corpuz was a very good leader who can easily mingle with the troops. 

"He was a very caring person who readily listened and helped solve our problems. He always found time to interact with us during our leisure time," said Paragoso as he held back tears.

2nd Lt Jun Corpuz was known as an approachable leader who can easily mingle with the enlisted personnel under his command.

Paragoso was with Corpuz during a routine security patrol in Libug village, Sumisip town where the construction of the 64-km Basilan Circumferential Road was ongoing. 

Corpuz and his men saw a high ground that could be used by bandits as a staging ground for their attacks. He decided to clear the  bushy part of the hill by personally checking its surroundings. 

"While climbing the hill, we saw a man who hurriedly left away from the crest. All of a sudden our leading elements were heavily engaged in an intense firefight, hitting some of them. Positioned a few meters from the leading elements,  Lt Corpuz commanded us to provide supporting fires to save them. We fought hard but we were overwhelmed by their numbers."

Sensing that they will be encircled, Paragoso convinced Corpuz to jump towards a ravine and find a covered position as he radioed for reinforcements. 

"I saw Lt Corpuz firing his gun at our attackers while I leaped towards a defilade to escape from the high-explosive rounds that rained on us. I was hit and bleeding so I crawled towards safety," he said. 

When his comrades came after about half an hour, they found the lifeless body of their respected officer. 

He died fighting to save his wounded comrades whom he considered as his brothers. 

Tears flowed as they carried all of the six fatalities back to their detachment. 

"I will never forget a compassionate leader like him. True to his word, he left no one behind," said Paragoso, a native of Cotabato.

Provider

A construction worker himself, Cresencio said that Jun supported the family during its trying times. 

"After his PMA graduation, he loaned an amount so that his mother can pay all the debts that she incurred while sending all our children to school," he said.

Cresencio also said that Jun acted like a mentor to his other siblings. 

"He was the one who encouraged them to study well and become a better person. He event encouraged his brothers to take the PMA entrance exams," he said. 

** Photos were taken from the FB account of 2nd Lt Jun Corpuz (with permission from his family members)

Battle-scarred Scout Rangers: The story of the next breed of Army warrior-leaders

November 15, 2014, 4:02 am

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My souvenir photo with 1st Lt Michael 'Mike' Asistores of the 1st Scout Ranger Company. He was my student in both Rifle and Pistol marksmanship training that I conducted for the members of PMA Class of 2007.

When I visited the battlegrounds of Sulu two weeks ago, I looked for the soldiers whom I worked with in this Abu Sayyaf-infested island exactly fourteen years ago.

As a certified 'Santolan warrior' (garrison duty personnel) nowadays, I missed the company of soldiers who spent time with me in the boondocks of this historic island province, the location of the battle for Bud Daho and Bud Bagsak in the early 1900s.

My photo as a frontline leader that was taken in Hill 509 in the boundary of Patikul and Talipao. Behind us is Mt Munggit. I was facing the direction of Mt Tunggul, Mt Gasam and Mt. Sinumaan. The forested area in this complex is known to be the favorite hiding place of the legendary Radulan Sahiron a.k.a. Commander Putol. 

After scaling Mt Sinumaan in Patikul, I posed for a photo with my mistahs, 1st Lt Eric Sales (left), the former Commanding Officer of the 1st Scout Ranger Company; and, 1st Lt Clifford Cordova, the Commanding Officer of the 19th Scout Ranger Company. Behind us are the low-lying areas of Tanum, Igasan and Taglibi in Patikul town. Eric and Clifford were my buddies when we clashed with Radulan's group in Bgy Baunuh, some 3 kilometers away, northeast from where we stood.

During my recent visit, I was lucky to meet three Musangs (Scout Rangers) whom I had mentored before. 

One of them was 1st Lt Michael 'Mike' Asistores, 30,  the Officer-in-Charge of the 1st Scout Ranger (We Dare) Company. 

The two others, Sgt Quipot and Sgt Cerezo, were my former warriors in the 10th Scout Ranger (We Lead) Company. 

Sgt Castro Kitong, 38, was also a former subordinate but he was not able to come to Bud Datu during my visit at the headquarters of the Joint Task Group Sulu. 

When I mingled with my fellow Scout Rangers during my visit in Sulu, I felt like joining the next combat patrols. My former subordinates, Sgt Cerezo and Sgt Quipot, flanked me in this photo. Also in photo is Medal for Valor awardee, Col. Cirilito 'SJ' Sobejana (2nd from left)

After hearing their personal accounts, I am proud to share the story of Lt. Mike Asistores, a Musang and my marksmanship student,  who followed my footsteps to become a warrior-leader in the First Scout Ranger Regiment. 

Asistores and  Kitong, like many battle-hardened Scout Rangers, are distinguished warriors whose bravery in combat have inspired many soldiers and civilians alike.

Battle-scarred warriors

When he sustained a shrapnel wound in the bloody encounter with more or less 300 Abu Sayyaf bandits in Talipao town early afternoon on November 14, 2014, 1st Lt Mike Asistores of Rizal, Cagayan, became a certified battle survivor. He is bearing several scars including a wound on his face.

It was the third time that he was wounded in his career as an Army leader after graduating from PMA in 2007. He said that he is very lucky to have evaded the claws of death in the past years. 

"By God's grace, he always protected me. Also, our tactical training in the Scout Ranger Training School has equipped us with mission-essential skills and can-do attitude which are needed in the field," he said.  

When his unit was tasked to track the elusive bandits in the hinterlands of Patikul, he knew that he would be facing real-life dangers. Having experienced at least 10 armed encounters, he is no stranger to death-defying actions. 

Meanwhile, Sgt. Castro "Caster" Kitong, was awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) when he was first wounded as a Private of the 10th Scout Ranger Company that I commanded from 2000- 2001.

He fought heroically when my unit figured in a 6-hour firefight against more or less 200 Abu Sayyaf bandits in Balatanay, Basilan on October 7, 2001.

I can vividly remember Kitong as the one whom I ordered to crawl an Abu Sayyaf position to grab an M60 Machinegun.

He bravely advanced forward with militiaman Leonardo Orozco while I engaged the bandits in a shootout to provide them covering fires. 

He successfully took away the prized machinegun but he sustained a minor wound on his side and thigh. 

As a personal witness to his exceptional bravery in combat, I did not hesitate to recommend him for the Gold Cross Medal, the third highest combat medal.

I was not surprised that Kitong would emerge as one of the trustworthy NCO-leaders of the 1st Scout Ranger Company in one of the bloodiest firefight that the unit got involved in its unit history.  

I am proud to learn that Caster had become a reliable combat leader. Still believing our original company motto,"Walang iwanan!", was shot in the abdomen while fighting it out with bandits who assaulted their position.

Leader's recon

To gather more information about the enemy and the terrain around Bud (Mount) Bagsak and Bud Tunggul in the boundary of Talipao and Patikul, Lt Asistores directed his Platoon Leader, 2nd Lt Dante "Esprite" Espiritu, to go on reconnaissance patrol. 

"We are aware that the bandits were hiding somewhere in the forest but we could not pinpoint their actual locations. Our tracking skills were put to test again and again," he said. 

Moving stealthily through the dense forest, Lt Espiritu and his men scoured the forest floors, analyzing the ground disturbances. 

About a hundred meters from the unit's rally point, they spotted 20-30 bandits in a makeshift hut near Bud Bunga in the boundary of Talipao and Patikul.  

The recon elements were observing the bandits who are resting in a hut. Espiritu and his men were only about 10-15 meters away from them. 

The designated surveillance elements observed closely behind the shrubs and bushes served as their concealment. 

"When they told me that they had spotted the bandits, my heart was pounding heavily and I felt like warm blood circulated around my body. I know that the time for reckoning is finally reached," he said.

"Unfortunately, a bandit walked towards their hide site. Esprite had to make quick decisions," he added. 

Instead of linking-up with the recon elements to finalize their attack plan, he suddenly heard staccatos of gun fire near the position of Lt Espiritu at around 2:00 pm. 

"Di na maantay ni Sprite na dumugtong ako sa kanya sir kasi maapakan na sila ng kalaban na papunta sa kanilang taguan para magdumi. Nag-command na agad sya na i-engage na ang mga kalaban na iilang metro ang layo sa kanilang harapan," said Asistores. 

The Rangers dominated the fight as they shot all targets in front of them using selective fires, supported by the grazing fires of their light machineguns. 

Unknown to them, all surrounding hills nearby were occupied by at least 300 bandits led by 5 notorious leaders such as Radulan Sahiron a.k.a. Commander Putol, Hairullah Asbang, Jurim Hussein, Hatib Sawadjaan and Juli Ekit. 

Asistores said that Espiritu called for reinforcement minutes into the firefight after incurring at least two casualties.

"I could hear Esprite's voice over the radio amidst the heavy volumes of fire from various directions. They were almost surrounded by the enemy," said Asistores who was only about a hundred meters away. 

'Pintakasi'

Having experienced the 'pintakasi' (attack from all directions) tactics used by the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan, Asistores promptly assembled a platoon to help his heavily engaged men. 

His novice platoon leader (PL) , 2nd Lt Matt Binias, 23, a native of Iloilo, was with him. A graduate of PMA Class of 2014, Binias look up to him as a mentor. 

"I told my subordinates to ready their weapons. I told Matt to stay focused and trust our well-experienced subordinates.We approached cautiously from the west of the engaged troops, our guns locked and loaded." 

While approaching the encounter site about 20 minutes later, Asistores and his men saw the bandits who were attempting to outflank the position of Lt Espiritu. They were unaware that the Rangers led by Asistores were coming from behind.

"The bandits wanted to annihilate the platoon of Esprite by attempting to surround them, so I positioned my platoon about 30-50 meters behind the bandits to join the fight," he said. 

He said that he could not allow the enemy to rout his recon elements. He considered his subordinates as his brothers and friends.

"Nang nakapwesto na kaming mabuti, pinaputukan na agad namin sila. Nabulaga namin sila at marami kaming napatumba sa kanila."

Asistores said that an hour into the firefight, he realized that more and more bandits came to attack his platoon. He noticed that there were plenty of M203 grenade launcher rounds that exploded around them. 

"Bullets rained on us. There were too many of them. I knew it was another attempt to surround my position."

Asistores also said that the bandits met them frontally despite being met with fires. 

"The young-looking bandits were very daring and unmindful of our fires. They kept advancing towards our position despite being hit repeatedly. They were very ferocious and daring," he said. 

Finding himself in the middle of overwhelming enemy fires, Asistores called for more support from his battalion commander, Lt Col Eugene Boquio. One by one, he saw his men bloodied after being hit by the enemy. 

"I yelled at my team leaders amidst the intense exchange of fires. I directed Sgt Tumala to direct some of our personnel to extricate the wounded."

Seeing the dead and wounded soldiers around him, Asistores pressed the fight by rallying the remaining soldiers to hold their line to provide support as the casualties are being evacuated. 

After about 2 hours of dodging bullets, he was hit near his arm pit. He felt that something pierced through his flesh but he maintained his composure to inspire his men. He kept shooting at the bandits who tried to come near him.

"One of my team leaders, Sgt Kitong, came to my side and helped me control our remaining troops. He was very concerned when he saw that I was already bloodied," said Asistores. 

Asistores also said that he was lucky to have brave NCO (non commissioned officer) leaders in his company. 

"I credit my NCOs for keeping the integrity of my unit. Aside from Sgt Kitong, my platoon sergeant, SSgt Tumala, was among those who exhibited conspicuous courage by running from one team's position to another to provide leadership amidst the volley of fires," he said. 

Asistores said that 2nd Lt Binias performed very well during  his baptism of fire. 

"He ably led a handful of men to suppress the advancing bandits as I supervised the extrication of our casualties towards the rear. He fought courageously and he successfully prevented the enemy from surrounding our position," he said. 

When I talked to Kitong, he was in high spirits despite having difficulty sharing his experience. He said that he lost three of his team members in the fiercest battle that he experienced in his life.

"I am saddened by the deaths of my dear teammates. I did my best to save them all but God has plans for them," said Kitong, a proud son of Ifugao.  

Drug-crazed juramentados

Meanwhile, Asistores said that the Abu Sayyaf 'borrowed' their courage from the marijuana leaves that they smoked before the firefight. 

His men recovered the left-over of smoked marijuana leaves in the encounter site. 

"That solved the puzzle about their bravery in combat. They were high on drugs. They were drug-crazed fighters," he said. 

Perhaps a coincidence, the encounter took place a few hundred meters away from Bud Bagsak where the historic battle between the American forces led by Gen John 'Blackjack' Pershing and the Tausug warriors took place over a century ago.

Known as the juramentados, the marauding Tausug warriors led the Americans to invent the much powerful Cal. 45 pistol, in order to stop the bolo-wielding Moro fighters.

Based on the recent accounts about drug use, the Abu Sayyaf bandits certainly could not copy the bravery of their ancestors.

Heroes

Asistores said that he considers all five men who paid the ultimate sacrifice as his personal heroes. 

"They have shown us that the true spirit of the Scout Rangers. Walang iwanan. They died fighting for the country with their combat boots on," said Asistores, who was first wounded in an encounter with NPA bandits in Lingig, Surigao del Sur in 2008. 

He also said that he and his men who are now recuperating in the military hospital in Zamboanga, are all willing to come back to Sulu and rejoin their beloved unit. 

"I will gladly go back and be with my men in the frontlines. We must crush the Abu Sayyaf and end its kidnapping business," he said. 

Major encounter

Col Alan Arrojado, the commander of the Joint Task Group Sulu is confident that the AFP can gradually decimate the Abu Sayyaf ranks. 

He also said that the Abu Sayyaf has nowhere to hide if the civilians will cooperate with the military in identifying them and pinpointing their jungle hideouts. 

He said that among those who died were notorious leaders Hairullah Asbang, the brother-in-law of Radulan Sahiron and Juli Ekit. 

Arrojado said that his unit has accounted 10 dead bandits and 15 wounded.

Arrojado also said that all of the injured soldiers have been evacuated to the hospital as of 10:00pm last night (Nov 14). He declined to name the casualties until the nearest kin are notified by the First Scout Ranger Regiment. 

He said that more troops were poured in the peripheries of the encounter area to block the Abu Sayyaf's escape routes.

More support

AFP Chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. has expressed his condolences to the family members of the 5 fallen heroes.

"Please allow me to express my heartfelt condolences to those who lost their loved ones while fighting for the country. I thank them for their selfless service," said Catapang. 

Catapang promptly ordered his senior staff officers to send medical teams, mission-essential equipment and additional supplies for the troops. A C-130 was put on standby to bring them to Sulu today (Nov 15.)

He also said that he wanted to recognize the bravery of the Scout Rangers during his visit next week.

"I want to personally pin the Gold Cross Medals to all deserving warrior-leaders who displayed conspicuous courage in this particular firefight. Their bravery must be emulated by all soldiers."

Leading from the front: The story of Lt Dante Espiritu

November 23, 2014, 2:49 am

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Lt Dante 'Sprite' Espiritu proudly wears the 'tabak' on his left breast pocket after completing the rigorous Scout Ranger Course in 2011.

Since his college days, 1st Lieutenant Dante 'Sprite' Espiritu, 34, of Pagadian City,  always dreamed of becoming a certified Scout Ranger. 

While attending college, he complied all  the ROTC requirements religiously. He earned the admiration of his Tactical NCOs, some of whom were Scout Rangers. 

He can vividly remember the  likes of Msg Ruben Moreno and Tsg Amar. He said that they were higly-respectable Scout Ranger non-commissioned officers (NCOs).

"They inspired me to join the Army. I admired them because of their good demeanor.  I liked the way they conducted themselves during our training," said Espiritu, a B.S. Criminology graduate of Pagadian College of Criminology. 

He rose to become the ROTC commander in his school during which he gained more experiences on how to lead people. 

"I learned in ROTC that the higher your rank, the more responsibilities you will get. I also realized that the best way to motivate the subordinates in doing difficult tasks is to show the best example," he said. 

Army life

After finishing college, he took the Preparatory Officer's Training Course (POTC) in preparation to his journey in the military service. 

"I was quite determined to dedicate my life in the Army. I was no longer interested to pursue any other career," he revealed.

  

He was commissioned as a 2nd Lt in 2009,  and was called to active duty (CAD) a year later when he finished the Officer Preparatory Course (OPC) at the Training and Doctrine Command of the Philippine Army.

He found himself at SOCOM headquarters after spending his short admin break. 

"Perhaps, it was a stroke of luck that two of us from OPC were assigned to SOCOM. I knew that my buddy was a die-hard SF so I let him select a unit first. As expected, he opted to be with the Special Forces Regiment, so, I fulfilled my dream of joining the ranks of the elite Scout Rangers." 

In June 2010, Espiritu was assigned as a Platoon Leader of the 10th Scout Ranger Company that was based in Basilan. He knew that anytime, he would be joining the exciting adventures that every young officer wanted.

1st Lt Rey Daet, his Company Commander and a member of PMA Class of 2002, was his first mentor. He was still a 'non-Ranger' during that time but he wanted to prove his worth as a leader.

"I was lucky that my C.O. was an excellent leader and mentor. He taught me how to gradually immerse in the company that was composed of highly-experienced soldiers whose fighting tradition of 'walang iwanan' was widely known," he said. 

A few months later, he received his baptism of fire during a patrolling mission in Baiwas village in Sumisip town. 

While reconnoitering deep inside the jungle lair of the Abu Sayyaf, he found himself in the middle of an enemy encampment. 

"Visibility was almost zero during that time when we stealthily stalked the enemy deep in the forest. It was almost 4:00 am when we stumbled upon people who were sleeping on a makeshift tent," he said. 

"All of a sudden,  two people rose and scampered away, announcing our presence. In a few moment, the burst of gunshots commenced, hitting two of my teammates and prompted us to retaliate, triggering a heavy exchange of fires."

He would later experience another firefight in the succeeding patrols. He said that the presence of well-experienced SR NCOs mattered most in those encounters. 

"I was inspired more by the good examples shown by my NCOs in those bloody skirmishes. They took care of me and helped me in leading our patrols," said Espiritu. 

He remained unscathed in all of those bloody firefights which injured some of his subordinates. 

He already had the bragging rights as a 'mandirigma', but he lacked something: the SR "tabak".


Capturing "Musang"

When he was sent to the Scout Ranger Training School to join the Scout Ranger Course Class 180-11, he was very excited. 

He had long wanted to wear the much-coveted Scout Ranger 'tabak', the same one that was proudly worn by his ROTC mentors and NCO-leaders of the 10th Scout Ranger Company . 

"I have no other goal in my life during that year. I was determined to capture Haring Musang and become a true-blooded warrior,"he said. 

During my visit to the home of the First Scout Ranger Regiment last year, I gathered all Scout Rangers to pose for a 'look up' photo with "Haring Musang", the official SR mascot. Some of my subordinates from the 10th Scout Ranger Company joined me in this souvenir picture.

He said that he learned more of the art of combat leadership and counter-guerilla tactics while studying at the school. 

"I mastered the techniques, tactics and procedures in leading soldiers to combat under difficult conditions. I learned small-unit tactics from NCOs who had experienced real-life battles against different adversaries like the Abu Sayyaf, MILF and NPA bandits," he said. 

Lt Espiritu (2nd from left) and his batchmates pose for a souvenir photo during the lull of their SR Course training that was conducted in San Miguel, Bulacan sometime in 2011.


Espiritu and his batchmates later found themselves in the battlegrounds of Basilan for their Test Mission in 2011. 

Armed with his valuable experiences as a Platoon Leader in the same area, he was no stranger to the tactics used by the lawless elements.

His team figured in a fierce clash with Abu Sayyaf bandits somewhere in the boundary of Tipo-tipo and Al-Barka. They fought fearlessly, killing numerous bandits and grabbing 3 high-powered firearms including two M16A1 Assault Rifles and an M14 Assault Rifle. He earned his first Gold Cross Medal in that encounter.

Lt Dante Espiritu was awarded the Gold Cross Medal for acts of gallantry during the AFP Day in 2012. He was congratulated by the former CSAFP, General Emmanuel Bautista.

He finally fulfilled his dream of becoming a full-blooded Scout Ranger when he was pinned the Scout Ranger tab during the graduation rites in Camp Tecson in Bulacan. 

Ranger tradition: "Walang iwanan"

He was a certified 'Musang' when he came back to 10SRC in January 2012. 

1st Cpt Rodrigo Babaran was the new Company Commander when the unit figured in another major encounter with the Abu Sayyaf bandits in Baiwas village in Sumisip town. 

The warriors of the 10th Scout Ranger Company celebrated their victory after capturing an Abu Sayyaf camp in the hinterlands of Sumisip town, Basilan in July 2012. (10SRC Photo)



Cpt Arcel Soco, 32, a member of PMA Class of 2006, once mentored 2nd Lt Espiritu. As the former Executive Officer of the 10th SRC, they were together in at least three clashes in 2012. 

"He can lead people to fight under intense pressure. He can be trusted to perform dangerous missions," said Soco, one of the battle-hardened officers of the FSRR.

Soco said that in one instance, he tasked Espiritu's platoon to save civilians who were caught in a crossfire when their camp was attacked by bandits on July 1, 2012. 

"He fought bravely with his men to suppress the attackers and collect the civilians who were caught in the middle of the firefight. They used their own bodies to shield the people and brought them to safety," he said. 

Soco was again with Espiritu when their unit dashed towards an encounter site where members of the 11th Scout Ranger Company were pinned down by an overwhelming number of bandits on July 26, 2012. 

Soco entrusted his men to Espiritu when he and 10 others were wounded while fighting against the attackers of 11th SRC.

"Our C.O., Cpt Babaran, was also slightly wounded during that time. Though he (Cpt Babaran) chose to remain with the troops, we both relied on Sprite to spearhead the evacuation of all casualties from the encounter site. He courageously performed his task and we were able to save our wounded men," he said.

Helping engaged Scout Ranger buddies became a routine for Espiritu during his stint in the 10th SRC. 

In 2011, he also reinforced Lt Michael Asistores' platoon in a fierce encounter against bandits somewhere in Al-Barka. Asistores was was wounded in that clash but the unit managed to seize several high-powered firearms. 

In October 2013, he also reinforced the troops of 11th SRC when it incurred casualties in a firefight with bandits in Tong Bato village in Ungkaya Pukan town. 

"We are proud of this tradition of 'walang iwanan' among the Rangers. We better end up dead than leaving our fallen brothers behind," he said. 

Two hours of hell

On November 14, 2014, he was part of the operating troops of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion who were tasked to hunt down the elusive bandits in the boundary of Patikul and Talipao. 

Since the release of the German hostages about a month ago, the bandits simply disappeared in the hinterlands. Except for the brief skirmishes, the soldiers always came hours behind the bandits who successfully evaded the pursuers. 

When his unit was pulled out from its deployment area in Visayas, he knew that they would be facing new challenges. Though he had experienced fighting the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan, he was not familiar to the new terrain in Sulu. 

"I have experienced the Abu Sayyaf's battle technique of swarming small patrols. Since I am a newcomer in Sulu, I have to be very careful because the terrain is different," he said.

The troops of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion led by Lt Col Eugenio Boquio, hopped from one island province to another during their deployment in the Visayas region. (1SRB photo)

Early morning that day, he led a patrol to conduct area reconnaissance near the foothills of Bud Bagsak and Bud Tunggul, the known lair of Radulan Sahiron. 

His team spotted human traces but he could not ascertain if these were the bandits that they were looking for. Just before noon, he rejoined the Command Group led by his Battalion Commander, Lt Col Eugene Boquio to report his findings and to take some rest. 

It was about 12:30 pm when his Bat Com directed him to conduct another reconnaissance near the vicinity of Bud Bunga which was only about 300 meters away from the patrol base. 

He decided to discard all combat packs to lighten their load. He directed his subordinate leaders to carry only the mission-essential equipment.

"I could not describe my feeling before we left. I felt like someone was watching us. I told my Platoon Sergeant, SSg Ray Grabato to take extra precaution and supervise closely all patrol members during our movement."

Before they left, they prayed the Psalm 91 as part of their S.O.P. before any patrolling mission. Feeling calm and focused, he stayed with the spearheading team led by Sgt Elmer Lazaga. 

His Scout Ranger Course classmate, Pfc Joey Blanche, was with him in the leading team. They were together for 6 months during their training and they were happy to be assigned in the same unit. Sometimes he would pat the back of Blanche, motivating the latter to move on. 

As a Platoon Leader, he is expected to lead from the front where he can best control the operating elements. He trusted his subordinates because the NCOs were all battle-hardened soldiers. 

When he looked behind him, he saw determined faces of Sgt Eddie Lumandap and Sgt Rexelito Octa. Both of them were well-experienced team leaders who had been to countless battles. 

"Along the way, we saw some indications of human presence. There were newly cut branches and signs of ground disturbance," he said. 

Sensing danger, he decided to call for a short halt to observe the surroundings. Everyone froze in their respective sectors as they tried to feel the enemy presence.

"We tried to smell distinct odors that are not natural in the forest. We also tried our best to distinguish animal sounds from human voices," he said. 

Then, they heard something different: faint human voices that traveled through air along with the chirping sounds of birds!

Scout Rangers inspect the hut where bandits were spotted by the recon elements led by 1st Lt Dante Espiritu at 1:20pm on November 14, 2014. (1SRB photo)

In front of him, Cpl Taluyan showed the familiar arm signal, telling them that he saw a hut. Without any command, the whole leading team proceeded to skirmishers line. He signaled the others to form the "L" formation.

"We crawled towards a bamboo tree to observe the surroundings. We were shocked to see armed bandits about 15 meters away. I promptly directed everyone to spread out and maximize our firepower to the front," he said. 

As the teams crawled towards their respective positions, he grabbed his Global Positioning System receiver, lensatic compass and tactical map. He recorded his grid location and grabbed the radio that was carried by Cpl Larroza. 

"I am at vicinity GC 911666, over. 10 armed enemy sighted in a hut, 15 meters south of my position."

Sensing the signal interruptions, he grabbed his cellphone to send a text message. 

"I was lucky that there were 'three bars' of cellphone signal. I encoded the message and sent it to my commander."

When I inspected our position, all of us were in skirmishers formation, guns aimed at our respective targets. We were already excited to fight but we need to satisfy all the priority information requirements (PIR) of my commander. 

He grabbed his notes to write down his observation log. 

"I wrote down the events to complete my SALUTE report while waiting for Lt Asistores. By that time, his team was already preparing to perform link-up operations with me."

He was jotting notes when Cpl Blanche told him that they were about to be compromised.

"When I peeped through our concealment, I saw a bandit heading towards our position. He looked like heeding the call of nature," he said. 

Several meters behind the bandit, they spotted at least 10-15 others. 

"Some of them were cooking food behind the bush. They looked relaxed and unaware that we have our sights on them. Some of them were lying on their hammocks."

As the bandit came nearer, he knew he couldn't wait for the other platoon to arrive. His heart was pounding heavily and he had to make a bold decision: To kill or be killed!

He pulled the trigger while at the same time, shouting on top of his lungs.

 "Fire!"

He saw the bandits fell one by one in front of him. Some of them desperately dragged their dead companions. They were shouting at the others who were also around the place.

"Kabang-kabang!"

In a matter of seconds, the enemy retaliated with all their might, sending bullets flying towards them. 

Observing the source of gunshots, he noticed that they were in the middle of the enemy's engagement area. 

Part of the large harboring area that was occupied by more or less 300 bandits who almost encircled the recon elements of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion. (1SRB photo)

He counted four M60 General Purpose Machineguns 'singing' a familiar tune. Most of the bandits were only about 10 meters around them. 

"Hold the line! Hold the line!"

He crawled towards Sgt Grabato and yelled at him amidst the deafening explosions. He knew that his platoon was facing a numerically superior enemy.

"Control your men! Keep your head low! Fire only single shots!"

Minutes later, he saw Pfc Blanche bloodied with a chest wound. He was staring at him as if asking for help. 

Bullets kept hissing around him but he didn't think twice to crawl in front to save his wounded friend. 

He told Lazaga and Cajes to give him covering fire as he pulled  his SR course classmate to safer grounds.

"I couldn't allow myself watching a friend die in front of me. I asked for God's protection and rushed towards him."

He successfully carried Blanche to a covered position beside his other teammates. Using his basic first aid skills, he tried to revive him. 

"He was vomiting blood and he was gasping for breath. I did my best but he died within minutes," said Espiritu. 

Returning to his position, he saw that Pfc Rendon stopped firing his K3 Squad Automatic Weapon. His SAW gunner was grimacing in pain due to his injuries.

"He got bullet wounds in his left hand and begged to reposition behind a tree. He couldn't operate the LMG anymore so I assisted him towards the rear."

As the fighting dragged for more minutes, he saw his men hit one by one. M203 high-explosive rounds kept raining around their position, sending countless shrapnel around them. 

Some of his platoon members were hit. One of them was peppered with shrapnel all over his face.

Emboldened by their unfavorable situation, the enemy kept on advancing while shouting 'Allahu akbar!'. They shot them one by one but they kept on rushing forward.

"I directed my men to throw grenades at the enemies who were only about 5 meters around us. Some of them scampered away but one of them threw back one of the grenades, killing Cpl Taluyan instantly."

Listening to the radio traffic, he realized that the reinforcing platoon led by Lt Asistores was already heavily engaged about a hundred meters to his left. 

The gunfire from the enemy gradually waned but his platoon was still confronting about a hundred young fighters who kept on assaulting their position. 

After an hour of trying to repulse the enemy, he saw that most of his subordinates were already wounded including two of his Team Leaders, Sgt Lumandap and Sgt Lazaga. 

There were only two remaining able-bodied soldiers beside him, Pfc Cajes who was also wounded, and Cpl Larroza who was manning the radio while engaging the attackers at the same time. 

About 10 meters away, some of his subordinates took care of the wounded while the others continued fighting. 

"Save your ammo. Let us fight to the last drop of our blood!"

One of his teammates engaged the enemy in a 'psywar'. 

"1st Company, assault! Assault!"

Despite their situation, they smiled when the enemy reacted by delivering heavy volume of fires that they never responded to save on ammunitions. 

"We wanted them to exhaust their ammo supply. We just wanted to fire only at exposed targets," he said.

As agreed, they shot everything that moves behind the bushes around of them. They heard people screaming after being hit. 

Finally, he was able to give the directions of the enemy to his battalion commander who was manning the 81mm Mortar. 

"Sir, 800 mils, 50 meters!" 

When they heard the loud blast near the enemy position, they were motivated to fight. He was down to three 30-round magazines after more than hour of trading fires with the bandits.

"Adjust fire, over! Left 50, add 50!".

He dodged bullets while transferring from one position to another to check on his subordinates. He found out  that some of them were severely wounded while the others sustained multiple shrapnel wounds.

At about 4:00 pm, they heard the attack helicopters hovering above them. 

"The sight of the choppers boosted our morale. They were heaven sent to us."

He gave the enemy's grid locations to the choppers. It looked liked an angry dragon as it blasted the enemy positions with Cal. 50 machinegun rounds and rockets. 

Gradually, the enemies stopped their advance. He directed a team to provide suppressive fires while the others slowly occupied an advantageous ground. They executed the "break contact" SOP.

Returning the favor

Later, he was able to link up with the platoon of Lt Asistores. He was saddened upon learning that along with 16 others, his Company Commander was wounded. 

He directed able-bodied soldiers led by Lt Binias to provide covering fires as the injured soldiers from the group of Lt Asistores were carried to the casualty evacuation point. 

When they accounted their patrol members, he was told that three soldiers belonging to the group of Lt Asistores were unaccounted. 

He learned that three soldiers remained in their original fighting position to provide covering fires, so that the wounded buddies can be evacuated.

Espiritu said that he was also thankful for the soldiers led by Lt Asistores who came to reinforce them. 

"They sustained injuries while trying to avoid the complete annihilation of my platoon. I had to return the favor by fighting for those who launched the counterattack to save us," he said.

In his quick estimate, they were left behind about 50 meters away where the bandits tried to surround the platoon of Lt Asistores. 

"I immediately organized a team to rescue the three heroes who sacrificed themselves so that the others like Sgt Kitong will be saved. I couldn't afford to leave them behind!"

Firing their way towards the enemy's last positions, they were met with resistance but the enemies ran away after a few minutes. 

He found the lifeless bodies of his subordinates who opted to pay the ultimate sacrifice to save many of their fellow Rangers. They were all his dear buddies: Cpl Villaluna, Cpl Caro and Pfc Achas. 

He was teary-eyed but maintained his composure. His team was able to retrieve two guns owned by the dead soldiers.

"I did my very best to save not only my platoon members but all members of my beloved unit, the 1st Scout Ranger Company. I am saddened by their untimely deaths. We are all thankful for their sacrifices. We are alive and ready to fight again because of their heroism."

An hour later, he reunited with the Command Group only to see all 28 wounded company mates including his company commander, Lt. Asistores.

He assisted Lt. Col. Eugene Boquio in preparing the helicopter landing zone (HLZ) where all casualties will be picked up. 

At around 10:00 pm, all wounded men were safely picked up by the Philippine Air Force pilots who dared to fly at night to 'MEDEVAC' the injured soldiers. 

The brave flyboys also airlifted the human remains of 5 soldiers who died fighting heroically that day.

The Joint Task Group Sulu led by Col. Alan Arrojado accounted 10 bandits dead including 2 notorious leaders like Hairullah Asbang and Juli Ekit. At least 15 others were wounded. 

The Abu Sayyaf suffered big losses for the first time in at least 2 years of successfully evading the security forces.

For Lt Dante 'Sprite' Espiritu, the mission is not yet over. He will go back to lead from the front. 

The Scout Rangers recovered personal belongings and solar panels after the encounter in Bud Bunga, Talipao, Sulu on November 14, 2014.

AFP Chief of Staff, General Gregorio Catapang Jr. awards the Gold Cross Medal to Sgt Eddie Lumandap who fought alongside Lt Espiritu against more or less 300 Abu Sayyaf bandits in Talipao town, Sulu on November 14, 2014.

I posed for a souvenir photo with Lt Mike Asistores and Lt Dante 'Sprite' Espiritu during our visit in Zamboanga City. Lt Asistores got wounded for the third time in his career while serving in the field as a company grade officer.

 Sgt Castro 'Caster' Kitong, 38, was my former 'Kaldero 6' in the 10th Scout Ranger Company that I commanded from 2000-2002. Though wounded, he flashed a smile when I came to cheer him up last week. He received his 2nd Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) from the CSAFP, General Gregorio Catapang Jr.

Sgt Delio Surio, a certified Scout Sniper, experienced one of the bloodiest battles in his life wherein the enemies were only a few meters around him. He engaged a bandit in a 'duel' at around 10 meters using his M16 Rifle. He hit the bandit in the chest but the latter managed to hit his forehead with an M203 Grenade launcher. He was lucky that the HE round did not explode upon impact but he almost passed out.

Ang Noche Buena ng Scout Rangers

December 24, 2014, 11:09 pm

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Larawan ng aking mga tauhan sa paanan ng Mt. Sinumaan sa Patikul, Sulu noong kasagsagan ng Operation Final Option II noong taong 2000. (10SRC photo)

Ang isa sa pinakaaabangang yugto ng mga hukbo na nakatalaga sa field ay ang makakauwi sa kapaskuhan para makapiling ang mga kapamilya. Noong ako ay Company Commander ng 10th SRC, nakalatag na ang schedule ng bakasyon sa Nobyembre pa lamang. Pinag-uusapan ng mga members ng teams kung paano sila salitang magbakasyon sa Pasko at sa Bagong Taon.

Ang Pasko ay may kaakibat na tradisyon na kung saan ay panay kasayahan kasama ang mga mahal sa buhay at ang pinakaimportante sa lahat ay ang kainan tuwing Noche Buena. Di po ba? 

Walang katapusang kainan ng masasarap na pagkain na tipong sa Pasko mo rin lang matitikman ang iba. Syempre, sa ating mga Pilipino, pag-ipunan natin ang Pasko para ang Noche Buena ay talagang bonggacious kagaya ng larawan sa ibaba. 

Larawan ng masasarap na pagkain na karaniwan ay natitikman tuwing Noche Buena. Ang ganitong larawan ang nasa aming imahinasyon kapag kami ay nasa gubat habang nag-iisip paano naman kami makapag-Noche Buena para kahit papaano ay nakikiisa rin kami sa diwa ng tradisyon na ito. (Kuha ang larawan sa internet)

Ang Noche Buena ng mga Musang

Malaking porsyento ng mga sundalo ay mga Kristiyano at kalimitan ay mga Katoliko. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit ang mga yunit ay nagkakaroon din ng mga selebrasyon na alinsunod sa ginagawa ng karamihang sibilyan. 

Pagkatapos ng isang engkwentro namin noong Disyembre 17, 2000 sa Patikul ay nagkaroon kami ng pagkakataon na magpahinga ng 3 araw sa Barangay Taglibi para magpa-resupply ng bala at mga pagkain para sa operations. 

Kinuha ko na rin iyon na pagkakataon para magpadala ng karneng manok, baka, isda at pati tinapay at pancit miki na syang ihahanda para sa aming munting salu-salo. 

Once in a blue moon din lang na hinahayaan ko silang tumikim ng alak. Tikim lang talaga kasi isang lapad lang bawat team. Bawal kasi malasing kapag nasa kasagsagan ng combat operations.

Ang ginagawa namin ay naka-distribute sa bawat teams ang mga sangkap at kanya-kanyang assignment ng putahe. Division of labor ika nga. 

Sa kanilang munting pagpupulong, ipinasa ng Platoon Sergeant ang aking kautusan.

"Team 1, adobong manok!"

"Team 2, pancit miki guisado!"

"Team 3, nilagang buto ng baka!"

"Team 4, escabeche at kinilaw na isda!"

Syempre, paminsan lang din naman kaming maghahanda ng ganoon kagaya ng may unit anniversary o birthday celebration ng tropa. 

Ang kaibahan lang sa amin, iniba namin ang oras ng Noche Buena. Instead na sa hating-gabi ay ginagawa namin bago ang tinatawag na End of Evening Nautical Twilight, o bago tuluyang dumilim. Bakit? Syempre, mahirap yatang kumakain sa gitna ng dilim! 

Pre, baka magtanong ka kung 'Noche Buena' pa ba yon? Alam ko naman na "Good night" ang ibig sabihin noon salitang iyon pero syempre practical kami sa field. Mas mahalaga ang safety ng tropa kaysa naman mag-flashlight kami para makapaglatag ng kainan sa hating-gabi. 

Okay, sabihin na lang nating, "Buenas Tardes" (Good afternoon) ang aming handaan dahil bago gumabi namin kinakain ang handa na pang-Noche Buena. Ang importante sa lahat, solved kami. Naka-smile ang lahat at nalilimutan ang lungkot na nararamdaman ng mga mandirigma na naiiwang makikipaglaban sa mga bandido sa kapaskuhan.

Well, maswerte kami noon kasi nasa 'admin area' kami para sa resupply operations. Paano naman pala kung nasa gitna ng gubat kami inabutan ng Pasko? Syempre, pang-tactical din ang Noche Buena. 

Actually, pinadalhan ako ng larawan ng mga mandirigma na nasa kagubatan ng Patikul ngayong Pasko ng 2014. Nasa parehas silang lugar na aking ginagalugad sampung taon lang ang nakalipas. 

Dahil hindi sila nakababa sa kabihasnan, pinagtitiyagaan nila ang parte ng kanilang nakaraang resupply: Loaf bread at pancit canton. Iyon lang ang kanilang handa. As in wala nang iba. Walang palamang sandwich spread, walang kape o soft drinks. Pagkakain bandang alas singko kahapon (December 24), kanya-kanyang lagok ng tubig sa water canteen. Sobrang happy pa rin sila, di po ba? Musang kasi.

                         

  

Nang aking kinausap ang Platoon Leader, ipinaabot nya ang mensahe ng kanyang yunit na walang humpay ang paghahalughog sa kasukalan para tugisin ang mga bandido na may hawak pa ring mga hostages.

"Sir, para maramdaman namin ang diwa ng Pasko, naghahanda pa rin kami ng espesyal na menu. Pinaaabot namin sa ating mga kababayan ang aming mainit na pagbati ng Merry Christmas mula dito sa kagubatan ng Patikul."

Sa nakikita ko noong aking kapanahunan at ngayon, halos parehas lang ang aming pakikiisa sa Noche Buena. Ang importante sa amin ay nararamdaman namin ang pagiging pamilya ng aming mga kasamahang tropa at nalilimutan ang nararamdamang kalungkutan tuwing naaalala namin ang kanya-kanyang pamilya sa aming tahanan.

Ganon lamang kasimple ang aming handa at kung ano man ang available ay aming pinagkakasya. Ang importante sa amin ay tuloy-tuloy na magagampanan ang sinumpaang tungkulin na ipagtanggol ang ating kababayan sa pwersa ng masasama. 

Ang aking pagbisita sa 10th Scout Ranger Company

December 29, 2014, 3:02 pm

≫ Next: NPA bullets thwart a soldier's family reunion: 1st Lt Ronald Bautista's story

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 Kuha ang larawan ng sabitan ng Best Company Streamer ang aking yunit nina dating CGPA na si Lt Gen Jaime Delos Santos, katulong si SOCOM Commander MGen Delfin Lorenzana noong ika-25 ng Nobyembre 2001, habang nakamasid si BGen Gabriel Ledesma na noon ay Regiment Commander ng First Scout Ranger Regiment.

Ang isa sa masaklap na kaganapan tungkol sa aking pinamunuang yunit, ang 10th Scout Ranger Company, ay ang pagka-dissolve nito noong 2003. 

Isa ako sa unang binalitaan ng aking mga tauhan na ang kumpanyang kanilang kinabibilangan ay buwagin at sila ay ilipat sa ibang mga line companies. 

Ang una kong naiisip ay baka naman mapariwara ang iilan sa tropa kapag ihalo na sa iba't-ibang yunit. 

Marami agad ang mga 'Baka' na pumasok sa aking isipan sa mga panahong iyon:

• Baka naman wala nang mag-mentor sa kanilang mga pinagkatiwalaan  NCOs?
• Baka naman ay mawalan sila ng disiplina at maging pasaway sa ibang yunit?

Ang paliwanag ng pamunuan ng Philippine Army sa panahong iyon ay kailangang i-'downsize' ang FSRR. Napakarami ng tanong ko noon kung bakit kailangang buwagin ngunit wala ni isang opisyal na aking tinanungan ang makapagbigay noon ng maliwanag na sagot. 

Paano naman kasi, di naman kumokonti ang mga tigasing kalaban ng estado sa mga panahong iyon, eh bakit paliitin ang First Scout Ranger Regiment? Nariyan pa rin ang mga teroristang Abu Sayyaf, NPA at samo't-saring secessionist groups sa Mindanao! 

Nasayangan ako sa naipundar ko na pagod at pawis para maiangat ang kakayahan at kumpyansa ng yunit na ito sa pamamagitan ng paghubog sa kaalaman sa pakikidigma, leadership skills ng NCOs at integridad nito. Hindi kasi ito nagagawa ng overnight at kailangan ay aktwal na karanasan at mga pagsubok na syang nagbibigay ng di makakalimutang aral para sa aming mga mandirigma.

Batid rin namin na ang Scout Rangers ang pinakamadaling tawagin para kalabanin ang pinakapasaway na mga kalaban ng pamahalaan sa panahon na iyon kaya nalungkot din kami na mabuwag ang ilan sa mga Ranger Companies. 

Anyway, we naturally obey first before we complain. Kahit murmuring kami noon, natuloy ang pagbuwag sa humigit kumulang na sampung kumpanya para i-merge sa ibang mga units.

Kung susuriin, hindi naman lumiit ang FSRR kundi pinarami ang fill-up ng mga companies. Ang punto lang naman talaga namin ay baka naman pwedeng dagdagan ang strength ng FSRR as a whole at wag na itong buwagin.

 

Ayon sa naitala sa kasaysayan, nangyari din noong 1991 na ang dating deactivated na First Scout Ranger Regiment ay binuong muli dahil sa nakita ng AFP leadership ang importansya nito sa pakikipaglaban sa rebelde at terorista. 

Dahil sa napipintong pagbuwag ng aming kumpanya, minabuti kong ipagbilin kay Lt Mon Gurat na ipadala sa akin ang mga memorabilia ng yunit lalo na ang Best Company Streamers na nasungkit namin sa aking kapanahunan. Malay nga naman, buuhing muli ang 10th SRC. 

Tuwing makibalita ako sa kalagayan ng tropa simula noon, napag-alaman ko na sila ay nasa iba't-ibang dako ng Pilipinas. Natutuwa ako kapag sila ay nakikilalang magagaling at maaasahang NCOs sa kani-kanilang yunit. 

Dalawa sa kanila, si SSg Roselito Tayros at SSg Rodel Bonifacio ay nagiging awardees ng The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) na iginawad ng Metrobank Foundation Inc. at Rotary Club of Makati-Metro. 

Noong 2012, si SSg Arnold Panganiban at SSg Jose Legaspi ay naitalagang First Sergeant ng 11SRC at 10th SRC, respectively.

Samantala, karamihan sa mga tropa ay mga mandirigma pa rin at naitalagang Platoon Sergeants at mga staff NCOs. 

Reactivation

Ayon sa aking inaasahan, binuong muli ang 10SRC pagkatapos ng humigit kumulang na tatlong taon na ito ay buwagin. Dahil nalipat na rin ako noon sa ibang yunit, hindi ako nagkaroon ng pagkakataon na bisitahin at isabit na muli ang streamers sa kanilang company colors. 

Nang mabalitaan kong sila ay nalipat sa battlegrounds ng Bukidnon iilang linggo lamang ang nakaraan, kinuha ko ang pagkakataon na sila ay bisitahin at ibalik ang streamers na ebidensya ng kagalingan at kontribusyon nito sa kasaysayan ng pakikidigma ng First Scout Ranger Regiment.

Hindi ako nag-atubiling tahakin ang maputik na daanan papunta sa kanilang lungga para sa wakas, maibalik ang parte ng kasaysayan ng yunit. 

Ito ay parte sa aking misyon ngayong kapaskuhan. Mission accomplished!

Sa isang simpleng 'seremonya' noong December 28, 2014, isinabit kong muli ang Best Company Streamers na nasungkit ng yunit noong taong 2000 at 2001. Kasama ko sa larawan si Lt Jayvee Santiago, ang Company Ex-O, at si TSg Jose Legaspi, ang First Sergeant.

 

Souvenir photo namin kasama ang mga tropa na sobrang high morale na makita ang Best Company streamers na pinaghirapan ng yunit sa pakikidigma nito sa Basilan at Sulu. Hinamon ko sila na dagdagan ang streamer sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng disiplina, pagsasanay sa mga kaalamang pakikidigma at pagpapakita ng kabayanihan sa pakikidigma. 

Iginawad ko rin ang tactical boots na handog ng isang OFW sa California, USA na kumikilala sa kabayanihan ng mga Scout Rangers. 

Si  Sgt Ferdie Bisnar ay ang isa sa dalawang orihinal na miyembro ng 10th SRC na aking pinamunuan noong 2000. Sya ay nasugatan sa engkwentro namin sa Balatanay, Isabela Basilan at iniinda pa rin ang injury na natamo sa naturang engkwentro.

 Dahil hindi pa sila nakauwi para magbakasyon sa kapaskuhan, minabuti kong dalhan sila ng belated Noche Buena na pang-Scout Ranger. Hindi nawawala ang walang katapusang kwentuhan na matiyaga namang pinakikinggan ng aking anak na si Harvey.

Kinabukasan, inanyayahan ko ang ilan sa mga Musang sa aking tahanan sa probinsya para sa isang boodlefight bilang selebrasyon ng aking birthday.

 Simple lamang ang kaligayahan naming mga sundalo kagaya ng pagbibigay ng halaga sa kanilang sakripisyo at sila ay pasalamatan sa kanilang serbisyo sa bayan.

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NPA bullets thwart a soldier's family reunion: 1st Lt Ronald Bautista's story

December 31, 2014, 11:53 pm

≫ Next: The heroes of Inabanga: Honoring Bohol's warriors

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1st Lt. Ronald Bautista, 27, of Nabanga, Bohol was brutally killed by NPA bandits while travelling home for New Year. Prior to his death, Bautista was deployed to Anitapan village, Mabini, Comval Province to carry out community outreach activities. 

He was returning home from a remote field assignment in Compostela Valley to reunite with his family during Christmas truce,  but  enemy bullets claimed his life.

 

Released for the New Year's break, 1st Lt Ronald Bautista, 25, a member of the Philippine Military Class of 2011, was travelling on a civilian motorcycle with  two military personnel when NPA bandits blocked their path and  murdered them in cold blood at around 9:45 am on December 29, 2014 in Candinuyan village,  Mabini, Compostela Valley. 

Among the victims of the murderous attack were Private First Class Albert Amor and militiaman Renel Baluca. 

 

Bautista and his men came from a hinterland village of Anitapan where his platoon was deployed for community outreach activities during the yuletide season.  He was enroute to  Davao City where he was supposed to board a plane bound for his home province in Bohol.

 

Family reunion

 

Knowing that 'Onad' (Bautista's nickname) was coming home in their hometown of Nabanga for the New Year, his father, Eulogio, was very excited. 

 

"At about 6:00am on December 29, he called his mom to tell that he will bring gifts for his parents and each of his 7 siblings. He was very generous and kind to all of us," said Eulogio, a 59-year old chainsaw operator.

 

Eulogio said that another son, Gelo, 26, coincided his vacation trip from his workplace in Cebu City to join the annual family gathering. 

 

He narrated that he and his wife, Chona, 48, were harvesting rice in the field when they were fetched by crying relatives. 

 

"When they broke the sad news, we were both devastated. We did not expect that he will come home in a coffin during our reunion," he said in between sobs.

 

The elder Bautista said that he is very proud of his son who finished secondary school by helping them sell rice cakes.

 

"Through his hardwork, he became the first PMA graduate in this town. We are honored to have a faithful soldier in our family who readily offers personal sacrifices in the service of others," he said.  

 

Like brothers

 

Private First Class Jacquel Cantuba, 30, of Masbate City has fond memories of the slain officer. He said that they considered each other as real brothers since they first met when Bautista reported to the 71st Infantry Battalion sometime in August 2011.

 

He said that Bautista was very simple and approachable despite his stature as an officer. Their assignments to remote areas brought them closer as friends. 

 

"He was both my mentor and close friend. We normally sleep and eat under the same tent deep in the forests," said Cantuba. 

 

"He shared to me and my fellow enlisted personnel all military skills that he learned as a PMA cadet. He taught me how to navigate with a map and compass and also the use of the global positioning system (GPS) receiver."

 

Cantuba also said that they consider each other as brothers. 

 

"He would buy a pair of shirt of same brand and color. The other one is for me. In rare occasions, I would also buy a pair of cheap shirts that I can afford so that I can give him in return."

 

He said that Bautista always motivated them to perform their jobs faithfully as they served the people in far-flung communities.

 

"Lt. Bautista was a strict disciplinarian especially when it comes to our engagement with the people. He did not want us to commit abuses against civilians."

 

After about 3 years of serving in different field assignments together, Bautista was transferred to Charlie Company of the same battalion, leaving Cantuba behind. 

 

Despite the distance that separates them, they maintained their communication through cellular phone. They would consult each other about some personal problems and challenges at work.

 

"He called me during Christmas day to greet my wife Winchel and our two children. We agreed to meet after my vacation to receive a gift from him," said Cantuba who was in tears.

 

"The last time that we talked was at around 7:00 am on the day that he died. We are supposed to meet at our battalion headquarters later that day to handover the gift that he promised."

 

Cantuba felt the shock of his life when a colleague told him that the Executive Officer of Charlie Company was killed by NPA bandits in Mabini town.

 

"I was speechless because I couldn't believe the news. I volunteered to accompany the group that was tasked to recover them," he said.

 

When he saw the bullet-riddled body of his friend a few hours later, he felt like losing a dear brother. 

 

"I couldn't help but cry because he was very close to my heart. I consider him part of my family," said Cantuba.

Sincerity

Like many other soldiers who are deployed in hinterland villages, Bautista and his men fell victim to the 46-year old internal armed conflict with fellow Filipinos. 

While the CPP-NPA-NDF is floating an idea of resuming peace talks with the government, their armed wing has continuously mounted senseless attacks against unarmed members of the security forces during the government declared unilateral suspension of offensive military operations (SOMO) during the yuletide season. 

If they are indeed sincere in pursuing peace, they must stop committing crimes such as murdering off-duty soldiers. 

The heroes of Inabanga: Honoring Bohol's warriors

January 9, 2015, 4:01 am

≫ Next: Brave soldier frees a hostage-taking victim, hailed by local folks as a hero: TSgt Gilbert Ang's story

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LOST SON. Chona Bautista, 48, takes a glimpse of her beloved son 'Onad' a day before his burial in Inabanga town, Bohol on Saturday (Jan 10). Bautista is considered by his town mates as a hero like their ancestor, Francisco Dagohoy, who led the longest armed rebellion in Philippine history. (Photo by Ariel Bautista)

About 270 years after the uprising of homegrown Filipino warriors led by Francisco Sendrijas a.k.a. Francisco Dagohoy, Inabanga town in northern coast of Bohol has produced another warrior and hero, Army 1st Lt. Ronald Bautista, 27.  

He paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving the people in the hinterlands of Anitapan in Mabini town, Compostela Province, one of the NPA-infested provinces in the country.

The people of Inabanga are very proud of his feats as an Army soldier. They recognized  his active role in helping poor people far-away from home, in solving their community problems. He was dubbed as a 'peace and development' warrior.

Since the Spanish domination of the island centuries ago, this town had consistently gained prominence for its valiant heroes. Aside from being the site of the longest revolt of Philippine history, it is home to fierce warriors who fought the American forces during their occupation of Bohol in March 1899.

One of the notable heroes is Captain Martin Cabagnot, a local guerilla leader during the American occupation. Armed with bolos and spears, he led a handful of brave warriors in engaging the superior enemy forces in close combat, killing at least a hundred of the American invaders. 

During the attack of the Japanese in 1943, Inabanga once again kept the freedom alive when its proud sons organized a resistance movement that fought the enemies in several battles that lasted at least two years. 

       
Worst fear

Bautista's 48-year old mother, Chona, have good memories of his beloved son. 

She can still vividly remember 'Onad' patiently grinding rice from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, in order to cook bibingka (rice cakes) that would be sold the next day.

“He was already a very responsible child since his elementary school days. He wanted to help us earn more money so that we can send them to school,” she said, her voice cracking. 

Chona is suffering a parent’s worst fear – that of burying a child she raised and protected. 

On Saturday (Jan 10), she would have to let go of her “Onad” with a final goodbye in a military burial set for heroes. She will receive the Philippine flag that is used to cover the coffin of his son. 

Resourceful

Aside from selling rice cakes, Chona said “Onad” also earns money by patiently copying notes for his classmates. He was a favorite 'scribe' because of his excellent penmanship.

“He was very resourceful and he constantly found ways to earn extra income to support his studies. He was very determined to finish school,” she said.

Despite these challenges and distractions, little Bautista still managed to keep his grade up, even securing for himself a place on the top ten of his class, Chona said.

From Bohol to PMA

It was never Bautista’s dream to become a soldier, his mother Chona said.

Chona said it was the idea of a full scholarship and allowances that attracted Bautista to PMA. He was encouraged by a relative to take the PMA entrance exam when he was on his third year in agricultural engineering in CMU.

To him, it was another way to help his family. Bautista, apparently, did not mind the danger attached to the profession.

“I was even against his entering PMA. I was scared he might get killed when he becomes a soldier. I’ve seen on TV many soldiers die while in service,” she said, her tears flowing anew.

Chona was referring to the stories of soldiers’ deaths in Bohol during the 1990s when it was still a hotbed for insurgency. Among those who were killed in numerous encounters in Bohol was 2nd Lt. Socrates Que, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 1998.

But, due to public-private partnership which proved an effective weapon against insurgency, Bohol was declared free of insurgency by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in 2009 alongside Cebu. Bohol today is considered one of the most peaceful places in the Philippines.

Pedro Bautista, 67, village captain and uncle of Bautista, said he had always known his nephew would grow up to become a good man.

“He was a good boy and active as a youth leader here,” Pedro said in a phone interview.

He added that Bautista was an active leader of Sanguniang Kabataan (SK). Even after he left Bohol to go to PMA, he would return home every break and meet up with his friends and neighborhood kids to impart the things he learned in the military school.

When he became a soldier, he still saw his friends during his free time to encourage them to become leaders themselves and dream of bigger things for their future.

Responsible

As he grew older, Bautista’s sense of responsibility grew with dreams of sending his own siblings to school, particularly his older brother Ariel, 28, who had to stop and provide for him while he went to college in Central Mindanao University in Bukidnon. 

Onad's  and Ariel, his older brother, worked together to send their younger brother Gelo, 25, to college.  Ariel opted to drop from school and worked as a basket weaver until young Gelo finished his Computer studies.


Later, "Onad" also supported Ariel's college education. He is now a fourth year Mechanical Engineering student.

Now that her helpful “Onad” is gone, Chona is worried about the education of her other four children, all of which are still in high school.

But, Chona need not worry for the AFP will award scholarships to his siblings through its Educational Benefit System Office (EBSO).

The AFP EBSO was activated August 2000 by virtue of General Orders Nr 920 dated August 22, 2000, by command of then General Angelo Reyes, and Presidential Decree 577 (PD 577) signed by former President Ferdinand E. Marcos in 1974. PD 577 was the first law ever enacted providing for educational benefit for soldier’s dependents.

Bearing its tagline “Leaving No Soldiers’ Orphan Behind” conceptualized by former AFPEBSO General Manager Commander Wenefredo Banua, dependents who will be included into the program will receive support throughout their college years from the AFPEBSO fund and partner-stakeholders from Department of Education (DepEd).

“We will facilitate the awarding of educational benefits for the younger siblings of Lt. Bautista and his companions who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the country. This is our own way to honor our fallen heroes,” said Lt. Col Danilo Estranero, the General Manager of AFPEBSO.

Special military honors

For his sacrifices, Bautista is set to receive posthumous award, the Wounded Personnel Medal from the AFP alongside the special military honors during his burial. 

The AFP Chief-of-staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr. directed the Central Command to accord Bautista with appropriate burial honors fit for a hero. 

A firing party composed of soldiers from the Special Forces unit based in Bohol has been readied for the burial ceremony that will be held at around 2:00pm (Sat).

Officials from the local government and the military unit stationed in Cebu and Bohol will join the relatives during the said ceremony.

Local officials from Inabanga town will attend the solemn ceremony for Bautista in his hometown as a sign of respect for the very first PMA graduate of their town that they now see as a hero and an inspiration for Bohol in years to come.

Sincerity

Senior government officials dared communist rebels to show sincerity and  to “walk their talk” toward resuming the peace talks.

“We strongly condemn the pointless violence exercised by the CPP-NPA-NDF. If they are truly serious in their call for the resumption of peace negotiations with the government, we challenge them to walk their talk and stop harassing development projects, civilians and unarmed soldiers on holiday. There is no way to peace but through peace,” Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles said in a statement on New Year's eve.

Aside from murdering Bautista and his men during the Christmas season truce, the NPA bandits had also abducted a jail warden in Compostela Valle,  and burned down heavy equipment used for development projects.

“In blatant disregard of the Christmas season, when our people desire and expect peace and goodwill, the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front) reciprocated the government’s gesture of a month-long unilateral ceasefire with acts of senseless violence,” she added.

Brave soldier frees a hostage-taking victim, hailed by local folks as a hero: TSgt Gilbert Ang's story

January 11, 2015, 2:06 pm

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I was reading the news early morning today (Jan 11) when I received a message from my PMA upperclassman and fellow Scout Ranger, Lt. Col. Melencio "Meme" Ragudo, about the heroic feat of his subordinate. 

"My soldier was hailed as a hero after saving a child from a hostage-taker somewhere in Antipolo City yesterday. You might want to hear his story," he said. 

Hearing the initial details, I became excited. As a military leader, I am also inspired by the tales of heroism involving our everyday heroes, the enlisted personnel. 

"Sir, I will meet him at 1200H today. Please let him visit my office," I told him. 

Knowing the man 

When I arrived at the Public Affairs Office, a smiling soldier clad in snappily pressed Battle Dress Attire greeted me. He was soft-spoken and mild-mannered. 

I invited him to my own receiving area for a bolahan session. I made it a casual conversation like a kwentong kanto. I wanted him to share his thoughts freely.

His full name is Technical Sergeant Gilbert Ang, 39, of Antipolo City. He is married with a young daughter.

The eldest among 4 siblings, he was raised by his parents in the suburbs of Sta Mesa, Manila. His parents, Hernan, 65, and Leticia, 62, were both ordinary laborers.

"I belong to a close-knit family. My parents taught us the value of humility and kindness to others," he said.

Since his younger days as a Citizen's Military Training (CMT) officer, he had aspired of becoming a soldier. He learned the fundamentals of military leadership at that young age.

Determined to join the AFP, he took the ROTC while studying at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Sta. Mesa. Later, he also finished the Probationary Officer's Training Course (POTC) as his ticket for commissionship. 

The financial difficulties that his family experienced in mid-90's forced him to drop from school and enlist in the Army through the Army Reserve Command in 1996.

"At first, I was frustrated for not finishing my college education, but, I was also happy because I was able to join the profession that I love," he said.

Because of his solid military background, he easily adjusted to the regimented life of a soldier. 

His excellent performance, high standard of discipline, and leadership skills brought him to places. He was sent abroad for specialization training twice.He finished the Warrant Officer's Course  and the Explosives Inspector's Course both in Australia.

Heroic feat

Ang did not know that he will encounter a hostage-taking incident during his short weekend privilege. 

At noon time on January 10, he was on his way home on board a motorcycle when he spotted a commotion along Sumulong highway in Mambugan village in Antipolo City. 

A highly-trained soldier of the AFP Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG), he stopped near the crowd of people to investigate. A few meters away, he saw a deranged man probably in his 20's,  poking a knife on the neck of a child. 

Not far away from the crowd of bystanders, there were policemen who tried to negotiate with the suspect for the release the child. They were ignored by the knife-wielding man who kept walking, clutching the victim with his right hand. 

The sight of policemen with long firearms irritated the hostage-taker. He kept walking away followed by a growing number of villagers. By that time, the stand-off had dragged for about half an hour.

Worried that the suspect might become violent, Ang approached the policemen led by Police Chief Inspector Dogwe. He offered to help rescue the child. 

"I told them that I can do something with the help of a few unarmed civilians. I explained that the suspect might stab the child because he was very agitated and appeared to be emotionally unstable," said Ang.

Seeing the soundness of Ang's proposal, the policemen agreed. 

Risk-taker

Working with untrained civilians for a very delicate rescue mission, Ang was fully aware of the risks. 

Scanning the scene, he weighed his options and decided to carry on.

"I remembered my own 6-year old daughter. It could happen to her and someone has to save her too. I was willing to take the risks of getting harmed and even being blamed if I fail," he said.

He can still vividly remember that about two decades ago, he had also engaged two armed robbers in a shootout after the suspects threatened to shoot the driver and conductor. His superb marksmanship skills made him victorious against the criminals.

The main difference this time is that he is unarmed. His courage and his motorcycle are his only weapons.

When he asked for volunteers for a daring rescue attempt, two civilian volunteers came forward to help. 

He explained the 'concept of operation' and their respective tasks. 

"I assigned myself as the Main Effort, the civilians and policemen as the Supporting Efforts. It was like a military operation where I am the over-all leader and primary actor," he said.

As the Main Effort, he volunteered to ram his motorcycle on the left side of the hostage-taker's body in order to throw him off-balance, and allow the two civilians and policemen to grab the knife and the child. 

They all knew that it was easier said than done.

"I made sure that the plan was clearly understood by all players. During that time, the suspect had already walked about a kilometer towards Marikina-Infanta highway and was visibly exhausted."

Dare to fail

Ang and his hastily-organized team of rescuers, closely following the suspect to get a chance to launch the strike. 

In two occasions, he had to abort his plan because the suspect became suspicious and threatened to kill the child anew.

"I could not afford to see him kill the innocent child. I have calculated all the risks and dared to fail."

He patiently waited for the golden opportunity by continuously trailing the suspect. His team members were only a few meters away around the hostage-taker who was almost surrounded by usiseros and concerned citizens alike.

Seeing that the suspect was not looking, he raced towards him, aiming the front wheel of his motorcycle on the suspect's left leg. 

He hit the mark and he crashed just beside him as the crowd rushed in. He became dizzy after suffering cuts and bruises.

"I was not fully aware of the next scene because the angry mob promptly surrounded the man. I felt something hit my butt but I sensed the gnawing pain on my leg which hit the pavement," he narrated.

Lying on his side and grimacing in pain, he was relieved to see the child safely wrestled by his 'team member' away from the suspect . 

SP03 Jesus Magno, SPO1 Herbert Iligan and PO2 Roy Macuto of Police Community Precinct 1, Antipolo City wasted no time in disarming the suspect, who was later identified as Alvin Occidental, 28, of Pansol, Quezon City. 

Ang and the policemen also intervened when bystanders took turns in punching the suspect. He understood that the suspect was not in his right mind.

"I also pity him because I saw his face and his blank stare. He might have some personal problems that led him to do the unthinkable."

People also started gathering around Ang to congratulate him. Learning that he was an Army soldier, people started screaming "Iyan ang bayaning sundalo!" (That is our soldier-hero!)

Despite the accolades, Ang stayed humble and explained to them that he was just doing what is right. 

"I did what a father needs to do in that difficult situation. I am also a soldier so the more that I have to show the people that I can protect them when they need my help," said Ang.

Truly, Gilbert Ang is one of our everyday heroes in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Mabuhay ka!

My souvenir photo with TSg Gilbert Ang of the Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG) during our meeting on Sunday (January 11). He emerged a hero during a hostage-taking incident in Antipolo City by leading the bold rescue of the victim with a handful of civilians and policemen. 

Saluting the Holy Father: The story of PMA's cadet Honor Guards

January 17, 2015, 8:20 pm

≫ Next: Braving the storm: The story of Capt. Roland Narciso '95

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Cadet Denzel Corpuz leads the Honor Guard Battalion which rendered military honors for His Holiness Pope Francis at the Kalayaan Grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 16, 2015). The Pope paid courtesy call on President Benigno S Aquino III as part of his State Visit and Apostolic Journey to the Republic of the Philippines. (Photo by Rolando Mailo/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

I have a story about two cadets who were directed to render salute to a Pope. 

A  lot of their mistahs, even upperclassmen,  envied them for their close encounter with the charismatic leader of the Catholic Church. 

Who are the lucky guys? Ladies and gentlemen....... please meet Cadet Denzel Corpuz, 20, and his mistah, Cadet Leoncio Nico De Jesus, 21. Chin in!

They are both members of the 'Gabay-Laya' Class of 2016. Actually, they are the so-called 'cows' (PMA lingo for 3rd year cadets) who will soon assume the posts as the Brigade Commander and Deputy Brigade Commander, respectively.

They got the opportunity to see the Pope because the firstclassmen (4th year cadets) are far away for training. In short, they are currently the 'Kings of the Barracks'. Swerte!

Thanks to the current PMA curriculum, the upperclassmen were sent to TRADOC to undergo rigorous training called the Officers' Preparatory Course. They are now sweating it out under the scorching heat of the sun! Sorry, guys!

Pride and honor

For cadets, representing the PMA as part of the Honor Guard Battalion is both their pride and honor. Also, they were making history as the first cadets to render honors to a Pope inside the Malacanang Palace. 

"I take pride in representing the PMA in this momentous event. At the same time, I am honored to meet a respected leader and a superstar," said Corpuz, the youngest son of Catholic couple Allan and Marlene, both 51 years old. 

For his part, De Jesus said that saluting the pontiff was a rare privilege. Meron na nga bang sundalong nakapagsaludo sa isang Obispo?

"Not all PMA graduates can have the opportunity to salute the Holy Father in a military ceremony. I am very proud of this experience," said De Jesus, a Born Again Christian. 

Pressure

During the Papal Visit, two distinct military ceremonies awaited the upcoming top 2 leaders of the PMA cadet corps.  Corpuz was assigned to lead the Arrival Honors while De Jesus was entrusted to spearhead the Foyer Honors during the pontiff's departure, both on January 16. 

Thinking about the big audience and the personalities involved in the ceremonies, both cadets felt the pressure that came with the job. They were aware that the VIP was both a Head of State and a Church Leader. 

They could not get rid of the mental baggage. The thought about the millions of people who will be watching on TV sets around the world also came to mind. They were likewise worried about the hot Manila weather.

Corpuz said that they were expected to show their best performance.

"Cadets are trained how to maintain composure despite the pressures. We are not supposed to be adversely affected by external distractions and sacrifice the quality of our performance," said Corpuz who is aspiring to become an Army Scout Ranger.

To achieve excellent performance, Corpuz prepared himself and his men for the tough job that was assigned to them. He wanted everyone to be conditioned mentally and physically so that they can attain perfection in all movements during the ceremony.

"Aside from our routine parade drills, we dedicated one week to practice our movements specifically for the honor ceremonies. We also watched our diet a few days before the D-day," he added. 

Meanwhile, De Jesus said that he wanted to showcase the PMA during the ceremony but he was worried  upon seeing that some cadets collapsed in formation during their practices.

"Our tactical officers demanded perfection and we echoed this to our subordinates. We also required the cadets to be in top shape all the time," revealed De Jesus. 

For one week, they led the members of the Honor Guard in practicing the movements during the daily drills which were held in Villamor Air Base. 

Star struck

During the arrival honors, Corpuz found himself a few steps away from the beloved pontiff. He said that he remained focused in order to avoid committing mistakes.

"I couldn't help but stare at him. Seeing him up close and personal inspired me to perform in the best manner I can," he narrated. 

Cadet Denzel Corpuz stands ramrod straight in front of Pope Francis during the Arrival Honors that was held at Malacanang Palace early morning on January 17. (Malacanang Photo Bureau)

De Jesus said that he was only about two steps away from Pope Francis during the Foyer Honors. As the ceremony started, he tried his best to stand straight, chin up high, and crisp. 

Who is 'rolling his eyeballs' in formation to stare at the Pope? Some of these cadets are actually guilty of violating this military regulation during the Foyer Honors. Cadet De Jesus is one of them. (PMA photo)

He remained almost motionless and held his sword tight. When the Pope was approaching, he couldn't help but 'roll his eyeballs'. He almost forgot to give the right command. 

"I was star-struck by his holiness. I was glancing at him while he was approaching and I almost failed to bark my orders," he said. 

Both cadets were very glad that they were able to accomplish their assigned mission 'with flying' colors. 

"I am happy of our humble contribution during the visit of Pope Francis. He had inspired us to raise the lid of our performance," said Corpuz.

They received accolades from their superiors who watched the event with their scrutinizing eyes, especially Major Vladimir Gracilla, their mentor.

"I am proud of these cadets who displayed the high standards of discipline that PMA is known for. My hardwork in supervising their daily drills paid off," said Gracilla, a member of PMA 'Sanghaya' Class of 2000.

Braving the storm: The story of Capt. Roland Narciso '95

January 20, 2015, 3:01 am

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Captain Roland Narciso proudly poses for a token photo at the cockpit of his aircraft. (Photo by PJ Enriquez/Inquirer Lifestyle)

Even well-experienced pilots would say that flying a plane during a storm is  a daunting challenge. As a Scout Ranger, I have no idea. All the time, I was just an ordinary passenger. Oh no, there was a time that I became crazy. During our airborne training in 1995, I boarded an aircraft and jumped out, hoping that my parachute would open wide!

Let's go back to the main topic: Is it more challenging to fly in the middle of a storm if your distinguished passenger is a man named Pope Francis? 

Let us hear from one of the pilots who was in the controls of PAL A320 flight PR 8010 which earned the call sign "Shepherd One". 

By the way, when I heard his name, it rings a bell--------Captain Roland Narciso, 41, the Chief Pilot. We both belonged to CCAFP's 4th Battalion. Back in 1991, I was a one of the mighty yearlings of Hawk Hunters; and, he was  kicking distance away as a dumbguard of the Golf Gallants.

One day, my mistah  introduced me to his famous companymate as they passed by in front of our barracks. He told me to ask the profession of Fourthclassman Narciso's father. 

With a tiger look which yearlings (2nd year cadets) were notoriously known for, I asked him the intriguing question.

"Mister You, what is the job of your erpats?"

He could not look at my eyes but he promptly answered: Driver sir!

I was not satisfied and pressed for more details. Thanks to the 'devilish' smile of my mistah, I got some clues that I need to ask more.

"Driver of what vehicle? Be specific!" 

He was cornered. Cadets are supposed to give direct answers. 

"Airplane sir," came the short reply.

Well, what can I say? I was a yearling then. "Sanamasita!" 

Anyway, it was not his fault that his father was a Pilot!

But hey, that is not the main story. It is about the very brave pilot whom I first met as a confused plebe. 

Let me continue, okay? If you're a plebe, say: "Sir, yes sir!"

Prior to their flight to Tacloban, everybody knew that tropical storm 'Amang' was already approaching the heavily-battered province of Leyte,  the same place that was devastated by super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in November 2013. 

Despite the storm warnings, the organizers of the Papal visit and even the pontiff himself made the decision to push through the planned meeting with the tens of thousands of people who patiently waited form him there. That is one of the main reasons why he visited the Philippines, right?

Perhaps, it was a twist of fate that PAL pilot Captain Roland Narciso, the son of a 'driver', was handpicked by his superiors for that mission. 

Why was he selected? I can only guess that he is one of the best pilots around. For five years as a young officer, he had flown military aircrafts like the T41. In addition, he had been a commercial pilot for 14 years now,  and was recently promoted as a Chief Pilot. Atin-atin lang,  he was probably selected because he can stand straight like a  plebe! Astig, di ba?

He said that government authorities selected the Airbus A320 because it was the most appropriate aircraft for the short and narrow runway of Daniel Z Romualdez Airport. 

A devout Catholic, Narciso was excited of the close encounter with the revered Pope inside the aircraft. So, like a dumbguard, his answer to the challenge to drive the Pope was a thunderous reply: "Sir, yes sir!" 

"I accepted the job because it was a blessing and an honor to serve the Holy Father," he said.

He did not know that the 'mission' would test his leadership and decision-making skills thereby thrusting him into the limelight.

The challenge

Aware of the inclement weather brought by the approaching typhoon, he knew that the plane would experience a turbulent flight. 

“The weather was still within the limits of the Airbus A320. This was our conclusion after thoroughly considering the cloud ceiling, wind condition, and visibility," he revealed.

The strong wind gusts brought by Typhoon 'Amang' caused the bumpy ride as they approached Eastern Visayas where Signal Nr 2 was already declared. 

When the plane safely landed at DZR Airport at around 8:30am, everyone on board was applauding, including the tens of thousands of rain-soaked pilgrims who waited for long hours outside.

Narciso said that his cadet training in the Philippine Military Academy and in the PAF Flying School mattered most during that flight. 

“I learned in PMA how to remain cool under pressure. I carried this trait when I began flying military aircrafts upon joining the Philippine Air Force and later, the Philippine Airlines," said Narciso, a member of PMA 'Marilag' Class of 1995 who had flown military aircrafts around the archipelago for about 5 years.

Painful decision

Later in the afternoon, he received advisories about the approaching typhoon which was about 80-100kms away by around 12:00nn. 

As Chief Pilot, he has to calculate the risks and make decisions. He consulted his fellow pilots including his PMA upperclassman, Capt. George Alvarez, about a proposal to leave at 1:00pm, 4 hrs earlier than the scheduled departure. He was aware that some people might be frustrated by the  shortened stay of the Pope but he needs to fly him out safely. 

"We knew it was a painful decision but we do not want to endanger our passengers, especially the Pope. We could be stranded there or fly in the middle of the storm which was not advisable," he said.

He was very elated that the organizers and the Pope agreed to cut short his trip and granted their proposal to depart by 1:00 pm.

The plane carrying the call sign 'Shepherd One',  made a smooth touch down in Manila at around 2:30pm, to the delight of the well-wishers who waited for Pope Francis at Villamor Air Base. 

"I sighed in relief upon landing safely, seeing the crowds of people which awaited Pope Francis. I got another shock of my life seeing the Pope entering the cockpit to congratulate us," he said. 

SUCCESS! Capt Roland Narciso smiles before a crowd of well-wishers who applauded the crew for safely transporting Pope Francis back to Manila. (Photo by PAO, AFP)

Proud mistahs

Learning that a 'mistah' (PMA classmate) piloted the plane that safely carried the Pope to Tacloban, Narciso received countless congratulatory messages from friends and classmates. Some of them proudly posted their messages of support on Facebook.

Captain Antonio Salgado, 42, the Class Baron of PMA 1995, said he was not surprised that Narciso was able to achieve his latest feat.

“Insong (Cpt Narciso) is responsible, dependable, and true. I know that the Pope was in good hands with him taking the flight controls," he said. 

"As the Chief Pilot, Roland has displayed the qualities of a leader. The PMA, our beloved institution has not failed in developing good leaders who are now serving in different organizations, "said Lt. Col Marlowe Patria, another mistah from the Philippine Army.

Bugo-bugo pilots

Actually, Capt Narciso was not the only Peemayer on board of the Shepherd One during that daring flight. 

He got reinforcements from upperclassmen Bugo-bugos (PMA graduates) like Capt. George Alvarez, his co-pilot and Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo. 

Alvarez is a member of PMA 'Bigkis-Lahi' Class of 1990 and Capt Tamayo was reportedly a member of PMA Class of 1974.

Because of their feat, I will render my snappiest salute to these gentlemen if I get the chance to meet them, especially the Driver's son whom I met more than two decades ago.

Paano nga ba gamitin ang 'Indirect Fire Support' sa pakikidigma?

February 7, 2015, 5:11 am

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Kuha ang larawan noong February 2002 na kung saan ay unang isinagawa ang Balikatan Exercises kasama ang mga tropa ng US sa lalawigan ng Basilan. Ang kaalaman sa Observed Fire Procedures ang itinuturo sa mga Scout Rangers sa SRTS at ito ay aking napakinabangang husto sa mga panahon na iyon.

Sa aming mga mandirigma na nasa Infantry, kasama sa itinuturo sa aming kurso ay paano gamitin ang Indirect Fire Support mula sa Field Artillery at sa infantry mortars na organic weapons ng Infantry Company at Infantry Battalion. 

Ito ay napakahalagang suporta para sa heavily engaged troops lalo na kung mas marami ang kalaban. Ang pamamaraan ng pag-request ng suporta mula sa assets na ito ay dapat kabisadong-kabisado ng mga Patrol Leaders (opisyal o NCO), dahil kapag pumalpak ka dito, lagabog ng high explosive rounds ang kakalampag sa posisyon mo!

                           

Larawan ng mortar section members ng US armed forces na nagsagawa ng indirect fire mission para sa engaged troops.

Kilalanin muna natin ang mga taong bumubuo sa Infantry Mortar Section na binubuo ng anim ka tao, at dalawang mortars. Kung sa Infantry Company, ang issue ay ang 60mm Mortar at 81mm Mortar naman kung sa Infantry Battalion.   

Ang Mortar Section at ang mga kagamitan na kinakailangan nito para magsagawa ng indirect fire mission. Maalam sa kanilang responsibilidad ang bawat miyembro ng team na ito.

Ang Indirect Fire System

Alamin naman natin ang bumubuo sa sistema ng pagpagana ng indirect fires mula sa mortars o artillery.  Maihalintulad ko ang buong sistema sa isang buong katawan ng tao. 

Kung ikaw ay ang Patrol Leader ng tropang napa-engage o nagpa-patrol,  o isang sundalong may kaalaman bilang Forward Observer (FO) na kasama sa patrol, ikaw ay ang tinaguriang 'Eyes' (Sensor) na syang titingin sa target at syang may responsibilidad paano ipatama ang bala. Ang taong tiga-compute naman para makabigay ng firing data, ay ang Brain, at ang mga taong tiga-execute ng firing commands ay ang 'Muscle' o katawan. 

Therefore, para makapatama tayo sa target, kailangang nagkakaintindihan at magaling sa kani-kanilang responsibilidad ang Eyes, Muscle, at ang Brain. Dahil buhay ang nakataya, bawal ang pa-tsam, mga tsong!

Illustration ng sistema ng indirect fire na kung saan ay hinahasa ang kaalaman ng mga sundalo na gumaganap sa mga trabahong ito.

Mission-essential equipment

Ang mahalagang gamit na dala ng isang Forward Observer (Eyes) ay mapa, lensatic compass, binocular na may mil reticles, tactical radio. Kung may modernong kagamitan kagaya ng laser range finder at GPS receiver ay mas mabuti.

Ang military type binoculars ay merong reticle na ginagamit sa pag-adjust ng patama ng indirect fires mula sa mortar o artillery. Minsan, kapag wala kaming Steiner binoculars ay MM (mata-mata) na lang ginagamit namin o estimation na lang.

Ang lensatic compass ay basic tool na kailangan ng mga sundalo para mag-navigate sa panahon ng patrols at pati sa pag-direct ng fires mula sa mortar o artillery. Kasama ito sa tinatawag na mission-essential equipment na dapat nakalista tuwing may combat patrols.

Ang mga mahalagang kagamitan naman ng isang FDC (Fire Direction Center) ay ang M16 Plotting Board, Ballistics Table, Tactical Map, OHP pens. Bonus na rin kung merong Mortar Ballistics Computer o kaya Mortar Fire Control System (MFCS).

                          

Ang MBC (top photo) at ang M16 Plotting Board na gamit ng mga magigiting na miyembro ng Mortar Section. Ang mga artillero na miyembro ng Philippine Army ay merong field expedient na pamamaraan paano i-compute ang firing data kung walang magamit na plotting board o kaya MBC.

Ang 'Muscle' naman ay kinakailangan talaga ito. Hulaan mo kaya? Djaraaaaan! Syempre, ang mortar! 

Kapag sinabi kong kagamitan ng 'Muscle', ito ay ang buong components na bumubuo ng mortar kasama na ang sights, base plate, bipod at idagdag mo na ang aiming posts kagaya ng nasa larawan sa itaas.

Kuha ang larawan nang nag-aral ako ng pang-snipe gamit ang M252 mortars sa US Infantry School. Nasa aming likuran ang pinapatamaang T72 tanks sa layong 3,500 metro.

Ang TCP operation

Ang isang opisyal na namamahala sa isang combat operation ay isinasama sa mission planning ang pag-gamit ng indirect fires either mula sa mortars o sa artillery. 

Kung alin ang kanyang gagamiting suporta ay diskarte nya iyon base sa iba't-ibang konsiderasyon kagaya ng misyon, kalaban, terrain, time, tropa, at komunidad na saan sila nagsagawa ng operasyon. 

Halimbawa, kung maraming bahayan ng sibilyan, hindi pwedeng gamitin ang artillery dahil malaki ang tsansang makatama ito ng non-combatants. Di ba't iniiwasan namin ang collateral damage?

Kung mortars naman ang gagamitin, inilalatag sa plano kung saan ilagay ang mga mortars depende sa maximum range nito. Syempre, kapag 105mm Howitzer ay sobra 10 kilometro pwedeng sumuporta.

Matindi ang koordinasyong gagawin ng Tactical Command Post at Patrol Leader ng operating troops habang isinasagawa ang patrol. From time to time, inirereport dapat ng operating unit ang latest grid location. 

Dapat ay may inilatag na ring target reference points (TRPs) sa lugar na pupuntahan para pang-emergency na suporta, mas madali itong mapapatakan dahil nakamarka na ito sa mapa. 

Kapag ginagawa ito, makakaresponde kaagad ang TCP at ang artillery o mortar section sa pagdeliver ng indirect fires sa pinakamabilis na panahon. 

Para sa mga FOs, kailangang mabilis ang kanyang tawag ng suporta base sa kanyang nakikita. Ang pinakamahalaga nyang maibigay kaagad sa FDC o sa TCP ay ang kanyang latest grid coordinates, anggulo ng posisyon ng kalaban (bearing) at ang distansya nito mula sa pwesto ng tropa at mga katabi nito. 

Kapag overwhelming ang dami ng kalaban sa engkwentro, ang indirect fires ay malaking bagay para pumantay o lumalamang sa labanan ang ating magigiting na mga mandirigma. Malaking bagay ang magamit ito ng ating mandirigma. Dapat itong aralin at hahasain ang kaalaman sa lahat ng panahon. 

Kitams? Sa pakikidigma, bawal ang nga-nga.

Sa aking pakikidigma kasama ang mga tropa ng 10th Scout Ranger Company, nagagamit namin ang kaalaman sa Observed Fire Procedures para gapiin ang pwersa ng mga Abu Sayyaf tuwing ginagamitan nila kami ng 'pintakasi'. Dahil na rin dito, natapos ko ang aking termino bilang pinuno ng naturang yunit na walang nalagas na buhay sa aking mga tauhan.

Note: Ang ibang mga photos at illustrations ay kinuha sa open sources sa internet.

Loving an Army soldier: The love story of a military wife

February 13, 2015, 4:59 pm

≫ Next: 5 Reasons why Basit Usman's snipers could not actually hit a target at long distances

≪ Previous: Paano nga ba gamitin ang 'Indirect Fire Support' sa pakikidigma?

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Theirs was a love that blossomed from a reluctant meeting at the country’s premier military school.

Janine Paola Cubillan was 22 when she met her knight in shining armor in Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in August 2012. She was a young Registered Nurse who recently passed her board exams. She was not really looking for love when her sister dragged her all the way from her home to Baguio City as a chaperone so she could meet her own boyfriend who was a cadet.

Raphael Vicente Cubillan, 23, was a third year cadet when he first laid eyes on Janine at PMA.

At first, she was not interested in him. But with text messages, and a whole lot of patience on Cubillan’s part, they became closer than friends five months later.

He would always find time to call her to share his experiences and his life as a cadet officer amidst sweet messages that captured her heart. His stories and perseverance made her interested in the life of a military man.

On February 8, 2013, they were deeply in love with each other. He called her “Opao,” a derivative of her first name. In return, she called him “Kubi-kubs,” the name that Cubillan used on his Facebook account during his cadetship. 

Paola said that she fell in love with him because of his sweetness. 

"Kubi-kubs was very sweet and thoughtful. I was swept off my feet when one day, he expressed his love for me," she said.

Distance could not hinder their budding relationship. From time to time, she would fly to Manila and travel all the way to Baguio to meet him.

On February 11, 2014 she delivered their lovely daughter. It was not really expected but he promised to marry her right after graduation.

                                             

2nd Lt. Raphael Vicente Cubillan of Surigao City was a young and dashing cadet of the Philippine Military Academy when he met Paola in 2012.

Army wife

They were a young couple but they tried their best to fulfill their responsibilities as parents and lovers. They rented a house in Cagayan de Oro City where Opao worked as a nurse in a hospital.

She said that Kubi-kubs entrusted her the family finances by leaving behind his payroll ATM card. They would discuss about saving for their future and sustain their family needs.

"We thought about saving an amount for Sophia's future so we dutifully set aside money for AFPSLAI. I tried my best to manage our finances by monitoring our monthly expenses based on our agreed budget," she revealed.

When he was deployed to the Army's 8th Infantry Division in Samar in June 2014, he invited his Opao to join him there. He was part of the training committee of the Candidate Soldier Course that was held inside the headquarters.

For two months, they lived as a true military couple inside the Army camp. She gained more insights about the lives of soldiers and their families who stayed there.

"For two months, we stayed in a military barracks together with our daughter. We took turns washing the dishes and our laundry during his spare time."

She also said that she experienced eating the usual delicacy that is prepared by the soldiers in the mess hall.

"We ate sardines and vegetables which were cooked by soldiers. I got to know them one by one because he would often feed them after seeing them tired during training," she said.

                                                    

Combat deployment

In October 2014, Kubi-kubs was deployed to Northern Samar to serve as a platoon leader. By that time, joining him was not advisable due to the risks of travelling through bandit-infested areas. 

"He was sent to a remote place where you need to travel by bus and then by motorized banca. He did not allow us to visit there," she recalled.

Paola said that there were times cellphone signal was quite weak, but he called her almost every day. Hearing each other's voice and talking about their daily lives was what kept them going.

"He would tell me the exotic food that he ate and shared with me the challenges that he experienced as a combat leader. He would always check on us back home and ensured that we didn't have any problems," she said.

She said that there were times that she could not help but worry about him every time he asked permission to go on a mission.

"We would remind each other to pray and ask for God's protection. I knew that his life was always on the line every time he leaves for combat patrol."

She said that she kept praying for him when he was out on a delicate mission to hunt down the enemies of the state. 

Precious time

In the last week of January 2015, they planned to celebrate Sophia's first birthday. He applied for a five-day leave so that he can join the celebration that they set on February 13. 

They planned many activities during his short leave to maximize their precious time together, including a memorable date during Valentine's Day.

"We wanted to spend sweet moments together like we’ve always done since we fell in love. We were inseparable every time we were together," she said.

Paola said that Kubi-kubs wanted to celebrate their daughter's birthday in a hotel in Cagayan de Oro City. 

"He really wanted to make it a very memorable day for our daughter. He was willing to spend part of our savings just for Sophia," she said.

One day, Kubi-kubs became unsure about his availability to leave for Sophia's birthday. He told Paola that his unit had an impending mission deep in the jungles. 

"He was worried that he might not be able to come on time for the birthday celebration. He told me to push through with the plan despite his absence."

She said that he had ensured that she got all the funds needed for the party. From time to time, he would ask if all requirements for the party had been completed.

"One day, I joked that he was the only one lacking in the birthday preparation. I told him not be absent that day," she said in between sobs.

Her cellphone became silent when he left for combat patrol on February 1.

Massage me

After two days of walking through thorny grounds and sleeping on cold surfaces, Cubillan found a spot where there was a phone signal.

Paola let out a whoop of joy when her phone finally rang. Her happiness was magnified seeing the caller's name in the night on February 2, 2015. She heard his faint voice amidst the nocturnal sounds in the forest. 

"Opao, your husband is pitiful now. I am very tired walking in rough terrain for two consecutive days to reach our objective. Can you please massage me, my love?"

Paola sensed that he was very exhausted but was very sweet to her during their conversation. She joined him in thoughts about their meeting. 

"Let me hug and massage you my love Kubi-kubs. Don't worry. Let's make up for the lost time when I come home during Sophia's birthday party."

Knowing that her husband was still on a mission, she didn't hold him long. It never crossed her mind that it might be their last conversation. 

Leading upfront

At about 9 a.m. on February 3, Cubillan and 15 of his men were stealthily moving in a mountainous terrain of Las Navas town.  

They were unaware that their patrol was already inside the bandits' lair during that time. They were deep into the enemy’s lair and safe sanctuary hidden by the thick forests.

Sgt Dante Labro, 38, the Platoon Sergeant, said that they spotted unarmed men in an adjacent hill. He said that Cubillan radioed the tactical command post about his observation. 

"Lt Cubillan alerted all units who were also deployed near the vicinity. He suspected that they have spotted the members of the bandit group," said Labro, a native of Catbalogan, Samar.

All of a sudden, they spotted another three men heading towards their surveillance position. Since their position was already compromised, Cubillan decided to apprehend them.

"He wanted to ensure their identities by talking to the apprehended people who were unarmed. The only problem was that one of them suddenly ran away towards the hill to alert their comrades," said Labro.

When the staccatos of gunfire started, Cubillan and his men found themselves in a disadvantage position. He wanted to seize a vantage point to prevent his patrol from being annihilated. 

Private First Class Michael Adao, 27, was positioned beside Cubillan as they inched their way towards the enemy positions using fire and maneuver. 

"Seeing him beside us, we were motivated to press the fight against more or less 50 NPA bandits who were on top of that hill. Lt Cubillan did not want us to be killed one by one so he led the assault on the enemy positions," said Adao. 

They were about 50 meters from the crest of the hill when Cubillan was fatally hit on his left chest. Adao pulled him towards a covered position to give first aid as the rest of their teammates led by Cpl Joselito Baraobadao, 28, continuously advanced to grab the commanding terrain. 

Last words

After 30 minutes of heavy fighting, Cubillan's men victoriously seized the hill, sending the NPA bandits running towards the position of the blocking force led by Lt. Hans Sinay.

Labro promptly called for air MEDEVAC to bring Cubillan to the nearest hospital. A few hundred meters away, the troops of Lt Sinay engaged the fleeing bandits in a firefight.

Adao was comforting Cubillan who was gasping for breath while uttering his last words. He told his platoon leader to keep awake and pray.

Cubillan asked for a rosary because he wanted to pray. Teary-eyed, Adao handed over a rosary to his officer and let him sip water.

"Papa...Mama. Lord Jesus. Please let me live."

Adao was already sobbing when Cubillan called the names of his loved ones. He gripped his hands which were holding the rosary beads, assuring him that the UH1H Huey chopper was on the way.

"Paola...my wife. Sophia...my beloved daughter Sophia," Adao recalled Cubillan calling out to his family as his heartbeats started to slow down.

Cubillan rolled his eyes upon hearing familiar chopping sounds of the military helicopter as it buzzed above the forest cover, a few meters from the helicopter landing zone that they had secured. 

Adao saw the final moments Cubillan took his last breaths before he passed away, the rosary that he gave him still clutched in his hands. He was in tears as he and Pfc Moreno carried Cubillan's lifeless body towards the chopper.

"I couldn't believe that I lost our beloved leader that day. I felt the pain of losing a dear brother," said Adao. 

The members of Cubillan's patrol saw him off as the Huey took off with an enormous whoosh as it soared away, giant rotors slapping the air as it carried a fallen warrior away from the encounter site.

Father's wish

Paola was determined to grant the last wish of Cubillan a week before he died: To push through with the birthday party for Sophia even if he could not make it.

"I am grieving that Kubi-kubs is not with us anymore and the pain is unbearable. However, I felt that he will be very happy to see his daughter celebrating her first natal day," she said.

On February 11 (Wednesday), families and friends gathered as Cubillan's beloved daughter smiled at her well-wishers during the fun-filled party.

Sophia celebrated his first birthday party a day before the burial of his doting father, Lt. Raphael Cubillan who died heroically in a battle with NPA bandits in Northern Samar on February 3,2015. (Photo by Paola Cubillan)

In her statement issued after the event, Paola expressed her sincerest thanks to all who provided their support.

"I am very grateful that you helped me ease the pain by making this day a happy one for me and my beloved husband."

She said that she felt sorry for her daughter who is unaware about the death of her father. 

"My heart bleeds entertaining the thought that Sophia can no longer see her loving father. She will not experience having a doting father to teach her how to walk and to guide her as she grows," she added.

Despite her loss, Paola remains optimistic that peace will finally reign in the country. She said that she is hoping that there will be no more fighting among fellow Filipinos so that there will be no more senseless deaths.

During the eulogy for Cubillan that was witnessed by Army personnel, Paola reminded the soldiers about the other wish of her husband.

"To my husband’s fellow soldiers, do not lose hope. Strengthen your resolve to work to achieve peace for the Country, as I know that’s what my husband wished to achieve.”

Paola Cubillan receives the Philippine flag that draped the casket of her brave hero-husband, 2nd Lt. Raphael Vicente Cubillan before his burial on February 13, 2015. (Photo by Paola Cubillan)

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5 Reasons why Basit Usman's snipers could not actually hit a target at long distances

March 14, 2015, 6:55 pm

≫ Next: Paano nga ba gamitin ang 'Indirect Fire Support' sa pakikidigma? (Part 2)

≪ Previous: Loving an Army soldier: The love story of a military wife

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Kitang-kita sa larawan ang maling set-up ng scoped rifle (M4 Carbine Rifle/M653) ni Basit Usman (2nd from left) at ang kanyang BFF na mahiyain na gumagamit ng AK 47 Rifle.

Napapangiti na lang ako tuwing naririnig sa pagsasalarawan ng iilang Pilipino sa mga self-proclaimed snipers na kagaya nina Basit Usman at Marwan, na sila ay mga kilabot dahil sa kanilang angking kaalaman sa long-range shooting.

Pagkatapos kong naranasan ang pakikidigma noon at nakikita ang kanilang combat actions na ina-upload sa Youtube, sa palagay ko ay exaggeration ang claims na sila ay mga batikang 'sniper' kuno. 

Ang naging resulta naman noon ay merong iilan sa mga sundalo at pulis ang hesitating o nag-aatubili sa pag-maneuver tuwing engkwentro dahil sa takot na bala ng Cal. 50 ang makipag-appear sa kanila. May basehan ba talagang tayo ang matakot sa mga iyon? Sa aming biruan sa GHQ, bakit tayo magpa-psyops? Grrrrrrr.

Sa aking obserbasyon, maihahanay sa 'Ripley's Believe it or Not'ang kwento na meron sa kasalukuyang mga mandirigma sa Maguindanao o lahat ng conflict areas ng ARMM ang tunay na maalam sa long range shooting. Sa aking palagay ay kagaya rin sa iilang gun enthusiasts na gumagamit ng scoped rifle, pormatic lang sila. 

Unang-una, O.A. na nga kung tawagin natin ang mga iyon bilang snipers dahil lamang sa naka-scope ang kanilang baril kagaya ng nasa larawan ni Basit Usman. Bakeeeeet? Ganito yon, sa aming 'baliw sa baril' at bihasa sa pag-gamit ng scoped rifles, obvious masyado na panay porma lang yan. Parang kwento lang iyon ng maliit na langaw na ipinangalandakan na sya rin ay kalabaw dahil nakapatong sya sa ibabaw nito. Hello, langaw, don't tell me you're a kalabaw!

Para lumiwanag ang malabong kwento, ilahad ko sa iyo ang mga rason kung bakit hindi naman sila makakatama ng target sa malayuan lalo na sa layong sobra sa layong 200 metro. 

1. Kulang ang Sniper Skills. Una, para magampanan ng isang indibidwal ang misyon ng isang sniper, dapat hasain nya ang tatlong separate skills. Remember ha, tatlo iyan: Marksmanship, Tactics at Field Craft. Kung kulang ng isang skill, hindi mo magagawa ang mahirap na misyon ng sniper at matagurian kang panay porma.

Gamit ang aking precision rifle at match-grade ammunitions, ang aking standard sa shot group (distansya ng bawat tama ng bala) ay 0.25MOA o .25inch sa 100m. Ang ibig sabihin nito, kaya ng rifle na ang shot group na 2.5 inches sa layong 1,000 metro (1 km).

2. Di alam ang Science of marksmanship. Sa larangan ng marksmanship, napakarami ang inaaral dito kasama na ang parte ng syensya. Hindi ito simpleng tapat-tapat lang ng crosshair then kalabit at makatama ka na! Habang palayo nang palayo ang target, mas lalong lumalaki ang percentage of error kaya inaalam ng shooter ang lahat ng factors na syang dahilan ng shooting errors kagaya ng external factors na wind velocity, temperature, elevation. Napakahaba kung ikwento ko lahat kaya banggitin ko na lang ang tinatawag na wind factor. Kung malakas ang hangin, inililiko nito ang bala lalo na kung ito ay 'crosswind' o 'full-value wind'. Para maitama mo pa rin ang bala, dapat marunong kang mag-compute ng wind drift (liko ng bala) base sa distance ng target, ballistics data ng ammo (velocity ng bullet sa specific distance). Kung hindi naintindihan ng shooter ang Minute of Angle (MOA), ewan ko na lang kung sniper nga sya. Idagdag mo na rin doon ang Marksmanship principles kagaya ng steady-hold factors, trigger squeezing, at follow through. Ang gulo no? Tingnan mo silang humawak ng baril kapag lumalaban gamit ang kanilang locally-assembled na 'Barit' (Maguindanao version of the Cal .50 Barrett Sniper Rifle).

Sa video ay makikitang ipinipilit na iputok ang kanilang 'Barit' gamit ang standing position, ang pinaka-unstable na shooting position. Ang dahilan dito ay wala silang clear fields of fire. Walang silbi ang scoped rifle kung panay cogon at dahon ng saging ang makikita mo sa teleskopyo. In the end, pananakot lang ang dating ng kanilang Cal .50 dahil malakas itong pumutok ngunit mas malamang ay molecules ng hangin pati mga puno ng niyog sa harapan ang madalas tinatamaan nito. Therefore, ang 'Barit' ay malaking version lamang ng 'Surit-surit' ng mga Bisaya!

3. Maling set-up ng scope. Tinitingnan ko pa lang ang larawan ng kanilang scoped rifles, kita na agad na pa-tsam ang pag-set up nito. Halimbawa, si Basit Usman na naka-M4 rifle ay gumagamit ng high-power scope na tila ay mekaniko ng kuliglig ang nag-install nito. Marami ang considerations sa pag-install ng scope para ang gumagamit nito ay hindi mahirapang magpatama. Halimbawa, kung assault rifle gamit ko, di ako papayag na mataas ang 'power' ng scope kasi liliit ang aking 'field of view' (FOV) at ang nangyayari ay sobrang magalaw ang nakikita mong imahe lalo na at pagod ka rin sa movement na hinihingal ka habang sumisilip. Karagdagan pa dyan, ang scope nila ay basta na lang ipinatong sa riple at hindi isinaalang-alang ang tinatawag na 'eye relief' o distansya ng mata mula sa ocular lens (likurang bahagi ng scope). Ano ang kahihinatnan nito? Panay shadow sa gilid-gilid ng scope at mahirapan kang makuha ang 'perfect sight picture' na syang kailangan para magpatama. 

Mahirap ang mag-set up ng scope at kasunod nito ay ang hirap paano ito i-zero sa iba't-ibang distances. Dapat nakatutok sa parehas na linya o point ang scope at ang barrel para ito ay ma-"zero".

Ang scoped rifle ay ginagamit din ng mga kampeon kong mga kasamahan sa Philippine Army Shooting Team sa kanilang pakikipagtunggali sa larangan ng pagtudla sa Australian Armies Skill at Arms Meeting. Iniintindi namin ang mga katagang Minute of Angle at Milliradian (Mil) na syang ginagamit sa pag-compute ng mga long range shooters at snipers.

Ito ang inaaral naming multi-target shooting para sa aming mga sundalo na ipinapadala sa field para labanan ang mga terorista. Iron sights lamang ang aking ginagamit hanggang 400 metro, ang distansya para sa ordinary riflemen.

4. Hindi precision rifle ang 'Barit'. Ang arte at  syensya ng pagpapatama sa target sa malalayong distansya na sobra sa required skills ng ordinary riflemen, ay kailangang hasaing mabuti sa mahabang panahon gamit ang maka-modernong kagamitan. Pag-usapan na lang natin ang riple na kanilang ginagamit, ang 'Barit'. Ito ay locally assembled at kung anu-anong bakal ang ginagamit. Ang tinatawag na 'heart of the rifle' ay ang barrel, at sila na rin gumawa nito pati ang rifling. Tama ba ang rifling twist? Tama ba ang crowning? Tama ba ang headspace? Mga kapatid, ang batikang gunsmith lamang ang nakakaintindi ng mga bagay na iyan. Kung ang Cal. 50 Barrett Sniper Rifle ay ginagamitan ng match-grade barrel na kagaya ng Krieger, ang kanilang 'Barit' ay kung saan-saang kanto lang napulot ang bakal. Ika nga eh, if you plant camote, you will harvest camote. Kung pangit ang barrel, hindi nito ma-stabilize ang bullet simula pa lang sa loob nito (internal ballistics), kaya ay posibleng 'Boy Tumbling' ang inaabot ng bala pag-exit nito sa muzzle.

Para makatama sa malalayong distansya, dapat maayos ang set up ng baril mismo (match barrel, match trigger, free-float, tactical scope). I-partner naman ang magandang precision rifle sa taong precision shooter. Ika nga ng mga batikang Army shooters ay: "Di lang sa pana iyan, nasa galing din ng Indian!"

Kung maayos ang set up ng rifle at parating nagsasanay ang gumagamit nito, mas malamang tagumpay ito sa mga labanan. Kung malapitan ang engkwentro, mas mainam ang iron sights kay sa scoped sights.

5. Walang sustainment training. Ang long-range shooting ay kailangan ng tuloy-tuloy na pagsasanay sa known distance range (KDR) at maging sa real-life shooting scenarios na panay unknown distances ang kinalalagyan ng targets. Ika pa nga ng aking world champ shooting mentor na si Marat Niyazov ay: "Shooting skills are perishable skills. Don't be lazy. You must continuously practice these skills Lt. Cabunakov!". Ang ibig nyang sabihin, kagaya ng itak, napupurol ang talas nito kung hindi hahasain parati kaya naman ay hindi ko tinatalikuran ang pagsasanay sa kaalaman na ito na importante sa aking serbisyo. Sa pamamagitan ng tuloy-tuloy na pagsasanay, ang pag-iisip ay nahahasa sa araling kagaya ng distance estimation, wind estimation at hold-off, moving target 'lead' at angled shooting hold-off. Sa mga Army snipers, ang heavy caliber sniper training gamit ang Cal .50 ay ginagawa sa kampo na may firing range na ang layo ay 100 metro -2,000 metro. Ang tanong ko ngayon, meron bang ganyang training sina Usman at ang friends nya sa BIFF? Sagutin ko na rin. Wala! Therefore, wag matakot sa nagpapakilalang Sniper ng kalaban.

Dahil ang ordinary rifleman ng AFP ay tinuturuang magpatama hanggang 250 metro (400 metro para sa advanced marksmanship), tayong mga sundalong asintado ang dapat kakilabutan ng mga kriminal at teroristang kagaya nina Basit Usman! 

Sa aking pag-iikot sa field units ay iniimbentaryo ko rin ang skills ng mga sundalo na dumaan sa Scout Sniper Training at ipinamahagi sa kanila ang mga bagong kaalaman na napupulot sa ibang paaralan ng pagtudla. 

Ang sustainment training ay tuloy-tuloy na itinataguyod ng Philippine Army sa lahat ng mga yunit sa buong kapuluan sa pamamagitan ng Division Training School at sa mobile training teams  (MTT) ng Marksmanship Training Center. Dahil dito, mas kampante tayo na mas magagaling ang ating kasundaluhan sa pakikidigma kaysa mga pwersang nakakalaban.

Paano nga ba gamitin ang 'Indirect Fire Support' sa pakikidigma? (Part 2)

April 17, 2015, 5:41 am

≫ Next: 10 Life Lessons that I learned from my father

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Sa part 1 ng aking kwento, nailahad ko ang tinatawag na Indirect Fire System kagaya ng artillery at ng mortar. Sana ay naging malinaw iyon sa inyo pagkatapos ko itong na-simplify.

Naiintindihan ko naman na ang karamihan sa mga sibilyan ay hindi kabisado paano ginagamit ang indirect fire support mula sa Artillery o kaya sa Mortars. 

Para magkaliwanagan pa more, mas maiging panoorin nyo muna itong video ng Balikatan exercises na nagpapakita ng kaalaman at kagalingan ng mga sundalo natin na kung tawagin ay 'artilyero'.

Kung inyong susuriin, napakahirap ang trabaho ng mga tao na nagpapaputok ng 105mm artillery. Kinakailangang coordinated ang lahat ng aksyon ng mga personnel nito. Remember the magic word ha: Coordinated!

Ano nga ba ang hitsura sa lugar na pinapapatakan ng artillery rounds? Panoorin ang video sa itaas na kung saan ay makikita ang pag-mark ng target gamit ang White Phosphorus (WP) bago ito ina-adjust at pinasundan ng high-explosive rounds. Naranasan ko na ang nasa posisyon bilang tiga-paputok sa posisyon ng tubo at yong tigatawag ng indirect fire support bilang Forward Observer. Bawal ang palpak mag-isip dito or else wagaaaam!

Ang tanong, masarap kaya ang pakiramdam kung ikaw ang nasa paligid ng impact area? Obvious ba ang sagot? Syempre, hindeeee! Naranasan ko na iyan sa Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao nang pinapatakan namin ng 105mm high explosive (HE) rounds ang mga MILF na umatake sa sa detachment na aking kinalagyan noong mid 1990s. Tanda ko pa ang mga dialogue na naririnig ko sa mga sundalo tuwing humahaging ang bala at lumapag mga 150 metro mula sa aming pwesto. Ito ang mga sampol:

Sabi ng Ilokano: "Apung ku!"

Sabi ng Ilonggo: "Hijo de puta!"

Sabi ng Bisaya:  "Gikolira na jud ni, mangamatay ta!"

Nakakatawa ang mga hitsura namin dahil sa takot na mapatakan ng sariling itinawag na fire support. Masakit ata yon no?

By the way, sa mga nagsasabing okay lang daw na magpapatak na lang ng White Phosphorus rounds kahit walang Forward Observer, ang gagaling nyo pre!

Dinig na dinig natin ang mga komentong sabi-sabi ng mga Dota expert na ayos lang daw patakan ang isang patrol ng artillery kahit walang kausap na Forward Observer. Susme! 

By the way, ito ang dapat nating tandaan: Ang White Phosphorus (WP) round ay ang bilis mag-sunog ng damit at iba pang highly-combustible materials na nasa paligid. Meron din itong component na nakakalapnos sa balat ng tao dahil instead na shrapnel ang nagliliparan, mga nakakapaso na tila tunaw na bakal ang init ang syang dadapo sa iyo! Gusto nyo i-try? 

By the way, tingnan nyo ang hitsura ng tinamaan ng White Phosphorus rounds sa video sa ibaba. 

Kung kayo kaya ang magpapatak ng White Phosphorus at malapnos kagaya ng mga biktima? Ano ngayon mga tsong, payag kang hula-hulaan na lang ang sistema sa pagpapatak ng artillery? Pa-tsamba pa more? Matuto naman tayo sa karanasan ng iba! Sisihan pa more?

Call for fire

Paano nga ba ang mga simpleng procedures para makapag-deliver ng artillery fire sa isang heavily engaged unit? 

Makinig ka ha. Wag patulog-tulog! 

Una, kailangan ng Fire Direction Center (FDC) ang grid coordinates ng requesting element na kung saan ay andon ang Forward Observer.  Sino ang magbigay ng grid? Listen carefully ha. Eh di yong Forward Observer mismo! 

Ganon? Yes. Ganon talaga. Di pwede i-text ang grid coordinate ha? Itawag mo gamit ang tactical radio. I-read back pa ito ng FDC para ikumpirma na tama ang ibinigay na mga impormasyon kagaya ng grid location, azimuth at distance ng kalaban na gustong mabatukan ng artillery rounds. Naninigurado syempre ang FDC kasi baka naman nagkawatak-watak ang patrol o kaya lumipat na ito ng posisyon habang nakikipagbakbakan. Oisst. Kapag mag-patrol ha, dapat may tactical radio na pwedeng tawagan! 

Bakit naman kailangang FO ang kausap ng FDC? Syempre, dapat direktang nag-uusap ang FO at ang FDC dahil nakakamatay iyang pinag-uusapan nilang artillery fire! Remember the magic word: Direktang nag-uusap! Kasi, kung may papalpak at mali ang napatakan, silang dalawa ang unang may kasalanan!

Paano pag walang nakakausap na Forward Observer o Patrol Leader na marunong ng Call for Fire procedures? Eh, di sorry, di ka pwedeng bigyan ng artillery support!

Bakeet di pwede bigyan ng artillery support pag walang FO? Kulit mo rin ano? Syempre, walang 'mata' ang FDC. May bulag bang accurate magpatama ng target? Iyong magician siguro, kayang maka-bullseye kahit may catarata!

Uulitin ko ha. Masakit mabatukan ng 105mm projectile, kahit white phosphorus (WP) o high-explosive (HE) man iyon! Para mas feel mo ang scenario, i-replay mo ang video sa itaas at imagine mo na ikaw iyong nalapnos ang balat.

Sa mga ayaw pa ring maniwala, sabi ng mga pilosopo na mortero at artilyero namin, open sila sa try-out ng mga taong gustong sumubok magpapatak sa kanilang kinalagyang pwesto nang maramdaman ng mga war experts ang epekto nito. Any volunteer?

Mga palaisipan

Marami ang mga bagay na pag-isipan nating lahat tungkol sa usaping indirect fire support. 

Ika pa nga sa kasabihan ay: "With great power, comes great responsibility."

Matindi ang training ng mga taong gumagamit ng artillery at mortar assets para sa pakikidigma. Hinahasa parati ang mga kaalaman na ito sa pamamagitan ng sustainment training para maiwasan ang disgrasya at masiguradong asintado ang kasundaluhan sa kanilang ginagawa. Responsibilidad ng mga taong gumagamit nito na hindi makapanakit ng kapwa sundalo at maging mga inosenteng sibilyan. Magic word ha: Responsibilidad.

Sa isang military operation, pinaplanong mabuti ng mga unit commanders ang pag-gamit ng indirect fires at inihahanda nila ang Fire Support Plan bilang parte sa Operations Order (OPORD). Kung hindi mo ito na-plano, nagplano ka na ring pumalpak! Bakit po? Eh, ang 105mm artillery ay hindi kagaya sa iyong M1911A1 Cal 45 pistol na pwedeng i-holster sa tagiliran at bunutin, itutok at iputok na mabilisan kagaya ng isang duwelo! Draw!

Kaya, sa mga experts na nagmumungkahing paputukan ng artillery ang engaged unit na walang nakakausap na Forward Observer, isip-isip pa more!

10 Life Lessons that I learned from my father

June 21, 2015, 1:01 am

≫ Next: Rules of Engagement: Shoot or Hold? (Leadership Experience Part 23)

≪ Previous: Paano nga ba gamitin ang 'Indirect Fire Support' sa pakikidigma? (Part 2)

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Sa aming taunang pagbisita sa aking ama, isinasama nya ang aking anak sa sakahan na aking kinalakihan. Doon ko naikwento sa aking anak ang hirap ng buhay ng mga magsasaka kagaya namin ng kanyang lolo. Kasama sa larawan ang tatlong unang lalaking apo ng aming butihing ama na sina Miggi at Ken.

My father, Roberto 'Toto' Caneos Cabunoc, is my first mentor and teacher. During my childhood, he taught me life lessons that had served as the foundation of my beliefs and practices. I will pay tribute to this down-to earth man by writing some of the nuggets of wisdom that I learned from him. Please allow me to tell the story in Tagalog.

1. Discipline. Simula noong ako ay nagkamulat, lagi ko nang naririnig ang salitang disiplina. Importante daw ito sabi ng aking ama. Tinuruan nya ako at ang aking mga kapatid na maging disiplinado para maging matagumpay sa aming gagawin sa buhay. Meron kaming oras sa paglalaro at sa pagsagawa ng aming munting assignments. Nagsimula kami sa paghuhugas ng pinggan, sa pagpapakain ng mga alagang aso at manok,  hanggang noong panahon na kaya na naming magpastol ng kabayo, kalabaw at baka. Noong high school na ako, medyo seryosohan na dahil pinag-araro at gapas na rin kami sa bukid. Dahil malikot din akong bata, di maiwasang nagpapasaway dahil nahahawa sa mga ka-barkadang mga bugoy sa aming barangay. Kapag nalilimutan naming gawin ang aming mga taskings sa bahay, naririnig namin ang kakaibang sipol. Kapag sumobra sa sampong beses ang paulit-ulit ang pagsipol, mabigat ang consequences at dapat namin itong harapin na kagaya ng isang tunay na lalaki.

2. Lead by good example. Sa aming sakahan, meron kaming mga taong pinagtatrabaho ng arawan. Noong una, sama-sama lang ako sa aking tatay sa paglilinis ng aming bukid kasama ang aming mga trabahador. Di nagtagal na-promote na ako bilang 'Manager'. Pero, kakaiba ang istilo ng Manager na ipinagkatiwala sa akin. Dapat kong samahan sa pag-araro o kaya sa pagtabas ng damo ang aming mga tauhan. Ang ibig sabihin, dapat kong bilis-bilisan ang aking kilos kasi tinatapatan lang din ako ng aming mga trabahante. Paano, bilisan man nila o hindi, may kumpleto silang sweldo pagsapit ng hapon. Hirap no? Yes, napakainit at masakit sa likod ang naghahagilap ng damo sa ilalim ng mais at palay para bunutin at tabasin para maayos ang tubo ng mga halaman. Di ko lang alam, iyon pala ay matataguriang 'Lead by good example' na mapapakinabangan sa serbisyo!

3. Sense of responsibility. Maliliit pa lang kaming magkakapatid, tinuruan na kami ng kahalagahan ng sense of responsibility. Elementary pa lang ako ay marunong na akong magsaing at maghugas ng pinggan. Meron kaming division of labor sa bahay at ginagampanan namin ang kanya-kanyang tungkulin na hindi na kailangang sabihang paulit-ulit. Naalala ko na tuwing bakasyon sa eskwela, kakaiba ang aming battle cry kay sa mga may mayayaman at maging sa mga patamad-tamad na kabataan. Kung sila ay nagsasabing "Yehey, bakasyon na naman!", kami naman ay "Hay, naku pagtatabas time na naman!". 

4. Don't waste any single grain of rice. Sabi ng aking ama, huwag daw sayangin kahit isang butil ng kanin sa lamesa. Baket? Obvious ba? Ito ang kanyang sagot: "Alalahanin ninyo ang ating butil-butil na pawis na bumabaha para makapag-ani ng palay na ating pagkain. Lalo na kung hindi nyo naranasan ang magsaka sa bukirin, wala kayong karapatan na ang pinagpawisan ng magsasaka ay sayangin.". Tama nga naman. Nang nangitim din ang aking balat sa pagsasaka sa bukirin, naramdaman ko ang kahalagahan ng kanyang sinabi.

5. Be generous. Hindi kami mayaman pero likas na matulungin ang aming mga magulang, lalo na sa aming mga mahihirap na mga kaanak lalo na yong hindi nakayanang mag-aral. Noong alkalde ang aking ama ay normal nang magamit din nya ang sariling kita sa sakahan para itulong sa mga nangangailangan, kaya minsan nagkokomento ang aking ina. Pero, may karagdagang kondisyon ang aming pagtulong: Dapat tinutulungan din ng nagpapatulong ang kanyang sarili! Kung tipong panay asa lang sa agarang tulong at hindi man lang nagsusumikap, mukhang abusado iyon sa kabaitan ng iba.

6. Hardwork. Itinuro ng aking ama ang pagsusumikap sa trabaho upang makamit ang kagalingan. Pati extra allowance ko noon ay paghihirapan ko muna ang magbenta ng kalabasa at malunggay o kaya saging. Kaya mo yon umikot sa buong barangay at naglalako ng gulay? Kaya ko yon tsong! Ika nga sa TV show na 'John en Marsha', "Magsumikap ka John, magsumikap ka!". Sa aking serbisyo ngayon, normal na iyong pagsusumikap parati na mapaganda ang aking trabaho, kahit ano man iyon.

7. Education. Dahil maagang naulila sa ama, naging padre pamilya ang aking ama para matulungan ang ina at mga kapatid. Dahil dito, hindi na nya natupad ang hangaring makatuntong sa kolehiyo. Sa amin sya bumabawi at pinagsisikapan nyang makatapos kaming lahat na magkakapatid sa pag-aaral para makamtan ang bantayog ng tagumpay. Ika pa nya, "Kung ayaw nyo na panay pagtatabas at pag-aararo lang din ang abutin nyo pagdating ng araw, mag-aral kayong mabuti para maging negosyante o propesyonal.". Oo nga naman, di ba? Wala atang matinong negosyante o ahensya ng gobyerno ang mag-hire ng empleyadong walang pinag-aralan para sa mga sensitibong posisyon. Naranasan ko kaya ang mainitan at nilalamok at niknik sa ilalim ng makating alagang mais at palay! Dahil doon, nag-aral akong mabuti para makatapos. 

8. Public service. Ang paglilingkod sa bayan ay nakamulatan na namin sa aming mga magulang. Ang aking ina ay isang public school teacher. Ang aking ama ay naging konsehal ng bayan bago nahalal bilang alkalde. Seryoso sya sa paglilingkod sa aming kababayan. Teka, baka naisip nyo na sya ay isa ring 'trapo'. Ang sama ng reputasyon ng karamihang pulitiko no? Ganito ko sya isalarawan. Walang convoy ng armadong VIP security personnel at wala ring magarang sasakyan at lalong walang 'SOP' sa mga proyekto. Hindi sya nag-abuso sa pwesto o nagpayaman mula sa kaban ng bayan. Kadiri yong taong may limpak-limpak ang salapi pero galing pala sa pondo ng bayan no? Sa halip na magpayaman sa sarili, pinaganda nya ang aming bayan, pinalaganap ang serbisyo publiko at pinaunlad ang kalakalan. Ika pa nya, ang kanyang tanging puhunan ang malinis na pangalan ng aming angkan. Isa ito sa dahilan kung bakit lima sa aming magkakapatid ay nasa serbisyo publiko ngayon. Ito rin ang dahilan kung bakit nanatili ako sa mahirap na serbisyo militar hanggang sa ngayon.

9. Fairness. Likas sa aking ama ang maging patas. Bawal sa kanya yong nanlalamang at iyong tipong palaging nang-iisa. Ayos lang sa kanya ang makipag-compete para sa pagpapakita ng kagalingan pero huwag lamang mandaya. Dahil dito, merong pagkakataon na walang lumaban sa kanya bilang alkalde dahil hindi sya matatalo sa patas at walang dayaan na halalan. Sa ngayon, ang prinsipyo na ito rin ang isa sa aking sinusundan sa aking serbisyo. Lumalaban ako ng patas at bawal iyong gumagamit ng padrino para sa makasariling kapakanan.

10. Modest lifestyle. Kung sa kasimplehan sa buhay ang hanapin, iyon na ang imahe na makikita mo sa aking ama. Hindi sya maarte na tipong one-day millionnaire kung umasta. Kayang kumain kasama ang maralita habang nagkakamay at bagoong lang ang ulam, kayang makipagtagay ng tuba sa mga manginginom sa barangay at kaya ring makikipag-usap sa mga katutubong Manobo gamit ang kanilang sariling wika. Kaya nyang makihalubilo sa lahat ng klase ng tao maging tambay sa kanto, magsasaka, negosyante o kaya mga lingkod bayan. Ito ang isa sa aking nakopya sa kanya nang ako ay nasa serbisyo na kung saan ay kailangan naming mga sundalo ang kilalanin ng taumbayan bilang mga sundalo ng Pilipino. 

Iilan lamang ito sa napakaraming aral na natutunan ko mula sa aking magiting na ama. Kung hindi dahil sa kanya, siguro nasa kangkungan ako pupulutin ngayon. 

Maraming salamat sa iyo Pa! Di kita mababayaran. Promise, ipamana ko na lang ang iyong mga aral sa iyong apong si Mikhail Harvey.

Pinasubok ko kay Harvey ang aking naranasang pagtatabas ng aming sakahan sa Bukidnon. Syempre, sa simula lang ginaganahan. Mag-aral na lang daw syang maging doktor!

Tumampisaw sa putikan si Harvey para maramdaman ang kati ng palay na malapit nang aanihin. Doon nya unang nahawakan ang halaman ng bigas na paborito nyang kainin araw-araw. Nangako na rin syang hindi na magsasayang ng butil na bigas tuwing kakain.

Tinuruan ko rin si Harvey na umangkas ng kabayo na aking paboritong sasakyan noong ako ay bata pa. Doon nya nalaman ang mga sound and gesture signals para palakarin, patakbuhin o pahintuin ang kabayo. 

Masaya kaming nagpakuha ng larawan nang hinatid kami ni Erpats sa Laguindingan airport pagkatapos ng aming bakasyon sa probinsya. Gusto na ni Harvey na bumalik para matuto pa ng mga bagong kaalaman mula sa kanyang Lolo kasama na ang pagmamaneho at pamamahala ng sakahan.

To my great Erpats,  'Happy Father's Day!'

Rules of Engagement: Shoot or Hold? (Leadership Experience Part 23)

July 4, 2015, 4:04 am

≫ Next: Rules of Engagement: Shoot or Hold? (Leadership Experience Part 24)

≪ Previous: 10 Life Lessons that I learned from my father

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Kuha ang larawan sa aking ginagawang Troop Information & Education (TI&E) sa 10th SRC na aking pinamunuan, na kung saan aking tinatalakay ang aking simpleng Rules of Engagement (ROE) sa aming pakikidigma laban sa mga Abu Sayyaf sa Sulu. (10SRC Photo)

(Karugtong ang kwento na ito sa http://rangercabunzky.blogspot.com/2014/03/ang-manager-ng-10th-scout-ranger.html)

Pagkatapos ng halos dalawang buwan ng sunod-sunod na combat operations sa kasuluk-sulukan ng Sulu, tila ay naglahong parang bula ang mga bandidong Abu Sayyaf na sa mga video footages ay naghahamon ng barilan sa mga sundalo. 

Nababalitaan namin na ang ilan sa kanila ay pa-simpleng humalo sa mga kaanak nila sa 'recognized'MNLF camps at ang iba naman ay sa kanilang mga kapamilya sa mga pamayanan. Ito ang kasama sa mga hamon na aming kinakaharap noong panahon na iyon dahil ang mga kaaway ay hindi namin lahat kilala ang hitsura. Kung walang armas, pwede silang magkunwaring magsasaka, mangingisda o kaya ay MNLF din! 

Dahil sa kababayan din natin ang mga kaaway, parati kong ipinaalala ang aking pinaiiral na Rules of Engagement (ROE) na hango sa aming pinag-aaralang International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Ang ilan sa mga ito ay ang mga sumusunod:

1. Kung ang nakikita ay armadong nag-kakampo sa gubat, mas paniniwalaan naming sila ay mga demonyong Abu Sayyaf. Sa bakbakan, ang lahat ng  nakikipagbarilan lamang ang barilin. Gawan ng paraan na hindi mabaril ang mga hostages.

2. Kung ang nakikita ay armadong nasa bahayan o komunidad, i-trato muna namin iyon bilang ordinaryong sibilyan. Depende sa sitwasyon, pwede itong lapitan para kausapin, at disarmahan sa mapayapang pamamaraan. 

3. Kung ang engkwentro ay nasa bahayan, iwasang mawasak ang buong bahay gamit ang sobra-sobrang pagpaputok dito. Bawal ang manunog ng bahay. 

4. Kapag nasa bahayan ang engkwentro, siguraduhing nakaumang na mabuti ang putok sa armadong nakikipagbarilan para maiwasan ang makatama ng non-combatants.

5. Ang ayaw lumaban, ipataas ang kamay at ipatapon ang armas. Respetuhin ang natatalong kaaway.

Ipinaliliwanag ko sa aking mga tauhan ang malaking responsibilidad na masiguradong mga kaaway na kriminal at terorista lamang ang aming kinakalaban. Hirap no?Oo nga, mahirap ang lumaban ng patas ngunit mabigat ang responsibilidad naming mga sundalo dahil sumusunod kami ng tinatawag na laws of armed conflict.

Dahil dyan, palagi naming ipinaalala ang aming responsibilidad na sundin ang ROE tuwing bakbakan. Halimbawa, sa aming live firing activities, ipinaalala namin na armadong kalaban lamang ang babarilin, kailan gagamitin ang machinegun, 90mm Recoilless Rifle, Mortar fire at lalo na ang artillery fires. 

Sa aming combat firing exercises sa Sulu, tinuturuan ko ang aking mga tauhan paano sipating mabuti ang target at kailan kalabitin ang baril kung kinakailangan. Kasama sa aming pagsasanay ang pagpatama ng headshot sa layong 100m at 200m.

Ang aming kaaway

Kami ay nag-resupply noon sa Bgy Taglibi sa bayan ng Patikul nang kami ay nilapitan ng isang 'walk-in'informant kasama ang isang opisyal ng baranggay tungkol sa mga Abu Sayyaf na nagtatago diumano sa bahayan mga tatlong kilometro lamang mula sa aking kinaroroonan.

"Sel, awun Abu Sayyaf dain duun ha Taong!" (Sir, merong Abu Sayyaf doon sa Taong!) 

Inusisa ko ang kanyang report at pinagawa ko sya ng sketch ng lugar. Sabi nya, nasa 40-50 ang armadong nakita nya na mga Abu Sayyaf.  Nang kinumpara at inaral ko ito sa mapa, nakita ko na ito ay malapit sa dalampasigan. Tiningnan ko rin ang mga grid coordinates ng 'recognized MNLF camps' at ang pinakamalapit ay nasa Bgy Buhanginan na mga 3-4 na kilometro lamang ang layo. 

"Bagay, sigurado kaw? Bunnal yan?" 

Hindi ako kumbinsido sa salita nya ngunit binigyan ko rin ng benefit of the doubt. Marami kasi ang possibilities kagaya ng paghahalo ng mga magkakamag-anak na Abu Sayyaf at mga ordinaryong sibilyan. Ika nga eh, "Blood is thicker than water."Naisip ko rin na baka naman ay ka-rido lang ng impormante ang armadong grupo at gagawin kaming kasangkapan na sila ay masagasaan ng mga Musang! Hmmm. Naranasan ko na ang style na iyon sa Basilan.

Dahil hindi pa ako kumbinsido, minabuti kong gumawa ng recon plan at nang madagdagan ang aking kaalaman tungkol sa lugar.

Kuha ang larawan sa ginawa naming recon sa lugar na may nakitang mga armadong kalalakihan. Nagsuot kami ng sibilyan pero nagbitbit pa rin kami ng armas. Doon ko nakita ang mas maliwanag na picture tungkol sa terrain conditions ng target area na hindi kalayuan sa maraming bahayan. Nakita ko na ito ay malapit sa isang Masjid na mataguriang non-military target.

Pagbalik sa kampo, binuo ko ang plano paano 'tirahin' ang target gamit ang SMESC na format. Inatasan ako ng aming Bat Com na maging over-all Ground Commander at ang aking yunit ang Main Effort. Nagbigay ng tig-isang platoon ang 15th SRC, 12th SRC, 7th SRC at ang 1st SRC. Pinaiwan bilang Reserve ang 14th SRC. Mahigpit kong ipinaalala ang aming taktika laban sa 'pintakasi'.

Simple ang aming plano na aking ipinaliwanag sa lahat ng mga unit leaders sa aming mission briefing. Dapat malapitan namin ang mga armado sa kanilang pinagtataguan at bubulagain namin sila mula sa dilim. As much as possible, hindi namin paputukan kung hindi lalaban. Dapat maabutan namin silang walang hawak na baril. Ang aktong lalaban lamang ang putukan. Paano iyon? Easy ba? Basa pa more.

'Gapang Musang, gapang!'

Pagkatapos ng final inspection ng kagamitan, inipon ko ang aking tropa para sa aming tradisyon na magdasal ng aming combat prayer. 

"Pagpalain tayo ng Diyos at tayo ay kanyang patnubayan. Maging alerto, uuwi tayong lahat na buhay!"

Palihim kaming lumisan mula sa aming Patrol Base mga ala-una ng madaling araw, habang ang lahat ay mahimbing na natutulog. Chamber-loaded kaming lahat at handang pumatay kung kinakailangan.

Isa ang nais naming makamit sa aming mga lakad. Bawal ang mabuking! Dapat may element of surprise. Nakasalalay sa Patrol Leader ang mga kritikal na desisyon gamit ang instincts at judgment call. Kapag mali ang desisyon ng leader, posibleng mas mabigat ang consequences ng engkwentro kagaya ng kaguluhan sa pulitika o kaya madagdagan lamang ang magiging kaaway ng gobyerno. 

Maraming beses kong inihinto ang buong patrol para sa pag-map check at pag-reorient. Iniwas ko ang aking tropa sa mga paisa-isang bahayan sa lugar para hindi ma-compromise. 

Narating namin ang lugar bandang alas singko ng umaga. Gamit ang Night Observation Devices ay inusisa kong mabuti ang aktwal na kinaroonan ng mga bahay ayon sa sketch na ibinigay ng aming impormante.

Kausap ko ang lahat ng mga opisyal na aking kasama sa aming Objective Rally Point nang bigla kaming nabulabog sa isang sigaw: "Alllllllllllahu Akbar, Allahu Akbarrrrrrr!"

Narinig ko ang lagatok ng mga tauhan kong nag-unlock ng safety lock ng baril. Dahan-dahan kong pinindot ang safety mechanism ng aking AUG Steyr. Inobserbahan ko ang paligid.

Inaantay ng aking mga tauhan ang aking kautusan. Nasa aking mga balikat ang mabigat na responsibilidad. Para akong nilalagnat at kumakalabog ang aking dibdib. Putukan o hindi?

(May karugtong sa susunod na kabanata)

Rules of Engagement: Shoot or Hold? (Leadership Experience Part 24)

July 7, 2015, 8:23 pm

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Ang mga taong nagsasamba sa masjid ay dapat respetuhin ng miyembro ng armed forces sa pagsagawa ng military operations sa mga lugar na pinamumugaran ng mga terorista at bandido. (Photo from internet sources)

(Karugtong sa kwento mula sa http://rangercabunzky.blogspot.com/2015/07/rules-of-engagement-shoot-or-hold.html)

Ewan ko lang pero tila ay nilalagnat ang aking pakiramdam tuwing merong nakaambang panganib. Bumibilis ang pintig ng aking puso na tila ay babala para maging alerto. Para sa ibang hindi nakokontrol ang pakiramdam na ganito, nauuwi sa nerbyos at hindi nakakapagbigay ng tamang desisyon sa mabilis na paraan. 

At sa pagkakataong iyon, kailangan kong magbigay ng desisyon at kautusan. Buhay ang nakataya sa aking mga hakbang kaya nais ko ring makapanigurado.

Nilapitan ko ang mga tropang nagmamanman sa harapan. Ang mga baril nila ay nakaumang sa masjid at inaantay ang aking command.

"Shhhhhhhhh. Antay muna. Adhan (call to prayer) iyang naririnig natin," bulong ko sa aking tropa. 

"Pass the word, freeze tayong lahat. Establish all around security."

Tila isang awit ang adhan na syang panawagan sa mga Muslim para sa pagdarasal. Sa ibang lugar ay ginagamitan ng muezzin o imam ng mikropono ang adhan para malaman ng lahat na magsisimula na ang salah (prayers).

"Allahu akbar! Allahu akbar!Allahu akbar! Allahu akbar!"

"Asshadu anna la ila illa Allah!Asshadu anna la ila illa Allah!"

"Haya alas salah! Haya alas salah!"

Parang dahan-dahang napawi ang aking kaba dahil parang awit para sa akin ang adhan. Ganon pa man, nananatili kaming alerto dahil hindi pa namin sigurado kung Abu Sayyaf ang mga armado. 

Batid na batid naming mga Musang na pati teroristang Abu Sayyaf na kagaya nina Radulan Sahiron at Isnilon Hapilon ay tila matinong Muslim kung mag-salah. Sanamagan ang mga pekeng Muslim na iyon.

Mula sa aking pwesto, nakikita kong paisa-isang pumasok ang mga kalalakihan. Ang iba ay huminto sa isang sulok at naglilinis ng kanilang katawan bilang paghahanda sa pagdadasal, na kung tatawagin ay wudu o ritual ablution.

Di kalayuan nakikita kong naka-high crawl palapit sa akin si Pfc Rolly Alindajao para ako ay bulungan. Kahit agaw dilim ay naaaninag ko ang kanyang hitsura at lalo ko syang nakikilala kapag nagsasalita dahil sa kanyang heavily-accented Bisaya. 

"Sir, nakasandal ang mga baril nila nasa gilid ng isang bahay. Isang tao lang ang nagbabantay at nakahawak ng baril. Antay lang kami kung kumins payring (commence firing) na sir!"

Para makumpirma ang kanyang impormasyon, gumapang ako sa posisyon nila at inobserbahan ang paligid gamit ang Night Vision Goggles. 

Nakita kong tila ay flash light ang ilaw na galing sa sigarilyo ng kanilang gwardya. Sa loob ng masjid ay humigit kumulang sa 20 ka tao ang nagsisimula nang magdasal. Wala syang kamalay-malay na magkahalong M60 Machinegun, M16A1 Rifle at Sniper Rifle ang nakaumang sa kanyang pwesto.

Tinapik ko si Cpl Jonjie Cuevas, ang aking Radio Man na taga Mindoro, para tawagan si Batcom gamit ang aming radyo na kung tatawagin ay 'Pito-pito' (PRC 77). Binigay ko ang aming grid coordinates at ang sitwasyon sa kinaroroonan.

"Eagle this is Bullseye, nakikita namin posibleng mga kalaban. More or less 20 ang nasa masjid, nakasandal ang mga baril at ang isa ay nakaalerto bilang gwardya. Oobserbahan pa naming mabuti ang kanilang aksyon."

Pagkatapos na makausap ang aking Commander na nasa Tactical Command Post, inipon ko ang lahat na mga Company Commanders na kasama para sa aking final briefing.

"Di pa sigurado kung mga Abu Sayyaf ang armadong iyan. Ang gagawin natin ay lapitan namin ang mga taong iyan bilang Main Effort at mapayapang kumpiskahin ang mga armas. Bantayan nyo ang bawat sector at iyong akmang makipagbarilan lamang ang puntiryahin. Ipakita nating mas marami tayo at nakahanda tayong lumaban kung kailangan."

Pagkatapos ko silang makausap, ang mga Team Leaders ko naman sa kumpanya ang aking binigyan ng specific instructions.

"Ang sniper ang take charge sa gwardya. Kung ipuntirya nya ang baril at tipong mamumutok, bigyan ng 1 round sa ulo. Skirmishers line ang dalawang section palapit sa kanila. I-secure ang lahat ng mga armas na nakasandal habang kakausapin ko ang pinaka-lider nila. Hangga't maaari, iwasang paputukan ang mga bahayan."

Ang aming 'Pintakasi'

Marami na ring karanasan ang mga Musang sa pakikipaglaban sa mga teroristang Abu Sayyaf simula 1990s at maging sa MNLF noong 1970s. Natuto na rin ang karamihan sa amin pagkatapos na nalagasan sa tinatawag na 'pintakasi' na kung saan ay nilalamok ang buong patrol kapag buong barangay ang nagtulong-tulong para labanan ang mga sundalo na pumasok sa kanilang lugar. Hindi na pinag-uusapan doon kung sino ang Abu Sayyaf, MNLF o ordinaryong mamamayan sa panahon ng bakbakan sa kanilang komunidad. Naranasan din ito ng 10th SRC sa Al-Barka (Tipo-tipo) noong 1999 at sa Upper Manggas noong 1997. Ang 1st SRC naman ay nasubukan ang makipaglaban sa mas nakararaming Abu Sayyaf at nakikisawsaw na mga kababaryong armado sa Sitio Crusher, Bgy Caro, Kapayawan noong 1995 na kung saan ay nanaig ang mga Musang at nagawaran ng Medal for Valor si Captain Cirilito Sobejana, ang magiting nilang Company Commander.

Bilang ground commander, responsibilidad ko na mapigilan ang pintakasi at sa halip ay gamitin ito laban sa aming kaaway. Ang inaalala ko lang parati ay ang maiwasan ang makapatay ng mga ordinaryong sibilyan na napilitan lang din na lumaban dahil sa pagkamatay ng mga kaanak nila. Ayaw ko naman na ako pa maging dahilan na merong ma-inspire na kabataan na mag-Abu Sayyaf!

Nang mapansin kong tapos na ang kanilang pagdarasal, inalerto ko ang aking mga tauhan sa aming susunod na hakbang. Iyon ang pinaka-kritikal na bahagi dahil lalapitan namin sila at ma-expose pati ako sa enemy fires. 

Depende sa gwardyang may hawak ng baril kung tuluyan nga kaming magkabarilan at magpapatayan. Depende rin iyon sa reaksyon ng mga may-ari ng mga nakasandal na armas.

Depende rin iyon sa aming ipapakitang aksyon habang papalapit sa kanilang grupo.

Nanalangin ako sa Diyos at humingi ng proteksiyon bago ko tinapik ang balikat ni Cpl Arnold Panganiban, ang Team Leader ng leading elements na aking sasamahan. 

Pumunta ako sa harapan at sabay-sabay na kaming tumayo para lapitan ang gwardya at ang mga taong kalalabas sa masjid. Dalawampung metro ang layo ng mga damong pinagtaguan namin mula sa kanila.

"Let's go, walang iwanan!"

Naka-unlock na ang aking chamber-loaded na AUG Steyr. Nilalagnat akong muli habang naglalakad palapit sa mga bagong dasal na kalalakihan. Di maipinta ang hitsura ng kanilang mukha na nabigla sa kanilang nakikita.

(Abangan ang karugtong)