NPA-Masbate propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 3): 2nd IBPA AT MICO, PINARUSAHAN NG BHB Masbate
Luz Del Mar, Spokesperson
NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)
3 July 2018
Binabati ng Jose Rapsing Command – Bagong Hukbong Bayan Masbate ang pulang kumander at mga mandirigma sa matagumpay na pagbigo sa patuloy na operasyong militar ng 2nd IBPA at MICO , kasama ang mga nagtaksil na dating NPA. Nagpupugay ang JRC-BHB Masbate sa mahusay na pagsasagawa ng pagpapasabog gamit ang command detonated explosive (CDX). Mahusay nilang hinarap ang imbing pakana ng mga sundalo laban sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan at mamamayang Masbatenyo.
Lulan ng 6 by 6 ang mga tropa ng 2nd IBPA, MICO at dating mga NPA sa So. Taham, tri-boundary ng Brgys. Tagbon, Jamorawon at Cagay, Milagros at Masbate City nang eksaktong pagtapat sa pwesto ng itinanim na CDX ay agad itong pinaputok ng sapper team na siyang nagparalisa sa sasakyan at mga sakay nito.
Agarang namatay sa lugar ang 7 tropa ng sundalo at di mabilang na mga sugatan na dinala sa pagamutan sa Masbate City. Ang ilang malubhang nasugatan ay dinala naman sa Legazpi City.
Bago pa man ang pagpapasabog ay may ilang araw nang nasa mga kabundukan ng bayan ng Milagros at Mobo ang tropa ng 2nd IBPA, MICO at dating mga NPA na nagsasagawa ng combat operation. Dahil sa bigong makahanap ng NPA ay pinagbalingan ng mga sundalo ang sibilyan na si Rolly Arcenal ng Brgy. Barag, Mobo na kasalukuyan noong nasa kanyang ulingan. Pinatay nila ang sibilyan at binaluktot ang kwento na isang npa umano si Arcenal at namatay sa labanan.
Habang sa Brgy. San Carlos, Milagros ay dinampot si Reneboy Mahinay para gawing giya, nang tumanggi ay binugbog ito.
Mahigpit na binabalaan ng JRC-BHB Masbate ang lahat ng mga sundalo at pulis na tigilan niyo ang pagpatay at pang-aabuso sa mga sibilyan tulad sa ginawa niyo kay Rolly Arcenal at sa iba pang mga nauna niyong pinatay at inabuso. Wala na ngang ginawa ang presidente niyong si Duterte upang umangat ang buhay ng mga tao ay pineperwisyo niyo pa ang kabuhayan nila. Lalo lamang pinapasahol ng mga sundalo at pulis ang miserable nang buhay ng mga tao sa pamamagitan ng walang puknat na operasyong militar kasama ang mga dating NPA na tinalikuran na ang paglilingkod sa sambayanan at ngayon ay masugid nang tagapagpatupad ng krimenlidad sa kanayunan.
Kaugnay dito ay nananawagan ang JRC-BHB Masbate sa mamamayang Masbatenyo na patuloy niyong suportahan ang tunay na hukbong tapat na naglilingkod sa inyo para sa tuloy-tuloy na pagsulong nito hanggang sa ganap na tagumpay. Digmang bayan ang sagot sa papatinding krisis sa lipunang Pilipino.
Mamamayang Masbatenyo at Pilipino, magkaisa, isulong ang Demokratikong Rebolusyong Bayan!
Sumapi sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan, ang tunay na Suldados san Pobre!
Kamtin ang Istratehikong Pagkapatas!
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
CPP/NDF-Southern Mindanao: More civilians falsely arrested, detained by fascist AFP
NDF-Southern Mindanao propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 4): More civilians falsely arrested, detained by fascist AFP
Rubi del Mundo, Spokesperson
NDFP Southern Mindanao
4 July 2018
The US-Duterte regime, with the Armed Forces of the Philippines at the forefront, has shamelessly woven tall tales of conquest with its parade of forced fake surrenders of civilians, illegal arrests and killings of Lumad, peasants and activists in Southern Mindanao.
The National Democratic Front condemns these abuses, made more atrocious by the day with the continued implementation of Martial Law in Mindanao, an edict that has traumatized tens of thousands of ordinary civilians.
Spokespersons of the 10th ID of the Philippine Army invariably claim of having “cleared” rural barangays of the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army, especially in Davao City. Almost always immediately, however, engagements between their fascist forces and NPA units undermine these fictitious claims.
On June 27, at around 3:30 in the afternoon, a firefight ensued between Red fighters and soldiers belonging to the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Battalion in Brgy. Carmen, Baguio District in Davao City.
Immediately after the incident, Jerry Liao, Ruel Linaw, Koko Bayok and Tata Atig, all farmers from Brgy. Tawan-tawan, Baguio District, were arrested by 3rd IB troops and held them incommunicado for 5 days. The four were only released on July 2. A day after the engagement, six civilians in nearby Brgy. Magsaysay, Marilog District were forced by the 3rd IB to “surrender” as NPA fighters. The AFP even falsely alleged in the media that during the firefight, Red fighters held 30 farm workers against their will. In fact, the NPA ensured that the farm workers were steered to safety as the Red fighters withdrew from the engagement.
Just a few days after the incident, Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Darren Comia of the 16th IB declared that they are recommending 83 barangays in Davao City as “cleared” of “CPP and NPA influence.”
What Lt. Comia means of being “cleared” is that their troops are able to conduct psywar operations, coerce a handful of residents to surrender as either NPA fighters or sympathizers, intimidate local mass leaders and barangay officials, pit civilians against each other, and force their terroristic presence in Lumad and peasant communities.
In his mind, Lt. Comia even gauges the extent of this “clearance” if they are able to conscript civilians to become CAFGU or paramilitary members and establish a military detachment with in the communities.
What the fascist thugs of the 10th ID actually imagine for Davao City is a virtual military garrison peppered with detachments to keep at bay the growing resistance against the US-Duterte’s anti-people programs and policies.
Duterte has wasted his remaining saving grace in spurning the peace negotiations between the GRP and the NDFP. He has allowed US imperialist stooges like National Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana to shoot down the peace talks, instead of heeding the clamor of the masses to resolve the roots of civil unrest.
Alas, Duterte has paved the path of his political demise by, inadvertently, agitating the Filipino people to oust him from power.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20180704-rnmore-civilians-falsely-arrested-detained-by-fascist-afp
Rubi del Mundo, Spokesperson
NDFP Southern Mindanao
4 July 2018
The US-Duterte regime, with the Armed Forces of the Philippines at the forefront, has shamelessly woven tall tales of conquest with its parade of forced fake surrenders of civilians, illegal arrests and killings of Lumad, peasants and activists in Southern Mindanao.
The National Democratic Front condemns these abuses, made more atrocious by the day with the continued implementation of Martial Law in Mindanao, an edict that has traumatized tens of thousands of ordinary civilians.
Spokespersons of the 10th ID of the Philippine Army invariably claim of having “cleared” rural barangays of the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army, especially in Davao City. Almost always immediately, however, engagements between their fascist forces and NPA units undermine these fictitious claims.
On June 27, at around 3:30 in the afternoon, a firefight ensued between Red fighters and soldiers belonging to the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Battalion in Brgy. Carmen, Baguio District in Davao City.
Immediately after the incident, Jerry Liao, Ruel Linaw, Koko Bayok and Tata Atig, all farmers from Brgy. Tawan-tawan, Baguio District, were arrested by 3rd IB troops and held them incommunicado for 5 days. The four were only released on July 2. A day after the engagement, six civilians in nearby Brgy. Magsaysay, Marilog District were forced by the 3rd IB to “surrender” as NPA fighters. The AFP even falsely alleged in the media that during the firefight, Red fighters held 30 farm workers against their will. In fact, the NPA ensured that the farm workers were steered to safety as the Red fighters withdrew from the engagement.
Just a few days after the incident, Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Darren Comia of the 16th IB declared that they are recommending 83 barangays in Davao City as “cleared” of “CPP and NPA influence.”
What Lt. Comia means of being “cleared” is that their troops are able to conduct psywar operations, coerce a handful of residents to surrender as either NPA fighters or sympathizers, intimidate local mass leaders and barangay officials, pit civilians against each other, and force their terroristic presence in Lumad and peasant communities.
In his mind, Lt. Comia even gauges the extent of this “clearance” if they are able to conscript civilians to become CAFGU or paramilitary members and establish a military detachment with in the communities.
What the fascist thugs of the 10th ID actually imagine for Davao City is a virtual military garrison peppered with detachments to keep at bay the growing resistance against the US-Duterte’s anti-people programs and policies.
Duterte has wasted his remaining saving grace in spurning the peace negotiations between the GRP and the NDFP. He has allowed US imperialist stooges like National Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana to shoot down the peace talks, instead of heeding the clamor of the masses to resolve the roots of civil unrest.
Alas, Duterte has paved the path of his political demise by, inadvertently, agitating the Filipino people to oust him from power.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20180704-rnmore-civilians-falsely-arrested-detained-by-fascist-afp
CPP/CPP-IB: Is Duterte prepping October martial law, CPP asks
CPP Information Bureau propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 4): Is Duterte prepping October martial law, CPP asks
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
4 July 2018
Press Release
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Wednesday lambasted officials of the Duterte government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for “singing a chorus of fantastic lies” in recent days which seem to be part of its plan to justify the declaration of nationwide martial law.
“These recent propaganda blitzkrieg was orchestrated by Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana’s fraud-filled message in a vain attempt to discredit the Party and revolutionary forces, sow confusion and justify increasingly militarist and repressive measures against the people,” the CPP noted.
The CPP dismissed as “a complete fabrication” claims made by Lorenzana that the Party has planned the “Oust Duterte Movement” to culminate by October. “Duterte’s henchmen are hyping-up this lie prompting many to ask, whether Duterte is, in fact, planning to declare martial law or a general crackdown by October.”
The CPP slammed the Duterte regime for claiming that a “Church-Left” alliance is behind the supposed ouster plan. “With Duterte’s tirades against the Church and religious beliefs having backfired, he is now accusing bishops and church leaders of conniving with ‘terrorists’ in the hope of casting aspersions against his critics.”
“Having cancelled peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), the Department of Justice (DOJ) is now rushing its proscription petition against the CPP and the New People’s Army (NPA), which accuses activists, human rights advocates, indigenous people’s leaders and other political personalities of being leaders of the CPP and NPA,” said the CPP. “This petition aims to strike fear against the growing anti-fascist movement and stifle the burgeoning workers’ strikes and protests. To tag legal activists and critics as terrorists is a desperate attempt to quell the masses’ growing dissent and discontent.”
The CPP took a swipe at Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque’s recent claims that living conditions in the Philippines have improved and that many Filipino families have already escaped poverty. “Roque is daydreaming. He is too snug and cloistered in his ivory tower in Malacanang that he cannot even bother to look outside the window and see how more and more workers and peasants are being impoverished. He is actually doing Duterte a disservice by making fantabulous claims which the Filipino people dismiss as extreme foolishness,” the CPP said.
The CPP also reiterated that the “local peace talks” being promoted by Lorenzana will not prosper. “All units of the NPA and committees of the CPP are united under the central leadership of the Party. The Party and NPA fully support the Negotiating Panel of the NDFP in its representation of all revolutionary forces in negotiations with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines,” said the CPP.
“So-called localized peace talks only seek to obscure the ruthlessness and brutality of the all-out military offensives of the AFP,” said the CPP. “Under Oplan Kapayapaan, the AFP is mounting all-out offensives and laying siege on hundreds of barrios, carrying out aerial bombardments and perpetrating extrajudicial killings ala Tokhang, and other grave abuses against the peasants, national minorities and other oppressed peoples.”
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
4 July 2018
Press Release
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Wednesday lambasted officials of the Duterte government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for “singing a chorus of fantastic lies” in recent days which seem to be part of its plan to justify the declaration of nationwide martial law.
“These recent propaganda blitzkrieg was orchestrated by Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana’s fraud-filled message in a vain attempt to discredit the Party and revolutionary forces, sow confusion and justify increasingly militarist and repressive measures against the people,” the CPP noted.
The CPP dismissed as “a complete fabrication” claims made by Lorenzana that the Party has planned the “Oust Duterte Movement” to culminate by October. “Duterte’s henchmen are hyping-up this lie prompting many to ask, whether Duterte is, in fact, planning to declare martial law or a general crackdown by October.”
The CPP slammed the Duterte regime for claiming that a “Church-Left” alliance is behind the supposed ouster plan. “With Duterte’s tirades against the Church and religious beliefs having backfired, he is now accusing bishops and church leaders of conniving with ‘terrorists’ in the hope of casting aspersions against his critics.”
“Having cancelled peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), the Department of Justice (DOJ) is now rushing its proscription petition against the CPP and the New People’s Army (NPA), which accuses activists, human rights advocates, indigenous people’s leaders and other political personalities of being leaders of the CPP and NPA,” said the CPP. “This petition aims to strike fear against the growing anti-fascist movement and stifle the burgeoning workers’ strikes and protests. To tag legal activists and critics as terrorists is a desperate attempt to quell the masses’ growing dissent and discontent.”
The CPP took a swipe at Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque’s recent claims that living conditions in the Philippines have improved and that many Filipino families have already escaped poverty. “Roque is daydreaming. He is too snug and cloistered in his ivory tower in Malacanang that he cannot even bother to look outside the window and see how more and more workers and peasants are being impoverished. He is actually doing Duterte a disservice by making fantabulous claims which the Filipino people dismiss as extreme foolishness,” the CPP said.
The CPP also reiterated that the “local peace talks” being promoted by Lorenzana will not prosper. “All units of the NPA and committees of the CPP are united under the central leadership of the Party. The Party and NPA fully support the Negotiating Panel of the NDFP in its representation of all revolutionary forces in negotiations with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines,” said the CPP.
“So-called localized peace talks only seek to obscure the ruthlessness and brutality of the all-out military offensives of the AFP,” said the CPP. “Under Oplan Kapayapaan, the AFP is mounting all-out offensives and laying siege on hundreds of barrios, carrying out aerial bombardments and perpetrating extrajudicial killings ala Tokhang, and other grave abuses against the peasants, national minorities and other oppressed peoples.”
CPP/NPA-Batangas: Pagpatay kay Mayor Antonio Halili: Mukha ng Malaganap na Karahasan at Pamamaslang; Martial Law sa Batangas!
NPA-Batangas propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 4): Pagpatay kay Mayor Antonio Halili: Mukha ng Malaganap na Karahasan at Pamamaslang; Martial Law sa Batangas!
Apolinario Matienza, Spokesperson
NPA-Batangas (Eduardo Dagli Command)
4 July 2018
Hindi na natapos ni Walk of Shame Mayor Antonio Halili ang flag raising ceremony sa Tanauan City, nang tumumba ito sa isang tama ng baril hanggang bawian na ito ng buhay. Inisnayp ang alkalde mula sa masukal na bahagi, hindi kalayuan sa kinatatayuan nito. Sa kabila ng maraming empleyado ng City Hall, kagawad ng Sangguniang Bayan, bodyguards at mga kapulisan ng bayan ay walang kahirap hirap na naisagawa ang pamamaslang. Samantala, nananatiling walang lead ang kapulisan sa gunman at kahit pa ang baril na ginamit ay hindi ma-identify ng mga ito. Madaming kwento at anggulong mga tinitingnan, subalit ang totoo sa napakaraming kwento at mga espekulasyon sa pangyayaring ito, tila isang teleseryeng naging pang-araw araw na ang istorya ng pamamaslang sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Duterte.
Mga magsasaka, manggagawa, maralita, katutubo, media, pari, natokhang at ngayon isang Mayor na naman ang biktima na siyang laman ng bawat pahayagan. Sa kabila ng mga di mabilang na eksena, hindi nagbabago ang the end ng kwento – laging walang napaparusahan. Ganito ang setting ng kwento sa dalawang taon ng rehimeng US Duterte – ang climax ng istorya ay ang culture of violence at ang wakas ay ang culture of impunity. Dahil ang moral ng istorya para kay Duterte, hindi dapat lumaban ang mamamayan sa pamamalakad ng gobyerno.
Matatandaang noong Hunyo 10 noong nakaraang taon, isang mayor din ang napaslang sa Batangas. Walang iniwang pagkakaiba ang pagkakapaslang ng dating Mayor ng Balete na si Joven Hidalgo sa kung paano pinaslang si Mayor Halili. Isang tama ng baril sa pamamagitan ng isnayp ang ikinamatay ng dalawang alkalde. Ang una, pinatay sa karamihan ng manonood ng basketball, samantalang ang huli ay inisnayp sa flag raising ceremony. Bukod sa parehong istilo ng pagkakapaslang, parehas na napalagay ang dalawang Alkalde sa listahan ng NARCO Politicians na inilabas ng NAPOLCOM. Kasunod nito, sinuspinde ang police powers ng mga ito, alinsunod sa Section 51 (b) ng RA 6975. Matapos ito, ilang panahon ay napaslang ang mga alkalde. Habang kasama din sa listahang ito ang Lemery Mayor na si Eulalio Alilio at Ibaan Mayor Toreja, na hindi nalalayong sapitin din ang ganitong pangyayari.
Nabantog si Halili, sa kanyang Walk of Shame na kalaunan ay tinawag nang Walk for Change, sa kanyang diumano’y krusada kontra krimen at droga. Sa kabila ng krusadang ito ay pinangalanan siya ni Duterte sa NARCOLIST bilang protector ng illegal na droga sa siyudad ng Tanauan. Katunayan ng pagdidiin ni Duterte dito, sa isang okasyon sa Maasin City, Samar Leyte, sinabi nito na ang Walk of Shame ni Halili ay “pretense” o pagpapanggap lamang na ayaw nito sa droga, dahil ang totoo protektor diumano ito ng iligal na droga. Taliwas ito sa mabilisang pahayag at paghuhugas kamay ni Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque ilang oras lamang matapos mangyari ang pamamaslang na si Halili ay kaisa ng administrasyong Duterte sa laban kontra droga. Nagtatangkang maghugas kamay ang Malacanang sa pangyayari samantalang si Duterte naman ay tahasang nagpapahayag na inaasahan nang maganap ang ganitong pagpaslang sa balangkas ng kanyang gera kontra droga.
Pangalawa na si Halili sa napaslang na Mayor sa Batangas, samantalang ika-siyam naman ito sa buong bansa sa ilalim ng panunungkulan ni Duterte. Sa lahat ng ito, nananatiling walang nananagot sa mga naganap na pamamamaslang .
Ang RUS-Duterte ang nasa likuran ng maramihang pamamaslang na nagaganap sa bayan ngayon. Siya ang kontrabida sa kwento at buhay ng mamamayang Pilipino. Sagad sa buto ang kasamaan nito na ikinamumuhi ng mga Batangueño. Gamit ang kanyang karosel ng gyera kontra droga at terorismo upang paslangin ang lahat ng mga mamamayan na tumututol at lumalaban sa kanyang mga anti-mamamayang patakaran, karahasan at mga panlilinlang upang bigyang daan ang proyekto ng mga malalaking burgesya kumprador-panginoong maylupa at dayuhan sa bansa. Target na din ng pamamaslang na ito ang mga opisyal ng gobyerno na hindi kakampi ni Duterte. Kahit pa ang mga kaparian ay hindi na nakaliligtas, tulad ng nangyari kay Fr. Richmond Nilo ng Nueva Ecija at sa napakarami pang pari at taong simbahan bago ito na pawang masugid na kritiko ni Duterte. Kung ang mga kilalang tao na ito at alagad ng diyos ay defenseless o walang kakayanan sa umiiral na culture of violence, paano pa ang mga maliit na mamamayan na walang boses sa lipunan? Wala nang pinakikinggan at kinikilala si Duterte kundi ang sariling kapangyarihan nito at kahit pa ang karapatan sa pananampalataya ng mamamayan ay nilapastangan nito sa kanyang garapalang pagkutya at pagtawag na ‘stupid God’ ang sagradong pinaniniwalaan ng mga mamamayang Kristyano. Sa isang banda, sa pagkakalat naman nito ng sapantahang may kaugnayan sa Kaliwa ang simbahang Katoliko, ikinokondisyon nito na maging lehitimong target ang mga taong simbahan dahil sa nagiging pagtutol ng mga ito sa hindi makataong patakaran ni Duterte.
Sino pa ang magtatanggol para sa kagalingan ng mamamayan, kung iisa ang kinasasapitan ng mga lumalaban para sa kanilang karapatan? Ito ang nais likhain ni Duterte: ang wala nang tumutol sa kanyang mga anti-mamamayang patakaran; ang maghasik ng absolutong karahasan para sa absolutong kapangyarihan.
Hindi kaiba ang ganitong sitwasyon sa pangkabuuang nagaganap ngayon sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng lalawigan matapos dagsaan ng bata-batalyong deployment ng militar. Militarisado at tinayuan ng mga kampo at detachments ang mga sibilyang komunidad na may pakikibaka ang mamamayan sa kanilang tirikan at sakahan, upang bigyang daan ang proyekto ng malalaking burgesya kumprador at panginoong maylupa. Martial Law na ang umiiral sa Batangas sa ginagawa nitong karahasan, intimidasyon at pamamaslang sa itinuturing nito na kalaban ng gubyerno.
Unti-unti nang nabubulok ang Rehimeng US Duterte, kaya mahigpit ang pangungunyapit nito sa kanyang pwesto sa pamamagitan ng kanyang absolutong karahasan para makapanatili sa kanyang kapangyarihan. Suklam na suklam na ang mamamayan sa satanikong paghahari nito, at anumang oras ay sasambulat ang galit ng mamamayan na hindi na mapipigilan nang anupamang humaharang na kasamaan nito. Ginising na ng kagutuman, paghihikahos, pamamaslang, pandarahas at malakas na hiyaw ng katarungan ang mamamayan sa lalawigan. Hindi na kayang sikmurain pa ng mamamayan ang ganitong tanawin sa araw araw. Iisa ang sigaw ng mga biktima, mga panggitnang pwersa, taong simbahan at maralita, magsasaka at mga manggagawa, hustisya para sa lahat. Samantalang naglalatang na ang apoy sa dibdib ng mamamayan, ang kultura ng karahasan at kawalan ng pananagutan ay tatapatan ng kultura ng paglaban ng mamamayan.
Ang mamamayan ang tagapaglikha ng kasaysayan, pipiliin ng mamamayan ang magandang wakas ng kuwento ng rehimen ni Duterte, kaparis ng sinapit ni Marcos, papatalsikin ito ng mamamayan at kamumuhian ang kamay na bakal ng butangero, pasista, walang paggalang sa karapatang pantao, lapastangan sa kababaihan at berdugong pangulo. Ang karahasang ipinataw nito sa mamamayan, ang siyang tatapos sa masaklap na araw ng kanyang panunungkulan, katulad ng sinapit ng maraming napaslang, sinisipat na ng mamamayan ang pagbagsak ng Rehimeng US-Duterte.
Mamamayang Batangueño, Magkaisa! Biguin ang Martial Law ng rehimeng US-Duterte!
Sagot sa Martial Law, Digmang Bayan!
Apolinario Matienza, Spokesperson
NPA-Batangas (Eduardo Dagli Command)
4 July 2018
Hindi na natapos ni Walk of Shame Mayor Antonio Halili ang flag raising ceremony sa Tanauan City, nang tumumba ito sa isang tama ng baril hanggang bawian na ito ng buhay. Inisnayp ang alkalde mula sa masukal na bahagi, hindi kalayuan sa kinatatayuan nito. Sa kabila ng maraming empleyado ng City Hall, kagawad ng Sangguniang Bayan, bodyguards at mga kapulisan ng bayan ay walang kahirap hirap na naisagawa ang pamamaslang. Samantala, nananatiling walang lead ang kapulisan sa gunman at kahit pa ang baril na ginamit ay hindi ma-identify ng mga ito. Madaming kwento at anggulong mga tinitingnan, subalit ang totoo sa napakaraming kwento at mga espekulasyon sa pangyayaring ito, tila isang teleseryeng naging pang-araw araw na ang istorya ng pamamaslang sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Duterte.
Mga magsasaka, manggagawa, maralita, katutubo, media, pari, natokhang at ngayon isang Mayor na naman ang biktima na siyang laman ng bawat pahayagan. Sa kabila ng mga di mabilang na eksena, hindi nagbabago ang the end ng kwento – laging walang napaparusahan. Ganito ang setting ng kwento sa dalawang taon ng rehimeng US Duterte – ang climax ng istorya ay ang culture of violence at ang wakas ay ang culture of impunity. Dahil ang moral ng istorya para kay Duterte, hindi dapat lumaban ang mamamayan sa pamamalakad ng gobyerno.
Matatandaang noong Hunyo 10 noong nakaraang taon, isang mayor din ang napaslang sa Batangas. Walang iniwang pagkakaiba ang pagkakapaslang ng dating Mayor ng Balete na si Joven Hidalgo sa kung paano pinaslang si Mayor Halili. Isang tama ng baril sa pamamagitan ng isnayp ang ikinamatay ng dalawang alkalde. Ang una, pinatay sa karamihan ng manonood ng basketball, samantalang ang huli ay inisnayp sa flag raising ceremony. Bukod sa parehong istilo ng pagkakapaslang, parehas na napalagay ang dalawang Alkalde sa listahan ng NARCO Politicians na inilabas ng NAPOLCOM. Kasunod nito, sinuspinde ang police powers ng mga ito, alinsunod sa Section 51 (b) ng RA 6975. Matapos ito, ilang panahon ay napaslang ang mga alkalde. Habang kasama din sa listahang ito ang Lemery Mayor na si Eulalio Alilio at Ibaan Mayor Toreja, na hindi nalalayong sapitin din ang ganitong pangyayari.
Nabantog si Halili, sa kanyang Walk of Shame na kalaunan ay tinawag nang Walk for Change, sa kanyang diumano’y krusada kontra krimen at droga. Sa kabila ng krusadang ito ay pinangalanan siya ni Duterte sa NARCOLIST bilang protector ng illegal na droga sa siyudad ng Tanauan. Katunayan ng pagdidiin ni Duterte dito, sa isang okasyon sa Maasin City, Samar Leyte, sinabi nito na ang Walk of Shame ni Halili ay “pretense” o pagpapanggap lamang na ayaw nito sa droga, dahil ang totoo protektor diumano ito ng iligal na droga. Taliwas ito sa mabilisang pahayag at paghuhugas kamay ni Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque ilang oras lamang matapos mangyari ang pamamaslang na si Halili ay kaisa ng administrasyong Duterte sa laban kontra droga. Nagtatangkang maghugas kamay ang Malacanang sa pangyayari samantalang si Duterte naman ay tahasang nagpapahayag na inaasahan nang maganap ang ganitong pagpaslang sa balangkas ng kanyang gera kontra droga.
Pangalawa na si Halili sa napaslang na Mayor sa Batangas, samantalang ika-siyam naman ito sa buong bansa sa ilalim ng panunungkulan ni Duterte. Sa lahat ng ito, nananatiling walang nananagot sa mga naganap na pamamamaslang .
Ang RUS-Duterte ang nasa likuran ng maramihang pamamaslang na nagaganap sa bayan ngayon. Siya ang kontrabida sa kwento at buhay ng mamamayang Pilipino. Sagad sa buto ang kasamaan nito na ikinamumuhi ng mga Batangueño. Gamit ang kanyang karosel ng gyera kontra droga at terorismo upang paslangin ang lahat ng mga mamamayan na tumututol at lumalaban sa kanyang mga anti-mamamayang patakaran, karahasan at mga panlilinlang upang bigyang daan ang proyekto ng mga malalaking burgesya kumprador-panginoong maylupa at dayuhan sa bansa. Target na din ng pamamaslang na ito ang mga opisyal ng gobyerno na hindi kakampi ni Duterte. Kahit pa ang mga kaparian ay hindi na nakaliligtas, tulad ng nangyari kay Fr. Richmond Nilo ng Nueva Ecija at sa napakarami pang pari at taong simbahan bago ito na pawang masugid na kritiko ni Duterte. Kung ang mga kilalang tao na ito at alagad ng diyos ay defenseless o walang kakayanan sa umiiral na culture of violence, paano pa ang mga maliit na mamamayan na walang boses sa lipunan? Wala nang pinakikinggan at kinikilala si Duterte kundi ang sariling kapangyarihan nito at kahit pa ang karapatan sa pananampalataya ng mamamayan ay nilapastangan nito sa kanyang garapalang pagkutya at pagtawag na ‘stupid God’ ang sagradong pinaniniwalaan ng mga mamamayang Kristyano. Sa isang banda, sa pagkakalat naman nito ng sapantahang may kaugnayan sa Kaliwa ang simbahang Katoliko, ikinokondisyon nito na maging lehitimong target ang mga taong simbahan dahil sa nagiging pagtutol ng mga ito sa hindi makataong patakaran ni Duterte.
Sino pa ang magtatanggol para sa kagalingan ng mamamayan, kung iisa ang kinasasapitan ng mga lumalaban para sa kanilang karapatan? Ito ang nais likhain ni Duterte: ang wala nang tumutol sa kanyang mga anti-mamamayang patakaran; ang maghasik ng absolutong karahasan para sa absolutong kapangyarihan.
Hindi kaiba ang ganitong sitwasyon sa pangkabuuang nagaganap ngayon sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng lalawigan matapos dagsaan ng bata-batalyong deployment ng militar. Militarisado at tinayuan ng mga kampo at detachments ang mga sibilyang komunidad na may pakikibaka ang mamamayan sa kanilang tirikan at sakahan, upang bigyang daan ang proyekto ng malalaking burgesya kumprador at panginoong maylupa. Martial Law na ang umiiral sa Batangas sa ginagawa nitong karahasan, intimidasyon at pamamaslang sa itinuturing nito na kalaban ng gubyerno.
Unti-unti nang nabubulok ang Rehimeng US Duterte, kaya mahigpit ang pangungunyapit nito sa kanyang pwesto sa pamamagitan ng kanyang absolutong karahasan para makapanatili sa kanyang kapangyarihan. Suklam na suklam na ang mamamayan sa satanikong paghahari nito, at anumang oras ay sasambulat ang galit ng mamamayan na hindi na mapipigilan nang anupamang humaharang na kasamaan nito. Ginising na ng kagutuman, paghihikahos, pamamaslang, pandarahas at malakas na hiyaw ng katarungan ang mamamayan sa lalawigan. Hindi na kayang sikmurain pa ng mamamayan ang ganitong tanawin sa araw araw. Iisa ang sigaw ng mga biktima, mga panggitnang pwersa, taong simbahan at maralita, magsasaka at mga manggagawa, hustisya para sa lahat. Samantalang naglalatang na ang apoy sa dibdib ng mamamayan, ang kultura ng karahasan at kawalan ng pananagutan ay tatapatan ng kultura ng paglaban ng mamamayan.
Ang mamamayan ang tagapaglikha ng kasaysayan, pipiliin ng mamamayan ang magandang wakas ng kuwento ng rehimen ni Duterte, kaparis ng sinapit ni Marcos, papatalsikin ito ng mamamayan at kamumuhian ang kamay na bakal ng butangero, pasista, walang paggalang sa karapatang pantao, lapastangan sa kababaihan at berdugong pangulo. Ang karahasang ipinataw nito sa mamamayan, ang siyang tatapos sa masaklap na araw ng kanyang panunungkulan, katulad ng sinapit ng maraming napaslang, sinisipat na ng mamamayan ang pagbagsak ng Rehimeng US-Duterte.
Mamamayang Batangueño, Magkaisa! Biguin ang Martial Law ng rehimeng US-Duterte!
Sagot sa Martial Law, Digmang Bayan!
CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Col. Alberto Desoyo sang 303rd BdePA, Naglubid sang mga Kabutigan kag Pagpatalang
NPA-Central Negros propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 4): Col. Alberto Desoyo sang 303rd BdePA, Naglubid sang mga Kabutigan kag Pagpatalang
JB Regalado, Spokesperson
NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)
4 July 2018
Hulyo 3, 2018 naglanog ang mga linubid nga mga kabutigan sang 303rd BdePA halin sa mga pahayag ni Col. Alberto Desoyo sa media, kadungan sa mga ginpalapta nga mga dis-impormasyon kag psywar operations sang AFP sa pungsod paagi sa tri-media kag social media.
Gintursi pa ni Desoyo ang kamtuoran nga kuno “ang CPP-NPA-NDF ang nagkansela sang Peacetalks sa tunga sang NDFP kag GRP”. Ang matuod, matapos ang Command Conference sang AFP sadtong Hunyo 14, 2018 si Duterte mismo ang gilayon nagpahayag nga indi niya ipadayon ang pag-istoryahanay sa kalinong sa NDFP sa gintalana nga liwat nga pagbukas sang peacetalk sa Hunyo 28, 2018 sa Oslo, Norway. Resulta ini sang back channel talks diin ginkasugtan sang magkatimbang nga bahin sadtong June 9, 2018. Rason niya nga ikonsulta pa sini ang mga “stakeholders” sa pihak sang mga singgitan kag panawagan na sang pumuluyong Pilipino nga ipadayon ang Peacetalks.
Ang “stakeholders” nga ginasiling ni Duterte indi pa ang malapad nga pumuluyong Pilipino ilabe na ang sahing mangunguma kag mamumugon kundi ang mga maki-imperyalista, burukrata kapitalista mga elitista kag pasistang AFP sa pungsod.
Upod sa manabaw nga rason sa pagpamalibad ni Duterte, nagagiit pa ini nga tigayunon ang peacetalk sa Pilipinas. Ini nga panindugan ni Duterte nagalapas kag nagadalasa sang The Hague Joint Declarations nga amo ang nagatalana sang kinaiya, katuyuan, agenda kag mekanismo sang Peacetalk. Indi sinsero si Duterte sang tunay kag malawigon nga kalinong sa pungsod. Wala man ini nagarespetar sang handum sang pumuluyo Pilipino sa pagpatuman sang matuod nga reporma sa duta kag pungsodnon nga industrialisasyon nga amo ang unod sang Comprehensive Agreement on Socio and Economic Reforms.
Samtang si Delfin Lorenzana sang DND nagamaniobra man sang pagsabotahe sang Peacetalk kag nagapalapta sang mga pagpakalain batok sa CPP-NPA-NDF sa mando sang US-CIA’s.
Ang kamatuoran, garapal nga gin-anunsyo sang US-Duterte ang pagkanselar sang gintalana na nga skedyul sang pagpakigsugilanon sa kalinong para indi na mapunggan ang ginkasa na nga operasyon militar batok sa CPP-NPA. Sa sulod sang 3-6 ka bulan, handum sang AFP upod kay Duterte nga mapagamay ang kusog sang NPA sa 50% na lamang sa bilog nga pungsod kag madamo sang mga erya ukon lugar nga madeklarar nga “insurgency-free.” Tuyo man sini nga pang-arestuhon ang mga NDFP Consultants agud ang ika-5 nga round sang Peacetalk mahimo na lamang nga pag-istoryahanay sang pagpasurender.
Propaganda na lamang ang ginasugid ni Col. Desoyo nga gusto sang AFP partikular 303rd BdePA nga nagapanawagan ini nga “ipadayon ang Peacetalk.”
Wala sang may ginpakita ang AFP nga may sinseridad ini sa Peacetalk. Sa baylo, ila ginpasingki ang militarisasyon sa mga kaumahan.
Sa Central Negros lang, halin sadtong Marso 26, 2018-Hunyo 24, 2018 nag-agum ini sang 5 ka serye sang Battalion Operations nga ginlunsar sang 303rd Brigade Philippine Army.
Labi pa nga ginpasingki ang militarisasyon sang gindugang ang 94th IBPA sadtong Hunyo 12, 2018 sa Central Negros.
Madamo sang recorded nga mga kaso kag sirkumtansya nga nakuha sang LPC-NPA angot sa nakomiter sang 62nd IBPA, 79th IBPA kag 94th IBPA nga mga paglapas sa CARHRIHL kag pagbayolar sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung sa pumuluyo dira sa mga kaumahan partikular sa binukid sang Guihulngan kag Canlaon sa Negros Oriental kalakip na sa Magallon, Isabela kag La Castellana sa Negros Occidental. Ehemplo sini ang pagtiner sa mga buluthuan, simbahan, puluy-an sang mga mangunguma kag iban pa diin ginhimo nga kampo militar. Pilit nga pagpa-ako nga mga katapo sang NPA, suporter sang NPA kag paghaylo sa pagsurender.
Kabutigan man ang ginsugid ni Desoyo nga madamo sang nagsurender nga NPA sa isla.
Ang mga pagpanghaylo sang AFP sa NPA nga magsurender isa ka padugi sang “psywar tactics” sang militar. Samtang ang “CLIP program” pasalig, panginto kag pagpatalang.
Sa baylo bangud sang husto nga pagpamuno sang Partido Komunista sang Pilipinas, sa sulod sang 5 lang ka bulan (Pebrero 2018-June 2018), ang LPC-NPA naglab-ot sa 30-35% ang pagdako sang kusog. Ini naghalin sa hanay sang mga intelektwal, mamumugon, mga hubin kag maayo nga anak sang mangunguma. Taas-moral kag handa ini sa tanan nga tion agud komprehensibo nga atubangon ang tudo-gyerang Oplan Kapayapaan sang rehimeng US-Duterte. Ining mga bag-o nga rekrut sang NPA, maisog kag determinado sa pagtukod sang baseng masa, pagsulong sang armadong paghimakas kag agraryong rebolusyon. Suportado sang malapad nga pumuluyo nga nagahandum sang tunay, makatarunganon kag malawigon nga kalinong sa pungsod diin mapaluntad ang demokrasya, kahilwayan kag hustisya sosyal.
JB Regalado, Spokesperson
NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)
4 July 2018
Hulyo 3, 2018 naglanog ang mga linubid nga mga kabutigan sang 303rd BdePA halin sa mga pahayag ni Col. Alberto Desoyo sa media, kadungan sa mga ginpalapta nga mga dis-impormasyon kag psywar operations sang AFP sa pungsod paagi sa tri-media kag social media.
Gintursi pa ni Desoyo ang kamtuoran nga kuno “ang CPP-NPA-NDF ang nagkansela sang Peacetalks sa tunga sang NDFP kag GRP”. Ang matuod, matapos ang Command Conference sang AFP sadtong Hunyo 14, 2018 si Duterte mismo ang gilayon nagpahayag nga indi niya ipadayon ang pag-istoryahanay sa kalinong sa NDFP sa gintalana nga liwat nga pagbukas sang peacetalk sa Hunyo 28, 2018 sa Oslo, Norway. Resulta ini sang back channel talks diin ginkasugtan sang magkatimbang nga bahin sadtong June 9, 2018. Rason niya nga ikonsulta pa sini ang mga “stakeholders” sa pihak sang mga singgitan kag panawagan na sang pumuluyong Pilipino nga ipadayon ang Peacetalks.
Ang “stakeholders” nga ginasiling ni Duterte indi pa ang malapad nga pumuluyong Pilipino ilabe na ang sahing mangunguma kag mamumugon kundi ang mga maki-imperyalista, burukrata kapitalista mga elitista kag pasistang AFP sa pungsod.
Upod sa manabaw nga rason sa pagpamalibad ni Duterte, nagagiit pa ini nga tigayunon ang peacetalk sa Pilipinas. Ini nga panindugan ni Duterte nagalapas kag nagadalasa sang The Hague Joint Declarations nga amo ang nagatalana sang kinaiya, katuyuan, agenda kag mekanismo sang Peacetalk. Indi sinsero si Duterte sang tunay kag malawigon nga kalinong sa pungsod. Wala man ini nagarespetar sang handum sang pumuluyo Pilipino sa pagpatuman sang matuod nga reporma sa duta kag pungsodnon nga industrialisasyon nga amo ang unod sang Comprehensive Agreement on Socio and Economic Reforms.
Samtang si Delfin Lorenzana sang DND nagamaniobra man sang pagsabotahe sang Peacetalk kag nagapalapta sang mga pagpakalain batok sa CPP-NPA-NDF sa mando sang US-CIA’s.
Ang kamatuoran, garapal nga gin-anunsyo sang US-Duterte ang pagkanselar sang gintalana na nga skedyul sang pagpakigsugilanon sa kalinong para indi na mapunggan ang ginkasa na nga operasyon militar batok sa CPP-NPA. Sa sulod sang 3-6 ka bulan, handum sang AFP upod kay Duterte nga mapagamay ang kusog sang NPA sa 50% na lamang sa bilog nga pungsod kag madamo sang mga erya ukon lugar nga madeklarar nga “insurgency-free.” Tuyo man sini nga pang-arestuhon ang mga NDFP Consultants agud ang ika-5 nga round sang Peacetalk mahimo na lamang nga pag-istoryahanay sang pagpasurender.
Propaganda na lamang ang ginasugid ni Col. Desoyo nga gusto sang AFP partikular 303rd BdePA nga nagapanawagan ini nga “ipadayon ang Peacetalk.”
Wala sang may ginpakita ang AFP nga may sinseridad ini sa Peacetalk. Sa baylo, ila ginpasingki ang militarisasyon sa mga kaumahan.
Sa Central Negros lang, halin sadtong Marso 26, 2018-Hunyo 24, 2018 nag-agum ini sang 5 ka serye sang Battalion Operations nga ginlunsar sang 303rd Brigade Philippine Army.
Labi pa nga ginpasingki ang militarisasyon sang gindugang ang 94th IBPA sadtong Hunyo 12, 2018 sa Central Negros.
Madamo sang recorded nga mga kaso kag sirkumtansya nga nakuha sang LPC-NPA angot sa nakomiter sang 62nd IBPA, 79th IBPA kag 94th IBPA nga mga paglapas sa CARHRIHL kag pagbayolar sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung sa pumuluyo dira sa mga kaumahan partikular sa binukid sang Guihulngan kag Canlaon sa Negros Oriental kalakip na sa Magallon, Isabela kag La Castellana sa Negros Occidental. Ehemplo sini ang pagtiner sa mga buluthuan, simbahan, puluy-an sang mga mangunguma kag iban pa diin ginhimo nga kampo militar. Pilit nga pagpa-ako nga mga katapo sang NPA, suporter sang NPA kag paghaylo sa pagsurender.
Kabutigan man ang ginsugid ni Desoyo nga madamo sang nagsurender nga NPA sa isla.
Ang mga pagpanghaylo sang AFP sa NPA nga magsurender isa ka padugi sang “psywar tactics” sang militar. Samtang ang “CLIP program” pasalig, panginto kag pagpatalang.
Sa baylo bangud sang husto nga pagpamuno sang Partido Komunista sang Pilipinas, sa sulod sang 5 lang ka bulan (Pebrero 2018-June 2018), ang LPC-NPA naglab-ot sa 30-35% ang pagdako sang kusog. Ini naghalin sa hanay sang mga intelektwal, mamumugon, mga hubin kag maayo nga anak sang mangunguma. Taas-moral kag handa ini sa tanan nga tion agud komprehensibo nga atubangon ang tudo-gyerang Oplan Kapayapaan sang rehimeng US-Duterte. Ining mga bag-o nga rekrut sang NPA, maisog kag determinado sa pagtukod sang baseng masa, pagsulong sang armadong paghimakas kag agraryong rebolusyon. Suportado sang malapad nga pumuluyo nga nagahandum sang tunay, makatarunganon kag malawigon nga kalinong sa pungsod diin mapaluntad ang demokrasya, kahilwayan kag hustisya sosyal.
CPP/CPP-IB: Reaction to Dureza’s statement today
CPP Information Bureau propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 5): Reaction to Dureza’s statement today
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
5 July 2018
Press Release
Dureza’s claim today that Duterte’s doors for resuming peace talks with the NDFP “are still open” is an outright lie. This is a desperate PR stunt to obscure the fact that the GRP has repeatedly terminated the talks and make it appear that it is the NDFP which closed its doors.
Notice that Dureza’s statement does not make any mention at all of the fact that Duterte issued Presidential Proclamation #360 last November 23, 2017 which formally terminated peace negotiations with the NDFP. This proclamation has never been rescinded. Just a few weeks ago, Duterte also derailed efforts to resume talks by cancelling its scheduled resumption.
In his statement today, Dureza laid down Duterte’s condition that in the event that talks do resume, it should be held in a local venue. By making this demand, Duterte is driving another nail to completely shut down the NDFP-GRP peace talks. He knows fully well that the demand to hold talks in the Philippines is unacceptable and unworkable for the NDFP, unless he thinks the NDFP will be negotiating only to surrender the Filipino people’s aspirations and give up all its revolutionary principles.
By completely shutting the door to the negotiations, Duterte is laying down the conditions for imposing martial law or a general crackdown, use the terror proscription against the CPP and NPA against his critics and dissenters against his tyranny, and push charter change for pseudo-federalism to perpetuate himself in power.
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
5 July 2018
Press Release
Dureza’s claim today that Duterte’s doors for resuming peace talks with the NDFP “are still open” is an outright lie. This is a desperate PR stunt to obscure the fact that the GRP has repeatedly terminated the talks and make it appear that it is the NDFP which closed its doors.
Notice that Dureza’s statement does not make any mention at all of the fact that Duterte issued Presidential Proclamation #360 last November 23, 2017 which formally terminated peace negotiations with the NDFP. This proclamation has never been rescinded. Just a few weeks ago, Duterte also derailed efforts to resume talks by cancelling its scheduled resumption.
In his statement today, Dureza laid down Duterte’s condition that in the event that talks do resume, it should be held in a local venue. By making this demand, Duterte is driving another nail to completely shut down the NDFP-GRP peace talks. He knows fully well that the demand to hold talks in the Philippines is unacceptable and unworkable for the NDFP, unless he thinks the NDFP will be negotiating only to surrender the Filipino people’s aspirations and give up all its revolutionary principles.
By completely shutting the door to the negotiations, Duterte is laying down the conditions for imposing martial law or a general crackdown, use the terror proscription against the CPP and NPA against his critics and dissenters against his tyranny, and push charter change for pseudo-federalism to perpetuate himself in power.
CPP/CPP-IB: The US-Duterte regime, a reprise
CPP Information Bureau propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 4): The US-Duterte regime, a reprise
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
4 July 2018
Today marks the 72nd year of the Philippine client-state. More than seven decades after the US colonial regime granted nominal independence to the Philippines on July 4, 1946 and handed over the reins of government to its US-indoctrinated politicians and technocrats, the country remains under US neocolonial stranglehold. Burdened primarily by US semicolonial yoke, the Philippines remains economically dependent, politically subservient, culturally subjugated and militarily bound to the US.
Rodrigo Duterte is the current chief of this neocolonial state. Over the past two years, he has perpetuated US neocolonial rule in the country. Despite his anti-American histrionics, dramatic declarations of an “independent foreign policy,” and theatrics of “shifting to China and Russia” early in his term, he has proved himself no different from previous puppet presidents since 1946 who all have steadfastly defended US semicolonial rule.
The US-Duterte regime is the current expression of US neocolonial rule in the Philippines and of the subservience of the ruling political elite. His cabinet is composed of stalwarts of US hegemonism. His economic managers are IMF and World Bank-trained experts and champions of the neoliberal policy regime. His defense and security officials are pro-American zealots of US counter-insurgency doctrine.
In the economic sphere, Duterte preserved all the policies which prevent national economic development and aggravate the oppression and exploitation of the broad toiling masses of workers and peasants, as well as middle-income earners. His eight-point economic program is in line with the neoliberal policy proposals long-pushed for by the IMF-WB. He perpetuated the general policy against land reform in his drive to transform wide swathes of agricultural and ancestral land to commercial plantations and mining sites. He continued the policy of cheap labor as key incentive to attracting foreign investments. Labor rights are wantonly violated especially in so-called “economic zones.” Contractualization and various flexible employment schemes subject workers to ever worse conditions of oppression and exploitation. He implemented the TRAIN law taxes, specifically designed by American-funded lobby group Arangkada, which have caused the skyrocketting of prices of commodities and further deterioration of people’s living conditions.
Duterte’s subservience to the US imperialists is most starkly demonstrated by extending the extraterritorial rights granted to the US military in the Philippines under various one-sided treaties. He has refused to heed the Filipino people’s demand to abrogate the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951, the Visiting Forces Agreement of 1998, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement of 2014 and other unequal military treaties with the US. He also made no formal protestation against the presence of US military troops and advisers in the country. Balikatan war exercises, which epitomize US military command and control of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, have been held twice since Duterte proclaimed he no longer wants them. The most recent war exercises last April saw the participation of one of the biggest contingent of American troops and displayed their prowess in invasion maneuvers.
This year alone, several nuclear-capable aircraft carriers and warships have docked in Philippine waters, including the USS Carl Vinson and guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy, amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard and the USS Ronald Reagan.
Due to the absence of economic and political sovereignty and lack of national dignity, the Duterte regime can only exercise a policy of passivity in relation to US and China saber-rattling and militarization of the South China Sea and parts of the Philippine maritime territory. This is in contrast to an active policy of peace which requires one to demand the imperialist powers to put an end to the policy of war and their race to establish their military might against one another.
Facing economic bankruptcy, Duterte seeks to attract Chinese investments by establishing bureaucrat capitalist deals with corrupt state officials and giving China full access and leeway in the South China Sea, including those within the maritime claims of the Philippines. Rising imperialist China has constructed airports and other military facilities to fortify its presence in the South China Sea in the face of the US “pivot to Asia” since 2011. Beguiled by Duterte’s dramatic anti-US tirades, China promised in October 2016 to extend around $20 billion in loans and aid. No substantial portion of these promises have yet to materialize, however, after it became apparent to the Chinese imperialists that Duterte was not about to turn his back against the US imperialists which he has declared an “indispensable partner” and which he thanked profusely for the military aid extended to his regime’s wars against the Filipino people.
The US foments Sinophobia in condemning China for building its military facilities in the area, when in fact, it has long been constructing its military facilities inside the Philippines itself, specifically inside AFP military bases in Tarlac, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Palawan, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga, Marawi and other places. The US-controlled media is hypocritically whipping-up the hype of “China militarization” to obscure US militarization and power projection in the South China Sea through “freedom of navigation” operations, war exercises in the Philippines and other countries, building military facilities under EDCA, having access to Philippine seaports and airports under the VFA, and so on.
Duterte paved the way for intensified US military intervention in the nation’s affairs. In declaring martial law in Mindanao and mounting the war of destruction against Marawi City, he allowed large-scale US military intervention, where the US military combined with the AFP in relentless aerial bombardment. Duterte and the AFP adapted the tactics applied by the US against Raqqa in Syria and Mosul in Iraq. The US military is set to gain access to large areas of Marawi City where thousands of hectares of land are set to be converted by Duterte into a large military reservation. Through its agents, the US has pushed the Duterte regime to cancel peace talks with National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP). Under the “anti-terror” banner, it is actively inciting the ruling regime to wage all-out war and vigorously crackdown on the revolutionary forces.
On this day, we call on the Filipino people to expose and oppose the US-Duterte regime’s relentless machinations aimed at maintaining the status of the Philippines as a strong neocolonial foothold of US hegemonic power in the Asia-Pacific. The Filipino people and their revolutionary forces reaffirm their determination to advance the struggle for national and social liberation, seek the overthrow of US imperialism and the puppet Duterte regime and establish a fully independent people’s democratic state.
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
4 July 2018
Today marks the 72nd year of the Philippine client-state. More than seven decades after the US colonial regime granted nominal independence to the Philippines on July 4, 1946 and handed over the reins of government to its US-indoctrinated politicians and technocrats, the country remains under US neocolonial stranglehold. Burdened primarily by US semicolonial yoke, the Philippines remains economically dependent, politically subservient, culturally subjugated and militarily bound to the US.
Rodrigo Duterte is the current chief of this neocolonial state. Over the past two years, he has perpetuated US neocolonial rule in the country. Despite his anti-American histrionics, dramatic declarations of an “independent foreign policy,” and theatrics of “shifting to China and Russia” early in his term, he has proved himself no different from previous puppet presidents since 1946 who all have steadfastly defended US semicolonial rule.
The US-Duterte regime is the current expression of US neocolonial rule in the Philippines and of the subservience of the ruling political elite. His cabinet is composed of stalwarts of US hegemonism. His economic managers are IMF and World Bank-trained experts and champions of the neoliberal policy regime. His defense and security officials are pro-American zealots of US counter-insurgency doctrine.
In the economic sphere, Duterte preserved all the policies which prevent national economic development and aggravate the oppression and exploitation of the broad toiling masses of workers and peasants, as well as middle-income earners. His eight-point economic program is in line with the neoliberal policy proposals long-pushed for by the IMF-WB. He perpetuated the general policy against land reform in his drive to transform wide swathes of agricultural and ancestral land to commercial plantations and mining sites. He continued the policy of cheap labor as key incentive to attracting foreign investments. Labor rights are wantonly violated especially in so-called “economic zones.” Contractualization and various flexible employment schemes subject workers to ever worse conditions of oppression and exploitation. He implemented the TRAIN law taxes, specifically designed by American-funded lobby group Arangkada, which have caused the skyrocketting of prices of commodities and further deterioration of people’s living conditions.
Duterte’s subservience to the US imperialists is most starkly demonstrated by extending the extraterritorial rights granted to the US military in the Philippines under various one-sided treaties. He has refused to heed the Filipino people’s demand to abrogate the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951, the Visiting Forces Agreement of 1998, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement of 2014 and other unequal military treaties with the US. He also made no formal protestation against the presence of US military troops and advisers in the country. Balikatan war exercises, which epitomize US military command and control of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, have been held twice since Duterte proclaimed he no longer wants them. The most recent war exercises last April saw the participation of one of the biggest contingent of American troops and displayed their prowess in invasion maneuvers.
This year alone, several nuclear-capable aircraft carriers and warships have docked in Philippine waters, including the USS Carl Vinson and guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy, amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard and the USS Ronald Reagan.
Due to the absence of economic and political sovereignty and lack of national dignity, the Duterte regime can only exercise a policy of passivity in relation to US and China saber-rattling and militarization of the South China Sea and parts of the Philippine maritime territory. This is in contrast to an active policy of peace which requires one to demand the imperialist powers to put an end to the policy of war and their race to establish their military might against one another.
Facing economic bankruptcy, Duterte seeks to attract Chinese investments by establishing bureaucrat capitalist deals with corrupt state officials and giving China full access and leeway in the South China Sea, including those within the maritime claims of the Philippines. Rising imperialist China has constructed airports and other military facilities to fortify its presence in the South China Sea in the face of the US “pivot to Asia” since 2011. Beguiled by Duterte’s dramatic anti-US tirades, China promised in October 2016 to extend around $20 billion in loans and aid. No substantial portion of these promises have yet to materialize, however, after it became apparent to the Chinese imperialists that Duterte was not about to turn his back against the US imperialists which he has declared an “indispensable partner” and which he thanked profusely for the military aid extended to his regime’s wars against the Filipino people.
The US foments Sinophobia in condemning China for building its military facilities in the area, when in fact, it has long been constructing its military facilities inside the Philippines itself, specifically inside AFP military bases in Tarlac, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Palawan, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga, Marawi and other places. The US-controlled media is hypocritically whipping-up the hype of “China militarization” to obscure US militarization and power projection in the South China Sea through “freedom of navigation” operations, war exercises in the Philippines and other countries, building military facilities under EDCA, having access to Philippine seaports and airports under the VFA, and so on.
Duterte paved the way for intensified US military intervention in the nation’s affairs. In declaring martial law in Mindanao and mounting the war of destruction against Marawi City, he allowed large-scale US military intervention, where the US military combined with the AFP in relentless aerial bombardment. Duterte and the AFP adapted the tactics applied by the US against Raqqa in Syria and Mosul in Iraq. The US military is set to gain access to large areas of Marawi City where thousands of hectares of land are set to be converted by Duterte into a large military reservation. Through its agents, the US has pushed the Duterte regime to cancel peace talks with National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP). Under the “anti-terror” banner, it is actively inciting the ruling regime to wage all-out war and vigorously crackdown on the revolutionary forces.
On this day, we call on the Filipino people to expose and oppose the US-Duterte regime’s relentless machinations aimed at maintaining the status of the Philippines as a strong neocolonial foothold of US hegemonic power in the Asia-Pacific. The Filipino people and their revolutionary forces reaffirm their determination to advance the struggle for national and social liberation, seek the overthrow of US imperialism and the puppet Duterte regime and establish a fully independent people’s democratic state.
Gov’t killed peace talks: NDFP
From Malaya Business Insight (Jul 5): Gov’t killed peace talks: NDFP
NATIONAL Democratic Front of the Philippines chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili blamed Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and two other Cabinet officials for the apparent collapse of the peace negotiations.
In a statement, Agcaoili described Lorenzana, Interior Department officer in charge Eduardo Año and presidential spokesman Harry Roque, Jr. as “peace spoilers.”
On Monday, Lorenzana said he is going to recommend to President Duterte the termination of talks for several reasons, including the communists’ intention to put up a coalition government, insincerity to achieve peace, and plot to oust the President.
Days earlier, Lorenzana called communist party founding chairman and National Democratic Front of the Philippines chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison a “quintessential spoiled brat.”
Meanwhile, Año has said Sison “needs professional help” and “is already out of touch from reality.” Sison has been on self-exile in the Netherlands since 1980s.
On the other hand, Roque called Sison “arrogant” for supposedly thinking that he is the country’s “savior.” Roque also said the communists are conniving with Church leaders to oust the President.
“At any rate, it looks like the orchestrated lies and attacks of Lorenzana, Año and Roque against Prof. Sison have sounded the death knell on the peace talks under the Duterte regime. The peace spoilers seem to have won the day,”said Agcaoili.
Agcaoili said it is the government that terminated the peace talks. Sison said last week the NDFP will no longer talk peace with the Duterte administration, saying it’s easier for the NDFP to participate in efforts to oust Duterte.
“Lorenzana, Año and Roque must have been asleep when GRP President Duterte issued Proclamation 360 terminating the peace negotiations,” said Agcaoili. The proclamation was issued in November last year.
Agcaoili said Proclamation 360 was never rescinded and remains in place.
Also, Agcaoili cited Proclamation 374, issued by Duterte in December last year, that designated the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army as a terrorist organization.
“In fact, Duterte postponed the mutually agreed upon date by the Parties for the resumption of the formal talks on June 28-30, 2018, in Oslo, Norway, which would have removed the impediments put up by the GRP to advance the peace negotiations forward,” he added.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/gov%E2%80%99t-killed-peace-talks-ndfp
NATIONAL Democratic Front of the Philippines chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili blamed Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and two other Cabinet officials for the apparent collapse of the peace negotiations.
In a statement, Agcaoili described Lorenzana, Interior Department officer in charge Eduardo Año and presidential spokesman Harry Roque, Jr. as “peace spoilers.”
On Monday, Lorenzana said he is going to recommend to President Duterte the termination of talks for several reasons, including the communists’ intention to put up a coalition government, insincerity to achieve peace, and plot to oust the President.
Days earlier, Lorenzana called communist party founding chairman and National Democratic Front of the Philippines chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison a “quintessential spoiled brat.”
Meanwhile, Año has said Sison “needs professional help” and “is already out of touch from reality.” Sison has been on self-exile in the Netherlands since 1980s.
On the other hand, Roque called Sison “arrogant” for supposedly thinking that he is the country’s “savior.” Roque also said the communists are conniving with Church leaders to oust the President.
“At any rate, it looks like the orchestrated lies and attacks of Lorenzana, Año and Roque against Prof. Sison have sounded the death knell on the peace talks under the Duterte regime. The peace spoilers seem to have won the day,”said Agcaoili.
Agcaoili said it is the government that terminated the peace talks. Sison said last week the NDFP will no longer talk peace with the Duterte administration, saying it’s easier for the NDFP to participate in efforts to oust Duterte.
“Lorenzana, Año and Roque must have been asleep when GRP President Duterte issued Proclamation 360 terminating the peace negotiations,” said Agcaoili. The proclamation was issued in November last year.
Agcaoili said Proclamation 360 was never rescinded and remains in place.
Also, Agcaoili cited Proclamation 374, issued by Duterte in December last year, that designated the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army as a terrorist organization.
“In fact, Duterte postponed the mutually agreed upon date by the Parties for the resumption of the formal talks on June 28-30, 2018, in Oslo, Norway, which would have removed the impediments put up by the GRP to advance the peace negotiations forward,” he added.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/gov%E2%80%99t-killed-peace-talks-ndfp
‘Reds agitating clergy, opposition’
From Malaya Business Insight (Jul 5): ‘Reds agitating clergy, opposition’
THE communist movement is trying to agitate church officials and the opposition into ousting President Duterte from power, possibly in the same way they worked for the removal of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, Sr., a senior security official said yesterday.
The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said while there is no evidence yet to implicate church officials and the political opposition in the oust-Duterte plot, the communists are taking advantage of the “current political and social issues” to agitate the Church and opposition.
“So the oust plot is a plan by the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines). The Church, as an institution, and the opposition are not aware nor part of the one that crafted the plan,” the source said.
“But the CPP will take advantage of the current political and social issues against the President, and agitate, through propaganda, the clergy and the opposition, in order to create a picture of a united front against PRRD (President Rodrigo Roa Duterte),” he said.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said communists launched the Oust Duterte operation in May last year while there is an ongoing peace talks. He said the plot is to culminate this coming October.
The source implied that the communists may seek to establish “tactical alliance with the opposition and some members of the Church who have been wittingly and unwittingly recruited and supporting their ‘mass base’ people’s organization and ‘sectoral’ organizations.”
The source said the communists may emulate the efforts, leading to the successful ouster of President Marcos in February 1986.
“So they will do the same to some politicians from the opposition and some priests who were recruited before, mostly working at the church Social Action Center and indoctrinated on the concept of ‘liberation theology’,” the source added.
The official said the CPP/NPA/NDF’s involvement in plans to oust sitting presidents is nothing new, in keeping with their desire to put up a government based on “communist belief of governance.”
“It means they will not only topple the government but they will change the democratic system, take over the country and govern based on their communist belief of governance,” the source added.
He said the communist have been “very consistent” in coming up with plans to destabilize the government and weaken its institutions “so that the people will lose faith on government, and oust the sitting President if they can heighten their agitation of the people.
“So all administrations, presidents that held office were targeted by the Left for ‘oust’ plot - from Cory, FVR, Erap, GMA, Pnoy, and now PRRD,” the source said, adding these plots are usually crafted during plenums.
He said the CPP’s plan to oust Duterte is documented in the form of a “strategic plan” and it’s obvious that the communists are just using the peace process to pursue their “political and propaganda agenda, gain concession from government, consolidate their legal and armed elements.”
“But they are not really sincere in actually laying down their arms and pursuing peace. So the peace process is just a process for them, part of their ‘protracted warfare’ strategy, and taking advantage of changing administrations every six years and changing policy and approaches to insurgency,” he said.
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said his statement that some Catholic Church members may join communist rebels in ousting Duterte is not fake news. But he refused to name names.
Roque, in an interview over radio DzRH, said his pronouncements were based on history.
“It is not fake news, that is history. The CPP-NPA is already old, it’s the world longest insurgency…let us learn from history, do not be blinded and do not pretend that we do not know how the CPP-NPA moves,” he said.
He said everyone knows that the CPP-NPA-NDFP would always try to get into different institutions and sectors in a bid to expand their influence.
President Duterte, during the 31st anniversary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), said some teachings of the Church run counter to government policies, including responsible family planning.
“The reason I do not like this creeping influence of faith is that they sometimes run counter to what government believes to be good for the people. At least in this temporal life, okay na iyan sa heaven,” Duterte said. – With Jocelyn Montemayor
He recalled that when he was mayor, he would have some birth control pills in his drawers that he gives away to some people who visit his office including those who ask for help.
The Church prefers natural family planning methods as a means to control population and the use of pills is an artificial method.
Duterte said his school did not have much influence on his faith because they were molested by a priest.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/%E2%80%98reds-agitating-clergy-opposition%E2%80%99
THE communist movement is trying to agitate church officials and the opposition into ousting President Duterte from power, possibly in the same way they worked for the removal of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, Sr., a senior security official said yesterday.
The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said while there is no evidence yet to implicate church officials and the political opposition in the oust-Duterte plot, the communists are taking advantage of the “current political and social issues” to agitate the Church and opposition.
“So the oust plot is a plan by the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines). The Church, as an institution, and the opposition are not aware nor part of the one that crafted the plan,” the source said.
“But the CPP will take advantage of the current political and social issues against the President, and agitate, through propaganda, the clergy and the opposition, in order to create a picture of a united front against PRRD (President Rodrigo Roa Duterte),” he said.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said communists launched the Oust Duterte operation in May last year while there is an ongoing peace talks. He said the plot is to culminate this coming October.
The source implied that the communists may seek to establish “tactical alliance with the opposition and some members of the Church who have been wittingly and unwittingly recruited and supporting their ‘mass base’ people’s organization and ‘sectoral’ organizations.”
The source said the communists may emulate the efforts, leading to the successful ouster of President Marcos in February 1986.
“So they will do the same to some politicians from the opposition and some priests who were recruited before, mostly working at the church Social Action Center and indoctrinated on the concept of ‘liberation theology’,” the source added.
The official said the CPP/NPA/NDF’s involvement in plans to oust sitting presidents is nothing new, in keeping with their desire to put up a government based on “communist belief of governance.”
“It means they will not only topple the government but they will change the democratic system, take over the country and govern based on their communist belief of governance,” the source added.
He said the communist have been “very consistent” in coming up with plans to destabilize the government and weaken its institutions “so that the people will lose faith on government, and oust the sitting President if they can heighten their agitation of the people.
“So all administrations, presidents that held office were targeted by the Left for ‘oust’ plot - from Cory, FVR, Erap, GMA, Pnoy, and now PRRD,” the source said, adding these plots are usually crafted during plenums.
He said the CPP’s plan to oust Duterte is documented in the form of a “strategic plan” and it’s obvious that the communists are just using the peace process to pursue their “political and propaganda agenda, gain concession from government, consolidate their legal and armed elements.”
“But they are not really sincere in actually laying down their arms and pursuing peace. So the peace process is just a process for them, part of their ‘protracted warfare’ strategy, and taking advantage of changing administrations every six years and changing policy and approaches to insurgency,” he said.
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said his statement that some Catholic Church members may join communist rebels in ousting Duterte is not fake news. But he refused to name names.
Roque, in an interview over radio DzRH, said his pronouncements were based on history.
“It is not fake news, that is history. The CPP-NPA is already old, it’s the world longest insurgency…let us learn from history, do not be blinded and do not pretend that we do not know how the CPP-NPA moves,” he said.
He said everyone knows that the CPP-NPA-NDFP would always try to get into different institutions and sectors in a bid to expand their influence.
President Duterte, during the 31st anniversary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), said some teachings of the Church run counter to government policies, including responsible family planning.
“The reason I do not like this creeping influence of faith is that they sometimes run counter to what government believes to be good for the people. At least in this temporal life, okay na iyan sa heaven,” Duterte said. – With Jocelyn Montemayor
He recalled that when he was mayor, he would have some birth control pills in his drawers that he gives away to some people who visit his office including those who ask for help.
The Church prefers natural family planning methods as a means to control population and the use of pills is an artificial method.
Duterte said his school did not have much influence on his faith because they were molested by a priest.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/%E2%80%98reds-agitating-clergy-opposition%E2%80%99
Philippines at RIMPAC: Inside the largest naval exercise in the world
From InterAksyon (Jul 4): Philippines at RIMPAC: Inside the largest naval exercise in the world
[Video: Arrival of BRP Andres Bonifacio in Hawaii]
[Video: Arrival of BRP Andres Bonifacio in Hawaii]
Various units and assets of the Philippine Navy are currently participating in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise, a series of military exercises with its traditional defense ally, the United States and 23 other countries.
A show of the world’s muscle
The biennial maritime warfare exercise usually held off the coast of Hawaii is considered the largest naval exercise in the world. Overseen by the United States’ coast guard, navy, and federal government of Hawaii, invitations are usually sent out to nations with territories around the Pacific Rim.
This year’s participants are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vietnam.
International ships participating in
RIMPAC 2018 exercise moor at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam prior to beginning the at-sea phase of the exercise. (US Navy photo)
These countries have sent more than 45 ships and submarines, about 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel. The RIMPAC exercises seek to strengthen multilateral cooperation between its participants.
The strategic sealift vessel BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17), an AgustaWestland AW-109 naval helicopter and around 700 sailors and marines comprise the Philippines’ contingent.
What Filipino troops are doing at RIMPAC
Activities are set to run from June 29 until August 2. Among the activities the Philippines is joining are:
Amphibious assault vehicle familiarization
Life-saving training exercises
Urban terrain military operations training
Beach insertion rehearsal
Combat life training
Fast rope insertion and extraction system training
Photos from the Philippines’ and United States’ navies show scenes from the combat life saving training involving Marines of the two countries as well as fast rope insertion and extraction system training and beach raid simulation.
Filipinos at Exercise RIMPAC 2018
Urban operations training for ground troops was also part of the module used at RIMPAC.
The Philippines’ participation comes after President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent statements honoring traditional alliances with nations such as the United States and Japan.
China, which was present in the last RIMPAC in 2016, was disinvited in this year’s exercises over its military assertions in the South China Sea against some of RIMPAC’s participating countries.
http://www.interaksyon.com/philippines-at-rimpac-inside-the-largest-naval-exercise-in-the-world/
A show of the world’s muscle
The biennial maritime warfare exercise usually held off the coast of Hawaii is considered the largest naval exercise in the world. Overseen by the United States’ coast guard, navy, and federal government of Hawaii, invitations are usually sent out to nations with territories around the Pacific Rim.
This year’s participants are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vietnam.
International ships participating in RIMPAC 2018 exercise moor at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam prior to beginning the at-sea phase of the exercise. (US Navy photo)
These countries have sent more than 45 ships and submarines, about 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel. The RIMPAC exercises seek to strengthen multilateral cooperation between its participants.
The strategic sealift vessel BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17), an AgustaWestland AW-109 naval helicopter and around 700 sailors and marines comprise the Philippines’ contingent.
What Filipino troops are doing at RIMPAC
Activities are set to run from June 29 until August 2. Among the activities the Philippines is joining are:
Amphibious assault vehicle familiarization
Life-saving training exercises
Urban terrain military operations training
Beach insertion rehearsal
Combat life training
Fast rope insertion and extraction system training
Photos from the Philippines’ and United States’ navies show scenes from the combat life saving training involving Marines of the two countries as well as fast rope insertion and extraction system training and beach raid simulation.
Filipinos at Exercise RIMPAC 2018
Urban operations training for ground troops was also part of the module used at RIMPAC.
China, which was present in the last RIMPAC in 2016, was disinvited in this year’s exercises over its military assertions in the South China Sea against some of RIMPAC’s participating countries.
http://www.interaksyon.com/philippines-at-rimpac-inside-the-largest-naval-exercise-in-the-world/
Philippine troops retake town after 12-hour standoff with Islamists
From InterAksyon (Jul 5): Philippine troops retake town after 12-hour standoff with Islamists
In this July 13, 2017 photo, President Rodrigo Duterte, accompanied by Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command Chief Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao, is accorded with military honors upon his arrival at the Ormoc City Airport to the earthquake-ravaged Leyte. (Robinson Niñal Jr./PPD)
Philippine soldiers backed by armored vehicles have retaken a southern town held for 12 hours by pro-Islamic State militants, the army said on Wednesday, with four rebels killed in urban clashes reminiscent of a five-month siege last year.
The clashes followed warnings by President Rodrigo Duterte that remnants of pro-Islamic State militant groups had been recruiting and still planning attacks on several southern cities to set up an independent and separate Islamic state.
Troops pursued militants from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) group, who fled to the hills after trying to occupy a marshland town, Lieutenant-Colonel Harold Cabunoc, an army battalion commander, said in a statement.
The military will continue to “disrupt the BIFF’s plan to sow terror in communities” in the troubled south, Cabunoc said.
There was no immediate comment from the Islamist militants’ group.
Hundreds of residents have remained in shelter areas and not been allowed to return home after troops retrieved improvised explosive devices and other booby traps in the town of Datu Paglas.
Cabunoc said four Islamist militants were killed and two others were wounded. A soldier and a local militia official were also wounded.
The army said the Datu Paglas attack could be a test case, since the area was near the militants’ marshland base.
Since March, the military has shifted its combat operations from Marawi, a battered lakeside town in Mindanao embroiled in last year’s five-month conflict, to the island’s marshes where other pro-Islamic State militants operate.
More than 40 BIFF militants have been killed in the last four months by troops in air and ground assaults the military described as preemptive moves to thwart militant attacks on cities.
http://www.interaksyon.com/philippine-troops-retake-town-after-12-hour-standoff-with-islamists/
In this July 13, 2017 photo, President Rodrigo Duterte, accompanied by Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command Chief Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao, is accorded with military honors upon his arrival at the Ormoc City Airport to the earthquake-ravaged Leyte. (Robinson Niñal Jr./PPD)
Philippine soldiers backed by armored vehicles have retaken a southern town held for 12 hours by pro-Islamic State militants, the army said on Wednesday, with four rebels killed in urban clashes reminiscent of a five-month siege last year.
The clashes followed warnings by President Rodrigo Duterte that remnants of pro-Islamic State militant groups had been recruiting and still planning attacks on several southern cities to set up an independent and separate Islamic state.
Troops pursued militants from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) group, who fled to the hills after trying to occupy a marshland town, Lieutenant-Colonel Harold Cabunoc, an army battalion commander, said in a statement.
The military will continue to “disrupt the BIFF’s plan to sow terror in communities” in the troubled south, Cabunoc said.
There was no immediate comment from the Islamist militants’ group.
Hundreds of residents have remained in shelter areas and not been allowed to return home after troops retrieved improvised explosive devices and other booby traps in the town of Datu Paglas.
Cabunoc said four Islamist militants were killed and two others were wounded. A soldier and a local militia official were also wounded.
The army said the Datu Paglas attack could be a test case, since the area was near the militants’ marshland base.
Since March, the military has shifted its combat operations from Marawi, a battered lakeside town in Mindanao embroiled in last year’s five-month conflict, to the island’s marshes where other pro-Islamic State militants operate.
More than 40 BIFF militants have been killed in the last four months by troops in air and ground assaults the military described as preemptive moves to thwart militant attacks on cities.
http://www.interaksyon.com/philippine-troops-retake-town-after-12-hour-standoff-with-islamists/
Girl, 17, surrenders
From the Mindanao Times (Jul 5): Girl, 17, surrenders
A 17-year old girl believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the military on July 2 in Surigao del Sur.
Capt. Francisco Garello, civil-military operations officer (CMO) of 36th Infantry Battalion, said members of the battalion’s Bravo Company recovered the girl in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.
Garelo said the girl was a member of Team Baking, Squad Dos, SYP-I, SRC2130 of the North Eastern Mindanao Region Committee (NEMRC).
The girl claimed that she was forcibly recruited last December.
Lt. Col. Xerxes A Trinidad, commander of the battalion, said the rebels “have resorted to recruiting minors as they can easily manipulate and take advantage of their innocence.”
The girl claimed the rebels knew she was still a minor and that she was deceived to go with them as they promised her she would be allowed to talk with her cousin, also a rebel, as she was planning to entice him to return to their place.
When she tried to escape, she added, the rebels threatened to shoot her. The girl said she was able to escape on her second attempt.
http://mindanaotimes.net/girl-17-surrenders/
A 17-year old girl believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the military on July 2 in Surigao del Sur.
Capt. Francisco Garello, civil-military operations officer (CMO) of 36th Infantry Battalion, said members of the battalion’s Bravo Company recovered the girl in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.
Garelo said the girl was a member of Team Baking, Squad Dos, SYP-I, SRC2130 of the North Eastern Mindanao Region Committee (NEMRC).
The girl claimed that she was forcibly recruited last December.
Lt. Col. Xerxes A Trinidad, commander of the battalion, said the rebels “have resorted to recruiting minors as they can easily manipulate and take advantage of their innocence.”
The girl claimed the rebels knew she was still a minor and that she was deceived to go with them as they promised her she would be allowed to talk with her cousin, also a rebel, as she was planning to entice him to return to their place.
When she tried to escape, she added, the rebels threatened to shoot her. The girl said she was able to escape on her second attempt.
http://mindanaotimes.net/girl-17-surrenders/
Army not giving up on peace talks
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 4): Army not giving up on peace talks
The Philippine Army in Negros Island is not giving up the localized peace talks, despite repeated rejections by the New People’s Army in previous statements it issued in the past years.
Col. Allberto Desoyo, 303rd Infanrtry Brigade commander,said yesterday that they will still push through with the localized peace talks in Negros, despite the cancellation of peace talks, as announced by self-exiled communist leader Jose Maria Sison.
NDF- Negros spokesperson Frank Fernandez has repeatedly opposed the holding of localized peace talks, in his previous statements he issued, and furnished to the local media.
At what level shall we talk? If you don’t want peace, definitely, nopeace talks, Desoyo, said to be led the oathtaking of newly-elected officers of Peace-Negros, a group of forrmer rebels in Negros Island, at Camp Alfredo Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City, yesterday.
The 301st Infantry Brigade in Iloilo also expressed its support to the localized peace talks. Both 301st and 303rd Infantry Brigades are under the supervision of Army’s 3rd Infantry Division.
Desoyo, who supervises four Army battalions, composed of about 2,000 Army troops,in Negros Island, said yesterday that if there is no insurgency problem, the money intended for addressing threats from insurgents could be channeled to health, education and other government services needed by the Filipino people.
On the other hand, Colonel Leo Peña, 301st Infantry Brigade acting commander , said that they are now on the advocacy aspect, “convincing the local chief executives to spearhead the localized peace talks with the help of the military.”
“In every area, there are different situations and different social problems. Local peace talksare more appropriate because there is involvement of local chief executives,” Peña said in an interview Tuesday.
Peña said they are planning to bring the proposal to the Regional Peace and Order Council, and to convince the regional directors and provincial governors to come up with an inter-agency joint task force in Western Visayas so they could talk about of their proposed peace talks.
“It will be good that they understand first the importance of our proposal before we come up with the unified decision on pushing for localized peace talks,” he added.
Meanwhile, former rebels in Negros Island formed the Peace-Negros, with the help of the Philippine Army, Departments of Interior and Local Government and Social Welfare and Development, and the Provincial Peace Integration Development Unit of the Provincial Peace and Order Council.
Some of the former rebels also shared their success stories during the dialog, and one of them is now a member of the Philippine Army, three others members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit, and one a computer programmer.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/July/04/topstory4.htm
The Philippine Army in Negros Island is not giving up the localized peace talks, despite repeated rejections by the New People’s Army in previous statements it issued in the past years.
Col. Allberto Desoyo, 303rd Infanrtry Brigade commander,said yesterday that they will still push through with the localized peace talks in Negros, despite the cancellation of peace talks, as announced by self-exiled communist leader Jose Maria Sison.
NDF- Negros spokesperson Frank Fernandez has repeatedly opposed the holding of localized peace talks, in his previous statements he issued, and furnished to the local media.
At what level shall we talk? If you don’t want peace, definitely, nopeace talks, Desoyo, said to be led the oathtaking of newly-elected officers of Peace-Negros, a group of forrmer rebels in Negros Island, at Camp Alfredo Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City, yesterday.
The 301st Infantry Brigade in Iloilo also expressed its support to the localized peace talks. Both 301st and 303rd Infantry Brigades are under the supervision of Army’s 3rd Infantry Division.
Desoyo, who supervises four Army battalions, composed of about 2,000 Army troops,in Negros Island, said yesterday that if there is no insurgency problem, the money intended for addressing threats from insurgents could be channeled to health, education and other government services needed by the Filipino people.
On the other hand, Colonel Leo Peña, 301st Infantry Brigade acting commander , said that they are now on the advocacy aspect, “convincing the local chief executives to spearhead the localized peace talks with the help of the military.”
“In every area, there are different situations and different social problems. Local peace talksare more appropriate because there is involvement of local chief executives,” Peña said in an interview Tuesday.
Peña said they are planning to bring the proposal to the Regional Peace and Order Council, and to convince the regional directors and provincial governors to come up with an inter-agency joint task force in Western Visayas so they could talk about of their proposed peace talks.
“It will be good that they understand first the importance of our proposal before we come up with the unified decision on pushing for localized peace talks,” he added.
Meanwhile, former rebels in Negros Island formed the Peace-Negros, with the help of the Philippine Army, Departments of Interior and Local Government and Social Welfare and Development, and the Provincial Peace Integration Development Unit of the Provincial Peace and Order Council.
Some of the former rebels also shared their success stories during the dialog, and one of them is now a member of the Philippine Army, three others members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit, and one a computer programmer.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/July/04/topstory4.htm
Soldiers kill leftist rebel in Compostela Valley clash
From Politiko Mindanao (Jul 4): Soldiers kill leftist rebel in Compostela Valley clash
A member of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a clash with the military in Compostela Valley on Tuesday, July 3.
Government troops from the 66th Infantry Battalion (IB) encountered about five leftist rebels in Sitio Sudlon, Barangay Tagugpo in Pantukan.
The firefight lasted for about 15 before the rebels withdrew towards southwest direction, military said.
The slain NPA was identified as as alias Jopaks and his body was turned over to the barangay captain of Tagugpo.
The soldiers also recovered a firearm and pieces of ammunition from the encounter site.
http://mindanao.politics.com.ph/soldiers-kill-leftist-rebel-in-compostela-valley-clash/
A member of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a clash with the military in Compostela Valley on Tuesday, July 3.
Government troops from the 66th Infantry Battalion (IB) encountered about five leftist rebels in Sitio Sudlon, Barangay Tagugpo in Pantukan.
The firefight lasted for about 15 before the rebels withdrew towards southwest direction, military said.
The slain NPA was identified as as alias Jopaks and his body was turned over to the barangay captain of Tagugpo.
The soldiers also recovered a firearm and pieces of ammunition from the encounter site.
http://mindanao.politics.com.ph/soldiers-kill-leftist-rebel-in-compostela-valley-clash/
DOJ seeks cancellation of temporary liberty to NDFP consultants
From the often pro-Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) online publication the Davao Today (Jul 4): DOJ seeks cancellation of temporary liberty to NDFP consultants
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/doj-seeks-cancellation-of-temporary-liberty-to-ndfp-consultants/
President Rodrigo Duterte with members of the Government of the Philippines and National Democratic Front peace panels following their meeting in Malacañang on September 26, 2016. (Malacañang file photo)
The Department on Justice (DOJ) wants the cancellation of the temporary liberty granted by the courts to detained National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) consultants and Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) leaders after the talks between them and the government fell in limbo.
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has directed prosecutors handling criminal cases against NDFP and CPP leaders to seek their return to detention following the suspension of the peace talks set last week in the Netherlands. He said he specifically directed state prosecutors to file the necessary motions before the Manila and Taguig regional trial courts (RTC).
“I have given instructions to the prosecutors concerned to move for the revocation of the court orders which allowed the NDFP consultants and CPP leaders to post/re-post bail and travel to the Netherlands or Norway, in view of the cancellation of the peace talks scheduled last week,” Guevarra said.
The Department on Justice (DOJ) wants the cancellation of the temporary liberty granted by the courts to detained National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) consultants and Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) leaders after the talks between them and the government fell in limbo.
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has directed prosecutors handling criminal cases against NDFP and CPP leaders to seek their return to detention following the suspension of the peace talks set last week in the Netherlands. He said he specifically directed state prosecutors to file the necessary motions before the Manila and Taguig regional trial courts (RTC).
“I have given instructions to the prosecutors concerned to move for the revocation of the court orders which allowed the NDFP consultants and CPP leaders to post/re-post bail and travel to the Netherlands or Norway, in view of the cancellation of the peace talks scheduled last week,” Guevarra said.
Once the courts grant the DOJ’s request, Guevarra said the NDFP and CPP leaders would have to return to their respective detention cells, and if they refuse, the courts may order their arrest.
The DOJ earlier moved for the provisional freedom of NDFP consultants Benito Tiamzon, Adelberto Silva, Rafael Baylosis, Randall Echanis, Vicente Ladlad and Alan Jazmines.
The DOJ earlier moved for the provisional freedom of NDFP consultants Benito Tiamzon, Adelberto Silva, Rafael Baylosis, Randall Echanis, Vicente Ladlad and Alan Jazmines.
The negotiations to end the decades-old leftist insurgency in the Philippines face uncertainty anew as the government had suspended the scheduled resumption of formal talks in Oslo, Norway from June 28 to 30, for three months to review its position and conduct consultations.
In a statement last Thursday, NDFP Chief Political Consultant Prof. Joma Sison revealed the real reasons behind President Rodrigo Duterte’s cancellation of the resumption of peace talks in Oslo was because of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police’s wish to carry out their end of 2018 campaign plan to supposedly finish off the New People’s Army, and to change the venue of peace talks to Manila, which the NDFP had earlier opposed as the talks may come under the control, surveillance duress and manipulation by Duterte and the military.
Sison also said the NDFP could no longer negotiate with a government headed by Duterte.
Sison also said it is relatively easier and more productive for the NDFP to participate in the “Oust-Duterte movement” and to prepare for peace negotiations with the prospective administration that replaces his regime.
But he later clarified on Friday that the peace talks have not been terminated, saying “only the National Council of the NDFP can make the decision to suspend, cancel or terminate the peace negotiations with GR and has not yet made such a decision.”
Last Saturday the progressive leader also branded Duterte as the “biggest spoiler” of the peace negotiations,” adding that he “will continue to do so as the President repeatedly, in sickening degree, demand that the venue of negotiations should be in Manila under his control, surveillance, manipulation, and duress.”
Since May 2017, Duterte has terminated the peace negotiations with the NDFP three times and fouled up every attempt to resume these through back-channel talks.
At the third termination in November and December 2017, he issued Proclamation 360 to terminate the peace negotiations and Proclamation 374 to designate the CPP and the NPA as terrorist organizations and filed a case before the Manila RTC to seek the proscription of the CPP/NPA and 600 individuals as terrorists.
The aforesaid actions of Duterte would have been enough basis for the NDFP to conclude that he is not at all interested in peace negotiations, Sison said.
In a statement last Thursday, NDFP Chief Political Consultant Prof. Joma Sison revealed the real reasons behind President Rodrigo Duterte’s cancellation of the resumption of peace talks in Oslo was because of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police’s wish to carry out their end of 2018 campaign plan to supposedly finish off the New People’s Army, and to change the venue of peace talks to Manila, which the NDFP had earlier opposed as the talks may come under the control, surveillance duress and manipulation by Duterte and the military.
Sison also said the NDFP could no longer negotiate with a government headed by Duterte.
Sison also said it is relatively easier and more productive for the NDFP to participate in the “Oust-Duterte movement” and to prepare for peace negotiations with the prospective administration that replaces his regime.
But he later clarified on Friday that the peace talks have not been terminated, saying “only the National Council of the NDFP can make the decision to suspend, cancel or terminate the peace negotiations with GR and has not yet made such a decision.”
Last Saturday the progressive leader also branded Duterte as the “biggest spoiler” of the peace negotiations,” adding that he “will continue to do so as the President repeatedly, in sickening degree, demand that the venue of negotiations should be in Manila under his control, surveillance, manipulation, and duress.”
Since May 2017, Duterte has terminated the peace negotiations with the NDFP three times and fouled up every attempt to resume these through back-channel talks.
At the third termination in November and December 2017, he issued Proclamation 360 to terminate the peace negotiations and Proclamation 374 to designate the CPP and the NPA as terrorist organizations and filed a case before the Manila RTC to seek the proscription of the CPP/NPA and 600 individuals as terrorists.
The aforesaid actions of Duterte would have been enough basis for the NDFP to conclude that he is not at all interested in peace negotiations, Sison said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/doj-seeks-cancellation-of-temporary-liberty-to-ndfp-consultants/
250 Army aspirants take oath in 2ID
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 4): 250 Army aspirants take oath in 2ID
Camp General Mateo Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal -- 250 Army aspirants took oath as candidate soldiers during the opening ceremony of the Candidate Soldier Course Classes 562 and 563 – 2018 at 2nd Division Training School (2DTS) view deck on June 30, 2018.
The new recruits are composed of 244 males and 6 females who passed the Complete Physical Examination (CPE) at 2nd Army Station Hospital (2ASH). The recruits went through medical, psychological, and physical examination to determine their fitness to undergo the training.
Major General Rhoderick M Parayno, AFP, Commander, 2ID graced the event as the keynote speaker. He extended his warm welcome to those candidates who qualified and also commended the 2ID staff behind the screening and selection.
“Tinanong ko kayo ng mga mahahalagang katanungan na may kaugnayan sa determinasyon niyo na magsundalo sapagkat tunay na hindi isang biro ang maging isang kawal ng Philippine Army. (I asked you important questions regarding your determination to become a soldier because it is not a joke)."
"Ang inyong pagsali sa hanay ng kasundaluhan ay nangangahulugan ng inyong pagtalikod sa buhay na inyong nakagisnan. Ang inyong pagtapak sa training ground na ito ay hudyat ng boluntaryo nyong pagbibigay hindi lamang ng inyong serbisyo sa gobyerno kundi pati na rin ng inyong buhay para sa ating bayan” (Your joining in the ranks of the army means turning your back from the life you are used to. Taking that step inside this training ground means you voluntarily give not just your service but also your life to the country)," he said.
“Sa kursong ito ay huhubugin ang mga katangian na dapat ninyong taglayin bilang isang sundalo tulad ng patriyotismo, propesyonalismo at higit sa lahat ang maging tunay na disiplinado” (This course will help mold the qualities that a soldier should possess such as patriotism, professionalism, and most of all, discipline), he added.
The new recruits will undergo five month basic military training prior to enlistment in the army.
The activity concluded with the reception rites. In the reception rites, a time-honored military tradition for welcoming the chosen few who heeded the call of soldiery, the army aspirants undergo sets of physical exercises to test their fitness and determination.
http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1009884
Camp General Mateo Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal -- 250 Army aspirants took oath as candidate soldiers during the opening ceremony of the Candidate Soldier Course Classes 562 and 563 – 2018 at 2nd Division Training School (2DTS) view deck on June 30, 2018.
The new recruits are composed of 244 males and 6 females who passed the Complete Physical Examination (CPE) at 2nd Army Station Hospital (2ASH). The recruits went through medical, psychological, and physical examination to determine their fitness to undergo the training.
Major General Rhoderick M Parayno, AFP, Commander, 2ID graced the event as the keynote speaker. He extended his warm welcome to those candidates who qualified and also commended the 2ID staff behind the screening and selection.
“Tinanong ko kayo ng mga mahahalagang katanungan na may kaugnayan sa determinasyon niyo na magsundalo sapagkat tunay na hindi isang biro ang maging isang kawal ng Philippine Army. (I asked you important questions regarding your determination to become a soldier because it is not a joke)."
"Ang inyong pagsali sa hanay ng kasundaluhan ay nangangahulugan ng inyong pagtalikod sa buhay na inyong nakagisnan. Ang inyong pagtapak sa training ground na ito ay hudyat ng boluntaryo nyong pagbibigay hindi lamang ng inyong serbisyo sa gobyerno kundi pati na rin ng inyong buhay para sa ating bayan” (Your joining in the ranks of the army means turning your back from the life you are used to. Taking that step inside this training ground means you voluntarily give not just your service but also your life to the country)," he said.
“Sa kursong ito ay huhubugin ang mga katangian na dapat ninyong taglayin bilang isang sundalo tulad ng patriyotismo, propesyonalismo at higit sa lahat ang maging tunay na disiplinado” (This course will help mold the qualities that a soldier should possess such as patriotism, professionalism, and most of all, discipline), he added.
The new recruits will undergo five month basic military training prior to enlistment in the army.
The activity concluded with the reception rites. In the reception rites, a time-honored military tradition for welcoming the chosen few who heeded the call of soldiery, the army aspirants undergo sets of physical exercises to test their fitness and determination.
http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1009884
3 NPA members surrender in Tandag City
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 4): 3 NPA members surrender in Tandag City
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Three members of the New People’s Army (NPA) yielded to government forces over the past weeks here, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) recently disclosed.
In the recent press briefing at the Tandag City Police Station, the AFP identified the surrenderees as Hermano Quezada alias “Rado”, a company leader of SDG Platoon, Guerilla Front 30 (GF30); Donita Martinez, alias “Clara”, Medical Team Leader of SDG Platoon, GF30; and Romanito Molino alias "Tata", team leader of Team Baking Squad Uno, SGD Platoon, GF30, all of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
Report said the three former NPA members left the armed struggle and surrendered to the army due to the hardships experienced in the organization, false hope in the armed revolution, and unequal treatment of senior and superior cadres.
The former rebels revealed that the mass base supporters of the Communist-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) are already dwindling due to the declaration of President Rodrigo Duterte tagging the NPA a terrorist organization, to include the relentless campaign of the armed forces in the area.
“Numerous members of GF30, NEMRC intend to surrender because of the hardship and low state of morale in our ranks,” Ka Rado said. “Martial Law is indeed effective,” he added.
Meanwhile, Tandag City Mayor Alexander Pimentel gave cash incentive to the three surrenderees during the press conference. Ka Rado received P20,000 while the other two received P10,000 each.
http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1009956
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Three members of the New People’s Army (NPA) yielded to government forces over the past weeks here, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) recently disclosed.
In the recent press briefing at the Tandag City Police Station, the AFP identified the surrenderees as Hermano Quezada alias “Rado”, a company leader of SDG Platoon, Guerilla Front 30 (GF30); Donita Martinez, alias “Clara”, Medical Team Leader of SDG Platoon, GF30; and Romanito Molino alias "Tata", team leader of Team Baking Squad Uno, SGD Platoon, GF30, all of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
Report said the three former NPA members left the armed struggle and surrendered to the army due to the hardships experienced in the organization, false hope in the armed revolution, and unequal treatment of senior and superior cadres.
The former rebels revealed that the mass base supporters of the Communist-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) are already dwindling due to the declaration of President Rodrigo Duterte tagging the NPA a terrorist organization, to include the relentless campaign of the armed forces in the area.
“Numerous members of GF30, NEMRC intend to surrender because of the hardship and low state of morale in our ranks,” Ka Rado said. “Martial Law is indeed effective,” he added.
Meanwhile, Tandag City Mayor Alexander Pimentel gave cash incentive to the three surrenderees during the press conference. Ka Rado received P20,000 while the other two received P10,000 each.
http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1009956
3 Abu Sayyaf members surrender in Basilan
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 3): 3 Abu Sayyaf members surrender in Basilan
Omaida Salain alias Abu Maidi (left) hands over an Armalite rifle to an officer of the Army's 74th Infantry Battalion when he surrendered on Saturday in Tuburan, Basilan. (Photo courtesy: Westmincom PIO)
Ongoing military offensives have forced three members of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) to surrender separately to government authorities, military officials said.
Those who surrendered were identified as Omaidi Salain alias Abu Maidi; Jamad Habing, 22; and, his younger brother, Jem, 20.
Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, said Salain surrendered to the troops of the Army’s 74th Infantry Battalion around 6:05 a.m. Saturday in Barangay Sinulatan, Tuburan, Basilan. He brought along with him an M16A1 “Baby Armalite” rifle with a magazine of ammunition.
Besana said Salain “was formerly listed number six in other identified personalities in the Periodic Status Report (PSR)” of Basilan-based ASG and Urband Terrorist Group (UTG).
“Salain said during the initial debriefing that he decided to surrender because of the realization that this is not the life that he wanted,” he said.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Joint Task Force Basilan commander, and Senior Supt. Rufino Inot, Basilan police director, confirmed the surrender of the Habing brothers on Sunday in Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo.
Inot said they turned over an M-16 Armalite rifle with attached M-203 grenade launcher with ammunition and a bandolier.
He said the two brothers were followers of Furuji Indama, one of the ASG leaders in Basilan province. They decided to surrender after learning that their comrades, who surrendered earlier, are enjoying a peaceful life after they were properly reintegrated into the community, the police official added.
Reacting to the surrender of the three ASG members, Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Westmincom chief said he hopes that more Abu Sayyaf members will surrender and “choose to live a peaceful life."
“Rest assured they will be provided with livelihood programs to support their basic necessities,” Dela Vega added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040253
Omaida Salain alias Abu Maidi (left) hands over an Armalite rifle to an officer of the Army's 74th Infantry Battalion when he surrendered on Saturday in Tuburan, Basilan. (Photo courtesy: Westmincom PIO)
Ongoing military offensives have forced three members of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) to surrender separately to government authorities, military officials said.
Those who surrendered were identified as Omaidi Salain alias Abu Maidi; Jamad Habing, 22; and, his younger brother, Jem, 20.
Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, said Salain surrendered to the troops of the Army’s 74th Infantry Battalion around 6:05 a.m. Saturday in Barangay Sinulatan, Tuburan, Basilan. He brought along with him an M16A1 “Baby Armalite” rifle with a magazine of ammunition.
Besana said Salain “was formerly listed number six in other identified personalities in the Periodic Status Report (PSR)” of Basilan-based ASG and Urband Terrorist Group (UTG).
“Salain said during the initial debriefing that he decided to surrender because of the realization that this is not the life that he wanted,” he said.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Joint Task Force Basilan commander, and Senior Supt. Rufino Inot, Basilan police director, confirmed the surrender of the Habing brothers on Sunday in Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo.
Inot said they turned over an M-16 Armalite rifle with attached M-203 grenade launcher with ammunition and a bandolier.
He said the two brothers were followers of Furuji Indama, one of the ASG leaders in Basilan province. They decided to surrender after learning that their comrades, who surrendered earlier, are enjoying a peaceful life after they were properly reintegrated into the community, the police official added.
Reacting to the surrender of the three ASG members, Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Westmincom chief said he hopes that more Abu Sayyaf members will surrender and “choose to live a peaceful life."
“Rest assured they will be provided with livelihood programs to support their basic necessities,” Dela Vega added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040253
2 militiamen injured in Basilan explosion
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): 2 militiamen injured in Basilan explosion
Photo posted at the social media page of Karlo Ignacio shows one of the two militiamen injured in an explosion at a checkpoint in Isabela City, Basilan province.
Two militiamen were injured in an explosion at a checkpoint in Isabela City, Basilan province, a police official said Wednesday.
Supt. Glizen Niño Manese, Isabela City police officer-in-charge, identified the victims as Raylick Ramos, 29, and Hakim Jaddi, 35, both under the supervision of the Army’s 4th Special Forces Company.
Manese said the incident happened around 9:20 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay Sumagdang, Isabela City.
He said the two were injured when an undetermined explosive went off while troops from the Army’s 4th Special Forces Battalion, backed by militiamen, were conducting a checkpoint in the area.
Both Ramos and Jaddi were rushed to the hospital for treatment.
Manese said the incident is being investigated to determine the type of explosive used, as well as the identities of the perpetrators.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040361
Two militiamen were injured in an explosion at a checkpoint in Isabela City, Basilan province, a police official said Wednesday.
Supt. Glizen Niño Manese, Isabela City police officer-in-charge, identified the victims as Raylick Ramos, 29, and Hakim Jaddi, 35, both under the supervision of the Army’s 4th Special Forces Company.
Manese said the incident happened around 9:20 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay Sumagdang, Isabela City.
He said the two were injured when an undetermined explosive went off while troops from the Army’s 4th Special Forces Battalion, backed by militiamen, were conducting a checkpoint in the area.
Both Ramos and Jaddi were rushed to the hospital for treatment.
Manese said the incident is being investigated to determine the type of explosive used, as well as the identities of the perpetrators.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040361
1 BIFF killed, 4 firearms recovered in Maguindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): 1 BIFF killed, 4 firearms recovered in Maguindanao
PURSUIT. Military tanks continue to advance towards positions of the IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in the interiors of Maguindanao on efforts to destroy the terror group. (Photo by 6ID))
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao--A member of the IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was killed and four firearms were recovered as advancing government troops continue their pursuit operation against the terror group in the interiors of Maguindanao province.
Capt. Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division spokesman, said the latest in the series of clashes since July 1 occurred Wednesday (July 4) at the border of Mamasapano and Rajah Buayan towns where a BIFF militant was killed and four firearms were recovered from the fleeing extremists.
At 6 a.m. Wednesday, military helicopter gunships pounded on BIFF positions in the boundary of Barangay Sapakan, Mamasapano, and Pidsandawan, Rajah Buayan, on efforts to flush out the lawless group in the area.
“We will not give them (BIFF) time to rest,” Encinas said, adding that members of the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion (IB) are still in the area for clearing operations.
“We have one (BIFF) body count and four firearms recovered but we believe the terrorists have sustained multiple casualties,” he said, noting that the BIFF group, headed by Imam Minimbang alias “Kagui Karialan” has splintered to smaller clusters, to avoid detection from pursuing soldiers.
At least four other BIFF insurgents were reported killed in separate running gun battles in the interiors of the affected towns of Shariff Aguak, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, and Datu Paglas.
On Tuesday, troopers from the Army’s 2nd Mechanized IB overran a camp in Sitio Mahad Buhos, Barangay Pusao, Shariff Saydona Mustapha town. The insurgents withdrew from the camp due to intense military air and ground assaults, said Lt. Col. Alvin Iyog.
The BIFF operates mainly in the so-called “SPMS box” of the province referring to the adjoining towns of Shariff Aguak-Pagatin (Datu Saudi), Mamasapano and Datu Salibo.
Since July 1, the government side has recorded one soldier killed in action and six others wounded, Encinas said.
Some 1,000 families were also reported to have evacuated so far from the towns of Datu Paglas, Mamasapano, Rajah Buayan, and Shariff Saydona Mustapha.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040332
PURSUIT. Military tanks continue to advance towards positions of the IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in the interiors of Maguindanao on efforts to destroy the terror group. (Photo by 6ID))
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao--A member of the IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was killed and four firearms were recovered as advancing government troops continue their pursuit operation against the terror group in the interiors of Maguindanao province.
Capt. Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division spokesman, said the latest in the series of clashes since July 1 occurred Wednesday (July 4) at the border of Mamasapano and Rajah Buayan towns where a BIFF militant was killed and four firearms were recovered from the fleeing extremists.
At 6 a.m. Wednesday, military helicopter gunships pounded on BIFF positions in the boundary of Barangay Sapakan, Mamasapano, and Pidsandawan, Rajah Buayan, on efforts to flush out the lawless group in the area.
“We will not give them (BIFF) time to rest,” Encinas said, adding that members of the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion (IB) are still in the area for clearing operations.
“We have one (BIFF) body count and four firearms recovered but we believe the terrorists have sustained multiple casualties,” he said, noting that the BIFF group, headed by Imam Minimbang alias “Kagui Karialan” has splintered to smaller clusters, to avoid detection from pursuing soldiers.
At least four other BIFF insurgents were reported killed in separate running gun battles in the interiors of the affected towns of Shariff Aguak, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, and Datu Paglas.
On Tuesday, troopers from the Army’s 2nd Mechanized IB overran a camp in Sitio Mahad Buhos, Barangay Pusao, Shariff Saydona Mustapha town. The insurgents withdrew from the camp due to intense military air and ground assaults, said Lt. Col. Alvin Iyog.
The BIFF operates mainly in the so-called “SPMS box” of the province referring to the adjoining towns of Shariff Aguak-Pagatin (Datu Saudi), Mamasapano and Datu Salibo.
Since July 1, the government side has recorded one soldier killed in action and six others wounded, Encinas said.
Some 1,000 families were also reported to have evacuated so far from the towns of Datu Paglas, Mamasapano, Rajah Buayan, and Shariff Saydona Mustapha.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040332
Another NPA rebel yields in South Cotabato
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): Another NPA rebel yields in South Cotabato
Another suspected member of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered, along with his firearm, on Tuesday to government troops in South Cotabato province.
Lt. Col. Jones Otida, commanding officer of the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion (IB), said Funok Magaw Timbang alias "Boknoy", 33, voluntarily yielded in Barangay Tasiman in Lake Sebu town following negotiations with his men.
Otida said the rebel returnee, a resident of the same village, also surrendered his M16 Armalite rifle.
Timbang, who was part of a unit under the NPA's Front 73, said he decided to surrender due to the difficult situation in the mountains.
He said the NPA also failed to provide the financial support that it had promised his family.
"I'm tired of hiding in the mountains and might just die in an encounter," he said in a statement.
Last June 7, three NPA rebels under the Front 73 also surrendered, along with their issued M16 rifles, to 27IB troopers in T'boli town.
Otida said they have since intensified their security operations in the hinterland areas of Lake Sebu and T'boli to address the reported presence of NPA rebels.
Despite the intensified operations, he assured that they remained open to accommodate rebels who want to lay down their firearms and return to the folds of the law.
"We will continue with our efforts to encourage more rebels to surrender and return to the mainstream society as productive citizens,” he said.
Otida said they are set to present Timbang and the three other returnees to the provincial government of South Cotabato to facilitate the release of immediate financial assistance for them from the government.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040334
Another suspected member of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered, along with his firearm, on Tuesday to government troops in South Cotabato province.
Lt. Col. Jones Otida, commanding officer of the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion (IB), said Funok Magaw Timbang alias "Boknoy", 33, voluntarily yielded in Barangay Tasiman in Lake Sebu town following negotiations with his men.
Otida said the rebel returnee, a resident of the same village, also surrendered his M16 Armalite rifle.
Timbang, who was part of a unit under the NPA's Front 73, said he decided to surrender due to the difficult situation in the mountains.
He said the NPA also failed to provide the financial support that it had promised his family.
"I'm tired of hiding in the mountains and might just die in an encounter," he said in a statement.
Last June 7, three NPA rebels under the Front 73 also surrendered, along with their issued M16 rifles, to 27IB troopers in T'boli town.
Otida said they have since intensified their security operations in the hinterland areas of Lake Sebu and T'boli to address the reported presence of NPA rebels.
Despite the intensified operations, he assured that they remained open to accommodate rebels who want to lay down their firearms and return to the folds of the law.
"We will continue with our efforts to encourage more rebels to surrender and return to the mainstream society as productive citizens,” he said.
Otida said they are set to present Timbang and the three other returnees to the provincial government of South Cotabato to facilitate the release of immediate financial assistance for them from the government.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040334
PH, Malaysia to sign maritime security pact vs. transnational crimes
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): PH, Malaysia to sign maritime security pact vs. transnational crimes
MARITIME FORCES. (From left) Director of Philippine National Police Maritime Group Chief Superintendent Rodelio B. Jocson and Commissioner of Police Dato’ Sri Zulkifli Bin Abdullah during a press conference held Wednesday (July 4, 2018) for the 2nd Bilateral Meeting of the Philippines and Malaysia maritime police forces. (Photo by Celeste Anna R. Formoso)
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan -- The Philippines and Malaysia maritime police forces are expected to sign soon a formal agreement for stronger maritime security cooperation against transnational crimes, terrorism, and emerging nautical concerns.
Director of Philippine National Police-Maritime Group (PNP-MG) Chief Superintendent Rodelio B. Jocson on Wednesday said they are discussing the fundamentals of the agreement before it can be signed.
The agreement will particularly focus on the areas of operations, undertaking coordinated maritime activities in law enforcement, and prevention of kidnapping, vessel hijacking, terrorism, trafficking of persons, smuggling of migrants, illicit drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and other illegal and criminal acts, he said.
Jocson is in Puerto Princesa for the 2nd Bilateral Meeting of the Marine Police Force-Royal Malaysia Police (MPF-RMP) and the PNP-MG held in Hue Hotel in this city.
“Actually, this will be tackled within the day. It has not yet been signed because we’re still reviewing the terms and condition. Maybe we will finish this within the day, if not maybe we will do that in the next bilateral meeting,” he said in a media conference.
Commissioner of Police Dato’ Sri Zulkifli Bin Abdullah, who is the Head of Delegates and the Director of the Internal Security and Public Order Department of the MPF-RMP, added it will also include cooperation in protecting marine resources from poaching
“For your information, I am also the chairman of what we call the Green Committee in the Royal Malaysia Police, and we have a very keen concern for protecting the marine environment. It has not been discussed yet, but it is important to protect the environment, and we will include that in the next meetings we will have,” he said.
He added that any abuse of the marine environment is also “a crime that should be taken seriously,” especially so that they have had successful operations against illegal logging and poaching of critically-endangered marine wildlife in their own maritime territory.
Jocson said the bilateral meeting will also discuss a lot about coordination protocols to fight transnational crimes and to forge a stronger relationship with their Malaysian maritime police counterparts.
“In order to be successful in preventing transnational crimes, we need our neighbors because if we do not know them, the trust is different. This kind of meeting will forge stronger relationships between us and our personnel,” he said.
Under the proposed agreement, its implementation will respect the principles of sovereignty, territory, non-interference in internal affairs, equality between the two nations, common interests, and international laws.
It will aim to establish a Joint Enforcement Working Group, a Joint Communication Plan to ensure accurate and timely information exchange and intelligence sharing, designate a Maritime Area of Common Concern and Common Area of Operations, and identify Rendezvous Points for smooth and coordinated maritime activities.
The proposed forms of cooperation are the exchange of information and intelligence sharing as may be permitted, the conduct of capacity building activities, and search and rescue or retrieval activities during disasters and emergency.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040393
MARITIME FORCES. (From left) Director of Philippine National Police Maritime Group Chief Superintendent Rodelio B. Jocson and Commissioner of Police Dato’ Sri Zulkifli Bin Abdullah during a press conference held Wednesday (July 4, 2018) for the 2nd Bilateral Meeting of the Philippines and Malaysia maritime police forces. (Photo by Celeste Anna R. Formoso)
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan -- The Philippines and Malaysia maritime police forces are expected to sign soon a formal agreement for stronger maritime security cooperation against transnational crimes, terrorism, and emerging nautical concerns.
Director of Philippine National Police-Maritime Group (PNP-MG) Chief Superintendent Rodelio B. Jocson on Wednesday said they are discussing the fundamentals of the agreement before it can be signed.
The agreement will particularly focus on the areas of operations, undertaking coordinated maritime activities in law enforcement, and prevention of kidnapping, vessel hijacking, terrorism, trafficking of persons, smuggling of migrants, illicit drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and other illegal and criminal acts, he said.
Jocson is in Puerto Princesa for the 2nd Bilateral Meeting of the Marine Police Force-Royal Malaysia Police (MPF-RMP) and the PNP-MG held in Hue Hotel in this city.
“Actually, this will be tackled within the day. It has not yet been signed because we’re still reviewing the terms and condition. Maybe we will finish this within the day, if not maybe we will do that in the next bilateral meeting,” he said in a media conference.
Commissioner of Police Dato’ Sri Zulkifli Bin Abdullah, who is the Head of Delegates and the Director of the Internal Security and Public Order Department of the MPF-RMP, added it will also include cooperation in protecting marine resources from poaching
“For your information, I am also the chairman of what we call the Green Committee in the Royal Malaysia Police, and we have a very keen concern for protecting the marine environment. It has not been discussed yet, but it is important to protect the environment, and we will include that in the next meetings we will have,” he said.
He added that any abuse of the marine environment is also “a crime that should be taken seriously,” especially so that they have had successful operations against illegal logging and poaching of critically-endangered marine wildlife in their own maritime territory.
Jocson said the bilateral meeting will also discuss a lot about coordination protocols to fight transnational crimes and to forge a stronger relationship with their Malaysian maritime police counterparts.
“In order to be successful in preventing transnational crimes, we need our neighbors because if we do not know them, the trust is different. This kind of meeting will forge stronger relationships between us and our personnel,” he said.
Under the proposed agreement, its implementation will respect the principles of sovereignty, territory, non-interference in internal affairs, equality between the two nations, common interests, and international laws.
It will aim to establish a Joint Enforcement Working Group, a Joint Communication Plan to ensure accurate and timely information exchange and intelligence sharing, designate a Maritime Area of Common Concern and Common Area of Operations, and identify Rendezvous Points for smooth and coordinated maritime activities.
The proposed forms of cooperation are the exchange of information and intelligence sharing as may be permitted, the conduct of capacity building activities, and search and rescue or retrieval activities during disasters and emergency.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040393
State-of-the-art security monitoring system put up in Subic
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): State-of-the-art security monitoring system put up in Subic
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – A state-of-the-art monitoring system that provides a live feed of images from remote surveillance areas here has been installed to boost security operations and public safety.
SBMA chairman and administrator Wilma T. Eisma on Wednesday said the system, consists of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, were installed in various areas of the Freeport that are viewed from a bank of monitors and a LED (light-emitting diode) wall at the SBMA Law Enforcement Department (LED) command center.
The system allows the simultaneous viewing of live images from 96 different camera angles.
“It’s quite impressive,” the SBMA chief said, describing the system. “And I hope that this will be something really effective not only in crime prevention, but also in promoting public safety and environmental protection in the Freeport.”
Eisma also said the installation of SBMA’s modern monitoring system was made possible by funding from Common Use Service Area (CUSA) fees collected by the Subic agency from business locators, residents, and tourists entering the Freeport.
“Now that we have this state-of-the-art monitoring system, violators can easily be detected and apprehended. Subic is known for its strict enforcement of traffic rules, as well as for its high level of security, and this system brings us to a higher level of police work,” she added.
SBMA police chief Major Vicente Tolentino said that most of the tourist sites in the Freeport are now covered by the CCTV system that was installed by Wireless Link Technologies, Inc., a leading wireless technology provider based in Manila.
PLDT Subictel has also installed CCTVs at the sentry posts of three housing areas in Subic: Binictican, Kalayaan, and Cubi.
“The SBMA will be paying for the system installation contracted out to Wireless Link Technologies, but the cameras provided by PLDT Subictel are for free,“ Eisma said.
Tolentino said that all the CCTVs are monitored 24/7 by LED officers inside the command center.
“We want people to know that the Subic Bay Freeport Zone is one of the safest places in the country, where they could relax without fear of being accosted by criminal elements. At the same time, we want criminal elements to know that we are ready for them and that we can monitor their every move here,” Tolentino said.
The SBMA police head added that more security monitoring systems will be put in place in other areas of the Freeport under the second phase of the agency’s CCTV program.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040380
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – A state-of-the-art monitoring system that provides a live feed of images from remote surveillance areas here has been installed to boost security operations and public safety.
SBMA chairman and administrator Wilma T. Eisma on Wednesday said the system, consists of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, were installed in various areas of the Freeport that are viewed from a bank of monitors and a LED (light-emitting diode) wall at the SBMA Law Enforcement Department (LED) command center.
The system allows the simultaneous viewing of live images from 96 different camera angles.
“It’s quite impressive,” the SBMA chief said, describing the system. “And I hope that this will be something really effective not only in crime prevention, but also in promoting public safety and environmental protection in the Freeport.”
Eisma also said the installation of SBMA’s modern monitoring system was made possible by funding from Common Use Service Area (CUSA) fees collected by the Subic agency from business locators, residents, and tourists entering the Freeport.
“Now that we have this state-of-the-art monitoring system, violators can easily be detected and apprehended. Subic is known for its strict enforcement of traffic rules, as well as for its high level of security, and this system brings us to a higher level of police work,” she added.
SBMA police chief Major Vicente Tolentino said that most of the tourist sites in the Freeport are now covered by the CCTV system that was installed by Wireless Link Technologies, Inc., a leading wireless technology provider based in Manila.
PLDT Subictel has also installed CCTVs at the sentry posts of three housing areas in Subic: Binictican, Kalayaan, and Cubi.
“The SBMA will be paying for the system installation contracted out to Wireless Link Technologies, but the cameras provided by PLDT Subictel are for free,“ Eisma said.
Tolentino said that all the CCTVs are monitored 24/7 by LED officers inside the command center.
“We want people to know that the Subic Bay Freeport Zone is one of the safest places in the country, where they could relax without fear of being accosted by criminal elements. At the same time, we want criminal elements to know that we are ready for them and that we can monitor their every move here,” Tolentino said.
The SBMA police head added that more security monitoring systems will be put in place in other areas of the Freeport under the second phase of the agency’s CCTV program.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040380
AFP: Reds planning to oust PRRD
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): AFP: Reds planning to oust PRRD
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday confirmed the communist rebels' plans to oust President Rodrigo Duterte.
Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesperson, said they learned of the plot based on recovered or captured documents.
"It was based sa mga (from) recovered documents," Arevalo stressed.
Arevalo, however, declined to give comments on when and where these documents were obtained or captured.
"Hindi ko na muna ia-annnounce sa ngayon (I will not announce it for now)," he added.
The AFP spokesperson noted that the threat is considered credible as it came from rebel documents and that the military cannot take chances on the matter.
"We cannot take chances, it's a threat not only to the liberties of our people (or) in the life of our President, we in the department have to take that seriously," Arevalo stressed.
Also, he refused to answer on whether other groups are aligning themselves with Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) for this plot.
"I'm not privy about other groups if there are other groups," the AFP spokesperson added.
Earlier, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the CPP-National Democratic Front has plans to oust Duterte which will culminate this coming October.
The latter is among the seven other reasons why the defense chief is pushing for the termination of peace talks with the rebel group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040227
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday confirmed the communist rebels' plans to oust President Rodrigo Duterte.
Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesperson, said they learned of the plot based on recovered or captured documents.
"It was based sa mga (from) recovered documents," Arevalo stressed.
Arevalo, however, declined to give comments on when and where these documents were obtained or captured.
"Hindi ko na muna ia-annnounce sa ngayon (I will not announce it for now)," he added.
The AFP spokesperson noted that the threat is considered credible as it came from rebel documents and that the military cannot take chances on the matter.
"We cannot take chances, it's a threat not only to the liberties of our people (or) in the life of our President, we in the department have to take that seriously," Arevalo stressed.
Also, he refused to answer on whether other groups are aligning themselves with Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) for this plot.
"I'm not privy about other groups if there are other groups," the AFP spokesperson added.
Earlier, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the CPP-National Democratic Front has plans to oust Duterte which will culminate this coming October.
The latter is among the seven other reasons why the defense chief is pushing for the termination of peace talks with the rebel group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040227
Duterte to PAF men: Stay ‘vigilant’ vs. possible terror threats
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): Duterte to PAF men: Stay ‘vigilant’ vs. possible terror threats
President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday called on the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to remain vigilant in protecting the nation from threats of terrorism and external forces.
Duterte made this challenge during the 71st Founding Anniversary of the PAF at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City as he assured his administration remains committed to implement the Air Force’s PHP139-billion modernization program before he steps down in 2022.
“I therefore enjoin the men and women of the Philippine Air Force to remain vigilant as we intensify our fight against the current challenges of terrorism and external security,” Duterte said in his speech.
Duterte assured that his administration will remain steadfast in supporting not only the military modernization program but the necessary reforms “that will enable you to become effective agents of genuine and lasting peace”.
“I therefore ask of you to join me in this endeavor not just for ourselves, but for the sake of the generations to come, especially our nation,” he said.
Duterte said his administration is working on the implementation of the “second horizon” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program by 2022 “to further develop a modern, adequately equipped border security force’.
He said part of the second phase of the AFP modernization project, reportedly worth around PHP300 billion, includes the PHP139 billion worth of 16 projects for PAF.
“We will continue to face challenges as we realize our shared vision of a stronger and safer Philippines. It is therefore vital to innovate and invest in strategies and technologies that will allow our forces to perform their duties safely and effectively,” the Commander-in-Chief said.
He said the PAF has completed this year the acquisition of air defense surveillance radars, utility aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles that complemented the PAF’s existing air assets.
“We are also expecting the delivery of additional equipment and machinery in the following year,” Duterte said.
The President thanked the PAF for their “invaluable assistance” in reclaiming Marawi City from the Maute terrorist group last year.
“Your invaluable assistance has been fundamental not only liberating the city, but also bringing order and stability in Mindanao and the rest of the country,” Duterte said.
“I also take this opportunity to recognize your contributions and accomplishments in air operations for territorial defense, counter-terrorism and internal security, international defense and security engagement as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster operations among others,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040298
President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday called on the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to remain vigilant in protecting the nation from threats of terrorism and external forces.
Duterte made this challenge during the 71st Founding Anniversary of the PAF at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City as he assured his administration remains committed to implement the Air Force’s PHP139-billion modernization program before he steps down in 2022.
“I therefore enjoin the men and women of the Philippine Air Force to remain vigilant as we intensify our fight against the current challenges of terrorism and external security,” Duterte said in his speech.
Duterte assured that his administration will remain steadfast in supporting not only the military modernization program but the necessary reforms “that will enable you to become effective agents of genuine and lasting peace”.
“I therefore ask of you to join me in this endeavor not just for ourselves, but for the sake of the generations to come, especially our nation,” he said.
Duterte said his administration is working on the implementation of the “second horizon” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program by 2022 “to further develop a modern, adequately equipped border security force’.
He said part of the second phase of the AFP modernization project, reportedly worth around PHP300 billion, includes the PHP139 billion worth of 16 projects for PAF.
“We will continue to face challenges as we realize our shared vision of a stronger and safer Philippines. It is therefore vital to innovate and invest in strategies and technologies that will allow our forces to perform their duties safely and effectively,” the Commander-in-Chief said.
He said the PAF has completed this year the acquisition of air defense surveillance radars, utility aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles that complemented the PAF’s existing air assets.
“We are also expecting the delivery of additional equipment and machinery in the following year,” Duterte said.
The President thanked the PAF for their “invaluable assistance” in reclaiming Marawi City from the Maute terrorist group last year.
“Your invaluable assistance has been fundamental not only liberating the city, but also bringing order and stability in Mindanao and the rest of the country,” Duterte said.
“I also take this opportunity to recognize your contributions and accomplishments in air operations for territorial defense, counter-terrorism and internal security, international defense and security engagement as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster operations among others,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040298
PAF chief lauds PRRD for modernization commitment
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): PAF chief lauds PRRD for modernization commitment
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is accompanied by Sec. Bong Go of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Philippine National Police Director General Oscar Albayalde, Philippine Air Force (PAF) Commander Galileo Kintanar, Jr., and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Carlito Galvez, Jr. during the 71st founding anniversary of PAF at the Multi-Purpose Gymnasium in Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base (CJVAB), Pasay City on July 3, 2018. (Robinson Niñal Jr./Presidential Photo)
Philippine Air Force (PAF) head Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar expressed his appreciation to President Rodrigo Duterte for his commitment to modernize the military as proven by his signing of Horizon Two of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program (RAFPMP).
The PAF chief made this statement during the Air Force's 71st founding anniversary rites on Tuesday where Duterte was guest-of-honor and speaker.
It was held at the PAF Multi-Purpose Gymnasium, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.
This year's anniversary theme is "Blue Team @ Top Speed Integrating Efforts in Regaining Air Defense Capabilities for Peace and Resilient Development".
"We express our appreciation to our Commander-in-Chief for his ready commitment to support the Second Horizon of our Modernization, which includes the acquisition of multi-purpose rotary and fixed-wing assets as well as unmanned aerial and ground-based systems," Kintanar added.
Also, the PAF chief lauded the efforts of all their airmen and the rest of the nation for making the Air Force stronger and more capable.
"Thanks to all our airmen, the PAF has grown better, stronger and flown higher and thanks to our people, our leaders and public officials who have kept the faith in us at the wings of our nation. We have continuously evolved and developed our capabilities according to our own PAF Flight Plan, throughout it all and against all odds we have consistently delivered with positive impact in all mission areas," Kintanar stressed.
Horizon Two is expected to run from 2018 to 2022. Funding for this program is roughly PHP300 billion.
Equipment slated for acquisition during this period are towed and self-propelled howitzers, multiple launch rocket systems, armored recovery vehicles, five support vehicles, tactical radios, ground mobility equipment (light, medium, heavy), individual weapons, crew-served weapons, and night-fighting equipment for the Army; multi-role fighters, radar systems, light and medium lift aircraft, heavy lift helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, helicopters (attack and combat utility), special mission and long-range patrol aircraft for the Air Force; frigates, corvettes, submarines, amphibious assault vehicles, anti-submarine helicopters, attack crafts, medium lift helicopters and multi-role vessels for the Navy. Also being eyed are combat engineer, force protection, explosive ordnance disposal, chemical biological radiological nuclear, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and medical equipment.
The RAFPMP is divided into three horizons, with the first lasting from 2013 to 2017, the second from 2018 to 2022 and third 2023 to 2028.
Acquired during the First Horizon were the three Gregorio Del Pilar cutters, three combat utility helicopters for the Navy, two naval attack helicopters, six MPACs (multi-purpose assault craft), eight combat utility helicopters for the Air Force and refurbishment of two Lockheed C-130 "Hercules" cargo planes, two strategic sealift vessels, 12 FA-50 fighter jets among others.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040315
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is accompanied by Sec. Bong Go of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Philippine National Police Director General Oscar Albayalde, Philippine Air Force (PAF) Commander Galileo Kintanar, Jr., and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Carlito Galvez, Jr. during the 71st founding anniversary of PAF at the Multi-Purpose Gymnasium in Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base (CJVAB), Pasay City on July 3, 2018. (Robinson Niñal Jr./Presidential Photo)
Philippine Air Force (PAF) head Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar expressed his appreciation to President Rodrigo Duterte for his commitment to modernize the military as proven by his signing of Horizon Two of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program (RAFPMP).
The PAF chief made this statement during the Air Force's 71st founding anniversary rites on Tuesday where Duterte was guest-of-honor and speaker.
It was held at the PAF Multi-Purpose Gymnasium, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.
This year's anniversary theme is "Blue Team @ Top Speed Integrating Efforts in Regaining Air Defense Capabilities for Peace and Resilient Development".
"We express our appreciation to our Commander-in-Chief for his ready commitment to support the Second Horizon of our Modernization, which includes the acquisition of multi-purpose rotary and fixed-wing assets as well as unmanned aerial and ground-based systems," Kintanar added.
Also, the PAF chief lauded the efforts of all their airmen and the rest of the nation for making the Air Force stronger and more capable.
"Thanks to all our airmen, the PAF has grown better, stronger and flown higher and thanks to our people, our leaders and public officials who have kept the faith in us at the wings of our nation. We have continuously evolved and developed our capabilities according to our own PAF Flight Plan, throughout it all and against all odds we have consistently delivered with positive impact in all mission areas," Kintanar stressed.
Horizon Two is expected to run from 2018 to 2022. Funding for this program is roughly PHP300 billion.
Equipment slated for acquisition during this period are towed and self-propelled howitzers, multiple launch rocket systems, armored recovery vehicles, five support vehicles, tactical radios, ground mobility equipment (light, medium, heavy), individual weapons, crew-served weapons, and night-fighting equipment for the Army; multi-role fighters, radar systems, light and medium lift aircraft, heavy lift helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, helicopters (attack and combat utility), special mission and long-range patrol aircraft for the Air Force; frigates, corvettes, submarines, amphibious assault vehicles, anti-submarine helicopters, attack crafts, medium lift helicopters and multi-role vessels for the Navy. Also being eyed are combat engineer, force protection, explosive ordnance disposal, chemical biological radiological nuclear, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and medical equipment.
The RAFPMP is divided into three horizons, with the first lasting from 2013 to 2017, the second from 2018 to 2022 and third 2023 to 2028.
Acquired during the First Horizon were the three Gregorio Del Pilar cutters, three combat utility helicopters for the Navy, two naval attack helicopters, six MPACs (multi-purpose assault craft), eight combat utility helicopters for the Air Force and refurbishment of two Lockheed C-130 "Hercules" cargo planes, two strategic sealift vessels, 12 FA-50 fighter jets among others.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040315
PAF beefs up engagement with other air forces
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): PAF beefs up engagement with other air forces
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte receives a fighter pilot's helmet as token during the 71st founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Multi-Purpose Gymnasium in Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base (CJVAB), Pasay City on July 3, 2018. Presenting the token is PAF Commander Lieutenant General Galileo Kintanar, Jr. (Robinson Niñal/Presidential Photo)
In line with the government's independent foreign policy program, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) has intensified its engagement with several air forces aside from its traditional allies.
This was announced by PAF chief Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar during the Air Force's 71st founding anniversary celebration held at the PAF Multi-Purpose Gymnasium, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.
"Outside our national partnerships in support of our government's independent foreign policy, we have intensified engagements with counterpart air forces in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States," he added.
Kintanar said the PAF will be establishing more cooperative engagements with other countries, including China, as this so far have resulted in significant initiatives bearing on the training and professional development opportunities of Filipino airmen.
Also, the PAF chief said they have revived the Air Force's Self Reliant Defense Posture to utilize local talent and increase their logistical capacity to sustain operation and reduce dependents on foreign supplies.
"And through the legacy of our pioneers and heroes, we are committed to train and develop, so that the Air Force can breed airmen our nation deserves, airmen who live and breed the values of integrity, service above self, teamwork, excellence, and professionalism 24/7 all year long across our country, through 360 degrees," Kintanar added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040318
In line with the government's independent foreign policy program, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) has intensified its engagement with several air forces aside from its traditional allies.
This was announced by PAF chief Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar during the Air Force's 71st founding anniversary celebration held at the PAF Multi-Purpose Gymnasium, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.
"Outside our national partnerships in support of our government's independent foreign policy, we have intensified engagements with counterpart air forces in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States," he added.
Kintanar said the PAF will be establishing more cooperative engagements with other countries, including China, as this so far have resulted in significant initiatives bearing on the training and professional development opportunities of Filipino airmen.
Also, the PAF chief said they have revived the Air Force's Self Reliant Defense Posture to utilize local talent and increase their logistical capacity to sustain operation and reduce dependents on foreign supplies.
"And through the legacy of our pioneers and heroes, we are committed to train and develop, so that the Air Force can breed airmen our nation deserves, airmen who live and breed the values of integrity, service above self, teamwork, excellence, and professionalism 24/7 all year long across our country, through 360 degrees," Kintanar added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040318
US to work on Duterte-Trump Washington meeting
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 4): US to work on Duterte-Trump Washington meeting
DUTERTE-TRUMP MEETING. President Rodrigo R. Duterte and US President Donald Trump discuss matters during a bilateral meeting at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on November 13, 2017. (Presidential Photo)
United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim on Tuesday said Washington will push for the next meeting of President Rodrigo R. Duterte and US President Donald Trump.
This, seeing that both countries have "strong interest" in facilitating Duterte's visit to US.
"As you know, President Trump has already invited President Duterte to visit Washington but obviously there had been lots of important development here in the Philippines and I think it's a question of scheduling as to when President Duterte would make a visit to the US," he said in an interview on Tuesday.
"I think there is strong interest in both sides in facilitating the visit to Washington so we'll continue to work at it," he added.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo himself relayed hopes for the two leaders' meeting when he met Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano on June 22.
Trump and Duterte met in Manila on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit last November. During the meeting, the two discussed issues on drug menace, terrorism, and trade issues.
Following the meeting, Kim, at the 4th of July Reception in Makati City, said the two leaders have forged a "very strong relationship."
"The two gentlemen have shared much in common including on the importance of rule of law even as the Philippines continues to pursue the serious challenge of illegal drugs in the Philippines," he said.
"We understand that the drug issue is a huge challenge for the Philippines, we understand that President Duterte is so focused on that big problem and we will continue to work with the Philippine government," the envoy added.
US has been providing Manila support in areas such as demand reduction and drug rehabilitation efforts.
Among others, US has also established law enforcement cooperation with the Philippine National Police and other agencies in the country.
"I think our robust law enforcement cooperation will continue and it is important both sides agree on the importance of rule of law and respect for human rights as we proceed with efforts to deal with the drug problem," Kim said.
Ties in great shape
On the same event, Kim, who was hosting his second US Independence Day Reception in Manila, said there had been significant development on the Philippines-US relations.
He noted the two countries' growing partnership from defeating terrorists in Marawi City to rebuilding it after its liberation in October 2017.
"We worked together to defeat the terrorist attack on Marawi City and now we're supporting the government's efforts to rebuild Marawi," he said.
In addition, he said the economic partnership between the two countries continues to be "very strong."
"We welcome the Philippines interest in doing a free trade agreement with US and of course President Trump had a wonderful visit to the Philippine in November, so I think the relationship is in great shape and I think the future of the relationship is very bright."
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040340
DUTERTE-TRUMP MEETING. President Rodrigo R. Duterte and US President Donald Trump discuss matters during a bilateral meeting at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on November 13, 2017. (Presidential Photo)
United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim on Tuesday said Washington will push for the next meeting of President Rodrigo R. Duterte and US President Donald Trump.
This, seeing that both countries have "strong interest" in facilitating Duterte's visit to US.
"As you know, President Trump has already invited President Duterte to visit Washington but obviously there had been lots of important development here in the Philippines and I think it's a question of scheduling as to when President Duterte would make a visit to the US," he said in an interview on Tuesday.
"I think there is strong interest in both sides in facilitating the visit to Washington so we'll continue to work at it," he added.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo himself relayed hopes for the two leaders' meeting when he met Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano on June 22.
Trump and Duterte met in Manila on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit last November. During the meeting, the two discussed issues on drug menace, terrorism, and trade issues.
Following the meeting, Kim, at the 4th of July Reception in Makati City, said the two leaders have forged a "very strong relationship."
"The two gentlemen have shared much in common including on the importance of rule of law even as the Philippines continues to pursue the serious challenge of illegal drugs in the Philippines," he said.
"We understand that the drug issue is a huge challenge for the Philippines, we understand that President Duterte is so focused on that big problem and we will continue to work with the Philippine government," the envoy added.
US has been providing Manila support in areas such as demand reduction and drug rehabilitation efforts.
Among others, US has also established law enforcement cooperation with the Philippine National Police and other agencies in the country.
"I think our robust law enforcement cooperation will continue and it is important both sides agree on the importance of rule of law and respect for human rights as we proceed with efforts to deal with the drug problem," Kim said.
Ties in great shape
On the same event, Kim, who was hosting his second US Independence Day Reception in Manila, said there had been significant development on the Philippines-US relations.
He noted the two countries' growing partnership from defeating terrorists in Marawi City to rebuilding it after its liberation in October 2017.
"We worked together to defeat the terrorist attack on Marawi City and now we're supporting the government's efforts to rebuild Marawi," he said.
In addition, he said the economic partnership between the two countries continues to be "very strong."
"We welcome the Philippines interest in doing a free trade agreement with US and of course President Trump had a wonderful visit to the Philippine in November, so I think the relationship is in great shape and I think the future of the relationship is very bright."
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040340