Wednesday, June 12, 2019

CPP/Sison: A consequence of Duterte’s treason

Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 13, 2019): A consequence of Duterte’s treason

JOSE MARIA SISON
CHIEF POLITICAL CONSULTANT
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES
JUNE 13, 2019



Public attention is once more called to the Duterte regime’s treasonous policy of selling out the Filipino people’s sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea by a Chinese vessel sinking a Philippine boat and leaving 22 Filipino fishermen to the elements.

The Filipino people have been outraged for so long by the Duterte regime’s failure to assert their sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea and to demand before the United Nations that China stop its violations of the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea and the 2016 judgment of the International Arbitral Tribunal in favor of the Philippines against China.

The regime has stubbornly refused to make the following just demands: the withdrawal of China from the artificial islands it has unlawfully built and militarized in the West Philippine Sea, the payment of rent for the occupation of these islands and compensation for destroying the marine resources and environment.

These demands are not being made before the courts in the US and other countries where China’s overseas assets can be held liable. Instead, the Duterte regime has shamelessly offered to China the exploration and exploitation of the oil and gas resources in the Reed Bank, which is estimated to be 5.4 billion barrels and 55.1 trillion cubic feet. These are enough to finance the industrial development of the Philippines if not subjected to imperialist plunder by China.

The Duterte ruling clique justifies its treasonous behavior by its expectations of large loans for infrastructure projects from China. Thus many people have observed that commissions have been advanced to the ruling clique through Dennis Uy and other Chinese conduits that are hyperactive in the infrastructure project and in buying up major Philippine assets.

The Chinese loans are at exorbitant interest rates and the infrastructure projects are overpriced. Thus, the Duterte ruling clique is expected to receive further huge kickbacks on a scale even grander than that at the time when Duterte’s infamous idol Marcos milked the foreign loans and infrastructure projects.

But the Chinese government has been tough by rolling out the projects at a rate much slower than expected by Duterte to compel him to make immediate and outright surrender of the sovereign rights in the most explicit terms. The regime has, therefore, appeared absurd in touting Chinese loans and infrastructure projects as the main pillar of his build, build, build program.

In the meantime, the US-China trade war is heating up and the US, Japan and European countries are asserting their freedom of navigation and telling the entire world that China has no right to own the South China Sea and to take control over the West Philippine Sea, in which the Philippines has sovereign rights to marine and mineral resources in its exclusive economic zone and extended continental shelf.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/a-consequence-of-dutertes-treason/

CPP/NPA-Abra: “Oplan-Kapanatagan” bagong kill, kill, kill program ng rehimen

NPA-Abra propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 13, 2019): “Oplan-Kapanatagan” bagong kill, kill, kill program ng rehimen

DIEGO WADAGAN
NPA-ABRA (AGUSTIN BEGNALEN COMMAND)
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY
JUNE 13, 2019

Tulad ng isang halimaw, si Duterte ang pinakabihasa sa pagkatay sa mamamayan sa pamamagitan ng kanyang kriminal na mga OPLAN – Oplan-Tokhang, Oplan-Kapayapaan, Oplan-Sauron, at Martial Law. Sa mahabang listahan ng mga tagapagtanggol sa karapatang pantao, umaabot sa humigit 30, 000 ang pinaslang sa Oplan Tokhang at ilang daang magsasaka, abogado, media, human rights advocate, political activist, at mga katutubosa loob lamang ng 3 taong pagkapangulo ng kriminal na si Duterte. Upang makalusot sa kasong “Crime Against Humanity” na isinampa sa International Criminal Court, arbitraryong inalis ni Duterte ang Pilipinas bilang kasapi nito. Nito lamang Hunyo, mismong ang mga eksperto mula sa United Nation ay nanawagan na magbuo ng nagsasariling imbestigayon sa mga paglabag sa karapatang pantao sa Pilipinas dahil sa walang pakundangang pag-atake ng pwersa ng GRP sa mga tagapagtanggol ng karapatang pantao at pagpatay ng mga kapulisan sa mga pinaghinalaang sangkot sa droga sa kontekstong “war-on-drugs” .

Sa kabila ng mariing kondemnasyon, ipinapatupad na ang panibagong Internal Security Operation Joint AFP-PNP Campaign Plan: Oplan Kapanatagan sa layunin diumanong wakasan ang insurhensya mula 2018-2022. Pangunahing target ng Oplan Kapanatagan ang mga pinaghihinalaang organisasyon at personahe na sumusuporta raw sa NPA. Sa nasabing kampanya, ligal na binuo ng AFP ang mga “death squads” at direktang nakapailalim sa militar ang buong PNP bilang taga-likha ng mga gawa-gawang kaso sa mga target at nagtatanim ng mga ebidensya, kasabwat ang mga kurap na husgado sa paglalabas ng mga magic na search warrant at warrant of arrest. Maging ang mga LGU na halos wala nang kontrol sa PNP ay nakatakdang ipaloob sa “Oplan Kapanatagan” sa pamamagitan ng mga “peace and order councils”.

Dahil sa pagnanais na maging diktador ng berdugong si Duterte, inaasahan na magiging mas mabangis ang “Oplan Kapanatagan 2019-2022” kasabwat ang mga opisyal ng militar at pulisya hanggang sa mga sagadsaring warlord na pulitiko na sila Gov. Joy Bernos at Vice Gov. Ronald Balao-as. Ang kriminal na programa ni Duterte ang gumagabay ngayon sa Abra Peace & Order Council o POC at PADAC na pinamumunuan at pinagtatambalan nina Gov. Joy Valera-Bernos, Vice Gov. Ronald Balao-as at ng 24th IB PA-PRO-CAR RPSB at PPSC-PNP. Pagkatapos ng madaya at mapanlinlang na eleksyon at pagkakaluklok sa senado at kongreso ng mga tagasunod ni Duterte, muling nakawala ang isang malahalimaw na terorismo ng estado laban sa mga mamamayang naghahanap ng hustisya at katarungang panlipunan.

Ngunit sadyang hindi na bago ang ganitong patakaran ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno sa Pilipinas. Lahat ng kontra-insurhensyang programa ng mga nagdaang presidente ay nilabanan at binigo ng mamamayan sa pamamagitan ng militanteng pagkilos at kasabay ng papalakas na armadong rebolusyon sa buong bansa. Hindi katanggap-tanggap ang kriminal-tiranikong presidente sa isang bansang nagnanais ng progresibong kaunlaran sa ekonomiya, pulitika at kultura. Mahigpit na nakikiisa ang Agustin Begnalen Command – NPA Abra sa panawagan ng buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan ng mamamayang Pilipino na pahigpitin ang ating hanay at ibayong ipagtanggol ang buhay, kabuhayan at karapatan ng masang magsasaka, manggagawa kasama ng iba pang demokratikong hanay ng propesyunal at makabayang negosyante.

Hinihikayat din natin ang mga makabayang sundalo at pulisya na pag-aralan ng maigi at biguin ang mga kautusan ng kriminal na pangulong si Duterte. Ang mga taga Kordilyerang opisyal at kawal ng AFP at PNP ay dapat ding balikan ang tunay na tradisyon ng pagiging mandirigma sa kahulugan ng pagtatanggol ng lupaing ninuno at karangalan ng mga tribu. Ang kawalan ng sapat na lupa at disenteng trabaho ang nagtulak sa karamihan sa kanila na maging utusan ng diktador na gubyerno na ginagamit ang buwis ng taumbayan para suhulan o swelduhan ang sundalo at pulis upang maging bulag na tagasunod sa paghaharing diktador na pangulo. Karamihan sa mga sundalo at pulis ay mga anak ng magsasaka at manggagawa at maralita na nangarap na maiahon sa kahirapan ang bawat pamilyang pinagmulan. Alam nilang ang mismong bulok na gubyerno ng Pilipinas ay pinaghaharian ng mga ganid na malalaking panginoong may lupa at kumprador. Dapat nilang malaman na ang ugat ng kahirapan at mga digmaan ay ang kawalan o kakulangan ng lupang sinasaka at kawalan ng pambansang industriyalisasyon. Dapat nilang malaman na ang droga sa Pilipinas ay sabwatan ng nga dayuhan at lokal na sindikatong malalaking opisyal ng gubyerno-AFP-PNP sila mga mga ang pasimuno at maysala! Batid nilang hindi terorista ang CPP-NPA dahil karamihan ng mga mandirigma ng NPA ay kanilang mga kamag-anak, kababayan, kaibigan at naging mga tagapagmulat sa kanila mula sa pagkabata sa mga baryong pinagmulan nila. Dapat nilang malaman na dito sa Kordilyera ay maningning ang kabayanihan ng mga tribu at ng NPA sa buhay at kamatayang pakikipaglaban sa imperyalistang proyektong Chico Dam at Cellophil Logging noong dekada ’80 at hanggang sa paghadlang sa mga dambuhalang kumpanya ng minahan. Dapat nilang balikan ang tunay na kahulugan at kabuluhan ng pagiging Maingel o mandirigma – ito ang diwa ng paglilingkod sa sambayanan hindi sa imperyalistang bansa at kriminal na presidente.

BIGUIN AT LABANAN ANG OPLAN KAPANATAGAN!
IBAGSAK ANG KRIMINAL NA REHIMENG DUTERTE!
ISULONG ANG DIGMANG BAYAN HANGGANG SA TAGUMPAY!

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/oplan-kapanatagan-bagong-kill-kill-kill-program-ng-rehimen/

CPP/NPA-Bicol: Bukas na liham ng isang kasama para sa mga Sundalo at Pulis ngayong Araw ng Kalayaan

NPA-Bicol propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 13, 2019): Bukas na liham ng isang kasama para sa mga Sundalo at Pulis ngayong Araw ng Kalayaan

MARIA ROJA BANUA
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES
JUNE 12, 2019

Mga kasama sa kasundaluhan at kapulisan,

Kamusta kayo?

Ipinagbubunyi natin ngayong araw ang pagtalilis ng mga prayle at mga Espanyol at pagkakatatag ng Republika ng Pilipinas. Sa halagang dalawampung milyon nagpalit-kamay ang pangingibabaw ng monarkiya ng Espanya patungo sa paghahari ng imperyalistang US. Ngunit huwag sana nating kalilimutang ang republikang ito’y naitatag mula sa pagbabalikwas ng Katipunan. Huwag nating kalilimutang sa bisperas ng tagumpay ng Rebolusyong Pilipino, ipinagkanulo at nakipagsabwatan si Heneral Emilio Aguinaldo at mga kasapakat na ilustrado sa imperyalistang US at inagaw ang pamumuno ng Katipunan sa kamay ni Andres Bonifacio at anakpawis na kasapian nito.

Isinuko ng mga ilustrado ang ganap na kalayaan ng bansa at pinawalan ng saysay ang mahabang panahon ng pagbabalikwas ng mamamayang Pilipino. Anong kalayaan kung gayon ang ating ipinagdiriwang? Dito sa ating sariling bayan, tayo ang itinuturing na alipin ng mga dayuhan. Tayo ang nakaluhod sa paghahari ng mga panginoong maylupa sa kanayunan. At hindi makapanaig ang makabayang interes sa pangingibabaw ng mga burukrata kapitalista.

Marapat kayong maging mapanuri.

Bakit, sa kabila ng lahat ng kampanyang pandarahas at paninira ng inyong mga upisyal ay nananatiling matatag ang nakikibakang sambayanan?

Hindi kailanman nagmaliw ang hangarin ng sambayanan para sa tunay at ganap na kalayaan. Ipinagpapatuloy ang rebolusyon dahil hinahangad nito ang tunay na kalayaan para sa lahat ng mamamayan at ating salinlahi. Nananatili ang rebolusyon dahil patuloy na namumulat ang sambayanan na ang kanilang paglaya ay nakasalalay sa paglaya ng iba.

Kung iilan na lang ang pulang mandirigma, bakit walang iskwad ng inyong pormasyon ang nangangahas na pumasok sa sonang gerilya?

Maging kayo’y hindi naniniwala sa paghina ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan. Walang katiyakan ang inyong tagumpay sa kabila ng mga modernong armas at kasanayan. Hawak ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan ang pampulitikang kamulatan at kapasyahang ipagtanggol ang mamamayan. Dahil dito’y mananatiling hungkag ang inyong lakas armas at tauhan. Nangangatog ang inyong tuhod at sumisikdo ang inyong dibdib sa tuwing papasok sa sonang gerilya dahil batid ninyong hawak ng BHB ang pamilyaridad sa tereyn at pagiging malikhain sa paglulunsad ng mga taktikal na opensiba. Hindi sasapat ang isang isang iskwad para lupigin ang sinasabi ninyong napakahina nang BHB.

Kung mahina na ang suporta ng mamamayan sa kilusan, bakit kailangang sapilitan ang mga pintuang palagiang bukas sa mga itinuturing ng masang bahagi ng kanilang pamayanan?

Hinuhulma ang inyong kahusayan sa pamamagitan ng pagtalikod sa mga batayang kaugalian ng isang mahusay at sibilisadong tao. Hinubog ang inyong hukbo ng kultura na karahasan sa inyong mga pagsasanay at pagsasagawa ng mga operasyong militar. Iginawad ang pinakamataas na parangal at promosyon sa mga pinakamahuhusay na tagapaglabag ng karapatang tao sa inyong hanay. Sa ganitong kalagayan, hindi nakapagtatakang ituring kayong kaaway ng magniniyog na naghangad ng mataas na presyo ng kopra, ng manggagawang nagnais ng nakabubuhay na sahod, ng estudyanteng nangarap ng de-kalidad na edukasyon at trabaho, ng mamamayang nakikibaka para tamasahin ang isang malaya at magandang bukas.

Kung talagang nagsisilbi ang inyong hukbo para sa mamamayang Pilipino? Bakit dayuhang korporasyon ang inyong ipinagtatanggol at inaalalayan? Bakit kapwa Pilipino ang inyong ginegera at hindi ang mga nanakop ng ating teritoryo sa West Philippine Sea?

Itinatag ang inyong hukbo at ahensya para itaguyod ang soberanya ng mamamayang Pilipino. Ngunit nagsisilbi kayong mersenaryo’t tagapatanggol ng iilang naghaharing-uri at imperyalistang US. Sa tuwina’y wala sa likod ninyo ang masa. Ang katunggali niyo’y ang mamamayang inyong ipinangako na pagsisilbihan.

Hindi ba’t sa mga rali ang nasa likod ninyo’y mga kurakot at ganid na upisyal? Hindi ba’t sa mga operasyong militar ang nasa likod ninyo’y mga dayuhang korporasyon at mga panginoong maylupang nangangamkam ng lupa?

Kasuklam-suklam na sinasamantala ng US at ni Duterte ang dinaranas nating kahirapan upang patuloy tayong pagharapin sa isang gerang tayo ang dapat magkapanig. Sa sistemang kanyang itinataguyod ang kalayaan ay para lamang sa mga bulag, pipi at bingi sa kahilingan ng mamamayan. At ang payapang kanyang ihinahain ay ang katahimikan ng daang libong puntod sa kaparangan at kabundukan.

Ibinaon ng kasaysayan ang mahabang listahan ng mga taksil sa bayan. Ngunit nananatili sa alaala ang mga bayaning pumanig sa mamamayan. Sina Korporal Elias Angeles at Felix Plazo, mga Katipunero, mga gwardya-sibil na namulat sa pang-aapi at pagsasamantala, piniling lumahok sa armadong rebelyon sa Nueva Caceres, Camarines Sur noong Setyembre 18, 1898. Si General Simeon Ola, Katipunero, bayani rin ng inyong hukbo ay ang huling heneral na sumuko sa paglaban sa pwersang Amerikano.

Kasaysayan na ang nagpapasya. Nanatili ang pangalan ng mga pasistang Heneral at upisyal habang sila’y nasa poder. Ngunit ang kabayanihan ay hindi masusukat ng mga medalya at sertipiko. Masusukat ito sa patuloy na pananalaytay ng kanilang alaala sa mga kwento ng masang ipinapasa sa kanilang salinlahi.

Sinong heneral pa ba ang natatandaan ng masa sa 9th ID? Di ba’t ang nakaukit sa kanila ay ang buong kasaysayan ng kalupitan at karahasan ng buong dibisyon?

Tulad niyo’y inaasam kong matupad ang mga pangarap ko para sa aking pamilya. Ngunit napagpasyahan kong ialay ang aking buhay para tuparin hindi lang ang sarili kong mga pangarap, kundi maging ang pangarap ng milyun-milyon pang iba. Kasama kayo at inyong salinlahi sa mga pangarap na ito.

Hindi tayo ang magkalaban. Silang mga isinuko ang dignidad para sa interes ng mga dayuhan at tumalikod kanilang lahi at bayan ang tunay na kaaway. Tayong anakpawis ay iisa ang tinatanaw na malaya at masaganang bukas para sa ating salinlahi. Magkakampi tayo at magkakaisa laban sa tunay na nagkakait sa atin ng kalayaan, ang imperyalistang US at kasalukuyang naghaharing pangkatin.

Buong puso kayong yayakapin ng BHB sa panahong mapagpasyahan niyong makiisa sa panig ng mga tunay na magwawagi, ang panig ng sambayanang Pilipinong lumalaban. #

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/bukas-na-liham-ng-isang-kasama-para-sa-mga-sundalo-at-pulis-ngayong-araw-ng-kalayaan/

Enhanced joint operations capabilities discussed in PA Chief’s visit to Spanish Army

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 12, 2019): Enhanced joint operations capabilities discussed in PA Chief’s visit to Spanish Army
Bilateral ties between the Armies of both the Philippines and Spain have been boosted following the recent visit of Philippine Army (PA) Chief Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto to the Spanish Army in Madrid, Spain.



Philippine Army (PA) Chief Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto (right) (PHOTO FROM PHILIPPINE ARMY / FACEBOOK / MANILA BULLETIN)

During his visit to the Spanish Army headquarters from June 4 to 11, 2019, Alberto discussed with Army Chief of Staff, Gen. Francisco Javier Varela Salas efforts to mutually benefit in the training and education that will enhance joint operation capabilities of both armies.

The Philippine Army’s interest in enhancing its own Army Aviation Battalion and how their Spanish counterparts may extend its support was also discussed as Alberto visited the Fuerzas Aeromóviles del Ejército de Tierra, the Helicopter Command of the Spanish Army.

Army Spokesman Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said for the Army’s future on aviation, the 5-year Army Aviation Capability Development Plan has started this year, paving the way for the integration of the Army Aviation Force Structure and the subsequent activation of the 1st Aviation Regiment before this year ends.

The Army Aviation Battalion’s capability, it was recalled, is to perform its given mission in the air to support the ground troops and takes pride for being the sole flying component of the Philippine Army.

“I come to you from our home country as part of the Philippine Army – an organization that is currently on a consistent and committed push for reform through the Army Transformation Roadmap,” Alberto said in his speech.

“I am happy to share with you that through the Army Transformation Roadmap, the Philippine Army is making great strides in terms of professionalism of its soldiers, modernization of equipment, capability to conduct a wide variety of operations, and in terms of good governance and contribution to nation-building,” he added.

During the dinner at the Army palace, Gen. Salas was also invited to be the Guest of Honor and Speaker in relation to the Philippine Independence Day celebration at the Philippine Embassy in Madrid on June 12.

Salas also presented to the Philippine Army chief the Spanish Army Land Force 2035 structure and organization, which has the same concept with the Philippine Army’s Transformation Roadmap by 2028.

The Philippine Army, it was recalled, broke down its 18-year ATR into three base camps to create a sense of urgency in achieving its vision to be a world-class army that is a source of national pride.

In 2016, it aimed to be a well-equipped Army that has established a respectable image in Southeast Asia. By 2022, it expects to be a modern and respected Army in Asia. By 2028, it aims to fully realize its potential as a world-class army.

TIMELINE: Skirmishes, standoffs, harassment in West Philippine Sea

From Rappler (Jun 12, 2019): TIMELINE: Skirmishes, standoffs, harassment in West Philippine Sea

These incidents in the Philippines-China row typically don't just target state authorities but also affect local fisherfolks

Untoward incidents are commonly reported in the West Philippine Sea before and after the Philippines won its case against China at The Hague.

These incidents in the Philippines-China row that include harassment and standoffs, among others, typically don't just target state authorities but also affect local fisherfolks.

This timeline shows the various skirmishes, standoffs, and show of power that have happened in the West Philippine Sea since 2011. These incidents involved the Chinese Coast Guard, the Philippine Navy, and Filipino fishermen, among others.

Below are other records of incidents regarding different aspects of Philippine-China relations:

TIMELINE: The Philippines-China maritime dispute
TIMELINE: Philippine-China relationship under Duterte

2011

February 25 – Chinese frigate Dongguan fires 3 shots at Philippine fishing boats in the vicinity of Quirino or Jackson Atoll. The shots are fired after the Chinese instructed the fishing boats to leave.

May 23 – A News5 report shows that China has built military garrisons and outposts in 6 reefs that are part of the Kalayaan Island Group.

October 20 – A Philippine naval ship rams into a small Chinese fishing boat in an area near the Reed Bank. The Philippines promptly issues an apology to the Chinese Embassy in Manila over the accident.
2012

April 8 – A surveillance plane of the Philippine Navy spots 8 Chinese fishing boats venture into Scarborough Shoal.

April 11 – A standoff begins between the Philippine Navy and the Chinese Navy. After spotting Chinese fishing vessels at Scarborough Shoal, the Philippine Navy deploys BRP Gregorio Del Pilar. In response, China sends surveillance ships to warn the Philippine Navy to leave the area.

April 14 – Reports say 7 Chinese fishing vessels and one Marine survey ship left Panatag Shoal allegedly with an illegal harvest of endangered species

July 18 – China blocks Filipino ships and fishing vessels from the lagoon of Scarborough Shoal by placing barriers in its entry point.
2013

January 22 – The Philippines files an arbitration case against China at the Permanent Court of Arbitration to settle the maritime dispute.

May 21 – At least 30 Chinese fishing vessels, including 3 Chinese government ships, are spotted for more than a week at Ayungin Shoal, which is part of the Kalayaan Island Group near Palawan.

July 5 – Chinese ships return to Scarborough Shoal a few days after they left the area near Zambales in the West Philippine Sea.
2014

January 27 – A Chinese Coast Guard vessel reportedly fires a water cannon at Filipino fishermen in the Bajo de Masinloc.

March 10 – The Philippine's Department of National Defense confirms that two Philippine ships are expelledby the Chinese Coast Guard from Ayungin Shoal in the Spratly Islands.

March – A Philippine government vessel evades two Chinese Coast Guard ships trying to block its path to deliver food, water, and other troops to a military outpost in Ayungin Shoal.

March 29 – The Philippine government condemns China after two of its ships harassed a Philippine vessel in the disputed Ayungin Shoal.

May 6 – The Philippine government charges 11 arrested Chinese fishermen for illegal poaching. It also publicly accuses China of carrying out reclamation work.
2016

July 12 – The Philippines wins its landmark victory against China 3 years after former president Benigno Aquino III filed the arbitration case with The Hague in 2013. The victory happens under the adminsitration of President Rodrigo Duterte, who is known for his warm times with China.

September 27 – The National Security Council releases a report by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) that details harassment done by the Chinese Coast Guard against Filipino fishermen in Scarborough Shoal off the coast of Zambales.

November 2 – Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) releases images taken at Scarborough Shoal that shows Chinese blockades continue to restrict access to the shoal, with a China Coast Guard (CCG) craft "anchored just inside the mouth of the lagoon."

The center also receives information from the Philippine Navy that 3 other CCG vessels patrol around Scarborough.
2017

April – A group of Bataan fishermen claims that they were chased off by a Chinese Coast Guard while they were fishing in the Union Banks. According to Magdalo Representative Gary Alejano, who the fishermen talked to in the aftermath of the incident, "a gray speedboat with a crew of 7 in camouflage uniform approached them and immediately fired shots into the air."
2018

February 5 – The Philippine Daily Inquirer publishes exclusive photos revealing China has continued reclamation activities in the West Philippine Sea.

May 11 – A Chinese navy chopper harrasses a Philippine Navy rubber boat conducting resupplying efforts at Ayungin Shoal. A chopper of the People's Liberation Army Navy allegedly encroached upon the rubber boat and was "so close that seawater splash entered" the vessel.

May 19 – Chinese state-run People's Daily uploads a video to Twitter showing several Chinese bomberslanding and taking off from Woody Island. AMTI reports that "nearly all of the Philippines falls within the radius of the bombers, including Manila and all 5 Philippine military bases earmarked for development under the US-Philippines Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement."

The Philippine government eventually files a note verbale more than a week after the incident on May 26.

June 8 – Footage by GMA News shows the CCG taking the catch of Filipino fishermen. Fisherman Roseller Latagen says that the CCG would take as much as P3,000 worth of their catch, only occasionally giving something in return.

When they do, the CCG typically compensates with two small bottles of mineral water, some cigarettes, or packs of noodles. Otherwise, they take "whatever they want," often nabbing the best ones, the fisherman says.

In the face of fierce condemnation of the incident, Duterte describes what happened as unbalanced "barter" trade.

November 22 – Journalist Ian Veneracion of GMA News narrates how he and his crew were barred from taking videos near the Panatag Shoal by Chinese Coast Guard.
2019

March – Then senatorial bet Neri Colmenares releases a video featuring interviews with Zambales fishermen who claim to have experienced intimidation tactics by China.

Responding to the video, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo on May 25 says the government cannot do anything because the Chinese government are the ones in control.

"Ang tanong ko naman sa 'yo, may magagawa ba tayo eh sila ang may control as of now 'di ba? Mayroon silang puwersa doon," he said. (My question to you is, can we do something when they have the control as of now, right? They have forces there.)

March 15 – Former Philippine foreign secretary Albert del Rosario and former ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales, along with the fishermen, submits a communication to the International Criminal Court's Office of the Prosecutor alleging that Chinese President Xi Jinping and other Chinese officials have committed crimes "which involve massive, near-permanent, and devastating environmental damage across nations."

June 9 – A Chinese vessel sinks a Philippine vessel in a collision in the West Philippine Sea, leaving 22 Filipino fishermen on that boat "to the mercy of the elements." The Philippine Department of Defense announces the incident to the public on June 12.

The fishermen on board the vessel from Occidental Mindoro are eventually rescued by a Vietnamese fishing vessel.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana says the government "condemns in the strongest terms the cowardly action of the Chinese fishing vessel and its crew for abandoning the Filipino crew," adding that abandoning is "not an expected action from a responsible and friendly people."

He also calls for an investigation and diplomatic action in response to the incident.

June 10 – The PCG reports that it has spotted a Chinese warship in the Scarborough Shoal. PCG spokesperson Captain Armand Balilo says the team also spotted two CCG vessels, two militia boats, and the navy warship. –

https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/232906-timeline-skirmishes-standoffs-harassment-west-philippine-sea

Duterte promotes Army 1st Division Commander (Bio data)

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 13, 2019): Duterte promotes Army 1st Division Commander (Bio data)

ILIGAN CITY – President Rodrigo Roa Duterte promoted the 1st Infantry Division commander to the next higher rank at the headquarters of 6th Infantry Battalion, 6th Infantry Division in barangay Matling, Malabang town in Lanao del Sur on Wednesday.



(BONITA ERMAC/ MANILA BULLETIN)

The President donned the rank to Major General Roberto T. Ancan, after the commemoration of the 121st Declaration of Philippine Independence activity inside the camp.

“I am very much privileged and honored because no less than our Commander-in-Chief donned the 2nd star rank that I’ve earned in my military career,” said Ancan.

“Rest assured that I will continue to serve the constituents in our area of responsibility and lead our troops in the accomplishment of our mission,” Ancan promised.

Ancan is the 45th among the lineage of noble officers to lead the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division.

He hails from Victorias, Negros Occidental and is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Hinirang” Class of 1987. He is an Airborne Ranger and well-rounded military officer with expertise in training, operations and managerial acumen. He has a Master in Public Management.

Earlier in his military career, he was a platoon leader of the 11th and 66th Infantry Battalion, Company Commander of the 3rd and 11th Scout Ranger Company, First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR), Special Operations Command (SOCOM). He also rendered service on training as Course Directors in Scout Ranger Training School in Mindanao and Combat Arms School, Training and Doctrine Command.


Ancan also served at the Office of Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations G7, and Personnel G1 of the FSRR, SOCOM. He also became the Commanding Officer of the 25th, 66th and the 72nd Infantry Battalion of the 10th Infantry Division.

Before he was posted as the commander of 1ID, he led the 1002nd Infantry Brigade based in Malungon, Sarangani.

He was a recipient of a long list of awards and commendations, the highest of which is the Distinguished Service Star that sets the bar for all Tabak Troopers.

US State Dept Confirms Drone Package For Southeast Asian Nations

From the Eurasia Review (Jun 13, 2019): US State Dept Confirms Drone Package For Southeast Asian Nations (By BenarNews)

File photo of a A Scan Eagle Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. Photo Credit: US Navy

File photo of a Scan Eagle Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. Photo Credit: US Navy


Washington is supplying four Southeast Asian countries with 34 aerial drones through security assistance funds from the U.S. government, State Department officials have confirmed.

The United States is sending a U.S. $47.9 million package of ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicles to the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam, with officials in Manila and Kuala Lumpur saying the drones will be used for surveillance of local waterways, including the disputed South China Sea.


“Per Acting Secretary Shanahan’s recent announcement, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines have purchased up to 34 Scan Eagle Unmanned Aerial Systems under the Foreign Military Sales system,” a State Department official told BenarNews, referring to Patrick Shanahan, the acting American defense chief.

“These purchases were funded by … security assistance funding, and not national funds,” the official said.

On May 31, the U.S. Defense Department (DoD) released information on its website saying it had awarded a contract to Boeing subsidiary Insitu to build the drones and deliver them to the four countries by March 2022.

The contract information publicized by the DoD stated that the order combined purchases for the governments of Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam under the U.S. government’s Foreign Military Sales program.

The program “is a form of security assistance authorized by the Arms Export Control Act,” according to the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).

Under the contract, Malaysia will acquire 12 ScanEagle drones, the Philippines and Indonesia will each get eight of them, and Vietnam will get six.

In Jakarta, Ministry of Defense officials did not immediately respond to multiple requests for comment from BenarNews.

The portion of the drone package destined for Kuala Lumpur is valued at U.S. $19.3 million, but the aircraft will be paid for entirely by U.S. funds, via the U.S. government’s Maritime Security Initiative (MSI), the Malaysian Ministry of Defense said in a statement.

The United States, through MSI, “provided assistance in the form of assets and training to friendly nations including Malaysia to enhance the Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) in the Southeast Asian region,” the ministry said.

MSI, under the U.S. National Defense Authorization Act, aims to build up the capacity of American partner nations in the South China Sea region. The act targets five countries – Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam – for assistance and training paid for by American funding, according to the DSCA.

“As a maritime nation, it is essential for Malaysia to have intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to monitor its strategic waterways in the Strait of Malacca, South China Sea and Sulu Sea,” the Malaysian ministry said.

It emphasized, however, that Kuala Lumpur would collaborate with any country, even Beijing, to boost its security and maritime intelligence capabilities.

“In line with Malaysia’s stance to not pick sides and to build friendly relations with everyone, Malaysia welcomes defense cooperation with all interested parties, including the U.S. and China, to ensure the safety and stability of the Southeast Asian region,” it said.

The eight ScanEagle drones destined for Manila, meanwhile, follow the March 2018 delivery of six of those unmanned aircraft that were provided by Washington through a U.S. government grant program, according to the American embassy.

The first batch was delivered after Manila had received U.S. intelligence support in helping Philippine government forces drive out Islamic State-linked militants from the southern city of Marawi in 2017.

“The help was first geared toward monitoring militants in the wake of Marawi, but the help has evolved toward the SCS, and the heavy Chinese presence there,” a senior Philippine defense source told BenarNews, referring to the South China Sea.


Beijing claims most of maritime region, and has been expanding and militarizing structures it built in the sea, despite earlier agreements to halt all construction activities. The Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan also have territorial claims in the strategic waterway through which more than U.S. $3 billion of trade passes annually.

https://www.eurasiareview.com/13062019-us-state-dept-confirms-drone-package-for-southeast-asian-nations/

PHL joins Moscow security meet, boosts ties with Russia

From the Business Mirror (Jun 13, 2019): PHL joins Moscow security meet, boosts ties with Russia


Stakeholders from Russia and the Philippines discuss on ways to further bolster defense and military-technical cooperation.

MOSCOW—The Philippines participated in the eighth Moscow Conference on International Security (MCIS) in April 2019.

National Defense Undersecretary Cardozo M. Luna headed the delegation, with Philippine Embassy in Moscow’s Defense Attaché Col. Dennis Francis V. Pastor; Third Secretary, Vice Consul and Political Section Head Anna Marie Mae R. Guerra; and military assistant from the Department of National Defense Lt. Col. Carlos Chan. The Philippines has been participating in the MCIS since 2015.



Ambassador of the Philippines to the Russian Federation Carlos D. Sorreta (third from left) and Undersecretary for National Defense Cardozo M. Luna (third from right)

Among the topics discussed were modern military challenges and threats; countering terrorist threats; peacekeeping; military-to-military engagements; regional security in Asia, Africa and Latin America; and the situation in the Middle East—specifically the implications of defeating the Islamic State of Syria and Iraq or ISIS—as well as efforts in stabilizing the region.

The Philippine delegation also participated in the familiarization visit to the Military-Patriotic Recreation Park of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation or “Patriot Park” in Kubinka, Moscow Region, where they were shown Russian military equipment.

At the sidelines of the event, Luna conducted bilateral meetings with Russian Deputy Defense Minister Col. Gen. Alexander Fomin, Iranian Deputy Defense Minister Brig. Gen. Mohammad Ahadi and Vietnamese Defense Minister Lt. Gen. Phan Van Giang. The discussions centered on initiatives aimed at promoting trust and confidence between the Philippines and the said countries, as well as agreements and activities that are focused to bolster cooperation in the defense and security sphere.

Luna also granted an interview with Russian news entity Sputnik, where he shared that “the Philippines is committed to strengthen ties with nontraditional security partners like Russia.”

Ambassador to Russia Carlos D. Sorreta hosted a working dinner for the delegation. Discussions zeroed in on the current efforts to strengthen and expand defense and military-technical cooperation between the Philippines and Russia.

The MCIS is Russia’s leading platform for high-level security dialogues. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, more than 1,000 defense officials and security experts from 111 countries and six international organizations attended the three-day event. DFA

Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines to hold joint exercise next month

From ABS-CBN (Jun 12, 2019): Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines to hold joint exercise next month

Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines have agreed on holding a planned joint land patrol exercise next month aimed at tackling security challenges in the waters between Borneo and the southern Philippines, an Indonesian Cabinet minister said Wednesday.

Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said the one-month, trilateral exercise would be held in the Indonesian town of Tarakan in East Kalimantan Province, the Indonesian part of Borneo island, as the three Southeast Asian countries band together against Islamist militancy.


Asked whether the exercise will be followed by the formation of a joint patrol force comprised of three countries' militaries, Ryamizard replied, "We'll do the exercise first and let's see what happens."

Currently, the three countries have maritime command centers in various locations around the region that serve as centers of information and intelligence sharing.

Since early 2017, dozens of Indonesians and Malaysians have been abducted in the Sulu Sea, a body of water in the southwestern area of the Philippines, by armed men linked to the notoriously violent Abu Sayyaf rebel group.

Abu Sayyaf advocates an independent Islamic state comprising part of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago. In addition to kidnappings-for-ransom, it has engaged in bombings, assassinations and extortion, making it one of the most serious security threats faced by the Philippines.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/overseas/06/12/19/indonesia-malaysia-philippines-to-hold-joint-exercise-next-month

Army’s Engineering Brigade, Tesda ink deal on ‘training while building’ scheme in Davao del Norte

From Politiko Mindanao (Jun 11, 2019): Army’s Engineering Brigade, Tesda ink deal on ‘training while building’ scheme in Davao del Norte

The 52nd Engineer Brigade of the Philippine Army and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) XI have formally adopted a “training while building ” scheme, military said.

This as a memorandum of understanding in the implementation of the “Skills Transfer Program” in Region XI was signed at Maguintalunan Elementary School, Sto, Tomas, Davao del Norte on June 5.

The MOU requires Tesda Regional Training Center to capacitate and certify personnel of the 534th Engineering Battalion to be an official trainer of Tesda particularly in the on-site conduct of skills training in Indigenous Peoples and other far-flung communities in Region XI.


“In the same manner, projects being and to be undertaken by the Army Engineers in these areas will piggyback the skills program of TESDA catering the unskilled members of the community who will be working in the project. The project will serve as a laboratory and on the job training site of the program while the military engineers will serve as instructors,” military’s Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) said.

The scheme will also provide the parties the venue of exchanging skills and engineering operations concept in implementing developmental projects in conflict-affected and far-flung areas, it added.

With the signing of the MPU, 18 soldiers from 534th Engineering Battalion would undergo Tesda’s Trainer’s Methodology Training.

Col. Rommel R. Hinlo, Commander of the 52nd Engineer Brigade, Philippine Army and Engr. Lorenzo G. Macapili, the Regional Director of Tesda Regional Office XI, inked the MOU.

https://mindanao.politics.com.ph/armys-engineering-brigade-tesda-ink-deal-on-training-while-building-scheme-in-davao-del-norte/

Government troops believe to have hurt a number of NPA rebels in clash

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 12, 2019): Government troops believe to have hurt a number of NPA rebels in clash

A still undetermined number of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were believed hurt following a clash against government troops in Quezon on Tuesday (June 11), a military official disclosed Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Arnold Gasalatan, the Commanding Officer of the Army’s 85th Infantry Battalion, said troops of the 21st Division Reconnaissance Company (DRC) were conducting Focus Military Operation (FMO) in the boundaries of Barangays Villa Nacaob and Binahian C both of Lopez, Quezon, when they
clashed against five NPAs believed to be members of Platoon Sol of Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA) 4B.

The exchange of gunfire lasted for ten minutes.

Gasalatan said no one was hurt on the government side while there are signs of casualties on the enemy side as indicated by the heavy blood stains in their position.

The enemies brought along their wounded comrades when they scampered away according to the troops.

Gasalatan said troops launched an operation in the area after receiving a tip from the civilians that a group of armed NPAs was extorting rice and money from the residents of the barangay.

At present, troops are conducting hot pursuit operations and checkpoints together with the local police against the NPA terrorists in the area.

Threat by Sayyaf to Sabah still high: IGP

From the Daily Express (Jun 1, 2019): Threat by Sayyaf to Sabah still high: IGP

KUALA LUMPUR: The threat of Abu Sayyaf group believed to be based in Jolo, Sulu, on islands in eastern Sabah is still high despite the establishment of Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom), said Inspector-General of Police, Datuk Seri Abdul Hamid Bador (pic).

He said attacks by the group can happen everyday and at anytime.

“As such, ESSCom will be restructured on the placement of security forces involving the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), police as well as the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).

“Among others, the restructuring will involve the structure of security in the areas and the change of security posts which have been taken over by police and MAF would be updated,” he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama at Bukit Aman headquarters here.

Abdul Hamid said the restructuring process is being carried out via the National Security Council (NSC) to strengthen further ESSCom.

He said threats to the islands of Sabah is always there everyday.

“This is because Sabah is very near to the Philippines, it only takes 15 minutes by speed boat to reach Philippines waters,” he said. Abdul Hamid said it was easy for Abu Sayyaf group to intrude into Malaysian waters.


“However, the Philippines government had earlier created an overall security control on Jolo islands near Kunak as well Lahad Datu, Sabah and the new measure has eased our concerns,” he said

Nonetheless, he said ESSCom needs to be on the alert on any threats when conducting operation. On May 6, Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu announced ESSCom would be restructured to improve security on the eastern coast of the state.

According to him, the National Security Council is discussing the decision including efforts to acquire additional equipment to boost security teams under ESSCom.

23 ex-Reds get aid under E-CLIP

From Politiko Mindanao (Jun 12, 2019): 23 ex-Reds get aid under E-CLIP



Twenty-three former communist rebels have received assistance from the government under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP in Agusan del Norte.

The E-CLIP awarding of assistance was held during the 2nd Quarter Provincial Peace and Order Council Special Meeting on June 10 at Raquiza Hall, Balanghai Hotel, Brgy. Doongan, Butuan City.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Agusan del Norte distributed a total of P2.633 million for the former Maoist members.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also provided P105,000 for the former rebels who decided to abandon the armed struggle in order to live a peaceful life and start their lives anew through the government’s local integration program.

Agusan del Norte Governor Maria Angelica Rosedell Matba, the outgoing Chairperson of the Peace and Order Council of the province, led the awarding of E-CLIP assistance to the rebel returnees.

https://mindanao.politics.com.ph/23-ex-reds-get-aid-under-e-clip/

Sara Duterte’s Independence Day wish: An insurgency-free Davao City within 3 years

From Politiko (Jun 12, 2019): Sara Duterte’s Independence Day wish: An insurgency-free Davao City within 3 years


Reelected Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte Carpio said she is eyeing an insurgency-free Davao City in the next three years.
In a statement released on the celebration of the country’s Independence Day, Mayor Duterte has emphasized the role of barangay leaders in ending the decades-long communist rebellion at least in her hometown
The President’s daughter sought the assistance of barangay executives to get rid the city from communist’s armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA).
“We want to achieve a 100-percent insurgency-free Davao City. That is our target and objective, we need to be united and everyone should understand our way (of doing it) for the next three years,” said Mayor Duterte.
According to Mayor Duterte, the Paquibato district, which piloted Peace 911 program, was declared as insurgency-free after decades of being ruled by the communist movement.She said the city government has been aggressively pursuing peace and development programs to counter and weaken the influence of communist rebels.
The city government has established the Peace 911 to address issues and concerns that the public faced in far-flung villages in the city.
Peace 911 has further expanded its program to 18 other barangays identified as conflict areas due to the presence of the NPA rebels.

DBM releases P54B for pension of retired military, uniformed personnel in 4 units

From the Manila Times (Jun 12, 2019): DBM releases P54B for pension of retired military, uniformed personnel in 4 units

DBM RELEASES P54B FOR PENSION OF RETIRED MILITARY, UNIFORMED PERSONNEL IN 4 UNITS

THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released over P54 billion for pension requirements of retired military and uniformed personnel (MUP) in four units.

In a statement, the Budget department said it released P29.9 billion to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-General Headquarters, P21.7 billion to the Philippine National Police, P1.9 billion to the Bureau of Fire Protection, and about P731 million to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

“The current base pay scale is stipulated in Congress Joint Resolution (JR) No. 1, s. 2018, ‘Joint Resolution Authorizing the Increase in Base Pay of Military and Uniformed Personnel in the Government, and for Other Purposes,’” the DBM said.

https://www.manilatimes.net/dbm-releases-p54b-for-pension-of-retired-military-uniformed-personnel-in-4-units/568436/

CPP/CNL-NDF: Why and What is there to Celebrate Independence Day?

Christians for National Liberation (CNL) propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 12, 2019): Why and What is there to Celebrate Independence Day?

CHRISTIANS FOR NATIONAL LIBERATION
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES
RENMIN MALAYA
SPOKESPERSON
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
CHRISTIANS FOR NATIONAL LIBERATION – NDFP
JUNE 11, 2019

“I have seen the affliction of my people… I have heard their cry…I know their suffering and have come down to deliver them. ” Exodus 14 :

The Exodus narrative from Scriptures is so apt for what is happening to our people. Yahweh listened to the cry of the oppressed, empowered them until they enjoyed independence and freedom from their Egyptian oppressors. From history we learned that General Emilio Aguinaldo ratified the declaration of Independence from Spanish colonization on June 12, 1898. The Philippines’ flag was raised and its national anthem was played for the first time. However, that independence was short-lived because the United States did not recognize the declaration.

The Christians for National Liberation [CNL] strongly question the continued celebration of the country’s so called Independence Day every June 12. Until July 1946, years after Aguinaldo’s Declaration of Philippine Independence, we were run as a colony by the United States of America. To this day the country remains firmly under the yoke of America. The question why and what is the value of continued celebration of Independence Day?

Today with the present dispensation, China has been claiming parts of the West Philippine sea as its territory, in accordance with their “nine dash line” argument. President Duterte has been too friendly with China by accessing loans and o few days ago left for a state visit to Japan joined by sixteen (16) cabinet members. The U.S and Japan are exploiting this issue with China just so they can push for their economic interests in the country, which is what the government relies on to help face China, that is the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) and the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States.

Commemorating the day our heroes fought for freedom and independence, today the Filipino people will rise again to claim what is ours and fight for our country’s sovereignty. Just like our forefathers in the faith the Israelites, CNL believes that the unity of all the Filipino people will be the power that will defend and save our country from foreign intrusion. There will never be true democracy and true freedom, as long as there are other countries interfering in our internal affairs.

We call on the Christians for National Liberation [CNL] nationwide and church people to continue their formation of Christians for a correct grasp of our history to arouse, organize and mobilize them to carry on the legacy in exercising their prophetic role and the historic mission for the marginalized sectors in attaining national liberation. Learn from Scriptures especially from our forefathers in the faith who gained independence through unity and their collective struggle.

Long live the Christians for National Liberation!

Long live the People’s Democratic Revolution with a Socialist Perspective!

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/why-and-what-is-there-to-celebrate-independence-day/

CPP: Oust the two-sided traitor Duterte

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 12, 2019): Oust the two-sided traitor Duterte


The Filipino people today mark the 121st anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence. They draw inspiration from the epic struggle of their forebears to attain national freedom from Spanish colonialism, as well as from the century-long struggle to end US colonialism and US neo-colonialism.

More than a century hence, the country remains under US imperialist domination economically, politically, militarily and culturally. The country continues to be plundered by American big corporations, by US-controlled banks, financial institutions and credit agencies. Through the neoliberal offensive in past decades, the country continues to be plundered and consigned to being a mere economic appendage of the operations of foreign big capitalists.

The Philippines serves as one giant base of the US military as part of its geopolitical strategy. Several hundred to more than a thousand US soldiers and military advisers are permanently stationed in the Philippines directing and arming the Philippine military in counterinsurgency. The US uses the country to conduct war exercises and as a launching pad for power projection and intervention.

The US imperialists perpetuate its domination through its client-state, currently headed by the national traitor Duterte and its puppet officials. It employs the military and police as its most reliable force to perpetuate the country’s semicolonial state.

Duterte is a two-sided traitor. While heading the neocolonial client-state under American rule and serving US economic, military and geo-political interests, he has allowed the rising imperialist China to infringe on the country’s maritime territory and plunder the country’s economic resources.

The Filipino people’s struggle for genuine national freedom today takes the form of the struggle against the US-Duterte fascist regime. Currently, Duterte is the principal tool for imperialist domination in the country, employing fascist terrorism to suppress the patriotic forces of the Filipino people and their national democratic cause.

In the face of all-out fascist terror of the Duterte regime, the clamor of the Filipino people for his ouster continues to mount. This is the most urgent task in the Filipino people’s struggle to advance the cause of national and social liberation.

Oust the two-sided traitor Duterte!

End US imperialist rule, economic plunder and military interventionism!

End China intrusions and plunder of the country’s patrimony!

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/06/12/oust-the-two-sided-traitor-duterte/

MILF: Hopes, expectations still high among bangsamoro outside the BARMM core areas

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jun 12, 2019): Hopes, expectations still high among bangsamoro outside the BARMM core areas


IN PHOTO: Mr. Morsalin Jorsalin (standsing), Bangsamoro Community leader of Brgy. Tulungatung,  Zamboanga City delivering his Message during their regular meeting on June 10. 2019.

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Hope and expectations from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) are the undying optimism of the Bangsamoro people living outside the core areas of BARMM to be able to improve the quality of life.

During their regular meeting Monday, Moro Community leaders have expressed anew their hope and positive expectations that BARMM leaders will be able to deliver better governance than its predecessor (ARMM) since lessons were learned from the past where many people remain poor and marginalized.

With the advent of the new region, members of Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) are presumed to be aware of their mandates who vowed to adopt the so-called “Moral Governance” in order to realize the Bangsamoro aspiration.

The half-day meeting was facilitated by Brother Timhar, a peace advocate. Providing updates, getting inputs and tackling some crucial issues and concerns from Moro community leaders were among the centerpiece of the meeting.

Ustadz Taha Daranda also a Peace Advocates said that it would be more convenient for the Bangsamoro if BARMM can establish a satellite office in areas outside the BARMM particularly in Zamboanga City, so that the needs and concerns of Moro people thereat can be better served.

Updates and other related issues about the new region was highlighted by Mr. Tirso S. Tahir of Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) who appealed to his fellow Bangsamoro to give more time to BARMM as it needs more time and support in order to prove its capabilities in governance.

Tahir further said that the Bangsamoro residing outside the BARMM core areas are ensured of certain assistance such as economic, social and cultural development as provided in Article VI. Inter-Governmental Relations. Section 12. in the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) legally known as Republic Act (R.A. 11054)

To sustain the Bangsamoro support to BARMM Governance, sustainable livelihood, delivery of social services and good governance should be prioritized so that people on the ground can reap the dividends of peace, Pah Imam Akob said.

Despite living outside of BARMM core areas, the Bangsamoro people in Zamboanga city has never been weary in their obligations in peace-building efforts, and they will continue to assert their civil and political rights as guaranteed in 1987 Philippine Constitution.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1821/hopes__expectations_still_high_among_bangsamoro_outside_the_barmm_core_areas

Kalinaw News: Statement of Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana on the Collision of a suspected Chinese and Filipino fishing vessels near Recto Bank

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 12, 2019): Statement of Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana on the Collision of a suspected Chinese and Filipino fishing vessels near Recto Bank



A collision between a Chinese and Filipino vessel (F/B GIMVER 1) was reported by Filipino fishermen near the Recto Bank in the West Philippine on the evening of June 9, 2019. The collision sank the Filipino vessel.

We denounce the actions of the Chinese fishing vessel for immediately leaving the scene of the incident, abandoning the 22 Filipino crewmen to the mercy of the elements. The F/B GIMVER 1was anchored at the time when it was hit by the Chinese fishing vessel.

Fortunately, a Vietnamese fishing vessel was in the vicinity and rescued all 22 fishermen and brought them to safety in coordination with the AFP’s Western Command. The BRP RamonAlcaraz, which was conducting a routine maritime patrol in the area, was ordered to assist in the recovery of F/B GIMVER 1 and its crew.

We thank the captain and crew of Vietnamese vessel, for saving the lives of the 22 Filipino crew. However, we condemn in the strongest terms cowardly action of the suspected Chinese fishing vessel and its crew for abandoning the Filipino crew. This is not the expected action from a responsible and friendly people.

We call for the conduct of a formal investigation on the matter and for diplomatic steps be taken to prevent a repeat of this incident.



Kalinaw News

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

Kalinaw News: 4th Infantry Division celebrates Independence Day with Cagay-anons

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 12, 2019): 4th Infantry Division celebrates Independence Day with Cagay-anons



CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – In the celebration of the 121st Philippine Independence Day with the theme “Kalayaan 2019: Tapang ng Bayan, Malasakit sa Mamamayan”, the City Government of Cagayan de Oro conducted joint flag raising and wreath laying ceremonies at Kiosko Kagawasan, Plaza Divisoria earlier this morning June 12, 2019.

The Local Government Unit (LGU) led by Mayor Oscar C Moreno, together with Maj Gen Franco Nemesio M Gacal, Commander 4ID, graced the special event and led thousands of peace-loving Cagay-anons who gathered at the heart of the City to give their full support for the activity.

LGUs, Line Government Agencies (LGAs), Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CDOs) were all also present as they honor the courage and sacrifices of our forefathers to gain our independence.

Maj Gen Gacal said, “The flag raising and wreath laying ceremony is a fitting tribute to all our heroes and a suitable reminder to everyone, that freedom does not come free. It is paid with blood, sweat, and tears.” “Countless lives were sacrificed for the sake of the Philippine Independence, thus, let us always remember the heroism of our forefathers,” he added.

“In today’s commemoration, let us also continue to give honor and respect to the valiant and gallant sacrifices of our fallen Diamond troopers. They offered the supreme sacrifice which motivated us to strive and do our best to finally end local communist armed conflict and attain long-lasting peace and sustainable development in Regions 10 and CARAGA. The success of our activity today signifies, that through our convergence efforts, we will be able to achieve our aspirations as a nation,” Gacal ended.




Division Public Affairs Office 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

Kalinaw News: Outgoing Battalion Commander takes pride in winning hearts of IPs

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 12, 2019): Outgoing Battalion Commander takes pride in winning hearts of IPs



TALAINGOD, Davao del Norte—The outgoing commander of the 56th Infantry Battalion takes pride of having won the hearts of the Ata-Manobo elders of Talaingod.

In his farewell address, Lt. Col Edwin M. Paredes took note of the good points that the 56th IB had made under his watch, taking special mention of the support that it gained from community leaders whom he and his troopers befriended.

In less than one year, the 56th IB with the operational assistance of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade, was able to convince Datu Guibang Apoga to turn back from the New People’s Army and join the mainstream after going against the government for about 30 years.

The one year and a half stint of Paredes in Talaingod yielded the arrest of two high ranking personalities from alleged guerilla fronts for kidnapping and child-trafficking. The influence of the 56th IB led to closure of most of the salugpungan schools in Talaingod.

Stationed in Talaingod, Davao del Norte early last year, the 56th Infantry Battalion is under the 7th Infantry “Kaugnay” Division of the Philippine Army based in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

Paredes also expressed satisfaction that the command under his watch was free of any human rights complaints.

In her message during the turnover ceremony to the newly designated 56th IB commander, Lt Col. Norman E. Valdez, Talaingod Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Pilar Libayao relayed the melancholic reaction of fellow community leaders as they learned of Paredes’ relief of duty as commander of the 56th Inf Bat.

“Hawiran unta sa mga lumad. Nakita nila nga walay abuso, mao kini ang maka peaceful,” (They would not let go of Col. Paredes. They saw no cases of abuse. This brings peace) she said.

Libayao also appealed to high ranking military officials present during the event to “help Talaingod” saying some of its community leaders had died referring to long years of reported encroachment of New People’s Army (NPA) operation falling prey on Ata Manobo members as recruits.

On the other hand, incoming 56th IB commander, Lt Col Norman Valdez congratulated outgoing commander Paredes “for changing the landscape of Talaingod communities by winning support of the Ata-Manobos and by driving away the armed rebels.

To sustain the relative peace, Valdez asked for continued support of stakeholders, community leaders, local government officials saying “he cannot do this alone” without the collaborative effort of everyone in Talaingod.

Addressing the 56th IB troopers, Valdez challenged them “to keep our torch burning exercising high standards of excellence”. (PIA XI/ Jeanevive Duron Abangan) 




56th Infantry Battalion 7th Infantry Division
CPT John Louie Dema-ala (INF)
Public Information Officer
56th Infantry (TATAG) Battalion
Cellphone No: 09673514403
E Mail Address: cmotatag56@gmail.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

Kalinaw News: Soldiers clash against NPA terrorists in Quezon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 12, 2019): Soldiers clash against NPA terrorists in Quezon



CAMP GEN. CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal –Troops of the 21st Division Reconnaissance Company (DRC) clashed against the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists group in the boundaries of Barangays Villa Nacaob and Binahian C both of Lopez, Quezon on June 11, 2019 at 3:30 P.M.

Lieutenant Colonel Arnold Gasalatan, Commanding Officer of the 85IB said that the soldiers were conducting Focus Military Operation (FMO) in the area after receiving tip from the civilians
that a group of armed NPAs were extorting rice and money from the residents of the barangay.

While searching the area, the troops met
more or less five (5) NPAs believed to be members of Platoon Sol of Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA) 4B, and after which fire fight broke.


The exchange of gun fires lasted for ten (10) minutes. No one was hurt on the government side while there was undetermined number of casualties on the NPAs due to the heavy blood stains in their position. The enemies brought along their wounded comrades when they scampered away according to the troops.

Colonel Norwyn Romeo Tolentino, Commander of the 201st Brigade who has operational jurisdiction over Quezon province commends the troops for their immediate response to prevent the NPA extortion activities. He asked the remaining members of the terrorist group to surrender and cooperate with the government. “We will be relentless on our combat operations to protect the people against all NPA threats, coercion, extortions and killing of innocent civilians”.

Brigadier General Elias H Escarcha AFP, Acting Commander of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division, lauded his troops’ commitment and dedication to their duty as vanguard of the national government’s southern frontier.

He called on them “to be unrelenting and to remain steadfast in our pursuit for just and lasting peace and development by eradicating those who are anti-peace and anti-development” saying that they owe it to the Filipino people to finally put an end to the 50-year insurgency in the country.

He ended his statement reiterating “As we commemorate today our 121 years of Independence, let us stand strong and defend our sovereignty and future. Our pledge binds us to remain vigilant and protect our people from any form of threats”.

At present, troops are conducting hot pursuit operations and checkpoints together with the local police against the NPA terrorists in the area.



Division Public Affairs Office 2nd Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Patrick Jay Retumban
Chief, DPAO, 2ID, PA
Camp General Mateo Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal
09772771986

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

Kalinaw News: Easter Mindanao Command celebrates Independence Day with Stakeholders

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 12, 2019): Easter Mindanao Command celebrates Independence Day with Stakeholders



Easter Mindanao Command celebrated 121st Independence Day today with the stakeholders in three different instances in Davao City today June 12, 2019.

Early morning, the Command led by Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr. together with the Local Government Unit of Davao City led by Mayor Inday Sara Duterte conducted Flag Raising and Wreath Laying Ceremony at Rizal Park Davao City.

MGen. Jose Faustino Jr. acting as Military Host together with Mayor Duterte, assisted Senator-elect Francis Tolento, the activity guest of honor and speaker during the wreath laying in statue Jose Rizal in the said park.

On the other hand, a flag raising ceremony was held at Headquarters EMC, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City simultaneous with other military camps all over the country.

Meanwhile, a whole day static and kinetic display led by Eastmincom was opened at 10:00 o’ clock in the morning today at the Activity Center, Ayala Abreeza Mall, Davao City showcasing the different units in Eastern Mindanao and their capabilities.

Source: Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM)

Kalinaw News: VIDEO: Kalayaan 2019 Tribute to Heroes

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 12, 2019): VIDEO: Kalayaan 2019 Tribute to Heroes
Ang Kalayaang tinatamasa ay bunga ng sakripisyo ng mga bayaning inalay ang sarili sa bayan. Ngayong Araw ng Kalayaan, ating bigyang pugay ang mga nagbigay daan sa Kalayaang ating tinatamasa.

Tapang ng Bayan. Malasakit sa mamamayan.

Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan sa lahat ng Pilipino


Kalinaw News


[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. e-mail: contact@kalinawnews.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/kalayaan-2019-tribute-to-heroes/

Kalinaw News: Illegal firearms factory in Maguindanao raided

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jun 12, 2019): Illegal firearms factory in Maguindanao raided



President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat – A gun repair shop and factory was discovered in a law enforcement operation conducted by the joint elements of 33rd IB, CIDG-BARMM, 4th Special Action Battalion and 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion in Brgy Midconding, GSKP, Maguindanao on June 09, 2019, 8:00 am.

The combined troops were serving warrant of arrest against certain Sukarno Buka @Buba, a BIFF sub-commander with criminal case No. 5255 PQ (17) for attempted murder.

Concerned citizens and barangay officials testified that the suspect was manufacturing firearms and involved in illegal drug activities in GSKP. It is worth noting that Buba and his cohorts were able to do their nefarious activities despite being situated in the midst of MILF communities.

Meanwhile, with the aid of the local populace and barangay officials and detailed coordination with the MILF Ad hoc Joint Action Group, the government troops launched the operation. However, the suspect managed to slip away from the raiding troops.

“The operation was initiated due to several reports of concerned citizens in the community regarding the presence of wanted BIFF members who were engaged in manufacturing illegal firearms and drug dealing activities,” said Ltc. Elmer M. Boongaling, Commanding Officer of 33IB. The government forces seized several unfinished firearms, equipment and ammunitions.

“The seizure of Sukarno Buka’s gunsmithing factory along with the unfinished firearms, equipment and ammunitions greatly degrade the BIFF group’s fighting capability and will serve as a stern warning on the government’s effort to eradicate terrorism and illegal drugs” Col. Efren F. Baluyot, Commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade said.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana, Commander of the 6th Infantry Kampilan Division lauded the effort of 33IB, CIDG BARMM, 4th SAB and 2nd Mechanized Battalion. “Persistent efforts of the combined troops of the AFP and PNP, and the local residents have resulted to the destruction of gunsmithing, that manifest our dedication to protect the people from armed lawless groups to sustain peace and development in our area of responsibility,” Maj. Gen. Sobejana added.




Maj Arvin G Encinas
Chief, Public Affairs Office, 6ID, PA
Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao
+6391775226469

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

SOLCOM: SOLCOM Chief: 'Media is our force multiplier'

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 12, 2019): SOLCOM Chief: 'Media is our force multiplier'


Sentinel Times June 8 - 14, 2019 Vol. III No. 23

https://www.facebook.com/SentinelTimesOnline/photos/a.1919654121466601/2157554527676558/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/

SOLCOM: Courtesy Call of Balikatan 36-2020 AFP Contingent to Commander USARPAC

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 12, 2019): Courtesy Call of Balikatan 36-2020 AFP Contingent to Commander USARPAC

COURTESY CALL OF BALIKATAN 36 - 2020 AFP CONTINGENT TO COMMANDER US ARMY PACIFIC COMMAND

The AFP contingent to Balikatan 36 - 20 headed by LTGEN GILBERT I GAPAY AFP paid courtesy call to Commander of US Army Pacific, GEN ROBERT B BROWN.

The AFP contingent attends the Concept Development Conference, Training Objectives and Scenarios Development Workshop in Honolulu, Hawaii on 09 - 15 June 2019.

LTGEN GILBERT I GAPAY, is with COL ERWIN ROMMEL P LAMZON (MNSA) PA from OJ5 and COL JOSEPH P ARCHOG (GSC) PAF the LNO to Hawaii.

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WESCOM: Commander WESCOM awards troops deployed in the in the West Philippine Sea

Posted to Western Command (WESCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 10, 2019): COL JONAS LUMAWAG PN(M) (GSC) relinquished the duties and responsibilities as Chief, Unified Command Staff, WESCOM (CUCSW) to COL RUEL LIBRADA PAF (GSC) during a Change of Office Ceremony

“In photos: COL JONAS LUMAWAG PN(M) (GSC) relinquished the duties and responsibilities as Chief, Unified Command Staff, WESCOM (CUCSW) to COL RUEL LIBRADA PAF (GSC) during a Change of Office Ceremony presided by VADM RENE V MEDINA AFP, Commander, WESCOM, AFP at Headquarters Western Command today, 10 June 2019.

“WESCOM will be losing another accomplished and competent officer in the person of COL JONAS R LUMAWAG PN(M) GSC. I confidently say that he had set a good example of professionalism and dedication to duty during his stint as our Chief of Unified Command Staff. We understand that COL LUMAWAG will be leaving us for the betterment of his career and the AFP institution in general. He will be slated to be the incoming commander of 4th Marine Brigade, Philippine Marines.

VADM MEDINA recognized the efforts and remarkable contributions of COL LUMAWAG as CUCS. He also acknowledged the professionalism and sincere commitment shown.

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