From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 26): Valorian troopers to celebrate 43rd founding anniv on August 1
The 36 Infantry (Valor) Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army is set to celebrate its 43rd founding anniversary on August 1, 2017, to be held at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Dayo-an, Tago, Surigao del Sur.
This year's theme is “36IB: Strengthening Our Commitments to Serve and Securing the Filipino People, Intensifying Partnerships, Changes Lives.”
According to 36IB spokesperson Captain Al Anthony Pueblas, several activities have already been conducted earlier this month, which included: opening of the sports fest last July 10; mangrove planting in Tago town last July 14 with partner stakeholders; 2-day mass feeding and the “Libreng Serbisyo with TESDA” held at Cayale Elementary School in Tago town and Mabuhay Elementary School in Tandag City on July 20-21, respectively.
On July 22, a coastal cleanup activity was conducted along the coast of Mabua Beach in the city and Tago Bridge in Tago town, Pueblas added.
During the anniversary day on August 1, 2017, a mass wedding ceremony is scheduled followed by the founding anniversary program where partner stakeholders are set to be recognized.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1741500953075/valorian-troopers-to-celebrate-43rd-founding-anniv-on-august-1
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
Air Force school enjoins counterparts in other service branches to cross-train instructors
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 26): Air Force school enjoins counterparts in other service branches to cross-train instructors
Air Education, Training, and Doctrine Command (AETDC) enjoined the Naval Education and Training Command and the Army Training and Doctrine Command to partake in cross-training of instructors.
AETDC Commander Major General Galileo Gerard Kintanar emphasized that this is one way for the three services to strengthen the education pillars.
“It is one of our many endeavors to subject matter exchanges on things we do well as a service,” Kintanar shared.
Earlier, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) sent two instructors to the Army, who, in exchange, sent two of their instructors to PAF.
“Sending our instructors in such trainings is empowering the educational foundation of our Commands. Whatever is learned by those who will partake in the trainings will be localized in each branch of service,” he said.
Moreover, these trainings are the perfect venue for the Armed Forces of the Philippines to share and adopt the best practices that they see in each branch of service.
“We are elevating PAF by activating our own ETC through cross-trainings, and we are encouraging you to do the same, as well,” he added.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3221500371242/air-force-school-enjoins-counterparts-in-other-service-branches-to-cross-train-instructors
Air Education, Training, and Doctrine Command (AETDC) enjoined the Naval Education and Training Command and the Army Training and Doctrine Command to partake in cross-training of instructors.
AETDC Commander Major General Galileo Gerard Kintanar emphasized that this is one way for the three services to strengthen the education pillars.
“It is one of our many endeavors to subject matter exchanges on things we do well as a service,” Kintanar shared.
Earlier, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) sent two instructors to the Army, who, in exchange, sent two of their instructors to PAF.
“Sending our instructors in such trainings is empowering the educational foundation of our Commands. Whatever is learned by those who will partake in the trainings will be localized in each branch of service,” he said.
Moreover, these trainings are the perfect venue for the Armed Forces of the Philippines to share and adopt the best practices that they see in each branch of service.
“We are elevating PAF by activating our own ETC through cross-trainings, and we are encouraging you to do the same, as well,” he added.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3221500371242/air-force-school-enjoins-counterparts-in-other-service-branches-to-cross-train-instructors
Surrendered Sayyafs undergo reformation program
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jul 25): Surrendered Sayyafs undergo reformation program
Dozens of former Abu Sayyaf members who surrendered to authorities in Basilan province underwent a series of psychosocial sessions and a brief course on farming to help them reform and start a new life.
The reformation program for 84 returnees was initiated by the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) with the help of the 4th Special Forces Battalion (4SFB) and the different local government units in Basilan.
The six-day psychosocial sessions and farming course, which was held on July 19 to 24 at the headquarters of the 4SFB in Isabela City are part of the reformation program. ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said it is aimed at giving the returnees the appropriate psychosocial interventions and helping them adjust to a new of life.
He said the program consists of a series of interventions and other forms of assistance designed to usher the complete reformation of the former combatants into decent and productive members of society.
Aside from the six-day training and psychosocial intervention, some of the returnees will receive livelihood and housing assistance from the ARMM government after qualifying as beneficiaries of its Bangsamoro Regional Inclusive Development with Growth and Equity (BRIDGE) program.
Most of the returnees are still in their teens or early twenties and a significant number of them have been forcibly recruited into the lawless group. The youngest returnee is only 11 years old and was recruited when he was just 9.
They have returned to the folds of the law with the help of different intermediaries including local government officials who considered the gesture as a means to effectively tackle the dire security issues in their communities.
Hataman said he hopes the reformation of the returnees will encourage the other members of the Abu Sayyaf to lay down their arms and lead a lawful life. He said it is also meant to dissuade adolescent boys from poor families in Basilan, who are the most susceptible group for recruitment, from joining local terror groups.
One of the returnees, Ashraf, said the ARMM’s reformation program has restored his faith in the government and gave him the chance to be with his family again and to lead a normal life. Ashraf is from a remote farming village in the town of Sumisip which has no electricity and little access to education and health facilities. He is now 20 years and has been with the Abu Sayyaf since he was 15.
The second youngest child in a brood of ten, Ashraf said he was forced to join the Abu Sayyaf after his father died. Their mother struggled to put food on the table for them. He said the initial money and regular allowance have enticed him into the Abu Sayyaf. Ashraf said he and his fellow returnees feel a sense of freedom after turning their back on the group and are thankful for being given a second chance in life.
The ARMM government, Hataman said, will be working closely with the local officials including the barangay to monitor the reformation of the returnees and to provide them the assistance they need.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/surrendered-sayyafs-undergo-reformation-program/
Dozens of former Abu Sayyaf members who surrendered to authorities in Basilan province underwent a series of psychosocial sessions and a brief course on farming to help them reform and start a new life.
The reformation program for 84 returnees was initiated by the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) with the help of the 4th Special Forces Battalion (4SFB) and the different local government units in Basilan.
The six-day psychosocial sessions and farming course, which was held on July 19 to 24 at the headquarters of the 4SFB in Isabela City are part of the reformation program. ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said it is aimed at giving the returnees the appropriate psychosocial interventions and helping them adjust to a new of life.
He said the program consists of a series of interventions and other forms of assistance designed to usher the complete reformation of the former combatants into decent and productive members of society.
Aside from the six-day training and psychosocial intervention, some of the returnees will receive livelihood and housing assistance from the ARMM government after qualifying as beneficiaries of its Bangsamoro Regional Inclusive Development with Growth and Equity (BRIDGE) program.
Most of the returnees are still in their teens or early twenties and a significant number of them have been forcibly recruited into the lawless group. The youngest returnee is only 11 years old and was recruited when he was just 9.
They have returned to the folds of the law with the help of different intermediaries including local government officials who considered the gesture as a means to effectively tackle the dire security issues in their communities.
Hataman said he hopes the reformation of the returnees will encourage the other members of the Abu Sayyaf to lay down their arms and lead a lawful life. He said it is also meant to dissuade adolescent boys from poor families in Basilan, who are the most susceptible group for recruitment, from joining local terror groups.
One of the returnees, Ashraf, said the ARMM’s reformation program has restored his faith in the government and gave him the chance to be with his family again and to lead a normal life. Ashraf is from a remote farming village in the town of Sumisip which has no electricity and little access to education and health facilities. He is now 20 years and has been with the Abu Sayyaf since he was 15.
The second youngest child in a brood of ten, Ashraf said he was forced to join the Abu Sayyaf after his father died. Their mother struggled to put food on the table for them. He said the initial money and regular allowance have enticed him into the Abu Sayyaf. Ashraf said he and his fellow returnees feel a sense of freedom after turning their back on the group and are thankful for being given a second chance in life.
The ARMM government, Hataman said, will be working closely with the local officials including the barangay to monitor the reformation of the returnees and to provide them the assistance they need.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/surrendered-sayyafs-undergo-reformation-program/
Rappler Talk: Sidney Jones on the effect of the Marawi siege on terrorism in Southeast Asia
From Rappler (Jul 25): Rappler Talk: Sidney Jones on the effect of the Marawi siege on terrorism in Southeast Asia
Bookmark this page to watch the live interview with the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict's director at 4:30 pm Tuesday, July 25
Rappler talks to Sidney Jones, head of the Jakarta-based think tank group Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC).
In a report released on Friday, July 21, titled “Marawi, the ‘East Asia Wilayah’ and Indonesia,” IPAC says the Marawi conflict has changed the face of terrorism in the region and will have long-term repercussions for extremism in Southeast Asia.
Watch the interview with Jones on Rappler.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/176689-rappler-talk-sidney-jones-marawi-siege-terrorism-southeast-asia
Bookmark this page to watch the live interview with the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict's director at 4:30 pm Tuesday, July 25
Rappler talks to Sidney Jones, head of the Jakarta-based think tank group Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC).
In a report released on Friday, July 21, titled “Marawi, the ‘East Asia Wilayah’ and Indonesia,” IPAC says the Marawi conflict has changed the face of terrorism in the region and will have long-term repercussions for extremism in Southeast Asia.
Watch the interview with Jones on Rappler.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/176689-rappler-talk-sidney-jones-marawi-siege-terrorism-southeast-asia
Donated Chinese rifles distributed to PNP
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 26): Donated Chinese rifles distributed to PNP
The Philippine National Police has started the distribution of the rifles earlier donated by the People's Republic of China to the Philippine government.
This was confirmed by PNP head, Director General Ronald Dela Rosa, who said that the weapons are now being distributed to units in the ground.
Distribution started shortly after the Armed Forces of the Philippines formally transferred the guns to the police.
Dela Rosa said these weapons are urgently needed by police officers in the ground, hence the quick distribution.
The donation consists of 3,000 assault rifles and 90 long-range rifles along with millions of bullets.
All of these items, except 100 rifles, are now in the PNP inventory.
The PNP chief said the remaining weapons will be examined by the AFP's research and development branch to determine whether these rifles are ideal for the use of Filipino military personnel.
The weapons and ammunition were formally handed over by the Chinese government to the Philippines June 28, and worth around 50 million yuan.
The arms and ammunition was delivered at the Harrison Landing Zone, Clark Freeport, on board a two-cargo Ilyushin IL-76 military plane.
Meanwhile, Dela Rosa said the decision of the House of Representatives and the Senate to extend by five months the implementation of Martial Law in Mindanao will give the PNP additional powers to enforce law and order in Marawi City.
“I am very thankful to Congress for extending Martial Law (in Mindanao) that will give us additional powers to enforce the law in the troubled land of Marawi City and the whole of Mindanao. It will be easier for us to maintain law, peace and order where Martial Law is prevailing," he stressed.
The 17th Congress, voting 261 as against 18, affirmed the need to extend Presidential Proclamation Number 216, extending Martial Law and the suspension of the Writ of Habeas Corpus until Dec. 31 as initiated by Duterte.
It was declared in Mindanao after the Maute Group terrorists conducted a series of attacks in Marawi City following the botched attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon, on May 23.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/July/26/negor3.htm
The Philippine National Police has started the distribution of the rifles earlier donated by the People's Republic of China to the Philippine government.
This was confirmed by PNP head, Director General Ronald Dela Rosa, who said that the weapons are now being distributed to units in the ground.
Distribution started shortly after the Armed Forces of the Philippines formally transferred the guns to the police.
Dela Rosa said these weapons are urgently needed by police officers in the ground, hence the quick distribution.
The donation consists of 3,000 assault rifles and 90 long-range rifles along with millions of bullets.
All of these items, except 100 rifles, are now in the PNP inventory.
The PNP chief said the remaining weapons will be examined by the AFP's research and development branch to determine whether these rifles are ideal for the use of Filipino military personnel.
The weapons and ammunition were formally handed over by the Chinese government to the Philippines June 28, and worth around 50 million yuan.
The arms and ammunition was delivered at the Harrison Landing Zone, Clark Freeport, on board a two-cargo Ilyushin IL-76 military plane.
Meanwhile, Dela Rosa said the decision of the House of Representatives and the Senate to extend by five months the implementation of Martial Law in Mindanao will give the PNP additional powers to enforce law and order in Marawi City.
“I am very thankful to Congress for extending Martial Law (in Mindanao) that will give us additional powers to enforce the law in the troubled land of Marawi City and the whole of Mindanao. It will be easier for us to maintain law, peace and order where Martial Law is prevailing," he stressed.
The 17th Congress, voting 261 as against 18, affirmed the need to extend Presidential Proclamation Number 216, extending Martial Law and the suspension of the Writ of Habeas Corpus until Dec. 31 as initiated by Duterte.
It was declared in Mindanao after the Maute Group terrorists conducted a series of attacks in Marawi City following the botched attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon, on May 23.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/July/26/negor3.htm
Guihulngan ambush anti-people: Army
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 26): Guihulngan ambush anti-people: Army
The Philippine Army said the fatal ambush of policemen and civilians in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental last week, was anti-peace, anti-development, and anti-people.
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, 3 rd Infantry Division commander, yesterday called on the people of Negros and the security sector to join hands together to defeat and destroy this anti-people, organization, apparently referring to the New People's Army rebels behind the death of six policemen and a civilian, and causing injuries to three other policemen and two civilians.
There were reports that the rebels behind the ambush fled to Bohol, as they are trying to evade the pursuit operations of the Army and the National Police.
But Aying said he believes that the rebel ambushers are still in the area, and he expects that they will get them in due time.
In a text blast message by Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto, he notified local authorities in the province of an intelligence report from Region 18 or the Negros Island Region, that a group of 15 to 20 armed men had been spotted leaving the shores of Guihulngan City, a day after the ambush, without a confirmed destination.
Aying said it was an “intelligence assessment”. There is no confirmation, as of this time, he stressed.
The police lost 15 firearms to the rebel ambushers.
The ambush elicited condemnation from local government officials, especially the families, relatives and friends of the victims.
Rep. Alfredo Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) said the ambush in Guihulngan was a “knee-jerk reaction” of the NPA “because they wanted to show that they still exist”, following an announcement of President Rodrigo Duterte that he will no longer talk to them.
Killed in the ambush in Sitio Gi-ob, Barangay Magsaysay in Guihulngan last week, were Supt. Arnel Arpon, the Guihulngan City police chief, Senior Police Officer 2 Mecasio Tabilon, SPO1 Jesael Ancheta, SPO2 Chavic Agosto, and PO2s Alfredo Dunque and Alvin Bulandres.
Wounded were PO3 Jordan Balderas, PO2 Jorie Maribao, and SPO4 Jerome Delara.
Michael Jambalos, the back-up driver of Guihulngan City Councilor Eddie Dela Rita, was also killed, while the latter and his driver were injured in an earlier attack by the rebels.
Dela Rita had already vehemently denied insinuations that he has connections with the rebels. He expressed sadness and condoled with the families of the fatalities, saying he could not, in conscience, “feed” them to the rebels.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/July/26/negor1.htm
The Philippine Army said the fatal ambush of policemen and civilians in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental last week, was anti-peace, anti-development, and anti-people.
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, 3 rd Infantry Division commander, yesterday called on the people of Negros and the security sector to join hands together to defeat and destroy this anti-people, organization, apparently referring to the New People's Army rebels behind the death of six policemen and a civilian, and causing injuries to three other policemen and two civilians.
There were reports that the rebels behind the ambush fled to Bohol, as they are trying to evade the pursuit operations of the Army and the National Police.
But Aying said he believes that the rebel ambushers are still in the area, and he expects that they will get them in due time.
In a text blast message by Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto, he notified local authorities in the province of an intelligence report from Region 18 or the Negros Island Region, that a group of 15 to 20 armed men had been spotted leaving the shores of Guihulngan City, a day after the ambush, without a confirmed destination.
Aying said it was an “intelligence assessment”. There is no confirmation, as of this time, he stressed.
The police lost 15 firearms to the rebel ambushers.
The ambush elicited condemnation from local government officials, especially the families, relatives and friends of the victims.
Rep. Alfredo Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) said the ambush in Guihulngan was a “knee-jerk reaction” of the NPA “because they wanted to show that they still exist”, following an announcement of President Rodrigo Duterte that he will no longer talk to them.
Killed in the ambush in Sitio Gi-ob, Barangay Magsaysay in Guihulngan last week, were Supt. Arnel Arpon, the Guihulngan City police chief, Senior Police Officer 2 Mecasio Tabilon, SPO1 Jesael Ancheta, SPO2 Chavic Agosto, and PO2s Alfredo Dunque and Alvin Bulandres.
Wounded were PO3 Jordan Balderas, PO2 Jorie Maribao, and SPO4 Jerome Delara.
Michael Jambalos, the back-up driver of Guihulngan City Councilor Eddie Dela Rita, was also killed, while the latter and his driver were injured in an earlier attack by the rebels.
Dela Rita had already vehemently denied insinuations that he has connections with the rebels. He expressed sadness and condoled with the families of the fatalities, saying he could not, in conscience, “feed” them to the rebels.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/July/26/negor1.htm
‘Guihulngan ambush proves Reds insincerity'
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 26): ‘Guihulngan ambush proves Reds insincerity'
President Rodrigo Duterte's calling off of the peace talks with the National Democratic Front was welcomed by Negros officials yesterday, pointing out that the Communist rebels' killing of six policemen and a civilian in Guihulngan City Friday clearly manifested their lack of sincerity to attain peace.
Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. said the treacherous killing of the seven in Negros Oriental by the New People's Army should also be investigated by human rights groups.
“Why do they only investigate the military and army for human rights abuses? They should also look into atrocities committed by the rebels,” he said.
The governor also called on the police to learn from the lessons of the past, they should take precautionary measures in responding to calls for help to avoid falling victim to the rebels.
The Guihulngan police fell into the trap of the rebels, like many other law enforcers killed in NPA ambushes, he said.
While the rebel forces in Negros are now few, they are like ants, when they bite, it hurts and it is irritating, he said.
Jon Aying, 3rd Infantry Division commander, said the Army has taken a defensive and offensive position against the rebels to protect government troops and civilians.
The rebels don't seem to want peace, and proof of this is the ambush on the president's convoy and the Guihulngan massacre, he said.
They even wanted to kill the president, which is the strongest manifestation that they do not want peace, Aying said.
He said that while the peace talks have been called off for now, he believes that if the rebels show sincerity in the future, the doors to peace are not totally closed.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/July/26/topstory5.htm
President Rodrigo Duterte's calling off of the peace talks with the National Democratic Front was welcomed by Negros officials yesterday, pointing out that the Communist rebels' killing of six policemen and a civilian in Guihulngan City Friday clearly manifested their lack of sincerity to attain peace.
Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. said the treacherous killing of the seven in Negros Oriental by the New People's Army should also be investigated by human rights groups.
“Why do they only investigate the military and army for human rights abuses? They should also look into atrocities committed by the rebels,” he said.
The governor also called on the police to learn from the lessons of the past, they should take precautionary measures in responding to calls for help to avoid falling victim to the rebels.
The Guihulngan police fell into the trap of the rebels, like many other law enforcers killed in NPA ambushes, he said.
While the rebel forces in Negros are now few, they are like ants, when they bite, it hurts and it is irritating, he said.
Jon Aying, 3rd Infantry Division commander, said the Army has taken a defensive and offensive position against the rebels to protect government troops and civilians.
The rebels don't seem to want peace, and proof of this is the ambush on the president's convoy and the Guihulngan massacre, he said.
They even wanted to kill the president, which is the strongest manifestation that they do not want peace, Aying said.
He said that while the peace talks have been called off for now, he believes that if the rebels show sincerity in the future, the doors to peace are not totally closed.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/July/26/topstory5.htm
Duterte threatens to bomb all communist structures: ‘Walang patawaran’
From Update Philippines (Jul 25): Duterte threatens to bomb all communist structures: ‘Walang patawaran’
President Rodrigo Duterte threatened to bomb all structures of communists in the highlands including their schools where they teach Lumads to rebel against the government.
He also ordered the police and military to be unforgiving to NPA that conducts atrocities against civilians and government forces.
“I will use the Armed Forces, the Philippine Air Force. Talagang bobombahan ko, yung mga – lahat ng ano (structures) ninyo. Because you are operating illegally and you are teaching the children to rebel against government. May kalokohan kayo, di mas lalo na ako,” the President said in his press conference after SONA.
“There’s a need for the Armed Forces and the police to reconfigure,” he said. “Ilang beses na ‘yan. The last time was in Davao, namatay yung babae. Yung isang babae doon, ‘yung sa forensics. Because may sabi nila (NPA) may namatay. Eh ‘di kawawa naman, yung station commander tinawag ‘yung forensics na babae na pulis, “Sige sumama ka.” Ayun [inambush]. So walang patawaran diyan. So kung ganon, wala ring patawaran tayo.”
“So I am ordering the military and the police, walang patawaran kasi hindi naman tayo pinapatawad. And they are making excuses – na para tawagin na – trabaho kasi ng pulis pag hindi mapaalis sa trabaho ‘yan, dereliction of duty, abandonment of duty. Kaya magpakamatay ang mga pobre na ‘yan,” the President said.
“So this time, you do it to me, do it to my police and my Army, they will do it to you. Kanya-kanya na tayo ng diskarte,” he added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/duterte-threatens-to-bomb-all-communist-structures-walang-patawaran/19371
President Rodrigo Duterte threatened to bomb all structures of communists in the highlands including their schools where they teach Lumads to rebel against the government.
He also ordered the police and military to be unforgiving to NPA that conducts atrocities against civilians and government forces.
“I will use the Armed Forces, the Philippine Air Force. Talagang bobombahan ko, yung mga – lahat ng ano (structures) ninyo. Because you are operating illegally and you are teaching the children to rebel against government. May kalokohan kayo, di mas lalo na ako,” the President said in his press conference after SONA.
“There’s a need for the Armed Forces and the police to reconfigure,” he said. “Ilang beses na ‘yan. The last time was in Davao, namatay yung babae. Yung isang babae doon, ‘yung sa forensics. Because may sabi nila (NPA) may namatay. Eh ‘di kawawa naman, yung station commander tinawag ‘yung forensics na babae na pulis, “Sige sumama ka.” Ayun [inambush]. So walang patawaran diyan. So kung ganon, wala ring patawaran tayo.”
“So I am ordering the military and the police, walang patawaran kasi hindi naman tayo pinapatawad. And they are making excuses – na para tawagin na – trabaho kasi ng pulis pag hindi mapaalis sa trabaho ‘yan, dereliction of duty, abandonment of duty. Kaya magpakamatay ang mga pobre na ‘yan,” the President said.
“So this time, you do it to me, do it to my police and my Army, they will do it to you. Kanya-kanya na tayo ng diskarte,” he added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/duterte-threatens-to-bomb-all-communist-structures-walang-patawaran/19371
US to work with PH to solve issue on Balangiga bells
From Update Philippines (Jul 25): US to work with PH to solve issue on Balangiga bells
The United States (US) has vowed to work with the Philippines to resolve the issue involving the Balangiga bells, which were seized by US troops from a town in Samar 116 years ago.
”We will continue to work with our Filipino partners to find a resolution,” the US Embassy in Manila said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
“We are aware that the Bells of Balangiga have deep significance for a number of people, both in the United States and in the Philippines,” it added.
President Rodrigo R. Duterte, in his second State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) delivered Monday at the Batasang Pambansa, called on the US to return to the Philippines the bells of the Balangiga church.
The President said those bells belonged to the Philippines and were part of its national heritage.
During the Philippine-American war in 1901, Filipino freedom fighters from the village of Balangiga defended Samar island from American colonizers, resulting in death of 48 American officers and men and 28 Filipinos.
The US troops looted three bells from the burned out Catholic town church, which they took back to the US as war booty.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/us-to-work-with-ph-to-solve-issue-on-balangiga-bells/19378
The United States (US) has vowed to work with the Philippines to resolve the issue involving the Balangiga bells, which were seized by US troops from a town in Samar 116 years ago.
”We will continue to work with our Filipino partners to find a resolution,” the US Embassy in Manila said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
“We are aware that the Bells of Balangiga have deep significance for a number of people, both in the United States and in the Philippines,” it added.
President Rodrigo R. Duterte, in his second State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) delivered Monday at the Batasang Pambansa, called on the US to return to the Philippines the bells of the Balangiga church.
The President said those bells belonged to the Philippines and were part of its national heritage.
During the Philippine-American war in 1901, Filipino freedom fighters from the village of Balangiga defended Samar island from American colonizers, resulting in death of 48 American officers and men and 28 Filipinos.
The US troops looted three bells from the burned out Catholic town church, which they took back to the US as war booty.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/us-to-work-with-ph-to-solve-issue-on-balangiga-bells/19378
2 Reconnaissance aircraft from US for PH spotted
From Update Philippines (Jul 25): 2 Reconnaissance aircraft from US for PH spotted
Air Force photo
A photo uploaded by the Philippine Air Force in its official social networking page shows the possibility that two Cessna 208B installed with intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities from United States are already in the country.
The photo from Air Force was taken July 24 during the awarding ceremony for Best Marching Unit during a Special Flag Ceremony held at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base, Grandstand Pasay City. Air Force commander Lieutenant General Edgar R. Fallorina attended the event.
US envoy to the Philippines Ambassador Sung Kim said last week that the US government will be soon turning over 2 aircraft for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ISR activities.
President Rodrigo Duterte, in a press briefing after his SONA, said that a country will be providing 2 aircraft for Philippine military, without mentioning US.
He said these aircraft will be deployed to conduct reconnaisance prior to deployment of government forces to avoid ambush. “Yung ibibigay ng isang country sa atin, dalawang eroplano magtingin. Para magsabi sila na we are proceeding to this, tingnan doon sa mapa,” he said.
According to MaxDefense Philippines the 2 aircraft from US are likely to be turned over tomorrow to PAF.
“MaxDefense is still verifying the information although we received another info that the aircraft will be officially handed over to the PAF tomorrow,” MaxDefense said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/2-reconnaissance-aircraft-from-us-for-ph-spotted/19382
Air Force photo
A photo uploaded by the Philippine Air Force in its official social networking page shows the possibility that two Cessna 208B installed with intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities from United States are already in the country.
The photo from Air Force was taken July 24 during the awarding ceremony for Best Marching Unit during a Special Flag Ceremony held at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base, Grandstand Pasay City. Air Force commander Lieutenant General Edgar R. Fallorina attended the event.
US envoy to the Philippines Ambassador Sung Kim said last week that the US government will be soon turning over 2 aircraft for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ISR activities.
President Rodrigo Duterte, in a press briefing after his SONA, said that a country will be providing 2 aircraft for Philippine military, without mentioning US.
He said these aircraft will be deployed to conduct reconnaisance prior to deployment of government forces to avoid ambush. “Yung ibibigay ng isang country sa atin, dalawang eroplano magtingin. Para magsabi sila na we are proceeding to this, tingnan doon sa mapa,” he said.
According to MaxDefense Philippines the 2 aircraft from US are likely to be turned over tomorrow to PAF.
“MaxDefense is still verifying the information although we received another info that the aircraft will be officially handed over to the PAF tomorrow,” MaxDefense said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/2-reconnaissance-aircraft-from-us-for-ph-spotted/19382
DND to focus on neutralizing internal armed threats to improve business climate
From Update Philippines (Jul 25): DND to focus on neutralizing internal armed threats to improve business climate
The Department of National Defense (DND) will focus on degrading the capabilities of internal armed threats under the Philippine Defense Transformation Road (PDTR) 2028 program.
DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana during Management Association of the Philippines’ security briefing held at the EDSA Shangri-la Tuesday, the move was to promote an ideal climate for business in the country.
“Under the PDTR 2028, to maintain the State’s security and stability, DND assures that capabilities of Internal Armed Threats will be reduced to Insignificant level that they can no longer endanger the stability of the state, and civil authorities can ensure the safety and well-being of the people. We likewise assist in creating an enabling environment to develop and cultivate the allegiance of the citizenry,” he added.
And to achieve national peace, Lorenzana said the DND is currently upgrading the level of safety and security through the reduction of domestic conflict and by supporting law enforcement and civilian agencies.
“DND also contributes in the attainment of economic development. Given that conflicts produce an environment of fear, it tends to cause resident to move from one region to another and affects trade and commerce, resulting in economic dislocation,” the DND chief stressed
He added that these security plans were all under the Duterte administration development thrusts, aptly called, “Ambisyon Natin 2040.” It emphasizes the centrality of people in development planning and the aspirations as requisite for the design of government interventions to achieve development outcomes.
“These things are what our department aims to prevent. We want to create peaceful communities that are attractive to companies looking to expand and do business. DND helps in enhancing socio-economic activities in the countryside by ensuring a safe and secure investment climate,” the DND chief stressed.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/dnd-to-focus-on-neutralizing-internal-armed-threats-to-improve-business-climate/19388
The Department of National Defense (DND) will focus on degrading the capabilities of internal armed threats under the Philippine Defense Transformation Road (PDTR) 2028 program.
DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana during Management Association of the Philippines’ security briefing held at the EDSA Shangri-la Tuesday, the move was to promote an ideal climate for business in the country.
“Under the PDTR 2028, to maintain the State’s security and stability, DND assures that capabilities of Internal Armed Threats will be reduced to Insignificant level that they can no longer endanger the stability of the state, and civil authorities can ensure the safety and well-being of the people. We likewise assist in creating an enabling environment to develop and cultivate the allegiance of the citizenry,” he added.
And to achieve national peace, Lorenzana said the DND is currently upgrading the level of safety and security through the reduction of domestic conflict and by supporting law enforcement and civilian agencies.
“DND also contributes in the attainment of economic development. Given that conflicts produce an environment of fear, it tends to cause resident to move from one region to another and affects trade and commerce, resulting in economic dislocation,” the DND chief stressed
He added that these security plans were all under the Duterte administration development thrusts, aptly called, “Ambisyon Natin 2040.” It emphasizes the centrality of people in development planning and the aspirations as requisite for the design of government interventions to achieve development outcomes.
“These things are what our department aims to prevent. We want to create peaceful communities that are attractive to companies looking to expand and do business. DND helps in enhancing socio-economic activities in the countryside by ensuring a safe and secure investment climate,” the DND chief stressed.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/dnd-to-focus-on-neutralizing-internal-armed-threats-to-improve-business-climate/19388
Duterte to communist Sison: ‘Pakamatay ka nalang’
From Update Philippines (Jul 25): Duterte to communist Sison: ‘Pakamatay ka nalang’
President Rodrigo Duterte told the founding chairman of Communist Party of the Philippines Jose Maria Sison to just commit suicide and do the Norwegian government a favor.
“Sison, tumanda ka na lang diyan, ayaw mo pa aminin na may sakit ka. Maawa ka naman sa Norwegian government, pakamatay ka nalang,” Duterte said during today’s ceremonial turnover of financial assistance to the families of the fallen soldiers and policemen killed in Marawi City, as quoted by GMA News Online.
During his second State of the Nation Address, Duterte said Sison has colon cancer.
“Ikaw, Sison, tang… Mag-inom ka ng Tang – yung orange. Matanda ka na. Kayong Pilipinas, makinig, buong Pilipinas. Kayong mga bata, kayong mga Lumad natives, itong matatanda na ito, Sison is sick. May colon cancer,” Duterte said in his SONA speech.
“Ang gastos ng Norway, sumurender na siya. Kasi naging isyu sa pulitika eh. This government who sponsored those – who provided – the good offices. Matatalo sa eleksyon dahil sa issue diyan. Kasi pabalik-balik ang mga b****, kala mo mga turista. Wala namang pinag-uusapan,” he added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/duterte-to-communist-sison-pakamatay-ka-na-lang/19395
President Rodrigo Duterte told the founding chairman of Communist Party of the Philippines Jose Maria Sison to just commit suicide and do the Norwegian government a favor.
“Sison, tumanda ka na lang diyan, ayaw mo pa aminin na may sakit ka. Maawa ka naman sa Norwegian government, pakamatay ka nalang,” Duterte said during today’s ceremonial turnover of financial assistance to the families of the fallen soldiers and policemen killed in Marawi City, as quoted by GMA News Online.
During his second State of the Nation Address, Duterte said Sison has colon cancer.
“Ikaw, Sison, tang… Mag-inom ka ng Tang – yung orange. Matanda ka na. Kayong Pilipinas, makinig, buong Pilipinas. Kayong mga bata, kayong mga Lumad natives, itong matatanda na ito, Sison is sick. May colon cancer,” Duterte said in his SONA speech.
“Ang gastos ng Norway, sumurender na siya. Kasi naging isyu sa pulitika eh. This government who sponsored those – who provided – the good offices. Matatalo sa eleksyon dahil sa issue diyan. Kasi pabalik-balik ang mga b****, kala mo mga turista. Wala namang pinag-uusapan,” he added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/duterte-to-communist-sison-pakamatay-ka-na-lang/19395
SAF contingent in Bilibid replaced
From Update Philippines (Jul 26): SAF contingent in Bilibid replaced
Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Antonio Kho said that the Special Action Force (SAF) contingent deployed last year to secure the maximum-security compound of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City, where most of high profile and hardened inmates are detained, has been replaced.
Kho said another SAF contingent replaced the one which has been assigned there since July last year.
“SAF already removed, replaced the entire battalion,” said Kho, whose office is tasked to supervise the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).
The move comes after Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II expressed concerns over the resurgence of the narcotics trade at the NBP.
Aside from this, Aguirre directed National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Dante Gierran to determine how the illegal drug trade returned at the NBP and file the appropriate administrative and criminal cases against those behind it.
Both the BuCor and the NBI are attached agencies under the DOJ.
Aguirre said he will order a probe on some members of the SAF who may have been involved in the resurgence of the illegal drug trade inside the NBP.
He noted that some members of the police’s elite force may have been involved due to their familiarity with the inmates.
Kho also said he intends to review memorandum of agreement (MOA) of the BuCor with the PNP regarding the deployment of SAF.
“There’s MOA between BuCor and SAF regarding their participation to provide security in NBP, (we will) go over that again for areas of improvement,” he noted.
The campaign against illegal drugs trade has been at the forefront of President Rodrigo Duterte’s priority. The President repeatedly say that drugs is the source of all other crimes in the country.
The DOJ chief considered the neutralization of drug syndicates inside the NBP as one of his biggest accomplishments during his one year term in office, a resurgence of such groups inside the facility should be dealt with immediately.
Aguirre noted that 70 to 75 percent of illegal drugs in the country were being trafficked from inside the NBP prior to the assumption of the Duterte administration.
Members of the police’s elite have been deployed inside Bilibid’s Maximum Security Compound to stop the trade. Senator Leila De Lima and other former officials of BuCor have been charged in court for allegedly benefitting from the trade.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/saf-contingent-in-bilibid-replaced/19400
Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Antonio Kho said that the Special Action Force (SAF) contingent deployed last year to secure the maximum-security compound of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City, where most of high profile and hardened inmates are detained, has been replaced.
Kho said another SAF contingent replaced the one which has been assigned there since July last year.
“SAF already removed, replaced the entire battalion,” said Kho, whose office is tasked to supervise the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).
The move comes after Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II expressed concerns over the resurgence of the narcotics trade at the NBP.
Aside from this, Aguirre directed National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Dante Gierran to determine how the illegal drug trade returned at the NBP and file the appropriate administrative and criminal cases against those behind it.
Both the BuCor and the NBI are attached agencies under the DOJ.
Aguirre said he will order a probe on some members of the SAF who may have been involved in the resurgence of the illegal drug trade inside the NBP.
He noted that some members of the police’s elite force may have been involved due to their familiarity with the inmates.
Kho also said he intends to review memorandum of agreement (MOA) of the BuCor with the PNP regarding the deployment of SAF.
“There’s MOA between BuCor and SAF regarding their participation to provide security in NBP, (we will) go over that again for areas of improvement,” he noted.
The campaign against illegal drugs trade has been at the forefront of President Rodrigo Duterte’s priority. The President repeatedly say that drugs is the source of all other crimes in the country.
The DOJ chief considered the neutralization of drug syndicates inside the NBP as one of his biggest accomplishments during his one year term in office, a resurgence of such groups inside the facility should be dealt with immediately.
Aguirre noted that 70 to 75 percent of illegal drugs in the country were being trafficked from inside the NBP prior to the assumption of the Duterte administration.
Members of the police’s elite have been deployed inside Bilibid’s Maximum Security Compound to stop the trade. Senator Leila De Lima and other former officials of BuCor have been charged in court for allegedly benefitting from the trade.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/saf-contingent-in-bilibid-replaced/19400
Strong republic needs strong armed forces – Duterte
From Update Philippines (Jul 26): Strong republic needs strong armed forces – Duterte
There is a need for a strong military and nation with the continuing threats from communists and Islamist militants, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday, July 24, adding that he will ask Congress to help him build strong armed forces.
“I would need about 35,000 to 40,000 to meet the future threats coming our way from within and outside the country and I will start also to rearm,” the President said in a media interview after he delivered his second State of the Nation Address (SONA).
20,000 will be for the military while 10,000 to 15,000 will be police commandos.
“We must have a strong republic to withstand all threats and challenges. Today’s reality demands necessitate an armed forces that is strong,” he added noting he plans to spend money to organize a credible armed forces that can simultaneously fight different fronts.
He noted that it would be hard to predict how many will sprout up in the near future but currently, he said, the threats are the notorious Islamic State group and the New People’s Army (NPA).
The President expressed disappointment over the continuing attacks from the communist rebels on government soldiers.
Once the conflict in Marawi is over, he said, he will address the threat posed by the NPA.
President Duterte also said he is purchasing arms and equipment including high-altitude plane or drone capable of pre-assessing areas of operation to minimize the risk to government combatants.
He said he eyes to have a strong military in two years.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/strong-republic-needs-strong-armed-forces-duterte/19412
There is a need for a strong military and nation with the continuing threats from communists and Islamist militants, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday, July 24, adding that he will ask Congress to help him build strong armed forces.
“I would need about 35,000 to 40,000 to meet the future threats coming our way from within and outside the country and I will start also to rearm,” the President said in a media interview after he delivered his second State of the Nation Address (SONA).
20,000 will be for the military while 10,000 to 15,000 will be police commandos.
“We must have a strong republic to withstand all threats and challenges. Today’s reality demands necessitate an armed forces that is strong,” he added noting he plans to spend money to organize a credible armed forces that can simultaneously fight different fronts.
He noted that it would be hard to predict how many will sprout up in the near future but currently, he said, the threats are the notorious Islamic State group and the New People’s Army (NPA).
The President expressed disappointment over the continuing attacks from the communist rebels on government soldiers.
Once the conflict in Marawi is over, he said, he will address the threat posed by the NPA.
President Duterte also said he is purchasing arms and equipment including high-altitude plane or drone capable of pre-assessing areas of operation to minimize the risk to government combatants.
He said he eyes to have a strong military in two years.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/strong-republic-needs-strong-armed-forces-duterte/19412
Joint venture with China a threat to national security, against PH interest – Golez
From Update Philippines (Jul 26): Joint venture with China a threat to national security, against PH interest – Golez
Former National Security Adviser and former Parañaque City Representative Roilo Golez believes that a joint venture with China in West Philippine Sea is “against Philippine national interest and a threat to national security.”
He said “it will be a violation of the Philippine Constitution which states, Article XIi, Sec 2: The State shall protect the nation’s marine wealth in its archipelagic waters, territorial sea, and exclusive economic zone, and reserve its use and enjoyment exclusively to Filipino citizens.”
He said negotiators may find ways to make the joint venture appear 60-40 in favor of Philippines, but through “cheating.”
“So why allow it at the outset when there is a big possibility of cheating?” he noted.
He added that China National Offshore Oil Corporation or CNOOC will most likely be the Chinese partner.
He said CNOOC is a giant state-owned entity which will technologically, politically, physically and financially dominate the Philippine partner.
“It will for sure bring in the infamous giant billion dollar oil rig Haiyang Shiyou 981 shown in photos here and will come escorted by big China Coast Guard ships for its “protection” and to bully the neighborhood,” Golez said.
He added that Chinese warships “will also be in the vicinity especially with Mischief Reef ready to host warships and combat planes.”
Golez also said Chinese vessels may “be frequenting Philippine ports for R & R. That will be a national security nightmare more costly than the oil revenue we can generate from the joint venture.”
“How can the Philippines monitor the production of the oil rig which expectedly will ship part of the production to China,” he added. “If the Chinese diverts the production to China, how does the Philippines monitor and control.”
“Finally, should the joint venture terminate or gets pre-terminated due to violations, how do we tell CNOOC to leave? Gegerahin natin?” he said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/joint-venture-with-china-a-threat-to-national-security-against-ph-interest/19417
Former National Security Adviser and former Parañaque City Representative Roilo Golez believes that a joint venture with China in West Philippine Sea is “against Philippine national interest and a threat to national security.”
He said “it will be a violation of the Philippine Constitution which states, Article XIi, Sec 2: The State shall protect the nation’s marine wealth in its archipelagic waters, territorial sea, and exclusive economic zone, and reserve its use and enjoyment exclusively to Filipino citizens.”
He said negotiators may find ways to make the joint venture appear 60-40 in favor of Philippines, but through “cheating.”
“So why allow it at the outset when there is a big possibility of cheating?” he noted.
He added that China National Offshore Oil Corporation or CNOOC will most likely be the Chinese partner.
He said CNOOC is a giant state-owned entity which will technologically, politically, physically and financially dominate the Philippine partner.
“It will for sure bring in the infamous giant billion dollar oil rig Haiyang Shiyou 981 shown in photos here and will come escorted by big China Coast Guard ships for its “protection” and to bully the neighborhood,” Golez said.
He added that Chinese warships “will also be in the vicinity especially with Mischief Reef ready to host warships and combat planes.”
Golez also said Chinese vessels may “be frequenting Philippine ports for R & R. That will be a national security nightmare more costly than the oil revenue we can generate from the joint venture.”
“How can the Philippines monitor the production of the oil rig which expectedly will ship part of the production to China,” he added. “If the Chinese diverts the production to China, how does the Philippines monitor and control.”
“Finally, should the joint venture terminate or gets pre-terminated due to violations, how do we tell CNOOC to leave? Gegerahin natin?” he said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/joint-venture-with-china-a-threat-to-national-security-against-ph-interest/19417
PH develops crime scene investigation training course with US
From Update Philippines (Jul 26): PH develops crime scene investigation training course with US
The United States Embassy in Manila said it has sponsored six Filipino maritime law enforcement experts to attend a curriculum development workshop on underwater crime scene investigation training in San Diego, California, from July 17 to 20, 2017.
“The workshop is part of a larger P25 million U.S. government initiative to strengthen underwater crime scene investigation training programs for Philippine maritime law enforcement agencies, through partnership with the Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department and the U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL),” the US Embassy said.
The Filipino maritime experts were from Philippine Coast Guard, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Philippine National Police Maritime Group.
They met with U.S. counterparts, including representatives from the Port of San Diego Harbor Police dive team, US Embassy Manila INL, and INL’s Office of Criminal Justice Assistance and Partnership, to develop a special diver training course for underwater search, crime scene, and disaster investigations.
“The course aims to equip Philippine divers from all three participating agencies with a variety of skills, including detecting illegal drugs smuggled on the hull of vessels or dumped overboard for later retrieval,” the US Embassy said.
It added that once finalized, the course will be incorporated into the training academies of the three participating Philippine agencies.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/ph-develops-crime-scene-investigation-training-course-with-us/19420
The United States Embassy in Manila said it has sponsored six Filipino maritime law enforcement experts to attend a curriculum development workshop on underwater crime scene investigation training in San Diego, California, from July 17 to 20, 2017.
“The workshop is part of a larger P25 million U.S. government initiative to strengthen underwater crime scene investigation training programs for Philippine maritime law enforcement agencies, through partnership with the Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department and the U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL),” the US Embassy said.
The Filipino maritime experts were from Philippine Coast Guard, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Philippine National Police Maritime Group.
They met with U.S. counterparts, including representatives from the Port of San Diego Harbor Police dive team, US Embassy Manila INL, and INL’s Office of Criminal Justice Assistance and Partnership, to develop a special diver training course for underwater search, crime scene, and disaster investigations.
“The course aims to equip Philippine divers from all three participating agencies with a variety of skills, including detecting illegal drugs smuggled on the hull of vessels or dumped overboard for later retrieval,” the US Embassy said.
It added that once finalized, the course will be incorporated into the training academies of the three participating Philippine agencies.
https://www.update.ph/2017/07/ph-develops-crime-scene-investigation-training-course-with-us/19420
DWDD: MORALE BOOSTER | CSAFP visits Agila Troops
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jul 25): MORALE BOOSTER | CSAFP visits Agila Troops
CGMTY, Mawab, Compostela Valley Province (DWDD) – General Eduardo Año, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP) took some time out to visit the home of the Agila troopers on Friday, July 21.
General Año and his party were warmly received by the 10ID commander Major General Noel Clement together with the unit commanders of the four infantry brigades and two task forces, the division staffs, enlisted personnel and civilian employees.
General Año who was with two other army top ranks Commanding General Philippine Army (CGPA) LtGen Glorioso Miranda and Commander Eastern Mindanao Command (CEMC) were briefed on the current thrusts of the Agila Division highlighting the division’s significant campaign accomplishments merely two months after the assumption of MGen Clement as its 10th commander on May 31.
Prior to his talk to the Agila troopers, Año graced the awarding of the silver cross and gold cross medals to the three outstanding officer and enlisted men of 10ID, who exemplified valuable achievement and dedication for service for the accomplishment of their unit’s mission. The awardees were Second Lieutenant George Manalo and Sergeant Bernado Villegas who both received the Silver Cross Medal while Sergeant Ulyses Esteva received the Gold Cross Medal.
Año congratulated the agila troopers for the neutralization of a total of 69 NPA rebels, of which 19 were killed, 6 were captured, and 44 voluntarily surrendered. 10ID’s Focused military Operations also led to the recovery of 39 high-powered and nine low-powered firearms, and recovery of 49 improvised explosive devices.
Año further mentioned the fast-tracked acquisition of the AFP’s artillery assets, caliber 45 pistols, and force protection equipment purposely to beef-up the ongoing operations in Marawi.
Año assured the troops of the AFP and Commander-In-Chief President Rodrigo Duterte’s support for more military upgrades. He also cited Pres Duterte’s vow of doubling the salary of the military by January 2018.
MGen Clement expressed his sincere gratitude to General Año for visiting the Agila Division despite his very busy schedule.
General Año also served as the 7th commander of the 10th Infantry Division from 15 July 2014 until 16 July 2015. Sgt Salvador Army PAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/07/26/morale-booster-csafp-visits-agila-troops/
CGMTY, Mawab, Compostela Valley Province (DWDD) – General Eduardo Año, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP) took some time out to visit the home of the Agila troopers on Friday, July 21.
General Año and his party were warmly received by the 10ID commander Major General Noel Clement together with the unit commanders of the four infantry brigades and two task forces, the division staffs, enlisted personnel and civilian employees.
General Año who was with two other army top ranks Commanding General Philippine Army (CGPA) LtGen Glorioso Miranda and Commander Eastern Mindanao Command (CEMC) were briefed on the current thrusts of the Agila Division highlighting the division’s significant campaign accomplishments merely two months after the assumption of MGen Clement as its 10th commander on May 31.
Prior to his talk to the Agila troopers, Año graced the awarding of the silver cross and gold cross medals to the three outstanding officer and enlisted men of 10ID, who exemplified valuable achievement and dedication for service for the accomplishment of their unit’s mission. The awardees were Second Lieutenant George Manalo and Sergeant Bernado Villegas who both received the Silver Cross Medal while Sergeant Ulyses Esteva received the Gold Cross Medal.
Año congratulated the agila troopers for the neutralization of a total of 69 NPA rebels, of which 19 were killed, 6 were captured, and 44 voluntarily surrendered. 10ID’s Focused military Operations also led to the recovery of 39 high-powered and nine low-powered firearms, and recovery of 49 improvised explosive devices.
Año further mentioned the fast-tracked acquisition of the AFP’s artillery assets, caliber 45 pistols, and force protection equipment purposely to beef-up the ongoing operations in Marawi.
Año assured the troops of the AFP and Commander-In-Chief President Rodrigo Duterte’s support for more military upgrades. He also cited Pres Duterte’s vow of doubling the salary of the military by January 2018.
MGen Clement expressed his sincere gratitude to General Año for visiting the Agila Division despite his very busy schedule.
General Año also served as the 7th commander of the 10th Infantry Division from 15 July 2014 until 16 July 2015. Sgt Salvador Army PAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/07/26/morale-booster-csafp-visits-agila-troops/
DWDD: SUPPORT OUR TROOPS | Cebu Pacific to give airlift support to wounded soldiers, cops in Marawi
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jul 26): SUPPORT OUR TROOPS | Cebu Pacific to give airlift support to wounded soldiers, cops in Marawi
MANILA (DWDD) – Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) will be providing airlift support to military and police personnel wounded in action (WIA) in Marawi City. On top of the free airlift on Cebu Pacific flights, the WIA government troops will also get baggage allowance of up to 40 kilograms.
In cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), this initiative aims to augment air support by the Philippine Air Force by helping move wounded government troops from field hospitals in the area to larger medical facilities of the AFP and PNP. Through this, field medical stations can be declogged, giving way for wounded soldiers and police personnel who need immediate medical attention.
“It is with deep gratitude that we accept this kind gesture of support by Cebu Pacific led by its President and CEO, Mr Lance Gokongwei, in the airlift of our heroes Wounded in Action in Marawi. This will not just afford our troops immediate treatment in hospitals that offer better facilities to aid their speedy recovery, but a meaningful gesture to make your Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, and Marines feel that their sacrifices are being recognized and appreciated,” says Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo, Chief of the AFP’s Public Affairs Office.
“The officers and rank-and-file of the Philippine National Police and our families are grateful for this magnanimous expression of kindness and compassion by the management of Cebu Pacific to provide life-saving medical evacuation to policemen who are wounded in fighting local terrorists in Mindanao. This is not the first time that Cebu Pacific extended a helping hand to our troops. We cannot thank them enough for keeping the Filipino spirit of ‘Bayanihan’ alive in such crucial time of emergency,” says Police Chief Superintendent Dionardo Carlos, Chief of the PNP Public Information Office.
WIA government troops who are fit enough for commercial flights can be accommodated on Cebu Pacific flights from Cagayan de Oro (Laguindingan Airport), and flown to any CEB domestic destination. Currently, Cebu Pacific has direct flights from Cagayan de Oro to Bacolod; Tagbilaran, Bohol; Cebu; Davao; Iloilo and Manila. By July 26, CEB will also fly direct between Cagayan de Oro and Zamboanga City.
On top of the airlifting of WIA government troops, CEB is also airlifting cargo of relief goods and other humanitarian assistance for affected residents. Donors may coordinate with the GMA Kapuso Foundation or the Philippine Business for Social Progress for packing and transport arrangements of their donated goods.
Cebu Pacific will continue to provide free cargo support for relief goods and other essential items for displaced residents of Marawi City and adjacent areas from various organizations, most notably the Department of Social Welfare and Development. These include food and water; medicines; bandages; clothing and other necessities. The airline has provided equipment support to the Office of Civil Defense in the transport of humanitarian assistance. ARMY PAO Sgt Salvador / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/07/26/support-our-troops-cebu-pacific-to-give-airlift-support-to-wounded-soldiers-cops-in-marawi/
MANILA (DWDD) – Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) will be providing airlift support to military and police personnel wounded in action (WIA) in Marawi City. On top of the free airlift on Cebu Pacific flights, the WIA government troops will also get baggage allowance of up to 40 kilograms.
In cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), this initiative aims to augment air support by the Philippine Air Force by helping move wounded government troops from field hospitals in the area to larger medical facilities of the AFP and PNP. Through this, field medical stations can be declogged, giving way for wounded soldiers and police personnel who need immediate medical attention.
“It is with deep gratitude that we accept this kind gesture of support by Cebu Pacific led by its President and CEO, Mr Lance Gokongwei, in the airlift of our heroes Wounded in Action in Marawi. This will not just afford our troops immediate treatment in hospitals that offer better facilities to aid their speedy recovery, but a meaningful gesture to make your Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, and Marines feel that their sacrifices are being recognized and appreciated,” says Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo, Chief of the AFP’s Public Affairs Office.
“The officers and rank-and-file of the Philippine National Police and our families are grateful for this magnanimous expression of kindness and compassion by the management of Cebu Pacific to provide life-saving medical evacuation to policemen who are wounded in fighting local terrorists in Mindanao. This is not the first time that Cebu Pacific extended a helping hand to our troops. We cannot thank them enough for keeping the Filipino spirit of ‘Bayanihan’ alive in such crucial time of emergency,” says Police Chief Superintendent Dionardo Carlos, Chief of the PNP Public Information Office.
WIA government troops who are fit enough for commercial flights can be accommodated on Cebu Pacific flights from Cagayan de Oro (Laguindingan Airport), and flown to any CEB domestic destination. Currently, Cebu Pacific has direct flights from Cagayan de Oro to Bacolod; Tagbilaran, Bohol; Cebu; Davao; Iloilo and Manila. By July 26, CEB will also fly direct between Cagayan de Oro and Zamboanga City.
On top of the airlifting of WIA government troops, CEB is also airlifting cargo of relief goods and other humanitarian assistance for affected residents. Donors may coordinate with the GMA Kapuso Foundation or the Philippine Business for Social Progress for packing and transport arrangements of their donated goods.
Cebu Pacific will continue to provide free cargo support for relief goods and other essential items for displaced residents of Marawi City and adjacent areas from various organizations, most notably the Department of Social Welfare and Development. These include food and water; medicines; bandages; clothing and other necessities. The airline has provided equipment support to the Office of Civil Defense in the transport of humanitarian assistance. ARMY PAO Sgt Salvador / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/07/26/support-our-troops-cebu-pacific-to-give-airlift-support-to-wounded-soldiers-cops-in-marawi/
DWDD: VIGILANCE | 3ID Chief Conducts Security Inspection of Power Plant in Iloilo
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jul 25): VIGILANCE | 3ID Chief Conducts Security Inspection of Power Plant in Iloilo
CONCEPCION, Iloilo (DWDD) – On 20 July 2017 MGen Jon N Aying, Commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division of the Philippine Army visited the Palm Concepcion Power Corporation in Sitio Puntales, Barangay Nipa, Municipality of Concepcion, Iloilo Province.
According to CPT Eduardo Precioso, Chief, 3rd ID Public Affairs Office, ,the PCPC is one of the most advanced and fuel-efficient coal-fired power plants in the Philippines. The 135-megawatt state-of-the-art facility is addressing the increasing electricity needs in Visayan Island. Its aim is to significantly improve power quality, security, reliability and costs improving the socio-economic activities thus, increasing the economic output and improving the social development in the regions.
NPA bandits are targeting these power plants in their extortion modus threatening the company to sabotage its installations if they will not give in to their demand for money. The demand would entail millions of pesos to spare their company from sabotage. The extortion money that will be collected will be used to procure armaments, bomb components and eventually expand their terroristic activities in the region thereby increasing their extortion activities in the area. These power generating companies cannot afford to put these vital installations at risk since the economic activities and eventually the economic development in the different regions are at stake.
It is clear to all of us that the communist-terrorist NPA is anti-development and they are no different from any terrorists in the country or from any other country. They have been playing with the minds of our less fortunate countrymen and exploiting them through feeding wrong information and interpretation about economic and social development. The communist-terrorist NPA have interpreted it to favour their personal advancement and interest that is to gain political power and control over the people and resources of the country.
We are appealing to our countrymen to stay vigilant against the communist-terrorist NPA in order to protect our country, community, livelihood and our family from their terroristic activities. 3DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/07/25/vigilance-3id-chief-conducts-security-inspection-of-power-plant-in-iloilo/
CONCEPCION, Iloilo (DWDD) – On 20 July 2017 MGen Jon N Aying, Commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division of the Philippine Army visited the Palm Concepcion Power Corporation in Sitio Puntales, Barangay Nipa, Municipality of Concepcion, Iloilo Province.
According to CPT Eduardo Precioso, Chief, 3rd ID Public Affairs Office, ,the PCPC is one of the most advanced and fuel-efficient coal-fired power plants in the Philippines. The 135-megawatt state-of-the-art facility is addressing the increasing electricity needs in Visayan Island. Its aim is to significantly improve power quality, security, reliability and costs improving the socio-economic activities thus, increasing the economic output and improving the social development in the regions.
NPA bandits are targeting these power plants in their extortion modus threatening the company to sabotage its installations if they will not give in to their demand for money. The demand would entail millions of pesos to spare their company from sabotage. The extortion money that will be collected will be used to procure armaments, bomb components and eventually expand their terroristic activities in the region thereby increasing their extortion activities in the area. These power generating companies cannot afford to put these vital installations at risk since the economic activities and eventually the economic development in the different regions are at stake.
It is clear to all of us that the communist-terrorist NPA is anti-development and they are no different from any terrorists in the country or from any other country. They have been playing with the minds of our less fortunate countrymen and exploiting them through feeding wrong information and interpretation about economic and social development. The communist-terrorist NPA have interpreted it to favour their personal advancement and interest that is to gain political power and control over the people and resources of the country.
We are appealing to our countrymen to stay vigilant against the communist-terrorist NPA in order to protect our country, community, livelihood and our family from their terroristic activities. 3DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/07/25/vigilance-3id-chief-conducts-security-inspection-of-power-plant-in-iloilo/
DWDD: CSYNFI | Private Sector Organizations Express Support to the Philippine Navy
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jul 25): CSYNFI | Private Sector Organizations Express Support to the Philippine Navy
NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA , Roxas Blvd., Manila (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN), led by the Flag Officer in Command, Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph S. Mercado, received at the PN headquarters on July 21, 2017 a group of private sector organizations and individuals who expressed support for Sailors and Marines through the Citizens’ Support Your Navy Foundation, Inc. (CSYNFI). The CSYNF is a private, non-stock foundation, which undertakes programs and projects for the physical, social, and economic upliftment, morale, and welfare of Philippine Navy troops.
The participating organizations and individuals were: Financial Executives Institute (Women in Finance Leaders Bing Pasco, Maribeth Ty, Gina Marie Angangco, and Adele Jaucian), Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers (Regional Governor Engr. Jeddper de Castro and Northern Cavite President Benjamin Enriquez), Kaisa Para sa Kaunlaran (Founding President Tessy Ang Sy), Management Association of the Philippines (MAP President Marife Zamora and member Gemma Cruz Araneta), Quorum International, Inc.(QII)/Toby’s Sports (President Toby Claudio and Director Liz Claudio, Sports Resources President Rody Claudio, and Fitness Intelligence Trends General Manager Cecile Claudio), and individual supporters Rod Cornejo (Trustee, Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication) and Ms. Erlinda Ng. Unable to attend but had expressed their support also were MAP member Ramon Arnaiz, Chair, ATR Kim Eng-Maybank Capital Partners, Inc., Iris Giselle So, President, Yao Jia Xi Corp., and Marivikk C. Vinas, QII Director.
Dr. Corazon Claudio, member of the PN Board of Advisers and the CSYNF Board of Trustees, convened the group and encouraged all to participate in Sustainable Transformation, the new concept that is replacing Corporate Social Responsibility globally. She invited all to act as “transformers” with shared values that will work to make the Philippines become a progressive maritime country and that will help the PN achieve its goal of having a “strong and credible” navy. Toby Claudio, representing the biggest donor in the initial batch, presented the donations on behalf of the private sector group.
Vice Adm. Mercado thanked the Philippine Navy’s friends for their support “to get the Navy in its finest shape, in pursuit of a strong and competent Navy with an empowered human force, committed to our duty of protecting the seas and securing the future.” NPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/07/25/csynfi-private-sector-organizations-express-support-to-the-philippine-navy/
NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA , Roxas Blvd., Manila (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN), led by the Flag Officer in Command, Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph S. Mercado, received at the PN headquarters on July 21, 2017 a group of private sector organizations and individuals who expressed support for Sailors and Marines through the Citizens’ Support Your Navy Foundation, Inc. (CSYNFI). The CSYNF is a private, non-stock foundation, which undertakes programs and projects for the physical, social, and economic upliftment, morale, and welfare of Philippine Navy troops.
The participating organizations and individuals were: Financial Executives Institute (Women in Finance Leaders Bing Pasco, Maribeth Ty, Gina Marie Angangco, and Adele Jaucian), Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers (Regional Governor Engr. Jeddper de Castro and Northern Cavite President Benjamin Enriquez), Kaisa Para sa Kaunlaran (Founding President Tessy Ang Sy), Management Association of the Philippines (MAP President Marife Zamora and member Gemma Cruz Araneta), Quorum International, Inc.(QII)/Toby’s Sports (President Toby Claudio and Director Liz Claudio, Sports Resources President Rody Claudio, and Fitness Intelligence Trends General Manager Cecile Claudio), and individual supporters Rod Cornejo (Trustee, Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication) and Ms. Erlinda Ng. Unable to attend but had expressed their support also were MAP member Ramon Arnaiz, Chair, ATR Kim Eng-Maybank Capital Partners, Inc., Iris Giselle So, President, Yao Jia Xi Corp., and Marivikk C. Vinas, QII Director.
Dr. Corazon Claudio, member of the PN Board of Advisers and the CSYNF Board of Trustees, convened the group and encouraged all to participate in Sustainable Transformation, the new concept that is replacing Corporate Social Responsibility globally. She invited all to act as “transformers” with shared values that will work to make the Philippines become a progressive maritime country and that will help the PN achieve its goal of having a “strong and credible” navy. Toby Claudio, representing the biggest donor in the initial batch, presented the donations on behalf of the private sector group.
Vice Adm. Mercado thanked the Philippine Navy’s friends for their support “to get the Navy in its finest shape, in pursuit of a strong and competent Navy with an empowered human force, committed to our duty of protecting the seas and securing the future.” NPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/07/25/csynfi-private-sector-organizations-express-support-to-the-philippine-navy/
MNLF: Photo: Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim with BAF's Chief of Staff, Comdr. Abraham Joel and other top commanders of the MNLF
Posted to the Facebook page of Moro National Liberation Front Secretary General Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim (Jul 22): Photo: Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim with BAF's Chief of Staff, Comdr. Abraham Joel and other top commanders of the MNLF
Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim with BAF's Chief of Staff, Comdr. Abraham Joel, for Region IX, and other top and valiant commanders of the MNLF from various Commands and Units of the BAF including Jungle Fox, Deputy Chief of Staff for Basilan, and Comdr. Taher Usman Salih, Vice Chairman for Political Affairs, Lupah Sug State Revolutionary Committee. This was taken after the Command Conference called upon by the Chief of Staff on MT. Dragon, Bakud, Kagay, Indanan.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=504015103282846&set=a.177576749260018.1073741828.100010230822732&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim with BAF's Chief of Staff, Comdr. Abraham Joel, for Region IX, and other top and valiant commanders of the MNLF from various Commands and Units of the BAF including Jungle Fox, Deputy Chief of Staff for Basilan, and Comdr. Taher Usman Salih, Vice Chairman for Political Affairs, Lupah Sug State Revolutionary Committee. This was taken after the Command Conference called upon by the Chief of Staff on MT. Dragon, Bakud, Kagay, Indanan.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=504015103282846&set=a.177576749260018.1073741828.100010230822732&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
MNLF: Photo: MNLF Leaders Awaiting Arrival of President Duterte at Malacanang Palace
Posted to the Facebook page of Moro National Liberation Front Secretary General Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim (Jul 22): Photo: MNLF Leaders Awaiting Arrival of President Duterte at Malacanang Palace
MNLF FOUNDING CHAIRMAN PROF NUR P. MISUARI WITH MADAM TARHATA IBRAHIM MISUARI, USTADZ MURSHI I BRAHIM, ATTY. RANDOLF PARCASIO, ATTY. OMBRA JAINAL, ATTY. YASSER LUNGBOS AND DR. ALI PIKRI BASHIR INSIDE MALACANANG PALACE AWAITING PRESIDENT RODY'S ARRIVAL, JULY 18, 2017.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=504295336588156&set=a.177576749260018.1073741828.100010230822732&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
MNLF FOUNDING CHAIRMAN PROF NUR P. MISUARI WITH MADAM TARHATA IBRAHIM MISUARI, USTADZ MURSHI I BRAHIM, ATTY. RANDOLF PARCASIO, ATTY. OMBRA JAINAL, ATTY. YASSER LUNGBOS AND DR. ALI PIKRI BASHIR INSIDE MALACANANG PALACE AWAITING PRESIDENT RODY'S ARRIVAL, JULY 18, 2017.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=504295336588156&set=a.177576749260018.1073741828.100010230822732&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
MNLF: OIC Recognizes Only One MNLF Under Chairman Nur Misuari
Posted to the Facebook page of Moro National Liberation Front Secretary General Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim (Jul 25): OIC Recognizes Only One MNLF Under Chairman Nur Misuari
JULY 11, 2017 - IN THE SIDELINE MEETING OF THE MNLF DELEGATION HEADED BY USTADZ ABDULKARIM MISUARI, MNLF VICE CHAIRMAN, AND OIC OFFICIALS IN ABIDJAN, IVORY COST, WESTERN AFRICA, AMBASSADOR SAYYED AL-MASRY WAS QUOTED SAYING, " THE OIC RECOGNIZES ONLY ONE MNLF UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF CHAIRMAN NUR P. MISUARI".
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
JULY 11, 2017 - IN THE SIDELINE MEETING OF THE MNLF DELEGATION HEADED BY USTADZ ABDULKARIM MISUARI, MNLF VICE CHAIRMAN, AND OIC OFFICIALS IN ABIDJAN, IVORY COST, WESTERN AFRICA, AMBASSADOR SAYYED AL-MASRY WAS QUOTED SAYING, " THE OIC RECOGNIZES ONLY ONE MNLF UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF CHAIRMAN NUR P. MISUARI".
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
MNLF: Photo: MNLF Vice Chairman Ustadz Abdulkarim Misuari with Ambassador Sayyed Al-Masry, OIC Special Envoy to the MNLF-GPH Peace Process
Posted to the Facebook page of Moro National Liberation Front Secretary General Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim (Jul 25): Photo: MNLF Vice Chairman Ustadz Abdulkarim Misuari with Ambassador Sayyed Al-Masry, OIC Special Envoy to the MNLF-GPH Peace Process
THE PICTURE OF MNLF VICE CHAIRMAN USTADZ ABDULKARIM MISUARI WITH AMBASSADOR SAYYED AL- MASRY, OIC SPECIAL ENVOY TO THE MNLF-GPH PEACE PROCESS, TAKEN AFTER THE MNLF AND OIC'S SIDELINE MEETING IN ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST, WESTERN AFRICA, JULY 11, 2017. THE OIC SPECIAL ENVOY ASSURED THE MNLF DELEGATION, "THE OIC RECOGNIZES ONLY ONE MNLF UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF CHAIRMAN NUR P. MISUARI". AS A MATTER OF POLICY, THE OIC WILL NOT RECOGNIZE ANY SPLINTERED MORO GROUP.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=506001913084165&set=a.177576749260018.1073741828.100010230822732&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
THE PICTURE OF MNLF VICE CHAIRMAN USTADZ ABDULKARIM MISUARI WITH AMBASSADOR SAYYED AL- MASRY, OIC SPECIAL ENVOY TO THE MNLF-GPH PEACE PROCESS, TAKEN AFTER THE MNLF AND OIC'S SIDELINE MEETING IN ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST, WESTERN AFRICA, JULY 11, 2017. THE OIC SPECIAL ENVOY ASSURED THE MNLF DELEGATION, "THE OIC RECOGNIZES ONLY ONE MNLF UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF CHAIRMAN NUR P. MISUARI". AS A MATTER OF POLICY, THE OIC WILL NOT RECOGNIZE ANY SPLINTERED MORO GROUP.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=506001913084165&set=a.177576749260018.1073741828.100010230822732&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
MILF: Editorial -- Martial law extended
Editorial posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Jul 24): Martial law extended
Voting 245 out of the 291 House members and 16 of 20 senators present, martial law in Mindanao was extended up to the end of 2017.
This was the final count after the joint special session held on May 22 in the House of Representatives, in response to the request of President Rodrigo Duterte to extend martial law in Mindanao.
Since martial law was first declared on May 23, the MILF has not taken the hard-line position of those who opposed it especially those belonging to so-called patriots or nationalists. Instead, leaders of the MILF had sought immediate dialogue with President Duterte to seek clarifications vis-à-vis the GPH-MILF peace process particularly the ceasefire, peace mechanisms, and the joint war on kidnappings and anti-drug trafficking.
The meeting took place at the Malacañang of the South in Davao City on May 29 where the president unambiguously stated that the martial law is not intended to any of the legitimate revolutionary groups in Mindanao particularly the MILF. He also clearly said that the peace process would proceed smoothly as it has been proceeding since he became the president.
During the meeting, the parties, agreed, among others, to create the peace corridor to be able to retrieve or rescue civilians trapped in the fighting in Marawi City and to help provide pathway for relief supplies for the evacuees. The scheme was and still is under the general supervision of the peace implementing panels of both parties.
To the MILF, humanitarian intervention is the only logical and moral step that it can offer to the suffering people of the city which government fully appreciated and accepted.
For the MILF, martial law is not outright bad, as others would like to argue. Martial law can be a legitimate tool, in fact it is, of a legitimate government to stop rebellion, invasion, or prevent or suppress lawless violence when public safety so requires. Each country’s constitution in the world provides for this scheme every time it is needed.
Compared to the martial law of President Ferdinand Marcos in September 1972, the one declared by President Duterte is very much mild, as if one does not feel at all that there is such a thing being enforced. During the first, every time a civilian approached a checkpoint, he or she was already trembling. It is not because he is a criminal or a rebel but soldiers, police, and constabulary had the signature of abuse, thievery, and killing. Summary execution was the rule rather than exception. Today, soldiers and policemen operating checkpoints are not hostile and tiger looking. They are generally polite especially to commuters.
It is on this premise that the MILF fully understands the rationale for such extension. Making “life comfortable for all” which unambiguously is the vision of President Duterte cannot be attained without resorting to measures that may inconvenience many and, more importantly, curtails or contains the movements of criminals, “terrorists”, and plotters.
Be this as it may, the hard face of this current martial law is very much felt in Marawi City. Whatever reason or reasons, the bombing and bombardment should be terminated soon. The civilians are the ones suffering most, while the Maute group must have slipped out already or is immobilized to the last man.
It is this concern for the safety of civilians that matters most to us, and we are sure, the government feels the same.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/935/martial-law-extended
Voting 245 out of the 291 House members and 16 of 20 senators present, martial law in Mindanao was extended up to the end of 2017.
This was the final count after the joint special session held on May 22 in the House of Representatives, in response to the request of President Rodrigo Duterte to extend martial law in Mindanao.
Since martial law was first declared on May 23, the MILF has not taken the hard-line position of those who opposed it especially those belonging to so-called patriots or nationalists. Instead, leaders of the MILF had sought immediate dialogue with President Duterte to seek clarifications vis-à-vis the GPH-MILF peace process particularly the ceasefire, peace mechanisms, and the joint war on kidnappings and anti-drug trafficking.
The meeting took place at the Malacañang of the South in Davao City on May 29 where the president unambiguously stated that the martial law is not intended to any of the legitimate revolutionary groups in Mindanao particularly the MILF. He also clearly said that the peace process would proceed smoothly as it has been proceeding since he became the president.
During the meeting, the parties, agreed, among others, to create the peace corridor to be able to retrieve or rescue civilians trapped in the fighting in Marawi City and to help provide pathway for relief supplies for the evacuees. The scheme was and still is under the general supervision of the peace implementing panels of both parties.
To the MILF, humanitarian intervention is the only logical and moral step that it can offer to the suffering people of the city which government fully appreciated and accepted.
For the MILF, martial law is not outright bad, as others would like to argue. Martial law can be a legitimate tool, in fact it is, of a legitimate government to stop rebellion, invasion, or prevent or suppress lawless violence when public safety so requires. Each country’s constitution in the world provides for this scheme every time it is needed.
Compared to the martial law of President Ferdinand Marcos in September 1972, the one declared by President Duterte is very much mild, as if one does not feel at all that there is such a thing being enforced. During the first, every time a civilian approached a checkpoint, he or she was already trembling. It is not because he is a criminal or a rebel but soldiers, police, and constabulary had the signature of abuse, thievery, and killing. Summary execution was the rule rather than exception. Today, soldiers and policemen operating checkpoints are not hostile and tiger looking. They are generally polite especially to commuters.
It is on this premise that the MILF fully understands the rationale for such extension. Making “life comfortable for all” which unambiguously is the vision of President Duterte cannot be attained without resorting to measures that may inconvenience many and, more importantly, curtails or contains the movements of criminals, “terrorists”, and plotters.
Be this as it may, the hard face of this current martial law is very much felt in Marawi City. Whatever reason or reasons, the bombing and bombardment should be terminated soon. The civilians are the ones suffering most, while the Maute group must have slipped out already or is immobilized to the last man.
It is this concern for the safety of civilians that matters most to us, and we are sure, the government feels the same.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/935/martial-law-extended
MILF: Religious leaders in Western Mindanao endorse BBL
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Jul 26): Religious leaders in Western Mindanao endorse BBL
Amidst the incident that happened in Marawi City brought about by the attack of the Maute group on government troops that started on May 23, the Moros in Western Mindanao that comprises Basilan, Zamboanga Peninsula, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi are fully supportive of the new Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
These people believe that the new BBL with promote peace and development in Mindanao which in turn will stop the growing restlessness in the region.
Imam Amil Bairulla, a community leader of Basilan said, if only the government is serious enough in solving the crisis in Mindanao it is now the high time for the House of Representatives to give peace a chance by way of passing the BBL.
He said one of the reasons why Marawi City is in flame right now is because of the high frustrations of the people especially the youths who expected that government will comply with all its commitments to the peaceful settlement of the conflict in Mindanao.
However, he also lambasted the Maute group for using civilian populated areas as battleground.
“This is against the teachings of Islam,” he said, adding that civilians should never the object of war.
Imam Abdulatif Yahya of Sulu echoed the same sentiment.
He urged the Duterte administration to pass the BBL without delay.
Imam Basaron Mu’min of Tawi Tawi told luwaran.com that the only way forward is to pass the BBL and create self-governance for the Moros in Mindanao.
The struggle of the Bangsamoro People for self-determination has been going on for the last 45 years. This struggle resulted to the creation of several Muslim Organizations that fought the government forces.
Meanwhile, several armed groups in Western Mindanao, some are former members of the MNLF, are affiliating with the MILF.
But the MILF is taking it cautiously in deference to the agreement of the MNLF and MILF to form the Bangsamoro Coordination Forum (BCF).
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/936/-religious-leaders-in-western-mindanao-endorse-bbl
Amidst the incident that happened in Marawi City brought about by the attack of the Maute group on government troops that started on May 23, the Moros in Western Mindanao that comprises Basilan, Zamboanga Peninsula, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi are fully supportive of the new Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
These people believe that the new BBL with promote peace and development in Mindanao which in turn will stop the growing restlessness in the region.
Imam Amil Bairulla, a community leader of Basilan said, if only the government is serious enough in solving the crisis in Mindanao it is now the high time for the House of Representatives to give peace a chance by way of passing the BBL.
He said one of the reasons why Marawi City is in flame right now is because of the high frustrations of the people especially the youths who expected that government will comply with all its commitments to the peaceful settlement of the conflict in Mindanao.
However, he also lambasted the Maute group for using civilian populated areas as battleground.
“This is against the teachings of Islam,” he said, adding that civilians should never the object of war.
Imam Abdulatif Yahya of Sulu echoed the same sentiment.
He urged the Duterte administration to pass the BBL without delay.
Imam Basaron Mu’min of Tawi Tawi told luwaran.com that the only way forward is to pass the BBL and create self-governance for the Moros in Mindanao.
The struggle of the Bangsamoro People for self-determination has been going on for the last 45 years. This struggle resulted to the creation of several Muslim Organizations that fought the government forces.
Meanwhile, several armed groups in Western Mindanao, some are former members of the MNLF, are affiliating with the MILF.
But the MILF is taking it cautiously in deference to the agreement of the MNLF and MILF to form the Bangsamoro Coordination Forum (BCF).
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/936/-religious-leaders-in-western-mindanao-endorse-bbl
MILF: Moro CSOs leaders in Socsksargen to engage in monitoring human rights violations
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Jul 25): Moro CSOs leaders in Socsksargen to engage in monitoring human rights violations
Amidst the ongoing enforcement of Martial Law in Southern Philippines, Moro Civil Society Organizations leaders and peace advocates from the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City (Socsksargen) Area are working out the formation of body that will engage in monitoring incidents of human rights violations.
In a group conversation in a social media, the Moro CSO leaders, university instructors and peace advocates are tackling how they will be able to create a pool of volunteers from among themselves who will check for any reported incidents of commission of human rights violations particularly among any of the Moro constituents of the region.
Proponents of this initiative were the participants of the Consultation-Dialogue on Peace, Human Rights and Security held at Sun City Suites in General Santos City last Thursday (July 13) hosted by the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS).
They discussed during the consultation updates on the Bangsamoro Peace Processes, Martial Law, and other issues affecting the Bangsamoro people.
For them, unity among Muslim leaders is one important factor that can contribute to the realization of the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people for lasting peace and sustainable development.
They are hopeful that the implementation of Martial Law would not be like during the stint of the late dictator President Ferdinand Marcos.
The Philippine Congress had just approved the extension of Martial Law up the December 31, 2017.
Mindanao State University Professor Isnira Baguinda suggested the name “Moro Leaders Council of Socsksargen” for the group. She cited that the organization should be neutral and inclusive of all Moro tribes.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/934/moro_csos_leaders_in_socsksargen_to_engage_in_monitoring_human_rights_violations
Amidst the ongoing enforcement of Martial Law in Southern Philippines, Moro Civil Society Organizations leaders and peace advocates from the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City (Socsksargen) Area are working out the formation of body that will engage in monitoring incidents of human rights violations.
In a group conversation in a social media, the Moro CSO leaders, university instructors and peace advocates are tackling how they will be able to create a pool of volunteers from among themselves who will check for any reported incidents of commission of human rights violations particularly among any of the Moro constituents of the region.
Proponents of this initiative were the participants of the Consultation-Dialogue on Peace, Human Rights and Security held at Sun City Suites in General Santos City last Thursday (July 13) hosted by the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS).
They discussed during the consultation updates on the Bangsamoro Peace Processes, Martial Law, and other issues affecting the Bangsamoro people.
For them, unity among Muslim leaders is one important factor that can contribute to the realization of the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people for lasting peace and sustainable development.
They are hopeful that the implementation of Martial Law would not be like during the stint of the late dictator President Ferdinand Marcos.
The Philippine Congress had just approved the extension of Martial Law up the December 31, 2017.
Mindanao State University Professor Isnira Baguinda suggested the name “Moro Leaders Council of Socsksargen” for the group. She cited that the organization should be neutral and inclusive of all Moro tribes.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/934/moro_csos_leaders_in_socsksargen_to_engage_in_monitoring_human_rights_violations
MILF: BBL to be prioritized by Congress
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Jul 24): BBL to be prioritized by Congress
The proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will be a key legislative agenda of the Senate and House of Representatives as the two chambers convene today for the start of the 2nd regular session of the 17th Congress of the Philippines.
In his address, Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III mentioned explicitly the BBL alongside other important measures that the Senate intends to pass.
“We will pursue a path to lasting peace in Mindanao by addressing the valid concerns of our Muslim brothers and sisters through the Bangsamoro Basic Law,” he said.
Almost at the same time in the Batasang Pambansa, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez appealed to his fellow congressmen to prioritize the enactment of the BBL along with other key proposals.
This afternoon, both Houses of Congress will meet on joint session in the Batasang Pambansa to hear the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte.
Many are expecting that Pres. Duterte would mention the BBL in his SONA.
The new draft BBL was already submitted to Duterte on July 7 by Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) Chairman Ghazali Jaafar during formal rites held at the Rizal Hall of Malacañan Palace.
Being party to the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), MILF Chairman Alhaj Murad Ebrahim and Central Committee officials also witnessed the ceremony.
The previous Congress failed to enact the BBL. An expanded BTC was inducted into office last February 24 and completed the new BBL on June 15.
The BBL would be the legal translation of the CAB which is a political agreement between the MILF and the Government of the Philippines.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/933/bbl_to_be_prioritized_by_congress
The proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will be a key legislative agenda of the Senate and House of Representatives as the two chambers convene today for the start of the 2nd regular session of the 17th Congress of the Philippines.
In his address, Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III mentioned explicitly the BBL alongside other important measures that the Senate intends to pass.
“We will pursue a path to lasting peace in Mindanao by addressing the valid concerns of our Muslim brothers and sisters through the Bangsamoro Basic Law,” he said.
Almost at the same time in the Batasang Pambansa, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez appealed to his fellow congressmen to prioritize the enactment of the BBL along with other key proposals.
This afternoon, both Houses of Congress will meet on joint session in the Batasang Pambansa to hear the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte.
Many are expecting that Pres. Duterte would mention the BBL in his SONA.
The new draft BBL was already submitted to Duterte on July 7 by Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) Chairman Ghazali Jaafar during formal rites held at the Rizal Hall of Malacañan Palace.
Being party to the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), MILF Chairman Alhaj Murad Ebrahim and Central Committee officials also witnessed the ceremony.
The previous Congress failed to enact the BBL. An expanded BTC was inducted into office last February 24 and completed the new BBL on June 15.
The BBL would be the legal translation of the CAB which is a political agreement between the MILF and the Government of the Philippines.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/933/bbl_to_be_prioritized_by_congress
NDF/NPA-ROC-SM: AFP intel operatives, 2 others killed in NPA offensives in Davao Oriental, Bukidnon
NPA Regional Operations Command Southern Mindanao propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Jul 24): AFP intel operatives, 2 others killed in NPA offensives in Davao Oriental, Bukidnon
New People’s Army
Regional Operations Command
Southern Mindanao Region
Press Statement
July 24, 2017
With the recent extension of martial law in the entire island, the NPA in Southern Mindanao continues to defend the masses and exercises political authority of the People’s Democratic Government in different areas in the region. Two separate actions by NPA units over the weekend resulted in casualties of two AFP intelligence operatives in Caraga, Davao Oriental and 2 other enemy troops in Kitaotao, Bukidnon.
Sgt. Cerilo M. Galigaw and another intel operative were killed after they resisted arrest and tried to shoot at Red fighters under the Comval-Davao East Coast Sub-Regional Operations Command in Sitio Logdeck, Brgy. Caningag in Caraga town, July 21, at around 12pm. Seized from them were 2 caliber .45 pistols, cellphones, Galigaw’s identification cards and his mission order document.
Sgt. Galigaw’s mission order confirmed his assignment under the Philippine Army’s Military Intelligence Battalion as an agent operating in Region 10, 11, 12 and 13. The other operative did not have any identification with him.
Text messages in Sgt. Galigaw’s cellphone revealed he was on his way to gather tactical information regarding the NPA’s most recent Prisoner of War Alfredo Basabica, Jr., who was arrested in Cateel town last July 11.
An NPA unit was conducting a consultation among the masses who earlier reported that several farmers in their communities were being recruited by the 67IB to provide information on activities of civilians and NPA units’ movement in the area. While the consultation was going on, two men on board a motorcycle advancing toward the consultation venue were spotted by the NPA’s blocking team. In their haste to escape from the NPA team, the two men swerved their motorcycle, lost bearing and toppled to the ground. Sgt. Galigaw was pinned down by the motorcycle while his partner started to run away when Red fighters called out for them several times to surrender. Both soldiers started to draw their pistols, forcing the approaching Red fighters to defend themselves and open fire.
Meanwhile, two troopers belonging to the 2nd Special Forces Company of the 1st SF Battalion were killed while 9 others were severely wounded following a successful demolition operation by an NPA unit under the Mt. Apo Sub-Regional Operations Command against the enemy’s military vehicle in Brgy. Kitubo, Kitaotao in Bukidnon, around 10pm, July 22.
Even before martial law, the AFP’s 2ndSF is notorious for terrorizing civilians in Kitaotao, especially the Lumad families in Brgy. White Culaman who were forced to evacuate in 2015 and were never able to return to their farms and communities.
The railroaded extension of martial law in Mindanao will undoubtedly embolden the AFP’s impunity to commit more serious human rights violations against the masses. Already, Duterte is setting the stage for an all-out attack against revolutionary forces, which, in AFP parlance is every farmer, Lumad and child in the countryside.
On the other hand, it is sure to also intensify the Filipino people’s sentiment against the Duterte regime, particularly the Moro and Lumad people who are bearing the brunt of the state forces’ fascism. Five more months of martial law will spell out intensified armed and legal resistance from the Filipino people.
RIGOBERTO F. SANCHEZ
Spokesperson
Regional Operations Command
NPA-Southern Mindanao
https://www.ndfp.org/afp-intel-operatives-2-others-killed-npa-offensives-davao-oriental-bukidnon/
New People’s Army
Regional Operations Command
Southern Mindanao Region
Press Statement
July 24, 2017
With the recent extension of martial law in the entire island, the NPA in Southern Mindanao continues to defend the masses and exercises political authority of the People’s Democratic Government in different areas in the region. Two separate actions by NPA units over the weekend resulted in casualties of two AFP intelligence operatives in Caraga, Davao Oriental and 2 other enemy troops in Kitaotao, Bukidnon.
Sgt. Cerilo M. Galigaw and another intel operative were killed after they resisted arrest and tried to shoot at Red fighters under the Comval-Davao East Coast Sub-Regional Operations Command in Sitio Logdeck, Brgy. Caningag in Caraga town, July 21, at around 12pm. Seized from them were 2 caliber .45 pistols, cellphones, Galigaw’s identification cards and his mission order document.
Sgt. Galigaw’s mission order confirmed his assignment under the Philippine Army’s Military Intelligence Battalion as an agent operating in Region 10, 11, 12 and 13. The other operative did not have any identification with him.
Text messages in Sgt. Galigaw’s cellphone revealed he was on his way to gather tactical information regarding the NPA’s most recent Prisoner of War Alfredo Basabica, Jr., who was arrested in Cateel town last July 11.
An NPA unit was conducting a consultation among the masses who earlier reported that several farmers in their communities were being recruited by the 67IB to provide information on activities of civilians and NPA units’ movement in the area. While the consultation was going on, two men on board a motorcycle advancing toward the consultation venue were spotted by the NPA’s blocking team. In their haste to escape from the NPA team, the two men swerved their motorcycle, lost bearing and toppled to the ground. Sgt. Galigaw was pinned down by the motorcycle while his partner started to run away when Red fighters called out for them several times to surrender. Both soldiers started to draw their pistols, forcing the approaching Red fighters to defend themselves and open fire.
Meanwhile, two troopers belonging to the 2nd Special Forces Company of the 1st SF Battalion were killed while 9 others were severely wounded following a successful demolition operation by an NPA unit under the Mt. Apo Sub-Regional Operations Command against the enemy’s military vehicle in Brgy. Kitubo, Kitaotao in Bukidnon, around 10pm, July 22.
Even before martial law, the AFP’s 2ndSF is notorious for terrorizing civilians in Kitaotao, especially the Lumad families in Brgy. White Culaman who were forced to evacuate in 2015 and were never able to return to their farms and communities.
The railroaded extension of martial law in Mindanao will undoubtedly embolden the AFP’s impunity to commit more serious human rights violations against the masses. Already, Duterte is setting the stage for an all-out attack against revolutionary forces, which, in AFP parlance is every farmer, Lumad and child in the countryside.
On the other hand, it is sure to also intensify the Filipino people’s sentiment against the Duterte regime, particularly the Moro and Lumad people who are bearing the brunt of the state forces’ fascism. Five more months of martial law will spell out intensified armed and legal resistance from the Filipino people.
RIGOBERTO F. SANCHEZ
Spokesperson
Regional Operations Command
NPA-Southern Mindanao
https://www.ndfp.org/afp-intel-operatives-2-others-killed-npa-offensives-davao-oriental-bukidnon/
CPP/NPA-Palawan: Naganap na Labanan sa Baranggay Malihud Bataraza Palawan
NPA-Palawan propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Jul 25): Naganap na Labanan sa Baranggay Malihud Bataraza Palawan
Salvador Luminoso, Spokesperson
NPA-Palawan (Bienvenido Vallever Command)
25 July 2017
Binigo ng Mt. Mantalingahan Command ang planong pagtugis militar sa isang yunit ng BHB na nagsasagawa ng gawaing masa sa isang sityong sakop ng Baryo Malihud Bataraza Palawan. Naganap ang unang pag-atake ng militar noong ika- 21 ng Hulyo 2017 habang inaayos ng mga kasama ang problemang idinulog ng masa. Nasa proseso pa ng talakayan, biglang binugsuan ng putok ng mga sundalo ang bahay ng walang pagsasaalang-alang sa mga sibilyan at pinasabugan pa ito ng mga m203 granade launcher.
Ayon sa naitalang ulat ng MMC, naengkwentro ng isang iskwad na yunit nila ang humigit kumulang sa isang platung pwersa ng di pa matukoy na yunit ng Phil. Army(sa ulat ng mga alyado at masa ay SF daw) na umabot sa halos ay 3 minutong palitan ng putok hanggang magpanakbuhan ang mga sundalo pabalik.
Walang anumang kaswalti sa panig ng BHB samantalang sa panig ng AFP ay hindi rin matiyak ang bilang ng kaswalti dahil walang ibinaba ngunit dalawang beses na may hinakot ang helikopter sa lugar na malapit sa pinaglabanan upang maitago sa masa ang tunay na nangyari.
Sa galit ng mga sundalo, kinabukasan petsa 24 ng umaga ay binomba ng mortar ang mga bahay ng katutubo na malapit sa pinaglabanan. Wala pang dagdag na update ang MMC sa resulta ng pambobombang ito. Subalit hanggang sa kasalukuyan ay nagpapatuloy parin ang combat operation sa lugar na halos ay nasa 100 tropa na ng AFP/PNP ang gumagalugad kaya’t sa takot ng mga katutubo ay iniwan ang kanilang mga bahay upang makaiwas sa galit-na galit na mga sundalo.
Sa naganap nagmistulang inutil ang combat operation ng pinagsanib na Marines, Army,PNPPSC laban sa maliit na yunit ng BHB na kumikilos sa lugar at patuloy silang aani ng kabiguan sa laging nasa panig ng BHB ang masa.
Mabuhay ang Palaweño at Sambayanang Pilipino!
Mabuhay ang CPP/NPA/NDFP
Mabuhay ang Rebolusyon!
Salvador Luminoso, Spokesperson
NPA-Palawan (Bienvenido Vallever Command)
25 July 2017
Binigo ng Mt. Mantalingahan Command ang planong pagtugis militar sa isang yunit ng BHB na nagsasagawa ng gawaing masa sa isang sityong sakop ng Baryo Malihud Bataraza Palawan. Naganap ang unang pag-atake ng militar noong ika- 21 ng Hulyo 2017 habang inaayos ng mga kasama ang problemang idinulog ng masa. Nasa proseso pa ng talakayan, biglang binugsuan ng putok ng mga sundalo ang bahay ng walang pagsasaalang-alang sa mga sibilyan at pinasabugan pa ito ng mga m203 granade launcher.
Ayon sa naitalang ulat ng MMC, naengkwentro ng isang iskwad na yunit nila ang humigit kumulang sa isang platung pwersa ng di pa matukoy na yunit ng Phil. Army(sa ulat ng mga alyado at masa ay SF daw) na umabot sa halos ay 3 minutong palitan ng putok hanggang magpanakbuhan ang mga sundalo pabalik.
Walang anumang kaswalti sa panig ng BHB samantalang sa panig ng AFP ay hindi rin matiyak ang bilang ng kaswalti dahil walang ibinaba ngunit dalawang beses na may hinakot ang helikopter sa lugar na malapit sa pinaglabanan upang maitago sa masa ang tunay na nangyari.
Sa galit ng mga sundalo, kinabukasan petsa 24 ng umaga ay binomba ng mortar ang mga bahay ng katutubo na malapit sa pinaglabanan. Wala pang dagdag na update ang MMC sa resulta ng pambobombang ito. Subalit hanggang sa kasalukuyan ay nagpapatuloy parin ang combat operation sa lugar na halos ay nasa 100 tropa na ng AFP/PNP ang gumagalugad kaya’t sa takot ng mga katutubo ay iniwan ang kanilang mga bahay upang makaiwas sa galit-na galit na mga sundalo.
Sa naganap nagmistulang inutil ang combat operation ng pinagsanib na Marines, Army,PNPPSC laban sa maliit na yunit ng BHB na kumikilos sa lugar at patuloy silang aani ng kabiguan sa laging nasa panig ng BHB ang masa.
Mabuhay ang Palaweño at Sambayanang Pilipino!
Mabuhay ang CPP/NPA/NDFP
Mabuhay ang Rebolusyon!
CPP/NPA: Interbyu kay Ka Oris hinggil sa SONA
NPA propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Jul 24): Interbyu kay Ka Oris hinggil sa SONA
Ka Oris, Spokesperson
New People’s Army
24 July 2017
(Use a browser that supports the audio element.)
1. Ka Oris, muling haharap si GRP President Duterte sa kongreso para sa taunang state-of-the-nation address. Ano po ang pagtingin ng NPA kaugnay nito?
Noong isang taon, sumasakay si Duterte sa malawak na sentimyento ng bayang sawang-sawa na sa bulok na sistema sa Pilipinas. Pero ngayon, bingi na siya sa mga hinaing ng bayan; sa mga kalapastanganan, siya mismo ang pasimuno.
Garapalan ang paggamit nito ng kamay-na-bakal. Siya na mismo ang nagsabi na idolo niya si Marcos kaya’t ginaya at lalampasan pa ito kagaya ng: tahasang pamamatay ng mga drug user at pusher paggamit ng extra judicial killings o EJK sa war on drugs sa pagdeklara ng all-out war laban sa NPA at mamamayan sa buong bansa at martial law sa Mindanao; sa paghaharing militar sa kanayunan; sa pagsupil at labis na panggigipit sa mamamayan; sa binabaluktot na mga batas para atakehin, takutin, ikulong at busalan ang oposisyong pulitikal; at sa pagbabanta sa masmidya, sa simbahan, sa korte suprema at iba pang mga hakbangin. Di nagtagal, naladlad na siya’y sunud-sunuran pala sa mga patakaran ng imperyalismong US, laluna sa mga patakarang panseguridad ng US.
Klarong-klaro na mas pabor siya sa interes ng malalaking burges at mga bulok na burukratang kapitalista. Ang mga ambisyong diktador ni Duterte ay isang malalim na kumunoy na lalamon sa kanyang rehimen, at magwawakas na kinasusuklaman ng bayan. Ang mga ginagawa niya ay lalong maghihiwalay sa kanya sa mamamayan at magtutulak sa kanila na magsagawa ng armado at di armadong paglaban sa kanyang paghahari.
(Use a browser that supports the audio element.)
3. Ano ang masasabi ninyo sa patutunguhan ng ekonomya at kalagayang panlipunan?
Walang pagkakaiba ang ipinatutupad na patakaran sa ekonomya ng rehimeng Duterte sa nagdaang rehimeng Aquino at mga nakaraang rehimen. Dinugtungan lang ang mga dati nang maka-dayuhang patakarang neoliberal.
Ang sinusunod niyang patakarang pang-ekonomiya – itong neoliberal na globalisasyon – ay napatunayan na sa buong mundo na siyang dahilan ng paghihirap ng dalawa sa bawat tatlong tao sa buong mundo. Ang infrastructure spending niya, na sinasalamin ng islogan na Build! Build! Build!, ay para sa negosyo ng mayayaman; ang tax reform niya ay para lalong lumaki ang tubo ng mga negosyante at imbestor at lalong pipiga sa kokonting kita ng manggagawa, magsasaka, at ordinaryong empleyado. At habang nagmumura laban sa mga dambuhalang mina, pinabayaang matanggal si Gina Lopez upang patuloy na mananalasa sa kalikasan ang Nickel Asia ni Zamora, Villar, Pangilinan, at Sumitomo ng Hapon at iba pa.
Bingi at bulag siya sa hinihinging pagbabaklas ng mga kinamkam na mga asyenda ng Hacienda Luisita, Hacienda Looc, Hacienda Roxas, Hacienda Dolores, Hacienda Araneta, Lapanday, DMCI at marami pang iba. Tapos ang reporma sa lupa na isinagawa namin sa kanayunan na pinakikinabangan ng milyon-milyong magsasaka ay wawasakin ng AFP at ibabalik sa mga mangangamkam na panginoong maylupa, katulad ng nangyari sa Lapanday, sa HLI, at sa Hacienda Zulueta.
Magpapatuloy ang laganap na disempleyo dahil sa kawalan ng pambansang industriyalisasyon. Patuloy ang paghahabol na akitin ang dayuhang pamumuhunan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapababa sa sahod ng mga manggagawa sa iba’t ibang paraan.Napakababa na nga ng minimum, hindi pa ito pinapatupad.
Dahil sa kawalan ng tunay na reporma sa lupa at industriyalisasyong rural, lalong lalala ang kahirapan at kagutuman. Mananatili ang atrasadong sistema ng produksyong agrikultural. Sa ilalim ng mga patakarang neoliberal, lalong hinihikayat ang pagpapalawak ng mga asyenda at plantasyon para sa produksyon ng mga tanim na pang-eksport. Samantala, tuluy-tuloy ang liberalisasyon sa importasyon ng bigas at iba pang produktong pang-agrikultura sa kapinsalaan ng lokal na produksyon.
Patuloy na kinakaltasan ang badyet sa edukasyon, kalusugan at iba pang serbisyong panlipunan. Sa kabilang panig, babawasan ang buwis ng mayayaman at ipapataw ang karagdagang mga buwis na magiging dagdag na pasanin sa mahihirap na Pilipino. Ito ay upang tiyakin na may pambayad sa inaasahang mabilis na paglaki ng dayong utang ng Pilipinas.
Malakas ang anti-mina na bukambibig ni Duterte, pero patuloy naman ang pananalasa ng dambuhalang korporasyon sa pagmimina sa kapaligiran. Ang large-scale mining ay large-scale na permanenteng pagkasira, isang pandarambong na hindi napapanginabangan ng bansa.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170724-interbyu-kay-ka-oris-hinggil-sa-sona
Ka Oris, Spokesperson
New People’s Army
24 July 2017
(Use a browser that supports the audio element.)
1. Ka Oris, muling haharap si GRP President Duterte sa kongreso para sa taunang state-of-the-nation address. Ano po ang pagtingin ng NPA kaugnay nito?
Noong isang taon, sumasakay si Duterte sa malawak na sentimyento ng bayang sawang-sawa na sa bulok na sistema sa Pilipinas. Pero ngayon, bingi na siya sa mga hinaing ng bayan; sa mga kalapastanganan, siya mismo ang pasimuno.
Garapalan ang paggamit nito ng kamay-na-bakal. Siya na mismo ang nagsabi na idolo niya si Marcos kaya’t ginaya at lalampasan pa ito kagaya ng: tahasang pamamatay ng mga drug user at pusher paggamit ng extra judicial killings o EJK sa war on drugs sa pagdeklara ng all-out war laban sa NPA at mamamayan sa buong bansa at martial law sa Mindanao; sa paghaharing militar sa kanayunan; sa pagsupil at labis na panggigipit sa mamamayan; sa binabaluktot na mga batas para atakehin, takutin, ikulong at busalan ang oposisyong pulitikal; at sa pagbabanta sa masmidya, sa simbahan, sa korte suprema at iba pang mga hakbangin. Di nagtagal, naladlad na siya’y sunud-sunuran pala sa mga patakaran ng imperyalismong US, laluna sa mga patakarang panseguridad ng US.
Klarong-klaro na mas pabor siya sa interes ng malalaking burges at mga bulok na burukratang kapitalista. Ang mga ambisyong diktador ni Duterte ay isang malalim na kumunoy na lalamon sa kanyang rehimen, at magwawakas na kinasusuklaman ng bayan. Ang mga ginagawa niya ay lalong maghihiwalay sa kanya sa mamamayan at magtutulak sa kanila na magsagawa ng armado at di armadong paglaban sa kanyang paghahari.
(Use a browser that supports the audio element.)
3. Ano ang masasabi ninyo sa patutunguhan ng ekonomya at kalagayang panlipunan?
Walang pagkakaiba ang ipinatutupad na patakaran sa ekonomya ng rehimeng Duterte sa nagdaang rehimeng Aquino at mga nakaraang rehimen. Dinugtungan lang ang mga dati nang maka-dayuhang patakarang neoliberal.
Ang sinusunod niyang patakarang pang-ekonomiya – itong neoliberal na globalisasyon – ay napatunayan na sa buong mundo na siyang dahilan ng paghihirap ng dalawa sa bawat tatlong tao sa buong mundo. Ang infrastructure spending niya, na sinasalamin ng islogan na Build! Build! Build!, ay para sa negosyo ng mayayaman; ang tax reform niya ay para lalong lumaki ang tubo ng mga negosyante at imbestor at lalong pipiga sa kokonting kita ng manggagawa, magsasaka, at ordinaryong empleyado. At habang nagmumura laban sa mga dambuhalang mina, pinabayaang matanggal si Gina Lopez upang patuloy na mananalasa sa kalikasan ang Nickel Asia ni Zamora, Villar, Pangilinan, at Sumitomo ng Hapon at iba pa.
Bingi at bulag siya sa hinihinging pagbabaklas ng mga kinamkam na mga asyenda ng Hacienda Luisita, Hacienda Looc, Hacienda Roxas, Hacienda Dolores, Hacienda Araneta, Lapanday, DMCI at marami pang iba. Tapos ang reporma sa lupa na isinagawa namin sa kanayunan na pinakikinabangan ng milyon-milyong magsasaka ay wawasakin ng AFP at ibabalik sa mga mangangamkam na panginoong maylupa, katulad ng nangyari sa Lapanday, sa HLI, at sa Hacienda Zulueta.
Magpapatuloy ang laganap na disempleyo dahil sa kawalan ng pambansang industriyalisasyon. Patuloy ang paghahabol na akitin ang dayuhang pamumuhunan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapababa sa sahod ng mga manggagawa sa iba’t ibang paraan.Napakababa na nga ng minimum, hindi pa ito pinapatupad.
Dahil sa kawalan ng tunay na reporma sa lupa at industriyalisasyong rural, lalong lalala ang kahirapan at kagutuman. Mananatili ang atrasadong sistema ng produksyong agrikultural. Sa ilalim ng mga patakarang neoliberal, lalong hinihikayat ang pagpapalawak ng mga asyenda at plantasyon para sa produksyon ng mga tanim na pang-eksport. Samantala, tuluy-tuloy ang liberalisasyon sa importasyon ng bigas at iba pang produktong pang-agrikultura sa kapinsalaan ng lokal na produksyon.
Patuloy na kinakaltasan ang badyet sa edukasyon, kalusugan at iba pang serbisyong panlipunan. Sa kabilang panig, babawasan ang buwis ng mayayaman at ipapataw ang karagdagang mga buwis na magiging dagdag na pasanin sa mahihirap na Pilipino. Ito ay upang tiyakin na may pambayad sa inaasahang mabilis na paglaki ng dayong utang ng Pilipinas.
Malakas ang anti-mina na bukambibig ni Duterte, pero patuloy naman ang pananalasa ng dambuhalang korporasyon sa pagmimina sa kapaligiran. Ang large-scale mining ay large-scale na permanenteng pagkasira, isang pandarambong na hindi napapanginabangan ng bansa.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170724-interbyu-kay-ka-oris-hinggil-sa-sona
CPP/NPA-Kalinga: Unang Taon ni Duterte: Lalong Naghihirap ang Masa!
NPA-Kalinga propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Jul 24): Unang Taon ni Duterte: Lalong Naghihirap ang Masa!
Walang tunay na pagbabago, lalong naghihirap ang masang Pilipino!
Ka Tipon Gil-ayab, Spokesperson
NPA-Kalinga (Lejo Cawilan Command)
24 July 2017
Matapos ang unang taon ng panunungkulan ay muling magbibigay ng kanyang State of the Nation Address (SONA) si Presidente Rodrigo Duterte sa darating na Hulyo 24, 2017. Mataas ang ekspektasyon ng sambayanan dahil na rin sa dami at garbo ng mga naipangako ni Duterte noong panahon ng kampanya para sa eleksyon 2016. Mga pangakong wawakasan ang salot ng droga, malinis at tapat na pamamahala, pagbabagong pampulitika at pag-unlad pang-ekonomiya ang nagluklok sa noon ay Davao City Mayor bilang pinakamataas na lider ng bansa. Sa kabuohan, matapos ang isang taon, mas lalong tumitindi ang paghihirap ng mamamayan. Kontraktwal at walang kasiguraduhan sa trabaho ang manggagawang Pilipino. Wala pa ring sariling lupa ang masang magsasaka. Dumaranas pa rin ng pambansang kaapihan ang hanay ng pambansang minorya.
PATULOY NA NAGHIHIRAP ANG MASA
Sa probinsya, nananatiling P210 ang minimum wage na malayo sa kahilingan na itaas ito sa P16,000 sa antas pambansa. . Hirap at kayod-kabayo na sa araw-araw na trabaho, maliit pa ang kinikita na hindi sasapat ipambili ng mga produktong sobrang tataas ng presyo. Nagtaasan na lahat ng presyo ng batayang pangangailan gaya ng pagkain, kuryente, langis, serbisyo pampubliko gaya ng kalusugan at edukasyon ngunit ni isang kusing na omento sa sahod ay wala. Laganap pa ang disempleyo na pinatitindi ng kawalan ng pambansang industriyalisasyon at neoliberal na mga polisiya sa agrikultura.
Malawakan ang pang-aagaw ng lupang-ninuno sa ngalan ng pagsusulong ng ginintuang panahon ng imprastruktura sa ilalim ng Dutertenomics. Sistematikong ibinubukas ng gobyerno ang Kalinga at ang buong Kordilyera, sa mga repormistang proyekto at patakarang sisira sa likas na yaman ng kalupaan gaya ng minas, dam, logging, at turismo sa tulong ng pagpapaigting ng pasismo sa lugar. Halimbawa na lamang ng tangka ng gobyerno sa ilalim ng public-private partnership (PPP) na itayo ang Lucog Dam sa Tabuk City na tinutulan ng mga mamamayan. Panganib at perwisyo ito para sa kabuhayan ng mga residente ngunit tiyak na super ganansya para sa mga malalaking kapitalista.
Walang epektibong programa ang gobyerno upang tugunan ang pangangailangang-agrikultural ng mga magsasaka sa probinsya. Kulang ang ayuda para sa mga magsasakang dumaranas ng krisis dulot ng mga kalamidad. Ang patubig o irigasyon na dapat sana ay libre ay ginawang negosyo ng National Irrigation Authority (NIA). Nagtatago naman sa maskara ng National Greening Program (NGP) ang sistematikong pang-aagaw ng lupain ng mga pambansang minorya. Sa halip na isulong ang ekonomiyang nakasasapat sa sarili, sa impluwensya ng dayuhang interes ay itinutulak ng pamahalaan ang mga magsasaka sa pagtatanim ng mga produktong cash crop gaya ng BT-Corn na walang ibang naidudulot kung hindi pagkabaon sa utang ng mga magsasaka at pagkasira ng taba ng lupa. Masahol pa rito, nananatiling mababa ang presyo ng produkto ng mga magsasaka gaya ng bigas, kape, at saging na dulot ng pagsasabwatan ng mga lokal na naghaharing-uri at mga malalaking kapitalista.
Walang signipikanteng pagbabago ang naganap sa buhay ng mga mamamayan ng Kalinga at maging ng buong bansa. Patuloy na naghihirap ang masang-anakpawis na siyang bumubuhay at pundasyon ng ekonomiya ng bansa.
TUMITINDI ANG MILITARISASYON
Mula sa paglulunsad ng war on drugs, martial law sa Mindanao, at all-out-war laban sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan – walang pagkakailang militarista ang atake ng rehimeng Duterte sa paglutas ng mga kinahaharap na suliranin nito. Malayo sa pangako ng isang payapang Pilipinas, lalong pinaigting ni Duterte ang militarisasyon sa buong bansa.
Ang war on drugs ay naging kampanyang anti-mamamayan kung saan libo-libong inosenteng sibilyan ang nadadamay habang walang sistematikong solusyon na ibinibigay ang gobyerno sa tunay na ugat ng kahirapan sa bansa. Kaugnay nito, ay naging utak-pulbura ang gobyerno sa pagpapataw ng martial law sa buong Mindanao. Ibinugso nito ang mararahas na atakeng-militar laban sa teroristang Maute-ISIS na sa katunayan ay mga inosenteng sibilyan ang naapektuhan.
Mistulang hindi pa nakuntento, dineklara ni Duterte ang all-out-war laban sa buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan bilang ganti sa pagbawi ng CPP-NPA-NDF sa deklarasyon nito ng tigil-putukan dahil na rin sa hindi kinaseryoso at paglabag dito ng gobyerno. Ang all-out-war ay hindi lamang laban sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan kung hindi kontra-mamamayan sa kabuohan. Sinasagasaan nito ang interes ng sambayanan sa pagkamit ng makatarungang kapayapaan at progresibong pag-unlad para sa lahat. Sa probinsya ay mas lalong umiigting ang militarisasyon matapos maibaba ang all-out-war at kahit pa noong panahon ng tigil-putukan. Walang habas na nagsasagawa ng combat, intel, at saywar na mga operasyon ang tropa ng 50IBPA sa mga baryo sa balat-kayo ng bayanihan noon at kapayapaan ngayon. Aktibo ang 50IBPA at mga intel assets nito sa panghaharass at panggigipit sa mga lider-masa at aktibista. Halimbawa na lamang ang harassment at panggigipit ng militar sa mga delegado ng Cordillera Day 2017 na ginanap sa Bulo, Brgy. Balantoy, Balbalan at ang patuloy na paniniktik at pananakot sa mga mamamayang tumututol sa pagtatayo ng Lucog Dam. Sa ilalim ng all-out-war ay isinalegal ng rehimeng Duterte ang ang paglapastangan ng AFP sa karapatang-tao ng mamamayan na siyang parating biktima ng mga operasyong militar. Gayon pa man, ilang ulit namang binibigo ng NPA ang mga pagtatangka ng 50IBPA na durugin ang rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa probinsya. Ang mga naganap na labanan sa mga bayan ng Balbalan at Pasil ay pawang mga bigong tangka ng 50IBPA na nagdulot sa mga ito ng matitinding kabiguan at mabibigat na kaswalti. Dagdag pa rito, hindi iginagalang ng AFP, halimbawa sa Kordilyera, ang Katutubong Istruktura Sosyo-Pulitiko (KISP) ng mga pambansang minorya bagkus ay aktibong ginagamit ito upang magdulot ng tribal war sa pagitan ng mga tribu. Gumagamit ang AFP ng IP-centric approach ang militar upang guluhin at pag-awayin ang mga tribu sa pamamagitan ng sapilitang pagpapaloob sa mga armadong pwersa nito at ng NPA sa bodong o peace pact upang gipitin at singilin ang mga tribu at pamilya ng mga tukoy na NPA tuwing may magaganap na mga labanan. Aktibo rin ang pagrerekrut ng AFP sa hanay ng mga pambansang minorya para gamitin ang mga kaugalian ng mga tribu sa bentahe ng militar.
Walang ibang naidulot ang militaristang postura ng rehimeng Duterte kung hindi takot at perwisyo sa mga mamamayan imbes na epektibong solusyunan ang kahirapang dinaranas ng bansa.
ISULONG ANG MAKA-MASA AT PROGRESIBONG PAGBABAGO!
Nanatiling bukas ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa usapang pangkapayapaan dahil interes at kagalingan ito ng sambayanan. Nagkakaisa ang buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan na dapat seryosong pag-usapan at resolbahin ang ugat ng armadong tunggalian. Ang panawagan para sa usapang pangkapayapaan ay panawagan ng mga mamamayang naghahanap ng tunay at progresibong pagbabago. Dapat kilalanin ng gobyerno ng Pilipinas (GRP) ang pangangailangan na mapagkasunduan at malagdaan ang Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER) upang ugatin at masolusyonan ang pang-ekonomiyang problema ng masang Pilipino. Dapat irespeto at tumalima ang GRP sa mga naunang napagkasunduan gaya ng Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL). Marapat na irespeto ng GRP ang karapatang-tao ng lahat ng mamamayan kabilang na ang pambansang minorya sa pamamagitan ng military pull-out sa mga komunidad. Dapat itigil ang kahibangan at utak-pulburang pagtugon sa mga suliranin ng bansa. Itigil ang martial law at all-out-war at papanagutin ang AFP sa mga krimen nito kontra-mamamayan.
Isulong ang maka-masa at progresibong pagbabago, hindi puro pangako! Ano at ano pa man, wala sa kamay ng iisang indibidwal – kahit na ng Presidente ng bansa – ang pagkamit ng makatarungan at tunay na pagbabago ng buong lipunan. Dapat ay aktibo at sustenidong kumilos ang masa upang iabante ang kanilang mga demokratikong interes at ipagtanggol ang kanilang mga karapatan. Paulit-ulit na nating napatunayan ang lakas ng ating sama-samang pagkilos, mula sa tagumpay ng pakikibaka laban sa Chico Dam noon hanggang sa muling pagsiklab ng mga pagkilos ng masa sa ngayon laban sa tuloy-tuloy na pagtatangkang nakawin ang yaman ng ating lupang-ninuno. Magsisilbing inspirasyon ang tuloy-tuloy na paglaban ng masa kontra sa planong pagtatayo ng Lucog Dam upang sindihan muli ang mitsa ng mga malalakihang pagkilos upang depensahan ang lupa, buhay at kalayaan ng pambansang minorya laban sa mga mapanirang proyekto at patakaran. Ang maka-masa at progresibong pagbabago ay nasa ating aktibo at sama-samang pagkilos.
MAKA-MASA AT PROGRESIBONG PAGBABAGO, HINDI PURO PANGAKO!
ITULOY ANG USAPANG PANGKAPAYAPAAN!
ITIGIL ANG MILITARISASYON! ITIGILANG ALL-OUT-WAR AT MARTIAL LAW!
BOTAD! LABANAN ANG PASISMO!
DIGMANG BAYAN! KAPAYAPAAN NG BAYAN!
Walang tunay na pagbabago, lalong naghihirap ang masang Pilipino!
Ka Tipon Gil-ayab, Spokesperson
NPA-Kalinga (Lejo Cawilan Command)
24 July 2017
Matapos ang unang taon ng panunungkulan ay muling magbibigay ng kanyang State of the Nation Address (SONA) si Presidente Rodrigo Duterte sa darating na Hulyo 24, 2017. Mataas ang ekspektasyon ng sambayanan dahil na rin sa dami at garbo ng mga naipangako ni Duterte noong panahon ng kampanya para sa eleksyon 2016. Mga pangakong wawakasan ang salot ng droga, malinis at tapat na pamamahala, pagbabagong pampulitika at pag-unlad pang-ekonomiya ang nagluklok sa noon ay Davao City Mayor bilang pinakamataas na lider ng bansa. Sa kabuohan, matapos ang isang taon, mas lalong tumitindi ang paghihirap ng mamamayan. Kontraktwal at walang kasiguraduhan sa trabaho ang manggagawang Pilipino. Wala pa ring sariling lupa ang masang magsasaka. Dumaranas pa rin ng pambansang kaapihan ang hanay ng pambansang minorya.
PATULOY NA NAGHIHIRAP ANG MASA
Sa probinsya, nananatiling P210 ang minimum wage na malayo sa kahilingan na itaas ito sa P16,000 sa antas pambansa. . Hirap at kayod-kabayo na sa araw-araw na trabaho, maliit pa ang kinikita na hindi sasapat ipambili ng mga produktong sobrang tataas ng presyo. Nagtaasan na lahat ng presyo ng batayang pangangailan gaya ng pagkain, kuryente, langis, serbisyo pampubliko gaya ng kalusugan at edukasyon ngunit ni isang kusing na omento sa sahod ay wala. Laganap pa ang disempleyo na pinatitindi ng kawalan ng pambansang industriyalisasyon at neoliberal na mga polisiya sa agrikultura.
Malawakan ang pang-aagaw ng lupang-ninuno sa ngalan ng pagsusulong ng ginintuang panahon ng imprastruktura sa ilalim ng Dutertenomics. Sistematikong ibinubukas ng gobyerno ang Kalinga at ang buong Kordilyera, sa mga repormistang proyekto at patakarang sisira sa likas na yaman ng kalupaan gaya ng minas, dam, logging, at turismo sa tulong ng pagpapaigting ng pasismo sa lugar. Halimbawa na lamang ng tangka ng gobyerno sa ilalim ng public-private partnership (PPP) na itayo ang Lucog Dam sa Tabuk City na tinutulan ng mga mamamayan. Panganib at perwisyo ito para sa kabuhayan ng mga residente ngunit tiyak na super ganansya para sa mga malalaking kapitalista.
Walang epektibong programa ang gobyerno upang tugunan ang pangangailangang-agrikultural ng mga magsasaka sa probinsya. Kulang ang ayuda para sa mga magsasakang dumaranas ng krisis dulot ng mga kalamidad. Ang patubig o irigasyon na dapat sana ay libre ay ginawang negosyo ng National Irrigation Authority (NIA). Nagtatago naman sa maskara ng National Greening Program (NGP) ang sistematikong pang-aagaw ng lupain ng mga pambansang minorya. Sa halip na isulong ang ekonomiyang nakasasapat sa sarili, sa impluwensya ng dayuhang interes ay itinutulak ng pamahalaan ang mga magsasaka sa pagtatanim ng mga produktong cash crop gaya ng BT-Corn na walang ibang naidudulot kung hindi pagkabaon sa utang ng mga magsasaka at pagkasira ng taba ng lupa. Masahol pa rito, nananatiling mababa ang presyo ng produkto ng mga magsasaka gaya ng bigas, kape, at saging na dulot ng pagsasabwatan ng mga lokal na naghaharing-uri at mga malalaking kapitalista.
Walang signipikanteng pagbabago ang naganap sa buhay ng mga mamamayan ng Kalinga at maging ng buong bansa. Patuloy na naghihirap ang masang-anakpawis na siyang bumubuhay at pundasyon ng ekonomiya ng bansa.
TUMITINDI ANG MILITARISASYON
Mula sa paglulunsad ng war on drugs, martial law sa Mindanao, at all-out-war laban sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan – walang pagkakailang militarista ang atake ng rehimeng Duterte sa paglutas ng mga kinahaharap na suliranin nito. Malayo sa pangako ng isang payapang Pilipinas, lalong pinaigting ni Duterte ang militarisasyon sa buong bansa.
Ang war on drugs ay naging kampanyang anti-mamamayan kung saan libo-libong inosenteng sibilyan ang nadadamay habang walang sistematikong solusyon na ibinibigay ang gobyerno sa tunay na ugat ng kahirapan sa bansa. Kaugnay nito, ay naging utak-pulbura ang gobyerno sa pagpapataw ng martial law sa buong Mindanao. Ibinugso nito ang mararahas na atakeng-militar laban sa teroristang Maute-ISIS na sa katunayan ay mga inosenteng sibilyan ang naapektuhan.
Mistulang hindi pa nakuntento, dineklara ni Duterte ang all-out-war laban sa buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan bilang ganti sa pagbawi ng CPP-NPA-NDF sa deklarasyon nito ng tigil-putukan dahil na rin sa hindi kinaseryoso at paglabag dito ng gobyerno. Ang all-out-war ay hindi lamang laban sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan kung hindi kontra-mamamayan sa kabuohan. Sinasagasaan nito ang interes ng sambayanan sa pagkamit ng makatarungang kapayapaan at progresibong pag-unlad para sa lahat. Sa probinsya ay mas lalong umiigting ang militarisasyon matapos maibaba ang all-out-war at kahit pa noong panahon ng tigil-putukan. Walang habas na nagsasagawa ng combat, intel, at saywar na mga operasyon ang tropa ng 50IBPA sa mga baryo sa balat-kayo ng bayanihan noon at kapayapaan ngayon. Aktibo ang 50IBPA at mga intel assets nito sa panghaharass at panggigipit sa mga lider-masa at aktibista. Halimbawa na lamang ang harassment at panggigipit ng militar sa mga delegado ng Cordillera Day 2017 na ginanap sa Bulo, Brgy. Balantoy, Balbalan at ang patuloy na paniniktik at pananakot sa mga mamamayang tumututol sa pagtatayo ng Lucog Dam. Sa ilalim ng all-out-war ay isinalegal ng rehimeng Duterte ang ang paglapastangan ng AFP sa karapatang-tao ng mamamayan na siyang parating biktima ng mga operasyong militar. Gayon pa man, ilang ulit namang binibigo ng NPA ang mga pagtatangka ng 50IBPA na durugin ang rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa probinsya. Ang mga naganap na labanan sa mga bayan ng Balbalan at Pasil ay pawang mga bigong tangka ng 50IBPA na nagdulot sa mga ito ng matitinding kabiguan at mabibigat na kaswalti. Dagdag pa rito, hindi iginagalang ng AFP, halimbawa sa Kordilyera, ang Katutubong Istruktura Sosyo-Pulitiko (KISP) ng mga pambansang minorya bagkus ay aktibong ginagamit ito upang magdulot ng tribal war sa pagitan ng mga tribu. Gumagamit ang AFP ng IP-centric approach ang militar upang guluhin at pag-awayin ang mga tribu sa pamamagitan ng sapilitang pagpapaloob sa mga armadong pwersa nito at ng NPA sa bodong o peace pact upang gipitin at singilin ang mga tribu at pamilya ng mga tukoy na NPA tuwing may magaganap na mga labanan. Aktibo rin ang pagrerekrut ng AFP sa hanay ng mga pambansang minorya para gamitin ang mga kaugalian ng mga tribu sa bentahe ng militar.
Walang ibang naidulot ang militaristang postura ng rehimeng Duterte kung hindi takot at perwisyo sa mga mamamayan imbes na epektibong solusyunan ang kahirapang dinaranas ng bansa.
ISULONG ANG MAKA-MASA AT PROGRESIBONG PAGBABAGO!
Nanatiling bukas ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa usapang pangkapayapaan dahil interes at kagalingan ito ng sambayanan. Nagkakaisa ang buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan na dapat seryosong pag-usapan at resolbahin ang ugat ng armadong tunggalian. Ang panawagan para sa usapang pangkapayapaan ay panawagan ng mga mamamayang naghahanap ng tunay at progresibong pagbabago. Dapat kilalanin ng gobyerno ng Pilipinas (GRP) ang pangangailangan na mapagkasunduan at malagdaan ang Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER) upang ugatin at masolusyonan ang pang-ekonomiyang problema ng masang Pilipino. Dapat irespeto at tumalima ang GRP sa mga naunang napagkasunduan gaya ng Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL). Marapat na irespeto ng GRP ang karapatang-tao ng lahat ng mamamayan kabilang na ang pambansang minorya sa pamamagitan ng military pull-out sa mga komunidad. Dapat itigil ang kahibangan at utak-pulburang pagtugon sa mga suliranin ng bansa. Itigil ang martial law at all-out-war at papanagutin ang AFP sa mga krimen nito kontra-mamamayan.
Isulong ang maka-masa at progresibong pagbabago, hindi puro pangako! Ano at ano pa man, wala sa kamay ng iisang indibidwal – kahit na ng Presidente ng bansa – ang pagkamit ng makatarungan at tunay na pagbabago ng buong lipunan. Dapat ay aktibo at sustenidong kumilos ang masa upang iabante ang kanilang mga demokratikong interes at ipagtanggol ang kanilang mga karapatan. Paulit-ulit na nating napatunayan ang lakas ng ating sama-samang pagkilos, mula sa tagumpay ng pakikibaka laban sa Chico Dam noon hanggang sa muling pagsiklab ng mga pagkilos ng masa sa ngayon laban sa tuloy-tuloy na pagtatangkang nakawin ang yaman ng ating lupang-ninuno. Magsisilbing inspirasyon ang tuloy-tuloy na paglaban ng masa kontra sa planong pagtatayo ng Lucog Dam upang sindihan muli ang mitsa ng mga malalakihang pagkilos upang depensahan ang lupa, buhay at kalayaan ng pambansang minorya laban sa mga mapanirang proyekto at patakaran. Ang maka-masa at progresibong pagbabago ay nasa ating aktibo at sama-samang pagkilos.
MAKA-MASA AT PROGRESIBONG PAGBABAGO, HINDI PURO PANGAKO!
ITULOY ANG USAPANG PANGKAPAYAPAAN!
ITIGIL ANG MILITARISASYON! ITIGILANG ALL-OUT-WAR AT MARTIAL LAW!
BOTAD! LABANAN ANG PASISMO!
DIGMANG BAYAN! KAPAYAPAAN NG BAYAN!
CPP/NDF-Bicol: Pahayag ng NDF-Bikol Hinggil sa Ikalawang Sona ni Duterte
NDF-Bicol propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Jul 24): Pahayag ng NDF-Bikol Hinggil sa Ikalawang Sona ni Duterte
Maria Roja Banua, Spokesperson
NDFP Bicol Region (Region V)
24 July 2017
Isang taon makalipas ang unang State of the Nation Address ni Rodrigo Duterte, nananatiling retorika ang kanyang mga pangako ng pagbabago. Walang laman ang kanyang mabikas na tindig sa pagpapapatupad ng mga makabuluhang reporma upang bigyang-daan ang pagtatapos ng armadong sigalot sa bansa. Postura lamang ang kanyang pagnanais nakumawala mula sa lagpas pitong dekadang kontrol ng imperyalistang US.
Simula pa lamang ng kanyang panunungkulan, tumitingkad na ang paninindigan niyang panatilihin ang paghahari ng uring malaking burgesya kumprador at panginoong may-lupa. Kasabay ng panununuyo niya sa kapitalistang kapangyarihang Tsina at Rusya para sa pautang at mga armas, nagpapatuloy ang panghihimasok ng imperyalistang US sa bansa. Sa halip na makabuluhang reporma ay patuloy niyang sinunod ang balangkas ng US sa usapin ng ekonomya, pulitika at higit sa lahat sa larangang military. Sa pagluluklok ng 59 retiradong sundalo at kapulisan sa mga susing pusisyon sa gubyerno, lalong pinalibutan ni Duterte ang kanyang sarili ng mga pinakamasusugid na alagad ng US na titiyak na mapapanatili ang pagiging mala-kolonyal at mala-pyudal ng lipunang Pilipino. Lalo niyang pinatindi’t pinasinsin ang todo-gera laban sa mamamayan.
Nakikiisa ang NDF-Bikol sa paghugos ng mamamayan sa lansangan upang singilin si Duterte sa kanyang mga pangakong napako at igiit ang kanilang mga emokratikong interes. Kinukundena rin ng NDF-Bikol at buong sambayanan ang todo-gera ng rehimeng Duterte at kanyang kasundaluhan. Ipinananawagan ng mamamayan ang pagtutuloy ng usapang pangkapayapaan at ang tapat na pagresolba sa mga panlipunang suliranin ng mamamayan sa balangkas ng Comprehensive Agreement on Socioeconomic Reforms (CASER).
Narito ang mapait na reyalidad ng unang isang taon ni Duterte sa pagkapangulo:
DUTERTENOMICS: PAGPAPATULOY NG NEOLIBERAL NA DISENYO NG IMPERYALISMO
Ipinagyayabang ng rehimeng Duterte na naiiba at progresibo umano ang kanyang plano para sa ekonomi-ya kumpara sa mga naunang rehimen. Ayon sa kanya, bibigyang prayoridad ang pagtitindig ng pambansang industriya at pauunlarin ang mga pinakamahalagang sektor ng ekonomya tulad ng agrikultura. Subalit hindi ito ang nilalaman ng Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022 na ilinunsad ng bagong rehimen.
Sentral na programa ng PDP 2017-2022 ang bukambibig na ‘Build, build, build’ ng mga teknokrata ni Duterte na umano ay magpapahusay sa imprastruktura ng bansa hanggang 90%. Ang mga proyektong nakapila sa naturang programa ay popondohan sa pamamagitan ng public-private partnership (PPP), official development assistance (ODA) o utang panlabas at kumbinasyon ng dalawa (hybrid PPP). Sa iskemang PPP, sasagutin ng pribadong sektor ang paggastos sa pagtatayo ng mga imprastruktura at pagkatapos ay pamamahalaan nila ito upang mabawi ang puhunan at kumita. Sa esensya, negosyo ang turing sa mga serbisyo at yutilidad na produkto ng PPP. Walang iba kundi mamamayan ang papasan sa dagdag na presyo at iba pang bayarin na malayang maipapataw ng mga namamahalang negosyante. Ang ODA naman ay manggagaling sa pautang ng malalaking kapitalistang bansa tulad ng Tsina. Muli, mamamayan ang papasan ng pagbabayad nito sa pamamagitan ng kanilang mga buwis. Tulad ng unang dalawa, kung hindi man mas malala pa nga, mamamayan ang gipit sa iskemang hybrid PPP. Dito, buwis ng mamamayan ang direktang tutustos sa gastos ng pagtatayo ng mga imprastruktura samantala ang pamamahala ay muling ipauubaya sa pribadong sektor. Bukod dito, ang mga itatayong imprastruktura tulad ng pagpapahusay o upgrade ng mga export enclaves, plantasyon at minahan, pagtatayo ng mga kalsada, daungan at paliparan ay magsisilbi lamang sa pangangailangan ng dayuhang pamilihan at ekonomya ng mga kapitalistang bansa.Ibig sabihin, sa likod ng propagandang magbubunsod umano ito ng ‘golden age of infrastructure’ at magpapalago sa ekonomiya ng bansa, isinusulong ng PDP ng rehimeng Duterte ang neoliberal na disenyong magluwal ng pinakapaborableng kundisyon para sa pagkakamal ng tubo mga dayuhang mamumuhunan. Samakatwid, papasanin ng taumbayan ang bulto ng gastusin mula sa pagtutustos, pagtatayo, at operasyon ng mga susing imprastruktura sa bansa samantala papakinabangan ng mga kapitalista ang kikitain sa operasyon ng mga ito.
Tahimik ang PDP sa mga usapin tungkol sa pagpapaunlad ng mga lokal na industriya at pagsuporta sa agrikultural na sektor. Sa agrikultura, walang kongkretong hakbangin upang lansagin ang mga anti-magsasakang batas at wakasan ang malawakang monopolyo sa lupa. Sa usapin ng pambansang industriyalisasyon, walang ilinatag na programa ang rehimeng Duterte upang bigyang daan ang pagpupundar nito. Kakambal ng lalong pagbibigay-luwag sa mga dayuhang korporasyon ay ang lalong pagkalugmok ng mga manggagawa.
Maria Roja Banua, Spokesperson
NDFP Bicol Region (Region V)
24 July 2017
Isang taon makalipas ang unang State of the Nation Address ni Rodrigo Duterte, nananatiling retorika ang kanyang mga pangako ng pagbabago. Walang laman ang kanyang mabikas na tindig sa pagpapapatupad ng mga makabuluhang reporma upang bigyang-daan ang pagtatapos ng armadong sigalot sa bansa. Postura lamang ang kanyang pagnanais nakumawala mula sa lagpas pitong dekadang kontrol ng imperyalistang US.
Simula pa lamang ng kanyang panunungkulan, tumitingkad na ang paninindigan niyang panatilihin ang paghahari ng uring malaking burgesya kumprador at panginoong may-lupa. Kasabay ng panununuyo niya sa kapitalistang kapangyarihang Tsina at Rusya para sa pautang at mga armas, nagpapatuloy ang panghihimasok ng imperyalistang US sa bansa. Sa halip na makabuluhang reporma ay patuloy niyang sinunod ang balangkas ng US sa usapin ng ekonomya, pulitika at higit sa lahat sa larangang military. Sa pagluluklok ng 59 retiradong sundalo at kapulisan sa mga susing pusisyon sa gubyerno, lalong pinalibutan ni Duterte ang kanyang sarili ng mga pinakamasusugid na alagad ng US na titiyak na mapapanatili ang pagiging mala-kolonyal at mala-pyudal ng lipunang Pilipino. Lalo niyang pinatindi’t pinasinsin ang todo-gera laban sa mamamayan.
Nakikiisa ang NDF-Bikol sa paghugos ng mamamayan sa lansangan upang singilin si Duterte sa kanyang mga pangakong napako at igiit ang kanilang mga emokratikong interes. Kinukundena rin ng NDF-Bikol at buong sambayanan ang todo-gera ng rehimeng Duterte at kanyang kasundaluhan. Ipinananawagan ng mamamayan ang pagtutuloy ng usapang pangkapayapaan at ang tapat na pagresolba sa mga panlipunang suliranin ng mamamayan sa balangkas ng Comprehensive Agreement on Socioeconomic Reforms (CASER).
Narito ang mapait na reyalidad ng unang isang taon ni Duterte sa pagkapangulo:
DUTERTENOMICS: PAGPAPATULOY NG NEOLIBERAL NA DISENYO NG IMPERYALISMO
Ipinagyayabang ng rehimeng Duterte na naiiba at progresibo umano ang kanyang plano para sa ekonomi-ya kumpara sa mga naunang rehimen. Ayon sa kanya, bibigyang prayoridad ang pagtitindig ng pambansang industriya at pauunlarin ang mga pinakamahalagang sektor ng ekonomya tulad ng agrikultura. Subalit hindi ito ang nilalaman ng Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022 na ilinunsad ng bagong rehimen.
Sentral na programa ng PDP 2017-2022 ang bukambibig na ‘Build, build, build’ ng mga teknokrata ni Duterte na umano ay magpapahusay sa imprastruktura ng bansa hanggang 90%. Ang mga proyektong nakapila sa naturang programa ay popondohan sa pamamagitan ng public-private partnership (PPP), official development assistance (ODA) o utang panlabas at kumbinasyon ng dalawa (hybrid PPP). Sa iskemang PPP, sasagutin ng pribadong sektor ang paggastos sa pagtatayo ng mga imprastruktura at pagkatapos ay pamamahalaan nila ito upang mabawi ang puhunan at kumita. Sa esensya, negosyo ang turing sa mga serbisyo at yutilidad na produkto ng PPP. Walang iba kundi mamamayan ang papasan sa dagdag na presyo at iba pang bayarin na malayang maipapataw ng mga namamahalang negosyante. Ang ODA naman ay manggagaling sa pautang ng malalaking kapitalistang bansa tulad ng Tsina. Muli, mamamayan ang papasan ng pagbabayad nito sa pamamagitan ng kanilang mga buwis. Tulad ng unang dalawa, kung hindi man mas malala pa nga, mamamayan ang gipit sa iskemang hybrid PPP. Dito, buwis ng mamamayan ang direktang tutustos sa gastos ng pagtatayo ng mga imprastruktura samantala ang pamamahala ay muling ipauubaya sa pribadong sektor. Bukod dito, ang mga itatayong imprastruktura tulad ng pagpapahusay o upgrade ng mga export enclaves, plantasyon at minahan, pagtatayo ng mga kalsada, daungan at paliparan ay magsisilbi lamang sa pangangailangan ng dayuhang pamilihan at ekonomya ng mga kapitalistang bansa.Ibig sabihin, sa likod ng propagandang magbubunsod umano ito ng ‘golden age of infrastructure’ at magpapalago sa ekonomiya ng bansa, isinusulong ng PDP ng rehimeng Duterte ang neoliberal na disenyong magluwal ng pinakapaborableng kundisyon para sa pagkakamal ng tubo mga dayuhang mamumuhunan. Samakatwid, papasanin ng taumbayan ang bulto ng gastusin mula sa pagtutustos, pagtatayo, at operasyon ng mga susing imprastruktura sa bansa samantala papakinabangan ng mga kapitalista ang kikitain sa operasyon ng mga ito.
Tahimik ang PDP sa mga usapin tungkol sa pagpapaunlad ng mga lokal na industriya at pagsuporta sa agrikultural na sektor. Sa agrikultura, walang kongkretong hakbangin upang lansagin ang mga anti-magsasakang batas at wakasan ang malawakang monopolyo sa lupa. Sa usapin ng pambansang industriyalisasyon, walang ilinatag na programa ang rehimeng Duterte upang bigyang daan ang pagpupundar nito. Kakambal ng lalong pagbibigay-luwag sa mga dayuhang korporasyon ay ang lalong pagkalugmok ng mga manggagawa.