From the Manila Bulletin (May 14): NPA rebel killed in Kalinga encounter
A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed and a soldier wounded in an encounter between government troops and guerrilla forces in the outskirts Balbalan town, Kalinga province, the other day.
Major General Paul T. Atal, commander of the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (5ID), confirmed that the encounter at 1:30 p.m. Saturday in sitio Ibong, Barangay Balbalasang, Balbalan, resulted in the killing of a still unidentified guerrilla.
The 30-minute gun battle saw elements of the army’s 50th Infantry Battalion (50IB), under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Gulliver Seneres, in action. Atal did not identify the wounded soldier.
As the rebels retreated deeper into the hinterlands, soldiers found the body of the rebel and collected an M-16 rifle, two short magazine assemblies, and 456 M-16 cartriges.
“We also extend our condolences to the family of the fallen rebel. If he had only chosen the peaceful way, maybe he would still be alive today; to all the NPA rebels, I urge you once again to please return to the fold of the law and let us settle our differences in a peaceful manner as we are all brother Filipinos,” Atal said.
Meanwhile in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), the NPA high command in the region warned the public against fake NPA rebels demanding revolutionary taxes.
In an email received by the Manila Bulletin, the Leonardo Pacsi Command NPA-Mountain Province Command, through its spokesperson Magno Udyaw, revealed that they have been receiving complaints about individuals identifying themselves as NPA guerillas and extorting money using the Communist Party of the Philippines, NPA, and Cordillera People’s Democratic Front (CPDF).
It claimed that the NPA posers who used the name of CPDF spokesperson Simon “Ka Filliw” Naogsan are allegedly “state agents” supposedly deployed by the government to ruin the image of the communist movement.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/05/14/npa-rebel-killed-in-kalinga-encounter/
Sunday, May 14, 2017
2 soldiers hurt as NPA rebels attack Army post in Laguna
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 15): 2 soldiers hurt as NPA rebels attack Army post in Laguna
Two Philippine Army soldiers were wounded after communist rebels attacked a military detachment in Majayjay town in Laguna province on Sunday afternoon, authorities said Monday.
Reports from the Laguna provincial police and the Army’s 202nd Infantry Brigade said the attack happened at 5:30 p.m. in Barangay Piit.
While there were no fatalities, Majayjay Mayor Carlo Invinzor Clado warned the public to stay away from the clash site and be on alert, especially as the adjacent town of Lucban in Quezon province celebrates its crowd-drawing Pahiyas Festival today.
“Majayjay is back to normal [activities] although our government agencies will remain on alert,” he said.
Clado also said the NPA rebels might have been targeting the Majayjay Hydropower Inc. for refusing to pay “revolutionary taxes.”
“It was an isolated incident and it seemed that their target was the hydro (power plant). Nevertheless, security measures are in place in all tourism establishments in Majayjay,” he said.
It was not immediately known how many rebels carried out the attack but police checkpoints in Laguna and in Lucban, Quezon, were set up as government troops hunted the rebels.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/896736/2-soldiers-hurt-as-npa-rebels-attack-army-detachment-in-laguna
Two Philippine Army soldiers were wounded after communist rebels attacked a military detachment in Majayjay town in Laguna province on Sunday afternoon, authorities said Monday.
Reports from the Laguna provincial police and the Army’s 202nd Infantry Brigade said the attack happened at 5:30 p.m. in Barangay Piit.
While there were no fatalities, Majayjay Mayor Carlo Invinzor Clado warned the public to stay away from the clash site and be on alert, especially as the adjacent town of Lucban in Quezon province celebrates its crowd-drawing Pahiyas Festival today.
On Monday morning, Clado issued another statement downplaying a possible attack by New People’s Army rebels on civilians.
Clado also said the NPA rebels might have been targeting the Majayjay Hydropower Inc. for refusing to pay “revolutionary taxes.”
“It was an isolated incident and it seemed that their target was the hydro (power plant). Nevertheless, security measures are in place in all tourism establishments in Majayjay,” he said.
It was not immediately known how many rebels carried out the attack but police checkpoints in Laguna and in Lucban, Quezon, were set up as government troops hunted the rebels.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/896736/2-soldiers-hurt-as-npa-rebels-attack-army-detachment-in-laguna
2 NPA rebels killed in Zamboanga Sibugay
From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (May 15): 2 NPA rebels killed in Zamboanga Sibugay
Two New People's Army (NPA) rebels were killed Saturday, May 13, in a firefight with soldiers at Sitio Malagak, Barangay Guinoman, Diplahan, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, spokesperson of 1st Infantry "Tabak" Division (1ID) of the Philippine Army said troops of 44th Infantry Battalion of 102nd Infantry Brigade clashed with about thirty rebels at around 6 p.m. which also wounded two local civilian volunteers.
Herrea said the slain rebels were identified only through the aliases "Henry" and "Tibo." Both are said to be members of the NPA’s Feliciano Bravo Command operating in the boundary of Zamboanga del Norte and Sibugay provinces.
The rebels’ remains were brought by soldiers to the village of Guinoman for proper identification.
Troops also recovered an AK-47 and one M16 assault rifle.
The two wounded civilian volunteers are now confined at a hospital in Diplahan town under heavy guard for "security reasons," Herrera said.
“This is a positive result of the military’s continued engagements with the local populace and Local Government Units to neutralize insurgency,” Brigadier General Rolly Bautista, commanding general of 1ID, said.
“There will be no let up of operations against these bandits in order to protect the people and the communities,” Bautista said.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2017/05/15/2-npa-rebels-killed-zamboanga-sibugay-541928
Two New People's Army (NPA) rebels were killed Saturday, May 13, in a firefight with soldiers at Sitio Malagak, Barangay Guinoman, Diplahan, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, spokesperson of 1st Infantry "Tabak" Division (1ID) of the Philippine Army said troops of 44th Infantry Battalion of 102nd Infantry Brigade clashed with about thirty rebels at around 6 p.m. which also wounded two local civilian volunteers.
Herrea said the slain rebels were identified only through the aliases "Henry" and "Tibo." Both are said to be members of the NPA’s Feliciano Bravo Command operating in the boundary of Zamboanga del Norte and Sibugay provinces.
The rebels’ remains were brought by soldiers to the village of Guinoman for proper identification.
Troops also recovered an AK-47 and one M16 assault rifle.
The two wounded civilian volunteers are now confined at a hospital in Diplahan town under heavy guard for "security reasons," Herrera said.
“This is a positive result of the military’s continued engagements with the local populace and Local Government Units to neutralize insurgency,” Brigadier General Rolly Bautista, commanding general of 1ID, said.
“There will be no let up of operations against these bandits in order to protect the people and the communities,” Bautista said.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2017/05/15/2-npa-rebels-killed-zamboanga-sibugay-541928
Karapatan: aerial bombs dropped vs rebels; military: so?
From MindaNews (May 12): Karapatan: aerial bombs dropped vs rebels; military: so?
Human rights group Karapatan-Southern Mindanao Region complained of several human rights violations against the military and accused them of using aerial bombs in an encounter with communist rebels at Sitio Cabagtukan, Barangay Dominga in Calinan district here Wednesday.
In a statement released Thursday, Karapatan-SMR secretary general Sheena Duazo accused the military of dropping bombs in the community “that resulted in too much fear to the residents.”
But Capt. Alenel Valles, Civil Military Operations Officer of the 3rd Infantry Battalion, said there was nothing wrong with dropping aerial bombs as it was for “close air support” provided by the Philippine Air Force while combating communist rebels. He stressed, though, that they made sure the area was clear of residents before the bombs were dropped.
Aside from aerial bombing, Duazo said the military used illegal search, threat, harassment, intimidation, physical assault, frustrated killing as among the violations committed by the government forces.
She said the military illegally searched the houses of the residents, including a certain Lascuña from Sitio Kibaton who was interrogated and later mauled with his face “plunked on a mud.”
Duazo claimed the barangay is now heavily militarized.
She added that on May 5, the military opened fire at a certain Joe Dagahuya but the latter managed to escape and now hiding for his safety.
The following day, Duazo said an encounter transpired between the New People’s Army (NPA) and elements of the 3IB in Barangay Dominga, Calinan District. She said the encounter forced Kagawad Dennis Epal and other residents of Sitio Cabagtukan to flee their homes and to transfer to the barangay proper for their safety.
“While they were on their way they were barred, and Kagawad Dennis Epal was interrogated by the military and accused of being member of the NPA. He asserted that he is not a member of NPA but a civilian, but the military did not believe him and threatened him that they will take away all his nails. The residents were prevented to go out from their barangay,” she said.
But Valles dismissed allegations of human rights violations committed by government forces, saying all these were still “unconfirmed” since no reports have reached them yet.
He said it is all “propaganda” made by the militants.
The skirmishes that started since May 6 displaced 86 families but some of them have returned home because no more gunfights erupted since Thursday, Valles said.
He said the military is coordinating with the City Social Services Development Office (CSSDO) to provide relief goods to families who have holed up at the barangay hall of Barangay Dominga.
The military, in a press statement released Thursday, said one soldier died while nine other were wounded in the gunfight and an undetermined numbers of casualties from the rebel side.
The military claimed having recovered two bodies of suspected NPA members.
The wounded soldiers were reportedly brought to the Panacan Naval Station Hospital for proper treatment and medical attention.
The statement said the military conducted a house-to-house search operation to capture the possible wounded members of the NPA and to clear the area.
The military and the police have reportedly conducted joint pursuit operations against the rebels.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/05/karapatan-aerial-bombs-dropped-vs-rebels-military-so/
Human rights group Karapatan-Southern Mindanao Region complained of several human rights violations against the military and accused them of using aerial bombs in an encounter with communist rebels at Sitio Cabagtukan, Barangay Dominga in Calinan district here Wednesday.
In a statement released Thursday, Karapatan-SMR secretary general Sheena Duazo accused the military of dropping bombs in the community “that resulted in too much fear to the residents.”
But Capt. Alenel Valles, Civil Military Operations Officer of the 3rd Infantry Battalion, said there was nothing wrong with dropping aerial bombs as it was for “close air support” provided by the Philippine Air Force while combating communist rebels. He stressed, though, that they made sure the area was clear of residents before the bombs were dropped.
Aside from aerial bombing, Duazo said the military used illegal search, threat, harassment, intimidation, physical assault, frustrated killing as among the violations committed by the government forces.
She said the military illegally searched the houses of the residents, including a certain Lascuña from Sitio Kibaton who was interrogated and later mauled with his face “plunked on a mud.”
Duazo claimed the barangay is now heavily militarized.
She added that on May 5, the military opened fire at a certain Joe Dagahuya but the latter managed to escape and now hiding for his safety.
The following day, Duazo said an encounter transpired between the New People’s Army (NPA) and elements of the 3IB in Barangay Dominga, Calinan District. She said the encounter forced Kagawad Dennis Epal and other residents of Sitio Cabagtukan to flee their homes and to transfer to the barangay proper for their safety.
“While they were on their way they were barred, and Kagawad Dennis Epal was interrogated by the military and accused of being member of the NPA. He asserted that he is not a member of NPA but a civilian, but the military did not believe him and threatened him that they will take away all his nails. The residents were prevented to go out from their barangay,” she said.
But Valles dismissed allegations of human rights violations committed by government forces, saying all these were still “unconfirmed” since no reports have reached them yet.
He said it is all “propaganda” made by the militants.
The skirmishes that started since May 6 displaced 86 families but some of them have returned home because no more gunfights erupted since Thursday, Valles said.
He said the military is coordinating with the City Social Services Development Office (CSSDO) to provide relief goods to families who have holed up at the barangay hall of Barangay Dominga.
The military, in a press statement released Thursday, said one soldier died while nine other were wounded in the gunfight and an undetermined numbers of casualties from the rebel side.
The military claimed having recovered two bodies of suspected NPA members.
The wounded soldiers were reportedly brought to the Panacan Naval Station Hospital for proper treatment and medical attention.
The statement said the military conducted a house-to-house search operation to capture the possible wounded members of the NPA and to clear the area.
The military and the police have reportedly conducted joint pursuit operations against the rebels.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/05/karapatan-aerial-bombs-dropped-vs-rebels-military-so/
NPA wants P1.5M ‘ransom’ for kidnapped trader
From Malaya Business Insight (May 15): NPA wants P1.5M ‘ransom’ for kidnapped trader
NEW People’s Army rebels are reportedly demanding ransom, in the form of firearms worth P1.5 million, for the freedom of a businessman they abducted last Saturday in Agusan del Sur for refusing to heed their extortion demand.
Carzon Ceasar Lademora, a resident of San Francisco town in Agusan del Sur, was seized because he refused to give in to the NPA’s extortion demand, said Col. Cristobal Zaragosa, commander of the Army’s 401st Brigade.
Zaragosa also said he has asked the family of the victim not to heed the “ransom” demand as this will only strengthen the rebels.
Lademora, who is engaged in small-scale mining, was seized by NPA rebels, led by one Monic, in Sitio Anuling in Barangay Bayugan 3 in Rosario town Saturday morning.
The rebels are from the NPA’s Front 14 operating in the province.
Capt. Jasper Gacayan, public affairs officer of the 401st Brigade, said the rebels “ransacked the mining tunnel of the victim” before kidnapping Lademora.
“Sources revealed that the NPAs are demanding ransom money from the family (of Lademora) in exchange (for the release) of the victim who is suffering from hypertension,” said Gacayan.
“The ransom that they are asking for is actually firearms. They assured the family (of the victim) that he will be safe and will be released after three days. They are demanding an M14, an M16 (both rifles) and an M60 (machinegun). The estimated amount (of the firearms) is P1.5 million,” said Zaragosa.
Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said the kidnapping was “extortion-related.”
Madrigal said government forces will continue to conduct search and rescue operations for Lademora. “We are not going to stop until he is released,” he said.
In Zamboanga Sibugay, two NPA rebels died and two government militiamen were injured following a clash in Diplahan town on Saturday afternoon.
Troops from the 44th Infantry Battalion engaged about 30 rebels from the NPA’s Western Mindanao Party Committee in the firefight in Sitio Malagak, Barangay Guinoman at around 5 p.m.
Apart from the enemy bodies, also recovered in the encounter site were an AK-47 rifle and one M16 rifle.
“Soldiers also saw bloodstains in the area and on the route of the enemy withdrawal,” said Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay, spokeswoman of the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command.
The bloodstains indicate the rebels suffered more casualties, either killed or wounded, in the clash.
Brig. Gen. Rolando Bautista, commander of the 1st Infantry Division, said the encountered insurgents were responsible for numerous atrocities, including arson, extortions, killings, and abductions.
In Kalinga, an NPA rebel was killed while an Army soldier was wounded in another firefighting in Balbalan town at around 1:30 p.m. Saturday, said Capt. Jefferson Somera, public affairs officer of the Army’s 5th Infantry Division.
Somera said troops from the Army’s 50th Infantry Battalion were on a security patrol when they caught up with a group of NPA rebels in Barangay Balbalasang, leading to a 30-minute clash.
Soldiers recovered at the scene the body of a yet to be identified rebel, an M16 rifle, two magazines and 46 cartridges for M16.
The injured soldier is now stable condition, said Somera.
In Sultan Kudarat, troops from the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 also clashed with NPA rebels in Kalamansig town also on Saturday.
The fighting led to the recovery of several improvised explosive devices, said Capt. Arvin Encinas, public affairs officer of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
Encinas said the soldiers clashed with the rebels in Sitio Lomoton in Barangay Hinalaan at around 9 a.m. The rebels withdrew after a 20-minute firefight, bringing with them an undetermined number of casualties, he said.
Encinas said the soldiers “delivered accurate mortar fires to the location of the enemy, (prompting) the rebels to scamper.” He said pursuit operations are ongoing.
During clearing operations, the troops recovered at the scene an M16 rifle and four IEDs, said Encinas.
President Duterte on Saturday said he ordered the release of 14 convicted communist rebels to show goodwill and proof of the government’s sincerity and commitment in peace efforts.
The President, speaking before members of the Filipino community in Hong Kong, was talking about the left-leaning members of his Cabinet when he announced he released the 14 from the National Bilibid Prison.
No details about the 14 were immediately available. It was also unknown of they were given temporary freedom in connection with the peace talks or if they were pardoned.
“I just released about 14 prisoners from Bilibid, iyung mga komunista na convicted na (the communist who were already convicted) as a show of, besides there were others,” he said adding that he also met with top leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front recently.
He hosted dinner for CPP’s Benito and Wilma Tiamzon and NDF panel chairman Fidel Agcaoili in Malacañang last week.
He expressed optimism the government and the communist rebels will eventually be able to iron out their differences, acknowledging that the CPP-NPA-NDF can be a bit stubborn but “it’s not something insurmountable.”
Duterte scrapped the peace talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF in February after the NPA continued its attacks on government forces despite unilateral ceasefires declared by government and NDF, and after the communists demanded the release of some 400 rebels they call political prisoners.
Formal negotiations resumed in April, after a series of backchannel talks which resulted in the signing of an interim joint ceasefire that will take effect only after negotiators approve its guidelines. A fifth round of talks is set later this month.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/npa-wants-p15m-%E2%80%98ransom%E2%80%99-kidnapped-trader
NEW People’s Army rebels are reportedly demanding ransom, in the form of firearms worth P1.5 million, for the freedom of a businessman they abducted last Saturday in Agusan del Sur for refusing to heed their extortion demand.
Carzon Ceasar Lademora, a resident of San Francisco town in Agusan del Sur, was seized because he refused to give in to the NPA’s extortion demand, said Col. Cristobal Zaragosa, commander of the Army’s 401st Brigade.
Zaragosa also said he has asked the family of the victim not to heed the “ransom” demand as this will only strengthen the rebels.
Lademora, who is engaged in small-scale mining, was seized by NPA rebels, led by one Monic, in Sitio Anuling in Barangay Bayugan 3 in Rosario town Saturday morning.
The rebels are from the NPA’s Front 14 operating in the province.
Capt. Jasper Gacayan, public affairs officer of the 401st Brigade, said the rebels “ransacked the mining tunnel of the victim” before kidnapping Lademora.
“Sources revealed that the NPAs are demanding ransom money from the family (of Lademora) in exchange (for the release) of the victim who is suffering from hypertension,” said Gacayan.
“The ransom that they are asking for is actually firearms. They assured the family (of the victim) that he will be safe and will be released after three days. They are demanding an M14, an M16 (both rifles) and an M60 (machinegun). The estimated amount (of the firearms) is P1.5 million,” said Zaragosa.
Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said the kidnapping was “extortion-related.”
Madrigal said government forces will continue to conduct search and rescue operations for Lademora. “We are not going to stop until he is released,” he said.
In Zamboanga Sibugay, two NPA rebels died and two government militiamen were injured following a clash in Diplahan town on Saturday afternoon.
Troops from the 44th Infantry Battalion engaged about 30 rebels from the NPA’s Western Mindanao Party Committee in the firefight in Sitio Malagak, Barangay Guinoman at around 5 p.m.
Apart from the enemy bodies, also recovered in the encounter site were an AK-47 rifle and one M16 rifle.
“Soldiers also saw bloodstains in the area and on the route of the enemy withdrawal,” said Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay, spokeswoman of the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command.
The bloodstains indicate the rebels suffered more casualties, either killed or wounded, in the clash.
Brig. Gen. Rolando Bautista, commander of the 1st Infantry Division, said the encountered insurgents were responsible for numerous atrocities, including arson, extortions, killings, and abductions.
In Kalinga, an NPA rebel was killed while an Army soldier was wounded in another firefighting in Balbalan town at around 1:30 p.m. Saturday, said Capt. Jefferson Somera, public affairs officer of the Army’s 5th Infantry Division.
Somera said troops from the Army’s 50th Infantry Battalion were on a security patrol when they caught up with a group of NPA rebels in Barangay Balbalasang, leading to a 30-minute clash.
Soldiers recovered at the scene the body of a yet to be identified rebel, an M16 rifle, two magazines and 46 cartridges for M16.
The injured soldier is now stable condition, said Somera.
In Sultan Kudarat, troops from the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 also clashed with NPA rebels in Kalamansig town also on Saturday.
The fighting led to the recovery of several improvised explosive devices, said Capt. Arvin Encinas, public affairs officer of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
Encinas said the soldiers clashed with the rebels in Sitio Lomoton in Barangay Hinalaan at around 9 a.m. The rebels withdrew after a 20-minute firefight, bringing with them an undetermined number of casualties, he said.
Encinas said the soldiers “delivered accurate mortar fires to the location of the enemy, (prompting) the rebels to scamper.” He said pursuit operations are ongoing.
During clearing operations, the troops recovered at the scene an M16 rifle and four IEDs, said Encinas.
LEFTISTS FREED?
President Duterte on Saturday said he ordered the release of 14 convicted communist rebels to show goodwill and proof of the government’s sincerity and commitment in peace efforts.
The President, speaking before members of the Filipino community in Hong Kong, was talking about the left-leaning members of his Cabinet when he announced he released the 14 from the National Bilibid Prison.
No details about the 14 were immediately available. It was also unknown of they were given temporary freedom in connection with the peace talks or if they were pardoned.
“I just released about 14 prisoners from Bilibid, iyung mga komunista na convicted na (the communist who were already convicted) as a show of, besides there were others,” he said adding that he also met with top leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front recently.
He hosted dinner for CPP’s Benito and Wilma Tiamzon and NDF panel chairman Fidel Agcaoili in Malacañang last week.
He expressed optimism the government and the communist rebels will eventually be able to iron out their differences, acknowledging that the CPP-NPA-NDF can be a bit stubborn but “it’s not something insurmountable.”
Duterte scrapped the peace talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF in February after the NPA continued its attacks on government forces despite unilateral ceasefires declared by government and NDF, and after the communists demanded the release of some 400 rebels they call political prisoners.
Formal negotiations resumed in April, after a series of backchannel talks which resulted in the signing of an interim joint ceasefire that will take effect only after negotiators approve its guidelines. A fifth round of talks is set later this month.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/npa-wants-p15m-%E2%80%98ransom%E2%80%99-kidnapped-trader
Tiamzons tailed after meeting Duterte, says NDF
From Rappler (May 14): Tiamzons tailed after meeting Duterte, says NDF
It's the 3rd time that the National Democratic Front protested the alleged surveillance of Benito and Wilma Tiamzon
MEETING DUTERTE. President Rodrigo Duterte shakes hands with Benito Tiamzon, political consultant of the National Democratic Front, in a meeting at the Malacañang State Dining Room on September 26, 2016.
The communist National Democratic Front (NDF) cried foul over the alleged surveillance of its peace panel member Benito Tiamzon and his wife Wilma.
The communist leaders, who are involved in peace talks with the government, were supposedly tailed last Tuesday night, May 9, after their meeting with President Rodrigo Duterte in Malacañang.
They were on their way to visit farmers from Davao del Norte camped out in Mendiola when they noticed that two men aboard a motorcycle were following them.
"The Tiamzons had also just come from an audience with President Rodrigo Duterte at Malacañang the night they were followed," the NDF said in a statement on Saturday, May 13.
"They tried to shake off their tail for about half an hour before deciding to return to the Mendiola camp-out, from where friends and comrades helped them evade their pursuers. The Tiamzons noticed that the back rider was constantly talking to someone on his cellphone while tailing them," the NDF added.
NDF peace panel chairman Fidel Agcaoili said the surveillance is a violation of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG).
It's the 3rd time that the NDF protested the alleged surveillance of the Tiamzons, who were also allegedly tailed in March upon their arrival from backchannel talks in the Netherlands and earlier in January upon their arrival from the 3rd round of peace talks.
Agcaoili said NDF consultants Ruben Saluta, Concha Araneta, Tirso Alcantara, Ernesto Lorenzo, and Kennedy Bangibang also reported incidents of surveillance.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169793-benito-wilma-tiamzon-surveillance-ndf-peace-talks
It's the 3rd time that the National Democratic Front protested the alleged surveillance of Benito and Wilma Tiamzon
MEETING DUTERTE. President Rodrigo Duterte shakes hands with Benito Tiamzon, political consultant of the National Democratic Front, in a meeting at the Malacañang State Dining Room on September 26, 2016.
The communist National Democratic Front (NDF) cried foul over the alleged surveillance of its peace panel member Benito Tiamzon and his wife Wilma.
The communist leaders, who are involved in peace talks with the government, were supposedly tailed last Tuesday night, May 9, after their meeting with President Rodrigo Duterte in Malacañang.
They were on their way to visit farmers from Davao del Norte camped out in Mendiola when they noticed that two men aboard a motorcycle were following them.
"The Tiamzons had also just come from an audience with President Rodrigo Duterte at Malacañang the night they were followed," the NDF said in a statement on Saturday, May 13.
"They tried to shake off their tail for about half an hour before deciding to return to the Mendiola camp-out, from where friends and comrades helped them evade their pursuers. The Tiamzons noticed that the back rider was constantly talking to someone on his cellphone while tailing them," the NDF added.
NDF peace panel chairman Fidel Agcaoili said the surveillance is a violation of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG).
It's the 3rd time that the NDF protested the alleged surveillance of the Tiamzons, who were also allegedly tailed in March upon their arrival from backchannel talks in the Netherlands and earlier in January upon their arrival from the 3rd round of peace talks.
Agcaoili said NDF consultants Ruben Saluta, Concha Araneta, Tirso Alcantara, Ernesto Lorenzo, and Kennedy Bangibang also reported incidents of surveillance.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169793-benito-wilma-tiamzon-surveillance-ndf-peace-talks
Public told to avoid Majayjay barangay after NPA attack
From Rappler (May 14): Public told to avoid Majayjay barangay after NPA attack
Communist rebels and soldiers clash in Barangay Ibabang Banga in Majayjay, Laguna, ahead of a festival in the area
COMMUNIST INSURGENCY. The New People's Army placed this by the roadside in Majayjay, Laguna. Photo courtesy of Majayjay Mayor Jojo Clado
The municipality of Majayjay in Laguna is now on red alert after an encounter between the New People's Army (NPA) and the military on Sunday evening, May 14.
The clash happened in Barangay Ibabang Banga around 7 pm. There were no fatalities reported.
Majayjay Mayor Jojo Clado advised the public, however, to avoid the barangay or stay indoors in the meantime.
"Umiwas muna tayo sa lugar na ito at lubhang mapanganib (Avoid the area since it is extremely dangerous)," he said in a Facebook post.
Clado also told Rappler that the clash resulted in heavy traffic as civilians were asked to reroute.
"Nag-traffic rin kanina. Hindi pinapadaan ang civilian kasi baka maka-encounter ng crossfire. Pero sa ngayon, nakakatakbo na ang traffic. Medyo mainit pa nga lang din at nando'n pa sa area ang mga NPA," he said. (There was heavy traffic earlier. Civilians weren't allowed to pass because they might get caught in the crossfire. But now traffic is already flowing smoothly. Tensions remain high, however, because the NPA rebels are still in the area.)
The encounter at Ibabang Banga comes just hours ahead of the barangay's festival on Monday, May 15.
The barangay is also on the route going to Lucban, Quezon. Lucban is celebrating the popular Pahiyas Festival on Monday as well.
Clado expressed concern that the communist rebels might attack just as residents and tourists are busy celebrating.
"'Yun nga ang kinakatakot ko – baka gamitin ang fiestahan para manakot. Nakakadaan na naman sa ngayon. Nando'n na rin ang army. Pero kung puwede umiwas muna doon sa barangay, mas okay," he said. (That's what I fear – that they might sow terror during the celebrations. Actually, the area is now passable. The army is already there. But if people can avoid the barangay altogether, the better.)
Clado also told Rappler that the NPA might have attacked due to the refusal of a private firm to pay so-called "revolutionary tax."
He added that before the incident, the local government had already been receiving threats.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169832-laguna-majayjay-barangay-ibabang-banga-new-peoples-army-attack
Communist rebels and soldiers clash in Barangay Ibabang Banga in Majayjay, Laguna, ahead of a festival in the area
COMMUNIST INSURGENCY. The New People's Army placed this by the roadside in Majayjay, Laguna. Photo courtesy of Majayjay Mayor Jojo Clado
The municipality of Majayjay in Laguna is now on red alert after an encounter between the New People's Army (NPA) and the military on Sunday evening, May 14.
The clash happened in Barangay Ibabang Banga around 7 pm. There were no fatalities reported.
Majayjay Mayor Jojo Clado advised the public, however, to avoid the barangay or stay indoors in the meantime.
"Umiwas muna tayo sa lugar na ito at lubhang mapanganib (Avoid the area since it is extremely dangerous)," he said in a Facebook post.
"Nag-traffic rin kanina. Hindi pinapadaan ang civilian kasi baka maka-encounter ng crossfire. Pero sa ngayon, nakakatakbo na ang traffic. Medyo mainit pa nga lang din at nando'n pa sa area ang mga NPA," he said. (There was heavy traffic earlier. Civilians weren't allowed to pass because they might get caught in the crossfire. But now traffic is already flowing smoothly. Tensions remain high, however, because the NPA rebels are still in the area.)
The encounter at Ibabang Banga comes just hours ahead of the barangay's festival on Monday, May 15.
The barangay is also on the route going to Lucban, Quezon. Lucban is celebrating the popular Pahiyas Festival on Monday as well.
Clado expressed concern that the communist rebels might attack just as residents and tourists are busy celebrating.
"'Yun nga ang kinakatakot ko – baka gamitin ang fiestahan para manakot. Nakakadaan na naman sa ngayon. Nando'n na rin ang army. Pero kung puwede umiwas muna doon sa barangay, mas okay," he said. (That's what I fear – that they might sow terror during the celebrations. Actually, the area is now passable. The army is already there. But if people can avoid the barangay altogether, the better.)
Clado also told Rappler that the NPA might have attacked due to the refusal of a private firm to pay so-called "revolutionary tax."
He added that before the incident, the local government had already been receiving threats.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169832-laguna-majayjay-barangay-ibabang-banga-new-peoples-army-attack
Joma wary Chinese loans might trap PH to give up West PH Sea
From Rappler (May 15): Joma wary Chinese loans might trap PH to give up West PH Sea
Communist leader Jose Maria Sison raises 8 questions regarding President Rodrigo Duterte's plans to heavily borrow from China amid a warning it could turn the Philippines' into a debt slave of the Asian economic giant
TEACHER AND STUDENT. Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison was President Rodrigo Duterte's teacher at the Lyceum of the Philippines University
Communist leader Jose Maria Sison is concerned that President Rodrigo Duterte's plans to heavily borrow from China to finance his ambitious infrastructure-building could turn the Philippines into a "debt slave" of the Asian economic power.
Sison asked how "reliable" the Filipino-Chinese and Chinese businessmen close to Duterte are, wondering if in the long term China would force the Philippines to give up its claim on the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).
These are among the 8 questions Sison raised on the Chinese loans amid a warning from an analyst of Forbes magazine that plans to borrow up to $167 billion (P3.3 billion*), based on pronouncements by Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno, could balloon to $452 billion (P9 billion*) and bring the country's debt-to-GDP ratio to second worst in the world.
"Dutertenomics, fueled by expensive loans from China, will put the Philippines into virtual debt bondage if allowed to proceed," the article read.
8 questions on the loans
Sison sent Rappler his comment to the article Sunday night, May 14. The questions included his concern that the direction of Duterte's spending plans will "draw resources away" from their proposals in the peace table.
1. Can the Philippines really borrow the huge amount of USD 167 B from China at so fast a rate?
2. Will not the Philippines become a debt slave of China?
3. Will not the drive to build, build, build infrastructure (rails, roads, and bridges) draw resources away from a program of national industrialization proposed by the NDFP in the negotiation of CASER?
4. At a certain point, will not China demand that the Philippines give up its EEZ (exclusive economic zone) and ECS (extended continental shelf) in the West Philippine Sea or else the loans will be called or cut off?
5. Will not China further nail down the Philippines to the status of an underdeveloped country providing raw materials to China, consuming manufactures from China and ever begging for new loans to cover the trade deficit?
6. Does not the Philippines have already bad experience in making deals with China, such as the overpriced NBN-ZTE and NRT scams during the Arroyo regime and the 3 B wasted on defective trains from China during BS Aquino regime?
7. How reliable or unreliable are those Filipino Chinese and Chinese businessmen that are close to Duterte?
8. How does Duterte's expectation of USD 167 B compare with actual outcomes of China's big loans to certain countries like Venezuela, Sri Lanka, etc.
Sison is the founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) that is talking peace with the Duterte government.
Under the proposed Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER), the communist rebels are pushing the government to spend on national industrialization and agrarian reform.
The two sides are holding the 5th round of talks later in the month.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169845-chinese-loans-debt-slave-sison-duterte
Communist leader Jose Maria Sison raises 8 questions regarding President Rodrigo Duterte's plans to heavily borrow from China amid a warning it could turn the Philippines' into a debt slave of the Asian economic giant
TEACHER AND STUDENT. Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison was President Rodrigo Duterte's teacher at the Lyceum of the Philippines University
Communist leader Jose Maria Sison is concerned that President Rodrigo Duterte's plans to heavily borrow from China to finance his ambitious infrastructure-building could turn the Philippines into a "debt slave" of the Asian economic power.
Sison asked how "reliable" the Filipino-Chinese and Chinese businessmen close to Duterte are, wondering if in the long term China would force the Philippines to give up its claim on the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).
These are among the 8 questions Sison raised on the Chinese loans amid a warning from an analyst of Forbes magazine that plans to borrow up to $167 billion (P3.3 billion*), based on pronouncements by Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno, could balloon to $452 billion (P9 billion*) and bring the country's debt-to-GDP ratio to second worst in the world.
"Dutertenomics, fueled by expensive loans from China, will put the Philippines into virtual debt bondage if allowed to proceed," the article read.
8 questions on the loans
Sison sent Rappler his comment to the article Sunday night, May 14. The questions included his concern that the direction of Duterte's spending plans will "draw resources away" from their proposals in the peace table.
1. Can the Philippines really borrow the huge amount of USD 167 B from China at so fast a rate?
2. Will not the Philippines become a debt slave of China?
3. Will not the drive to build, build, build infrastructure (rails, roads, and bridges) draw resources away from a program of national industrialization proposed by the NDFP in the negotiation of CASER?
4. At a certain point, will not China demand that the Philippines give up its EEZ (exclusive economic zone) and ECS (extended continental shelf) in the West Philippine Sea or else the loans will be called or cut off?
5. Will not China further nail down the Philippines to the status of an underdeveloped country providing raw materials to China, consuming manufactures from China and ever begging for new loans to cover the trade deficit?
6. Does not the Philippines have already bad experience in making deals with China, such as the overpriced NBN-ZTE and NRT scams during the Arroyo regime and the 3 B wasted on defective trains from China during BS Aquino regime?
7. How reliable or unreliable are those Filipino Chinese and Chinese businessmen that are close to Duterte?
8. How does Duterte's expectation of USD 167 B compare with actual outcomes of China's big loans to certain countries like Venezuela, Sri Lanka, etc.
Sison is the founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) that is talking peace with the Duterte government.
Under the proposed Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER), the communist rebels are pushing the government to spend on national industrialization and agrarian reform.
The two sides are holding the 5th round of talks later in the month.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169845-chinese-loans-debt-slave-sison-duterte
U.S. brings Osprey, Black Hawk choppers to Aurora
From Rappler (May 15): U.S. brings Osprey, Black Hawk choppers to Aurora
Balikatan 2017 simulates how the Philippine and US militaries will jointly respond to the aftermath of a supertyphoon in the Philippines
US OSPREY. Philippine and US troops are simulating how they will respond if a supertyphoon hits the Philippines. All photos and videos by Bea Cupin/Rappler
AURORA, Philippines – Philippine and US troops are in Casiguran, Aurora on Monday, May 15, for the continuation of the Balikatan exercises.
The Americans flew in assets for joint drills with their Filipino counterparts. Rappler has so far spotted Osprey and Black Hawk choppers as both sides prepare for joint drills that will simulate how they will respond if another supertyphoon hits the Philippines.
The Osprey is called a superhelicopter because it flies like a airplane but hovers like a chopper, meaning it can carry cargo but does not need a runway to land. The Black Hawk, meanwhile, are US Army's tactical transport helicopters.
Monday's exercises are anticipated to be the biggest activity in this year's iteration of Balikatan, an annual activity launched by the treaty allies in the '80s.
[Video report]
[Video report]
The Philippine military also brought in BRP Tarlac, the biggest ship in its current inventory. The 123-meter-long brand new amphibious landing dock can serve as an operations center at sea.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169851-balikatan-osprey-black-hawk-choppers-aurora
Balikatan 2017 simulates how the Philippine and US militaries will jointly respond to the aftermath of a supertyphoon in the Philippines
US OSPREY. Philippine and US troops are simulating how they will respond if a supertyphoon hits the Philippines. All photos and videos by Bea Cupin/Rappler
AURORA, Philippines – Philippine and US troops are in Casiguran, Aurora on Monday, May 15, for the continuation of the Balikatan exercises.
The Americans flew in assets for joint drills with their Filipino counterparts. Rappler has so far spotted Osprey and Black Hawk choppers as both sides prepare for joint drills that will simulate how they will respond if another supertyphoon hits the Philippines.
The Osprey is called a superhelicopter because it flies like a airplane but hovers like a chopper, meaning it can carry cargo but does not need a runway to land. The Black Hawk, meanwhile, are US Army's tactical transport helicopters.
Monday's exercises are anticipated to be the biggest activity in this year's iteration of Balikatan, an annual activity launched by the treaty allies in the '80s.
[Video report]
[Video report]
The Philippine military also brought in BRP Tarlac, the biggest ship in its current inventory. The 123-meter-long brand new amphibious landing dock can serve as an operations center at sea.
BLACK HAWK. A black hawk chopper lands in Casiguran, Aurora. Photo by Bea Cupin/Rappler
DISASTER RESPONSE. Up to 2,600 US troops are in the Philippines for Balikatan 2017. Photo by Bea Cupin/Rappler
NAVY'S BIGGEST SHIP. BRP Tarlac participates in the Balikatan exercises in Aurora. Photo by Bea Cupin/Rappler
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169851-balikatan-osprey-black-hawk-choppers-aurora
Chinese firm expresses intent to sell military equipment to Philippines
From Update Philippines (May 15): Chinese firm expresses intent to sell military equipment to Philippines
Chinese defense manufacturing company Poly Technologies conducted a courtesy call on President Rodrigo Duterte May 14, Sunday in Beijing, China. During the meeting the Chinese firm offered different types defense equipment for Philippine security forces.
“I was present during the Poly call on the President and what we discussed was, we will be signing tomorrow (Monday, May 15) a document on intent, intent only,” Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said as quoted by GMA News Online.
“We are not saying that we will buy from them or we will not buy from them but if we need anything from the Chinese defense industry then we’re going to procure using the loan that they are going to offer to us,” Lorenzana added.
China, in December, has offered $500 Million worth of military equipment in long-term soft loan.
The Chinese government also offered $14.3 million worth of military aid which consists of small arms and fast boats.
Secretary Lorenzana said Philippines can get military equipment from China. “We should separate our dispute in the South China sea, from our relationship with the Chinese.”
http://www.update.ph/2017/05/chinese-firm-expresses-intent-to-sell-military-equipment-to-philippines/17514
Chinese defense manufacturing company Poly Technologies conducted a courtesy call on President Rodrigo Duterte May 14, Sunday in Beijing, China. During the meeting the Chinese firm offered different types defense equipment for Philippine security forces.
“I was present during the Poly call on the President and what we discussed was, we will be signing tomorrow (Monday, May 15) a document on intent, intent only,” Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said as quoted by GMA News Online.
“We are not saying that we will buy from them or we will not buy from them but if we need anything from the Chinese defense industry then we’re going to procure using the loan that they are going to offer to us,” Lorenzana added.
China, in December, has offered $500 Million worth of military equipment in long-term soft loan.
The Chinese government also offered $14.3 million worth of military aid which consists of small arms and fast boats.
Secretary Lorenzana said Philippines can get military equipment from China. “We should separate our dispute in the South China sea, from our relationship with the Chinese.”
http://www.update.ph/2017/05/chinese-firm-expresses-intent-to-sell-military-equipment-to-philippines/17514
NDF: NDFP assails growing threats vs consultants, peace talks
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (May 13): NDFP assails growing threats vs consultants, peace talks
NDFP Media Office
Press release
May 13, 2017
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) denounced a series of incidents involving a number of its consultants, saying these are flagrant violations of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG). The JASIG, which was signed in 1995, provides all duly accredited NDFP consultants immunity from surveillance, harassment, search, arrest, detention, prosecution and interrogation and “any other similar punitive actions due to any involvement or participation in the peace negotiations.” The guarantees extend to persons who assist them in the performance of their work in the peace talks.
NDFP panel chair Fidel Agcaoili cited the tailing of fellow panel member Benito Tiamzon and NDFP political consultant Wilma Tiamzon on Tuesday night after they visited Lapanday farm workers who were camped out at Mendiola. The Tiamzons were reportedly tailed by two men aboard an RS motorcycle with partial license plate number 2419. They tried to shake off their tail for about half an hour before deciding to return to the Mendiola camp out, from where friends and comrades helped them evade their pursuers. The Tiamzons noticed that the back rider was constantly talking to someone on his cellphone while tailing them.
At the camp out, witnesses observed the motorcyle riders following the Tiamzons mingling with the crowd. They were reportedly backed up by at least two other teams of two men each who also monitored the Tiamzon couple’s movements.
The Tiamzons had also just come from an audience with President Rodrigo Duterte at Malacañang the night they were followed.
It was the third JASIG violation reported by the Tiamzons. They were also tailed in March after their arrival from backchannel talks in The Netherlands. Earlier, suspected military agents had interrogated the driver of a rented car used by the Tiamzons upon their arrival last January from the third round of peace negotiations with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).
Other NDFP consultants who have also complained of surveillance include Ruben Saluta, Concha Araneta, Tirso Alcantara, Ernesto Lorenzo and Kennedy Bangibang.
Agcaoili urged the GRP to look seriously into these incidents and take whatever measures are necessary, saying that they may have severe repercussions on the ongoing peace negotiations.
He moreover expressed “grave concern” about reports that the military in Northern Mindanao had issued shoot-to-kill orders against NDFP consultant Pedro Codaste and that the AFP Eastern Mindanao Command was planning to abduct Porferio Tuna, another Mindanao-based consultant.
Agcaoili also slammed the illegal arrest last Thursday evening of NDFP consultant ROMMEL SALINAS as another clear violation of JASIG. Salinas, who was arrested at a police checkpoint in Ozamiz City is the holder of Document of Identification Number ND 978453 under the name of Hermie Abella. He was arrested in the company of a bishop of the Philippine Independent Church and two others. ###
Reference:
Fidel Agcaoili
NDFP Panel Chairperson
Contact No. 0919-860-4324
https://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-assails-growing-threats-vs-consultants-peace-talks/
NDFP Media Office
Press release
May 13, 2017
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) denounced a series of incidents involving a number of its consultants, saying these are flagrant violations of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG). The JASIG, which was signed in 1995, provides all duly accredited NDFP consultants immunity from surveillance, harassment, search, arrest, detention, prosecution and interrogation and “any other similar punitive actions due to any involvement or participation in the peace negotiations.” The guarantees extend to persons who assist them in the performance of their work in the peace talks.
NDFP panel chair Fidel Agcaoili cited the tailing of fellow panel member Benito Tiamzon and NDFP political consultant Wilma Tiamzon on Tuesday night after they visited Lapanday farm workers who were camped out at Mendiola. The Tiamzons were reportedly tailed by two men aboard an RS motorcycle with partial license plate number 2419. They tried to shake off their tail for about half an hour before deciding to return to the Mendiola camp out, from where friends and comrades helped them evade their pursuers. The Tiamzons noticed that the back rider was constantly talking to someone on his cellphone while tailing them.
At the camp out, witnesses observed the motorcyle riders following the Tiamzons mingling with the crowd. They were reportedly backed up by at least two other teams of two men each who also monitored the Tiamzon couple’s movements.
The Tiamzons had also just come from an audience with President Rodrigo Duterte at Malacañang the night they were followed.
It was the third JASIG violation reported by the Tiamzons. They were also tailed in March after their arrival from backchannel talks in The Netherlands. Earlier, suspected military agents had interrogated the driver of a rented car used by the Tiamzons upon their arrival last January from the third round of peace negotiations with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).
Other NDFP consultants who have also complained of surveillance include Ruben Saluta, Concha Araneta, Tirso Alcantara, Ernesto Lorenzo and Kennedy Bangibang.
Agcaoili urged the GRP to look seriously into these incidents and take whatever measures are necessary, saying that they may have severe repercussions on the ongoing peace negotiations.
He moreover expressed “grave concern” about reports that the military in Northern Mindanao had issued shoot-to-kill orders against NDFP consultant Pedro Codaste and that the AFP Eastern Mindanao Command was planning to abduct Porferio Tuna, another Mindanao-based consultant.
Agcaoili also slammed the illegal arrest last Thursday evening of NDFP consultant ROMMEL SALINAS as another clear violation of JASIG. Salinas, who was arrested at a police checkpoint in Ozamiz City is the holder of Document of Identification Number ND 978453 under the name of Hermie Abella. He was arrested in the company of a bishop of the Philippine Independent Church and two others. ###
Reference:
Fidel Agcaoili
NDFP Panel Chairperson
Contact No. 0919-860-4324
https://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-assails-growing-threats-vs-consultants-peace-talks/
DWDD: ENCOUNTER | Troops Fights off NPA Extortionists in Hilongos, Leyte
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 11): ENCOUNTER | Troops Fights off NPA Extortionists in Hilongos, Leyte
CAMP GENERAL VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City (DWDD) – On May 10, 2017 at around 6:40 in the morning, a fire fight ensued between the scout platoon of 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion and the New People’s Army terrorist group at Barangay San Antonio, Hilongos, Leyte for about 30 minutes. Concerned villagers tipped the military troops on the presence of the NPA group at their barangay while extorting among the villagers.
As a result, the military troops have recovered two (2) AK-47 rifles; six (6) magazines; 158 live ammunitions; 2 bandoleers; assorted food stuffs and medicines; and subversive documents. No casualty was reported on the government side while undetermined on the enemy side.
Brig Gen Mendoza, Commander of 802nd Infantry Brigade has already coordinated with Police Regional Office 8 (PRO8) to conduct checkpoints along possible entries/exits of withdrawals of the enemy and to verify possible accommodation of wounded enemy in nearby hospitals.
The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division assures the people of Eastern Visayas that the NPA terrorist group will not succeed on disturbing the peace and order in the region. Thus, the continued support of the public is greatly appreciated by the Command as a paradigm of a good rapport between the military and the civilian populace as partners for peace and development in the region. 8DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/encounter-troops-fights-off-npas-in-hilongos-leyte/
CAMP GENERAL VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City (DWDD) – On May 10, 2017 at around 6:40 in the morning, a fire fight ensued between the scout platoon of 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion and the New People’s Army terrorist group at Barangay San Antonio, Hilongos, Leyte for about 30 minutes. Concerned villagers tipped the military troops on the presence of the NPA group at their barangay while extorting among the villagers.
As a result, the military troops have recovered two (2) AK-47 rifles; six (6) magazines; 158 live ammunitions; 2 bandoleers; assorted food stuffs and medicines; and subversive documents. No casualty was reported on the government side while undetermined on the enemy side.
Brig Gen Mendoza, Commander of 802nd Infantry Brigade has already coordinated with Police Regional Office 8 (PRO8) to conduct checkpoints along possible entries/exits of withdrawals of the enemy and to verify possible accommodation of wounded enemy in nearby hospitals.
The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division assures the people of Eastern Visayas that the NPA terrorist group will not succeed on disturbing the peace and order in the region. Thus, the continued support of the public is greatly appreciated by the Command as a paradigm of a good rapport between the military and the civilian populace as partners for peace and development in the region. 8DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/encounter-troops-fights-off-npas-in-hilongos-leyte/
DWDD: SURRENDER | NPA Amazon Gives Up in Abra
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 11): SURRENDER | NPA Amazon Gives Up in Abra
CAMP SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD) – The intensified efforts of 24th Infantry Battalion resulted to the surrender of another Communist Terrorist (CT) of the KLG MONTES of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Abra, in the person of Catherine Cortez Cebuma AKA Lora/Megan/Apple/Joey, a Medical Officer. Said NPA member voluntarily turned-over herself to the folds of the law in BrgyTagodtog, Lagangilang, Abra on May 8, 2017.
Catherine Cortez Cebuma also surrendered one (1) M16 Rifle, one (1) rifle grenade, two (2) M16 magazines and 60 rounds 5.56 ammunition.
After documentation and custodial debriefing, the rebel returnee sworn and signed an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines and denounced the unprincipled practices of the CPP/NPA/NDF.
A total of 24 NPA surrenderers have been so far recorded in NOLCOM area from March 31 to May 8, wherein seven (7) of them were from Kalinga, six (7) from Abra and ten (10) in Ifugao.
NOLCOM Commander, LTGEN ROMEO T TANALGO is grateful for the support provided to the NOLCOM troopers by the LGUs, the PNP and the community in the area. The collective efforts of all stakeholders would finally lead the nation to a state of lasting peace and sustainable development. NOLCOM PIO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/surrender-npa-amazon-gives-up-in-abra/
CAMP SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD) – The intensified efforts of 24th Infantry Battalion resulted to the surrender of another Communist Terrorist (CT) of the KLG MONTES of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Abra, in the person of Catherine Cortez Cebuma AKA Lora/Megan/Apple/Joey, a Medical Officer. Said NPA member voluntarily turned-over herself to the folds of the law in BrgyTagodtog, Lagangilang, Abra on May 8, 2017.
Catherine Cortez Cebuma also surrendered one (1) M16 Rifle, one (1) rifle grenade, two (2) M16 magazines and 60 rounds 5.56 ammunition.
After documentation and custodial debriefing, the rebel returnee sworn and signed an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines and denounced the unprincipled practices of the CPP/NPA/NDF.
A total of 24 NPA surrenderers have been so far recorded in NOLCOM area from March 31 to May 8, wherein seven (7) of them were from Kalinga, six (7) from Abra and ten (10) in Ifugao.
NOLCOM Commander, LTGEN ROMEO T TANALGO is grateful for the support provided to the NOLCOM troopers by the LGUs, the PNP and the community in the area. The collective efforts of all stakeholders would finally lead the nation to a state of lasting peace and sustainable development. NOLCOM PIO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/surrender-npa-amazon-gives-up-in-abra/
DWDD: NEUTRALIZED | 3 Killed in Maguindanao Anti-Drug Operation
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 11): NEUTRALIZED | 3 Killed in Maguindanao Anti-Drug Operation
PANDAG, Maguindanao (DWDD) – Three people were killed in an hour of fierce armed clash Thursday morning between government forces and a group of suspected lawless elements in a town in Maguindanao.
According to Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, commander of the Army’s 33rd Makabayan Battalion, a joint law-enforcement operation with Datu Paglas Police targeted a notorious lawless group allegedly involved in illegal drugs trade and criminality and supposedly headed by a certain Abdulatip Pendaliday alias Kumander Grasscutter.
“Upon arrival at the target area of our troops were met by bursts of gunfire from the enemy position, forcing our men to fire back,” Cabunoc said.
The gun battle that lasted from from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. in Sitio Langat, Barangay Kabuling of Pandag town, left three dead from the enemy’s side identified as Samir Pendaliday (son), Akim Pendaliday (nephew) and an unidentified uncle, he said. 33IB / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/neutralized-3-killed-in-maguindanao-anti-drug-operation/
PANDAG, Maguindanao (DWDD) – Three people were killed in an hour of fierce armed clash Thursday morning between government forces and a group of suspected lawless elements in a town in Maguindanao.
According to Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, commander of the Army’s 33rd Makabayan Battalion, a joint law-enforcement operation with Datu Paglas Police targeted a notorious lawless group allegedly involved in illegal drugs trade and criminality and supposedly headed by a certain Abdulatip Pendaliday alias Kumander Grasscutter.
“Upon arrival at the target area of our troops were met by bursts of gunfire from the enemy position, forcing our men to fire back,” Cabunoc said.
The gun battle that lasted from from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. in Sitio Langat, Barangay Kabuling of Pandag town, left three dead from the enemy’s side identified as Samir Pendaliday (son), Akim Pendaliday (nephew) and an unidentified uncle, he said. 33IB / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/neutralized-3-killed-in-maguindanao-anti-drug-operation/
DWDD: DEVELOPMENT | Projects to Commence in Pagasa Island
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 11): DEVELOPMENT | Projects to Commence in Pagasa Island
CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines have started sending personnel to Pagasa who will undertake the building and improving of infrastructure and facilities on the island.
According to AFP Western Command (WESCOM) Commander, Lt. Gen. Raul del Rosario, they have sent the first batch of workers who will construct and improve facilities on the island.
Aside from the personnel, they have also sent supplies like cement, plywood, and other construction equipment and materials.
Del Rosario added that they have not set any date on when the actual construction will start or when will the whole process of transporting workers, materials and equipment
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier stated that the development projects to be implemented in the Kalayaan Island Group would include lengthening of the existing runway, construction of an ice plant, a communication tower, the improvement of the coastal areas and many more. AES / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/development-projects-to-commence-in-pagasa-island/
CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines have started sending personnel to Pagasa who will undertake the building and improving of infrastructure and facilities on the island.
According to AFP Western Command (WESCOM) Commander, Lt. Gen. Raul del Rosario, they have sent the first batch of workers who will construct and improve facilities on the island.
Aside from the personnel, they have also sent supplies like cement, plywood, and other construction equipment and materials.
Del Rosario added that they have not set any date on when the actual construction will start or when will the whole process of transporting workers, materials and equipment
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier stated that the development projects to be implemented in the Kalayaan Island Group would include lengthening of the existing runway, construction of an ice plant, a communication tower, the improvement of the coastal areas and many more. AES / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/development-projects-to-commence-in-pagasa-island/
DWDD: Joint Task Force Central gains ground against BIFF in Maguindanao
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 11): Joint Task Force Central gains ground against BIFF in Maguindanao
CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) – Joint Task Force Central dealt a big blow on the BIFF during the conduct of focused military operations that was carried out to different areas in Maguindanao during the last 5-days that started on May 06, 2017 (Saturday).
Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) leader Commander Ismael Abubakar@ Bungos is one among the top leaders that have been the subject of the operation in the tri boundary of Talayan, Guindulungan, and Datu Piang all of Maguindanao.
The said Commander had been involved in different criminalities and atrocities in Central Mindanao since the BIFF was formed in 2010. Other known BIFF leaders that were believed to be with Bungos include Ismael Abdulmalik @ Abu Toraype and Salahuddin Hassan @ Orak together with a number of followers including at least 6 Indonesian nationals involved in terroristic activities in this region particularly on bomb making. The Command utilized all available air, artillery and armor assets in support of and inconjunction with the ground operations of the different field units of JTF Central in said areas that extended to the other localities inside the Salibu-Pagatin-Mamasapano-Shariff Aguak (SPMS) box. And these assets have been very accurate and effective in hitting the identified location of target individuals and group of BIFF.
The continued support and cooperation of the different stakeholders, the LGUs, the local community, and the PNP hastened and complemented the ability of JTF Central to counter the efforts of the radical extremist groups in sowing fear and violence in the area of operation.
The cooperation, as well, of the MILF leadership in adhering to the provisions of the ceasefire agreement is also acknowledged as the conduct of the military operations had been coordinated with their BIAF units on the ground that ensured that no skirmishes or misencounter between the government troops and BIAF occurred.
While the military operations is ongoing, the conduct of checkpoint operations and mobile patrols were also undertaken to ensure the safety of the public in traversing the major highways from Cotabato to General Santos route as these armed terrorist groups are resorting to roadside bombing to divert the attention of the AFP units against their beleaguered members in and around the Salibu-Pagatin-Mamasapano-Shariff Aguak (SPMS) box. The number of casualties that the BIFF suffered has already increased from the initial report of 20 of their members killed on the first day to at least 31 killed and another 4 wounded to date. Pending the verification and validation on the ground, the number may be much higher and may still increase as the JTF Central forces are relentless in neutralizing the remaining BIFF members in the area. Let me just emphasize, the CORE PURPOSE of our existence here in this part of Central Mindanao is geared towards serving the People and Securing the Land. In closing so, we are putting our lives and limbs at risks to ensure the safety and security of the people and the community. In our Focused Military Operation, we also give utmost consideration on the primary of the peace process are we are giving heading towards achieving a just and lasting peace in this part of the country. The challenges are there but we continue to work on it progressively. 6DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/joint-task-force-central-gains-ground-against-biff-in-maguindanao/
CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) – Joint Task Force Central dealt a big blow on the BIFF during the conduct of focused military operations that was carried out to different areas in Maguindanao during the last 5-days that started on May 06, 2017 (Saturday).
Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) leader Commander Ismael Abubakar@ Bungos is one among the top leaders that have been the subject of the operation in the tri boundary of Talayan, Guindulungan, and Datu Piang all of Maguindanao.
The said Commander had been involved in different criminalities and atrocities in Central Mindanao since the BIFF was formed in 2010. Other known BIFF leaders that were believed to be with Bungos include Ismael Abdulmalik @ Abu Toraype and Salahuddin Hassan @ Orak together with a number of followers including at least 6 Indonesian nationals involved in terroristic activities in this region particularly on bomb making. The Command utilized all available air, artillery and armor assets in support of and inconjunction with the ground operations of the different field units of JTF Central in said areas that extended to the other localities inside the Salibu-Pagatin-Mamasapano-Shariff Aguak (SPMS) box. And these assets have been very accurate and effective in hitting the identified location of target individuals and group of BIFF.
The continued support and cooperation of the different stakeholders, the LGUs, the local community, and the PNP hastened and complemented the ability of JTF Central to counter the efforts of the radical extremist groups in sowing fear and violence in the area of operation.
The cooperation, as well, of the MILF leadership in adhering to the provisions of the ceasefire agreement is also acknowledged as the conduct of the military operations had been coordinated with their BIAF units on the ground that ensured that no skirmishes or misencounter between the government troops and BIAF occurred.
While the military operations is ongoing, the conduct of checkpoint operations and mobile patrols were also undertaken to ensure the safety of the public in traversing the major highways from Cotabato to General Santos route as these armed terrorist groups are resorting to roadside bombing to divert the attention of the AFP units against their beleaguered members in and around the Salibu-Pagatin-Mamasapano-Shariff Aguak (SPMS) box. The number of casualties that the BIFF suffered has already increased from the initial report of 20 of their members killed on the first day to at least 31 killed and another 4 wounded to date. Pending the verification and validation on the ground, the number may be much higher and may still increase as the JTF Central forces are relentless in neutralizing the remaining BIFF members in the area. Let me just emphasize, the CORE PURPOSE of our existence here in this part of Central Mindanao is geared towards serving the People and Securing the Land. In closing so, we are putting our lives and limbs at risks to ensure the safety and security of the people and the community. In our Focused Military Operation, we also give utmost consideration on the primary of the peace process are we are giving heading towards achieving a just and lasting peace in this part of the country. The challenges are there but we continue to work on it progressively. 6DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/11/joint-task-force-central-gains-ground-against-biff-in-maguindanao/
DWDD: CAPTURED | Most Wanted NPA Commander Arrested in Ozamiz City
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 12): CAPTURED | Most Wanted NPA Commander Arrested in Ozamiz City
KUTA MAJ CESAR L SANG-AN, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga Del Sur (DWDD) – The most wanted New People’s Army commander in Western Mindanao was arrested by troops in Baranggay Gango, Ozamiz City at around 6:00 PM, yesterday, May 12, 2017.
Combined troops of the 103nd Infantry Brigade of the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division, Philippine Army together with the elements of Philippine National Police Provincial Office of Ozamiz City arrested Rommel Salinas alias Vencio / Beto / Carlos / Doming / Artem / Mark, Secretary of Secom Sendong, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee by virtue of five (5) Arrest Warrants for the following crimes: Destructive arson, Murder, Frustrated murder, Attempted murder, and Robbery in band.
Recovered from his possession were a hand grenade and personal belongings.
Salinas, who did not put up a fight, was with two companions who were identified as Bishop Carlo Morales of the Aglipayan Church and his wife Maria Teofifina Morales and their driver Sadome Dalid. They were onboard a Maroon Starex van with plate number 151010 when arrested
According to BGen Rolando Joselito D Bautista, Commander of the 1st ID, the NPA in the Zamboanga Peninsula and elsewhere were involved in numerous atrocities nationwide especially in Mindanao, particularly arson, extortion, killings and abduction.
Salinas being a Front Secretary of the NPA is reportedly involved in numerous high profile crimes against the people and humanity . “Best coordination work from the community, LGU, PNP and the Army led to the capture of one of the highest ranking CPP-NPA leader in Western Mindanao, said Bautista.” 4CRG / 1ID / AES
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/12/captured-most-wanted-npa-commander-arrested-in-ozamiz-city/
KUTA MAJ CESAR L SANG-AN, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga Del Sur (DWDD) – The most wanted New People’s Army commander in Western Mindanao was arrested by troops in Baranggay Gango, Ozamiz City at around 6:00 PM, yesterday, May 12, 2017.
Combined troops of the 103nd Infantry Brigade of the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division, Philippine Army together with the elements of Philippine National Police Provincial Office of Ozamiz City arrested Rommel Salinas alias Vencio / Beto / Carlos / Doming / Artem / Mark, Secretary of Secom Sendong, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee by virtue of five (5) Arrest Warrants for the following crimes: Destructive arson, Murder, Frustrated murder, Attempted murder, and Robbery in band.
Recovered from his possession were a hand grenade and personal belongings.
Salinas, who did not put up a fight, was with two companions who were identified as Bishop Carlo Morales of the Aglipayan Church and his wife Maria Teofifina Morales and their driver Sadome Dalid. They were onboard a Maroon Starex van with plate number 151010 when arrested
According to BGen Rolando Joselito D Bautista, Commander of the 1st ID, the NPA in the Zamboanga Peninsula and elsewhere were involved in numerous atrocities nationwide especially in Mindanao, particularly arson, extortion, killings and abduction.
Salinas being a Front Secretary of the NPA is reportedly involved in numerous high profile crimes against the people and humanity . “Best coordination work from the community, LGU, PNP and the Army led to the capture of one of the highest ranking CPP-NPA leader in Western Mindanao, said Bautista.” 4CRG / 1ID / AES
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/12/captured-most-wanted-npa-commander-arrested-in-ozamiz-city/
DWDD: Eastern Mindanao Heightens alert
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 12): Eastern Mindanao Heightens alert
Eastern Mindanao Command raised the alert level on Thursday, May 11, 2017, following the travel advisory of the United States to its citizens to avoid Palawan because of the possibility of kidnappings.
While the travel advisory was specific to Palawan, the Command had to raise the alert level in the area because of the possibility of terrorist groups shifting or diverting operations to Eastern Mindanao.
The EMC in coordination with the Philippine National Police, Local Government Units, and other Law Enforcement Agencies are taking the necessary measures to secure the maritime, coastal and land areas against a terrorist attack.
The EMC enjoins the public to be vigilant but calm and to immediately report to law enforcement units any suspicious-looking individual or activity in their vicinity.
Early morning of May 11, 2017, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao conducted drills and simulation exercises to test and evaluate their capability in responding to terrorism.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/12/eastern-mindanao-heightens-alert/
Eastern Mindanao Command raised the alert level on Thursday, May 11, 2017, following the travel advisory of the United States to its citizens to avoid Palawan because of the possibility of kidnappings.
While the travel advisory was specific to Palawan, the Command had to raise the alert level in the area because of the possibility of terrorist groups shifting or diverting operations to Eastern Mindanao.
The EMC in coordination with the Philippine National Police, Local Government Units, and other Law Enforcement Agencies are taking the necessary measures to secure the maritime, coastal and land areas against a terrorist attack.
The EMC enjoins the public to be vigilant but calm and to immediately report to law enforcement units any suspicious-looking individual or activity in their vicinity.
Early morning of May 11, 2017, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao conducted drills and simulation exercises to test and evaluate their capability in responding to terrorism.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/12/eastern-mindanao-heightens-alert/
DWDD: BREAKING NEWS: 2 NPA terrorists killed in Diplahan, Zamboanga Sibugay
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 15): BREAKING NEWS: 2 NPA terrorists killed in Diplahan, Zamboanga Sibugay
“Strong stakeholder engagements and cooperation of LGU with the military yielded positive results,” Brigadier General Rolando Joselito Bautista, Commander of Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, said after 2 News People’s Army (NPA) terrorists were killed in an encounter at Sitio Malagak, Barangay Guinoman, Diplahan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province.
Operating troops of 44th Infantry Battalion, 102nd Infantry Brigade of 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army reported, while conducting focused military operations, they encountered about thirty armed members of NPA.
Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, Tabak Division spokesperson said the killed rebels identified only as Henry and Tibo were both members of NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee. The recovered cadavers were brought to Barangay Guinoman Proper, Lt. Col. Herrera said.
Two high powered firearms, 1 AK47 Rifle and 1 M16 Rifle, were also recovered in the encounter area.
Two local civilian volunteers operating with the soldiers were wounded.
“This is a positive result of the military’s continued engagements with the local populace and LGUs. The shared commitment of attaining peace with local authorities resulted to strong cooperation of the communities to report the presence of NPA members at Sitio Malagak,” said Brig. Gen. Bautista.
“The NPA terrorists under the SECOM Feliciano Bravo of Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee were involved in numerous atrocities committed particularly arson, extortions, killings and abductions. In this regard, there will be no let up of operations against these bandits in order to protect the people and the communities,” Brig. Gen. Bautista said.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/14/breaking-news-2-npa-terrorists-killed-in-diplahan-zamboanga-sibugay/
“Strong stakeholder engagements and cooperation of LGU with the military yielded positive results,” Brigadier General Rolando Joselito Bautista, Commander of Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, said after 2 News People’s Army (NPA) terrorists were killed in an encounter at Sitio Malagak, Barangay Guinoman, Diplahan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province.
Operating troops of 44th Infantry Battalion, 102nd Infantry Brigade of 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army reported, while conducting focused military operations, they encountered about thirty armed members of NPA.
Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, Tabak Division spokesperson said the killed rebels identified only as Henry and Tibo were both members of NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee. The recovered cadavers were brought to Barangay Guinoman Proper, Lt. Col. Herrera said.
Two high powered firearms, 1 AK47 Rifle and 1 M16 Rifle, were also recovered in the encounter area.
Two local civilian volunteers operating with the soldiers were wounded.
“This is a positive result of the military’s continued engagements with the local populace and LGUs. The shared commitment of attaining peace with local authorities resulted to strong cooperation of the communities to report the presence of NPA members at Sitio Malagak,” said Brig. Gen. Bautista.
“The NPA terrorists under the SECOM Feliciano Bravo of Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee were involved in numerous atrocities committed particularly arson, extortions, killings and abductions. In this regard, there will be no let up of operations against these bandits in order to protect the people and the communities,” Brig. Gen. Bautista said.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/14/breaking-news-2-npa-terrorists-killed-in-diplahan-zamboanga-sibugay/
DWDD: NEW ATROCITIES | Businessman Kidnapped by NPA in ADS
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 15): NEW ATROCITIES | Businessman Kidnapped by NPA in ADS
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan Del Sur (DWDD) – A businessman was kidnapped by the NPAs Front 14 led by @MONIC on Saturday morning, May 13. Mr Carzon Ceasar C Lademora, a bussinesman of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur was taken by the NPAs after they ransacked the mining tunnel of the victim at sitio Anuling, Bayugan 3, Rosario, Agusan Del Sur.
According to reports, the NPAs are demanding ransom money from the family in exchange of the victim who is suffering from hypertension.
Businessmen in San Franz and nearby towns are now worried of the effects of the NPA kidnapping to their booming economy brought by d prevailing peace and order situation in the town until the said kidnapping.
MGen Benjamin R Madrigal Jr., 4ID Commander said, “This is a clear evidence that people especially those who owns businesses in the area no longer supporting these NPA bandits. They (NPAs) resorted to doing crimes such as this one- the kidnap-for-ransome activity.”
“We urge everyone to join the government forces in getting rid of these menace to peace and development.” MGen Madrigal added. 4DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/15/new-atrocities-businessman-kidnapped-by-npa-in-ads/
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan Del Sur (DWDD) – A businessman was kidnapped by the NPAs Front 14 led by @MONIC on Saturday morning, May 13. Mr Carzon Ceasar C Lademora, a bussinesman of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur was taken by the NPAs after they ransacked the mining tunnel of the victim at sitio Anuling, Bayugan 3, Rosario, Agusan Del Sur.
According to reports, the NPAs are demanding ransom money from the family in exchange of the victim who is suffering from hypertension.
Businessmen in San Franz and nearby towns are now worried of the effects of the NPA kidnapping to their booming economy brought by d prevailing peace and order situation in the town until the said kidnapping.
MGen Benjamin R Madrigal Jr., 4ID Commander said, “This is a clear evidence that people especially those who owns businesses in the area no longer supporting these NPA bandits. They (NPAs) resorted to doing crimes such as this one- the kidnap-for-ransome activity.”
“We urge everyone to join the government forces in getting rid of these menace to peace and development.” MGen Madrigal added. 4DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/15/new-atrocities-businessman-kidnapped-by-npa-in-ads/
DWDD: NEUTRALIZED | 2 killed, 2 Firearms recovered from NPA during clash in Zamboanga Sibugay
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 15): NEUTRALIZED | 2 killed, 2 Firearms recovered from NPA during clash in Zamboanga Sibugay
CAMP NAVARRO, Calarian, Zamboanga City (DWDD) – Troops under the Joint Task Force Zampelan led by Brigadier General Rolly Bautista, encountered an estimated thirty (30) Communist Terrorists late in the afternoon of Saturday (May 13) at Sitio Malagak, Brgy Guinoman, Diplahan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province.
According to Capt Joan Petinglay, WesMnCom spokesperson, soldiers of the 44th Infantry Battalion engaged in a firefight against the NPAs under SECOM Feliciano Bravo, of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee at 5pm last Saturday.
Two identified leaders of the NPAs were dentified as alias Tibo and alias Henry who led their members in a firefight.
Upon clearing the engagement area, soldiers found two (2) dead CTs and were able to recover two (2) high-powered firearms, one (1) AK47 and one (1) M16 rifle.
Soldiers also saw bloodstains in the area and on the route of the enemy withdrawal. Meanwhile, two local civilian volunteers operating with the soldiers were wounded during the firefight.
As of this report, troops from 44IB are conducting pursuit and blocking positions in the immediate vicinity of the encounter area. “This is a positive result of the military’s continued engagements with the local populace and LGUs.
The shared commitment of attaining peace with local authorities resulted to strong cooperation of the communities to report the presence of NPA members at Sitio Malagak,” said Brig. Gen. Rolly Bautista, Commander of the Joint Task Force Zampelan and concurrent Commander of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army.
“The NPA terrorists under the SECOM Feliciano Bravo of Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee were involved in numerous atrocities committed particularly arson, extortions, killings and abductions. In this regard, there will be no let up of operations against these bandits in order to protect the people and the communities,” Brig. Gen. Bautista said.
Meanwhile, the soldiers of the Philippine Marines were also able to encounter members of the NPA in the mountains of Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat Province.
During the clearing operations, troops of Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT2) were able to recover one (1) M16 and four (4) Improvised Explosive Devices.
“I would like to congratulate the troops of the Joint Task Force Zampelan and the Joint Task Force Central for the laudable accomplishments,” says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
“We would also like to recognize the overwhelming support received from the local government units and the communities. Truly, without these assistance, we will not be able to accomplish our mission easily.” “As long as we are together in this fight, we are sure to win over any kinds of threat that hinders communities to be peaceful and progressive,” LTGen Galvez adds. WESTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/15/neutralized-2-killed-2-firearms-recovered-from-npa-during-clash-in-zamboanga-sibugay/
CAMP NAVARRO, Calarian, Zamboanga City (DWDD) – Troops under the Joint Task Force Zampelan led by Brigadier General Rolly Bautista, encountered an estimated thirty (30) Communist Terrorists late in the afternoon of Saturday (May 13) at Sitio Malagak, Brgy Guinoman, Diplahan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province.
According to Capt Joan Petinglay, WesMnCom spokesperson, soldiers of the 44th Infantry Battalion engaged in a firefight against the NPAs under SECOM Feliciano Bravo, of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee at 5pm last Saturday.
Two identified leaders of the NPAs were dentified as alias Tibo and alias Henry who led their members in a firefight.
Upon clearing the engagement area, soldiers found two (2) dead CTs and were able to recover two (2) high-powered firearms, one (1) AK47 and one (1) M16 rifle.
Soldiers also saw bloodstains in the area and on the route of the enemy withdrawal. Meanwhile, two local civilian volunteers operating with the soldiers were wounded during the firefight.
As of this report, troops from 44IB are conducting pursuit and blocking positions in the immediate vicinity of the encounter area. “This is a positive result of the military’s continued engagements with the local populace and LGUs.
The shared commitment of attaining peace with local authorities resulted to strong cooperation of the communities to report the presence of NPA members at Sitio Malagak,” said Brig. Gen. Rolly Bautista, Commander of the Joint Task Force Zampelan and concurrent Commander of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army.
“The NPA terrorists under the SECOM Feliciano Bravo of Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee were involved in numerous atrocities committed particularly arson, extortions, killings and abductions. In this regard, there will be no let up of operations against these bandits in order to protect the people and the communities,” Brig. Gen. Bautista said.
Meanwhile, the soldiers of the Philippine Marines were also able to encounter members of the NPA in the mountains of Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat Province.
During the clearing operations, troops of Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT2) were able to recover one (1) M16 and four (4) Improvised Explosive Devices.
“I would like to congratulate the troops of the Joint Task Force Zampelan and the Joint Task Force Central for the laudable accomplishments,” says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
“We would also like to recognize the overwhelming support received from the local government units and the communities. Truly, without these assistance, we will not be able to accomplish our mission easily.” “As long as we are together in this fight, we are sure to win over any kinds of threat that hinders communities to be peaceful and progressive,” LTGen Galvez adds. WESTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/15/neutralized-2-killed-2-firearms-recovered-from-npa-during-clash-in-zamboanga-sibugay/
DWDD: CAPTURED | ASG Member Nabbed by Gov’t forces in Tawi-Tawi
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 15): CAPTURED | ASG Member Nabbed by Gov’t forces in Tawi-Tawi
CAMP NAVARRO, Calarian, Zamboanga City(DWDD) – In the continuing effort to totally neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) within six (6) months, an ASG-Kidnap for Ransom group member was nabbed by the Joint Task Force Tawi-tawi (JTF Tawi-tawi) past noon time Saturday (May 13, 2017).
Marine Battalion Landing Team 10 members nabbed a certain Sahidul Bandhala Jikiri a.k.a Idul/Jamiri Saidul/Saidul Idul/Jikiri Saidul, a resident of Brgy Sipangkot, Sitangkai, Tawi-tawi after subject was pointed out by residents to be a member of the ASG/KFRG operating in the area.
“MBLT10 troops were having a “pulong-pulong” among the local populace of Sipangkot when the information on the identity of Jikiri was voluntereed by one of the concerned residents,” says Brigadier General Custodio Parcon, Commander of the Joint Task Force Tawi-tawi.
“In coordination with the PNP, we immediately invited Jikiri for interview. In the course of questioning, Jikiri confessed to be an ASG/KFRG member under ASG/KFRG sub leaders Idang Susukan and Sihata Latip, whose groups are operating in Sulu Province,” BGen Parcon adds.
The subject also revealed that he is often contacted by other ASG/KFRG sub leaders Abraham Hamid, Salip Susung, Nixon Muktadil and Brown Muktadil when crafting plans for kidnapping and cross-border seajacking, targeting mostly foreign nationals and vessels. He also has affiliations with other ASGs such as the Raden Abu group and Alden Bagade group, acting as an errand man in procuring speedboats and other requirements needed to support kidnapping activities.“Jikiri revealed that the sub leaders will pay him for every errand they ask him to do for them,” adds BGen Parcon. “He also gets a part of the money every time family of kidnap victims pay ransom in exchange for their release.”
As of press time, Jikiri is still in the custody of the Tawi-tawi PNP while documentation and filing of appropriate charges are being processed. “This is a very good example of a community that is united in fighting the Abu Sayyaf,” says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
“We urge other towns and communities all over the BaSulTa area to do the same, so that the Abu Sayyaf and their supporters will be forced to surrender,” LtGen Galvez said.
The people of Tawi-tawi have been actively showing support to the government’s effort to stop and totally eradicate the Abu Sayyaf. Just a month ago, eleven (11) Abu Sayyaf bandits surrendered as a group to the Joint Task Force Tawi-tawi and turned-over seven (7) highpowered firearms. As of this report, 18 Abu Sayyaf were apprehended all over the WestMinCom area while, 48 surrendered and 56 were killed. WESTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/15/captured-asg-member-nabbed-by-govt-forces-in-tawi-tawi/
CAMP NAVARRO, Calarian, Zamboanga City(DWDD) – In the continuing effort to totally neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) within six (6) months, an ASG-Kidnap for Ransom group member was nabbed by the Joint Task Force Tawi-tawi (JTF Tawi-tawi) past noon time Saturday (May 13, 2017).
Marine Battalion Landing Team 10 members nabbed a certain Sahidul Bandhala Jikiri a.k.a Idul/Jamiri Saidul/Saidul Idul/Jikiri Saidul, a resident of Brgy Sipangkot, Sitangkai, Tawi-tawi after subject was pointed out by residents to be a member of the ASG/KFRG operating in the area.
“MBLT10 troops were having a “pulong-pulong” among the local populace of Sipangkot when the information on the identity of Jikiri was voluntereed by one of the concerned residents,” says Brigadier General Custodio Parcon, Commander of the Joint Task Force Tawi-tawi.
“In coordination with the PNP, we immediately invited Jikiri for interview. In the course of questioning, Jikiri confessed to be an ASG/KFRG member under ASG/KFRG sub leaders Idang Susukan and Sihata Latip, whose groups are operating in Sulu Province,” BGen Parcon adds.
The subject also revealed that he is often contacted by other ASG/KFRG sub leaders Abraham Hamid, Salip Susung, Nixon Muktadil and Brown Muktadil when crafting plans for kidnapping and cross-border seajacking, targeting mostly foreign nationals and vessels. He also has affiliations with other ASGs such as the Raden Abu group and Alden Bagade group, acting as an errand man in procuring speedboats and other requirements needed to support kidnapping activities.“Jikiri revealed that the sub leaders will pay him for every errand they ask him to do for them,” adds BGen Parcon. “He also gets a part of the money every time family of kidnap victims pay ransom in exchange for their release.”
As of press time, Jikiri is still in the custody of the Tawi-tawi PNP while documentation and filing of appropriate charges are being processed. “This is a very good example of a community that is united in fighting the Abu Sayyaf,” says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
“We urge other towns and communities all over the BaSulTa area to do the same, so that the Abu Sayyaf and their supporters will be forced to surrender,” LtGen Galvez said.
The people of Tawi-tawi have been actively showing support to the government’s effort to stop and totally eradicate the Abu Sayyaf. Just a month ago, eleven (11) Abu Sayyaf bandits surrendered as a group to the Joint Task Force Tawi-tawi and turned-over seven (7) highpowered firearms. As of this report, 18 Abu Sayyaf were apprehended all over the WestMinCom area while, 48 surrendered and 56 were killed. WESTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/15/captured-asg-member-nabbed-by-govt-forces-in-tawi-tawi/
More Marines deployed in Sultan Kudarat town vs. NPAs
From the Philippine News Agency (May 15): More Marines deployed in Sultan Kudarat town vs. NPAs
The military here has deployed more Marine troopers in the hinterlands of a coastal town in Sultan Kudarat province following a brief firefight with the communist New People's Army (NPA) over the weekend, an Army official said Monday.
"Pursuit and blockade (operations) are being conducted by our ground troops to thwart the extrication of the rebels,” Major Gen. Arnel dela Vega, commander of the 6th Infantry Division based here, said.
Dela Vega also heads the Joint Task Force Central, the military-led task force that pursues lawless elements, Moro bandits and communist rebels in the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato and parts of Lanao del Sur.
“Aerial and land assets are being utilized to track down the fleeing armed rebels in the immediate vicinity of the encounter site," Dela Vega said.
“We are making sure that the fighting will not spill over to nearby areas," he told reporters.
Operating troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT2), under the JTF Central, clashed with some 100 communist rebels in the mountains of Barangay Hinalaan, Kalamansig on Saturday morning.
Marine troopers were sent to the village to verify reports on the presence of NPA mulcting farmers. As the troops arrived, they were fired upon by the communist rebels, triggering a brief firefight.
Although outnumbered, the platoon-size Marines stood their ground. After about 30 minutes, the rebels fled deep into the forest of Sitio Lomolon, Barangay Hinalaan.
The government forces were also backed by artillery fire from the MBLT-2 base, forcing the rebels to escape.
Dela Vega could not say if the rebels suffered casualties in the bombardment. There was no casualty on the government side.
It was in the same village that seven Marines were hurt after they were ambushed by communist rebels in February this year.
After the clearing operations, government forces recovered an M-16 Armalite rifle and four sets of Improvised Explosive Devices.
Lt. General Carlito Galvez Jr, commander of Western Mindanao Command, lauded JTF Central for the successful operation.
“It is obvious that these rebels are no longer fighting for any ideology but are just engaged in plain banditry," Galvez said in a statement.
"They have no place in our communities and must be fought together by all peace loving individuals," he added.
Capt. Arvin John Encinas, 6th ID spokesperson, said clearing operations are still ongoing in the village of Hinalaan to ensure that no explosives have been left behind by the communist rebels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/987716
The military here has deployed more Marine troopers in the hinterlands of a coastal town in Sultan Kudarat province following a brief firefight with the communist New People's Army (NPA) over the weekend, an Army official said Monday.
"Pursuit and blockade (operations) are being conducted by our ground troops to thwart the extrication of the rebels,” Major Gen. Arnel dela Vega, commander of the 6th Infantry Division based here, said.
Dela Vega also heads the Joint Task Force Central, the military-led task force that pursues lawless elements, Moro bandits and communist rebels in the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato and parts of Lanao del Sur.
“Aerial and land assets are being utilized to track down the fleeing armed rebels in the immediate vicinity of the encounter site," Dela Vega said.
“We are making sure that the fighting will not spill over to nearby areas," he told reporters.
Operating troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT2), under the JTF Central, clashed with some 100 communist rebels in the mountains of Barangay Hinalaan, Kalamansig on Saturday morning.
Marine troopers were sent to the village to verify reports on the presence of NPA mulcting farmers. As the troops arrived, they were fired upon by the communist rebels, triggering a brief firefight.
Although outnumbered, the platoon-size Marines stood their ground. After about 30 minutes, the rebels fled deep into the forest of Sitio Lomolon, Barangay Hinalaan.
The government forces were also backed by artillery fire from the MBLT-2 base, forcing the rebels to escape.
Dela Vega could not say if the rebels suffered casualties in the bombardment. There was no casualty on the government side.
It was in the same village that seven Marines were hurt after they were ambushed by communist rebels in February this year.
After the clearing operations, government forces recovered an M-16 Armalite rifle and four sets of Improvised Explosive Devices.
Lt. General Carlito Galvez Jr, commander of Western Mindanao Command, lauded JTF Central for the successful operation.
“It is obvious that these rebels are no longer fighting for any ideology but are just engaged in plain banditry," Galvez said in a statement.
"They have no place in our communities and must be fought together by all peace loving individuals," he added.
Capt. Arvin John Encinas, 6th ID spokesperson, said clearing operations are still ongoing in the village of Hinalaan to ensure that no explosives have been left behind by the communist rebels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/987716
US, PHL units train together to relieve typhoon-hit community in Aurora
From the Philippine News Agency (May 15): US, PHL units train together to relieve typhoon-hit community in Aurora
Naval and air units from the Philippines and the US militaries on Monday performed a series of maneuvers aimed at relieving Barangay Dibacong, Casiguran town, Aurora which was hypothetically devastated and isolated by a massive typhoon.
The exercise is part of the 33rd iteration of "Balikatan" which started May 8 and will end on the 19th.
The Philippine Navy component was led by the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), the country's largest and first strategic sealift vessel.
While the US contingent for this exercise was the USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE-2), a Lewis-and-Clark dry cargo ship and assorted Sikorsky UH-60 combat utility helicopters.
Major Frank Sayson, Philippine "Balikatan" spokesperson, said the ships, helicopters, and landing craft units, were deployed with the goal of relieving and providing supplies to Barangay Dibacong who was isolated by a "Category 5" typhoon.
These involved ship-to-shore manuevers, he added.
"Help for the people (isolated here) will come through the sea and this is called the Civil Military Activities From the Sea," he added.
All of the above-mentioned assets are capable of transporting and carrying significant amounts of supplies, relief personnel and landing them during crisis situations, Sayson stressed.
Such operations are seamless as they are inter-service in nature, he pointed out.
Prior the exercise, Sayson said US subject matter experts briefed their Filipino counterparts on various tactics and strategies which can expedite in providing relief aid to the typhoon devastated community.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/987728
Naval and air units from the Philippines and the US militaries on Monday performed a series of maneuvers aimed at relieving Barangay Dibacong, Casiguran town, Aurora which was hypothetically devastated and isolated by a massive typhoon.
The exercise is part of the 33rd iteration of "Balikatan" which started May 8 and will end on the 19th.
The Philippine Navy component was led by the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), the country's largest and first strategic sealift vessel.
While the US contingent for this exercise was the USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE-2), a Lewis-and-Clark dry cargo ship and assorted Sikorsky UH-60 combat utility helicopters.
Major Frank Sayson, Philippine "Balikatan" spokesperson, said the ships, helicopters, and landing craft units, were deployed with the goal of relieving and providing supplies to Barangay Dibacong who was isolated by a "Category 5" typhoon.
These involved ship-to-shore manuevers, he added.
"Help for the people (isolated here) will come through the sea and this is called the Civil Military Activities From the Sea," he added.
All of the above-mentioned assets are capable of transporting and carrying significant amounts of supplies, relief personnel and landing them during crisis situations, Sayson stressed.
Such operations are seamless as they are inter-service in nature, he pointed out.
Prior the exercise, Sayson said US subject matter experts briefed their Filipino counterparts on various tactics and strategies which can expedite in providing relief aid to the typhoon devastated community.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/987728
NOLCOM constantly patrolling Benham Rise
From the Philippine News Agency (May 15): NOLCOM constantly patrolling Benham Rise
All available air and naval assets of the Tarlac-based Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) are being used to constantly patrol the resource-rich Benham Rise which lies off the Aurora and Isabela.
This was disclosed by NOLCOM head Lt. Gen. Romeo Tanalgo during the sidelines of the "Balikatan" exercises in Casiguran town Monday.
In the said activity, US and Philippine naval and assets performed drills aimed at relieving typhoon-devastated Barangay Dibacong.
"We continuously patrol Benham Rise by air, surface (assets), everything we got as as NOLCOM is concerned," he added.
He added that there are no sightings of any Chinese ships so far and stressed that NOLCOM will conduct a big event in the area by June.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/987736
All available air and naval assets of the Tarlac-based Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) are being used to constantly patrol the resource-rich Benham Rise which lies off the Aurora and Isabela.
This was disclosed by NOLCOM head Lt. Gen. Romeo Tanalgo during the sidelines of the "Balikatan" exercises in Casiguran town Monday.
In the said activity, US and Philippine naval and assets performed drills aimed at relieving typhoon-devastated Barangay Dibacong.
"We continuously patrol Benham Rise by air, surface (assets), everything we got as as NOLCOM is concerned," he added.
He added that there are no sightings of any Chinese ships so far and stressed that NOLCOM will conduct a big event in the area by June.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/987736
CPP: On the appointment of more military generals to the Duterte cabinet
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (May 12): On the appointment of more military generals to the Duterte cabinet
Communist Party of the Philippines
12 May 2017
The Filipino people are not laughing at GRP President Duterte’s supposed joke about forming or letting a military junta take over government after having appointed more ex-military generals to key posts in his cabinet.
Duterte’s joke must be severely criticized. It smacks of contempt of the hardships, oppression and military abuses which the Filipino people were subjected to under the 1972-1986 military dictatorship of Marcos and his military and police clique, as well as under the successive AFP oplan wars of suppression from Oplan Lambat Bitag up to the current Oplan Kapayapaan.
The recent appointment of Palparan-trained Gen. Eduardo Año, current Chief-of-Staff of the AFP, as secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government is a shameless act against the thousands of victims of his reign of terror. By heading the DILG, he is set to further enrich himself through bureaucrat capitalist corruption, as he has done in the military.
Año’s appointment to the DILG comes at the heels of the appointment of another former AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Roy Cimatu (of the notorious “pabaon” scam) to the environment department. Cimatu was among the key implementors of Oplan Bantay Laya under the Arroyo regime and its spree of extra-judicial killings against activists. Among the most numerous victims of the Arroyo regime were those who stood against mining operations. Cimatu was among the pioneer implementors of the “investment defense force”, special units of the AFP that are being funded by mining companies.
There are now at least ten former military officers appointed to key positions under the Duterte regime. Indeed, the military clique is now among the biggest inside the Duterte government. These military officers are mostly fascist and pro-US zealots who have long defended the neo-colonial state. They are the strongest pillar of US domination within the Duterte regime.
The dominance of the military clique inside the Duterte cabinet casts a long shadow on the NDFP-GRP peace negotiations. Over the past months, it has been former military officials Delfin Lorenzana and Hermogenes Esperon, defense secretary and national security adviser respectively, who have been the most virulent against the peace negotiations. Lorenzana has gone to the extent of openly standing against the Duterte regime’s policy of peace talks. He has issued statements and threats against peace negotiations.
Lorenzana and his military ilk are US stooges who do not wish peace negotiations to progress towards agreements on substantive reforms which may go against US economic, political and military dominance.
The dominance of the military clique under the Duterte regime, combined with Duterte’s authoritarian rhetoric, raises the level of impunity of military forces in the conduct of their campaigns of suppression. With former military officers at the helm of the Duterte government, anticipate a new wave of attacks against activists, advocates of the interests of the toiling masses and defenders of the country’s environment and patrimony against foreign and big bourgeois plunder.
Over the past few months, there has been an all-out campaign of killings against peasant activists and aerial bombings of rural communities where people have actively struggled for genuine land reform and resisted landgrabbing by big landlords, mining companies and big plantations.
The military clique combines with the pro-imperialist advocates of neoliberal policies in the Duterte government in pushing for the removal of two cabinet members who come from the Left. They have already succeeded in shoving out maverick Gina Lopez who vigorously stood against plunderous mining operations which destroy the environment and harm the people’s livelihood.
They demand the removal of Ka Paeng from the Department of Agrarian Reform whose support for the installation of farm workers in the plantation operated by the Lorenzo’s Lapanday Food Corporation, is set to be a precedent against various anti-land reform and land grabbing schemes of haciendas and big plantations. While they may concede to letting DSWD Sec. Judy Taguiwalo retain her post, they are wary at the prospect of the military being prevented from usurping such civilian functions as delivery of relief in areas targetted for military counter-insurgency operations. If they could not afford to oppose Taguiwalo’s appointment, they will surely find a way to keep their fascist troops infringing on civilian functions.
The dominant position of the pro-US military clique will further ensure the protection and perpetuation of US policies as against Duterte’s declarations of an independent foreign policy. The problem with Duterte’s declaration of an independent foreign policy is that it has only opposed being bound by an exclusive military alliance with the US but has failed to assert the right of the country to be free from any dominant foreign military power.
His goodwill with China will, however, be tolerated only to the extent that it will allow the US military to continue building military bases and projecting its presence in the country and not give China the opportunity to build its military presence. Otherwise, with the dominance of the military clique he himself has installed, Duterte can easily be removed or compelled to play along with the wishes of the US imperialists.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170512-on-the-appointment-of-more-military-generals-to-the-duterte-cabinet
Communist Party of the Philippines
12 May 2017
The Filipino people are not laughing at GRP President Duterte’s supposed joke about forming or letting a military junta take over government after having appointed more ex-military generals to key posts in his cabinet.
Duterte’s joke must be severely criticized. It smacks of contempt of the hardships, oppression and military abuses which the Filipino people were subjected to under the 1972-1986 military dictatorship of Marcos and his military and police clique, as well as under the successive AFP oplan wars of suppression from Oplan Lambat Bitag up to the current Oplan Kapayapaan.
The recent appointment of Palparan-trained Gen. Eduardo Año, current Chief-of-Staff of the AFP, as secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government is a shameless act against the thousands of victims of his reign of terror. By heading the DILG, he is set to further enrich himself through bureaucrat capitalist corruption, as he has done in the military.
Año’s appointment to the DILG comes at the heels of the appointment of another former AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Roy Cimatu (of the notorious “pabaon” scam) to the environment department. Cimatu was among the key implementors of Oplan Bantay Laya under the Arroyo regime and its spree of extra-judicial killings against activists. Among the most numerous victims of the Arroyo regime were those who stood against mining operations. Cimatu was among the pioneer implementors of the “investment defense force”, special units of the AFP that are being funded by mining companies.
There are now at least ten former military officers appointed to key positions under the Duterte regime. Indeed, the military clique is now among the biggest inside the Duterte government. These military officers are mostly fascist and pro-US zealots who have long defended the neo-colonial state. They are the strongest pillar of US domination within the Duterte regime.
The dominance of the military clique inside the Duterte cabinet casts a long shadow on the NDFP-GRP peace negotiations. Over the past months, it has been former military officials Delfin Lorenzana and Hermogenes Esperon, defense secretary and national security adviser respectively, who have been the most virulent against the peace negotiations. Lorenzana has gone to the extent of openly standing against the Duterte regime’s policy of peace talks. He has issued statements and threats against peace negotiations.
Lorenzana and his military ilk are US stooges who do not wish peace negotiations to progress towards agreements on substantive reforms which may go against US economic, political and military dominance.
The dominance of the military clique under the Duterte regime, combined with Duterte’s authoritarian rhetoric, raises the level of impunity of military forces in the conduct of their campaigns of suppression. With former military officers at the helm of the Duterte government, anticipate a new wave of attacks against activists, advocates of the interests of the toiling masses and defenders of the country’s environment and patrimony against foreign and big bourgeois plunder.
Over the past few months, there has been an all-out campaign of killings against peasant activists and aerial bombings of rural communities where people have actively struggled for genuine land reform and resisted landgrabbing by big landlords, mining companies and big plantations.
The military clique combines with the pro-imperialist advocates of neoliberal policies in the Duterte government in pushing for the removal of two cabinet members who come from the Left. They have already succeeded in shoving out maverick Gina Lopez who vigorously stood against plunderous mining operations which destroy the environment and harm the people’s livelihood.
They demand the removal of Ka Paeng from the Department of Agrarian Reform whose support for the installation of farm workers in the plantation operated by the Lorenzo’s Lapanday Food Corporation, is set to be a precedent against various anti-land reform and land grabbing schemes of haciendas and big plantations. While they may concede to letting DSWD Sec. Judy Taguiwalo retain her post, they are wary at the prospect of the military being prevented from usurping such civilian functions as delivery of relief in areas targetted for military counter-insurgency operations. If they could not afford to oppose Taguiwalo’s appointment, they will surely find a way to keep their fascist troops infringing on civilian functions.
The dominant position of the pro-US military clique will further ensure the protection and perpetuation of US policies as against Duterte’s declarations of an independent foreign policy. The problem with Duterte’s declaration of an independent foreign policy is that it has only opposed being bound by an exclusive military alliance with the US but has failed to assert the right of the country to be free from any dominant foreign military power.
His goodwill with China will, however, be tolerated only to the extent that it will allow the US military to continue building military bases and projecting its presence in the country and not give China the opportunity to build its military presence. Otherwise, with the dominance of the military clique he himself has installed, Duterte can easily be removed or compelled to play along with the wishes of the US imperialists.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170512-on-the-appointment-of-more-military-generals-to-the-duterte-cabinet
CPP/NPA-Mindoro: 3 patay sa bigong atake ng 76IB-PA sa NPA sa Mindoro
New People's Army-Mindoro propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (May 11): 3 patay sa bigong atake ng 76IB-PA sa NPA sa Mindoro (3 dead in 76IB-PA failed attack vs NPA in Mindoro)
Pananabotahe ng AFP sa usapang pangkapayapaan, kinundena
Ka Madaay Gasic, Spokesperson
NPA-Mindoro (Lucio De Guzman Command)
11 May 2017
MAMBURAO, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO—Tatlo ang patay sa panig ng 76th Infantry Battalion-Philippine Army (76IB-PA) sa kanilang bigong surpresang atake sa mga Pulang mandirigma ng New People’s Army-Mindoro/Lucio De Guzman Command (NPA-Mindoro/LDGC) sa So. Tagbungan, Brgy. Barahan, Sta. Cruz, Occidental Mindoro, Mayo 8, taliwas sa naunang pahayag ng 76IB.
Sa naturang sagupaan, tatlo ang napaulat na kagyat na napaslang matapos pasabugin ng NPA ang kanilang command detonated explosives (CDX) nang nagtangkang pumasok ang may 30-40 elemento ng 76IB-PA sa himpilan ng mga Pulang mandirigma. Sa panig naman ng NPA, napaslang sa bugso ng putukan si Aileen “Ka Pia” Serna. Ligtas namang nakaatras ang mga Pulang mandirigma upang maiwasang madamay ang masa sa kalapit-baryo.
Naglulunsad ng pulong masa ang mga naturang NPA sa lugar upang ipaliwanag ang nagaganap na usapang pangkapayapaan at ang panukalang sosyo-ekonomikong reporma ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) nang maganap ang surpresang atake ng 76IB-PA. Taliwas ito sa pahayag ng mga militar na “nangingikil” ang NPA nang maganap ang sagupaan.
Ayon din sa mga ulat na natanggap ng NPA-Mindoro, isang lalaking sibilyan, nasa edad 45-50 anyos, ang dinukot ng mga militar at hinihinalang nasa kampo ng 76IB-PA sa Bgy. San Luis (Ligang), Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro. Dumaraing din ang mamamayan, lalo na ang mga katutubong Alangan dahil sa pananakot at harasment ng mga sundalo sa nagpapatuloy nilang operasyong militar sa magkakatabing sityo sa Sta. Cruz, Occidental Mindoro.
Pinabubulaanan nito ang deklarasyon ng mga militar na tagumpay sa naturang operasyon na sila mismo ang nagsimula, ani Ka Madaay Gasic, tagapagsalita ng NPA-Mindoro/LDGC.
“Binigo sila ng superyoridad ng mga NPA sa maniobra at kapasyahang humarap sa labanan,” ani Ka Madaay. “Habang buong kahambugan nilang idineklara ang tagumpay sa kanilang media stunt, sa katunayan paulit-ulit na silang binigo ng NPA.”
Iniulat ni Ka Madaay na noong Peb. 5, ang labanang sinimulan din ng 76IB-PA ay nagdulot ng 6 na kaswalti sa panig ng militar habang isa naman sa NPA.
Mariin namang kinundena ng NDFP-Mindoro ang patakarang all-out war ng rehimeng Duterte. Anila, ginagamit ito ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) upang isagawa ang mga madudugong atake sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan at sa mamamayan at palabasing “tutugisin” lamang nila ang mga rebelde.
“Isa itong all-out war laban sa mamamayan na patuloy na tumatangis sa paghiling ng pangmatagalang kapayapaan, isa itong patakrang naglalayong idiskaril ang umuusad nang usapang pangkapayapaan o peace talks,” ani Ka Ma. Patricia Andal, tagapagsalita ng NDFP-Mindoro.
“Marapat lamang na tumindig ang lahat ng mamamayang naghahangad ng tunay na kapayapaang nakabatay sa hustisya. Dapat malakas nating ipanawagan ang pagresolba sa ugat ng armadong tunggalian na siya ngayong nakahain sa usapang pangkapayapaan. Dapat singilin ang hepe ng AFP na si Duterte sa kanyang pagtataksil sa pangakong gubyernong naghahangad ng ‘pagbabago, kaunlaran at kapayapaan’,” pagtatapos ni Ka. Patricia.
===================================================
3 dead on 76IB-PA failed attack vs NPA in Mindoro
MAMBURAO, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO—Three elements of the 76 Infantry Battalion-Philippine Army (76IB-PA) died on their failed surprise attack against Red fighters of the New People’s Army/Lucio De Guzman Command (NPA-
Mindoro/LDGC) in So. Tagbungan, Brgy. Barahan, Sta. Cruz, Occidental Mindoro, May 8, contrary to an earlier statement on the army unit.
In the said encounter, three were reported dead on the spot after the NPA set off command-detonated explosives (CDX) when 30-40 elements of the 76IB-PA sneaked up on a rebel camp. On the rebel’s side, a Red fighter named Aileen “Ka Pia” Serna died in
the firefight. The Red fighters left the area to avoid any harm among nearby villages.
The said NPA unit was conducting a meeting with villagers to explain the state of the ongoing peace talks and the socio-economic reforms proposed by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) when they were attacked by uniformed men. This was in contrary to the army’s claim that the NPA were extorting when the encounter took place.
According to reports received by NPA-Mindoro, the military also abducted a civilian, male, aged 45-50 years, and was detained at the 76IB-PA camp in Brgy. San Luis (Ligang), Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro. Local villagers, especially Mangyan Alangan ethnoliguistic group because of harassment and intimidation due to continuing military operations in the area.
This contradicts military’s earlier statement claiming victory in the said attack that they themselves initiated, said Comrade Madaay Gasic, NPA-Mindoro/LDGC
spokesperson.
“The NPA’s superiority on maneuver and their decisiveness to face offensives defeated
the army’s surprise attack,” said Ka Madaay. “The army desperate about their loss brags their supposed victory thru media stunt.”
Ka Madaay claimed that on Feb. 5, 76IB-PA also initiated a firefight with rebels resulting to six dead among their ranks, and one dead on their side.
Meanwhile, the NDFP-Mindoro condemned the all-out wat policy of the Duterte regime. They claim that the AFP takes advantage of the policy to conduct theit vicious
attacks against the revolutionary movement and the people.
“This is an all-out war against the people who cry relentlessly for lasting peace, this is a policy that aims to derail the ongoing peace talks,” said Comrade Ma. Patricia Andal, NDFP-Mindoro spoksperson.
“It is always high time for all people desiring for genuine peace based on justice to rise up, and call to resolve the roots of armed conflict that is currently discussed in the peace negotiations. Duterte, the AFP’s commander in chief must stand by his promise of
establishing a government of ‘change, progress and peace’. Otherwise, these are nothing but empty rhetoric,” Ka Patricia ended.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170511-3-patay-sa-bigong-atake-ng-76ib-pa-sa-npa-sa-mindoro
Pananabotahe ng AFP sa usapang pangkapayapaan, kinundena
Ka Madaay Gasic, Spokesperson
NPA-Mindoro (Lucio De Guzman Command)
11 May 2017
MAMBURAO, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO—Tatlo ang patay sa panig ng 76th Infantry Battalion-Philippine Army (76IB-PA) sa kanilang bigong surpresang atake sa mga Pulang mandirigma ng New People’s Army-Mindoro/Lucio De Guzman Command (NPA-Mindoro/LDGC) sa So. Tagbungan, Brgy. Barahan, Sta. Cruz, Occidental Mindoro, Mayo 8, taliwas sa naunang pahayag ng 76IB.
Sa naturang sagupaan, tatlo ang napaulat na kagyat na napaslang matapos pasabugin ng NPA ang kanilang command detonated explosives (CDX) nang nagtangkang pumasok ang may 30-40 elemento ng 76IB-PA sa himpilan ng mga Pulang mandirigma. Sa panig naman ng NPA, napaslang sa bugso ng putukan si Aileen “Ka Pia” Serna. Ligtas namang nakaatras ang mga Pulang mandirigma upang maiwasang madamay ang masa sa kalapit-baryo.
Naglulunsad ng pulong masa ang mga naturang NPA sa lugar upang ipaliwanag ang nagaganap na usapang pangkapayapaan at ang panukalang sosyo-ekonomikong reporma ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) nang maganap ang surpresang atake ng 76IB-PA. Taliwas ito sa pahayag ng mga militar na “nangingikil” ang NPA nang maganap ang sagupaan.
Ayon din sa mga ulat na natanggap ng NPA-Mindoro, isang lalaking sibilyan, nasa edad 45-50 anyos, ang dinukot ng mga militar at hinihinalang nasa kampo ng 76IB-PA sa Bgy. San Luis (Ligang), Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro. Dumaraing din ang mamamayan, lalo na ang mga katutubong Alangan dahil sa pananakot at harasment ng mga sundalo sa nagpapatuloy nilang operasyong militar sa magkakatabing sityo sa Sta. Cruz, Occidental Mindoro.
Pinabubulaanan nito ang deklarasyon ng mga militar na tagumpay sa naturang operasyon na sila mismo ang nagsimula, ani Ka Madaay Gasic, tagapagsalita ng NPA-Mindoro/LDGC.
“Binigo sila ng superyoridad ng mga NPA sa maniobra at kapasyahang humarap sa labanan,” ani Ka Madaay. “Habang buong kahambugan nilang idineklara ang tagumpay sa kanilang media stunt, sa katunayan paulit-ulit na silang binigo ng NPA.”
Iniulat ni Ka Madaay na noong Peb. 5, ang labanang sinimulan din ng 76IB-PA ay nagdulot ng 6 na kaswalti sa panig ng militar habang isa naman sa NPA.
Mariin namang kinundena ng NDFP-Mindoro ang patakarang all-out war ng rehimeng Duterte. Anila, ginagamit ito ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) upang isagawa ang mga madudugong atake sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan at sa mamamayan at palabasing “tutugisin” lamang nila ang mga rebelde.
“Isa itong all-out war laban sa mamamayan na patuloy na tumatangis sa paghiling ng pangmatagalang kapayapaan, isa itong patakrang naglalayong idiskaril ang umuusad nang usapang pangkapayapaan o peace talks,” ani Ka Ma. Patricia Andal, tagapagsalita ng NDFP-Mindoro.
“Marapat lamang na tumindig ang lahat ng mamamayang naghahangad ng tunay na kapayapaang nakabatay sa hustisya. Dapat malakas nating ipanawagan ang pagresolba sa ugat ng armadong tunggalian na siya ngayong nakahain sa usapang pangkapayapaan. Dapat singilin ang hepe ng AFP na si Duterte sa kanyang pagtataksil sa pangakong gubyernong naghahangad ng ‘pagbabago, kaunlaran at kapayapaan’,” pagtatapos ni Ka. Patricia.
===================================================
3 dead on 76IB-PA failed attack vs NPA in Mindoro
MAMBURAO, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO—Three elements of the 76 Infantry Battalion-Philippine Army (76IB-PA) died on their failed surprise attack against Red fighters of the New People’s Army/Lucio De Guzman Command (NPA-
Mindoro/LDGC) in So. Tagbungan, Brgy. Barahan, Sta. Cruz, Occidental Mindoro, May 8, contrary to an earlier statement on the army unit.
In the said encounter, three were reported dead on the spot after the NPA set off command-detonated explosives (CDX) when 30-40 elements of the 76IB-PA sneaked up on a rebel camp. On the rebel’s side, a Red fighter named Aileen “Ka Pia” Serna died in
the firefight. The Red fighters left the area to avoid any harm among nearby villages.
The said NPA unit was conducting a meeting with villagers to explain the state of the ongoing peace talks and the socio-economic reforms proposed by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) when they were attacked by uniformed men. This was in contrary to the army’s claim that the NPA were extorting when the encounter took place.
According to reports received by NPA-Mindoro, the military also abducted a civilian, male, aged 45-50 years, and was detained at the 76IB-PA camp in Brgy. San Luis (Ligang), Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro. Local villagers, especially Mangyan Alangan ethnoliguistic group because of harassment and intimidation due to continuing military operations in the area.
This contradicts military’s earlier statement claiming victory in the said attack that they themselves initiated, said Comrade Madaay Gasic, NPA-Mindoro/LDGC
spokesperson.
“The NPA’s superiority on maneuver and their decisiveness to face offensives defeated
the army’s surprise attack,” said Ka Madaay. “The army desperate about their loss brags their supposed victory thru media stunt.”
Ka Madaay claimed that on Feb. 5, 76IB-PA also initiated a firefight with rebels resulting to six dead among their ranks, and one dead on their side.
Meanwhile, the NDFP-Mindoro condemned the all-out wat policy of the Duterte regime. They claim that the AFP takes advantage of the policy to conduct theit vicious
attacks against the revolutionary movement and the people.
“This is an all-out war against the people who cry relentlessly for lasting peace, this is a policy that aims to derail the ongoing peace talks,” said Comrade Ma. Patricia Andal, NDFP-Mindoro spoksperson.
“It is always high time for all people desiring for genuine peace based on justice to rise up, and call to resolve the roots of armed conflict that is currently discussed in the peace negotiations. Duterte, the AFP’s commander in chief must stand by his promise of
establishing a government of ‘change, progress and peace’. Otherwise, these are nothing but empty rhetoric,” Ka Patricia ended.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170511-3-patay-sa-bigong-atake-ng-76ib-pa-sa-npa-sa-mindoro