https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417473278271382/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
AFP-CRS: North Cotabato declares CPP-NPA-NDF persona non grata
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 15, 2019): North Cotabato declares CPP-NPA-NDF persona non grata
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417473278271382/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417473278271382/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: AFP Chief honors Malaysian Chief of Defense Force
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 15, 2019): AFP Chief honors Malaysian Chief of Defense Force
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417473788271331/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417473788271331/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Philippines and Croatia sign MOU on defense cooperation
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 15, 2019): Philippines and Croatia sign MOU on defense cooperation
Defense Secretary Delfin N Lorenzana and Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Damir Krstičević signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will help strengthen the two countries' bilateral defense relations, last Thursday, April 11.
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417475994937777/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
Defense Secretary Delfin N Lorenzana and Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Damir Krstičević signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will help strengthen the two countries' bilateral defense relations, last Thursday, April 11.
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417475994937777/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Notorious Abu Sayyaf member arrested in Quezon City
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 15, 2019): Notorious Abu Sayyaf member arrested in Quezon City
Notorious Abu Sayyaf member who is wanted for kidnapping and serious illegal detention arrested in Quezon City last Friday 12 April 2019
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417484324936944/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
Notorious Abu Sayyaf member who is wanted for kidnapping and serious illegal detention arrested in Quezon City last Friday 12 April 2019
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417484324936944/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
AFP-CRS: Troops overran NPA hideout in Bindoy, Negros Oriental
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook page (Apr 15, 2019): Troops overran NPA hideout in Bindoy, Negros Oriental
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417496221602421/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2417496221602421/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo
CPP/CPDF: Recycling of Surrenderees is a Tainted Business of the AFP
Cordillera People's Democratic Front (CPDF) propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 14, 2019): Recycling of Surrenderees is a Tainted Business of the AFP
SIMON 'KA FILIW' NAOGSAN
Advance the national-democratic revolution until total victory!
Long live the New People’s Army!
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/recycling-of-surrenderees-is-a-tainted-business-of-the-afp/
SIMON 'KA FILIW' NAOGSAN
SPOKESPERSON
CORDILLERA PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC FRONT
APRIL 14, 2019
The military is now in the business of recycling surrenderees to sell its deceptive propaganda line in the vain hope of maligning and demonizing the revolutionary movement. The latest exhibits are Lito Lannip Bulawit from Basao, Tinglayan, Kalinga and a certain James Biag from Bangnen Norte, Bauko, Mt. Province. These two allegedly surrendered simultaneously last April 8, 2019. The former surrendered at the 503rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters at Calanan, Bulanao, Tabuk and the latter at the Municipal Police Station at Bauko, Mt. Province.
A check from the Leonardo Pacsi Command, NPA-Mountain Province, readily belie that Lito Bulawit was with the NPA unit until 2016 as alleged by the military. He did not stay long. He joined the NPA in late 2002 up until the third quarter of 2013. His unit approved his request for a short leave to attend to family immediate concerns. He did not return for duty since then. It is not true that he lielowed for the alleged reasons cited by the military. He was a responsible Red fighter when he was with the NPA but he resorted to lie low status due to the force of circumstances that he faced with his family. It is obvious that the alleged reasons cited by Maj. Carol Lacuata of the PROCOR are standard media propaganda of the AFP-PNP everytime surrenderees are being paraded in the media. And it is not true that the rifle that he surrendered came from the NPA. From this, it is clear that intelligence agents who arranged for his surrender are only interested in the reward money that surrenderees like Bulawit can claim, especially because it is higher when a rifle is included.
The same is true of James Biag who is a civilian who was falsely accused as an NPA, illegally arrested and detained. Failing to incriminate him as a member of the NPA, they downgraded him as a member of the local militia. This typical modus operandi of recycling surrenderees to spice up their ulterior motives of conjuring a picture that NPA elements are being disgruntled and to negate the fast political isolation of the US-Duterte regime by the disgruntled Filipino masses of his tyrannical rule.
These spates of parading surrenderees shows how low the AFP has stooped down to save its tarnished reputation amidst the consecutive exposes of corruption, extra-judicial killings and its role in protecting large-scale projects at the expense of the people. These outrageous stories, which they manipulate according to the situation that they want to project in order to prop up the crumbling credibility of the regime that employs them, only succeeds in showing the truth – that whatever they do, they cannot prevent the revolutionary movement from steadily growing and advancing. As the state forces desperately try to downplay the revolutionary armed struggle, the more it gains the trust and love of the masses who have long been oppressed and exploited by the system that the AFP-PNP is protecting. Furthermore, this only exposes the fallacy of the surrender campaign that the AFP-PNP is peddling – for surrenderees cannot look forward to a peaceful life because they will always be hounded by the spectre of prosecution and will always be in danger of being jailed even if they had returned to their former lives. This only leaves the Red fighters and the struggling peoples no other option but to continue fighting until total victory is achieved.
Fight the arbitrary and forced surrenders of civilians!
The military is now in the business of recycling surrenderees to sell its deceptive propaganda line in the vain hope of maligning and demonizing the revolutionary movement. The latest exhibits are Lito Lannip Bulawit from Basao, Tinglayan, Kalinga and a certain James Biag from Bangnen Norte, Bauko, Mt. Province. These two allegedly surrendered simultaneously last April 8, 2019. The former surrendered at the 503rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters at Calanan, Bulanao, Tabuk and the latter at the Municipal Police Station at Bauko, Mt. Province.
A check from the Leonardo Pacsi Command, NPA-Mountain Province, readily belie that Lito Bulawit was with the NPA unit until 2016 as alleged by the military. He did not stay long. He joined the NPA in late 2002 up until the third quarter of 2013. His unit approved his request for a short leave to attend to family immediate concerns. He did not return for duty since then. It is not true that he lielowed for the alleged reasons cited by the military. He was a responsible Red fighter when he was with the NPA but he resorted to lie low status due to the force of circumstances that he faced with his family. It is obvious that the alleged reasons cited by Maj. Carol Lacuata of the PROCOR are standard media propaganda of the AFP-PNP everytime surrenderees are being paraded in the media. And it is not true that the rifle that he surrendered came from the NPA. From this, it is clear that intelligence agents who arranged for his surrender are only interested in the reward money that surrenderees like Bulawit can claim, especially because it is higher when a rifle is included.
The same is true of James Biag who is a civilian who was falsely accused as an NPA, illegally arrested and detained. Failing to incriminate him as a member of the NPA, they downgraded him as a member of the local militia. This typical modus operandi of recycling surrenderees to spice up their ulterior motives of conjuring a picture that NPA elements are being disgruntled and to negate the fast political isolation of the US-Duterte regime by the disgruntled Filipino masses of his tyrannical rule.
These spates of parading surrenderees shows how low the AFP has stooped down to save its tarnished reputation amidst the consecutive exposes of corruption, extra-judicial killings and its role in protecting large-scale projects at the expense of the people. These outrageous stories, which they manipulate according to the situation that they want to project in order to prop up the crumbling credibility of the regime that employs them, only succeeds in showing the truth – that whatever they do, they cannot prevent the revolutionary movement from steadily growing and advancing. As the state forces desperately try to downplay the revolutionary armed struggle, the more it gains the trust and love of the masses who have long been oppressed and exploited by the system that the AFP-PNP is protecting. Furthermore, this only exposes the fallacy of the surrender campaign that the AFP-PNP is peddling – for surrenderees cannot look forward to a peaceful life because they will always be hounded by the spectre of prosecution and will always be in danger of being jailed even if they had returned to their former lives. This only leaves the Red fighters and the struggling peoples no other option but to continue fighting until total victory is achieved.
Fight the arbitrary and forced surrenders of civilians!
Advance the national-democratic revolution until total victory!
Long live the New People’s Army!
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/recycling-of-surrenderees-is-a-tainted-business-of-the-afp/
CPP/NPA-Southern Tagalog: Bagong “peace panel” ni Duterte, isang kontra-rebolusyonaryong military panel
NPA-Southern Tagalog propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 15, 2019): Bagong “peace panel” ni Duterte, isang kontra-rebolusyonaryong military panel
JAIME 'KA DIEGO' PADILLA
JAIME 'KA DIEGO' PADILLA
SPOKESPERSON
NPA-SOUTHERN TAGALOG
(MELITO GLOR COMMAND)
APRIL 15, 2019
Kahungkagan ang muling pagbubuo ng sira-ulo at ulyaning si Duterte ng bagong “peace panel” nito matapos buwagin ito noong nakaraang buwan. Sa kahangalan niya, nangangarap pa siyang mapasusuko ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan at mapapaniwala ang taumbayan na makakamit nito ang kapayapaan sa bansa.
Taliwas sa ipinangangalandakan ni Duterte, isang military panel ang planong buuin bilang pamalit sa binuwag na GRP peace panel matapos talikuran ang usapang pangkapayapaan. Isinakatuparan ni Duterte ang pagbuwag ng naunang peace panel sa layuning isantabi at hindi na matupad ang nararapat na balangkas ng usapang pangkapayapaan at maipagkaloob ang mga reporma na pagkakaisahan dito. Matatandaang nauna na niyang itinalaga ang isang retired general sa OPAPP na magtitiyak sa pagkawasak ng usapang pangkapayapaan.
Layunin ni Duterte na mapawalambisa ang mga naunang napagtibay na kasunduan at napagkaisahan sa pagitan ng GRP at NDFP. Wala siyang ibang tunguhin kundi ihatid ang usapan sa kapitulasyon ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan at isuko nito ang prinsipyo at mga karapatang ipinaglalaban ng taumbayan upang malayang makapaghari si Duterte sa bansa.
Samantala, ang pagbubuo ng panibagong military panel ay singkahulugan ng pag-aming bigo ang localized peace talks ng rehimen. Dahil hindi na nito malinlang ang sambayanan, gumawa na lamang ito ng bagong pakana upang isalba ang kanilang kahihiyan.
Walang ibang landas na dapat tahakin ang mamamayan sa kasalukuyang kalagayan kundi patuloy na isulong ang rebolusyon. Hindi seryoso si Duterte na humarap at umupo sa usapang pangkapayapaan at ipagkaloob ang isang tunay, makatarungan at pangmatagalang kapayapaan sa bansa. Kailangang pagkaisahin at buuin ng mamamayan ang sariling hanay sa isang malapad na alyansa na magpapabagsak sa rehimeng Duterte upang makamit ang tunay na kapayapaang maglilingkod sa kanilang mga interes.###
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/bagong-peace-panel-ni-duterte-isang-kontra-rebolusyonaryong-military-panel/
Kahungkagan ang muling pagbubuo ng sira-ulo at ulyaning si Duterte ng bagong “peace panel” nito matapos buwagin ito noong nakaraang buwan. Sa kahangalan niya, nangangarap pa siyang mapasusuko ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan at mapapaniwala ang taumbayan na makakamit nito ang kapayapaan sa bansa.
Taliwas sa ipinangangalandakan ni Duterte, isang military panel ang planong buuin bilang pamalit sa binuwag na GRP peace panel matapos talikuran ang usapang pangkapayapaan. Isinakatuparan ni Duterte ang pagbuwag ng naunang peace panel sa layuning isantabi at hindi na matupad ang nararapat na balangkas ng usapang pangkapayapaan at maipagkaloob ang mga reporma na pagkakaisahan dito. Matatandaang nauna na niyang itinalaga ang isang retired general sa OPAPP na magtitiyak sa pagkawasak ng usapang pangkapayapaan.
Layunin ni Duterte na mapawalambisa ang mga naunang napagtibay na kasunduan at napagkaisahan sa pagitan ng GRP at NDFP. Wala siyang ibang tunguhin kundi ihatid ang usapan sa kapitulasyon ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan at isuko nito ang prinsipyo at mga karapatang ipinaglalaban ng taumbayan upang malayang makapaghari si Duterte sa bansa.
Samantala, ang pagbubuo ng panibagong military panel ay singkahulugan ng pag-aming bigo ang localized peace talks ng rehimen. Dahil hindi na nito malinlang ang sambayanan, gumawa na lamang ito ng bagong pakana upang isalba ang kanilang kahihiyan.
Walang ibang landas na dapat tahakin ang mamamayan sa kasalukuyang kalagayan kundi patuloy na isulong ang rebolusyon. Hindi seryoso si Duterte na humarap at umupo sa usapang pangkapayapaan at ipagkaloob ang isang tunay, makatarungan at pangmatagalang kapayapaan sa bansa. Kailangang pagkaisahin at buuin ng mamamayan ang sariling hanay sa isang malapad na alyansa na magpapabagsak sa rehimeng Duterte upang makamit ang tunay na kapayapaang maglilingkod sa kanilang mga interes.###
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/bagong-peace-panel-ni-duterte-isang-kontra-rebolusyonaryong-military-panel/
CPP/NPA-Quezon: Singilin at Pagbayarin ang Rehimeng US-Duterte sa Kapabayaan nito sa Panahon ng Tagtuyot! (Editoryal – Diklap April 2019)
NPA-Quezon propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 17, 2019): Singilin at Pagbayarin ang Rehimeng US-Duterte sa Kapabayaan nito sa Panahon ng Tagtuyot! (Editoryal – Diklap April 2019)
CLEO DEL MUNDO
CLEO DEL MUNDO
SPOKESPERSON
NPA-QUEZON
(APOLONIO MENDOZA COMMAND)
APRIL 17, 2019
Damang-dama sa malawak na kanayunan ng lalawigan ng Quezon ang epekto ng tagtuyot na dinaranas sa buong bansa. Nagdudulot ito ng pagkatuyo ng mga bukal, sapa at ilog na nagreresulta sa krisis sa inuming tubig ng mamamayan at pagkasira ng mga pananim. Maging ang mga alagang hayop ng magsasaka ay nagkakasakit dahil sa tindi ng init at tagtuyot.
Nagbabanta ito ng taggutom at lalo pang kahirapan sa uring magsasaka at lahat ng maralita sa kanayunan ng lalawigan. Ang banta ng taggutom ay higit na pinabibilis ng nagpapatuloy na pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra. Bago natapos ang buwan ng Marso, nasa Php13 na lamang bawat kilo ng kopra at napabalitang bumaba na ito sa Php11 kada kilo ngayong buwan ng Abril.
Sa pinakahuling pag-aaral na isinagawa sa isang larangan sa South Quezon, kumikita na lamang ng P16.28 kada araw ang mga maglulukad sa kasalukuyang presyo na Php13 kada kilo. Kapag tinayâ pa ang maaring epekto ng El Niño sa produksyon ng niyog, lalagapak na sa Php9.30 kada araw ang kailangan nilang pagkakasyahin para mabuhay! Walang sinuman ang mabubuhay nang maayos sa ganitong kalagayan.
Katunayan, kahit mismo sa pag-aaral ng Philippine Statistics Authority, ang isang pamilyang may limang miyembro ay kailangang kumita ng Php10,481 kada buwan. Ibig sabihin ay Php346 kada araw. Napakalayo nito sa kinikita ng mga maglulukad sa panahong ito ng tagtuyot at bagsak na presyo ng kopra at buong niyog.
Ayon sa PCA o Philippine Coconut Authority, noong 2012, umaabot sa 391,196 ektaryang lupain ang natataniman ng niyog sa lalawigan ng Quezon. Habang 203,356 pamilyang magsasaka ang nakaasa rito.
Sa ginawang pagkukwenta, sa panahon ng tagtuyot ay aabot sa halos isang bilyong piso (Php953 milyon) ang mawawalang kita sa buong niyugan ng lalawigan habang Php245.7 milyon naman ang mawawalang kita ng mga pamilyang magniniyog sa Quezon sa susunod na paglulukad (cropping season), o hanggang buwan ng Hunyo.
Madali nang mahinuha kung gaano kalaking kita ang mawawala sa 3.5 milyong magniniyog sa buong bansa sa panahong ito.
May malaking pananagutan ang rehimeng US-Duterte sa kasalukuyang krisis na dinaranas sa lalawigan at buong bansa. Walang maagap na paghahanda ang rehimen, lalo na ang mga lokal na pamahalaan sa lalawigan, kung paano haharapin ang krisis ng tagtuyot.
Ang nakikitang solusyon ni Duterte ay mga patse-patseng pang-ampat ng krisis kagaya ng pamumudmod ng mumo sa anyo ng kanyang bersyon ng proyektong pabahay, universal health care, conditional cash transfer, reporma sa lupa at iba pang programang pangkagalingan. Lahat ng mga ito ay pakikinabangan ng mga kasabwat niyang panginoong maylupa at burgesyang kumprador. Halimbawa, ang reporma sa lupa ni Duterte ay ang pagpapalit-gamit sa lupa para bigyang-daan ang konstruksyon ng mga dam, pagmimina, turismo at enerhiya, at mga proyektong imprastruktura.
Ang solusyong nakikita ng Department of Agriculture sa bagsak na presyo ng kopra ay alisin ang pagbabawal sa pageeksport ng niyog para daw mailuwas ito sa mga bansang kagaya ng Tsina. Talagang hindi nauunawaan ng mga burukrata sa gubyernong Duterte ang tunay na pangangailangan ng mamamayan. Sa halip na palakasin ang industriya ng niyog sa bansa para sa sarili nitong gamit nang sa gayon ay tumaas ang halaga sa gamit, partikular ng kopra, ang naiisip ng rehimeng Duterte ay iluwas ang sariling produkto ng bansa.
Habang pinahintulutan naman ang todo-todo at libreng pagpasok ng imported na bigas at iba pang produktong pang-agrikultura na tiyak na mananalasang tulad ng peste sa lokal na produksyon at kabuhayan sa kanayunan.
Enero pa lamang ay nagsabi na ang PAG-ASA na daranas ng tagtuyot ang bansa na malamang na umabot hanggang buwan ng Hunyo. Pero hanggang ngayon ay iilan pa lamang na mga probinsya ang nagdedeklara ng state of calamity. Sa rehiyong Timog Katagalugan ay ang Mindoro Occidental ang naunang nagdeklara ng state of calamity gayong tinayâ na umabot lamang sa higit 55 milyong piso ang pinsalang dulot ng tagtuyot.
Noong isang taon pa ipinananawagan ng mga samahang magniniyog sa lalawigan na magdeklara na ang provincial government ng state of calamity upang magamit ang calamity fund para sa agarang ayuda sa mga magsasaka dahil sa pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra. Sa panahon ng tagtuyot, wala nang makitang dahilan para hindi ito gawin ng mga local government unit.
Isang hamon ngayon, maging sa rebolusyunaryong kilusan kung paano lulutasin ang taggutom sanhi ng pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra at tumatagal nang tagtuyot. Kailangang imobilisa ang buong rebolusyunaryong baseng masa para harapin ang naturang krisis. Ang mga balangay ng rebolusyunaryong organisasyong masa sa pangunguna ng Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid ay dapat na magbuo ng mga grupo na mag-aaral ng epekto at pinsala ng tagtuyot at pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra at buong niyog.
Mula sa mga matitipong impormasyon at datos, lapatan ng mga kagyat at praktikal na hakbanging maaring gawin para makaagdong sa kasalukuyang krisis. Maaring magtulung-tulong ang mga grupong balangay ng PKM sa paggawa ng tangke ng tubig para maging imbakan. Agad itong gawin habang may mga natitira pang sapa at ilog na hindi pa ganap na natutuyo.
Panatilihing malinis ang mga bukal para sa inuming tubig. Maari ring magtanim ng mga gulay na matitibay sa panahon ng tag-init para pansamantalang mapagkunan ng dagdag na suplay ng pagkain at kita.
Marapat na maglunsad ng malawakang kampanyang edukasyon at propaganda ang mga rebolusyunaryong organisasyon masa para mailinaw sa pinakamaraming mamamayan ang kasalukuyang kalagayan, wastong pagsusuri at kinakailangang gawin para maharap at makalampas sa kasalukuyang krisis.
Ang mga progresibong samahan ng mamamayan ay dapat ding maglunsad ng karampatang aksyon sa pamamagitan ng pag-obliga sa mga lokal na pamahalaan ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa lahat ng antas na magsagawa ng kaukulang konkretong solusyon sa dinaranas na krisis ng mamamayan. Dapat na itulak ang mga lokal na pamahalaan na maglabas ng resolusyon at ordinansa para magdeklara ng state of calamity at gamitin ang pondo sa kalamidad para sa operasyong kagyat na pagbibigay-tulong sa mamamayan.
Batay sa kinuwentang datos, mangangailangan ng hindi bababa sa 1 sakong bigas at limang libong pisong cash kada buwan ang bawat pamilyang may limang myembro para mabuhay sa panahon ng krisis.
Kung tutuusin ay sapat ang 75 bilyong piso na hawak ng National Treasury mula sa coco levy funds para tugunan ang ganitong subsidyo hindi lamang sa mga magniniyog ng Quezon, kundi maging sa buong bansa.
Dapat ring maagang ikonsidera ang panahon ng pagbawi o rehabilitasyon ng niyog. Isang taon ang kakailanganin para makabawi ang mga niyugan mula sa aabuting pinsala dulot ng tagtuyot. Kung gayon, kailangan pa ring patuloy na ipaglaban ng mga magsasaka sa niyugan ang panawagang itaas sa presyong Lucena ang presyo ng kopra at buo at patuloy na paunlarin ang industriya ng niyog sa lalawigan at buong bansa para magarantiyahan ang kabuhayan ng mga magniniyog kahit hindi na panahon ng tagtuyot.
Kailangang patuloy na kalampagin ang mga lokal na burukrata at pulitiko sa lalawigan na walang kapaki-pakialam sa kasalukuyang krisis. Katunayan, nagpapabalik-balik na ang mga samahang magniniyog sa tanggapan ng gubernador ng Quezon pero tahasang nagsasabi ang mga tauhan ni Gubernador Jayjay Suarez na wala silang maibibigay na tulong. Masahol pa ay hindi man lamang maharap ng gubernador ang mga magsasakang dumudulog dahil sa paliwanag na abalang-abala na siya sa kampanyahan para sa eleksyon.
Kapag nagtagal ang ganitong kalagayan, hindi malayong pumutok ang mas maraming protesta at pag-aalsa ng mamamayan.
Hindi naman magdadalawang isip ang New People’s Army sa ilalim ng Apolonio Mendoza Command na maglunsad ng mga aksyong militar laban sa mga mapapatunayan na nagsasamantala sa kasalukuyang kalunus-lunos na kalagayan ng mamamayan para sa sariling kapakinabangan at interes.
Siguradong itinuturing ng mga halang-ang-kaluluwang kandidato, pulitiko at burukata ng reaksyunaryong pamahalaan na tiyempong-tyempo ang pagsasabay-sabay ng tagtuyot, bagsak na presyo ng kopra at eleksyon. Pagnanasaan nilang gamitin ang calamity fund para sa pamimili ng boto – siguradong may nabuo na silang maitim na balak paano pagkakakitaan ang panahong ito.
Magiging target din ng mga aksyong militar ng NPA ang mga mag-iimbak/magtitinggal ng malaking bulto ng bigas (rice hoarding), kabilang din ang mga makikipagsabwatan sa mga copra trader at landlord para lalong gipitin ang mga magsasaka.
Sa gitna ng krisis, nananawagan ang rebolusyunaryong kilusan sa lalawigan ng Quezon sa lahat ng mamamayan na magkaisa laban sa rehimeng US-Duterte na lalong nagpapasahol sa aping kalagayan ng sambayanan.#
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/singilin-at-pagbayarin-ang-rehimeng-us-duterte-sa-kapabayaan-nito-sa-panahon-ng-tagtuyot-editoryal-diklap-april-2019/
Damang-dama sa malawak na kanayunan ng lalawigan ng Quezon ang epekto ng tagtuyot na dinaranas sa buong bansa. Nagdudulot ito ng pagkatuyo ng mga bukal, sapa at ilog na nagreresulta sa krisis sa inuming tubig ng mamamayan at pagkasira ng mga pananim. Maging ang mga alagang hayop ng magsasaka ay nagkakasakit dahil sa tindi ng init at tagtuyot.
Nagbabanta ito ng taggutom at lalo pang kahirapan sa uring magsasaka at lahat ng maralita sa kanayunan ng lalawigan. Ang banta ng taggutom ay higit na pinabibilis ng nagpapatuloy na pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra. Bago natapos ang buwan ng Marso, nasa Php13 na lamang bawat kilo ng kopra at napabalitang bumaba na ito sa Php11 kada kilo ngayong buwan ng Abril.
Sa pinakahuling pag-aaral na isinagawa sa isang larangan sa South Quezon, kumikita na lamang ng P16.28 kada araw ang mga maglulukad sa kasalukuyang presyo na Php13 kada kilo. Kapag tinayâ pa ang maaring epekto ng El Niño sa produksyon ng niyog, lalagapak na sa Php9.30 kada araw ang kailangan nilang pagkakasyahin para mabuhay! Walang sinuman ang mabubuhay nang maayos sa ganitong kalagayan.
Katunayan, kahit mismo sa pag-aaral ng Philippine Statistics Authority, ang isang pamilyang may limang miyembro ay kailangang kumita ng Php10,481 kada buwan. Ibig sabihin ay Php346 kada araw. Napakalayo nito sa kinikita ng mga maglulukad sa panahong ito ng tagtuyot at bagsak na presyo ng kopra at buong niyog.
Ayon sa PCA o Philippine Coconut Authority, noong 2012, umaabot sa 391,196 ektaryang lupain ang natataniman ng niyog sa lalawigan ng Quezon. Habang 203,356 pamilyang magsasaka ang nakaasa rito.
Sa ginawang pagkukwenta, sa panahon ng tagtuyot ay aabot sa halos isang bilyong piso (Php953 milyon) ang mawawalang kita sa buong niyugan ng lalawigan habang Php245.7 milyon naman ang mawawalang kita ng mga pamilyang magniniyog sa Quezon sa susunod na paglulukad (cropping season), o hanggang buwan ng Hunyo.
Madali nang mahinuha kung gaano kalaking kita ang mawawala sa 3.5 milyong magniniyog sa buong bansa sa panahong ito.
May malaking pananagutan ang rehimeng US-Duterte sa kasalukuyang krisis na dinaranas sa lalawigan at buong bansa. Walang maagap na paghahanda ang rehimen, lalo na ang mga lokal na pamahalaan sa lalawigan, kung paano haharapin ang krisis ng tagtuyot.
Ang nakikitang solusyon ni Duterte ay mga patse-patseng pang-ampat ng krisis kagaya ng pamumudmod ng mumo sa anyo ng kanyang bersyon ng proyektong pabahay, universal health care, conditional cash transfer, reporma sa lupa at iba pang programang pangkagalingan. Lahat ng mga ito ay pakikinabangan ng mga kasabwat niyang panginoong maylupa at burgesyang kumprador. Halimbawa, ang reporma sa lupa ni Duterte ay ang pagpapalit-gamit sa lupa para bigyang-daan ang konstruksyon ng mga dam, pagmimina, turismo at enerhiya, at mga proyektong imprastruktura.
Ang solusyong nakikita ng Department of Agriculture sa bagsak na presyo ng kopra ay alisin ang pagbabawal sa pageeksport ng niyog para daw mailuwas ito sa mga bansang kagaya ng Tsina. Talagang hindi nauunawaan ng mga burukrata sa gubyernong Duterte ang tunay na pangangailangan ng mamamayan. Sa halip na palakasin ang industriya ng niyog sa bansa para sa sarili nitong gamit nang sa gayon ay tumaas ang halaga sa gamit, partikular ng kopra, ang naiisip ng rehimeng Duterte ay iluwas ang sariling produkto ng bansa.
Habang pinahintulutan naman ang todo-todo at libreng pagpasok ng imported na bigas at iba pang produktong pang-agrikultura na tiyak na mananalasang tulad ng peste sa lokal na produksyon at kabuhayan sa kanayunan.
Enero pa lamang ay nagsabi na ang PAG-ASA na daranas ng tagtuyot ang bansa na malamang na umabot hanggang buwan ng Hunyo. Pero hanggang ngayon ay iilan pa lamang na mga probinsya ang nagdedeklara ng state of calamity. Sa rehiyong Timog Katagalugan ay ang Mindoro Occidental ang naunang nagdeklara ng state of calamity gayong tinayâ na umabot lamang sa higit 55 milyong piso ang pinsalang dulot ng tagtuyot.
Noong isang taon pa ipinananawagan ng mga samahang magniniyog sa lalawigan na magdeklara na ang provincial government ng state of calamity upang magamit ang calamity fund para sa agarang ayuda sa mga magsasaka dahil sa pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra. Sa panahon ng tagtuyot, wala nang makitang dahilan para hindi ito gawin ng mga local government unit.
Isang hamon ngayon, maging sa rebolusyunaryong kilusan kung paano lulutasin ang taggutom sanhi ng pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra at tumatagal nang tagtuyot. Kailangang imobilisa ang buong rebolusyunaryong baseng masa para harapin ang naturang krisis. Ang mga balangay ng rebolusyunaryong organisasyong masa sa pangunguna ng Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid ay dapat na magbuo ng mga grupo na mag-aaral ng epekto at pinsala ng tagtuyot at pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra at buong niyog.
Mula sa mga matitipong impormasyon at datos, lapatan ng mga kagyat at praktikal na hakbanging maaring gawin para makaagdong sa kasalukuyang krisis. Maaring magtulung-tulong ang mga grupong balangay ng PKM sa paggawa ng tangke ng tubig para maging imbakan. Agad itong gawin habang may mga natitira pang sapa at ilog na hindi pa ganap na natutuyo.
Panatilihing malinis ang mga bukal para sa inuming tubig. Maari ring magtanim ng mga gulay na matitibay sa panahon ng tag-init para pansamantalang mapagkunan ng dagdag na suplay ng pagkain at kita.
Marapat na maglunsad ng malawakang kampanyang edukasyon at propaganda ang mga rebolusyunaryong organisasyon masa para mailinaw sa pinakamaraming mamamayan ang kasalukuyang kalagayan, wastong pagsusuri at kinakailangang gawin para maharap at makalampas sa kasalukuyang krisis.
Ang mga progresibong samahan ng mamamayan ay dapat ding maglunsad ng karampatang aksyon sa pamamagitan ng pag-obliga sa mga lokal na pamahalaan ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa lahat ng antas na magsagawa ng kaukulang konkretong solusyon sa dinaranas na krisis ng mamamayan. Dapat na itulak ang mga lokal na pamahalaan na maglabas ng resolusyon at ordinansa para magdeklara ng state of calamity at gamitin ang pondo sa kalamidad para sa operasyong kagyat na pagbibigay-tulong sa mamamayan.
Batay sa kinuwentang datos, mangangailangan ng hindi bababa sa 1 sakong bigas at limang libong pisong cash kada buwan ang bawat pamilyang may limang myembro para mabuhay sa panahon ng krisis.
Kung tutuusin ay sapat ang 75 bilyong piso na hawak ng National Treasury mula sa coco levy funds para tugunan ang ganitong subsidyo hindi lamang sa mga magniniyog ng Quezon, kundi maging sa buong bansa.
Dapat ring maagang ikonsidera ang panahon ng pagbawi o rehabilitasyon ng niyog. Isang taon ang kakailanganin para makabawi ang mga niyugan mula sa aabuting pinsala dulot ng tagtuyot. Kung gayon, kailangan pa ring patuloy na ipaglaban ng mga magsasaka sa niyugan ang panawagang itaas sa presyong Lucena ang presyo ng kopra at buo at patuloy na paunlarin ang industriya ng niyog sa lalawigan at buong bansa para magarantiyahan ang kabuhayan ng mga magniniyog kahit hindi na panahon ng tagtuyot.
Kailangang patuloy na kalampagin ang mga lokal na burukrata at pulitiko sa lalawigan na walang kapaki-pakialam sa kasalukuyang krisis. Katunayan, nagpapabalik-balik na ang mga samahang magniniyog sa tanggapan ng gubernador ng Quezon pero tahasang nagsasabi ang mga tauhan ni Gubernador Jayjay Suarez na wala silang maibibigay na tulong. Masahol pa ay hindi man lamang maharap ng gubernador ang mga magsasakang dumudulog dahil sa paliwanag na abalang-abala na siya sa kampanyahan para sa eleksyon.
Kapag nagtagal ang ganitong kalagayan, hindi malayong pumutok ang mas maraming protesta at pag-aalsa ng mamamayan.
Hindi naman magdadalawang isip ang New People’s Army sa ilalim ng Apolonio Mendoza Command na maglunsad ng mga aksyong militar laban sa mga mapapatunayan na nagsasamantala sa kasalukuyang kalunus-lunos na kalagayan ng mamamayan para sa sariling kapakinabangan at interes.
Siguradong itinuturing ng mga halang-ang-kaluluwang kandidato, pulitiko at burukata ng reaksyunaryong pamahalaan na tiyempong-tyempo ang pagsasabay-sabay ng tagtuyot, bagsak na presyo ng kopra at eleksyon. Pagnanasaan nilang gamitin ang calamity fund para sa pamimili ng boto – siguradong may nabuo na silang maitim na balak paano pagkakakitaan ang panahong ito.
Magiging target din ng mga aksyong militar ng NPA ang mga mag-iimbak/magtitinggal ng malaking bulto ng bigas (rice hoarding), kabilang din ang mga makikipagsabwatan sa mga copra trader at landlord para lalong gipitin ang mga magsasaka.
Sa gitna ng krisis, nananawagan ang rebolusyunaryong kilusan sa lalawigan ng Quezon sa lahat ng mamamayan na magkaisa laban sa rehimeng US-Duterte na lalong nagpapasahol sa aping kalagayan ng sambayanan.#
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/singilin-at-pagbayarin-ang-rehimeng-us-duterte-sa-kapabayaan-nito-sa-panahon-ng-tagtuyot-editoryal-diklap-april-2019/
NDF: Fake news ng 85th IBPA, pagtatakip ng kanilang kapalpakan
NDF propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Apr 17, 2019): Fake news ng 85th IBPA, pagtatakip ng kanilang kapalpakan
Isang malaking kasinungalingan at resulta ng kanilang kapalpakan ang ipinakalat na balita ng Bravo Coy ng 85th Infantry Battalion ng Philippine Army na diumano’y engkwentro nila sa New People’s Army (NPA) sa San Francisco, Quezon nitong ika-10 ng Abril 2019. Ang tunay na nagbarilan ay sila-sila mismong mga sundalo ng reaksyunaryong estado.
Dalawang pangkat ng Bravo Coy ang nagsalpukan sa Sitio Labrahan, Barangay Butanguiad, alas-3 ng madaling araw ng Miyerkules. Ang isang pangkat nila ay nagpanggap na mga NPA na nakabihis ng tsino at parka. Kumpirmadong napatay ang isang sundalo at hindi mabilang ang sugatan.
Bagama’t naobliga ang AFP na amining misencounter ang naganap, bago ito ay agad na inanunsyo ng 85th IBPA na nakapatay sila ng NPA. Subalit hindi nila mapagtakpan na isa itong bagong gradweyt na regular na sundalo, batay sa nakuhang ID dito nang dalhin sa punerarya sa bayan ng San Francisco.
Hindi din nila maitatago sa mga mamamayan na ang napatay ay isa sa mga sundalong patuloy na nag-ooperasyon sa mga barangay ng Butanguiad, Casay, Santo Niño, at Don Juan Vercelos, at nandarahas sa mga mamamayan dito.
Focus and sustained operations
Mula pa Marso 5, 2019, patuloy na nagsasagawa ng operasyon ang mga sundalo sa nasabing mga barangay sa tabing ng pagsesensus. Sa selektibong pagsesensus, partikular na hinahanap ang mga lider at kasapi ng Coco Levy Fund Ibalik sa Amin (CLAIM) at Anakpawis Partylist. Binabantaan ang mga residente at sinisiraan ang CLAIM at Anakpawis Partylist bilang diumano’y mga terorista at front organizations ng CPP-NPA-NDF.
Isa itong malinaw na pandarahas at pananakot sa mga mamamayan lalo na sa mga magniniyog at kasapi ng mga naturang organisasyon.
Sa gitna ng malawakang paglaban ng mga magniniyog dahil sa dumadausdos na kabuhayan, layunin ng mga isinasagawang operasyon ng 85th IBPA na supilin ang kanilang mga lehitimo at ligal na paglaban.
Bumulusok na sa P11 kada kilo ang presyo ng kopras nitong nakalipas na buwan sa nasabing bayan at iba pang karatig-lugar. Pinakamababang presyo ito sa loob ng halos dalawang dekada.
Gayundin, malinaw na layunin ng mga operasyon ng sundalo na supilin at idiskredito ang mga progresibong partylist tulad ng Anakpawis ngayong mid-term elections.
Sa matinding kagutuman at kahirapan na dinadaganan pa ng pasismo ng estado, walang susulingan ang mamamayan kundi ang lumaban at lumahok sa armadong pakikibakang inilulunsad ng NPA sa pamumuno ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas. Sa malao’t madali, bibiguin at ibabagsak ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan at mamamayan ang pasista at diktador na rehimeng US-Duterte.#
https://www.ndfp.org/fake-news-ng-85th-ibpa-pagtatakip-ng-kanilang-kapalpakan/
Isang malaking kasinungalingan at resulta ng kanilang kapalpakan ang ipinakalat na balita ng Bravo Coy ng 85th Infantry Battalion ng Philippine Army na diumano’y engkwentro nila sa New People’s Army (NPA) sa San Francisco, Quezon nitong ika-10 ng Abril 2019. Ang tunay na nagbarilan ay sila-sila mismong mga sundalo ng reaksyunaryong estado.
Dalawang pangkat ng Bravo Coy ang nagsalpukan sa Sitio Labrahan, Barangay Butanguiad, alas-3 ng madaling araw ng Miyerkules. Ang isang pangkat nila ay nagpanggap na mga NPA na nakabihis ng tsino at parka. Kumpirmadong napatay ang isang sundalo at hindi mabilang ang sugatan.
Bagama’t naobliga ang AFP na amining misencounter ang naganap, bago ito ay agad na inanunsyo ng 85th IBPA na nakapatay sila ng NPA. Subalit hindi nila mapagtakpan na isa itong bagong gradweyt na regular na sundalo, batay sa nakuhang ID dito nang dalhin sa punerarya sa bayan ng San Francisco.
Hindi din nila maitatago sa mga mamamayan na ang napatay ay isa sa mga sundalong patuloy na nag-ooperasyon sa mga barangay ng Butanguiad, Casay, Santo Niño, at Don Juan Vercelos, at nandarahas sa mga mamamayan dito.
Focus and sustained operations
Mula pa Marso 5, 2019, patuloy na nagsasagawa ng operasyon ang mga sundalo sa nasabing mga barangay sa tabing ng pagsesensus. Sa selektibong pagsesensus, partikular na hinahanap ang mga lider at kasapi ng Coco Levy Fund Ibalik sa Amin (CLAIM) at Anakpawis Partylist. Binabantaan ang mga residente at sinisiraan ang CLAIM at Anakpawis Partylist bilang diumano’y mga terorista at front organizations ng CPP-NPA-NDF.
Isa itong malinaw na pandarahas at pananakot sa mga mamamayan lalo na sa mga magniniyog at kasapi ng mga naturang organisasyon.
Sa gitna ng malawakang paglaban ng mga magniniyog dahil sa dumadausdos na kabuhayan, layunin ng mga isinasagawang operasyon ng 85th IBPA na supilin ang kanilang mga lehitimo at ligal na paglaban.
Bumulusok na sa P11 kada kilo ang presyo ng kopras nitong nakalipas na buwan sa nasabing bayan at iba pang karatig-lugar. Pinakamababang presyo ito sa loob ng halos dalawang dekada.
Gayundin, malinaw na layunin ng mga operasyon ng sundalo na supilin at idiskredito ang mga progresibong partylist tulad ng Anakpawis ngayong mid-term elections.
Sa matinding kagutuman at kahirapan na dinadaganan pa ng pasismo ng estado, walang susulingan ang mamamayan kundi ang lumaban at lumahok sa armadong pakikibakang inilulunsad ng NPA sa pamumuno ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas. Sa malao’t madali, bibiguin at ibabagsak ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan at mamamayan ang pasista at diktador na rehimeng US-Duterte.#
https://www.ndfp.org/fake-news-ng-85th-ibpa-pagtatakip-ng-kanilang-kapalpakan/
NDF/Sison: Duterte kills GRP-NDFP peace negotiations, prods the people to intensify armed revolution
Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Apr 17, 2019): Duterte kills GRP-NDFP peace negotiations, prods the people to intensify armed revolution
By Jose Maria Sison
NDFP Chief Political Consultant
April 17, 2019
In the experience of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in negotiating with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), the reactionary pro-US military officers at the highest level have always interfered to stop the peace negotiations for the following reasons:
1. that the GRP negotiating panel cannot obtain the surrender of the armed revolutionary movement of the people through a protracted and indefinite ceasefire and 2. that the NDFP negotiating panel is gaining credit for pushing social, economic and political reforms to address the roots of the armed conflict.
Since The Hague Joint Declaration of September 1, 1992, the reactionary diehards in the military have always acted to shorten the peace negotiations under every GRP administration whenever the NDFP rebuffs their precondition for the surrender of the New People’s Army and their maneuvers to block the negotiations of social and economic reforms.
The reactionaries facilely and deceptively say that the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations have been running for 27 years since 1992. But in fact, under every administration from the Ramos regime to the current Duterte regime , peace negotiations are held only for a few months before the reactionary military diehards intervene to pressure their commander-in-chief to slow down or to declare the suspension or termination of the peace negotiations.
Under the pressure of the military, Duterte has terminated and practically killed the peace negotiations since he issued Proclamation 360 on November 23, 2017. And he has proceeded to drive more nails into the coffin of the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations.
He has rendered peace negotiations impossible between the official panels of the GRP and NDFP that are duly authorized by their respective principals. While Duterte is in power, there will be no peace negotiations between the GRP and the NDFP because of the following:
1. Duterte has formally terminated the peace negotiations with the NDFP with Proclamation 360.
2. He has designated the CPP and the NPA as terrorist.
3. He has rejected the substantive agenda of the peace negotiations stipulated by The Hague Joint Declaration and the Joint Agreement on the Sequence, Formation and Operationalization of the Reciprocal Working Committees.
4. He has wantonly violated the safety and immunity guarantees under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) by ordering the arrest of NDFP consultants and their murder if there are no witnesses, as in the case of Randy Malayao.
5. He has unilaterally scrapped the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law and has dismantled the GRP section of the Joint Monitoring Committee.
6. He has unleashed his military and police dogs to red-tag, frame up and kill at will social activists and suspected revolutionaries in his all-out war and pursuit of fascist dictatorship.
In view of the foregoing, there can be no genuine peace negotiations between the GRP and the NDFP while Duterte remains in power.
The so-called localized peace negotiations are patently false. No one would ever be authorized by the NDFP National Council to negotiate with the GRP or its military under conditions completely under the control of the murderous Duterte regime. And no revolutionary in his right senses would ever surrender himself to the brutal and corrupt enemy.
The CPP, NPA and NDFP are highly centralized and have a collective style of decision-making and working. No individual or part of these organizations would ever fall for a trap like the fake localized peace talks under the control and manipulation of a rapacious and bloodthirsty enemy.
It is obvious to the Filipino people and their revolutionary forces that they have no choice but to concentrate on intensifying the people’s war for a people’s democratic revolution. In fact, no reactionary regime after the Duterte regime would ever be interested in negotiating peace with them unless they intensify the people’s war and win ever greater victories.
It is actually favorable to the Filipino people and their revolutionary forces to be confronted by a tyrannical, treasonous, murderous, corrupt, and swindling Duterte regime as in the time of the fascist dictator Marcos. It is far easier to fight and win victories against a regime that makes no pretenses about being patriotic and democratic than against previous regimes that had patriotic and democratic pretenses.
While there are no GRP-NDFP peace negotiations, for as long as Duterte is in power, I find it more useful and worthwhile to concentrate on exposing the crimes of Duterte and demanding the end of his regime without being distracted by back channel talks and flip-flops by the mentally, politically and morally deranged Duterte.
As I indicated before, I am happy to have more time to do research on Philippine and global issues, write and publish my books and articles and engage in more study meetings with Filipinos and their solidarity friends in the anti-imperialist and democratic struggle.
There is a rising interest in the revolutionary resistance of the Filipino people for national and social liberation because of the flagrantly antipeople, antinational and antidemocratic character of the Duterte regime. The peoples and revolutionary forces of the world expect the Filipino people and their revolutionary forces to fight and defeat the tyrannical regime of Duterte. ###
https://www.ndfp.org/duterte-kills-grp-ndfp-peace-negotiations-prods-the-people-to-intensify-armed-revolution/
By Jose Maria Sison
NDFP Chief Political Consultant
April 17, 2019
In the experience of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in negotiating with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), the reactionary pro-US military officers at the highest level have always interfered to stop the peace negotiations for the following reasons:
1. that the GRP negotiating panel cannot obtain the surrender of the armed revolutionary movement of the people through a protracted and indefinite ceasefire and 2. that the NDFP negotiating panel is gaining credit for pushing social, economic and political reforms to address the roots of the armed conflict.
Since The Hague Joint Declaration of September 1, 1992, the reactionary diehards in the military have always acted to shorten the peace negotiations under every GRP administration whenever the NDFP rebuffs their precondition for the surrender of the New People’s Army and their maneuvers to block the negotiations of social and economic reforms.
The reactionaries facilely and deceptively say that the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations have been running for 27 years since 1992. But in fact, under every administration from the Ramos regime to the current Duterte regime , peace negotiations are held only for a few months before the reactionary military diehards intervene to pressure their commander-in-chief to slow down or to declare the suspension or termination of the peace negotiations.
Under the pressure of the military, Duterte has terminated and practically killed the peace negotiations since he issued Proclamation 360 on November 23, 2017. And he has proceeded to drive more nails into the coffin of the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations.
He has rendered peace negotiations impossible between the official panels of the GRP and NDFP that are duly authorized by their respective principals. While Duterte is in power, there will be no peace negotiations between the GRP and the NDFP because of the following:
1. Duterte has formally terminated the peace negotiations with the NDFP with Proclamation 360.
2. He has designated the CPP and the NPA as terrorist.
3. He has rejected the substantive agenda of the peace negotiations stipulated by The Hague Joint Declaration and the Joint Agreement on the Sequence, Formation and Operationalization of the Reciprocal Working Committees.
4. He has wantonly violated the safety and immunity guarantees under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) by ordering the arrest of NDFP consultants and their murder if there are no witnesses, as in the case of Randy Malayao.
5. He has unilaterally scrapped the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law and has dismantled the GRP section of the Joint Monitoring Committee.
6. He has unleashed his military and police dogs to red-tag, frame up and kill at will social activists and suspected revolutionaries in his all-out war and pursuit of fascist dictatorship.
In view of the foregoing, there can be no genuine peace negotiations between the GRP and the NDFP while Duterte remains in power.
The so-called localized peace negotiations are patently false. No one would ever be authorized by the NDFP National Council to negotiate with the GRP or its military under conditions completely under the control of the murderous Duterte regime. And no revolutionary in his right senses would ever surrender himself to the brutal and corrupt enemy.
The CPP, NPA and NDFP are highly centralized and have a collective style of decision-making and working. No individual or part of these organizations would ever fall for a trap like the fake localized peace talks under the control and manipulation of a rapacious and bloodthirsty enemy.
It is obvious to the Filipino people and their revolutionary forces that they have no choice but to concentrate on intensifying the people’s war for a people’s democratic revolution. In fact, no reactionary regime after the Duterte regime would ever be interested in negotiating peace with them unless they intensify the people’s war and win ever greater victories.
It is actually favorable to the Filipino people and their revolutionary forces to be confronted by a tyrannical, treasonous, murderous, corrupt, and swindling Duterte regime as in the time of the fascist dictator Marcos. It is far easier to fight and win victories against a regime that makes no pretenses about being patriotic and democratic than against previous regimes that had patriotic and democratic pretenses.
While there are no GRP-NDFP peace negotiations, for as long as Duterte is in power, I find it more useful and worthwhile to concentrate on exposing the crimes of Duterte and demanding the end of his regime without being distracted by back channel talks and flip-flops by the mentally, politically and morally deranged Duterte.
As I indicated before, I am happy to have more time to do research on Philippine and global issues, write and publish my books and articles and engage in more study meetings with Filipinos and their solidarity friends in the anti-imperialist and democratic struggle.
There is a rising interest in the revolutionary resistance of the Filipino people for national and social liberation because of the flagrantly antipeople, antinational and antidemocratic character of the Duterte regime. The peoples and revolutionary forces of the world expect the Filipino people and their revolutionary forces to fight and defeat the tyrannical regime of Duterte. ###
https://www.ndfp.org/duterte-kills-grp-ndfp-peace-negotiations-prods-the-people-to-intensify-armed-revolution/
NDF/Sison: Psywar campaign to deceive and divide the revolutionary movement through fake peace talks is stupid and futile
Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Apr 16, 2019): Psywar campaign to deceive and divide the revolutionary movement through fake peace talks is stupid and futile
By Jose Maria Sison
NDFP Political Consultant
April 16, 2019
Based on their latest statements, it is now clear that Duterte and his running dog General Galvez are not at all interested in serious peace negotiations through panels duly authorized by the NDFP National Council and the GRP president as the principals at the national level.
They continue to drive nails into the coffin of the peace negotiations which Duterte has terminated and killed formally since November 23, 2017 with his Proclamation 360. The tyrant Duterte is most despicable for throwing away the draft agreements made by his own negotiating panel with the NDFP negotiating panel.
Duterte and Galvez are interested merely in a psywar campaign to stage fake localized peace talks and fake surrenders between military officers and their military assets (disguised as surrendering rebels) in a stupid and futile attempt to deceive and divide the broad masses of the people.
Such psywar campaign is a mere minor adjunct of the all-out war campaign to attack the people through red-tagging, mass intimidation, fake surrenders, bombing of communities, mass murder, forced evacuations and other atrocities in order to perpetuate the oppressive and exploitative ruling system of big compradors, landlords and corrupt bureaucrats headed by Duterte.
All commands of the New People’s Army at all levels have rejected since a long time ago the offer of localized peace talks as an inutile tactic of deception to divide and defeat the armed revolutionary movement. It will be fun to ridicule Duterte and Galvez from month to month for failing to negotiate with a single real NPA commander or even to make any credible fabrication in this regard.
The Filipino people and the revolutionary forces have no choice but to intensify the armed revolution for national and social liberation on a nationwide scale against the tyrannical, treasonous, murderous, plundering and swindling Duterte regime.
The regime is about to rig the May 13, 2019 elections in order to fake the victory of at least eight of its senatorial candidates and ram through charter change to a bogus federalism, which centralizes the powers of government in the hands of a fascist dictator.
The Filipino people and their revolutionary forces are confronted with the escalation of oppression and exploitation which at the same time drives them to resist and provides them with the opportunities to make advances and win victories in the people’s democratic revolution.
In the meantime, while the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations remain terminated by Duterte, I have now plenty of time to focus on activities that are definitely more productive and useful than negotiating with reactionary diehards and incorrigible puppets of imperialist powers. These activities include my constant research on Philippine and global issues, writing books and articles and study sessions with Filipinos and their foreign solidarity friends.
NDFP Political Consultant
April 16, 2019
Based on their latest statements, it is now clear that Duterte and his running dog General Galvez are not at all interested in serious peace negotiations through panels duly authorized by the NDFP National Council and the GRP president as the principals at the national level.
They continue to drive nails into the coffin of the peace negotiations which Duterte has terminated and killed formally since November 23, 2017 with his Proclamation 360. The tyrant Duterte is most despicable for throwing away the draft agreements made by his own negotiating panel with the NDFP negotiating panel.
Duterte and Galvez are interested merely in a psywar campaign to stage fake localized peace talks and fake surrenders between military officers and their military assets (disguised as surrendering rebels) in a stupid and futile attempt to deceive and divide the broad masses of the people.
Such psywar campaign is a mere minor adjunct of the all-out war campaign to attack the people through red-tagging, mass intimidation, fake surrenders, bombing of communities, mass murder, forced evacuations and other atrocities in order to perpetuate the oppressive and exploitative ruling system of big compradors, landlords and corrupt bureaucrats headed by Duterte.
All commands of the New People’s Army at all levels have rejected since a long time ago the offer of localized peace talks as an inutile tactic of deception to divide and defeat the armed revolutionary movement. It will be fun to ridicule Duterte and Galvez from month to month for failing to negotiate with a single real NPA commander or even to make any credible fabrication in this regard.
The Filipino people and the revolutionary forces have no choice but to intensify the armed revolution for national and social liberation on a nationwide scale against the tyrannical, treasonous, murderous, plundering and swindling Duterte regime.
The regime is about to rig the May 13, 2019 elections in order to fake the victory of at least eight of its senatorial candidates and ram through charter change to a bogus federalism, which centralizes the powers of government in the hands of a fascist dictator.
The Filipino people and their revolutionary forces are confronted with the escalation of oppression and exploitation which at the same time drives them to resist and provides them with the opportunities to make advances and win victories in the people’s democratic revolution.
In the meantime, while the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations remain terminated by Duterte, I have now plenty of time to focus on activities that are definitely more productive and useful than negotiating with reactionary diehards and incorrigible puppets of imperialist powers. These activities include my constant research on Philippine and global issues, writing books and articles and study sessions with Filipinos and their foreign solidarity friends.
MILF: CHED-BARMM Ministry of Education partners for Accessible Quality Education in New Autonomous Region
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Apr 17, 2019): CHED-BARMM Ministry of Education partners for Accessible Quality Education in New Autonomous Region
In photo- Mohagher Iqbal, Minister of Basic, Higher Education and TESDA
The agreement on accessible quality education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have been finalized by CHED Chairman J. Prospero E. De Vera III and BARMM Minister of Basic, Higher and Technical (Madaris) Education Mohagher Iqbal at the Royal Mandaya Hotel, Davao City on April 9.
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED), together with leading Philippine universities, will partner and engage with the BARMM - Transition Authority to ensure accessible quality education in the new autonomous region in Mindanao.
The agreement in the meeting being capped said that CHED and top Philippine universities will provide technical assistance to the BARMM and the colleges and universities under its jurisdiction on the following areas:
1. Assistance to BARMM to ensure the inclusion of private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the BARMM in the CHED/Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) Registry of qualified HEIs for RA 10931. This will allow these private HEIs to apply and avail the benefits of Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) for their students under Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. Under RA 10931, students enrolled in private HEIs in cities and municipalities where there are no state university and college (SUC) or local university and college (LUC) can receive up to PhP60,000 annual educational assistance from the government,
2. Capacitate the BARMM in monitoring the compliance of HEIs with standards for quality education,
3. Assist the BARMM in developing a database of poor students and children of MILF combatants so that they can be included in the government’s provision of TES. RA 10931 prioritizes students whose names are in the Listahanan 2.0 of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the grant of TES. Many students in the BARMM are not included in the database because of the inaccessibility of their communities or due to the armed conflict,
4. Mobilize HEIs offering Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) programs in Mindanao to help the children of MILF combatants complete their undergraduate degrees.
The CHED will also mobilize the following universities to provide technical assistance to the BARMM:
- Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology for engineering and technology
- Mindanao State University-Naawan for fisheries
- University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB) College of Public Affairs and Development for governance, project development and monitoring
- UPLB College of Agriculture, Central Mindanao University and University of Southeastern Philippines for agriculture
- University of the Philippines-Manila College of Public Health for community health care delivery systems
- University of the Philippines Diliman School of Urban and Regional Planning and UP Resilience Institute for technical assistance to local governments in planning and development
- Ateneo de Davao for continuing adult education
CHED Chairman De Vera also lauded the efforts of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. in linking CHED and BARMM to ensure education services are prioritized in the area.
"The leadership of Sec. Galvez was instrumental because he discussed with CHED the need to assist the BARMM even before the Bangsamoro Transition Authority was constituted," De Vera said.
"We are assisting the BARMM consistent with the policy of President Duterte that all young Filipinos must have access to quality education and that no qualified student is denied access to education on account of poverty," he added.
The CHED and BARMM have constituted a Technical Working Group (TWG) to work on the details of the agreed partnership. The CHED TWG members include UniFAST OIC Executive Director Atty. Carmelita P. Yadao-Sison, and CHED Directors Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, Dr. Nelia A. Alibin and Corinna O. Cabanilla.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1778/ched-barmm-ministry-of-education-partners-for-accessible-quality-education-in-new-autonomous-region-
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED), together with leading Philippine universities, will partner and engage with the BARMM - Transition Authority to ensure accessible quality education in the new autonomous region in Mindanao.
The agreement in the meeting being capped said that CHED and top Philippine universities will provide technical assistance to the BARMM and the colleges and universities under its jurisdiction on the following areas:
1. Assistance to BARMM to ensure the inclusion of private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the BARMM in the CHED/Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) Registry of qualified HEIs for RA 10931. This will allow these private HEIs to apply and avail the benefits of Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) for their students under Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. Under RA 10931, students enrolled in private HEIs in cities and municipalities where there are no state university and college (SUC) or local university and college (LUC) can receive up to PhP60,000 annual educational assistance from the government,
2. Capacitate the BARMM in monitoring the compliance of HEIs with standards for quality education,
3. Assist the BARMM in developing a database of poor students and children of MILF combatants so that they can be included in the government’s provision of TES. RA 10931 prioritizes students whose names are in the Listahanan 2.0 of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the grant of TES. Many students in the BARMM are not included in the database because of the inaccessibility of their communities or due to the armed conflict,
4. Mobilize HEIs offering Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) programs in Mindanao to help the children of MILF combatants complete their undergraduate degrees.
The CHED will also mobilize the following universities to provide technical assistance to the BARMM:
- Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology for engineering and technology
- Mindanao State University-Naawan for fisheries
- University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB) College of Public Affairs and Development for governance, project development and monitoring
- UPLB College of Agriculture, Central Mindanao University and University of Southeastern Philippines for agriculture
- University of the Philippines-Manila College of Public Health for community health care delivery systems
- University of the Philippines Diliman School of Urban and Regional Planning and UP Resilience Institute for technical assistance to local governments in planning and development
- Ateneo de Davao for continuing adult education
CHED Chairman De Vera also lauded the efforts of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. in linking CHED and BARMM to ensure education services are prioritized in the area.
"The leadership of Sec. Galvez was instrumental because he discussed with CHED the need to assist the BARMM even before the Bangsamoro Transition Authority was constituted," De Vera said.
"We are assisting the BARMM consistent with the policy of President Duterte that all young Filipinos must have access to quality education and that no qualified student is denied access to education on account of poverty," he added.
The CHED and BARMM have constituted a Technical Working Group (TWG) to work on the details of the agreed partnership. The CHED TWG members include UniFAST OIC Executive Director Atty. Carmelita P. Yadao-Sison, and CHED Directors Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, Dr. Nelia A. Alibin and Corinna O. Cabanilla.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1778/ched-barmm-ministry-of-education-partners-for-accessible-quality-education-in-new-autonomous-region-
Piracy in Asia declines to 13-year low in first quarter: ReCAAP
Posted to Sea Trade Maritime News (Apr 17, 2019): Piracy in Asia declines to 13-year low in first quarter: ReCAAP
Incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia have dropped to a 13-year low in the first quarter of this year, according to latest figures released by the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC).
During January to March 2019, a total of 10 incidents comprising nine actual incidents and one attempted incidents were reported in Asia, the lowest among the period of January-March since 2007.
The first quarter incidents were also down compared to 21 reported in the same period of last year.
Amongst the nine actual incidents reported in the first quarter, they were of less severe nature of mainly petty theft.
ReCAAP ISC pointed out that the area of concern was an increase in the number of incidents at some anchorages in China and incidents of theft of scrap metal from barges while underway in the Singapore Strait during January-March 2019.
"ReCAAP ISC reiterates the need for enforcement agencies to enhance surveillance, increase patrols and respond promptly to the reports of incidents,” it stated.
Read more: Piracy incidents in Asia down, crew abduction remains ‘serious threat’: ReCAAP
On the other hand, the area of improvement was seen at the ports and anchorages in Indonesia with three incidents reported compared to nine in the year-ago period. There were also improvements at the ports and anchorages in Bangladesh, India and Vietnam.
A further positive note is that there was no incident of abduction of crew for ransom in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and waters off Eastern Sabah during the first three months this year.
“Despite the improvement of the situation in the Sulu-Celebes Seas, the abduction of crew for ransom remains a serious threat in the area,” ReCAAP ISC cautioned.
The first quarter incidents were also down compared to 21 reported in the same period of last year.
Amongst the nine actual incidents reported in the first quarter, they were of less severe nature of mainly petty theft.
ReCAAP ISC pointed out that the area of concern was an increase in the number of incidents at some anchorages in China and incidents of theft of scrap metal from barges while underway in the Singapore Strait during January-March 2019.
"ReCAAP ISC reiterates the need for enforcement agencies to enhance surveillance, increase patrols and respond promptly to the reports of incidents,” it stated.
Read more: Piracy incidents in Asia down, crew abduction remains ‘serious threat’: ReCAAP
On the other hand, the area of improvement was seen at the ports and anchorages in Indonesia with three incidents reported compared to nine in the year-ago period. There were also improvements at the ports and anchorages in Bangladesh, India and Vietnam.
A further positive note is that there was no incident of abduction of crew for ransom in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and waters off Eastern Sabah during the first three months this year.
“Despite the improvement of the situation in the Sulu-Celebes Seas, the abduction of crew for ransom remains a serious threat in the area,” ReCAAP ISC cautioned.
Asia and the Pacific: Weekly Regional Humanitarian Snapshot (9 - 15 April 2019)
Posted to the Relief Web (Apr 16, 2019): Asia and the Pacific: Weekly Regional Humanitarian Snapshot (9 - 15 April 2019)
INFOGRAPHICfrom UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Published on 16 Apr 2019
Download PDF (1.77 MB)
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
About 15,000 people are facing food shortages in Good Enough Island, Milne Bay Province, as a result of the impact of a tropical storm (later named Cyclone Trevor) on 15-16 March. The storm destroyed at least 85 houses and has damaged a number of home gardens, including banana and sago palms that are used as sources of food by residents. Eight schools have suspended classes to allow for repairs to be completed on damaged classrooms. The island’s only telecommunications tower was also destroyed by the storm. In the immediate aftermath of the storm, a local church group provided 3.5 tons of rice and flour to affected communities and provided construction materials.
15,000 people facing food shortages
At least 2,150 people are affected by continuous monsoon rains in several villages in Yawar in Madang Province. The Ramu River has overflowed and flooded drinking water wells. Coconut and cocoa cash crops as well as household food gardens have been damaged. Three community schools have suspended classes.
2,150 people affected
PHILIPPINES
Cumulatively more than 51,500 people are displaced in three provinces of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. A majority (nearly 37,000) are in the province of Maguindanao, where law enforcement operations continue against a faction of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. In the province of Lanao del Sur, armed conflict between military authorities and remnants of a non-state armed group have displaced over 11,000 people as of 10 April. In the island provinces of Sulu, more than 3,500 people are still displaced due to law enforcement operations against the Abu Sayaff Group. The United Nations and humanitarian partners have provided food and relief items, but sustained humanitarian assistance is needed until communities who have fled can safely return home.
51,000 people displaced
INDONESIA
According to the Agency for Meteorological, Climatology and Geophysics (BMKG), an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck Banggai Islands in Central Sulawesi Province at 18:40 local time on 12 April 2019. The epicenter was shallow and located in Tolo Bay, 82 kilometres southwest of Banggai Islands, Central Sulawesi Province. The BMKG issued a tsunami warning and an evacuation took place in Banggai Islands District, where some 1,300 households were sheltered in four evacuation sites. The tsunami warning was lifted in the evening of the 12 April and most people returned home on the 13 April.
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs:
To learn more about OCHA's activities, please visit https://www.unocha.org/.
INFOGRAPHICfrom UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Published on 16 Apr 2019
Download PDF (1.77 MB)PAPUA NEW GUINEA
About 15,000 people are facing food shortages in Good Enough Island, Milne Bay Province, as a result of the impact of a tropical storm (later named Cyclone Trevor) on 15-16 March. The storm destroyed at least 85 houses and has damaged a number of home gardens, including banana and sago palms that are used as sources of food by residents. Eight schools have suspended classes to allow for repairs to be completed on damaged classrooms. The island’s only telecommunications tower was also destroyed by the storm. In the immediate aftermath of the storm, a local church group provided 3.5 tons of rice and flour to affected communities and provided construction materials.
15,000 people facing food shortages
At least 2,150 people are affected by continuous monsoon rains in several villages in Yawar in Madang Province. The Ramu River has overflowed and flooded drinking water wells. Coconut and cocoa cash crops as well as household food gardens have been damaged. Three community schools have suspended classes.
2,150 people affected
PHILIPPINES
Cumulatively more than 51,500 people are displaced in three provinces of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. A majority (nearly 37,000) are in the province of Maguindanao, where law enforcement operations continue against a faction of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. In the province of Lanao del Sur, armed conflict between military authorities and remnants of a non-state armed group have displaced over 11,000 people as of 10 April. In the island provinces of Sulu, more than 3,500 people are still displaced due to law enforcement operations against the Abu Sayaff Group. The United Nations and humanitarian partners have provided food and relief items, but sustained humanitarian assistance is needed until communities who have fled can safely return home.
51,000 people displaced
INDONESIA
According to the Agency for Meteorological, Climatology and Geophysics (BMKG), an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck Banggai Islands in Central Sulawesi Province at 18:40 local time on 12 April 2019. The epicenter was shallow and located in Tolo Bay, 82 kilometres southwest of Banggai Islands, Central Sulawesi Province. The BMKG issued a tsunami warning and an evacuation took place in Banggai Islands District, where some 1,300 households were sheltered in four evacuation sites. The tsunami warning was lifted in the evening of the 12 April and most people returned home on the 13 April.
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs:
To learn more about OCHA's activities, please visit https://www.unocha.org/.
Philippines – Armed conflict in Sulu, Mindanao (DG ECHO, UNHCR, local media) (ECHO Daily Flash of 16 April 2019)
Posted to the Relief Web (Apr 16, 2019): Philippines – Armed conflict in Sulu, Mindanao (DG ECHO, UNHCR, local media) (ECHO Daily Flash of 16 April 2019)
REPORTfrom European Commission's Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations
Over 250 families or 1 250 individuals have been displaced and are staying with host families at Lower Kabbon Takas. No relief assistance has been reported. These internally displaced people have already been previously affected by armed encounters.
DG ECHO is closely following the evolution of the situation.
REPORTfrom European Commission's Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations
Published on 16 Apr 2019 —View Original
A skirmish between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) broke out at Sitio Macopa and Sitio Kalih on 11 April 2019 on the island-province of Sulu in Mindanao.
A skirmish between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) broke out at Sitio Macopa and Sitio Kalih on 11 April 2019 on the island-province of Sulu in Mindanao.
Over 250 families or 1 250 individuals have been displaced and are staying with host families at Lower Kabbon Takas. No relief assistance has been reported. These internally displaced people have already been previously affected by armed encounters.
DG ECHO is closely following the evolution of the situation.
Four wives of Abu Sayyaf terror leaders arrested in Zamboanga City
From Philippine Lifestyle News (Apr 16, 2019): Four wives of Abu Sayyaf terror leaders arrested in Zamboanga City
Two of the suspects arrested today. Police photograph.
Police have arrested four women said to be wives of Abu Sayyaf leaders who allegedly took an active role in the terror group’s crimes.
Police today (Tuesday, April 6) said the women took care of financial transactions, helped procure guns and bomb parts and helped to smuggle foreign jihadists into the country.
Police have arrested four women said to be wives of Abu Sayyaf leaders who allegedly took an active role in the terror group’s crimes.
Police today (Tuesday, April 6) said the women took care of financial transactions, helped procure guns and bomb parts and helped to smuggle foreign jihadists into the country.
The women were arrested in raids on houses in Zamboanga City where authorities seized two grenades, a bag of suspected ammonium nitrate and electrical parts that could be used in making bombs, a police spokesman said.
The women allegedly worked under Abu Sayyaf commander Hajan Sawadjaan. He remains the prime suspect in the bombing of Jolo Cathedral on Sulu Island. The twin blast killed 23 people during a Mass on January 27.
ALSO READ: Pirates slaughter 8 fishermen, as report reveals kidnappings at 10-year high
The attack by two suspected suicide bombers led to the latest military offensive against the Islamic State-affiliated Abu Sayyaf terror group.
“The women are the wives of Abu Sayyaf group leaders,” a police report said without identifying the husbands of the women. They “are being utilised by the group for their financial transactions, procurement and transportation of firearms and explosives and the facilitation of recruitment and travel of foreign fighters to the Philippines,” it said.
Sawadjaan is believed to be the overall leader of Abu Sayyaf, which is made up of a number of small armed groups scattered across the southern Philippines.
Police suspect he may be harbouring at least one more potential suicide attacker, an Arab militant, in his jungle encampment near Pitkul Town in Sulu.
The military has recorded some decisive victories over the terror group recently. As we reported last week, 12 militants were killed during a series of gun battles near Sawadjaan’s island lair.
Then, on Sunday, a DNA test confirmed that Abu Dhar, the Islamic State’s representative, or ’emir’, had been killed in Lanao del Sur last month.
The Abu Sayyaf, which has been blacklisted by the U.S. and Philippine governments for deadly bombings, ransom kidnappings and beheadings, is estimated to have 200-300 fighters. It has been weakened by battle losses and surrenders but remains a national security threat.
The women allegedly worked under Abu Sayyaf commander Hajan Sawadjaan. He remains the prime suspect in the bombing of Jolo Cathedral on Sulu Island. The twin blast killed 23 people during a Mass on January 27.
ALSO READ: Pirates slaughter 8 fishermen, as report reveals kidnappings at 10-year high
The attack by two suspected suicide bombers led to the latest military offensive against the Islamic State-affiliated Abu Sayyaf terror group.
“The women are the wives of Abu Sayyaf group leaders,” a police report said without identifying the husbands of the women. They “are being utilised by the group for their financial transactions, procurement and transportation of firearms and explosives and the facilitation of recruitment and travel of foreign fighters to the Philippines,” it said.
Sawadjaan is believed to be the overall leader of Abu Sayyaf, which is made up of a number of small armed groups scattered across the southern Philippines.
Police suspect he may be harbouring at least one more potential suicide attacker, an Arab militant, in his jungle encampment near Pitkul Town in Sulu.
The military has recorded some decisive victories over the terror group recently. As we reported last week, 12 militants were killed during a series of gun battles near Sawadjaan’s island lair.
Then, on Sunday, a DNA test confirmed that Abu Dhar, the Islamic State’s representative, or ’emir’, had been killed in Lanao del Sur last month.
The Abu Sayyaf, which has been blacklisted by the U.S. and Philippine governments for deadly bombings, ransom kidnappings and beheadings, is estimated to have 200-300 fighters. It has been weakened by battle losses and surrenders but remains a national security threat.
‘Rebel’ captured as Army, Reds clash anew
From The Daily Guardian (Apr 17, 2019): ‘Rebel’ captured as Army, Reds clash anew
ARMY troopers arrested alias Fernan/Greg, a suspected New People’s Army member, and seized firearms, ammunitions, other items after the latest armed encounter between the military and rebels in Calinog, Iloilo on April 16, 2019. (Photo courtesy of 61st Infantry Battalion)
A SUSPECTED member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was captured in yet another clash between the rebel group and members of the Philippine Army.
The latest encountered happened 6:20 a.m. of April 16, 2019 at Barangay Masaroy, Calinog, Iloilo.
After a 5-minute exchange of fire and intermittent shots, soldiers from the 61st Infantry Battalion captured alias Fernan/Greg.
According to 1Lt. Hazel Joy Durotan, 61st IB spokesperson, said police are still verifying Fernan’s identity as of this writing.
Durotan said Fernan is one of the 10 rebels from the NPA’s Front 13 of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KR-P) who clashed with 61IB troopers who were on strike operation in Calinog town.
“We’ve been receiving reports of NPA’s presence in the area, thus the conduct of combat operations,” Durotan said.
No one was hurt on the government side.
Meanwhile, Lt. Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, 61St IB commander, confirmed that government troops found firearms, ammunition, and subversive documents at the encounter site.
He also lauded the efforts of the troops for their relentless pursuit of the terrorists in the area.
But more than that, Batara credited the populace who continue to report presence of NPA members in their community.
Meanwhile, Durotan is not discounting that the rebels have been inching near town proper areas as part of their election-related extortion activities.
“But it’s very possible. They might influence the populace by coercing them into voting their chosen candidates,” she said.
The latest encounter is already the 10th between the rebels and 61st IB in Panay Island.
And from the looks of it, it won’t be the last, Durotan said.
https://thedailyguardian.net/local-news/rebel-captured-as-army-reds-clash-anew/
A SUSPECTED member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was captured in yet another clash between the rebel group and members of the Philippine Army.
The latest encountered happened 6:20 a.m. of April 16, 2019 at Barangay Masaroy, Calinog, Iloilo.
After a 5-minute exchange of fire and intermittent shots, soldiers from the 61st Infantry Battalion captured alias Fernan/Greg.
According to 1Lt. Hazel Joy Durotan, 61st IB spokesperson, said police are still verifying Fernan’s identity as of this writing.
Durotan said Fernan is one of the 10 rebels from the NPA’s Front 13 of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KR-P) who clashed with 61IB troopers who were on strike operation in Calinog town.
“We’ve been receiving reports of NPA’s presence in the area, thus the conduct of combat operations,” Durotan said.
No one was hurt on the government side.
Meanwhile, Lt. Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, 61St IB commander, confirmed that government troops found firearms, ammunition, and subversive documents at the encounter site.
He also lauded the efforts of the troops for their relentless pursuit of the terrorists in the area.
But more than that, Batara credited the populace who continue to report presence of NPA members in their community.
Meanwhile, Durotan is not discounting that the rebels have been inching near town proper areas as part of their election-related extortion activities.
“But it’s very possible. They might influence the populace by coercing them into voting their chosen candidates,” she said.
The latest encounter is already the 10th between the rebels and 61st IB in Panay Island.
And from the looks of it, it won’t be the last, Durotan said.
https://thedailyguardian.net/local-news/rebel-captured-as-army-reds-clash-anew/
More LGUs in Agusan del Sur declare rebels ‘persona non grata’
From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 16, 2019): More LGUs in Agusan del Sur declare rebels ‘persona non grata’
CAMP DATU LIPUS MAKAPANDONG, Awa New Leyte, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur – More communities and local government units (LGUs) in this province have added to the growing number of areas which have declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) “persona non grata”, according to Capt. Edwin Leo J. Francisco, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the Army’s 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion (75th IB), on Tuesday.
In a statement sent to The Manila Bulletin on Tuesday (April 16), the 75th IB CMO officer claimed that there are now more LGUs in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur that has declared the CPP-NPA as “persona non-grata”.
The new municipalities that joined in declaring CPP-NPA as “persona non-grata” were San Francisco, Bunawan and Rosario, all of the province of Agusan del Sur (ADS) under the operational jurisdiction of 75thIB, 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID).
The first town in the second District of Agusan del Sur to declare the rebels as “persona non-grata” (April 5) was San Francisco after the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) headed by Mayor Jenny Asis signed and passed the resolution.
The municipality of Bunawan seconded the declaration last Thursday (April 11) through the guidance and help of the province of Agusan del Sur and other stakeholders.
The town of Bunawan headed by Mayor Edwin Elorde is now prepared to attain long-lasting peace and development and is now willing to participate in the socio-cultural and economic programs of the government, the 75th IB CMO officer said.
The most recent was the town of Rosario after Mayor Jose Cuyos approved the resolution signed by the MPOC members a day after Bunawan’s declaration, he added.
CAMP DATU LIPUS MAKAPANDONG, Awa New Leyte, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur – More communities and local government units (LGUs) in this province have added to the growing number of areas which have declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) “persona non grata”, according to Capt. Edwin Leo J. Francisco, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the Army’s 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion (75th IB), on Tuesday.
In a statement sent to The Manila Bulletin on Tuesday (April 16), the 75th IB CMO officer claimed that there are now more LGUs in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur that has declared the CPP-NPA as “persona non-grata”.
The new municipalities that joined in declaring CPP-NPA as “persona non-grata” were San Francisco, Bunawan and Rosario, all of the province of Agusan del Sur (ADS) under the operational jurisdiction of 75thIB, 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID).
The first town in the second District of Agusan del Sur to declare the rebels as “persona non-grata” (April 5) was San Francisco after the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) headed by Mayor Jenny Asis signed and passed the resolution.
The municipality of Bunawan seconded the declaration last Thursday (April 11) through the guidance and help of the province of Agusan del Sur and other stakeholders.
The town of Bunawan headed by Mayor Edwin Elorde is now prepared to attain long-lasting peace and development and is now willing to participate in the socio-cultural and economic programs of the government, the 75th IB CMO officer said.
The most recent was the town of Rosario after Mayor Jose Cuyos approved the resolution signed by the MPOC members a day after Bunawan’s declaration, he added.
‘Local bets pay for Red support’
From the Manila Standard (Apr 16, 2019): ‘Local bets pay for Red support’
A former political officer of a leftist group warned Tuesday that the communist New People’s Army and the National Democratic Front were endorsing candidates for local elective posts in the May 13 elections in exchange for millions of pesos in “campaign fees” and permit-to-campaign payments.
“Ka Nonoy” Alcantara, who said he was the former NDF liaison officer for its Electoral Unit and was responsible for handling the Makabayan Party and other left-leaning party-list groups, said nine prominent politicians—whom he did not name—were even “donating” sums from P10 million to P20 million to the Communist Party of the Philippines, the NPA, and the NDF to gain their endorsement.
A former political officer of a leftist group warned Tuesday that the communist New People’s Army and the National Democratic Front were endorsing candidates for local elective posts in the May 13 elections in exchange for millions of pesos in “campaign fees” and permit-to-campaign payments.
“Ka Nonoy” Alcantara, who said he was the former NDF liaison officer for its Electoral Unit and was responsible for handling the Makabayan Party and other left-leaning party-list groups, said nine prominent politicians—whom he did not name—were even “donating” sums from P10 million to P20 million to the Communist Party of the Philippines, the NPA, and the NDF to gain their endorsement.
In February, the Department of the Interior and Local Government disclosed that 349 government officials were giving out cash to the communist groups in exchange for PTCs or campaign permits.
Without revealing names, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said his department held a list of officials allegedly supporting the NPA, based on data gathered from the 2016 and 2018 elections.
Año revealed that communist rebels have amassed around P195.5 million from extortion activities against politicians since 2016.
In that regard, Alcantara accused his erstwhile communist comrades of “giving up their ideologies” in exchange for money from politicians “that once pushed for the country’s close connections with the United States.”
The former rebel asked the government, particularly the Armed Forces of the Philippines, to help stop the communists’ collection of campaign money from politicians.
Alcantara said negotiations are transpiring between the leftist organizations and candidates who want to be endorsed to voters in areas infested with communist rebels.
As a result, the former rebel said “there could be a demoralization happening in the lower units in the NPA” for the communist movement’s support even of candidates who have opposing ideologies.
He said the CPP has becoming more desperate in its support of national candidates in exchange for campaign fees.
The military had warned politicians running in the midterm elections not to pay PTC fees to communist rebels, but CPP founding chairman Jose Maria Sison said there was no such thing.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had said the rebel collection was nothing but extortion during the election period in areas where the CPP and its armed wing, the NPA, are active.
Col. Noel Detoyato, spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, urged candidates who might be forced to pay PTC fees to coordinate with the AFP and the Philippine National Police for their security.
Lt. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, head of the AFP Southern Luzon Command, also warned candidates that they could face legal sanctions if they paid PTC fees. “Supporting terror organizations is punishable by law. A permit-to-campaign scheme is a form of extortion, which is illegal,” Pamonag said.
http://manilastandard.net/lgu/ncr/292790/-local-bets-pay-for-red-support-.html
Without revealing names, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said his department held a list of officials allegedly supporting the NPA, based on data gathered from the 2016 and 2018 elections.
Año revealed that communist rebels have amassed around P195.5 million from extortion activities against politicians since 2016.
In that regard, Alcantara accused his erstwhile communist comrades of “giving up their ideologies” in exchange for money from politicians “that once pushed for the country’s close connections with the United States.”
The former rebel asked the government, particularly the Armed Forces of the Philippines, to help stop the communists’ collection of campaign money from politicians.
Alcantara said negotiations are transpiring between the leftist organizations and candidates who want to be endorsed to voters in areas infested with communist rebels.
As a result, the former rebel said “there could be a demoralization happening in the lower units in the NPA” for the communist movement’s support even of candidates who have opposing ideologies.
He said the CPP has becoming more desperate in its support of national candidates in exchange for campaign fees.
The military had warned politicians running in the midterm elections not to pay PTC fees to communist rebels, but CPP founding chairman Jose Maria Sison said there was no such thing.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had said the rebel collection was nothing but extortion during the election period in areas where the CPP and its armed wing, the NPA, are active.
Col. Noel Detoyato, spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, urged candidates who might be forced to pay PTC fees to coordinate with the AFP and the Philippine National Police for their security.
Lt. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, head of the AFP Southern Luzon Command, also warned candidates that they could face legal sanctions if they paid PTC fees. “Supporting terror organizations is punishable by law. A permit-to-campaign scheme is a form of extortion, which is illegal,” Pamonag said.
http://manilastandard.net/lgu/ncr/292790/-local-bets-pay-for-red-support-.html
Soldiers join NPA returnees in Lenten ‘pabasa’
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 17, 2019): Soldiers join NPA returnees in Lenten ‘pabasa’
Army soldiers and former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels observed the Holy Week in a joint “pabasa,” a public chanting of verses depicting the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
“I’ve encouraged camp commanders to initiate a joint pabasa with soldiers and rebel returnees for the much needed spiritual exercise to help each other in our common quest for peace,” Maj. Gen. Rhoderick Parayno, commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division based in Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal, said on Tuesday.
Parayno said the Lenten activity aimed to further strengthen the resolve of both former armed protagonists to work together for peace to prevail in the country.
The pabasa is done during the Holy Week, in which two groups of Catholic faithful take turns in reading the “Pasyong Mahal,” which narrates the Gospel account of Christ’s suffering.
The reading or chanting of the Pasyon is carried out day and night, and usually ends before the death of Jesus Christ at 3 p.m. on Good Friday.
On alert
But Parayno said that even if the soldiers wanted to observe the Holy Week by staying in their barracks, they would still be on alert for any rebel attack.
“If there are reported sightings, we will be forced to conduct an operation to prevent their offensives,” he said.
According to Parayno, more than 30 former rebels operating in Southern Tagalog and Southwestern Tagalog regions have surrendered to the government since January.
“Most of them have been living inside our camps with their respective families,” he said.
Reintegration
They were beneficiaries of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the reintegration program of the government.
In E-CLIP, rebels returning to the government fold may avail themselves of livelihood, medical, legal, educational and housing assistance.
Expecting that more NPA rebels would surrender, Parayno said they would soon build a “halfway house” somewhere in Quezon province.
Army soldiers and former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels observed the Holy Week in a joint “pabasa,” a public chanting of verses depicting the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
“I’ve encouraged camp commanders to initiate a joint pabasa with soldiers and rebel returnees for the much needed spiritual exercise to help each other in our common quest for peace,” Maj. Gen. Rhoderick Parayno, commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division based in Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal, said on Tuesday.
Parayno said the Lenten activity aimed to further strengthen the resolve of both former armed protagonists to work together for peace to prevail in the country.
The pabasa is done during the Holy Week, in which two groups of Catholic faithful take turns in reading the “Pasyong Mahal,” which narrates the Gospel account of Christ’s suffering.
The reading or chanting of the Pasyon is carried out day and night, and usually ends before the death of Jesus Christ at 3 p.m. on Good Friday.
On alert
But Parayno said that even if the soldiers wanted to observe the Holy Week by staying in their barracks, they would still be on alert for any rebel attack.
“If there are reported sightings, we will be forced to conduct an operation to prevent their offensives,” he said.
According to Parayno, more than 30 former rebels operating in Southern Tagalog and Southwestern Tagalog regions have surrendered to the government since January.
“Most of them have been living inside our camps with their respective families,” he said.
Reintegration
They were beneficiaries of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the reintegration program of the government.
In E-CLIP, rebels returning to the government fold may avail themselves of livelihood, medical, legal, educational and housing assistance.
Expecting that more NPA rebels would surrender, Parayno said they would soon build a “halfway house” somewhere in Quezon province.
Sison blames military for repeated collapse of peace talks
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 17, 2019): Sison blames military for repeated collapse of peace talks
Exiled Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria “Joma” Sison blamed the military for the repeated collapse of the peace talks between the government and the communist rebels.
The government argument that the peace negotiation has been running for 27 years since 1992 was deceptive, he said.
“But in fact, under every administration from the Ramos regime to the current Duterte regime, peace negotiations are held only for a few months before the reactionary military diehards intervene to pressure their commander-in-chief to slow down or to declare the suspension or termination of the peace negotiations,” Sison said in a statement from Utrecht in the Netherlands on Wednesday.
He noted that in the experience of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in its peace negotiations with the government, “the reactionary pro-US military officers at the highest level have always interfered to stop the peace negotiations.”
“But in fact, under every administration from the Ramos regime to the current Duterte regime, peace negotiations are held only for a few months before the reactionary military diehards intervene to pressure their commander-in-chief to slow down or to declare the suspension or termination of the peace negotiations,” Sison said in a statement from Utrecht in the Netherlands on Wednesday.
He noted that in the experience of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in its peace negotiations with the government, “the reactionary pro-US military officers at the highest level have always interfered to stop the peace negotiations.”
The NDFP is the rebel’s representative in the on-and-off peace talks with the government.
Sison recalled that since The Hague Joint Declaration of September 1, 1992, the war hawks in the military have always acted to cut the peace negotiations under every administration “whenever the NDFP rebuffs their precondition for the surrender of the New People’s Army and their maneuvers to block the negotiations of social and economic reforms.”
He cited two reasons behind the alleged military’s intrusion into the peace talks: the government cannot force the rebels to surrender through an indefinite ceasefire, and the communists are gaining credit for pushing social, economic and political reforms to address the roots of the armed conflict.
Sison claimed that President Duterte was also pressured by the military when he issued Proclamation 360 on November 23, 2017, that terminated the peace talks.
Sison declared that while Duterte is in power, there would be no peace negotiations.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1107668/sison-blames-military-for-repeated-collapse-of-peace-talks
Sison recalled that since The Hague Joint Declaration of September 1, 1992, the war hawks in the military have always acted to cut the peace negotiations under every administration “whenever the NDFP rebuffs their precondition for the surrender of the New People’s Army and their maneuvers to block the negotiations of social and economic reforms.”
He cited two reasons behind the alleged military’s intrusion into the peace talks: the government cannot force the rebels to surrender through an indefinite ceasefire, and the communists are gaining credit for pushing social, economic and political reforms to address the roots of the armed conflict.
Sison claimed that President Duterte was also pressured by the military when he issued Proclamation 360 on November 23, 2017, that terminated the peace talks.
Sison declared that while Duterte is in power, there would be no peace negotiations.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1107668/sison-blames-military-for-repeated-collapse-of-peace-talks
WESTMINCOM: Marine troops support sports activities in Sulu
Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Apr 16, 2019): Marine troops support sports activities in Sulu
Troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 join in the sports activities spearheaded by the municipal government of the 2nd District of Sulu.
Dubbed as the 2nd District Sulu Cup and Santos Cup 2019, the sports activities were formally opened on April 12, 2019 and was participated by the locals from the municipalities of Panamao, Panglima Estino, Kalingalan Caluang, and Luuk and the marine troopers from the different companies of the MBLT-3.
Anchored with the theme, “Building Camaraderie, Friendship and Unity through Sports”, the activities aimed at preventing individuals from usage of dangerous drugs and at deterring ASG influence through sports which build camaraderie, friendship and unity among people.
http://www.westmincom.com/marine-troops-support-sports-activities-in-sulu/
Troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 join in the sports activities spearheaded by the municipal government of the 2nd District of Sulu.
Dubbed as the 2nd District Sulu Cup and Santos Cup 2019, the sports activities were formally opened on April 12, 2019 and was participated by the locals from the municipalities of Panamao, Panglima Estino, Kalingalan Caluang, and Luuk and the marine troopers from the different companies of the MBLT-3.
Anchored with the theme, “Building Camaraderie, Friendship and Unity through Sports”, the activities aimed at preventing individuals from usage of dangerous drugs and at deterring ASG influence through sports which build camaraderie, friendship and unity among people.
http://www.westmincom.com/marine-troops-support-sports-activities-in-sulu/
WESTMINCOM: JTF Central battle casualties recognized
Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Apr 16, 2019): JTF Central battle casualties recognized
Joint Task Force Central Commander, Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana together with his general, special, personal and technical staff visited the wounded personnel that are recuperating at Camp Siongco Station Hospital yesterday (April 15, 2019).
Major General Sobejana recognized the gallantry of the soldiers who incurred injuries in the recent campaign against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the Dawlah Islamiyah Turaife Group (DITG) in the areas of Salibo, Pagatin, Mamasapano and Shariff Aguak (SPMS) box in Maguindanao.
Conferred with the Wounded Personnel Medal were SSg Joel Umoquit, PFC Vincent Ray Estifano, PFC Isaias Espanola, PFC Joel Dela Cruz, PFC Kenneth Kris Ferrer, PFC Richard Ambio and PFC John Rey Paris.
They also received cash reward and gift pack for their faithful service.
“I will honor all soldiers who performed very well in their assigned mission,” said Major General Sobejana.
“I am recognizing their exemplary courage in combat and make sure that they will receive the full assistance while recuperating,” MGen Sobejana added.
Western Mindanao Command Chief, Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, lauded the battle casualties for their bravery.
“I give my highest commendations to them. Truly, they are our modern heroes, they are willing to die for our country and for the people,” LtGen Dela Vega added.
Joint Task Force Central Commander, Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana together with his general, special, personal and technical staff visited the wounded personnel that are recuperating at Camp Siongco Station Hospital yesterday (April 15, 2019).
Major General Sobejana recognized the gallantry of the soldiers who incurred injuries in the recent campaign against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the Dawlah Islamiyah Turaife Group (DITG) in the areas of Salibo, Pagatin, Mamasapano and Shariff Aguak (SPMS) box in Maguindanao.
Conferred with the Wounded Personnel Medal were SSg Joel Umoquit, PFC Vincent Ray Estifano, PFC Isaias Espanola, PFC Joel Dela Cruz, PFC Kenneth Kris Ferrer, PFC Richard Ambio and PFC John Rey Paris.
They also received cash reward and gift pack for their faithful service.
“I will honor all soldiers who performed very well in their assigned mission,” said Major General Sobejana.
“I am recognizing their exemplary courage in combat and make sure that they will receive the full assistance while recuperating,” MGen Sobejana added.
Western Mindanao Command Chief, Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, lauded the battle casualties for their bravery.
“I give my highest commendations to them. Truly, they are our modern heroes, they are willing to die for our country and for the people,” LtGen Dela Vega added.
WESTMINCOM: Loose firearms turned over to troops in Lanao del Sur
Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Apr 16, 2019): Loose firearms turned over to troops in Lanao del Sur
The local leaders of Kapatagan, Balabagan, Malabang, Picong and Marogong all of Lanao del Sur handed-over a total of 10 unregistered firearms to the troops of the 6th Infantry Battalion in a turn-over ceremony held at the Battalion Headquarters in Barangay Matling, Malabang, Lanao del Sur yesterday, April 15, 2019.
The ceremony was held during the 13th Ranao Ragat Inter Agency Task Force (RRIATF) meeting with Colonel Wilbur C. Mamawag, Commander, 603rd Infantry Brigade as the Co-Chairperson.
Turned over were three M16 Rifles, four M1 Garand, one M1 Carbine, one M79, and one 12-guage shotgun.
Said firearms were recovered from the local folks of the aforesaid municipalities and were handed-over to the troops by respective Municipal Mayors in the presence of BARMM officials, DPWH representative, Chiefs of Police and other civilian guests.
Also tackled in the said meeting were the peace and security updates, criminality and future socio- cultural plans and programs.
“The handing-over of firearms is a collaborative effort with the local leaders in support to our campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms,” said Lieutenant Colonel Clairemont W. Pinpin, Commanding Officer of the 6IB.
Colonel Mamawag expressed his gratitude for the support of the local leaders in the quest against proliferation of loose firearms as this will bring peace to the community.
Joint Task Force Central Commander, Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana is delighted that the member of RRIATF has done its part to contribute in the increasing number of surrendered firearms in his area of responsibility.
Since January, 2019 to date, a total of 2,069 firearms were handed-over to the 6th Infantry Division/Joint Task Force Central.
“The Western Mindanao Command continuously fulfil its mission to end the proliferation of loose firearms in its area of operation,” said WestMinCom Chief Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega.
The local leaders of Kapatagan, Balabagan, Malabang, Picong and Marogong all of Lanao del Sur handed-over a total of 10 unregistered firearms to the troops of the 6th Infantry Battalion in a turn-over ceremony held at the Battalion Headquarters in Barangay Matling, Malabang, Lanao del Sur yesterday, April 15, 2019.
The ceremony was held during the 13th Ranao Ragat Inter Agency Task Force (RRIATF) meeting with Colonel Wilbur C. Mamawag, Commander, 603rd Infantry Brigade as the Co-Chairperson.
Turned over were three M16 Rifles, four M1 Garand, one M1 Carbine, one M79, and one 12-guage shotgun.
Said firearms were recovered from the local folks of the aforesaid municipalities and were handed-over to the troops by respective Municipal Mayors in the presence of BARMM officials, DPWH representative, Chiefs of Police and other civilian guests.
Also tackled in the said meeting were the peace and security updates, criminality and future socio- cultural plans and programs.
“The handing-over of firearms is a collaborative effort with the local leaders in support to our campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms,” said Lieutenant Colonel Clairemont W. Pinpin, Commanding Officer of the 6IB.
Colonel Mamawag expressed his gratitude for the support of the local leaders in the quest against proliferation of loose firearms as this will bring peace to the community.
Joint Task Force Central Commander, Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana is delighted that the member of RRIATF has done its part to contribute in the increasing number of surrendered firearms in his area of responsibility.
Since January, 2019 to date, a total of 2,069 firearms were handed-over to the 6th Infantry Division/Joint Task Force Central.
“The Western Mindanao Command continuously fulfil its mission to end the proliferation of loose firearms in its area of operation,” said WestMinCom Chief Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega.
Army asset shot to death
From the Panay News (Apr 17, 2019): Army asset shot to death
An asset of the Philippine Army was shot to death in Barangay Laga-an, Calatrava, Negros Occidental.
He was 49-year-old resident Crisanto Suelto, who sustained gunshot wounds on the body, a police report showed.
According to police investigation, he was on his way home when two unidentified gunmen peppered him with bullets around 4:53 p.m. on April 13.
Suelto was brought to the Calatrava District Hospital where the attending physician declared him “dead on a rrival.”
Officers of the Calatrava police station have yet to identify the suspects and the motive in the incident.
https://www.panaynews.net/army-asset-shot-to-death-2/
He was 49-year-old resident Crisanto Suelto, who sustained gunshot wounds on the body, a police report showed.
According to police investigation, he was on his way home when two unidentified gunmen peppered him with bullets around 4:53 p.m. on April 13.
Suelto was brought to the Calatrava District Hospital where the attending physician declared him “dead on a rrival.”
Officers of the Calatrava police station have yet to identify the suspects and the motive in the incident.
https://www.panaynews.net/army-asset-shot-to-death-2/
Female ‘guerrilla’ killed in skirmish
From the Mindanao Times (Apr 17, 2019): Female ‘guerrilla’ killed in skirmish
An alleged deputy secretary of the New People’s Army was killed in a joint military and police operation in Barangay Canocotan, Tagum City around 4 a.m. on Monday.
1Lt. Jhocell Asis, the civil-military operations officer of the 71st Infantry Battalion, said they received a tip from a concerned citizen regarding the presence of armed men under Jay Mendoza or alias Kumander Jay Pogs of Guerrilla Front 2
Lt. Col. Esteveyn E Ducusin, battalion commander of 71st IB, immediately ordered the troops to verify the information. They tried to serve the arrest warrant against Mendoza at the NPA’s alleged safe house. He has a standing arrest warrant for serious illegal detention.
The operation was conducted by the 71st IB, 1001st Infantry Brigade, Military Intelligence Battalion, Intelligence Service of AFP (ISAFP), PNP, and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group of Tagum City.
Reportedly, the guerrillas fired at the law enforcers who fried back. The exchange of gunfire lasted for five minutes.
An alleged communist rebel, identified as Cindy Terado alias Jill, was killed while her comrades escaped, including Mendoza. Terado was reportedly a live-in partner of Mendoza.
“I thank all the concerned citizens who keep on giving timely information. It just means that they no longer want these terrorist groups in their area,” Ducusin said.
The remains of Terado are under the custody of the PNP Tagum before they will be turned over to the relatives.
Davao peace council seeks closure of 11 NPA-linked schools
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): Davao peace council seeks closure of 11 NPA-linked schools
TRIBAL SCHOOL. Students of a Salugpongan school in the Davao del Norte town of Talaingod perform an ethnic dance in this 2014 photo. Authorities want the tribal schools shuttered following allegations of the learning centers are being used as recruitment and training grounds of the New People's Army. (Photo from Salugpongan Davao del Norte Facebook Page)
Davao City -- The City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) has formally asked the Department of Education to revoke the permits of at least 11 tribal schools previously linked to the communist guerrilla movement.
CPOC requested DepEd Secretary Leonor Mirasol M. Briones to cancel the permit to operate and the certificate of recognition granted to 11 far-flung tribal schools here, according to a transmittal made by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) dated March 19.
The schools in question belong to the Salugpungan Ta Tanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center (STTICLC) and the Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Inc. (MISFI) Academy, which have previously been linked by authorities to communist fronts and the New People's Army (NPA).
The schools in question belong to the Salugpungan Ta Tanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center (STTICLC) and the Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Inc. (MISFI) Academy, which have previously been linked by authorities to communist fronts and the New People's Army (NPA).
The CPOC resolution -- issued in December last year -- said the 11 schools lacked "learner's reference number for them to be officially enrolled in the DepEd electronic information system."
CPOC said this means the enrollees in the 11 schools "will have to go back to grade 1 if they will enroll in any DepEd public school regardless of what grade level they are in."
The military had earlier singled out the schools run by STTICLC and MISFI as being used by the NPA to spread its ideology. These even reportedly served as the recruitment and training ground of the rebel movement.
CPOC said this means the enrollees in the 11 schools "will have to go back to grade 1 if they will enroll in any DepEd public school regardless of what grade level they are in."
The military had earlier singled out the schools run by STTICLC and MISFI as being used by the NPA to spread its ideology. These even reportedly served as the recruitment and training ground of the rebel movement.
The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
Salungpongan schools in the Davao Region were caught in a storm of controversy late last year after former Bayan Muna lawmaker Satur Ocampo and 72 others were arrested by police in a checkpoint operation in Talaingod, Davao del Norte on November 28.
They were charged with kidnapping and other cases when they were found transporting 14 minors who are Salugpungan students on their way to Talaingod town for a supposed fact-finding mission.
A month before that, a group of tribesmen headed by Lipatuan Unad, chairman of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples' Coalition for Cultural, Justice, and Integrity, visited the Philippine National Police in Camp Crame to seek protection from the NPA.
The tribesmen claimed that the rebels are forcibly recruiting members of the Indigenous People to join the NPA.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067491
Salungpongan schools in the Davao Region were caught in a storm of controversy late last year after former Bayan Muna lawmaker Satur Ocampo and 72 others were arrested by police in a checkpoint operation in Talaingod, Davao del Norte on November 28.
They were charged with kidnapping and other cases when they were found transporting 14 minors who are Salugpungan students on their way to Talaingod town for a supposed fact-finding mission.
A month before that, a group of tribesmen headed by Lipatuan Unad, chairman of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples' Coalition for Cultural, Justice, and Integrity, visited the Philippine National Police in Camp Crame to seek protection from the NPA.
The tribesmen claimed that the rebels are forcibly recruiting members of the Indigenous People to join the NPA.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067491
2 village watchmen hurt in 'NPA' attack in NegOr town
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): 2 village watchmen hurt in 'NPA' attack in NegOr town
Two village watchmen were injured in an attack perpetrated by alleged members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Barangay Nalundan, Bindoy town in Negros Oriental on Monday evening.
An initial police report from the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) identified the wounded as Jose Arlito Amper, 60, the chief watchman, and Aldrin Palumar, 37.
Initial police investigation disclosed that at around 8:30 p.m., the victims, along with their village chief and other watchmen, were gathered in the house of Amper, when an undetermined number of suspected NPA members fired at them using high-powered firearms.
Two village watchmen were injured in an attack perpetrated by alleged members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Barangay Nalundan, Bindoy town in Negros Oriental on Monday evening.
An initial police report from the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) identified the wounded as Jose Arlito Amper, 60, the chief watchman, and Aldrin Palumar, 37.
Initial police investigation disclosed that at around 8:30 p.m., the victims, along with their village chief and other watchmen, were gathered in the house of Amper, when an undetermined number of suspected NPA members fired at them using high-powered firearms.
Unharmed in the incident were Nalundan Barangay Captain Charlito Damian, 45, married; and watchmen Syodie Kabristante, 52, married; Welliam Bantayoa, 44, married; Arquelito Montecino, 36, married; and Geraldo Acosta, 46, married.
The firing lasted for more or less 10 minutes before the suspects fled in different directions.
Amper sustained a gunshot wound on his left cheek while Palumar was hit on his left arm.
Both were immediately brought to the Bindoy District Hospital but were referred to the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital in this city for further treatment.
The attack came a day after government troops from the 62nd Infantry Battalion and the 94th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army clashed with about 20 alleged NPA rebels in Sitio Kampong-oy, Barangay Cabcaban, also in the municipality of Bindoy.
The firing lasted for more or less 10 minutes before the suspects fled in different directions.
Amper sustained a gunshot wound on his left cheek while Palumar was hit on his left arm.
Both were immediately brought to the Bindoy District Hospital but were referred to the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital in this city for further treatment.
The attack came a day after government troops from the 62nd Infantry Battalion and the 94th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army clashed with about 20 alleged NPA rebels in Sitio Kampong-oy, Barangay Cabcaban, also in the municipality of Bindoy.
The police are confirming reports that some residents have fled their hinterland communities following the tense situation in Bindoy town.
6ID fetes wounded soldiers
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): 6ID fetes wounded soldiers
GALLANTRY IN ACTION. Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army's 6th Infantry Divison commander, awards a Wounded Personnel Medal to a soldier for gallantry in action in the campaign against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Central Mindanao on YMonda. (Photo courtesy: Army's 6th Infantry Division)
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- The Army’s 6th Infantry Division has honored seven soldiers for gallantry in action in the campaign against the Dawlah Islamiyah Turaife Group (DITG) and IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in this province.
Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, led the awarding of medals held Monday at Camp Siongco Station Hospital in Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
The recipients of the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) are SSgt. Joel Umoquit; PFC Vincent Ray Estifano; PFC Isaias Espanola; PFC Joel Del Cruz; PFC Kenneth Kris Ferrer; PFC Richard Ambio; and, PFC John Rey Paris.
Sobejana told the Philippine News Agency Tuesday that the awardees were part of government forces pursuing the BIFFs in the towns of Datu Salibo, Pagatin (Datu Saudi Ampatuan), Mamasapano and Shariff Aguak, commonly known as the SPMS box in Maguindanao.
“These troops fought valiantly during the major clash against the bandits in SPMS box,” said Sobejana, who is also the Joint Task Force Central commander.
“I am recognizing their exemplary courage in combat and make sure that they will receive the full assistance while recuperating,” he added.
The awardees also received cash rewards and gift packs.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067470
Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, led the awarding of medals held Monday at Camp Siongco Station Hospital in Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
The recipients of the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) are SSgt. Joel Umoquit; PFC Vincent Ray Estifano; PFC Isaias Espanola; PFC Joel Del Cruz; PFC Kenneth Kris Ferrer; PFC Richard Ambio; and, PFC John Rey Paris.
Sobejana told the Philippine News Agency Tuesday that the awardees were part of government forces pursuing the BIFFs in the towns of Datu Salibo, Pagatin (Datu Saudi Ampatuan), Mamasapano and Shariff Aguak, commonly known as the SPMS box in Maguindanao.
“These troops fought valiantly during the major clash against the bandits in SPMS box,” said Sobejana, who is also the Joint Task Force Central commander.
“I am recognizing their exemplary courage in combat and make sure that they will receive the full assistance while recuperating,” he added.
The awardees also received cash rewards and gift packs.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067470
Army spoils rebels’ plan to attack P11-B mega-dam project
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): Army spoils rebels’ plan to attack P11-B mega-dam project
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) captures a member of the New People's Army after an encounter at Masaroy village, Calinog, Iloilo on Tuesday (April 16, 2019). The AFP also recovered firearms and other paraphernalia from the rebels. (Photo courtesy of AFP)
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spoiled the plan of the New People’s Army (NPA) to conduct harassment at the Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project (JRMP) II in Calinog town, Iloilo.
This, after the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (IB) encountered around 10 rebels at Masaroy village, Calinog on Tuesday morning.
“They seem to harass and plan the destruction of our equipment (at the JRMP site). This we see as one of their purposes,” said Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, 61st IB commander, in a phone interview Tuesday.
He said they received information about the plans of the rebels to conduct ambush and burning of equipment at the mega-dam site.
Batara said the encounter site, which is considered the rebels “staging area” before conducting harassment and attacks, is more or less 10 to 15 kilometers from the JRMP II located at Agcalaga village, Calinog.
The Army regards the JRMP II as always under imminent danger “because the NPAs are experts of deception”.
He assured the government has enough forces from both the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to secure the biggest dam project outside Luzon.
The PHP11.2-billion JRMP II held its ceremonial groundbreaking on February 27.
Batara also assured that government installations like the Panay River Basin Integrated Development Project in Capiz province and other government projects are also secured against rebels.
The encounter on Tuesday led to the capture of one of regular NPA members.
Batara said alias “Fernan”, who is under the custody of the Calinog Municipal Police, is currently under interrogation.
Recovered in the encounter site were one 30-caliber Garand rifle, one M79 grenade launcher, a 12-gauge shotgun, caliber .38 revolver, eight rounds of 40mm live ammunition, four rifle grenades, bandolier, subversive documents and medical paraphernalia.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spoiled the plan of the New People’s Army (NPA) to conduct harassment at the Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project (JRMP) II in Calinog town, Iloilo.
This, after the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (IB) encountered around 10 rebels at Masaroy village, Calinog on Tuesday morning.
“They seem to harass and plan the destruction of our equipment (at the JRMP site). This we see as one of their purposes,” said Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, 61st IB commander, in a phone interview Tuesday.
He said they received information about the plans of the rebels to conduct ambush and burning of equipment at the mega-dam site.
Batara said the encounter site, which is considered the rebels “staging area” before conducting harassment and attacks, is more or less 10 to 15 kilometers from the JRMP II located at Agcalaga village, Calinog.
The Army regards the JRMP II as always under imminent danger “because the NPAs are experts of deception”.
He assured the government has enough forces from both the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to secure the biggest dam project outside Luzon.
The PHP11.2-billion JRMP II held its ceremonial groundbreaking on February 27.
Batara also assured that government installations like the Panay River Basin Integrated Development Project in Capiz province and other government projects are also secured against rebels.
The encounter on Tuesday led to the capture of one of regular NPA members.
Batara said alias “Fernan”, who is under the custody of the Calinog Municipal Police, is currently under interrogation.
Recovered in the encounter site were one 30-caliber Garand rifle, one M79 grenade launcher, a 12-gauge shotgun, caliber .38 revolver, eight rounds of 40mm live ammunition, four rifle grenades, bandolier, subversive documents and medical paraphernalia.
“We hope to get more information from Fernan. He is under the custody of the police and will definitely be charged with illegal possession of firearms,” Batara said.
The rebels withdrew and fled northeast towards Capiz province. Batara said no casualties were reported from the government side.
The Army assured its security operations will continue this Holy Week “because rebels are conducting atrocities, thinking government troops are unprepared”.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067507
The rebels withdrew and fled northeast towards Capiz province. Batara said no casualties were reported from the government side.
The Army assured its security operations will continue this Holy Week “because rebels are conducting atrocities, thinking government troops are unprepared”.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067507
Top NPA leader killed in Tagum City operation
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): Top NPA leader killed in Tagum City operation
A front deputy secretary of the New People's Army (NPA) was killed when police and Army operatives swooped down on a house in Tagum City Monday.
Killed in the operation in Barangay Canocotan, Tagum City, Davao del Norte was Cindy Terado alias Jill, deputy secretary of Guerrilla Front 2, said Lt. Col. Esteyven Ducusin, commander of the Philippine Army's 71st Infantry Battalion.
Ducusin said the operation was meant to serve a warrant of arrest against Jay Mendoza, the executive commander of Guerrilla Front 2 under the NPA's Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Mendoza has been on the list of wanted persons for serious illegal detention, the Army official said.
Ducusin said that when operatives were closing in on the safe house of Mendoza, they were fired upon by an undetermined number of armed men believed to be NPA combatants.
The five-minute firefight resulted in the death of Terado and the recovery of her M16 rifle loaded with 19 ammunition. Mendoza and the other NPA members escaped.
Ducusin said the troops also recovered an anti-personnel mine, a cellular phone, drug paraphernalia with residue, subversive documents, and white envelopes, which could be intended for extortion activities.
“I will reiterate that our bound duty is to protect the people and secure the land," Ducusin said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067495
Killed in the operation in Barangay Canocotan, Tagum City, Davao del Norte was Cindy Terado alias Jill, deputy secretary of Guerrilla Front 2, said Lt. Col. Esteyven Ducusin, commander of the Philippine Army's 71st Infantry Battalion.
Ducusin said the operation was meant to serve a warrant of arrest against Jay Mendoza, the executive commander of Guerrilla Front 2 under the NPA's Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Mendoza has been on the list of wanted persons for serious illegal detention, the Army official said.
Ducusin said that when operatives were closing in on the safe house of Mendoza, they were fired upon by an undetermined number of armed men believed to be NPA combatants.
The five-minute firefight resulted in the death of Terado and the recovery of her M16 rifle loaded with 19 ammunition. Mendoza and the other NPA members escaped.
Ducusin said the troops also recovered an anti-personnel mine, a cellular phone, drug paraphernalia with residue, subversive documents, and white envelopes, which could be intended for extortion activities.
“I will reiterate that our bound duty is to protect the people and secure the land," Ducusin said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067495
4 suspected ASG members nabbed in Zambo City
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): 4 suspected ASG members nabbed in Zambo City
Police and military operatives arrested four suspected Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in this southern port city, an official said Tuesday.
Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Luis Licup, Police Regional Office-9 director, identified the arrested suspects as the following: Jainab Ibrahim, who carries the aliases of Aswajun Mutahhara and Almaida Marani Salvin; Khadeeja Tawasil Jainal, Abdurarafi Jalas Danial, and Fatma Musa Narimen.
Licup said the four suspects were arrested during enforcement of a search warrant for illegal possession of explosive around 6:15 a.m. Tuesday in Barangay Talabaan, this city.
Licup said the raiding team confiscated from the suspects two fragmentation grenade; a nine-volt battery with a switch; an eco bag containing white granules suspected to be ammonium nitrate; a timer with wire; several wires with alligator clip; concrete nails; two non-electric blasting caps with a safety cover; and, identification cards.
The suspects are followers of ASG sub-leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan and “are being utilized by the ASG for their financial transactions, procurement, and transportation of firearms and explosives, and the facilitation of recruitment and travel of foreign fighters to the Philippines,” Licup said.
Police and military operatives arrested four suspected Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in this southern port city, an official said Tuesday.
Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Luis Licup, Police Regional Office-9 director, identified the arrested suspects as the following: Jainab Ibrahim, who carries the aliases of Aswajun Mutahhara and Almaida Marani Salvin; Khadeeja Tawasil Jainal, Abdurarafi Jalas Danial, and Fatma Musa Narimen.
Licup said the four suspects were arrested during enforcement of a search warrant for illegal possession of explosive around 6:15 a.m. Tuesday in Barangay Talabaan, this city.
Licup said the raiding team confiscated from the suspects two fragmentation grenade; a nine-volt battery with a switch; an eco bag containing white granules suspected to be ammonium nitrate; a timer with wire; several wires with alligator clip; concrete nails; two non-electric blasting caps with a safety cover; and, identification cards.
The suspects are followers of ASG sub-leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan and “are being utilized by the ASG for their financial transactions, procurement, and transportation of firearms and explosives, and the facilitation of recruitment and travel of foreign fighters to the Philippines,” Licup said.
Proposed new peace panel a welcome dev't: AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): Proposed new peace panel a welcome dev't: AFP
The proposed new peace panel that will oversee localized peace engagements is a welcome development in the government's efforts to attain just and lasting peace, an official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.
"Fifty years of deception, lies, exploitation of the IP (Indigenous Peoples) and extortion is enough. We are prepared to offer not only the hand of peace but the whole arm if need be," Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP public affairs office chief, told reporters in a text message on Monday.
Over the weekend, President Rodrigo R. Duterte mentioned his intention to create a new peace panel with at least three representatives from the military.
Detoyato said in order for this to proceed, Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chair Jose Maria "Joma" Sison must show good faith and credibility.
"But first, Mr. Sison has to show sanity and coherence. He must also accept the fact that there are many roads towards peace but the road he has taken is not one of them. Let’s go local. Let’s help each other here in the Philippines. The problem is here, not in the Netherlands," he said.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr., earlier said through the new peace panel, the government will be “directly engaging the people on the ground to address the fundamentals of the problem”.
He said the new peace panel is in line with the whole-of-nation approach as embodied in Executive Order 70, which provides for the creation of a national task force to end local communist armed conflict, as well as the adoption of a national peace framework that will contain policies addressing the root causes of insurgencies.
Galvez said it is through localized peace engagements where the government can create an environment for the peace process to move forward.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067433
The proposed new peace panel that will oversee localized peace engagements is a welcome development in the government's efforts to attain just and lasting peace, an official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.
"Fifty years of deception, lies, exploitation of the IP (Indigenous Peoples) and extortion is enough. We are prepared to offer not only the hand of peace but the whole arm if need be," Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP public affairs office chief, told reporters in a text message on Monday.
Over the weekend, President Rodrigo R. Duterte mentioned his intention to create a new peace panel with at least three representatives from the military.
Detoyato said in order for this to proceed, Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chair Jose Maria "Joma" Sison must show good faith and credibility.
"But first, Mr. Sison has to show sanity and coherence. He must also accept the fact that there are many roads towards peace but the road he has taken is not one of them. Let’s go local. Let’s help each other here in the Philippines. The problem is here, not in the Netherlands," he said.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr., earlier said through the new peace panel, the government will be “directly engaging the people on the ground to address the fundamentals of the problem”.
He said the new peace panel is in line with the whole-of-nation approach as embodied in Executive Order 70, which provides for the creation of a national task force to end local communist armed conflict, as well as the adoption of a national peace framework that will contain policies addressing the root causes of insurgencies.
Galvez said it is through localized peace engagements where the government can create an environment for the peace process to move forward.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067433
Comelec, AFP, PNP fine-tune security preps for May polls
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): Comelec, AFP, PNP fine-tune security preps for May polls
The national government is exerting all efforts to ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of the May 13 mid-term elections.
Several ranking officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and Commission on Elections (Comelec) made the assurance during a high-level meeting on Tuesday at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City to fine-tune all coordination and security plans for the upcoming polls.
"This morning we had a high-level tri-agency meeting among the Comelec, AFP and the PNP to polish all our preparations, coordination and security plans to ensure the peaceful orderly honest and secure (the) National and Local Elections 2019 this coming May 13," AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal said.
He said monitoring the elections will be done through the National Joint Security Coordination Center (NJSCC), composed of 60 key military, police, and Comelec officials. The NJSCC was formed in 2016.
During the meeting, Madrigal, PNP chief, General Oscar Albayalde, and Comelec chair Sheriff Abas also signed the Joint Letter Directive 01-2019 which was drafted for the delegation of tasks to participating military and police personnel.
"We are hoping for a smooth flow in our electoral process and that all our plans and coordination in the NJSCC are followed. Our troops on the ground are strategically deployed in different areas and are always on the lookout for any criminal and terrorist groups and individuals who may pose a threat to our citizens, rest assured that the AFP together with the PNP are always here in support to the Comelec," Madrigal said.
Madrigal also appealed to the public to cooperate and help authorities thwart any attempts to disrupt the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, Albayalde said they will be deploying 75 to 80 percent of all their personnel, augmented by some 40,000 troops from the AFP, to secure the forthcoming polls.
Madrigal said AFP, PNP and Comelec officials first met last January 10 to discuss the Bangsamoro Organic Law plebiscite and the preparations for the May elections.
"In this meeting, we had a security situation briefing updates from the Comelec and the presentation on the final joint implementing plans of the AFP Unified Commands and the PNP Directorate for Internal Police Operations," Madrigal said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067471
The national government is exerting all efforts to ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of the May 13 mid-term elections.
Several ranking officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and Commission on Elections (Comelec) made the assurance during a high-level meeting on Tuesday at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City to fine-tune all coordination and security plans for the upcoming polls.
"This morning we had a high-level tri-agency meeting among the Comelec, AFP and the PNP to polish all our preparations, coordination and security plans to ensure the peaceful orderly honest and secure (the) National and Local Elections 2019 this coming May 13," AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal said.
He said monitoring the elections will be done through the National Joint Security Coordination Center (NJSCC), composed of 60 key military, police, and Comelec officials. The NJSCC was formed in 2016.
During the meeting, Madrigal, PNP chief, General Oscar Albayalde, and Comelec chair Sheriff Abas also signed the Joint Letter Directive 01-2019 which was drafted for the delegation of tasks to participating military and police personnel.
"We are hoping for a smooth flow in our electoral process and that all our plans and coordination in the NJSCC are followed. Our troops on the ground are strategically deployed in different areas and are always on the lookout for any criminal and terrorist groups and individuals who may pose a threat to our citizens, rest assured that the AFP together with the PNP are always here in support to the Comelec," Madrigal said.
Madrigal also appealed to the public to cooperate and help authorities thwart any attempts to disrupt the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, Albayalde said they will be deploying 75 to 80 percent of all their personnel, augmented by some 40,000 troops from the AFP, to secure the forthcoming polls.
Madrigal said AFP, PNP and Comelec officials first met last January 10 to discuss the Bangsamoro Organic Law plebiscite and the preparations for the May elections.
"In this meeting, we had a security situation briefing updates from the Comelec and the presentation on the final joint implementing plans of the AFP Unified Commands and the PNP Directorate for Internal Police Operations," Madrigal said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067471
PH Navy sends off ship for China fleet review
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): PH Navy sends off ship for China fleet review
The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday sent off BRP Tarlac (LD-601), one of its two amphibious warfare ships, to participate in the International Fleet Review in Qingdao, China in line with the 70th anniversary of People's Liberation Army Navy celebration on April 22 to 25.
During the send-off rite at Pier 13, Manila South Harbor, Navy spokesperson, Capt. Jonathan Zata said BRP Tarlac is expected to arrive and join ships of other participating navies by April 21.
Zata said the 400-man PN contingent, led by Capt. Francisco Tagamolila, consists of a helicopter detachment, cadets from the graduating Philippine Military Academy Class of 2019 and students from various naval training programs, and the crew of BRP Tarlac.
"We are sending a contingent to Qingdao, China to demonstrate our country's commitment to take that extra mile and take another extra step, towards a peaceful, stable, and rules-based order in Southeast Asia," PN flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said.
He added that this initiative will build trust between the two navies.
"I am confident that such process will receive a welcome traction and will definitely evolve to a more open and more friendly relations towards that extra step in bilateral concerns on the ground in a more trustful manner," Empedrad said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067434
The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday sent off BRP Tarlac (LD-601), one of its two amphibious warfare ships, to participate in the International Fleet Review in Qingdao, China in line with the 70th anniversary of People's Liberation Army Navy celebration on April 22 to 25.
During the send-off rite at Pier 13, Manila South Harbor, Navy spokesperson, Capt. Jonathan Zata said BRP Tarlac is expected to arrive and join ships of other participating navies by April 21.
Zata said the 400-man PN contingent, led by Capt. Francisco Tagamolila, consists of a helicopter detachment, cadets from the graduating Philippine Military Academy Class of 2019 and students from various naval training programs, and the crew of BRP Tarlac.
"We are sending a contingent to Qingdao, China to demonstrate our country's commitment to take that extra mile and take another extra step, towards a peaceful, stable, and rules-based order in Southeast Asia," PN flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said.
He added that this initiative will build trust between the two navies.
"I am confident that such process will receive a welcome traction and will definitely evolve to a more open and more friendly relations towards that extra step in bilateral concerns on the ground in a more trustful manner," Empedrad said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067434
PRRD approves plan to bring peace, security to conflict areas
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2019): PRRD approves plan to bring peace, security to conflict areas
President Rodrigo R. Duterte has approved a national plan, which integrates and harmonize the various efforts of the entire government and all sectors of society in delivering goods and services, as well as in providing for peace and security, especially in conflict-affected areas, Malacañang confirmed Tuesday.
In a briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte pushed for a whole-of-nation approach to attain peace during the meeting of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTFELCAC) held in Malacañang.
"President Rodrigo Roa Duterte today rallied all instrumentalities of government, the private sector and the entire Filipino nation to actively work together in a whole-of-the-nation movement to address violent conflicts, as well as build a culture of peace and development throughout the country," he said.
Panelo, also Chief Presidential Legal Counsel, clarified that the initiative is centered more on bringing peace and development to conflict-affected areas than on defeating communist insurgency.
"The members of the Cabinet and other heads of agencies who were present at the meeting agreed that the Whole-of-Nation Movement is not directed at defeating the communist insurgency, rather to demonstrate genuine good governance for the betterment of the lives of the people," he said.
Panelo said the President will assign his Cabinet members to oversee the peace and development efforts in all regions of the country.
"The designated Cabinet officer for the region will be supported by a unified, an integrated Regional Development Council or RDC and Regional Peace and Order Council or RPOC," he added.
Panelo said the fast-tracked implementation of the national Wi-fi and 911 projects in all barangays (villages) nationwide is also one of the initiatives to be pursued by the NTFELCAC.
The NTFELCAC was created by virtue of Executive Order 70 issued on Dec. 4, 2018 “to provide an efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of the Whole-of-Nation Approach to aid in the realization of the collective aspirations for inclusive and sustainable peace.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067478
President Rodrigo R. Duterte has approved a national plan, which integrates and harmonize the various efforts of the entire government and all sectors of society in delivering goods and services, as well as in providing for peace and security, especially in conflict-affected areas, Malacañang confirmed Tuesday.
In a briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte pushed for a whole-of-nation approach to attain peace during the meeting of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTFELCAC) held in Malacañang.
"President Rodrigo Roa Duterte today rallied all instrumentalities of government, the private sector and the entire Filipino nation to actively work together in a whole-of-the-nation movement to address violent conflicts, as well as build a culture of peace and development throughout the country," he said.
Panelo, also Chief Presidential Legal Counsel, clarified that the initiative is centered more on bringing peace and development to conflict-affected areas than on defeating communist insurgency.
"The members of the Cabinet and other heads of agencies who were present at the meeting agreed that the Whole-of-Nation Movement is not directed at defeating the communist insurgency, rather to demonstrate genuine good governance for the betterment of the lives of the people," he said.
Panelo said the President will assign his Cabinet members to oversee the peace and development efforts in all regions of the country.
"The designated Cabinet officer for the region will be supported by a unified, an integrated Regional Development Council or RDC and Regional Peace and Order Council or RPOC," he added.
Panelo said the fast-tracked implementation of the national Wi-fi and 911 projects in all barangays (villages) nationwide is also one of the initiatives to be pursued by the NTFELCAC.
The NTFELCAC was created by virtue of Executive Order 70 issued on Dec. 4, 2018 “to provide an efficient mechanism and structure for the implementation of the Whole-of-Nation Approach to aid in the realization of the collective aspirations for inclusive and sustainable peace.”
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1067478