https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2381367998548577/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
Saturday, March 23, 2019
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - NDF members na may existing 'warrant of arrest', maaari ng hulihin. -PNP
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 24, 2019): Photo/slide - NDF members na may existing 'warrant of arrest', maaari ng hulihin. -PNP
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2381367998548577/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2381367998548577/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - AFP, backs ending peace with CPP-NPA
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 24, 2019): Photo/slide - AFP, backs ending peace with CPP-NPA
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2381367038548673/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2381367038548673/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: AFP sustain security operations ensures peace and development in the communities
Article posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 24, 2019): AFP sustain security operations ensures peace and development in the communities
[Article from Kalinaw News dated Mar 22 reposted to the AFP-CRS Facebook page]
Three encounters transpired in different areas of Eastern Mindanao as units under Eastern Mindanao Command sustains the conduct of security operations in their respective area of jurisdiction. For the past two days, troops of EMC averted CPP-NPA Terrorist Group evil plan in conducting atrocities against the communities.
Troops from 3rd Infantry Battalion encountered an undetermined number of the ...CPP-NPA Terrorist Group (CNTG) members along the periphery of Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District, Davao City in the morning of March 22, 2019.
In a report rendered by Ltc. Oscar Partuza, Battalion Commander of 3IB the encounter transpired while the troops are on the process of validating the information of the presence of CNTG members in the aforementioned area. The five-minute firefight resulted in the death of one CNTG member and the capture of one M16 rifle and one cal. 45 pistol. No troop was reported to have been hurt or killed during the firefight.
In a separate report made by Lieutenant Colonel Allen Raymund Tomas, Commanding Officer 30IB a platoon from his unit led by First Lieutenant Jonel G. Castillo encountered CNTG members along Upper Sangay, Brgy Anomar, Surigao City, Surigao Del Norte in the morning of March 21, 2019.
The incident resulted in the death of one CNTG member, the capture of one M16 rifle, recovery of three International Humanitarian Law banned anti-personnel landmine, landmine paraphernalia, and other CNTG belongings.The killed CNTG cadaver was brought to Nilo Funeral Homes, in Brgy Luna, Surigao City for proper disposition and identification.
In the afternoon of the same day, another encounter transpired at the outskirt of So Bulak, Brgy Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan Del Norte between the patrolling troops of 30IB under Ltc Francisco Molina and an undetermined number of CNTG members.No casualty was reported during the said skirmish.
Meanwhile, Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander Eastern Mindanao Command reiterated his directive to sustain the operations against the terrorist and prevent them from conducting atrocities that will hamper the socio-cultural and economic endeavor in the communities.
“While we are facilitating the resolution of issues and concern of our communities particularly those in the Conflict Affected Areas together with our partner Local Government Units, government and non- government agencies and organizations, let us sustain our security operations and not allow them to continue with their anti-development and anti-people terroristic act and plan as openly announce by Joma Sison to conduct attacks against our troops and communities and establishments.” Lt. Gen Santos Jr. said.
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
[Article from Kalinaw News dated Mar 22 reposted to the AFP-CRS Facebook page]
Three encounters transpired in different areas of Eastern Mindanao as units under Eastern Mindanao Command sustains the conduct of security operations in their respective area of jurisdiction. For the past two days, troops of EMC averted CPP-NPA Terrorist Group evil plan in conducting atrocities against the communities.
Troops from 3rd Infantry Battalion encountered an undetermined number of the ...CPP-NPA Terrorist Group (CNTG) members along the periphery of Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District, Davao City in the morning of March 22, 2019.
In a report rendered by Ltc. Oscar Partuza, Battalion Commander of 3IB the encounter transpired while the troops are on the process of validating the information of the presence of CNTG members in the aforementioned area. The five-minute firefight resulted in the death of one CNTG member and the capture of one M16 rifle and one cal. 45 pistol. No troop was reported to have been hurt or killed during the firefight.
In a separate report made by Lieutenant Colonel Allen Raymund Tomas, Commanding Officer 30IB a platoon from his unit led by First Lieutenant Jonel G. Castillo encountered CNTG members along Upper Sangay, Brgy Anomar, Surigao City, Surigao Del Norte in the morning of March 21, 2019.
The incident resulted in the death of one CNTG member, the capture of one M16 rifle, recovery of three International Humanitarian Law banned anti-personnel landmine, landmine paraphernalia, and other CNTG belongings.The killed CNTG cadaver was brought to Nilo Funeral Homes, in Brgy Luna, Surigao City for proper disposition and identification.
In the afternoon of the same day, another encounter transpired at the outskirt of So Bulak, Brgy Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan Del Norte between the patrolling troops of 30IB under Ltc Francisco Molina and an undetermined number of CNTG members.No casualty was reported during the said skirmish.
Meanwhile, Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander Eastern Mindanao Command reiterated his directive to sustain the operations against the terrorist and prevent them from conducting atrocities that will hamper the socio-cultural and economic endeavor in the communities.
“While we are facilitating the resolution of issues and concern of our communities particularly those in the Conflict Affected Areas together with our partner Local Government Units, government and non- government agencies and organizations, let us sustain our security operations and not allow them to continue with their anti-development and anti-people terroristic act and plan as openly announce by Joma Sison to conduct attacks against our troops and communities and establishments.” Lt. Gen Santos Jr. said.
Cpt Catherine H Jubas
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 7ID
Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija
09175547417
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 7ID
Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija
09175547417
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
Army, NPA clash triggers evacuation in Negros
From the Manila Times (Mar 24, 2019): Army, NPA clash triggers evacuation in Negros
BACOLOD CITY: A skirmish between Philippine Army troops and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Thursday night forced the suspension of classes in 10 public schools and the evacuation of more than 600 people in northern Negros Occidental.
Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, commander of 79th Infantry Battalion, said soldiers under his unit responded to reports about the presence of suspected NPA rebels in Sitio Fuentes, Barangay Mabini, Escalante City.
A 10-minute running gunbattle ensued forcing the rebels to scamper in various directions. None of the soldiers were hit, Logan said.
As a result of the pursuit operations, a regular member of the NPA, whose identity is being withheld by the Army, surrendered, he added.
The firefight forced Toboso Mayor Richard Jaojoco to suspend classes in Uldarico Suison Elementary School, Labi-labi Elementary School, Labi-labi National High School, Stop Aguinaldo Elementary School, San Isidro Elementary School, Andres Gumban Memorial National High School, Mainit Elementary School, Bandila Elementary School, Tabun-ac Elementary School, Toril Elementary School and Salamanca Elementary School.
Fearing for their security, 381 people left their homes in the sitios (subvillages) of Barangay Mabini, and 301 others in Barangay San Jose, Toboso town.
Logan said pursuing government forces recovered P300,000 worth of medicines, several boxes of assorted canned goods and a record book containing an inventory of the medicines at the encounter site.
Advertisements
“We are still validating reports of civilians that three to four rebels were injured in the gunbattle based on the bloodstains seen along withdrawal routes of the rebels,” he added.
The local governments of Escalante City and Toboso immediately distributed relief goods to the internally displaced persons temporarily staying in two schools in both areas.
Last March 12, troops from the 15th Infantry Battalion captured an NPA fighter identified as Arnel “July” Sairot, following an encounter at Sitio Bunga, Barangay Salong in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.
Sairot, 21, of Escalante City in northern Negros was among the fully-armed rebels who engaged the troops that conducted combat operations based on reports of the NPA’s extortion activities.
He was captured while the soldiers were conducting pursuit operations and clearing the area after his comrades retreated.
https://www.manilatimes.net/army-npa-clash-triggers-evacuation-in-negros/530084/
BACOLOD CITY: A skirmish between Philippine Army troops and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Thursday night forced the suspension of classes in 10 public schools and the evacuation of more than 600 people in northern Negros Occidental.
Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, commander of 79th Infantry Battalion, said soldiers under his unit responded to reports about the presence of suspected NPA rebels in Sitio Fuentes, Barangay Mabini, Escalante City.
A 10-minute running gunbattle ensued forcing the rebels to scamper in various directions. None of the soldiers were hit, Logan said.
As a result of the pursuit operations, a regular member of the NPA, whose identity is being withheld by the Army, surrendered, he added.
The firefight forced Toboso Mayor Richard Jaojoco to suspend classes in Uldarico Suison Elementary School, Labi-labi Elementary School, Labi-labi National High School, Stop Aguinaldo Elementary School, San Isidro Elementary School, Andres Gumban Memorial National High School, Mainit Elementary School, Bandila Elementary School, Tabun-ac Elementary School, Toril Elementary School and Salamanca Elementary School.
Fearing for their security, 381 people left their homes in the sitios (subvillages) of Barangay Mabini, and 301 others in Barangay San Jose, Toboso town.
Logan said pursuing government forces recovered P300,000 worth of medicines, several boxes of assorted canned goods and a record book containing an inventory of the medicines at the encounter site.
Advertisements
“We are still validating reports of civilians that three to four rebels were injured in the gunbattle based on the bloodstains seen along withdrawal routes of the rebels,” he added.
The local governments of Escalante City and Toboso immediately distributed relief goods to the internally displaced persons temporarily staying in two schools in both areas.
Last March 12, troops from the 15th Infantry Battalion captured an NPA fighter identified as Arnel “July” Sairot, following an encounter at Sitio Bunga, Barangay Salong in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.
Sairot, 21, of Escalante City in northern Negros was among the fully-armed rebels who engaged the troops that conducted combat operations based on reports of the NPA’s extortion activities.
He was captured while the soldiers were conducting pursuit operations and clearing the area after his comrades retreated.
https://www.manilatimes.net/army-npa-clash-triggers-evacuation-in-negros/530084/
Karapatan-Panay seeks probe on arrest of 3 Igbaras farmers
From the Panay News (Mar 24, 2019): Karapatan-Panay seeks probe on arrest of 3 Igbaras farmers
ILOILO City – Militant group Karapatan-Panay will request the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to investigate the arrest of three suspected rebels after a clash between the government troops and the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Mulangan, Igbaras, Iloilo last week.
Reylan Vergara of Karapatan-Panay said the three arrested individuals were just farmers and not members of the NPA.
“They are innocent farmers and they are not rebels as what the Army claimed,” Vergara said.
Members of the Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (IB) clashed against NPA’s Southern Front Committee in Panay around 6 a.m. on March 17.
After the encounter, the 48-year-old Ramon “Toto” Elamparo, 50-year-old Roberto “Nono” Elbao and 50-year-old Ruperto “Bebot” Elamparo were brought to the Igbaras police station.
Nine explosives were recovered from their houses, police said.
Lieutenant Colonel Sisenando Magbalot, commanding officer of the 61st IB, said they received a report that 10 armed men went to Elamparos’ house moments before the Army arrived in the village.
Magbalot said he is open to any investigation over the Igbaras encounter, adding that people in the village will serve as their witnesses.
https://www.panaynews.net/karapatan-panay-seeks-probe-on-arrest-of-3-igbaras-farmers/
ILOILO City – Militant group Karapatan-Panay will request the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to investigate the arrest of three suspected rebels after a clash between the government troops and the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Mulangan, Igbaras, Iloilo last week.
Reylan Vergara of Karapatan-Panay said the three arrested individuals were just farmers and not members of the NPA.
“They are innocent farmers and they are not rebels as what the Army claimed,” Vergara said.
Members of the Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (IB) clashed against NPA’s Southern Front Committee in Panay around 6 a.m. on March 17.
After the encounter, the 48-year-old Ramon “Toto” Elamparo, 50-year-old Roberto “Nono” Elbao and 50-year-old Ruperto “Bebot” Elamparo were brought to the Igbaras police station.
Nine explosives were recovered from their houses, police said.
Lieutenant Colonel Sisenando Magbalot, commanding officer of the 61st IB, said they received a report that 10 armed men went to Elamparos’ house moments before the Army arrived in the village.
Magbalot said he is open to any investigation over the Igbaras encounter, adding that people in the village will serve as their witnesses.
https://www.panaynews.net/karapatan-panay-seeks-probe-on-arrest-of-3-igbaras-farmers/
1 killed as troops, NPA clash in Davao City
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23, 2019): 1 killed as troops, NPA clash in Davao City
Photo shows the recovered explosive devices and personal items from the New People's Army following a clash with governemnt troopers in Baguio District, Davao City. (Photo courtesy of the Eastmincom PIO)
DAVAO CITY – Government troops clashed with an undetermined number of communist insurgents in Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District here on Friday.
The firefight came a day after President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the peace negotiations between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).
Lt. Col Oscar Partuza, commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Battalion, said the encounter took place while the troops were validating information that NPA members were in the area.
Partuza said the five-minute firefight resulted in the death of an NPA rebel, whose identity remains unknown as of this posting, as well as the recovery of an M16 rifle and a cal. 45 pistol.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom), said the Davao City encounter occurred after soldiers also engaged the rebels in at least two firefights in Barangay Anomar, Surigao City, and in Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, on Thursday.
In the three incidents, Balagtey said no government trooper was reported wounded or killed.
Lt. General Felimon Santos Jr., Eastmincom commander, said government troops will sustain security operations to protect the communities and prevent the NPA from conducting harassments.
"While we are facilitating the resolution of issues and concern of our communities...let us sustain our security operations and not allow them to continue with their anti-development and anti-people terroristic act and plan as openly announced by Joma Sison to conduct attacks against our troops and communities and establishments," Santos Jr. said in his directive to the Army units under Eastmincom.
The Communist Party of the Philippines and the NPA have been listed as communist terrorist groups by the US and the European Union.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065437
DAVAO CITY – Government troops clashed with an undetermined number of communist insurgents in Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District here on Friday.
The firefight came a day after President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the peace negotiations between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).
Lt. Col Oscar Partuza, commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Battalion, said the encounter took place while the troops were validating information that NPA members were in the area.
Partuza said the five-minute firefight resulted in the death of an NPA rebel, whose identity remains unknown as of this posting, as well as the recovery of an M16 rifle and a cal. 45 pistol.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom), said the Davao City encounter occurred after soldiers also engaged the rebels in at least two firefights in Barangay Anomar, Surigao City, and in Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, on Thursday.
In the three incidents, Balagtey said no government trooper was reported wounded or killed.
Lt. General Felimon Santos Jr., Eastmincom commander, said government troops will sustain security operations to protect the communities and prevent the NPA from conducting harassments.
"While we are facilitating the resolution of issues and concern of our communities...let us sustain our security operations and not allow them to continue with their anti-development and anti-people terroristic act and plan as openly announced by Joma Sison to conduct attacks against our troops and communities and establishments," Santos Jr. said in his directive to the Army units under Eastmincom.
The Communist Party of the Philippines and the NPA have been listed as communist terrorist groups by the US and the European Union.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065437
Bayan Muna: Peace talks’ termination bodes ill for opposition, progressive bets
From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 22, 2019): Bayan Muna: Peace talks’ termination bodes ill for opposition, progressive bets
Bayan Muna Chairman Neri Colmenares and Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate on Friday assailed President Rodrigo Duterte’s latest termination of the peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), claiming it part of the government’s plan to attack progressive and opposition poll candidates as well as their supporters.
Bayan Muna chairman and senatorial candidate Neri Colmenares (RIO DELUVIO / MANILA BULLETIN)
“Just the other night Pres. Duterte lambasted (former) Cong. Erin Tanada and his father for supposedly always defending communists. Yesterday, there was a government-sponsored rally in Congress maligning the Makabayan Bloc,” Colmenares said.
“Since last year, surveillance operations against teachers and government employees affiliated with progressive organizations intensified. Worse, in a span of a week three of our campaigners were killed, among them a former Bayan Muna coordinator,” he continued to enumerate.
Colmenares, who is running for senator in the May 13 midterm polls, voiced suspicion that the wholesale declaration of Mindanao as an election hotspot the other day is all part of the government’s grand plan.
“Aside from the red-tagging…black propaganda…and the trumped up charges and physical attacks, the Duterte administration seems to be cooking something in declaring the whole of Mindanao as an election hotspot to ensure that progressives and the opposition would lose in the elections,” he added.
Colmenares said the termination of the peace talks with the Reds is not good for the cause of just and lasting peace but as well as the upcoming elections. “It seems to be the signal to attack progressive candidates and the opposition so that pro-Duterte candidates would broaden their base in the Senate, Congress and the local government units.”
Zarate, on the other hand, said the termination of the peace talks “is a victory for the hawkish and militarists in the Duterte administration, who from day one of the process have already been sabotaging and derailing it.”
“This is truly unfortunate considering that this panel achieved in a few months what it took years for other government panels to accomplish. Closing further the door for talks could be a prelude to a more intensified militaristic solution to the country’s five decade-old rebellion, which also means even more displacements of our poor people and even more violations of human rights,” he said.
The Davao-based solon vowed to continue to work for the resumption of the peace talks even as red-tagging, black propaganda and actual attacks are being carried out by state forces against them.
“It is the whole country especially the majority of Filipinos that would benefit if the root causes of the armed conflict is addressed and just and lasting peace is finally achieved,” concluded Zarate.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/22/bayan-muna-peace-talks-termination-bodes-ill-for-opposition-progressive-bets/
Bayan Muna Chairman Neri Colmenares and Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate on Friday assailed President Rodrigo Duterte’s latest termination of the peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), claiming it part of the government’s plan to attack progressive and opposition poll candidates as well as their supporters.
Bayan Muna chairman and senatorial candidate Neri Colmenares (RIO DELUVIO / MANILA BULLETIN)
“Just the other night Pres. Duterte lambasted (former) Cong. Erin Tanada and his father for supposedly always defending communists. Yesterday, there was a government-sponsored rally in Congress maligning the Makabayan Bloc,” Colmenares said.
“Since last year, surveillance operations against teachers and government employees affiliated with progressive organizations intensified. Worse, in a span of a week three of our campaigners were killed, among them a former Bayan Muna coordinator,” he continued to enumerate.
Colmenares, who is running for senator in the May 13 midterm polls, voiced suspicion that the wholesale declaration of Mindanao as an election hotspot the other day is all part of the government’s grand plan.
“Aside from the red-tagging…black propaganda…and the trumped up charges and physical attacks, the Duterte administration seems to be cooking something in declaring the whole of Mindanao as an election hotspot to ensure that progressives and the opposition would lose in the elections,” he added.
Colmenares said the termination of the peace talks with the Reds is not good for the cause of just and lasting peace but as well as the upcoming elections. “It seems to be the signal to attack progressive candidates and the opposition so that pro-Duterte candidates would broaden their base in the Senate, Congress and the local government units.”
Zarate, on the other hand, said the termination of the peace talks “is a victory for the hawkish and militarists in the Duterte administration, who from day one of the process have already been sabotaging and derailing it.”
“This is truly unfortunate considering that this panel achieved in a few months what it took years for other government panels to accomplish. Closing further the door for talks could be a prelude to a more intensified militaristic solution to the country’s five decade-old rebellion, which also means even more displacements of our poor people and even more violations of human rights,” he said.
The Davao-based solon vowed to continue to work for the resumption of the peace talks even as red-tagging, black propaganda and actual attacks are being carried out by state forces against them.
“It is the whole country especially the majority of Filipinos that would benefit if the root causes of the armed conflict is addressed and just and lasting peace is finally achieved,” concluded Zarate.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/22/bayan-muna-peace-talks-termination-bodes-ill-for-opposition-progressive-bets/
NDF/NPA-Quezon: Rebolusyunaryong hustisya sa mga biktima ng pagsasamantala sa kababaihan ni Cesar Umali!
NPA-Quezon propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Mar 23, 2019): Rebolusyunaryong hustisya sa mga biktima ng pagsasamantala sa kababaihan ni Cesar Umali!
Apolonio Mendoza Command
New People’s Army
Lalawigan ng Quezon
Marso 2019
1. Batay sa bigat ng krimen o pagkakasala, ang maysala ay papatawan ng mga hakbanging pagtutuwid tulad ng pangangaral, paggawa at pagbabayad ng danyos o ng pinakamabigat na parusang kamatayan.
2. Ang parusang kamatayan ay ipinapataw sa mga salarin sa mga kaso ng pag-eespiya, pagkakanulo at pagtataksil, pamamaslang, panununog, panggagahasa, malakihang paglustay, marahas at malakihang pagnanakaw at pagnanakaw ng at iba pang hayop na pantrabaho. Lalong ipinapataw parusang kamatayan kung sapat at paulit-ulit nang gumawa ang mga mamamayan at maykapangyarihan ng babala sa krimeng nabanggit. Mula sa dokumentong Ukol sa Sistema ng Hustisya ng Rebolusyunaryong Kilusan:
VI. Ang Kaparusahan sa Krimen
Ang rebolusyunaryong hustisya na pinapatupad ng Demokratikong Gubyernong Bayan ay nakabatay sa kongkretong paglilitis, pagdinig at pagsusuri ng mga malilinaw at matitibay na mga batayan alinsunod sa proseso ng Hukumang Bayan. Mula dito ay inilalapat ang mga karampatang parusa sa nasasakdal anuman ang kanyang katayuan sa buhay. Kaiba sa reaksyunaryong gubyerno na palamuti lamang ang sinasabing “walang kinikilangan at pantay na hustisya”.
Sa bulok na kultura na umiiral ngayon sa bansa, talamak ang mga nagaganap na pagsasamantala sa mga kababaihan. Sa mga balitang inilalabas at nailalathala sa telebisyon, radyo, dyaryo at kahit sa internet, hindi mawawalan ng kasong rape o panggagahasa. Ang pagsasamantala sa kababaihan, bukod sa panggagahasa ay kabilang ang pang-aabusong berbal, seduksyon, panghahalay at iba pang akto ng hindi paggalang sa kababaihan. Ang mga nabanggit na paglabag ay hindi simple o magaan na krimen lalo’t kung ito ay paulit-ulit na ginagawa.
Sa kaso ni Cesar Umali, malinaw na nilabag nya ng maraming beses ang karapatang tao, partikular ng kababaihan. Sinampahan si Cesar Umali at napatunayang nagkasala sa nagkakailang kaso ng panggagahasa at akto ng panghahalay (rape at act of lasciviousness). Batay sa mga nakalap na ebidensya mula sa mga nagreklamo, napatunayan na nagkasala si Cesar Umali sa anim (6) na kaso ng panggagahasa at dalawang (2) kaso ng akto ng panghahalay.
Karamihan ng biktima ni Cesar Umali ay mga menor de edad. Ang mga dininig na kaso ay naganap simula pa noong 2004 hanggang kamakailan lamang.
Ang paggawad ng parusang kamatayan kay Cesar Umali ay pagpapatupad ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan alinsunod sa pasya ng Demokratikong Gubyernong Bayan na naglitis at duminig sa mga isinampang kaso laban sa nasasakdal.
https://www.ndfp.org/rebolusyunaryong-hustisya-sa-mga-biktima-ng-pagsasamantala-sa-kababaihan-ni-cesar-umali/
Apolonio Mendoza Command
New People’s Army
Lalawigan ng Quezon
Marso 2019
1. Batay sa bigat ng krimen o pagkakasala, ang maysala ay papatawan ng mga hakbanging pagtutuwid tulad ng pangangaral, paggawa at pagbabayad ng danyos o ng pinakamabigat na parusang kamatayan.
2. Ang parusang kamatayan ay ipinapataw sa mga salarin sa mga kaso ng pag-eespiya, pagkakanulo at pagtataksil, pamamaslang, panununog, panggagahasa, malakihang paglustay, marahas at malakihang pagnanakaw at pagnanakaw ng at iba pang hayop na pantrabaho. Lalong ipinapataw parusang kamatayan kung sapat at paulit-ulit nang gumawa ang mga mamamayan at maykapangyarihan ng babala sa krimeng nabanggit. Mula sa dokumentong Ukol sa Sistema ng Hustisya ng Rebolusyunaryong Kilusan:
VI. Ang Kaparusahan sa Krimen
Ang rebolusyunaryong hustisya na pinapatupad ng Demokratikong Gubyernong Bayan ay nakabatay sa kongkretong paglilitis, pagdinig at pagsusuri ng mga malilinaw at matitibay na mga batayan alinsunod sa proseso ng Hukumang Bayan. Mula dito ay inilalapat ang mga karampatang parusa sa nasasakdal anuman ang kanyang katayuan sa buhay. Kaiba sa reaksyunaryong gubyerno na palamuti lamang ang sinasabing “walang kinikilangan at pantay na hustisya”.
Sa bulok na kultura na umiiral ngayon sa bansa, talamak ang mga nagaganap na pagsasamantala sa mga kababaihan. Sa mga balitang inilalabas at nailalathala sa telebisyon, radyo, dyaryo at kahit sa internet, hindi mawawalan ng kasong rape o panggagahasa. Ang pagsasamantala sa kababaihan, bukod sa panggagahasa ay kabilang ang pang-aabusong berbal, seduksyon, panghahalay at iba pang akto ng hindi paggalang sa kababaihan. Ang mga nabanggit na paglabag ay hindi simple o magaan na krimen lalo’t kung ito ay paulit-ulit na ginagawa.
Sa kaso ni Cesar Umali, malinaw na nilabag nya ng maraming beses ang karapatang tao, partikular ng kababaihan. Sinampahan si Cesar Umali at napatunayang nagkasala sa nagkakailang kaso ng panggagahasa at akto ng panghahalay (rape at act of lasciviousness). Batay sa mga nakalap na ebidensya mula sa mga nagreklamo, napatunayan na nagkasala si Cesar Umali sa anim (6) na kaso ng panggagahasa at dalawang (2) kaso ng akto ng panghahalay.
Karamihan ng biktima ni Cesar Umali ay mga menor de edad. Ang mga dininig na kaso ay naganap simula pa noong 2004 hanggang kamakailan lamang.
Ang paggawad ng parusang kamatayan kay Cesar Umali ay pagpapatupad ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan alinsunod sa pasya ng Demokratikong Gubyernong Bayan na naglitis at duminig sa mga isinampang kaso laban sa nasasakdal.
https://www.ndfp.org/rebolusyunaryong-hustisya-sa-mga-biktima-ng-pagsasamantala-sa-kababaihan-ni-cesar-umali/
NDF: Engkwentro sa pagitan ng NPA at AFP, isang sundalo patay
Propaganda press release posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Mar 23, 2019): Engkwentro sa pagitan ng NPA at AFP, isang sundalo patay
PRESS RELEASE
March 19, 2019
Patay ang isang sundalo bukod pa sa di mabilang na sugatan sa naganap na engkwentro sa pagitan ng New People’s Army at 85th IBPA noong hapon ng Marso 8, 2019 sa Sityo Tanauan, Barangay Villa Nacaob sa bayan ng Lopez.
Mag-iisang linggo nang nag-ooperasyon ang mga sundalo sa naturang barangay nang makasagupa ang isang yunit ng NPA sa ilalim ng Apolonio Mendoza Command. Walang naitalang kaswalti sa tropa ng pulang hukbo.
Simula Pebrero, tinambakan na ng mga sundalo ang mga baryo sa Macalelon, Lopez at Gumaca. Layunin nilang ipatawag sa kampo ang mga taumbaryo para pasukuin ang mga hinihinalang may kaugnayan sa CPP-NPA.
Ayon kay Ka Cleo del Mundo, tagapagsalita ng Apolonio Mendoza Command-NPA, ay hindi na bago ang pagiging militarisado ng kanayunan ng Quezon. “Pinatindi nga lamang ngayon ang pandarahas sa mga magsasaka alinsunod sa utos ni Duterte na lipulin ang NPA hanggang kalaghatian ng taon.”
“Ang karamihan sa iniuulat ng AFP na 608 na rebel returnee mula Enero ay yaong mga pangalan ng magsasakang arbitraryong inilagay nila sa pekeng listahan. Mas maraming lista, mas malaking perang makukulimbat sa ilalim ng gatasang bakang enhanced comprehensive local integration program.”
Ayon sa AMC-NPA ay nakapagtala sila ng serye ng mga pekeng pagpapasuko mula pa noong nakaraang taon. Kabilang dito ang 11 residente ng bayan ng Lopez na napasama sa mahigit 200 rebel returnee na ipinrisinta sa Malacañang noong Pebrero 2018.
Naidokumento rin nila ang insidente ng 14 na taumbaryo ng bayan ng San Francisco, noong Nobyembre, na inimbitahan sa isang pagtitipon ng DSWD para maging benepisyaro ng proyektong pangkabuhayan pero isang programa pala ng “pagbabalik-loob sa pamahalaan”.
Mula buwan ng Enero, naging karaniwan ang pagbabahay-bahay ng mga sundalo para sa sensus, pagpapapunta sa kampo, pag-iinteroga hanggang panghahalughog ng kabahayan. Pinakahuling insidente noong Pebrero ang nangyari sa magsasakang si Diego Remolin ng barangay Malabahay, Macalelon na isang oras na ininteroga at hinalughog ang kabahayan habang tinututukan ng baril ang isa pang magsasaka.
Sa bayan naman ng San Francisco, tatlong lider ng samahang magniniyog ang napilitang magbakwet matapos silang puntahan ng mga sundalo at paratangang CPP-NPA ang nasa likuran ng kanilang samahan.
Sa nakaraang linggo ay may naitalang humigit-kumulang na 300 sundalong nagrerelyebo sa pag-ooperasyon sa Binahian, San Rafael, Cogorin, San Francisco-B sa Lopez; at San Jose, Vista Hermosa, Villa Nacaob at Malabahay sa Macalelon at iba pang mga bayan sa Bondoc Peninsula.
https://www.ndfp.org/engkwentro-sa-pagitan-ng-npa-at-afp-isang-sundalo-patay/
PRESS RELEASE
March 19, 2019
Patay ang isang sundalo bukod pa sa di mabilang na sugatan sa naganap na engkwentro sa pagitan ng New People’s Army at 85th IBPA noong hapon ng Marso 8, 2019 sa Sityo Tanauan, Barangay Villa Nacaob sa bayan ng Lopez.
Mag-iisang linggo nang nag-ooperasyon ang mga sundalo sa naturang barangay nang makasagupa ang isang yunit ng NPA sa ilalim ng Apolonio Mendoza Command. Walang naitalang kaswalti sa tropa ng pulang hukbo.
Simula Pebrero, tinambakan na ng mga sundalo ang mga baryo sa Macalelon, Lopez at Gumaca. Layunin nilang ipatawag sa kampo ang mga taumbaryo para pasukuin ang mga hinihinalang may kaugnayan sa CPP-NPA.
Ayon kay Ka Cleo del Mundo, tagapagsalita ng Apolonio Mendoza Command-NPA, ay hindi na bago ang pagiging militarisado ng kanayunan ng Quezon. “Pinatindi nga lamang ngayon ang pandarahas sa mga magsasaka alinsunod sa utos ni Duterte na lipulin ang NPA hanggang kalaghatian ng taon.”
“Ang karamihan sa iniuulat ng AFP na 608 na rebel returnee mula Enero ay yaong mga pangalan ng magsasakang arbitraryong inilagay nila sa pekeng listahan. Mas maraming lista, mas malaking perang makukulimbat sa ilalim ng gatasang bakang enhanced comprehensive local integration program.”
Ayon sa AMC-NPA ay nakapagtala sila ng serye ng mga pekeng pagpapasuko mula pa noong nakaraang taon. Kabilang dito ang 11 residente ng bayan ng Lopez na napasama sa mahigit 200 rebel returnee na ipinrisinta sa Malacañang noong Pebrero 2018.
Naidokumento rin nila ang insidente ng 14 na taumbaryo ng bayan ng San Francisco, noong Nobyembre, na inimbitahan sa isang pagtitipon ng DSWD para maging benepisyaro ng proyektong pangkabuhayan pero isang programa pala ng “pagbabalik-loob sa pamahalaan”.
Mula buwan ng Enero, naging karaniwan ang pagbabahay-bahay ng mga sundalo para sa sensus, pagpapapunta sa kampo, pag-iinteroga hanggang panghahalughog ng kabahayan. Pinakahuling insidente noong Pebrero ang nangyari sa magsasakang si Diego Remolin ng barangay Malabahay, Macalelon na isang oras na ininteroga at hinalughog ang kabahayan habang tinututukan ng baril ang isa pang magsasaka.
Sa bayan naman ng San Francisco, tatlong lider ng samahang magniniyog ang napilitang magbakwet matapos silang puntahan ng mga sundalo at paratangang CPP-NPA ang nasa likuran ng kanilang samahan.
Sa nakaraang linggo ay may naitalang humigit-kumulang na 300 sundalong nagrerelyebo sa pag-ooperasyon sa Binahian, San Rafael, Cogorin, San Francisco-B sa Lopez; at San Jose, Vista Hermosa, Villa Nacaob at Malabahay sa Macalelon at iba pang mga bayan sa Bondoc Peninsula.
https://www.ndfp.org/engkwentro-sa-pagitan-ng-npa-at-afp-isang-sundalo-patay/
MILF: Young Bangsamoro professionals attend next generation academy programme in Turkey
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Mar 23, 2019): Young Bangsamoro professionals attend next generation academy programme in Turkey
Ankara, Turkey - Eleven (11) Young Bangsamoro Professionals were sent to Ankara, Turkey to participate in the “Yeni Nesil Akademisi (Next Generation Academy)” Program from March 16-24, 2019 hosted by the Institute of Strategic Thinking headed by its President Muhammet Savas? Kafkasyal?.
This activity aims to draw students from Turkey’s related communities to learn different valuable topics that will enable them to impart to their respective homelands. The programme includes lectures on Global System and the Future of the World; Turkish Foreign Policy; Cultural and Traditional Programmes; Turkish-Southeastern Asia Relations; Human Rights; Social Media; Self-improvement and Leadership. The participants will also have the opportunity to visit at Istanbul, Turkey.
As young professionals representing the Bangsamoro people, the programme will inculcate to them new learnings that can be an instrument in pushing up the Bangsamoro Aspirations.
These young Bangsamoro delegates include: Marjani Macasalong, Zubair Guiaman, Khairuddin Midtimbang, Hamodi Tiboron, Jordan Juanday, Amenodin Samporna, Jamienshary Andal, Hasmiene Ibrahim, Wafa Esmail, Sheryan Guialel, Hanadi Nul, and Manal Sugadol.
Marjani Mimbantas, a youth leader, who is a member of Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) is part of the Moro delegation was not able to participate in this activity due to the Oath Taking Ceremony of the BTA members.
The main organizers of this program that facilitated the programme were the Moro International Student Association in Turkey (MISA) headed by its President Muhammad Ameen Abbas along with External Vice President Datu Abdulshattar Esmael Zailon II, and Internal Vice President, Esmail A. Sumagka.
The delegates together with other Turkish Academic Institutions committed to render necessary services for the progress and development of the Bangsamoro.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1765/young-bangsamoro-professionals-attend-next-generation-academy-programme-in-turkey--
Ankara, Turkey - Eleven (11) Young Bangsamoro Professionals were sent to Ankara, Turkey to participate in the “Yeni Nesil Akademisi (Next Generation Academy)” Program from March 16-24, 2019 hosted by the Institute of Strategic Thinking headed by its President Muhammet Savas? Kafkasyal?.
This activity aims to draw students from Turkey’s related communities to learn different valuable topics that will enable them to impart to their respective homelands. The programme includes lectures on Global System and the Future of the World; Turkish Foreign Policy; Cultural and Traditional Programmes; Turkish-Southeastern Asia Relations; Human Rights; Social Media; Self-improvement and Leadership. The participants will also have the opportunity to visit at Istanbul, Turkey.
As young professionals representing the Bangsamoro people, the programme will inculcate to them new learnings that can be an instrument in pushing up the Bangsamoro Aspirations.
These young Bangsamoro delegates include: Marjani Macasalong, Zubair Guiaman, Khairuddin Midtimbang, Hamodi Tiboron, Jordan Juanday, Amenodin Samporna, Jamienshary Andal, Hasmiene Ibrahim, Wafa Esmail, Sheryan Guialel, Hanadi Nul, and Manal Sugadol.
Marjani Mimbantas, a youth leader, who is a member of Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) is part of the Moro delegation was not able to participate in this activity due to the Oath Taking Ceremony of the BTA members.
The main organizers of this program that facilitated the programme were the Moro International Student Association in Turkey (MISA) headed by its President Muhammad Ameen Abbas along with External Vice President Datu Abdulshattar Esmael Zailon II, and Internal Vice President, Esmail A. Sumagka.
The delegates together with other Turkish Academic Institutions committed to render necessary services for the progress and development of the Bangsamoro.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1765/young-bangsamoro-professionals-attend-next-generation-academy-programme-in-turkey--
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - Philippine Army Honors 15 awardees on its 122nd Anniversary
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 22, 2019): Photo/slide - Philippine Army Honors 15 awardees on its 122nd Anniversary
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379837575368286/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379837575368286/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - Localized peace talks with CPP/NPA
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 22, 2019): Photo/slide - Localized peace talks with CPP/NPA
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379822355369808/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379822355369808/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - Permanent termination of peace talks with the CPP/NPA
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 22, 2019): Photo/slide - Permanent termination of peace talks with the CPP/NPA
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379822918703085/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379822918703085/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - NPA should return to the fold
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 22, 2019): Photo/slide - NPA should return to the fold
Return to the fold, avail of Government Aid.
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379828155369228/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
Return to the fold, avail of Government Aid.
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379828155369228/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - Russian Navy Chief in the Philippines for talks with counterpart
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 23, 2019): Photo/slide - Russian Navy Chief in the Philippines for talks with counterpart
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379829752035735/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379829752035735/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - Troops find abandoned rebel hideout in Maguindanao
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 23, 2019): Photo/slide - Troops find abandoned rebel hideout in Maguindanao
Troops recovered a rifle telesope, an antenna, assorted empty shells, wires and nails, a solar panel with battery, a passport, medical supplies, anti-personnel mine components, a cellphone, identification cards and assorted papers. This is not a victory announcement, but a significant progress in the fight against rebels and the Daesh-inspired group." -MGEN CIRILITO E SOBEJANA AFP, Commander, 6th Infantry Division, PA
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379830782035632/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
Troops recovered a rifle telesope, an antenna, assorted empty shells, wires and nails, a solar panel with battery, a passport, medical supplies, anti-personnel mine components, a cellphone, identification cards and assorted papers. This is not a victory announcement, but a significant progress in the fight against rebels and the Daesh-inspired group." -MGEN CIRILITO E SOBEJANA AFP, Commander, 6th Infantry Division, PA
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379830782035632/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Photo/slide - National Democratic Front member arrested
From the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Mar 23, 2019): Photo/slide - National Democratic Front member arrested
A member of National Democratic Front was arrested in Cavite for illegal possession of firearms on Wednesday, March 20.
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379835638701813/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
A member of National Democratic Front was arrested in Cavite for illegal possession of firearms on Wednesday, March 20.
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2379835638701813/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
ASG man charged
From Tempo (Mar 23, 2019): ASG man charged
A suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) faces multiple charges before the Department of Justice (DoJ) following his arrest in Sulu this week.
The suspected ASG member was identified as Karah Musa Salapuddin, 49, alias “Cesar,” a Tausug who hails from Tungkil, Jolo, Sulu.
Assistant State Prosecutor Ethel Rea Suril said Salapuddin faces a complaint which accused him of frustrated multiple murder under Article 248 in relation to Article 6 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC); illegal possession of explosives and other paraphernalia under Republic Act (RA) No. 9516; and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition under RA No. 10561.
The complaint was filed last Thursday at the DoJ in Manila by the Major Crimes Unit of the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation Group (PNP-CIDG).
Suril, who is handling the case, said she has set the preliminary investigation of the complaint on March 28.
The prosecutor said Salappudin opted to undergo preliminary investigation and signed a waiver.
http://tempo.com.ph/2019/03/23/asg-man-charged/
A suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) faces multiple charges before the Department of Justice (DoJ) following his arrest in Sulu this week.
The suspected ASG member was identified as Karah Musa Salapuddin, 49, alias “Cesar,” a Tausug who hails from Tungkil, Jolo, Sulu.
Assistant State Prosecutor Ethel Rea Suril said Salapuddin faces a complaint which accused him of frustrated multiple murder under Article 248 in relation to Article 6 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC); illegal possession of explosives and other paraphernalia under Republic Act (RA) No. 9516; and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition under RA No. 10561.
The complaint was filed last Thursday at the DoJ in Manila by the Major Crimes Unit of the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation Group (PNP-CIDG).
Suril, who is handling the case, said she has set the preliminary investigation of the complaint on March 28.
The prosecutor said Salappudin opted to undergo preliminary investigation and signed a waiver.
http://tempo.com.ph/2019/03/23/asg-man-charged/
Termination of peace talks voids safe conduct passes; consultants no longer immune to arrest
From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 23, 2019): Termination of peace talks voids safe conduct passes; consultants no longer immune to arrest
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Saturday it will no longer honor safe conduct passes that were earlier issued to the consultants tapped by the communist rebels for the peace negotiations with the government.
Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo
(MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said their decision stemmed from the decision of President Duterte to permanently stop the peace negotiations between the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) through the National Democratic Front.
“Safe conduct passes (SCPs) that were issued to individuals for purposes of being consultant to the peace negotiations ipso facto loses efficacy when the peace negotiation, which is the SCP’s reason for being, has been terminated,” said Arevalo.
It was recalled that Duterte has ordered the stop of the peace negotiations, starting off when the communist rebels reportedly continuously attack soldiers and policemen despite the ongoing negotiations.
“I am officially announcing the permanent termination of our talks between the Government Panel and the Communist Party of the Philippines,” Duterte said in his speech during the Philippine Army anniversary.
“My sense is that you can maybe talk to the next president of this Republic one day,” he added.
Negotiations with the communist rebels, however, continue through the localized peace talks.
Earlier, Duterte also cancelled the appointment of five negotiators for the government side.
Arevalo said the cancellation of the peace talks also mean that NDFP consultants already lost their immunity from arrest.
“This follows that such individuals availing of such SCPs may now be validly arrested,” he stressed.
The NPA has been waging more than four decades of armed struggle against the government.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/23/termination-of-peace-talks-voids-safe-conduct-passes-consultants-no-longer-immune-to-arrest/
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Saturday it will no longer honor safe conduct passes that were earlier issued to the consultants tapped by the communist rebels for the peace negotiations with the government.
Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo
(MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said their decision stemmed from the decision of President Duterte to permanently stop the peace negotiations between the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) through the National Democratic Front.
“Safe conduct passes (SCPs) that were issued to individuals for purposes of being consultant to the peace negotiations ipso facto loses efficacy when the peace negotiation, which is the SCP’s reason for being, has been terminated,” said Arevalo.
It was recalled that Duterte has ordered the stop of the peace negotiations, starting off when the communist rebels reportedly continuously attack soldiers and policemen despite the ongoing negotiations.
“I am officially announcing the permanent termination of our talks between the Government Panel and the Communist Party of the Philippines,” Duterte said in his speech during the Philippine Army anniversary.
“My sense is that you can maybe talk to the next president of this Republic one day,” he added.
Negotiations with the communist rebels, however, continue through the localized peace talks.
Earlier, Duterte also cancelled the appointment of five negotiators for the government side.
Arevalo said the cancellation of the peace talks also mean that NDFP consultants already lost their immunity from arrest.
“This follows that such individuals availing of such SCPs may now be validly arrested,” he stressed.
The NPA has been waging more than four decades of armed struggle against the government.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/23/termination-of-peace-talks-voids-safe-conduct-passes-consultants-no-longer-immune-to-arrest/
Military asset killed
From the Sun Star-Bacolod (Mar 23, 2019): Military asset killed
AN ALLEGED asset of the Philippine Army was shot to death by an unidentified assailant in Barangay Igmaya-an, Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental Wednesday.
Police identified the fatality as Florencio Cañete, 59, of Barangay Igmaya-an.
Investigation showed that the victim was riding a horse on his way home at 7 p.m. when the assailant fired at him.
Cañete succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds.
The gunman is still at large.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798212/Bacolod/Local-News/Military-asset-killed
AN ALLEGED asset of the Philippine Army was shot to death by an unidentified assailant in Barangay Igmaya-an, Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental Wednesday.
Police identified the fatality as Florencio Cañete, 59, of Barangay Igmaya-an.
Investigation showed that the victim was riding a horse on his way home at 7 p.m. when the assailant fired at him.
Cañete succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds.
The gunman is still at large.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798212/Bacolod/Local-News/Military-asset-killed
Summit calls for community-based, 'relational' approaches to Mindanao conflict
From the Sun Star-Manila (Mar 23, 2019): Summit calls for community-based, 'relational' approaches to Mindanao conflict
THE first quarter of 2018 has seen a number of conflicts that's all too familiar in Mindanao. In late January, 20 were killed and 102 injured when the Roman Catholic cathedral in Jolo was bombed by insurgents. In February, eight died in a series of encounters between soldiers and rebels in Bukidnon. In the same month, five government troops were killed and five others were injured in an armed clash with over a hundred suspected Abu Sayyaf members, and three blasts in separate occurrences hit the province of Lanao del Norte.
The decades-long conflict in Mindanao has claimed over 850,000 lives from 2013 to 2015 alone, according to the non-profit Save the Children. As of October 2018, The Protection Cluster Philippines, a subset of the UN refugee agency, reported that 88,395 persons had been displaced in Mindanao by violence and conflict since the agency started collecting data in 2012.
Barangay Walang Iwanan, a summit organized by Gawad Kalinga and French NGOs Convergences and Acted that discussed and encouraged action on urgent social and environmental issues, underscored the role of prolonged armed conflict in the Philippines' challenging road to achieving what it calls the 3Zero goal-Zero Exclusion, Zero Carbon, Zero Poverty.
Speaking during the summit, Mark Lawrence Cruz, director of SEED Philipines and moderator of the breakout sessions on Raising the Peace Generation, said that sustainable peace in Mindanao may be established especially through on-ground activities that respect the culture and multi-ethnicity of the region, as well as addressing the gaps between the various groups that call Mindanao their home.
"Empowering the people through community-based approaches that aim to maintain integrity and high regard for human rights" will lead to the current and future generations of Filipinos becoming a peace generation, said Cruz.
Through the years, the multi-cultural landscape of Mindanao has unfortunately resulted in deep divides between the locals. The uneven utilization of natural resources, the illegal takeover of lands, and militarization of many areas are among the many roots of injustices in the region that have created gaps between the people. Fr. Bienvenido F. Nebres S.J., scientist, mathematician and longest-serving president of the Ateneo de Manila University, who also spoke at the summit, emphasized that these differences should not stand in the way of finally achieving peace in the region.
"In Southeast Asia, we are relational. If you want to make progress, you build friendship and trust. These values are far more important than any signed agreement or document," Fr. Nebres said.
Recently, the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) was ratified in the hopes that self-government in the region would bring lasting peace and economic prosperity. Based on the 2016 Poverty Census, four out of the five poorest provinces in the country are located in Mindanao. In addition, according to the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, half of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or Armm's population are considered poor.
BWI's breakout session on "Raising the Peace Generation" acknowledges the potential of community-based approaches in establishing lasting peace in Mindanao, as well as the opportunities for businesses and stakeholders to aid in these peace-building efforts.
Courteille is confident that "the collective desire of the Filipino people to rally behind one vision, founded on trust, optimism, and collaboration will secure lasting peace in the region. Barangay Walang Iwanan hopes to raise awareness and spark passion among all stakeholders to collectively and cooperatively pursue that direction."
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798127/Manila/Local-News/Barangay-Walang-Iwanan-summit-calls-for-community-based-relational-approaches-to-Mindanao-conflict
THE first quarter of 2018 has seen a number of conflicts that's all too familiar in Mindanao. In late January, 20 were killed and 102 injured when the Roman Catholic cathedral in Jolo was bombed by insurgents. In February, eight died in a series of encounters between soldiers and rebels in Bukidnon. In the same month, five government troops were killed and five others were injured in an armed clash with over a hundred suspected Abu Sayyaf members, and three blasts in separate occurrences hit the province of Lanao del Norte.
The decades-long conflict in Mindanao has claimed over 850,000 lives from 2013 to 2015 alone, according to the non-profit Save the Children. As of October 2018, The Protection Cluster Philippines, a subset of the UN refugee agency, reported that 88,395 persons had been displaced in Mindanao by violence and conflict since the agency started collecting data in 2012.
Barangay Walang Iwanan, a summit organized by Gawad Kalinga and French NGOs Convergences and Acted that discussed and encouraged action on urgent social and environmental issues, underscored the role of prolonged armed conflict in the Philippines' challenging road to achieving what it calls the 3Zero goal-Zero Exclusion, Zero Carbon, Zero Poverty.
Speaking during the summit, Mark Lawrence Cruz, director of SEED Philipines and moderator of the breakout sessions on Raising the Peace Generation, said that sustainable peace in Mindanao may be established especially through on-ground activities that respect the culture and multi-ethnicity of the region, as well as addressing the gaps between the various groups that call Mindanao their home.
"Empowering the people through community-based approaches that aim to maintain integrity and high regard for human rights" will lead to the current and future generations of Filipinos becoming a peace generation, said Cruz.
Through the years, the multi-cultural landscape of Mindanao has unfortunately resulted in deep divides between the locals. The uneven utilization of natural resources, the illegal takeover of lands, and militarization of many areas are among the many roots of injustices in the region that have created gaps between the people. Fr. Bienvenido F. Nebres S.J., scientist, mathematician and longest-serving president of the Ateneo de Manila University, who also spoke at the summit, emphasized that these differences should not stand in the way of finally achieving peace in the region.
"In Southeast Asia, we are relational. If you want to make progress, you build friendship and trust. These values are far more important than any signed agreement or document," Fr. Nebres said.
Recently, the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) was ratified in the hopes that self-government in the region would bring lasting peace and economic prosperity. Based on the 2016 Poverty Census, four out of the five poorest provinces in the country are located in Mindanao. In addition, according to the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, half of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or Armm's population are considered poor.
BWI's breakout session on "Raising the Peace Generation" acknowledges the potential of community-based approaches in establishing lasting peace in Mindanao, as well as the opportunities for businesses and stakeholders to aid in these peace-building efforts.
Courteille is confident that "the collective desire of the Filipino people to rally behind one vision, founded on trust, optimism, and collaboration will secure lasting peace in the region. Barangay Walang Iwanan hopes to raise awareness and spark passion among all stakeholders to collectively and cooperatively pursue that direction."
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798127/Manila/Local-News/Barangay-Walang-Iwanan-summit-calls-for-community-based-relational-approaches-to-Mindanao-conflict
Air Force Reserve Command donates trash bins to Mabalacat school
From the Sun Star-Pampanga (Mar 23, 2019): Air Force Reserve Command donates trash bins to Mabalacat school
PAMPANGA. AFRC Deputy Commander Col. Samson Perez turns over the trash bins to MTVSHS officer-in-charge Maria Theresa Talavera for the school’s Project Glean (Great Leaders leading Environmental Awareness towards No Waste Left Behind) of the Mabalacat Technical-Vocational Senior High School (MTVSHS). (Contributed Photo)
MABALACAT CITY -- The Philippine Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) recently donated 11 trash bins to complement Project Glean (Great Leaders leading Environmental Awareness towards No Waste Left Behind) of the Mabalacat Technical-Vocational Senior High School (MTVSHS) here.
According to AFRC Deputy Commander Col. Samson Perez, the donation was made upon the request of MTVSHS officer-in-charge Maria Theresa Talavera, as the school is a partner and stakeholder in the community-based initiatives of preserving and protecting the environment which is also an advocacy of AFRC.
Talavera said noted of the importance of collaborating with other government agencies in taking part on their environmental campaigns with the strategy of leading towards no waste left behind.
“The donation of trash bins is a big help to the students and the faculty of MTVSHS in the pursuit of their environmental protection campaigns and advocacies and we appreciate the efforts of the Philippine Air Force through this noble endeavour,” she said.
For his part, Perez said the role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine Air Force in addressing waste problems in the communities within the area of responsibility by truly supporting environmental projects of the schools.
Perez reminded everyone to be aware of the proper segregation of waste prior to proper disposal. He also recognized the presence of women, highlighting their remarkable contributions in society as a result of women empowerment initiatives of the government.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798238/Pampanga/Local-News/Air-Force-Reserve-Command-donates-trash-bins-to-Mabalacat-school
According to AFRC Deputy Commander Col. Samson Perez, the donation was made upon the request of MTVSHS officer-in-charge Maria Theresa Talavera, as the school is a partner and stakeholder in the community-based initiatives of preserving and protecting the environment which is also an advocacy of AFRC.
Talavera said noted of the importance of collaborating with other government agencies in taking part on their environmental campaigns with the strategy of leading towards no waste left behind.
“The donation of trash bins is a big help to the students and the faculty of MTVSHS in the pursuit of their environmental protection campaigns and advocacies and we appreciate the efforts of the Philippine Air Force through this noble endeavour,” she said.
For his part, Perez said the role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine Air Force in addressing waste problems in the communities within the area of responsibility by truly supporting environmental projects of the schools.
Perez reminded everyone to be aware of the proper segregation of waste prior to proper disposal. He also recognized the presence of women, highlighting their remarkable contributions in society as a result of women empowerment initiatives of the government.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798238/Pampanga/Local-News/Air-Force-Reserve-Command-donates-trash-bins-to-Mabalacat-school
Troops recover explosives, war materials
From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Mar 23, 2019): Troops recover explosives, war materials
Military troops recovered explosives and war materials while pursuing the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao, military officials said Saturday, March 23.
Major General Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, said the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion troops on Wednesday explosives and bomb-making components from a fallen enemy camp in the village of Magaslong, Datu Piang, Maguindanao.
Sobejana said the recovered explosives included anti-personnel mines, composed of rocket-propelled grenade and mortar ammunition and bomb-making components consisting of a kilo black powder, nails, spoke and anti-personnel mines container.
He said joint troops from the Army’s 34th and 57th Infantry Battalions clashed against 10 BIFF members at 12:50 p.m. Thursday in Penditing village, Shariff Saydona Mustapah, Maguindanao.
The military official said the firefight lasted for about 20 minutes after which the BIFF fled to different directions while the troops recovered a Carbine rifle, five anti-personnel mines, four radio antennas and war materials.
“The successful operation is attributed to the community who gave their full support by providing vital information that led to the destruction of a suspected lair of the terrorist group,” Sobejana said.
The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) continue the combat operations against BIFF and Daesh-inspired members in Maguindanao.
“We will sustain our offensives, penetrating enemy stronghold, to neutralize terrorists and end extremism in Central Mindanao,” said Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, Westmincom chief.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798264/Zamboanga/Local-News/Troops-recover-explosives-war-materials
Military troops recovered explosives and war materials while pursuing the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao, military officials said Saturday, March 23.
Major General Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, said the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion troops on Wednesday explosives and bomb-making components from a fallen enemy camp in the village of Magaslong, Datu Piang, Maguindanao.
Sobejana said the recovered explosives included anti-personnel mines, composed of rocket-propelled grenade and mortar ammunition and bomb-making components consisting of a kilo black powder, nails, spoke and anti-personnel mines container.
He said joint troops from the Army’s 34th and 57th Infantry Battalions clashed against 10 BIFF members at 12:50 p.m. Thursday in Penditing village, Shariff Saydona Mustapah, Maguindanao.
The military official said the firefight lasted for about 20 minutes after which the BIFF fled to different directions while the troops recovered a Carbine rifle, five anti-personnel mines, four radio antennas and war materials.
“The successful operation is attributed to the community who gave their full support by providing vital information that led to the destruction of a suspected lair of the terrorist group,” Sobejana said.
The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) continue the combat operations against BIFF and Daesh-inspired members in Maguindanao.
“We will sustain our offensives, penetrating enemy stronghold, to neutralize terrorists and end extremism in Central Mindanao,” said Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, Westmincom chief.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798264/Zamboanga/Local-News/Troops-recover-explosives-war-materials
Army urges localized peace talks
From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 23, 2019): Army urges localized peace talks
Newly-promoted Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo yesterday enjoined local chief executives in Negros Occidental to involve themselves in the conduct of localized peace talks with the New People’s Army in their areas.
This was after President Rodrigo Duterte permanently terminated the peace talks with communist leaders at the national level.
Arevalo, the 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said that it would be easier to talk with local NPA commanders rather than self-exiled communist leader Jose Maria Sison.
“Joma (Sison) and their national leaders are just using the peace talks for leverage to free their jailed companions and just buy time to strengthen their organization,” he added.
Without the New People’s Army, the Communist Party of the Philippines is powerless, Arevalo stressed, adding that the CPP is just manipulating the NPA for its selfish intent.
The recent surrender of 25 armed NPA members in northern Negros, who also endorsed 27 high-powered firearms to government authorities, was an offshoot of the localized peace talks, Arevalo said.
Ka JB Regalado, spokesperson of the NPA Leonardo Panaligan, yesterday issued a statement stressing that the revolutionary movement in Negros will never enter into localized peace talks.
Regalado dismissed the proposed localized peace talks as “divisive” and an attempt of the government to facilitate the surrender of the revolutionary forces.
Instead of localized peace talks, Regalado said they are pushing for a widespread armed revolution and launching of tactical offensives.
Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Carlito Galvez said yesterday that the order of President Duterte was that the localized peace talks must be held in the Philippines, and to involve local commanders of the CPP-NPA.
Galvez, in a statement he issued, said that Joma does not have control over the forces on the ground.
“If Joma does not want to talk peace, we have no problem with that. In the first place, he is already irrelevant,” he added.
“In the previous rounds of peace talks, we could not just limit discussion with political leaders. We have to include tactical commanders because there is disconnect between the two,” Galvez said.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/23/topstory11.htm
Newly-promoted Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo yesterday enjoined local chief executives in Negros Occidental to involve themselves in the conduct of localized peace talks with the New People’s Army in their areas.
This was after President Rodrigo Duterte permanently terminated the peace talks with communist leaders at the national level.
Arevalo, the 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said that it would be easier to talk with local NPA commanders rather than self-exiled communist leader Jose Maria Sison.
“Joma (Sison) and their national leaders are just using the peace talks for leverage to free their jailed companions and just buy time to strengthen their organization,” he added.
Without the New People’s Army, the Communist Party of the Philippines is powerless, Arevalo stressed, adding that the CPP is just manipulating the NPA for its selfish intent.
The recent surrender of 25 armed NPA members in northern Negros, who also endorsed 27 high-powered firearms to government authorities, was an offshoot of the localized peace talks, Arevalo said.
Ka JB Regalado, spokesperson of the NPA Leonardo Panaligan, yesterday issued a statement stressing that the revolutionary movement in Negros will never enter into localized peace talks.
Regalado dismissed the proposed localized peace talks as “divisive” and an attempt of the government to facilitate the surrender of the revolutionary forces.
Instead of localized peace talks, Regalado said they are pushing for a widespread armed revolution and launching of tactical offensives.
Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Carlito Galvez said yesterday that the order of President Duterte was that the localized peace talks must be held in the Philippines, and to involve local commanders of the CPP-NPA.
Galvez, in a statement he issued, said that Joma does not have control over the forces on the ground.
“If Joma does not want to talk peace, we have no problem with that. In the first place, he is already irrelevant,” he added.
“In the previous rounds of peace talks, we could not just limit discussion with political leaders. We have to include tactical commanders because there is disconnect between the two,” Galvez said.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/23/topstory11.htm
Residents evacuate, classes suspended
From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 23, 2019): Residents evacuate, classes suspended
Mayor Richard Jaojoco yesterday suspended classes in 10 schools in Toboso, Negros Occidental, to ensure the safety of students after armed skirmishes between Army soldiers and suspected New People’s Army rebels in Escalante City, Negros Occidental, Thursday night triggered the evacuation of more than 600 individuals.
Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, 79th Infantry Battalion commander, said yesterday that 79IB soldiers responded to reports about the presence of suspected NPA rebels in Sitio Fuentes, Brgy. Mabini, Escalante City.
Logan said a running gunbattle lasted for almost 10 minutes and the rebels scampered in various directions, while none of the soldiers were hit.
As a result of the pursuit operations, he said, a regular member of the NPA, whose identity is being withheld by the Philippine Army, surrendered.
Logan also reported that they recovered P300,000 worth of medicines, several boxes of assorted canned goods and a record book containing a list of medicines inventory.
He added that they are still validating reports of civilians that three to four rebels were injured in the gunbattle, as indicated by the bloodstains seen along the fleeing NPA withdrawal routes.
For security reasons, 381 individuals left their homes in the sitios of Brgy. Mabini, Escalante City, and 301 other persons in Brgy. San Jose, Toboso, Negros Occidental.
Jaojoco suspended classes in Uldarico Suison Elementary School, Labi-labi Elementary School, Labi-labi National High School, Stop Aguinaldo Elementary School. San Isidro Elementary School, Andres Gumban Memorial National High School, Mainit Elementary School, Bandila Elementary School, Tabun-ac Elementary School, Toril Elementary School and Salamanca Elementary School.
Logan said the internal displaced persons (IDPs) are now temporarily staying at the Doña Rosario Baldevia Elementary School in Sitio Santa Ana, Brgy. Mabini, Escalante City, and San Jose National High School in Brgy. San Jose, Toboso.
The local governments of Escalante City and Toboso immediately distributed relief good to the IDPs.
Logan said he suspects that the medicines and canned goods left behind by the fleeing rebels may have come from their extortion activities, or given to them by somebody.
Mayor Richard Jaojoco reported that classes in four schools in Toboso have been temporarily suspended, pending clearing operations of the Philippine Army and police.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/23/topstory1.htm
Mayor Richard Jaojoco yesterday suspended classes in 10 schools in Toboso, Negros Occidental, to ensure the safety of students after armed skirmishes between Army soldiers and suspected New People’s Army rebels in Escalante City, Negros Occidental, Thursday night triggered the evacuation of more than 600 individuals.
Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, 79th Infantry Battalion commander, said yesterday that 79IB soldiers responded to reports about the presence of suspected NPA rebels in Sitio Fuentes, Brgy. Mabini, Escalante City.
Logan said a running gunbattle lasted for almost 10 minutes and the rebels scampered in various directions, while none of the soldiers were hit.
As a result of the pursuit operations, he said, a regular member of the NPA, whose identity is being withheld by the Philippine Army, surrendered.
Logan also reported that they recovered P300,000 worth of medicines, several boxes of assorted canned goods and a record book containing a list of medicines inventory.
He added that they are still validating reports of civilians that three to four rebels were injured in the gunbattle, as indicated by the bloodstains seen along the fleeing NPA withdrawal routes.
For security reasons, 381 individuals left their homes in the sitios of Brgy. Mabini, Escalante City, and 301 other persons in Brgy. San Jose, Toboso, Negros Occidental.
Jaojoco suspended classes in Uldarico Suison Elementary School, Labi-labi Elementary School, Labi-labi National High School, Stop Aguinaldo Elementary School. San Isidro Elementary School, Andres Gumban Memorial National High School, Mainit Elementary School, Bandila Elementary School, Tabun-ac Elementary School, Toril Elementary School and Salamanca Elementary School.
Logan said the internal displaced persons (IDPs) are now temporarily staying at the Doña Rosario Baldevia Elementary School in Sitio Santa Ana, Brgy. Mabini, Escalante City, and San Jose National High School in Brgy. San Jose, Toboso.
The local governments of Escalante City and Toboso immediately distributed relief good to the IDPs.
Logan said he suspects that the medicines and canned goods left behind by the fleeing rebels may have come from their extortion activities, or given to them by somebody.
Mayor Richard Jaojoco reported that classes in four schools in Toboso have been temporarily suspended, pending clearing operations of the Philippine Army and police.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/23/topstory1.htm
Wounded NPA rescued by soldiers after skirmish
From the Mindanao Times (Mar 22, 2019): Wounded NPA rescued by soldiers after skirmish
Troops of the 28th Infantry Battalion rescued one wounded member of the New People’s Army following an encounter on March 17 at the boundary of Lupon and Barangay Las Arenas, Pantukan in Compostela Valley.
Col. Ezra Balagtey, the spokesperson of Eastern Mindanao Command, said the troops worked with the provincial government of Davao Oriental to evacuate the wounded guerrilla to the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC) last March 18.
The rebel was identified only as Randy (not his real name), 28, who sustained a gunshot wound on his left knee.
Accordingly, Randy was abandoned by his companions when they escaped.
On March 19, Governor Nelson Dayanghirang and Lt Col. Miguel Ramon, 28th IB commander, visited the wounded NPA at the DOPMC.
Dayanghirang assured that the provincial government will shoulder the hospitalization expenses and also facilitate his processing and turnover to the proper authorities.
On the afternoon of March 17, soldiers clashed with NPA rebels at the periphery of Sitio Washington, Barangay Las Arenas, Pantukan, Compostela Valley .
This came after the troops received information from the community about the presence of the NPAs in the area.
Initially, no casualty was reported on both sides but soldiers found two M16 rifles and one rifle grenade.
The pursuit operation led to the rescue of Randy and the recovery of one anti-personnel landmine, nine M203 grenade ammunition, medical paraphernalia, and subversive documents.
http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/03/22/wounded-npa-rescued-by-soldiers-after-skirmish/
Troops of the 28th Infantry Battalion rescued one wounded member of the New People’s Army following an encounter on March 17 at the boundary of Lupon and Barangay Las Arenas, Pantukan in Compostela Valley.
Col. Ezra Balagtey, the spokesperson of Eastern Mindanao Command, said the troops worked with the provincial government of Davao Oriental to evacuate the wounded guerrilla to the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC) last March 18.
The rebel was identified only as Randy (not his real name), 28, who sustained a gunshot wound on his left knee.
Accordingly, Randy was abandoned by his companions when they escaped.
On March 19, Governor Nelson Dayanghirang and Lt Col. Miguel Ramon, 28th IB commander, visited the wounded NPA at the DOPMC.
Dayanghirang assured that the provincial government will shoulder the hospitalization expenses and also facilitate his processing and turnover to the proper authorities.
On the afternoon of March 17, soldiers clashed with NPA rebels at the periphery of Sitio Washington, Barangay Las Arenas, Pantukan, Compostela Valley .
This came after the troops received information from the community about the presence of the NPAs in the area.
Initially, no casualty was reported on both sides but soldiers found two M16 rifles and one rifle grenade.
The pursuit operation led to the rescue of Randy and the recovery of one anti-personnel landmine, nine M203 grenade ammunition, medical paraphernalia, and subversive documents.
http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/03/22/wounded-npa-rescued-by-soldiers-after-skirmish/
Soldier hurt in Tambobong
From the Mindanao Times (Mar 23, 2019): Soldier hurt in Tambobong
A Soldier was wounded in an encounter against members of the New People’s Army in Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District yesterday morning.
Lt Col. Oscar Partuza, commander of the 3rd Infantry Battalion, said 3rd Infantry Battalion troopers encountered an undetermined number of the New People’s Army in Tambobong.
The five-minute firefight resulted in the wounded of a soldier.
Troopers also recovered an M16 rifle and one caliber .45 pistol.
Partuza said the encounter transpired while they were on the process of validating information on the alleged presence of the NPA rebels in the barangay.
He said the soldier that was slightly hurt was already being treated.
http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/03/23/soldier-hurt-in-tambobong/
A Soldier was wounded in an encounter against members of the New People’s Army in Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District yesterday morning.
Lt Col. Oscar Partuza, commander of the 3rd Infantry Battalion, said 3rd Infantry Battalion troopers encountered an undetermined number of the New People’s Army in Tambobong.
The five-minute firefight resulted in the wounded of a soldier.
Troopers also recovered an M16 rifle and one caliber .45 pistol.
Partuza said the encounter transpired while they were on the process of validating information on the alleged presence of the NPA rebels in the barangay.
He said the soldier that was slightly hurt was already being treated.
http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/03/23/soldier-hurt-in-tambobong/
EastMinCom to push for localized peace talks with Reds after Duterte scraps talks with finality
From MindaNews (Mar 22, 2019): EastMinCom to push for localized peace talks with Reds after Duterte scraps talks with finality
After President Rodrigo Duterte had terminated the appointments of government peace negotiators holding talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), a military official here said Friday that they would push for the implementation of localized peace talks in a bid to address the root cause of conflict in areas perceived to be stronghold of the communists.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC), said the implementation of the localized peace talks is in line with the Duterte administration’s new “whole-of-nation approach” that aims to put an end to the 50-year armed struggle.
“We are in support to the local peace initiatives of some of our LGUs and national government agencies in Eastern Mindanao,” Balagtey said in a Facebook interview on Friday afternoon.
Balagtey cited some of the peace programs initiated by local government units that demonstrate and support the government’s goal of ending the communist insurgency across the country.
These were the Peace and Development Zones in Caraga region, and Davao’s Peace 911 – where he described as an example of “participative and inclusive governance” advocated by the local government units.
“This is whole-of-nation approach, wherein programs and activities of different member agencies will be synchronized and in support to each other. Our participation will depend on the convergence program that will be crafted. Where we’ll be needed, we will be there,” he added.
Balagtey added that the EastMinCom has expressed its full support to a new localized peace new panel that will be tasked to negotiate with the NDFP.
“The local government units have their own priorities and they know the issues and concerns that are causing conflict or being used by the terrorist group. We will always be in support,” he added.
Last March 18, President Rodrigo Duterte has terminated the appointments of the members of the government panel holding negotiations with the communists.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr., in a statement on Wednesday, said they “will reconstitute the panel at a national scope in accordance with the whole-of-nation approach we are advocating to achieve inclusive and sustainable peace.”
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/03/eastmincom-to-push-for-localized-peace-talks-with-reds-after-duterte-scraps-talks-with-finality/
After President Rodrigo Duterte had terminated the appointments of government peace negotiators holding talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), a military official here said Friday that they would push for the implementation of localized peace talks in a bid to address the root cause of conflict in areas perceived to be stronghold of the communists.
Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC), said the implementation of the localized peace talks is in line with the Duterte administration’s new “whole-of-nation approach” that aims to put an end to the 50-year armed struggle.
“We are in support to the local peace initiatives of some of our LGUs and national government agencies in Eastern Mindanao,” Balagtey said in a Facebook interview on Friday afternoon.
Balagtey cited some of the peace programs initiated by local government units that demonstrate and support the government’s goal of ending the communist insurgency across the country.
These were the Peace and Development Zones in Caraga region, and Davao’s Peace 911 – where he described as an example of “participative and inclusive governance” advocated by the local government units.
“This is whole-of-nation approach, wherein programs and activities of different member agencies will be synchronized and in support to each other. Our participation will depend on the convergence program that will be crafted. Where we’ll be needed, we will be there,” he added.
Balagtey added that the EastMinCom has expressed its full support to a new localized peace new panel that will be tasked to negotiate with the NDFP.
“The local government units have their own priorities and they know the issues and concerns that are causing conflict or being used by the terrorist group. We will always be in support,” he added.
Last March 18, President Rodrigo Duterte has terminated the appointments of the members of the government panel holding negotiations with the communists.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr., in a statement on Wednesday, said they “will reconstitute the panel at a national scope in accordance with the whole-of-nation approach we are advocating to achieve inclusive and sustainable peace.”
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/03/eastmincom-to-push-for-localized-peace-talks-with-reds-after-duterte-scraps-talks-with-finality/
Army leads poll peace covenant signing in Maguindanao town
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23, 2019): Army leads poll peace covenant signing in Maguindanao town
COVENANT. Candidates for local positions in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao, took an oath Friday (March 22) to work for peaceful polling by electorates in connection the May 2019 elections. (Photo by 6ID)
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- Military and local officials foresee a peaceful and orderly local election in the Maguindanao town of Datu Saudi Ampatuan after candidates signed a peace covenant Friday.
The candidates -- from mayoral down to municipal council hopefuls -- trooped to the municipal covered court to express their willingness to participate in the peace covenant signing event.
Datu Saudi Ampatuan, a town known for its Pink Mosque, has gained notoriety over the years for election-related fraud and violence.
The initiative was facilitated by the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade (MIB), the 57th Infantry Battalion, the Commission on Elections, and the local interior and local government office.
“We were elated at the commitment shown by six mayoralty candidates, three vice mayoral aspirants and 36 town councilor hopefuls ‘rubbing elbows’ with one another during the covenant signing,” Major Jocelyn Mangadlao, 1st MIB executive officer, said in a statement.
Mangadlao said candidates showed their commitment in the presence of town election officer Rohaida Khalid; local government operations officer Bai Anisa Abdulkarim; Major Mangadlao; 57th IB executive officer Major Mark Anthony Tornalejo; and Major Abdulbassit Kulod, chief of the Datu Saudi Ampatuan town police.
Also present were members of a local poll watchdog and other concerned citizens. Mangadlao said the activity was conducted to encourage the local candidates to commit themselves to a peaceful and credible election, and to invoke the intervention of the Almighty for an honest, orderly and peaceful election 2019.
Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the initiatives of the 1st MIB and 57th IB to ensure peaceful balloting in its area of assignment.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065414
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- Military and local officials foresee a peaceful and orderly local election in the Maguindanao town of Datu Saudi Ampatuan after candidates signed a peace covenant Friday.
The candidates -- from mayoral down to municipal council hopefuls -- trooped to the municipal covered court to express their willingness to participate in the peace covenant signing event.
Datu Saudi Ampatuan, a town known for its Pink Mosque, has gained notoriety over the years for election-related fraud and violence.
The initiative was facilitated by the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade (MIB), the 57th Infantry Battalion, the Commission on Elections, and the local interior and local government office.
“We were elated at the commitment shown by six mayoralty candidates, three vice mayoral aspirants and 36 town councilor hopefuls ‘rubbing elbows’ with one another during the covenant signing,” Major Jocelyn Mangadlao, 1st MIB executive officer, said in a statement.
Mangadlao said candidates showed their commitment in the presence of town election officer Rohaida Khalid; local government operations officer Bai Anisa Abdulkarim; Major Mangadlao; 57th IB executive officer Major Mark Anthony Tornalejo; and Major Abdulbassit Kulod, chief of the Datu Saudi Ampatuan town police.
Also present were members of a local poll watchdog and other concerned citizens. Mangadlao said the activity was conducted to encourage the local candidates to commit themselves to a peaceful and credible election, and to invoke the intervention of the Almighty for an honest, orderly and peaceful election 2019.
Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the initiatives of the 1st MIB and 57th IB to ensure peaceful balloting in its area of assignment.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065414
Aguinaldo @ 150: Celebration of culture, history
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23, 2019): Aguinaldo @ 150: Celebration of culture, history
AGUINALDO'S 150TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY. The nation commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of revolutionary and first president of the Republic General Emilio Aguinaldo on March 22, a special non-working holiday in Cavite province under Proclamation 694. (Photo courtesy of National Historical Commission of the Philippines)
KAWIT, Cavite -- It was all bright and sunny and it was not just about the weather.
The festive mood all around seemed unending as people from all ages and various locations flocked to the historic Aguinaldo Shrine here Friday to partake in a milestone event -- the 150th birth anniversary celebration of revolutionary and first president of the Republic, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo.
Led by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), the event began with a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony.
Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei B. Nograles, who graced the event as guest of honor and speaker, led the attendees from the national, regional, provincial and local government agencies, members of the Aguinaldo clan, Independent Freemasons of the Philippines, diplomatic community and non-government organizations.
Guest of Honor and speaker Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei B. Nograles (center) is joined by National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Rene R. Escalante (left) during the wreath-laying ceremony of the 150th birth anniversary of General Emilio Aguinaldo at the Aguinaldo Shrine, Kawit, Cavite on March 22. (PNA photo by Gladys S. Pino)
During his speech, Nograles advised the public not only to remember Aguinaldo for his heroism and contributions to the Filipino people but more for his word of advice that the country cannot attain freedom if Filipinos do not move forward as one nation.
Nograles likened the struggles Aguinaldo went through to what President Rodrigo Duterte has to face on a day-to-day basis.
He said a true leader will never ever think of anything else but the people’s welfare and preventing bloodshed.
Nograles received the Aguinaldo @ 150 commemorative coin and stamp from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno and Philippine Postal Corp. chairman, Norman Fulgencio.
Attendees included Cavite Vice Governor Ramon Jolo Revilla III, Cavite 1st District Rep. Francis Gerald A. Abaya, Kawit Mayor Angelo Emilio Aguinaldo, Bacoor City Mayor Lani Mercado Revilla, Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office head Rozelle Sangalang, Cavite Police Director Col. William Mongas Segun, and former prime minister Cesar Virata.
'Momoland' generation doing the 'karakol'
The celebration continued with the "karakol" (religious dance procession) competition, where elementary schoolchildren from the town’s various public schools outdid each other with their choreography and colorful costumes in honor of St. Mary Magdalene.
Elementary schoolchildren dance the "karakol" (religious dance procession) movement during the Cavite El Viejo Heritage Tourism Association's "karakol" contest at the Aguinaldo Shrine, Kawit, Cavite on Mar 22. (PNA photo by Gladys S. Pino)
Karakol is an original dance of prayer for Sta. Maria Magdalena, patron of the Revolution and Kawit parish church.
The religious dance procession is the devotees’ way of petitioning a request. It is a practice in the cities of Imus, Bacoor, and General Trias and the towns of Rosario and Noveleta, which used to be under the parish of St. Mary Magdalene.
The Gahak Elementary School emerged as the winner in the contest, taking home the PHP10,000 cash and an Aguinaldo bust.
'Bayanihan' at Kawit grounds
The world-renowned Bayanihan, the national folk dance company, was among the featured artists in the evening festivities, dubbed as “Sa Iyong Pagwagayway: A Celebration of History and Culture.”
Bayanihan, the National Folk Dance Company of the Philippines gives its world-class best as they perform dances from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao during the "Sa Iyong Pagwagayway: A Celebration of History and Culture), the evening showcase of Aguinaldo @ 150 celebration at Liwasang Aguinaldo on March 22. The other featured performers include Kawit’s pride – the Kawit Singing Ambassadors, joined by the Campus Medley, and Dr. Madonna Amora. (PNA photo by Gladys S. Pino)
The provincial government of Cavite, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), in partnership with the local government here and the NHCP, also featured Kawit’s pride – the Kawit Singing Ambassadors, joined by the Campus Medley, and Dr. Madonna Amora for a three-hour showcase capped with a seven-minute fireworks display.
Born on March 22, 1869, Aguinaldo became president at the age of 29. His presidential proclamation of the Philippine Independence in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898 paved the way for the birth of the Philippine Republic on Jan. 23, 1899.
Malacañang has declared March 22, 2019 as a special non-working holiday in Cavite province to commemorate Aguinaldo's birthday under Proclamation 694, which was signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, by authority of President Rodrigo Duterte on March 12.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065420
AGUINALDO'S 150TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY. The nation commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of revolutionary and first president of the Republic General Emilio Aguinaldo on March 22, a special non-working holiday in Cavite province under Proclamation 694. (Photo courtesy of National Historical Commission of the Philippines)
KAWIT, Cavite -- It was all bright and sunny and it was not just about the weather.
The festive mood all around seemed unending as people from all ages and various locations flocked to the historic Aguinaldo Shrine here Friday to partake in a milestone event -- the 150th birth anniversary celebration of revolutionary and first president of the Republic, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo.
Led by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), the event began with a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony.
Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei B. Nograles, who graced the event as guest of honor and speaker, led the attendees from the national, regional, provincial and local government agencies, members of the Aguinaldo clan, Independent Freemasons of the Philippines, diplomatic community and non-government organizations.
Guest of Honor and speaker Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei B. Nograles (center) is joined by National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Rene R. Escalante (left) during the wreath-laying ceremony of the 150th birth anniversary of General Emilio Aguinaldo at the Aguinaldo Shrine, Kawit, Cavite on March 22. (PNA photo by Gladys S. Pino)
During his speech, Nograles advised the public not only to remember Aguinaldo for his heroism and contributions to the Filipino people but more for his word of advice that the country cannot attain freedom if Filipinos do not move forward as one nation.
Nograles likened the struggles Aguinaldo went through to what President Rodrigo Duterte has to face on a day-to-day basis.
He said a true leader will never ever think of anything else but the people’s welfare and preventing bloodshed.
Nograles received the Aguinaldo @ 150 commemorative coin and stamp from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno and Philippine Postal Corp. chairman, Norman Fulgencio.
Attendees included Cavite Vice Governor Ramon Jolo Revilla III, Cavite 1st District Rep. Francis Gerald A. Abaya, Kawit Mayor Angelo Emilio Aguinaldo, Bacoor City Mayor Lani Mercado Revilla, Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office head Rozelle Sangalang, Cavite Police Director Col. William Mongas Segun, and former prime minister Cesar Virata.
'Momoland' generation doing the 'karakol'
The celebration continued with the "karakol" (religious dance procession) competition, where elementary schoolchildren from the town’s various public schools outdid each other with their choreography and colorful costumes in honor of St. Mary Magdalene.
Elementary schoolchildren dance the "karakol" (religious dance procession) movement during the Cavite El Viejo Heritage Tourism Association's "karakol" contest at the Aguinaldo Shrine, Kawit, Cavite on Mar 22. (PNA photo by Gladys S. Pino)
Karakol is an original dance of prayer for Sta. Maria Magdalena, patron of the Revolution and Kawit parish church.
The religious dance procession is the devotees’ way of petitioning a request. It is a practice in the cities of Imus, Bacoor, and General Trias and the towns of Rosario and Noveleta, which used to be under the parish of St. Mary Magdalene.
The Gahak Elementary School emerged as the winner in the contest, taking home the PHP10,000 cash and an Aguinaldo bust.
'Bayanihan' at Kawit grounds
The world-renowned Bayanihan, the national folk dance company, was among the featured artists in the evening festivities, dubbed as “Sa Iyong Pagwagayway: A Celebration of History and Culture.”
Bayanihan, the National Folk Dance Company of the Philippines gives its world-class best as they perform dances from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao during the "Sa Iyong Pagwagayway: A Celebration of History and Culture), the evening showcase of Aguinaldo @ 150 celebration at Liwasang Aguinaldo on March 22. The other featured performers include Kawit’s pride – the Kawit Singing Ambassadors, joined by the Campus Medley, and Dr. Madonna Amora. (PNA photo by Gladys S. Pino)
The provincial government of Cavite, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), in partnership with the local government here and the NHCP, also featured Kawit’s pride – the Kawit Singing Ambassadors, joined by the Campus Medley, and Dr. Madonna Amora for a three-hour showcase capped with a seven-minute fireworks display.
Born on March 22, 1869, Aguinaldo became president at the age of 29. His presidential proclamation of the Philippine Independence in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898 paved the way for the birth of the Philippine Republic on Jan. 23, 1899.
Malacañang has declared March 22, 2019 as a special non-working holiday in Cavite province to commemorate Aguinaldo's birthday under Proclamation 694, which was signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, by authority of President Rodrigo Duterte on March 12.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065420
Maguindanao village exec slain in ambush
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23, 2019): Maguindanao village exec slain in ambush
(Google map of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao)
DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao -- Police has launched a manhunt against two men who ambushed and killed a village official of Maguindanao at the vicinity of this town on Saturday morning.
In a report to Police Col. Ronald Briones, Maguindanao police provincial director, investigator-on-case Police Master Sgt. Datuguiana Pinguiaman of the Datu Odin Sinsuat police, identified the victim as Guiamadel Ambel, village chairman of Barangay Bintan, Talitay, Maguindanao.
He was declared dead at a hospital in Cotabato City while his wife Saida Uttoh Guiamadel, 45, also of Barangay Bintan, is still undergoing medication due to injuries on her arm.
Initial investigation revealed that the victims, while on board their pickup vehicle heading toward Cotabato City from Talitay, were waylaid along the national highway in Barangay Taviran of this town at about 7:40 a.m..
"According to witnesses, the ambushers were on board a motorbike that tailed the victims,” Pinguiaman said in his report.
Investigators recovered 14 empty shells for a .45-caliber pistol at the crime scene.
Pinguiaman said they have yet to determine the motive behind the attack.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065426
(Google map of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao)
DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao -- Police has launched a manhunt against two men who ambushed and killed a village official of Maguindanao at the vicinity of this town on Saturday morning.
In a report to Police Col. Ronald Briones, Maguindanao police provincial director, investigator-on-case Police Master Sgt. Datuguiana Pinguiaman of the Datu Odin Sinsuat police, identified the victim as Guiamadel Ambel, village chairman of Barangay Bintan, Talitay, Maguindanao.
He was declared dead at a hospital in Cotabato City while his wife Saida Uttoh Guiamadel, 45, also of Barangay Bintan, is still undergoing medication due to injuries on her arm.
Initial investigation revealed that the victims, while on board their pickup vehicle heading toward Cotabato City from Talitay, were waylaid along the national highway in Barangay Taviran of this town at about 7:40 a.m..
"According to witnesses, the ambushers were on board a motorbike that tailed the victims,” Pinguiaman said in his report.
Investigators recovered 14 empty shells for a .45-caliber pistol at the crime scene.
Pinguiaman said they have yet to determine the motive behind the attack.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065426
Beijing ignores ICC complaint vs. Xi
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23, 2019): Beijing ignores ICC complaint vs. Xi
Beijing will just ignore the case filed against Chinese President Xi Jinping by two former Philippine officials as it did not represent the view of the Philippines, Chargé d'Affaires Tan Qingsheng of the Chinese Embassy in Manila said.
Tan was reacting to the March 13, 2019 communication sent by former Foreign Affairs secretary Albert del Rosario and former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales to International Criminal Court Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda.
In their 17-page complaint, del Rosario and Carpio-Morales said Xi and other Chinese officials should be held accountable for crimes against humanity over China's activities in the South China Sea, adding that these deprived Filipino fishermen of food and livelihood.
China has no plans of answering the complaint, Tan said.
"I'm sure what they have done or what they will do, will not be able to represent the views of the Philippine government and people. Those actions will in no way stop the development of bilateral relations," he said in an interview on Friday.
China is not a member of the ICC while the Philippines had withdrawn its membership from the Hague-based criminal court.
“On the issue of South China Sea, we are committed to the peace and stability (in the region) and we are committed in addressing our differences and disputes through our bilateral consultations and negotiation," Tan added.
Won’t prosper
Malacañang on Saturday said while it respects del Rosario and Carpio-Morales' decision to file a complaint against Xi at the ICC, it believes that the case will not prosper.
"As the President said, former Ombudsman Morales and former foreign affairs secretary del Rosario have the right to file the complaint against President Xi before the ICC. Whether or not the case will prosper is another matter. It could be dismissed because China is not a member of the ICC, so is the Philippines," Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo, also Chief Presidential legal counsel, said the filing of the complaint "may be a futile exercise" as the ICC has no jurisdiction over China.
He said del Rosario and Carpio-Morales are not authorized to lodge a complaint against China at the ICC on behalf of the Philippines.
"Even if they are so authorized, still since our position is that the ICC has never acquired jurisdiction over us, given that the Rome Statute never took effect as the requirement of publication in a newspaper of general circulation or in the Official Gazette was not complied with, which publication is a requirement in our jurisdiction before the said Rome Statute or any law for that matter becomes effective and enforceable," he added.
Panelo said the complaint against Xi for environmental damage in the South China Sea is not included in the Rome Statute.
"Hence, even assuming that the Philippines was a State Party when the complaint was filed, there could be an issue as regards the jurisdiction of the ICC," he said.
He added that critics of the administration may use the dismissal of the ICC case to further criticize President Duterte.
"The critics and detractors will have a field day criticizing the President in the event the case is dismissed by the ICC for lack of jurisdiction. They can claim that it was a mistake for the Philippine government to withdraw its membership from the Rome Statute as the ICC can no longer serve as a venue to prosecute President Xi for an alleged commission of crime against humanity," he said.
Panelo said the Philippine government is engaged in a diplomatic negotiation, through a bilateral consultation mechanism (BCM), over the West Philippine Sea issue.
"We do not need the help or disturbance of a biased tribunal known to politically prosecute heads of state, the very reason why powerful countries like the United States, China, Russia, and Israel, to name only a few, have either withdrawn their membership as State Parties from the Rome Statute or declined to be members of the ICC," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065418
Beijing will just ignore the case filed against Chinese President Xi Jinping by two former Philippine officials as it did not represent the view of the Philippines, Chargé d'Affaires Tan Qingsheng of the Chinese Embassy in Manila said.
Tan was reacting to the March 13, 2019 communication sent by former Foreign Affairs secretary Albert del Rosario and former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales to International Criminal Court Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda.
In their 17-page complaint, del Rosario and Carpio-Morales said Xi and other Chinese officials should be held accountable for crimes against humanity over China's activities in the South China Sea, adding that these deprived Filipino fishermen of food and livelihood.
China has no plans of answering the complaint, Tan said.
"I'm sure what they have done or what they will do, will not be able to represent the views of the Philippine government and people. Those actions will in no way stop the development of bilateral relations," he said in an interview on Friday.
China is not a member of the ICC while the Philippines had withdrawn its membership from the Hague-based criminal court.
“On the issue of South China Sea, we are committed to the peace and stability (in the region) and we are committed in addressing our differences and disputes through our bilateral consultations and negotiation," Tan added.
Won’t prosper
Malacañang on Saturday said while it respects del Rosario and Carpio-Morales' decision to file a complaint against Xi at the ICC, it believes that the case will not prosper.
"As the President said, former Ombudsman Morales and former foreign affairs secretary del Rosario have the right to file the complaint against President Xi before the ICC. Whether or not the case will prosper is another matter. It could be dismissed because China is not a member of the ICC, so is the Philippines," Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo, also Chief Presidential legal counsel, said the filing of the complaint "may be a futile exercise" as the ICC has no jurisdiction over China.
He said del Rosario and Carpio-Morales are not authorized to lodge a complaint against China at the ICC on behalf of the Philippines.
"Even if they are so authorized, still since our position is that the ICC has never acquired jurisdiction over us, given that the Rome Statute never took effect as the requirement of publication in a newspaper of general circulation or in the Official Gazette was not complied with, which publication is a requirement in our jurisdiction before the said Rome Statute or any law for that matter becomes effective and enforceable," he added.
Panelo said the complaint against Xi for environmental damage in the South China Sea is not included in the Rome Statute.
"Hence, even assuming that the Philippines was a State Party when the complaint was filed, there could be an issue as regards the jurisdiction of the ICC," he said.
He added that critics of the administration may use the dismissal of the ICC case to further criticize President Duterte.
"The critics and detractors will have a field day criticizing the President in the event the case is dismissed by the ICC for lack of jurisdiction. They can claim that it was a mistake for the Philippine government to withdraw its membership from the Rome Statute as the ICC can no longer serve as a venue to prosecute President Xi for an alleged commission of crime against humanity," he said.
Panelo said the Philippine government is engaged in a diplomatic negotiation, through a bilateral consultation mechanism (BCM), over the West Philippine Sea issue.
"We do not need the help or disturbance of a biased tribunal known to politically prosecute heads of state, the very reason why powerful countries like the United States, China, Russia, and Israel, to name only a few, have either withdrawn their membership as State Parties from the Rome Statute or declined to be members of the ICC," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065418
Localized peace talks, different tact to attain peace: Palace
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23, 2019): Localized peace talks, different tact to attain peace: Palace
The administration of President Rodrigo R. Duterte is trying a different tact to attain peace through localized peace engagements, Malacañang said Saturday.
In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison seems to have no control over communist rebel forces in the Philippines.
"The administration still seeks peace. We are just trying a different tact by localizing the peace talks as the concerns of rebel groups vary from one locality to another, especially so that Mr. Sison appears not to have control over the communist forces on the ground," Panelo said.
He dismissed Sison's claim that Duterte is like an “old broken record" and never gets tired of repetitively terminating peace negotiations between the government and communist rebels.
"The latest statement of CPP founding chairman, Jose Maria Sison, is a case of the pot calling the kettle black. If as Mr. Sison says the President sounds like a broken record, the cantankerous steak chieftain of the National Democratic Front is like an echo with his repeated criticisms of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and this administration to stay politically relevant in the Philippines while maintaining and lapping up his lavish lifestyle in Europe," Panelo said.
He cited the importance of explaining to the people where Duterte is coming from and why he officially announced the permanent termination of talks between the government and the CPP.
"Unlike Mr. Sison who has prolonged the peace process so he can milk the situation and continue freeloading in the Netherlands, as well as enjoying the donations and grants by socialist organizations to his group, President Duterte has tread the path that his predecessors did not dare take to achieve genuine peace," Panelo said.
The CPP - New People’s Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) must first demonstrate genuine sincerity in the peace process by laying down arms and shunning acts of violence, which include murder, rape, extortion, and destruction of public infrastructure and private properties if they want peace negotiations to resume.
"Until such demonstration of sincerity, the localized peace talks shall be given impetus," he said.
Duterte on Thursday officially announced the permanent termination of the peace negotiations with the CPP-NPA-NDF.
The President mentioned the government's preference for localized peace engagements.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065433
The administration of President Rodrigo R. Duterte is trying a different tact to attain peace through localized peace engagements, Malacañang said Saturday.
In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison seems to have no control over communist rebel forces in the Philippines.
"The administration still seeks peace. We are just trying a different tact by localizing the peace talks as the concerns of rebel groups vary from one locality to another, especially so that Mr. Sison appears not to have control over the communist forces on the ground," Panelo said.
He dismissed Sison's claim that Duterte is like an “old broken record" and never gets tired of repetitively terminating peace negotiations between the government and communist rebels.
"The latest statement of CPP founding chairman, Jose Maria Sison, is a case of the pot calling the kettle black. If as Mr. Sison says the President sounds like a broken record, the cantankerous steak chieftain of the National Democratic Front is like an echo with his repeated criticisms of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and this administration to stay politically relevant in the Philippines while maintaining and lapping up his lavish lifestyle in Europe," Panelo said.
He cited the importance of explaining to the people where Duterte is coming from and why he officially announced the permanent termination of talks between the government and the CPP.
"Unlike Mr. Sison who has prolonged the peace process so he can milk the situation and continue freeloading in the Netherlands, as well as enjoying the donations and grants by socialist organizations to his group, President Duterte has tread the path that his predecessors did not dare take to achieve genuine peace," Panelo said.
The CPP - New People’s Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) must first demonstrate genuine sincerity in the peace process by laying down arms and shunning acts of violence, which include murder, rape, extortion, and destruction of public infrastructure and private properties if they want peace negotiations to resume.
"Until such demonstration of sincerity, the localized peace talks shall be given impetus," he said.
Duterte on Thursday officially announced the permanent termination of the peace negotiations with the CPP-NPA-NDF.
The President mentioned the government's preference for localized peace engagements.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065433